tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-303982932012-02-24T08:01:30.493-05:00A creative, crafty, baking, adventurous look into my quest to master the art of being me.Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.comBlogger1641100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-73364533736321253672012-02-21T13:36:00.000-05:002012-02-21T13:36:00.491-05:00

More than a year ago I decided to refocus my creative efforts and find my true vision for myself and for my family. I am amazed where it has led me. A year ago I was super stressed. I was impatient with my kids, agonized over my creative ADD, and feeling really lost. I put my company JM Studio Solutions on hold, (more like a closed it). The stress of having to make money was too much for me,

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-10288615289847348242012-02-17T14:51:00.000-05:002012-02-17T14:51:00.777-05:00

I just took a break to watch this clip from the Alt Summit. Gretchen Rubin, the author of the Happiness Project talks about what it means to design your life and find your happiness. One of my favorite things she said towards the end, something like: You have to imagine your life is a container and you only want to fill it with the things that make you happy. Then you won't have to make time for

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-70167193671156464602012-02-14T11:07:00.001-05:002012-02-14T11:07:07.259-05:00

 I'm home from sunny Arizona and my little brothers wedding Aren't they so cute? The day was really beautiful, the weather was perfect, and they look very happy. It was a super busy week full of family time, visits with cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents and baking! My mother in law came to take the kids to the park and fun for the day while I finished up the wedding cake. Oh, and we also

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-44957115504487842052012-02-03T20:38:00.000-05:002012-02-03T20:38:00.212-05:00

  I've been going to the gym 2 or 3 days a week for over 30 days! It's now a habit, and I look forward to it. Yes I wake up seriously early to get myself there, but when it's just me, my head phones, and an hour of moving. I feel so much better. I'm not really in it for the pounds, that's just a perk. I'm going for the habit of taking care of myself and really having that time to think. I've been

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-81446812200502713412012-01-29T16:33:00.001-05:002012-01-29T16:33:37.625-05:00

 Today, like envy Sunday I had the opportunity to teach a group of 10 and 11 year olds about following a straight and narrow path. Everyone says people follow their own paths through life. This may be true, but I prefer to think that the path is straight and narrow, it just has hills, valleys, mountains and deep crevices we must learn to get through and over as we grow in our life. Much of this

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-37688308025125647422012-01-26T13:38:00.000-05:002012-01-26T13:38:00.908-05:00

We've been in this town for 10 months now. It's took 6 for me to feel settled in. Granted we are renting, and don't have the space we ideally would like, but we live in a nice area. It's been a tough transition for me. I didn't think it would be. Initially we thought we would be here for a short season (1 year in my mind). Now it's looking like it could be much longer than that. So I've been

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-2380115546402718852012-01-22T16:14:00.001-05:002012-01-24T20:51:37.572-05:00

I'm still here, are you? It's been an insanely busy week. This past weekend we started rehearsals. I've started collecting fabric and borrowed costumes and a have been assigning, measuring, cutting, and sorting out the sizes and piles. This is a big undertaking, especially for our limited amount of space, but the kids are handling it well. Actually they are being amazing about it! They haven't

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-86053475262089884242012-01-12T09:12:00.001-05:002012-01-12T09:18:01.592-05:00

Valentine's Day is on it's way! As a younger me I was not a huge fan of this hallmark holiday, thinking it was too mushy and made those without significant others feel like losers in love. However, a little growing up did me good. I love this little love holiday as a great day to count my blessings of all the people I love for a myriad of reasons. I'm still working out the decor for his day

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-91996664149644283452012-01-10T13:27:00.001-05:002012-01-10T13:27:31.933-05:00

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-43902512765974228632012-01-10T07:38:00.001-05:002012-01-10T07:38:04.576-05:00

This weekend was our first rehearsal for Savior of the World, the musical drama my church is putting on. I'm in charge of costumes for the production, something I used to do in college...years ago. However I've never done a cast this big, (50+) so for the next several weeks my entryway is going to look like this stack, it is only a fraction of what I will end up with. I live in a condo, so this

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-22709355478318151302012-01-06T06:30:00.000-05:002012-01-06T06:30:03.258-05:00

Hello Friends! Thank you so much for your sweet comments recently! Keep them coming. I truly appreciate your time and efforts to let me know I'm not just talking to the blog abyss. So here is the BIG ANNOUNCEMENT....(no I'm not pregnant) I'm throwing a party! Well an event actually. As of right now it's going to be by invitation only. If I know you in person...you will be getting your

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-83045852524653458032012-01-03T10:31:00.000-05:002012-01-03T10:31:43.429-05:00

Welcome to the New Year! I've got a new header, and new sidebar buttons, and to celebrate I've opened up my Etsy shop anew! You'll find it under the Art Of Being Me. So come on in from you reader to check it out. In the shop you can find my latest patterns for the iPad 2! There will also be more patterns, printables, and things to come. and don't forget the original freebie! PSST! I've also

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-685809553147258552011-12-29T18:47:00.001-05:002011-12-29T19:06:17.350-05:00

Its been a year. As of January 2011 i took a year off from my business pursuits to find a little perspective. I was way too stressed out, the money matters and family time were crazy and it made me a mess. I think I felt that because I had a serious 5 year degree under my belt I needed to use it the way I had been taught in school. A valid idea, until I became a mother and time became more

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-41237880431946091262011-12-24T14:46:00.001-05:002011-12-24T14:46:10.838-05:00

Happy ChristmasWe are making Tamales. Mmmm good. Enjoy your family time, holiday spirit and merry wishes to you all. 

