3 Four and Under

Lost Tooth

2012-02-10T08:54:00.000-08:00

We had a pretty BIG milestone happen at our house about a week ago! Big Sister lost her first tooth!

It had been hanging there by a thread for a while so I finally just pulled it for her. She placed it under her pillow that night. The tooth fairy came and gave her a dollar. When she woke up in the morning, Big Sister came out of her room, and said with the most attitude that a only 5 year old going on 13 could muster up,

"Mom, I only got a dollar!"

I had to laugh, I guess she expected a rich tooth fairy!

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2012-02-08T09:37:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday Blog Hop!

3 Four and Under
Mommas Like Me
and
The Studious Stitch
are proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!

Thank you for linking up each week, we really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the linky list.

Please follow the host blogs!
We will be numbers 1, 2, and 3 on the link list!

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave us a comment and we will be sure to follow you back!

Please place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Monster Birthday Party Inspiration

2012-02-07T08:41:00.000-08:00

This weekend we are having the twins 3rd Birthday Party! But, didn't you just have a birthday party for your daughter last weekend? Yup, we sure did! My daughter and the twins' birthdays are ONE day apart! February is kinda busy for our family!

For the twins birthday, we chose to have a monster theme! And of course, I went straight to Pinterest for inspiration!

Source: celebrationsathomeblog.com via Trisha on Pinterest

Source: sweetsugarbelle.com via Trisha on Pinterest

Source: hiphiphoorayblog.com via Trisha on Pinterest

Source: jenadkinsdesigns.blogspot.com via Trisha on Pinterest

Source: orientaltrading.com via Trisha on Pinterest

Source: jesykaditri.com via Trisha on Pinterest

Shabby Chic 6th Birthday Tea Party

2012-02-06T09:36:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we had Big Sister's 6 Birthday party!

This year she chose to have a tea party with just the girls! I had SO much fun planning this party!

The party was designed around this invitation that I designed in Photoshop

The girls made gumball pearl necklaces, ate lots of sweets, played in the backyard in their party dresses,

and painted their nails!

The Birthday Girl with her Gumball necklace on!

Fabric on the tables: Fabric.com

Gumballs and Balloons: Polka Dot Market

Favor bags: Shop Sweet Lulu

Bracelets, Tea Pot Lollipops, and Rings inside favor bags: Oriental Trading Company

Tea Cups: Goodwill and Salvation Army

Plates and Napkins: Target

Heart Doilies: The Dollar Tree

Invitation, Printables, Cakes, Sweets: Me

I'm linking this post to these fantastic linky parties! And also linking up to Today's Creative Blog

Class Valentines {Bubbles}

2012-02-02T14:31:00.000-08:00

I shared this idea over at Through the Eyes of the Mrs. a few weeks ago. And today I thought that I would share it with you!

Valentine's Day is coming up! So, I thought I would share with you the valentines that my daughter will be giving out this year in her kindergarten class!

I was at The Dollar Tree the other day and found these bubbles in sets of 3.
I loved the idea of giving out bubbles this year! I mean, who doesn't love bubbles?!

Then I made these fun labels, wrapped them around the bubbles

and used a little piece or two of scotch tape to secure it to the bottle!

A fun and unique way to say Happy Valentine's Day!
Feel free to print them out for your Valentines this year!

Blow Me Away Valentine Printable

Thanks Beth for having me today! Please stop by 3 Four and Under and say hi! I would love to have you!

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2012-01-31T20:25:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday Blog Hop!

3 Four and Under
Mommas Like Me
and
The Studious Stitch
are proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
We had over 100 blogs link up last week!
Thank you for linking up each week, we really appreciate it!
Lets see if we can beat that number this week!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the linky list.

Please follow the host blogs!
We will be numbers 1, 2, and 3 on the link list!

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave us a comment and we will be sure to follow you back!

Please place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Valentine's Day Subway Art Printable

2012-01-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, there hasn't been a whole lot of sewing and crafting going on around my house in the past few weeks. Between the 3 kids, homework for my oldest, completing orders for my etsy shop, planning two birthday parties a week apart and trying to keep up with the house stuff. I've been totally worn out, I've been really tired and just not feeling well. So, I finally went to the doctor the other day for a blood test to see what is going on with me.

Anyway, after that long story. I decided that I needed some Valentine's Day decor in my house! I was thinking of waiting until February to decorate for Valentine's Day, but it was on my mind, and I had to do it! I find, if I don't do things when I'm thinking about it, then I don't end up doing it at all.

I created a fun Valentine's Day Subway art for my mantel!

And you are most welcome to print it out too! It is 8x10, but can be reduced to a smaller size if need be!

Valentines Day Subway Art Printable

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2012-01-24T21:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday Blog Hop!

3 Four and Under
Mommas Like Me
and
The Studious Stitch
are proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the linky list.

Please follow the host blogs!
We will be numbers 1, 2, and 3 on the link list!

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave us a comment and we will be sure to follow you back!

Please place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Potty Training Trouble

2012-01-23T09:14:00.000-08:00

I had expected that potty training my twin boys would not be an easy feat! But I didn't expect that it would be THIS difficult! They will be turning 3 in a little under 3 weeks, so I don't think that we started potty training too early. I wasn't even going to start potty training them until after they turned 3 years old. Until..a few months ago they started taking off their clothes and diapers and going to the bathroom everywhere!

And when I say everywhere, I mean everywhere! They are constantly going both number 1 and number 2 on the floor! I have a potty for them, and take them to the potty many many times a day, like every hour, but they still go on the FLOOR!

I have tried everything that I can think of or have heard of.....I bought them awesome Big Boy Toy Story and Cars underwear!

I have rewarded them with a couple of M and M's after going on the potty. I have put them on timeout for going on the floor and not the potty. I have cheered for them and danced around the house after going on the potty!

The ironic thing is that they are fine when we go out. We go to the park or to either of the grandparent's houses and they don't have accidents, they go on the potty.

And then the minute we get home they take their clothes off and go on the floor. I am just so grateful that we don't have carpet in our house. Can you imagine?

Source

I'm so over cleaning up puddles of pee and poop all day. I'm over my house smelling like pee and poop!

So, I'm asking all of you for some help!

Do you have any other positive suggestions of how to get them to go on the toilet instead of the floor?

Wacky Day

2012-01-20T18:28:00.000-08:00

First of all, can I say that I love having a child in elementary school?! I love all of the fun class parties, volunteering in the classroom, and fun spirit dress up days!

Today, was Wacky Day!

The kids were told to dress with either their clothes on backwards or to wear something that doesn't match.
Wearing clothes backwards didn't sound like much fun to me or Big Sister, so we went with not matching clothes!

We came up with red leggings, purple and blue tutu, and the yellow shirt with a Halloween bow in her hair. When she woke up today, she told me that she didn't want to dress up because she didn't think anyone else would be doing it too.

I remember those days in school when you were supposed to wear something different than the norm, and I was always nervous that I would show up to school being the only one who dressed up that day. I assured her that others would be dressing up as well.

I was so relieved when we walked up to her classroom and saw another girl who had dress "wacky" too!

So fun! I can't wait until the next dress up day! I don't know who is more excited Big Sister or me!

{New in the Shop} Ruffly Zippered Pouches

2012-01-19T15:55:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to share with you my new line of ruffly zippered pouches that are now available in the shop!

I'm in LOVE with all of the bright colors!

The pouches are four different sizes and can be made with any of the fabrics shown here!

They are great to hold your makeup, diapers and wipes, money, credit cards, coins...

Then just pop it into your purse or diaper bag {in my case} and you're ready to go, with everything all in the same place! No more digging through your bag to find something!

And they are lined with fun fabrics, for a little surprise inside!

To celebrate my new ruffly pouches, I am offering everyone 20% OFF all of the zippered pouches in the shop! Use discount code: ZIPPER20

Through the Eyes of the Mrs {Guest Blogger}

2012-01-19T08:30:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited to have Beth from Through the Eyes of the Mrs guest posting for me today! She is one of our new sponsors here and it has been so fun getting to know her better, she is awesome!
I'm positive that you will think so too!

Hey there everyone I'm Beth from

Through the Eyes of the Mrs.

I'm a silly stay at home mother to three.

I've married my best friend and our home is full.

Sometimes it's full of laughter and love.

Sometimes it's full of pure chaos.

I've been working so hard lately.

I'm planning my shop opening this Spring.

I'm excited and terrified all at the same time.

I wonder how some of you ladies do this?

It's crazy the decisions I've been making lately.

Some large and some small.

Where to begin, where to promote, pricing?

Whew it's exhausting!

I take a break and then become overloaded again.

How much do I want in my inventory?

Should I send out product for reviews?

Okay time for another break so I create.

I spend hours in my creative mind set.

Next thing I know I'm distracted and ordering supplies.

It's a crazy time for me right now but I'm determined.

Next thing I know my inbox is full.

I used to be so organized and I'm wondering what happened.

I look in the living room to see a mess.

The girls spilled a yogurt and the dog is licking it off the floor.

I guess it's time to take another break.

It's a whole lot of work but I'm full of drive.

I've been planning and even though I'm confused half the time...

It's totally worth it and it will come together.

Please tell me are you a blogger?

Do you own your own handmade shop?

What's the one piece of advice you would give to me?

Thank You so much for having me today Trisha.

You have been so incredibly sweet.

See?! Isn't she awesome!? I knew that you would think so! I definitely can relate to Beth, having 3 children, blogging, and having a shop can create a little bit of chaos around the house, but it is totally worth it! Thanks Beth for stopping by today!

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2012-01-17T21:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday Blog Hop!

3 Four and Under
Mommas Like Me
and
The Studious Stitch
are proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the linky list.

Please follow the host blogs!
We will be numbers 1, 2, and 3 on the link list!

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave us a comment and we will be sure to follow you back!

Please place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Tea Party

2012-01-16T11:18:00.000-08:00

Right now I have tea parties on the brain!

Big Sister {my daughter} is turning 6 in a few weeks!

