tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61879323080507207462024-03-13T12:48:06.712-06:00Syzygy of MeKeeping things lined up in my little worldKarenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.comBlogger237125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-29710174871007070572014-02-14T18:01:00.000-07:002014-02-14T18:01:58.769-07:00Trader Joe's is in the 'Hood!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4oRhYRQL0CNw-3-JnJNUt2k9aapNTyUssQZFTs0b7Q3NgXH_C0Ind9vf009Wpl154mRGCgiHT_bazouZw7X9tAU5iI5WqxHly3qMM0c_E9Usj-WdNXbZpTK3wWdZzcvKuLNab4V9PDfE/s1600/IMG_1234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4oRhYRQL0CNw-3-JnJNUt2k9aapNTyUssQZFTs0b7Q3NgXH_C0Ind9vf009Wpl154mRGCgiHT_bazouZw7X9tAU5iI5WqxHly3qMM0c_E9Usj-WdNXbZpTK3wWdZzcvKuLNab4V9PDfE/s1600/IMG_1234.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have been waiting for this day for <i><b>years</b></i>! I was first introduced to Trader Joe's when I lived in California a couple decades ago. I loved their selection of ready to go foods and their very reasonable prices. Needless to say I went through serious withdrawal when I moved to Colorado. I would have my California friends send me things, or my parents would stop at a TJ's on their way from Indiana so they could get stuff on my list.<br />
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But that is not even close to having your own store in which to shop.<br />
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After years of emailing my request for a store in the Denver area, they finally listened to me (I am sure I am the one who convinced them!), and we now have THREE stores here. That's right...three Trader Joe's right in my own back yard! The closest one is less than two miles away. I couldn't be happier.<br />
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All three stores opened today, and I knew it was going to be crazy, but I just had to go. I stood in line for almost an hour, but it was great because we all got to shop while we were in line as it snaked up and down the aisles throughout the whole store. Everyone was well behaved, and the TJ crew members kept the shelves well stocked. It was a great experience.<br />
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Look at the beautiful tulips I got...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGpMFdsFdeHOuZkpYF5GThuDRn1RVSlw8GsvkphrK6nPwq6enyuWjlKoSDhL5ZpHATIzJ1kZGjOdReYVJm_Nf3LwD42C0nxbfGllOGHIvluiRHIx2UnDPwC0HVXnjSfJ41btIZDETunTQ/s1600/IMG_1242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGpMFdsFdeHOuZkpYF5GThuDRn1RVSlw8GsvkphrK6nPwq6enyuWjlKoSDhL5ZpHATIzJ1kZGjOdReYVJm_Nf3LwD42C0nxbfGllOGHIvluiRHIx2UnDPwC0HVXnjSfJ41btIZDETunTQ/s1600/IMG_1242.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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They were almost half the price I usually pay for my flowers ($5.99), and they are in much better shape than the ones I just bought this week.<br />
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I also picked up a lot of organic produce, all at great prices. This was the best Valentine's Day, ever! I love you, Trader Joe's!<br />
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Do you have a Trader Joe's in your area? What is your favorite thing to buy there?<br />
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K<br />
<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-75800402734208528842014-02-13T19:59:00.000-07:002014-02-13T19:59:41.410-07:00Happy Valentine's Day!Here are a couple cards I made when I was playing with my stamps the other day. I missed the cut off for Operation Write Home this year, so I'll save them for next year's box.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJ_r78uwNpJ-0-Vjc3m3Rz9weLVT9qdrE6XvWGJmC8ipK7CPrjhohcEoLvQ5-5PjH3jVl1dPORAIelm5eDTwDOSoQaMSUSg79NJBjxw1Fqei9ORvDi37zVd-KAwoEsPj9vv4JqAscyvM/s1600/DSC_4905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVJ_r78uwNpJ-0-Vjc3m3Rz9weLVT9qdrE6XvWGJmC8ipK7CPrjhohcEoLvQ5-5PjH3jVl1dPORAIelm5eDTwDOSoQaMSUSg79NJBjxw1Fqei9ORvDi37zVd-KAwoEsPj9vv4JqAscyvM/s1600/DSC_4905.JPG" height="267" width="400" /></a></div>
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I think the Stickles heart adds just the right touch to this one. What do you think?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtI-YP7fUjlZrn677-yJhKWs_QNLwNW3p0Nzge07fOQgfrgeKrqOH2kfjNUc7GoEJRgMEEAcFxRHHHN3-FeLMZpD7Y3YHxpLNxNxSWc8xFx4FGNON4jTsY9Gte_bCsOKJn-zw9hYa6qCk/s1600/DSC_4912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtI-YP7fUjlZrn677-yJhKWs_QNLwNW3p0Nzge07fOQgfrgeKrqOH2kfjNUc7GoEJRgMEEAcFxRHHHN3-FeLMZpD7Y3YHxpLNxNxSWc8xFx4FGNON4jTsY9Gte_bCsOKJn-zw9hYa6qCk/s1600/DSC_4912.JPG" height="260" width="400" /></a></div>
Gotta love the background stamp that I pulled out of the garage sale box. I just couldn't part with it!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Supplies used:</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Stamps - PTI Signature Greetings, Simple Sentiments, and Heart Prints, SU Looks Like Spring</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Paper - PTI white</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Ink - Memento</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Accessories - Stickles</i></span><br />
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Hope your day is filled with love.<br />
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K<br />
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-36648439048816722272014-02-12T14:59:00.001-07:002014-02-12T15:06:41.385-07:00I Made a Card!I know it is hard to believe, but yes, I made a card. In fact, I have made lots of cards lately. It has been fun playing with rubber (or photopolymer) and ink again.<br />
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And if you're lucky, I may even post some of them here. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-BvgXh_-7QzP6GZ-x0rdQDEf5eiwTqpx4zgSK5-uyea4Hx4whkppQUagGb0HIQQpGSyjM8-Ioi3lELZdaXtPjE2IuA9s8xhHblxBvu4LulI_q7A6IuhQeHyKOkYLKHipqHRqjCPZ4ibA/s1600/DSC_4901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-BvgXh_-7QzP6GZ-x0rdQDEf5eiwTqpx4zgSK5-uyea4Hx4whkppQUagGb0HIQQpGSyjM8-Ioi3lELZdaXtPjE2IuA9s8xhHblxBvu4LulI_q7A6IuhQeHyKOkYLKHipqHRqjCPZ4ibA/s1600/DSC_4901.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love the bright colors and the simplicity of this card. It doesn't even need any bling to make it pretty. It is gender neutral, too, which makes it a welcomed addition to my card stash.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Supplies used:</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Stamps - PTI Birthday Bash Sentiments</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Paper - PTI white</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Ink - Memento</i></span><br />
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Have a happy day!<br />
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KKarenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-89511736363993781372013-03-02T21:59:00.000-07:002013-03-02T21:59:27.270-07:00Bringing Home the PollenMy bees have done very well this winter, and that is such a relief to me since it is my first year as a beekeeper. It is especially gratifying because I know many beekeepers who have lost 30-50% of their hives this year. It is so sad.<br />
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The girls have been flying on the warmer days which is normal during the winter. They won't poop in the hive, so they have to take cleansing flights to relieve themselves. After all, they are still eating all that honey and pollen they stored up for the winter. Honey bees can't fly when it is colder than 45 degrees, so there is always a lot of activity on the milder winter days. And lots of poop flying!<br />
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I went out to check on them today, and much to my surprise, they were coming back to the hive with their pollen baskets full! The juniper and maple trees are putting out pollen and the girls sure are loving it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjli5vUi4WWZxe0hi4I10b9Z9fUsRV4Fk1IDXMFapbcE9YwnIi56e53Eb2zeCvYf9HxyhjRgpWowSWmOlTgGIRMwzP_pq8LA0IOkxkyGSrsjss-nACS76p0j1viWNj-l0ScGT3B4DWRwRc/s1600/DSCN3192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjli5vUi4WWZxe0hi4I10b9Z9fUsRV4Fk1IDXMFapbcE9YwnIi56e53Eb2zeCvYf9HxyhjRgpWowSWmOlTgGIRMwzP_pq8LA0IOkxkyGSrsjss-nACS76p0j1viWNj-l0ScGT3B4DWRwRc/s400/DSCN3192.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Incoming!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSpdG6DHSxHvyUXcwZjPNz767vkJOGVxDZ7PsWxBSymZof7dGi1Yx-7u2-7YyUi7jHocOHkettXGfUBEj-VMQsCOXX0TtPTrL5tewt-ByZMphsVaKv95TE_D4XuJoImfFtWklM-Oenl0/s1600/DSCN3182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSpdG6DHSxHvyUXcwZjPNz767vkJOGVxDZ7PsWxBSymZof7dGi1Yx-7u2-7YyUi7jHocOHkettXGfUBEj-VMQsCOXX0TtPTrL5tewt-ByZMphsVaKv95TE_D4XuJoImfFtWklM-Oenl0/s400/DSCN3182.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">It felt like spring, but there is still snow on the ground.</span></div>