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-318359896222365432011-12-19T16:35:00.000-05:002011-12-19T16:35:41.859-05:00

Here's a peek at some of my favorites from bloglad this month. I've started following In Color Order, particularly her selection of posts on choosing colors. I think her examples are spot on and could be used for any project, not just fabric based. In particular her examples on color basics, complementary, split-complimentary, harmonizing, analogous, and triadic color schemes. Color Wheel

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-76983643336558105312011-12-15T14:43:00.002-05:002011-12-15T16:04:53.249-05:00

It's about time I made a bag for my sewing machine feet and tools. The bag it all these came in was super lame. I like this bright one much better!

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-69418780998234580192011-12-13T14:46:00.000-05:002011-12-13T14:46:09.633-05:00

Today it is terribly cold but sunny. As are most of the days here. I have a cold as well, so I'm staying in as much as possible. It's not so bad really, considering that I get to watch Disney movies with my kids all day and enjoy my holiday decorations. The countdown is on! My kids are crazy about the advent calendar this year. I'm sure the occasional candy placements are helping too. I'm

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-75983794043476259772011-12-11T18:40:00.000-05:002011-12-11T18:40:38.604-05:00

I really am a sucker for a good soup! One of my favorites is Butternut Squash Soup. It's typically made with a ton of heavy cream and I usually wish I hadn't finished it all off. I tinkered with this recipe for many a fall season and I think I've finally mastered it...cream free too! Best Butternut Soup 1 whole butternut squash, roasted and seeded (see below for my tips) 1 small yellow onion 1

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-85867694358964654312011-12-04T15:36:00.000-05:002011-12-04T15:36:48.785-05:00

Ive had a lot of time recently to just reflect. I've been out of town, and back. I also spent a good chunk of this week decorating for the Christmas in what seems like the first time in years. I love Christmas. I love the shine and the sparkle. I love the love that it seems to put into others hearts. Last night I went to our wards Relief Society Ornament Exchange. I think the term "exchange"

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-71579599587016365372011-11-30T21:38:00.000-05:002011-11-30T21:38:49.076-05:00

I'm back from a fantastic Thanks-mas in Arizona. Every so often my family combines Thanksgiving and Christmas into one glorious day of food and simple gifts, mostly out of necessity because we are all in town at once. The weather was amazing. The food SO good. The families always the best. It was great to meet some new nephews and watch my boys "play" with the baby. Mostly it was just nice to

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-46630917874783036872011-11-19T17:44:00.000-05:002011-11-19T17:44:15.312-05:00

It's been a busy week. I know everyone has busy weeks, but this week I found myself volunteering to help out pretty much everyone I know with something on practically everyday this week. Which is fine. Well. and Good. That is until I realized that I over committed myself! Aahh! It was a little madness. Which explains why I remembered my sons snack day. I even had it in the car. I drove it all the

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-23303691246529725712011-11-17T19:41:00.000-05:002011-11-17T19:41:18.749-05:00

I just love Pinterest. Are you on the bandwagon yet? Here are a few of my favorites. Source: Uploaded by user via Shannon on Pinterest Source: hairromance.com via Shannon on Pinterest Source: zatchels.com via Shannon on Pinterest Source: sistersofthewildwest.blogspot.com via Shannon on Pinterest Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Shannon on Pinterest

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-48002405780790820302011-11-15T15:10:00.001-05:002011-11-15T15:10:33.172-05:00

My husband and I make dating a regular occurrence at our house. I keeps our relationship in check. Sometimes a date means just a movie at home after the kids are in bed at the end of a long week. Other times our dates require a babysitter! Joy! We don't do the sitter dates too often because it requires some cash. This last weekend I was completely spoiled by not only a sitter, but also an amazing

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-57815859030114022182011-11-11T13:43:00.000-05:002011-11-11T13:43:32.591-05:00

Wednesday night I went to my first ever Quilt Guild meeting at our local rec center. I expected to walk into a room of 9-12 silver haired ladies seated around a quilt frame gossiping about denture cream. I also expected to be by far the youngest gal there.  I was only half right, I was the youngest gal there at 29 3/4. However I was blown away by what I found. I met up with a room full of

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-76872472666883682322011-11-09T15:05:00.000-05:002011-11-09T15:05:26.173-05:00

I took a jaunt off to a nearby town to check out their fabric store. I generally have learned to keep my expectations low. Sad, but true. I'm a modern gal living in a rural calico community. Anyway the 35 minute drive in lovely fall weather was completely worth it. I pulled up to Quilted Threads, in Henniker, NH. It's an old farmhouse converted into a shop. I was expecting the shop to be a small

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-9823613906818222252011-11-07T13:59:00.001-05:002011-11-07T13:59:20.615-05:00

