Boo Bear Buns

Great Cloth Diaper Hunt

2008-11-01T04:59:00.000-05:00

It is that time again! We are proud to announce our sponsorship of the 8th semi-annual Great Cloth Diaper Hunt! How does the GCDH work? It is simple! You register at http://www.diaperdecisions.com/pages/greatclothdiaperhunt.php . Then you visit all the participating sponsor sites and hunt for the Diaper Decisions diaper, to earn entries to the 65 random prize drawings, including Two Grand Prizes and one Ultimate Grand Prize! For more details about this great event, please visit the Rules and FAQ pages. Your first hint is located on this page. Happy hunting!

Haiti New Mom Bundles Project

2008-07-12T02:37:00.002-05:00

For a while now we have been considering the start of a cloth diaper charity in Maine much like Miracle Diapers. One of the mamas I know puts together New Mom Bundles for mothers in Haiti. Please consider donating to this wonderful cause. I am pasting info on her project below.

“My next project for Haiti will be on Saturday, July 26. I'm having a shower to collect the items to make bundles for new moms. These will go to three clinics and a women's program in Haiti.
Items do not have to be new. The bundles consist of a receiving blanket, a t-shirt/onesie, three cloth diapers, a pair of vinyl pants and set of diaper pins.

This morning as I put together my first New Mom Bundle for Haiti, which will be my sample for showers and such, I did some math. Here is what I came up with:

A cloth diaper from WalMart costs $1

A days wages in Haiti cost $1

If you figure a days wages in the US based on an 8 hour work day at $7/hr. (American Poverty) that translates to $56.

Would you be able to afford diapers if you had to pay $56 a piece for them?4 diaper pins or 1 pair of vinyl pants cost about the same as one cloth diaper.

How about a simple three snap front t-shirt from Gerber?

Cost approximately $2.85

3 days wages in Haiti $3

Would you be able to spend three days wages ($168) for a single t-shirt?

A home made flannel receiving blanket $5

A weeks wages in Haiti $5

Would you be able to spend a weeks wages ($280) on a single flannel receiving blanket?

The total New Mom Bundle including the time to put them together and the cost of shipping them to Haiti will cost $15 and it may well be the only gift the mom receives to celebrate the arrival of her new baby.

3 weeks wages in Haiti $15

Would you spend 3 weeks wages ($840) on a single baby shower gift? How about $15? It made me realized how blessed I am as a "struggling" and "impoverished" single mother by American standards.”

If you can help or would like more information, please contact me.
Warmly,
Aimee Grimmel
http://www.boobearbuns.com/

Harmony Art Organic Cotton Wrap PRESALE

2008-06-10T19:56:00.004-05:00

If you pre-order an organic cotton wrap, you will save $20! Style options for pre-order are Lime Green and Surrender; our most popular choices from the contest (scroll down to see the fabric swatches). Limited quantities of pre-orders available so order soon!

Boo Bear Buns Organic Cotton Wrap in Wintery Stripes (not a Harmony Art fabric)

The Winner of the Organic Cotton Baby Carrier Contest!

2008-04-21T16:24:00.003-05:00

The winner is: JoAnn Ehlinger! JoAnn is the mama to 5 girls, the fifth due late July :)

It's a Contest! Win an Organic Cotton Wrap, Ring or Pouch!

2008-03-14T06:44:00.007-05:00

We decided to turn our "help us choose fabrics" plea into a contest! One person will win an Organic Cotton pouch, ring or wrap carrier (their choice)!!

Here's how to enter: Comment on the blog post about fabrics for the wrap carrier fabric, get one entry. Comment on the post about the ring/pouch fabric, get a second entry. Join our mailing list (over on the left) and get a third entry. Post a link to this blog post, or our contest banner (clickable please) on your blog or website, and get 2 more entries. That's 5 chances per person. Contest will end April 15th. A winner will be chosen and posted on here by April 27th.

Good luck :)

To add the banner to your site, save the banner to your harddrive, upload it to your blog/website, then hyperlink it with the following address: http://slingsandsacks.blogspot.com/ or email me aimee@boobearbuns.com for an html code. (Make sure you comment with the link so we can count your entries!)

Help Us Pick New Organic Cotton Wrap Fabrics!

2008-03-12T10:04:00.004-05:00

We also need your help deciding on fabrics for the organic cotton wraps! Do you like the fabrics below (any you really like, or really don't like) or do you prefer our striped fabrics, our current solids, or a mix?

Lime Green
Natural
Pink
Apricot

Alphabet Soup
Solstice
Surrender
Ohio

Help Us Pick New Organic Cotton Sling Fabrics!

2008-03-12T09:27:00.008-05:00

Boo Bear Buns is expanding rapidly, and with the expansion, we are adding a consistent line of organic cotton fabrics for our baby carriers. We'd like to know which fabrics you like though! Which four of the fabrics below would you like to see in a pouch or ring sling? We will also offer 4 organic cotton solids to match the prints.

Fields of Honey

Garden

Uncomplicated (Twill, denim like fabric)

Vein

Whispering Grass

Whispering Grass BW

Stumps Speak w/ Words

Silent Stumps Speak

Sweet Jane

Eyes of the World

Let It Grow (twill, denim like fabric)

Graceland

Second Trimester, Finally

2008-02-24T20:42:00.002-05:00

For the past couple days, I have felt less nauseated and had a bit more energy. I have been waiting for this! My belly has been growing a bit every day but it really popped out yesterday. My friend Emily has been taking pictures of my growing belly and as soon as she sends the ones she took at 9 weeks, I will post them here. We're taking 14 week photos this week. I don't have many from my first pregnancy, and none from the birth/first few days with me in them. We're not going to let that happen again!
A few nights ago, I felt the baby moving around. When I poke my tummy, the baby moves away. Since the baby is still low, my big belly isn't in the way when I lay down, so it's easy to feel the baby. I could feel the baby again last night. I hope that we can continue to spend a little time poking at each other each night after Aiden falls asleep. Speaking of which, it is that time again.

Second Appt w/ Alice

2008-02-05T20:07:00.000-05:00

Tonight made this pregnacy even more definite! Although tests showed that I was definitely pregnant, and my belly has grown a little bit, being sick all the time does not seem like fair proof of the creation of life going on. During my visit with Alice, she showed me where the baby was "yes, that little bump is your baby" and we heard the baby's heartbeat! It was also a relief to hear that I am measuring in at 11 or 12 weeks since we were not sure of the date of conception. I didn't want to be too far off (birthing tub rental depends on due dates you know)! So it seems that the baby will be joining us sometime around August 25th.

Two Lines

2007-12-30T22:00:00.003-05:00

Three tests have confirmed it, baby number 2 is on the way! I was a little hesitant to find out before my big life insurance licensing exam tomorrow, and rightfully so because studying has become nearly impossible. All I can think about is the little one growing in my tummy, and all the wonderful stuff that comes with pregnancy. It's funny how an idea can become all consuming in such little time. A lot of thought has already gone into the type of birth we'll have this time, the books to be read, and the search for the perfect midwife willing to attend a home vbac birth. While I was being jealous of all the mamas in blogland with their new babies, my body was creating one of my own. I can't wait to feel this little one wiggling around in my tummy, I missed that so much after Aiden was born!
How's the big brother reacting? I don't think he truly understands yet. Maybe as my tummy gets bigger.?.

Tiny Tush Now Available at Boo Bear Buns!

2007-12-20T11:37:00.001-05:00

I am excited to announce that Tiny Tush products are now available at Boo Bear Buns! Between the inexpensive Chinese prefolds, the organic Trim contoured diapers, the organic Trim fitted diapers, the One Size Elite Pocket Diapers, the nylon pull up covers, organic wool soakers and the training pants, you are sure to find whatever diapering product you need at Boo Bear Buns! Cost saving packages are available, as well as their Perfect Wipes, disposable diaper liner s, and diaper pail liners.

New Products at Boo Bear Buns

2007-12-17T22:51:00.002-05:00

At Boo Bear Buns, you can now purchase your big belly clothes at the same place you get all your baby accessories. I spent a couple days last week adding new products to my website. In addition to cloth diapers, baby carriers, natural laundry detergent, safer bath & body products and the many other items available, you can now get gorgeous maternity clothes! Also new, and already very popular, are 80 load Itsa Greener Clean natural laundry detergents. And check out the new visor beanies. So cute!

Make sure you check out all the new items, as there's only 1 or 2 of some and you don't want to miss out! Also look for hemp/organic cotton AIO one-size diapers in Spring 2008!

Snow!!

2007-12-05T16:10:00.000-05:00

Nine or ten inches of snow fell on Monday. We had fun playing outside!

