WE MADE IT!

$1000

WE MADE IT!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/we-made-it.html

What a Month!

Wow. April is almost over and I'm ready to wrap up Autism Awareness month here on the blog. I've been extremely overwhelmed at the generosity of my family, friends, and blog readers (which most happen to fall in the first two categories). I know I shouldn't be surprised, though. I surround myself with the best people!

I want to give you some stats before I announce the final raffle winner.

46 individuals donated
8 people blogged about autism and referred people for donations in that way (some more than once!)
15 people attended the Open House where we raised some more money
6 people donated raffle prizes and/or giveaways to help with the cause
Our total as of this morning (I'm still waiting for a few donations from Carl's work) is:

$920

Look what we accomplished? I'm sure by the time the walk rolls around (May 24th) I will have reached the $1000 mark. I'm going to leave the donation button up in the sidebar until that time and I will also be having a few days where I will have my etsy sales count towards the fundraiser. I will let you know about that, of course. But, for all intents and purposes, the month long begging for money has ended. Fundraising is never an easy task but I can tell you, that when you're passionate about the cause it becomes a whole lot easier.

The raffle winner for the Stampin' Up products is....

Megan in NM!

I also drew for one last giveaway, too. The winner is... Jill M. She will be getting an awesome green appletini shower gel.

THANK YOU EVERYONE!

What a Month!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/what-month.html

Live Idol Blogging

Here is a reminder of how I thought the night should go:

Brooke--Hello Again
David Archuleta--September Morn
Syesha--Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show
David Cook--Love on the Rocks (a rocked out version) or America
Jason--Soolaimon

Here are the songs that I thought they would choose for themselves:

Brooke--Hello Again
David Archuleta--I Am, I Said
Syesha-- You Don't Bring Me Flowers
David Cook--Girl, You'll be a Woman Soon
Jason--Red, Red Wine

I think some of them should have gone with my recommendations. The first round is over and I wasn't too impressed. The second round is halfway through. My comments are in with the songs.
Here are the songs they chose:

Brooke--I'm a Believer (I don't think anyone should have picked this song but I think she did it as well as anyone else could have), I Am, I Said (LOVED IT!)
David Archuleta--Sweet Caroline (he should have done September Morn, seriously!), America (no, no, no...so not right for him--the judges are crazy)
Syesha-- Hello Again (should have been Brooke at the piano singing this), Thank the Lord for the Nighttime (okay, I guess)
David Cook--I'm Alive (should have rocked out a more well known song), All I Really Need is You (not bad, but I didn't like it as much as the judges)---the more I think about his song choices, the more I realize that he sang these for his brother (AC--did you notice his jacket and his guitar?) that is dying.
Jason--Forever in Blue Jeans (so bad!), September Morn (even worse! David A. totally should have done this song!)

Long live Neil!!!

Live Idol Blogging

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/live-idol-blogging.html

Dear Blog,

I only have about $100 more to raise to reach the $1000 mark.


There is ONE more day to enter the raffle for the $50 Stampin' Up gift certificate and other SU goodies.

I know I can make it. But, I know I need your help. Please spread the word!

Dear Blog,

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/dear-blog.html

Diamond Week

It's no secret that I love me some Neil Diamond. After that 2005 concert I said I probably didn't need to see him in concert again. I lied. I can't help myself. It has been 3 years! He's coming to Nebraska in July. I'm considering going by myself. I'm definitely okay with that. I don't know anyone around here that loves him enough to want to go (and if I do go, I'm splurging for the floor seats). It is just that it will be two weeks before I go to NYC and I'm going to be having plenty of fun there. Oh, the dilemma! Can I really pass up an opportunity to see Neil? We shall see...

Tomorrow night they are singing Neil Diamond songs on American Idol. I have mixed emotions about this. I am anxious to see what they sing but there is no way they can compare with the MASTER. It will be fun to see what Neil has to say about them. Here are the songs that I would pick for each idol:

Brooke--Hello Again
David Archuleta--September Morn
Syesha--Brother Love's Traveling Salvation Show
David Cook--Love on the Rocks (a rocked out version) or America
Jason--Soolaimon

Here are the songs that I think they will choose for themselves:

Brooke--Hello Again
David Archuleta--I Am, I Said
Syesha-- You Don't Bring Me Flowers
David Cook--Girl, You'll be a Woman Soon
Jason--Red, Red Wine


Friday morning, Neil will be on the Today show for their concert series. Set your DVRs. Or not. You know I'll have it!

Diamond Week

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/diamond-week.html

WINNER!

I drew a winner for the Beauticontrol products. Before I announce who won the drawing, I thought I'd give you a little insight onto how all of this goes down...and remind you that you still have a few more days to donate to get into the next raffle (if you've already donated, you're still entered for this prize).

