Little Red Bus: aspire to inspire

Moving Announcement

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 03:21:00 +0000

Don't forget to join the family at our NEW FB PAGE as the LRB page will be deleted come December 2011.

Beautiful Revelry :: Style it YourselfWEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER

With sweaty palms and a racing heart!

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 09:38:00 +0000

It brings me a ginormous amount of joy to finally be able to put this in writing. As many of you know, I fell off from the face of the Earth after my firstborn; Keith. While I dearly missed blogging here, I knew that I'd wanted to do more. Loads more. In timely fashion, I was approached by a sweet lady who expressed her interest in buying over / investing in the growth of LRB. Now as insanely excited that made me, I had many other factors to consider. I thought things through, weighed my options, and financial situation and decided to take that plunge. Yep, we're going full-time, baby! I'm trigger excited by all that buzz around me. You'll find the néw and loads more beautiful us, over at Beautiful Revelry from the 1st December 2011. :D Do pop by and say hi!

Today I Love : Amity Home's "Wilton" Bed Linens

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 00:13:00 +0000

spotted :: here

Today I Love : PB Kids' Catalina 3-Shelf Bookcase

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Sun, 10 Jul 2011 00:26:00 +0000

spotted :: pottery barn kids

Today I Love : Amenity Nursery's Wetlands and Woodlands Organic Toddler Bedding

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 00:03:00 +0000

wetlands bedding

woodlands bedding

Small Stylists :: All American Kid

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Sun, 03 Jul 2011 01:21:00 +0000

I couldn't think of a more appropriate time to swoon over Janie and Jack's Red, White and Blue.

girls collection :: boys collection

Today I Love : PB Kids' Cottage House Bookcase

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 00:31:00 +0000

spotted :: pottery barn kids

Today I Love : KidKraft Sling Bookshelf

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 00:05:00 +0000

This indeed is a walk down memory's lane for me! I love how these bookshelves resemble those commonly found in preschools here. Simple, and child-friendly, I've spent countless hours, curled up near these shelves ( or at least, their look-alikes ) reading out loud with my little students.

found :: baby universe

Rave Reads: Inspired by Charley Harper

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:05:00 +0000

Image from Charley Harper Prints

We've been loving the wildlife illustrations by Charley Harper, so imagine our delight when we actually found some children books that incorporated his works!

This little board book teaches the alphabet while incorporating Harper's illustrations, and is a great way of introducing art to children. There is another book covering number as well, and our little boy loves pouring over the pictures and identifying the animals.

Image from The Light Garden

And if oohing and ahhing over his art isn't enough, how about taking his style as a springboard, and doing Harper-inspired crafts with your child? Verity over at The Light Garden created some lovely pieces of art with her son, based on Harper's illustrations, which you can view here. I hope these inspire you to get crafty!

Jus is a Christian stay-at-home mum to one little boy that runs her ragged, and spends naptimes trying to scrapbook, craft and do stuff that satisfy her itchy fingers. She blogs about motherhood, making and meals at http://makingmum.blogspot.com

Small Stylists :: Trumpette Socks

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 00:28:00 +0000

The humble sock has come a long way in recent years, becoming quite the fashion accessory. Check out these adorable socks from Trumpette:

My favourite for the boys are the dessert boots

and the loafers

and for the girls, my favourite picks are these Ballerina ones

and the Peace Maryjanes are pretty darn cute too!

REBECCA ATKINSON :: Little Spunky Monkey is bursting with beautiful hand made babies clothing, accessories, hair accessories, room decor and lots lots more. Featuring Amy butler fabrics.

Hello, Mom! Marie from Etincelle Creative Studio

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 01:17:00 +0000

Hello! my name is Marie, I am a fashion and jewelry designer and an aspiring prop stylist, mother-of-two who has lately been caught catching up on her big dream: starting her own business and become an independent design professional. I have named my studio Etincelle Creative Studio as 'Etincelle' means 'sparkle' in French and I love treasures that sparkle and shine!

We try to travel as much as possible... Phuket, Thailand 2010

Why do you blog?

