Welcome Wednesday with We Three Bees and a GIVEAWAY

It's time for Welcome Wednesday with Nicole and her Etsy shop We Three Bees

Nicole is offering free worldwide shipping on any order from now until the end of 2012 (Easter-Standard Time) with coupon code: WTBFREESHIP412

And DON'T FORGET HER GIVEAWAY!!! Details after the interview...now let' discover Nicole's creative story



Bandana Bib

What is the first creative memory you have?
Well… apparently I was creative even before my memories were established. My mother just LOOOOVES to tell this story about me! I was little enough to still wear a diaper (you can see where this is going) and, during my afternoon nap, I wasn’t very tired. I slowly came down the stairs, holding a handled mirror out in front of me, very carefully balancing “cookies” to offer to her guest. I can only imagine the horror on my poor mother’s face when she saw what I had used to make the “cookies.” I also, in my careful descent down the stairs, left a hand painted mural behind me on the wall. Oh my! The joys of motherhood :)

What or whom began your creative journey on Etsy?
A relative recommended it to me after seeing some of my sewing projects and I was hooked!

How did you come up with your shop name?
Bees have always been so interesting to me, the way they’re so fragile and yet, so mighty. Just like humans, I guess. “We Three” came from one of the happiest times in my life when my first son was born. It was my loving and supportive husband, Ben, my new little Jack and me, we three. We’ve since had our second son, Dexter and we have to have one more to make my shop name relevant! (At least that is what my husband tells me.) So, if we’re lucky, bee number three will be making an appearance next summer or fall!

Describe what creations you have in your shop

Goodies for babies and children. I’m drawn to cold weather clothing and styles. Not the cold weather, just the clothing. There are lots of different hats and jackets but you'll also find bunting, blankets, and a new addition, The Dapper Fox softie.

Bicycle Bunting & Dapper Fox Softie

What insprires you?
Nature and love, especially the bond that exists between parents and their children. It’s bewildering, overwhelming and bittersweet but being a parent has made me happier than I could have ever imagined. And I’ve always been fascinated by nature- so complex and beautiful.

What do you listen to or watch while creating?

If I don’t hear Papa trying to wrangle two little boys upstairs, I’m listening to Van Morrison or Christmas music (I know. It’s too early… but I know you’re secretly thinking of Bing Crosby and wanting to hear some White Christmas; it’s okay. This is a safe place.)

Toddler Reversible Corduroy Jacket

Please share a favorite recipe
I hate cooking. Well, that’s not entirely true. I hate cooking when I (1) don’t have time, (2) don’t have ingredients and/or (3) don’t have any ideas on what to cook. Usually, all three attack me at once! However, a true fall-time staple in our house is spiced apple cider. You need: one gallon of cider, three cinnamon sticks, a tea blotter filled with equal parts whole cloves and whole allspice, ¾ cup sugar. Dump it all in your crockpot on low heat, give it a stir and wait for the delicious aroma to waft through the house! Perfect for get-togethers. Also, when the party's over, put it in the fridge and re-heat in the microwave- instant "Mmmm!"

Where else can we find you?

Facebook www.facebook.com/wethreebees
Twitter @WeThreeBees
Pinterest www.pinterest.com/WeThreeBees 
Etsy www.WeThreeBees.etsy.com


NOW FOR THE GIVEAWAY

Nicole is offering one free children’s hat with worldwide shipping included. Made to order or ready to ship, any style (bomber/trapper, earflap or pixie hood), size newborn to 8 years. Production time is 2 - 3 weeks and items ship USPS First Class or USPS First Class International. Visit her shop here to see the variety of hats you can choose from!

NOW TO ENTER

Please remember you do not have to do all of the entries...but the more you do the more chances you have at winning!

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3a999e68/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tribute Tuesday with This -n- That Boutique

It's Tribute Tuesday...so let's welcome Etsy shop This -n- That Boutique

What is the first creative memory you have?

