Caterpillar Creations

CASSIE CAME TO VISIT!!!

2011-01-25T13:40:00.000-08:00

It was short notice but my daughter Cassie came to Cali for a visit. We had the pleasure of her company for 8 short days. Perfect timing to get away from that cooooold Minnesota weather. We heard it was below zero while she was here. BRRRR!!!

We did a lot of shopping, went to Crystal Cathedral, Six Flags and of course, THE BEACH!!! We went to our favorite beach, Venice and later in the week we paid a visit to Huntington Beach. We got to see a school of dolphins but because it was facing the sun I couldn't get any picture's :(

We also ate at the infamous "In n Out" Burger TWO TIMES...YUMMY!!!

Miss Chloe went on the BIG roller coaster. No, I'm not talking big, like big to Chloe. I'm talking big like the "grown up" roller coaster. She LOVED it!!!

And here we go with the pics...Click on the picture if you want to see it bigger.

VENICE BEACH...

CRYSTAL CATHEDRAL...

MERRY GO ROUND...

THE SCRAMBLER...

WAITING IN LINE FOR THE ROLLER COASTER...

AND WE'RE ON...

WEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!

It was a FUN and EXHAUSTING week for all of us...and a VERY sad good-bye :(

SUPERCROSS SUPERFUN!!

2011-01-10T16:53:00.000-08:00

Chloe & I went to our 1st "motor cross" event on Saturday. Chloe's two favorite things of the night...FIREWORKS and POPCORN!!!
It was funner than expected...I found myself rooting for James Stewart. I seen, in just my 1st experience, he is an AMAZING racer...WOW!!!

Here are a few pics from the night...

WE ARE HAVING A SALE!!!!

2011-01-06T08:21:00.001-08:00

Hello! Hello!

We decided to have a SALE today...25% off EVERYTHING in my Etsy Shop.

Just type in coupon code LALALOVE1 at checkout and get some INCREDIBLE savings!!

Just click HERE and it will take you there...

Have a SPECTACULAR day!!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR & HAPPY VALENTINE'S

2011-01-01T14:16:00.000-08:00

VALENTINE'S!!!???!!!

Well, you know the store's have already loaded up on their stock so I thought I would make a few of my own little Valentine Loves...

I made a thank you card for one of my customer's the other day using one of these tear bears and got a little carried away and made a few for my Etsy shop.
Talk about fluffy goodness...These sweet teddy bears are cute enough to cuddle with.

She is listed HERE

She is listed HERE

She is listed HERE

And this little guy is listed HERE

Thanks for peeking!!! Enjoy the rest of the first day of the new year...

ANOTHER YEAR HAS PASSED!!

2010-12-29T13:41:00.001-08:00

I cannot believe how fast time has flown since my last posting. I am thinking maybe my New Year's resolution should be to "STAY ON TOP OF THINGS" over here in the blogging world.

In the last post I mentioned moving to Cali...I am still here and LOVING it! There have been many new adventure's and many more are on the way I am sure.

Some of the places we have seen in the past few months...

MANY, MANY trips to the beach. This is Huntington Beach...

Oh, LOTS of Sunday football games...GOOOO VIKINGS!!! (no, I'm not really a Vikings fan)

Our FABULOUS trip to Lake Tahoe for the Reno Bike Run...AMAZZZING!!!!!

We spent our Thanksgiving weekend in Glamis...CRAZY FUN!!!

The Christmas Train in Irvine, CA. Chloe got to meet Santa. What a TREAT for her!

And I am closing with Miss Chloe gazing at her most favorite Christmas gift this year...

We want to wish you a HAPPY & SAFE NEW YEAR!!!

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

2010-10-20T09:59:00.000-07:00

HERE I AM!!!!!!!!

As some of you know I have made a HUGE move. I have moved from Minnesota to Southern California. My, what a change for me. It is change that I welcome. A change that I needed.

I have missed my customer's dearly and I have CERTAINLY missed coming up with FABULOUS creation's for your little one's. I have listed some item's in my Etsy shop so hopefully that will hold you over until I list something NEW AND FAB!!!! (hopefull next week)

Meanwhile, here are some pics of our fun in Colorado and Cali...

I will be back next week with something NEW for you!!!

~~Ann~~

BUTTERFINGER CAKE!!! YUMMY!!

2010-06-10T10:59:00.004-07:00

This is a MUST have cake for summer. Want to impress your family and friends..? They will LOVE this cake. And it is SO easy to make.

Here is what you will need:

1 box chocolate cake mix
2 bags of fun size Butterfinger candy bars
1 tub of Cool Whip
1 squeeze bottle of caramel

Directions:

Bake cake as directed on package.
Let completely cool.
You can crush the Butterfinger bars while waiting for the cake to cool (I put them in a freezer bag and use a rolling pin)

Poke holes into the cake (I use a straw)

Take the caramel and squeeze it into each hole filling the holes to the top.
Spread Cool Whip on top of the cake.
Sprinkle on crushed Butterfingers

Put it in the refrigerator for a few hours and voile' you have THE BESTEST, YUMMIEST, TDF summer cake.

IT'S OFFICIAL!!!

2010-06-10T09:17:00.009-07:00

I am SO excited to share with you....that my sister has FINALLY opened her Etsy shop.
Her artwork is AMAZING!!! She is SO talented.

Please welcome her to the Etsy world by checking out her listings. These are only the beginning...There is SO much more to come.

Click HERE for her Etsy Shop.

Here are just a few pics of her work...These pieces have already been sold.

I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE...

2010-06-04T14:56:00.005-07:00

In the past I have created something similar and have always received requests for it. Unable to recreate the exact one I changed it up a bit and I just LOVE how it turned out...

Want to see the auction...click HERE

Thanks for peeking & enjoy your weekend!!!

