Every Day Adventures With Mimi and Lola

New Cute Necklaces In Our Shop

2012-02-03T07:22:00.000-08:00

We have added these cute new necklaces to our shop. Brighten a little girl up with these cute necklaces. A perfect loot bag item or thank you gift.

More Goodies in Our Shop!

2012-01-15T09:10:00.000-08:00

New Bib Styles In Our Shop

2012-01-14T06:51:00.000-08:00

We are starting a new years with some fresh patterns.

Take a peek in our shop.

Friday The 13Th!

2012-01-13T11:49:00.000-08:00

Some items in our shop to celebrate Friday the 13th!

Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

2012-01-10T05:03:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that Christmas is over and Valentine's Day is right around the corner! We have some really cute items for Valentine's Day. Forget about the chocolate! www.mimiandlola.etsy.com

Cute New Accessories In Our Shop

2012-01-10T04:55:00.000-08:00

Our bookmarks have been very popular. Designs for everyone. A styllish way to bookmark your page on your favorite book. A great gift to pair up with a gift certificate to a favorite bookstore or book. Split the packs up and give out as a lootbag or party favor.

www.mimiandlola.etsy.com

Boxing Day Sale

2011-12-25T06:49:00.001-08:00

Tomorrow, December 26 our Etsy shop will be holding a boxing day sale! Make sure you stop by! Happy Holidays!

Getting Ready For Christmas

2011-11-27T09:06:00.001-08:00

Even though our deadline is now closed for blankets and pillows, we have a vast array of bibs and accessories still available in our Etsy Shop.

Our accessories would make amazing stocking stuffers for all ages. We currently have 25% off everything in our store.

Holiday Order Deadline

2011-11-06T04:23:00.000-08:00

The holidays are quickly approaching. Our holiday order deadline for blankets and pillows is November 12, 2011. Production may take a little longer due to volume. Stay calm. We will not forget you. Orders received after that date will be processed in the new year.

Visit us at www.designsbymimiandlola.com or www.mimiandlola.etsy.com

Halloween Costume Ideas

2011-09-18T05:03:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite times of the year is Halloween! I love to decorate my house with Halloween decor. We play spooky music on Halloween night, with dry ice and we all dress up! It is so much fun! Browsing through Etsy I found some really cool costumes!

Black Swan costume is from Madame Gigi's On Etsy

Witch's costume is made by Zachary Dickory Dock

And the Ghost costume is from Repurposeful Punk

You'll be one of a kind!

Our Trip to Blue Mountain

2011-07-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

We gathered all our things on July 1st and spent our Canada Day long weekend up at Blue Mountain! I haven't been there for quite awhile and couldn't believe how well developed the village became! Intrawest Development did a good job in recreating this empty piece of land into a beautiful village. Blue Mountain is usually a ski getaway in the winter. We enjoyed the beautiful Canada Day festivities this little town put on.

A wonderful time to spend time with my family and enjoy some fresh air.

New In Our Shop

2011-07-17T11:22:00.000-07:00

I've been away for awhile...enjoying summer with my family. We are currently having a Christmas In July sale take a peek 25% off everything in our store.

On Vacation

2011-06-04T17:32:00.000-07:00

My mom is getting ready for her well deserved vacation. She's going back home to Italy with my Dad to visit family. My grandma is 93 and my dad really misses her and wants to spend as much time as he can with her. It's so hard to have family so far away. Our shop www.designsbymimiandlola.com will be closed until August. We will have our hair accessories for sale in our Etsy Shop. We are currently offering 25% off all hair accessories so swing by and take a look!

A Special Blanket

2011-05-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

Here we made a custom order for baby Aleksandra. They opted for a solid to accommodate her long name.

Welcome to the world Aleksandra!

Friday Night Cupcake Class

2011-05-21T04:17:00.000-07:00

As you may know, I love to bake! I wanted to further my baking experience by taking a cupcake class to improve my decorating skills. My sister-in-law and I went to Le Dolci to learn how to decorate cupcake with fondant and icing. We had such a great time! Lisa who ran the class was superb. We would definately recommend her class.

Visit her facebook page for more details.

All Things French

2011-05-20T04:47:00.000-07:00

I love all things french. To me, I think their language is sexy and beautiful. One day I hope to visit this beautiful country but for now, I will dream and have found this shop that carries all things french.

This shop gives me such a soft and beautiful feel. Their items are so beautiful.

Etsy Shop Pick Of The Day

2011-05-19T07:06:00.000-07:00

Chickabiddy Baby Boutique. This lovely boutique offers vintage inspired little dollies that you can collect or buy for your little one to cuddle. Personalization is for free! Visit Chickabiddy Baby Boutique on Etsy.

My Nephews First Birthday

2011-05-17T07:28:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law is like me. We love to give out unique items for lootbags. We get a personal satisfaction on gifting unique items.

She has found this great little cookie company Cookie Munchsters that creates wonderful and creative cookies.

This was Luca's cookie basket for his first birthday. Elmo was the party theme and all guests were gifted with an Elmo cookie in their lootbag!

Visit Cookie Munchsters on Facebook!

Here's My Treasury List for Unique Gift Ideas

2011-05-17T06:18:00.000-07:00

I've created a Treasury List of unique gift ideas for father's day.