Yeah, I seriously can't believe that I have a child that old!

She is getting so big SO fast!

She decided that this year she wants a Tea Party for just the girls!

I ran with that idea and decided to do a vintage tea party!

I love planning parties, and start planning my kids parties months in advance!

Yes, I'm a little crazy!

And the easiest way for me to organize all of the inspiration that I find for our party theme is on Pinterest!

And I have found some AMAZING tea parties for my inspiration!

Source: karaspartyideas.blogspot.com via Trisha on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Trisha on Pinterest

Source: iheartnaptime.net via Trisha on Pinterest

Source: celebrationsathomeblog.com via Trisha on Pinterest

Source: katelandersevents.blogspot.com via Trisha on Pinterest

Come check out my Tea Party Birthday Party Pinterest Board to see more Tea Party loveliness!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

2012-01-13T09:14:00.000-08:00

After being away from the blog a week, this is my triumphant return with this awesomely delicious cookie recipe! Wednesday was my 30th birthday! Yup, the BIG 3-0! So, we did what any other person would do when they turn 30, we went to Disneyland for two days! We had a blast and can't wait to go back again soon!

Okay, now onto the yumminess! For Christmas my mom and dad gave me a brand new Red Kitchenaid mixer! You know, the big one... I had the smallest mixer and I have used it so much over the 8 years that I've had it, the motor is starting to wear out. I finally took it out of the box yesterday! And if you follow along on Facebook, I asked everyone for suggestions on the first thing I should make in it! Everyone suggested that I make cookies, and Summer {Made by Munchie's Mama}said that her favorite cookies are Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies! This is for you Summer!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies
Adapted from Bakerella

1 1/2 cups All Purpose Flour
1/2 cup cocoa
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup peanut butter
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla

1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 tablespoon cinnamon

Cream butter,sugar and peanut butter. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until combined. Add the salt, baking soda, and cocoa and mix until combined. Add the flour and mix until combined. Mix together the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll the cookie dough into 1 1/4 inch balls and roll in the cinnamon and sugar mixture. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 10 minutes.

They are so good! I ate a whole bunch right out of the oven!

My One Little Word {accomplish}

2012-01-05T09:43:00.000-08:00

I love the idea of picking a single word for the year and working on it throughout that entire year. I had never thought of it or heard of it before until this New Year, and I am loving the idea of it. I personally do not like New Years resolutions. I feel like I'm going to fail at them even before I start. So, I like choosing one word and using that as a goal for myself and my family throughout the year!

There are SO many great words to choose from, it's difficult to choose just one word. The word that I have chosen for this year is ACCOMPLISH

Source: sissyprint.blogspot.com via Trisha on Pinterest

In the dictionary the word accomplish means:

A Verb
1. Achieve or complete successfully
2. to bring about (a result) by effort
3. to bring to completion : fulfill
4. to succeed in reaching

Source: beautyineverything.com via Trisha on Pinterest

There are so many things that I would like to accomplish or achieve this year! I like that accomplish and achieve go hand in hand! Both of these words inspire me!

This year I would like to accomplish:

Finish the picture gallery on the wall in my family room. And actually hang up our family picture from October of last year.

Finish making the curtains for the family room and my bedroom

Finish decorating my daughter's bedroom, the family room, my bedroom, and my bathroom

Not just say it, but actually do a 5k

I would like to build and plant a raised garden to try and become more self-reliant

I would like to accomplish marketing my Etsy shop more. And doing more giveaways for my shop!

I would like to guest post more on blogs and inspire others

For my family I would like to accomplish having Family Home Evening every week. And reading the scriptures more often as a family.

Source: iobad.com via Trisha on Pinterest

I realize that this list is somewhat long, and I'm sure there are more things that I could ad to it. I am so excited about my word! I can't wait to share with all of you how I'm doing through out the year!

I'm going to link up this post to:

Follow Me Wednesday {53}

2012-01-04T08:38:00.001-08:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Sewing For Boys

2012-01-03T08:58:00.000-08:00

Today I'm hanging out over at Boy, oh Boy, oh Boy, guest posting during her Sewing For Boys Pump Up Series! We're getting Pumped up for the Sewing For Boys Sew along!

Please hop on over and visit me there and see what I have to say!

Last Giveaway of 2011

2011-12-30T12:23:00.000-08:00

For the last giveaway of 2011 I am giving away Free ad space on my blog for the month of January!

I'm using Rafflecopter for this giveaway. I think it makes it easier to enter!
The giveaway is open until 12:01am January 4th, 2012

I'm so excited to see who wins and help to you with your business!
Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

January Is Almost Here!

2011-12-29T09:42:00.000-08:00

Wow! I can't believe that January is almost here!

2011 went by SO fast for me!

I'm so excited for 2012 and looking forward to sharing with you what I have in store for 2012!

I have changed my advertising a little bit for 2012:

- Ads will be month to month

- You will be able to pay with PayPal directly on my advertising page

- I will have only 2 large ads per month

- The large ads will have a dedicated post about your business with a giveaway

- Medium and small ads have the opportunity to be included in that month's group giveaway

As always I will be facebooking and tweeting about your business. I will share all sales and giveaways that you are doing! I love helping other businesses and will work hard for you!

The spots are filling up fast!

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at trisha@3fourandunder.com

I'm looking forward to 2012 and can't wait to work with you!

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2011-12-28T09:11:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Anthropologie Inspired Old World Cuff Bracelet

2011-12-27T10:18:00.000-08:00

I shared this tutorial a few weeks ago over at Momma Go Round, and today I thought that I would share it with all of you!

Lately, I have discovered the awesomeness that are accessories! I have never really been a big accessory girl...until now! My heart skips a beat when I find a fun new necklace, bracelet or hair accessory!

I love all things Anthropologie, but I don't love the price. So I set out to make a less expensive version of the Old World Cuff Bracelet. Mine is $5, compared to $58 in the store!

Anthropologie Inspried Old World Cuff Bracelet Tutorial

These bracelets are quick and easy to make!
They are only $5 to make, with 5 materials, and 5 steps!
What a great inexpensive Christmas gift!

Materials Needed:
- Two thrifted mens neckties {or steal them from your husband or boyfriend's closet}
- Metal Cuff bracelet {I got mine at JoAnn with a 40% off coupon, it came to about $3}
- Glue Gun
- Scissors

Step One: Using the scissors, cut one of the ties in half. Using the thinner end and the glue gun, wrap the tie around the metal cuff. Use the glue gun to secure the tie to the cuff.

Step Two: Take the other tie, and cut approximately 4 inch long rectangle from the tie.

Step Three: Gather and pinch the middle of the rectangle so that it looks like a bow tie.

Step Four: Cut a piece from the thin end of the tie and glue it over the middle. It will look like a bow tie

Step Five: Glue the bow tie onto the cuff

And this is what the original looks like:

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T08:09:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

from our family to yours!

Love,

The 3 Four and Under Family

I'm taking a little break to enjoy time with my family during the holidays, but I have a couple of posts lined up in the next week, and then I'll see you all in 2012!

Seeing the Lights and {A Christmas Quiz}

2011-12-22T10:12:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we took a trip as a family to see the Christmas lights at the Los Angeles LDS Temple! It was a lot of fun and the kids really enjoyed seeing all of the beautiful lights and the nativity scene!

I saw this idea on Lee La La and thought that it would be fun to join in on the fun!

1. Egg nog or hot chocolate? Definitely Hot chocolate
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? He wraps the big ones with special wrapping paper that only Santa uses. He doesn't wrap all of the small things.
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? Colored lights on the house, and white on the tree!
4. Do you hang mistletoe? Nope
5. When do you put your decorations up? The day after Thanksgiving
6. What is your favorite holiday dish? Swedish Pancakes or Waffles with Strawberries and whipped cream
7. Favorite holiday memory as a child? Waking up WAY TOO EARLY because I couldn't sleep to see what Santa brough
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I don't remember when I stopped believing in Santa. I still do believe
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? No. But we do a Gift Exchange at my parent's house on Christmas Eve
10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? White Christmas lights, Turquoise, red, green and silver ornaments. And all of the Christmas ornaments that I have collected over the years. We get a ornament for each child every year, so that when they grow up and are on their own, they will have some ornaments to decorate their Christmas trees!
11. Snow! Love it or dread it? I love snow, probably because I don't live in it.
12. Can you ice skate? Probably not anymore. I have only be a few times when I was a child.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? A watch from my dad.
14. What’s the most important thing about the holidays for you? Remembering that it's not just about the presents. Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ, and remembering what he has done for us. It is also a time to think more about service and serving others.
15. What is your favorite holiday dessert? Dutch Apple Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? All the kids wearing there matching Christmas PJ's and reading the bible of the Birth of Jesus Christ.
17. What tops your tree? An angel.
18. Which do you prefer: giving or receiving? Definitely giving! I would rather by something for someone else, than for myself.
19. Candy canes: yuck or yummy? Yummy, especially with Hot Chocolate!
20. Favorite Christmas show? I'm loving all of the Christmas shows on the Hallmark Channel right now!
21. Saddest Christmas song? "Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer" I mean how sad is that that Grandma got killed by Santa's reindeer on Christmas Eve?!
22. What is your favorite Christmas song? "Angels We Have Heard on High"

I would love for you to play along and link up your posts in the comment section! You can also link up your posts at Lee La La!

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2011-12-21T10:43:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!

I made sure to follow back everyone who left me a comment last week! Welcome!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Thank you so much to everyone who emailed me about hosting along with me! I promise I will be getting back to you after the holidays!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Please also stop by and enter to WIN the My Memories Digital Scrapbooking Software Suite!

Snowman Party Favors

2011-12-20T10:47:00.001-08:00

Big Sister's school let out for Winter break on Friday, and I wanted to give each child in her class a little something on the last day of school.

So, I of course, started searching Pinterest for ideas! I found some really cute snowman favors, but I didn't pin them, and now for the life of me, I can't find the link. I used that pin as my inspiration for these fun snowman that I made. I you find the pin or are the person who made them, please email me!

The kids loved the snowmen and they were really easy to make.

