Junebugs Fashions-Handcrafted sewn nursing covers, accessories and more! Handmade in Barrie, Ontario

Junebugs Photo Shoot

2014-08-30T14:21:00.003-04:00

Enjoy some of these lovely shots from out junebugs photo shoot. We're going to be revamping our site to include online shopping this winter, so we're getting ready with some pretty photos!

New Collection of Nursing Cover Patterns

2014-06-25T13:59:00.002-04:00

Here is our most recent collection of Junebugs Nursing Cover Patterns. Visit the Nursing Cover page for more details!

Whimsical Chevron

Dutchess

Geometric

Pretty in Pink

Beaches Arts and Crafts Show- June 14th and 15th.

2014-06-09T22:38:00.001-04:00

I am thrilled to be joining ARA gifts for the Beaches Arts and Crafts Show in the Beaches this weekend.

Check out this poster for all of the details, and be sure to visit their site for the fine list of exhibitors!

Getting Organized This New Year With Kidecals Labels

2014-01-19T20:27:00.002-05:00

A little while ago Kidecals contacted me regarding the opportunity of reviewing their labels. I'm happy to say that they've arrived, and i'll be reviewing them over the next couple of weeks.

I ordered the mini set from Kidecals.com with our last name and phone number to keep it simple. This will make it easy to label all the kids apparel and items with the same label. I'm excited to start labeling, and see how they hold up through the wear and tear that our house can have in the run of a day!

New tote bag design!

2013-04-07T13:39:00.002-04:00

We are all getting a little excited over here for Spring weather and colors to arrive. Since Spring is taking its sweet time coming around, I took it upon myself to welcome in some fresh colors with a new cute little tote bag!

Fun eh? I fell in love with this fabric a little while ago while we were shopping in the states at Hobby Lobby.

*Sidenote- If you have never been to hobby lobby... You. Must. Go. It's as ice cream to a pregnant woman, tools to a man, smarties to a child...you get my drift...just go.

The outer fabric of the tote is made with a stunning and sturdy 'duck' fabric. This fabric is unique in that it carries some natural rigidity that helps the tote bag to keep its shape. It's made out of a woven cotton, so it's still very easy to clean and care for. The lining is made with 100% cotton made by Northcott. I love how the hues of blue in the outer duck fabric is captured in the lining.

It features a double stitch line securing the handles in place, and two pockets in the marquis patterned duck fabric. The tote boasts a bold red button and silver elastic to keep all your goodies in your bag.

The tote is $30, and custom sizes are available if you would like something larger or smaller! Contact me at junebugsfashions@gmail.com

Here's hoping for some real Spring weather to pop up soon, until then, enjoy this beautiful tote!

Bloom- Barrie artisan craft and art show

2013-03-09T20:46:00.000-05:00

I am very excited to announce the upcoming 'Bloom'. The spring craft and art show will be the perfect way to celebrate the warm weather, and accessorize for spring and summer. We would love to see you there!

New 2012 Nursing/Breastfeeding Cover Styles

2013-01-31T07:24:00.000-05:00

Here are the new nursing cover styles for this year!

Contact me for your order at junebugsfashions@gmail.com.

gDiaper Review

2013-01-25T22:02:00.000-05:00

I was contacted quite some time ago to do a review on these cute reusable gdiapers and am looking forward to sharing my experience with you. I have done some cloth diapering with my first son Levi, and also some with the twins, so i'm no virgin to the cloth diapering world. Though I wouldn't call myself any type of cloth diapering guru by any means. The world of cloth diapering has changed so much since I initially purchased my first Bum Genius diapers in 2009. In the past, I had used the bum genius organic all in one's and microfiber diaper with inserts, so I was excited to try a different type of re-usable diaper. There is a huge variety available now with seemingly endless accessorizing options, quite overwhelming actually. My aim with this review will be to give you an honest perspective of what to expect with this diaper, so as to help with your decision on which diapers to invest in when considering reusables. I'll be reviewing the diaper on a few different points.

1. Fit
2. Performance
3. Convenience and ease of use
4. Washability
5. Style

So here we go...

1. Fit
I have to admit that at first I had to get used to the unusual way that the gDiaper fits. Counter-intuitively, the diaper is secured opposite to other 'normal' diapers. The Velcro portion that one would normally put in the front, wraps around the back instead. Since my 18 month old twins are just discovering the fun of pulling on those little closure tabs, having them in the back on the gDiaper actually serves to be very useful! It took a little while to get used to fastening them in the back, and also not cranking the tab closed. It is recommended that the gDiaper not be pulled to tight, as this will cause leaks (which it did in my case). Once I eased up on the Velcro tabs, and only pulled them just snug, my leaks disappeared. I also noticed when I was securing the diaper too tight, that the diaper was leaving quite the indentation on the baby's skin. When I eased up on the fit, there was some improvement in this area, although some marks still remained, no matter how much I relaxed the fit. The gDiaper fits very slim and trim over babies clothes, avoiding that bulky bottom look.

2. Performance
Once I got a handle on their fit, I found the gDiaper to function quite well. The Velcro tabs with which they are secured stay put, and are easy on babies skin. At first I experienced some leaking with the diaper, however with some amazing customer service, and adjustment to the fit, the problem was solved.