I've had this quilt nearly ready for a week now. It's basted and ready...But I've been distracted in trying to get my secret Christmas projects finished. (done! today!) Which also explains the absence of some much over due tutorials and crafty photos. And also I've been helping out a friend who needed some wardrobe adjustments. As a bonus I made a few clips and pins out of the scraps. Now these

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-87971237699557277652011-11-03T19:37:00.000-04:002011-11-03T19:37:44.458-04:00

I'm watching "You Again" It's bringing back a lot of high school memories. Thankfully not to the extent that the movie exaggerates! Currently there are throwing dishes, screaming girls, and dresses wrapped in attitudes of a magnitude I didn't have to deal with. But it makes me think about the meanness of girls. Girls can be unbelievably cruel. I don't know how your high school experience

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-44516673423942515482011-11-01T10:07:00.000-04:002011-11-01T10:07:16.127-04:00

I hope everyone had a great Halloween. We had an unexpected snow storm this weekend, many are still without power. I hope they are staying warm! We were fortunate to only have a stuck vehicle and a delay in coming home. Power is still up here. The problem is that technically we weren't done with fall, the trees still have many leaves and the added wet snow made them too heavy. This is the

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-12826037431031161762011-10-29T12:26:00.001-04:002011-10-29T12:26:37.168-04:00

Our full length look. Ignore the fuzziness. The full cast!Better close up. I was Maid Medusa and Michael was Sir Rufus (who ended up being the victim). The delicious feast!Overall it is always a blast to see everyone play their part. The costumes are always great and so are the friends.

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-13199429931052519252011-10-28T13:20:00.000-04:002011-10-28T13:20:05.035-04:00

Done! I finished Halloween costumes today! Just in time too, we have our annual murder mystery party to attend TONIGHT! This years theme is Knights and Damsels. Guess who will be the knight and who will be the damsel? Of course we've moved a little farther away so our usual night will be a little later. (Thank you babysitter!) I made the hub a new costume...didn't have any armor lying about.

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-75591469574248043422011-10-24T20:22:00.000-04:002011-10-24T20:22:36.756-04:00

Hi Friends! Recently I've gotten a few comments (in person) like, "Wow, I saw on your blog..." or "on your blog the other day..." These are great! Thanks to you all. But, incase you haven't noticed, there aren't much in the way of comments on the actual posts. So if you're a lurker, peering at me through reader, or know me in person...could you do be a big favor and just say a little "Hi" at

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-41775450724554159392011-10-20T13:21:00.000-04:002011-10-20T13:21:17.577-04:00

 Seriously a new holiday favorite! I made this out of a few mistakes and a complete experiement. It is SO DELICIOUS! Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding with Orange Sauce For Cranberry Orange Bread 1 2/3 c sugar 2/3 c    canola oil 1/2 c    milk 2 tsp    grated orange peel 2 tsp    vanilla 4 large eggs 3 cups flour (you can use half wheat and half white) 2 tsp    baking soda 1 tsp    salt 3 cups

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-8223403675399710682011-10-19T20:32:00.000-04:002011-10-19T20:32:41.881-04:00

Tonight I found this on my brother's blog. Watch it. Get a tissue. I know I did. Thanks Brady for sharing.

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-54283387125093026032011-10-18T19:28:00.000-04:002011-10-18T19:28:19.016-04:00

Clean...but raw Cleaned up...and feeling more like ahhh. I've discovered that getting dressed and mascara-d is important to me. I had a friend in college say once that you always dress for test days. Well, I've discovered that this works as well for those mommy days, grey days, and middle of the blah days too. If I don't take the time to at least get a 5 minute shower and get dressed

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-91209732849737490452011-10-15T21:11:00.000-04:002011-10-15T21:11:21.925-04:00

I went to my first ever quilt show last weekend. It was great to see the work of others and the time and detail they put into their quilts. The fabrics were not my style, I was by far the youngest quilter there, but the ladies were so great. Here are a few of my favorites.  I loved the simple geometry of this one.   A King size quilt...completely made of hexagons!   Compeletly

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-6131092056335325712011-10-12T16:11:00.001-04:002011-10-12T16:11:01.953-04:00

This is on the side of an elementary school in town.

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-42413875716610532412011-10-11T13:23:00.000-04:002011-10-11T13:23:54.616-04:00

It's been a really busy week around here. In addition to the normal stuff; kids, school, laundry, dinner making, etc. I've also been pulling some late nights to try to wittle down my HUGE list of projects that are in various stages of partial completion. I blame it on the fact that I refuse to buy things I can make. (Even though I know they will take more time and effort, but I have the skills

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-5636766335834962492011-10-08T21:19:00.000-04:002011-10-08T21:19:10.825-04:00

My brother has dipped into blogging! You can find him at The Everyday All Nighter. Here is a little snippet (which I totally copied without his permission, heck so is this whole post about him) in his own words. I love his writing style, and I hope he keeps it up. "I'm a professional filmmaker and video editor. Seriously, that's what I do all day (and night). I own my own business, making

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-24536818043388141262011-10-06T17:53:00.001-04:002011-10-06T17:53:32.021-04:00

Gallons of hot peppers have come my way via the farm. Here's round too of homemade jalapeño poppers, hopefully better than round 1. The first batch wasn't spicy enough!