I have two blogs and I blog for two different reasons: one blog is to keep in touch with our families and friends who live in many different parts of the world. I started Frimousse after my daughter was born and I mainly post pictures of my children and our activities/ daily life. Not much text, just pictures.

Last year I felt it was time for me to fill up the increasing gap in my professional life. I was not completely happy being an expat mom, I wanted more for myself and I was getting a bit worried as well about how I will go back to work once my kids are in school.

Starting a blog focusing on my passions and developing them was a good start and an excellent way to build up a portfolio while meeting like minded people. I started Etincelle Creative Studio a year ago in May, and the outcome has been amazing so far!... but it's a lot of work...

We explored Hoi An in Vietnam last year... amazing city!

How would you describe your blogging style?

Hey, this is a hard one! Do you agree with the following:

Sweet :: Stylish :: Playful

2010 Collection - Net shopper bags by Etincelle Creative Studio

Hopefully my creations reflect my blogging style!

What's your take on social networks, and where can we find you most active?

It took me a while before taking the plunge on social networks... I have been on Facebook (personally) almost since it's beginning and last year I opened a fan page for ECStudio. I was not super happy with the result... not much interaction with my fans, it was getting really boring! I always thought Twitter was going to eat all my time until a friend of mine (God bless her) suggested it was so great I should join and would never ever regret it. She was true! Twitter is so me... I love short smart messages. I love the interaction. I love how easy it is to connect with like minded people and how fast you can exchange information and tips. Twitter has changed many things for me & my business in the past three months, and I am glad I started using it :)

I am also on Flickr but I haven't been very active recently. How and I love Pinterest too!

My daughter Chloe's bedroom - she's 4 year old.

I move things around every 2 months: toys, wall deco, etc...

How do you organize these inspirations?

I try not to waste too much of my time on social media. I tweet when I have something interesting to share, when I have a new blog post, and I try to interact a lot with the people I follow and who are inspiring me daily with their tips, information, great posts etc... I want to support my folks in whatever they are starting and I treat everyone of them as I'd like to be treated.

I yet have to develop my Facebook fanpage, I would like it to be more interactive and my followers to feel at home over there... it takes some time and lots of efforts I guess...

Tavolo Tavola... my Japanese friend's shop in Fukui, Japan

She sent me samples of things she's selling in her shop and I played with them!

Which are some blogs/sites that inspire you to engage in creative projects with your child?

There is one blog that has inspired me since the beginning and got me started: Octobre Rose. I absolutely love every bite of the photos posted on this blog, and they are a constant inspiration for me
.
Bloesem Kids has been there for a while too, and it's an excellent source of information for design conscious parents...

Paul&Paula is also a new favorite of mine; great finds, tips, stories... all things hip & cool!

Others are amazing online e-mags Tiny&Little, Papier Mache, LMNOP, La Petite Mag and also MILK (French)(MILK Japon). I am so wishing to contribute to one of them!!

There are many more sources of inspiration on the net, but those mentioned above are my constant ones.

My two kids joined birthday party last February... all homemade goodness!

An entire week of planning and baking, more than 40 guests...

When it comes to creative expressions, what are your favourite tools?

My sewing machine, fabric, paper, glue, ribbons, doilies,... I buy very little and I re-use, recycle a lot... I am the one who keeps all of the tiny bites of paper & fabric for future projects... if only you could see how much I have!

I am teaching French once a week to my 4 year old daughter, and I try to keep it fun and interactive. One lesson was about shapes and I got her to make a garland using different shapes that she had to draw on my left-over paper (from my paper garlands), cut and glue on doilies then on a ribbon. We were very pleased of the end result!

Multi-purpose pouch, available here

How has seeking to be constantly inspired helped you in parenting?

I think it helps me to constantly improve my parenting skills and myself on the way too. I am not super extra patient and calm as a person. I like to do a lot of things every day and it can be very frustrating to have to adapt to your child's rhythm. This is something I have learnt (and I am still learning!): you have to organize your day around your children's schedule and not the opposite; and if everything has to change because one of them is sick or need more attention, then be FLEXIBLE (or, and I am so NOT).