Sitting at my grandmothers on a hot summer day with yarn in hand and her teaching me how to make my first blanket. I think I was about 10 years old and loved learning from her. It was our special thing together.

Sleepy Owl Hat

What or whom began your creative journey on Etsy?

I was searching for patterns and found out that you could sell on Etsy and it was more craft based then eBay where I had been selling.






How did you come up with your shop name?

I always had a little of This and That in my store on eBay and it just sort of stuck. I have thought about changing it but every time I do I add new items that make it this and that again.


Describe what creations you have in your shop

I focus on hand made crochet hats, booties, and photo props for babies. I also love to do purses and older children's items. I am dabbling in headbands now too.

Twin Set, Princess and the Frog

What insprires you?

My children inspire me every day. I want to be able to stay home and watch
them grow up and spend as much time with them as I can. With 7 kids one income is just not enough. My passion for crochet and my kids is my driving force to turn this hobby into a business to keep my kids home with me and out of daycare.


What do you listen to or watch while creating?


Usually I have Disney on in the background with kids thats the only tv I get to watch.

Pixie/Elf Hat with Pom Pom

Please share a favorite recipe


I love this dip for fruit that I had at my baby shower for my first son 13 years ago. I have always loved it. Not to healthy but hey it sure does taste good. You mix a jar of marshmallow creme with a package of cream cheese and there you go a nice sweet dip for any fruit of your choice.


Where else can we find you?


You can find me on
Facebook www.facebook.com/Thisnthatboutiquefans
Twitter twitter.com/T_N_TBoutique
Pinterest pinterest.com/valerycagney/

Meet Monday with Thoughtful Stitches

It's Meet Monday...so let's meet Sharon and her Etsy shop Thoughtful Stitches!

Receive 10% off of your purchase from Thoughtful Stitches for 10 days ONLY, August 20th - August 30th with coupon code: myfAverittesale





Black and pink crochet hat and booties set

What is the first creative memory you have?

 

My family moved to central Michigan in 1970, when I was 5, and I think that's when I can first remember becoming "creative". We moved from the suburbs in southern Michigan into what used to be a one room school house "out in the country". With 5 kids in the family we were often encouraged to "find something to do" (usually with an explanation mark at the end). 

What or whom began your creative journey on Etsy?


Everyone. People kept telling me "you should sell these". Etsy is the perfect platform for me!!

How did you come up with your shop name?


Thoughtful Stitches... it just came to me. I wanted something that could include any "stitched" (sewn, crochet, or knit) items and I AM very thoughtful. ; )

Describe what creations you have in your shop


Right now in the shop I have crochet baby booties, pixie hats, beanies, diaper covers, wool mittens, arm warmers, leg warmers, apple and coffee cozies.

Pink and grey baby sandals

What inspires you?


I am more inspired in fall (my favorite season) and winter. I love the idea of my handmade creations keeping little toes around the world warm and cozy!!

What do you listen to or watch while creating?

If I'm working at night (which I do a LOT) during family tv time, we watch a lot of reality tv (Survivor, Amazing Race, Big Brother, The Great Escape, etc.)
I am also a huge fan of anything with a paranormal theme. I love all the ghost hunter shows and anything that deals with the "afterlife".

 Please share a favorite recipe



Crochet baby loafers

This is something super quick and easy (probably not the most nutritional meal around, ok it's not nutritional at all, but it does have meat and "potatoes")

Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole

Put this in a bowl and mix:
2 to 3 lbs ground beef, browned and drained
1 can cream of mushroom soup
2 cans cheddar cheese soup
Put in a greased 9 x 12 pan and top with a bag of crinkle cut french fries. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes or so.


 Where else can we find you?
 
I am not a "social networker" (I don't know how people find the time!!)... I am on Pinterest and Wanelo... even though I don't really know what I'm doing : ) :
pinterest.com/tfstitches/
wanelo.com/thoughtfulstitches

Meet Monday with Royal Regards

Please meet Sara and her Etsy shop Royal Regards

Handmade with love, Sara provides handmade cards for a birthday, anniversary, graduation, wedding, new baby or set of blank cards.