We Have Been Featured on Cuteable.com

2011-05-16T07:19:00.000-07:00

How exciting! Our Here Kitty Kitty Headband has been featured on Cuteable.com

Etsy Shop Of The Day

2011-05-16T06:25:00.001-07:00

I love Haute Couture. My background is Fashion. I love to dress up since I was a little girl. As a young child, I adored having my nails painted, my hair being styled with the current trend, and visiting my mother's sewing room and sifting through her beautiful fabrics and gazing at her dresses under production. I found this fabulous hat designer on Etsy. Arturo is based in Los Angeles, California. He creates beautiful haute couture hats. A true work of art!

Visit his shop Arturo Rios you will not be disappointed.

New In Our Shop

2011-05-12T07:39:00.000-07:00

Our creative juices are always flowing. To celebrate spring we have just added these pretty items in our Etsy Shop.

A pretty accessory to complete your little one's outfit!

Etsy Shop of The Day

2011-05-07T06:17:00.000-07:00

I love this shop. I was looking for a perfect way to organize our passports when travelling. I'm always left in-charge of lugging and presenting our passports at customs. I found it very difficult to organize my passports until I found Downstairs Designs. The thin, light-weight pouch perfectly organizes our passports. It has a little slot to store my pen. You can also store a few little extras.

A perfect Bon Voyage gift!

Gifts For Men Etsy Shop of The Day

2011-05-06T08:15:00.001-07:00

Ok Mother's Day is this Sunday and hopefully you have it covered. Father's Day is in June and the day will arrive before you know it.

I personally find it so hard to buy for guys. What creative gift can you give a guy? Clothes? Power tools? They tend to forget about gift cards.

Well I found this really cool shop on Etsy. They hand make soap and produce great vintage inspired shaving kits for men! A great gift for groomsmen, Father's Day, Birthdays etc.

Their shop name is the coolest! Dirty Deeds Soap! Love it!

Banana Bread

2011-05-01T05:17:00.000-07:00

Banana Bread is a must in our family. This recipe is simple, moist and delicious. A great accompaniment to coffee or a glass of milk.

This recipe calls for nuts but my family is not keen on nuts so I substituted with chocolate chips.

6 tablespoons unsalted butter at room tempurature, plus extra for greasing

1 cup sugar

2 or 3 very ripe bananas (about 1 1 1/2 cups) mashed**

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

1/2 cup buttermilk

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts, pecans or hazelnuts (I used chocolate chips)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and lightly flour a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan.

In a heavy-duty fitted with a paddle attachment, beat together the butter and sugar on medium speed until creamy about 1 minute. Add the bananas and eggs and beat until smooth. Add the buttermilk and beat until just combined.

In a bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, nutmeg, salt and nuts (chocolate chips). Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and beat just until combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. It should be no more than two-thirds full. Bake intil the loaf is dark golden brown and dry to the touch and the edges pull away from the pan sides 55-60 minutes. A cake tester inserted into the center should come our clean. Let rest in the pan for 5 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack and let cool completely. Cut into thick slices to serve.

** when bananas become ripe and nobody wants it, I peel the banana, place it in a ziplock bag and freeze until I need it for baking.

Spring Accessories

2011-04-30T06:05:00.000-07:00

As mentioned before, we love spring! We have added these beauties to celebrate the coming of Spring. We had a dreadful, cold winter and what way to celebrate spring than with these cute accessories!

Spring Is In The Air

2011-04-29T06:28:00.000-07:00

We are spring cleaning and adding new items to freshen up our shop.

It's birthday party season and what a way to make an inpact on using these items as part of a loot bag!

New Bib Styles

2011-04-28T05:57:00.000-07:00

We released some really cute boy bibs. As always it is so hard to find some cute items for boys. We hear you. I went through the same thing. I'm always on the hunt for cute things for boys.

Stay tuned for more!

Easter Desserts

2011-04-27T09:18:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful and busy Easter Weekend. We celebrated Good Friday eating strictly fish no meat for the whole day.

On Easter we had a huge spread of food that my mother-in-law served. Like always, I'm in-charge of dessert. This year I have cupcake fever so I served Tiramisu Cupcakes on Good Friday and Mini Blueberry Cheesecakes and Ferrero Rocher Cupcakes on Easter. My sister-in-law out did herself once again with her Easter Bunny Carrot Cake.

New In Our Shop

2011-04-25T04:21:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is coming up. We have added some new items to celebrate and gift mom. Our bookmarks make a great gift. The bookmarks are made with a 1 1/8" fabric covered buttons securely fastened to 3 1/2"” jumbo paper clips. Finished bookmark measures 4 inches. Include this with a gift certificate to a favorite bookstore, include this with a journal or personalized stationary.

The Little Red Riding Hood bookmark would make a great birthday gift or lootbag gift.

Etsy Shop Pick Of The Day

2011-04-20T05:40:00.000-07:00

I love my costume jewelry. The only thing is I find it so hard to organize my necklaces until I found this shop on Etsy.

This shop re-uses old printer drawer cases and creates beautiful jewelry display cases. What a creative idea! Visit her shop at Blue Bird Heaven Design

Let's Hear It For The Boys!

2011-04-18T14:55:00.000-07:00

I have a boy. He's now 15. When he was small I found that it was really hard to find really nice boy things. Everything seemed so boring. We just introduced a new pattern to our blanket collection. Pair it up with this really cute pillow.