~~Ann~~

WHALE WATCHING!!!

2010-05-23T10:27:00.003-07:00

This set is one of my summer favorite's. It's SO cute for the aquarium, 4th of July (without getting too patriotic) or a trip to the beach...

You can visit this auction HERE

MATRYOSHKA RUSSIAN DOLL LISTING!!!

2010-05-20T19:25:00.002-07:00

Ain't she a DOLL!!! Oh yes, Miss Chloe was a little fireball today for picture's. We had so much fun!
This is my new listing for eBay. I know, it's been a while since I last listed. We have been crazy busy with orders...

Please take a peek at my new listing by clicking HERE

BOGO SALE & PROM PICS!!!!

2010-04-26T12:45:00.009-07:00

It has been a while since I posted so I have 2 things to talk about.

I will start with the BOGO SALE!!! 4/26 - 4/27
TODAY & TOMORROW ONLY I am having an AWESOME sale in my Etsy Shop.
Buy One Get the Second Half Off.
(the 2nd item must be of equal or lower value)

Click HERE to go there now.

And the next subject...Cassie's Junior Prom. What a day...

7:30am Breakfast for mommy & Chloe

8:00am Clean house, mop floors, break pinky toe

10:00am First store run

11:00am Second store run

12:00pm Make 1 more garter for one of the girls

1:00pm Drop Cassie off for her hair appointment
Alter Cassie's dress

2:00pm Pick Cassie up from hair appointment

3:00pm Shower

4:00pm Guests arrive

5:00pm Leave for Como Conservatory for pics

6:45pm Home from pics, now eat and relax my toe.

Westside Girlzzz Kayla, Cassie & Kelli

Cassie & Chloe

Pozin' Girlzzz

After all my tears...Cassie, Me & Chloe

Funny face, I love you...Cassie & Chloe

Run, Chloe, Run...

And after all was said and done Cassie said "I don't want to do this again next year."

HA! We will see about that in another year...

GOING TO THE BEACH!!!

2010-04-13T19:22:00.002-07:00

Ok, so we aren't going to the beach. Not today anyway. Soon, I hope.

However, I do have a sweet little beach theme set listed on eBay this evening.
I have listed one ready to ship in a 5/6 HERE

and

a CUSTOM 12m ~ 7y HERE

Thanks for peeking!!!

~~Ann~~

LOOK WHO'S 70 TODAY!!!

2010-04-04T11:30:00.013-07:00

Not only is it Easter but it is my mom's birthday. How cool is that?!

This is her giving me the evil eye. "Don't you dare take my picture, Annie!"

This is what most of her picture's look like. Her hiding her face...LOL!!

She will probably kill me for posting this pic of her. This was always my favorite one. I always thought it was so cool that my mom dressed up like a flower.

Mom was a cub/boy scout leader, too. She was the mom of all trades. All mom's should be like her.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!!!!!! You made it to 70!!!

I LOVE YOU!!
XOXO

GOOD JOB CHLOE!!!

2010-03-31T06:32:00.003-07:00

Yesterday was Chloe's 1st visit to the dentist. Why did I wait so long...? I am ashamed to say why. You won't believe it but I will tell you.
I listened to a Down syndrome "rumor". "Kids with DS don't do well with the dentist."
I know, I know, I was never one to "follow the rumors" but I did on this one.
Fortunately with good dental care at home Chloe has no cavities..YIPPEE!!

She did such a wonderful job as you can see by the pics I shared. She is such a trooper. YEAHHHH CHLOE!!!

CASSIE IS REPRESENTING DOWN SYNDROME!!

2010-03-30T09:31:00.003-07:00

And how is she doing that you ask? Well she has been asking for a tattoo for a year now. We had discussed it in full length so she fully understood what she was doing.
After searching many designs and quotes I came up with something else for Cassie. A T with 21 layered over it. She asked "what does that mean?" I said T-21...Trisomy 21 aka Down syndrome. She said "that's it! that's the tattoo I want!"

Here it is...

WE'VE BEEN MONKEYING AROUND!!

2010-03-23T07:53:00.006-07:00

A few weeks ago I was requested to create something for a special little girl celebrating her 1st birthday.
I was given a few links with some pictures requesting that I match her birthday decor.
Pinks and greens...two of my favorite colors. And a cute little girly girl monkey. TOO CUTE!!!

And here is what I came up with...

Isn't she sweet!

If you would like to visit the seller of the cute birthday decor
Click HERE

And now, I am off to do another custom order...Have a FABULOUS day!!

ONE MORE SPECIAL DAY THIS MONTH!!!

2010-03-15T20:44:00.010-07:00

We are going to go back...way back to 1929. Why 1929? Well, that was a very special year. Looking back at these old pics amaze me. Who knew Harley Davidsons were around back then...? And Cosmo..?

I bet you are still wondering what was so special about that year...
Keep scrolling down and you will see a little boy.

My dad...He was born on March 24, 1929.

Here are some old pics of me and my dad.
He was my hero back then. And he is still my hero...

Yup, that's my dad.

I LOVE YOU, DAD!!!

BIRTHDAY MONTH & NEW ETSY LISTINGS!!

2010-03-01T08:28:00.009-08:00

Hello there~

Can you believe it is March 1st?

We have 2 special days to celebrate this month.
Precious Chloe will be 8 years old on the 27th and my beautiful Cassie will be 17.
So cliche' but "My, how time flies and I cannot believe my girls are this old..."
Tears of both joy and sadness when I reminisce about our past years together. The ups, the downs, the happies, the sads, the goods and bads.
Oh how I love my girls!!

Before I really start getting all sentimental and saturating my keyboard I will move on to my listings on Etsy.

HAPPY SPRING click HERE

EURO FROGGY FROG click HERE

HAPPY girl! Euro Twirl click HERE

Have a SUPER GREAT day!!!!

