Today's Crafts

I worked on a few different tutu's and bows today, but my friend Whitney asked me if I could make one for her dog Daisy. Sooo, I did. I modeled it on my dog, Bella and I think its extremely cute. Once she saw it, she realized that her other pup, Dyno, was being left out. So she asked if I could make him a bowtie. Below are the pictures. 

I have to say, I'm loving making these items.

Thanks again, Whit for the great idea.

I also made a business page on Facebook. It's under "Dailey Boutique." Be sure to look it up, "Like" the page, and share it with your family and friends :)

Bowtie

 Bella Modeling

Up close of the bow attached to the tutu

Excited for what the future holds.

So yesterday I made up some business cards and a name for the little "business" I'm starting with the tutu's and bows. This is what it looks like. :)

Here is a sneak peek at a tutu set I'm working on now. It's my favorite yet. I'll post pictures once its complete.

Last, I need to share my excitement that I've purchased my very first DSLR camera and a prime lens. (Thanks to some advice from the wonderful Lenay Glover) I'm extremely excited. I'm waiting for them to get to me. The camera should arrive tomorrow. I wanted to start out with something that had a lot of promise but also not too overwhelming for a beginner like me. I did a lot of research and finally decided on the Nikon D3100x. I ordered the 35mm f 1.8 lens to go with it. This was quite the hassle because its about sold out EVERYWHERE-it's on high demand. I researched it quite a bit and it had nothing but great reviews. I also purchased two books to help me learn on it and teach me some new things. 

I've been researching photography schools online and I really like the New York Institute of Photography. It seems really promising for an online course. Photography is something I've wanted to do for years, but just never took the time to look into. Now that I have a little more time on my hands, and the support of my husband, I'm pursuing my artistic side. lol

I really should thank Lenay for being such an inspiration. She's an AMAZING photographer and she's extremely gifted in all her crafts.She's definately been a role model, even though she doesn't know it. I know how hard it is to balance your passions with having a child-and she has two. Lots of kuddo's to you, Lenay :)

First Homemade Bow/headband

Today I made one of my best friend's daughter her bow/headband to match her tutu for her birthday. I've been scouring the web and stores to find this birthday ribbon and cupcakes and finally found it. All I'm waiting for is the cupcake button to place in the middle and it will be complete. I can't wait to see it on little Emma <3

Busy day.

 Got up this morning and went shopping with Gramz and Aunt Taylor. I took a quick snap shot of me and Sarabeth before we headed out. We had a good time walking around the mall. She looked extra cute as always. 

 After the mall, we ran to Sam's Club. I got Chris goodies to fill up his Easter Basket. 30 candy bars, 12 packs of gum, and a variety pack on cinnamon rolls and honey buns-he's going to be a happy camper :) I got the little camo basket at The Dollar Tree a few weeks back. It's manly ;) haha

After all the running around, my girl was tired and a little cranky. So we laid down in my bed and watched some Spongebob. She isn't a very cuddly girl, so I LOVE moments like this where she's content just laying around with mommy <3 These are the moments I live for. I love being a mom!!!

One step forward, two steps back.

Well, Bella had surgery two weeks ago. She's been doing awesome and has healed up really well. The last few days she has been under the weather. I thought maybe it was just allergies (yes she has them) with all the pollen floating around. This morning she woke up with terrible diarrhea so I took her to the vet. They gave her some meds. I took this picture while waiting on the doctor. Apparently she thinks she deserves a chair and I need to stand up. haha

I also got some of the materials I ordered to begin making some tutu's. I made my very first one today. Red, white and blue. :) We're a very patriotic family. Gotta support daddy!!!

And here's just a really sweet picture of my baby girl sleeping. I couldn't help taking a picture, she looks so cute.

Hiatus

Ahhh, I've fallen so behind.
Life has been so hectic lately.
My dog had to have surgery, and of course she's a huge drama queen so she needed constant attention and was unable to be left alone.
My daughter is teething and is nothing short of a monster somedays.
I've had some health issues I'm trying to deal with.
Missing my husband terribly through everything that's going on.
Needless to say, I've been under some stress.
I'm sorry I've neglected the challenge.

I'm actually really considering a new camera and taking some photography courses. I've looked into some Online Photography Schools, but I really have no idea what I'm looking for because I'm a total amateur when it comes to the subject. I think I might take a simple course through the local community college and then go from there.
Any recommendations on a camera? I've been looking at the Nikon D40 and the Nikon D3000. They seem to be pretty similar, with the latter having a few more options. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
In the mean time, here a few pictures I have taken during my hiatus.  :)
I hope everyone is doing well!!!

 My friend Caitlin with SB

 An old man down the street makes birdhouses and I had this one special made for our front porch when Chris returns.

 This is a sign I made. :) I think it turned out pretty great!!

 My silly girl

 She fell down and wasn't happy about it! lol

 Spaghetti and an orange lolly pop=a VERY messy baby!!!

 My poor Bella in her cone and diaper after surgery :(

 Loves swinging!

Her infamous "OHHHH" face :)