The Party

2007-12-05T16:02:00.001-05:00

Aiden's party was so much fun! Check out the awesome Shrek cake my mom made below! We also had dirt cups (pudding, crushed oreos & gummy worms) and putrid punch (lemon-lime kool aid, orange juice, ginger ale, and gummy worm ice cubes). He's got some beautiful wooden toys to play with now, and is enjoying his new movies. He digs those drums too.
Opening presents

Playing the drums

Blowing out the candle

Cutting the cake

Two

2007-11-30T07:59:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe that it has been 2 years since you were born, but then again, it often doesn't seem like there was life before you. To think back to times I fell asleep without you next to me, or got up in the morning without carefully rolling off the couch so I don't wake you, it doesn't seem real. Like a movie I saw, or a dream that is fading away.
A tiny portion of things I love about you:
You can always make me laugh, and you know it. You're such a little clown, making faces or goofy noises, or tickling my feet.
You love being outside and prefer to spend the entire day out in the yard running around with your dump truck, hitting trees with a stick or hammer, or peeling bark off trees.
You almost always have some sort of tool or "sword" in your hands. Screw driver or curtain rod, stick or rubber mallet. And you know how to use them. You'll walk over, tip your tricycle with one hand and start fixing it with your tools. I love watching you fix things.
Lately, you carry an army man with you everywhere.
You can figure out how anything works almost immediately. I have no idea how this just comes to you, but it does.
If you want something bad enough, you will find a way to get it. Your relentless determination can drive me crazy, but I admire that in you.
You come over to visit me on the computer for a quick sip of milk before going back to whatever you were doing.
You have gone from calling me "mum mum mum mum" to "muma" and now I'm just "ma".
When you want some milk, you come over and say "ma", sign milk with both hands, then say mo. How can a mama resist that?
When you point out body parts, you "beeeeep" belly buttons, nipples and noses :)
When you see someone you know outside, you bang on the window and say their name. When you see someone you don't know walking by, you wave and say "bye". I wish I could spell out bye the way you say it. So adorable.
You call spoons pooms and say beee for please (we never forced you to say please, you just started saying it on your own and we didn't know what you meant for a while). You also pronounce more mo. Yep, you are the cutest.

You ride the dogs whenever you catch one of them laying down.
You "roo" after Meisner, and it is so damn cute.
You adore Grampy (still call him "da" too) and love playing with him, especially at his house or when we go somewhere with him.
I still love your little fingers and little toes, even now that they are so much bigger than they were 2 years ago.
You are so big now, and you just keep getting bigger. I love you little man. Happy Birthday!

Procrastination

2007-11-29T22:00:00.000-05:00

Well, I missed the Halloween photos post, so I avoided the next post, and then the next one, and then I was so far behind that I didn't know how to catch up. I wanted to try posting every day in November. The guilt of not posting every day kept me from posting at all (Thanks to Flylady, I know longer do this with most things!) Anyway, I will be posting tomorrow. My man is turning 2! I will attempt a post telling him some of the wonderful things I love about him, and hope that my usual inability to articulate subsides for one day.

Aiden was Draco Malfoy for Halloween
And look at what I found the other day!

Bubbly Magnets Craft Project

2007-10-25T06:32:00.000-05:00

Looking for an easy project for solstice/Christmas presents? Jump over to The Mother Load for instructions on making easy bubbly magnets. I recently bought some of these off Etsy for solstice and birthday presents, and knew they were easy to make, just didn't know what to use for glue! I'll be making some magnets this year!
Another suggestion, use a domino with the picture on the front for a rectangular magnet. I find these even cuter because the picture is so clear.
Happy Crafting!

Tackle It Tuesday - Flylady

2007-10-23T00:21:00.000-05:00

My friend Joni and I are doing the flylady routine now. The cool thing about it is that you start super slow, with baby steps, so you don't get burnt out. The point of it is that you make a little change each day which turns into a habit. We both did some crisis cleaning yesterday, although we were not planning for guests, we needed to really tackle our houses while we could! I spent at least 6 hours cleaning. What a difference! And it feels good to go to bed with a shiny sink, and I know it will make me smile in the morning :) (Read more about it and you'll understand, as that is the first step.)
Aiden and I also went apple picking as our first Western Maine Mother's Center outing. It was fun to get out with some other families. And the weather was gorgeous! In fact, it was too hot considering that we were not dressed for summer weather.
Although I have not officially announced it, Slings and Sacks is now Boo Bear Buns. If you have not been to my new website, check it out! Jeff at Snowfyre did a wonderful job on it. He's still got a little more work to do so check back often as it gets better and better!

A few ways to help the environment

2007-10-15T21:32:00.000-05:00

1. Use cloth diapers! Did you know that every kid in disposables add about 2 tons of diapers to landfills? These diapers will take an estimated 200-500 years to break down. Did you know that it takes 2/3 cup of petroleum to make 1 disposable diaper? These are just a few of the advantages of cloth! An added bonus: laundering at home will save you $2000+ per child over disposables and utilizing a diaper service will still save you hundreds over disposables!
2. Buy a few reusable shopping bags. If you can sew, make your own from an old sheet or pillow case! Over 1 million plastic shopping bags are used each minute! Don't add to the waste!
3. RECYCLE!!! Recycle and reuse whatever you can! One thing I do is print all my receipts double sided. Any old paperwork is used for notes and lists. All other paper items are recycled or used to start my wood furnace. Reuse those cloth diapers on future babies or as cleaning rags, or donate to a needy family.

2007-10-08T21:25:00.001-05:00

I really did try to post a couple times but...

2007-10-08T21:18:00.001-05:00

Blogger wouldn't let me log on! It's working now so I'll catch anyone up who's interested: Aiden and I started Music Together classes. They're awesome and we're having lots of fun every Wednesday night.
My diaper service business plan will be completed this week. I go for funding next week. Wish me luck!
The Western Maine Mother's Center was founded. I am one of the 4 founding members, and the treasurer. That venture is very exciting! I'll post links once they are ready!
My website revamp is nearly finished. I'm working with Jeff from Snowfyre, and highly recommend him for anyone looking for a designer!
Aiden and I got haircuts today. Aiden's had his hair trimmed a couple times, but this is his first real cut. He's so big now! My hair's a lot shorter, and I like it!

Dyson Pink Giveaway

2007-09-21T12:41:00.001-05:00

I didn't win the last Dyson so I am sure that I will win this time! This one is pink in support of breast cancer awareness. Dyson is donating the total cost of this vacuum, plus $40 for all others sold to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. How cool is that? If you want in on the contest, head over to 5 Minutes for Mom and join!

Choices In Diapering Classes

2007-09-12T18:36:00.000-05:00

My first Choices in Diapering class is being held at Blessed Baby Boutique in Wilton Maine on October 20th. The time(s) have not been set yet. Feel free to contact me for more info!

What is a Choices in Diapering Class?

Classes will cover different types of diapers, their pros and cons, and cloth diapering info. Three classes are available and the information provided increases greatly with class length.

A fifteen minute class covers:
About Diapering Options
Diapering Options Today (brief)
Discussion of environmental and financial impact of each option

A one hour class covers:
About Diapering Options
Diapering Options Today
Pros and Cons of each
Brief "Diaper Debate" (discussion of environmental and financial impact of each option)

A three hour class covers:
About Diapering Options
Diapering Options Today
Pros and Cons of each
Diaper Debate (discussion of environmental, financial and health impact of cloth vs. disposables)
Dispel myths associated with cloth
Q&A
Activities

SoPo Chickens Update

2007-09-07T20:58:00.000-05:00

Back in June I posted about Olivia, a young girl from South Portland who was trying to convince the city council to change the zoning ordinance to allow raising chickens for eggs. I'm proud to announce that up to six chickens are now allowed to 20 residents, with a permit! For the whole, tiny article, click here.

HP Photosmart Printer

2007-08-28T12:51:00.000-05:00

While over at 5 Minutes for Mom this noon, I noticed that their most recent giveaway is exactly what I need to start scrapbooking. The HP Photosmart Printer looks really cool and would go perfectly with the kit I've got coming in from Emily . Therefore, I am destined to win it! Check it out here and post a comment on their post if you'd like to be entered as well.

Tackle It Tuesday

2007-08-28T12:17:00.000-05:00

So I know I may not get to tackling some clutter every Tuesday (it wouldn't hurt if I do so any other day though!) but I decided to join the ranks of Tackle it Tuesday bloggers and give it another go.

My computer desk is pretty much grand central station in this home. I'm always on email, working on my sites or researching online. I eat here. I watch movies here. Aiden gets up in the morning and nurses while I click away. My files for each current month are here too, although not necessarily in their file folder. Jon lives at this desk on his days off as well. Aiden enjoys bouncing in the yoga ball chair, climbing on the desk to get to the tape, and using the chair to climb over the gate. (The gate is merely for dog control. It doesn't slow Aiden down one bit.) I would be (and should be) super embarrassed to post the before pictures here, but that is my incentive for really organizing each area.

Computer Desk & Diaper Storage Before:

And After:
I'm proud to report that many paper products were added to my scrap pile or to the recycle bin. I didn't tackle the linen shelf above because it needs to be moved to my studio.

Aiden doesn't use diapers at home during the day so my stash lasts forever. He's been using the potty for a while now and no longer has any pee related accidents! Potty training before 2 is one of the many benefits of using cloth diapers.

I hope that some of you would will join me in quest to organize their home, week by week.

Born Free Co-op

2007-08-27T23:26:00.000-05:00

There is a Born Free Co-op over at the Hip Hippee yahoo group. It's going on in another group as well (same co-op though). Feel free to join. I've ordered Aiden some drinking cups on the other group. These are made from safer, BPA free plastics. You can find out more about Born Free at their website. Savings are significant when ordering through the co-op!