In the beginning of the month I started keeping track of all that had donated. I put them in order from when their donation was received. When I started to do the raffles, I assigned them numbers according to how many "tickets" they received (every $2 increment--rounded up if they donated an odd number). We have just over 40 contributors which equal just over 300 tickets. Then I use a random number generator to see which numbers pop up. This is what I got this morning.

Here are your random numbers:

310 307 110

Timestamp: 2008-04-28 11:57:52 UTC

The first two numbers were for the same person. This person has already won a giveaway...but not a raffle so she is still eligible.

Am I just dragging this out a bit this morning?

The winner is WENDY! Congrats!

WINNER!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/winner.html

Project 365

04/21/08

The kids were out of school on Monday so we went with "the girls" to get some more of the Lincoln Safari clues.

04/22/08
Just another shot from our Earth Day celebration making paper beads.

04/23/08
Some pink converse booties sent off to a new home.

04/24/08
More cards. Getting ready for the open house.

04/25/08
One of the "areas" in my house. We had a great time and I consider it a success. Come back tomorrow for the winner of one of the raffles!

04/26/08Kerry came to visit!!!! We ate Mexican food, sampled a lot of licorice, and bought some matching bling! Check out that awesome ring on her finger! We got it from Ten Thousand Villages. It was such a good time! Saying goodbye wasn't too difficult knowing that I'll see her again in just over a month at Girls Weekend 2008 in KANSAS CITY!!! I'll be blogging about that in the next day or two.

04/27/08

Check it out! We hung our bathroom mirror. We did it this afternoon. I think it looks pretty nice. Now I want to change out our outlets because they are off white. Probably not going to happen, though. Next on the bathroom list is to finish the vanity (we are putting something on the top), change out the sink and faucet, and then finally...the floors!

What a week!

Project 365

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/project-365_27.html

Updated Tally

The Open House isn't over yet and as of last night we are at $836!!!! Most of my "big ticket" items from the Open House sold out yesterday so I'm debating whether or not to make some more for today. I guess we'll see how this morning goes. I now have NO DOUBT that we will make the new $1K goal before the walk. Everyone's generosity has been so overwhelming. Thank you so much!

On a totally unrelated subject...I just have to say that ROBIN HOOD starts again tonight!

Updated Tally

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/updated-tally.html

Shangri-la

Have you ever heard of Orange, Texas? It is the home of the newly opened Shangri La Gardens and Nature Center. Located in the southeast corner of Texas (near the Louisiana border), close to Port Arthur and the Gulf of Mexico, it is a great location for "green" garden. This is only the 50th project in the whole world to be awarded the U.S. Green Building Council's Platinum Certification for LEED®-NC. That means that this site has reached the highest standard for green building and performance. Most of the structures were built from reclaimed bricks and even their parking lot was made from asphalt taken from a local street before it was repaved. Hurricane Rita hit the site when they were in the beginning phases of construction but they used that as an opportunity and salvaged many of the downed trees to use in their plans.

Their website is full of pictures from this beautiful area. It is also a well organized site explaining many of the programs offered there. They have workshops for teachers, a summer science camp for kids called EcoRangers, and in November they will have an Orchid Festival. This very weekend they are celebrating Earth Week and Jack Hanna will be there giving a demonstration with his animals. I'm sure kids of all ages would find something of interest here. What a great example of how we can use our resources wisely for the benefit of everyone.

I really wish we lived closer. I can see how my family would really like this place. I'm sure Caleb and Eva would love to explore the Shape garden or the Color garden. I know Caleb would enjoy the Line Garden and the Texture Garden. A lot of my readers aren't too far away...maybe you could consider a trip to Orange and the Shangri-La Botanical Gardens.

Shangri-la

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/shangri-la.html

OPEN HOUSE!

The Open House is this weekend!

Drop by anytime April 25, 2008 3pm-7pm

April 26, 2008 4pm-5pm

Anywhere from 50%-100% (depends on items purchased) of the money raised goes towards Caleb's Team. I will also be accepting donations for the raffle.

For the out of towners, I'm going to be adding most of the items that don't sell to my etsy store and having a week in May designated for the fundraiser where a percentage of sales will go to Caleb's Team. Of course, I'll let you know via the blog/email.


THANKS EVERYONE!

OPEN HOUSE!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/open-house.html

Who R U?

Just a little food for thought for myself today. Please excuse the indulgence.

I'm working really hard on trying to figure out exactly who I am. What defines me? Do I really "get" me? When you strip off my "titles" (Carl's wife, Caleb & Eva's mom, daughter, sister, friend, etc...), what is left? What kind of person am I and/or what kind of person do I want to be?

Anyone else experiencing an identity crisis at the moment?

Raffle still going on HERE.

Who R U?

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/who-r-u.html

More Raffle Prizes!!!!