~~Ann~~

COME MEET PATTY, THE LUCKY FAIRY

2010-02-23T16:19:00.003-08:00

Hello there~

We have a St. Patrick Day listing up today. I have been selling on eBay for 7 years and have never made a St. Patty set.

You can come and see it HERE

Have a LUCKY day!!!!!!!

HOW ARE WE DIFFERENT?

2010-02-20T18:51:00.000-08:00

Look into my eyes…
What do you see?
What is the reason
You could be mean to me?

How are we different?
We have the same things.
A face, a body,
A heart that sings.

How are we different?
I feel the same things.
Happiness and anger,
And even pain.

How are we different?
We eat the same things.
Pizza, candy and
Yummy ice cream.

Look into my eyes,
Tell me what you see.
Is it that you’re
Afraid of me?

Do not fear
For we are the same
The only difference is
You don’t have a brain!

MY FAVORITE PICTURE!!!

2010-02-14T13:01:00.001-08:00

I just had to post one of my favorite picture's of Chloe. There are so many but this one just makes me say, "ahhhh!"

EASTER EGG HUNT NECKLACE!!!

2010-02-12T07:56:00.004-08:00

How CUTE is this...! It matches my Easter Egg Hunt dress I have up for auction on eBay.
To see the matching necklace created by Jessica of jogees*purls please click HERE

EASTER EGG CONTEST!!!

2010-02-11T18:45:00.002-08:00

Hippity, hoppity, who…
I have hidden some eggs for you.

One, two or maybe three…
Are there more?
You tell me!

Small ones, big ones,
Polka dots and stripes.
Eggs of color,
All different types.

Look at the pictures,
Using your eyes!
You could win,
A big surprise!

If you can guess,
Without a doubt.
Tell your Mommy
to give me a shout!

Count how many eggs are appliqued on the dress.
You MUST bid on the auction to participate in the game. Only one guess per person no matter how many times you bid.
If there are more than 1 right answers, there will be a drawing for the PRIZE.

What is the prize? A FREE CUSTOM MARIEKE DRESS!!!

And HERE is the auction!

ARE YOU READY FOR AN EASTER EGG HUNT?

2010-02-10T18:01:00.007-08:00

You will be after you see my latest creation.

This one took me a few days to create. I started it Saturday evening and finished it up today. Yes, it took me that long. There is over 3 feet of applique. Yes, THREE FEET!!

I am only giving a few sneak peeks for tonight. You will see the whole creation tomorrow evening when I list it. I can hardly wait.

AND! We will be having a little Easter egg hunt of our own. Stay tuned for details on that...

OUR FRAGILE EMISSARY ~ A POEM

2010-02-06T12:21:00.000-08:00

Our Fragile Emissary
by Nancy Tupper Ling

With modern screening and such
they wonder why
you're here, on this earth
in our home
and in our arms,
after all, anyone
with any sense would have resolved
this problem of you
pre-birth, pre pain.

Blonde Beauty,
tiny as you are,
you catch their stares,
strangers' second glances
into tender baby blues.
And your young
sweet ears hear whisperings
("Down's," "defects")
words dropped loosely
at extra-chromosomed girls.

With such stinging receptions
how we long to shelter you,
surround you; keep your
gentle smiles to ourselves.
Instead, we hold you
up, for others to see;
let you, our fragile emissary
speak to an imperfect world.

JUMPING FOR JOY!!!!!!!

2010-02-03T18:54:00.004-08:00

I have a cute, new listing up this evening. Actually, two of them. There are two different sizes ready to ship.

HERE is the link for the 3T/4T
HERE is the link for the 5/6

Thank you for peeking!

~~Ann & Chloe~~

I AM FEELING COMPELLED...

2010-02-02T20:23:00.005-08:00

To post a special poem tonight. It is down below the short story.

A sweet friend sent me a blog to read the other day and I just can't stop thinking about it. It consumes me...
I find myself visiting a few times a day to read & look at the beautiful picture's.

If you have ever wanted to know what an experience it is to have a child born to you with Down syndrome, this is the place to find out. Kelle will tell you in every detail. She will tell you unselfishly with passion and love what you may have longed to know. Please take a moment to view her blog.

I am providing the link for you:enjoyingthesmallthings

Special Moms

Did you ever wonder how mothers of handicapped children are chosen?

Somehow I visualize God hovering over earth selecting his instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As he observes, He instructs his angels to make notes in a giant ledger.

Finally, he passes a name to an angel and smiles, "Give her a handicapped child." The angel is curious. "Why this one, God? She's so happy."

"Exactly," smiles God, "Could I give a handicapped child to a mother who does not know laughter? That would be cruel."

"But has she patience?" asks the angel.

"I don't want her to have too much patience or she will drown in a sea of self-pity and despair. Once the shock and resentment wear off, she will handle it. I watched her today. She has that feeling of self and independence that is so rare and so necessary in a mother. You see, the child I'm going to give her has his own world. She has to make him live in her world and that's not going to be easy."

"But, Lord, I don't think she even believes in you." God smiles, "No matter. I can fix that. This one is perfect. She has just enough selfishness."

The angel gasps, "Selfishness? Is that a virtue?" God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally, she will never survive. Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child less than perfect. She doesn't realize it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take for granted a 'spoken word.' She will never consider a 'step' ordinary. When her child says 'Momma' for the first time, she will be present at a miracle and know it! When she describes a tree or a sunset to her child, she will see it as few people ever see my creations."

"I will permit her to see clearly the things I see ... ignorance, cruelty, prejudice ... and allow her to rise above them. She will never be alone. I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life because she is doing my work as surely as she is here by my side."

“And what about her patron saint?” asks the angel, pen poised in midair.

God smiles, “A mirror will suffice.”

HAPPY! girl...

