babalisme

Double New Year Wishes

2012-01-20T13:18:00.000+07:00

I'm so sorry for the lack of post and absent in the blogosphere, oh, how I miss visiting and reading blogs. I have been really busy and the start of this year. First, we decided to renovate the old house. Yes, it's the same house my husband's been living for 20 years and hasn't been renovated since, so, Yes, it has few holes and some cracks, shessh. Also, I have been working on my new website which has been on hold for quite some time due to technical problem (now I regret not taking programming classes). Not to mention the usual job deadlines and daily chores. During the middle of hectic planning here and there, I found out that I am expecting my second! Baby G is going to be Big Sister G!! Oh, golly.

So I'm sorry for all the delays, all the late promises and email replies, I'll get back to you later. All I can say is thank you for being a loyal reader and stay tune for more fun this Valentine and a G-I-V-E-A-W-A-Y coming right away. Just bookmark the blog and don't miss out!

Happy belated New Year and Happy Chinese New Year!

What's your resolution this year?

Santa's Mail

2011-12-24T10:41:00.001+07:00

I just want to thank you everyone who put a good use of my Christmas Mail Tags printable, either you downloaded it last year or this year, I am really happy to bring extra smiles upon your gifts. I have seen it repin-ed again and again on pinterest, God bless all you pinners, and recently, darling Anna sent me a picture of her gifts using the tags!! It really has made my day waaaay brighter than ever!

Thank you Anna! And thank you Imagine Lovely for featuring Christmas Pal tags at her blog!

Happy holiday!

Brown Paper Packages

2011-12-19T18:12:00.001+07:00

..tied up with strings are seriously one of my favorite things in the world. I sometimes don't care what's inside I just want to cherish the crisp brown paper and the strings as long as I could. When this gift giving holiday coming, I can't think of a better way to wrap presents.

project wedding

connection photo

shane powers

Thank goodness I'm such a dweller on wedding blogs (yeah, yeah, I had my wedding, and not planning to have the second one, but I can't resist) I found all these wrapping ideas at emmaline bride. Go have a visit for more ideas! I think they''re mighty suitable for holiday too!

Nativity Scene Printable!

2011-12-12T11:52:00.001+07:00

It's beginning to look a lot like my favorite time of the year and ..

...Babalisme's annual holiday printable is here!! this year I'm giving away a nativity scene for you to play. I am guest blogging at Design Dazzle for this one as a part of Toni's 100 Ideas of Christmas Wonderful, so grab your copy there by Design Dazzle! Here's a sneak peak..

Toni has also test drove the printables on a cookie sheet and using magnet paper for the dolls! Here's how it looks :

Please don't stop on making the dolls purely as dolls. Hang them on a tree, use them as gift tags, or create your own modification!

So what are you planning for this holiday? How do you decorate this year? Please share!

And do share your own nativity scene printable if you happen to play with it :D

Happy holiday!

Paper Straw 101

2011-12-05T10:40:00.001+07:00

all pictures are taken by me and please do ask for permission to share/(noncommercial) use.

Last month, one of my dearest friend, who lived in the States was finally home for after 5 years abroad. We emailed frantically before her flight to Indonesia, and she asked me, "Would you like to get something from here?" And I answered without a doubt, "Striped paper straws!" She was bewildered, thought I might ask for something more... pricier or fancier? We LOLed about that till now, how I see the exaggerated beauty of striped paper straws or being a "paper straw nerd". So here I am, the nerd, giving you the lesson, on why paper straws are really pretty, functional, and underrated. *cough* ahem. Let's begin Paper Straw 101

The number one reason you've got to love them, is they are pretty cheap and add a dash to your purpose; party, baking, or craft, quite easily too, without any cratfing skill or whatsoever needed. You are also saving the earth if you choose to use paper straws instead of their plastic counterpart. I've been a user of plastic straws my whole life, and my sole fear of using paper straws would be the liquid bleeding through or it gets mushy after it soaked -or sipped- long enough. Read this for I tested it myself : it's not regular paper and as long as you're not chewing it like crazy, the paper is very well sturdy. I soaked mine for 24 hours non stop then it's finally to grow limp a little. Your party wouldn't last that long, isn't it?

My friend bought these via Bake Sweet Etsy, and according to the seller, they are made in USA, made by 100% recycled paper, bio-degradable, free of bleach and chlorine, and an FDA approved ink for the stripes. I told my friend to purchase from ebay or amazon instead, but she said that the lower prize might not bear the same quality and spesification, and since this is a "paper" straw you'd stuck in your mouth and your drink/food, I'd better stick with the higher quality instead. But the choice depends on your purpose, though. These are the paper straw up close. Pretty neat,eh? You can't barely seen the overlapping paper here. No leakage!

Technical things : covered! Now let's move our lesson to a more exciting part. Decorating with paper straws!! They come in every prints and colors, my friend only bought me stripes one, so I'll mention them with the colors only from now. If you are, like me, captivated with all the colors available, do stick to classic primary hues. Like this red, for instance.

Red alone is great for parties with theme such as :

carnival, circus, christmas, (why did the first 3 begin with a C?) folk-ish forest friend, snow white, baseball, ladybug, cat in the hat, classic train, cars, strawberries, and fire engine.

With other colors red could be used in theme, such as :

pirate (with black or gray), nautical (with navy blue), christmas (with green), any girly theme (with pink), any boyish theme (with baby blue), sock monkey (with blue or yellow), and watermelon (with black and green).

But don't count out un-popular colors too, like this one in gray. I think they are really understated, it's one of my favorite colors, and to achieve manly, grown up, or neutral theme party, this one is a must!

Gray alone could be used in a baby elephant themed, baby whale, grown up halloween, rustic chic, baby hippo, any white related theme (to add dimension, there's no white striped straws is there?), rock and roll, vintage, and so on. See? It's not lesser than red in theme count.

And paper straws can also be used outside drinking matters. Don't believe me, check out this links provided from the craftiest people in the blogosphere :

cupcake topper
cakepop holder, see here also.
wreath, a great how-to here
garland, I know it's hard to believe, but it's true!
napkin ring and table centrepiece.

See? Don't you love paper straws by now? Do tell me your ideas or link, and share me your ideas on how to use lovely, practical paper straws!

BTW, If you happen to live in Indonesia, my friend bought me too many, so if you'd like to get your hands on these paper straws yourself, please email me. I got the paper straws in these colors, although they are not in the same quantity :

light gray
bright red
lime green
navy blue
pastel yellow
pastel pink
pastel green
pastel blue

Be promptly quick! These are running out of my hands very fast! For those of you who live in US, Europe, or AUS do check out Etsy, Amazon, or Ebay, those are a great source of paper straws stock!

Rub a Dub Ducky

2011-11-28T16:46:00.001+07:00

Like Ernie of Sesame Street, I do have a thing or two about rubber duckies. They utterly cute and happen to bear one of my favorite color, yellow!! And they squeak! I don't own a bath tub now and I certainly miss taking a bath with those guys.

thank you Amesh for taking a picture of babalisme printables with your favor goodies!!

If you're a fan of the duck like me, check out a rubber ducky theme party hosted by Dreamesh for her son's 3rd birthday! It's a splash and get wet outdoor party, good thing to be Indonesians is you can host a summer-y party at any time of the year, and everyone seems to have a splashing good time!

Happy birthday, Yuara, and congratulations, *cough* an expecting mother, Amesh for throwing out such a great day! Yuara, enjoy your last moments of having your mom and dad solely for you. *evil laugh* just kidding. I know you'll be a good brother, Yuara.

On the side note, the winner for kyandkin giveaway is allwiredup! Congrats, Dee!

Winner!

2011-11-21T09:19:00.001+07:00

Hello, folks, did you miss me? I think this year is my busiest to date, I have been on blog absents for most of the time, I'm so sorry! Not to worry, today's about good news only.

*fanfare*

I'm going to announce the winner of Cloud Street Lab giveaway! Thank you for all of you who came to participate and join the fun. If you don't win this time, you still have the chance to enter my other giveaway with goodies from kyandkin. Don't forget to increase your chances with additional entries! Soooo, about the winner..

*drumroll*

It's number 29, Jill Hogan, 14, Snowfairy, 23, Kimberly, 44, Kartika ,49, Elizabeth ! You will be contacted soon by Cloud Street Lab to redeem your prize.

And for you, my lovely readers, there are lots and lots of Christmas ideas right here, so stay tune, everyone. Also, babalisme will be participating in Christmas Wonderful event at designdazzle ; 100+ craft ideas and 30+ blogs from all around the world pitching in for a wonderful, crafty, and even edible Christmas projects. Don't you dare miss it!

(un) Spooky Night

2011-10-28T20:27:00.001+07:00

Halloween is approaching! yaaaay! I'm going as Tintin this year, and Baby G as Snowy, Tintin's dog. My husband is not dressing up, but I secretly wish he would be my Captain Haddock.

Today's post is about Halloween decorating though. Lots of my reader been asking on how to celebrate Halloween in not too scary nor too kiddy atmosphere. Indi, here, would like to decorate her parent's house, and as fellow Indonesian, I'd really, really know how conservative things get around here. A friendly smiling skeleton would be considered outrageous. So here are some tips for you if you wish to celebrate Halloween, without the ghouls and witches.

Mandatory rules : no spooky creatures and/or animals, fictional or not. If you thirst for blood and gore, ignore this post.

Think of a not too scary theme, obviously. Think : Harry Potter potion class, not Saw nor Frankenstein. This arrangement by Martha Stewart is a perfect example. You get the mood of curious glass specimens, but not too hair raising as in a siamese twin fetus jar.

Going for classic literature this year? Think subtle gothic theme, like Poe's Raven instead of Stoker's Dracula. I found BrooklynLimestone's Raven themed dinner party decor is breathtaking but none bone chilling. Visit them for DIY dinner ware! See? No blood in sight!

Think outside of the box, in this case, pumpkins. Give your orange buddy a rest and arrange some flowers instead. Before you say that I am talking about the wrong holiday, take a look at this very fine example by OneCharmingParty. Pick your flower in a Halloween color scheme. For a grown up party, take white or purple ones or neutrals like grayish green. If you want to bring out some oranges without the pumpkin, pick an orange or yellowish colored blooms. Decorate with monochrome vases. Tin can such as the pic works well, but I think vintage-y gothic vases work well too. Be sure to contrast the pairing; black or dark flower go with opaque white vases, white flower, black vases. Don't mix white flowers with glass jars or white vase or it'll scream "I do" instead of "boo".

If you must, MUST, use pumpkins, please don't carve faces on them. For chic effect do paint, tie a bow, hang a tag, scribble your pumpkins in every possible way you can think of. Damask for pumpkins? Now that's what I call trendy. PaperCraftConnection will show you how and inspirations. Think Audrey Hepburn chic, not Morticia.

My final advise, think of Halloween as your un-holiday decor. Think of a color scheme of black and orange instead of vampires and werewolves. It does makes decorating easier if you stick to a color scheme instead of sticking to a theme. You've probably seen it everywhere, but Amy Atlas' pure genius (not evil genius) dessert tables spell C-H-I-C along the way. She showed the way to use color scheme perfectly, black and purple, traditional orange and neutral.