Visit our two sites www.mimiandlola.etsy.com or www.designsbymimiandlola.com

New In Our Shop

2011-04-17T07:56:00.000-07:00

We love spring. To celebrate we have created some new ponytail holders found in our Etsy Shop.

Our Boutique Bibs

2011-04-16T07:38:00.000-07:00

I have had many positive feedback from our bibs. The bibs are stylish, waterproof and large. Believe it or not I have had many mothers tell me that their children want to keep their bibs on. The bibs are lightweight and breathable which make it very comfortable for your baby.

I designed this bibs because I was tired of using ugly vinyl bibs which I couldn't stand the smell and the bibs after awhile cracked. I loved dressing my children in beautiful clothing but would get upset when their food would soak through and stain their clothing.

Take a peek in our Etsy shop and browse the many patterns we have to offer.

Spring Fling Event in Our Etsy Store

2011-04-14T07:29:00.000-07:00

We are having a Spring Fling sale in our Etsy Store. 25% off all hair accessories, bookmarks and rings. Come by and take a peek!

Italian Easter Bread

2011-04-11T05:35:00.000-07:00

During Easter Italians usually eat this delicious Easter bread called Colomba Di Pasqua which means dove of Easter. I made a batch to gift for Easter. The paper moulds can be purchased at Golda's Kitchen.

All Things Black and White

2011-04-10T07:32:00.000-07:00

Here are a few black and white picks from our Etsy Shop.

All Natural Soap

2011-04-10T05:52:00.000-07:00

Having eczema it is so hard to keep my skin moisturized. The only thing that I have discovered that really helps soothe my skin is all natural soap. I have found that commercial soaps dry out my skin. All naturals soaps have natural ingredients that believe it or not really helps me. I've discovered this beautiful shop called Anderson Soap Company that produces all natural soaps, lip balms, shaving soaps etc. Their products are simply delicious.

Pillow Talk

2011-04-09T06:03:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it's really hard to choose a great gift. Our pillows would make a child smile on their birthday just to know that a gift was made just for them. Our pillows won't break the bank and will make a great lasting gift. Our pillows come in three sizes. 14" square, 16" and 18" x 12".

Visit our shop at www.mimiandlola.etsy.com or www.designsbymimiandlola.com

Etsy Shop Pick Of The Day

2011-04-08T06:55:00.001-07:00

I love tihs shop. I bought coin pouches from this cute shop for my daughter's teachers last year.

I also bought items as gifts to give to my relatives in Italy. The purses and pouches are well crafted and unique. It's so hard to find unique well made gifts. I've marked Field of Roses as my favorite shop because I will definately shop there again. What a cute idea to gift your bridesmaids.

Visit Field of Roses on Etsy!

Hydrating Your Body

2011-04-07T05:26:00.000-07:00

Ever since I was small I always had dry skin. The eczema would rotate around my body. My husband has labelled me the chemical queen because I would buy every cream and body scrub hoping one would soothe my skin. Look no more. I found Lovefresh. Their products are made with all natural ingredients. Their scrub hydrates my skin like no other product did. After applying the scrub, my skin felt silky smooth. They have many delicious flavors to choose from. Visit Lovefresh.

Etsy Shop Pick Of The Day

2011-04-06T05:36:00.000-07:00

I fell in love with this shop when they were featured on Etsy. An Irish label with a romantic vintage appeal. I always find it hard to pair up something unique and stylish with a strapless dress. Problem solved! I can even see the bolero teamed up with jeans.

Visit Bonzie on Etsy.

Zeppole

2011-04-05T12:43:00.000-07:00

March has passed and I forgot to make this customary Italian dessert to celebrate St. Joseph. In Italy, on March 19th, they celebrate San Giuseppe (St. Joseph) also known as their Father's Day.

My brother-in-law Joe was lucky enough that his wife made this delicious dessert to celebrate his name day.

Buon Appetito!

New In Our Shop

2011-04-05T08:13:00.001-07:00

Owls are a huge trend over the last few years. So we expanded our owl line.

The Matryoshka collection has a vintage feel. This collection would make a great teacher's gift, loot bag favor for a girl's birthday party, or include this with a book and gift it as a birthday gift. The possibilies are endless.

Visit our shop and shop around.

We would love to do a custom order for you.

I Love Books!

2011-04-03T10:05:00.000-07:00

I love this site that I have purchased from in the past. They make beautiful traditional rubber stamps and other paper items. I really like this stamp which I love to label my children's books at home. If they lend a book to a friend, the friend simply knows who to return the book back to. Visit Sweet Papery

Mamas and Chicks Show

2011-04-02T13:01:00.000-07:00

We will be a vendor at ths years Spring Mamas and Chicks show in Oshawa. Brin the kiddies and have a relaxing shopping day. 55+ unique vendors. Come by and say hi!

Brunch Accessories

2011-03-30T08:14:00.000-07:00

I love hosting brunches. It's so easy. Maybe because I'm a morning person. But what I usually do is prepare my tables from the night before. I set up a toasting station, a main table with the food (I've invested in two chafing dishes that I bought at Costo)and the dining room for the guests to eat. When I wake up I start cooking and place the food in the oven or in the chafing dishes until the guests arrive. I usually present the food as a buffet so my guests can help themselves to whatever they want. I found this great shop on Etsy that creates chalkboard signs. I think this is perfect for my buffet. I can write the menu on the board so my guests know what I am serving. How brilliant!

