tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73634823067171277532024-03-12T19:10:14.817-04:00Sutton GraceErinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.comBlogger248125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-40448506365805199162012-03-25T23:43:00.002-04:002012-03-25T23:57:58.534-04:00by way of explainationYou may have noticed that I haven't posted in a while. I am taking a bloggy hiatus. I don't know when I will return, if ever.<br />
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I love blogging. I love using my talents and sharing them with others. I love having a record of my projects and recipes. I actually go to my blog often to look up recipes or tutorials-- I don't have the memory capacity I used to.<br />
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The thing I love most about blogging is the friendships I've made along the way. So many ladies that I would have otherwise never met I now call friends. I love the communication I have with all of you readers. Like your comments on my most recent giveaway post. I was touched by your kind words. <br />
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Here's another example: I recently got this comment on my blog:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">Erin, The writer of another blog that I read just announced that she's pregnant with her 10th child. I notice that you haven't been posting lately. It makes me wonder if you're about to be a mama again.<br />
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No matter, I hope you're away because you're well and out having fun!</blockquote>I'm not pregnant again (thankfully!) but I loved this comment! I appreciated that she had noticed my absence and had taken the time to write to me about it. Thanks, Kathy!!<br />
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At this point you are probably wondering why I am giving up blogging if I love it so much, right? Well last month I went on a girls trip with some friends. I was gone for four days. I have never left my kids for so long. I felt guilty for leaving but I had such a fantastic time! Being removed from my daily life gave me time to reflect and ponder the way I do things. And I wasn't happy with what I saw.<br />
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Try as I might, I have never been able to master balancing my priorities. Blogging takes a lot of time, more than I would have imagined, especially when you are a craft blogger. Creating something, photographing it, editing the pictures, uploading and writing the post (writing does not come naturally to me either). Just for one post. Tutorials are even more time consuming! I would set certain times of the day or evening that I could blog or do projects but I would often try to squeeze things in during the day. I would choose working on a project over playing with my kids more than I would like to admit. I found that even when I was with my family I would find myself thinking about blogging-- projects to do, ways to photograph or present the project, composing blog posts in my head. It was just too much a part of my life. <br />
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Over the last year or so I kept getting the feeling that I needed to quit blogging. I finally decided to listen to the prompting. My kids are the best things I have ever created. Being their mother and teaching them is by far the most important thing I will ever do in this life. They deserve 100% of my attention. That is not to say that I can't have other interests or hobbies but I need to cut back and so blogging is what I am cutting. Without blogging I will actually have more free time to craft when I feel like it.<br />
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At first I thought I would just remove the ads from my blog. In doing so I would no longer be contractually obligated to blog. I would blog when I felt like it, not on a schedule mandated by someone else. I removed the ads but after a few weeks of not posting I found that I was happier, more relaxed. Without the self-imposed pressure to create on a daily basis I was free to do other things. I have been playing more games with my kids, reading with the kids more, I have been exercising (!!), keeping the house cleaner, staying on top of laundry, I still have managed to create too. I sewed myself a cute new skirt and have plans for a few more. I have even started teaching Liam how to sew! He's doing awesome, by the way! I am spending very little time on my computer. I even unsubscribed from 90% of the blogs I had been reading. Sometimes there can be too much of a good thing!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qVIoZ9-ou9c/T2_kKZjmsSI/AAAAAAAAG8U/UAslMDdZUrE/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qVIoZ9-ou9c/T2_kKZjmsSI/AAAAAAAAG8U/UAslMDdZUrE/s580/photo.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I still don't have enough hours in the day for everything I would like to do but I'm closer. I am getting more done and I am happier. This wasn't an easy choice. I know I will miss blogging, I already do, but I also know it was the right choice. In ten years it won't matter if I had a blog or not but my kids will be 18, 15, 13 and 11 (Yikes!) that is what is important. And that is what I want my focus to be.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KCBCy9bygPU/T2_kRcFziEI/AAAAAAAAG8c/k9sjUmgUHJc/s1600/DSC02561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KCBCy9bygPU/T2_kRcFziEI/AAAAAAAAG8c/k9sjUmgUHJc/s580/DSC02561.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I will be leaving the blog up. I will still be using it a reference I hope it will still be a source of inspiration for some out there. A big thank you to all who read and commented and supported. I will miss you! Love, ErinErinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-47279331364388220292012-02-21T22:05:00.000-05:002012-02-21T22:05:00.157-05:00winner!The winner of my third blogiversary giveaway is comment #51- <a href="http://joycemessickphotography.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Joyce</a>! Congratulations! Check your email.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BLW6MdZIOW0/T0RXEcnSSOI/AAAAAAAAGzg/JURBHnHegt4/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-02-21+at+9.25.56+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BLW6MdZIOW0/T0RXEcnSSOI/AAAAAAAAGzg/JURBHnHegt4/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-02-21+at+9.25.56+PM.png" /></a></div><br />
Thank you everyone who entered and for all your kind words. Seriously. You guys are going to give me a big head! :)Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-86809625505795031812012-02-09T09:15:00.006-05:002012-02-09T09:15:01.162-05:00retro tv t-shirtMy sweet husband, Michael, celebrated his birthday last month. One of his presents was this retro t.v. t-shirt.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yBeTsRQ4qX4/TzHiHWlFhlI/AAAAAAAAGzA/obe8yqZ0QCw/s1600/DSC01559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yBeTsRQ4qX4/TzHiHWlFhlI/AAAAAAAAGzA/obe8yqZ0QCw/s580/DSC01559.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The t-shirt was inspired by one of our all time favorite TV shows, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0487831/" target="_blank">The IT Crowd</a>. It is available on Netflix Instant. I definitely recommend it with one caveat- British TV allows much more foul language than American TV. There are a few F-words sprinkled throughout the series-- less than one an episode. It's like a PG-13 movie. Anyhow, one of the main characters, Roy, wears lots of great t-shirts. This one was my favorite:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBpQi8Efytw/TzHix6qciRI/AAAAAAAAGzU/DAm6gK_wRQY/s580/Screen+shot+2012-02-07+at+9.35.27+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBpQi8Efytw/TzHix6qciRI/AAAAAAAAGzU/DAm6gK_wRQY/s580/Screen+shot+2012-02-07+at+9.35.27+PM.png" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I recreated it with freezer paper stencils and fabric paint. This was my first time doing a freezer paper stencil on an adult sized t-shirt. I struggled getting it centered and level, as I am sure you can tell! Little kid t-shirts are much easier. If I hadn't left it to the last minute (literally- I did this the morning of his birthday!) I would have bought a new shirt and tried again. Live and learn, right? I also wish I had made the t.v. a little larger.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HDZoNGubKcE/TzHiDWYbphI/AAAAAAAAGy4/gLWT0tUke7Q/s580/DSC01555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HDZoNGubKcE/TzHiDWYbphI/AAAAAAAAGy4/gLWT0tUke7Q/s580/DSC01555.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I do really love how the antennas and the details of the t.v. (the switches and speaker and legs) turned out though. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-huR09q-d66k/TzHiK0WsQqI/AAAAAAAAGzI/AJ7NhqdGQC8/s580/DSC01562.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-huR09q-d66k/TzHiK0WsQqI/AAAAAAAAGzI/AJ7NhqdGQC8/s580/DSC01562.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Michael was very happy with this present. He put it on immediately and wore it the rest of the night. See all those candles? He's OLD! :)Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-74131700548223823522012-02-07T16:06:00.005-05:002012-03-08T08:34:46.605-05:00third blogiversary giveaway {closed}<div style="text-align: center;"><i>:::this giveaway is closed::: </i></div><br />