3. Convenience and ease of use.

The disposable insert fits easily into the pouch. Although I only had two for the trial, I could see the gDiaper being all pre-loaded and ready to go, rather than switching out liners and or pouches with each change. When there was no bowel movement, I still found it easy enough to remove the insert and replace it with a new one. However, when there was a poop, I found this to bit more of a challenge (as my children tend to have looser stool). Although the disposable insert fits easily into the pouch, I did notice that it slid out of position quite a lot. This made for cleaning up messy poops quite the chore, as the poop ends up all over inside the pouch. Still no leaks through to the outer cover, but messy nonetheless. I believe some type of diaper sprayer would be quite handy for this job. If your child has firmer bowel movements, then I wouldn't foresee this being a problem, but if they do, buy a diaper sprayer.

4. Washability

gDiapers are incredibly easy to wash. There are care instructions on their site that are quite easy to follow. I did notice some staining on the pouch even after the first wash, but as from previous cloth diapering, usually some good sun exposure helps with stubborn stains.

5. Style
These hip little diapers are some of the cutest and stylish diapers I have seen on the market. They have various styles to choose from that are sure to excite you a little more about all of the diapers that you will be changing over the course of your diapering days. Look for a new spring line up to be released soon.

Overall, I'm glad that I was able to give these diapers a try. The cost does seem to be a bit on the high side for getting set up with a disposable set, but a great investment that could always be re-sold after use. I love the idea of being able to switch between re-usable cloth inserts and disposable inserts. I think that they are a great environmentally friendly stylish diapering option. Customer service was quick and very helpful when I had questions about the fit. I also took some time browsing around their site, and enjoyed reading about their company history and great family ethic that they carry.

Catching up- Cuban Style

2013-01-15T01:16:00.000-05:00

While I have been super slacking on the blog, I promise there has been lots of progress on the sewing table and I'm excited to share that with you soon. In the meantime, its about time that I shared a few photos with you.

Just after Spice, Dale and I headed out for a getaway, sans babies to Cuba. Yes, one week, no changing diapers or waking up with a toddler during the night to pee, laundry or making meals. Just a break from the every day, with my man, where there happens to be a beach. What more could a girl ask for?!

After the excitement of Spice came to an end, and the reality of leaving my babies for a week really settled in, I started feeling a wee bit anxious about the whole thing. I had been so focused on all the planning and sewing prep for Spice, it kept my mind very occupied with the anxious thoughts somewhat lurking the the background. With the flight just around the corner, packing, meal prep and so on to start, I began to think about possible excuses for which I could stay home. It all sounded quite reasonable in my head, though need not be repeated, as time has proven that they were a tad bit insane. All of those crazy thoughts culminated with the decision that I was not goin, nope, just wasn't happening, Dale was going to have to find someone else to go with.

Nonetheless, I knew this would not fly with Dale, so I might as well get started on packing. As I started to pack, some cute dresses, swim suit and black stilettos (that I hadn't worn in so long, they needed to be dusted off) I started to get a wee bit excited. But wait, I can't be excited, I'm a mother, I shouldn't be excited about abandoning my kiddos for a week, that's just so wrong. What would 'they' say. You know the 'they's'. The ones who tell you how to put your kids to bed at night, how to discipline, how to potty train, how to this, how to that....who are 'they' anyways? I resolved to be okay that I was excited to go away and sad that I was leaving them... and it was okay to be feeling everything all at once. Because, who cares what 'they' think, anyways!

Once we arrived at the home for our dear friends Aleks, Amy& Hanna (A.K.A the bravest and kindest people on the face of this green earth) to drop off our kiddos, I may have taken a few deep breaths. I promised myself no crying, nope...nope...nope. The last thing I wanted was for the kids to feel that something was wrong. Honestly, once we got them all settled, and set up, I felt hugely relieved. They were right at home. We said a quick goodbye and set off into the sunset... okay, more so a massive snow storm but it made leaving for the hot sunny beach even more enticing!

We had a great time enjoying the culture and landscape of Cuba. Okay, really we mostly enjoyed sleeping in, not cleaning dishes, nightly date nights, and simply holding each others hand ( I know the last one is corny but a nice break from holding babies all the time). We just soaked up one on one time, 7 days in a row.

Since both of us have a bit of the adventure seeker in us, we decided to do an overnight stay at another resort, coupled with some hiking the following day. We enjoyed some authentic local food, and hiking into the mountains, ending with some cliff jumping.

The plan was for us to jump together, but I suppose I was just a wee bit more eager. Dale didn't chicken out, promise.

When we arrived back home, we were greeted with three babes sitting all in a row. Levi jumped right up to give a big hug and kiss. Averie took a good long look, and came in for a snuggle, while Kaela seemed that she had forgotten who we were. After a bit of warming up, she soon remembered though, and we were back to usual. The first week back home was difficult for me. I had to remember that the kids needed to get back into routine, but so did I, so we roughed through it together. Would I do it all again. Absolutely! Thanks to friends and family, we enjoyed a great time together, and are ready to plan the next trip

Stay tuned for some sewing updates.....

Spice: Arts and crafts Show Artisan Biographies

2012-11-09T22:19:00.000-05:00

Spice is very quickly approaching with only one week to go. If you haven't done so yet, check out the facebook page for more details. The arts and craft show will begin on Friday November 16 at 6:30, ending on the 17th at 4:30. Here are a few bios from those participating in the show. Enjoy, and hope to see you there!

Lori Harrington

Products:Handcrafted Soaps

Lori has been making handcrafted soap at her farm in Brechin, Ontario since 2010. She is a busy wife and mom to three young adult children, and works at the local public library, in addition to soap making. With a background in chemistry, she has applied her scientific knowledge to the art and craft of making soap, experimenting with many formulas to create gentle, moisturizing handmade soap. She loves all things Victorian and country, and expresses this love in her unique soap labels.