Living with autism is something we do around here 24/7. It isn't easy but there are many joys that come from it as well. Could your 20 month old sing all sorts of jingles and recognize stores by their signage? That's a pretty good skill, let me tell you. He'd see a Subway sign and say, "Subway! Eat Fresh!". Menard's was the first one we knew he could recognize. He saw an ad from the paper and said, "Nards". Good times. It also helps when I can't remember all the words from any tv show we've ever seen. Caleb remembers. He also knows the names of almost every single person that goes to our church. He says hi to them whenever he sees them (sometimes---okay, most of the time---right in the middle of services).

We have passed one fundraising goal and now I can't be stopped! I've got to reach that $1000 mark. I know it can be done. Caleb's Walk for Autism Team is a way for us to generate awareness and funds for Autism Speaks.

To sweeten the deal for those that donate, I've added another raffle prize. Each $2 donation gets your name in the pot for this:

$50 Gift Certificate to Stampin' Up (redeemable through me)
2008 Spring/Summer idea book/catalog
Brand new Stampin' Pastels
New Stampin' Scrub
New Stampin' Around handle (regular size)
New Stampin' Around ink cartridge (Pixie Pink)

In my best Jeff Probst impression, "Worth playing for?".

Use this button to donate!

All donations are still eligible for the Beauticontrol raffle as well. That drawing will be held on April 28th. The drawing for the Stampin' Up package will be April 30th.

Please pass this along to anyone you think would be interested in winning these great products and/or helping out for a great cause!

THANK YOU!

More Raffle Prizes!!!!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/more-raffle-prizes.html

Junk Mail Bead Tutorial

In honor of Earth Day, I thought I'd do a little craft with the girls today (Whitney & Eva) involving some items that I can almost guarantee you have in your house. We made paper beads and made them into little bracelets. However, the beads can be used for all sorts of things and you can get as fancy as you want---think scrapbook paper rolled up and finished with a clear lacquer and mixed with glass beads for a funky bracelet or bookmark.

Here is our tutorial.

Supplies: junk mail (magazine paper, brochures, etc...)
toothpicks (we couldn't find ours so we used matches)
Elmer's glue
scissors
string

1.
Pick out your paper. We are using some paper cut from one of those playground brochures.

2.
Get your stick.

3.

Cut your paper into triangles. The longer the triangles, the thicker the bead. Experiment with the size you like best. Then, starting with the largest side, start rolling them (right side down) onto the stick.

4.
When you get to the end, put some glue along the tip and then keep rolling. You want to have a little excess so you can roll it across the rest of the bead. Your fingers will get a little messy---that's what crafting is all about! Using ModPodge would be a better option if you're making beads for more than just play.


5.
Here are some of my finished beads. You can then string them onto string, yarn, or beading cord. We just used some old crochet thread I had lying around (turquoise/silver...oooh la la). The girls loved them!

Junk Mail Bead Tutorial

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/junk-mail-bead-tutorial.html

What's in Your Wallet?

Today's Talk About Tuesday is about what is in your purse. I'm trying not to be shamed by the amazing organized purse described by The Lazy Organizer. Actually, my purse isn't in too bad of shape. Changing purses regularly really helps me keep it clean (er). It works for me. Here is my bag for today.


Contents: wallet
checkbook
planner
coupon organizer
sunglasses (in case)
broken glasses (in case)
a paper telling me what new frames to buy at Lenscrafters
iPod
fairy toy
hair bows/bands
free magazine from grocery store
assorted pens
one used tissue
Caleb's "power card" (it says stuff like I'm a great kid and I won't beat up my family)
some papers from church


When I put everything back in my purse, this is how it looks. I try to keep room in there to add a small organizing bag with my knitting. I also have to add a diaper or two depending on who I have with me and where we are going. Like I said, it works for me. I keep my keys in a pocket by the door and my cellphone is usually with me. When I'm out and about I keep those two items in my pockets. They only go in my purse if I don't have any pockets (rare). Then I usually forget they are in there and freak out. Aaaah. Good times.

Don't forget that the raffle is still going on. Over $100 worth of Beauticontrol products is up for grabs. And, just because I can...I'll be adding another great raffle prize into the mix (like a $50 Stampin' Up gift certificate, some Stampin' Pastels, a Stampin' Scrub, and some other goodies!). I should be posting about that later today or tomorrow.

What's in Your Wallet?

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/whats-in-your-wallet.html

Discovery Toys

Discovery Toys is a company that has partnered itself with the Princeton Child Development Institute to raise money and provide support to kids with autism. Have you seen their new catalog? The stacking blocks are the best $11 I've ever spent on a toy, that's for sure! They still get played with. They are also having a fundraiser where you can buy a puzzle piece for $1 and it will be part of the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest jigsaw puzzle. How fun is that? If you need to buy some toys---consider purchasing from Discovery Toys* and helping out kids with autism in that way.