Materials Needed are:
- White Cardstock
- 3-4 pieces of wintery scrapbooking paper
- Glue Stick
- Black construction paper
- Orange construction paper
- Round chocolates
- Wilton clear Pretzel bags
- Black Marker {I used a Sharpie}
- Ribbon

How to make the snowmen{Sorry, I forgot to take pictures step by step this time}:
1. Using a punch or electronic craft cutter, or you can trace something round. Cut 1 1/2 inch circles out of the wintery scrapbooking paper

2. Cut 1 1/4 inch circles out of the white cardstock

3. Glue a scrapbooking paper circle onto a foil wrapped chocolate coin.

4. Glue the white cardstock circle on top of the scrapbooking paper circle on each chocolate coin

5. Cut a small triangle out of the orange construction paper

6. Cut a square and a rectangle out of the black construction paper and glue them together using the glue stick to make the snowman's hat

7. Slide one chocolate into the bag. Take the next chocolate and using your black marker, draw three dots {the 3 dots are the snowman's buttons}. Slide that chocolate in the bag next.

8. Take a third chocolate that already has the two circles glued on, and glue on the hat and the nose, and draw on the eyes and the mouth. Place that chocolate into the bag

9. Tie a bow with the ribbon on the top of the bag and you are finished!!

I will be sharing this post with these fun linky parties!

My Memories Suite Scrapbooking Software Review {and Giveaway}

2011-12-17T12:29:00.000-08:00

My Memories Suite is the #1 rated scrapbook software. Not only is it affordable and fun, it’s also extremely easy. Whether you’re new to digital scrapbooking or a seasoned pro, My Memories Suite is the perfect digital scrapbooking software to use.

I was excited and delighted when My Memories Suite contacted me to try out and review their software! I have been thinking lately, that I have been majorly slacking when it comes to creating scrapbooks for my family. I have a confession....I only have 1 scrapbook of my daughter's first year of life. After that....nothing! So, my New Years resolution this year is going to be to make scrapbooks for myself and each of my children!

And My Memories Suite will help me achieve my New Years resolution! My Memories Suite has over 1,500 papers, over 1,000 page elements, and over 30 page templates! You can use their templates or create your own pages!

The software is very user friendly and extremely easy to use! I didn't have to read any instructions, I just dove right in and started creating my own pages! I had a blast creating this Christmas page of my kids! I love that you can go on the My Memories Suite website and download new papers and elements, and there are a ton of FREE downloads as well!

My Memories Suite, is not just for scrapbooking, you can also create invitations and flyers...the possibilities are endless! I just created this fun Birthday Party Invitation using My Memories software!

And the software is only$37.97! That's a great deal!

And to make the deal even sweeter, Use the code: STMMMS77947 for a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite Scrapbook software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - $20 value!)

My Memories Suite is also giving away to one reader the My Memories Suite Digital Scrapbooking Software!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Quote Wood Wall Sign {For Lack of a Better Title}

2011-12-15T22:41:00.000-08:00

I was reading a talk {article} in our church magazine, The Ensign, a few months ago, and I came across this quote from President Thomas S. Monson. I loved it, as soon as I read it, and quickly found a pen and paper and jotted it down. I knew that I wanted to make a sign for my wall with the quote on it. And I finally was able to make it this past weekend.

I made my Family Rules sign by using my Cricut to cut out the letters, and then used them as a stencil. This time, I wanted to try a different way to do the lettering on the board.

And I found a great tutorial on painting letters onto wood on Pinterest {of, course!}

Source: thatsmyletter.blogspot.com via Trisha on Pinterest

Jaime gives you step by step instructions on how to do it. It helps if you have a steady hand. Lets be real...It's definitely not a quick project, and it's not "perfect" by any means, but I love how it turned out!

It's hanging in our entry hallway where I can see it multiple times a day, and remind myself what I should be doing, and how I should be living my life.

I'll be linking this post to these awesome linky parties!

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2011-12-13T21:53:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

I'm A Guest

2011-12-13T08:35:00.000-08:00

I'm hanging out today over at one of my most favorite blogs, Momma Go Round!

And I'm sharing how to make this fun Anthropologie Inspired Cuff Bracelet

Please stop by and come hang out with us!

Handmade Gift Exchange {What I Received}

2011-12-12T09:57:00.000-08:00

About a week ago, I received my Handmade Gift Exchange gift from my partner. The mail came and I was so excited to see my package! I pink puffy heart getting mail and packages that aren't bills!

When I opened the package and took out the gift, this cute little guy popped out of the box!

Isn't he cute!? Of course we named him Frosty!

And my partner even filled him with some yummy peppermint candies! We love him, and I bet that it took her hours of work to make him! Frosty has found his home on our mantel with Santa Claus and our stockings!

Thank you so much Gail! We love him!

And if you missed it, this is what I Made

A Smurftastic Party!

2011-12-07T19:54:00.001-08:00

To celebrate the release of The Smurfs Movie on Blu-Ray and DVD, we had
A Smurfstastic Party!

We had invited a few friends to come over and join us, but they got sick at the last minute and weren't able to make it, so the 3 kids and I celebrated today!

We had Blue Smurf Punch, Blue Jell-o Jigglers, Blue Sugar Cookies, and Goldfish crackers! It's not a party unless you have Goldfish crackers!

The kids had a blast coloring the Smurf coloring pages, and we made the Smurf hats and glasses!

I found some pictures of the Smurfs online, and printed them out on 8x10 pieces of cardstock, cut them out, and stood them up on the table! It was fun to have the Smurfs celebrate with us! I tucked each Smurf next to the different things that we ate. They almost looked like the real thing! Grouchy was guarding the punch, Clumsy liked the jigglers, and Papa Smurf enjoyed hanging out next to the Blue Sugar Cookies!

And we of course, watched The Smurfs Movie! The kids loved it!

You can Like “The Smurfs” movie page on Facebook: Facebook.com/SmurfHappens

Follow the Smurfs on Twitter: Twitter.com/smurfsmovie

Visit the official site: www.SmurfHappens.com

*We were selected by Crowdtap to host The Smurfs party. Any opinions expressed our ours alone and were in no way influenced by the sponsor. Others experiences may vary. You can sign up for Crowdtap and receive opportunities to host parties and sample shares for Free! Click HERE to sign up!

Random Stuff

2011-12-05T13:15:00.001-08:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about Random Acts of Kindness. And I have been wanting to do some Random Acts of Kindness. So starting today, I'm going to try and do perform a Random Act of Kindness everyday up until Christmas. I don't necessarily want this to be a "blogging" thing, but I will share some if not all of the things we will be doing. I want to show my children, even though they are still young, that we should serve other people and do nice things for them, whether we know them or not.

Source: google.com via Trisha on Pinterest

So, today I went to the grocery store to pick up a few things that we needed. I also went there to purchase a $10 gift card to the store and give it to them. While I was shopping, no one really stuck out to me. I bought the gift card in the check out line and was thinking that I would bring it with me next time I went shopping and I would give it out then. Then, they opened the check stand next to the one that I was in, and I noticed a young mom with two little girls who looked close in age. And I knew that she was the one who I should give it to. I told the cashier to give this gift card to the woman and use it toward her groceries. The cashier looked at me with a puzzled look, and then finally took the gift card from me.

I was finished with my order and left the store. I'm not sure what the cashier said to her, but it felt really good to help someone else. I'm sure that it left a much larger impression on me, than it did on her. It changed my whole day to a much better one! I love this quote from Dieter F Uchtdorf:

Source: amygregson.blogspot.com via Trisha on Pinterest

I'm looking forward to 20 more days of finding ways to serve others. And because a post is always better with a picture, I thought that I would share with you a picture of our Christmas tree this year before it is demolished by two - 2 year olds. I found this awesome Christmas tree photo tutorial/tip from by Emilie , so I thought that I would give it a try. Here is the link if you are interested: http://photobyemilieimprove.blogspot.com/2011/12/perfect-christmas-tree-photos.html

I hope to be able to take another shot with the 3 kids in it, hopefully.....

These Boots are Made for Walking {Sears Childrens Boots Review}

2011-12-02T08:47:00.000-08:00

My daughter was SO excited when I told her that Sears was going to be sending her some boots to try. She said, "Mom, are you going to take pictures of me? And are they going to be on your blog?" I replied, "Yes, they are." Big Sister replied back with, "Mom, I'm going to be SO fabulous!"

Ha ha....She is definitely a girly girl, and loves anything that has to do with shoes, clothes, jewelry, and makeup! I think I might have created a future fashion blogger? Oh, and by the way, she came up with all of the poses by herself. ;)

Sears was so nice to send us a pair of the Canyon River Blues Youth Girl Svetlana

The minute we opened the box, my daughter wanted to take off the shoes she had on, and put them on right then! Even though it was 8 o'clock at night ;)

She has worn them almost everyday since we received them. The boots are extremely comfortable, and very durable. She wore them to school multiple times and they have held up extremely well.

The boots have some adorable details. She loved the fur on the top and the peace sign charms on the sides of the boots. We love them, and would definitely recommend them to all of the mini fashionistas out there! Right now Sears is offering FREE SHIPPING on Shoe orders. And the boots are on sale for only $26.99! What a great deal! They come in sizes 11-6.

*Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post. We were provided the boots free of charge for testing purposes. All opinions in this post are mine.

Handmade Gift Exchange {What I Made}

2011-12-01T19:41:00.001-08:00

I am participating in the Craftaholics Anonymous Handmade Gift Exchange! I absolutely love doing these gift exchanges! They are so much fun! I think this is my 3rd or 4th time participating in it?!

This time my partner is Gail. She lives in Wisconsin, and is a mother of 5 boys, ages 37,34, 25, 20 and 17 and she is a grandmother to 8. Amazing right?!

So I was wracking my brain, trying to figure out what to make for her.
I had some different ideas in my head, and anyone that knows me, knows that I can't just make one item...
So I made 3 this time!

I finally settled on making Gail two Christmas Patchwork pot holders and a fun apron!