Robin Radford

Products: Candle holders(birch bark and cedar), Fresh door wreath arrangements, Bath salts, Paper Christmas Ornaments, Preserves (jams, relishes, pickles, salsa), Pies and baked goods.

I grew up in Northern Ontario. I was blessed to grow up with God's natural gifts all around me. My husband and I now live in the country, raising and homeschooling our four children. I am passing down traditions of preserving God's natural gifts to us, for future generations to protect and enjoy.

Robin and Ingrid Cochrane

Products: Refined home decor objects such as lamps, vases, picture frames, tables, mugs etc.

Robyn and Ingrid Cochrane are a mother and daughter who live on a farm and love the country life and the outdoors. They both have an eye for decorating and love finding old or outdated home decor items and refurbishing them to fit into the modern day household.

Stephanie Marsh

Products: Abstract acrylic art on canvas

Though she does not have formal training, Stephanie has always been into art in one capacity or another. It's always been something she enjoyed, but never pursued seriously until she became a stay-at-home mom. Since she moved up from the States almost 2 years ago, she has been restricted on working, so taking up both painting and becoming a Zumba fitness instructor have been the solution to contributing financially to her family. Both have given her the flexibility to stay home with her daughter, Paisley, and pursue her passions. Her primary focus creatively is bold, abstract art using pallet knives with various mediums to achieve texture, depth, and/or fluidity. Though many of her pieces are her own inspiration, she also takes on commission works as well.

Jordan Elizabeth Scott

Products : Heat pads and hot pads

I’ve always enjoyed sewing. I’ve had a sewing machine since I was 8, I started out making small gifts for family and slowly built my techniques. I love exploring new patterns and fabrics. It’s always an adventure when I start to sew, you never know where I’ll end up.

Tahlia Coros

Products: 'Frilly' scarves, embroidery thread bracelets, bookmarks, embroidery thread covered headphones, and scarves made from t-shirts.

I am a busy student, currently in Grade 10. With all of the work assigned to me at school, I have used crafting as a break from it all.

I have always loved using my creativity to make things. I started off with little drawings, then paintings and bracelets, now scarves! I have recently just learned how to make scarves from my grandma this past summer ! When I heard about Spice I decided it would be a good way to earn some money and I get to do something I love!

Emilie Dugard

Products: Owl cards, Owl keychains , Owl ornaments, Owl Kleenex holders

I graduated from high school last June and I chose to take a year off and work therefore leaving me plenty of time for crafting! I have always enjoyed using my hands and doing anything from painting to making bracelets and my new found hobby, sewing and making cards! I have enjoyed exploring pinterest's DIY section and will be sharing my love of creating owls at spice!

Carla DeWinter

Products: Paintings and Stationary

Carla has always loved drawing and painting. She went to York University for a BFA in Visual Arts and recently has taken a few watercolour lessons. When she was little her Mom would often find her in the greeting card section of the store while they were out shopping. Her desire is to glorify God by combining His scriptures with the things that she paints, and creating greeting cards so people can pass on the blessing of God's Word.

Amber Steingard

Products: Yarn wreaths and yarn snowmen

Lover of all things creative from music to writing(visit blog here) to cooking and crafting, I'm excited to share my newest venture of handmade yarn wreaths. I've been so inspired by my many artisan friends and am excited to be joining in. I'm so thankful for great family and friends and a loving husband to share my life with, but most of all thankful for what the Lord has done in my life and my desire is that I would honour Him with all that I have.

Janet DeBoer- ‘The Dutch Farmers Wife’

Products: soaps, linen sprays, chapstick and lipgloss, mason jar soap pumps and sock animals.

Looking back 2 years ago if asked the question "what do you make" I would have said "nothing... I don't have a creative bone in my body." What changed all that one might ask? Well, let me tell you! It was babies, and not necessarily even my babies... it was the fact that every woman I knew was giving birth to adorable cuties and I couldn't afford all the baby showers and baby gifts any more. I figured I either had to find a new crowd to hang out with, or come up with a more cost effective gift. My solution... sock animals. They quickly became a hit, and before I knew it people started requesting them... which inspired me! I realized that nothing is difficult... just time consuming; thus sparking my creative side. Now I'm hooked on creating things... the options are endless! (Unfortunately the amount of hours in each day does have an end). I've expanded now to soaps, lip balms, lip gloss, linen sprays and more!

The name for my new business is "The Dutch Farmer's Wife", because, well... I am the wife of a Dutch farmer, Ben. We have 3 sweeties and live in the boonies (aka Lisle). Creating things with all natural products is exciting to me, and I hope my creations excite you too!

Jamie Dawn Hanson- ‘Dawning jewlery’

Products: Necklaces, earrings, hair accessories for children and adults, pixie hats, paper dolls, jewelry travel bags.

As a wee bonny lass I found myself a journeyer in the undying quest of consummate creativity. As I grew so did my great longing to create with my hands. That is precisely how I ended up being 16 and selling my own lovingly handcrafted jewelry and accessories under the name 'Dawning'. I began my business at the age of 12 and have supremely enjoyed every moment since! My products include natural stone, metal, re-purposed material, wool and

leather jewelry. I'm positive you will love my products as much as I love making it for you!