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My third blogiversary was actually January 29th but I have been so busy the giveaway had to wait. I have so much I want to share but between the kids and other responsibilities there just isn't enough time in the day. I'll get it all out eventually!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KSGHoiZftyM/TzGOqE_KH8I/AAAAAAAAGyg/Elqfo0EPCZQ/s1600/DSC02155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KSGHoiZftyM/TzGOqE_KH8I/AAAAAAAAGyg/Elqfo0EPCZQ/s580/DSC02155.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>the bike isn't part of the giveaway. I just like this bike so much I couldn't resist using it as a prop! I wish I could ride this bike all over town and fill the basket with goodies. Alas, Charlotte is a not a biking friendly city.</i></span></div><br />
I know my last giveaway was a tote bag but I have since changed the way I was making them and wanted to give away a 'new and improved' tote bag.<br />
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The new tote has a black vinyl bottom that gives the bag a nice weight and structure and makes it more durable.<br />
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The rest of the bag is made with a medium weight canvas. The cheery + colorful print is from IKEA and is lined with a white canvas. There are two exterior pockets and two small interior pockets.<br />
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Tucked inside the bag are a few of my favorite things:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r_yBdz0CKvY/TzGO4MYFiuI/AAAAAAAAGyw/_OSEHLNf28k/s1600/DSC02173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r_yBdz0CKvY/TzGO4MYFiuI/AAAAAAAAGyw/_OSEHLNf28k/s580/DSC02173.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Essie nail polish in Chinchilly<br />
Ritter Sport milk chocolate with hazelnuts (I <i>love</i> anything with hazelnuts!)<br />
A braided leather bracelet (<a href="http://melissaesplin.com/2011/06/magic-braided-leather-tutorial/" target="_blank">tutorial</a> by <a href="http://melissaesplin.com/" target="_blank">Melissa Esplin</a>- surprisingly easy. I made three in about 30 minutes and plan on making lots more as gifts)<br />
A ring made from a vintage clip on earring<br />
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As always, thank you, to all of you that read my blog. I know I am 'small potatoes' and I dont blog often enough but I appreciate all of you that take the time to read and comment!<br />
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To enter the giveaway you only need to comment on this post-- please include an email address if you don't have one linked to your account. No liking or other hoops to jump through! One entry per person, please. If you accidentally leave more than one comment please go back and delete the extra(s). Thank you and good luck!Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com118tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-75791375074344143082012-02-01T11:23:00.000-05:002012-02-01T11:23:05.349-05:00thrifty findsIt's been a while since I shared any thrifty finds. Pickings have been slim lately but last Saturday we found two fun items.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iggsn9v5ZLA/TylgAM7vp4I/AAAAAAAAGxo/Un4-x4i54cA/s1600/DSC01895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iggsn9v5ZLA/TylgAM7vp4I/AAAAAAAAGxo/Un4-x4i54cA/s580/DSC01895.JPG" /></a></div><br />
A vintage bicycle! For $26.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aENJnJEXK90/Tylfz5d7HAI/AAAAAAAAGxQ/0NSjWDgVp5s/s1600/DSC01891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aENJnJEXK90/Tylfz5d7HAI/AAAAAAAAGxQ/0NSjWDgVp5s/s580/DSC01891.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I especially love the basket!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N0XSY6R0Nu4/Tylf3sgo9PI/AAAAAAAAGxY/hvg75uLM9og/s1600/DSC01893.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N0XSY6R0Nu4/Tylf3sgo9PI/AAAAAAAAGxY/hvg75uLM9og/s580/DSC01893.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The bike seems to never have been ridden, just sat in a barn for thirty years. It was very dusty and a little rusty. Michael cleaned and oiled it and it was good to go. It didn't even need a new chain or tires.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8MpdciGDmLc/TylgG1ZzYzI/AAAAAAAAGxw/ifTI2mWY-p4/s1600/DSC01896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8MpdciGDmLc/TylgG1ZzYzI/AAAAAAAAGxw/ifTI2mWY-p4/s580/DSC01896.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Vista Sophisticate. I don't know much about it, but it sure is cute!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iikLgp7C2aM/TylgKZo2qPI/AAAAAAAAGx4/Ezj1KBpycTY/s1600/DSC01911.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iikLgp7C2aM/TylgKZo2qPI/AAAAAAAAGx4/Ezj1KBpycTY/s580/DSC01911.JPG" /></a></div>Ezra got a ride in the basket. We normally wouldn't do that or ride without helmets but for a quick ride on our quiet residential street we broke the rules.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ai4LTsMRKV4/TylgNXygV6I/AAAAAAAAGyA/k50Yi7OXv-I/s1600/DSC02081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ai4LTsMRKV4/TylgNXygV6I/AAAAAAAAGyA/k50Yi7OXv-I/s580/DSC02081.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Spectator Mary Jane's for Gemma.<br />
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They won't fit her for a while but they were too cute to pass up.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lhK8a8gIlm0/TylgUAmeP5I/AAAAAAAAGyQ/yfC-MA89YxY/s1600/DSC02091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lhK8a8gIlm0/TylgUAmeP5I/AAAAAAAAGyQ/yfC-MA89YxY/s580/DSC02091.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Only $5 and have never been worn!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XV9qY-UNvyY/TylgXWOlPCI/AAAAAAAAGyY/SmBw9T4WVvE/s1600/DSC02093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XV9qY-UNvyY/TylgXWOlPCI/AAAAAAAAGyY/SmBw9T4WVvE/s580/DSC02093.jpg" /></a></div><br />
What about you? Have you thrifted anything great lately?Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-6344156961703693752012-01-26T13:36:00.001-05:002012-01-26T13:39:11.962-05:00perpetual daily journal calendar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q46Bu_4DLEQ/TyGa5E9X1BI/AAAAAAAAGvg/rvaKJtfM-ss/s1600/DSC01849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q46Bu_4DLEQ/TyGa5E9X1BI/AAAAAAAAGvg/rvaKJtfM-ss/s580/DSC01849.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I came across this <a href="http://www.designsponge.com/2010/12/diy-project-vintage-postcard-calendar-journal.html" target="_blank">DIY project</a> on <a href="http://www.designsponge.com/" target="_blank">Design*Sponge</a> sometime last year and purchased all the supplies for it but decided to wait until the new year to start. Of course I forgot all about it until a week or so ago when I was cleaning my sewing table and came across the adorable <a href="http://www.surlatable.com/product/PRO-167746/Red-Ceramic-Berry-Basket" target="_blank">red berry basket</a> I had purchased.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M6fUMlsr6iU/TyGa8PfWE6I/AAAAAAAAGvo/L_QyXKWQoUk/s1600/DSC01853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M6fUMlsr6iU/TyGa8PfWE6I/AAAAAAAAGvo/L_QyXKWQoUk/s580/DSC01853.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I bought the vintage post cards at my <a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2010/04/thrift-strores-rule-antique-stores.html" target="_blank">favorite local over priced antique store</a>. They had some beautiful cards but they were in the $2-4 price range. Since I was going to be cutting the cards to size and they were only being used at dividers not framed art I decided to pick some from the 50 cent basket! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S4fyyYRwsuQ/TyGa_Ab6mII/AAAAAAAAGvw/WxMJ6dZtPwY/s1600/DSC01855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S4fyyYRwsuQ/TyGa_Ab6mII/AAAAAAAAGvw/WxMJ6dZtPwY/s580/DSC01855.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I quickly threw it all together and played catch-up for the first few weeks of the year that I had missed. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WnHi-jbZL6U/TyGbCHKGAnI/AAAAAAAAGv4/QHnjqmc7qNA/s1600/DSC01862.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WnHi-jbZL6U/TyGbCHKGAnI/AAAAAAAAGv4/QHnjqmc7qNA/s580/DSC01862.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Now that I am caught up I can just jot down a highlight or lowlight or a funny quote from the day. It's completely simple and doable and is just what I needed because I have gotten so lazy in journaling the milestones of my family. <br />