Visit AZ Creative Studio

More Easter Ideas

2011-03-29T10:45:00.000-07:00

As mentioned earlier, I'm not a fan of gifting chocolate to my children, nieces and nephews. So what I do is give them a small quality chocolate along with a gift.

Here's a great idea found in our shop that would be great to accompany with a book or chocolate.

Enter to Win at What Mama Wants

2011-03-28T05:59:00.000-07:00

What Mama Wants is having a birthday bash giveaway enter to win. They are hosting a birthday bash cowboy theme. We are giving away a bib and set of our bookmarks to a lucky winner.

Visit this great blog at What Mama Wants

Costume Jewellry

2011-03-28T05:36:00.000-07:00

I love Etsy. The great talent and craftmanship are endless. I love buying things that are unique and one of a kind. I found this shop on Etsy and fell inlove with her work. I have purchased many pieces from her and absolutely love the craftmanship that goes into her work. Visit Beady Cats on Etsy. Her jewellry is handmade using natural stones. Hats off to Gaye Doser.

Cute Gifts for Easter

2011-03-22T06:09:00.000-07:00

When it comes to Easter I never give out chocolates to my children or nieces and nephews. I usually gift our little ones with something unique that they can enjoy.

I found this shop on Etsy

She creates the cutest handcrafted items for the little ones.

Decorating A Child's Room

2011-03-18T04:56:00.000-07:00

I found this shop on Etsy and absolutely fell in love with their work! They offer wall decals and other accessories for your child's room. What a way to spruce up and personalize your child's room in a very economical way. When you are tired with the look the decals are easy to remove.

Visit Decal Farm on Etsy.

Spring Is Just Around The Corner

2011-03-07T06:32:00.000-08:00

When Spring is in the air alot of people have the urge to clean. To clean up the winter blues and welcome spring with freshness. I've listed some eco-friendly cleaning tips to assist you in cleaning your home.

Baking soda is a natural wonder. I use a damp cloth, sprinkle a little baking soda on my cloth and wipe away any marks on my walls or counters.

White vinegar in a spray bottle is a great natural degreaser and disinfectant. I constantly use white vinegar to disinfect my kitchen counter tops and wipe down my stove.

If you have a clogged drain you can mix up one cup of baking soda and a cup each of vinegar and salt. Pour the mixture down your drain or sink after an hour or so boil a kettle of water and rinse.

For a natural room deodorizer you can simmer a cinnamon stick in some water with a couple of drops of lemon juice this leaves your house smelling sweet.

If you have stainless steel appliances, pour a dap of olive or vegetable oil on a cloth and wipe your appliances clean.

Happy cleaning!

When Ordering a Gift

2011-01-19T11:26:00.000-08:00

I've met some wonderful people through this business. I can't believe the amount of love is shown when ordering a blanket for that special little one. Here's are some tips when ordering a blanket. Stay within your budget. If you can't afford a blanket there are other options. Try a pillow with a bib, a 3-pack bundle of bibs. It's just as special. Even a pillow. What better than to receive a gift that was made especially for you with your name on it. Everytime they see their gift it reminds them of you.

Don't fixate yourself on the nursery/bedroom. This is a keepsake item. Bedroom themes and colours change. The blanket can be used in other places other than the bedroom. If the blanket is for an older child, try creating a blanket with their favourite colours.

The opportunities are endless.

Be creative!

Valentine's Day Is Just Around The Corner

2011-01-11T07:50:00.000-08:00

Yup. We just finished Christmas and I'm already thinking of love. Valentine's Day is just around the corner. We have some really cute things to say I love you with.

Take a peek in our Etsy Shop

Forget the chocolate.

A Magical Experience

2011-01-02T07:43:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve turned out absolutely the way I wanted it to turn out. It was so magical. The presence of our family together set such a beautiful mood. The food was fabulous the kids had great fun especially when Santa rang our doorbell!

I am thankful for such a beautiful family.

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year

2010-12-22T06:26:00.001-08:00

A Merry Christmas from our family to yours! This is the time year to enjoy with family and friends.

I wanted to share this recipe with you that I know I will serve this Christmas Eve to my family.

EGGNOG HOT CHOCOLATE

1/2 cup milk
3-1/2 oz (100g) dark chocolate, chopped, or more to taste
2 cups (500 ml) eggnog
Cognac, brandy (optional), to taste
1/2 cup (125 ml) whipping cream, whipped
Ground cinnamon for sprinkling

In medium saucepan over medium-low heat, warm milk and chocolate, stirring until very smooth. Gradually whisk in eggnog. Add cognac or brandy, if using. Cook 5 minutes or until warmed.

Divide among 8 small glasses. Top each serving with whipped cream, of desired. Sprinkle with cinnamon, Makes 8 small servicngs.

More New Hair Accessories

2010-12-13T09:26:00.001-08:00

I added more pontail holders to our Etsy site.

Always swing by for new items.

Our accessories make great loot bag items for little girls!

Just a quick note that blanket orders will resume on January 3, 2010. We have removed our custom blankets due to the Christmas holidays.

We are finishing up our current orders for Christmas.

Last Minute Shopping

2010-12-11T12:01:00.000-08:00

Christmas delivery cut off for all hair accessories and ready made items is Sunday night December 12, 2010.

Enter code readymadeforxmas to receive your discount.

We just posted new items.