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Little ladies hard at work.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0tuffkQ3EXELL_wfeXBlcsTPuFPU7u2gPomLPwWV3aYuhRr6mYkzP3-S9o2OrLwT5U3rniGEYx3md9gZHWmYllYklsw1CCMDhC0UsLt2_CYllr-ZsgfG9MWkTslNQ9WR2IKRfZ3iDmZc/s1600/DSCN3203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0tuffkQ3EXELL_wfeXBlcsTPuFPU7u2gPomLPwWV3aYuhRr6mYkzP3-S9o2OrLwT5U3rniGEYx3md9gZHWmYllYklsw1CCMDhC0UsLt2_CYllr-ZsgfG9MWkTslNQ9WR2IKRfZ3iDmZc/s400/DSCN3203.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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More food for the girls.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2smmDt3vDDc-aVkMStNcguXzowirNCj3DhdsrQvIE3MuYciXQtkzJCDHRImhIdPTLWwh4it9JL77JgYmreDkUFlJ6C6JtHT67QsjYXm2FxG4NM1VM6kH2oDdnUEBQRpBEst_wRvFo_s/s1600/DSCN3196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2smmDt3vDDc-aVkMStNcguXzowirNCj3DhdsrQvIE3MuYciXQtkzJCDHRImhIdPTLWwh4it9JL77JgYmreDkUFlJ6C6JtHT67QsjYXm2FxG4NM1VM6kH2oDdnUEBQRpBEst_wRvFo_s/s400/DSCN3196.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This little girl didn't want to get off my arm. She was so sweet!</div>
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Yes. Bees can be sweet. At least I think my bees are. They have a great temperament and don't get agitated easily. I was lucky to have gotten such great bees for my first year as a beekeeper. If they continue to do as well as they have been, I plan on splitting the hive this spring, so I can have two hives.</div>
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Now I can't wait for spring. It is going to be an exciting time in the bee yard!</div>
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What signs of spring have you seen around your parts?</div>
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-35459374284880058332013-02-26T12:46:00.000-07:002013-02-26T12:46:27.281-07:00Lines Love Curves, and Stripes Love DotsMy niece's 18th birthday is coming up next week, and I am trying not to procrastinate so long in getting cards out this year. So far so good since her big day is one week from today.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJIc7UQEHapLQr35s6TQFNSNdXjtasiuhpfA0KWgxOiXkch4v_4eTND9L9evPqci7C-AQ-1TUDCPGnVI4o977slW5Lj951W19xxu4RGGjDaP8yU14dvWQE8TBSSQ3UnSXu6S6kmTxzCo8/s1600/DSC_3634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJIc7UQEHapLQr35s6TQFNSNdXjtasiuhpfA0KWgxOiXkch4v_4eTND9L9evPqci7C-AQ-1TUDCPGnVI4o977slW5Lj951W19xxu4RGGjDaP8yU14dvWQE8TBSSQ3UnSXu6S6kmTxzCo8/s400/DSC_3634.JPG" width="302" /></a></div>
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This is only a little like the image I had in my mind when I started, but it is such an improvement. It is always encouraging when my cards turn out better than planned. : )<br />
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I love how the chevron panel looks like a cell phone, and the message could be a text. That is the part that I didn't plan. I think an eighteen year old might appreciate that more than flowers and butterflies!<br />
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The bling was also an after-thought, but is just what the card needed...it was definitely nekkid without it.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Supplies used:</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Stamps - PTI Big Birthday Wishes, Chevron Stripes</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Paper - PTI white</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ink - Memento black, SU Cool Caribbean (retired)</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Accessories - washi tape, SU designer label punch (retired), markers, rhinestones, dimensionals, corner rounder punch</span></i><br />
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On a side note, just after I posted my <a href="http://www.syzygyofme.blogspot.com/2013/02/spring-is-just-around-corner.html">"Spring is Just Around the Corner"</a> post, we received over 8" of snow, and it is snowing again today. It is so beautiful outside, and finally looks like winter around here. Yippee! Time to curl up under my <a href="http://www.syzygyofme.blogspot.com/2013/02/my-word-for-year.html">afghan</a> with a cup of tea and a good book.<br />
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KKarenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-33669130519530869962013-02-23T15:40:00.000-07:002013-02-23T15:40:00.101-07:00More ColorOnce I finished my <a href="http://www.syzygyofme.blogspot.com/2013/02/my-word-for-year.html">ripple afghan</a> and <a href="http://www.syzygyofme.blogspot.com/2013/02/valentine-tree.html">hearts for my tree</a>, I started right in on my next crochet project.<br />
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I decided I needed a pillow (or two) to go with it. I have always wanted to make a granny square afghan, but since I made a ripple afghan, I decided to make a granny square pillow instead.<br />
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So I have been crocheting mini granny squares.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDpXMIF8cn6XIQdb7XOa3mknaEW4rWqucsv5dLlmeZR3rKhHULH9X27bWw_tDgWOvyHXxNe9uhGl6zCHj7dkGoZ-DCPIGH-vA-Koyfw9vQUAiEDWCTfLcuY4n5Zw7KljzqLSJDORMHldA/s1600/DSC_3466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDpXMIF8cn6XIQdb7XOa3mknaEW4rWqucsv5dLlmeZR3rKhHULH9X27bWw_tDgWOvyHXxNe9uhGl6zCHj7dkGoZ-DCPIGH-vA-Koyfw9vQUAiEDWCTfLcuY4n5Zw7KljzqLSJDORMHldA/s400/DSC_3466.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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They are a little over an inch big. (Or should I say small?)</div>
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Two hundred of them so far.<br />
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They only take a minute or two to make (talk about instant gratification), so it hasn't taken all that long to knock them out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxKERAIxY7W4gegcVof1RQ_INYM88ZlLXIRfeprPWAFeGgJFIQZ-5FrFnwcOPaiWjasinAf_OY9kElkWsxvDt8pQ2corR5kwv61HxvXW37JcIEcBk5l4BxdyppnNIp4a_VF3Z2w6vTJI/s1600/DSC_3450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxKERAIxY7W4gegcVof1RQ_INYM88ZlLXIRfeprPWAFeGgJFIQZ-5FrFnwcOPaiWjasinAf_OY9kElkWsxvDt8pQ2corR5kwv61HxvXW37JcIEcBk5l4BxdyppnNIp4a_VF3Z2w6vTJI/s400/DSC_3450.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I laid them out in a planned random pattern. By planned random, I mean that each row and each column only contain one of any particular color. Even the edges when placed together won't repeat any colors. I plan on putting a border around the edges, so the border randomness wasn't necessary unless you are compulsive like me and have to have it that way!<br />
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I have started binding them together...something I know nothing about, and am just winging it as I go along. The work is not bothersome to me because it goes fast, and once again I am instantly gratified as soon as another square gets attached.<br />
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Yes!<br />
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All that being said, my tree is begging to be decorated with Easter eggs, so this pillow may have to take a back seat until I get some eggs done. I'll be sure to post a picture when it is finished.<br />
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K<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-46951479392600172242013-02-22T14:57:00.000-07:002013-02-22T14:57:20.979-07:00Spring is Just Around the CornerOr is it?<br />
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It has been cold and snowy here this past week, and we are supposed to get more snow this weekend. We've had such a mild winter this year, and are in a pretty severe drought, so we'll take all the snow we can get.<br />
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But that doesn't mean I am not looking forward to spring!<br />
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I bought some tulips this week that were not even close to opening. I like to buy my flowers 'green' so I can enjoy their full bloom.<br />
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Two of them started to open up today. I couldn't have arranged them any better if I would have tried.</div>
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I love yellow tulips.</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Little rays of sunshine to brighten snowy days.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJOfOSi1BR3BoNTbOt7p2EHuQnGk8hlUMxzF-BZnfCdu5MT1HaB14PQR-QQIjMva6xFSvG1YujkSe23KrfS7d76Rrq4tqIHkMMNtvQtNyN0jZvLGX8Ji9r5tsfUxSr1lqe3ALSxjzyVao/s1600/DSC_3462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJOfOSi1BR3BoNTbOt7p2EHuQnGk8hlUMxzF-BZnfCdu5MT1HaB14PQR-QQIjMva6xFSvG1YujkSe23KrfS7d76Rrq4tqIHkMMNtvQtNyN0jZvLGX8Ji9r5tsfUxSr1lqe3ALSxjzyVao/s400/DSC_3462.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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What is your favorite flower?<br />
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KKarenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-59903303407906206702013-02-14T23:00:00.000-07:002013-02-14T23:00:12.062-07:00Good Luck PiggyI made this card for one of my daughter's teammates who is competing in her first Elite gymnastics meet this weekend. She loves pigs, and this one is just too cute.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUVEDCuEdxkW91RYGQODADVoRe92p1QDTIIkFFXoHtTiXV0CLEV_3mr9Jzno60O-a5_OgRs-_rIqIhp4oK8AYz_Ic6lc3cR-J5DgxOPz9Zq0Qox134VFNfyes1FQMtdnMlKQ7gChqbsJo/s1600/IMG_0550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUVEDCuEdxkW91RYGQODADVoRe92p1QDTIIkFFXoHtTiXV0CLEV_3mr9Jzno60O-a5_OgRs-_rIqIhp4oK8AYz_Ic6lc3cR-J5DgxOPz9Zq0Qox134VFNfyes1FQMtdnMlKQ7gChqbsJo/s400/IMG_0550.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