I hope you're inspired (and motivated. *now get out of your screen and get decorating*)!! What are you dressing up as this Halloween or how do you decor your house this year? Do share!

Giveaway : kyandkin

2011-10-26T12:24:00.000+07:00

Again, another giveaway to indulge this month! kyandkin is Heather and her two daugthers : kylie and kinley, hence the name of the shop, obviously. And today she's in the mood of giving away of her handmade comfy leggings in winner's choice of color! Isn't that amazing? Yes, you can win your own custom made pair of leggings!

If you love form and function equally, you'll love kyandkin. You know if you shop for toddlers clothing, you can't really abandon comfort and safety. I live in Indonesia, hot and humid, yet I (and my Baby G) is totally in love with kyandkin nightgown. They're 100% cotton, so soft, comfy, and she's not having rash or red elastic marks on her skin. If you love details, you love kyandkin more. Don't believe me? oh, you got to see the handmade packaging she does, it's very intimate, it's like it's really specially made for you, it literally IS sewn to your order, but, you know, there's just a huge difference between carrying a paper/plastic bag from the shop complete with price tags and getting your clothing sewn and folded in a handsewn fabric bag.

Also the same Q&A applies to all my giveaway hosts! Here's Heather's...

My biggest hindrance in crafting/designing is finding time sometimes, it's difficult sometimes with 2 little ones running around, BUT it works out, for now, most of the time - lucky me!
Crafting/Designing projects that I am most proud of when I was a kid is pretty much anything, I love to create. there's a sense of accomplishment with any craft once I complete it.
The harshest criticism/ insult that I have ever received about my craft/design works is haven't received any thus far...
If I were an animal, I'd like to be a bird...would be neat to fly for just a bit :)
If I were about to lose one of my five senses I'd rather it'd be my taste, all the others I wouldn't want to take away, seeing that I love to see, smell, hear and hug my little girls!
I'd mostly get awarded for craftsmanship, taking my time with pieces
If you could choose a celebrity for a sibling, it'd be jennifer aniston, I love her personality, and her style!

THE GIVEAWAY!

So you want to win a pair of custom made leggings on your color of choice? Read on.

How to enter :

Please be a follower of my blog (clickety click the GFC corner there) AND name 1 favorite item from the shop.

I will pick 1 winner with random. org. and the winner will be mailed by Nov 28th, 2010 at 14.00 my time (same day 07.00 GMT). So please, be sure to leave your email. Giveaway opens to US readers and international ones too if you agree to cover the shipping fees.

Additional entries :

*each task gain you +1 entry and mention as separate comment with your link or name as proof*

Like babalisme on FB

Follow babalisme on twitter

Like kyandkin on FB

Follow kyandkin on Twitter

Heart your favorite item from kyandkin.

Heart kyandkin etsy shop.

Pin any item from Kyandkin Etsy shop to your pinterest.

Tweet per day with link to this giveaway.

Share on your FB wall per day about the giveaway.

Gain 3 extra entries if you purchase from kyandkin during the giveaway. Mention with your etsy name in 3 separate comments.

Winter's coming! So don't think, comments away! Keep your legs warm!

Giveaway : Cloud Street Lab

2011-10-19T14:46:00.002+07:00

As I promised, giveaway galore, everyone! First up, CloudStreetLab is generously giving away 5 products from her her shop for 5 - FIVE (5!!) winners!

CloudStreetLab is a design and illustration house based at Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Built from love of experimentation and huge dream, CloudStreetLab is consisting of Ilma and Azam. the duo is currently opened the shop at Etsy for easy, affordable cliparts. Their products include the best selling robot cliparts, ultra cute Halloween themed cliparts, and my personal favorite, the Monster Creator Kit! All of which is very suitable for a kiddie Halloween party! You can found out more about them at their lovely website or say hello to their blog.

If you want to find out more about CloudStreetLab I have kinda interviewed them..

This one is Ilma ..

My biggest hindrance(s) in crafting/designing is/are procrastination.
Crafting/Designing projects that I am most proud of when I was a kid is my 'Reog' drawing. I won a gold medal for that. :D
The harshest criticism/ insult that I have ever received about my craft/design works is a laugh. A laugh can be harsh, sometimes. :)
If I were an animal, I'd like to be a bird, because I can visit different places and countries without spending my savings!
If I were about to lose one of my five senses I'd rather it'd be my smell.
I'd mostly get awarded for the clumsiest person. I often drop and break things, hit a wall while walking, lost important items :D
If you could choose a celebrity for a sibling, it'd be Rafael Nadal. He's such a nice and talented person.

..and Azam's ..

Crafting/Designing projects that I am most proud of when I was a kid is my comic
The harshest criticism/ insult that I have ever received about my craft/design works is "You're so impatient. An artist must take his/her time in making artwork."
If I were an animal, I'd like to be--recently--an ape (because I can make a revolution and build my own planet)
If I were about to lose one of my five senses I'd rather it'd be my touch.
I'd mostly get awarded for "the-whatever-person-with-whatever-award-left" (seriously)
If you could choose a celebrity for a sibling, it'd be perhaps, right now, I'd like Shione Yukawa to become my older sister.

THE GIVEAWAY!

So you want to win a clipart or that Monster Making Kit? Read on.

How to enter :

Please be a follower of my blog (clickety click the GFC corner there) AND name 1 favorite item from the shop.

I will pick 1 winner with random. org. and the winner will be mailed by Nov 20th, 2010 at 14.00 my time (same day 07.00 GMT). So please, be sure to leave your email. Giveaway opens internationally.

Additional entries :

*each task gain you +1 entry and mention as separate comment with your link or name as proof*

Like babalisme on FB

Like CloudStreetLab on FB

Follow CloudStreetLab on Twitter

Pin any item from CloudStreetLab Etsy shop to your pinterest.

Tweet per day with link to this giveaway.

Share on your FB wall per day about the giveaway.

Gain 2 extra entries for following CloudStreetLab the blog. Mention in 2 separate comments.

Gain 5 extra entries if you purchase from CloudStreeLab during the giveaway. Mention with your etsy name in 5 separate comments.

If you can't wait for your cliparts, head over to CloudStreetLab blog. They're giving away free cliparts like the one pictured above (perfect for autumn garland). Do share your pictures if you used them! Comment away, folks! QUICK, the monsters waiting!

Boo with your Eyes

2011-10-17T19:09:00.001+07:00

Halloween is just 2 weeks away! I'm so excited! If only I could decorated our doorways and lanes with paper tombstones and plastic skeletons without getting myself burnt at stakes. Sigh. I always envy you guys who can celebrate Halloween in the open. Heck, I can always celebrate with you guys, online! Halloween party printables here FREE for you all these 2 weeks (pssst. Giveaway(s) too...)

One of my reader, Sarah, asked for a not too kiddie Halloween theme like I have always done but not slasher movie material either. So...inspired by this, I think I'd share a photo props that is both safe for children but doesn't felt too childish for a grown up Halloween gathering.

download

Do cut along the dotted lines and don't forget to attach both temples to your "boo!". I initialized the "boo!" to fit with A4 printing paper, but do adjust the print size to your ..er... head or heads. For example, a 80% printed "boo!" suit 7 years old well. Or if your head is as huge as a pumpkin, print at 120%.

Lastly, download, enjoy, and do share your pics!

Halloween Month!

2011-10-11T17:21:00.005+07:00

Greetings folks! I can believe it's October already! I thought I was just celebrating new year 2011!

I was out of town for several weeks and I was really lost in (internet) connection. So pardon my blog break. I'm back now and ready to give you more ideas and fun this October. *wink* Giveaways (yes, plural) included, so stay tuned.

While I'm saying hello, here's a reminder of Halloween fun at babalisme you can download for free!

This year, I was thinking of a grown up Halloween party printable since lots here are suitable for kids (those who are in their hearts). So maybe less orange, more black and ghoulish? What do you think? Do you prefer kiddie theme printable or grown up this year? Vote!

Fast Fashion FAQ

2011-09-21T18:43:00.002+07:00

Hi there, long time no blog. I guess getting used to blogger new layout took me some time. Gee, how old I am! Today I'll be answering to the most frequently asked question landed on my email by you, awesome readers, second to how Scribd works, "What's your personal style like?" or "Can you blog an outfit post?" or "Are you even dressed up everyday or do you blog nekid (naked, LOL, I know it's still pronounced the same but why with this spelling?)" I'm going to answer the nekid one first : um, not literally dressed up but not naked either.

Samantha Hahn's illustration

It's not a surprise that these questions arise, since I think 70% of Indonesian blogs are about fashion/personal style. And each craft and/or parenting blogger had also at least one outfit post, so many of you think I should come up with this. But to tell you the truth at this point I'm not really into outfit post, because : I'm not really camera ready, REALLY. I'm beyond awkward when it comes to posing. But do I interested in fashion? Yes I do!

What about personal style? Let me do a quick trivia about my personal style :

I never wear fur. I live in a tropical town, it'd be suicidal to even consider one.
Nor do I lounge around everyday in bikinis or summer floral prints. Please stop imagining that all people in tropical lands dressed the same way as tourists everyday.
I don't have a favorite or taboo color in fashion. I love them all!
If I must live with only one fashion staple let it be a slightly over-sized crisp white shirt and a pair of good fitting jeans. OK, I cheated, that's two items.
I have a common obsession for shoes; flats, boots, wedges, heels, pumps, you name it.. I ain't gonna kid myself and deny it. There.
I have my own Hermes Birkin dilemma; it's the queen bee of all designer's bags, perfectly sized, great investment, classically designed, outstanding choice of colors and materials, shortly: I will never got bored with it. Yes, it's totally pricey, but the price tag aside; everybody else is wearing it. I'm not so sure whether I want one or not based on that fact alone.
I luuuurve my waist. I'm a curvy girl in pear so I'm naturally more attracted to vintage cutting than modern one. I love seeing modern cut on everyone else, but it just doesn't work for me.

So I think that's all I can share for now. Please do tell me what is your numero uno personal style rule?

Room Envy

2011-09-07T12:37:00.002+07:00

I once read an article in an interior magazine that a bulky furniture is not recommended to be put in a room, unless, it's a storage room. Also the concept of a house/ a room within the real house or the room itself can also make your actual space look even smaller. But I think when it comes to kids' room, the only rule that should apply is : Imagination.

and budget of course.

All Ears

2011-09-03T15:34:00.004+07:00

Hiya everyone! I'm back from a short trip and my do I feel recharged inside and physically exhausted at the same time! When I'm away I heard so many of you asking for this card in a more neutral mood. SO here it is everyone, the card in all occasion greetings. "thank you" and "best wishes". Kinda like 2 phrases in life you should have said the most, right? Feel free to download, click below, and don't forget to share your picture when you're using it.

download

Speaking of "phrases", maybe you have read it all over the net about JCP's slogan on girl t-shirt. No, I'm not going to moan or rant all over the blog for it, but I would like to share my "if" quote now. I grew up with lots of boys around me, 1 big brother and 2 boy cousins who always hang around the house and I call brothers as well. IF my mom had bought me that JCP t shirt and I had worn it, I would not have lived by now. :) Share your thoughts about the t shirt here! I'm in the mood for lending my ears!