2010-01-30T16:01:00.002-08:00

Gosh, I LOVE this one...So does Chloe. I had so many names for this set but the one that stuck with me was "HAPPY!"
When you see all of Chloe's smiles you will see the name fits...

You can view the auction HERE

Thank you for peeking...Have a FABULOUS day!!

~~Ann~~

HERE IT IS...A BEARY CUTE Auction...

2010-01-21T08:59:00.002-08:00

Isn't this just the CUTEST lil thing! I had SO much FUN!!

To view the auction click HERE

Have a BEARY wonderful weekend!!!

THANK YOU CARDS on ETSY!!!

2010-01-20T21:15:00.004-08:00

Hello there~

I made some simple THANK YOU cards today. You can see them on Etsy :)
Just click HERE

Click on the pic below to make it larger...

A BEARY CUTE SNEAK PEEK!!

2010-01-19T07:58:00.003-08:00

Hello there~

Happy Tuesday to you!!!
I have been busy creating this BEARY adorable set to list on eBay. I had a BLAST putting this all together. There is a lot of FUN in this set. Buttons, applique, machine embroidery, ric rac, ruffles, beads...Need I say more?

Take a little sneaky peeky:

NEW LISTINGS ARE UP!!!

2010-01-14T08:15:00.003-08:00

Here is the adorable patchwork Princess set ready to ship in size 3T/4T

Click HERE for the patchwork auction.

And here is a sweet Vintage piece. I have 2 of these up for auction. One is ready to ship in a size 3T/4T and a CUSTOM size 12m ~ 6y.

Click HERE to see the ready to ship Vintage Love Peasant Top 3T/4T auction.

And last but not least, the CUSTOM Vintage Love Peasant Top auction HERE

GASP!!! I AM IN LOVE!!!!!!!!

2010-01-13T17:17:00.004-08:00

With this couch...

I was browsing the internet for...ummm...I can't remember what for because after seeing this I lost my mind!

Maybe it is an acquired taste, bad taste, good taste, I don't know...But I think it is just YUMMY!!!

If you would like more info on it HERE is the link to the website.

TaTa for now...

I'M BaaaaaaaaCK!!!

2010-01-13T07:31:00.005-08:00

To listing FUN, custom creations on eBay again. After a little (long) break I am back to sewing again. I missed it dearly but it was a much needed break.

I am also back with my girls...Boutique Polkadotz!! SUPER excited about that.
Currently we are showcasing our first launch of the year. The theme..."FAIRYTALES"

Here is a pic of my first listing:

You can click HERE to see the full auction:

And here is a little sneak peek of what I will be listing, hopefully, later today:

To see ALL of the FABOULOUS Polkadotz auction's click HERE.

CARDS, CARDS & MORE CARDS!!!

2009-12-18T08:14:00.005-08:00

Here is what I have been up to the past week...I have created over 50 cards. WoW! that was a LOT of work. But it was a LOT of fun!! (and messy)

Some of the cards were taken by my kids for their teachers and friends so some are missing but here is what I have left...

NEW PROJECT!!!

2009-12-10T12:42:00.010-08:00

I know, I know, I have been loooooong overdue for a new post. The holidays, school and spending time with the family took me away for a while.

I wanted to share with you a custom order I just finished. This sweet customer found me on Etsy and wanted appliqued sweatshirts and I agreed. She wanted all the holidays/seasons. Halloween, Fall, Thanksgiving, school spirit colors...And here is the Christmas one. I never took the time to take picture's of the past one's but I remembered to get picture's this time.

And here they are:

Thanks for peeking! Have a GREAT day!!!

~~Ann~~

STILL LOVE THIS ONE...

2009-09-11T12:26:00.001-07:00

I know, I know....this song is getting old but I still love it as much as I did the first time I heard it. It always makes me smile :P

Jason Mraz - I'm Yours
Uploaded by jasonmrazworld.

THAT'S WHAT IT'S ALL ABOUT!!!

2009-09-09T12:36:00.007-07:00

Today was planned. It's actually been planned for weeks. The kids at school, house to myself, I am gonna sew, sew, sew. That's right, I'm going to sew today.

"Rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrring!" Oh darn, looks like Farris is coming to see me today.

We played with trucks...

And blocks, which she was bound and determined to get a good bite of.

We laughed and smiled...

And played a lotta patty cake!

Thanks for letting me babysit you Farris, you are a good interruption to my day :)
XOXO

PARTING IS SUCH SWEET SORROW...

2009-09-08T07:17:00.007-07:00

Today is Chloe's 1st day of 2nd grade. She is getting to be such a big girl.
She was so excited to go to school today that she woke up before the alarm woke her.

Here she is waiting patiently to go outside for the bus.

Miss Chloe has her "halo" shining brightly behind her this morning. I know there is someone watching over her for me while she is at school.

Hum de dum de dum....waiting...

Still waiting...

And she's off to her 1st day of school.

Bye Chloe! I LOVE YOU!!

GOT CARDS?

2009-09-06T21:42:00.003-07:00

I DO!!! up for sale over on Etsy!
The pic below is just a sample of some of my work.

And here is the link to my Etsy card shop...
Custom Handmade Greeting Cards

A DAY AT COMO ZOO!!

2009-08-31T16:14:00.022-07:00

Oh what a SPLENDIFEROUS day!!! A perfect day for making some new memories at the zoo.
There are MANY pics....Make sure you scroll all the way through them as I have shared a fun set of pics on the bottom.

Click on the picture if you want to see it larger...

ENJOY!!!

I thought this was a fun compilation of pics...Past pics combined with new pics.

