tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38792699907393255752024-03-18T21:13:44.331-07:00Plumbtickled CreateVanessahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18404579621258722940noreply@blogger.comBlogger168125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-79861335497504980402013-06-11T21:13:00.000-07:002013-06-11T21:13:02.716-07:00An explanation....<div style="text-align: center;">
So I have been MIA for a bit but there are reasons behind it. Let's go back to March. In March to mid April I had a huge project that took all my spare time. What was this project you ask? Well one of our Ohana was married in the Los Angeles Temple.</div>
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Arent't they a cute couple? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibNrml8ZFw0C38YVxAeHy9AwroWYU6rVPr9EzfoVvCuZ4fab9Ykky63Y0BjDR5w0Qs9O9DGYZ_xp2C-t3m9rKPMwRbTAEmqA1p5UC3RAJRxb_sNr8exc0qRQIjf8nnHk_FALBKh1L3r9MU/s1600/orange+county+lds+temple+wedding+photographer+19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibNrml8ZFw0C38YVxAeHy9AwroWYU6rVPr9EzfoVvCuZ4fab9Ykky63Y0BjDR5w0Qs9O9DGYZ_xp2C-t3m9rKPMwRbTAEmqA1p5UC3RAJRxb_sNr8exc0qRQIjf8nnHk_FALBKh1L3r9MU/s320/orange+county+lds+temple+wedding+photographer+19.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Well I was so busy because I made her three bridesmaids dresses AND her wedding dress. This wasn't my first wedding dress (its my fourth) but I have decided that with me working full time wedding dresses are too time consuming so only a few people that are still single will be able to pull me out of wedding dress retirement for the time being. You can check out more gorgeous photos by the talented Kristi <a href="http://kristiesfotos.blogspot.com/2013/06/kathy-and-mac.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</div>
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(Her wedding dress was 5 layers in all with a pleated tulle bodice, that was a miracle in itself!)</div>
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I mentioned before that The Hubby is a composer' well he worked with the creator of Dweller and the original soundtrack was finally released. Along with that came the launching of a collaborative video game and media scoring venture with a fellow composer. </div>
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Then to make life even busier we moved! It is probably no more than 2 miles from our old apartment but we love the extra space and are in a new city and zip code. With the new place came my own sewing and art space for the first time in years so many more projects are getting done now that we are fully moved in and settled. The first projects were more home based and I will post pictures this next week of how we made this townhouse style place into our own home.</div>
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It has been a busy time for us and between school, working full time and sewing projects the blog has taken a back seat. I will try to keep up more often!</div>
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Eva</div>
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EvaMarievahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17732600395285106041noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-17413498962415290882013-05-30T19:46:00.000-07:002013-05-30T20:34:15.089-07:00Playroom Under the Stairs Make Over<div align="center">
I've always thought a playroom under the stairs would be so fun. Our new place has the perfect space, but when we moved in we just kinda threw the toys in there and tried to make it organized. I have to say, I am not a big fan of plastic toy bins. I found things in there like rocks, hair bows, garbage, dirty socks. It seems like everything found it's way in there.</div>
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I also wanted a playroom that would work for both genders as I have a boy and a girl. I also didn't want to paint, so we started looking at wall decals. Turns out they were the best idea ever! They both decided on Sponge Bob Square Pants and after a trip to a few stores and about $85 this is the transformation we came up with.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYdV9NMHFgwzUsTTUItdWwssMmYzZvD8DhAcTAAZWWhwYV5rht1xQMxRXh1g8hjtGJzmTHSGeJ2BXZwsDrBbZDzdM_H7PE-RVbqOQGj73X-VwZNEpFFwJ4e0Slf3Bqk-3rkWcreBF4h8I/s1600/2013-05-30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYdV9NMHFgwzUsTTUItdWwssMmYzZvD8DhAcTAAZWWhwYV5rht1xQMxRXh1g8hjtGJzmTHSGeJ2BXZwsDrBbZDzdM_H7PE-RVbqOQGj73X-VwZNEpFFwJ4e0Slf3Bqk-3rkWcreBF4h8I/s400/2013-05-30.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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They had so much fun putting Sponge Bob up and now they have to go and say good-bye to their playroom every night. So cute.</div>
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This space is right off of my laundry room, so they can use that space to play too. I like doing laundry and having them right there playing. It also wraps around the corner, but it angles down because that is the bottom of the stairs. There's not much to do with it so we just put a little table and some toys that wouldn't fit anywhere else. My little girls loves that space. I guess it's perfect for her size. Not me!</div>
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Smiles,</div>
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<em>Vanessa</em></div>
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Vanessahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18404579621258722940noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-34069431645591929522013-05-19T16:59:00.003-07:002013-05-19T16:59:24.040-07:00As You Wish<div align="center">
A very talented sister in my ward has a craft day once a month and this month I was able to participate. Kind of. For those who want to make the craft, but can't make it, she puts together a kit. See? She's pretty wonderful, huh?</div>
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I chose to do a slat sign with the wording, "As You Wish" on it. <em>The Princess Bride </em>is my all time favorite movie and recently we introduced this classic to our children. It was perfect timing to hang a sign with this saying in our house. When we put it up, I asked what it meant and my son smiled and said, "I love you."</div>
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I asked my husband to hang it over the coat rack where the kiddos put their backpacks, coats, church bags and all sorts of things. I want them to see that sign when they leave the house and know that I love them. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5TlhNdjK3t1WzqYW_w4PuRu4BuWPXIhIrpUL0ZGpPG6kLDWury-7jtO6AStEkC-USonJ52jKQagoE5eI19b7WRUzh_GGIVATCJ_PZlz7UZya0Ax9mKesFbFSYEUvQ3BOzvOJMv8V1A1Q/s1600/IMG_0227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5TlhNdjK3t1WzqYW_w4PuRu4BuWPXIhIrpUL0ZGpPG6kLDWury-7jtO6AStEkC-USonJ52jKQagoE5eI19b7WRUzh_GGIVATCJ_PZlz7UZya0Ax9mKesFbFSYEUvQ3BOzvOJMv8V1A1Q/s320/IMG_0227.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It was super easy and even more fun to make. I haven't done painting in awhile and now I want to paint everything! The sign actually has 3 different coats of paint: medium blue, white and then black.</div>
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<strong>The Steps</strong></div>
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1. Paint everything medium blue</div>
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2. After that has dried, paint everything white.</div>
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3. After that has dried, place the vinyl lettering on the board.</div>
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4. Paint everything black.</div>
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5. When the paint is almost dry, pull the vinyl lettering off.</div>
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6. When the paint is completely dry, sand the board lightly all over and more in spots where you want the color to show through underneath.</div>
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I LOVE the sign and it makes me very happy. I am also looking forward to next month's craft and already have a few planned of my own. :)</div>
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Smiles,</div>
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<em>Vanessa</em></div>
Vanessahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18404579621258722940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-58268224884925968672013-05-02T15:32:00.000-07:002013-05-02T15:33:45.960-07:00Our Little Fairy Oasis<div align="center">