(Sorry about the iPhone picture. I forgot to take one with my real camera before we left home.)<br />
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The big googly eyes are compliments of my daughter. She loves big eyes on everything! And the tail, too. When she was going through my 'pink' embellishment drawer, she found the spiral paper clip and thought it would make a good tail. She was so right!<br />
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<i>Supplies used:</i><br />
<i>Stamps - SU Button Buddies, amuse oval</i><br />
<i>Paper - PTI white</i><br />
<i>Ink - Memento</i><br />
<i>Accessories - glue pad, green flock, googly eyes, button, spiral paper clip, dimensionals</i><br />
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Hope you have a great weekend!<br />
<br />
K<br />
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<i><br /></i>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-16038152773519385242013-02-13T22:57:00.000-07:002013-02-13T22:58:34.939-07:00Valentine TreeHere is a fun little project I have been working on this week. I decided to bring the outside in, and <strike>planted</strike> jammed some twigs in a pot. I will be able to decorate them with festive holiday decorations and bring some much needed color into the room.<br />
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Colorful hearts just in time for Valentine's Day.<br />
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The little hearts are very easy to make, and are a great way to use up scraps of yarn. They only take a couple minutes each.<br />
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I've caught both cats eyeing them, or in this case playing with them. Every time I walk by my 'tree' I expect to see hearts gone astray, but so far, so good. Let's hope they continue to behave themselves!<br />
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Do you have a 'tree' that you decorate for the holidays/seasons?<br />
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KKarenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-49934886244326060362013-02-07T12:52:00.000-07:002013-02-07T12:52:14.162-07:00A Punny CardSomeone very near and dear to me (Hi, Mom!) came down with a nasty case of the shingles a while back. If you've ever had this, or known anyone who has, you know it is <i>very</i> painful.<br />
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I knew she would appreciate a get well card, and I could only think of one thing.<br />
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Shingles!<br />
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<i>(My thought while driving by Walgreens and reading their sign out front that said "We have shingles shots" was..."Why is Walgreens selling shingles? Does Home Depot know they are taking over their inventory?") </i><br />
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I'm such a nerd!<br />
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To make the shingles, I rubbed a brown ink pad over soft suede paper to give it a mottled shingle look. Then I cut it into strips and added more ink to the edges. Then I put the strips on my ScorPal and used a soft suede marker to make the scored lines. This gives it a nice texture while defining each 'shingle'. Each strip was adhered to the card base with a little overlap.<br />
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<i>Supplies used:</i><br />
<i>Stamps - Just Right alphabet</i><br />
<i>Paper - PTI white, soft suede</i><br />
<i>Ink - soft suede, real red</i><br />
<i>Accessories - ScorPal</i><br />
<i>Techniques - DTP (direct to paper)</i><br />
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I'm happy to report that my Mom has healed from her case of the shingles. No doubt the laugh from my card helped ease her pain.<br />
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Do you like to use puns on your cards, or do you think puns are cheesy?<br />
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K<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-46436323776210350982013-02-03T12:14:00.000-07:002013-02-13T22:58:47.791-07:00My Word for The Year<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">C</span><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-large;">O</span><span style="color: lime; font-size: x-large;">L</span><span style="color: orange; font-size: x-large;">O</span><span style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large;">R</span><br />
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There are many things about myself that I could 'fix', but one thing that has been eating at me for some time is the lack of color in our home. So I'm going to fix that first. My word is <span style="color: red;">C</span><span style="color: blue;">O</span><span style="color: lime;">L</span><span style="color: orange;">O</span><span style="color: magenta;">R</span>! <br />
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I came across <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/">Lucy's blog</a> last December, and fell in love with her use of bright colors. (Take a look at her blog, and you'll quickly see what I mean.) I decided right then and there that I was going to add color to my life. And what better way to add it than with yarn!<br />
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The great room/kitchen, where I spend most of my time when I'm not in my craft room, is lacking considerably in the color department. We have a few nick knacks and books that have some color, but all I see is brown. Brown hardwood floors, brown built in bookshelves/cabinets, brown stone fireplace, brown leather sofa, brown bookshelves and antique furniture, brown (ok<i>, tan</i>) walls, brown kitchen table, brown kitchen cabinets, brown granite counters, brown bar stools and chair pads. Brown. Brown. Brown. Aaaaagh! The room has a very 'warm' feel, but the lack of color is making me go insane!<br />
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See what I mean? Dull and boring.<br />
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The first way I decided to add color was to make an afghan. I ordered my yarn right before we left on our Christmas vacation cruise, so it would be here when we got back home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrPpw1fTWys1GHoL-CGlXCOnGaQL7FbeDuseE5OuByRaXMh0Xvax7U8TBLZkqjo2qT1q5pO6EHielYSkqdG_At2w35o07SG57PP7exuYhBKimi29hcX1mjOkUBG3-ElseKgnjoWosGNGc/s1600/DSC_3333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrPpw1fTWys1GHoL-CGlXCOnGaQL7FbeDuseE5OuByRaXMh0Xvax7U8TBLZkqjo2qT1q5pO6EHielYSkqdG_At2w35o07SG57PP7exuYhBKimi29hcX1mjOkUBG3-ElseKgnjoWosGNGc/s400/DSC_3333.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Aren't the colors beautiful? I couldn't get a hook in my hand fast enough! I used Lucy's <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/neat-ripple-pattern.html">Neat Ripple Pattern</a>, and started my afghan on Jan 2nd.<br />
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In progress and loving the colors already!<br />
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I am not one to take my time when I am working on a yarn project - I can hardly wait to get it finished, and it becomes an obsession. So I worked on my afghan every day and/or every night, sometimes for a little bit, but most days for <i>hours</i>.<br />
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I really liked the border on Lucy's afghan, so I put one on mine, too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC8tAUARyjzQFR6VwvCOmgTzs7u3UTYVlD_eqTeXUXeX2Pe32Sgzrlgy72a7Mx1CkIdQRkMp4P0DAuL_h6pl1jxLA_k93bwz_nBMf0exXnx8gS9yRbBVNBsJyQkEZ_KJ3yOrCSRW51XyQ/s1600/DSC_3341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC8tAUARyjzQFR6VwvCOmgTzs7u3UTYVlD_eqTeXUXeX2Pe32Sgzrlgy72a7Mx1CkIdQRkMp4P0DAuL_h6pl1jxLA_k93bwz_nBMf0exXnx8gS9yRbBVNBsJyQkEZ_KJ3yOrCSRW51XyQ/s400/DSC_3341.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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And then...<br />
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before I knew it, it was finished. It wasn't made to fit this bed, but I thought it made a pretty picture. : )<br />
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I absolutely love how it turned out. There were times when I thought I made the wrong random color choices while I was making it, but the next few rows would change it back to a pleasing overall combination. Looking at it now, I wouldn't change a thing about it. I think it is perfect.<br />
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Just one little afghan draped on the back of the sofa brightens up the whole room.<br />
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Hi, Motorboat! I can tell we are going to be fighting with the cats to see who gets to use the afghan!<br />
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Here's the nitty gritty...<br />