THE WHITE PICKET FENCE

2009-08-26T10:17:00.007-07:00

What is the story behind the white picket fence..? You know the fence that is painted all white except one section that has been left untouched. That would be Ann's fence.
Ever since I was a little girl I always dreamed about having a white picket fence around my house. I dreamed about it during the day and when I slept. However, when I slept, the dream was a little different. I had that white picket fence but in my dream my house always burned down. No one was hurt in the dream but it always haunted me. All my life I have had that dream when I slept. Strangely enough, I haven't had that dream since I moved into this house 6 years ago.
And that is why the one section of my fence remains untouched.

WALKING in THE BACK YARD!!!

2009-08-25T17:39:00.002-07:00

It was such a BEAUTIFUL day today so I decided to snap some pics with the 50mm.
These are some of the things I seen while walking around the back yard.

GOBBLE GOBBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-08-22T19:02:00.003-07:00

Hi there~

We have a NEW listing up on Ebay right now. By the look on Chloe's face you can see she is surprised, too...

Here is the link to the auction:
CUSTOM Turkey Applique Jeans & Tee Set

Thanks for peeking!!

~~Ann & Chloe~~

DOWN SYNDROME BUDDY WALK!!!

2009-08-19T13:21:00.005-07:00

Hello everyone~

We have been VERY busy with school shopping....last minute fun things and a little bit of sewing.
As a matter of fact we got so busy we almost forgot to set up our Firstgiving page to raise money for the Down syndrome Association of Minnesota.

We have walked to raise money since Chloe was 6 months old...WOW! We have went rain or shine. This will be our 8th year now.

Here is a little collage of past years...

It is always such a FUN time for children and families to get together. Always such good entertainment. Chloe was SO ecstatic to see Barney one year...She just lit up like there was no tomorrow.

If you would like to make a donation for Chloe's Crew please visit our Firstgiving page...Or you can click on the Widget to the right of this page.

CHLOE'S CREW

Thank you!!!

~~Ann & Chloe~~

HERE I AM!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-07-27T10:18:00.004-07:00

Hello everyone!! Apologies for leaving you hanging...

I decided I needed a much needed break from the eBay and Etsy world. After 7 years of eBay...I think I deserved a break :)

I have enjoyed my summer just doing a whole lot of relaxing and playing. Oh, and a little work around the yard and house. We downgraded the garden's much to my dismay but it was just too much work.
I also moved my sewing/craft room to another part of the house so we painted and reorganized. PHEW!!! I will share pics of the room as soon as I can.

Now it is time for me to get back into the swing of things and start sewing again.
I do have 2 new set's listed on eBay. These are at GREAT prices right now so get your bid in :)

Euro Marieke Dolly & Knit Hoodie Set

Sweet Vintage Puppy Applique Jeans & Peasant Top

I hope you are having a WONDERFUL summer!!!!!

WE MISSED YOU!!!!!!!!!

~~Ann & Chloe~~

WIN an EXTREME DOLL MAKEOVER!!!

2009-06-04T07:05:00.002-07:00

THE BANANA CABANA IS OPEN!!!

2009-04-17T17:09:00.005-07:00

Click on the logo and it will take you to BANANA CABANA!!!!!!!!!

BANANA CABANA OPENING SOON....!!!

2009-04-17T10:26:00.003-07:00

Here is a little peek at my SPLASH set for the Polkadotz Shoppe launch.

Stay tuned....I will be listing later in the evening :)
In the meanwhile...have a GREAT DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!

POLKADOTZ is Making a SPLASH!!!

2009-04-12T18:58:00.003-07:00

We are having a WHALE of a time over at the Polkadotz Shoppe! Make sure you stop by and SEA some REEL cute ensembles. We've got the BAIT and
you'll be HOOKED!!
Just click on the logo above and it will take you to our listing's.

ISN'T THIS PRETTY.....?

2009-04-11T09:41:00.002-07:00

I am working on my design for the upcoming Polkadotz launch and I found I just loved the colors of this little pile of fibers accumulating under my serger....A little Eastery in colors don't you think? I'm thinking this would be a GREAT way to recycle fabric fibers. Use it in the Easter basket instead of the plastic hay. Hmmm?

Ta Ta For now....

MY SANCTUARY...?

2009-04-09T10:06:00.004-07:00

Ummmm, no, not my sanctuary but it is a nice place to work...hehe! My Polkadotz girls are sharing their sewing rooms so I thought I would let you see where I work, too. This is my sewing corner. The storage bins underneath my work center are filled with threads, ribbons, trims, button and lots of other little sewing goodies. There are also 2 cabinets full of fabric.

Here you see my scrapbooking/cardmaking corner. Drawers and drawers full of paper and trinkets and gadgets and embellies...
I also have a little sitting area to read, relax or just sit in a comfy chair.

And here is an arial view...(ha ha) of the the room.

So now you have seen my work area. What do you think?
No, it is not always this clean...LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

IT TAKES 170 SHEEP....

2009-03-20T21:14:00.003-07:00

For my little Angel to fall asleep...
Chloe was a bit riled up this evening. She had a buncha ideas on how she could put off going to bed.
She had to go potty, then she had to go see daddy (he was downstairs) after that she had to show me her trick (she mimics a mime person from the circus) and last, she wanted some milk. Once she was settled in my arms she started snorting...Yes! Like a pig. She is such a silly girl. So I told her we needed to count sheep. 1, 2, 3...170.

POLKADOTZ is HAVING a SWEET Launch!!!!

2009-03-18T16:46:00.000-07:00

I COULDN'T RESIST!!!

2009-03-18T15:43:00.004-07:00

We had a little visit from Miss Farris the other day. Needless to say I snapped a few pics.
When I seen this one all I could hear in my head was "Momma said knock you out!"
It makes me chuckle every time I look at it so I thought I would share it with you :)

OH! And if you click on the picture it will make it bigger...

WE HAVE A WINNER!!!