Now let's discover Royal Regards

What is your first creative memory?

The first creative memory I have is of coloring all the outfits in character coloring books as a young child. It drove my Mom crazy that I would only color the clothes and nothing else in the pictures. I have always loved fashion!

What or whom began your creative journey on Etsy?

 A friend of mine introduced me to Etsy a few years ago and I thought it was such a neat place to shop. I have only been making cards for a couple years but I knew as soon as I fell in love with the craft that I eventually wanted to open up my own Etsy shop.

How did you come up with your shop name?

I wanted something catchy for my shop name and I knew I wanted "Regards" in there somewhere because I sell cards. My husband suggested Regal Regards but there is already a business with that name. Finally, I thought of Royal Regards and it was perfect. I love crowns because Sara means princess so marketing with crown images really appealed to me.

Describe the items in your shop

I have many different types of cards in my shop from all the different holidays, to birthdays, weddings, thank you cards, etc. I also make place cards for weddings and baby showers and really enjoy making those and coordinating thank you cards. It makes me happy to make something that is going to be used on someone's big day. My favorite cards to make are embossed cards. I love the different textures and think they are very elegant looking.

What inspires you?

I draw inspiration from many things. I love color, especially pastels. All 4 seasons here in Michigan inspire me as well and I absolutely love the beach! I have some starfish decor in my card studio to draw inspiration from on a daily basis.




What do you watch or listen to while you are creating?

I usually listen to a mixture of music from iTunes playlists when I create. I love a little bit of everything from country and classic rock to rap. I also often watch t.v. shows or movies on my iPad while i'm working in my studio. I love watching shows like Felicity, Dawson's Creek, Melrose Place, The Wonder Years, etc. that I watched when I was younger. 

Please share a favorite recipe

One of our favorite recipes this summer is for homemade pico de gallo.

-Dice 1 pint of cherry or grape tomatoes
-Dice 1/2 red onion
-Dice 1/4 cup cilantro
-Dice 1 ripe avocado
-Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and mix everything together really well.
We eat this on tacos, fajitas, quesadillas and nachos. It's a really fresh and tasty recipe!

Where else can we find you?

Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Wanelo

Now please go Sara some love and visit her Etsy shop Royal Regards and come back and tell us your favorite handmade card!

Salutations Sunday with i HartFelt and a GIVEAWAY

Please shout out your salutations for Heather and her Etsy shop i HartFelt

Full of whimsy and creativity...Heather offers unique gifts that are sure to charm your "hart."

Receive 10% off of your purchase by entering coupon code: SUMMER at checkout. HartFelt has also offered a great GIVEAWAY...please find all of the details at the end of the interview.

Now we are off to discover i HartFelt

What is the first creative memory you have?

My earliest memory would have to be my mom and I sitting in our craft shop preparing for a holiday bazaar one year. We had a garden where she grew tons of amazing flowers that she would dry in our shop and make gorgeous flower arrangements and I made birdhouses out of recycled cardboard from cereal boxes. I wish I had kept one of these treasures. I am a lucky girl in the fact that I have two very special crafty grandmas.

 One grandma (my dad’s mom) taught me to embroidery and knit! It has stuck with me to this day. I can still envision us sitting on the couch like it was yesterday, she patiently teaching me the ins and outs of embroidering and knitting. Embroidery is still my most favorite. My other grandma (my mom’s mom) had a wood shop and a craft room. I remember she had supplies galore that she collected from garage sales & she then stored everything so neatly and organized in her craft room. She had any supply in any color you could think of. In her wood shop I once used a piece of her scrap wood to make a cat ornament by painting, nailing, and wood gluing. I still have it to this day and use it on my tree at Christmas time.

I hope to provide my children and grandchildren creative memories too! I think it is too important not to share these artistic handmade qualities with the next generations.