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I have a feeling it is going to be a very rewarding and entertaining project in the years to come! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hlhwxn-kilQ/TyGbI1tKcEI/AAAAAAAAGwI/2e6fHkN9OxE/s1600/DSC01875.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hlhwxn-kilQ/TyGbI1tKcEI/AAAAAAAAGwI/2e6fHkN9OxE/s580/DSC01875.jpg" /></a></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-62397361566924833752012-01-16T08:58:00.008-05:002012-01-16T10:44:17.647-05:00vegetable sushi rollOver the weekend I had my first attempt at making sushi. It was fantastic and surprisingly easy! I followed <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/vegetable-sushi-rolls-for-all-ages-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">this</a> recipe for the rice though I wish I hadn't as it didn't call for enough water and the rice was slightly undercooked. I should have followed the directions on the rice bag (duh!) as it called for a half cup more water. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OF4S5kXAI1U/TxOG9lDhaJI/AAAAAAAAGsg/GXBqi7l7Vi0/s1600/DSC01482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OF4S5kXAI1U/TxOG9lDhaJI/AAAAAAAAGsg/GXBqi7l7Vi0/s560/DSC01482.JPG" /></a></div>I bought my supplies at a local asian market. Everything was very inexpensive and the man running the store was very kind to give me some sushi making tips; wrap the bamboo mat completely with plastic wrap. Lay out an even layer of rice and press down firmly. Keep a bowl of water near by, rice won't stick to wet fingers. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X6NaKBSEErs/TxOHCNMiSwI/AAAAAAAAGso/P7OGWvKIMek/s1600/DSC01516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X6NaKBSEErs/TxOHCNMiSwI/AAAAAAAAGso/P7OGWvKIMek/s560/DSC01516.JPG" /></a></div>Lay a sheet of nori paper over the rice and add your filings of choice. I made mine with carrots, cucumber, green beans and avocado. Seems like a strange combination but it was delicious! I, personally, wouldn't use raw fish when making sushi at home. It makes me nervous.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r4HtcviWSRU/TxOHSYhm0fI/AAAAAAAAGsw/u95vMSidrfk/s1600/DSC01493.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r4HtcviWSRU/TxOHSYhm0fI/AAAAAAAAGsw/u95vMSidrfk/s560/DSC01493.JPG" /></a></div>Once you have layed out the filling, start with the edge closest to you and roll as tightly as possible.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UM89yJbdH_8/TxOHZ6cyAvI/AAAAAAAAGtA/g36aK2LsEGQ/s1600/DSC01503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UM89yJbdH_8/TxOHZ6cyAvI/AAAAAAAAGtA/g36aK2LsEGQ/s560/DSC01503.JPG" /></a></div>Roll your roll in sesame seeds. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RqHaaKjE3eo/TxOHdonSH-I/AAAAAAAAGtI/jl3HCN97D7A/s1600/DSC01508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RqHaaKjE3eo/TxOHdonSH-I/AAAAAAAAGtI/jl3HCN97D7A/s560/DSC01508.JPG" /></a></div>Using a very sharp knife slice your roll, wiping the knife between each cut.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aSDB5CJU0pQ/TxOHgffge7I/AAAAAAAAGtQ/64ZQro-3liU/s1600/DSC01510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aSDB5CJU0pQ/TxOHgffge7I/AAAAAAAAGtQ/64ZQro-3liU/s560/DSC01510.JPG" /></a></div>Serve with soy sauce, wasabi and sriracha hot chili sauce. Enjoy!<br />
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Have you made sushi before? What are your favorite combinations of fillings?Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-55064926153051741262012-01-12T12:08:00.000-05:002012-01-12T12:08:24.616-05:00my birthday. instagram style.Yes, my birthday was almost a week ago. Yes, I am still talking about it. It's the only day of the year that is all about me so I try to make it last as long as possible. :)<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">After taking the big kids to school I dropped the little ones off at my sister-in-laws house and made my way to the spa for a one hour massage. This spa was so posh. It was packed with <a href="http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xeypi7_saturday-night-live-ladies-who-lunc_fun" target="_blank">Ladies Who Lunch</a> so I was a little out of place but I enjoyed myself nonetheless! Unfortunately, I accidentally left my <a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2011/11/diy-ring.html" target="_blank">favorite ring</a> there. I am SO bummed. </div><div class="mobile-photo"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nlSCYOO3tQU/Tw8K47hXVNI/AAAAAAAAGkU/I8UOCkXMd14/s1600/photo-790430.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696784026813551826" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nlSCYOO3tQU/Tw8K47hXVNI/AAAAAAAAGkU/I8UOCkXMd14/s320/photo-790430.JPG" /></a></div></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">After the spa I met up with Michael for a delicious (and healthy!) lunch.</div><div class="mobile-photo"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z-9C4thYSQw/Tw8K_B4_fGI/AAAAAAAAGkg/hqHQmlxkMTQ/s1600/photo-715845.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696784131602480226" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z-9C4thYSQw/Tw8K_B4_fGI/AAAAAAAAGkg/hqHQmlxkMTQ/s320/photo-715845.JPG" /></a></div></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">My sweet husband mid-chew.</div><div class="mobile-photo"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MperReo5Akw/Tw8LDOLqH7I/AAAAAAAAGks/12MAlYh7Flg/s1600/photo-732190.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696784203621474226" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MperReo5Akw/Tw8LDOLqH7I/AAAAAAAAGks/12MAlYh7Flg/s320/photo-732190.JPG" /></a></div></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Then is was back to regular life for a while: library, getting the big kids from school, homework. After that I got to share another great meal Michael! We ordered miso soup and several different sushi rolls. My favorite was the garden veggie. It was amazing. I purchased all the ingredients to recreate it at home because I couldn't get enough!</div><div class="mobile-photo"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BnFL08NCiHg/Tw8LMCcz_kI/AAAAAAAAGk4/L689zOIHEkc/s1600/photo-768286.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696784355091021378" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BnFL08NCiHg/Tw8LMCcz_kI/AAAAAAAAGk4/L689zOIHEkc/s320/photo-768286.JPG" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Because we are old and boring we went to a movie after dinner. We saw the new Sherlock Holmes film. I'd like to say it was good but I fell asleep. See? I wasn't kidding about the old and boring part!</div><br />
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January isn't just my birth month it's also the month that I started this blog, three years ago. Last year I didn't do anything to mark the blogiversary since, you know, I'd just had a baby but this year I want to do another giveaway so be on the lookout for that!Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-35261916485100801952012-01-06T09:30:00.001-05:002012-01-06T17:26:33.594-05:00five things fridayToday is my birthday. <i style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="color: #f1c232;">T</span><span style="color: #0b5394;"></span></b></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="color: #0b5394;">h</span></b></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="color: #e06666;">i</span><span style="color: #6aa84f;">r</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;">t</span><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">y</span>-<span style="color: #ffd966;">t</span><span style="color: #38761d;">h</span><span style="color: #a64d79;">r</span><span style="color: #0b5394;">e</span><span style="color: #e06666;">e</span></b></span>.</i> Yikes! I am not weirded out by getting older I just don't know where the time has gone. The years are flying by and I would give anything to slow it down! <br />