Doily Lust

2011-08-29T15:36:00.004+07:00

Don't you just love the versatility of paper doilies? They can decorate your party walls as well as inviting your guests. These will help spruce up your party : doily wreath US$40 from myhaleygirl and DIY invitation from bijouxbride.

Doilies can be displayed in every mood, from helplessly romantic to curiously standout. I'm obsessed with this valentine ready doily bloomers set from myhaleygirl, US$50 a set, and illustrated doily from daresong, US$45.

Even though store bought doilies are ridiculously cheap it doesn't mean you can't make doilies on your own. Only a regular hole puncher and pieces of papers needed. Get the tute here from Lorajean.

Much Needed

2011-08-25T22:43:00.005+07:00

Katherine Kalleklec's cards, found on brothers borg.

Hi everyone. Have you noticed anything changed on this blog? It's slightly changed, you probably won't notice it but, thank you if you do :) SO .. I finally decided to give it a makeover, 3 years in the run and I think the blog deserves some face lift. In fact, the blog really need one! Do tell me what you think! do you have any more suggestion?

And I also want to tell you that I may not be really available to you during Idul Fitri Holiday break, but I try as much as I can to be online. :D I can't breath without puffing some http nowadays. Cheers!

Free Hari Raya Card!

2011-08-23T12:27:00.003+07:00

download

I guess I'm pretty lucky to reside in multicultural Indonesia. I'm pretty proud on that subject. I get to celebrate lots and lots of holidays around here. From Chinese New Year, Easter, Christmas, Halloween.. we didn't have St. Patrick's Day tough, sob. And this is the time of the year for Moslem's Hari Raya or Idul Fitri or Moslem's New Year. I'm not a moslem myself, but like any other Indonesians I do get my share of ketupat lebaran and opor ayam ( those are rice cake dish and stewed chicken with coconut milk, kinda like eggnog to Christmas and turkey to Thanksgiving, really tasty :P)

I get many orders for Hari Raya greeting cards and tags too. But one cracked me up. Since I am not a Moslem, I tried to honor the occasion with a traditional greenish design with diamond pattern. Because I didn't know any better way to portrait this holiday. This client of mine said she's not really satisfied. And I asked "Why? I thought I used green to capture the Fitri spirit?" And she said, "Yeah, yeah, I don't really care about all that, I want a modern design."

I chuckled to myself. It is almost unbelievable how we always portray the "holidays" as "traditional" or "old". You know, blushing fat Santa Claus in Norman Rockwell's illustration, the witch's silhouette for Halloween... and most of all, we always think that there are no modern interpretation of Hari Raya design. It's always Arabic ornaments here, ketupat imagery there... mostly green... Sooooo... I kinda wish I satisfied all my clients this time. And to you my dear readers out there with this free one. Tell me what you think!

ps. Btw, if you feel left out and want to use the card for other occasion, do tell me! I'll set up a blank/ other greetings a.s.a.p.

Blog Loving

2011-08-12T10:00:00.002+07:00

All pictures are from Ledansla. New blog that stays on my chrome tab all day long. I could never ever get tired looking at these pictures; chubby baby legs? My weakness. Do you have any blogs that keep you staring all day? Do share! Oh don't be stingy and keep those good blogs under your sleeves. :) We all love some eye candies.

On the Rack

2011-08-05T13:32:00.003+07:00

Clothes are beautiful when they are lined up together like these, aren't they? One of my silly obsessions. Clothes hanging peacefully in their homes, a.k.a the closets.

Blog update : I'm still alive and busy catching my own tail. I don't know why it is irresistible to do so. plus I'm drooling like tap water too. JK. Truth is it's almost the biggest juiciest national holiday here in Indonesia, Idul Fitri, and I got more deadlines than I could handle right now. Please stick around, I'll be back as usual :)

Matryoshkas party picture submission is still open. Have a great weekend!

Surprise Surprise

2011-07-26T19:18:00.002+07:00

Guess what, after countless projects and wonderful clients for these 3 long years, *drumroll* I'm finally opening my own site!! *applause please! what? no applause? sigh, a little smile perhaps? :) thank you! I know you can do it!*

I have had been asked numerous times, "What is your Etsy shop link?" or "Why won't you open up an Etsy shop?". Sadly, but I think Etsy is not for me. There are a lot of substitutes for Etsy, of course, but I have look around and can't find one that fits babalisme.

So here it is, my own babalisme dot com. It's still under construction, but I can't wait to share the news with you, I'm sharing it now!! Please be sure to drop by again when the store's held its grand opening. I'll tell you when for sure! Also my new facebook page and twitter account. I know I'm not much of a FBer or tweeter but I'll try my best! Like and follow me please :D because more surprises coming right up!

On the lighter side of surprises this week, I won a giveaway at cocomomo. This is the first time I've ever won a giveaway held by fellow Indonesian, and I'm quite surprise the snail mail package arrived in less than a week. Usually if I won something from abroad, it'd take months to arrive. By the way, ain't the camera pouch cute? Check out cocomomo for more pouch-y cutey.

Matryoshka Madness : Thank You Tags

2011-07-22T09:03:00.003+07:00

Download available here

Here it is, everyone! Scheduled to be out on Sunday but I think we all love Fridays so much, we posted it TODAY! YAY!

Surprisingly, the printable today won't be here at babalisme blog. (What? It's no surprise? Oh, well.. I tried my best.. ) You can all head down to Kelly's wonderful blog of crafts Running with Glitter to download your latest Matryoshka party kit. Boy, do I love her tagline : "mama said don't run with scissors but she didn't mention glitters". BIG LOL. er.. mama? You could have mop the floor for a week and it still has some glitters on it.

one of Kelly's tutorial : How to make Boo boo Box!

Don't forget to check all Running with Glitter crafty tutorials, healthy recipes, and Happy Healthy Me Link Up! A great motivator if you're starting to live healthier, including fitness tips and products review, healthy menu, and inspirational stories about healthy living. You should read through all the links or even submit one!

Happy crafting! Happy Partying! Happy Weekend, everyone!

As Easy as ABC

2011-07-21T12:59:00.003+07:00

I'm a typo addict. Seriously, when I was a kindergartner, when mostly everyone learns to write the alphabet, I was trying my luck copying the exact arial typo they used in student's book. I'm really really frustrated why my "A" wouldn't look exactly the same as the "A" printed on the book. Silly, huh?

SO ... enough babbling. Here are the most awesome ABC's you'll ever know! found on SharesomeCandy.

Daffodil flower alphabet by Vladimir Koncar.

And their names also stand for each letter! Andrea Kalfas.

Daffodil flower alphabet by Vladimir Koncar.

And I want to apologize for the fifth and last matryoshka party kit, it will be up on Sunday instead of today. I'm guest blogging for the last party kit so be sure to find the kit elsewhere. It's a secret place. If you know before I tell you on this blog you're super cool! HAHA!

Have a nice week everyone!

Hey Hey

2011-07-19T19:06:00.003+07:00

Hey there, if you were wondering if I am still here or have ended up in a morgue somewhere, well I'm here. Sorry to disappoint you, though I hope you're not, and I secretly hope you're happy instead. I have been busy with my works (who says freelancers has much "free" time?) and planning the big surprise. The surprise would be a great big leap for me since I'm always a scaredy cat on anything. I learnt how to swim at age 12 (*roll eyes* I know!!!) So, I'm really hoping all of you loyal readers of babalisme the blog would give me a huuugeeeeee support on this one. Fingers crossed, I hope all go well.

And some info on the matryoshka party kit, tomorrow will be the last one. Can't wait to see your parties/projects using the free printable. Anyway the kit will be a surprise too. I just love surprises.

And, Oh! All these eye candies were from my latest find in home decor blogosphere, sukkertoy for oyet which coincidentally means "candies for the eyes". It need some goggle translator in action, but it was worth all the 3 seconds translating.

Do you have some new blog finds? Let's share! I love reading new blogs!

Matryoshka Madness : paper plate

2011-07-12T17:43:00.003+07:00

download

Another party essentials that often overlooked by a hectic mom planner / momzilla: coordinating paper plate. Very quick and easy trick to add extra color to any table arrangements and can be multi-purposed too! Think of using it as a giant garland, dessert tiered stand, bouquet holder (a little snip snip required), or yes, an invitation or thank you notes if you wish.

Got any more ideas? DO share with us! How would you use this paper plate?

Sail Away!

2011-07-08T11:25:00.003+07:00

Remember the nautical mood I share this summer? Well one mother was inspired and decided to recreate the whole theme for her daughter's first birthday and sharing them with us! WoooooT! All aboard for Sarah's first anniversary!!

The party was celebrated at Sarah's preschool, the party included lots of water activity for kids and toddler, and of course, those who is young at heart, to jump into the pool. Apart from getting wet, the children did some bucket-painting and take their art home as a favor! What a great idea to have them sit still for at least 30 minutes.

Love love love all the details, the nautical shaped cookies, the buntings, the welcome aboard sign, and did you notice how big the stage is!! I bet many wondrous things happened there! Happy Birthday, Sarah! You had a swell party!

All photos are courtesy Monica, Sarah's mom, taken by Iski, private photographer. Due to privacy reason we can't share whole party pictures nor exact location of the party and other details such as link to Monica's page. Sorry :) If you have any questions email me, and I'll forward it to Monica.

But I can tell you who provides all the printables... *wink wink*...LOL... Yep including that gigantic stage backdrop. It's enough to send my PC to hibernate mode automatically.

ps. I still had some more matryoshkas printable coming right up, sorry for the delay! And some surprises too!

Matryoshka Madness : straw label

2011-06-29T10:46:00.002+07:00

download

Another party kit brought to you right now! Straw labels!! Well, I called them straw labels, but really you can use them for anything, garlands, favor tags, stickers, mostly anything you can think of!

To use them as straw label, all you have to do is put a double adhesive tape to your straw and stick the matryoshka to the straw. Or simply thread a ribbon/ baker's twine through each of them to make a garland. In any size you want. Do share with us if you have more creative projects using these babies! If you're shy, let me put them up for you, just email me at babalisme at yahoo dot com.

Have fun!

Mmmmm.. Monsters!!

2011-06-27T15:01:00.002+07:00

Another great ideas for summer party themes, this one is suitable for both gender you have at home. (Just in case your boys puke on the idea of matryoshka party)

MONSTERS!!!

Loving this orange-fuschia-neutral combo by spaceshipsandlaserbeams, it made the whole them bearable for pink addicted girls yet fun enough for the monstrous boys. And the dessert table do teach us that you don't have to craft an award winning cupcakes fondant nor cakepops, even slices of fruits make nice and eye catching dessert table food. Sorry, Amy Atlas, but this time I have to agree on the fact that not all moms have your budget and your team of bakers. Ditto for dessert table properties, what cupcake tiers?

Great ideas, great execution, great design. Simply love it. If I could vote, this maybe the best dessert table for summer. Not to mention the framed monster family pictures as the background! Too cute!

found via craftgossip.

ps. Another matryoshka printable coming right this week. This week's favorite alphabet definitely : M. What's yours?