What or whom began your creative journey on Etsy?

Lots of support from my husband who believed in me and is inspired by my driven, motivated personality to get things done! I first heard about Etsy from a dear friend who is like a sister to me, and the most creative lady I know. We met in Kindergarten but became friends around 4th grade, and still remain friends to this day even though we reside in different states. Check out her amazing art & coasters in her shop: Art by Julia: www.skerry.etsy.com

How did you come up with your shop name?

I knew right away I wanted to come up with something that meant ‘from the heart.’ I believe that anything handmade comes from the heart (&soul). My husband and I together late one night came up with HartFelt by iHart. HartFelt means ‘from the Hart’ and iHart means ‘I love.’ I also wanted to incorporate the word ‘Felt’ in my shop name because that is what all my softies are made from. Hart‘Felt’ it became. I shortened the name to ihartfelt for Etsy so it would be easier to remember and find. I also intentionally misspelled Hart to be as unique as possible.

All my original softies come with a handmade felt tag with an ‘i’ and a ‘hart’. This has become my most unique feature found consistently on all my softies. I have heard the most inspiring comments on how cute the tags are.





Describe what creations you have in your shop

I specialize in all things felt: ornaments, baby mobiles, softies, and party favors for special occasions and home decor.

My designs reflect originality, charm, special attention to detail, and creativity - my intention is to offer a great alternative to mass produced dime a dozen gifts.

I create everything by hand, the patterns, cutting out the felt, and stitching all the pieces by hand.

What insprires you?

My inspiration comes from my toddler son who is now three years old, my supportive husband, nature- birds are my favorite, seasons- I love the fall, holidays – Valentines, Halloween and Christmas being my favorites, & love. I am truly blessed!!


What do you listen to or watch while creating?

I am almost always watching a movie with my husband in the evening while I do a lot of my sewing, cutting, and stuffing. I love action, drama, and comedy the most. I do like to listen to music too.

Please share a favorite recipe

Pear Nutella Muffins

2 C. stoneground whole wheat self-rising flour
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
½ C. brown sugar
1 egg
¾ C. reduced fat milk
2 T. canola oil
2 large pears, peeled and grated
¼ C. Nutella

1.Preheat oven to 375* and lightly grease 12 muffin tray

2.Sift flour and cinnamon into a large bowl and add in the husks. Add the sugar, combine, and make a well in the center.

3.Place the egg, milk, and oil in a jug or bowl and whisk with a fork until combined. Add to the dry ingredients and fold in with a large metal spoon or rubber spatula until just combined. Do not over beat. Gently fold in the grated pear.

4.Spoon half the mixture into the bases of each muffin tin, then place 1 tsp. of Nutella in the center of each. Top with the remaining mixture. Bake for 20 minutes, until risen, golden and firm to a light touch. Leave in the tins for about 3 minutes, then lift out onto a wire rack to cool.

MAKES 12 – To freeze muffins, cool them completely then wrap individually in aluminum foil. Place them in a large airtight bag, and seal. Allow to thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

Where else can we find you?

Blog
Facebook
Pinterest
E-mail: ihartfelt@yahoo.com


NOW LET'S SEE WHAT ONE LUCKY WINNER WILL RECEIVE!!!

 

HartFelt Fourth of July Stuffed Hanging Owl Party Favors by iHart - Set of 3

***SHIPPING IS INCLUDED TO ALL ENTRANTS

These sweet owls are a perfect touch to your baby shower or birthday party decorations, can be used as a party favor for your special party, or hung in your baby nursery or toddler room.

Party Favor Owl was designed with LOVE & careful attention to detail: hand drawn, hand cut, handstitched, some smaller pieces hot glued, & stuffed with 100% polyfil.

Mr. Party Favor Owl measures approx. 2" by 2" wide.