Christmas Eve Dinner

2010-12-07T11:26:00.000-08:00

I've been nominated by my family to host Christmas Eve dinner. Christmas Eve is a big deal for us Italians. We eat fish for dinner. That's the problem. I'm not a good cook and to top it off I don't know how to cook fish. Whatever, it's not like I'm not under any stress. We're trying to get all the Christmas blanket orders out in time, try to finish off my Christmas shopping and bake all my cookies. Now I'm nominated as host of this year's Christmas Eve dinner. I know my parents and inlaws are getting older so I guess I have to accept the fact. To make things easier, my family has agreed to pitch in to have our dinner catered in by a local restaurant to make things easier for me. I just have to make the desserts and side dishes which my mom has agreed to help. My guests started off as 7 adults and 3 children it has now grown to 12 adults and 6 children. The more the merrier I guess.

There's an italian saying which goes like this: "Natale con I tuoi; Pasqua conchi vuoi," which means "Christmas with your family; Easter with whomever you wish.

Homemade Granola

2010-12-06T17:20:00.000-08:00

This recipe is so simple to make. My husband loves eating it for breakfast. I love sprinkling it into my greek vanilla yorgurt for snack. Here's the recipe:

3/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 tsp cinnamon
3 cups old-fashioned oats
2 cups chopped pecans
1 1/2 cups large unsweetened coconut flakes

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. I combined all ingredients into a bowl. Stir until combined. Spread the mixture onto a parchment lined cookie sheet. Bake stirring every 20 minutes. Bake until golden brown 50-55 minutes. Let cool completely in pan.

I store my granola in a glass jar. You can wrap a raffia bow around the jar and present this delicious granola as a hostess gift! So easy!

Ready Made Items

2010-12-03T05:23:00.000-08:00

Come in and take a peek in our Etsy store. We have ready made items that are ready to ship.

Some of our ready made items are on sale so swing by and take a look. Enter code readymadeforxmas and receive 15% off our ready made products~!

Say Your Piece

2010-12-03T05:07:00.000-08:00

I found this cute little store on Etsy. When we receive a new baby into our family I always gift the little one with a personalized ornament at Christmas.

Eileen the owner of Say Your Piece was so sweet and patient with me. She created a beautiful ornament for my nephew Luca to celebrate and remember his first Christmas. Vist her cute shop at www.sayyourpiece.etsy.com

Christmas Gift Ideas for Men

2010-11-30T06:17:00.000-08:00

Men are so hard to buy for. It's so hard to find something unique and special for a guy. I surfed through Etsy and found some fantastic gifts for men.

The steampunk flask is from Steampunk Trunk on Etsy

The switchplate will make a great secret Santa gift or stocking stuffer is from Dandee and the amazing shaving kit (which I know my dad will love this) is from Orange Fuzz Boutique

Homemade Panettone

2010-11-29T13:19:00.000-08:00

I don't know if you know this but I love to bake. Every year I make homemade panettone to give out as gifts. Panettone is a sweet bread beaded with candied peel and raisins that Italians make at Christmas time.

Nothing beats homemade fresh panettone.

I bought the moulds at Golda's Kitchen .The package comes with paper moulds for the panettone and cellophane bags to wrap the bread in. Wrap them up, add some Christmas ribbon and this will make a wonderful hostess gift.

Free Shipping On All Our Christmas Bibs

2010-11-29T06:30:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day to take advantage of our Cyber Monday Sale.

We are offering free shipping on our Christmas bibs and 15% off all hair accessories.

Take a peek in our Etsy Shop.

Our bookmarks make great stocking stuffers.

I Love Handmade and All Natural

2010-11-19T05:26:00.000-08:00

When choosing stocking stuffers, I try to be unique and original. I would hate to open up my stocking and find generic drugstore items in my stocking! Come on Santa! Isn't everything handmade at the North Pole?

Well, I found some goodies at Lulu's Garden on Etsy.

The PMS avenger lip balm, tiredness lip balm and the Gardener's Hand Therapy made with lavender, rosemary, cammomile and geranium how cool!

Some of the gift packages are uniquely packaged all ready for gift giving.

Lulu's Garden's products are all handmade made with natural ingredients, which are a perfect fit for stocking stuffers, teacher's gifts, baby sitter gifts, the gifting possibilities are endless.

New Item In Our Store

2010-11-15T07:24:00.000-08:00

We are having so much fun making our ponytail holders and hair clips!

The holiday season is quickly approaching and we are stocking our Etsy Store with great gift giving goodies!

We've added stylish adjustable rings that would make great holiday gifts for your child's teacher, babysitter, secret santa and for bridesmaids!

The rings are embellished with a 7/8" covered button.

And best of all the rings are only $4.50!

Teachers Gifts

2010-11-12T06:16:00.000-08:00

It's always hard to find unique and quality gifts at an affordable price for gift giving. I found something, which I think teachers will utlize and use.

I found these beautiful personalized memo pads from Sweet Life Paper on Etsy

I made coordinating magnets to compliment the memo pads.

This is a wonderful gift that teachers will not re-sell at their yearly garage sale where they sell their numerous mugs and picture frames that they receive during the holiday season.

My Son's Birthday Brunch

2010-11-08T10:19:00.001-08:00

My children love being with our family. They love to go on family vacations, and spending their birthday with their extended family. This year my son requested a Sunday Brunch with the "Famiglia". I had set up a beautiful buffet, of greek yogurt parfait, french toast, turkey breakfast sausages, and a delicious cremini mushroom and swiss chard quiche (visit marthastweart.com for the recipies or the current edition of her magazine).