Dear Matryoshka

2011-06-20T19:31:00.003+07:00

The whole world is probably smitten with this Russian lady, I mean, who wouldn't? I get a great feed back on this set of printable, thank you, and I think the matryoshkas haven't lost its charm. So, I got a lot of question regarding the "nesting" invitation. Here's how it actually look like when folded, ready to be sent.

You may want to cut all through the connecting matryoshkas. I let few inches between them for safety (so that you won't easily disconnect the 4 ladies) but if you like yours to be clean and you are very confident in your cutting skill, please welcome to snip clean between the matryoshkas.

Imagine the biggest matryoshka and the "patterned" silhouette beside her is a regular greetings card. Fold them the usual way you'd want to fold a card, it's a "mountain" fold. Do another mountain fold with the 2 smaller ladies and tuck both inside your "card".

Write any desirable messages inside, put it in an envelope, voila. Happy inviting/greeting. :)

Matryoshka Madness : Cupcake topper

2011-06-20T10:48:00.003+07:00

The most versatile of all party kit! Cupcake topper! Simply can't live without them. For more ideas on how to use this toppers read here. Do share your creations/ ideas with us!

download

I got many questions about the invitation, particularly about the folding, I will post about it tomorrow. For the mean time have fun with the topper.

ps. can anyone make a matryoshka looking cupcake? I'd love to see!

Matryoshka Madness

2011-06-15T19:42:00.007+07:00

She's the ruling queen, the it girl of craft community, loved by children (and their mommies) of all ages, and especially by you, dear readers!! Please welcome,

Miss Matryoshka!

** big applause and standing ovation **

So you love matryoshka so much right? I can hear the poupee girl crying in the dark corner somewhere, hang on there, girl, there will be next time for you.. And since June is babalisme's birthday month, you are all welcome to host a party. All printables needed will be provided FREE on this very babalisme blog. Excited? Well I am. The party could be a birthday party, bridal shower, baby shower, slumber party, heck, even those just-because tea parties. Just print, cut, and embellish anything on your party with the printables. Easier than ABCs.

download

What's a girl gotta do first when throwing a party, you say? Send out the invitation of course! Here's the thing you'll need right now, a nesting doll invitation!! YAAAAAY!! Go on click here and print as much as you like. Fold each doll and make accordion folds with them. The littlest ones should tuck safely behind the big card. Voila, a nesting invitation.

Enjoy!

FAQ

I have a printing/letterpress/party business can I sell printed/end products to my customers?

of course, you can not. I give out these printables free for personal use, no commercial purposes allowed. Please respect my rights as the maker, and don't do it behind my back, it hurts my feeling, really. And I may stop giving away free printable. And you might get boo-ed by my loyal readers. Just, don't be a jerk.

I have a printing/letterpress/party business can I give printed/end products to my customers for free?

if your main intention is still commercially promoting your own business using someone else's hard work... no.

I want to host a party for my best friend's bridal shower can I use your printable?

whatever your party is, if it won't give you commercial gain, please, be my guest and print as much as you like. I'd love to see some pictures in action though, consider it my payment :)

A friend of mine like the printables so much, can I give her my copy?

do ask your friend to download herself on this blog, I love making new friends, so your friend can be my friend too :)

I like the design so much I want to use it on my name card/ blog buttons/ facebook profile picture/ twitter background/etc?

Well, I'm sorry, you can't alter the design that is already made, digitally speaking. However you can always use it creatively AFTER you print it out. For example, you may print it on t-shirt transfer paper and iron it on your t-shirt! Just don't sell the t-shirt afterwards.

Can I order you to make me a custom invitation/paper doll/ schedule/ party kit/etc!

Sure you can! from the mean time please email me at babalisme{at}yahoo {dot}com. I am still considering about Etsy. :)

JUNE Pick A Theme

2011-06-06T10:38:00.005+07:00

It's finally here again! Babalisme's anniversary free printable month!!! Can't believe it's Babalisme's third year on the blogosphere and I'm really really anxious too see that followers count into 1000! one thousand! That's many followers! Thank you!

So as a gratitude towards Babalisme's loyal readers I'm going to make a party kit for you, FREE download, FREE printables! Personal use only though.. Just make sure you don't sell it afterwards. Anyhoo, if you are reading this post and feel left out, here are one of the previous year party kit in Lemonade theme, still available to download FREEEE!! (why the heck I keep stressing the word FREE?) or just browse through the "printable" categories and you'll be taken to a full array of free printable.

For now, pick your favorite themes!! The theme with most votes will be made into a party kit and will be shared for free at the blog. Without further ado.... *drumroll* Please welcome theme number one.....

in the blue corner.... The Queen of all Craft world, the darling in every crafters' heart, the Russian celebrity.... Matryoshka party theme!!! Let's hear you scream TEAM MATRYOSHKA in the comment to vote for this lady!

In the red corner... A rookie contender of croissants, macaroons, and everything nice, A French girls special... Le Petite Poupee!! or.. er... The Little Dolly, in Parisian style. If you like her so much, please comment : TEAM POUPEE!

So there you go. Use your own imagination in how each theme could be addressed in a party. And along with your vote, let us know, what will there be in your party!

Vote away, dearies!

Thank you!

Red Carpet Moment

2011-06-01T15:47:00.002+07:00

Yet another award! Thank you printiland! The award title might be a little reminder to that cheeky love song Peter Cetera sings, but I'm so honored! I never consider myself inspirational in a way, I was thinking of "you're you sweet" or "you're so funny" award instead of "you're an inspiration"! I am used to think that inspiration=Oprah, so, WOW! Thanks again printiland!

So without further ado, the award ceremony :

1. Thank and link back the person awarded this to you.

I did it twice!!

2. Give the award to 10 other blogs which all are inspiring in their own ways

diana's blog, for her journey in life that is a little less ordinary

kiki's create, for her ruffled bedcover. nuff said.

http://akihiko-yoshida.tumblr.com/, for he is a legend in game illustration and a gaming geek.

The Chops' blog, for their offering of ultimate good time and good craft.

veren's blog, a little too cute for my age, but I wish my daughter would look as cute.

lia's space, make me try (a little) to start sewing.

christy's blog, for her collection of everything nice. In a very accurate dose.

tamu's blog, for bright colors and big smiles! all those fashionistas should wear more colors and smile a bit don't you think?

fifi's blog, for her wide collection of designer's stuffs. And she's cute too!

mymom's blog, for numerous time I spent procrastinating looking at beautiful ladies.

So there goes the award. ...and sssssoooo.. it's June again. Time for Babalisme's free printable month! Can't believe I started Babalisme the Blog three years ago. Since then, the printables have flown across the globe to loving crafters. What's up for this year? It's a surprise! Yes, you gotta vote again. See you around!

Eureka

2011-05-23T19:05:00.003+07:00

If I had a F.A.Q corner this one might be the most frequently asked question by email from babalisme readers: "How do I create a professional looking, coordinating party decoration without spending much money/creating much DIY crafts?".

Fair enough, I think, most of party decorations demolished or even perished/lost/damaged in less than 12 hours after the party started. So, no one wants to really invest much time or money or effort in creating decorations, right? You know how fast party balloons gone? They're quite affordable, thankfully. But here is a little trick to boost extra "oooomphs" and generate extra "aaaawwws" to your party without breaking any bank account: Use cupcake topper ANYWHERE. Yes, I mean it, anywhere. These little dudes are usually easy to make and affordable as well. And..they are so versatile in terms of shapes and wording they can be used anywhere. Here are some of my ideas :

the cupcake topper "modeled" here is free, get it here if you haven't.

I may set the font too small to read so here are what's actually written there :

as a cupcake topper, doh!
as a party garland
as a favor tag
as a lunchbag name tag
as a lollipop or party straw label

Do you have any ideas on how to make your cupcake toppers work real hard at a party? Or even after the party? Do share with us!

and in and out of weeks ..

2011-05-21T09:35:00.003+07:00

where the wild things are still

....and almost over a month I abandon this blog. *sob* Currently in high summer holiday mood, so I spent much time running barefoot in the garden with Baby G, spraying water hose. I don't know , I kinda avoid anything high tech during summer. Also the fact that Baby G will start her first real school without me *gasp* terrify me a bit. You know, how much I will miss her during those 2 hours everyday?

anyhoo..

Unable to meet my nautical holiday dream, I am currently mesmerized over other summer holiday probability: a nice lazy summer afternoon under the trees. Think : Where the Wild Things Are. Rope hammocks and tents are purely a must. Enough with words, let the wild rumpus start with these pics.

swoon worthy party spotted at ohdeedoh

cute cute interpretation at jackieculmer's blog

Flower girls can't be any cuter. Spotted at howtotietheknot.

Space 15 twenty Pop up store. via foxisblack.

And the cutest Max I have seen so far.

So, what are you doing this summer?

Ahoy Summer

2011-05-02T12:52:00.004+07:00

Hello, everyone! Back from early summer holiday (more of the topic soon), I can't help but thinking about nautical themes on everything! I feel the urge to immediately share the inspiration with you! Just think Donald Duck in St. Tropez! Sands between your toes and cold wind playing with your bed hair. Aquamarine sea under the sun. swoon.

Zara kids' sailor tee.

swoon worthy catalog images from Erin's blog.

Blanco's spring/summer 2011 found here

Table setting by TrelesCreations

Classical tote bag from bayanhippo

I also want to thank you all the positive feedback for Bob's party. Including a feature at

PartyPerfect and CraftGossip. Not to mention the next party issue of InGoodCompany online magazine! Thank you very much!

Wonder Felt Winner

2011-04-22T12:08:00.004+07:00

Congrats chimerathreads! You just won a Big Little Felt Universe book from LarkCrafts.

the winner made this! Isn't she awesome?!

Thank you everyone for joining in and I'm so sorry I picked the winner 2 hours earlier, I had plane to catch and I'm worried that in my destination I won't get connection. I had fun anyway! Keep your eyes open for next giveaway!

***edit *** I'm so sorry that I have not heard anything in reply from chimerathreads, I have picked another winner it's #56 theenchantedtree! Congrats, Tree! (Her real name is Tree, I know! How awesome is that! )

DIY Wild West Birthday

2011-04-18T14:41:00.006+07:00

Howdy and Yee-haw! Must be one of the most and well said words during the day! It's my nephew's Bob 6th birthday and cowboys and girls suddenly roaming all around the house. Can't believe how energetic 6th year olds could be. I designed the dessert table and all the printables used, I hope I did great, thank you for all the help from Bob's mom and her crews. She's baking all the cookies , the puddings, the smores, and the cupcakes, plus all the food we got to eat that day, have I mentioned that to you? Isn't she some kind of kitchen wonder?

Enough talking, I guess, enjoy the party!

If you think Bob's mom done a great job in mouth watery department.... You're in luck, she's accepting orders at the moment, contact her here.

The macaroon stand is also a paper printable, but to get it sturdy enough, I lined it with thick cardboard before assembling. Better than the idea of cutting through whole cardboard printable, arthritis alert!

See? It's now strong enough to hold a dozen macaroons.

Since we can't find many store bought cupcake stands that don't scream "girly", the cupcake stands is also part of DIY aspect of this party, it's basically a styrofoam lined with wrapping papers and embellished with thin rope and japanese washi tape along the edges. Lucky to have wood patterned wrapping papers around.