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-17101364987972561992011-10-04T18:45:00.000-04:002011-10-04T18:45:20.345-04:00

It celebrates a 100 years of East London Style in 100 seconds. Sept. 13th 1911 to Sept 13th 2011. The clothes are cool, the choreography is awesome!

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-35793868503942285382011-10-03T09:56:00.002-04:002011-10-03T14:53:08.413-04:00

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-81853670933296004232011-10-01T21:29:00.000-04:002011-10-01T21:29:05.748-04:00

It's official. I've decided for the thousandth time. My husband lovingly, amazingly, makes my life complicado! (that's complicated for my non spanish-ers) I'm also confident that this doesn't happen on purpose, at terrible timing intervals, or without my lack of encouragement. It just happens. And all I can do is take a deep breath. Remember that I love him. Remember he loves me, and well '

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-30243413994261253112011-09-28T20:20:00.000-04:002011-09-28T20:20:20.743-04:00

When I first got married I was not a good cook. It didn't really matter that we had a nearly non-existent starving student grocery budget. I just didn't know what I was doing. We had a really tiny kitchen, a stack of stale food storage, and a determination that we wouldn't starve. My initial attempts at "good housewife" meals were generally disgusting. But hey we ate it. I've come a LONG way

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-42867845450437706182011-09-27T06:03:00.000-04:002011-09-27T06:03:35.890-04:00

 On our way to pick up our farm produce last week, we waited 20 minutes for all the Bessies to cross.It was awesome, I got to explain to my little backseat peanut gallery all about utters, milkin', and why cows have spots.  Tough Man is determined that brown cows make chocolate milk...sadly these cows are only black and white. 

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-87501913578578758662011-09-26T06:07:00.000-04:002011-09-26T06:07:53.309-04:00

For Activity Girls this last week we made little photo books with Mormon Ads in them. Something to keep them focused during church meetings. We also made ribbon bookmarks witha stack of three grosgrain ribbons decending in size and sewn together at the top with a stack of two buttons. I love their color combinations! I'm not sure how this ended up upside down, but you get the idea! It was

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-19564994988584383252011-09-22T16:19:00.000-04:002011-09-22T16:19:09.164-04:00

Here is my studio...finally brought up to date, and a few of the things I've finally finished! I finally bought some desktop storage, and vow to only fill it with current projects. This way they won't be strewn all over the work surface. The upside down crate is my foot rest for my sewing machine pedal...until I find something better. (Ignore the big garish pile on the right corner, it's my

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-27178051371207238432011-09-20T06:12:00.000-04:002011-09-20T06:12:07.337-04:00

I went to visit some friends this weekend. It was great to see everyone and get all the updates on what people are doing these days. Many people are at crossroads, either moving, returning from serving missions for our church, going to school, having babies and the like. I think it is ironic that it is these crossroads where we measure our lives. Perhaps they give us memorable benchmarks to

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-75739311217952046692011-09-16T20:39:00.000-04:002011-09-16T20:39:39.912-04:00

Today it got chilly. Almost down right cold. Also for the past few weeks I've been endlessly discussing the upcoming wish lists for my soon to be (3 more months!) 5 year old. Along with the intricacies of Santa Claus. Needless to say he is beyond excited! On a much more practical note. I've got a wish list too.  More like a running fantasy about my dream spaces. Currently these for my

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-9867459933660865422011-09-15T22:14:00.000-04:002011-09-15T22:14:30.871-04:00

I'm already thinking about Fall and Halloween. I'm ready to swap out some of my summer colors and perhaps add a few new fall decor ideas around the house. I've got to keep it small and simple though with easy to pack it up or flatten it out ideas. We are slim on space here and have pretty much 0 storage. Regardless these are some of my favorite ideas of pinterest.  familyfun.go.com These

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-82120978328552658232011-09-13T21:05:00.001-04:002011-09-13T21:52:05.824-04:00

Today was busy.Tough Man has preschool once again, hooray! Four days a week this year. We actually made it out of the house and in the doors on time today!So, I'm not sure what possessed me to run nearly all of my errands with Little Man all in the same morning! We made it through some without a hitch. The problem however with a 32 lb 2 year old is they don't tell you clearly when they would like

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-24444355824448885852011-09-11T20:47:00.001-04:002011-09-11T20:47:33.392-04:00

I'm confident we can all recall where we were on 9/11 ten years ago. I was woken early, asked to turn on the TV. I did so just in time to see the second tower get struck. Ugh, a tearful punch to the gut and total bewilderment. When I got it together I went to my first class of the day, Structures. I was in my second year of architecture school. We all sat in silence while the professor said it

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-7712816042120652552011-09-10T08:54:00.000-04:002011-09-10T08:54:16.255-04:00

Let's face it. I've got a thing for waffles. I love their crispy thin crust, the warm soft middles, and the deep syrup holding pockets. I like to make them fast and eat them with my family on the weekends. So I bought this baby, and wow!waffles in minutes that are frankly amazing! Especially with Buttermilk Syrup (thanks Becky!)  Waring Pro Double Waffle Maker WMK600, refurbished for $74