It was actually the first time that I have ever tried making either an apron or pot holders! Can you believe it?!

I had a ton of fun making them for her! And I hope that she will enjoy them!

I'm linking this post to:

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2011-11-30T10:02:00.001-08:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

PS- I would love to have a few other awesome blogs host with me! Please email me at trisha@3fourandunder for more details!

Family Of Pillows Tutorial {Part 2}

2011-11-29T09:59:00.001-08:00

I'm finally posting two more pillow tutorials from my Family of Pillows from Crafting with the Stars!

Thank you so much for sticking around, life has just been crazy lately. I'm sure you all can relate.

You can find my life post HERE

And Family of Pillows {Part 1} HERE

Today I'm sharing the Tutorials for the...

Ruffle Pillow and the Mustache Pillows

Materials needed for the Ruffle Pillow:

I used two different mens dress shirts {but you can use any kind of shirts or fabrics}

Thread

Sewing machine

Straight Pins

Scissors

Step One: Lay the dress shirt on your cutting surface. Cut the shirt to the desired size. Lay it aside. Using the rest of the shirt and one or more other shirts. Cut 1.5" strips.

Step Two: Set your sewing machine to the longest stitch and the least amount of tension to turn the strips into ruffles.

Step Three: Send each strip through the sewing machine to make ruffles.

Step Four: Take each strip and arrange them on the dress shirt making sure that you have enough ruffles to cover the front of the pillow. Pin each strip down using straight pins.

Step Five: Change the sewing machine settings to the normal settings. Sew each ruffle.

Step Six: Once you have all of the ruffles sewn to the front of the pillow cover. Pin the front and back {the part of the dress shirt with the buttons will be the enclosure or the back of the pillow} Place the front piece with the ruffles on top of the back piece right sides facing in. {So you will have the ruffles and the buttons facing in} Pin the front and back together using the pins. Thick as mud? Then with the sewing machine sew all round sides of the pillow cover. You do not need to leave an opening for turning because the buttons will be the opening.

Step Seven: Clip each corner and then turn the pillow cover right side out. And you have a fun and unique upcycled ruffle pillow!

Mustache Pillow Cover Tutorial

Materials Needed for the Mustache pillows:

Thrifted boys button up shirts or your son's button up shirts {that they've out grown of course}

Thread

Scissors

Printer

Mustache Clip art

Heat n' Bond or something like it

Sewing machine

Iron

Step One: Cut each shirt like the tutorial above. Lay the shirt out on your cutting surface and cut to the size that you would like.

Step Two: Find a mustache clip art on the internet and print it out the size that you would like. Cut a piece of Heat n' Bond the same size and iron it to the back of your fabric.

Step Three: Pin the mustache clip art to the front of your fabric. Using scissors, cut out the mustache.

Step Four: Iron the mustache to the front piece of fabric for the pillow cover. Using your sewing machine sew around the edge of the applique with the zigzag stitch.

Step Five: Place the front and back pieces together right sides facing in and sew around all four sides. Again, the buttons on the shirts will be the opening on the back. Clip the corners and turn right side out!

They are pretty simple, and you could do any kind of applique on the front. Any child would love a pillow made out of one of their old shirts! Such a fun memento to have!

I'll be linking this post to these awesome linky parties! Part 3 will be coming soon! The last two tutorials are of the yellow pillow with the flowers, and the white and black polka dot pillow!

Great-ful Outfit

2011-11-28T07:52:00.000-08:00

We had a great Thanksgiving! I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving as well! We went to my parent's house this year, and had a great time with my cousin and his family as well as a few other relatives and friends. We ate a ton of turkey and all of the fixin's, and the women sat around the kitchen table looking at the Black Friday ads, while the men were talking about politics {I think we women had the better end of the deal} and the kids all played!

Another important thing about Thanksgiving is the outfit. Like I've said in many posts before, I'm a jeans girl, so I went with the jeans. And I love this top that I got from Fashion to Figure! I have a whole bunch of solid color tops in my closet, so I'm trying to venture out into patterns! I love chevron, so when I saw this top I knew that I had to have it!

Top: Fashion to Figure, Sweater: Kohl's, Jeans: Old Navy, Shoes: Target, Bracelets: Downtown Los Angeles

Yep, my parents already have their house totally decorated for Christmas before Thanksgiving. Hence the Christmas lights in the pictures. This is the only picture that I had a chance to take the whole day. This is Big Sister and her cousins! The twins were taking a nap.

I'm linking up this post to:

and

Cyber Monday Sale!!!

2011-11-27T22:07:00.001-08:00

It's Cyber Monday!!!

We have a HUGE sale going on in the shop!

40% Off Everything in the Shop!

Use Code: CYBER40

Pumpkin Spice Waffles {Semi-Homemade}

2011-11-25T10:34:00.001-08:00

Have you ever seen Sandra Lee's show on Food Network called Semi-Homemade Cooking? I haven't watched it in a long time, but I used to watch it all the time BK {before kids} Sandra makes delicious recipes that use both homemade and store bought ingredients. This is my Semi-Homemade inspired recipe for Pumpkin Spice waffles! We had them for breakfast yesterday, and they were amazing! Even my kids loved them! And that's say a lot because they are all really picky eaters!

Ingredients:
1 batch of store bought Waffle Mix
1/4 cup canned Pumpkin {not pumpkin pie filling}
1/2 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice
1/4 tsp Cinnamon
1 Tablespoon granulated sugar

Topping:
Whipped Cream
Sprinkle of Cinnamon

Make a batch of waffles according to the directions on the box. Add the canned pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and granulated sugar. Mix together until all ingredients are incorporated well. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto each section of the preheated waffle iron. Make sure to spray with Pam before hand.

When the waffles are fully cooked, place on a plate, and top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

And enjoy!

Thankful

2011-11-24T07:10:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Source: Uploaded by user via Trisha on Pinterest

This year I have taken the time to sit and ponder and what being thankful really means to me,

and what I am truly thankful for.
I really love this quote above, the more we are thankful for who we have in our lives and for what we have, we will be happier people. I see so many people that do not appreciate what they have, and they are not happy.

Source: sandrakozlowski.blogspot.com via Trisha on Pinterest

So, today on this Thanksgiving Day, I want to share with you just of few of the things that I am thankful for...

First, and foremost, I am so very thankful for my family. For my husband who works multiple jobs so that I am able to stay home with the kids, and so that we are able to live close to our families. He has sacrificed so much for us. My children, they are my joy. They help me to see things in a different and better light. They make my days better. They all put up with me spending lots of time on the computer, and sometimes letting our house become a teeny bit messy because I have a post to write. I am also thankful for my parents, and my in-laws, they have helped us out so much and I am so appreciative of that. We wouldn't be where we are in lives without them!

I am thankful for my religion and my beliefs. I'm thankful that I have been taught and know where I came from, why I'm here, and where I'm going. I am so thankful for this knowledge!

Source: a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net via Trisha on Pinterest

I am thankful for my friends. My friends are like family to me. I am thankful for friends who live far away. We may not be able to talk to each other very often, but you have made my life better and I will always be thankful for that. I am thankful for high school friends who I have reunited with because of Facebook. I am thankful that we are able to get together once in a while for lunch and still have tons to talk about. I am thankful for my friends who live nearby. I hope they know who they are. I'm thankful that we have boys that are the same age, and can totally understand what each other is going through. I'm thankful that we can go to blogging conferences and socials together, and have a blast. I'm thankful that you are understanding and put up with me when I call you a million times because one of the boys is locked in the bedroom, and we can't get him out {we did get him out, by the way}

I am also thankful for each and every one of You! Blogging has enriched my life so much. And it is because of you! I have met so many wonderful people through blogging. I may not know you "in real life," but I consider you my friends. I am so thankful for your gracious comments, and inspiring posts and emails, you willingness to help me with advice and suggestions. I needed you in my life! You make me want to be a better person and do more. Thank you!

Source: classy-in-the-city.tumblr.com via Trisha on Pinterest

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2011-11-23T09:57:00.001-08:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

PS- I would love to have a few other awesome blogs host with me! Please email me at trisha@3fourandunder for more details!

A Tiny Mustard Obsession

2011-11-21T08:29:00.001-08:00

Like I've said in previous posts, I'm having a small obsession with mustard right now. Hair accessories, cardigans, necklaces, and now this skirt! Hello, my name is Trisha and I am addicted to mustard...

Undershirt and Belt: Target, Chambray shirt: Old Navy, Skirt: Me, Necklace: Bip and Bop Shop

My friend Nina of Momma Go Round and I took a trip to Downtown LA a few months ago, and I picked up this fabric for a steal! Love the Michael Levine Loft, on the second floor where you can buy fabric for $2.50 pound! Yeah, you should definitely go there :)

The fabric was sitting on my sewing table for a few months, and I finally got around to making a skirt! You may also recognize this fabric from my infinity scarf.

In case you want to make a skirt for yourself, I used the Ice Cream Social Skirt Tutorial over at iCandy Handmade

I'm linking up this post to Momma Go Round and The Pleated Poppy

Anthropologie Inspired Things Past Necklace Tutorial

2011-11-17T21:19:00.001-08:00

I had been admiring the Antropologie Things Past Necklace for a long time. It's no longer for sale, but I remember the price being way out of my price range. In fact I think everything at Antropologie is out of my price range ;) I don't think that I will buy a "real" Anthropologie anything in my lifetime because a) I'm cheap, and b) I have one of those brains that thinks that I can make it when I see it.

I'm obsessed with mustard yellow right now and I had some fabric leftover from my Crafting with the Stars pillow project. So off I went creating MY version of the Things Past Necklace.

It's a quick and inexpensive project.

Materials Needed:
Strips of fabric any color and any type of fabric
Scissors
Glue Gun
18 inch Necklace chain

Step One:

Step Two:

Step Three:

So fast and easy! I wore mine to the church Halloween Trunk or Treat and received tons of compliments on it! If you make one, please email me or post a picture of it on my Facebook page! I would love to see what you come up with!

I'm sharing this tutorial with these fantastic parties!

