tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73024256314152704642024-03-13T14:37:01.037-04:00Thar She Sews!Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.comBlogger185125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-66673621428207667352015-04-20T16:41:00.004-04:002015-04-20T16:41:00.580-04:00Can I ask you a question?Or two?<br />
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Or 10?<br />
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I'd like to start a series of interviews with craft, DIY, handmade bloggers. Yes, you! <br />
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Why should you be into this?<br />
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Well, I can't promise you anything. I am a new blogger. My audience isn't exactly army-sized.<br />
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Honestly, I am interested in interviewing those who would like to do it just for the fun of it. For the joy of sharing what inspires you. For the pleasure of telling your stories.<br />
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These interviews would not be a place to pimp your latest giveaway, your sponsors, your link party or the sale in your Etsy shop. I'm not interested in providing a forum for advertising, you see? I want to know more about you and what inspires you. That is all! <br />
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It would help if I find your blog, crafts, stories, and you, inspiring. Sorry, that's the truth!Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-17965531951426485022012-06-03T08:35:00.000-04:002012-06-03T08:35:36.790-04:00Petering outI started this blog with one desire: share my sewing projects with the online community and become an active participant in that community.<br />
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It was wonderful. This blog kept my inspired and motivated to keep sewing and trying new things. For that, I'm so grateful.<br />
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Life changes come along, however, that take us out of our routines and spin us dizzy for a bit before we recover our footing. I'm in such a change now. It's a good thing, so no worries! I've switched jobs, and my first day is tomorrow. I've only worked for one place before this, and I'm switching to a new industry, too. I'm also working full time for the first time in a year and a half. So changes are coming at me left, right and center. On top of that, I've spent much (too much) of my free time for the last three months browsing real estate listings online. Because I think by the end of the summer, we plan to list our house. Another big change and a huge time suck.<br />
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These things can be consuming, I'm sure you know. And so I've been a bad blogger and, worse, I've made little to no time for sewing at all. I think that's a trend that might last a bit, at least through the first months of my job and until we finalize our move.<br />
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I think being a blogger means more than just throwing your thoughts into the big ocean of the Internet, hoping only for people to read it and be wowed. It's about community. Responding to comments. Reading other blogs and commenting. Participating in blogging events. Forming relationships. At least, that's what it is to me. There's no way that's going to be happening for me for the foreseeable future. So I'm going to lower the shades, so to speak. I'll be taking an indefinite break from Thar She Sews.<br />
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Thanks so much for reading and commenting and befriending me and teaching me so much. If you'd like to stay in touch, you can find me on <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/kristajahnke">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/krista.jahnke">Facebook </a>or <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_128084025">Pinterest</a><a href="http://pinterest.com/kristaj/">.</a> Or email me at stajahnke dot gmail dot come. I'd love to stay in touch.<br />
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<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-35823679027711744522012-05-13T19:27:00.000-04:002012-05-13T19:27:45.438-04:00Little moments<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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It's the little moments I want to hold on to. <br />
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Seeing Luke in a distance -- so earnest it makes me burst into laughter -- flailing at imaginary butterflies with a blue butterfly net, running so fast in the grass in bare feet, his fine hair blowing in the wind. Catching nothing but the wind. <br />
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Seeing the other one dissolve into giggles the second his feet find their balance in the bounce house. Taking three wobbly steps before a face-plant, which he finds hysterical, cracking up into the red plastic, smearing it with wet baby slobber. <br />