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My dear mother celebrates her birthday tomorrow. I have always liked sharing a birthday with my mom. Someday when I am rich I am going to take us on some fancy trip, just the two of us, to celebrate our birthdays. But I'm not rich yet so she is getting a tote bag, just like the rest of my family and friends. And it's not even done (let alone mailed across the country) so it will be late, just like the totes for the rest of my family and friends. Wah-wah. At least I am consistent! Happy birthday, Mom!<br />
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I bought some cute second hand ballet flats for Sutton. She loves them but the elastic strap across the top of the shoe was digging in, so I cut them off. As I was tossing the cut-off elastic into the trash can Sutton said, "No, Mom! I can use those for something!" My little repurposing heart almost exploded with pride!<br />
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Yesterday Liam said his first ever swear word. The D word. Exact quote, "I wish I didn't have so much d**n homework." (That kid seriously hates doing homework) It took all I had to not laugh out loud. I'm not proud of that but I am proud of the fact that he got to the age of eight (and a half!) before saying a swear! We had a little talk about bad words and being frustrated. A good reminder for me too because even though I do my best to not swear in front of the kids, you better believe I am thinking or saw bad words under my breath!<br />
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I am really late in hearing this news but <a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/index.aspx" target="_blank">Pantone's</a> 2012 color of the year is <a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/category.aspx?ca=88" target="_blank">Tangerine Tango</a>! That is the exact shade of orange as my <a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2011/12/before-and-after-orange-bookcase.html" target="_blank">bookcase</a>. Who knew I was so trendy? Not me!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-btCeVOnFjSA/TwcDS7Qf28I/AAAAAAAAGkI/CIKt9xO3raU/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-06+at+9.17.43+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-btCeVOnFjSA/TwcDS7Qf28I/AAAAAAAAGkI/CIKt9xO3raU/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-01-06+at+9.17.43+AM.png" /></a></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-85748922715874376152012-01-04T12:46:00.001-05:002012-01-04T13:42:51.779-05:00paint chip artBack in July Jessica Jones of <a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">How About Orange</a> posted about using <a href="http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2011/07/how-to-make-easy-paint-chip-wall-art.html" target="_blank">paint chips to make art</a>. There are many versions of paint chip wall art but I liked her geometric triangles the best.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0eX_JdK6gcY/TwSFbCIL4AI/AAAAAAAAGjc/DJ2FjjD98h0/s1600/DSC01344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0eX_JdK6gcY/TwSFbCIL4AI/AAAAAAAAGjc/DJ2FjjD98h0/s580/DSC01344.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I decided to make one for Michael for Christmas. I grabbed a few paint chips, made a template and started cutting. My triangles looked like they were all the same size but once I started putting them together and found they were not the same size. Close but not exact. It almost looked cool but I knew the imperfections would bug me.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wXk_qdKs0-E/TwSFxpGDnWI/AAAAAAAAGjo/HFbuJ_KrKio/s1600/DSC00920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wXk_qdKs0-E/TwSFxpGDnWI/AAAAAAAAGjo/HFbuJ_KrKio/s580/DSC00920.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Enter Plan B. I grabbed a 1 1/4" square punch. Punched out a bunch of squares and sliced them in half, corner to corner. Since I only had to make one cut, all the pieces were the exact same size. Whew! The triangles were a different shape then Jessica's but I was okay with that- 'make it your own' and all that. Plus considering the size of the art I was making it was way faster than cutting by hand.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BRImAUJ7gNU/TwSHCRrdB4I/AAAAAAAAGj0/zIB3jyNSGKA/s1600/DSC00921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BRImAUJ7gNU/TwSHCRrdB4I/AAAAAAAAGj0/zIB3jyNSGKA/s580/DSC00921.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Then came the fun part, making the design. I played around with the triangles until I found a pattern I liked. I added a second row to check if I liked how the pattern repeated.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wM0TAYH9yT4/TwSB6h7cLkI/AAAAAAAAGik/ql44f9MjT0o/s1600/DSC01340.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wM0TAYH9yT4/TwSB6h7cLkI/AAAAAAAAGik/ql44f9MjT0o/s580/DSC01340.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ezOEeztlhsI/TwSD5lzVVVI/AAAAAAAAGi4/X53-9o3Dnco/s1600/DSC01340_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ezOEeztlhsI/TwSD5lzVVVI/AAAAAAAAGi4/X53-9o3Dnco/s580/DSC01340_1.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Then I prepared my backing paper with some guidelines to keep everything straight. I sprayed the backing paper with spray adhesive and laid out the pattern, keeping the colors completely random.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_RtifgOazwg/TwSEtbx8jwI/AAAAAAAAGjE/mCkxkBpxw3Y/s1600/DSC00919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_RtifgOazwg/TwSEtbx8jwI/AAAAAAAAGjE/mCkxkBpxw3Y/s580/DSC00919.JPG" /></a></div><br />
This part was really quick and it wasn't long before my paper was full!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODujCJMkx8Q/TwSFDlCOxEI/AAAAAAAAGjQ/2WEWsDIYIK4/s1600/DSC01336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODujCJMkx8Q/TwSFDlCOxEI/AAAAAAAAGjQ/2WEWsDIYIK4/s580/DSC01336.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I put in in a mat and frame I already had and it was done. Michael was really pleased with it and I like that it sort of looks like a mini-quilt. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DK-S7MyacPI/TwSPBq3SS7I/AAAAAAAAGkA/aoykEIGYLvQ/s1600/DSC01352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DK-S7MyacPI/TwSPBq3SS7I/AAAAAAAAGkA/aoykEIGYLvQ/s680/DSC01352.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(uh, just ignore all that crap under the desk. mmm-kay?)</i></span></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-84145550044663580592011-12-29T17:32:00.000-05:002011-12-29T17:32:50.048-05:00give and getChristmas has come and gone and once again I have disappeared from my little blog. I've been having too much fun celebrating this special time of year with my family. In addition to spending time with my little family we been playing with aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents. Unfortunately all of my kids are sick (the boys both have ear infections) so we have had to take some breaks from the fun here and there.<br />
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I wanted to share just a few of my favorite things that I gave and received this Christmas.<br />
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Michael gave me this beautiful <a href="http://www.tulle4us.com/Products/?grid=1&catid=18&sid=52&proid=1926&price_r=&colorid=&printid=&season_view=False&sale=0&size=" target="_blank">coat</a>. It fits really well and I LOVE the color!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NIRD640WTY/TvzbvGzi73I/AAAAAAAAGg8/QRAwMMu0L9A/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-29+at+3.26.31+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NIRD640WTY/TvzbvGzi73I/AAAAAAAAGg8/QRAwMMu0L9A/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-12-29+at+3.26.31+PM.png" /></a></div><br />