What a success. We all ate like pigs and chatted. The finishing touch to his birthday was a delicious tiramisu ice cream cake. Yup, I made it all. Tiring but worth it.

The guests all took home expresso pound cake with two sachets of the new Via coffee from Starbucks.

Halloween

2010-11-01T05:16:00.000-07:00

It was quite a busy day for us on Halloween. We had a birthday party early afternoon for my niece at the Funnery in Newmarket. It was quite amazing. An indoor playground for the children. There's a lounge area where the parents can relax, have refreshments while their children play. All guests at the party had to dress up. It was quite fun!

The Funnery is located at 611 Steven Court, Unit 3, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 6Z2
(P) 905-252-1619 (F) 905-418-0242

The Funnery Play Park

After the party we hurried home and prepared ourselves for a fun night Trick or Treating. Trick or Treaters were greated at the door by my husband dressed as the Ghost Rider. The wee ones were a little scared but most of the boys thought he was really cool!

New Pillow Design Blast Off

2010-10-17T13:20:00.001-07:00

A special request was made by little Lucas' auntie for us to make him a spaceship pillow. Lucas loves spaceships. So we made this cute pillow which we love! We have now added this design to our collection which is only available in the 16" size to accommodate the design.

Lucas you are so lucky to have a thoughtful auntie!

We are so honored to make this for you! Enjoy!

xo

Halloween Craft Ideas

2010-10-09T10:53:00.001-07:00

Last year we hosted my nieces first birthday party. Her theme was Halloween. We created Halloween crafts that were easy, cute and everyone enjoyed (including the moms). Everyone dressed up for the occasion which was really fun too! My sister-in-law is very crafty. She purchased re-usable bags at a local dollar store and had the kids stencil their halloween bags we (they) also made fun pipe cleaner spiders!

How fun! When I was a kid we had to play pin the tail on the donkey - boring!

Halloween Items Now For Sale

2010-10-08T07:59:00.001-07:00

Visit our Etsy Shop for Halloween Bibs and accessories.

New Items in Our Shop

2010-10-08T05:04:00.000-07:00

We've added hairclips, ponytail holders and bookmarks to our Etsy SHop. A great finishing touch to a gift, loot bag or a treat for yourself. Visit our shop and take a look.

Delicious Birthday Cakes

2010-09-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law Laurie has found her niche. She has started a hobby of creating masterpiece show cakes for birthdays.

The cakes are designed by the theme of the party. This year her daughter Erika's party was based on butterflies (as per her request) so all invites, decor and of course the cake matched the theme.

The cakes not only look good, they are sinfully delicious. All made from scratch with the freshest ingredients.

Kids Trend Weekly

2010-09-28T05:36:00.000-07:00

We are so honored to be featured on Kids Trend Weekly. Please view the review below about our blankets.

My Dad's 70th Birthday

2010-09-06T12:43:00.000-07:00

I'm a shy low key person. So when I celebrate my birthday, I like it quiet, low key. I hate to be the center of attention. My dad on the other hand loves to party, celebrate with all his friends and family. We snuck one on him when he turned 70 this August. We told him that this year we would just take him out for lunch and keep it low key. Well, I couldn't believe the disappointment on his face.

To his surprise, we invited friends and family to celebrate his milestone birthday at Maria's Kitchen in Richmond Hill. The food by the way was superb. Classic homemade italian. Just the way he likes it.

Sock Monkey Adventures

2010-08-28T07:40:00.000-07:00

Another new item in our Etsy shop. We've included bookmarks. Cute, stylish bookmarks that make reading fun. I enclosed these little beauties into my daughter's loot bags for her 10th birthday party along with a colour coordinating diary, pencil, lipgloss and of course a huge chocolate bar! A success the loot bags were. The girls loved the bookmarks!

Our Summer Vacation

2010-08-23T07:47:00.000-07:00

As the years pass by and my children get older, I find it really hard to plan a summer vacation. Firstly, my son does not want to be seen with us and wants to stay home. He's at the "I'm too cool stage". Beach vacations they don't like. My daughter doesn't want to swim in the ocean because there's creatures in the water. She's too old to play in the sand. And after watching Shark Week with my husband, they both don't want to become shark bait. Whatever...

They wanted me to book a cottage up north with their grandparents,uncles and aunts. I was too late. The good places were fully booked.

I was always hearing about cruises and how great it is. My husband's aunt was highly recommending us to try a cruise. I'm a bit of a travel freak and afraid of everything. I don't enjoy to fly. I'm claustrophobic, and I get motion sickness.

Well, I put that all behind me and took the dive. I booked a one week vacation with Carnival Cruises. It's the Fun Ship! We had so much fun! The kids had a blast. My son met kids from all over Canada and the United States. He joined The Club O teen club which provided daily activities etc.

I would definately cruise again! And no I was not claustrophobic or sick. The cabins were small but well designed which did not bother me at all. We had an oceanview cabin which I think helped.

I'm a clean freak. I couldn't believe how clean the ship was. Staff cleaning around the clock impressed me!

2010-08-23T07:39:00.000-07:00

We released more clips. Hope you enjoy! They can be found on Etsy!

Introducing Hair Clips!