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The way J.J. holds his mouth wide open for five seconds before bobbing his head down around a tiny plastic straw, wanting to be sure it makes it in there. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k03qY1AM5ac/T7BCxev778I/AAAAAAAAHBY/a3IZVXUjQGQ/s1600/Florida+110.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k03qY1AM5ac/T7BCxev778I/AAAAAAAAHBY/a3IZVXUjQGQ/s640/Florida+110.JPG" width="403" /></a><br />
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The way Luke grumbles at J.J. when he's frustrated with him, crowding him and grabbing him loosely around the head or body. But never, ever hurting him. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k03qY1AM5ac/T7BCxev778I/AAAAAAAAHBY/a3IZVXUjQGQ/s1600/Florida+110.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
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The way J.J. calls everything Mama. The fridge. A banana. Other people. But mostly, the way he says it to me.<br />
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The way Luke falls asleep in the car, one leg tossed over the side of the car seat, his head tucked down onto his shoulder, quiet snores sneaking out from his mouth. And then the way he denies it so vehemently, "No, Mama, I did NOT sleep in the car. No, no, no." Luke never sleeps in the car. (Except when he does.)<br />
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The march upstairs to go wake up Dada around 9 a.m., one following after another, both wearing dinosaur pajamas, me singing a marching song with glee: "Let's go wake up DADA! Let's go wake up DADA!" The way they fall all over him in the bed, and the way he grabs onto them to make sure they don't fall off the bed as they roll over him. Sunlight coming in the windows. <br />
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Hold onto the little moments. Aren't they so beautiful?<br />
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If you're game, share one in the comments. And Happy Mother's Day to all you moms. <br />
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<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-58587047681350385762012-04-29T13:40:00.002-04:002012-04-29T13:40:58.937-04:00A sewing nook makeoverEarlier this year, I took a little break from sewing. I needed a step away to focus on other things. I've only maybe half-stepped back into making sewing a priority, mainly out of obligation to the other things in my life. The kids and my job and keeping the house from being condemned are all pretty much non-negotiable duties. <br />
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But another thing holding me back? The mess that is my sewing nook. How can you feel creative and inspired and excited about spending time on your favorite hobby when the place you do it looks like...(prepare yourself!).... this?<br />
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Please, don't call Hoarders. Or Child Protective Services. This is really the only corner that is in total mayhem in my house. I'm not a neat-freak in any sense, but this the place that for some reason gets really out of control and messy. Which leads to total sewing shutdown.<br />
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My sewing nook is in a small, L-shaped, ugly corner of my basement. It's lit by a single bare bulb hanging from the ceiling, and it shares real estate with the water shut-off thingy. The only electrical outlet is located in the base of the light-bulb, so my extension cord for my sewing machine, table light and iron hangs in the middle of the space. The third picture down shows the opening in the back left of the corner that goes into my laundry room. I had a bookcase shoved into the opening to close it off and hold all my fabric. It's a hard shape to make cute. But I was also not using the space well. I wasn't making a point to keep things neat. I needed way more organization. The smaller the space, the more important being really organized becomes.<br />
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<br />So on Saturday, everything came out of the space. Things were sorted, fabrics were refolded, stuff that didn't belong there was sent to the get-outta-here pile. And then everything went back in.<br />
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In progress....<br />
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It has to get worse before it gets better, right?<br />
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After a few hours of working on it throughout the day, I finally had it reassembled and looking better. <br />
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I like to see some of my fabric, so for now, I'm storing a bunch of it here on this bookcase. Along with some notions like fusible fleece and interfacing, and on the bottom shelf, a small box of works-in-progress.<br />
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Here's looking into the nook. I have had the striped rug for about 10 years, since I lived in an apartment. Haven't found a use for it in my house until now! I also bought the painting almost 10 years ago at a coffee shop. It too hasn't had a home in my house for some time. I like how they brighten the corner up!<br />
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The table itself is from the 1950s. My mother-in-law wanted to get rid of it a few years ago, and I love it dearly. The chair is from my childhood, so my vintage factor is not bad here, eh?<br />