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Yarn - Stitch Nation by Debbie Stoller, Washable Ewe (100% superwash wool)<br />
Skeins - 20...at least 2 each (some colors 3), 9 different colors; 100g/183 yds each<br />
Finished size 60" x 82"<br />
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Here are some fun facts...<br />
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Base row 227 stitches<br />
138 rows<br />
Color changes - 68<br />
Total stitches - approx. 32,800<br />
~25 minutes /row + borders = approx. 65 hours<br />
26 days to complete<br />
Mileage - 1.87 miles of yarn<br />
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Cost - priceless<br />
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Do you have a lot of color in your home? How do you accessorize with color?<br />
<br />
K<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-82118084560110845242013-02-01T13:30:00.000-07:002013-02-01T13:30:36.659-07:00Big News!Hello!<br />
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Hello?<br />
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Is anyone there?<br />
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(That makes a great answering machine greeting, btw.)<br />
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I know, it has been forever since I posted to my blog. Sorry. There have been many projects in the works, and some even finished, but I have been lazy.<br />
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Very lazy.<br />
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Baaaaad blogger.<br />
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Well, to keep you enticed, here is a sneak peek of one of my projects.<br />
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The kitties love to sit on my lap when I crochet, and sometimes they even get to play with a scrap of yarn! That one is Moonshine, aka Moonie or Moo-Moo. Can you tell she loves to knead? If I could just train her to knead on my back, I'd be all set! I will be posting about my ripple afghan soon.<br />
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Now, for the Big News! I wanted to let you know about a new blog I am starting. (For one who can't even keep up with one blog, one thought it would be a good idea to start another!)<br />
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I am very passionate about making healthy choices, and I want to share my thoughts and the obstacles we face when trying to make those choices in a culturally unhealthy environment with all with you. It can be done! So I created a new blog, <a href="http://wellnessandhealthforlife.blogspot.com/">Wellness and Health For Life</a>. I hope you will join me there, and learn how to make healthy choices for a lifetime of wellness.<br />
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As always, thanks for stopping by.<br />
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KKarenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-66969739240113457102012-10-22T00:00:00.000-06:002012-10-22T00:00:07.200-06:00Placemats to PurseHappy Monday! I have a really fun project to show you today.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Placemat purse</td></tr>
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A repurposed placemat purse.</div>
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I bought these placemats at Pier 1 last fall to repurpose into a purse, and after sitting on my craft room shelf for most of a year, they were finally transformed. Aren't the colors great for fall? The strap and lining fabric was a remnant of home decor fabric I got on clearance for just a few dollars, and I think it compliments all the colors in the placemats nicely. I was going to make a tutorial, but got ahead of myself and didn't take that many pictures. <br />
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Oops.<br />
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I sewed the ends of the placemats together so the fringe would hang down from the bottom of the purse.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivJhLgbzjXiSgq-Hj4FewVk5enE7-q8oVZWx_gRFbAtQwZYIe5sGohQwQ5A4WTlL3nlEGKI60DVRwcblMi2fpFMrEDgByKWWPUGTKBu7LfYHUNr6AbVZ5wQh_MIqPi8xdzKtx1LhKx03I/s1600/IMG_0277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivJhLgbzjXiSgq-Hj4FewVk5enE7-q8oVZWx_gRFbAtQwZYIe5sGohQwQ5A4WTlL3nlEGKI60DVRwcblMi2fpFMrEDgByKWWPUGTKBu7LfYHUNr6AbVZ5wQh_MIqPi8xdzKtx1LhKx03I/s400/IMG_0277.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cell phone pocket</td></tr>
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One of the sides has a pocket for my cell phone. There is elastic at the top so my phone won't slip out on its own.<br />
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I made a pocket on the front of the purse body under the flap. This is where I keep the all the necessities (like Joann and Hobby Lobby coupons), and my home made lip balm. Easy access, baby!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOP28QhhkyyzdibhWPcjYXa-PTWjQ8-35WReTCCqU7K8FLzgAJ2cZBrAOJa372xXm_QJRUd-CVSs9tLW0QCGMRmFk5AxODjLVUqHSDk5JZc1ce3C70o7UfaAsjANaXvGLJZ-Diq1xcwE/s1600/IMG_0288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOP28QhhkyyzdibhWPcjYXa-PTWjQ8-35WReTCCqU7K8FLzgAJ2cZBrAOJa372xXm_QJRUd-CVSs9tLW0QCGMRmFk5AxODjLVUqHSDk5JZc1ce3C70o7UfaAsjANaXvGLJZ-Diq1xcwE/s400/IMG_0288.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zip pocket</td></tr>
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The inside has a zip pocket on one side...<br />
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and segmented pockets on the other. I made two skinny pockets for a pen and pencil, a larger middle pocket, and a pocket to put my reading glasses in. (Not that I <i>need</i> them or anything.)<br />
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To give the purse shape and to keep it from looking slouchy, I put a piece of Timtex in the bottom and tacked it down in a few places. It works great.<br />
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The only thing I wish I would have included was a ring to clip my keys to. I'm still trying to figure out how I can add one without tearing one of the seams apart.<br />
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This turned out great for my first attempt at a purse. I am really loving it, even though it is a little bit on the large side. I don't carry a lot of 'stuff' in my purse, but this one is big enough to hold my camera too, and that is a plus.<br />
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It's even big enough to hold a kitty! Hi Moonshine!<br />
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I made this up as I went along, but if you have questions about measurements or anything, just let me know.<br />
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K<br />
<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-1636748660425080502012-10-06T23:02:00.000-06:002012-10-07T12:36:22.776-06:00Craft ShowFor the last seven years, I have sold marble tile coasters at craft shows. They have been fun to make and sell, but I wanted a change. So I started making doll furniture to sell. I get to use power tools and sew. What could be better than that?<br />
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My biggest craft show of the year was today, and this year I am so relieved it is over. This particular show is always on the first Saturday in October, and it is outside in a big park. Up until today, the weather has always been unbelievably warm on that day. Perfect fall weather every year, and some years it has been down right <i>hot</i>.<br />
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But today was different.<br />
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Oh, yes. It was <i>much</i> different.<br />
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It was wet.<br />
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It was freezing.<br />
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And it drizzled and spit snow all. day. long.<br />
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I'm not sure which was worse; following the forecasts all week knowing the weather was going to be miserable, or actually being miserable. It would have been much worse had my hubby not run out last night at the eleventh hour and bought a portable propane heater for me to use. He can be so sweet sometimes.<br />
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Thank goodness the die hard customers showed up and the day wasn't a total loss. They were the real troopers.<br />
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So do you want to see what I sell instead of hearing my sob story about how cold and miserable my day was?<br />
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Here you go...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZM2-HS5jF1kM8NERzQ8hbVkJP12VhG2NhWihplq8l9vOTyjDRk8pXkiZxKMepzKbZPEC2pQrYaTBXKzk2VaMY3H2tHcPUFQ32oBTrxEJbLv1BImVSiJ5YQY0QP4tgeFJp0GqEmrf8oM4/s1600/IMG_0216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZM2-HS5jF1kM8NERzQ8hbVkJP12VhG2NhWihplq8l9vOTyjDRk8pXkiZxKMepzKbZPEC2pQrYaTBXKzk2VaMY3H2tHcPUFQ32oBTrxEJbLv1BImVSiJ5YQY0QP4tgeFJp0GqEmrf8oM4/s400/IMG_0216.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bunk beds for American Girl type dolls</td></tr>