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He also gave me this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/88392640/leafy" target="_blank">necklace</a> made by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/morganprather?ref=top_trail" target="_blank">Morgan Pranther</a>. She makes some beautiful and affordable necklaces.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pf9eFh388jY/Tvzb0xPxlfI/AAAAAAAAGhI/sTWNQSDF-bU/s1600/il_570xN.272745667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pf9eFh388jY/Tvzb0xPxlfI/AAAAAAAAGhI/sTWNQSDF-bU/s580/il_570xN.272745667.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Unlike last Christmas's <a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2011/01/mod-doll-house-plans.html" target="_blank">doll house</a>, this year I only made two simple presents. Colorful art for Michael. I'll show you how I made it soon.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K7Zgid2hlHc/Tvznrcy5_QI/AAAAAAAAGiA/aRsvvCRrz0s/s1600/DSC01229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K7Zgid2hlHc/Tvznrcy5_QI/AAAAAAAAGiA/aRsvvCRrz0s/s580/DSC01229.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I also made a necklace for my little sister. Sorry for the crappy picture. In typical Erin fashion I made it after dark the night before I had to mail everything. The necklace looked great on my sister when we Skyped Christmas morning. I followed Jess' <a href="http://www.craftinessisnotoptional.com/2011/11/felt-flowers.html" target="_blank">tutorial for felt flowers</a> at <a href="http://www.craftinessisnotoptional.com/" target="_blank">Craftiness Is Not Optional</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RCZ68rwh3fc/Tvzc7SosdPI/AAAAAAAAGhU/uyaid3mLRs4/s1600/DSC00718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RCZ68rwh3fc/Tvzc7SosdPI/AAAAAAAAGhU/uyaid3mLRs4/s580/DSC00718.jpg" /></a></div><br />
As I <a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2011/09/five-things-friday.html" target="_blank">mentioned</a> back in October, I got Sutton Fashion Plates. They were a huge hit!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4UbccgKHA9A/TvzhbZWXVVI/AAAAAAAAGhg/6c5Se1OgLbY/s1600/DSC01081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4UbccgKHA9A/TvzhbZWXVVI/AAAAAAAAGhg/6c5Se1OgLbY/s580/DSC01081.jpg" /></a></div><br />
What did you give and get this year?<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope that you all had a wonderful Christmas (or whatever Holiday you celebrate) and I hope that you have a fabulous and healthy New Year. <span style="font-size: x-large;">Bring on 2012</span>!</span><br />
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</a></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-19896328475564144862011-12-16T08:46:00.000-05:002011-12-16T09:10:22.696-05:00before and after: orange bookcaseIn lieu <a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/search/label/five%20things" target="_blank">Five Things Friday</a> I am going to show off my pretty new bookcase that I <a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2011/12/five-things-friday.html" target="_blank">mentioned</a> last week.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4uBXgpxxlEo/TupcyDoY7EI/AAAAAAAAGf8/jKqNrMiWT9I/s1600/DSC00614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4uBXgpxxlEo/TupcyDoY7EI/AAAAAAAAGf8/jKqNrMiWT9I/s580/DSC00614.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I have been craving two things for our main living space; more storage and color. I had decided to buy the<a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50103086/#/70103085" target="_blank"> expedit bookcase</a> from IKEA. It was fairly inexpensive and would give us the needed storage space even though it's bland and cheaply made. The day before my IKEA run I swung by the Salvation Army nearest my house and found this:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gdN7R7pVNao/Tupdfg7f1eI/AAAAAAAAGgU/dKSFr461vx4/s1600/DSC00415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gdN7R7pVNao/Tupdfg7f1eI/AAAAAAAAGgU/dKSFr461vx4/s580/DSC00415.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I knew immediately that she was going home with me and I knew just what I was going to do with her! I had just seen <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/57983913922010346/" target="_blank">this</a> a couple of days previous and loved it. Michael helped me add the vertical pieces. I chose Benjamin Moore oil paint (this piece is going to see a lot of wear and oil is so much more durable than latex) in Tawny Day Lily. It is the perfect reddish orange color (though it appears more red in the photos than it really is). <br />
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The bookcase was tagged at $50. I was able to get 10% off. $45 is still a ton of money for me to spend on thrifted furniture but this bookcase was perfect! So much better than the expedit I was planning on spending $70 on. My thrifted bookcase is solid wood and it's longer and narrower than the expedit. It fits in my family room perfectly! With the cost of paint, I spent about the same as the expedit shelves but I got something that is unique and won't fall apart in a year!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7PMp-AU-XY/TupxY-JmvwI/AAAAAAAAGgc/_426mPncoy4/s1600/DSC00683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7PMp-AU-XY/TupxY-JmvwI/AAAAAAAAGgc/_426mPncoy4/s580/DSC00683.JPG" /></a></div><br />
On top of the bookcase I have a little teal lamp from Target, a rose votive (Michael bought it for me at a local boutique), two thrifted books- I loved the pretty printed covers, and a little bird- also from Target, a few years ago.<br />
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I am really, really happy with it. So happy that I don't want to put anything in it! But this house is lived in. It's not a museum. There will soon be library books and baskets of toys and diapers filling these shelves. As they should be.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Happy weekend!</b></span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-47984527980778921012011-12-14T10:17:00.001-05:002011-12-14T10:18:36.418-05:00blender pancakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s49oDsnIon8/Tui8Ou7nxzI/AAAAAAAAGfs/k6URyDSER-U/s1600/DSC00554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s49oDsnIon8/Tui8Ou7nxzI/AAAAAAAAGfs/k6URyDSER-U/s580/DSC00554.jpg" /></a></div><br />
A friend mentioned blender pancakes to me a while ago and I finally gave it a try for dinner last night. I will never make another pancake recipe (unless it's pumpkin pancakes or <a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2010/09/apple-cinnamon-pancakes.html" target="_blank">apple cinnamon pancakes</a>!) and this is why;<br />
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Taste. The blender pancake has a very nutty, natural taste while still being light and fluffy. Michael repeatedly commented on how good the pancakes were and the kids ate several each. Gemma, alone, had three!<br />
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Ease. It's even easier to make than pancake mix, you just toss everything in the blender then pour it onto the griddle.<br />
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Nutrition. While the recipe calls for a small amount of sweetener (sugar or honey or agave syrup) and oil, there are no preservatives or unpronounceable ingredients and the freshly ground whole wheat is so good for you.<br />
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<b>bender pancakes</b><br />
1 cup milk<br />
1 cup wheat kernels, whole & uncooked (I used hard red wheat)<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
2 tablespoons oil<br />
2 tablespoons honey or sugar<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla<br />
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice<br />
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Put milk and wheat kernels in blender. Blend on highest speed for 4 or 5 minutes or until batter is smooth. Add eggs, oil, baking powder, salt, honey or sugar, vanilla and lemon juice to the batter. Blend on low. Pour batter straight from the blender (less to wash later!) onto a hot griddle. Cook; flipping pancakes when bubbles pop and create holes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JdyCW5oKQeU/Tui8Se3PCYI/AAAAAAAAGf0/AYmJ7nrAyGg/s1600/DSC00553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JdyCW5oKQeU/Tui8Se3PCYI/AAAAAAAAGf0/AYmJ7nrAyGg/s580/DSC00553.jpg" /></a></div><br />