The April edition of Family Fun had the cutest idea for a Toad Abode/Fairy House. My daughter and I fell completely in love with it. We ripped the picture out of the magazine and it has been hanging on our fridge ever since.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWu80p6JIyQBylNBL9F787ddWyrKiiRDB2zoOYcBhd4nICls6tXIkZdDNAEYPXAUGx2-80FmUhYDOPMoLSusdZCxygqB1ylBq0szoEH-lH2Il5PYNQ4fs1-MmtdvCfJ03qZC0q-RqRNmA/s1600/Toad+Abode.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWu80p6JIyQBylNBL9F787ddWyrKiiRDB2zoOYcBhd4nICls6tXIkZdDNAEYPXAUGx2-80FmUhYDOPMoLSusdZCxygqB1ylBq0szoEH-lH2Il5PYNQ4fs1-MmtdvCfJ03qZC0q-RqRNmA/s320/Toad+Abode.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.parents.com/fun/activities/outdoor/make-your-backyard-more-fun/?8494#page=8&rb=Y" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Family Fun Toad Abode Project</a></td></tr>
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On Monday, my little girl's sixth birthday, we decided it was time to start our little project. With apprehension as a non gardener, I entered the gardening section of Lowe's and wandered throughout the whole section. Thankfully, a few employees took pity on me and helped me find a few of the items I needed. </div>
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After an hour of time and $67.00, we walked out with some plants, rocks, a pot base, moss, potting soil, a hose and tiles. Wow. Expensive! If you are going to do this project, expect it to cost quite a bit.</div>
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Now we had all of the gardening supplies, but still needed a house and some miniature animals and furniture. I live in a small town, so I'm pretty limited on stores. Someone suggested the IFA store, which I'm guessing stands for International Farmers of America since I live in a farming community. I decided to brave it and had quite a bit of fun. They had baby chicks and so many other things you just don't see in the big city.</div>
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Unfortunately, I couldn't find anything but bird feeders, but I did luck out and found a hamster house that would work perfectly. Then I picked up a miniature bunny and frog. I'm still on the lookout for miniature furniture to put on our patio and a fence, but we can add that later.</div>
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Family Fun is pretty vague on the items you'll need, so I thought I'd share what I picked up.</div>
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<strong>What You'll Need</strong></div>
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Potting Soil</div>
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Pea Gravel/Small Rocks</div>
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Sheet Moss</div>
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3 kinds of plants (This is entirely up to you, but make sure you get something that doesn't spread.)</div>
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A sheet of miniature tile from the tile section at Lowe's or Home Depot (They are all attached to one sheet, just decide how big you want it and cut. I found the cheapest sheet for $3.00.)</div>
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<li>Large plastic plant saucer (Mine was about 20" and already had punch out drainage holes. If it doesn't, you'll have to drill some holes in the bottom.)</li>
<li>Bird house (I used a wooden hamster house and painted it.)</li>
<li>Miniature animals (They have these in every toy section in most stores. I've seen them at Walmart, Target, and Michael's, but I can't remember the brand name. It does start with an S though.)</li>
<li>Miniature patio furniture (We are still on the lookout for this, but Family Fun said they used a Calico Critters toy set. I googled this and they have this brand at Toys R Us, but no patio furniture. We'll keep looking!)</li>
<li>Miniature fence set (Another piece of the puzzle we are searching for. I guess you can find mini fences at any craft store, but alas, there is not one in my small town.)</li>
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And for those who are visual like myself:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT2pm-jHBqEmoLcxuJMo6Dw-u8QeiGaBeZ1q8uPRimYhSGHSg-L8_kyfFYVskrCaKdFKnuIIyKp4OZ4QG9Mb5uQUIjos_2iNkbE5J6wp_RXGwg56A_74IR73Bd-5jk_Sycg3Pe8GfXA54/s1600/IMG_0163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT2pm-jHBqEmoLcxuJMo6Dw-u8QeiGaBeZ1q8uPRimYhSGHSg-L8_kyfFYVskrCaKdFKnuIIyKp4OZ4QG9Mb5uQUIjos_2iNkbE5J6wp_RXGwg56A_74IR73Bd-5jk_Sycg3Pe8GfXA54/s400/IMG_0163.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hamster house with mini animals and paints.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-dX6ryLk2gxtX_Za6FJJ8_d8G8zXM7XUAFf7XiGNSgxEGd_92kUBcFNz7Wr_1sXAe8bieeUNqoujHypSTRxxUtebYrzJ8leJRZyb8n-vaJZqetfZfw9ofqK6hrWfK0d3UPqG9l6zu_w/s1600/IMG_0166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-dX6ryLk2gxtX_Za6FJJ8_d8G8zXM7XUAFf7XiGNSgxEGd_92kUBcFNz7Wr_1sXAe8bieeUNqoujHypSTRxxUtebYrzJ8leJRZyb8n-vaJZqetfZfw9ofqK6hrWfK0d3UPqG9l6zu_w/s400/IMG_0166.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our gardening supplies</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjee4exBHlkrv0fLWqYXQfvtk92PVz-QxC8VITluFcLGBjeIiBu0gpDIKXmDyFkqBAVEV7eySdO1LzNACypNEHQMQC2qAULiLizglOIZc6vZjRMEwLNX4W3U_HbO5K7X7kncyeUyaenhn0/s1600/IMG_0167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjee4exBHlkrv0fLWqYXQfvtk92PVz-QxC8VITluFcLGBjeIiBu0gpDIKXmDyFkqBAVEV7eySdO1LzNACypNEHQMQC2qAULiLizglOIZc6vZjRMEwLNX4W3U_HbO5K7X7kncyeUyaenhn0/s400/IMG_0167.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Basic Potting Soil</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj0incoxYJ0vizCsuvpmYhHtxZgdMdILRsUTCmiytlASJaryb0rqMLNUF5eyhddJbflh-7a_N1fGnfJelYi3wMc6wyX-xPaTZKrm8dCU1W7Xb1b9GLULMsAWTkprA_ao5hUPtWjWiWKFk/s1600/IMG_0169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj0incoxYJ0vizCsuvpmYhHtxZgdMdILRsUTCmiytlASJaryb0rqMLNUF5eyhddJbflh-7a_N1fGnfJelYi3wMc6wyX-xPaTZKrm8dCU1W7Xb1b9GLULMsAWTkprA_ao5hUPtWjWiWKFk/s400/IMG_0169.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The only bag I could find was large, but it was the same price as a small bag of decorative rocks. So I bought it.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnj6xm1dIQLOYSg7wNWEPSfPHenSibsv5Cs2FAQ5yF_kgcKsCoLo_wNRXJcKzF_cdP8alKZO4W8ImLwTfao5LwQgKjdqi0UWVEnnJBBw_8yEcfGwbzl43d3IZeRjylnMM-prCedTlVKJU/s1600/IMG_0171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnj6xm1dIQLOYSg7wNWEPSfPHenSibsv5Cs2FAQ5yF_kgcKsCoLo_wNRXJcKzF_cdP8alKZO4W8ImLwTfao5LwQgKjdqi0UWVEnnJBBw_8yEcfGwbzl43d3IZeRjylnMM-prCedTlVKJU/s400/IMG_0171.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There were a few kinds of moss. I chose the greenest. Who knew moss came in bags!?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirisbDbdbzyfmwx-WfFP4fcl1hBcull1bAu486KPAQCZuLy319h5egfRPXyuT0krfioc0md9UZdEDL3-uX33GN5ulHAF2wj9GI063v7JiXuU0zNJZXepUjViI7goC1dG9y9ieiRpPLmU4/s1600/IMG_0176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirisbDbdbzyfmwx-WfFP4fcl1hBcull1bAu486KPAQCZuLy319h5egfRPXyuT0krfioc0md9UZdEDL3-uX33GN5ulHAF2wj9GI063v7JiXuU0zNJZXepUjViI7goC1dG9y9ieiRpPLmU4/s400/IMG_0176.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Begonias and two other plants, but I have no idea what kind they are!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX_dMmYdyngTLuYLgYK8Q8QXyUttvEY6TVfprybvYXvPCEvli3SyrCZjakTMn0y_VJy9-ztvrPm8c3sSyUNGJdhm9W4mb9XQiIYOsMjZZYIMYGHY5u55Y80kdqcd5eLJmhJrimFrp7xx4/s1600/IMG_0177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX_dMmYdyngTLuYLgYK8Q8QXyUttvEY6TVfprybvYXvPCEvli3SyrCZjakTMn0y_VJy9-ztvrPm8c3sSyUNGJdhm9W4mb9XQiIYOsMjZZYIMYGHY5u55Y80kdqcd5eLJmhJrimFrp7xx4/s400/IMG_0177.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sheet of miniature tiles</td></tr>
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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/AVvXsEjuB4nasuwCCvf_L6_nmWP02mfn3stEukXNkj56eGqIZMFrfmdttBPAquQjf38WMmrIzCOzpsdZZQyp9KU1vBEulm6L9VVbkqK6q7pF57pxCT6ZsiHrWWEF9tJx4GMYjCblFHIBHniENFM/s1600/IMG_0184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuB4nasuwCCvf_L6_nmWP02mfn3stEukXNkj56eGqIZMFrfmdttBPAquQjf38WMmrIzCOzpsdZZQyp9KU1vBEulm6L9VVbkqK6q7pF57pxCT6ZsiHrWWEF9tJx4GMYjCblFHIBHniENFM/s320/IMG_0184.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plastic plant saucer</td></tr>
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And then put it all together and what do you get?!</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/AVvXsEiNWvxzedOIpSP4hGmtfgGxRSJGXx0-4UoRIhcHEo3muTmLLDfDcLQK8EhtzmT0isABTSJOqAFCO0ZLaRKYSbpBY0sdrYoJxPihtAKDXBpiWYbprNdAc7n1xz0tic4HcGi-vl4YEccreV4/s1600/IMG_0188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNWvxzedOIpSP4hGmtfgGxRSJGXx0-4UoRIhcHEo3muTmLLDfDcLQK8EhtzmT0isABTSJOqAFCO0ZLaRKYSbpBY0sdrYoJxPihtAKDXBpiWYbprNdAc7n1xz0tic4HcGi-vl4YEccreV4/s400/IMG_0188.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished product! (Minus the chairs and fence.)</td></tr>
