It's been sooooo long.......

I received a phone call from a very special childhood friend the other day.  When my cell phone rang I did not recognize the number--a very unfamiliar area code.  I usually don't answer calls that I do not recognize but thankfully this time I did.  "Hello"  I said.   As soon as I heard the "Hi" on the other end I knew it was my friend Rande.  As children, Rande and I lived just a short walking distance from each other.  She is just a few years older than I and learned to ride her bike much sooner than I learned to ride mine.  She would take the short trip to my house to visit.  As time passed Rande's family moved from our neighborhood but Rande and I continued to stay in touch with each other.  She would make the trip "home" every year or so and we always made time to see each other.  Sometimes we even would have a slumber party.

Me, Rande, Heidi, Andrea in 1979

me, Rande, Andrea in 1981

Just last year Randy came for a visit.  We spent the afternoon enjoying each other's company and catching up over lunch at Panera.  

Heidi, Rande, Mom and me

During our recent phone call Rande mentioned that she missed me and wondered if everything was ok.  She asked if I was going to do a blog post soon because my last post was way back in October.  I assured her that I was doing great.  I had just become so overwhelmed with Christmas doll orders that I had neglected my blog.  I promised her that I would start updating more often.   Her call was a wonderful surprise reminding me that not only has my blog allowed me to meet many new friends but also to keep in touch with life long friends.  So in the new year of 2013 I am plan to post more often----- looking forward to meeting and making lots of new friends while visiting and keeping in touch with friends I have known a lifetime.  Thank you Rande for this reminder...I love you   xoxo

Happy Fall Y'all......

although being from Pittsburgh, I should say Happy Fall Yinz Guys.  Another season is upon us.  Gone are the dog days of Summer and we say hello to crisp, cool weather, pumpkins and beautifully colored leaves.  Fall is my most favorite time of year.  I love all that this season brings........

HAYRIDES



PUMPKINS

DECORATIONS

 Another favorite thing about Fall are all the wonderful comfort foods that go along with the season---hot  apple cider, soups and stews---  not to mention all the amazing recipes made with pumpkin.  I love it when my house smells of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and pumpkin.  A friend came for coffee this morning so I quickly whipped up some pumpkin muffins.  I thought I would share the recipe so you too can have a taste of the season......

PUMPKIN MUFFINS

2 cups sugar

1/2 cup vegetable oil

3 eggs

1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin

1/2 cup water

*******

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cloves

3/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

*******

1 1/2 cups raisins

1 cup walnuts or peacans

Place the sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, pumpkin and water in a bowl and mix.  Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and spices.  Add to the first mixture and mix.  Add the raisins and nuts.  Let stand one hour at room temperature.  Place in greased muffin tins.  Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for approximately 15 minutes.  Makes 2 doz. 

***** Raisins can be ommited.  My muffins were raisinless as they give me the willies :) 

I hope you are enjoying the blessing of Fall

Are You Ready For Some Football??

It's football season once again.  Living in Pittsburgh for my whole life I guess you could say that I grew up on football.  Sunday's were never quiet at my childhood home.  My parents were true fans.  With this cool, Autumn weather we have been having I must say I was in the mood to watch some Steeler football last night.  As I watched the game I worked at my sewing table on this little doll for the children's boutique where my dolls are sold.  I thought it would be fun to share her with you. 

Her little outfit is removable including her Mary-Jane socks.  I was just a bit nervous sewing her bloomers.  It was my first attempt at ruffles.  After a quick consult with my mom I gave it a try.   All in all I am happy with the way she turned out.  Too bad the game didn't have such a happy result :)  That's ok boys you'll get'em next week.......

Happy Birthday Emily

Last year on August 28 our family was all together in the waiting room of our local hospital awaiting the arrival of our newest family member.  It wasn't until late into the evening until we were able to welcome Emily Elizabeth Panormios into our family.  Ever since that evening she has brought countless blessings and joys to the whole family.  Watching her grow and discover new things has truly been a delight.  It was our pleasure last weekend to host her first birthday party celebrating her first year of life. 

This little girl loves Elmo.  Whenever she hears his song, "Elmo's World" she stops whatever she is doing to watch.  Her parents could not think of a better theme for her first party---ELMO.   Kim (Emily's mommy) and I stayed awake many nights working on Elmo decorations for the big day.  I was really happy with the end result.



Everyone had a great time.......

Happy first Birthday sweet Emily

From the Craft Room

Now that my craft room is all cleaned and reorganized I have been inspired to create. I thought I would share a few finished projects with you today.

 A few sweet lambs all ready for delivery to Grow with Children's Boutique. 

Everyone loves a Superhero.  I think this is one of the cutest Superheros around.  He comes with his own cape, belt, and mask. An additional mask is included to make Superhero playtime extra fun.   

The above Superhero was created for the children's boutique.  The one below was a custom order for a customer of the boutique.  A special little boy named RJ will be receiving him for his Birthday.

Two sweet Wee Ones for the Boutique.......

Some fun finger puppets.......

That is what I have been up to.  This coming week will be another busy one as we are hosting our little niece, Emily's first birthday party.  The theme is Elmo and I can't wait to share with you what Emily's mommy and I have been working on.  Check back next week for what I am sure will be lots of pictures :)  Have a great week.