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I'd like to get my threads mounted on the wall. Other than that, I'm happy!<br />
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We bought a new storage unit for inside the laundry room, and it's doing wonders not just for that room, but for creating a nice barrier here. Eventually, when we add more storage options to that room, I might use some of the shelf space there for fabric.<br />
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As part of my cleaning process, I threw away my old sewing cover, which was ugly, stained, misshapen and even cut apart down the middle. Time to make a new one!<br />
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Organized these shelves by getting rid of most everything but the sewing books. I might add some baskets here eventually. <br />
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Right now, a lot of my fabric is hiding until the table. It's not ideal, as I worry I'll forget about things if they're so hidden away. And I also won't be as motivated to climb under there to put things away. But it'll do for now.<br />
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What do you think? Better?<br />
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It's still not a Pinterest-worthy crafting space, that's for sure. And it's not done. But I'm feeling way better about it. Before, just looking over into that corner got my blood boiling. Now, I'm actually drawn in and feeling inspired to go sit and sew. <br />
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Does your craft space need some TLC? Go in there and spend 30 minutes tidying up -- it feels so good! <br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-71027737366308969492012-04-22T09:23:00.000-04:002012-04-22T09:23:21.139-04:00Cherry pie birthday cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today's my hub's birthday. He's been joking for as long as I've known him -- about 13 years now -- that he thought he'd die when he was 31. It's an unnerving joke, but that's him. It started to bother me a little bit in recent years. What if he was right and somehow knew he'd never make it to 32? It's a ridiculous assumption, but he was so steadfast about it that I couldn't help but get freaked out when he'd bring it up. Luckily, today I can say what was always the case -- that was a load of BS! Today my babe turns 32.<br />
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We're planning to celebrate later today with family, pizza and cake. Or rather, cakes, as in, I'm going to make individual chocolate lava cakes later today. We also might go to a local soul food restaurant for lunch, so it's going to be quite the day on the old digestive system. <br />
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I thought I'd take the chance to share the cake I made last year. My hubs isn't that big on regular old birthday cake, hence the lava cake plans. What he really loves in cherry pie. I've bought him cherry pies on previous birthdays, but last year I got all creative and made him this. <br />
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Why yes, that's a cherry pie cake!<br />
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Probably never shared it last year because my photos are a little blurry. Bad lighting will do that! But looking back, I have decided it's blog worthy. Because wow does that ever look like a pie! It's a regular cake mix made in a round pan, topped with a jar of super delicious Michigan-made cherry pie filling and then covered with a fake lattice pie crust top made with slightly-brown tinted frosting. <br />
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Around here, adults don't get to blow the candles out on their own anymore. But I think that's OK. <br />
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Happy birthday, baby! I love you!Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-34400199104059149032012-04-21T16:23:00.002-04:002012-04-21T16:23:27.397-04:00Spring bag! The Tulip Tote from Sew Serendipity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, you likey?</div>
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I wanted a "spring" bag, something bright and light-weight and just a tad sweet.</div>
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I've been hoarding this Joel Dewberry fabric for a year, since my trek to <a href="http://www.citycraftonline.com/">City Craft fabrics in Dallas</a>. There's really no need for that! But I just never knew quite what I wanted to do with it. Then the urge for the new bag hit, and I thought, why not? I'd love to see this fabric on a near daily basis. I flipped through my books looking for the right pattern, and I really wanted to try something from<a href="http://www.sewserendipity.com/"> Sew Serendipity</a>, which I got for Christmas. And so, here she is: my Tulip Tote in<a href="http://www.hawthornethreads.com/fabric/designer/joel_dewberry/aviary_2"> Joel Dewberry Avairy 2. </a></div>
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Using grommets was only a little bit scary and I love the finished look. I have contemplated a quick tutorial for using them. They're really easy, but it's nice to see someone walk you through it, too. <br />
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Never hurts to "put a bird on it." <br />