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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/AVvXsEhokkJxbB5X8H6SjHAZqOzUCzEZ5kh5pHdJHPtoVr-nRuvdxHm8p5fdnBT2U6CkyjDu1Cx_KAyy5ltpGDPR57z_WWrTloT-LyFP06DEQf5DZkhjP4Lq7Ea3VoGGxhafsWpewDTz6p1hS8Y/s1600/IMG_0194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhokkJxbB5X8H6SjHAZqOzUCzEZ5kh5pHdJHPtoVr-nRuvdxHm8p5fdnBT2U6CkyjDu1Cx_KAyy5ltpGDPR57z_WWrTloT-LyFP06DEQf5DZkhjP4Lq7Ea3VoGGxhafsWpewDTz6p1hS8Y/s400/IMG_0194.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We love it and keep looking outside to see if any fairies have taken up residence.</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
This is a super fun (although pricey) gardening project. I felt like a little girl again as we were putting it all together. I can hardly wait for visitors to see what they think!<br />
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Smiles,<br />
<em>Vanessa</em></div>
Vanessahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18404579621258722940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-52301549760666095772013-04-29T08:52:00.001-07:002013-04-29T08:53:10.032-07:00The Birthday I Silently Celebrate for Me<div align="center">
Today is my little girl's sixth birthday. Every year I look back and reflect on her birth. I'm sure this isn't uncommon for most mothers, but for me, it is a special day that I celebrate just for me in my own way. For this is the day I felt I became a successful mother, even though she is my second child.</div>
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I don't think I can put it into any better words than what I wrote three years ago on her third birthday. I just reread it again today and once again, it brought tears to my eyes. I like to remember. It brings back so many good memories and emotions.</div>
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If you are wondering what I am talking about, take a minute and click <a href="http://www.postpartumprogress.com/surviving-postpartum-depression-having-another-child" target="_blank">here</a> to read my words. It changed my life and maybe it will yours.</div>
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Smiles,</div>
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<em>Vanessa</em></div>
Vanessahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18404579621258722940noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-65887383341470647132013-04-25T10:01:00.001-07:002013-04-25T10:01:47.543-07:00The Simple Things in Live<div align="center">
I've been sewing, sewing, sewing. In fact, I've been sewing so much I haven't even had time to take pictures. I have even sewed a few of the projects we will be doing at the next Plumtickled Create. I had fun, but there are a few changes I would make. As a matter of fact, I already remade one of the projects with my adjustments. After my monkey girl's birthday is over, I'll be back online with pictures.</div>
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For now, I wanted to share a moment in life that I witnessed last week. I started taking one of the neighborhood kids to scouts with my son. On the way home, my son asked this young boy if he had played Pirates 101 before. This is a family favorite computer game. We all get on and play together.</div>
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This young boy's response was, "No. Have you ever played a lot of board games? What about puzzles? I love puzzles. I'm really good at chain link puzzles."</div>
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I honestly think this boy does not play video games . . . and that is awesome! I love how simple his life is. It's how my life was when I was a child. Back to simpler times.</div>
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Then the conversation went something like this:</div>
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My son: "Do they really have slaughter houses on farms?"</div>
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Other boy: "I don't know about that, but I use to live on a farm."</div>
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My son: "How do they kill the animals?"</div>
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Other boy: "With an axe or shotgun."</div>
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Well, that was a turn in conversation!</div>
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Hope you have a great day and enjoy the simple things in life.</div>
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<em>Vanessa</em></div>
Vanessahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18404579621258722940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-71957216268632454222013-04-13T17:02:00.001-07:002013-04-15T16:12:34.329-07:00Utah's April/May Plumbtickled Create<div align="center">
<strong><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><em>**Updated**</em></span></strong><br />
<br />
Time is just flying by! But today I have sewing on my mind. I was at Walmart and they must have just gotten in a new shipment of fabric. So many cute prints! Thankfully I only walked out of there spending a total of $17. But I am all set to sew for the next Utah Plumbtickled Create scheduled for May 4th.</div>
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Here is what we will be sewing this time. Kind of an accessory theme. I was going to title it "Accessorize April", but alas, the first Saturday that works for everyone is in May.</div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><strong>Sewing Project #1</strong></span></div>
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It's still a little chilly here in Utah, but not cold enough for those winter scarves. Dana from <a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/" target="_blank">Made</a> has the perfect solution- <a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/2008/07/tutorial-summer-scarf.html" target="_blank">a summer scarf</a>! Brilliant. I already had the chance to sew one and it is super cute. It was my first time using elastic thread. I didn't even know it existed!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_1eI7tS4s_Bg/S9VEkCFcJTI/AAAAAAAAXKQ/BNGVtO8OZt8/s640/a1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/_1eI7tS4s_Bg/S9VEkCFcJTI/AAAAAAAAXKQ/BNGVtO8OZt8/s640/a1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>What You'll Need:</u></strong></div>
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1/2 yard of fabric (light-weight cotton, sear sucker, knit or linen)</div>
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elastic thread, but not necessary</div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><strong>Sewing Project #2</strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"></span> </div>
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If you've been looking for a wallet that can hold everything, then this project is for you - <a href="http://straightstitchsociety.com/patterns/have-it-all-wallet/" target="_blank">The Have It All Wallet</a> from <a href="http://straightstitchsociety.com/" target="_blank">Straight Stitch Society</a>. I am almost in serious need for a new wallet. I'm pretty sure mine is going to break any day. I can hardly wait to do this one because of how adorable it is and I will be sewing my very first zipper!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEh5Tbia3mmPOV2zYzKWxb2dJX7HT_rMqDipOnAhdFK_L7AK0zUw5mTgMrSrrYzK4nHwcrz1oEQ_d4pgYRvgGXH31jAAqwGb-oS6FPvbKCpRJuqnokk3hOgUNZP0p_LvDRDkKDqsnBezayIeAw3cJvlihkIdGW0iLi5StKsY55_-oKk=" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEh5Tbia3mmPOV2zYzKWxb2dJX7HT_rMqDipOnAhdFK_L7AK0zUw5mTgMrSrrYzK4nHwcrz1oEQ_d4pgYRvgGXH31jAAqwGb-oS6FPvbKCpRJuqnokk3hOgUNZP0p_LvDRDkKDqsnBezayIeAw3cJvlihkIdGW0iLi5StKsY55_-oKk=" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>What You'll Need:</u></strong></div>
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44/45"-wide quilting cotton, linen, or other lightweight woven fabrics: </div>
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1/2 yd or 1 fat quarter fabric A (outside of wallet)</div>
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1/2 yd fabric B (interior pockets)</div>
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5" x 5" scrap fabric C (bow, View 1)</div>
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1/2 yd of 20"-wide lightweight, non-woven fusible interfacing</div>
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7" x 13" extra firm woven sew-in interfacing</div>
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<span style="color: #999999;">One coordinating regular (coil) zipper 7" long or longer </span><span style="color: red;">(provided)</span></div>
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Coordinating thread</div>
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<span style="color: #999999;">One sew-in or set-in snap (approximately 7/16" diameter — size 3 sew-in or size 16 set-in)</span> <span style="color: red;">(provided)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><strong>Sewing Project #3</strong></span></div>