NOW TO ENTER...please remember you do not have to to do all of the entries...but keep in mind the more you do the more chance you have to win!!! Good luck

a'>http://www.rafflecopter.com">a Rafflecopter giveaway

Welcome Wednesday with Thats A Wrap Baby and a GIVEAWAY

Please welcome Sarah and her Etsy shop Thats A Wrap Baby



Sarah offers beautiful handmade items for your natural family and friends...wonderful baby shower gifts!

Sarah has also offered one of her creations for a giveaway...please check out all of the details after the interview.

Now let's discover That's A Wrap Baby

What is the first creative memory you have?

My first creative endeavor as child was writing. I loved to create crazy stories. I remember making a book of stories for my mom as a gift one time. I'm pretty sure she still has it!

What or whom began your creative journey on Etsy?

I started making and selling wraps on Ebay, before there was an Etsy. I was so excited when I discovered such a comfortable and cute way to wear my baby that I just had to share it! When I wanted to step up my business a bit, Etsy was the natural step.

How did you come up with your shop name?

My business began with just the wrap style baby carriers - That's A Wrap! was just a cutesy name I came up with on a whim. I guess it just stuck!



Describe what creations you have in your shop

My business has really grown in the past few months and morphed in to a "Natural Family" boutique of sorts. I make wrap style and mei tai baby carriers, wool and wood teething toys, amber teething necklaces and beeswax wood polish. And you can usually count on a few other items thrown in the mix! I love trying out new mediums, so you can never be too sure what you might find.



What inspires you?

Definitely my children. There are five of them! They are great and they love to see me create and help me come up with new ideas.

What do you listen to or watch while creating?

Usually kids playing. If I really need time to work, my husband will take the kids out to the park or something - then I relish the silence!

Please share a favorite recipe

My youngest daughter turned two today and we had people over for a cookout. The bean salad I made was a hit, so it's the perfect recipe to share here!
1 can black beans
1 can garbanzo beans
1 can kidney beans
3/4 C. each - apple cider vinegar, sugar, and olive oil
3/4 t dry mustard
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 t basil
Drain and rinse the beans, put in a bowl.
In a separate bowl, mix the dressing. Pour dressing over the beans and toss. Chill salad for an hour before serving.

Where else can we find you?

Facebook
Blog

NOW FOR THE ITEM UP FOR GRABS!!!



Needlefelted Wool Butterfly and Wood Teething Toy, Teether, Waldorf

***Shipping will be included for all entrants

This toy is a completely natural and safe way to sooth a babies gums and provide a bit of whimsical play.

The butterfly is made with 100% pure wool felt and all of the embellishments are securely needle felted together. The felt is completely natural and super soft. This is not the acrylic or eco-felt that you find in your local craft store!

The ribbon attaching the flower to the wood ring is made from organic cotton.

Our wood rings are sealed with our own food grade, handcrafted beeswax polish. Wood can be spot cleaned with a damp cloth. Wool is naturally anti-microbial, therefore not requiring strong cleaning. It can also be spot cleaned with a damp cloth.

NOW TO ENTER...please remember you do not have to do all of the entries; but the more you do...the more chances you have at winning!!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tribute Tuesday with Diningout

Holler out your tributes for Marie and her Etsy shop Diningout

A shop filled with wonderful machine embroidered creations...perfect gifts from house warming to the arrival of a new baby.
Simple designs that appeal to everyone of any decor.

Now let's discover Marie and Diningout

What is the first creative memory you have?

When I was 12 years old my mother started teaching me how to sew. I loved it and my very first project was an apron.

What or whom began your creative journey on Etsy?

Since retiring from teaching after 38 years I was looking for things to do, my very creative daughter who also sells on Etsy encouraged me to open up my own little shop. I was sewing for everyone and anyone and never charging a penny so I decided it was time to do so.

How did you come up with your shop name?

Really, I was just looking for a few extra dollars to go out for dinner with my husband, hence the name "diningout".

Describe what creations you have in your shop?