Check out her facebook page here

Karen Dobbs

Products: Paintings and original editioned prints

Karen Dobbs is currently completing her Fine Arts diploma from Georgian College in Barrie, Ontario. She has lived, worked, and now studied in Barrie with her husband since they got married in 2007. Art has always been a part of Karen's life, building up foundational skills through high school and then later through various painting classes and now through the Fine Art program at Georgian. Her first love will always be painting and exploring the details of God's creation, but being in full time studies has broadened her appreciation for all mediums and areas of the arts, including sculpture and printmaking.

Throughout all her paintings, she uses colour and the exploration of mark-making to portray the subject matter, be it landscape, to flowers or abstraction. Her goal is to allow the creativity of God to work through her to share beauty and light in a dark world and she is looking forward to the changes and growth still to come in her artwork.

Debbie Eskra

Products: Scarves

I am a mother of 3 sons, and grandmother to 4 granddaughters and 2 grandsons. Dave and I have been married for 38 years and have loved the Lord since 1986/87. Coming to Harvest 3 years ago, has changed our lives. God has transformed us from the inside out and we know He has only just begun. What a joy to be on this journey with all of our family at Harvest Barrie.

My knitting began as a young girl. Probably before I was 10 years old my Mom and my Grandma taught me how to knit. Both of them were avid knitters so I would sit in their company and together we would knit away. As I grew up and had children of my own, I would knit for my family. Of course, they each had their own hand knit baby sweaters with matching bonnets and booties. We had matching nordic knit sweaters one year when we all skied. I haven't knit much for quite a few years now and last year I was introduced to these marvellous scarves. They looked very intriguing to me and when I inquired as to how they were made I was pleasantly surprised to discover, firstly, that they were knit, and secondly, how easy they were to make. So began my scarf knitting. I now have over 30 scarves ready for sale but I have knit many more. They have made perfect gifts for family, friends, and neighbours.

I have taught my granddaughter to make these scarves as well. You could say...passing on the tradition of knitting.

I find knitting something very relaxing. I can sit with my husband as we watch a program together or I can have a sweet time alone with God, just chatting about whatever's on my mind and not be distracted by what I am doing.

Joyce Martin

Products: Knit items and Cards

As a child Joyce learned to knit from her mother who, at 83, still knits every day. Currently Joyce is specializing in knitting for babies and brings a variety of items to Spice as well as welcoming orders. More recently Joyce has taken up card making and she will have an assortment of handmade cards also available.

Angie Armstrong: ‘ARA Gifts’

Products: Scarves, Cowls, Baby clothing, Cards, Mug Cozies

Angie is the wife of Mike and mommy to two beautiful littles! She loves being home with her babes and this was the first inspiration to get 'crafty'! It started with a mug cozy and has moved to scarves and baby clothes. Angie is committed to making unique, handmade and affordable gifts for your loved ones or yourself of course.

Check out her blog here.

Josée Chapman: ‘Junebugs’

Products : Nursing covers, Crayon wallets, Fabric cuff bracelets, Clutch purses, ipod/ipad cases, and Aprons.

As long as I can remember I have been crafting with my hands. Growing up I can remember brushing my fingers along the stacks of fabrics waiting to be formed into beautiful works of art. The colours textures and patterns, inspire, excite and enliven. Staring at the fabrics forces me to imagine, experiment and have fun. Although it can be intimidating to try new designs, I'm always up for an adventure! So I will sew, and we'll see where it goes!

'SPICE'

2012-10-25T20:27:00.001-04:00

Fall is here in all it's beauty. We've been enjoying lots of brisk autumn hikes, pumpkin spice latte's and cinnamon apple candles over here. We're sucking everything we can out of fall, knowing that the cold winter days are coming. It seems that the summer passed by so quickly for us, and then we were hit with wonderful fall, and now Christmas seems to also be quickly approaching. Yes, I said Christmas, and let's face it, once halloween is over next week, and the first of November rolls around, Christmas preparation will be in full swing.

What better way to prepare for the Christmas season, then to attend a show with local artisans displaying their talents for your gifting needs? Please welcome 'Spice'! You may remember an event that we held in the spring called 'Bloom', well, that event was so well supported and attended that we decided a fall event must be in order. We've been planning the last few weeks, what is sure to be a great time of perusing locally made products and time to enjoy a taste of the winter season.

Please visit our facebook page for a few more details, join the event and share with friends if you are interested.

Come join us at 'SPICE' to welcome in the Christmas season! Bring your friends. Open to everyone!
Peruse local artisans merchandise from paintings to stationary, purses to scarves, preserves to baking, jewelry to knitted items. You will be sure to find the perfect gift for all on your list.

Enjoy fellowship, door prizes, light refreshments and a taste of the winter season.

Raffle tickets available to purchase for a gift basket, with all proceeds donated to our local pregnancy resource centre.

Event begins on:
Friday November 16th at 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. for a sneak peek (purchases can be made).
Reopens on Saturday November 17th at 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Drop by any time!

Questions?
Please email Angie Armstrong at orderara@gmail.com or Josee Chapman at junebugsfashions@gmail.com

*Cash and cheques only please.

Also, if you are still looking for a cute little Halloween bag for your little one, look no further!

Pick one of these up soon!

$8 each or 2/$15

Trick or treat!

2012-10-15T07:20:00.001-04:00

I've been sharing photos of these cute halloween bags on instagram and facebook, but haven't done a blog post on them yet....so here it is!

These cute little bags are the prefect size for little hands to hold and fill up with a few goodies! They are made with a bright white handle that makes them easy to find in the dark. Larger sizes available upon request.

Halloween is only 17 days away, so pick up one one these sweet little bags for your little trick or treater for only $10, and they will be able to use it for years to come!

Contact me today for your order- junebugsfashions@gmail.com

Have a super monday!