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I can never resist a new purse or tote. There are so many uses for them! This tote rolls up and can fit nicely inside of your everyday purse. Then you can pull it out for library books, groceries, church or any other outing. <a href="http://zaaberry.blogspot.com/2011/05/tote-tutorial-totorial.html" target="_blank">The Fold Up Tote</a> has a full tutorial by <a href="http://zaaberry.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Zaaberry</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXEYNkxNFtDubnoaRUqvMKdGEpAVDLOVv6G3Va5OhD3oXJ4VIm8ZXf1lWmFfki6sIHOyVE9b551e60yNQGRIRGJCajdhrdfibALmp_Q7p_pxnTOkPdPcwrQ_98jE5l50J2vvZ5WHLwJk/s1000/IMG_2562.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXEYNkxNFtDubnoaRUqvMKdGEpAVDLOVv6G3Va5OhD3oXJ4VIm8ZXf1lWmFfki6sIHOyVE9b551e60yNQGRIRGJCajdhrdfibALmp_Q7p_pxnTOkPdPcwrQ_98jE5l50J2vvZ5WHLwJk/s1000/IMG_2562.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>What You'll Need:</u></strong></div>
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main body of the bag: 2 fabric pieces 15 x 10 inches</div>
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contrasting top of bag: 2 fabric pieces 15 x 6 inches</div>
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handles: 2 fabric pieces 4 x 16 inches</div>
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6 inches of thin elastic</div>
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1 button</div>
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I hope this inspires some of you to dust off ye ole sewing machine and get sewing. If you sew any of the projects, please send pictures! And I'll be posting our finished products after we have our Plumbtickled Create Day. </div>
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Smiles,</div>
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<em>Vanessa</em><br />
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Pictures are originals from bloggers' sites.)</span></em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNCYW12a5ChCy65_Uuv7yv-mXfB1qG1e9xgVi50Qg7W8jE2LA7xxULi9UbpZVUHvJ-NblpjDidyGy3i1DnHjClaAdMS8yl-PKY9TcgIwgF7HV0F1ZdIaHq5FWvu4pM9ektqPTyV9bhT4M/s1600/IMG_2572.JPG"></a> </div>
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I took a $2 shirt from Walmart and made this:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnxcCC7vJj7M_MA3AmAUNE1gsAQ2QPvxf8gPs92X8zb-uxh6bz8HD9XYCtRLpoF5NPBg6XKvW844eFIZckoHs9vXIxBJRaY-y9x0JYL667bhGyrefEoN_gBQuFSyTA4z0E-v_RBHpOBUk/s1600/Photo0519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnxcCC7vJj7M_MA3AmAUNE1gsAQ2QPvxf8gPs92X8zb-uxh6bz8HD9XYCtRLpoF5NPBg6XKvW844eFIZckoHs9vXIxBJRaY-y9x0JYL667bhGyrefEoN_gBQuFSyTA4z0E-v_RBHpOBUk/s400/Photo0519.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Good thing I made friends with this <a href="http://mykindofanonymousblog.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>. She has a great <a href="http://mykindofanonymousblog.blogspot.com/2013/02/infinity-scarf-tutorial.html" target="_blank">Infinity Scarf Tutorial</a>. My measurement are a little different since I had to piece together four pieces, but that happens when you cut up a shirt.</div>
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<a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://www.clickinmoms.com/cmprodaily/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/pinit.jpg" /></a></div>
Vanessahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18404579621258722940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-14757262657268750542013-04-04T09:25:00.002-07:002013-04-05T09:22:30.469-07:00Children and Chores<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It has taken me almost seven years to come up with a chore system that works for me and my children. I spent many hours creating fun chore charts with games, rewards, pictures, bright colors and anything else you can think of. You know what finally worked?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><strong><em><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Simplify</span></em></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">That one word seems to work with most things in life.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">I found a <a href="http://www.target.com/p/the-board-dudes-dry-erase-chore-chart-11-x14/-/A-11289335#?lnk=sc_qi_detaillink" target="_blank">simple magnetic chore chart</a> one day while I was shopping at Target for a little under $10. It came with all sorts of magnets to mark rewards and keep track of chores. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><strong>I threw those away.</strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Then I added some extra lines using a wet dry erase marker, which can't be wiped off unless it gets wet, to divide up chores between my two kids and assigned them a color. All chores written in blue are my son's chores and in green are my daughter's chores.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"></span> <span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Now here's the other trick. They DO NOT get paid or receive any type of reward to do their chores. I believe every person in the family should work together to maintain a household.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">We sat down and had a family discussion about everything Mommy has to do to keep the house clean and running smoothly. Then I asked them what they would like to be in charge of and they picked their own chores. Sometimes they switch with each other, but they know what they are in charge of every day.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">No video games, TV or outside play until their chores are done. Some days they choose not to do their chores because they don't want to put in the work to have fun. That's fine. We do that as adults. But it's quite funny the next day when they have to do more because their chores have piled up! Good life lessons.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Once I set it all up, the system ran without me. I do check every once in awhile to make sure they did their chores and occasionally I need to reshow them how to do one of them. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">We've been using this system for almost a year and it works great! Much less work for me to do and the kids are learning responsibility.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I did a quick search and here is a site that lists <a href="http://www.workingmom.com/age-guidelines.htm" target="_blank">age appropriate chores</a>. And if they can't read, draw a picture! I'm not the best artist, but my four year old knew which chore to associate with each picture.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Happy Thursday!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">Vanessa</span></em></span></div>
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Vanessahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18404579621258722940noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-51101166985864187352013-04-02T11:02:00.000-07:002013-04-02T11:02:54.614-07:00It's The Small Things<div align="center">
Spring Break usually equals fun. Not this time. We've been stuck in doors for almost five days because of sick kids. </div>
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During times like this, I need to find joy in the small things to keep me going!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had a little fun with the kiddos breakfast.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's cloudy and rainy again today. Isn't it beautiful?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My quick witted daughter: "Hi, I'm Guy. This is belt."<br />
Anyone?</td></tr>
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Happy Tuesday!</div>
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<em>Vanessa</em></div>
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Vanessahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18404579621258722940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-54024556845885633552013-03-31T21:11:00.000-07:002013-03-31T21:12:09.512-07:00Ruffle Slip<div style="text-align: center;">
After a three week separation from my laptop due to my power cord dying, I am finally back. I cannot believe how much I relied on my laptop for so many things.</div>
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We had the Utah Plumbtickled Create a few weeks ago. I do love the ruffled look and how it turned out. I bought a full length black slip and two yards of some soft mesh material my friend told me about. It was at Walmart for a whopping $2 a yard. I cut the mesh into 4" wide strips and then ran a basting stitch down the top. Lucky me, the basting stitch ruffled the fabric for me, so all I had to do was sew it onto the slip.</div>