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Bunk beds.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyd9DF4WDMqBwJxqgJaz3roL7LtA5BTBLfLUOOZ7yYV7CehTkZYsbtMMdWCoA5ETzgXEHNG6OIID47AVv7J0mPQTT9wR1cnuLQQucvLJ8s-tIuu4scgpqWDg4cs6v4jp15ZFXw7zDm18/s1600/IMG_0220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyd9DF4WDMqBwJxqgJaz3roL7LtA5BTBLfLUOOZ7yYV7CehTkZYsbtMMdWCoA5ETzgXEHNG6OIID47AVv7J0mPQTT9wR1cnuLQQucvLJ8s-tIuu4scgpqWDg4cs6v4jp15ZFXw7zDm18/s400/IMG_0220.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farmhouse beds for American Girl type dolls</td></tr>
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Farmhouse beds starring McKenna.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQG6k4oQc503Cm4xf1eJgrmRVX7ZuX-qgL-JfKaFpWfEAbhWoEWfc64WKg8CPUegErJpbClFXV_eSQ-dZIH0VWC-cdrx0XxjEUBgiFp3-g5tULgoHCoRXS66DjLwDNjCWSV10mGBRYSg/s1600/IMG_0217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQG6k4oQc503Cm4xf1eJgrmRVX7ZuX-qgL-JfKaFpWfEAbhWoEWfc64WKg8CPUegErJpbClFXV_eSQ-dZIH0VWC-cdrx0XxjEUBgiFp3-g5tULgoHCoRXS66DjLwDNjCWSV10mGBRYSg/s400/IMG_0217.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doll Picnic Tables</td></tr>
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Picnic tables starring the Raggedy Ann Doll my aunt made for me when I was a youngster.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3av9q_ijTahgs1iisj3tBIKg1ZVP70Vk5-OsTP0v-z3R6YahSH59TvKnxVXTIn7pOdVBrAW7p7ITWAMEHWgdgod_QHrFmX_oYoGvKVglA8dlPxNm-wtVvxVbFrF6fPnup0EH8oVRxcs0/s1600/IMG_0221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3av9q_ijTahgs1iisj3tBIKg1ZVP70Vk5-OsTP0v-z3R6YahSH59TvKnxVXTIn7pOdVBrAW7p7ITWAMEHWgdgod_QHrFmX_oYoGvKVglA8dlPxNm-wtVvxVbFrF6fPnup0EH8oVRxcs0/s400/IMG_0221.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doll High Chair</td></tr>
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High chairs starring my Cabbage Patch Doll circa 1984. (Don't tell anyone in was in college when I bought four (yes, <i>four</i>) Cabbage Patch Dolls. I had to have one of each - a normal baby girl, a preemie boy, and twins. Yes, my completion tendencies go way back!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_EVad2sblwGq98FwqnFwGASbvgcP5ND-GHrZTrDeEkM-pByMTxEV1Zk-KbQVREiLDtgXOMDegLnB_EilKJy36q9y4Z2w-vQtPNSgnHXFfepgKTZddUuYM4I1w2a_SLvV72wNVKoERFM/s1600/IMG_0224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK_EVad2sblwGq98FwqnFwGASbvgcP5ND-GHrZTrDeEkM-pByMTxEV1Zk-KbQVREiLDtgXOMDegLnB_EilKJy36q9y4Z2w-vQtPNSgnHXFfepgKTZddUuYM4I1w2a_SLvV72wNVKoERFM/s400/IMG_0224.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">American Girl Doll Bunk Bed</td></tr>
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Isn't this fabric the cutest? It is my new favorite, and looks awesome with the green bed.<br />
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I only have one more show this year, and have to finish up the orders I have been getting. Then I won't feel so guilty when I end up spending too much time on the computer or sewing the purse that has been half done for months. I won't know what to do with myself!</div>
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Have you ever been a vendor at craft shows? What do you sell?</div>
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-12766536057648323502012-10-01T11:51:00.000-06:002012-10-01T11:51:13.551-06:00One MoreThis is my second post for today. I'm on a roll.<br />
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Ok. I just couldn't help myself. After I posted my ombre chevron cards, I had another idea for another color combination.<br />
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Blues = ocean waves + fish.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho21E4sqqodDD-hnfyD_ChBpj-okHZSSw08_X8oGJPzX-JXXBF7Az3094wdThrIulnWrmNXSyq9PijzU7cFNZ8_jultWJwP2E4X54goygY82bw9przbdANtXuYBWwTmxdTz3-e_lp1CBo/s1600/IMG_0203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho21E4sqqodDD-hnfyD_ChBpj-okHZSSw08_X8oGJPzX-JXXBF7Az3094wdThrIulnWrmNXSyq9PijzU7cFNZ8_jultWJwP2E4X54goygY82bw9przbdANtXuYBWwTmxdTz3-e_lp1CBo/s400/IMG_0203.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Tell me this isn't the cutest!<br />
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With some clever masking and omitting, I was able to stamp my sentiment from two different stamps. The largest fish has glitter pen on its spots to fancy it up a bit. And in retrospect, I would leave off the little splashes since I think they distract from the fish, but I had already done the card over once, and didn't want to do it over again. I have lots of things to do today!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Supplies used:</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Stamps - Stampendous Summer Scene, SU! Teeny Tiny Wishes</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Paper - PTI white and light blue, SU! Tempting Turquoise, Marina Mist, Pacific Point</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Ink - Pacific Point, Tempting Turquoise, Marina Mist, Baja Breeze</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Accessories - chevron punch, SAMJ, markers, Spica glittler pen</i></span><br />
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I'm sure I'm not the first one to discover ombre chevrons, but I am loving them! What is your latest love in the paper crafting world?<br />
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K<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-5032206154300928902012-10-01T00:00:00.000-06:002012-10-01T00:00:13.582-06:00Chevron + Ombre = L O V EI have had a chevron punch for quite some time, but since stamping got put on the back burner for a while, I never quite figured out how I wanted to use it. Instead of playing with it, I let it sit on its little perch looking cute in my craft room.<br />
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Then I had a brainstorm.<br />
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Ombre is in.<br />
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Chevron is on its way out.<br />
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Why not combine them for a timeless look?<br />
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So I rummaged through my drawers of card stock searching for a few ombre combinations, and these cards are what I came up with.<br />
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All the fall colors have inspired me lately. They are so warm and comforting to me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPZsYMOmRew8LoopuzNNEWPIxRfHtCRnFUGwlEBB-4_T8SMCDVeoReZq96Z1gBaGa3GM5Bb-lRNObScNjwZx21cEal5t3GjYfO1LDlbzXckPK5EN-18v0tnYpNLYZ9RxwQQcmd920IAxE/s1600/IMG_0195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPZsYMOmRew8LoopuzNNEWPIxRfHtCRnFUGwlEBB-4_T8SMCDVeoReZq96Z1gBaGa3GM5Bb-lRNObScNjwZx21cEal5t3GjYfO1LDlbzXckPK5EN-18v0tnYpNLYZ9RxwQQcmd920IAxE/s400/IMG_0195.jpg" width="305" /></a></div>
Once again, I thumped the leaves for a multi-colored autumn leaf look.<br />
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I loved my card so much, I used my other ombre combination to make a similar card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPR8MOxhS5YnrGx74RPaZjHvwnOoLNysZJz-1-fJPHQbnyi-fjNq3Qx15C9spqOVsEmRTddBHexEexbparuDGuUU-qEpxlk1gNKb9p4-wp5yM6uZlpvE1Cra2lMLvMaDJrorKSysLpWA/s1600/IMG_0191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPR8MOxhS5YnrGx74RPaZjHvwnOoLNysZJz-1-fJPHQbnyi-fjNq3Qx15C9spqOVsEmRTddBHexEexbparuDGuUU-qEpxlk1gNKb9p4-wp5yM6uZlpvE1Cra2lMLvMaDJrorKSysLpWA/s400/IMG_0191.jpg" width="331" /></a></div>
I love it even more!<br />
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Get it? Love <i>grows. </i>I couldn't resist.<br />
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The hearts are just miscellaneous single stamps, "love" is from a small alphabet stamp set, and "grows" is hand written.<br />
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I really love how the ombre chevrons ground the trees without being too overpowering.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Supplies used:</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Stamps - PTI Falling Leaves, misc heart stamps, mini alphabet stamp</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Paper - PTI</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Ink - Choc Chip, So saffron, More Mustard, Tangerine Tango/Pink Pirouette, Regal Rose, Melon Mambo, Real Red</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Accessories - chevron punch, markers for thumping</i></span><br />
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Have you ever used ombre and chevrons together? I would love to see what you come up with.<br />
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K<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-28434055996721048492012-09-29T00:00:00.000-06:002012-09-29T00:00:03.957-06:00Thumped Fall LeavesFor this card, I used a layout that I cased from Susan (aka LateBlossom). <a href="http://simplicitybylateblossom.blogspot.com/2011/11/three-shades-of-red.html">Here</a> is her original card. I changed it up a little with the placement of the stamps and sentiment, and I used different colored inks on my leaves.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim5m9EDLCuw-S2Ei3iqJ4c_oxPxdOl42EIuttFokCMrudBl8lHsNxMxeH8boSrxb45rnojvn3_r2osCpScZTT28nCfRLknfB6T0v59rDNi2j7ppNN1d1OXtPV2Lej3sdi3-oh31hiR2R4/s1600/IMG_0161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim5m9EDLCuw-S2Ei3iqJ4c_oxPxdOl42EIuttFokCMrudBl8lHsNxMxeH8boSrxb45rnojvn3_r2osCpScZTT28nCfRLknfB6T0v59rDNi2j7ppNN1d1OXtPV2Lej3sdi3-oh31hiR2R4/s400/IMG_0161.jpg" width="302" /></a></div>