The photobooth and props are all DIY too! The moustaches are all felt and the rest are cardboard. Including the wanted poster, my, boys do love it! Baby G help me colored in the hats! What do you think of her job?

Here's some of the results... Can you spot Baby G around? If you were wondering what did we do with such noisy cowboys/girls, we did had some games to play, there were coin tossing to an old boot, shooting range, hitting horse pinata, and passing hat to old time favorite like "She'll be Comin' Round the Mountain". Why didn't I take pictures of those happy moments and props? It lasted only 5 minutes. Literally. And the props were too sad to be photographed. Mental note to self : take pictures BEFORE the party. During? Hire a photographer. Because you can't wrestle with one or two 6th years old while taking pictures.

So long, pardner! See you next time!

More Easter-iffic!

2011-04-14T16:34:00.007+07:00

Another bad pun made the headlines. Sorry. Pun really intended because you gotta see what I mean and say (heck, shout) "Easter-iffic" with me.

I'm sure I had once or twice mention jinjerup here on my blog, she's just way too talented! And to celebrate Easter jinjerup teamed up with myowlbarn and share this with us! For Free! How cool is that? Go on take a hike to the owl's nest and indulge yourself in some easter-iffic favor bags. Don't forget to thank them and tell them I sent you. HA! No need to do the later one, but be polite and thank them :)

If you haven't download my own Easter-iffic go right here.

Do you want to create your own Easter-iffic things? GIVEAWAY still runs! go right through here!

Have a nice week!

Easter-iffic!!

2011-04-12T19:01:00.004+07:00

Sorry for the bad pun, and in the title too! What was I thinking? Just as I promise you guys, free printable for Easter! They are tags, but you can use them for almost anything! Banners, cupcake toppers, scrapbook embellishments, stickers, even as confetti (just alter the print size into smaller size). Just make sure you do share your creation with the rest of us :D Happy Easter!

download

PLEASE do tell me if you found the printable elsewhere that violated my rights as the maker.

PLEASE share your real parties, modifications, creations, ideas, etc using the printable, you can send the link on this post or you can send the pics to my email.

THANK YOU.

Bunny Season

2011-04-11T17:14:00.002+07:00

'Tis the season for a long ears and buck teethed, whiskered fellow. And some yellow chicks. God I love Easter. I'll promise you one free printable to celebrate, I hope I can manage to make one in my tight schedule (sorry readers, sorry Baby G). In the mean time you can always rely on Martha for some festive ideas. My favorite is the one pictured up there.

Yes, don't forget to enter my GIVEAWAY if you haven't! Or if you had, you can still increase your chances by tweeting or sharing it on social network sites like FB. Good luck!

ps. I'm getting new followers but why haven't you guys entering? waiting for the near closing time luck? :D

Sew Fantastic

2011-04-01T15:47:00.005+07:00

Truly an eye candy! Jillian Tamaki for Penguin Books. via black*eiffel.

Don't forget to enter my Giveaway! Close on April 22 open internationally!

Felt so Good: GIVEAWAY

2011-03-22T10:16:00.004+07:00

Care to win one of this? Read on, ladies.

Yes, I'm giving away newly released Big Little FELT Universe by Jeanette Lim from Lark Crafts. The author, Jeanette Lim, lives in Singapore and is a felt artist extraordinaire. She is an Etsy star who has sold close to 9,000 patterns of her designs since she opened her shop in the fall of 2007. Like a wizard, she can easily transform everyday objects, and I mean ANY objects, into fluffy felt creations.

I'm a craft book addict and Japanese ones are on top of my ever growing collections. But to my surprise, Big Little FELT Universe DOES amazes me! It's everything you want from a Japanese craft book; accurate felt color definition, step by step photo tutorials, mostly actual size pattern (no resizing required!! YAY!), and of course basic methods and tips explained in less words and more pictures. I love the fact that it's in English, and unlike many Japanese craft books, the patterns are individually placed, even the big ones like cutting board template stands on their own. Well for a novice like me, that's one big help!

The book's patterns cover most of your children basic toys, like medicine kit, birthday cake kit, vegetable and cooking utensils, grill kit, camping kit, and even ones for the holiday (gingerbread house pattern! what more could you ask?). So I'm guessing if you have kids this might be an excellent source of day to day craft ideas.

And oh, by the way, I made this kiwi fruit from the pattern above. Sorry for the rough stitching and un-match colors... ( boo boo).. But I gotta test if the instructions and pattern work well, and yes, they work just fine for sewing idiots like me, it'll work excellent for you felt experts.

THE GIVEAWAY!

Enough babbling, so you want to win this book, right? Here goes..

How to win :

Please be a follower and simply comment below what felt pattern would you like to see next by Jeanette Lim? Could be a theme and/or an object. e.g Big Little FELT Universe offers everyday objects theme ranging from vegetables to computers... but how about fantasy theme next with unicorns and toad princes?

I will pick 1 winner with random. org. and the winner will be mailed by April 22, 2010 at 14.00 my time (same day 07.00 GMT). So please, be sure to leave your email. Giveaway opens internationally.

Want extra entries ?

Subscribe to this blog (put your email in the box on your right) 1 entry
Blog, tweet, facebook, etc the giveaway link 1 entry per link
Please put each extra entry in separate comment and write down your link too so I can check!

If you can't wait to have your own, you can purchase Big Little FELT Universe at Amazon or bookstores near you, available from March or April this year. Still can't wait to do a project? Well, Lark Crafts is generous to share one of cute patterns from the book. Make a sundae here.

Enjoy your felt!

Pink Anatomy

2011-03-15T09:20:00.003+07:00

Don't you love this chart? I am currently obsessing!

via here

Pssst. I'm having a spring giveaway soon be sure to check back here often :)

"Oh Dear..

2011-03-10T13:32:00.004+07:00

..H&M, why wouldn't you open up a store in Indonesia? We have Louis Vuitton, Valentino, Armani, Balenciaga, Versace, and tons of Zara outlets, but why not you? -sincerely, small budget fashionista"

LOL, I just having fun sketching H&M online shop collection. With my daughter's new crayons. Gotta test them thoroughly, now that I'm a good mother. Working just fine, dear. *toss crayons to Baby G*

** note to worried parents : I didn't actually toss the crayons to Baby G, I handed it over nice and slow, and I made sure she didn't chew them. They're toxic free, but you know...

Zine Crush

2011-03-03T12:14:00.002+07:00

Have I mentioned that I'm a magazine addict? Though I can't deny that the existence of blogs and e-zines has significantly decreased my appetite for monthly subscription. Funny, even some big name magazines have an online version now. But sometimes good things can only be seen, felt, and touched in paper and prints. If you're an old dog like me (and in the mood to really feel the paper while you read, just curious, when is the last time YOU read from a real piece of paper theses days?), these are an array of lovely magazines out there, which stands tall against tsunamis of blogs. Go visit a stall and grab a chewing gum too while you're there.

hello, sandwich. pic from here

Marche (in Japanese) pic from here

Lula. pic from here.

seriously, Martha? Where would we be without you? pic from here.

Olive All Over

2011-02-23T15:50:00.002+07:00

(this is going to be my shortest post introduction ever, behold!)

My current color crush: Olive. Swoon.

1. Satin Tunic from ZARA 2. Cushion cover from Turquoise Tumbleweed 3. Baby girl prewalker slippers from bonnienluebelle 4. Quilt from urbanoutfitters 5. print from jenskelley 6. Bag from Balenciaga Resort collection 2011, pic from here.

Things I love about sketching...

2011-02-21T13:03:00.003+07:00

it doesn't require too much effort
it doesn't require too much time (yet can be done ANY time!)
it doesn't require too much fancy tools (pen and paper will do)
it doesn't have to be solely on paper either!
it doesn't require any proper desks nor tables (or software)
it doesn't require any skills (like sewing, doh! still practicing myself on that one)

if it doesn't turn up well, you can always sketch some more.

and it's soooo much fun, it's highly addictive. Don't say I didn't warn you.
Some sketches I did this week. :)

Grateful

2011-02-08T16:09:00.004+07:00

This is my first time to be featured on a real magazine! Yaay!! I missed the issue *sob* for I spend too much time reading blogs and for my short term memory loss ( I bought the wrong magazine, DOH!). Thank you Amesh, nonetheless, who has been such a patient pal along the way :).

p.s I know it's Katy Perry sporting cute headband with her famous California Girls get ups (doubt there are more than the headband and the ring) on the cover but I can assure you that this is not that kind of magazine. It's a young women's lifestyle magazine. Duh, how can you think my blog'd be feature on that kind of magazine?
p.s.s I'm still waiting for my own issue to come (I have it special ordered from the agent) but can't wait to share the news, Amesh provided the photo for me. Such joy!

All you need is

2011-02-04T16:42:00.002+07:00

the always resourceful Martha's heart doilies

LOVE! Valentine's day closing in, everyone, and yes Happy Lunar New Year, it's the golden rabbit year, how lovely is that? Hope you will all have a great hop on to the next year. Rabbit? Hop? Get it? Sorry, bad pun. Anyhoooooo... I just love February because it's already unique, who gets 28 and sometimes 29 other than her? And basically I always am a hopeless romantic. Ah, L'amour, l'amour...(you had me at hello, anyone?) and all shades of pink happens to be one of my favorite color. What's not to LOVE about February? (and the weather is getting warmer too, isn't it?) Here's to celebrate the new month, a free card to download and give. Enjoy!

download

Do share your pics, love stories, and any lovey dovey things with this card. :)

Bento Paradise

2011-01-26T20:30:00.002+07:00

Another newly found hobby since Baby G started pre-school. Bento-making. I wasn't into cooking until recently, seriously. I used to cook something that I could eat. That's it. No fancy recipe, decorations, ingredients.. just well cooked enough so I will not starve. But bento combining something that I really like (drawing) and something that I thought was boring... IT'S FUN! You should try, it's really addictive!

Here's my one and only customer.. curious much, darling? Bento sure does increase little ones' appetite too, I tried same food on a regular plate and a bento box. Which one do you think she'd eat?

New School

2011-01-17T15:50:00.002+07:00

Baby G hits the pre-school this week! I'm a proud mama! I don't have any pictures because of the morning rush, school's policy of no camera allowed, and tiredness in the afternoon. This Baby G's new experience would also explain my constant disappearance from blogosphere also. *sob* promise I'd get back to you guys soon!

Anyhoo. Baby G's not in uniform yet, but I love drooling over these at nissen.

New Year New Year

2011-01-08T16:32:00.002+07:00

It's terribly late to wish you one, isn't it? However, here's the result of last year resolution; finally, some baking! I don't know the name of it, though, it consisted of flour, sugar, eggs, milk, strawberries and kiwis as toppings, lots and lots of whipping cream.

What's your last year resolution that has been realized?

Doorbells and Sleigh Bells

2010-12-23T17:18:00.002+07:00

and schnitzel with noodles.. Pardon me, once again. I promised you not to sing again but with Bing singing, it's hard not to sing along. That is that or I am just too lazy to think of post title. Anna of Hey Bubbles just emailed me that she's been using my printable paperdolls! Double yays when I found out that her blog is filled with holiday delight! Enjoy a little and do take a visit while you're still holding that mouse.