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Between the ruffles and the slickness of the slip, I had to unpick three times, but I finally finished it a few days later. I ended up running the ruffle up to the next row when I came all the way around so I didn't have to figure out how much material to use on one row. The great thing is, you can't even tell. I love how it turned out!<br />
<br />Smiles,<br />
Vanessa</div>
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Vanessahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18404579621258722940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-72802461637982955172013-03-19T22:54:00.000-07:002013-03-19T22:54:26.474-07:00St Patrick's Day Recipe Wins!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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St. Patrick's Day has always been a big celebration for my family. Mom made <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/easy-irish-soda-bread" target="_blank">Irish soda bread </a>and we had corned beef, cabbage, potatoes and carrots. But what I remember most was waking up and rushing out to our tree and the ferns to see if we were able to get the Leprechaun's pot of gold before he left at sunrise. We never did catch him but each year we found the copper coins he left behind since he only collected gold. I loved this tradition and my mom would share her family's stories and Irish lore. Darby O'Gill was one of the few movies we owned and we all knew the music by heart. I remember the year a friend brought back a stone from Ireland for my mom and she has kept it in a safe place ever since. I truly hope one day I can take the journey with my mom to our heritage and learn even more about the Kennedy & McGivney side. There are also the sad parts of Irish history and we learned about the potato famine and the other struggles they had. I will never forget some of the passages from the books we read and it makes me proud to know a part of my history and pass it along to Hagberg.</div>
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I look forward to St. Patrick's day more than most of the holidays and each year we try to invite friends over to celebrate. This year we had the friends who gave us the nickname Hagberg and though we went for the more Americanized corned beef (tradition Irish food would be a lamb stew, chicken boxty or even a shepherds pie) but we did try Colcannon this year. It is a traditional Irish side dish with potatoes mashed with cooked cabbage and onion. I imagine it was also a way to get food to stretch during lean times. It was a simple but tasty side and so it may be 2 days past it I hope you add it as a "try something new" recipe. We mixed the two recipes linked since we liked the <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Cream-Cheese-Colcannon/Detail.aspx" target="_blank">cream cheese</a> in one but wanted the <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Dianes-Colcannon/Detail.aspx" target="_blank">bacon</a> in the second.</div>
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The best of the night was the <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Irish-Dairy-Cake/Detail.aspx" target="_blank">Irish Dairy Cake</a>. It was amazing out of the oven but now 2 days later it is a perfect pound style cake. I am hoping to get some berries to add to it for dinner tomorrow night. Don't try to count the calories-just make it and enjoy eating it. </div>
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My table looked festive too with my St. Patrick's Day topiary!</div>
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Happy crafting and I hope you are enjoying March!</div>
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Eva</div>
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(I will get better about taking pictures, I promise!)</div>
EvaMarievahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17732600395285106041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-44267439670049188922013-03-14T21:22:00.001-07:002013-03-14T21:22:24.753-07:00Plumtickled Create Craft Club March<div style="text-align: center;">
Its that time again! </div>
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The Plumtickled Create Craft for March is inspired by the creative blog <a href="http://seekatesew.blogspot.com/">See Kate Sew</a>. She had so many tutorials that it was hard to choose what were were going to focus on at our Craft Clubs this month. Vanessa and the Utah gals all fell in love with the <a href="http://seekatesew.blogspot.com/2012/01/lace-ruffles-slipskirt-tutorial.html" target="_blank">Lace Ruffles Skirt Tutorial</a> and I loved how simple yet adorably cute her <a href="http://seekatesew.blogspot.com/2012/09/double-bow-tie-tutorial-for-boys.html" target="_blank">Bow Tie tutorial</a> turned out.</div>
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Vanessa's event is Tuesday, March 19th at 7 PM. I know she is planning on a fun night and if you saw the pictures from last month it was a blast for everyone who came. Feel free to send an email to us if you would like her address to attend. I know I wish I was close enough to as this <a href="http://seekatesew.blogspot.com/2012/01/lace-ruffles-slipskirt-tutorial.html" target="_blank">lace underskirt</a> would be a great addition to my closet</div>
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My event (Eva typing today) will be on Saturday March 30th at 7 PM. I pushed it back a week since our youth have a church Roadshow the original weekend I had planned to host it in Southern CA. Again, just shoot an email to us or message us through our Facebook page if you want the address to attend. Isn't the <a href="http://seekatesew.blogspot.com/2012/09/double-bow-tie-tutorial-for-boys.html" target="_blank">Bow Tie</a> perfect!</div>
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Be sure to check out the tutorial links above for either craft and bring the materials listed to the events. Or if you want, check out her other tutorials <a href="http://seekatesew.blogspot.com/p/tutorials_29.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> and chose your own to do and bring the materials and craft with us.</div>
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If you are hosting your own craft event this month, post pictures of your crafts and fun on our Flickr account. We would love to have you link to our event by Saturday March 30th!</div>
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Happy crafting/sewing for March!</div>
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Eva</div>
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EvaMarievahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17732600395285106041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-58932971252522856302013-03-08T20:56:00.000-08:002013-03-14T20:57:50.386-07:00Tutu much fun!<div style="text-align: center;">
It's week was a ton of fun because we got a quick visitor, well visitors, from Wednesday to this morning....yep our humble abode was invaded by my Sew It To Me counterpart Vanessa and family. It has been almost 18 months since we saw each other last and I can't believe how big her kids have gotten! I was also really excited for their family to see how big Hagberg has gotten. He loved playing with his cousins and seeing his Auntie and Uncle. I especially loved when Cousin D said, we are cousins right and both Vanessa and I said, "yeah, you are." We are definitely family to each other and I loved seeing the kids play and bond. Gotta keep the friendships going another generation. </div>
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I did get some crafting done this week, as well as sewing too but my project to share today is a fun no sew tutu. We have friends from up north visiting Disneyland this weekend for their daughter M's birthday. It is a family affair and tomorrow Hagberg and I are meeting up with them for the character breakfast and to give her a present. I knew I wanted to make something so I Searched online and found a <a href="http://paigeandbrooke.blogspot.com/2009/06/easy-no-sew-tutu-tutorial.html">tutorial</a> and viola finished product is below. I used about 40 yards of the 6 inch tulle.</div>
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I really hope she loves it and I thought it was a quick and fun project. It's moments like this I wish there was a girl I could have fun with but I am always grateful for my dude and enjoy finding fun boy projects for him.</div>
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PS I waited to post since I didn't have the pictures on my computer. She loved it!</div>
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Eva</div>
EvaMarievahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17732600395285106041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-68687361003406528132013-03-06T08:00:00.000-08:002013-03-06T08:00:07.173-08:00Box or House?<div style="text-align: center;">