2009-03-10T09:12:00.002-07:00

Big Congrats to mybeautiful_ella! She won the totally custom set from Caterpillar Creations.
Thank you to everyone for participating in the FREE2BE launch with The Polkadotz Shoppe!

POLKADOTZ mini Easter Launch! HOP ON OVER!!

2009-03-02T15:01:00.002-08:00

Hi there~

The Polkadotz girls are having a mini Easter launch on Tuesday March 3rd. HOP on over and see what FAB listings we have for YOU!!

Here is a little sneak peek of mine...

Enjoy your week!!!

~~Ann~~

WIN A FREE CUSTOM SET!!! Here's how....

2009-02-23T08:51:00.002-08:00

CHECK out POLKADOTZ SHOPPE on TUESDAY!!!

2009-02-20T17:01:00.004-08:00

This is one launch you are NOT going to want to miss!!! Come see all the FABULOUS designs from the Polkadotz girls AND guests!!!!

Also, you don't want to miss out on the GRAND PRIZE!!! A TOTALLY CUSTOM set FREE from yours truly, ME aka Caterpillar Creations aka Ann!!!

WooHoo!! Don't miss out on all the FUN!!!

Be there or be square!!!

On a YUCKY note....This is how I am feeling today. A big fat germ!!! Yup, and I pretty much look like that, too. LOL!!!
Send me "get better" vibes, PLEASE!!!!!!!

BREAKFAST, FARRIS & COLLAR BONE

2009-02-08T15:41:00.019-08:00

What do breakfast, Farris & collar bone all have in common...? This is all about Saturday, February 7th.

We will start with breakfast...Chloe has strawberry toast and pancakes for breakfast and I took some quick pics of her eating. She has some of the funniest expresions.

Shortly after breakfast we decided to go play with Farris...So we hopped in our car and drove on over. Of course I HAD to take more pics. Chloe just ADORES Farris as you can see...

And then...4:30 I get a phone call. Cassie had a fall at snowboard club and may have broken her collar bone. Cassie was 2 hours away. She kept her spirits up and her friends Kayla and Sam were at the hospital with her for support.
The Dr. came in and confirmed her collar bone was broken and she would be in a sling for 3-4 weeks depending on how she heals. She still has one more snowboard trip through the snowboard club but she won't be able to make that one :(
And before all this....she was diagnosed with pneumonia this week. She made sure she rested up because she was really looking forward to this trip.

She says, "The season is NOT over for me. I am going to go one more time before Winter is over!!" Let's see what the good Dr. says...

She is such a trooper despite the pain.

All in the day of the life of Ann aka Caterpillar Creations!

OH WHAT FUN!!!

2009-02-03T09:46:00.003-08:00

I just HAVE to share with you what a WONDERFUL day Chloe had on Saturday.
The meds she is taking must be taking effect because we danced. Chloe hasn't danced in months. Most of her days have been sitting on the couch or lying in bed due to the pain she is in with her Crohn's disease.
She couldn't be stopped Saturday...We danced...and we went outside to play. She wanted to SWING!!!! We were outside for over an hour. It was a BEAUTIFUL day. It reached 46 degrees which is a heatwave for us...LOL!!

Another plus...she gained 2 lbs. WOOHOO!! GO CHLOE!!!!!!!!!

All your thoughts and prayers are working because she seems to be getting better by the day.

*hugs*

~~Ann & Chloe~~

BID & WIN!!!

2009-02-02T18:54:00.003-08:00

Tuesday is the BIG day! Polkadotz Shoppe DEBUT!!!!!! It's only hours away but it seems like forever. The Dotz girls are SO excited for you to see all the FABU designs we have created for your little Princess.

LET THE COUNTDOWN BEGIN....

2009-01-30T08:28:00.002-08:00

Remember in an earlier post I mentioned some EXCITING news..? Well, this is it!
Polkadotz Shoppe is coming to eBay on February 3rd.
(no Sue, I'm not pregnant...haha!)

Type Boutique Polkadotz in your eBay search to find some of the most AMAZING designs AND designers! You won't be disappointed!

See you sooooooooooon!!!

~~Ann~~

WHERE'S CHLOE...?

2009-01-29T10:08:00.004-08:00

I have had a lot of e-mails asking where my little model, Chloe, has been.
Before Christmas she was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. It has taken a toll on her and us.
There were a few options for treatment. Nutritional therapy (tube through the nose) or steroids. We decided both of those seemed too invasive and decided to do a more natural approach. Unfortunately, it did not work for Chloe and we had to resort to the Prednisone.
She took her first liquid dose of Prednisone yesterday and that didn't go too well as she vomited most of it up. We then called the pharmacist and had them prescribe the pill form.
We were able to get that all in her this morning with no problems and it seems she is tolerating it fine.
Chloe is going to be 7 years old in March and is still so tiny. I know she seems big in my auction listing's but she is only 29 lbs. and still wears 3T/4T. We need her to grow and gain some weight.
Please pray for Chloe that this works for her and puts her in remission.

*hugs*
~~Ann & Chloe~~

What's New...?

2009-01-26T21:10:00.002-08:00

Sorry I haven't posted anything in a while. I have been bombarded with custom order's so I have been sewing like a madwoman....!!

We have some FUN, EXCITING news to share with you but not quite yet...BA HA HA HA!!
I am SO mean aren't I...?

Hope you are staying warm! I have icicles hanging from my earlobes. It is COLD, COLD, COLD here!!

Tata for now...

~~Ann~~

FDA: Postpone eating products with peanut butter

2009-01-17T16:46:00.003-08:00

As many of my readers are mom's with children I thought this would be an important read...

First it was bulk peanut butter shipped to schools, hospitals and nursing homes. Now the concern is spreading.