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Thumping is a great way to give leaves a changing colors/fall look. To do this, I first inked them with the lightest color ink, then thumped them with different colored markers, using different color combinations for each leaf.</div>
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If you are looking for a great but often forgotten technique to try, get out your markers and start thumping away!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Supplies used;</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Stamps - PTI Leaf Prints, Hero Arts Classic Messages</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Paper - PTI</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Ink - Memento Pear Tart, Rhubarb Stalk </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Accessories - Various Memento markers</i></span></div>
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Hope you're able to enjoy the fall weather this weekend!</div>
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Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-2143329573348518592012-09-28T00:00:00.000-06:002012-09-28T00:00:01.408-06:00Birthday CandlesI'm here today with a colorful and fun birthday card. And thanks to a gridded block, it was a breeze to stamp.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjud9iBCmfwstE3jv-0E9MFoqOSQkfQFHtfieHhMOtWV-IiuHurMgvUF0hlKh8vxE8yrNWn7YBc8-W47Uf8OWBW4gJ7jTKbH0ui_fNZpRauVwIn5VQtA1sr23MZ6vGRDqB9knGRIdQL92g/s1600/IMG_0167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjud9iBCmfwstE3jv-0E9MFoqOSQkfQFHtfieHhMOtWV-IiuHurMgvUF0hlKh8vxE8yrNWn7YBc8-W47Uf8OWBW4gJ7jTKbH0ui_fNZpRauVwIn5VQtA1sr23MZ6vGRDqB9knGRIdQL92g/s400/IMG_0167.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birthday Candles</td></tr>
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The row of candles is actually a single candle stamped multiple times. By positioning it on a clear gridded block, it was very easy to line up the image across the bottom. This technique is fairly easy with a clear stamp, but it is possible to do this with a rubber stamp like this one if you line the block up in the same position with the same distance between images every time.</div>
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Happy birthday was strategically stamped in the sweet spot - about 1/3 of the way from the edge.</div>
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The photo doesn't show it very well, but the flames were outlined with a Spica glitter pen, and they are sparkly IRL.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Supplies used:</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Stamps - Party This Way (SU!)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Ink - Memento rose bud, lady bug, tangelo, pear tart, bahama blue, grape jelly, lilac posies, dandelion</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Accessories - Spica glitter pen</i></span></div>
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KKarenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-82822841806524697762012-09-27T00:00:00.000-06:002012-09-27T00:00:02.912-06:00Halloween Soap DispenserI'm back with a fun little project I made on a whim.<br />
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I love Trader Joe's liquid glycerin soap. Just ask my Mom. (That is another story for another time.) I used to fill up a soap dispenser that matched the other bathroom accessories, but after our kitties knocked off and broke <i>two</i> of them, I decided to leave the soap in its original plastic bottle. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise, because now I can decorate it with vinyl for each season or holiday.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNTgCy_81iOWV8ukC3TvKvPd2DfQ9c1-WPRlgJUoCmm4JYKzFIeSAFUmuHBoBHshyphenhyphen687aUk9y2qdHPWmwT8m9IB92PnadcEhyrqyjgxBOFQA_Rv0LSyqC88kSSIhTbfs5aYrxVw06cH3w/s1600/IMG_0187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNTgCy_81iOWV8ukC3TvKvPd2DfQ9c1-WPRlgJUoCmm4JYKzFIeSAFUmuHBoBHshyphenhyphen687aUk9y2qdHPWmwT8m9IB92PnadcEhyrqyjgxBOFQA_Rv0LSyqC88kSSIhTbfs5aYrxVw06cH3w/s400/IMG_0187.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halloween Soap Dispenser</td></tr>
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After removing the labels from the front and back, the dispenser was all ready to decorate. I cut out the vinyl images on my Silhouette Cameo, and just stuck them on. A pretty orange and yellow gingham ribbon is the perfect finishing touch.<br />
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Now we are all ready for Halloween. (At least in our bathroom!)<br />
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KKarenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-41834276782639938762012-09-25T13:23:00.001-06:002012-09-25T13:23:11.998-06:00It's Hip To Be A SquareNow that the kids have been back in school for a little over a month, it might be time for me to start posting some of my projects. Doncha think? I have wanted to blog a lot of different things over the summer, but just call me lazy.<br />
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I picked up this old Stampin' Up stamp set at a garage sale for just a few dollars, and it was just my style. I love the simplicity of the images, and they are perfect to stand alone on a gorgeous white card base.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpyvqef8SUW24KDG2vXi-uWrOhQa8Dr60XUL0SnyUmq3QJtdun-ztEGrjhyphenhyphen3CdSEqmaeYMnIqnaIEqfDdG94Ceoi9ilqaDib9W-QIvu7La0eZeBZ9IOB2v9n6R0GHZr6-RGNQWYowcGM/s1600/IMG_0153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpyvqef8SUW24KDG2vXi-uWrOhQa8Dr60XUL0SnyUmq3QJtdun-ztEGrjhyphenhyphen3CdSEqmaeYMnIqnaIEqfDdG94Ceoi9ilqaDib9W-QIvu7La0eZeBZ9IOB2v9n6R0GHZr6-RGNQWYowcGM/s400/IMG_0153.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
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The last one is my favorite just because it has a little bit of bling on it. I put a dab of Stickles on the other present image, but I always forget that Stickles dries flat. So am going to put a rhinestone over the top of it, and then it will be pretty, too.</div>
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All of the sentiments were embossed with detail white embossing powder, so even the finest fonts came out really clear. Gotta love those clear stamps for perfect placement!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Supplies used:</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Stamps - Good Things Grow</i></span><i style="font-size: small;">, </i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Teeny Tiny Wishes,</span></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Mixed and Mega Mixed Messages (PTI)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Paper - PTI</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Ink - Various Memento inks</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Accessories - Stickles, rhinestone, dimensionals</i></span></div>
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I won't say that I am going to start posting regularly, because every time I do, I don't post for months on end. But I'm gonna try.</div>
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Have a wonderful fall day!</div>
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K</div>
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-51801144996461266442012-06-07T16:07:00.000-06:002012-06-07T16:07:52.412-06:00Hail Wreaks HavocIt had been quite a while since we'd had hail here at out house, but hail season is upon us, and it came in with a fury last night. We had a pretty intense lightning show that my daughter and I watched from the back porch. There was just a steady sprinkle of rain, but the flash lightning was everywhere. We came inside around 11:00, and shortly after we had a burst of pea-sized hail. I rushed outside to shelter the flower pots I had placed out in the rain, and the hail stopped almost as fast as it started. It seemed like the storm was calming down, and we went to bed.<br />
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Around 1:00 I woke up to the unmistakable sound of hail. Lots of hail. It was so bad, I got out of bed to check it out. The ground was already covered in white, and I knew that wasn't a good thing. There was nothing I could do but watch the hail destroy the leaves on all all my flowers, trees and everything in my garden. And it didn't stop for a long time. I regretted taking the cover off of the herbs I have growing in an old Weber grill on my patio.<br />
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The first thing I do every morning is take a walk around our yard and check out my vegetable and flower gardens and plants. Things always look so fresh. I water what needs to be watered, pull a few weeds that have sprung up, and enjoy the beginning of a new day.<br />