We met our goal and were finally ably to get a grill for our patio. When we moved we didn't take the grill from the house so we have definitely missed going out and grilling our dinner (my Dad says you can't say you BBQ unless you are from TX or one of the other southern states famous for it). Hagberg is now at the age where a box isn't just a box and we love it!</div>
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Here is our first version of a Box or House. I know as he gets older it will get more elaborate, painted/decorated but I decided to keep it simple for now. As it is, he did take one of the Hubby's mechanical pencils and poke holes in all over the top to let more light in and has since started to peel off the picture of the grill where he can. As you can see he kind of likes it....he slept in it for 5 days straight.</div>
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Does anyone else ever make boxes into houses, forts or castles for their kids or relatives? We would love to see pictures uploaded to our flickr group!</div>
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Eva</div>
EvaMarievahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17732600395285106041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-87443659068263685092013-03-01T01:30:00.000-08:002013-03-01T01:30:03.065-08:00Loving 30!<div style="text-align: center;">
I have to say I have an amazing husband who went above and beyond making me feel special for this birthday. I know some people feel birthdays are for children but I love making the Hubby feel special each year and when mine comes a month later we always do something but they tend to be simple events/dinners or just family time. He is an extremely talented composer and great husband and father but he isn't a party planner or secret coordinator extraordinaire You realize that after 12 years and so he was clear in asking "What would you like to celebrate the new decade" and I gave him a few ideas. He knocked it out of the park and I was able to spend the last day of my 20's being pampered at a local day spa with a friend. Yeah I tried finding a way to whisk Vanessa out here but life wouldn't coordinate it so we have a IOU and will be doing something amazingly fun when we are able to get together again.</div>
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I may regret it but here I am, aka Mud Woman. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9MHxfOUviC9GY0sIMvmdM1kbzAVWycXekTIhVEcq7eSHafNluLERo_UEBVUcp3eUVQaJnQfQ3i2az_jhKpz6zKNWu6we5cp3Np71OgiONiGNdyJRdKjnSvWB0FsIpZobXfHuG7TdnOkQG/s1600/644429_10151436280304699_676538677_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9MHxfOUviC9GY0sIMvmdM1kbzAVWycXekTIhVEcq7eSHafNluLERo_UEBVUcp3eUVQaJnQfQ3i2az_jhKpz6zKNWu6we5cp3Np71OgiONiGNdyJRdKjnSvWB0FsIpZobXfHuG7TdnOkQG/s320/644429_10151436280304699_676538677_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I really recommend saving up and just trying it once if you are from Southern California or are coming to visit. It was a fun day of relaxation and feeling special! Plus the Mud area was so much fun and it didn't stain my bathing suit. It is like you are 4 again and it is okay to get dirty and muddy, with no mom yelling at you to get cleaned up. :)</div>
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Vanessa-I am going to take you here one day I promise!</div>
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*I was not paid to advertise, I just really loved my birthday gift!</div>
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~</div>
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Eva</div>
EvaMarievahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17732600395285106041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-74523229008863180192013-02-28T11:26:00.000-08:002013-02-28T23:28:13.626-08:00Better Late than Never...February Plumtickled Create by Eva<div style="text-align: center;">
I am posting this 3 days later than I wanted but we have had a sick Hagberg and some long nights so I have been sleeping as much as I can in between working and staying up with him.</div>
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I think I knew this month was a doozy so I forgot to create a Facebook invite and remind people so my craft night ended up being an early night in and The Hubby and Hagberg helped me finish it. I loved doing it but will definitely make sure to send out reminders and already have at least one person excited for next months Plumtickled Event here in Southern California.</div>
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I really love how my felt flower topiary turned out and got a huge compliment when my M-I-L the queen of crafts and decorating asked to borrow it for an event next week that is St. Patrick's Day themed.</div>
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Here are the materials I picked up. I didn't get a chance to go shopping twice so I opted for the make your own topiary rather than spend more and get a pre-made styrofoam one. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_gIut0QRgcT5__mo-8CZQH6x13Mhik7-3iI1MeugFzbhaJImptPndbNcAaaClQgrbRCZL9fB6b8GSNllImesTGd83QNWRXHtFVw6HbcEjOsG5DNSqxNJZqhChNkrPHQFtFnPf91GtZDf/s1600/326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_gIut0QRgcT5__mo-8CZQH6x13Mhik7-3iI1MeugFzbhaJImptPndbNcAaaClQgrbRCZL9fB6b8GSNllImesTGd83QNWRXHtFVw6HbcEjOsG5DNSqxNJZqhChNkrPHQFtFnPf91GtZDf/s320/326.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here is the cost breakdown of the materials. If you have time to plan I definitely recommend picking the pricier items up one by one and using the coupons you get from signing up online to your local craft stores or their mailers. If you are an iPhone or iPad user you can get the apps and they have weekly coupons you can pull up and the cashiers will scan it form your device.</div>
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1 - 6 inch styrofoam ball $5.99</div>
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1 - wooden dowel $0.25 (but it came in a set of four so it was $1 total)</div>
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1 - square 3x3 inch styrofoam piece for the base $2.49</div>
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8 - 9x12 pieces of green felt (you can get 12 - 3 inch circles from each) $0.34 each piece</div>
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2 - 9x12 pieces of yellow felt $0.34 per piece</div>
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1 - 4 inch clay pot $1.29</div>
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1 - foam glue $4.99 (I didn't have any for strofoam and do recommend getting something that you know works and will hold)</div>
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1 - box of pins, 250 total $3.49 (I didn't want to use up my sewing stash of pins)</div>
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1 - 4 oz bag of spanish moss $2.49 (I have a ton left over so it can be used for a future project</div>
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1 - roll of White satin ribbon $3.49 (I only used 10 inches so there is plenty for a future project)</div>
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1 - roll of apple green 7/8 inch ribbon (I used 24 inches or so and there is plenty left for future projects)</div>
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Total cost: $31.37</div>
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I followed the tutorial and did move around some of my fabric pins once I figured out what pattern I liked. I ended up cutting out 120 circles and if you want a fuller looks I would recommend 12-24 more. All in all the project took about 2-3 hours but I could do it in 1- 1 1/2 again. I am planning on making a topiary piece for Easter so I am keeping the base and will use a purple bow on the base and have a separate "topiary" piece with coordinating purple ribbon on the dowel or "trunk." I would love to be able to swap out the top piece and trunk for each season (summer, fall, Christmas....) Plus the Hubby and Hagberg love it so it is here to stay. Hagberg likes it to much he smells "his flowers" as he calls them each day in the morning.</div>
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As a bonus here is the craft I had Hagberg work on that same day. It was a lot of fun to have him interested in working on a project as I was trying to figure out my own. The painted bird house has a place of honor in his bedroom. Everything was $3 plus tax.</div>
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I hope your February was as fun for you as it was for Vanessa and I!</div>
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~</div>
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Eva</div>
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EvaMarievahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17732600395285106041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-36855863720623156062013-02-23T17:39:00.001-08:002013-02-23T18:45:07.192-08:00Utah's Plumtickled Create February<div align="center">
