Growing up as the oldest cousin on one side and an older cousin on the other side of my family, I spent many years being lead around by a tiny vice grip known as a toddler, under the command of "show you somethin'."

Come to find out, it's just as annoying with your own children.  At least 25 times a day, I am pushed, pulled or verbally coaxed into another room for a glimpse at "somethin'" I probably could have lived without.  How do all children eventually do this?  Once in a while however, it pays off.

This morning, while enjoying an organic Pop-Tart (ignore the oxymoron) and taking a breather, "MOM, SHOW YOU SOMETHIN'" came on the radar.  Within seconds Axel feet were clomping and I was helplessly being delivered to the living room.  Upon arrival, Axel proudly announced "Doctor Oggars (Oscar)!!!!!"  This clever little man had convinced the dog to dress in the Vet costume and to my shock, his floppy velvet ears were pulled back to reveal an actual stethoscope.  WOW, truly this kid can get his way even with the dog (who doesn't look incredibly thrilled).

Lesson learned, "show you somethin'" . . . sometimes it's really something!

One thing I love more than experiencing Etsy love is to SHARE Etsy love.

Last semester, my brother had to come up with a business proposal for a class in school (yes, I still have a brother in High School).  He came up with a candle business.  He designed, created and sold his product in a "mock market".

Although the candle technique has been passed down in our family, his designs and color combinations were quite unique.  The "mock market" was a success!  He sold loads of candles and the proceeds were donated to charity!

Wanting to build on his business experience, he started inquiring about Etsy.  A proud moment for me!!!  

Tyler has worked hard on his product and has put together a stunning little shop!  CHECK IT OUT!  He calls himself "The Candle Man", a play on words from our favorite childhood movie Willy Wonka.  If "the candy man can", hopefully "the candle man" can as well.

Enjoy this OOAK "man-made" shop! CLICK HERE!

I had to treat myself this week to a few NEW fabrics.  These are straight from the Japanese Textile Design Table (the best in the world), and I like to think I'm the first to get them!  Fabulous design, color and texture; the kind of fabric where you measure twice, cut once.

Upon their sweet arrival in my mailbox, I completed the 19 Louise Totes already started and listed them in my shop. Today, thanks to Buzz Lightyear, Axel was occupied enough for me to put a few Pleated Wristlets together in the NEW prints!  What a treat!

Check them out in my shop.  I have only a limited amount of this fabric, so treat yourself while they last!

Papas bunch.  We sure miss him.  He was the proudest grandfather!

Last Tuesday, Papa (Richard Ruedy) went to heaven.  He wasn't sick, suffering, and we definitely weren't ready for him to leave.  Silently he fell to a hemorrhagic stroke and was gone in a blink.

Several of us flew to Florida for goodbyes and to help Nana get home.  As we struggle to put ourselves back together, I can only be thankful for the 27 years I've had with him, and the never ending stream of stories and memories that will forever be in my heart.  Papa was a story teller, a Navy veteran, a leader of Saint Paul, the cornerstone of our family and my biggest fan.

I found this simple grocery list on his dresser.  Suddenly it is precious, and symbolizes so much!

Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.  We are Celebrating his Life on Wednesday, May 5th in his home town of Saint Paul.

In the above photo, he is front row (on the right).  He lead both Police Officers and Fire Fighters to the capital to fight or strike for health and retirement benefits.  Seen below he is speaking to Minnesota congressman, leaders and media.  They WON!