RC Helicopter Giveaway Winner!

2012-10-12T20:00:00.000-04:00

I'm very excited to announce that the giveaway winner is Austin Harrison. Austin, I'm sure you will love this RC helicopter! Please email me your mailing address to junebugsfashions@gmail.com so that I can have the helicopter shipped out to you. A special thanks to xenonproject.com for generously offering this wonderful giveaway. If you are starting your Christmas shopping, be sure to check out their site for all their fun RC products.

Have a terrific weekend!

Remembering when, with family

2012-10-10T22:01:00.000-04:00

Sun sets on the horizon, and I settle my brain down in the home that I was raised, with my babes sleeping soundly in the next room. It's a comforting feeling being back in the home that I spent so much time in and grew up in. It fits like a well worn slipper, with all the grooves marked out inside for your individual toes. The stairs creak in the same spots that they used to, and I instinctively avoid the areas that I know cause the most noise. I could climb those stairs in my sleep. Oh, the memories built around a simple set of plain oak wood stairs. First days of high school, coming home from long work shifts, university, dates, weddings, pregnancy and carrying new born babes in arms...if those stairs could talk...They could tell a lot of stories. And, we make new ones everyday.

This weekend was filled with lots of new memories being made. I love holidays, times of celebration and really any time to get together and enjoy time as a family. It is a precious thing, family. So fragile in all its little intricate ways. The fragility of it becomes more and more apparent to me as I hear and watch those around me speaking of brokenness, loss and hurt.

We all have our stories, the good the bad and the ugly. We all have our smiling 'picture' faces, and our unseen desperate faces. A picture is worth a thousand words,but they are all unsaid words and I wonder...if they were spoken would it be aloud, or most in dark dusty corners, where the smile fades and the tears stain?

We comfort each other through those times. Sit, stand, walk next to each other...whatever it takes...we are family. It's easier in the days of sunshine, we can see the path. But when it is dark, we hold Christ's hand in front of ours, and we hold theirs beside us, knowing that when we can't see the way, He'll lead us.... He is the lamp unto our feet and the light unto our path. (Psalm 119:105)

We'll treat each other, and sweeten each other when we're feeling bitter, and unloved.

We'll close the end of another day together, even though we are in different places. With all our failures, and fears, and fragility towards one another, we continue to work at it and persevere. Until He calls us home, and we see His face, shinning like the sun.

Quickie Friday Photo Post {GIVEAWAY}

2012-10-05T10:43:00.001-04:00

The kiddos are all sleeping which is a rare occasion in this house, so this will be a quicky. Yesterday was one of 'those' days. You know the ones? When you're still nuking your 1 o'clock coffee at 4 o'clock, wondering why on earth they ever made sleepers with buttons (they should only be made with zippers), all you would like is just a 5 minute nap on the couch, when you don't want to see another poopy diaper or clean the disaster of toys one more time. Honestly, sometimes it's easy to say that the sight of those sweet faces just melt your heart, make everything worth it ect, but yesterday was not that day. Sometimes all you want is to see a new face, or no faces at all, and perhaps just a sunset, book and beach.

...Though they are sweet faces indeed.

I'm looking forward to this thanksgiving weekend filled with family time, walks, and turkey of course. A time to reflect on everything that I have to be thankful for, and yes, those sweet faces are on the list, among many other things.

How are you celebrating this weekend? Small group, big group, turkey, no turkey, pecan or pumpkin pie, whip cream or no whip cream? I would love to hear!

Gobble Gobble!...which is to say, Happy Thanksgiving! ( In case you needed the translation)

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Don't forget to enter the RC Helicopter giveaway from our friends at xenonproject.com. Enter for yourself, a friend, family, a neighbor, or for a Christmas gift. Hey...it's not too early to start!

Transformation: From drab to fab

2012-10-02T08:01:00.005-04:00

A little while ago I was asked to come take a look at the facility for one of our local churches. The Barrie Gospel Hall is currently temporarily renting a facility, and it needed a little help to soften the look of the space. As you can see below, the back wall of the facility is a harsh looking metal wall with brown studs with a garage and exit door. Needless to say, it is a bit of an eye sore when you walk into the building, so they decided that draping may be a good option for sprucing up the space.

Thanks to my 10 years of event decor experience and the knowledge of some handy men, we were able to quickly devise a plan as
to what would work for the space. Before the thought of draping came up, the idea of dry walling the space around the garage doors was presented. The problem with this, being that the doors would still have been exposed, and the money invested in the dry wall would have been lost when they moved. The drape turned out to be the best option as it would cover the entire wall, and when they leave the space, they will be able to take their investment with them.

Here is the first panel up. We can see the transformation taking place!

For some reason, one of my panels ended up being a little bit longer, so we had to do some on site repairs.

We based the colour of the fabric on a tone pulled out of the carpet. It's difficult to tell in the pictures, but the colour matches almost perfectly. The dark red satin is a beautiful elegant fabric that adds a lot of dimension to the space. The satin fabric works very well in this application, as the weight of the fabric helps it to hang very well.

Here is the finished product.

Their 'Two Roads' chart hung in the middle of the drape with bungy cords securing it. They stood out in front of the elegant satin, so I made up a few sleeves to disguise them.

The chart now looks like it belongs in the space. Here is one more before and after shot.

I am very thankful or the opportunity to be able to work on the space. They are now excited to do a bit of painting to complete the look and I'm excited to see everything put together.

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REMINDER:

Please don't forget to enter the giveaway for the RC helicopter. Contest closes October 12.