Bon, in all the blogs out there, you see the 'picture perfect life' as I call it, and you are inspired, and you want the same at home. It's something that must stay inspiring, no stress if you can't make it happen!

I do have fun though trying to make everyone a happier person (including hubby and me), and being constantly inspired help me focus in real life!

My son's watching the snow falling, Christmas 2010 in France

TIPS that I have made my life easier as a working-from-home-mom:

* I have started using these free planners recommended by Susan Connor from SusyJack three months ago for planning ahead my blog posts. It has worked wonders for me and I highly recommend them too!

* I am using the meal planners from Kikki.K as a working schedule to let everyone know when I am working and shouldn't be disturbed... I stick it on the fridge, and man, has it made my life easier since then! Updated weekly of course ;)

Thank you so much Ann for having me on Little Red Bus today!

xoxo Marie

Today I Love : Cotton Oval Moses Basket

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 00:28:00 +0000

pink :: aqua

{handmade hullabaloo} alphabet cards

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 12:55:00 +0000

I designed a set of alphabet cards to help my littlest one learn her alphabet! Simply print laminate and trim! You can play matching games or use them as flash cards. The letters are Victorian cursive, which is the style of writing taught in Western Australia. I'll share the whole set over a few posts...for now, here's A to C

click here to download your copy!

TANYA: Half of The Candy Tree team, creating gorgeous children's parties & designing party stationery is what I do everyday, and I love it! I adore all forms of design…graphics, events & interiors especially! I love and live for my three gorgeous children, my beautiful step-daughter and lovely husband! Oh, and my other love…coffee!! x

Today I Love : Boodalee Beddings for Boys

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 00:17:00 +0000

space sheets :: circus sheets

Picnic Decor DIY

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 01:19:00 +0000

The simple joys of a sweet picnic in the great outdoors calls for a lovely touch of handmade decor. To help make your picnics a little more merry this season, enjoy this DIY project for adding pep and style to food picks and sipping straws, alike. And just like a good picnic, it's simple, fun, and oh-so lovely.

DIY Picnic Decor Straw Tags and Food Pics

An easy way to make your picnic personalized, themed or stylized.

What you need:
- Cardstock
- Circle or any Shape Punch or sissors for cutting shapes
- Standard Hole Punch, Straws
- Food Picks or Toothpicks

1. Punch or cut out shapes (approx. 2in) from card stock
2. Punch two holes on opposite ends of shape
3. Thread Straws and Food picks through holes

Emily Horak and Carrie Flynn are designers and makers of handmade goods for merry celebrations. With an affinity for simple, handmade beauty, this creative (and quirky) duo loves making good times oh-so pretty through their work for Potter+Butler. Their blog , of the same name, toasts the handmade life & all the merry celebrations that adorn it.

Small Stylists :: Jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 00:34:00 +0000

Hello, hello!

The recent launch of the Bloesem Kids Wear Neon collection suggested me this post today... I am in the mood to explore what designers out there are proposing as accessories for our children...

Let's start naturally with the funky, happy, cheerful neon collection by Irene {and Vivien} of Bloesem Kids. A simple and beautiful concept, pop colors and great materials go a long way! The styling of the photos is also super inspiring... not sure about you, but these are necklaces I would borrow from my kids!

Bloesem Kids Wear Neon - our new favorite!

In a totally different style come Emma Cassi's stunning creations. Precious, delicate and feminine necklaces, earrings or brooches will adorn your little girl's outfits {or yours}. One-of-a-kind accessories, perhaps not for playing in the sandpit!

Emma Cassi for Girls

Last but not least I want to introduce you the work of Akiyo Sakamoto, the designer behind label La Paruriere sold on 51 Stars Paris. Completely different story again, but definitely pieces that mother/ daughter or mother/ son would happily share!

Cocardes by La Paruriere on 51 Stars Paris

1 :: 2 :: 3

Which style do you prefer?

Share your thoughts with us in the comment section or

hop to our Facebook page to share

your favorite handmade accessory designer {for kids}!

MARIE MAGLAQUE :: Just turned 30, two adorable children and a fun, lovely husband. Currently based in Singapore, I have been in the Asia Pacific area for the past 6 years and I love it. Passionate by interior, fashion and jewelry designs... handmade, vintage or unique pieces... a long-time crafter, I am always looking for beads, lace, sequins and every thing that sparkles and shines!