I love to create fresh, young and modern things. I started out with embroidery items, pillows, table runners, home decor items. I even digitize my own embroidery designs. After taking a year off due to illness, I came back even stronger and added quilting to my shop......personalize baby quilts which I love to do. All of my designs are created and sewn my me. I quilt all of my quilts in a special frame which attaches to my sewing machine.

My specialty is custom orders. If you check out what I have sold, you will see that I have completed many custom orders. Anything in my shop can be embroidered. All of my designs can be completed on any colour of fabric. So it you see an item that you like but it is not in your colour, all you have to do is convo me with your choices and desires.

I have shipped all over the world...Australia, Saudi Arabia. Really I ship anywhere.

What insprires you?

Modern, contemporary fabrics motivated me. I love that fresh clean look, that classic, simple look. Also my daughters motivated me. They are always encouraging and inspiring me on to new projects.

What do you listen to or watch while creating?

I enjoy silence during the creative process. Concentrating on the immediate project is most important to me.

Please share a favorite recipe

Really! This makes me laugh. I never have time to cook because I am always sewing. My husband does all of the cooking in my house these days. But when I do, I love to make french fries in the oven. Just cut up potatoes with their skins on. Add 2 tbsp of olive oil and bake on a oiled cooking sheet for 30 minutes in a 450 degree oven.
Simple and yummy!

Where else can we find you?

I only sell on etsy. It full-fills all my needs and is enough for me. After all, this process is not about money for me, it's all about having fun. I am so blessed in my life, I have a wonderful husband and family and to top it off, I have Etsy. I am one luck women. Who could ask for more.

Welcome Wednesday with Raising Ruby

Let's welcome Ruby and her Etsy shop Raising Ruby

Handmade baby gifts, not factory produced. Not every stitch and seam will be exactly perfect, adding to the homemade and personalized character of the items in Raising Ruby's shop.

Now let's discover Ruby and her creations.

What is the first creative memory you have?

As a child, my first creative memory would be entering coloring contests put on by local newspapers. At age 4, I won an Easter coloring contest. The prize was a gift certificate to the A&W Rootbeer Stand.

What or whom began your creative journey on Etsy?

I've always loved sewing and mainly produced gifts for family members, but the items in my shop are sold out of necessity. I'm currently unemployed so the items in my shop are a way for me to contribute toward the bills. I'd love to say that I craft for fun now, but it's become a need.

How did you come up with your shop name?

My shop is named after my adorable puppy, Ruby. I've raised her since she was 12 weeks old.

Describe what creations you have in your shop

I'm still struggling to find my "niche" on Etsy, so my shop features a variety of items. First and foremost, I sell baby quilts. I've also branched out to include luggage handle covers, since I love to travel. Fabric remnants are also for sale.

What inspires you?

For inspiration, I look online. A color scheme or product on Pinterest may catch my eye - then I put my own twist on it and recreate the item myself.

What do you watch or listen to while creating.

I love watching "The Nate Show" while I craft. He always has great ideas for home decorating on a budget.

Please share a favorite recipe

My favorite recipe is so easy - Crock Pot Turkey Breast. Take a turkey breast and trim off the skin. Rub it with dry onion soup mix. Cook on "high" for 7 hours. I've made this for Thanksgiving and Christmas - it comes out so flavorful and moist. You can substitute a whole chicken if you'd like.

Now please visit Raising Ruby on Etsy and show her some love. Please come back and tell us which of her creative items you like best.

Tribute Tuesday with 3 Little Rascals and a GIVEAWAY

Shout out your tributes for Chelsey and her Etsy shop 3 Little Rascals

"A two-year old is kind of like having a blender, but you don't have a top for it. "
-Jerry Seinfeld

Well Chelsey offers cute, modern, stylish and sassy creations to help keep your toddler clean. She has also offered a great giveaway! Check out all of the details at the end of her interview. Now let's discover 3 Little Rascals!

What is the first creative memory you have?