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I went with only one big pocket inside. I love how there is an owl hidden in this fabric. It's a busy combo inside, I realize. But I still think it plays well together. <br />
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A magnetic closure snaps it shut. <br />
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Me with my new bag -- and my new hairdo! Have never had bangs this heavy. Gotta say, I love them.<br />
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Happy weekend!<br />
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P.S.: See another finished version of the <a href="http://confessionsofacraftaddict.com/?p=964">Tulip Tote here. </a>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-85034606733179889452012-04-16T21:05:00.001-04:002012-04-16T21:11:59.399-04:00#AverageDayinFlorida<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Vacation was.... sigh.<br />
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Lovely.<br />
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Warm.<br />
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Indulgent. <br />
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I loved seeing my kids tiptoe through the sand, unsteady.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HspYPPiDCMI/T4X43kUpDBI/AAAAAAAAGmY/4uAm7gELUwc/s1600/Florida+342.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HspYPPiDCMI/T4X43kUpDBI/AAAAAAAAGmY/4uAm7gELUwc/s320/Florida+342.JPG" width="212" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ5RN0lKTfw/T4X47he2J0I/AAAAAAAAGms/J3TqqpQys3k/s1600/Florida+345.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tZ5RN0lKTfw/T4X47he2J0I/AAAAAAAAGms/J3TqqpQys3k/s320/Florida+345.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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Or plow right into the waves, unafraid.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9dP_r7jj5c/T4X4yOwGDrI/AAAAAAAAGl8/z-KG2ryI9DE/s1600/Florida+333.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9dP_r7jj5c/T4X4yOwGDrI/AAAAAAAAGl8/z-KG2ryI9DE/s320/Florida+333.JPG" width="212" /> </a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-533bCMko3js/T4X4xUMYZ5I/AAAAAAAAGl0/Sclr1t6z9YM/s1600/Florida+336.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-533bCMko3js/T4X4xUMYZ5I/AAAAAAAAGl0/Sclr1t6z9YM/s320/Florida+336.JPG" width="213" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9dP_r7jj5c/T4X4yOwGDrI/AAAAAAAAGl8/z-KG2ryI9DE/s1600/Florida+333.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
Loved seeing them discover new things, Like lizards.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jVM6IjJF5bQ/T4MBS8XAN7I/AAAAAAAAGWs/_3B8Mzf9eXI/s1600/DSC_2491.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jVM6IjJF5bQ/T4MBS8XAN7I/AAAAAAAAGWs/_3B8Mzf9eXI/s320/DSC_2491.JPG" width="212" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0mtDlM56vLc/T4MBzTZwy8I/AAAAAAAAGXc/l8Q3zUaBAIY/s1600/DSC_2501.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0mtDlM56vLc/T4MBzTZwy8I/AAAAAAAAGXc/l8Q3zUaBAIY/s320/DSC_2501.JPG" width="196" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nEm8Y9dDjbk/T4MB48_m_iI/AAAAAAAAGXk/O-hWrn4Akrw/s1600/DSC_2503.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nEm8Y9dDjbk/T4MB48_m_iI/AAAAAAAAGXk/O-hWrn4Akrw/s320/DSC_2503.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And dolphins<br />
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Loved discovering a few things of my own.<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HDblcyzcROI/T4MDby7LJ_I/AAAAAAAAGbE/KOadM8xqRzs/s1600/DSC_2557.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HDblcyzcROI/T4MDby7LJ_I/AAAAAAAAGbE/KOadM8xqRzs/s320/DSC_2557.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yc4rDzXoHMw/T4MFuNCN9YI/AAAAAAAAGds/CbSAOlSeeTI/s1600/DSC_2612.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yc4rDzXoHMw/T4MFuNCN9YI/AAAAAAAAGds/CbSAOlSeeTI/s320/DSC_2612.JPG" width="207" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7A2h_uNhxtE/T4MDePqtgtI/AAAAAAAAGbU/D37AIvi_W_E/s1600/DSC_2564.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7A2h_uNhxtE/T4MDePqtgtI/AAAAAAAAGbU/D37AIvi_W_E/s320/DSC_2564.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7A2h_uNhxtE/T4MDePqtgtI/AAAAAAAAGbU/D37AIvi_W_E/s1600/DSC_2564.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yc3-AktO2Lc/T4MFfywdBhI/AAAAAAAAGcE/ZfLNGirQZA0/s1600/DSC_2576.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yc3-AktO2Lc/T4MFfywdBhI/AAAAAAAAGcE/ZfLNGirQZA0/s320/DSC_2576.JPG" width="202" /></a><br />
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Loved time away. To sit and look at the ocean.<br />
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To lay around. And do nada.<br />
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Loved getting to "sleep in...." and still catch a beautiful sunrise.<br />
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Of course, I loved eating way too much food. Especially of the fried (or beer) variety. So many delicious food choices to ponder!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wtdC5n65-bk/T4X4iEebThI/AAAAAAAAGkw/Fyaj76mM5RA/s1600/Florida+317.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wtdC5n65-bk/T4X4iEebThI/AAAAAAAAGkw/Fyaj76mM5RA/s640/Florida+317.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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And there were also very large pirates to pose with. That's important vacation work right there.<br />