This is the kind of customer picture that I like. I want to little-piggied her toes so bad.

Coming to Town

2010-12-22T15:47:00.003+07:00

I got all the present wrapped up, the lights turned on, and the hot chocolate stocked up! It's the craziest Christmas for all of us, don't you think? Snow in Australia at this time?! And I bet some of you must be experiencing the worst winter of all time. I hope for our earth to heal well and we can still, hopefully, inhabit it next year. Wishing you aMerry Christmas and a happy new year .

From babalisme..
See u next year!

Mail-y Christmas

2010-12-16T16:43:00.003+07:00

Nothing beats snail mail. The crisp envelope, the stamps, the red and blue stripes, the post office markings.... E-mails are fast, reliable, and certainly make us feel young and updated with the world :P, but sorry, e-mail, as much as I rely my whole correspondence life on you, I still have my biggest crush on anything snail mail.

So, I have been thinking, every Christmas day I share gifts to my family, but most of them can be reached at 10 minutes drive or so. That makes me reluctantly avoiding postal service for this matter. But how if I want the gifts as if they're freshly stamped out of the post office? Luckily, my friend Adobe is always here to help. Meet my post office-y mail tags (and sticker if you want them to be).

download

Do share your pictures if you're using it :). Happy gift wrappings.

ps. dear fake commenters/scammers/advertisers/youknowwhoyouare please, my blog as you can see is non profit and aimed toward families with young children. Please do not link or comment something un-appropriate in your comments. Thank you.

Paper Wonderland

2010-12-15T15:31:00.003+07:00

As you wish, readers. Make some reindeer garland/bunting as in here. How to make it? Remember the children paper bag garland you used to make in kindergarten? Same treatment here. Anyhoo, if you're still puzzled here's how to do it.

trace the pattern into desired card stock/paper of choice, to avoid arthritis I suggest in not much weight than 90gsm.
did you notice the red vertical line on the pattern? that's where you should fold the paper (in accordion fold) and be careful not to cut through that line or your reindeer won't kiss.
once you finish, the reindeer chain will look slightly curved. If you're using A4 paper, and print the pattern by 50%, like I did, you'll need 3 chains of reindeer to make full circle.

Easy peasy. Talking about paper.. I have made and mailed my cards for little.lovely Christmas card project. I thought I told you I got scissors happy this Christmas. My first try on paper cutting, please do gentle criticism. Just kidding. Do harsh criticism if you like. Here's them before they hit the envelope.

My humble "box" tree. :)

This one is, obviously, inspired by 1948 Disney short, Once upon a Wintertime. As a kid I watched this over and over again, swooning to the song and the images. Thanks to youtube, I get to watch it again and again and again...

Deck the Doors

2010-12-14T17:16:00.004+07:00

..with paper reindeer garland falalalala.. .. ..OK, OK! I'll stop singing if you stop sneering. My version of cheap and chic holiday garland, not to mention they can be built in less than 20 minutes. I didn't make any pattern I just got scissors happy, but if you need one, do tell me and I'll try making one. Also, excuse me for all un-reply emails, messages, and comments. I'll be back to blogosphere as soon as I am done with this one deadline. Have fun holiday decorating!

Jolly Pals

2010-12-10T12:39:00.004+07:00

download

I haven't set up any Christmas tree nor decoration! sob. I know, it's beginning to look less like Christmas at my home, why do deadlines come right on the jolliest season?

Anyway, enjoy the second Christmas Tag Pals. Meet Angel, Ginger, and Elfie. If you are using this please do share your picture with the rest of babalisme's readers. Have a merry weekend!

on the First day of Christmas

2010-12-04T12:11:00.006+07:00

(sing) .. babalisme gave to you. A pair of Christmas pals tags....

*insert blowing-winter-wind sound*

Can I have a little excitement around here? It's Christmas, everyone!!

I'm planning to give away 12 Christmas printables for free!! Yaay! Hold on. I get excited too easily I might lose my breath (or peed my pants, whichever comes first).

download
Scribd

First one is here, free tag (or tree ornaments, garlands, placecards, whatever your creativity takes you) of Mr. Claus and his favorite (and ours) reindeer, Rudolph. The tags are inspired by tin vintage Christmas ornaments. And I know a Snowman is very tempting to be fitted in the design but I need your ideas, which Christmas pals do you want to see next?

And I am using Google doc this time, I hope you can all download it minus the trouble Scribd have you. I personally like Scribd more. But hey, we gotta try, right?

Happy weekend!

Holiday from the Past

2010-12-01T13:28:00.004+07:00

buy here

I went all vintage last year. I'm lucky because I have a mom who treasures all those trinkets from the year she married my dad, but if your mom has thrown away all of her stuffs, don't fret. Because these days, vintage can be bought (great gift ideas too!).

Get here

buy here

Pom Poms : Strikes Again

2010-11-23T13:49:00.002+07:00

Remember this? If you haven't managed to make a pair for your shoes, you'll be hearting new line from ban.do : shoe clip! Available in colorful pompoms, sequin hearts, and pretty flowers. And I have hot glued my comfiest ballet flats ... doh!

Edible Cuties

2010-11-22T15:36:00.002+07:00

hiphostess' chocolate fondue ideas.

I'm so sorry for the lack of posts recently. I have been either arguably terribly busy or just plain lazy. I don't know why but many clients decided to order at this time of the year, yes, every year. So this is probably my busiest season. Anyhoo, been lurking all over baking blog out there because I am learning the how-to. Today Baby G and me baked some classic sugar cookies. I'm practicing for Christmas! No, we don't have any photos to share because being the baker and the photographer isn't easy, the icing didn't look that proper, and the cookies were gone in about a minute or so. I only made a dozen though, the possibility of baking tragedy scares me much.

If you're not afraid of baking failure and in preparation of Christmas dessert options, these might be good ideas to try on.

rikrak studio and june bride's snowflakes cookies. They're having a giveaway too!

A new baking blog, the daily mixer shares a cute chocolate mold tutorial!

Wall Ornaments..

2010-11-12T15:10:00.004+07:00

found Henry here

peek here

.. shouldn't have to be pricey "we-are-absolutely-clueless-about-the-meaning-of-it-but when-friends-come-over-we-act-like-we-do" abstract paintings or dead animals' heads. Take a clue here and start decorating. Now, where did I put my grandmother's old house basement keys?

lust over here

You've got Mail

2010-11-08T14:30:00.003+07:00

image

Have you ever received a mail, a real one, along with envelopes and stamps, and not liking it? Apart from junk mail, that is. I might sounds a bit crazy but I really really adore all things mail. I love the blue and red stripe on air mail envelopes, I love the ridges on stamps, I love the uneven paint of a post office seal, I even love the smell of freshly delivered mail.

Since all my families and friends prefer texting and tweeting by now, I decided to join little.lovely.'s holiday letter exchange. I can remember when I was a kid, every Christmas was spent by licking stamps and writing addresses. I got creative with decorating the envelopes and picking the right card with the right message for our relatives. It wasn't easy and such a laborious task to do compared to check-listing your email/ facebook contacts and click "Send". I wish for Baby G to remember something from the much forgotten era, that once, a greeting was sent inside an envelope. I think the project is supposed to be random, so if you feel like putting a smile on a stranger's face this holiday, do join :)

Anthology Issue 1

2010-11-05T12:19:00.005+07:00

If you're like me, who has more magazines on her rack than clean panties, you'll be thrilled of a new magazine about decor and lifestyle called Anthology. Judging by the cover and the blog, it's a kind of magazine I won't be throwing away in piles. They're having launching party at San Fransisco, lucky you if you live nearby, you can RSVP here. Sigh. Well, the rest of us can sneak peak a little here, and I'm already thrilled!

picture and news via OhJoy.

Anyway, in the mood for some braided pigtails and a little cuteness? Visit for more at All ThingsPeachesandCreams. Yay for playing with Halloweenie doll! Thank you, Taline!

One more question before I leave, have I gotten into the Xmas mood too early?

Halloweenies Around the World!

2010-11-01T16:41:00.004+07:00

So, how was fright night? Who were you on Halloween? I read that this year's popular costumes are Snooki and Gaga. LOL, I'd love to see a fabric meat dress and shoes. Anyway, I'm here to share some Halloweenies printable put up to good use.

PinkPug thought she's too old playing magnetic dress up, she thought of better (and more creative) ways to use them. Looking lovely? MUCH!

Amesh ordered an all pirate costume theme for her son Yuara's birthday, here pictured with all the good things she share for the lootbag. I envy her guests. Check out Yuara's 2nd birthday here! I love her puppet show stage and DIY puppets!

I also did Yuara's invitation, which was printed on potato sack fabric! Great idea! The sailboat plushie is Amesh's DIY, I went gaga over it!

If you have printed and played with my Halloweenies printable, plesase do share! I love great surprises like these!

p.s. Some of you might have heard about the earthquake and eruption in Indonesia. It's like the catastrophe in the movie 2012 coming as predicted. My home, fortunately, still miles away from ground zero. But yes, as a country, we are struggling to help and comfort each other as much as we can, right here and now. I hope for your prayers and smiles to keep us strong. If you wish to help more, visit Indonesia Red Cross and distribute your share of help via Red Cross ONLY. Indonesia is listed with most corrupt government officials and lots of faux charity events emerging lately, do not trust easily. If you have trouble reaching Indonesian Red Cross, you can contact your local Red Cross or email me for any further questions. Thank you for all your support.

Happy Halloween and Giveaway Winner

2010-10-31T15:04:00.005+07:00

Happy Halloween everyone!! As much as I love this holiday, I can't never celebrate it as merry as everyone else in another part of this world. I come from a pretty religious family that think celebrating Halloween co-exists with "inviting the devils into our house" (pfft!) And here I am, my little girl heart is throbbing on donning a monster costume and knocking on neighbour's doors. (sigh)

Anyhoo .. some of my talented readers have made it up for me this Halloween..have I mentioned how I love seeing my printables actually functional to babalisme's readers? OK, here's one..

2 little holligans' treat bags was including the Halloweenies printables, both boy and girl versions! And yes, she sew that cute little bag herself.

Susan of poca cosas, on the other hand, added much needed embellishment to my Halloween mini cards! Notice the little pearls on Skelly's chest?

If you manage to keep your eyes open until you read this, congratulations. I'm also here to announce the winner of my first ever giveaway!! Chosen by random.org, everyone, ...so congrats to Andi Lia and Jamie Lee!! I have contacted the winners earlier today and if you are them, do reply me back with your mailing address. Thank you all for participating!

D is for Death

2010-10-26T13:39:00.002+07:00

Cecy Meade

In a Halloween mood, I tried to google up my favorite macabre illustrator name and came up with twentysixtinytombstones. A blog, filled with Edward Gorey's tribute, particularly to his work The Gashlycrumb Tinies (1963). The book itself is filled with alphabet and its accordingly name of objects in pictures, but instead of apples and zebras, we will find children's names starting with each alphabet and their deathly fate.

Jerrod Maruyama

At twenty sixtiny tombstones, illustrator Patricio Oliver invited his artist /illustrator friends to re-enact any alphabet from the book, it doesn't even matter if one alphabet done numerous times or the artist change the kid's name and how he meet his ill fate. Sounds fun? Go visit or maybe submit your own!