Happy Tuesday!

Garlic Kale Chips {RC Helicopter GIVEAWAY}

2012-09-29T12:10:00.002-04:00

As fall is closing in and the threat of the flu looms around the corner, it's time to start laying on the garlic. Heavy. Any of you who know me well, know that I will avoid the flu like the plague. I may very well see someone who has had the flu, scream with hands waiving and run in the opposite direction. Okay, so that may be a bit of an exaggeration but I dislike the flu, very much. Lets just say if there was a Facebook flu page, I would not 'like' it...okay that was a bit corny. I digress. Moving on. All that to say that I am a terrible wimp when I get the flu, and when it hits our house, all five of us end up with it, and it's not pretty. So this year, i'm laying on the garlic in any way possible (sorry to all my close friends). Yesterday, Levi and I tried some garlic kale chips. So here's how it goes:

Garlic Kale Chips

Peel a bunch of garlic- the number depending on how paranoid you are of getting the flu, and how much you like garlic!

Throw some olive oil in a large bowl and crush in all your garlic.

Have the cutest little boy in the world wisk the olive oil and crushed garlic together (yes, you can borrow him, so long as you don't have the flu).

Wash and thoroughly dry your kale leaves.

Tear the kale leaves off of the stem and throw them in your garlic/olive oil mixture. Avoid putting in the stem, it's a little too chewy. Unless of course you would like to gnaw on your chips rather then crunch them.

Get friendly with your kale and get your hands in there and give it a massage with the oil.

Spread it out evenly on lined cookie sheets.

I sprinkled it with some extra garlic powder.

Bake in oven at 300 for about 15 mins. Keep a close eye on it, so that it doesn't burn.

And, Voila! Kale chips. Tasty snack to enjoy during a movie instead of potato chips. Though I do also enjoy a good potato chip, I prefer not getting the flu much more!

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And on a completely separate note, some folks over at XenonProject.com are offering my readers a free RC helicopter. This is sure to promise a fun afternoon with or without kids! Check out the various styles that they offer below.

Contest Rules:

Open to Canadian and U.S residents. Winner will be chosen at random. Contest closes October 12, 2012.

To enter:

1. Leave a comment below choosing your favorite helicopter. - 1 entry

2. 'Like' Junebugs fashions on Facebook - 1 entry

3. Become a follower of the Junebugs blog.- 1 entry

Have a super weekend!

Catching Up

2012-09-15T08:05:00.001-04:00

It's been another long stretch since my last post, so I thought I would share a little bit of what I've been up to. The camera has been taking a bit of a break lately, and the sewing machine has been working double time.

There are a few projects on the go, and a few that I've managed to complete.

Did you know we do custom work? Well, now you do! This is a custom clutch that I made up for a client who has an upcoming wedding to attend. She was looking for something unique to match with her dress and shoes. Based on the image that she provided of her shoes, and her willingness to let me be creative, this classy clutch is what I came up with. The clutch is made with a champagne colored satin, with a beautiful sheen to the fabric. I added the beaded trim detail on the front and continuing around the back in two horizontal lines. The trim was also added to the handle, to give the clutch a bracelet feel when it sits on the wrist.

It has more than enough room to store your essentials for the evening. Fill it with some lip gloss, hair accessories and perhaps jewelry, and you have the making of a perfect bridesmaids gift! Contact us for your custom order today (sorry, Starbucks card not included with purchase...i wish!).

Here is another custom ipad bag. It's made with a stunning suiting material that gives it a very tailored look. The strapping is sewn in with a black clip that can be removed if desired.

It features a hidden pocket sewn into the front underneath the velcro enclosure to store any extra accessories. This bag serves as a practical and stylish way to store and carry your ipad.

******

On another note... They're walking!

Happy weekend!

The lil' clutch

2012-09-04T11:03:00.000-04:00

One of the new products that I launched at Kempenfest were these cute lil' clutches. They are perfect for just holding a few essentials for the night, or day.

They are embellished with a bead on the wristlet handle to give it a little more flare. When worn on the wrist, the accent bead giving a simple bracelet look.

The clutch measures about 8.5x9.5 inches long. The lining is sewn in with a complimentary color, and completed with a zipper enclosure.

The cost of the clutches are $14. Custom orders may vary.

There are various styles to choose from including a more casual line for everyday use. Custom orders and colors are also accepted. Please contact us today.

Quickie Friday Post and Giveaway Winner!

2012-08-31T20:34:00.001-04:00

I'm just popping in for a quick little post tonight. I've got three little folks not feeling so hot, that need some mama lovin' and attention. It's one of those moments when you are sad that they are sick, but love that they need you. They love extra snuggles, having their little toes wrapped up in blankets and cold water tenderly held for and offered to them. All those things that my mama did for me, and honestly things I still love when I'm sick. I practiced all the mama comforting skills in my house playing days, and let me tell you, practice doesn't make perfect...but it helps. So when those feverish foreheads call out for my help, i'm ready.

My 'big girl' camera took a break this week so I've been using my phone as a sub in. I quickly threw together this little collage using all photos taken on my phone, with some using the free app called instagram. If you haven't yet heard of this fun little app, you should definitely check it out, download it, and follow 3junebugs.

I enjoyed some dates with mom and dad this week on separate occasions. Part of my date with dad today was checking out some wholesale fabric suppliers. Here's what I came home with. I would love to hear your thoughts and or suggestions for what you would like to see come out of these prints!