Picnic Inspiration Board

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 08:18:00 +0000

Picnic season is upon us! Some of our favorite childhood memories are of family picnics in parks and green, open fields, alike. Anytime, anywhere. A picnic turns the tradition of sitting together and enjoying a meal as a family or a group of friends into a special event worthy of getting excited about and classifying the day as lovely. And if you're like us, everything simply tastes better outdoors. The added ingredients of fresh air, beautiful surroundings, and natural elements have a way of making something like a little PB&J taste better than ever. To honor the simply joys of simple eating in the great outdoors, we've crafted a picnic-inspired inspiration board - complete with touches of handmade decor. May your picnics this season be lovely, happy, memorable occasions. Cheers (from our recycled, reusable cup to yours)!

Handmade Picnic Supply Inspiration Board

{ Clockwise }

:: Metal vintage picnic basket by Gingers Girl ::

:: Reusable Sandwich Wrap by round bottom baby ::

:: Picnic Fork Spoon Wooden Cutlery by RomanticPink ::

:: Picnic Throw Quilt by WestCoastQuilts ::

...sleeps until my birthday

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 12:28:00 +0000

My gorgeous Indigo will be celebrating her 5th birthday soon, so to make the countdown a little more fun I created this '...sleeps until my birthday' chart, so she can pick a petal out for each day leading up to her birthday.

Step 1 - Print onto card or paper and trim the background to square, and cut out the petals and centre '...until my birthday'. I've printed onto paper, and then glued the background sheet to a piece of heavy card. I've also given it a distressed look by rubbing sandpaper around the edges, and over the corners.

Step 2 - Apply foam dots at the centre tip of each petal

Step 3 - Stick petals in order from 1 sleep to 10 sleeps

Step 4 - Apply four more sticky foam dots to the centre

Step 5 - Finish with the '...until my birthday' dot

Step 6 - Hang or stand in the birthday childs room and let them pick the petals to countdown the sleeps to their special day!

And, if you laminate the pieces, this could be used every year!

Click here to download your birthday countdown.

Have fun!!

Sesame Street Party Inspirations

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:19:00 +0000

Can you tell me how to get…

Sesame Street is a perennial classic isn’t it? I know I love it as much now as what I did when I was a kid. I adore the colours, the characters and the music!

My favourite character was Mr. Snuffleupagus. I have such clear memories of an episode where Big Bird was helping Snuffy to see what he looked like all the way around with a little hand mirror. Because he was so big he’d never seen all of himself – at the time I thought he was the best friend to have. Now, I feel I sympathise a little too closely (though I don’t want to see my rear view all the way around…)

Who’s your favourite character? I had so much fun pulling together this series of party inspirations for you – all celebrating the magic of Sesame Street. Enjoy

Party by: And Everything Sweet found on Kara’s Party ideas

Party by: Jenny Cookies found on Kara’s Party ideas

Found on Hostess Blog

Cake pops by Bakerella

Hi I’m Renee and I am a first time Mum and event planner. I love my generous, long suffering husband and my beautiful baby boy. I dream about creating amazing special memories for special events. I believe that we entertain for a reason; we want to open our lives, share with those we love and make them feel cherished. I live to help people do this.

Today I Love : Sleepi Crib & Bassinet Set

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:36:00 +0000

I love the fact that this crib easily morphs into various practical uses as your child grows! Get the optional converter kit to extend its usage even longer as a junior bed! If you are willing to invest a little more up-front, here's a great long-term investment for you.

spotted :: here

Inspired By :: L'Affiche Moderne

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 01:01:00 +0000

Hello! It's Marie from Etincelle Creative STUDIO again... I have prepared a lovely post on L'Affiche Moderne, a French online gallery presenting the work of young photographers, graphic designers and children's illustrators.

They have a wonderful selection of artists, and as much as my selection below caters for children, they also have lovely pieces of arts for adults too ;). A special mention to the French duo (Ma + Ch) behind the recent revamp of the site. They are seriously talented gals!