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-70811696446413788052011-09-07T14:53:00.000-04:002011-09-07T14:53:50.967-04:00

It's no surprise that there are so many beautiful quilt fabrics out there, what with all the talented designers these days. But I have been hugely disappointed at the boy focus fabrics around. Any suggestions that aren't baby boy? Yet most quilts are surprisingly geometric so I thought I could pull off a very boy quilt for my youngest. I pulled together these fabrics And came up with these

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-71008328803736460152011-09-06T13:18:00.000-04:002011-09-06T13:18:43.898-04:00

I hope you had a great Labor Day weekend! My husband took Friday off, so we were treated to a four day stay-cation. We've been doing more of these and its so nice to just stay home for a while! Plus we've had some pretty rainy weather so staying in worked out perfectly. On Labor Day we went to a barbeque, so I made zuchini cupcakes. Apparently my kids define cupcakes with as those with frosting

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-36481914989560828692011-09-01T17:29:00.000-04:002011-09-01T17:29:39.988-04:00

Today was preschool orientation. My tough man is off to preschool for round 2 (he has a December birthday). I'm actually thrilled for it. I've had a summer with him since March. And as much as I love is cute, (too-smart sometimes) handsome face... TODAY HE DROVE ME NUTS! All was well and good while he checked out his new teacher and he had his very own lunch date with mom and dad. Then I got

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-69243100558799127982011-08-30T22:32:00.001-04:002011-08-31T06:10:43.553-04:00

I love that he winks. (anthropologie.com) We survived Irene. Sadly Vermont (20 minutes from my house) isn't looking so good. We are feeling really blessed. The boys however were disappointed there were not more use of the flashlights over the weekend. However,I've been spending a lot of time on Pinterest lately. I LOVE it! It's such a great way for me to get some of my design, crafty,

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-9401391577990769242011-08-27T12:56:00.000-04:002011-08-27T12:56:44.552-04:00

In case you live in a cave, there is a hurricane Irene coming to the east coast. I live minutes from the Vermont boarder, so I'm hoping we won't see much more than rain and winds. So just an FYI we've got our emergency prep kits ready to go, and we should be fine. Just as a precaution, I'll be shutting down the computer in the heavy rains...we are expecting to possibly lose power. But I'm sure

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-65838321568528200142011-08-24T14:54:00.000-04:002011-08-24T14:54:57.929-04:00

I've finally finished my Amy Butler Blossom handbag from her book Style Stitches! (It's only been on my desk for several months) I picked up some of Joel Dewberry's Aviary prints in a scrap pack from Hawthorne Threads in the awesome mustard and grey tone. I was determined to make a bag and used what I could out of the scraps. However, Amy's bags are enormous! So I ended up ordering more from

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-27090465140718592822011-08-20T21:40:00.000-04:002011-08-20T21:40:12.728-04:00

Simon Pearce Glass Blowing, Pottery, and Restaurant      So beautiful to watch   this man makes over 100 pieces a day   It runs on their own hydro power. (It was really hot that day and I tried hard to cut out all the bathing beauties, instead I got these dudes who were flipping and plunging off head first! Ahh!)  Next time I'd like to go and have dinner

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-25934398323818515212011-08-16T21:48:00.000-04:002011-08-16T21:48:03.428-04:00

I have to just publicly say thank you to my friend who hosted a lovely afternoon hangout at her house with all 11, yes 11 kids of our kids compiled running around keeping eachother company. After a whole Monday and most of Tuesday indoors while it has been raining outside and we all drove eachother nuts. It was so nice to sit around a table with a group of gals over way too many yummy baked

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-26651490739075115772011-08-14T15:43:00.001-04:002011-08-17T05:51:41.583-04:00

I woke up this morning to find that my Fresh quilt was featured on Fresh Lemons Quilts! Faith had contacted me to ask permission to use my images, of course I said yes! She makes really great bright and bold, modern styled quilts and also offers up lots of free patterns. I'm really honored, having never been featured before. SO COOL! Thanks Faith! I'm toying with the idea of making her Lemon

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-15646682973263494582011-08-11T14:33:00.001-04:002011-08-11T14:35:19.892-04:00

I made a few more camera straps for friends after they saw mine at a 4th of July party. Not knowing their colors I just grabbed a few strips of scraps in 4 schemes and sewed them up. I really like how they turned out, especially the idea for the monogram. I made these slightly different than the first verson and they were so much easier! No turning required. First I sewed the strips together,

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-84113300418251330862011-08-09T11:03:00.002-04:002011-08-09T21:33:24.181-04:00

I've a growing list of projects I want to start or finish. Some of them just need one more thing and a little time. I keep track of them like this: Post-its each with 1 task on them stuck to a threshold between the living room and my studio. They can easily be rearranged and prioritized and seen. And my favorite I can toss each one when I complete it. Like these frames! Found. Painted.