Also, without further adieu, the giveaway winner for the free clutch is.....Carla De Winter! Thank you so much to all of those who entered. All other entrants can receive 15% off their next junebugs purchase (please remind me at the time of your order).

Have a fabulous long weekend!

Twas the week after vacation...{Giveaway}

2012-08-24T21:10:00.002-04:00

Twas the week after vacation and when all through the house,

Every creature was stirring even a mouse,

The bags were still packed and sat on the floor,

In hopes that a maid would soon be in store,

When what to my wondering eyes should appear,

But more clothes to be washed stacked up to my ear,

The dishes were also piled high by the sink,

Pee-yew! Who's diaper is it that stinks?

The children were restless, though tucked into bed,

While illusions of veggie tales danced in their heads,

and Mama in her jammies, and I in my ear plugs,

Had just layed down, feeling a bit like slugs.

At mornings site they sprang out of bed,

At the sound of a toddler screaming off his head,

"I have to go pee", he exclaimed so lively and bright,

While all we wished, was that it was still night.

***

Coconut pancakes-( Mark Sisson, Primal Blueprint- Quick & easy meals)

As funny as the poem is, there is a lot of truth in it. "Vacations" are work. They are work before you leave, while your away (more so with kiddos) and when you get home. But you know what? They are worth every ounce of it. Dale and had this talk a little while ago. Our conversation was about spending time together as a family, how important it is to both of us despite all the work and financial commitment. Our decision was to suck it up and trudge through all the work and prep that it takes to go out with the kids, and make some amazing memories while we were at it. Because honestly, it's so much easier to get a sitter and go out sans babies. However, hard work builds character, and this is a great lesson that I want to teach my kids....that I need to keep teaching myself. To persevere, to keep on keeping on as veggie tales would say. The more important lesson in this would be to lean on Christ for strength during these 'hard work' times. If there is anyone who knows about hard work, He does!

Levi's 'less than impressed' face when he would have rathered that I help him with his food then take a picture

Needless to say we trudged through this week, with some good days, and some not so great. But I'm very thankful for some comedic relief from our little man every now and then.

Here is Levi checking his temperature with the meat thermometer that he grabbed off the counter. Before you go and call children's aid, don't worry...he was well supervised and then taught what the real purpose of it was.

I'm also thankful for family walks to the field, and the inquisitive nature of a child for a pile of ants. Actually I'm thankful that we were all as excited about seeing this mountain of ants as he was.

Yes she does baby!

On my last blog post I mentioned that the giveaway for the clutch purse would end today. Since I had post-vacation brain, I wasn't thinking very clearly and should have given more time for others to enter. I'll do so by extending the deadline to next friday August 31. What a great way to end the last day of the summer, by scoring a new clutch!

Would you also consider liking our Facebook page?

Ordinary & Extraordinary {Giveaway}

2012-08-21T07:55:00.002-04:00

We enjoyed a family vacation shared with close friends last week. While the drive up (and down) and life in a cottage with two other families, including three more children was at times exhausting, the memories that were made, were well worth the work.

When I'm preparing for a vacation with our kiddos, I always try to remind myself that the 'vacation' is not really going to be the restful-break from work- trips that they once were. In some sense they are more work. I picture it almost as 'survivor style' vacation. Okay, so perhaps it's not quite as dramatic as the T.V show, but for me, it's just as much excitement and suspense. You're out of your element, away from all your comfortable things, and you have to make due with whats around. Sometimes that means using paper towel for coffee filters or laying down babies to sleep in a laundry room and using chairs on their side in place of baby gates. For me, this is part of what I love about vacation. A time to stretch out of the regular ordinary, and make a new special ordinary in a strange place, and getting by with whatever tools we have or make. The ordinary schedules of life and babies, naps and meals follow you wherever you go with our family of five, but I love the opportunity to branch out and make the days extraordinary.

For example, our walks are quite an ordinary thing. But throw in some friends, sun setting in the background, and two spirited young boys laughing and giggling with rocks crunching and flinging under feet, and you've got some makings for an extraordinary memory. It's just how you see it and what you make of it.

A quiet deck with warm sun resting and setting on the old beams of wood looks as it always does, peaceful and quiet. It withstands a long day of pitter patter feet running and knees crawling back and forth all day long. Quite an ordinary thing, yet the story of the days tales that it tells are extraordinary. The memories that it holds of all the days and weeks of feet walking to and fro could tell some incredible stories. Of sun soaked days resting on beaches edge, lazy afternoon naps in the restful arms of the decks worn floral wicker couch, and magical evenings spent under the gloriously God created milky way and stunning stars. If these beams could speak, yes, they would tell an extraordinary tale indeed.

We make use of an ordinary grassy field and create some out of the ordinary memories with friends. Relationships grow, friendships strengthen, and we learn from each other, only in the way that the day in and day out of one whole week in the same house can teach. We more than survive this week- we thrive through it.

*****
On Thursday the husbands blessed us with a day on the town to celebrate my birthday. We headed into the beautiful historic down-town Kingston, to enjoy some old fashioned stores and coffee shops of course!

* A Big shout of to the most amazing babysitters three families could ever ask for. Thank you girls!

I was also blessed that same evening with a sweet surprise date night with my hunky man.

We came into the cute town of Gananoque to check out the Pig iron barbeque, and also stumbled on a farmers market on our way in. We picked up some incredible dark maple syrup from Gibbons Family Farm. I had never before tasted dark maple syrup, but let me just say that it was the most amazing maple syrup that I've ever tasted. The best news is that they do mail orders. So if you're looking for some good quality incredible tasting maple syrup, and you are not able to source any in your area, these are your source! Check them out.