2010-08-09T08:00:00.001-07:00

We have extended our line to include cute button snap hair clips and bobby pins!

Visit our Etsy Shop to view our designs.

Our Lil Birdie

2010-08-08T07:28:00.000-07:00

Our Lil Birdie soak proof bib and organic burp cloth has been gifted to John Travolta and Kelly Preston. A big thank you to Style Cafe Moms for including us in their gift basket.

Editorial Review With Tot Trends Weekly

2010-05-04T08:03:00.000-07:00

Our butterfly blanket was the Editor's Pick at Tot Trends Weekly!

Check out my @constantcontact newsletter

2010-03-17T07:31:00.000-07:00

Check out my @constantcontact newsletter

Join Our Facbook Fan Page

2010-03-17T07:17:00.000-07:00

Become A Fan!

2010-03-16T12:50:00.001-07:00

Join our fan page on Facebook! Your name will be entered to win a personalized baby blanket! Open to US and Canadian residents. Contest ends April 1, 2010

Etsy :: Treasury List

2010-03-05T14:18:00.000-08:00

Etsy :: Treasury List

This treasury was created by Naomi. Etsy has a gallery that they call Treasury which allows you to create a gallery with a theme of your favorite items on Etsy. We are thrilled that Naomi has chosen our Rock Star Bib.

Treasury on Etsy

2010-03-05T14:12:00.000-08:00

We are so happy that our Rock Star Bib made treasury on Etsy.

Treasury is a gallery of items chosen by someone with a theme of their favorite items.

Canadian Immigrants

2010-03-05T06:46:00.000-08:00

I'm lucky enough to call myself a Canadian. My parents, husband's parents all came here in the '60's from Italy.

I've attached a family picture of my husband's mom's family before they left for Canada.

The sacrifices our parents went through to start a new and better life. Nonna Rosa (Frank's grandma) pictured above left Italy with 5 children in tow all by-herself not knowing how to speak English to start a new life for her family. They arrived to Canada by boat in Halifax in the Spring of 1967. From Halifax, they took a train to meet her husband, and her eldest daughter in Toronto.

Only with a few dollars and their luggage, they had to start from scratch a new life.

New Bib Styles

2010-02-25T11:17:00.000-08:00

We released some new bib styles just in time for spring. I also want to let you in on a little secret. We will be launching our new e-store soon! Stay tuned~

Visit us on Etsy to view the rest!

My Little Puppies

2010-02-18T17:07:00.000-08:00

I was never a pet lover. Didn’t know how to love a pet because I never had the pleasure of growing up with one. My parents’ philosophy was that animals belonged on a farm. Not indoors. That's their old school thinking and I had to respect that because it was their home. Then I met my husband. He's a true animal lover but unfortunately his parents had the same beliefs.

When we got married, and moved into our new home, my husband was dying for a pet to call his own. This is when he brought home our Chanel. Chanel was an American Shaffordshire Terrier (aka pitbull). I know, a pitbull? Well I wasn't too pleased but she was so amazing. She was so docile and lovable and just wanted to be your friend. We had the joy of having her for 16 great years. She was a little baby sitter to my children. She kept an eye on them when I was cooking in the kitchen while they played in the family room. She would follow them everywhere they went. I never had to place gates at my doorways. She would lie across the doorway to ensure my baby wouldn't leave the room.

When she passed away my children cried for days. Their friends and teachers sent condolence cards to our home for support.

Our house felt so empty without Chanel. My husband was heartbroken. Missing her at the door when he came home. Her companionship on the boat.

We didn't think we would ever get another dog. No one would be as great as Chanel. She was so beautiful and smart.

After a year, we gave in and we took home little Bentley. A miniature malti-poo with a fierce personality. My son didn't want a small dog because he thought they were for sissies. Well guess what? Guess who's Bentley's best friend? You got it!

Bentley was so great that my husband wanted to get a little companion for Bentley. So last August we brought home Stella, our toy poodle. We were worried that Bentley wouldn't get along with Stella since we all spoiled him. NOT! He loves her, cuddles her, grooms her and brings her food.

We're so proud of our little pups!

My Husband is Obsessed

2010-02-15T17:57:00.000-08:00

My husband loves fishing. He says that it gives him peace. It's a hobby that calms him down. Okay I'm fine with that. He watches all the fishing shows (WFN), reads books and magazines. I'm proud of him because he's so knowledgeable about the sport. I find it boring. He supports catch and release and is very passionate about saving our lakes and species of fish.

But....I think he has an obsession with fishing lures. How many lures do you need? I took these pictures of his tackle boxes that he made to house his musky lures. Just musky. This is only one species of fish. He fishes for pike (walleye), rainbow, bass, salmon etc. His collection (obession) puts my shoe collection to shame!

Oh well, I love him and support the sport he loves.

Zeppole

2010-02-14T06:18:00.000-08:00

In ancient Rome on 17 March we celebrated the liberal, party in honor of the gods of wine and wheat. To pay homage to Bacchus and Silenus, the tutor and companion of the god of revelry, the wine flowed like rivers to thank the deity of corn fritters, fried wheat.

At St. Joseph, which is held only two days later (March 19), the protagonists are from the descendants of those historic pancakes zeppole of St. Joseph.

As it stands, the Zeppola St. Joseph's Convent was founded as sweet, according to some in the convent of San Gregorio Armeno, according to others in that of Santa Patrizia. But there are some who attributes the "invention" to the nuns of the Cross of Lucca, or those of Splendor.