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-76727618004745701632011-08-07T18:53:00.000-04:002011-08-07T18:53:15.083-04:00

I was thinking about what I would do if I could stay up really late again. In college I stayed up toiling away until we hours in the morning, then I would get a few hours sleep and get up early so I could take advantage of wee morning hours while my classmates slept and rolled in late. It was great and terrible. I got mountains of work done, but I also was exhausted and would fall asleep if I

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-1481498522674183132011-08-05T16:37:00.000-04:002011-08-05T16:37:10.084-04:00

I love having people visit. I love the fun, the food, and the exploring adventures we have while they are here. I love to see them play with my family. I love to hug em and squeeze em. I love being able to talk with an adult for most of my day. I am sad when we both have to get back to our real lives. But I also love getting my house back in order. My meals planned out. My schedule back. And

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-85883666589190006562011-08-03T16:39:00.001-04:002011-08-20T07:00:39.681-04:00

Sheesh! Summer is almost over?I love summer (and spring, but in New England that means rain) Summer is mostly sunshine and light. I play outside with my boys. We blow bubbles, have picnics, and make huge messes. I also love how long the days are and the energy I have to do the things I love.I recieved the school packet from Tough Man's preschool this week and it brought my summer fun to a pause.

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-88067058175326881292011-07-28T13:32:00.000-04:002011-07-28T13:32:33.046-04:00

I have a not-so-secret desire to go the The Creative Connection. I stumbled upon info on the inagural event just after it had happend last September. Who wouldn't want to go to a 3 day event filled with incredible creative women? It would be so inspiring to hear their stories, see what they make, and learn from great teachers. It's on my wish list and will eventually happen for me I'm sure.

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-4509005023305354422011-07-28T10:10:00.000-04:002011-07-28T10:10:17.125-04:00

I made a few adjustments to my usual blueberry pie this year, and the results were AMAZING! The crust for me makes or breaks a good pie. This is hands down my favorite Blueberry Pie Pie Crust - for top and bottom crust, or two bottom only crust pies 2 1/2 c flour 2 sticks unsalted butter cold, cut into small cubes 1/4 cup plus of ice water 1 tsp salt Measure out carefully the flour and salt

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-40829129818008124992011-07-27T16:37:00.001-04:002011-07-27T16:37:16.406-04:00

I love watching my boys do this! There is something so joyful in the simplicity of blowing a few bubbles and then popping them as they float by.

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-30875350304799560412011-07-21T21:34:00.000-04:002011-07-21T21:34:17.770-04:00

I just happened to read my friend's post at A Happy Heart and look what I found! She documented our 4th of July before I did. We had a great time with these fun families and getting to know Amanda L. and Kirsten better. My friend Michelle a.k.a. the Happy Heart Mom is a really amazing lady who balances four kids and her own talents. I'm lucky to know her and she's really been a highlight of our

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-30174712732475704662011-07-20T07:14:00.002-04:002011-07-21T21:03:20.886-04:00

Today I let my kids do this: Believe me this is only a fraction of the mess! I've been testing out the new BlogPress app. I try to encourage the creativity and ignore the huge mess, all within reason. Like all kids they love the mess making and dread the clean it up. I also try to remind them it's good practice for all of us neat freaks to not care about the mess until it's over. Embrace the

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-24576779907438507882011-07-17T17:35:00.001-04:002011-07-17T17:59:52.856-04:00

It's been a really fun busy week because this awesome lady came to visit! It's my mom! She rode her motorcycle across the country from Arizona to visit. Pretty cool in my book. We are really enjoying having her here. She is helping me play with the boys and with a much needed upholstry project. I've managed to tear one of two chairs apart and will dig in more this week.I LOVE this fabric we found

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-65101723154393809442011-07-13T14:02:00.000-04:002011-07-13T14:02:07.687-04:00

Sometimes a change of scenery will do wonders. It gives time and space to things and hopefully added perspective and appreciation. I'm a firm believer that this is the case for everyone; especially moms who spend so much time taking care of others. Getting a change of scenery, taking a day off the routine can be so inspiring! Here is a snapshot of what inspired me on a recent jaunt out of my

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-82241320441832912002011-07-10T16:07:00.000-04:002011-07-10T16:07:29.174-04:00

I've been married 7 years today. Some people reach an itch in their marriage at this milestone. Looking for a change of routine, scenery, or spouse in worse cases. I feel so blessed to be where I am at this moment. We've lived in 4 homes, 2 states.We've have 2 adorable children. We've learned to be better cooks. We've learned to be better communicators. We've been through a lot together and..

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-76939064305775151332011-07-02T17:49:00.000-04:002011-07-02T17:49:54.010-04:00

So cute! A friend of mine was given an ipad for her birthdady, sans cover. I thought I'd give this a try and it turned out really nice. Super limey green at her request. I  could also see this in manly tweeds with a leather tie or girly pinks. I reused some D rings from an old belt and the fabrics were all from my scraps from Hawthorne Threads. I love the geometric cubes against the floral

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-31221291427293844122011-06-25T09:04:00.000-04:002011-06-25T09:04:14.831-04:00

I am so excited to have finished up this quilt! It's my first full follow all the instructions quilt from Fresh Lemons. I really love how it turned out and I'm already planning my next one. Selfishly this one is for me and I've promised the next one for my little man. It measures 64"x73" finished. There was a small potty crisis with my son while I was picking out the backing fabric...so I just

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-23598304828991789122011-06-23T14:16:00.001-04:002011-07-02T16:22:52.365-04:00

I need to find a few frames like this: For the bird cage applique I did. The opening needs to be 16"x20" oval or square will do.   I'd love it el-cheap-o since I plan on painting it. I'd even take a few of them...ideas inspired by the ones below would look so great in my house, as I'm trying to transition our look in a few rooms. Please let me know if you find one local-ish!