The raffle is still going on. You have one more week to donate to be included in that drawing. For the local people, my open house will be Friday April 25th from 3pm-7pm (drop in anytime) and again on Saturday April 26th from 4pm-5pm (just drop in). There will be homemade items from myself as well as a few other people for sale. Anywhere from 50%-100% (depending on the items) of all sales will go to our fundraiser. I gave my knitting group a sneak peak at the jewelry donated by arbee. Over half of it is gone now and it raised another $75! WOW! I haven't done the latest tally yet but I know for sure we are over $650. Will I make it to $1000? Please consider spreading the word on the raffle. Let's get the number up!

THANKS!

*This post is just my own opinion about the company and I have no specific ties with any demonstrator. I'm just a happy customer.

Discovery Toys

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/discovery-toys.html

Project 365

My pictures this week are mainly card projects I've worked on each day.

04/14/08
04/15/08The Lincoln Zoo opened today! We went and did our Lincoln Safari rubbing.

04/16/08
My organizing bags are put to good use---storing my knitting projects!

04/17/08

04/18/08

04/19/08

04/20/08
I'm sporting a new haircut. I think it is pretty cute.

Project 365

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/project-365_20.html

SMART Habit Saturday

I must admit that I'm doing really well on my habit this month. I am extremely motivated to do it. Go figure? I've been working on making some kind of craft every day. This is for my sanity as well as for the Open House I'm having to help raise money for Autism Awareness Month. Yes, I have to mention it. Check out this post to find out about the latest raffle. I'm on my way to raising $1,000 for Autism Speaks. Last night I dreamt that Brad Pitt donated because he loves my blog. Brad Pitt? If you're out there? I need about $400 more to make it to my goal!


Anyway, I have been on a roll these past couple of days working on cards. Having a clean craft room sure does help (thanks, SMART habit Saturday for that one, too!). Not only am I making a bunch of cards, I'm cleaning up after each different card. I put away all the ink, punches, paper, etc... Then, I start fresh when I work on a different design. Seems like a no brainer but I've never worked like that before. I just let it pile on top of pile until I as done and then I might put it away later. It is probably no wonder my craft room looked like it did!

My husband is away this weekend on a scout campout so while the kids were asleep, I didn't have anyone or anything to distract me (besides my self) so I knocked out a good pile of cards and tags. I think in the past 2 days I've made over 50 cards and about that many tags. I LOVE IT!

Now if only I were so motivated to do laundry.

SMART Habit Saturday

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/smart-habit-saturday_19.html

100 Day Kit

In late February, Autism Speaks unveiled a new 100 Day Kit. This kit is specifically designed for families that have just received a diagnosis of autism within the last 6 months. It is personalized with information pertaining to the age of your child. It is also available online (not personalized) for anyone to view. This wasn't available at the time of Caleb's diagnosis but I can see how it is such a valuable resource. When you first find out (if you're like me), you want to get all the information you can and work out a plan for action. It is so well put together and contains a wealth of information. Even now that I'm a few years into this journey, I have found new resources and tips in this guide.

If any of you know someone in the early stages of diagnosis, send them the information about he 100 Day Kit. If you don't, file that information away in your brain because odds are---you'll know someone that will go through this soon enough.

I'd like to think that the money we have raised so far goes directly to things like this kit.

I'm taking donations until the walk (May 24th) but will be closing the raffle on April 28th. THANK YOU!

100 Day Kit

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/100-day-kit.html

To Infinity and Beyond!

We've reached my personal goal of $500. In fact, we blew by it and it is only the 17th!

We are at $572.

WOW!

THANKS!

AMAZING!

LET'S KEEP GOING!

Dare I say we can reach $1000? I think we might.

In honor of passing the goal I am giving away a rag quilt made by Gigi. She made one for Eva when she was born and we LOVE it! She said she will use fun fabric but you'll need to be a little patient because she won't be able to make it and send it off for at least a month. Even though she has enough to deal with in her own life right now, she wanted to be able to help me out this month with the giveaways and fundraiser. Thanks, Gigi!

And the winner is....TIFFANY! Congrats, Tiffany! I'm sending your address along to Gigi and she'll send it to you when it is ready.

Because I'm feeling super good today about what we've accomplished, I've got another thing to giveaway. Some Pineapple Daquiri Cooling Foot Creme goes to LAUREN! Congrats, Lauren. I'll get it to you this Saturday!

There is still time to enter the raffle for the Beauticontrol products.

To Infinity and Beyond!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/to-infinity-and-beyond.html

And the Winners Are...

The winners are all the kids and parents that are going to benefit from the $468 raised (so far!) by my blog readers. I have no doubt we'll pass the $500 mark soon since I have all these great Beauticontrol products to raffle. I will do that drawing on April 28th.

