September Craft

For September's craft, I wanted to make something for fall. I found these small foam hoops at Target in the dollar section, and thought I would make a wreath. It was super easy and cheap. Materials: hoop, yarn, felt, hot glue gun.

 

 

I started by wrapping the hoop in yarn, making sure to layer it a bit. This was a little tedious, but while watching TV it went by quickly.

 

Then I cut out flower shapes from the felt and layered them. I topped them with buttons. All this was hot-glue-gunned, so super easy and quick.

 

 

I finished by gluing the flowes on the wreath and gluing a loop of ribbon at the top for hanging.

 

Kinda cute, huh?

Happy Autumn!

The other day West and I got out the autumn decorations and filled the house with festive decorations. He is such a good little helper these days, it was fun having him dig into the box and get excited about all the pumpkins and garlands. The holidays are gonna be even more fun with him this year than they were last!

Happy Autumn, everyone!

Our Morning at Avila

Last week we got together with all the Shaw-side aunties and cousins and met at Avila Barn. I made a few discoveries: first, 9:30am is the BEST time to go--no crowds, nice and cool, etc. Second, West loves to chomp on whole apples! We took the hay ride to the apple orchards and picked yummy apples (West was kept busy with his own) We also stopped and picked some zucchini. Back at the barn, we explored the animals and shop. A perfect way to welcome the autumn season!

Book 4

Here's the official word on the street regarding Sherlock Academy Book 4:

 

The Baker Street Underground is scheduled to release November 17, 2012!

 

 For more info and a sneak peek of Book 4, go to www.sherlockacademy.com and be sure to go to the blog for more book release info!

 

Save the date!

Art Lesson by WC Shaw

Welcome, everyone, to Art Lessons by WC Shaw. I'm here today to show you some great techniques with crayons and paper. I've been told it's best to be artistic outside to preserve your walls and furniture. Let's get started...

I find it most comfortable to squat while coloring. You want to hold your pen, pencil, or crayon in a tight grip. Go ahead and be creative with your work. I prefer to free-form with different colors and shaped-lines, commonly known as scribbles.

When you're finished, be sure to carefully clean up your supplies so they're ready for the next art lesson.

Thank you for joining me today. I'll see you next time on Art Lessons by WC Shaw!

Illness and a Visitor

Here's what's been up at the Shaw Manor the past few weeks. Westly caught a cold. He had a fever for the first 24 hours and was really out of it. Our home remedies included pacifiers, books, and cuddling with Bear. Poor little Doodle!

Thankfully he got better just in time for our special visit from my grandma living in Arkansas...or Westly's great-grandma Nana. She stayed a few days and enjoyed getting to know West. He took to her right away and even called her "Na-na".

We'll miss you, Nana!

A Friendly Reminder....

Just thought I would remind everyone about my other blog Between the Lines. If you're interested in writing, or nosey about my life as a mom and author, or want some sneak peeks on my upcoming 4th Book in the Sherlock Academy series, check it out!

www.fc-shaw.blogspot.com

Delightful Mail

I bought myself a little end of the summer gift. I'd been looking for this style of purse forever! I finally found one I loved on this random online store. It was only $23 and that included shipping, etc. When I got it, not only was I delighted by the bag, but also by the personal note that came with it. It was a little random, but a nice touch. I'm sure I'll be ordering from aliexpress.com again!