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-58378376429848084082011-06-21T07:31:00.000-04:002011-06-21T07:31:55.959-04:00

Every week I go to the grocery store. Every week I jot down a list of the things I need to get from the grocery store, along with the tenative recipes and meals I plan on. Every week I leave my list in the car, or lose it to my purse. Every week I buy more than I was going to, or I forget some of the critical things I needed. SO, in an effort to get over this hurdle. I have devised (yet again

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-61638772589757798952011-06-20T13:26:00.000-04:002011-06-20T13:26:58.977-04:00

I bought this great cookie jar at a garage sale this week. I love the color! I even made cookies to go in it, but they never made it past the cooling rack before they were eaten. I also manageed to finish up this applique project, at least the applique part! I wanted a birdcage with the birds free. I needleturned the base of the cage, then I made bias tape for the cage and ironed it all in

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-37216022238541204412011-06-12T09:55:00.000-04:002011-06-12T09:55:06.392-04:00

Ok, so I am in love with this idea...and possible reality. I've been following Oh Happy Day for a while, she has the most beautiful paper crafts, is currently living in lovely Paris. She is also offering an amazing giveaway, ok, you can enter too if you like. Just take a look at these photos, and Ahh, you will wish you were living there too! I am so loved! I arrived at my desk Friday morning

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-57834895669004835212011-06-09T19:00:00.000-04:002011-06-09T19:00:31.823-04:00

After a week of looking at this stack on my desk, I finally got around to squaring up and sewing these quilt blocks together. I'm not very good at follwing instructions. I always change something, especially in recipes or in designs. Since this is the first quilt I've made that isn't just me sewing off the cuff, I really really wanted to follow directions to make sure I new how to read a

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-16380872923813735742011-06-06T21:20:00.000-04:002011-06-06T21:20:06.568-04:00

Confession#1: My eldest kid lives on carbs and chocolate milk. Honesty Evaluation #1: This is most likely my fault. A Quick history: He was a great baby food eater...until we got to textures and things he had to pick up on his own. Then he got particular. He doesn't like slimy, wet, or crumb coated hands. So he quickly adapted and used a fork right off. However, he then tapered off eating

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-31825313694807259992011-06-01T22:21:00.000-04:002011-06-01T22:21:30.823-04:00

Home and recovered (laundry done, no groceries yet) from our trip to Montreal over Memorial Day weekend. I know, how patriotic of us to leave the country, right? It's only a 4-ish hour drive from home and it was well worth the trip. I was a little nervous about everything being in French, but it was so lovely! People were so kind, smiled at our kids, and were great about switching to English if

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-41171090387879917732011-05-24T10:28:00.000-04:002011-05-24T10:28:28.329-04:00

A few sick days will do a girl good! I've gotten quite a bit of computer work done while moping around the house and as a result my Etsy shop is finally stocked with new supplies. Some really goodies too. Here's a few samples: Use coupon code MASTER11 for 20% off! Be sure to hurry! I'm posting this on craigslist too in the next few days! I'll get a button set up on the side bar soon,

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-81972319557637934062011-05-23T09:11:00.000-04:002011-05-23T09:11:28.823-04:00

Ok, so I have a serious case of seasonal allergies. Gross. It came on pretty slow, and I was just smugly thinking how great it was I escaped this season. WRONG! Serves me right. Now I've got it bad. I think its all of the gorgeous flowering trees in my neighborhood. Sad. So to distract myself from the serious sinus headaches and congestion...I'm cleaning my studio out. I've realized that

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-23754829008582514962011-05-20T14:26:00.000-04:002011-05-20T14:26:00.467-04:00

New shoes are the greatest. I love em fresh out of the box. I like to wear them around the house and am always sad when they get their first scuff (which usually doesn't take long with my boys). New shoes also encourage new ideas to roll around in my head and hopefully make their way out of the fog. They also remind me of my cool brother who wears Converse alot! Mmm...new shoes. These ones are

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-24746393541966592122011-05-16T20:59:00.000-04:002011-05-16T20:59:17.818-04:00

Something usual happened recently. I woke up with an image in my head. Detailed in color, and style, and it was uniquely complete with a scriptural verse and a recipient in mind. Random. I felt impressed to pull it together and got it off to it's intended owner this week. A simple bought frame (there wasn't time for thrifting out a good one), lined with fabric and fitted with small bronze

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-91705161794785500302011-05-13T21:21:00.000-04:002011-05-13T21:21:15.316-04:00

We Can Do It Armed with volunteer spirit—and armloads of chickens—a trio from Britain’s Women’s Land Army did its part for the war effort in 1940: Fighting the food shortage at home while their men fought for freedom abroad. Photograph from Hulton Archive/Getty Images, 1940 From 100 Best Vintage Photographs, 2004 Do you ever stop to think about the amazing women you know? I have a