I guess you want to know who won the bag and yarn?

LIZ

I was so nervous for everyone before I did the random number generator! I wanted everyone to be able to win the prize. I think it was just meant to be----she got her first granddaughter yesterday so go and congratulate her (or at least go and see the pics of the cute, cute baby!).

And the Winners Are...

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/and-winners-are.html

You Are Beautiful!

We're at the halfway point of Autism Awareness Month and Caleb gives you all a Thumbs Up! We have raised over $400 so far. I'm so grateful to all of you that have taken the time to make a donation in honor of my son for Autism Speaks. This month has been so full of blessings for our family. We've been able to see some major improvements in Caleb's behavior and he is really starting to take off with reading and writing. He's got some great skills that will serve him well in our neurotypical world. A lot of kids on the spectrum might never have that chance. There are so many ways that autism can present itself---it is a spectrum disorder so there are many varying degrees. Early intervention is key in helping our kids (and parents) learn how they tick (or try to, at least). Autism Speaks does a wonderful job in getting the word out, funding research, and lobbying for better medical coverage. Did you know that in most states little to no therapies are funded by insurance? Did you know that there are more kids with autism than those with cancer and diabetes combined? There is really so much to be done and all of you have been helping. That means so much to me! Thank you!

You have until I wake up in the morning on April 16th to get your donations in to qualify for the raffle including the bag and the yarn. I've got another great prize that will be raffled off as well. All previous donations will count as will all donations starting today. Each $2 donation will get you one entry into the drawing. Here is what you will get if you are picked...
1. Pineapple Daquiri Cooling Foot Creme
2. Ozone Therapy Hydrating Spray
3. Vanilla Latte Body Mousse Foaming Cleanser (2)
4. Ambrosia Fragranced Body Mist
5. Moroccan Mist Room & Linen Spray
6. Green Appletini Shower Gel
7. Orange Cream Moisturizing Body Souffle
8. Lemon Meringue Bath Sugar Crystals
9. Strawberry Daquiri Sugar Bath

These items were graciously donated by Pamela Webb for BeautiControl. I met her last year at the Autism Family Network vendor fair and had an awesome spa party (facials and foot rubs!) with her.

You can click on this button or the one on my sidebar to donate and be entered into the drawing.

Pamela also gave me some extra products to giveaway so I thought I'd give away a Green Appletini Shower Gel right now! To be eligible for the giveaways all you have to do is comment on any post (the more comments the more entries), blog about autism, or donate.

AUDRA!!! Audra was really meant to win this one, I guess. I always choose 2 numbers with the random number generator in case the first one has already won a giveaway this month (you're still eligible to win the raffle--that's separate). Both numbers had Audra's name!

Let's see how quickly we can pass that $500 mark! I'll keep you all posted.

You Are Beautiful!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/you-are-beautiful.html

Raffle Update

We have passed the $400 mark! Can you all believe it? This includes all donations received since April 1st!

The raffle is still going on! You have until tomorrow to get your donations in to be considered for this particular drawing. I've got another big gift to raffle off during the second part of the month (about $100 worth of Beauticontrol products!). Please check out Pam's BeautiControl website and see if there are some things you can't live without. I did a blog post about their self tanner last year. If you don't win the bag/yarn, you'll still be entered for a chance to win any of my other giveaways plus the raffle prizes.

I don't know if I blogged about this last year, but there is a group that organizes group cruises with Royal Caribbean and they are called AutismOnTheSeas. This sounds like such a great idea. Imagine a vacation where there are activities and staff trained to work with your child? Imagine a vacation where you would be able to get some free time from your kids and know that they are well taken care of? Sounds like the perfect vacation to me. Maybe we'll start saving up for a vacation in 2009 or 2010.

Happy Monday, everyone!

Raffle Update

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/raffle-update.html

Project 365

04/07/08


04/08/08


04/09/08


04/10/08


04/11/08


04/12/08


04/13/08

Project 365

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/project-365_13.html

The Day After

I had a great birthday! Thanks for all the well wishes.

I'm super busy today so I've got to make this post quick.

This is the first place I've lived where it has snowed on my birthday. I love Nebraska. Seriously. I do.

Keep the donations coming. The raffle will happen next week. Click here for details. The bag is SO GORGEOUS!

The Day After

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/day-after.html

It's My Birthday!

You know what I want (besides this cake, of course)? Comments on what age you think is the best and lots of donations to Autism Speaks. Click here.

I think 33 is going to be a great year!

eta: a lot of people have been asking me how much we've raised so far...the tally as of 10am this morning is $290. I can't believe how amazing this is! Last year we raised $300. This year my goal is $500. We're definitely on track! THANKS!!!