Being Neglectful Again

2007-08-26T06:58:00.000-05:00

I know, I know. I'm neglecting the blog again. Whenever my husband is home, I literally have to fight him to get the computer. He can play Vanguard for 8+ hours straight! That is not the only thing keeping me from the blog, aside from the usuals, I have began looking into starting a diaper service. I had thought about it when Aiden was tiny, but after his surgery (which I don't believe I have ever mentioned on here because it's such a long story), the idea was pushed aside. The service area would be about a 20 mile radius from me here in Mexico, Maine. I'm compiling numbers and info at this time (big thanks to Sara at Organic Caboose for all the contact info!) and meeting with the River Valley Growth Council this Wednesday and then the SBA soon thereafter. This endeavor will start right! None of that year's worth of trial and error. Did you know that even at around $20 per week, a diaper service is still cheaper than disposables? Not to mention the countless other benefits of using cloth!

I'm the featured shop :)

2007-08-21T20:53:00.000-05:00

A reporter came to Blessed Baby Boutique to do an article about us, our co-op and the Mother's Center we have in the works. Although she kind of put our quotes together by piecing random words and points we mentioned, and used the worst picture she took, I'm quite proud! She even mentioned my web address!
Read it here if you'd like: http://morningsentinel.mainetoday.com/news/local/4191805.html

Possible SaS Co-op Pre-sales

2007-08-21T20:13:00.001-05:00

If anyone out there in blog land is interested in going in on any of the following, join my yahoo group & vote on the poll!
ProCare - like PUL only lasts much longer. Limited color choices
Fold Over Elastic
Moon Cups - Like DivaCups, but I've heard they are better
Glad Rags
Wahmies - wet bags or pail liners
Hemp/certified organic cotton fleece
If there is enough interest to start a co-op for any of these, we may be able to save some $ buying wholesale/in bulk :)

SaS Fabric Co-op Yahoo Group

2007-08-18T20:08:00.000-05:00

I just created a yahoo group for leftover fabric & notions from sling and diaper making. I will also offer chances to go in on wholesale orders with me, as well as pre-sales from my site. There is a database for hemp / certified organic cotton fleece that will be open for at least a couple more weeks.

The address is: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/SaS_Fabric_Coop . Feel free to join and invite others!

Opinions Please!

2007-08-12T20:37:00.000-05:00

I'm working on an ad for BOLD events taking place in Maine this September. What do you think of this?

I'm also thinking about redoing my website in olive greens and orange. Maybe some purple mixed in.Please be brutally honest, but only if you have suggestions on making them better.

I'll give you details about the photo, the wonderful daddy & beautiful baby later. They deserve a post of their own :)

Cutest Diaper Package Ever!

2007-08-11T17:36:00.000-05:00

Here's 1/2 a package of flannel front Boo Bear Buns diapers that were sent out recently. These are one size fitted diapers with cotton flannel outers and 3 thirsty layers of hemp/organic cotton fleece. I love the prints!

EGCG Trunk Show

2007-08-08T18:18:00.000-05:00

Stop by for some free samples of Itsa Greener Clean and check out the scrumptious bath & body products!

OMG, I'm in love!

2007-08-07T22:04:00.000-05:00

Over at TeensyGreen, I fell in love. Endangered Species Chocolate is my dream come true. Seriously, how could you go wrong eating organic, ethically traded chocolate while supporting endangered species, habitat & humanity. The music & chocolate collection is even better, mixing wonderful tastes with Putumayo Kids music. (The prices are perfect for organic chocolate too)

Our Second Fairy House

2007-08-06T19:11:00.000-05:00

When catching up with Grace's blog last week, I was totally inspired by the fairy tea party her family creates on Solstice. I love the idea of creating a party for the fairies held every year, and we will be doing that next year. After the Garden Party, we planned to build a fairy house in our backyard. We had even saved a shell to use for fairy food. The night I read her post, we ventured out into the trees that surround our yard. We found a particularly fine spot where two trees were joined at the base, leaving a hole that fills with water in the middle. A fine fairy pool, or hot tub these days. We immediately set to work on the house, using y sticks to hold stick for the roof. We then covered it with oak leaves and set up an acorn table & chairs inside. I managed to get a few pictures before Aiden's determination to put every stick within his reach on the roof got the best of it. I'm sure the fairies still enjoy their new home, despite it's structural flaws.

Dancing Hands Bookmarks

2007-08-05T18:20:00.000-05:00

Alex Miller, a 9 1/2 year old homeschooled artist, is now selling her original, hand drawn bookmarks. They are beautiful, laminated, and finished with natural fibers. You can purchase them here. While you're there, take a look at her mom's beautiful creations. I greatly admire her felted bowls and goddesses.

Sorry I am Slacking

2007-08-05T11:51:00.000-05:00

I fully intended to post more often. Apologies to all my blogging friends who come here to read and find cobwebs growing on old posts. My Uncle Skip died of cancer a few minutes ago and I am really busy with the house & SaS. Please do not give up on me. I hope to be back on my feet & more organized in a couple weeks.

A Day in the Life of Aiden Part 1

2007-07-28T21:15:00.000-05:00

Years from now I want my blog to be yet another place that Aiden can go to see pictures of himself as a baby, and read what he was up to back then. Therefore, I have decided to write a day in the life of Aiden posts to give an idea of what it's like to be a 20 month old Boo Bear. Based mostly on today.

Aiden nurses off & on all morning, but almost always at 6:30. He occasionally gets up after, but often falls back to sleep for an hour or so. When he gets up, he usually talks a little bit, then comes to find me. If I am on the computer, he'll come over and nurse again. I sing him a good morning song. He gets down and starts playing with whatever is nearest to him. I make him some breakfast, or give him some of mine if I got a head start on eating. This morning we watched an episode of Fraggle Rock. After he is done eating, he gets down and plays some more. This is the time of day that he starts getting really chatty. Words like "bugna", "dogna", bird, kitty, boat, bike, bite, outside, boo boo and choo choo mix in with lots of "Aiden speak". He spends a lot of time looking outside and pointing things out. Especially bikes. If I take too long getting ready, he'll look for something to put on. After getting frustrated with the shirt or shoe, or whatever he's found, I always give in. If spending time outside (we do most days) we lather him with sunblock and a little bug stuff. I follow him around the house with my hands covered in sunblock, trying to remember which leg or arm I did last. He often screams during this. I'm not sure why, I would love to have someone rub lotion on me each day :) It's one of the things that we do regardless of his protests. Kind of like the next step, brushing his teeth. He used to love it but I have to almost force the toothbrush in his mouth some days. Aiden will run over to the couch and climb up. We get him dressed and put his shoes on. Now we must move quickly or more protesting will commence. We take Summer outside and hook her at her dog house, and watch Meisner sniff out the animals that came around the night before. Today we checked on the lilac and forsythia trees we planted out front and watered the flowers. We cut some mallow flower, tiger lilies and hosta flowers for the dining room. Then we checked out some mushrooms growing in the moss, looked at the different types of moss growing up the trees and talked about the bee bugnas that were flying in and out of the flowers. All the while, I was singing the theme song to Fraggle Rock. In case you forgot: "Dance your cares away, worry's for another day. Let the music play, down at Fraggle Rock." After lots of running around and hitting things with a hammer & a stick, we came inside to eat again. Afterward we played on the couch. Lots of tickling, laughing, hiding under the blanket, yoga (downward facing dog) and somersaults. No one can make me laugh like Aiden can. I love this kid so much. More nursing and a nap come next. 4 hours down, 9 to go.

deep breath Ah, I'm Back

2007-07-19T22:34:00.000-05:00

After a very long time away, we are finally back (note that it has been nearly a month, not 2 weeks as expected). I'll try to get into the story of the lead paint "removal" fiasco later on. Just wanted to drop by with a quick update. Got lots of work to catch up on with a Festival coming up in a couple weeks.

As an aside, I have finally taken the plunge and hired a friend to watch Aiden for 4 hours a couple days per week so I can work straight through. It may seem counter productive to some, however I really can not go any longer without more help. Until I figure out how to hire a contractor to help with the sewing (and trust someone else to put as much time and positive energy into my products), this is a luxury of sorts that I must indulge in. I've got more work than time, and so many opportunities for more sales. The spare room has been set up as a make shift studio, and tomorrow I will be plugging away. Woo hoo!

Probably taking a couple weeks off

2007-06-23T07:30:00.000-05:00

The lead paint is finally being removed from the house (well, most of it covered, but that's better than nothing I guess) so we are leaving for 2 weeks tomorrow. During that time, I will have *gasp* a dial up connection. After having dsl for years, I don't have the patience for dial up, so after emails, orders and the usual work related stuff, I don't expect to get to the blog. It's ok though, I have a lot of sewing to do. 36 diapers, 18 inserts, 36 wipes, a wrap sling, and numerous pouch slings. Plus orders that come in the meantime. Yeah, that'll keep me busy :)
Until then, here are a couple of my recent creations:

Duck Dots Boo Bear Buns Fitted Diaper
Clouds Boo Bear Buns Contoured Diaper

And my favorite Fieldstone pics:

Fieldstone Gardens Aiden Pictures

2007-06-18T19:08:00.000-05:00

Jon, Aiden, my mother and I attended Fieldstone Gardens' Fairies in the Garden party on Saturday. Sales were unheard of, but we had fun. Aiden was a wood nymph for a couple minutes. I'll let the pictures and captions tell the rest of the story.