recipe lightly adapted from <a href="http://everydayfoodstorage.net/2010/06/30/food-storage-back-to-basics-wheat-blender-wheat-pancakes-recipe/food-storage-recipes" target="_blank">everyday food storage.net</a>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-78533011721884185092011-12-09T14:03:00.001-05:002011-12-09T16:17:20.477-05:00five things fridayIt's been a while since I have done a Five Things Friday post. Lately I have felt I am living my life on a treadmill. I am always running but never actually get anywhere. Am I alone? Do you ever feel this way?<br />
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I am finishing a painting project heavily inspired by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/52552410@N03/5437642178/sizes/l/in/photostream/" target="_blank">this</a>. Okay, I didn't just use it as inspiration, I full on copied it! I love it and can't wait to share it with you next week.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ph0ef6o_SDQ/TuJ2aCUVEdI/AAAAAAAAGfk/PsyBb01rBII/s1600/5437642178_65c5d093f7_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ph0ef6o_SDQ/TuJ2aCUVEdI/AAAAAAAAGfk/PsyBb01rBII/s640/5437642178_65c5d093f7_b.jpg" width="377" /></a></div><br />
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My oldest is home sick today. He was puking all night. I am praying that no one else catches it, especially Gemma!<br />
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I started playing Words With Friends (the app version of Scrabble) yesterday and I am totally addicted! I have like six games going on at once, which sounds more chaotic than it really is. Hours go by between turns and some games last days. It's very different than scrabble in that way. Do you play Words With Friends? My user name is: nirenirewordsonfire. Let's play!<br />
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We have the outside lights up and the tree decorated but the rest of my house looks cah-razy! The kids pulled everything out of the bins and placed the decorations haphazardly throughout the house. I haven't taken the time to right everything yet and make it look pretty.Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-19558634239010932902011-12-05T09:09:00.003-05:002011-12-06T00:14:29.977-05:00tissue box makeoverI thrifted this <a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2011/09/thrifty-finds.html" target="_blank">tissue box</a> a few months ago and I finally got around to doing something with it!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kZw6F2RAHsQ/Tt2V47aaD5I/AAAAAAAAGdk/pXAz_o3yAUc/s1600/DSC07418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kZw6F2RAHsQ/Tt2V47aaD5I/AAAAAAAAGdk/pXAz_o3yAUc/s580/DSC07418.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I liked the filigree look of the box but I'm not a fan of the brass so I spray painted it a bright, cheery red. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O5-q3h4qaB4/Tt2Vr2ctcLI/AAAAAAAAGdE/JlpUG42obrM/s1600/DSC00389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O5-q3h4qaB4/Tt2Vr2ctcLI/AAAAAAAAGdE/JlpUG42obrM/s580/DSC00389.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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Since the boxes tissues come in are notoriously ugly I wanted to make sure it wouldn't be seen at all while not losing the filigree detail. I bought a piece of white art board for a few dollars at Hobby Lobby and cut it to size. I used a tiny bit of E-6000 glue in the corners to secure the art board.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N134bS2j-6c/Tt2VzvMoJbI/AAAAAAAAGdc/VA1JiKdY_hQ/s1600/DSC00413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N134bS2j-6c/Tt2VzvMoJbI/AAAAAAAAGdc/VA1JiKdY_hQ/s580/DSC00413.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Now my tissues have a pretty place to reside on my kitchen counter.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vMISYFjv_Ls/Tt2VxT6wusI/AAAAAAAAGdU/UeSTSWuAX6o/s1600/DSC00405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vMISYFjv_Ls/Tt2VxT6wusI/AAAAAAAAGdU/UeSTSWuAX6o/s580/DSC00405.JPG" /></a></div><br />
It's a silly little thing but it makes me happy!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gPBdcqKmPkU/Tt2VuOWYukI/AAAAAAAAGdM/VBRwiNv2SQE/s1600/DSC00399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gPBdcqKmPkU/Tt2VuOWYukI/AAAAAAAAGdM/VBRwiNv2SQE/s580/DSC00399.JPG" /></a></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-8601163142502604592011-11-29T08:31:00.011-05:002011-11-29T13:39:09.906-05:00custom pendant necklacesWhen I was purchasing supplies for my <a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2011/11/diy-ring.html" target="_blank">clip on earring ring</a> I noticed some bezel set pendants in the jewelery findings section but didn't think much of it until I saw these <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/custom-map-pendant" target="_blank">necklaces</a> at <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/" target="_blank">Uncommon Goods</a>. I thought they were cool but... $145. Gulp. That is a lot of money! The next day I ran to Hobby Lobby and picked up supplies (luckily they were 50% off that week. Score!). <br />
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I loved the map idea but there aren't many geographical locations that are important enough to me to wear around my neck. Maybe something from Brooklyn. I think I might try to scrounge up an old NYC Subway map and make a necklace with my old subway stop (7th Ave and 9th Street on the F Train) but since I didn't have a subway map on hand I used other items I had lying around: <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ci4Lt7bF-74/TtRgk-LGwgI/AAAAAAAAGbM/c1cTGjv5kaA/s1600/DSC00338_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="279" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ci4Lt7bF-74/TtRgk-LGwgI/AAAAAAAAGbM/c1cTGjv5kaA/s640/DSC00338_1.jpg" width="600" /></a></div><br />
The solid colors are nail polish (the small dark one is purple though it appears black in the photos). The dark blue/yellow print is from a Thank You card from my sister-in-law. The zig-zag and striped prints are from the cover of Michaels Pratt Institute Alumni Magazine (he was so nice about letting me cut it up!). The little multi-colored pendant is from the Flip diaper box. I had saved it because I loved the colors. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G6XXPMmWbpw/TtRgnWG0e3I/AAAAAAAAGbU/JHtZw5FZWFw/s1600/DSC09992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="547" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G6XXPMmWbpw/TtRgnWG0e3I/AAAAAAAAGbU/JHtZw5FZWFw/s640/DSC09992.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Cut out the template provided with the package. Trace onto your image and carefully cut out. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7QDdO9GNfe4/TtRgqARucaI/AAAAAAAAGbc/o1HZhfGUHVc/s1600/DSC09993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7QDdO9GNfe4/TtRgqARucaI/AAAAAAAAGbc/o1HZhfGUHVc/s640/DSC09993.JPG" width="595" /></a></div><br />
Glue onto your pendant. Let dry. Apply a layer of <a href="http://www.plaidonline.com/mod-podge-dimensional-magic-2-oz/92/cs11215/product.htm" target="_blank">Dimensional Magic Mod Podge</a>. Let it dry overnight. Add another layer. Let dry overnight again. Continue until you reach the desired thickness of mod podge. The 3D mod podge says it has a three hour dry time but I found that it needs to dry overnight and with the multiple layers needs another few days to fully cure or it tends to develop cracks.<br />
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If you are using nail polish, simply paint the bottom interior of your pendant allow it to dry completely and continue with the Dimensional Mod Podge.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xVDNC4a2Odk/TtRgsvfMoNI/AAAAAAAAGbk/RICXPI2MEBY/s1600/DSC09994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="492" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xVDNC4a2Odk/TtRgsvfMoNI/AAAAAAAAGbk/RICXPI2MEBY/s640/DSC09994.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
They only thing I don't like about the 3D mod podge is the colors become muted. My bold multi colored diaper box pendant turned out pastel but it's still one of my favorites. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NZt9BcYuffU/TtRh6zs652I/AAAAAAAAGb8/P0ZS8Wa6LFk/s1600/DSC00350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="327" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NZt9BcYuffU/TtRh6zs652I/AAAAAAAAGb8/P0ZS8Wa6LFk/s640/DSC00350.JPG" width="600" /></a></div><br />