While name brand jars of peanut butter, on your grocery store shelves, are believed to be safe, we're at the point now where the FDA is warning you should postpone eating cookies, ice cream and other products containing peanut butter until the FDA can get a handle on the extent of this salmonella problem.

Six deaths, including two in Minnesota, are blamed on contaminated peanut butter products.

Kellogg has already recalled more than a dozen of their creations.

And this could be just the tip of the iceberg.

Today Hy-Vee grocery stores, including stores in Minnesota, have recalled some of their cookies and other products containing peanut butter.

And today the FDA said that if you have any products in your kitchen cupboards that contain peanut butter, it would be best not to eat them yet because its unknown if those products contain salmonella.

Salmonella has been found at a plant in Georgia owned by Peanut Corporation of America. That company distributes peanut butter and peanut paste to 85 different food companies. That means the peanut butter may have found its way into a large number of products.

Kellogg has recalled 16 products including Austin and Keebler brand peanut butter sandwich crackers and snack size packs of Famous Amos peanut butter cookies and Keebler Soft Batch Homestyle peanut butter cookies. Click here for more.

Stephen Sundlof, with the FDA, said today, "In terms of food products that contain peanut butter, but have not yet been recalled, we urge consumers to postpone eating these products until further info becomes available about whether that product may be affected. We have been advised by manufacturers that product specific info may be made available within the new few days." So avoid products with peanut butter in them for now and throw out recalled products.

The Hy-Vee recall is for its own brand of products. It said in a news release today that it is recalling its Peanut Butter Cookies, Monster Cookies, Peanut Butter Reeses Pieces Cookies, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, Lunchbox Reeses Pieces Cookies, Lunchbox Peanut Butter Cookies, People Chow Party Mix and Assorted Truffle Fudge. Click here for Hy-Vee's website.

As for that jar of peanut butter on your shelf, the FDA says there is no indication that the major national brand name peanut butters sold in grocery stores are linked to this outbreak.

Sundlof says, "Most peanut butter sold in jars at supermarkets appears to be safe."

Click here for the FDA website.

FLY OVER TO IVYLANE!!

2009-01-14T12:52:00.005-08:00

We have a sweet little mini launch & GIVEAWAY starting Thursday, January 15th.

This week we have the most adorable Custom Shirred Buggy Halter Top made by Dawn of ella*monde. So appropriate for Spring!

Available in Custom Sizes 12 months to 8 girls

All YOU need to do is go to our Ivylane "FLY" Listings and choose your favorite! Come back here and post a comment. You will automatically be entered to win one of Dawn's Buggy Halter Tops. A random winner will be chosen on Monday, January 19th.

Click our Logo below to see ALL of IVYLANE's Listings!

BRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-01-13T08:53:00.002-08:00

This morning we woke up to -18 with a -28 wind chill. But hey, it warmed up. It is now -15 with -27 wind chill.
It's days like these I am glad I work in the home. Speaking of work...BYE!

FIRST PHOTO SHOOT for Farris & I

2009-01-11T20:49:00.009-08:00

Introducing Farris...
WoW! Let me tell you, we had quite a photo shoot. We have so much to learn but I do love how these pics turned out so I thought I would share them with you. I don't think they turned out too bad for my first ever photo shoot. I am looking forward to the next shoot with Farris. She is the cutest little model even if she does have little accidents on my props...hehe!!

AN ANGEL WAS BORN....

2009-01-06T19:58:00.010-08:00

My niece, Christy, had her baby today. She was born at 5:03 pm. 6 lbs.1 oz. and 19" long.
This is an amazing story...When Christy went and had her usual labs they did the fetal alpha protein test and the usual bloodowork they do when mom's are pregnant.
We were sad to find out that she tested positive for a "defect". Christy went through the amniocentisis and it still showed something wasn't quite right. Never did get an answer...so needless to say there was worry by all about the pregnancy.
Now, 9 months later she has arrived and she is PERFECT!!! Hmmm, makes you think twice about the accuracy of those tests doesn't it?
"God doesn't make mistakes"
What is her name? Well, Mom & Dad haven't decided yet. But I will let you know when I found out.
Congratulations Christy & Nathan! and you, little one, welcome to the world!!

~~Ann~~

NEW PAPER PRETTIES!!!

2009-01-04T11:52:00.009-08:00

What an exciting day yesterday! The loooong awaited scrapbook store opened at 10:00 am.
You see, my sister, would rant and rave about this FABULOUS scrapbook store in St. Paul. I never did make it there. I didn't have time or was unable to go with her that day...
THEN, much to my amazement, the store decided to move...HERE in MY town. YIPPEE!!
Oh how my sister and I would count the days to the opening of the NEW scrapbook store.
We made plans to meet up in the scrapbook store parking lot at 9:50 am.
(I made sure I saved a little stash of money so I would be able to buy whatever my little heart desired)
I was so anxious I could barely sleep the night before...I was up until 2 am. When I awoke it was 9:28 am....EeeeeK! I overslept!! I had exactly 22 minutes to get outta bed, brush teeth, do the make up and hair and get dressed....RuNNNNNNNNN!!!!
Good thing the store is only minutes from my house. I was a little late...I made it there by 9:55 am. There was sis, (un)patiently waiting, in the parking lot.
9:58 we started heading to the doors ready to knock out whoever got in our way...HAHA!!!
There, we were greeted by Rhonda the sweet store owner.
"Oh my gosh! Look!" "Oh no...Look over here!" "Ooooh Ahhhh!" The store is BEAUTIFUL!!
So many pretty things to look at and touch. My sister and I are touchers....we have to "touch" the paper....LOL!!!
Well, I did behave with my purchase. Just a few papers, a new stamp and some cute metal frame embelly's. Well, I only behaved because she didn't have all of her Tim Holtz stock in yet.
Now my sister on the other hand did make a larger purchase than I did. As a matter of fact she was so excited about the new store that she ended up having to go to the hospital later that day. YES! REALLY!! She was in the ER and in a room within one hour. She thought it was the big one....she was having a heart attack. Come to find out it was a panic attack (thank you God, I need my sister). She needs to release some of the stress in her life. Now how is she going to do that when her daughter (my cute little niece is going to the hospital tonight to have her baby girl). HOW EXCITING!!! I CAN'T WAIT!!!
The actual GRAND opening of the store is next weekend and you can bet I will be there...hehe! (if not sooner). But for now I will be hanging out close to the hospital. I will snap pictures and share them with you when I can.