The first creative memory I have is painting on easels in Kindergarten. I remember loving watching the paint turn into what I thought was beautiful rainbows. Haha, there is something whimsical about childrens paintings.

What or whom began your creative journey on Etsy?

My sister-in-law is a great friend of mine and she had sold a few beatiful baby quilts on Etsy. Unfortunately she didn't have enough time to keep it up but she encouraged me to try selling my bibs.

How did you come up with your shop name?

I have 3 small children, ages 4, 2, and 8 months. They are my little rascals and I love them very much. They are what inspired me to make bibs, since I found myself constantly frustrated trying to buy bibs that would keep them clean. Finally I decided if I wanted them done right I'd have to make them myself!

Describe what creations you have in your shop

I currently have baby bibs, toddler bibs, a few burp cloths and the odd baby mobile.
Bibs are my passion though. I love a baby in a bib. So cute! My baby bibs are for ages 4- 15 months. Toddler Bibs are for ages 12 months and up! Even my 4 year old still uses them for soup and other messy meals. There are even good for art time!

What insprires you?

I suppose trips to the fabric store are one of my favorite things to do to find inspiration. I also notice what my children LOVE and go accordingly. They are pretty good indications of what little boys love and if they love their bibs, then they will actually wear them!

What do you listen to or watch while creating?

I've got to admit I'm a real sucker for Gossip Girl. Chuck and Blair keep me entertained for hours while cutting fabric. ;)

Please share a favorite recipe

Hmmm. I will share my no fail pie crust. It ALWAYS works, and people think I've gone to great lengths to make a yummy pie. Truth is it's pretty simple!

Plain Pastry

For a one 9 or 10 inch double crust pie, or one 8 or 9 inch lattice top pie or 6 to 8 tart shells:
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup shortening
5 to 7 tablespoons cold water

1. Sift together flour and salt. Cut in shortening with pastry - blender or blending fork till pieces are size of small peas. To make pastry extra tender and flaky, divide shortening in half. Cut in first half till mixture looks like corn meal. Then cut in remaining half til like small peas. ( THIS ACTUALLY WORKS)

2. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the water over part of flour-shortening mixture. Gently toss with fork; push to one side of bowl.
Sprinkle next tablespoon water over dry part; mix lightly ; push to moistened part at side. Repeat till all is moistened. Divide dough for upper and lower crust. Form each into a ball.

3. On lightly floured surface, flatten ball slightly and roll 1/8 inch thick. If edges split, pinch together. Always roll spoke fashion, going from center to edge of dough. Use light strokes
To transfer pastry, roll it over rolling pin; unroll pastry over pie plate, fitting loosely onto bottom and sides.

4. Fill your pie.

5. Follow step 3 again for top crust. Slash upper crust with your own design. Trim lower crust even with the rim of pie plate, mosten the edge. Add top crust; trip 1/2 inch beyond edge of lower crust - this seals in juice. Crimp edge. Bake as directed in the recipe you are using.

Where else can we find you?

Blog
Facebook
Twitter

Now let's see what one lucky winner will win!!!

***ATTENTION: Free shipping for US or Canada winner, but any other international winner will have to pay $5. Please allow 4- 6 weeks for fabrication and shipping.

Bright Orange Baby Bib, Large Toddler Bib with Stripes
It is backed with terry cloth and the front is made of 100% cotton.

*Fabric placement may vary.

*Measures 9"x15"

*The top is secured with a fastener.

*All fabric is pre washed and preshrunk

NOW TO ENTER...please remember you do not have to do all of the following entries BUT keep in mind...the more you do the better your chances of winning!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Now please go enjoy her bright shop and show 3 Little Rascals some love!

Welcome Wednesday with Bankie Baby and a Giveaway

Please welcome Katey and her Etsy shop Bankie Baby

We love the babies and children in our lives so deeply. Katey creates unique gifts the baby in your life will love for years and years to come. Perfect for baby shower gifts or for your own little one.

Katey has offered a wonderful giveaway from her shop Bankie Baby...details are at the end of her interview.