Trying to pull wings offPulling on a bead

Only pic with the crown, which blends in with the treesAiden and I next to our fairy houseClose-up of fairy house just before Aiden beat it with a corn stalk

He's so big now!

Pictures of Fieldstone to follow...

We've been skunked!

2007-06-17T23:25:00.000-05:00

Most nights I watch part of a movie or tv show while Aiden nurses to sleep, then go to sleep myself, or get up and work. Tonight I watched a movie all the way through, then just as I curled up next to Aiden and cuddled him most lovingly, I started gagging on the worst smell ever, SKUNK! I don't know if it got one of the cats, or just sprayed the house, but the smell is awful! I have found some tips online to get rid of the smell such as apple cider vinegar, baking soda and coffee grounds. If you could see Aiden right now, you'd probably laugh (unless you could smell him too) as he is sleeping surrounded by bowls of the last of our vinegar (no apple cider though), the last of Jon's coffee grounds and baking soda. It does smell slightly less nasty, or at least more like coffee, near him. At least I know what the morning will bring, an early trip to the store for more anti-skunk supplies. Hopefully the smell will subside enough for me to sleep soon! This is ridiculous!

Fieldstone Gardens - A Day of Enchantment

2007-06-11T22:51:00.000-05:00

The 10th annual Garden Party, "A Day of Enchantment" at Fieldstone Gardens in Vassalboro, Maine is this Saturday, June 16th. Special guest Tracy Kane, artist and author of "The Fairy House Series", will offer 2 two-hour workshops at 9:30am and at 1:00pm. Kane will read aloud from her book Fairy Houses and then accompany children and their adults into the pine forest at Fieldstone Gardens to help build a "Fairy House Village". Children are encouraged to dress as fairies, butterflies or dragonflies. Kane will be available for a book signing at mid day. Aiden (dressed as a wood nymph) and I will be there, so please stop by the Slings and Sacks/Blessed Baby booth and say hi! For more information on the event, visit www.hvwa.org/special-events.shtml .
Hope to see you there!

Getting ready for this event and completing orders has kept me busy lately. I will be sure to post pictures of my little wood nymph. His outfit is nearly done, I just need to sew the elastic into his pants, sew leaf jewels onto his shirt and pants, add a hanger to his wings for form and sew the wings to his shirt.

South Portlander's, Olivia Needs Your Help

2007-06-08T08:02:00.000-05:00

For any readers in South Portland, Maine, please support Olivia Collins in her quest to raise a few hens as pets and for fresh organic eggs. South Portland's (hereafter called SoPo) zoning ordinance does not allow it. The following is from an email sent by Olivia's mother:

Here's Olivia's list of reasons why SoPo should amend the ordinance:

Why?

~Hens (no roosters!!) are quieter than dogs or parrots and as clean and non-smelly as any other pet when well-cared-for as urban pets, not barnyard animals.
~Fresh organic eggs are healthier than store-bought and better for the environment because fuel is not used trucking them to stores.
~My chickens will lead happy, healthy lives. They will be in an enclosed pen, though, and not roam onto anyone else's yard (like some dogs and cats do!)
~I will compost the droppings and use them in my vegetable garden: Reduce/Reuse/ Recycle!
~Pet chickens are fun and educational and bring the neighborhood together!
~Cities all over America encourage backyard chickens. Even Cape Elizabeth (Maine) allows them!

In the last few years, as the Green living, Eat Local, sustainable living, organic, recycle, etc movement has gained popularity, cities and towns all over America have been relaxing their chicken laws to allow 4-6 carefully tended, PET backyard hens for eggs. (Many cities offer classes in chicken care and organized coop tours, like garden tours!) We're talking about hens only, no roosters (no noise!) kept in a pretty, carefully-maintained enclosed coop; raised by hand as pets and for eggs. Chicken droppings make amazing compost for the garden and the hens recycle kitchen scraps! Heritage breed chickens are calm, docile, and when hand-raised they become affectionate pets that come then they are called. This "City Chicken" trend is primarily in upscale neighborhoods, where residents design lovely coops that look like nice garden sheds, certainly not "downscale". Kept as urban pets, and cleaned regularly, city chickens don't smell. In all, they make less noise and smell than many dogs kept in South Portland.

We have 100% support from our neighbors and support of our local councilor. There are one or two council members who we feel misunderstand what we're proposing and are envisioning a dirty,
noisy, barnyard scene. They are worried about property values. However, Cape Elizabeth allows chickens with NO restrictions, (even roosters!) and their Code Enforcement officer said he's had NO PROBLEMS. Residents keep their chickens in attractive coops and are conscientious neighbors, not having roosters in tight neighborhoods and keeping the pens clean. If Cape can do it (with no decrease in property values!) so can we.

Let's convince the city council that South Portland can be as progressive as cities all over America in allowing people to raise hens as pets and for fresh eggs in our backyards. It's fun, educational, healthy, and environmentally sound!

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP:

Please call or email your City Councilor and let them know you support this! You can find your contact by clicking here or by calling City Hall at 767-3201. You can also simply email or call Mayor Claude Morgan (contact info on the SoPo web site http://www.southportland.org/ . For maximum impact, a show of support at the City Council meeting of supportive citizens would surely tip the scales! Please email us if you'd like to know when the meeting is scheduled.

THANK YOU!!

5 Random Things About Me

2007-06-07T16:59:00.000-05:00

I've been tagged by Linda Lu and Amber to post 5 random things about me. So here it goes:

1. Before Aiden, I used to kind of freak out whenever I 1. got sticky 2. got wet while wearing a sweater or fleece 3. got peed or pooped on (can you imagine that?) and 4. if I didn't use things in a certain order (I didn't really freak out but I did get a little twingey at times). It's amazing how much having a little person around changed all that for me. I guess that reality set in.?.

2. Jon thinks it's quite funny that I often make my own words. We tend to reference President Bush when I do this. The first paragraph includes one of my, not really a word but used often, words. I can't think of any other examples at this time, but I use them day to day. Which brings me to number...

3. I have the hardest time with articulation. I can sit here for minutes at a time trying to come up with the word or words I want to use to explain myself, to no avail. This seriously drives me nuts! I also have a hard time remembering words I intend to use. They are right there on the tip of my tongue but just won't come out. I sit there fighting myself internally because I know I have something great to say but just can't get it out. This is why I prefer to communicate over email. I have time to sit and think, write and rewrite, or use the thesaurus if needed. I've even forgotten words like cupboard. I have no idea why this happens. I hope no one takes me for an idiot. I'm not... Really.

4. It certainly doesn't come through in my writing as much, but I am very goofy. It mostly shows when I am around people who I am super close to. I make up songs, love to dance but have no talent for it!, and can come up with clever jokes.

5. I get totally into things, but have a hard time finishing anything without an impending deadline. I can sit and research a particular idea, and find the perfect way to follow through. Once I get started, if I can't finish in 1 or 2 sittings, I guess I just get over the excitement of it. I also go through phases in what I enjoy doing. Like with work, sometimes I like to get a whole bunch of slings done and other times I dread the idea of sewing.

Well, I really could go on but I am over the excitement of this little post already :) I'm not going to tag anyone else, but if anyone wants to tag themselves, please leave a comment for me. I'd love to read your 5 random things.

Toxic Plastics

2007-06-06T05:43:00.000-05:00

Amber responded to my last post with a comment about dangerous plastics. Plastics in containers, bottles, disposable diapers and toys can all be very dangerous. To be sure they are not, look for products labeled "Phthalates free". I am certainly no expert, and I have a lot of work to do myself in the area of limiting plastic use in my home. This is a great article about PVC, the most harmful plastic.

On a side note, Aiden spilled juice on the keyboard the other day (just about 8 hours before he bent my glasses in ways that should have rendered them useless) so I am a day behind on responding to emails and conversations. I know I have been tagged, twice actually, and I do plan to respond! In the meantime, feel free to read a very old post, my first time being tagged.

Skin Deep

2007-06-02T05:34:00.001-05:00

This site is really awesome: Skin Deep, the Environmental Working Group's cosmetics database . I initially found their link in Mothering Magazine maybe a year ago, and I am so very glad I did. You can search their site for specific products you use, ingredients, or for the safest products available. I sat down with all of the products my family uses and looked them up. Then I printed a list of the safest items (you can do that too), threw out a bunch, and headed to the local health food store to stock up on safer products. It's wonderful knowing that I am not bombarding Aiden with harsh, cancer causing, toxic chemicals! Before I buy any new products, I always check Skin Deep to see how it rates, and you really should too! You'll be surprised by how dangerous many of the products people use on their babies are.

A quick hint: never use Baby Magic products; they rank the highest in many categories.

100th Item Added! Cloth Diapering Handbook

2007-05-23T06:59:00.000-05:00

This morning I added the 100th item to www.slingsandsacks.com! Just released; The Cloth Diapering Handbook replaces The Do It Yourself Cloth Diapering Handbook.

With over 12 styles of cloth diapers…
7 styles of covers…
Over 15 ways to fold a diaper…
Different ways to wash,
store dirty and clean,
use and care for your cloth diapers,
learning to troubleshoot and problem solve,
decipher conflicting advice and information from a multitude of websites…

It's no wonder some people get overwhelmed with cloth diapering before they begin.

It doesn't have to be this way.