First Zeppola of St. Joseph that has been put on paper dating back to 1837, however, by the famous Neapolitan gastronome Ippolito Cavalcanti, Duke of Buonvicino.

On March 19, has always celebrated also be the end of winter (spring is now in the air): During the so-called "agrarian rites of purification" are switched on in many countries of the south of the large bonfire, and prepare large quantities of pancakes.

Once on St. Joseph, patron saint of carpenters, the people celebrated their festival and were invited to bring all kinds of wooden toys. All children received them as gifts from parents.

Today, however, since 1968, ever since the day of St. Joseph was declared Father's Day, March 19 is the day that children are make presents for their father.

The local bakeries here in Toronto and surrounding areas, are selling these delicous treats. Our family looks forward to enjoy this delicous annual treat after our family Sunday lunch.

Story courtesy of Zeppola.it

Happy Valentines Day

2010-02-12T17:22:00.000-08:00

We are fortunate here in Ontario that our province has declared this Monday Family Day. This weekend we will be celebrating love all weekend long well into Monday. My family has decided that we will stay home and relax. We've also proclaimed it Pyjama Day. What better than to spend the whole day with your family in your PJs and playing Rockband! Woo Hoo!

Happy Valentine's Day from our family to yours!

Clearance Sale in Our Etsy Shop

2010-01-28T06:01:00.001-08:00

Take a stroll through our Etsy Shop and take a peek through our clearance section. We've reduce some cute items.

Also we released some really cute bibs! We are offering free shipping on our Valentine Bibs!

Christmas Yule Log

2009-12-28T11:45:00.000-08:00

I love to bake. I'm always in charge of desserts when there's a birthday, holiday dinner or a Sunday Lunch.
On Christmas Eve I made this delicious Yule Log for our dessert.

Here' the recipe:

Cake:
Ingredients
Makes one 10 1/2-by-15 1/2-inch cake
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for parchment and pan
2/3 cup sifted cake flour (not self-rising)
1/3 cup sifted cocoa powder, plus more for dusting
Pinch of baking soda
6 large eggs
3/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions
1.Heat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 10 1/2-by-15 1/2-by-1-inch jelly-roll pan. Line with parchment; butter and flour paper, tapping out the excess flour.

2.Sift flour, cocoa, and baking soda together twice into a medium bowl. Set aside. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Skim off white foam, and pour clear yellow butter into a bowl, discarding white liquid at the bottom. Set aside in a warm place.

3.In a medium-size heat-proof bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar. Set bowl over a pan of simmering water; stir until mixture is warm to the touch and sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat, and beat on high speed until mixture is thick and pale and has tripled in bulk. Reduce speed to medium, add vanilla, and beat 2 to 3 minutes more.

4.In three additions, sift flour mixture over egg mixture, folding in gently with a spatula. While folding in last addition, dribble melted butter over batter and fold in.

5.Spread batter evenly in pan, leaving behind any unincorporated butter in the bottom of the bowl. Tap pan on counter to remove air bubbles. Bake until cake springs back when touched in center, 15 to 20 minutes. Don't overbake or cake will crack. Let sit in pan on a wire rack until cool enough to handle.

6.Dust surface with cocoa powder. To make rolling easier, trim edges
of cake, and cover with a sheet of waxed paper and a damp dish towel. Invert onto a work surface, and peel off parchment; dust with cocoa. Starting from one long end, carefully roll up cake in towel. Wrap in plastic; refrigerate until ready to use

Filling:

2 cups of sweetened fresh whipped cream
Skor Chocolate Bars (4)chopped

Make sure your whisk and bowl is clean. Beat the whipping cream starting at low speed then gradually advancing to high until the cream has a whipped cream consistency. While beating the whipped cream add sugar to your desired sweetness. (I usually add 1/4 sugar)

Spread the whipped cream evenly onto the cake sprinkle the cake with chopped Skor Bars.

Carefully roll the log. Place onto your serving platter. Cover the cake with the remaining whipped cream. Sprinkle the top with the remaining chopped Skor bars. Place a festive holiday decortion on top or to the side of the cake (decorations can be found at your local craft stores in the baking section).

I'm Still Their Little Girl

2009-12-07T08:00:00.001-08:00

It seems like even though your children have grown up, it doesn't mean that you stop being a parent. My mom set up her Christmas tree this weekend. I went over on Sunday and admired all her ornaments that she has collected over the years. She still has her very first ornaments from the late '60s! As I was browsing I noticed that she had hung handmade ornaments made by my brothers and I when we were in school! Wow! I guess to her that is a priceless gift that we all gave her as a child which she has cherished for all these years! I too have collected all of my children's handmade ornaments and proudly hang them on my tree. My son thinks its embarrassing (he's 14) but I don't care!

New Blanket Design

2009-11-24T05:50:00.000-08:00

We came up with a new blanket design which we were unable to post onto our website until the new year. There's one available in our Etsy Store. We called this one Guitar Solo.

Take a peek we are still running 10% off our pillows. Hurry sale ends November 30, 2009.

Mamas And Chicks Fall Show

2009-11-09T07:12:00.000-08:00

We had so much fun at the Mamas and Chicks Show. We met so many fantastic people at the show.

Deadline for Christmas orders is set for Thursday, November 12, 2009. Orders placed after November 12 will be processed in the new year.