One of these pendants would make a simple and cute gift for that sister/friend/mother on your Christmas list!Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-40655771031803047332011-11-22T17:01:00.000-05:002011-11-22T17:01:00.921-05:00happy thanksgivingI am in Alabama visiting my husbands sister, her husband and their four kids. The drive was long and we stopped way too many times but we made it and we are having a great time exploring 'Bama and ridding horses. <br />
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If you've roasted your turkey and baked all your pies and find yourself with nothing to do (not likely, huh?) check out my pictures on Instagram @erin_woodward. It's my new obsession! Do you <a href="http://blog.instagram.com/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>? <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Thanksgiving!</span> I am thankful for many things, big and small, and I am thankful for all of you that read my blog. My writing isn't that clever, I'm not that cool and my really impressive projects are few and far between. I really appreciate all of you that keep reading and commenting. It means the world to me. <br />
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I hope you all have a wonderful and safe Holiday. For those of you outside the US, I know you don't celebrate Thanksgiving but I am thankful for you too and wish you happiness and safety!<br />
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<div class="mobile-photo"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TXYfLR719ZU/TswO4g_RJiI/AAAAAAAAGaw/GXp-ym1_OHI/s1600/photo-701901.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677929594298115618" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TXYfLR719ZU/TswO4g_RJiI/AAAAAAAAGaw/GXp-ym1_OHI/s580/photo-701901.JPG" /></a></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-75818077537091268172011-11-10T10:31:00.003-05:002011-11-10T22:57:21.284-05:00mod podge shoes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WdUN29Qmhu4/Trvv3qAKSpI/AAAAAAAAGZo/up_lDuutJaw/s1600/DSC09808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WdUN29Qmhu4/Trvv3qAKSpI/AAAAAAAAGZo/up_lDuutJaw/s640/DSC09808.JPG" width="580" /></a></div><br />
I have been wanting to mod podge shoes for a couple of years and I finally got around to it!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EKkqndlbXP8/Trvv-OlZCYI/AAAAAAAAGZw/WbXCYkG2w4U/s1600/DSC09092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EKkqndlbXP8/Trvv-OlZCYI/AAAAAAAAGZw/WbXCYkG2w4U/s640/DSC09092.JPG" width="580" /></a></div><br />
Michael bought me these shoes about six years ago. They are some el-cheapo bronze ballet flats from <a href="http://www.aeropostale.com/shop/index.jsp?categoryId=3534619">Aeropostale</a> but they are super comfy and I have loved them! I just couldn't wear them anymore, they were super thrashed. I was hoping that mod podging the shoes would extend their life a little. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fJTn-B5H0CU/TrvwJ_ZfU2I/AAAAAAAAGZ4/2GtR03aXu6s/s1600/DSC09699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fJTn-B5H0CU/TrvwJ_ZfU2I/AAAAAAAAGZ4/2GtR03aXu6s/s640/DSC09699.JPG" width="580" /></a></div><br />
I cut off the straps and used a thin piece of cardboard to fill the little keyhole opening. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D8TSupPM2sw/TrvwQsqBHII/AAAAAAAAGaA/JrCGPazGkbM/s1600/DSC09852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D8TSupPM2sw/TrvwQsqBHII/AAAAAAAAGaA/JrCGPazGkbM/s640/DSC09852.JPG" width="580" /></a></div><br />
I bought the cheerful fabric at Hobby Lobby. I followed this <a href="http://www.makeit-loveit.com/2009/08/mod-podge-shoes.html">tutorial</a> from <a href="http://www.makeit-loveit.com/">Make It and Love It</a>.<br />
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I was worried that the mod podge would make the shoes really stiff. They are a little stiff but still comfortable. Yay! Here's to another six years of these shoes. That is if the soles don't wear out first. :)<br />
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I've never worn such colorful shoes but I really like them. They're great with jeans and a simple t-shirt. Have you ever mod podged shoes? Would you wear multicolored shoes?Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-27989843278494758682011-11-07T12:06:00.000-05:002011-11-07T12:06:47.599-05:00DIY ringI have made a goal to start accessorizing more and I hear Forever 21 is the place to go for cute, cheap accessories. So I made a trip to the mall. I rarely go to malls. I really dislike them but I am a sucker for cheap things... so to the mall I went. I found two cute necklaces but that was it. I really wanted a cute ring to wear but all the rings at Forever 21 were HUGE. Not at all realistic. I'm a mom. I change poopy diapers, do dishes, wipe noses, play Go Fish!, and tickle my kids all day. I can't imagine doing all that with a golf ball sized plastic rose attached to my finger! So I decided to make my own ring:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p1pWGSLu0q0/TrgM2IfJvVI/AAAAAAAAGXc/3MLU7h7TEhs/s1600/DSC09764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p1pWGSLu0q0/TrgM2IfJvVI/AAAAAAAAGXc/3MLU7h7TEhs/s580/DSC09764.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">don't you love my wintertime dry, scaly hands?</span></i></div><br />
I started with a pair of vintage clip on earrings. One has several stones missing so I was able to talk the price down to $3. I'll keep the extra around as a back up in case my ring loses stones.<br />
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I bought a ring in the jewelery findings section of Hobby Lobby for $1.47.<br />
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I removed the clip on part of the earring and glued it to the ring. I used Gorilla Glue because I was out of E-6000. You have to be careful with Gorilla Glue though because it expands as it dries. <br />
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I love my new ring! It is just big enough for me; large enough to be eye catching but small enough for daily wear. It cost me $4.47 and a few minutes of my time. Best of all, it is completely unique.Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-25557861879662309532011-11-03T10:28:00.000-04:002011-11-03T10:28:26.469-04:00foolproof cake decorationsWhen I asked Ezra what kind of cake he wanted for his birthday he would give me vague weird answers so I was on my own. I usually try to make whatever kind of birthday cake the kids can dream up but since Ez didn't seem to care I decided to go simple to make it easy on myself as we had a busy weekend. I decided to make sports equipment since Ezra is into all things sports. It was so quick and easy and really fun to do.<br />
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I went with a simple 'Happy Birthday Ezra' on top.<br />
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Basketball<br />
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Soccer<br />
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Golf<br />
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Tennis<br />
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Baseball<br />
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I'm not kidding when I said it was quick and easy. The writing and the sports equipment took about ten minutes to do. Getting everything set up (finding and printing the images, melting the chocolate) took longer that making the words and sports gear. <br />
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You can use any type of shape or picture. The sky's the limit. I used a unicorn below as an example of a more girl-y version.<br />
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Here's how to do it:<br />
Print your image. Lay a sheet of parchment paper over your image or words (wax paper should work too). I used cheap-o chocolate almond bark. Melt it in the micro or over a double boiler. Fill a pastry bag fitted with a #2 tip. <br />
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Outline your image with the melted chocolate.<br />
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Let the chocolate cool for a 10-15 minutes before handling. Lightly press onto a freshly frosted cake. That's it. I told you it was easy!<br />
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How cute would several of these unicorns be lined up on the outside of a cake? If you don't want to use brown buy the white chocolate flavored bark and use food coloring oils (not regular food coloring!) for a custom color. <br />