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-85151347324572786152011-05-11T12:11:00.001-04:002011-05-11T12:19:49.195-04:00

  When I was 5 we used to visit this older couple who had an amazing octagon house. It was literally an octagon with a great sitting room in the middle. The wife had pop-up books I loved them! I looked forward to it everytime we went. I've been wanting to buy one for my kids, but hesitate, worrying they will tear it to bits. However I found this one for $2.50! And it was worth the shot since

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-50932139467189923862011-05-08T22:31:00.000-04:002011-05-08T22:31:04.191-04:00

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-36458503315202753272011-04-28T21:49:00.000-04:002011-04-28T21:49:19.881-04:00

People always ask me what I do. I'm sure they mean as in 'work'. In my head I reply "I make stuff, lots of different kinds of stuff." The real 'work' I do is mommy work...THE hardest thing ever. It's 24-7 with two of the cutest kids ever in tow. It's dirty. It's fun. It's frustrating. Then it's so heart wrenchingly sweet it makes me cry. I love it. Yet, I am trained as an architect. Thanks

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-58549889019342897662011-04-26T20:32:00.000-04:002011-04-26T20:32:34.387-04:00

Look what amazing suprise came in the mail today!! Ok, so it wasn't a complete suprise, I did order them from Hawthorne Threads; but I had no idea what I would be getting. I couldn't make up my mind so I went with 3 of the precut scrap packs in cool, warm, and fresh tones. I'm so excited to get into these...yet I just want to frame them, or leave them in a basket to run my fingers over. They

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-18831816090177721422011-04-25T14:11:00.000-04:002011-04-25T14:11:42.006-04:00

My kids cried today. I packed up the Easter eggs. And they burst into tears. Already they want to know the next holiday...and if it comes with candy. Wool felt Crocus corsage for Mrs. Shook, my sweet neighbor who is so lovely. A last minute idea: Pink Roses, Yellow Daffodils, and tiny purple Crocus bud corsage for me. I hope you had a wonderful Easter.

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-64974951398272253912011-04-21T21:09:00.000-04:002011-04-21T21:09:28.286-04:00

Homemade marshmallows are to die for. Really, they are nothing like the jet puff kind we all adore in S'mores. These are soft and offer a lot of suprising options. The original recipe from Martha Stewart is ok, but after comparing it with one I found in Baked cookbook, this is my no-fail version. For the Mallows You will Need: Shortening - for greasing pans 2 (1/4-ounce) packages unflavored

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-61287367055478481942011-04-20T21:41:00.000-04:002011-04-20T21:41:54.758-04:00

I've been working on a secret project for my friend Joanna, which has taken longer than expected (thanks moving), but I finished it up and delivered it to her today as a belated birthday present. We were talking the other day about how those who make things don't often get handmade things as gifts. It's too bad really because who doesn't love a handmade gift of any kind? Joanna is the one

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-50706025748088686552011-04-19T06:26:00.000-04:002011-04-19T06:26:33.146-04:00

We took a very last minute vaction this weekend to the Berkshires. Having never been to the Berkshires we weren't sure exactly what that meant. After a throughough search we found the Berkshires are pretty much Berkshire county, Massachusetts. Vague. Anyway we took off for Patriot's Day Weekend. A completely New England holiday...I had never heard of before moving east. It was really nice,

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-91371157290105144072011-04-12T20:37:00.000-04:002011-04-12T20:37:52.437-04:00

I just completed what I thought would be a 30minute job...in 2 hours. I even waited until my helpful kids were asleep! FYI when rewiring a lamp, remember exactly which pieces go where! I love this milk glass lamp, but its old two pronged plug was starting to zap me everytime I plugged it in. So I updated the wiring with a lamp kit. The wiring was the easy part (thanks Dad!). It was keeping the

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-2996398770776166252011-04-11T21:14:00.000-04:002011-04-11T21:14:43.035-04:00

I come from a long genetic line of non-girly girls. For example the women preceeding me: rides a motorcycle cross country,  built furniture, lived 30 days in the desert, built airplanes, snow skiied, and played baseball. Not exactly the stock of feminine activities. However, I recently accepted a calling at church to work with the 8-11 year old girls in the area. I'm pretty excited about it! I

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-91428587408385457242011-04-06T14:30:00.001-04:002011-04-06T17:40:09.210-04:00

Frosting like you wouldn't believe...tested, proved, perfect. It's not at all like what your mother used to put on cakes, the sickly powder sugar based stuff. (No offense mom) You'll never believe how light and rich it is. FYI don't look at the butter content, just eat it. Don't be suprised if you have to spend a little time mastering this one as well. It took me at least 3 tries and that

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30398293.post-4197538030427249352011-04-05T13:06:00.000-04:002011-04-05T13:06:16.566-04:00

My son got his first pack of Legos! The kid is in high heaven ... and so am I. He's been playing with them for hours! It's the greatest! It really brings back memories of when I was a kid and played with these... I also was in on most of my brothers building adventures as well, that is until we started stepping on them and the fad wore off. Oh, but seeing my little Mr. R into these is so

Shannon Gillman Orrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01799625433082270897noreply@blogger.com2