10
Jun

Ruffle Bonnet Tutorial

Yesterday I just had to show off the little birthday outfit that I made for my sweet Matilda Jane.  I just loved the way it came together.  But what I think really completes the look is the ruffle bonnet. This project is actually more simple than it looks.  And the great thing about this bonnet is that it is one-size and adjustable.  Cinch the ribbon in the back really tight for a 6 month old and let it out as they grow.  The bonnet Matilda is wearing fit my daughter Savannah (2 years) as well once I let out the back a little and still has room to grow. This … continue reading

9
Jun

Summer Garden Party Birthday Outfit

So I have been busy, busy lately with custom orders.  And while I love the fact that I have had so much business lately, I needed to take a little break and work on something for one of my own little ladies.My sweet Matilda Jane's 1st birthday is in a month - she was born 7/8/09 (cool birthday, right?).  As it goes with the second child, Matilda doesn't get very many things that are just for her, so I had to make sure I really turned it up a notch for her special birthday outfit.  And I really think this might be one of my most favorite little creations ever!So … continue reading

7
Jun

Babyhood Bonanza – Guest Blogging at Luvinthemommyhood

Guess where I am today?  I'm over at Luvinthemommyhood guest blogging!  Shannon, just had her second baby girl, Harper (who is the cutest little thing EVER).  So while she's on maternity leave she has lined up some crafty ladies to come over and blog about projects for Mama and baby.  You've got to check out what some of these ladies have come up with - there are some really great ideas!Today I am sharing my tutorial for a Dress Shirt Baby Sleep Sack.  Come on over to luvinthemommyhood and check it out - it's a super fun, inexpensive and easy beginning sewing … continue reading

6
Jun

Asian Slaw

Several weeks ago, I shared my recipe for Jambalaya Egg Casserole that I served at my most recent playgroup.  With the casserole I served an Asian slaw and a pineapple salad - I shared the pictures, but not the recipes (I know, how rude of me!).  A couple people emailed asking for the recipe for the Asian slaw, so I thought I would share it with you all.I love almost all Asian food (unless I can see the eyeballs) and I especially love things with peanuts.  This is a great dish to take to a potluck or for entertaining because you can make it ahead of time and it … continue reading

3
Jun

Busy, Busy

It has been busy, busy around The Cottage Home lately.   My etsy shop, The Cottage Mama, seems to really be taking off and I am just tickled pink with the new opportunities that are coming my way.I wanted to share some of the things I have been working on with all of you............A new design for the shop - Floral Blue & Orange Bubble RomperThis is one of my favorite designs that I have come up with.  I love using rick-rack, piping and fabric covered buttons and this cute little outfit has all three!I've also been busy with some custom order requests.  Most of … continue reading

30
May

A Day at the Market

I hope you all are enjoying this wonderful holiday weekend - we sure are!  I just wanted to share some pictures from our trip to our local farmer's market.Check out these hanging baskets - aren't they GORGEOUS!  I would love to have one, but we don't have anywhere to hang something like that.  So if you can't take one home, you might as well stop and smell the pretty flowers.During this time of year there is very little produce available at our market.  It's mostly plants, herbs, cheese, honey, bread and wine.  Asparagus is in season right now, but that's about … continue reading

28
May

Summer Fabric Rag Wreath Tutorial

I have had my spring wreath on the door since, well, the beginning of spring.  I kind of felt like it was time for something new.  I wanted to create a summer wreath for our front door that would be fun and cute, but would break the budget.  So here's what I came up with.......Summer Fabric Rag Wreath TutorialSupplies:1 wreath form (whatever size you like)Scraps of fabric (10-12" long)1 piece ribbon or other material for hangingScissorsDirections:This is a medium sized wreath that I bought from the dollar store, so it was only $1.00 (woohoo!!)Pull out your scrap … continue reading

27
May

The Beginning of Summer at The Cottage Home

I love my home, I really do, but I'm not going to lie...........I can't say I don't long for a garage, an eat-in-kitchen or a laundry room that wasn't in, what I call, the dungeon.  But would I trade The Cottage Home, with all its history and charm, for any of those things?  NO WAY!!Today my husband, Brett, was home and we spent this late afternoon outside planting our vegetable garden and taking in the beauty that surrounds us.  And wow, I feel more blessed than ever to be the proud owners of this 1930's cottage!Here's a little tour around The Cottage … continue reading

25
May

Get Rid of the Funk and Recharge Your Day!

Do you ever have those days where you are just feeling in a funk?  It's like from the minute you get up, you just kind of feel blah?  I think we all have those days for sure!  The question is, do you let yourself get caught up in the blah or do you take charge and do something about it?  I say - do something about it!!9 Ways to Recharge Your Day1. Have a dance party.  Yes, this may sound silly, but turn on your favorite tunes and "shake your tail-feather".  After about 2-3 songs, you will be feeling good, energized and ready to tackle the day.2.  Smile.  I know, … continue reading

21
May

The Power of Touch

 Me and My GirlsI don't know if you have ever noticed the tag-line for my blog here, "Cooking. Sewing. Crafting. And All Things Domestic."  Well, I've been noticing lately that I have done A LOT of cooking, sewing, and crafting, but the "domestic" part of this blog has gone to the way-side.So in thinking about the focus of The Cottage Home, I have decided to incorporate some more posts addressing family, home and relationships, since that is the core of my life.  I hope you don't mind.  This blog is an ever evolving creative outlet for me and I'm so happy that you … continue reading