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But today was different. It wasn't so enjoyable.<br />
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All four of the geraniums on my patio looked like this.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPg2-N8RTd6c07w9X4hQJj8UudB57DUTvNFn6ZEvgFTs43f_ae1TNOqHvCRhhcF6DTe-tN33NHw7zQ1Xe4-UR_bu6QlHXYi9oQKjU-P4Dofcl3Bg7Ny4rMT-wBa5nyIAb_9nN4NxsNSY/s1600/DSC_2313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPg2-N8RTd6c07w9X4hQJj8UudB57DUTvNFn6ZEvgFTs43f_ae1TNOqHvCRhhcF6DTe-tN33NHw7zQ1Xe4-UR_bu6QlHXYi9oQKjU-P4Dofcl3Bg7Ny4rMT-wBa5nyIAb_9nN4NxsNSY/s400/DSC_2313.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I should've left the cover on my herbs!</div>
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A little less shade for my sitting garden.</div>
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Shredded sunflower leaves, anyone?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy4YIkJX0r-O52c9py0imwdd33o9HpsvxAJ2si56yHgRDZYv9G9y-vM1zRVkt9M2dnpmR40WicBeSZF4nwzEdYho-vOr2vPsW2i5xOFv2W95hKJHMtujhFJMI5T8A2c8kkWFnY2VBZygk/s1600/DSC_2329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy4YIkJX0r-O52c9py0imwdd33o9HpsvxAJ2si56yHgRDZYv9G9y-vM1zRVkt9M2dnpmR40WicBeSZF4nwzEdYho-vOr2vPsW2i5xOFv2W95hKJHMtujhFJMI5T8A2c8kkWFnY2VBZygk/s400/DSC_2329.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
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Apple tree.</div>
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Bruised apple.</div>
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My poor tomatoes. :(</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf1MZMhhyphenhyphenPBGg4VDfVUzn7xQYXmpt2l1xOzDUDjI7ergk3cjjCnsS7Jb5DMb6COX5KOPuY3h0PcKwixij6y5QKuse0Ieb7lE5xM6Mu3Pkua-iBazmX4Plgu2tPaQ5-bqR1zkn-QUsiLvI/s1600/DSC_2325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf1MZMhhyphenhyphenPBGg4VDfVUzn7xQYXmpt2l1xOzDUDjI7ergk3cjjCnsS7Jb5DMb6COX5KOPuY3h0PcKwixij6y5QKuse0Ieb7lE5xM6Mu3Pkua-iBazmX4Plgu2tPaQ5-bqR1zkn-QUsiLvI/s400/DSC_2325.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Good thing you don't use rhubarb leaves.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZbxX-_g7ow6QeSH0WPGpbTqOQdKxJRlXDW8F2ZqmTJrgGIYW85u5VWew3d2anbkYSKGxmVC6THF7qgq5Q4t3Q6Lc73ErEOGShgBszSeNl_ezok9Tek_BLLzmASY5Y_Hp98DmLjL8tHFs/s1600/DSC_2314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZbxX-_g7ow6QeSH0WPGpbTqOQdKxJRlXDW8F2ZqmTJrgGIYW85u5VWew3d2anbkYSKGxmVC6THF7qgq5Q4t3Q6Lc73ErEOGShgBszSeNl_ezok9Tek_BLLzmASY5Y_Hp98DmLjL8tHFs/s400/DSC_2314.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
It's unbelievable how much damage a little ice will do. Most of my plants (if not all of them) will recover, but it was so hard to see them shredded after having nursed them along for several weeks. I hurt for them. I realize my pain pales in comparison to all the farmers who depend on their crops for their livelihood. I hurt even more for them. <br />
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While I was taking pictures of the damage and destruction, my daughter yelled at me to "come over here quick! You have to take a picture of this!" I rushed over wondering what in the world she could be looking at in the middle of the mulch.<br />
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And there was beauty amid the chaos.</div>
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What precautions do you take when you know hail is headed your way?<br />
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K<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-46324664699997537252012-06-06T21:43:00.000-06:002012-06-06T21:43:00.237-06:00Microwave Bowl Potholder and TutorialAbout a month ago, I was a <a href="http://www.2littlehooligans.com/2012/05/04/fat-quarter-friday-guest-post-from-syzygy-of-me/">guest blogger</a> over at <a href="http://www.2littlehooligans.com/">2 little hooligans</a>, and I thought I'd share my post with you here just in case you missed it. I am working on another similar project that was requested by one of her readers, and I will share it with you as soon as I have it finished.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Microwave Bowl Potholder</span><br />
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Do you cringe every time you have to remove a hot bowl from the microwave, afraid that you will burn your fingers, or worse yet, drop the bowl and spill the hot contents on you or your kiddos? Well fear no more because today I am going to show you how to make a bowl potholder so you don't even have to touch that hot bowl!<br />
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Here is what you will need:<br />
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2 coordinating fat quarters (100% cotton)<br />
100% cotton batting<br />
cotton thread<br />
sewing machine<br />
quilting ruler and mat or scissors<br />
pins<br />
fabric marker<br />
chopstick or bodkin for pushing out corners<br />
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You want to make sure you use 100% cotton materials because synthetic fibers could melt or catch fire in the microwave. Be sure your batting doesn't contain scrim or glue.<br />
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To figure out how big to cut your squares, measure the outside of the bowl from one edge to the other.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RN86xrJDcy3JvgrkFs7Y0dHU7sdtty6s4dbTyNEc8MFP7QUtg3XqqnE7Pi1O1AYTZeTM7g_Hv1a3mBqOAKU9asIh3OQaPSOImQWwE0f2ZSkP1KB96lSXohmZGiTaO1fVGEkLKhJyFNk/s1600/DSC_2068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RN86xrJDcy3JvgrkFs7Y0dHU7sdtty6s4dbTyNEc8MFP7QUtg3XqqnE7Pi1O1AYTZeTM7g_Hv1a3mBqOAKU9asIh3OQaPSOImQWwE0f2ZSkP1KB96lSXohmZGiTaO1fVGEkLKhJyFNk/s400/DSC_2068.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Then cut one square from each fabric, and two squares of batting to this measurement. My bowl measured 10", so my squares were 10".<br />
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Place one fabric square right side up on top of a batting square, and quilt them together by sewing an X with a straight stitch diagonally to opposite corners. Repeat for the other fabric square. (Yes, I switched fabric on you!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvPCZLkXKpWadkt_3ZFurhQDxc7vNFT_bYNo8ciCCSvnl6R2ggNTfaJfc3XFWxeaulD-auqK5SuUUWi-dw_LwRMBVKgB8sGLZf1gBcypu5jXdJq4z_cepEwitJsUR94nVA40G25Nu-3jg/s1600/DSC_2032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvPCZLkXKpWadkt_3ZFurhQDxc7vNFT_bYNo8ciCCSvnl6R2ggNTfaJfc3XFWxeaulD-auqK5SuUUWi-dw_LwRMBVKgB8sGLZf1gBcypu5jXdJq4z_cepEwitJsUR94nVA40G25Nu-3jg/s400/DSC_2032.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Now your are going to make darts in the centers of each side to give the potholder a bowl shape.<br />
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Fold the quilted square in half to find the center for the dart. I found the best way to do this was to line it up on my quilting mat grid and mark the stitch line with a fabric marker. I came in 1" and down 2 1/4" for the dart. Pin and repeat on all four sides. Repeat for other quilted square.<br />
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Sew along marked lines, back tacking at the ends of the darts. Trim seams.<br />
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The two halves should resemble square bowls at this point.<br />
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Pin the bowls right sides together, matching corners and dart seams. Using 1/4" seam, sew together, leaving about 3" open for turning. I always put two pins at the opening to remind me where I am supposed to stop.<br />
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Trim corners. Turn right side out, push out corners, and press.<br />
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Topstitch around the edge, and you are done!<br />
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This is what the outside looks like.<br />
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This is a pretty forgiving pattern, and if you have an odd shaped bowl you are trying to fit, the darts can be adjusted to the length or depth you need. Just test the fit of the bowl before the darts are sewed, and make adjustments as needed.<br />
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These work great for making hot cereals or reheating foods in the microwave.<br />
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They can also be used as an insulating pad for cold foods like ice cream, so your lap and hands don't freeze! They should only be used in the microwave, though, and are not for use in a regular, toaster, or convection oven.<br />
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I hope you all enjoy this quick and fun little sewing project!<br />
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K<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-40325042392575080872012-06-05T21:34:00.000-06:002012-06-05T21:34:28.647-06:00Stamping is Fun!Well, it certainly has been a while since I've stamped. As a matter of fact, it had been so long, I forgot how fun was. Most of my creative time has been taken up by my new hobby - woodworking. I have been making doll furniture...high chairs, picnic tables, beds and bedding, and I just haven't had the creative energy to stamp.<br />