*image from flickr

It's My Birthday!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/its-my-birthday.html

Raffle

I am holding a raffle to generate donations for Autism Speaks. It is Autism Awareness Month and my son, Caleb, was diagnosed two years ago.
You can read more about it here.




The prize includes a custom bag made from one of my recycled sweaters. The actual making of the bag was done by Julie. She so graciously donated of her time to make it for this cause. I'm adding in 2 skeins of Koigu Painter's Palette Premium Merino (KPPPM) in Mulberry and 2 huge hanks of Noro Kochoran color 31 (50% wool, 30% Angora, 20% Silk). This prize is worth over $80.

Raffle tickets cost $2 each (you can donate any amount and will be credited for each $2 increment) and can be purchased by using this button (or the one on my sidebar) to donate to Caleb's Team for the Autism Walk.* All proceeds will go to Autism Speaks.

You have until April 15th to enter the raffle and I will draw the winner on April 16th. Please spread the word!

*If you have already donated, you are automatically entered into the raffle unless you let me know you'd rather not participate.

Raffle

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/raffle.html

Giveaway Winner and Big Announcement!

The winner of her choice of selected cards from Deb is........


Corrie (Mrs. Organic) from Positively Organic

Email me your contact information (sra_nelson AT yahoo DOT com) and I'll pass it along to Deb.

Giveaways will continue all through the month but later today I'm going to post about a special raffle for this bag from Julie.
It is made from one of my recycled sweaters that has been felted. The inside is lined with repurposed fabric. It is absolutely gorgeous! I am also throwing in some skeins of yarn (Koigu and Noro!!!) to tempt you (at least the knitters) a little further.

Congrats, Corrie and keep your eyes open for more info on how you can win this bag!

Giveaway Winner and Big Announcement!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/giveaway-winner-and-big-announcement.html

Oompa Loompas

There are roofers across the street working away on a house. This morning Eva went out there to say hi. She got so excited and said, "Mommy, Mommy, LOOK! OOMPA LOOMPAS!". I guess maybe the guys on the roof look like Oompa Loompas from her perspective. She keeps wanting to go out and watch them.

Do you want a fundraiser update?

I've passed the $150 mark so there will be another giveaway announced tomorrow! Thank you SO MUCH to everyone that has made the effort to donate and/or blog about Caleb and what we're trying to do. We still have a few weeks and I've still got a ways to go before I hit $500. Spread the word and don't forget that you can still enter the latest giveaway---details here.

Oompa Loompas

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/oompa-loompas.html

Talk About Tuesday

I've got another post about Autism Awareness this Tuesday. Take a moment to scroll down to find out about the giveaway sponsored by Deb. Make sure you I posted this video last year---the music is the same but the images are different. They don't allow me to embed so please follow the link.

I always have mixed emotions when I view videos, read books, meet other parents, etc... I'm sad that we don't always know how to best help our kids and then I'm happy that Caleb has made so much progress. Needless to say, I don't always have dry eyes whenever I think about it.

Last night Carl and I were talking about how much spontaneous conversation Caleb is able to come up with now (like the previous post). Last year at this time Caleb wasn't able to answer a question like, "What can you do at a park?". He was always good at labeling items but not talking about them in a general sense. He can now answer that question (and many more) and even elaborate a bit. He has also started asking his own questions. He doesn't have the exact words yet but we understand. The other day I said, "We don't eat boogers" (don't ask) and he said, "What would that happen?". He asks us that all the time now. The other day he said, "We don't eat rocks. That would break our teeth.". This is HUGE! The fact that he is gaining some intraverbal skills is not lost on me. I'm so proud of him. Another thing is that he is starting to say "Sorry". He is kind of like a bull in a china shop and doesn't have a real awareness about his body and surroundings. He is constantly knocking into things and hurting us unintentionally (and sometimes intentionally). In the past few days, he has started to say "Sorry" when things like that happen. Saying sorry before this week has been something we've made him do. He'd never said it in the correct context and we've never felt like he meant it before. Progress is being made. Real progress. I'm so proud of him.

I hope that you will all take the opportunity to donate whatever you can to Caleb's Team for the Walk For Autism. You can use the link, or there is a button in my sidebar that you can use as well.

Don't forget that donations, comments, and spreading the word get you entries into the giveaways. In fact, let's do a giveaway now! Deb has offered up your choice of these awesome card sets.


You have until 4/9/08 at midnight to comment/donate/blog. I'll draw a winner and post it here on Thursday morning. I'll have another giveaway as soon as the donations reach $150 (I have $75 so far). Spread the word!

Find out the details here.

Talk About Tuesday

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/talk-about-tuesday.html

Overheard

I was talking to Carl tonight while Caleb was watching a video. He turned to us and said,

"Can you knock it off, please? I'm trying to LEARN!".