Thankfully, someone else has already done the research, experiments, learning and compiling of all this great information (while sharing her own experiences so you can learn from her mistakes!) into a single resource. With this book, you can read any time, anywhere and even take to the nursery with you to help you on your journey. All the information you need to get started is at your fingertips in the most comprehensive guide devoted to cloth diapering today.

Quick Facts:
* 8.5 x 11in., 126 pages printed front and back
* Full color images
* Step by step, detailed instructions and photo tutorials
* Helpful forms and worksheets available in the back of the book
* Professionally printed
* Comb bound to allow for easy page turning and folding in half (spine is printed with title and other important info for easy finding on a bookshelf!)
* New chapters on diaper making (including a long list of resources), potty learning and extensive expansion on existing chapters.
* Includes the information listed below in "The Do It Yourself Cloth Diapering Handbook" section below plus much more.

Also added was Diaper Maps, guide to folding diapers.

Mothering Magazine Subscriptions!

2007-05-21T06:16:00.000-05:00

Mothering Magazine subscriptions are now available at www.slingsandsacks.com!
Mothering Magazine is the only magazine that addresses contemporary health, personal, environmental, medical and lifestyle issues in an upbeat, intelligent, compassionate and courageous way.
You will be able to read topics as diverse as circumcision, vaccinations, organic foods, childhood illnesses, home birth, ear infections, parenting teens, midwifery, and homeopathy!
No other parenting magazine compares.
A friend gave me a subscription to Mothering before Aiden was born and it really did change my life. I often wonder if I would have come around to my crunchy ways if not for the magazine (I'm certain I would have, but when?).

Organic Caboose Diaper Covers

2007-05-16T06:34:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to finally have diaper covers on www.slingsandsacks.com! I searched high and low for a wahm who could supply me with covers, to no avail. Organic Caboose covers are high quality, organic!, and made in the USA so I hope that makes up for their lack of wahm-ness.

Organic Cotton Cover
Eco-Fleece Cover made from recycled soda bottles!
Organic Merino Wool Cover

Am I getting too spammy?

2007-05-16T06:29:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry my blog has turned into nothing more than advertising new products, however I have spent so much time adding them to my site and creating that it seems as though these products have taken over my life :) Once I figure out how to resize pictures without PhotoShop, or convince my husband to give up his game long enough to fix it for me, I will start actually blogging again.
Time to add a new product post :)

Another Wrap Pre-Sale!

2007-05-12T21:45:00.000-05:00

Bali Pink

Floral Pink & Black

Tropical Leaves Aqua

If you purchase a 5 yard long wrap in Tropical Leaves Aqua, Bali Pink or Floral Pink & Black 100% cotton knit jersey during my pre-sale, I will take $5 off the price! These will be priced at $35 regular retail so by ordering now, you will pay only $30 plus exact shipping. 5 yards is enough for most people to use for most or all carries. If you are interested, click here.

Pre-sale will end after 4 wraps are purchased, so if you want one, order soon!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Organic Cotton Wrap Pre-Sale!

2007-05-10T11:36:00.000-05:00

Wraps are the most comfortable of baby carriers and slings for long term use and carrying heavy toddlers. Wraps distribute baby's weight across both shoulders and across your entire back. There is a learning curve when it comes to use, but after tying it once or twice, it becomes easy. I will be offering organic cotton and hemp wraps on www.slingsandsacks.com in the up coming month or two, however I have decided to have a pre-sale.

If you are interested in purchasing a 5 yard long wrap in Pistachio or Royal Blue 100% organic cotton knit, I will take $10 off the price! These will be priced at $50 regular retail so by ordering now, you will pay only $40 plus exact shipping. 5 yards is enough for most people to use for most or all carries. If you are interested, click here.

Pre-sale will end after 4 wraps are purchased, so if you want one, order soon!

Pistachio

Royal Blue

The Belly Hugger

2007-05-05T12:40:00.000-05:00

The Belly Hugger is now available at www.slingsandsacks.com.

Fold down to keep cool on warmer days and wear it up while nursing to cover your postpartum belly. No need for expensive nursing shirts.

"Bridge the gap" between your pre-pregnancy shirts and jeans.

Post-Pregnancy
* Covers & keeps belly warm while nursing
* Soft cotton/spandex tube
* Wear under normal tops
* A great alternative to nursing shirts
* Looks like a layered T-shirt
* Available in a variety of sizes and colors

During Pregnancy
* Holds up unbuttoned pants before maternity clothes are needed
* Helps bridge the gap between your regular shirts and pants (lessen the need to buy special maternity T-shirts)

Invented by Moms, Tested by Moms, Produced by Moms, Made for Moms.

If you want to see some real talent...

2007-05-04T06:06:00.000-05:00

Check out Calvin's most recent sewing projects. His work is amazing. The thought and time he puts into them truly shows. What a talented boy!

Blessed Baby Boutique opens May 8th

2007-05-03T20:24:00.000-05:00

The Wilton WAHM Co-op is now 11 local moms strong. As I mentioned previously, we are opening a baby boutique in Wilton, Maine. May 8th is the big day! Blessed Baby Boutique will offer handmade cloth diapers (including Boo Bear Buns products), baby carriers (including my slings), Itsa Greener Clean laundry detergent, diaper bags, herbal bath & body products, new & second hand clothing, wooden toys and so much more. Services offered will include breastfeeding support, doula services, belly casting, baby wearing & cloth diapering 101, photography, personal training and yoga.

A week long celebration of motherhood is planned for the first week. On Tuesday May 8^th, bring your kids from 11-noon for Barefoot Books Story Hour. Cloth diapering 101 will be held Wednesday May 9th from noon-1. Bring your kids back Thursday May 10^th from 11-noon for Likable Recyclables Child Crafts. Friday May 11^th offers baby wearing 101 from 11-noon. Saturday May 12^th celebrate the birth of Blessed Baby from 10-noon with shower games and prizes. Stay for an open discussion from 1-3 on Modern Motherhood. Located at 346 Main Street, Blessed Baby is open Tuesday-Thursday 10-5, Friday 9-6 and Saturday 9-5. For more info, go to www.blessedbaby.org, contact me, or call 207-645-4MOM.

I have a ton of pictures but Photoshop is not working and I don't know how to resize them without it so all you get here is one, however there are more on my flickr page. If you look closely, you can see that my sister cut my hair short last week. Aiden got his first haircut too!

Natural Spring Cleaning

2007-04-20T10:36:00.000-05:00

As spring arrives, many people start clearing their home of the clutter and dirt from winter. When cleaning, keep in mind all the chemicals you may be exposing your family to. After all, you want to purify, not pollute your home. Did you know that it is easy and inexpensive to clean safely? Here are some tips for natural spring cleaning:

Vinegar, baking soda, lemon, washing soda/soda ash, borax and peroxide are all cheap and effective natural cleaning agents.

Baking soda can be used for anything that needs to be scrubbed (sink, bathtub). Cleans, deodorizes and softens water.
Peroxide can be added to a squirt bottle and sprayed onto areas that need disinfecting.
Vinegar mixed with water works like an all-purpose cleaner. Cuts grease and removes mildew and odors. It's also a great natural fabric softener when adding 1/4 cup to the rinse cycle (it will also help to break down laundry detergents if you use those nasty chemical ridden ones). Do not use on marble. Undiluted vinegar should not be used on grout.
Lemon juice dissolves soap scum and can be used to clean/shine copper and brass fixtures. Add to baking soda to create a scrubbing paste that smells fresh and clean.
Borax cleans, deodorizes, disinfects and softens water. Can be used on walls, floors, etc. Pick up a box and read through all it's uses. Quite handy to have around and a box lasts forever.
Washing soda or soda ash is another water softener that cuts grease, removes stains, and can be used on walls, floors, tubs and sinks.

Adding a few drops of lavender or tea tree essential oils will add to the anti-septic and disinfectant properties of the cleaners listed above.
I make a Lavender anti-septic cleaner by adding 2 tablespoons washing soda, 1 tablespoon borax, 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin soap and up to a teaspoon lavender essential oil to 2 cups of warm water. Leave on surfaces for 15 minutes to give the lavender time to disinfect. Tea tree oil can be used as well.
Don't want to make your own cleaners? Itsa Greener Clean natural laundry detergent is not just for clothes and diapers! It contains 4 of the cleaners mentioned above. Add 1/4 cup to a gallon of water to clean floors, walls, etc. I even use it in the dishwasher with vinegar as a rinse aid. Samples are now available in my stores.
Citrus solvent is my second favorite method of cleaning floors. I find that it is very effective in removing all traces of dog from the house. The smell can get overpowering so I try to use it sparingly, and to mix it with lots of fresh air. Cats do not like citrus scents so it's not recommended for areas cats frequent. It also keeps fleas away.
Cleaning rags can easily be made from old shirts, towels, cloth diapers, receiving blankets, etc. You may be surprised by how much money and waste you can save by using cloth over paper towels.
Keep in mind that bleach is a very powerful substance which should only be used in a well ventilated area. The alternatives listed above are MUCH safer.
One of my favorite clutter busters (and I am really not one to talk, but here it goes) is to use three boxes or baskets while cleaning. Mark them "trash", "store", and "donate". Be honest when going through your things. The hardest part is making sure those boxes get to their intended destinations :) More boxes may be necessary unless you've got appliance boxes handy!