Luli Bunny

Boo!

2010-10-25T18:12:00.002+07:00

Boo!
Halloween's coming, so many things to do
Candy shopping and costume making
Fret not, here's a little help to set the mood
A Halloweenies Minicard set for you!
Boo!

YAY! So how was my poem?
**enter miserable ghoulish sound**

..

..

OK, I'm sorry for such lameness. Anyway, I'm not making things up though about the last part. A halloween themed minicard ready to download! Free as always!

download

On more serious side... I have been receiving a lot of emails asking about downloading problems, so I'm sorry to inform you as well, that you have to be registered at Scribd.com before you can make any download. Registering is easy and free, of course, you just have to upload 1 document (your shopping list would do, if you're really not that creative) and there are thousands of printable, recipes, literature, music sheets, and many more to be find. I encourage you to do so, since I offer many free printables only at Scribd :)

Happy Halloween!

Boo!

Why should Pumpkins have all the fun?

2010-10-20T15:39:00.002+07:00

All vegetables in your kitchen would feel a little sad and wee jealous when Halloween week's coming. Everyone seems to like Pumpkin more this season, picking a special one at Mr. Bones, hugging him home, carving him till late at night, children laughing at sight.. Sigh. What's an eggplant to you?

Meet artist/photographer Carl Kleiner. Still life has never been the same since. And now everyone in the lower shelf inside your fridge has equal attention they deserve.

Found at little.lovely.

..and don't forget to enter my Circus Giveaway, 11 days more for the chance!

Hello, Weenies!

2010-10-19T15:16:00.004+07:00

Silly me, I forgot that my favorite holiday is coming up! I even have October special blog header and forgot to post it up until 19th?! Though I haven't made anything new on Halloween related section, I promise I will share something good and scary.

download

For the mean time, why don't you invite your friends (living or dead) to a Halloween party using this invitation? I know, it's from last year printable, probably because either I'm so lazy or are getting chased by zombies, but I want to share with those who missed out. Also come with coordinating paper dolls (boy and girl version) and this pattern (make buntings, envelopes, paper bag, you name it!).

Happy Halloween crafting!

..and don't forget to enter my Circus Giveaway, lasts till Halloween's day itself!

Circus Giveaway!

2010-10-11T16:53:00.005+07:00

Hello, everyone, I might have missed a few posts around here, but I guarantee I am back with something special! A giveaway!! I have Baby G's party favors left and I was thinking of sharing them with you, my readers! After all you were there (virtually) at the party, right? I have not one, but two favor bags waiting to be shipped to anywhere in the world!

This would be my first giveaway, so please excuse my awkward rules and giveaway regulars. Ok, here goes...

What you'll win :

8 pcs of crayons
1 pack of bubble maker (blow the glue-thingy and you'll have a touchable, tossable bubble, no kidding! It's addictive)
1 animal shape fold-able, reusable grocery bag (yes, that little piggy is a bag!)

And if you happen to be the one :

Please supervise your children when they're playing with this loot. Not recommended for toddlers and babies below age 3.

How to win :

Please be a follower (that means you have attended the party, right? yes, even new follower! :)) and simply comment below with your favorite Circus memory from your childhood! What did you see? What's your favorite act? What were you eating? I will pick 2 winners with random. org. and the winner will be announced Oct 31, 2010 at 14.00 my time (same day 07.00 GMT)

Want extra entries ?

Subscribe to this blog (put your email in the box on your right) and/or share the link to this post to any social network sites, one site (twitter, facebook, blogger, tumblr, etc) will receive 1 extra entry. Please put each extra entry in separate comment and write down your link too so I can check!

Please remember to :

let me easily contact you by email, just in case you'll... win! If I don't hear it from you after 3 days, I will pick someone new.

So good luck and thank you for reading this blog!

ps. Baby G's circus party also made it to Party of the Day at CatchMyParty! Yaaay!

Miyuki's Magic

2010-09-30T11:41:00.002+07:00

Do you think Miyuki Sakai is just another illustrator with blessed hand? Look closely, for sure, she's not using ink nor paint. Her weapons are thread, needles, and (seriously, she mentions this on her web :)) band aids. Ouch.

Swoon, my favorite, pair of white clogs. Her clients range from Time to Nylon. Do visit to check out more mind blowing sewing experience. found via, newly-found-indie-magz Stella.

Clog Roll

2010-09-27T18:34:00.004+07:00

The pair that started it all. Chanel, and no, that's not the year of made underneath. That's the price.

The title is a blog roll pun, get it? *insert cricket sound* This could be the part where I type "LOL" but seeing your response I'd better not. Remember my spring wishlist which feature a pair of clogs? Unsurprisingly I haven't got one not even now. I love today's clogs aesthetic and supposedly comfort, but have yet to find the perfect pair for me and my wallet. I was wondering if they are suitable enough to wear for autumn (in Indonesia of course, every day is summer, but you know "autumn" at a country called fashion). I have been browsing through Shopbop and ASOS, and here's what I got.

What do you think? Do you have a pair of clogs? Do you wear it throughout the year?

Still in Circus-y mood..

2010-09-23T16:13:00.003+07:00

I hate to be in one mood for too long (I'm a Gemini, what can I say?) but this circus apron by Amy deserves its own blog post here. With no long description to read, just admire. *swoon*

By the way Giselle's Circus party is featured at Sara's blog! Thank you, Sara! Be sure to check out other mind blowing parties for kids there too.

Circus for Two

2010-09-16T12:30:00.006+07:00

Finally, the birthday post. Started with the Lego Duplo collection that started it all out. It was one of Baby G's first birthday present and she loves anything circus ever since, I knew what her second birthday theme instantly. And yes those are crazy straws. Gotta love them.

I love the dessert table so much I think I have millions similar angle photos of it, knowing at the end of the day I wouldn't have the perfect shot again. I know, I'm such a perfectionist, so I hope these shots could make Amy Atlas jealous (kidding, of course).

The tiered paper plate was inspired by Martha's. Who else? Easy, cheap, and quick. An instant recommendation to glam up any dessert table. I cheated on the smallest macaroons too, those aren't macaroons. Those were super cute Japanese burger-like biscuits.

We had both real and faux popcorn made of marshmallows on top of cupcakes that day. Thanks to the awesome chocotreats, who made the cakepops and the birthday cake too.

One of my best dressed guest of the day...

The mustache photo props. Can't get enough of them.

Notice my new fabric bunting from ideku? Ain't that sweet?
And the rest of the happy day, oh, well, happy second birthday, Baby G. Looking forward for another wonderful years to come.

Big Day

2010-08-31T11:23:00.002+07:00

I'm sorry from my blogging absent. This is my excuse today: I have a big day to prepare, Baby G is 2! Should I call her ToddG now? Look at my empty dessert table, must hurry!

And you're all invited, of course! I was thinking of going with the seal only but Baby G's Pop said it was too empty for a circus, so tell me what you think, how's the invitation? Too crowded? I just want to tell him, "I told you".

Vice Versa

2010-08-27T15:01:00.003+07:00

I love the word versatile. Don't you just love words that start with un-popular letters of the alphabet? V, W, X, Y, Z... Sometimes they get left behind and have really thin sections at most dictionaries. Anyho.. the incredible Zee (see, that's why I love calling her by her nickname) gave me this award called versatile! Thanks much! Looks like I suppose to name 7 random things about me that you probably haven't heard of, or not, er.. well, here goes..

images

I'm pretty good with animals, I love them and I have never get bitten in my life (except for mosquito and other bugs, of course). Even a trained rottweiler once lied on his back, tails shaking when I approached him, the owner was quite embarrassed. Maybe I smelled like one?
On the contrary, I'm not very good with people, especially new ones. Shy, perhaps?
I have never been a devoted fan of rock stars. But I gotta say that the Beatles and Queen's songs make my ears smile. Yes, I'm old school.
My favorite Sesame Street characters as a child and adult are Count and Oscar. Love how they are "different" yet still lovable.
No, I don't think Bert and Ernie are a romantic couple. They're just an odd friends.
My grandmother was a model and a kindergarten teacher. Isn't she lovely?
I do like seeing socks with sandals trend but you've got to be really crazy to put them on under the hot sun here in Indonesia. I think that's one trend I can't never pull off.

Well guess I have to pass it on to 15 people now. But here's another fact of me, I love bending rules. So, andi, miki, tuppence, holly, martha, and kelli. Here's to you.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

images

Lemonade {for} Life

2010-08-26T15:46:00.003+07:00

When one of my nice readers asked me in an email, "Have you uploaded all the Lemonade Party Kit?" I had to say, "Unfortunately, yes, for now." and that reminded me that I owe the rest of you readers the announcement as well. Yes, the Lemonade Party Kit printables are done. Please do use them in your parties or simply just because. Like these kids from volumetwentyfive. Visit them for more photos and tips to make that utterly cute and effortless lemonade stand.

Here are the Lemonade Party Kit links, in case you missed one:
invitation
cupcake topper/stickers
napkin rings/garlands
favor box

Do share your own party photos with us!

Vinyl Forever

2010-08-20T11:10:00.002+07:00

Check out Ashley's crafty faux leather/ vinyl accessories tutorial. You just can't stop making them. I think I need a quick run to the material store now.

Also, I need your help. I have my word verification turned on, as you may have noticed, but I still get those advertisement comments which have adult contents. I really really want to stop those flooding into my blog, as, well, my blog is not restricted for adults only, and to be honest, we adults here don't talk about it here too. Any suggestions?

Sneak Peek

2010-08-16T14:33:00.002+07:00

Can't really believe that Baby G's going to turn 2 this month! When did the little cooing creature start singing a song and dancing to it? I have decided a theme for her party and here's a little peek. Yes, bright colors alert!

Also, out of the topic, my current girl crush, Clemence Poesy (oh, I could mumble that name whole day through), best known as Fleur Delacour (oh, I could mumble that name a whole year long) from Harry Potter series.

Slumber Party Paper Doll Printable

2010-08-10T18:10:00.002+07:00

Get your printers ready and loaded, folks! And your magnet paper too! Another paper doll is coming your way!

download

If you were wondering why lately I made only fair skinned blond girls for my printables, once again, because this were custom made for Averie and Josie, two little girls with exact description as the dolls. Their mom is very generous when I say that I want to share this printable with all of you, at her cost! Thank you! If you want to portray your children, well you can always ask me for a custom made one.

PLEASE respect my effort in making and designing the printable. Though I share it for free doesn't mean you have the right to sell, alter, and/or claim it as your own. Use it for personal use only, if your friends want a copy don't give them yours, give them the link to this post.

PLEASE do tell me if you found the printable elsewhere that violated my rights as the maker.

PLEASE share your real parties, modifications, creations, ideas, etc using the printable, you can send the link on this post or you can send the pics to my email.

THANK YOU.

Have a Picnic

2010-08-07T14:28:00.002+07:00

Since we love summer breeze so much, why don't we dine on the grass for once? And if you're feeling like packing up your sandwich and soda cans, be sure to check this earth friendly, over the top cool picnic box by boxsal. They even have the concrete lover picnic boxes too, just in case you can't spot a field of grass near you.

Enjoy your weekend.