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Whatever shape you make, just make a lot because all the kids will want one to go with their piece of cake. I guarantee it!Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-34600387547820481512011-10-31T15:03:00.001-04:002011-10-31T15:09:56.695-04:00halloween 2011This is what my kids looked like when they left the house this morning. Great costumes, right? Kidding. The kids aren't allowed to wear Halloween costumes to school. It is disruptive to learning, apparently. Actually, I am sure it is disruptive to learning but, come on, it's only one day! They have still had lots of Halloween fun though. We went to the 'Trunk or Treat' at Church on Saturday and this afternoon we will be going to Michael's office for trick or treating and we'll make the rounds around the neighborhood tonight too. <br />
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Here they all are in their costumes at the Trunk or Treat:<br />
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Liam is a magician. I bought the hat at Party City. I made the cape and the bow tie and painted a wooden dowel for a wand.<br />
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Sutton is a fairy. Costume purchased at Costco. This is Sutton's first time wearing make-up. She looks way too grown up!<br />
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Ez as a fireman. Costume purchased at a second hand store for a few bucks.<br />
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Gemma is a cute little cow! Another Costco costume!<br />
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I kind of loved not sewing all the costumes myself this year. It was so easy and relaxed and everybody was happy! <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Halloween!</span>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-48230629058397327712011-10-28T09:29:00.001-04:002011-10-28T09:29:00.217-04:00five things friday: birthday pictures editionMy birthday boy with his birthday breakfast still on his face- pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon and orange juice.<br />
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We took the family to a hot air balloon festival. <br />
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The plan was to take a tethered ride in a balloon but that didn't pan out. We are hoping to go again next year.<br />
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Ezra demonstrating his additional year prior to opening his presents. <br />
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CAKE! Please note the smoke coming off the candle to the left-- heart shaped-- how freaking awesome is that??<br />
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HAPPY WEEKEND, FRIENDS!Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-12193094854925428912011-10-25T11:41:00.001-04:002011-10-25T11:45:04.428-04:00leafy treetop spotI'm guest posting today at <a href="http://leafytreetopspot.blogspot.com/">Leafy Treetop Spot</a>! I was lucky enough to meet Tricia when my sister-in-law, Kate, married Tricia's brother, Dustin, last July. Tricia is super nice and genuine and talented and to boot! Go check out my tutorial for a <a href="http://leafytreetopspot.blogspot.com/2011/10/top-toberfest-peter-pan-collar-tutorial.html">Peter Pan Collar</a>. It's a cute and easy way to dress up a t-shirt or dress!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2TLPOoCOTgg/TqbYLBXkExI/AAAAAAAAGMQ/r6YcM3bbvbM/s1600/DSC08817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2TLPOoCOTgg/TqbYLBXkExI/AAAAAAAAGMQ/r6YcM3bbvbM/s570/DSC08817.JPG" /></a></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-35118106382276092682011-10-24T08:41:00.001-04:002011-10-24T09:15:44.551-04:00sewing for me: another most flattering shirtI made another "<a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2011/08/sewing-for-me-most-flattering-shirt.html">Most Flattering Top</a>". I love green. It's such a cheerful color. I realized recently that I have a lack of green in my life; in my wardrobe, in my home. So this is my first effort to add a little green.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I did nine rows of shirring on the last top. This time I only did one row in front...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XTdW3JqHUfU/TqVgRn2eaJI/AAAAAAAAGMA/84FDgxdmuYg/s1600/DSC09083_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XTdW3JqHUfU/TqVgRn2eaJI/AAAAAAAAGMA/84FDgxdmuYg/s570/DSC09083_1.JPG" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and three rows in the back.</div><br />
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It gives the top a little more relaxed, flow-y feel. This top would look great with a trendy belt-- I need to get one of those!<br />
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I think I am going to make one more in a Fall-ish print and add sleeves. Have you made a "Most Flattering Top (or dress)? You can find the tutorial <a href="http://www.prudentbaby.com/2010/04/most-flattering-shirt-dress-diy.html">here</a>.Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7363482306717127753.post-72610257249552130472011-10-21T11:40:00.003-04:002011-10-21T12:26:17.222-04:00five things fridayWhew. What a week. Lot's of coughing and fevers and earaches going on here. Liam and Sutton are currently both on antibiotics. We've never had multiple people on antibiotics before. While their drug use is overlapping they weren't really sick at the same time. It was one after the other. Which means two trips to the doctors office and many days of bundling up a sick kid to drive to the school to drop off/pick up the healthy kid.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k8lHafmot58/TqGUzhN6BrI/AAAAAAAAGLo/uvFtEQMCQ38/s1600/Photo+on+2011-10-21+at+11.31+%25233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k8lHafmot58/TqGUzhN6BrI/AAAAAAAAGLo/uvFtEQMCQ38/s570/Photo+on+2011-10-21+at+11.31+%25233.jpg" /></a></div>I chopped off my hair. It's okay. Part of me loves it the other part feels like it's the mom version of Little Orphan Annie. Oh well, it's only hair. Plus it is way better than the alternative, which was using Michael's clippers to buzz my head. That's how frustrated I get when my hair gets too long and unmanageable. <br />
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I have to tell you about a friends new blog, <a href="http://www.ablogaboutlove.com/">A BLOG ABOUT LOVE</a>. Mara is one of my dearest friends. She has been through a lot of trials in recent years (infertility, divorce). She (and sometimes her husband, Danny) writes about her experiences and finding strength and faith that she didn't know she had. Mara has always been a beautiful, smart, inspiring woman but her trials have changed her, she has transformed into an even more beautiful (yes, you can actually see a difference in her countenance), smart, inspiring woman. She has a peaceful confidence that I really admire. Check <a href="http://www.ablogaboutlove.com/">it</a> out. You will be inspired too, I promise.<br />
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Today is October 21. Can you believe that I haven't even decorated for Halloween? I used to love to decorate for all the Holidays. I guess I still do, I just haven't had the time or energy. Let's just pretend that my house looks like <a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2010/10/halloween-decor-2010.html">this</a> or <a href="http://suttongrace.blogspot.com/2010/10/halloween-decor-2010.html">this</a>. Also, we are doing store bought costumes this year (gasp!). I end up spending about the same amount of money when I make costumes plus all the hours I spend and let's be honest don't kids always want the crappy store bought costumes? Mine do and I did when I was a kid.<br />
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Last but certainly not least, tomorrow is Ezra's third birthday! I can't believe my baby boy is three. Ezra was my easiest baby and continues to be my easiest kid. He is so easy going and is always happy (unless he is super tired). Ezra is really into sports, something that is new for our family. Liam is more artistic than athletic. Sutton is pretty athletic but isn't intrigued by sports the way Ezra is. I love how different they all are! This weekend will be spent celebrating Ezra and all the things he loves.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Have a wonderful weekend! </span></b></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12148211919396920179noreply@blogger.com10