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But I've had the itch.<br />
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So I scratched it today and made a couple cards. While my mojo was a little stagnant, and it took a lot longer than it should have to make them, I am mostly pleased with my cards.<br />
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Not sure about the color combo on this one, but it is what it is. At least I tried! All three buttons are clear embossed, but it's hard to tell by the picture.<br />
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I love the variety of the faux buttons on this one. A couple of them are clear embossed to give them more of a real button look. And the best part about faux buttons is no hassle when mailing! I shaded the stems, leaves and sentiment with a darker color of green. Love how that turned out, too.<br />
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See, I still have a few tricks up my sleeve. :)<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Supplies used:</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Stamps - PTI Everyday Button Bits, SU Button, Button</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Paper - PTI (not sure of the colors)</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Ink - Versamark, Memento pear tart, London fog, bamboo leaves marker, Versamagic pink grapefruit, mango madness, turquoise gem</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Accessories - Clear EP, circle punches, SU Embosslits Sweet Buttons, dimensionals</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span><br />
What have you been doing with your creative energy?<br />
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K<br />
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<br />Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-67271567151306105472012-05-24T00:21:00.000-06:002012-05-24T00:21:20.162-06:00My New Babies"What?" you say. "I didn't even know she was pregnant!"<div>
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No, I'm not talking about <i>those</i> kind of babies, I'm talking about the animal kind. And I have about 5000 of them. Can you guess what they are?</div>
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I am the proud keeper of about 5000 (and counting) bees! And I am so excited I can hardly stand it!</div>
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I became interested in keeping bees last fall. I think bees are the most fascinating creatures, and I did a lot of research, talked to some bee keepers, read a lot of books, and decided it was something I wanted to do. Their help with pollination would be great for my garden, fruit trees, and flowers, their honey good for our allergies, and I can use their beeswax in the body care products I make for myself. And it just so happens that a lady in my neighborhood has been keeping bees for about 20 years, and she agreed to be my mentor.</div>
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When you start out as a beekeeper, you can either buy your bees, or collect a swarm. I decided I wanted to try getting a swarm. My mentor, Susan, has been collecting swarms for many years, so she put me on her list, and we agreed that I would go with her to assist in the collection. The call came Monday morning, and she was already at the swarm site. Fortunately, it was only a few miles away, and I was able to get there before she collected them.</div>
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This is what I saw when I drove up.</div>
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It was a really good sized swarm. The branch they were on was cut and placed in a box. There were a few hundred bees flying around, and many of them found their way into the lidded box since the queen was inside. Susan stayed at the site to let more bees go in the box while I rushed home to put a little honey inside my hive box to give them a little food when they got there. The bees that didn't make it into the box would eventually collect on another branch, and we (I) could go back to get them later. Without a queen, they would have no reason to live and would eventually starve to death.</div>
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These bees are going in the box to be with their queen.</div>
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Here come the bees!</div>
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The entire box was a mass of bees. Despite the sound they make, swarming bees are not aggressive and are not likely to sting you. They have no home or food to protect, so they are 'nice'.</div>
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We placed the largest branch which most likely still had the queen on it into the hive box.</div>
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Then we gently shook the bees off of the smaller branches.</div>
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Once the bees were shaken off of the large branch, the bees from the box were gently dumped into the hive box.</div>
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Then the remaining frames were slowly lowered into the hive box. At this point, the pitch of their buzz became elevated to a swarming pitch, so we had to work quickly.</div>
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Admiring my new babies.</div>
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There were a few drones (male bees) in the swarm. They are the larger bees with more black on their abdomens and large eyes. And like some human males, they are completely dependent on the female worker bees to take care of them. The drones can't even feed themselves!</div>
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A couple things are going on in this picture. When bees find a new home, some of them will position themselves at the entrance and fan their wings, pushing the scent of the queen out so the bees that are flying around know where to find her. They are the ones with their hineys in the air fanning their wings like crazy. This happened immediately after they were placed in the hive box. The other thing that was remarkable was the fact that they started cleaning house right away. The pine needle was left behind from one of the branches, and it was slowly pushed out of the hive.</div>
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Going, going, gone!</div>
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I spent a lot of time observing them the rest of the day, and I'm considering making a bench near the hive just so I can have a comfortable place to sit. : )</div>
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Susan called me again on Tuesday night to let me know there was a small cluster of left over bees that had collected in the same tree as the swarm. Now it was my turn to collect the bees.</div>
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So we took off early this morning to get them.</div>
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My helpers with their reusable produce bags as make shift veils. Hey, at least the bags weren't plastic!</div>
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This cluster was about the size of a very large mango. Pretty manageable for my first collection!</div>
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Probably a few hundred bees here, ready to be reunited with their sisters.</div>
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As soon as a few of the left overs were introduced to the hive, the fanning committee got to work. It was amazing that they recognized each other and knew they needed to fan.</div>
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Once the bees in the box caught wind of their long lost queen, they made a mad dash up the side of the box. I swear it looked like they were actually running up the box. It was so fun to see. (They are the ones in the left hand corner.)</div>
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Fanning Committee on the left, Welcoming Committee on the right.</div>
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As I watched my bees today, many of them were returning with their pollen baskets overflowing with pollen. I think they like their new home.</div>
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If you're still with me, thanks for enduring this extremely long and picture heavy post. I couldn't help but to share my excitement.</div>
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K</div>
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<br /></div>Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6187932308050720746.post-45192294306642992422012-05-04T12:44:00.001-06:002012-05-04T12:44:16.164-06:00Guest at 2 little hooligansHi everyone! I am a guest over at Christina's <a href="http://www.2littlehooligans.com/2012/05/04/fat-quarter-friday-guest-post-from-syzygy-of-me/">2 little hooligans</a> today. Hop on over and you will see why I needed those clean bowls! Be sure you check out the rest of her blog, too. She has lots of great ideas for everything!Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06921796643732720523noreply@blogger.com0