Operation Hokie Hope

2007-04-20T09:21:00.000-05:00

Click on the banner to learn more about the greeting card drive Delaney Gates is organizing. All cards will be forwarded to Virginia Tech.

Busy, Busy

2007-04-12T15:39:00.000-05:00

The Wilton WAHM Co-Op, which I am a proud member of, is opening a storefront in downtown Wilton, Maine. It's coming together fast. I have been busy this past week with meetings and creating. You may not hear from me as much until the store is running smoothly. Only 18 days until we open, and 15 before we stock the store! Ah! I'll be sure to post updates and some pics of finished products as the days wind down. I hope to see all you local readers May 1st when Blessed Baby is born! By the way, why the heck is it snowing in the middle of April?

Back to the sewing room I go...

Pictures that I have been meaning to post...

2007-04-07T19:20:00.000-05:00

Aiden playing at my Mom's. Too bad I don't have the patience to upload the videos of him head-butting the horses. It was hilarious!

Lovely view in No View Greenhouse! Mom has lettuce and spinach growing in one house and seedlings in another.

Look at those greens! Yum!

I made Aiden a fleece cover. All but a couple wool soakers were bought and are ruined. Why all the bulk? That's NOT a Boo Bear Buns diaper underneath, but one of the few I bought back in the days before Slings and Sacks.These were my Scooby toe socks. I cut off the toes and made an tank top that was never going to fit again into cuffs. Very cool!
Rambling side note: In high school I had a glow in the dark Scooby comforter and an orange Scooby lunch box (my school was not vegetarian friendly so packed lunch was a necessity). This was while I was living own my own mind you. Ah, the days of driving my friends around listening to CKY and punk. Video taping those sweet kick-flips and ollies. Wearing questionable tee shirts to school.

Real Men Wear Babies - The Latest in Spring Fashion

2007-04-04T14:13:00.000-05:00

Dr. Sear's isn't the only man who wears babies. Check out these rugged men and their babies:

This is Dave. He's showing off his new pouch sling. You can't get more manly than black and green camo! Here you see beautiful little Bellatrix all cozy in her sling. I love the look on her face :)

Jon and Aiden modeled it for me literally minutes before I rushed it to the post office. I love custom orders, but this one was my favorite. A pocket is hidden in the seam. Perfect for a wallet and cell phone.

Thanks to Dave and Christy for sending the pictures!

Also check out these other baby wearing dads:
Babywearing: A Dad's Experience
Hyena Cart Forum: Pics of Babywearing Dad's
Dr. Sears - Father's Wearing Babies
Does this baby carrier make my manboobs look big?

Trip to the playground

2007-04-03T08:24:00.000-05:00

On the last day of March, we could be found at the playground up the street. Aiden was very intrigued by all the space to run and the interesting structures to climb and explore, however Mum and Da may have had the most fun! A daily jaunt up has been planned for the nice, lazy days of spring and summer.

Mattress Wrapping - 100% Reduction in SIDS

2007-03-31T10:23:00.000-05:00

Have you heard of mattress wrapping? I had not. Well, if you've got a little one, or you care about the health or you and your family, you certainly should read this. Since 1994, mattress wrapping has been 100% successful in the prevention of SIDS or crib death. Yeah, 100%. It's based on the toxic gas "theory". "The theory states that toxic nerve gases permeate from all used mattresses: crib, bassinet, adult mattresses and even sofa cushions. The gases are created when fungus grows inside the mattress (or foam) and eats certain elements in the mattress, including phosphorus, arsenic, and antimony. Babies, especially those sleeping on their stomachs, breathe in the toxic nerve gases, which results in crib death, or SIDS."
Although I disagree with them advising against co-sleeping, their site is very informational. Some other methods of prevention are to avoid fabric softeners and clean with natural cleaners (Itsa Greener Clean found here and here covers that), to become educated about vaccination, breastfeed, do not smoke, and expose baby to fresh air whenever possible. More information on SIDS can be found at Ask Dr Sears.
We are looking into a way to cover the old mattress Jon sleeps on and the couch Aiden and I share. (Yeah we sleep on the couch, if your mattress was as old and springy as ours, you would too!)
Thanks to All Natural Mommies for the original post.

Yeah Baby, I'm Gonna Win It!

2007-03-31T08:11:00.000-05:00

Jenna's blog pointed out this awesome contest, which, as the title proves, I am going to win. Win what you ask? An awesome Dyson slim vacuum, that's what! You can enter yourself at 5 Minutes for Mom; it'll just add to how cool it is that I won :)

And the winner is...

2007-03-27T19:03:00.000-05:00

Christy from Sapphire Stitches not only choose a name that I love, she made me a label! So, what name did she come up with you ask? Itsa Greener Clean. I didn't use her label in the end (I went with a simpler, all black label) but it's the thought that counts! Check out her store later; she just had a baby but she'll be stocking it soon.

Thanks to everyone who entered a name! I liked them all, but many were already in use or had suds in the name (it's suds free :) Itsa Greener Clean spoke to me, and it's wasn't trademarked.

Itsa Greener Clean is $1 off right now, and can be found here and here. It will be in a few brick and mortar stores soon as well.

Maine Maple Sunday

2007-03-25T22:03:00.000-05:00

Maine Maple Sunday could not have fallen on a more beautiful day. The Grimmel family ventured over to Peru, ME (a 10 minute drive) to check out Thurston's Sugarshack. I so greatly miss making maple syrup. I enjoyed explaining the process to my husband and one of the many old friend's from school we ran into. I could not narrow the pictures down, so I apologize if you have dial up!

These Valiant Steeds were the highlight of Aiden's day. He doesn't have much interest in Grammy's horses (although Mac loves him, and sniffs him every time they meet). I could not believe how many people came and went while we were there. These beauties had quite a day pulling us all to and from the sugarhouse.

Their sugarshack. Inside were new and antique tools of the trade, and my favorite, a maple tree with it's rings marked with the year they represent. Above that was a time line of what historical events during that one tree's lifetime. I think the first ring was 1800. It was before Lincoln became president. Ice cream was made, and served with maple syrup. Yum!

Checking out the snow with Daddy.

Throwing Snow

Didn't want a picture taken with Mum, just wanted to know what the heck was making all that noise (generator in the old sugarhouse behind us).

On the ride home. Oh yeah, he's playing with the block!

Playing outside after we got home. Stepped in a land mine and fell in the mud. Ah, spring is here.

Jossilyn

2007-03-22T14:57:00.000-05:00

Jossilyn Adams lost her fight with cancer yesterday. She was a beautiful girl, full of spirit, and she will be sadly missed. Please donate to the For Love of Jossilyn Fund if you are able to. A little more information can be found in this post. And remember to cherish the time you have with your babies, every day.

Aiden's new tote & toy

2007-03-19T21:32:00.000-05:00

Here are pics of Aiden's new tote. I love this fabric! Inside is Aiden's favorite book "Owen" by Kevin Henkes. Aiden reads it all the time. I adore it as well :) I made this toy since my last post to go with his tote. It is stuffed with a rice cakes bag for noise factor and hemp/organic cotton scraps. I plan to grab up a lot of this fabric next time I go to the fabric store!

Boys' day out, Mom's day in

2007-03-19T15:44:00.000-05:00

I’m still here. Not sure when I will be off-line, if at all. I do plan to check in every few days regardless.

Jon took Aiden out without me for the first time today. (Thus far they have met up with Uncle Joe, sat on motorcycles at a Harley dealership and visited Pappy.) It’s amazing how quiet the house is without all of Aiden’s noises. I’ve had to keep music on just to feel comfortable. I miss the little bugger. With him being gone, I had to do something I hadn’t done for a while; pump. If you don’t want to read about it, feel free to scroll down, I won’t be offended :) I could not believe how much milk I produced. 4 ounces on one side. Man, when Aiden was little and I was pumping nearly every day (because I thought I needed to have milk in the freezer just in case), I was lucky to get 4 ounces total. By the way, Aiden wouldn’t drink out of a bottle, and all that milk got thrown out. (Next time I will be donating to a milk bank. I looked into it when Aiden was 10 months, but by the time all the testing was complete, I would have only been able to donate for 1 month. They only accept it for the first 12 months) I’m sure he will be happy to find milk in his cup at dinner. We’ll see if he downs it like it’s lemonade.

Without little fingers helping me, I was able to get a lot done, and I plan to continue as they won’t be home for another hour or so. I got 11 pair of nursing pads cut out, 3 sets of flannel backed wipes and 15 flannel front diapers. Yesterday I completed an additional 3 pair of nursing pads, 2 sets of flannel wipes and a pair of pants & tote bag for Aiden. Add to that a beautiful morsbag that I intend to keep for myself, and you can see that I have been busy!

Alright, back to work…

CONTEST

2007-03-15T09:23:00.000-05:00

Between the new site and custom order slings, I have been busy. My mother has been a huge help. She has cut out so many diaper, wipe and nursing pad pieces that I am beginning to wonder whether I can complete them all! She has also helped with the formulation and testing of my new products. Very soon, natural laundry detergent and all-purpose cleaners will be available on www.slingsandsacks.com!