I wonder if they taught him how to say that phrase at school? Funny stuff.

Overheard

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/overheard.html

Many Faces of Autism

A lot of you know Caleb personally and love him like we do. He's got so many things that make him special. He is certainly unique but he isn't alone. I found this video on Youtube and thought I'd share it.



CLICK HERE for information on how to donate to Caleb's Team and how to be entered into the
giveaway.

Many Faces of Autism

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/many-faces-of-autism.html

Kickoff

This afternoon I went to the Walk for Autism kickoff. It was a nice event and it made me even more motivated to raise money for our team. The event on May 24th is going to be a great time---and FREE. Free food, free moon bounces, free family time all at the Haymarket Sports Complex. I'd love to get as many people as possible to walk for our team. I'm going to get Caleb buttons made (who wouldn't want that face pinned to your chest?) and it should be a really good time. You can join our walk team by clicking the link above. It should be a really fun day out at the ballpark. There is even a Saltdogs game that evening. I won 5 tickets today. The first person to speak for it gets our extra ticket. Otherwise, I think tickets are just $5 each.

Kickoff

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/kickoff.html

Project 365

03/31/08
This is the ceiling in the atrium at the Cornhusker Marriott in Lincoln. I was there for the 2008 Nebraska Autism Conference.

04/01/08
I'm slowly gathering all my crafty books from around the house to put on one bookshelf.

04/02/08I figure I better get back to work on the N sweaters! I've already had pre-orders for over 10 (Nebraska and OU).

04/03/08

Eva fell asleep IN the couch. I had to lift up the cushion to be able to see her.

04/04/08
More turtle love.

04/05/08I bought this fabric on sale at Hancock. I'm going to use it for all sorts of crafty purposes.

04/06/08I'm making some squares to add to the blanket we're putting together as a guild for the People's City Mission.

Project 365

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/project-365.html

SMART Habit Saturday

It is a new month and time for a new habit. Last month I worked on getting my craft room in order. I have been working furiously in there for weeks and it is almost under control. I've come to realize that I value my space more than I value some of my things. I'll be having my friends come and take away some of my excess in the next few weeks and the rest will get donated.

One of the best things I did in there was get rid of one of my tables and install shelves. I still need to organize the items on the shelves--I just kind of stuck everything on there to get it out of the way so I could focus on the other side of the room.

These shelves have made such a huge difference already. I love them. Okay. That was last month. This month I have a new habit to work on.

One of the main reasons I needed to clean up my craft room is because I actually need to WORK in there. I have an etsy store in need of some TLC and an Open House fundraiser to plan for. To be ready for the fundraiser I need to get some crafting done. Big time. My habit is to make something every day. I'm going to use Sundays as my charity knitting day but every other day will be mainly for the fundraiser. My sewing isn't quite ready to be put up for sale---so that is all just practice. Here are some of the things I've made so far this week.
A turtle from recycled clothes.

A pillow from fabric passed along by Rachel.

I've also made more ponytail holders and mini sweaters.

I'm certainly feeling productive and there is nothing like making something crafty to make me feel happy! I'm really motivated to make a lot of items so I can meet my goal of $500 donated to Caleb's Team for the Walk for Autism.

SMART Habit Saturday

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/smart-habit-saturday.html

Our First Winner!

The first giveaway winner is Wendy. She's got three girls that I'm sure will look super cute in some of these!

Keep the comments/donations coming. We've got more drawings next week.

CLICK HERE for information on how to donate to Caleb's Team and how to be entered into the
giveaway.

Our First Winner!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/our-first-winner.html

Reunited--and it feels so good

Read about it here. They've aged so well. Welcome back, New Kids.

Don't forget to enter the giveaways. GO HERE NOW!

Reunited--and it feels so good

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/reunited-and-it-feels-so-good.html

GIVEAWAY TIME!

It is time for our first giveaway. I'm hoping this will get things jump-started. Last year we started off slowly and ended up raising $300! This year I upped my goal to $500. Let's get started! There are two ways to donate---click on the donate button on my sidebar or go to my team website to donate there. I know I have about 100 regular readers a day. I'm starting to feel a little bit like a PBS pledge drive---but if you donate just $5 it is like you are reading my blog for just pennies a day! ;)

This giveaway will run until Friday night (midnight Central time). Donate, comment, etc... and the winner will be sent some of these really cute felt flower ponytail holders. I made these last night and Eva wore them all day today. Don't worry--I'm making new ones for the giveaway. I will send two pair to the person selected from the random number generator. If you don't win, I am going to start stocking these in my etsy shop and I'll have them at my April 25th Open House. Eva got lots of compliments today and she loved having "pretty flowers" in her hair.