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2011-11-15T23:42:00.001-08:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Life

2011-11-14T09:04:00.001-08:00

Yesterday my husband and I had the opportunity to speak in church. I was given Dieter F. Uchtdorf's talk from the October General Relief Society Conference. Whenever I'm given a talk or a class to teach, it always seems to me that I get more out of it more than anyone else does. Part of the talk really hit home with me, and I wanted to share it with you today.

In the talk he says quote:
"God is fully aware that you and I are not perfect.

Let me add: God is also fully aware that the people you think are perfect are not.

And yet we spend so much time and energy comparing ourselves to others—usually comparing our weaknesses to their strengths. This drives us to create expectations for ourselves that are impossible to meet. As a result, we never celebrate our good efforts because they seem to be less than what someone else does.

Everyone has strengths and weaknesses.

It’s wonderful that you have strengths."

Source: elembee.com via Ashley on Pinterest

And he goes on to say:

"be thankful for all the small successes in your home, your family relationships, your education and livelihood, your Church participation and personal improvement.... these successes may seem tiny to you and they may go unnoticed by others, but God notices them and they are not small to Him. If you consider success to be only the most perfect rose or dazzling orchid, you may miss some of life’s sweetest experiences."

When I read this, I had an Oprah "ah, ha" moment. I am guilty of this probably more than anyone, and will compare myself to most, if not all of the blogs that I read, or ladies that I see at church, or friends that I have. I don't have a Silhouette like these bloggers, I don't have the style or can take photos of myself as well as these bloggers, I'm not as skinny as those people, or my house is not a big or as clean as this person's is....the list could go on and on.

I understand that one might perceive my house to be perfect, or my life to be perfect because we usually share our best lights on our blogs. We tend to not show the real sides of our lives. The truth is that I hardly ever wear makeup. I usually only wear it on Sundays to church and occasionally during the week. I will sometimes put makeup on at 5:00pm only for the purpose of taking a few pictures for a post on my blog.

My house is always a mess. The house we live in is 1300 square feet, and I often tell my husband that I don't want a bigger house because I hate cleaning so much that I can hardly keep up with this house. Could you imagine what it would look like if I lived in a bigger house?

These are some pictures of my house this morning. Papers and things all over my computer/work area.

Dirty dishes in the sink

Shoes, books, and toys all over the floor

Fabric and craft supplies piled up on my ironing board in the middle of my family room.

Most mornings my kids are still in their pj, and sometimes I let them watch way more tv than they should. The boys constantly take off their diapers and go to the bathroom on the floors.

But I have 3 happy kids! So, my house might not be perfect, I might not look perfect, but my kids are! I would rather let the dishes and laundry pile up, and let my bed be unmade because children grow up fast and I would rather spend my time and energy making memories with them.

I want to share with you one of my most favorite quotes from President Thomas S Monson:

Bip and Bop {Winner}

2011-11-13T20:29:00.001-08:00

The lucky winner of the Bip and Bop $25 shop credit is:

Congratulations Cerrisse!

Please email me at trisha@3fourandunder.com within 72 hours to claim your prize! Remember that there is still time to get 15% off by using coupon code Trishab at checkout!

You can find more discounts, sales, and new products on Bip and Bop's Facebook Page!

Thanksgiving Lollipops

2011-11-10T08:29:00.001-08:00

This is fun craft that you can do with the kids! My kids love 'em!
They would make a fun class treat at school!
And the best thing about this craft is I got everything except for the burlap at the Dollar store!

Materials Needed to make the Turkey:
Lollipops
Burlap
Red, Green, Yellow, and Orange Construction paper

Ribbon
Google Eyes
Glue Gun or White glue
Scissors

Materials to make the Boy Pilgrim:
Lollipops
Burlap
Ribbon
Black, Red, and Yellow Construction paper
Google Eyes
Glue Gun or glue stick
Stapler
Scissors
Pink paint
Pencil
Sharpie or black marker

Materials to make the Girl Pilgrim:
Lollipops
Burlap
Ribbon
White Construction paper
Google Eyes
Glue Gun
Scissors
Pink Paint
Pencil
Sharpie or black marker

How to make the Turkey Lollipop:

Step One: Cut a square of burlap approximately 5"x5". It doesn't have to be perfect

Step Two: Cover the lollipop with the burlap and secure with the ribbon. Make sure to tie a bow ;) Side Note: You can most definitely use brown tissue paper for this instead of the burlap, but I had a really hard time finding brown and beige tissue paper

Step Three: Place the red, yellow, orange and green construction papers on top of each other in a stack. Using your scissors cut out a feather shape.

Step Four: Glue the four feathers to the back of the burlap covered lollipop

Step Five: To make the turkey's beak, cut off the corner of the orange paper.

Step Six: Cut out a wavy line with the red paper for the waddle

Step Seven: Glue the google eyes, waddle, and beak onto the lollipop. And you're done! Isn't he cute? He's my favorite out of the bunch!

How to make the Girl Pilgrim:

Step One: Cover the lollipop with the burlap and secure with the ribbon

Step Two: Now we're going to make her bonnet. With the white construction paper, cut out a rectangle that is 2"x4"

Step Three: Fold over the one of the long edges about 1/2 inch

Step Four: Cut two triangles on the opposite long edge of the rectangle

Step Five: Overlap to two outside parts of the rectangle and staple

Step Six: Fold down the remaining part and staple

Step Seven: Now you have her bonnet. Glue the bonnet onto the burlap covered lollipop. Glue on the google eyes, make the blushing cheeks with the pink paint and an end of a pencil. Draw the smile with a black marker or Sharpie. I think she looks kinda funny with the google eyes, but the kids love them!

How to make the Boy Pilgrim:

Step One: Cover the lollipop with burlap and tie with the ribbon

Step Two: Now were going to make his hat! Using the black construction paper, cut out a rectangle about 2"x4". Fold the rectangle in half making a sqaure

Step Three: With the fold at the top, make a small cut on the left side of the square and then up on a diagonal. Do the same with the right side.

The hat will look like this

Step Four: Cut a small strip of red construction paper and glue it onto the hat. Making the hat's band

Step Five: Cut a very small square out of the yellow paper. About 1/2"x1/2" Now we're making the buckle for the hat

Step Six: Fold the yellow square in half and cut out the middle and glue it onto the band on the hat. Also, staple each end of the hat

Step Seven: Glue the hat onto the burlap covered lollipop. Glue on the google eyes, make the blushing cheeks with pink paint and the end of a pencil, and draw on the smile using a black marker or a Sharpie. Now your cute and quirky pilgrim is finished!

I hope that you enjoy making them! It was a lot of fun! I'm linking this post these amazing parties!

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2011-11-09T09:36:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Bip and Bop is giving away a $25 Shop Credit to her Etsy Shop! Please, please, please stop by and enter!

Simple Inifinity Scarf Tutorial

2011-11-08T16:46:00.000-08:00

Infinity scarves are so popular now, and they are so simple and easy to make. They only take about 10 minutes to make. It's a great project to make if you have some large scraps of fabric lying around the house.
I made this scarf with a piece of fabric that I had left over from a skirt I made.

Materials needed:
6" x 60" piece of fabric{any length 60" or longer is fine}
Sewing Machine
Scissors
Thread

Step 1: Fold the piece of fabric in half with right sides facing in

Step 2: Take the folded fabric, and sew all the way down the cut edges of the fabric. Making a tube

Step 3: Turn the tube right side out. Tuck one end of the tube of fabric inside the other end, and close it up, by sewing twice across the opening.

Now you have one big circle of fabric! The think that I like about the infinity scarf is you can wear it so many different ways! You can wear it long, or double it up for a shorter scarf, or tie a knot in it! So many possibilities!

I'm sharing this tutorial with these fabulous parties!

Family of Pillows Tutorial {Part 1}

2011-11-07T06:29:00.000-08:00

Do you remember Crafting With the Stars? Yeah, it was like a month and a half ago. Well, I'm finally getting my Family of Pillows posts up! So, the two I'm sharing today are the Mom and Dad pillows. These pillows are simple to make, but are so fun and make a great conversation piece!

Materials Needed {to make both pillows}:

Thrifted Men's Dress shirt

Men's Necktie

Thrifted Women's Blazer

Thrifted/Vintage Women's Necklace

Sewing machine

Scissors

Thread

Pillow form or Fiberfill

Mom Pillow Tutorial

Step 1: Lay out your piece of clothing and decide the size you want it to be, and where you want to cut it.

Step 2: Once you figure out what size you want your pillow. Using a rotary cutter and mat or scissors, cut the blazer {You can use any piece of clothing}

Step 3: Place the two pieces of the blazer on top of each other, with right sides facing in, and sew around all four edges. You do not need to leave a side open because the buttons on the front will be the opening for your pillow form.

Step 4: Add a necklace to the pillow or leave the pillow like it is. Either way, it's adorable!

Dad Pillow Tutorial

Step 1: Same as step one on the Mom Pillow. Lay out the dress shirt, place the tie underneath the collar, determine the size you would like the pillow to be and cut. It's okay if you cut the tie in the process.

Step 2: Pin the front and back {as well as the tie inside} of the dress shirt and sew around all four sides. Make sure that the tie is pinned so that it will be sewn as well.

Step 3: Turn it right side out and you have your second pillow! Again the buttons on the front will be the opening for the pillow

See how simple they are to make! They would be a fun gift for your husband or father using one of their old dress shirts!

I'm linking up this post to these fabulous parties!

More Family of Pillows Tutorials coming soon...

THE Mustard Cardigan

2011-11-04T20:54:00.000-07:00

When I had blonde hair, mustard yellow didn't look very good on me. I guess the color was too close to my hair color. So, when I dyed my hair brown I was practically jumping for joy that I could wear mustard yellow! I went on a search for a mustard yellow cardigan, but wasn't able to find one anywhere. I had kinda given up the search...at least for a little while.