The story: I was quite excited when the family from Maine who makes natural laundry detergents and cleaners agreed to me selling their products on my site. I was equally as disappointed to find, through personal experience and that of other retailers, that they are unreliable. My passion for natural cleaning products drove me to create a detergent. (I in no way copied their detergent, or any other. The formulation is my own.) I am even more pleased to find that my products out clean the other natural products I had been using.

**The contest: Come up with an original name for my natural detergents and cleaning products. Send it to aimee@slingsandsacks.com with "name contest" in the subject line. If I choose the name you have come up with, I will send you a free 16 load bag of detergent. Contest closes whenever I decide :) **

Some more info that may help: Products are free of phosphates, biodegradable, safe for sensitive skin, suds free, and do not contain any sodium lauryl sulfate or dyes. All scents are created using essential oils.

The small print stuff: By sending me a name idea, you release all rights regarding that name, and any variance of it, to Slings and Sacks to use at our discretion. The free bag of detergent will be mailed in the cheapest way possible, therefore it may take a couple weeks or longer (depending on the postal service and where you live) before you receive the product.

I'll post some pictures soon (I know, I said that a week ago). I made Aiden a pair of pants from corduroy my mother used when I was a wee one. And the new flannel front diapers, nursing pads and wipes are un-fricken-believably cute. The old Euro-Pro machine I have been using is in need of a new foot control so I have switched to a Singer that we're guessing is from the 60's. Alright, back to adding bath & body products to the site, only after messing with threading a bobbin on the old singer. But first, off to my weekly visit/cleaning spree with my favorite person in the world besides Aiden, my Gram. Ever noticed how much easier it is to clean someone else's home?

For your viewing pleasure

2007-03-08T21:55:00.000-05:00

I'm still working diligently on my website. Since there's not much to look at here at this time, do check out some of the beautiful treasuries on Etsy! Here is a screenshot from one I found this evening. I love to see what people choose to fill their 12 highly sought after treasury spaces. Anyway, until I add more, check 'em out!

Updates!

2007-03-02T14:13:00.000-05:00

Yeah, I'm still here. I haven't been posting lately because I am building a new website! It will offer my products but will also have natural mama and baby products! It's on a temp address so you can't peek yet, but the logos give a lot away :) I have wanted to post about so many things; I made a beautiful hemp/cotton pouch sling for someone on Etsy (pics below), I have pics of Mr. Fish (aka McFish) that I wanted to post, Aiden's been playing outside more and there are many pics of that as well, my b-day cake was so cute, my new logos are awesome (pics above), and so much more! I hope to get some more pics posted at some point, although we may end up with winter pics posted in the summer!
If you check this between now and Sundayish, check out my Nursling treasury on Etsy.

Reversible Pouch Slings

2007-02-26T13:48:00.000-05:00

Reversible pouch slings are now available in my Etsy store. I am adding more every couple days right now so check back soon.

I will also be working on www.slingsandsacks.com over the next couple weeks so I can sell directly from my site as well.

Another diapering package done

2007-02-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

Woo hoo! So what does a diapering package entail? This one is a second order for a wonderful customer containing 10 fitted diapers, 10 inserts and 12 wipes.
I:
Marked and cut 72 pieces
Sewed 10 soaker panels in
Sewed on 30 pieces of elastic
Washed (preshrunk) 12 pieces
Dried 12 pieces
Pinned 60 pieces together
Serged around 32 items
Trimmed excess thread on 32 items
Marked and poked 160 holes
Snapped on 160 snaps
Lint rolled and inspected 32 items
Tied on 3 ribbons and tags
Took pictures
Alright, that's enough!

Blog Feature!

2007-02-18T08:34:00.000-05:00

Check it out, my pink paisley sling was featured in Dragon in Knots' blog! And what good timing with tomorrow being my birthday :) Their blog features many items from other Etsy shops. Check out Dragon in Knots' Etsy store as well for a large range of arts and crafts. This one is my favorite:

If you happen to have trouble getting to any Etsy stores, please try again later. The Etsy Admins have been working hard to get the site working faster, and in doing so there have been periods of down time.

For the Love of Jossilyn Fund

2007-02-16T21:48:00.000-05:00

Jossilyn Adams is a sweet 9 year old unschooler with leukemia. She had a bone marrow transplant in August 2005 and is having a relapse. She is in the hospital and has been undergoing chemotherapy. Jossilyn is one of 6 amazing unschooling children. Their mother, Marge is single parent and a wonderful woman. The family lives in Maine. Please go to countrymoosekids.com/huho to see all the wonderful products that have been donated for sale or to make a contribution.

Self Portrait Thursday

2007-02-15T23:00:00.000-05:00

I don't plan on doing this every Thursday, and yeah, it's late, but technically it's still Thursday for another hour, so...
Yes, I am wearing a tank top and winter hat. I couldn't find an elastic and I love this alpaca hat.

We got over 2 feet of snow yesterday. You can't really tell from most of the (more aesthetically pleasing) pictures I took, but the snow is very deep now.

Aiden discovered how to put pasta on his fingers one handed today. This is not really a great pic, but look at those blue eyes!

Rust/Multi Swirls Batik Wet Bag

2007-02-12T18:13:00.000-05:00

My Etsy store now carries wet bags as well. They are ideal for soiled diapers and other wet items. Lined with PUL, they are waterproof.

Blue Batik Tote Bag

2007-02-11T02:00:00.000-05:00

This tote bag matches a ring sling I sold recently. It can be used as a small diaper bag, purse, craft tote, lunch bag, etc.

Finally added some "sacks"

2007-02-09T12:13:00.000-05:00

My newest item is this gorgeous tote bag. I am so tempted to keep it for myself... 100% cotton batik shells, reverses to brown. I am going to try getting some better photos. I just had to list it when I completed it last night! More to come.

Cloth Diapering Packages

2007-02-08T16:05:00.000-05:00

Cloth diapering packages are now available in my Etsy store. I am also working on tote bags to add soon. I used to offer them and hadn't made any since I opened my store on Etsy. I forgot how much fun they are to make. The tote I made for my nieces birthday will be blogged about very soon...

You Pick the Size Pouch Slings

2007-02-08T06:43:00.000-05:00

These fabric swatches are from current listings in my Etsy store. All of these listings are for a pouch sling made to fit the buyer.

Barley Hemp/Cotton Blend

Earthy Stripes 100% Cotton (Picture does not do it justice)

Purple Paisley 100% Polyester

We played in the snow

2007-02-07T22:22:00.000-05:00

We're all feeling a little better around here, except for Summer, our lab mix. She was sick today and Aiden didn't want me to go outside without him. We bundled up and he enjoyed playing outside today. He still won't walk with boots on :)

Sniffle, sniffle. Cough, cough.

2007-02-03T21:39:00.000-05:00

Like most people recently, we are all sick. Yesterday I spent the entire day watching season 1 of Grey's Anatomy. How I missed that show is beyond me. I'm making up for lost time. Every month of receipts I get entered in, I allow myself 15 minutes of a season 2 episode. My plan is working quite well. I have a lot of paperwork done and I am still getting my fix :)

Here is Aiden napping on me.
And here he is just waking up from a nap.

And this one proves just how sick Aiden has been. He fell asleep like this, which just doesn't happen around here. Any other time, he has to be nursing to fall asleep :)

Advice to live by

2007-02-01T08:35:00.000-05:00

After hearing some life altering news from a friend, which I will explain soon, I want to take this opportunity to ask you to give yourself to those you love today. Remember how important they are to you. No order, sewing project, load of laundry, sink of dishes, job, appointment, etc, is more valuable than they are. Give to them today. Love them with all you have. Don't take them for granted.

Now I am going to get some things in order so I can spend my day with Aiden after he wakes up. Because he is my bunny and I love him.

Check out these fairies!

2007-01-30T13:30:00.000-05:00

You have got to check out Vermont Fairies on Etsy! They are so beautiful and whimsical. Good luck choosing your favorite, they are all so lovely! Emily's fairies are "all handmade with felt I make using wool from our sheep, llamas, and angora rabbits as well as silk, mohair, and sparkles". She is a home schooled student from Vermont. This is definitely my newest favorite store! (Can't you tell by all the exclamation points?)

You should also check out her family's farm website and their Etsy store. Some of my favorite items from the family store are this gorgeous felted wool baby blanket and their wool lap pad/comforter. Their farm is organic and just amazing (from what I've read)!

It feels much better in here

2007-01-28T16:14:00.000-05:00

My mom came over on Thursday and helped clean the house. We got this place in tip top shape, which didn't last long, but it still feels much better in here. We also moved furniture around. The hutch that was in the dining room, aka craft room, was moved to the living room. It suits that room, especially with the dark red against the brown walls. Now I am craving curtains dyed that color... Oh, and we moved our "new" computer desk into the dining room, thanks Jean! Aiden shook the old desk one too many times and it's keyboard shelf thingy gave out, so typing has been very uncomfortable lately. Add lots of entries to our general ledgers, and I am feeling somewhat better.

Now I need to get some more diapers made, although I am nearly out of fabric again, and don't have enough money to buy more. Uh oh! Hopefully I sell some slings! I will be adding some custom sized pouch slings this week.

I was going to end there, but I'm in the blogging mood (because I am avoiding anything resembling work) so I will continue.