The first Plumbtickled Create Craft Club day in Utah is over. I had so much fun and enjoyed the company of some very talented, funny and beautiful women. And it was just what this poor girl needed. My husband has been out of town for two weeks and some girly conversation brightened my day. Good company and sewing . . . what more could you ask for!</div>
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We all made the lanyards from Crae's Creations. Her full tutorial can be found <a href="http://craescreations.blogspot.com/2010/06/lanyard-tutorial.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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We decided to cut out our lanyards anywhere between 40" to 50". The tutorial didn't give specifics, but we all like different lengths, right? So we went with the long look.<br />
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Here's a look at our sewing fun!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cutting out the material for our lanyards.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Ironing the folds.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht9CNP-txCf_Y4Bhv-g8KY21Rryj0bLSPsWHpR9gKQpZBp4pYwFGyZ-qcNg-B2752QbnIXGL-O0mQKOc_nxcLE5stCqkxdRQ8fitRXn-8mzthMwTE6r8jZCPrxgNEIGRTUw0jXzQU8UKo/s1600/DSCN1478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht9CNP-txCf_Y4Bhv-g8KY21Rryj0bLSPsWHpR9gKQpZBp4pYwFGyZ-qcNg-B2752QbnIXGL-O0mQKOc_nxcLE5stCqkxdRQ8fitRXn-8mzthMwTE6r8jZCPrxgNEIGRTUw0jXzQU8UKo/s320/DSCN1478.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sewing it all together!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished projects! My friend made two (she's an amazing seamstress) and I made one for my Little Monkey.<br />
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I knew my kiddos would want to work on something while we were sewing, so a few weeks back I picked up this stain glass window from Melissa & Doug at a little toy shop in town. It's kind of a paint-by-number thing, but you place stickers instead. Pretty cool too! Little Monkey decided it would be perfect right next to her kitchen in her playroom under the stairs.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Showing off the craft.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Busy baking while peeking out her new window!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Monkey's and my lanyard all ready to go! Let's hit the gym!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/88/235408624F82B1BF1ED30C363C251F28.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /></a></td></tr>
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Sew It To Mehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620780760101926594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-31624327760906202002013-02-20T20:46:00.000-08:002013-02-20T20:46:00.010-08:00Plumtickled Create Craft Club Reminder!<div style="text-align: center;">
Just 3 days away!</div>
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We would love to see you at our local events and are excited to see pictures of the crafts our followers do too. We will post a link to our Flickr account so you can join the group and share your photos.</div>
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Vanessa posted her information earlier and now its my turn. I plan on hosting the Southern CA one at our humble abode at 7 PM Saturday, February 23rd. For the first 30 minutes Hagberg will be up and flirting with whoever walks in the door but thanks to an awesome husband we will be able to have a fun girls night crafting away! Lease a comment with your email address or send us an email if you want my address or Vanessa's.</div>
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I hope everyone had a great Valentine's and Presidents Day. I loved spending the 14th with the two special guys in my life and then having a 3 day weekend to be together as a family always makes me happy!</div>
EvaMarievahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17732600395285106041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-44765476685562854572013-02-13T22:20:00.002-08:002013-02-13T22:20:58.180-08:00Semi-homemade Valentines<div style="text-align: center;">
This year I wanted to start the Valentine cards tradition for Hagberg even though he is only 2 and a half. He decided he wanted to buy Valentines and so after looking at the selection of a common bullseye logo store, he chose Phineas and Ferb. It was a priceless moment watching him "write" on them and then put the eraser in each envelope for his cousins and then he needed to send some to his friends and proceeded to tell us who they were. We made up for the store bought Valentines by making some simple ones for Grandparents and his Aunts and Uncles. I really enjoyed both and hope that next year he will chose something we can make together, but if a store bought Valentines kit wins, at least we can do it together right?</div>
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What does your family do? Any fun traditions or crafts for tomorrow? I am excited for Ed to come out and see his card and instead of candy we bought mango slices and strawberries to sit next to his small toy fire truck. After seeing a real one up close last week on our street he can't stop talking about them!</div>
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We would love to see your Valentines day crafts and cards. Feel free to join and post them on our</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/sewittome/" target="_blank">Sew It To Me Flick Group.</a></div>
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Happy Valentines Day!</div>
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Eva</div>
EvaMarievahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17732600395285106041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-31095303963142233622013-02-13T14:00:00.002-08:002013-02-13T14:04:41.700-08:00Happy Valentines Day!<div align="center">
I have a busy day tomorrow, as I'm sure most of you do. My sweetheart is out of town, so I'll be spending the evening of Valentines Day with one of my dear friends, who lives three hours away . . . Her husband is also working. I foresee an evening of chocolate, chic flicks and laughter. Those evenings are always needed.</div>
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I just finished putting together all 46 Valentines for my kiddos. They decided to go with these cute Valentines we found in a magazine. </div>
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I used a heart shaped cookie cutter to trace them, then had the kids cut their own out. It took me a few tries to find something that would write on the black card stock. Did you know they make twisty colored pencils? I think I'm a fan. I told my kids they had to decorate (put their own stars and planets on them) while I used a quarter to trace and cut out the circles to put the bouncy balls in.</div>
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This was definitely a process, but I'm glad <strike>I</strike> we started them a week ago. Now they are all packed up and ready to go!</div>
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Happy Valentines Day! </div>
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Don't forget the <a href="http://www.sewittome.blogspot.com/2013/02/plumtickled-february.html" target="_blank">Plumbtickled February</a> coming up on the 23rd! I'm buying my supplies this weekend and am also on the hunt for a little something else I want to create over the next few months to fill a spot on one of my walls that seems a little empty. Hopefully I find what I need!</div>
Vanessahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18404579621258722940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-75395080816055252872013-02-09T21:27:00.002-08:002013-02-09T21:27:53.936-08:00Cookies for 2<div style="text-align: center;">
One of our goals for this year is have more consistent date nights. We are actually trying to make sure we hire a sitter and get out at least once a month and then once every 2-3 months have a group date night in with some of the other couples we know. So far we have been pretty good and tonight at dinner I mentioned this recipe for just 2 chocolate chips cookies and my husband's eyes lit up. I know Vanessa's husband would love it too as chocolate chip cookie making is a staple for our visits along with Zobmondo, ice cream and staying up way too late and laughing too hard.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit to <a href="http://www.number-2-pencil.com/">number-2 pencil</a></span></div>
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So tonight we tried a recipe that I found through one of my favorite cooking blogs. <a href="http://siriouslydelicious.blogspot.com/">Siri</a> linked to it and check it out<a href="http://www.number-2-pencil.com/2012/09/perfect-single-serving-size-chocolate.html"> Perfect Single Serve Cookies</a>. They were a huge it and I know they will become a common occurrence for a quick treat in our house.</div>