Fast forward about a month later, I was reading one of my favorite blogs Momma Go Round, and I saw IT! It was like the heavens had parted and the angels were singing, ahhhhh! Nina had found THE mustard cardigan that I had been searching for! At that moment, I knew I had to get it!

Jeans: Old Navy, Shoes, Shirt, and Cardigan: Target Scarf: Me {tutorial coming soon}

And I have to say, that IT totally lived up to my expectations! Who new that I could love a Target sweater so much?! I had some left-over jersey from a skirt I made that became this awesome infinity scarf! It was easy to make and only took a few minutes! I'll be sharing the tutorial soon!

I'm quite new to the whole taking pictures of myself and post them on my blog. I'm still working on my confidence {because when it comes to the way I look, I have none}And I'm pretty sure I'll never be as great as Nina is at it! So, please bear with me, as I travel this new adventure of learning how to pose and trying to become more self confident.

I'm linking this post to:

Bip and Bop Giveaway {CLOSED}

2011-11-03T16:10:00.000-07:00

I'm SO excited to introduce you to our newest sponsor, Bip and Bop Handmade Accessories!

Bip and Bop carries handmade jewelry and hair accessories such as wool felt flower headbands for you and your little darlings. Bip and Bop items come beautifully gift wrapped and are the perfect baby shower, hostess or bridesmaid gift!

I love my new Covered Button Necklace in Mustard and the Butterfly and Rose Clip Set

And my daughter is in love with her Purple wool felt rose headband

I wore the Covered Button Necklace and the Sky blue rose cabochon ring to a bridal shower on Saturday and received tons of compliments on both of them!

Bip and Bop has lots of things that would make great holiday gifts! Right now Bip and Bop is giving 3 Four and Under readers 15% off! Use code Trishab at checkout!

Bip and Bop is giving away $25 shop credit to one lucky reader!

Want to Win?

Here's How to Win{Must be a public GFC follower of 3 Four and Under to enter}:

1. Mandatory: Visit Bip and Bop and leave me a comment with your favorite item in her shop

2. Like Bip and Bop of Facebook, and leave her a comment on her wall that you came from 3 Four and Under{one entry}

3. Like 3 Four and Under on Facebook {one entry}

4. Follow 3 Four and Under on Twitter {one entry}

5. Blog, Facebook, or Tweet about the giveaway {one entry for each way}

The giveaway ends November 10th at 11:00 pst. The winner will be announced November 11th.

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2011-11-02T07:35:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Halloween Happenings and A Winner

2011-10-31T09:04:00.000-07:00

This year Halloween was a blast! In the afternoon we did some pumpkin painting

Got all dressed up in our costumes! All 3 of the kids were pirates this year! Arg Mateys!

Went to Grandma and Papa's house, ate our favorite pizza for dinner, and tried to get a group shot...

{which didn't work out quite like I had planned}

{These were the best shots I could get}

And headed out the door for some Trick or Treating!

The twins were cracking me up! They would run from house to house, and didn't want to miss a single house. By the end of the night, their buckets were full, and if we asked them if they wanted us to carry it for them, they would start running saying, "mine, mine mine!" It was hilarious to see!

And the winner of the $25 shop credit to Maynard's Mousetrap is.....

Comment Number..

Who Said:

Congratulations!

Mamma of the Papada's

Please email me with your information within 48 hours to claim your prize

Making Your Own Baby Food {With Nicole of Bip and Bop}

2011-10-28T08:55:00.000-07:00

I want to introduce you to Nicole! She is a fellow MoM {mom of multiples} and also has an amazing shop called Bip and Bop {named after her twin daughters} By the way, she our newest sponsor here at 3 Four and Under! Giddy! And she is here today to teach us about making your own baby food!

Take it away Nicole!

So you wanna make your own baby food? Well, I’m here to tell you that it’s easier than you think, and you can save some money while providing a fresh, home cooked meal for your baby, all within about an hour a week.

You may be thinking to yourself, “Why would I want to make my food, when I can just buy the jars at the store?” Well, making your own baby food has so many different benefits. It is so much healthier for your baby (preservatives and starchy fillers? Yuck!). It’s also better for the environment and it’s WAY cheaper. Another unexpected benefit? It just might help you lose the last bit of baby weight. I had such a difficult time losing the last five or so pesky pounds of baby weight. As soon as my girls started eating solids, and I was more focused on serving fruits and vegetables to my family as a whole, the five pounds disappeared like that.
Still don’t think it’s worth it? I’ll do the math for you. Each jar (one each serving, for my girls) is about $.89 each. I need about three per day. Jarred baby food costs about $2.70 per day. One banana (about two servings, for my girls) will costs about nineteen cents per day, or about sixty cents per day.

Buying jarred baby food:
$2.70×182=$491
Making your own
$.60x 182 (about six months)= about $109

That’s a savings of about $309. I’ll take that money straight to Nordy’s, thank you very much!

Now, I’m sure you have seen all of the fancy baby food making products at places like Williams and Sonoma. They are fabulous, but you really don’t need anything other than the items you probably already have in your kitchen. I got away with using my pots and pans, microwave, a $10 food mill from Target and/or blender , some ice cube trays from the Dollar Store.

Now, here’s a quick run down of how you can make your baby’s food:

Choose your fruit or vegetable, either steam, bake, or even microwave until fully cooked. Puree in the blender and pour into your ice cube trays. Once the cubes are frozen, you can dump them out and store in a zip lock bag. Label the bags with a grease pencil if you choose. Each cube will be approximately one ounce, or about a half of a serving of food. You can even combine cubes to make a new recipe for baby (like our favorite, turkey, green beans and carrots, for a festive fall meal).

Bananas and avocados are fabulous first baby foods, especially because you don’t need to cook or puree them. Simply mash them up with a fork and add breast milk, formula or water until they are the desired consistency. These are also great for serving at a restaurant., and you can order them almost anywhere. Cooked sweet potatoes are also very easy and can be mashed up with a fork as well.

It’s best to defrost the cubes in the fridge overnight, or you can run them under warm water.
Once your baby has been introduced to a variety of new foods, you can even make a meal for the whole family, separate baby’s portion, puree it, and voilà…a well balanced, delicious meal. In fact, I’ve got a pot roast cooking in my crock pot as we speak. The girls are going to have that for dinner, and so are my hubby and I. What could be easier?

I used the website, wholesomebabyfood.momtastic.com/ all the time to find new, easy recipes. It also helped motivate me to serve new foods, when I got stuck in a rut (because bananas, apples and avocados can get pretty boring after a while).

Be sure to check with your pediatrician before starting solid foods. You’ll also want to read up on cooking, pureeing, storing, and introducing new foods to your baby.

Thanks for hanging with us today Nicole! Now, that my twins are 2 1/2, looking back I wish I had made my own baby food!

Make sure to stop on over to her shop, Bip and Bop
You can also find her on Facebook!

I know you'll find something that you'll love!

Halloween Pinwheel Sugar Cookies

2011-10-27T10:49:00.000-07:00

I love Pinwheel cookies! They are so festive and they make a great impression without having to do too much work! We have our church Trunk or Treat coming up and I signed up to make a dessert. These cookies came to mind! My kids love 'em!

Make one recipe of sugar cookie dough. My favorite sugar cookie dough recipe is Bridget's recipe at Bake at 350. I use it all the time!

When you're finished making the dough, divide it into two. Using gel food coloring, color one ball orange and the other one black. {or any colors that you would like}

Once the dough is colored, roll out each ball of dough into a rectangle {or as close to one as you can get}Place the black sheet of dough on top of the orange. Cut off excess pieces of dough.

Starting at one end, roll the dough into a log {I actually have a picture for this step!}

Using any type and color of sprinkles of your choice. Cover the entire dough log with sprinkles.

Place the dough log into the refrigerator for about 10 minutes for the dough to harden. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice. Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake in a 350 degree oven for 8-10 minutes.

Enjoy! Believe me, they won't last long! They don't last long at our house!

{Follow Me Wednesday} Blog Hop

2011-10-25T21:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!
I have finally caught up and visited and became followers of all of those who left me comments on the posts for the last two weeks!

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Don't forget to enter to win a $25 shop credit to Maynard's Mousetrap! Think Christmas Gifts! There are low entries, so you have a good chance of winning!

Oreo Pumpkins and Mummys

2011-10-25T11:55:00.000-07:00

I made some Halloween treats for Big Sister's Kindergarten class! Being room mom is so much fun! I got the idea for the Oreo Mummys from HowDoesShe. And the Oreo Pumpkins from Oopsey Daisy
I placed them both in a Ziploc bag and made this Happy Halloween Treat Bag Topper. You can download it yourself below. Just print, cut, fold, and staple! How easy is that? Then I added some Martha Stewart scary spider stickers! I'm loving how they turned out and I hope the Kindergarteners do too!
Halloween Treat Bag Toppers

It's All About the Way You Clean Your Skin

2011-10-24T08:30:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when Simone France contacted me to review their skincare line! I literally did a happy dance! My skincare routine has been non-existent for a long time. I seriously wouldn't even wash my face at night after wearing makeup, and I would take my eye makeup off the next morning with soap and water. I know.....scary huh?

Considering my lack of a skincare routine, I've been blessed with having good skin. I have an occasional zit or two, but nothing to complain about. I have really oily skin, so it's hard for me to find products that will work for my skin.

Until now! I received my Simone France Skincare Kit a few weeks ago and I am so happy with the results! I love that they tailor your skincare specifically to your type of skin.

In my kit, I was sent:

The Sandwich for Normal to Oily Skin- which is the refining scrub and soap

Light Moisture Cream

Light Milk

Gentle Toner

Complexion Perfection

Instant Radiance

Disposable Cleansing Cloths

I started using the skincare and following my instructions exactly as they were written. The whole process only takes about 5 minutes in the morning, and probably less than that in the evening. And once a week I used the exfoliating mask followed by the treatment mask.

Here I am applying the Instant Radiance to my skin. After the Instant Radiance drys, you peel it off and splash your face with warm water.

Here I am with the Complexion Perfection Mask. This stays on for at least 10 minutes. I scared my kids when they first saw me with the mask on. Then you wash this off and follow with moisture cream. And my face feels so soft after this weekly event.