Here is what I had for lunch. Yummy! I love Mexican food! Start with organic romaine lettuce, add tortilla chips (we were out of blue). The brown stuff there is Morning Star Farms recipe crumbles, known as grillerburg in this house. Warm that up in a skillet with taco seasoning and some red onions. Add some taco sauce, or my favorite, organic Pace salsa. Missing from the photo are the two best features, avocado and cheese.Now this picture may look like a yard stick and car shade, but if you use your imagination, you will see that they are actually the swords Aiden and I play with throughout the day. Sword fights are the coolest!

And here is my little one with a Stonyfield organic peach yogurt mustache! He loves their drinkable yogurt as well.
Thanks for putting up with my looonnngg post!

It's sooooo cold out!

2007-01-25T22:20:00.000-05:00

Here is the weather report for tomorrow:

Flurries and a few snow showers throughout the day. Very cold. Dangerous wind chills as low as -25F. High around 5F. Winds NW at 15 to 25 mph.

I'm thinking it's a good day for Jon to stay home.

It's sooooo cold out!

6 Things You May Not Know About Me

2007-01-25T09:59:00.000-05:00

1. I am very goofy. Aiden and I sing and dance throughout the day. Whether it be one of his toys making music, something on the radio or an original song by mommy. We have fun every single day!

2. I read a lot of articles, websites and books about unschooling and mindful/unconditional parenting. Being mindful does not come easy to me so I work on it daily. Scott Noelle's Daily Groove emails are often my daily inspiration.

3. I want to live on a huge farm with a bunch of kids, miniature horses, miniature goats, chickens, turkeys, chinchillas and a couple rats. Of course my dogs and cats can come too:) When my children get older, I would love to have them build houses on our land. Of course I would babysit/unschool all of my grandchildren.

4. I used to ride horses. You're reading a post written by a former Junior Gymkhana Champion. My poor Jupiter (I called him Poopa because he tooted every time he walked out of the barn) passed away last year. He was an old man.

5. I am messy. Always have been. What makes matters worse is that Jon makes me look like a neat freak. Add Aiden and all this toys to the mix, and our house is always wreaked! I've tried to keep up with everyone but find that it makes me more stressed than seeing a messy house does. I take the time every couple days to pick up and vacuum, but do this because I want to, not because I feel I have to. However, I do draw the line at stickiness. Ah, I hate being sticky!

6. I have a huge imagination and can picture incredibly beautiful things. Unfortunately my creativity ends there. I often cannot express my thoughts in words, pictures, etc.

So, if you read this, it's your turn to post 6 crazy things about yourself. Can't wait to read them all :)

You may not hear from me...

2007-01-23T13:36:00.000-05:00

for a few days. I am taking a break to get the house organized and get some tax prep done. I had a bunch of paperwork entered for both SaS's and Jon's business, then the program crapped out. Damn technology! So I am starting over. Just wanted you all to know why I haven't posted, and may not again, for a couple days.
Just to catch everyone up, I am now the treasurer of Connections Ag Cooperative.
The website hasn't been updated with our current undertakings and the new name, but I am excited that the project is coming together. I have also been getting involved with Discovery Democratic School. We may be opening this fall! If you don't know what a Democratic school is, I like to think of it as unschooling in a group atmosphere. Look it up, they are all over the world.
Have a wonderful week!

Anyone want to help me sew?

2007-01-20T23:10:00.000-05:00

I've been busy since my fleece arrived. I tried limiting my time on the computer (easier said than done) and I have worked diligently, but there is so much more to do. For some reason my serger is not cooperating. Anyone want to lend a hand? Maybe just keep Aiden off the table while I work?
Heading to Lewiston tomorrow so Jon's Aunt Evie can meet Aiden. Bad timing but we could both use a trip out of the house! Hopefully his family's negative energy will not bring me down. I did convince Jon to go grocery shopping while there. I love the plethora of organic and vegetarian foods I find outside the local grocery stores. When the Connections Co-op is up and running in Dixfield, I won't have to go far.
Alright, enough one handed typing for tonight. Going to lay down with my little, naked butt nursling :)
Here's some Aiden for ya.

Natural Toys Made in Maine

2007-01-18T09:33:00.000-05:00

Check out the beautiful wooden toys and furniture made by Elves and Angels . Their products are made by a Maine homeschooling family. I want to get one of their kitchen sets for Aiden!

My products are in stores!

2007-01-16T00:19:00.000-05:00

With help from their very kind store owner, Laura, Country Moose Kids is now carrying my product lines! Check them out at www.countrymoosekids.com/MadeinMaine.html. Check out their other sections as well. You can't beat a family run company that has great customer service!

This ring sling is only available from them, it's one of a kind so don't miss out!

BTY - My wholesale pricing dilemma has been dealt with and I am moving on to more creative endeavors. Those promotional materials I have been saying need to get done are finally getting my attention. At least until my fabric arrives or I start another sling ;)

Have a wonderful day! We plan on playing in the snow later :)

No fabric, night terrors and wholesale pricing, oh my!

2007-01-15T10:54:00.000-05:00

I try to stay positive. That's something I really strive for, so don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining here...
1. I am totally out of fabric and it won't be in until tomorrow or Wednesday. That really sucks because there is a huge snowstorm here today and Jon is home. I could be working on diapers that I will need very soon. But the snow is beautiful so I am still smiling :)
2. When I was young I had night terrors very often. Many people don't remember them and are able to fall asleep after, unaware that it has happened. I have never been that lucky. I had a few during my teenage years, one of which took place while camping with friends on the ledge of a huge mountain. Now that was embarrassing. Going to sleep is scary for me. I used to cover my head for fear of vampires getting me during my sleep. At 3 am, Aiden started screaming. I was aware that we was screaming, he was sleeping on my chest after all, but I couldn't move or function for a while. I had to have Jon come and get him because I literally had no clue what was going on or what I needed to do. I was basically still asleep and expecting to be murdered. Nice, huh? I remember thinking I was being dragged through a dark corn field or forest after having been raped. Nothing like this has ever happened to me. Aiden screamed in Jon's arms for a while and it took me a long time to calm down. I know that night terrors are inherited but I couldn't find any information on mother and child having one at the same time. I hope they are not going to plague Aiden as often as they did me.
3. Wholesale pricing is so hard when making diapers. I can't use the normal "take the total and multiply by 4" equation. In order to not lose any money, my wholesale prices are only 20% less than retail. My diapering packages, which I had set to debut this week, would make that amount go down even more. Do I set my wholesale prices figuring that I will someday be able to purchase fabric at lower prices by buying in bulk, making wholesale go up to 27%? Then I could take 7% off on diapering packages and my wholesale customers would still make 20% on them?

Update: I took my friend's advice and wrote to my wholesale customer. She was so helpful and understanding. A huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders.

Another order that's long gone.

2007-01-14T00:11:00.000-05:00

Here is an order of a half dozen wipes and 2 BBB's contoured diapers as they were on their way out the door. But more importantly, look at how cute Aiden and I are!

Chuck E Cheese

2007-01-13T23:39:00.000-05:00

My mother brought Aiden and I to Chuck E Cheese for an unschooling get together. (Thanks Mom!) Only 4 unschooling families showed up but it was still fun. The moderator of our unschooling group is very interested in adding my diapers to her high end baby/child website. I am working on all those details right now. Aiden thought that it was the coolest place he'd been to in a while. He had so much fun eating pizza, playing on the cars and bulldozer, and watching the other kids play. After CEC, we went to the Maine Mall where he continued the fun by running around. KB Toys must have been to him what a fabric store is to me. He pulled toys off the shelf and pushed a popping car all over the store!

Diaper Pin Review Button

2007-01-13T23:24:00.000-05:00

I have added this button for anyone who purchases a product from me. There are no listings for my products on there yet so this link brings you to an add product page. I added my Boo Bear Buns fitted diapers but it takes up to 14 days for the item to show. Please do write a review for any products you like! This button is going in the side bar as well.
Thanks,
Aimee

Felted Recycled Pocketbook

2007-01-11T08:21:00.000-05:00

I turned this felted wool sweater

into this pocketbook. I didn't get a picture of it with the brown handle but it came out nicer than the picture did. My sister is now the proud owner of my first handmade pocketbook.

What have I been up to?

2007-01-10T00:40:00.001-05:00

I look around and see that I have not gotten that much done. Where has all of my time gone? I spend way too much time in the forums on Etsy for one :) To get more work done, I stay up after Aiden goes to bed. Nothing abnormal about that; lots of moms do it. But here's the kicker, Aiden goes to bed around 11! I'm up until after midnight every night now. At first it was just here and there. Now I can't even fall asleep sooner if I try! I do get my sleep in most days though. I wake up after 8 most mornings! I never used to sleep much past 7.
So, I started and finished a custom ring sling on Monday. That was wonderful. Then today (I guess that would be yesterday now) I finished 2 diapers to mail out tomorrow (and that would be today). I also helped a friend who lost her job set up her own shop. It's http://YKnotKnit.etsy.com . I took all her pictures and help get everything up and running. I did it for free when I should have been working myself, but I am proud of how it turned out so I don't feel too guilty about it.
I spent way too much time not getting anywhere with some paperwork I've been trying to complete. I guess that's life. I also wrote a rather lengthly email/vent to my poor friend Amber. Sorry you had to read all that at once:)
Oh well, it is a new day now. I'm sure I can get more done today. If I tell myself that everyday, it's bound to happen sometime, right?