Blogoversary Giveaway Winners

As I commented over on my facebook page today, I love running a giveaway. And whilst I like receiving lots of entries, because it means there is enthusiasm for the prize I'm giving away... I also don't like seeing people miss out. So it was extremely difficult to only pick two winners out of forty six entries. 

Then, when it came to plucking two names out of the bowl for the giveaway here at Mama of 2 boys, I found it tough again. I would love to give a prize to everyone who left a lovely comment on my giveaway post, but alas, two winners it is.

And I'm thrilled to reveal those winners are:

Buff @ Buffy's World

Elisa @ With Grace & Eve

Ladies, when you're ready please send me the details of your choices for a Button Tots Singlet AND Button Tots T-Shirt. 

Mama of 2 boys turns Two! + a little Giveaway

I used to be a fairly active blogger. Loved writing here, loved reading over at all my favourite spaces... and of course, still do. But for a few months now, I've found it increasingly difficult to keep up to date with this lovely passtime, much to my own disappointment. There are a number of reasons why, though I can honestly say they all tend to fall under the heading of... "Life". So it's no surprise that I managed to let Mama of 2 boys two year anniversary (in November), slip right by me. And only last week, when I realised December was almost upon me, did I remember this milestone for my humble little contribution to cyberspace here.

Whilst I am too disorganised to put together one of my traditional giveaway packs this time, I did want to offer up a small something as a very big Thank You to the lovely followers/readers who provide me with such friendly, wonderful, support and advice through comments and emails, so very often. And here it is:

Two packs from my Button Tots range, consisting of one Singlet and one T-Shirt in each pack.

The choice of design, size, boy/girl mix, is entirely up to the winners... it can either be selected from the existing range, or made as a custom order.

To be in the running, simply be a follower at Mama of 2 boys and leave a comment on this post. Winners will be announced here on Monday 10th December. Open to Australian residents only (sorry!)

Please feel free to peruse the range of Button Tots designs over on Facebook or at Madeit (smaller selection on Madeit).

The latest brand new additions to the range.

Speed of Life

I'd love to be able to tell time to slow down a bit right now. Because it's flying. So many things to complete, to attend, to be involved in. Great... but crazy, all the same. Days are devoted to the boys and cleaning and shopping and catching up with friends, when we can. Nights are consumed by sewing... and more sewing. It takes time and energy and most nights, I am dog tired and dozing off on the  lounge... then the thought of a couple of hours creating, gives me just the boost I need. I'm enjoying my little business very much at this point in time.

The weekend just gone was a lovely one. On Saturday, I went along to a Baby Shower for a friend who always swore she would never have children. Deep down, I always knew she would. So it gave me great joy to put together a little bundle of Button Tots goodies as part of her gift for bubs. And I even managed to throw in a teeny tiny singlet adorned with shamrocks, to compliment Dad's Irish heritage. On Sunday, we hit the beach, as a family... and it was glorious. A perfect (almost) Summer's day, by the sea. That, is the speed I like my life to travel at. 

Festive Range

Just more of the same this week. Busy Mama, busy boys, busy Dada, busy house. Angus had his orientation for big school on Wednesday and I was remarkably less nervous than I thought I'd be. Nostalgic, emotional... yes. Nervous, no. I was proud of him and how he took it all on board with a smile and unbridled enthusiasm. I have no doubt come the end of January, I'll be a wreck. But for now, we're all excited and looking forward to the next chapter. The guys have almost finished the kitchen and yard. All that remains to be completed are the splash-backs in the kitchen... an integral part of the overall aesthetics, because currently it's an ugly space, full of holes and gyprock. I have been cooking up a storm however and loving my new appliances and huge amount of bench space. Scott has been in Melbourne on work and I managed to squeeze in a dinner with my mother's group gals last night when he got home, always a great night out.

The other thing keeping this Mama extra busy is my little Button Tots business. Absolutely loving creating new pieces, whipping up custom designs and delivering finished products to some beautiful customers and supporters. I am in no way ready for Christmas... though my range tells a different story. Button Tots now has a small selection of festive singlets, onesies and tees just in time for the lead up to December twenty five... and some cuties to model them. So much fun!

Seeing Pink

Like most women seem to be, I'm passionate about cancer research. All types of cancer research. But the pink ribbon fundraisers running throughout October, really command my attention. My lovely friend Donna, is an absolute star when it comes to fundraising for breast cancer research. Each year, her turnout gets bigger and reaches further than the one before. This year, as always, she organised, prepared and held the event in her home. But this year, she is eight months pregnant. And totally uncomfortable and exhausted. Not that she let on last night, mingling and hosting like a pro. I'm in awe of her dedication and unrelenting support of this amazing cause.

One of the highlights of the night was a fabulous raffle, made up of gorgeous goodies donated by many small businesses. I was rather excited to be one of those businesses, providing a selection of singlets, onesies and tees from my Button Tots range. And an extra special creation whipped up especially for Donna's big night. A huge hit with the gals... and I'm stoked it will be worn by one of the sweetest little two year old's I know. A very successful evening, with the donation tally currently at $1400.00... and still rising!

The Birth of Button Tots

When my role at work was made redundant last November, I felt partly relieved and partly lost. After thirteen years with the one company, I really didn't know what was next for me, career wise. Scott and I, keen for another child, decided to make two thousand and twelve the year to extend our brood. And in January, we were right on track, with the all positive two blue lines. But by the end of February, life threw a little curve ball and our plan wasn't meant to be. I struggled with the aftermath for a good few weeks. And after much soul searching, I was determined to do something to keep my mind busy. I explored options to become a personal trainer, an idea I have toyed with for a long time. I enjoy keeping fit and healthy and think I could successfully encourage others to do the same. But at this point in time, it's not feasible to devote the hours and effort, when my prime focus is the boys.

So out of the blue, I purchased a selection of pretty bits and pieces and started sewing little cuts of fabric and cute buttons onto baby singlets. At night once the boys were asleep or when Angus was at preschool and Felix was napping. Back in March, it was fantastic therapy for me. A distraction for the overactive mind and a creatively fulfilling distraction at that. And as the weeks went by, I made more and more and just kept adding to the collection. Until I started to think that maybe I could pop the sweet creations onto my friend's little ones... and my little ones. From that point the concept of Button Tots was conceived. As is the way with these simple ideas, eventually, they begin to grow and grow and before you know it, you're in full swing and throwing yourself into it wholeheartedly. With terrific support from beautiful friends and family, one starts to believe they can do anything.

After many delays in progress and plenty of second guessing myself, Button Tots was finally born this week. Whether it proves to be a success or not, I am not concerned. Because this year, I have been lucky enough to work on something that I enjoy and derive great satisfaction from. And that is more than I could have hoped for.

So if you're interested in taking a peek, please pop on over to the brand new Button Tots Facebook page and give it a 'like'... if you like what you see that is. I've also created a store at madeit.com.au, currently with a small selection from the range... more will be added over the coming weeks.

And if you think friends or family might like what they see too, don't be afraid to share the Button Tots name around.

And boy, did I have fun shooting this gorgeous lot... my darling Button Tots Babes.