Here I am, yes, without any makeup on! After using Simone France Skincare for a few weeks. I love the way that my skin feels and looks. It is so soft, clean, and refreshing looking. I did get one or two blemishes in the first few weeks of using the products. It's probably because my skin isn't used to being this clean! I haven't had any since! I can see and feel the difference in my skin! It is healthier and it feels fantastic!

Visit Simone France for more information and to order some for yourself! They have a 10% off coupon code for new customers. Use code: FT108. There are also great tips on how you can help improve your skin!

One of Those Days

2011-10-21T18:43:00.000-07:00

I dare say that today was one of those days that everything seemed to go right!
These days don't come around very often, so I have to cherish days like these.

I took the most adorable girl in the world {I'm biased} to school, just the two of us

Spent some time at the zoo with the twins!

Made two almost perfect loaves of homemade bread

To go with this delicious Broccoli Cheddar Soup recipe that I found on Pinterest

Put the kids to bed, had a great conversation on the phone with a friend that lives in Utah, and actually went to bed before 10pm! Is this what heaven will be like? ;)

Maynard's Mousetrap Giveaway

2011-10-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday everyone!

I'm excited to bring you this fun giveaway today!

I want to tell you about Maynard's Mousetrap!

Julie and her husband started Maynard's Mousetrap in 1998. John is an illustrator and creates all of the amazing designs. They loved all things vintage and kitsch, but couldn't find anything like that in the linen industry, so they made their own!

Julie graciously sent us 3 pillowcases to review: Kool Cars in Blue, Western Cowboy in Sage Green, and Red Space Robot

And they come to you in this fun packaging, all ready for gift giving!

Believe me, you'll want to keep them for yourself!

When the pillowcases arrived, all 3 kids couldn't wait to put the pillowcases on their pillows.
All the designs are so fun that the kids were fighting over which one would be theirs!

The kids love sleeping on them. The designs are soft to sleep on.

I even took a nap on one the other day!

I love that the designs come in different colors to match your decor!

They look great in my kid's rooms!

I also LOVE these Lucky in Love Pillowcases! I think that they would make a unique wedding gift!

Today is your lucky day! Maynard's Mousetrap is giving away $25 Shop credit!

Want to win it?! Here's how to enter:

- Visit Maynard's Mousetrap and tell me what you would choose if you win {Mandatory}

- Become a Follower of 3 Four and Under

- Follow 3 Four and Under on Twitter

- Like 3 Four and Under on Facebook

- Tweet about the giveaway, and be sure to mention @3fourandunder

- Facebook or blog about the giveaway {one comment for each}

- Purchase something from Maynard's Mousetrap and come back and leave me a comment {5 extra entries}

The giveaway ends Sunday, October 30th at 11:00pst

A winner will be chosen on Friday 10/27 using random.org. The winner will have 48 hours to claim their prize or a new winner will be chosen.

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2011-10-18T20:32:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere
on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list.
Follow them if you would like.
I wanted to let you know that I didn't get to visit all of the new blogs from last week. My life has been a little hectic with Crafting with the Stars and just life in general. I promise I will get to all of you and follow your blogs. Thank you so much for linking up and following my blog! I appreciate each and everyone of you!

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

You can also post this blog hop on your blog by clicking on Get the Code...

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Dollar Store Glitter Pumpkins and Spiders

2011-10-18T09:15:00.000-07:00

I'm definitely not the first crafter to come up with this idea. But when I was walking around the Dollar Tree back in early September, I just had to get a few of these spiders and pumpkins and cover them in glitter! My daughter and I had a blast making these! It's a little messy to do this with kids, but we made them outside in our backyard. So the clean up wasn't that bad.This is the way we made our glitter pumpkins and spiders.

Materials Needed:

Dollar store pumpkins and spiders

Martha Stewart glitter

Mod Podge

Paint Brush (or in our case sponge brush)

Step 1: Paint the entire pumpkin or spider with Mod Podge

Step 2: For this step we tried two different methods. First we tried dumping the glitter and pumpkin into a large Ziploc bag and shook the bag. My daughter enjoyed this method, I found though that a lot of the glitter would get stuck to the inside of the bag and didn't cover the whole pumpkin.

The second method that we tried, was the good 'ole dump the glitter on method. Make sure to do this on a piece of wax paper, so you can put the extra glitter back in the bottle. We also used this method on our spiders. We simply sprinkled the glitter on top and then knocked off the excess.

Step 3: Wait for the pumpkins and spiders to dry and place them around your home. We purposefully made ours colors that we could use for both Halloween and Thanksgiving. I love 2 for 1 holiday decorations!

Ballard Designs Inspired Wood Plank Storage Bench Knock Off - Part 2

2011-10-17T18:48:00.000-07:00

Today I'm sharing Part 2 of my Ballard Designs Wood Plank Storage Bench Knock Off that I made for the first round of Crafting with the Stars. If you're joining us now, you can find here. We left off, with the last step of Part 1 painting the entire bench. And it will look like this!

After the paint is dry, take the aluminum flashing and cut it into four 2"-3" strips.

After you have it cut into strips, fold each strip of flashing in half. (sorry about the blurry photo, but you get the gist, right?)

Then using the finishing nails, attach the flashing to each corner of the bench

Using the scraps of flashing, tack them onto corner of the top and bottom trims to give it a finished look. Once you have them all finished, it will look like this picture below.

Take some white paint, and I used my fingers for this step, but you could also use a brush or sponge for this step, smear (very technical term) the paint onto the flashing to give it an antiqued look

I purchased an awesome huge stencil of the 04 from Your Memories Captured Etsy Shop (btw did you know that Nina from Momma Go Round has an Etsy shop called Your Memories Captured, where she sells these unbelievable reusable stencils for all kinds of crafting, you should go check out her shop, it's amazing)

So, I taped the stencil onto the side of the bench

Then using the white paint again, and a paper towel. I "sponge" painted the numbers in a up and down motion. It doesn't have to be perfect, just enough paint until you like the look of the numbers.

Measure and cut a piece of plywood that will sit on top of your bench

And now you are finished with the bottom part of your bench. Now take a break and give yourself a giant pat on the back!

Now onto the tufted seat part of the bench!

For this part you will need the burlap, upholstery thread, covered button kit, staple gun and staples, and a piece of 2"-3" foam that fits the top piece of wood for your bench.

Measure and mark the places on the plywood where you would like your tufts to be. Using the electric drill, pre-drill the holes through the plywood.

Next, Using the Liquid Nails glue the foam to the plywood

Place the plywood and foam face down in the middle of a piece of burlap that is big enough to be pulled and stapled on the back

Starting at the corners, pull the burlap and secure it with the staple gun.

Keep on going around the entire seat.

Next, make 12 buttons covered with burlap using the instructions on the covered button kit.

From the back of the seat, push the "eye" end of the 6" upholstery or doll needle through one of the half-inch holes, and through the batting and fabric to the front of the headboard.

Thread button onto a 16-inch piece of upholstery thread, matching up the ends.

Thread both ends of the waxed twine through the eye of the needle. Pull needle back through the headboard, pulling ends of waxed twine through hole.

Remove needle from upholstery thread. Pull it taut so button sinks neatly into fabric and foam. Pull ends of thread down firmly onto back of door and staple in place with two staples.

Repeat steps for all 12 of the burlap covered buttons

And you are finally finished!

Make a fun burlap pillow to match with another fun stencil from

Your Memories Captured (Momma Go Round).

Big A$$ Book of Crafts Giveaway {Winner}

2011-10-17T13:24:00.000-07:00

The lucky winner of the Big A$$ Book of Crafts 2 Book by Mark Montano is

Congratulations!

Chrissy @ Boerman Ramblings

Please email me with your mailing address and I will get this awesome book sent to you!

Didn't win? Well you're in luck! Mark is giving away more books over on his Facebook page!

So head on over to enter!

Want to buy the book? There is a great deal on Walmart's website!

The book is only $12.21

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2011-10-11T21:12:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!
I made sure to follow everyone who left me a comment last Wednesday!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list. Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

You can also post this blog hop on your blog by clicking on Get the Code...

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

Don't forget to enter to Win Mark Montano's New Craft Book! Click on the picture to enter!

The Big A$$ Book of Crafts 2 Giveaway

2011-10-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, I had the opportunity to attend the SoCal Social!

And Mark Montano was the special guest!

He hung out with us, shopped, and ate lunch with us! He spoke to us and gave us great insight on publishing books and television. He shared with us his new book, and was nice enough to give us all advanced signed copies!

The Big A$$ Book of Crafts comes out TODAY! The book is amazing, you should definitely go out right now and buy it! I stayed up WAY too late Saturday night going through each and every page! There are tons of projects that I want to make! I think my first project will be the Necktie Obe Belt! I mean, who wouldn't want a belt made out of ties?!

I bet you want the book now don't you?

Well, Today is your lucky day! Mark is giving one lucky reader, your very own copy of The Big A$$ Book of Crafts 2!

How to Enter:
{Mandatory}Be a public follower of 3 Four and Under

Extra Entries:
Become a follower of Mark Montano's Big A$$ Blog
Like Mark Montano on Facebook
Like 3 Four and Under on Facebook
Follow Mark Montano on Twitter
Follow 3 Four and Under on Twitter
Tweet about the Giveaway: Be sure to tag @3fourandunder {one entry per day}
Blog, and/or Facebook about the Giveaway {one entry each per day}

Giveaway ends 10/16!

Ballard Designs Inspired Wood Plank Storage Bench Knock Off - Part 1

2011-10-10T11:34:00.000-07:00

Crafting with the Stars has been a ton of work, and a ton of fun! The first round was Knock Off, so I decided to Knock Off the Ballard Designs Wood Plank Storage Bench. We love it at our house, and the kids love to sit on it! It's also a great way to stash away all of the toys when company comes over! I'm not gonna lie, there are quite a few steps to making this bench. So, I'm going to split the tutorial up into two parts. By the way, today is voting for Round 2, which is Upcycle! Please go VOTE!