If you're looking for the best full plate with a mound of tasty meat on it, check out the Pig Iron. Dale and I devoured those savoury ribs and beef brisket in a very short amount of time. We also had an amazing side of grilled zucchini with shallots, garlic, arugula drizzled with a lemon sauce. This gave me a great idea of what to do with our garden full of zucchini.

As we ended our evening and walked back out to the car a nostalgic feeling filled the air as it erupted with a mini symphony in full swing playing in the middle of the park. We sat down to enjoy a few melodies before heading back to the cottage.

****

On our last morning I enjoyed a dock date with my early rising babe with loons and birds singing serenading our extraordinary time.

...and she's now done with our date.

As the summer comes to a close, I would love to hear about some extraordinary memories that you made this summer. I could be making ordinary rainy days memorable by making forts in the house, or picnics on the beach, or a family trip. Please share your summer experience and I would love to bless you with the free gift of a clutch purse. The winner will be announced on Fridays Photo Post on August 24th.

Kempenfest Review

2012-08-10T22:36:00.001-04:00

I'm still trying to catch my breath after the busyness of the past few weeks. While I had great intentions of writing a post on Tuesday to review our time at Kempenfest, the calls of motherhood and wifehood were calling, well more like screaming. There was so much that needed to be caught up on, so the post needed to wait.

Angie and I had an incredible first year at Kempenfest. We made lots of great memories, and met some wonderful people from our local area. Here are a few shots of the set up time, and tent set up. Enjoy!

Tent is set up for the night!

Fabric Cuff Bracelet Display

New Tote Bags !

This picture was taken saturday morning, at around 9am, and we were already a little toasty! We got a mix of all types of weather during the course of the weekend. Heat, rain, and some breezes off the waterfront made for a great mix of the elements.

New Junebugs full and half aprons

Junebugs fabric cuff bracelets and Ara scarves adorned the front table

Cute Ara Onesies- Custom designs available

Draw for clutch purse, Mug Cozy and Startbucks gift card- Winner to be announce soon!

I'm sure I speak for both Angie and I when I say that we felt truly blessed and supported by everyone who came out to visit us at the booth. We are very excited about how the weekend went, and are already discussing future options for shows. Look out for more info on those soon! Thanks again to everyone who came out to show their support!

Have a great weekend!

New- Junebugs Clutch Purse

What we've been up to

2012-07-23T10:49:00.000-04:00

It's been an awfully long time since my last post, and while I have a few ideas for some more meaningful posts brewing, a simple post will have to due for today.

Here's what we've been up to:

*I braved fabricland with the three kiddos. They had some incredible deals on this past week, culminating to a 50% off the whole store on thurs, fri and sat. I've been eyeing up some fabric to make some drapes (for when I get the courage up to make-over our bedroom) so it was a perfect time to pick up the fabric. And the three kiddos did amazing in the store (with lots of mum mums and the ipod).

Here is a little sneak peak of

the fabrics that I picked up. I've decided to give you a little kempenfest preview on the Friday before, so you know what to expect at the show, and if you don't fancy anything, then just come by to say 'Hi' anyways!

*Caught baby girl snuggling on Levi's chair in his room

*Asian orange chicken marinade...delish!

*It's amazing how fast a mess can be created while I'm out of the room. All I heard were giggles. I should have know they were up to something.

*Playing in an empty pool...seems to be just as much fun with no water in it...hmmm...good idea for winter time.

* Gotta love the 'just woke up from nap' face.

*I'm loving photographing the stunning skies. I think I could have a separate blog with just pictures of them.

*Enjoying walks to our field. There isn't really much that is eye catching or phenomenal about this field. The grass is dry, brittle and sun scorched, there are flecks of garbage strewn all over it, there is no shaded areas to take refuge from the beaming hot sun, but it is our field, and we've made some incredible memories there. This is where we got caught in a storm, where we chase seagulls, where we play airplane, where we throw some funky dance moves and fly around like birds.

*Kaela is working on learning how to stand on her own, and looking like she is going to take some little baby steps any minute. Baby girl is making memories in this field too.

It's ordinary, yet extraordinary to us. Like a mini narnia, I see the trees dance and welcome us as we come around the corner, and I hear songs like this in my head as we trek up the hill to the rusty red gravel path. The hot sun shines on our faces and we welcome the warmth. The plain prickly grass field lies there, waiting for the next adventure. Like so many things, it is what you make of it, how you see it, and what you do with it that makes it special.

What's your special place? Where do you make memories? What ordinary things do you make extraordinary?

Junebugs Nursing Covers meets Everything for Babies in Alliston

2012-07-18T22:26:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago, I nervously stepped into Everything for Babies in Alliston, to present my nursing covers to them. When I walked into this cute baby store, calming music played in the background and a pleasant lady greeted me.

I introduced her to my nursing covers, and explained the unique features of our covers; the stiff boning in the neckline, wider width then most covers and sewn in pocket for easy storing. She mentioned that she liked the product and that she would review it with her colleagues. We then continued to talk about the life with twins, as her daughter also has twins. I left the store, said a prayer and headed home. A few weeks later, here we are, with junebugs nursing covers happily resting on the shelves of the Everything for Babies store in Alliston. I'm very excited about this new relationship, and can't wait to see what the future has to bring for us.

Check out the Everything for babies store soon. You're sure to be just as charmed with it as I was. Also, 'like' their facebook page, for updates on sales and specials. Hey, while you're over on facebook, would you consider 'liking' junebugs as well?