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I am getting excited for the upcoming Plumtickled Create Craft Girls Night. I am finalizing the time on February 23rd and will post the details this next week. </div>
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I also have a few other projects in the works and am excited to get pictures up once they are done. One of my favorites is Ed's 1st birthday quilt, just trying to find the perfect backing to match the vintage fabric from his Great Aunt Kathy.</div>
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Eva</div>
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EvaMarievahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17732600395285106041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-26175617881214888232013-02-07T13:15:00.000-08:002013-02-07T13:15:09.208-08:00Valentine Pretzel Buttons and Utah's Plubtickled Create Craft Club<div align="center">
I spent part of the day yesterday making these <a href="http://griffithsrated.blogspot.com/2012/02/valentine-prezel-buttons.html" target="_blank">Valentine Pretzel Buttons</a> for 10 cute girls I teach twice a month for my calling at church.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>(Original picture taken from creator's website.)</em></td></tr>
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This little monkey helped me make the treats. I wouldn't let her have any of the Hershey Hugs (I needed all of them) so she came up with her own creation. </div>
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(Can you tell she's missing a tooth? On the bottom. Her first one! She wouldn't let us pull it out, and in the midst of all the usual chaos in our home, she started screaming, "My tooth is missing!" Luckily, we found it on the stairs. What do you give the tooth fairy if you loose the tooth??)</div>
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I found these cute little snack cups in the Valentine's section at Walmart. It would have taken a lot of ingredients and time to make enough buttons to fill these babies and they really don't need that much sugar, so I filled the bottoms up with the square pretzels and then layered about 8 buttons on the top. Won't they be surprised!</div>
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On another note, I've been planning the Plumbtickled Create Craft Club here where I live. It will be on Saturday, February 23rd at 1:00 p.m.</div>
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I'll be doing the lanyard and again you can find the tutorial <a href="http://craescreations.blogspot.com/2010/06/lanyard-tutorial.html" target="_blank">here</a>. I love that she uses a lobster clasp because I can hook and unhook my keys to the lanyard when I go to the gym. </div>
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You can also come and do the craft Eva chose or just come and hang out! I don't mind. I'm sure I'll come up with some yummy treats we can munch on or you can just go through my pantry . . . .</div>
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I will have my sewing machine out (if you have one you can bring, that'll help) and any material and thread I have on hand. I will be checking Walmart in the next few days for a D-ring and lobster clasp. If you'd rather not run and pick them up, let me know and I'll get some for you if I find them.</div>
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I'm looking forward to sewing, crafting, yummy food and good memories!</div>
Vanessahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18404579621258722940noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-33536157954301839002013-02-04T01:00:00.000-08:002013-02-04T01:00:13.303-08:00Plumtickled February<div style="text-align: center;">
February is a fun month that brings birthdays, holidays, vacation time and our first month of the Plumtickled Create Craft Club!</div>
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So for this first month we both found cute ideas we wanted to try from the very talented duo at <a href="http://craescreations.blogspot.com/">Crae's Creations</a>.</div>
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Their focus is now more so on cakes (and they are gorgeous, but more on that later) but we found two fun crafts that we both wanted to share and try with everyone.</div>
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Vanessa chose the easy and cute <a href="http://craescreations.blogspot.com/2010/06/lanyard-tutorial.html">Lanyard Tutorial.</a> Before making the big move to Utah, Vanessa was a teacher at a private school in Nevada and this would have come in handy then but will be so helpful now for her gym membership. She received one from the gym when they signed up but it lacks the necessary cute factor we ladies need if we are required to wear it! It would be a perfect teacher appreciation gift or something that every mom or kid could find a use for. My son is obsessed with keys and he would wear it constantly!</div>
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I chose the <a href="http://craescreations.blogspot.com/2010/01/i-heart-valentines-dayagain.html" target="_blank">Valentine's Topiary</a>. I have always wanted to try making one and actually hope to put a spin on it and make it a seasonal topiary that you can switch out the top piece as you change your decorations. My goal is to have the Valentine's done and on my craft night make one for St. Patrick's Day. I may not decorate much for other seasons but St. Patrick's Day is huge for my Irish family! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNmlJpiOpc-ETQ09KQU0YNE0aOpotBGAie5onhpBZ08sa2RG03gYoky99nmUc6Lpy2FtmX1APf1da-PKkoNPvaPSoLsn512-usr36In-GSeAL5Bq9WtzfG5rfzNvL6XVK4IgIJZKQ0B0QE/s640/DSCN0468.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNmlJpiOpc-ETQ09KQU0YNE0aOpotBGAie5onhpBZ08sa2RG03gYoky99nmUc6Lpy2FtmX1APf1da-PKkoNPvaPSoLsn512-usr36In-GSeAL5Bq9WtzfG5rfzNvL6XVK4IgIJZKQ0B0QE/s320/DSCN0468.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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Follow the tutorial's list of materials needed and if there are any clarifications we will be sure to post them in a few days. The date of the local Craft Day is Saturday, February 23rd and please try and post your pictures and link to our Plumtickled Party by Monday, February 25th. </div>
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So we hope you will join in on our inaugural month of the Plumtickled Create Craft Club!</div>
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Eva & Vanessa</div>
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P.S. Please message us through our email account if you are interested in attending our local Plumtickled events. Vanessa is now in Utah and Eva is in Southern California. Bring your materials and we will bring the fun and be there to help anyone out! </div>
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EvaMarievahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17732600395285106041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879269990739325575.post-29981897185423312782013-02-03T20:38:00.002-08:002013-02-03T20:39:43.400-08:0035 Big Ones!<div style="text-align: center;">
So my husband turned 35 today and we made it a weekend extravaganza of fun! We had a fun day visiting LA with Hagberg and then finished it by having a relaxing day at home eating yummy food and enjoying being a family. He got his wish and I am officially playing Minecraft with him. It was his birthday gift and if it makes me more of a geek than I accept the title with pride.</div>
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One place we did go was to Griffith Park and the memories of being a kid came rushing back. My parents instilled a love of LA and while many may see a graffiti and busy city I love being there (except for traffic, I don't embrace that). We ventured to Travel Town so Hagberg could see the "big trains" up close and I spent some time working on macro photography and capturing priceless moments of a Dad taking his son to see the trains, just as my Dad took me (well his daughter) to see the trains years ago.</div>
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I think the husbands highlight was the Tahitian Fish Salad though. He doesn't ask for it often and thanks to great neighbors who lent us the kitchen utensils we needed (I have no idea where our shredder went) it was a success to us adults and a resounding "yucky" for Hagberg...maybe next year...</div>
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Hope everyone had fun watching the Super Bowl and all the treats and good food it comes with!</div>
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EvaMarievahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17732600395285106041noreply@blogger.com0