Now let's discover Bankie Baby!

What is the first creative memory you have?

My first creative memory is intimately tied to the first family garden that my mother planted. I was 4 or 5 and we'd just moved to a new house and finally had a little yard. I remember sitting out in the sun with her, popping little white bean seeds into the cool spring soil. I remember how novel it felt to see my mom getting her hands dirty and how amazing it was when the beans finally popped up. Later in the summer it was incredible it was to eat those first sweet, green beans. It felt like a revelation to experience being connected to nature like that. And that feeling has inspired my personal creations ever since.

What or whom began your creative journey on Etsy?

I was introduced to etsy by my friend (and now sister-in-law!) Liz Dickey. She makes amazing clocks made from recycled bicycle gears. Her store is: 1.by.liz. When Liz told me about etsy, I had been making and selling organic baby blankets wholesale for many years. She inspired me to create an etsy store as a way to get some of my more creative and personal baby blankets out in the world.

How did you come up with your shop name?

My shop name comes from my family name, Behnke (pronounced Bankie). My mother began the Bankie Baby journey more than 25 years ago when she started making polyester fleece baby blankets under the name "Bankie by Behnke". When I took over the business in 2006, switched to 100% organic cotton fleece and I changed the name to "Bankie Baby" to make it cuter, and easier to remember (and spell!).

Describe what creations you have in your shop

I make personalized, super-soft organic baby blankets! Each one has a unique, colorful, applique design, usually featuring a parent and baby animal combination. They are bright, cute and sweet and can be personalized with baby's name to make an unforgettable one-of-a-kind gift.

What insprires you?

I am inspired by the love that people have for the new babies in their lives. I have witnessed this love both personally and professionally and it is something that I strive to give expression to in every one of my blankets. My feeling is that each baby comes into this world unique and beautiful and I hope that my blankets offer a way to express that love.

What do you listen to or watch while creating?

I listen to music and sometimes books on tape. Right now I am in the middle of listening to the Lord of the Ring Trilogy. I'm also embarrassed to admit that I like to keep up on General Hospital and all sorts of other "bad tv" while making my blankets.

Please share a favorite recipe

Decadent Flourless Chocolate Cake (based on a Bon Appetit recipe, 2002)
Makes 10-12 servings

Ingredients:
I C (2 sticks) butter
8 ounces of chocolate (semi sweet or dark depending on your preference)
1 C sugar
1 C unsweetened cocoa powder
6 eggs

Preheat oven to 350F. Butter 10" springform pan. Line the bottom with waxed paper. Gently melt butter and chocolate over low heat. Stir to prevent burning. Remove from heat. Mix sugar and cocoa in a large bowl. Add eggs, whisk to mix. Slowly whisk in chocolate/butter mixture. Pour batter into your cake pan. Bake for about 45 min, or until a tester inserted int he center comes out clean. Cool cake completely on a rack. Run a knife around the sides of the pan, release the spring. Cover and refrigerate. Keeps well for a week inthe fridge.

Serve cool, or slice and rewarm in the oven.

This cake is super chocolatey and rich. Delicious by itself or with a chocolate butter cream frosting!

Where else can we find you?

My business website is: www.bankiebaby.com
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Now to see what one lucky winner will win!

Set of Two Organic Lovie Baby Blankets -- Personalized Free for Your Hip Eco Baby

*****Katey will personalize them with one name on each blanket.
*****Ships free in the USA.

The blankets measures 16"x 16", the perfect size for little hands and arms to hold and snuggle. The topside of these adorable lovies are made with 100% certified organic cotton fleece and sport a darling poppy heart. The backside is made in the mirror image with poppy fabric and a sweet organic white heart.

Katey carefully designs, cuts and sews every blanket.
Machine Washable.
Handmade. 100% Made in the USA.

NOW TO ENTER...please keep in mind you do not have to do all of the entries; but the more you complete the more chances you have at winning!!!