2009-01-02T19:27:00.011-08:00

HBTM IS FALLING IN LOVE!! COME SEE OUR VALENTINES LISTING IN OUR ETSY SHOP!

Time To Save Some Money!!!

2008-12-28T16:58:00.004-08:00

Hello there~

I hope you had a WONDERFUL Christmas!!!
The New Year is approaching soon...what are your plans?

We are planning our fun early...Fun at Caterpillar Creations Etsy Shop...
We slashed our prices. I marked down all of my listings $25. This savings will continue to the New Year.

I also added a NEW listing...Totally CUSTOM You/We Design Set.

Have a WONDERFUL & SAFE New Year!!!

~~Ann~~

Love Is In The Air....

2008-12-17T07:51:00.011-08:00

Hello there~

We have listed two CUSTOM Valentine's Day set's on Etsy. We want to share some love so if you mention you found my design through my blog I will give you 20% off anything in my Etsy shop.
Just click on one of the picture's and they will take you to my Etsy shop.
This offer ends on Friday December 19th.Have a GREAT day!

~~Ann & Chloe~~
XOXO

Special Moms

2008-12-12T14:29:00.002-08:00

Every once in a while I get a special request for this poem...

Did you ever wonder how mothers of handicapped children are chosen?

Somehow I visualize God hovering over earth selecting his instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As he observes, He instructs his angels to make notes in a giant ledger.

Finally, he passes a name to an angel and smiles, "Give her a handicapped child." The angel is curious. "Why this one, God? She's so happy."

"Exactly," smiles God, "Could I give a handicapped child to a mother who does not know laughter? That would be cruel."

"But has she patience?" asks the angel.

"I don't want her to have too much patience or she will drown in a sea of self-pity and despair. Once the shock and resentment wear off, she will handle it."

"I watched her today. She has that feeling of self and independence that is so rare and so necessary in a mother. You see, the child I'm going to give her has his own world. She has to make him live in her world and that's not going to be easy."

"But, Lord, I don't think she even believes in you." God smiles, "No matter. I can fix that. This one is perfect. She has just enough selfishness."

The angel gasps, "Selfishness? Is that a virtue?" God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally, she will never survive. Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child less than perfect. She doesn't realize it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take for granted a 'spoken word.' She will never consider a 'step' ordinary. When her child says 'Momma' for the first time, she will be present at a miracle and know it! When she describes a tree or a sunset to her child, she will see it as few people ever see my creations."

"I will permit her to see clearly the things I see ... ignorance, cruelty, prejudice ... and allow her to rise above them. She will never be alone. I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life because she is doing my work as surely as she is here by my side."

“And what about her patron saint?” asks the angel, pen poised in midair.

God smiles, “A mirror will suffice.”

NEW Custom Patchwork Listing Today!!

2008-12-08T07:48:00.007-08:00

Hello there~

Hope you had a FAB weekend!

We were lucky enough to get a little snow. Not a whole lot but enough to make everything white.

We have a NEW listing on Etsy today.

We decided to offer a TOTALLY CUSTOM patchwork set.

Please take a peek when you have a moment:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18387008

Have a GREAT week!

~~Ann & Chloe~~

10% OFF & FREE Shipping on Etsy

2008-12-03T11:01:00.002-08:00

We decided it is WhAcKy WeDnESdAy and are having a sale.

10% off all custom designs (markdowns already made) and FREE

shipping....WoW!

I am not sure how long this sale will last so if you see something that

is a MUST have get it for a BARGAIN!!

Here is the link to my Etsy Shop

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5356310

Are You On My Mailing List?

2008-11-30T08:50:00.003-08:00

Always FREE shipping from Etsy or eBay if you are on my mailing list...

Happy Black Friday!!

2008-11-28T09:01:00.006-08:00

I hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving and didn't overstuff yourself...

For those of you staying home to do some Christmas shopping I have some listings on eBay.

I have 2 snowgirl hoodies up for auction....Isn't she ADORABLE!!!

And here is the link to my Black Friday auctions:

http://search.ebay.com /_W0QQsassZcaterpillar*creations

New Birthday Card

2008-11-25T08:54:00.005-08:00

I thought I would share with you a cute little birthday card I made for a custom order.

I just LOVE making cards *sigh*

It is amazing how much time can go into just one card.

The other day I worked on a few cards. I started at 9 am and before I knew it, it was 3 pm and I only had 3 made.

Okay, okay there were a few runs to the local convenience store for a fountain pop (soda for others).

Have a GREAT day!!!

GET READY!!!

2008-11-24T11:36:00.002-08:00

IvyLane is having a HUGE Black Friday sale, don't miss it!!! More details to come...

Time to Shop for Christmas Gifts!!

2008-11-24T09:56:00.009-08:00

I have some SUPER cute FUN Christmas gifts listed on Etsy.
Please take a moment to check them out...
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5356310

Giving this a shot...

2007-05-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

Well, we have decided to join the bandwagon and get our own blog going.

I think it will be a great way for you to get to know me & learn a little more about Chloe.

I will update as frequently as I can...

I am testing the waters as I am not familiar with how the whole blog works so bear with me if I have random posts, random picture's, etc.

And if you have any helpful hints I am all for that :o)