Soft and sweet colors for girls:

1. by Arrhenius Ingela P. 2. by Bukubuku 3. by Sarah Jane

What's in store for boys? vibrant colors, and more action!

1. by Lhomme Sandrine 2. by Slati 3. by Billet Marion

Under the section Educationnal Art, the necessary ABC poster:

1. by Linero Sol 2. by Jammes Laurence 3. by Martinez Sigrid

I would have a second thought on this world map (also available with blue or brown backgrounds, and in English), and maybe install it in the dining area... great conversation starter, isn't it?

by Mercier Julie

Last but not least I want to share with you my picks for my two children: the little cars and trucks with the animals driving them is so funny, my 18 month-old son would love it! He's all passionate by engines and animals at the moment. I love Sarah Jane's illustrations, and it was harder to pick something for my 4 year-old daughter... but ultimately the animals playing music is too cute to be missed!

1. by Billet Marion 2. by Arrhenius Ingela P.

What is your favorite? share it with us in the comment section or on our Facebook page (remember to "like" the page first to be able to leave a comment!)

L'Affiche Moderne :: Website :: Blog :: Facebook :: Twitter

MARIE MAGLAQUE :: Just turned 30, two adorable children and a fun, lovely husband. Currently based in Singapore, I have been in the Asia Pacific area for the past 6 years and I love it. Passionate by interior, fashion and jewelry designs... handmade, vintage or unique pieces... a long-time crafter, I am always looking for beads, lace, sequins and every thing that sparkles and shines!

Simple DIY Mobile or Garland

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Tue, 31 May 2011 00:57:00 +0000

REBECCA PERAGINE - CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
The artist and creator of Children Inspire Design. With a product line that consists of globally inspired/environmentally responsible art for children, her products teach the importance of caring for our environment, good citizenship and cultural diversity.

Dress-up Ideas :: Updated

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Mon, 30 May 2011 05:28:00 +0000

Dress-ups are a huge part of play in our household- with a 4 ½ year old and a 3 year old, there are countless hours of pirates, princesses, ballet dancers, horses and superheros (so much so that Mr 4½ has requested a superhero themed 5th birthday).

I have been on the lookout for some new dress-ups to make myself in an attempt to reduce the
number of licensed characters in the house! I didn’t want anything too involved, too much sewing,
too confined to one size.

One of the most basic dress-up accessories that you can make is a good old stocking tail. I had the kids make these at a dinosaur party last year- and all ages that were there were able to make or assist in making them. Its a great activity for a rainy day and costs next to nothing.

Simply cut the legs off a pair of stockings, stuff with scrunched up newspaper and tie with a longpiece of ribbon that is then used to tie around their waste.

Another easy one is a headband veil- very fitting with the Royal Wedding recently!

You can find the instructions here.

A little more complex but still very do-able is felt animal ears. Easily adapted for a range of animals,
all by simply changing the shape of the felt.

Bunny Ears

Here are the instructions for the RABBIT EARS, while the Easter Bunny is still fresh in their minds.

A step-up again are these Batman wings:

Bat Wings

Incredibly cute and just think of the hours spent roaring around the backyard and jumping from the
trampoline edge. I love that they are attached to the arm for maximum wing-span effectiveness.

Now last but by no means least, my favourite project of them all- how divine are these wings:

Dress Up Wings

The time consuming but simple instructions and pattern can be downloaded here. So simple but so
beautiful. I am going to attempt them- anyone care to join me?

REBECCA ATKINSON :: Little Spunky Monkey is bursting with beautiful hand made babies clothing, accessories, hair accessories, room decor and lots lots more. Featuring Amy butler fabrics.

Today I Love : Argington Bam Collection

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Mon, 30 May 2011 00:43:00 +0000

I love how the design cleverly combines modern and elegance.

spotted :: here

Today I Love : Isabella's Dressers and Armoires

noreply@blogger.com (ann thomas ::) — Fri, 27 May 2011 00:48:00 +0000

:: clockwise ::

Isabella Mirrored Armoire

Isabella Doll Chest

Isabella Four Drawer Dresser

Isabella Seven Drawer Dresser