ETA: Don't forget that the comments rollover for each subsequent giveaway. The more you comment, donate, etc... the more you have a chance to win something great. I've got some really cool stuff lined up, too (a felted sweater bag from Julie, Beauticontrol products from my friend Pam, and a baby rag quilt from Gigi--to name just a few).


CLICK HERE for information on how to donate to Caleb's Team and how to be entered into the
giveaway.

GIVEAWAY TIME!

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/giveaway-time.html

Hershey House Party

Remember when I hosted the Pink Plaid Party for Better Homes & Gardens? Well, I was chosen to host another party---this time for Hershey. It is a Hershey Bliss house party and we'll get to be among the first in the nation to try the new chocolates in three varieties. Keep an eye out for more information here on the blog and in your email inbox (if you're local) so you can come and check it out.

Hershey House Party

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/hershey-house-party.html

Turtle

This isn't quite finished yet (lots of stray threads, no eyes and it isn't stuffed) but you may recognize the materials. I used the leftovers from my recycled sweater bag (made by Julie) and a t-shirt that had a hole in it. I asked Eva what it was and she said, "TURTLE!" so it was a successful sewing project for me! It was so much fun. I have enough to make another one and it is going to be one of the giveaway items for this month. Start commenting, people!

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CLICK HERE for information on how to donate to Caleb's Team and how to be entered into the giveaway.

Turtle

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/turtle.html

Autism on CNN

Most of the day today on CNN, you will be seeing features on autism.

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CLICK HERE for information on how to donate to Caleb's Team and how to be entered into the giveaway.

Autism on CNN

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/autism-on-cnn.html

Hello? Anyone There?

Did I scare everyone off? Autism Awareness month isn't a joke for April Fool's Day. I really will be blogging about it all month. I'll be blogging about the other exciting things in my life, too. Like, I sewed some more tonight. I'll see if I can post some pictures tomorrow.

And now, a joke for April 1.

Two cannibals are eating a clown. One cannibal turns to the other and asks, "Does this taste funny to you?"

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This year we are doing the Walk for Autism on May 24th and there are several ways that you can support our team. I have a donate button in the sidebar. You can donate any amount and it will go to my Paypal account for Caleb's Team and will then be added to the team donations. If you would like to go to our team website, it can be found here. There is a button there that you will be able to use to donate directly into our team fund. I will also be having another Open House fundraiser (Friday April 25th from 6pm-9pm--drop in whenever) where I will be selling handmade items and 50% of the proceeds will go to the team.

I'm also planning on giving back---giveaways will be happening again this month! Do you have something you'd like to donate for a giveaway? Please email me at sra_nelson AT yahoo DOT com.

Ways to win...
1. Donate! Let me know you did and you're entered.
2. Spread the word! Link to my blog and let people know about our cause.
3. Comment on each autism related post this month. Each comment will get you an entry and I will have at least one post each day.
4. Join my team! Want to walk with us on May 24th? Sign up to be on our walk team and you get an entry.

I will do drawings at various intervals throughout the month with the biggest giveaway happening at the end of the month.

Hello? Anyone There?

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/hello-anyone-there.html

Autism Awareness Month

Did you know…
• 1 in 150 children is diagnosed with autism
• 1 in 94 boys is on the autism spectrum
• 67 children are diagnosed per day
• A new case is diagnosed almost every 20 minutes
• More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes
& cancer combined
• Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.
• Autism costs the nation over $90 billion per year, a figure expected to double in
the next decade
• Autism receives less than 5% of the research funding of many less prevalent
childhood diseases
• Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism
• There is no medical detection or cure for autism

(from Autism Speaks)


How to help...
Caleb was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3. This month I dedicate my blog to celebrate him and raise money and awareness. This year we are doing the Walk for Autism on May 24th and there are several ways that you can support our team. I have a donate button in the sidebar. You can donate any amount and it will go to my Paypal account for Caleb's Team and will then be added to the team donations. If you would like to go to our team website, it can be found here. There is a button there that you will be able to use to donate directly into our team fund. I will also be having another Open House fundraiser (Friday April 25th from 6pm-9pm--drop in whenever) where I will be selling handmade items and 50% of the proceeds will go to the team.

I'm also planning on giving back---giveaways will be happening again this month! Do you have something you'd like to donate for a giveaway? Please email me at sra_nelson AT yahoo DOT com.

Ways to win...
1. Donate! Let me know you did and you're entered.
2. Spread the word! Link to my blog and let people know about our cause.
3. Comment on each autism related post this month. Each comment will get you an entry and I will have at least one post each day.
4. Join my team! Want to walk with us on May 24th? Sign up to be on our walk team and you get an entry.

I will do drawings at various intervals throughout the month with the biggest giveaway happening at the end of the month.

This was my Talk About Tuesday post. Do you have something to talk about today? Do it here.

Autism Awareness Month

http://craftyconservative.blogspot.com/2008/04/autism-awareness-month.html