Ballard Designs Inspired Wood Plank Storage Bench Knock Off Tutorial
(I don't think this title could be any longer)

Part 1

For this project you'll need:

Bead board

Plywood

Liquid Nails

Caulking gun

White Paint

Paint Brush

Ralph Lauren Glaze (or other brand)

Aluminum Flashing

2- 6 foot 1" by 1" wood trim

6- 1/8" wooden dowels

2" finishing nails

2" wood screws

Foam for bench seat

2 yards Burlap

White Glue or Wood Glue

Covered Button Kit with 12 or more buttons

Hammer

Ruler

Electric Drill

Skill Saw or have Home Depot Cut your wood for you

First, cut your plywood into 2 - 30" x 20" and 2 - 20" x 20" pieces for the sides of the bench.

Then take the Liquid Nails and glue the Bead Board to the four pieces of plywood

The Liquid Nails will be dry after about 30 minutes. Turn over the pieces so the plywood is on top. On the 2 - 30" x 20", Using a ruler, measure 4 inches from the end on the bottom of the plywood. And draw a line up to the corner of the wood. (see picture) Leave the 2 short ends alone. Do not cut them anymore. Using a skill saw, saw down each line, the wood will now be a trapezoid shape. (This was my first time using a skill saw :)

Using the drill with a Phillips Head screwdriver bit and the 2" wood screws, attach all four sides together.

Once you have all four sides together. Sit it on top of another piece plywood and trace with a pencil about the bottom of the bench to get the measurements for the bottom of the bench. Cut again and attach the bottom with the 2" wood screws. I also put Liquid Nails in all of the seams to reinforce it.

Now using the 1" x 1" wood trim. We want the seams to have miter cuts so that the ends meet up. So, Measure and cut them 30 inches long. Mark with a pencil and cut the trim.

The cuts don't have to be perfect because they will eventually be covered up with the Aluminum flashing. As you can see in the picture mine are not exactly perfect.

You can either nail the trim on, I used Liquid Nails and clamped the trim pieces on until they were dry

Once you have all four trim pieces attached around the top of the bench. Do the same steps with the bottom trim. Then, take the 1/8" wood dowels, cut them to about 20" long and using wood glue or white glue, glue the onto the sides of the bench. 4 on each long side and 2 on each short side

Mix together the white paint and the glaze and paint the whole bench. It took me two coats.

After the paint drys, the bench will look like this!

Stay tuned for Part 2 of the tutorial coming in the next few days!
I'm sharing this tutorial with these linky parties as well as Today's Creative Blog

Simple Valance Tutorial

2011-10-05T09:31:00.000-07:00

I just realized today that I made a tutorial on how to make the valance that I made

in the twin's room and never shared it!

Materials Needed:

- Fabric of your Choice

- Sewing machine or strips of Heat n Bond

- Thread if you are using the sewing machine

- Curtain rod

Measure your window to determine how much fabric you need. Based on my window's dimensions, I needed a piece of fabric what was approximately 75 inches wide

I wanted the valance to hang about 15 inches from the top of the window,

so I cut my piece of fabric 75" x 30". Once you have the piece of fabric cut to your dimensions. Fold and press the short ends of the fabric. Run it through your sewing machine to make nice finished ends. You can also use the Heat n Bond for this step if you don't want to use a sewing machine.

Fold the fabric lengthwise with right sides facing in

Sew along the cut edge of the fabric with a 1/2" seam allowance

Turn the valance outside in, with the right side of the fabric facing out. Press the valance. Sew a straight stitch about 1" down on one side of the valance to make the top.

Sew a straight line again about 2 inches (or larger if you curtain rod is thicker) below the first line of stitches. This will be the pocket for the curtain rod to go in.

The stitches should look like this

Slide the valance onto your curtain rod and hang the curtain rod on the wall, and you are finished! It is so simple and easy! This project takes about 1 hour from start to finish!

I'm linking this tutorial to all of my favorite parties!

PS Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone who voted for me on Crafting with the Stars! And a HUGE Thank you to my partner Wendy from The Shabby Nest! She is the best! Guess what?

The next round is....

And if you are looking for Follow Me Wednesday click HERE

I'm sharing this tutorial with these linky parties as well as Today's Creative Blog

Follow Me Wednesday

2011-10-04T21:46:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!
I made sure to follow everyone who left me a comment last Wednesday!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list. Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

You can also post this blog hop on your blog by clicking on Get the Code...

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

When the Twins Should Be Taking a Nap...

2011-10-04T17:30:00.000-07:00

I'm afraid that we are getting to the point of no return.

I've seen it coming for a while now. And I've been dreading it.

But I was in denial.

How could this be?

It's too early!

I'm talking about, the end of nap time!

I try putting them down for naps.

Their cups in hand, lying in their beds.

I close the door and get to the bazillion things that I have to get done while they are napping.

Except, instead of silence I hear laughing and noises.

I figure at least they are in their room and I can still get everything done.

But when I go back in their room to check on them.

This is what I find pretty much everyday.

EVERYTHING.....and I mean EVERYTHING from every basket and every drawer on the floor!

I'm getting really good at cleaning! ;-)

Crafting With The Stars Round 1 Voting!

2011-10-03T07:56:00.000-07:00

The projects for Round 1 of Crafting with the Stars are up!

Round 1 Projects were Knock Offs!

PLEASE Hurry on over to Sew Dang Cute Crafts and vote for your Top 3 Favorites!

Voting will be open until Tuesday, October 4th @ 10 pm MST.

My BIG Change

2011-09-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

If you follow along on my Facebook , I hinted on Tuesday that I had a BIG change coming on Wednesday!

I'm now a brunette! And loving it!

Also, I feel so thankful and blessed to have hit 1,000 followers yesterday! I am so honored that there are 1,000 people who like and read my blog! So, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!! Stay tuned for my BIG 1,000 follower celebration coming soon with tons of awesome giveaways! You won't want to miss it!

And I cannot believe that I was chosen to be a contestant on Crafting with the Stars over at Sew Dang Cute Crafts! To be honest, I'm kinda freaking out! I'm so nervous and excited all at the same time! I guess I better get to work!

{Follow Me Wednesday}

2011-09-20T22:58:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Follow Me Wednesday

3 Four and Under
is proud to bring you {Follow Me Wednesday}
Please remember to tell your friends!
The more the merrier!
Thank you for linking up each week, I really appreciate it!

This is a wonderful way to meet new people and follow some awesome blogs!

Here is what you do!

Please add your blog address to the Linky.

Please follow the host blog!
3 Four and Under

If you are new to this hop, Welcome, and please leave me a comment and I will be sure to follow you back!
I made sure to follow everyone who left me a comment last Wednesday!

Place the Follow Me Wednesday Button somewhere on your blog!

Then, visit the other blogs on the list. Follow them if you would like.

Please leave them a comment telling them you are visiting them from {Follow Me Wednesday}!

We all love comments!

You can also post this blog hop on your blog by clicking on Get the Code...

Please link up family appropriate blogs only, any blogs that are not family appropriate will be deleted

3 Four and Under

Lost Tooth

{Follow Me Wednesday}

Monster Birthday Party Inspiration

Shabby Chic 6th Birthday Tea Party

Class Valentines {Bubbles}

{Follow Me Wednesday}

Valentine's Day Subway Art Printable

{Follow Me Wednesday}

Potty Training Trouble

Wacky Day

{New in the Shop} Ruffly Zippered Pouches

Through the Eyes of the Mrs {Guest Blogger}

{Follow Me Wednesday}

Tea Party

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

My One Little Word {accomplish}

Follow Me Wednesday {53}

Sewing For Boys

Last Giveaway of 2011

Top 10 Posts of 2011

January Is Almost Here!

{Follow Me Wednesday}

Anthropologie Inspired Old World Cuff Bracelet

Merry Christmas

Seeing the Lights and {A Christmas Quiz}

I would love for you to play along and link up your posts in the comment section! You can also link up your posts at Lee La La!

{Follow Me Wednesday}

Snowman Party Favors

My Memories Suite Scrapbooking Software Review {and Giveaway}

Quote Wood Wall Sign {For Lack of a Better Title}

{Follow Me Wednesday}

I'm A Guest

Handmade Gift Exchange {What I Received}

A Smurftastic Party!

Random Stuff

These Boots are Made for Walking {Sears Childrens Boots Review}

Handmade Gift Exchange {What I Made}

{Follow Me Wednesday}

Family Of Pillows Tutorial {Part 2}

Great-ful Outfit

Cyber Monday Sale!!!

Pumpkin Spice Waffles {Semi-Homemade}

Thankful

{Follow Me Wednesday}

A Tiny Mustard Obsession

Anthropologie Inspired Things Past Necklace Tutorial

{Follow Me Wednesday}

Life

Bip and Bop {Winner}

Thanksgiving Lollipops

{Follow Me Wednesday}

Simple Inifinity Scarf Tutorial

Family of Pillows Tutorial {Part 1}

THE Mustard Cardigan

Bip and Bop Giveaway {CLOSED}

{Follow Me Wednesday}

Halloween Happenings and A Winner

Making Your Own Baby Food {With Nicole of Bip and Bop}

Halloween Pinwheel Sugar Cookies

{Follow Me Wednesday} Blog Hop

Oreo Pumpkins and Mummys

It's All About the Way You Clean Your Skin

One of Those Days

Maynard's Mousetrap Giveaway

{Follow Me Wednesday}

Dollar Store Glitter Pumpkins and Spiders

Ballard Designs Inspired Wood Plank Storage Bench Knock Off - Part 2

Big A$$ Book of Crafts Giveaway {Winner}

{Follow Me Wednesday}

The Big A$$ Book of Crafts 2 Giveaway

Ballard Designs Inspired Wood Plank Storage Bench Knock Off - Part 1

Simple Valance Tutorial

Follow Me Wednesday

When the Twins Should Be Taking a Nap...

Crafting With The Stars Round 1 Voting!

My BIG Change

{Follow Me Wednesday}