Low Riders

2010-08-05T15:11:00.004+07:00

I adore Maeve's current issue editorial. The styling, the pose, the pint sized models, and particularly the low horizons in each background. Monalisa, revisited, I must say. And the fact that the whole wardrobes are hand me downs makes it almost too awesome for a children fashion spread. Any children magazines should really refresh their minds that fashion spread should be taken seriously (and artsy too), skip the playground and/or bright colors for a while, would you please?

I personally love the Bruce-Wayne-by-day-Batman-by-night one, but you must have guessed that.

Much Love's Hearts

2010-08-03T15:29:00.007+07:00

Have you noticed Anna's Much Love Monday? She host a linky and a flickr pool group to share your photos of heart shaped things. Anything. Well, today is my first time submitting after long time admiring. It got me hunt for heart shaped things everywhere. Guess blog post could make you crazier. *chuckles* I love when the photos show that it could be unexpectedly anywhere.

All heart photos here are taken by Anna herself, isn't she has the best-est taste? To see ones from everyone in the blogosphere visit here.

Monogrammed

2010-07-30T16:09:00.003+07:00

I am still recovering from the impromptu vacation jet lag so please excuse for lack of posts. Though I really don't want to make you jealous in every post (nor I have the tendency to boast) I have got to post this. I just have this feeling that polkadot wrapping paper and baker's twine need a post on their own.

The package must have arrived when I was away, it did made a delightful surprise for me. It' s more than pretty packaging it's a handmade pouch! With my initials probably hand embroidered to it! And lots of goodness inside! Including a lollipop! I could go on and on on how I love this swap package but you better visit the lovely Maggie yourself.

What are you planning this weekend?

Back from Blogging Slumber

2010-07-28T15:35:00.003+07:00

Hi all. I hope you are wondering about my sudden hiatus and I shamefully admit that I hope you miss me. Seriously. OK, don't take that seriously, I was joking. So, where were I? (though you might be possibly asking : where are our printables?) I'll give you a hint.

It's a sidewalk picture. Yes. Look closely. Well sit back, not that close, you'll ruin your make up and your monitor.

Need another hint? Happiest place on earth.

Still not getting it? Probably 0.099% of you are.

Give up?

Well, I went to Disneyland, dearies! Baby G's poppa suddenly had this urge to go to Hong Kong Disneyland and he booked the tickets quite suddenly too. Oh, how I used to love his spontaneity on our first dates. With a baby along, not so much. So, up we go on the airplane and leaving my blog behind. I'm sorry for not taking more pictures of our adventures there, I had a tantrum throwing baby on hand and my husband, well, not a camera person. Here's a decent one I can think of...

She didn't seem very pleased riding the Cinderella's Carousel. This photo was taken a bit after the gate was open and 15 minutes waiting in line crying and complaining under the hot sun. My advice to other parents, take toddlers to Disneyland on spring or autumn or winter weather, hot temperature tends to break them on tantrums in line. Or avoid waiting in lines altogether by visiting on weekdays and non public holidays.

There goes my hiatus excuse post. And I want to tell you that I miss you guys, a lot. Seriously.

Totally Smitten

2010-07-06T15:49:00.002+07:00

How could you not be? Another swap package of goodness right in my front door. Say hello to my new accessories from lennebelle. Be smitten or get jealous.

Thank you, lennebelle! I also love these from the store.

Smile on a Rainy Day

2010-06-29T12:58:00.002+07:00

It's been raining here, but something made me smile the whole morning.

Diva, here, sure knows how to have fun with the printable by adding magnets to them. Thank you for sharing, Diva!

Lemonade Party : Cupcake Topper

2010-06-28T15:20:00.002+07:00

Baby G is feeling better, less drama, more postponed work to be done. Thank you everyone for your support and kindness, and of course patience for the new Lemonade printable. Wait no more, here are the cupcake topper. I always intend my printable to be versatile, so please be creative with them, don't use this one just as cupcake toppers, use it as stickers, sew it as garlands, re-size it and make a bag of confetti, it's up to you. Please do be generous and share your idea with us.

download

Pictureless Friday

2010-06-25T17:24:00.002+07:00

My first time posting without a single pic. As a very visual person, this is so unlike me. But I hope you will read through this.

Baby G : mu susu.. mu susuuuu ((I) want some milk, in Indonesian. slightly crying)
Me : Allright, I'll make you a bottle.
(done. handing it over to her)
Baby G : panaaas! (hot!!)
Me : OK, we'll wait until it cools off.
Baby G : angetin!! angetiiiiiin!! (cool it down! cool it doooooown!)
Me : It can't be that quick, you'll have to wait or you'll have it warm.
Baby G : waaaaaa...!! angetiiiin!!
(she started to cry)
Me : OK, OK.
(rushed to the fridge and put the bottle inside the freezer, if other moms know better instant cooling technique please let me know.)
Me : Here you go.
Baby G : panaaas!! angetiiiin!! (still hot! Cool it down! more crying)
(Me rushing back and forth to the fridge)
Me : It's cold now. Here you go.
Baby G : Noooooooo! no no susu!! (don't, don't want the milk! more and more crying)
Me : ....

I know you can't argue logically with toddlers, but sometimes, it just tickles your fancy too much. Seriously, I could use some of those tantrums then. Why should toddlers have all the fun, right? Can Moms have tantrums? (DRRRRIIINK THHHHAAAT MIIIILKKK!!!!)

Oh so Red!

2010-06-22T15:54:00.002+07:00

Another art swap package is in the mail! Thank you dear, Samone! These stationery goodness has flown all the way from Melbourne to Bandung safely! Definitely a day maker (er..this-made-my-day bad pun)!

Are you guys enjoying the Lemonade Part Printable Kit? If you do, please excuse my lack of updates on the printable, I promise I will be back with the rest of the kit before July. Baby G has a fever at the moment and she's more clingy than a hot glue. I also can't stand her drowsy self, poor girl. I wish for your patient and understanding. Thank you.

Lemonade Party : Favor Box

2010-06-18T11:59:00.002+07:00

download

Guests should be left to mesmerized even after they get home safely. Here's for you : Lemonade Favor Box! Print much, cut, assembly, and fill with lemon jelly beans or home baked cookies, and you will have a party that's memorable for (at least) the whole week!

PLEASE respect my effort in making and designing the printable. Though I share it for free doesn't mean you have the right to sell, alter, and/or claim it as your own. Use it for personal use only, if your friends want a copy don't give them yours, give them the link to this post.

PLEASE do tell me if you found the printable elsewhere that violated my rights as the maker.

PLEASE share your real parties, modifications, creations, ideas, etc using the printable, you can send the link on this post or you can send the pics to my email.

THANK YOU.

Lemonade Party : Napkin Rings

2010-06-16T11:56:00.003+07:00

If you're allergic to bright colors, leave this blog immediately because it's going to be a bright week here! Lemonade party kit still going on, this time it's napkin rings time! Instruction as always is easy as download, print, and cut. Do be really careful cutting the slit for the napkin "locks", if you're accidentally snap through, that's OK, just make a paper chain out of the long strip of paper and the half circle lemons would make a cute garland!

download

Lemonade Party : Invitation

2010-06-15T15:15:00.003+07:00

What's a party without guests? Sure thing is to invite them in the first place. Download, resize, print, and cut along as you wish, you can even use an edge paper punch to add personality! You can even fold it in half to write personal messages inside, if any. Enjoy!

PLEASE respect my effort in making and designing the printable. Though I share it for free doesn't mean you have the right to sell, alter, and/or claim it as your own. Use it for personal use only, if your friends want a copy don't give them yours, give them the link to this post.

PLEASE do tell me if you found the printable elsewhere that violated my rights as the maker.

PLEASE share your real parties, modifications, creations, ideas, etc using the printable, you can send the link on this post or you can send the pics to my email.

THANK YOU.

..and the winner is..

2010-06-14T15:45:00.003+07:00

..TEAM LEMONADE! now cheer up everyone! (insert cheering sounds instead of those ol' crickets')
Thank you voters, don't get to bum up when your pick is not winning, I am sure to throw another printable party someday, I'll make sure the two others get their share on the spotlight.

Well-o, ladies, to warm things up, I'll give you a lemonade party inspiration this time, since like we have all predicted, this is not the first time someone threw a lemonade theme party, but you might be the one throwing it in babalisme's printables :). Tomorrow (save it in your schedule), will be the grand appearance of the first printable from the series. Stay tune! Happy Monday!

Silly Bee Chickadess

Lorajean's Magazine

vol.25 blog

And a few things for the party you know can't be printed...

Lemon Cloth Table Napkins by IrineDesign

Napkins set by ColorFunky

Yellow plastic mugs from BinspiredVintage

Lemonade Stand Dress for 18m by MyLittleGirlsCloset

You might want to visit our friend, Martha, too for the food and beverages dept, you know she's more reliable than me on this one. Just ask her a.k.a fill in her recipe search box and you will be granted with mouth watery delights! One of them is pictured above.

Pick your Theme

2010-06-10T17:04:00.002+07:00

I'm going to make a party kit this month for regular babalisme free printable. Yes, you heard it right. C'mon, where's the excitement? (enter cricket sounds) OK, I give up, I still make the printables anyway. Sew, if you would be kind and vote for your favorite theme, you can download and print your favorite theme party kit for FREE!! Now, can I have the excitement? No? (enter more cricket sounds). It's my birthday month? ( enter even more cricket sounds and a lament song)

(awkward line) All right-y then, let's get down to the themes.

First one is Strawberry Field Wardrobe. Many of you ask a girly theme along with nature and tea party twist. Pots and cups are nice but you've seen them anywhere. If you like this one comment : TEAM STRAWBERRY!

I always feel bad if I only make one gender happy. So boyish theme coming up, very summer-y, say hello to Sailor Boy. His dog was named Popeye. If you like this one comment : TEAM SAILOR!

And I feel worse thinking many of you might want to entertain both genders at home. So if life gives you lemons, you make a lemonade theme party!! If you like this one comment : TEAM LEMONADE!

Here's a close up of each main pattern for you to look at.

Done looking? Be an extra dear and vote, people! Thank you!

Seeing Summer

2010-06-08T09:48:00.002+07:00

Living near the equator means constant summer all year long, but as if the weather hear her northern side sister, it's undeniably getting warmer even in here, yes, in the tropical island of Java. It's the national school break for us and many of our relatives and friend are escaping to much milder sun or even more sadistic sun, oh, the irony of holiday destinations.

Since we're not going anywhere and it's June (my birthday month, yippeee!) I thought I will be making a lot of themed party printables. So what's your favorite summer birthday theme?

On the (even) lighter note, Baby G doesn't mind the heat. She's busy capturing the sunshine with her tissue paper. I don't have the heart telling her that sunshine is not very solid. She's good with stripes, I envy her. And that's a friendly smile, in case you were wondering, according to Baby G. Have a nice summer, everyone.

Art Swap : Update

2010-06-04T11:55:00.003+07:00

My first package from one of the art swappers is here!! Thank you Naomi from Netherlands!

How lovely is the heart wool pencil case?

..and the best part of package swapping.. hand written notes!

Visit Naomi's shop, odd&woolly for your own lovely woolly pencil case like mine or simply greet her goedemorgen.