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And I really loved spending time with family and friends we don't see all the time. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5gjHZRtipy4/T4X4eM3mhlI/AAAAAAAAGkY/Sk89ZpNLTs0/s1600/Florida+311.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5gjHZRtipy4/T4X4eM3mhlI/AAAAAAAAGkY/Sk89ZpNLTs0/s640/Florida+311.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
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Vacation was great. We even survived two three-hour plane rides with two toddlers. AND we found a giant moustache! Check and check.<br />
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I've been back for a bit now. I just caught up on life this weekend. Mostly. (Do you ever really catch up on life once you're got kids sucking up all your time? Nah.) I did start a sewing project over the weekend and it's two straps away from being done. I'll be sharing it shortly. It felt comforting to be snipping threads and muttering curse words in my sewing nook once again.<br />
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Vacation's nice. But home is nice, too.Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-2843731527889999662012-04-09T13:07:00.000-04:002012-04-09T13:07:07.351-04:00Yes, that's sand between my toes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Pleae excuse my silence! I'm on vacation. I'll be back soon. In the mean time, I have some sun to saok up. :)Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-87687138424402555332012-04-01T13:05:00.001-04:002012-04-01T13:08:56.913-04:00A year of blogging link loveMy blog turned one last month. Happy birthday, blog! It's the first time in my life I've kept a blog going for this long. To honor the occasion -- which let's face it, I've actually already missed -- I wanted to introduce you to a number of others blog that started in the last year, all of them by real-life friends of mine. They're all unique and worthy of your click over to see what they have going on. <br />
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My friend Kim moved to Nanjing, China last September for her husband's career. She's dealt with that cross-the-world move with a grace and positivity I never, ever would have mustered. Her blog is all about daily life in China, where fruit is super cheap, where she has a driver to drive her everywhere, and where doing a load of wash takes all day. Her blog is called <a href="http://kimkimsfareastadventures.blogspot.com/">Kim Kim's Far East Adventures.</a><br />
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My friend Heather is a bad-ass prosecutor by day, a crafting, cooking, workout-loving Mom of two all the other hours of the day. She's brand new to blogging, writing about those three aspects of her life. She's shared a very effective workout system that you should seriously try, as well as recipes and a few craft projects. Check her out at <a href="http://craftcookorcardio.blogspot.com/">Craft, Cook or Cardio. </a><br />
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Julie was one of my college roommates, and she recently moved to Oklahoma City. She's found tasty craft beer is not exactly free flowing and easy to find down there. So she and her husband Mark have started to brew their own. She blogs about her adventures in doing so, and she's a by-day journalist with a fantastic writing voice. Her blog is<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2146144501"> BeerOK.</a><a href="http://beerok.wordpress.com/"><br /></a><br />
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Finally, Alex is a co-worker of mine. I love working with her because she's talented, smart, creative but tons of fun, too. She loves to bake and decorate cupcakes, and so she just started a blog about her kitchen creations called <a href="http://motorcitycupcakes.blogspot.com/">Motor City Cupcakes</a>. Again, her writing voice really shines and her cupcakes are oh-so-cute.<br />
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My friends have all been out there with their blogs from the start, sharing links on Facebook, or letting their friends know to come and check it out. I on the other hand have been slow to share my own blog with the people in my real life, because, well, no good reason. My insecurities, I suppose. What if they think it sucks? What if they think I am a huge sewing nerd? And then I wonder about how it looks professionally. All stupid reasons. I like sharing my life and my sewing nerdiness with the internet. I'm going to stop acting like it is some weird secret hobby now. Mkay? Mkay. Thanks friends for showing me there's no reason to hide a good thing!<br />
<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-86274711849360119092012-03-31T08:54:00.000-04:002012-03-31T08:54:33.269-04:00Owl burp cloth tutorial<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9gaaDyl4MU0/T3b3GANKEWI/AAAAAAAAGO0/1sgT0LeAAE0/s1600/finishedburpcloth+005.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9gaaDyl4MU0/T3b3GANKEWI/AAAAAAAAGO0/1sgT0LeAAE0/s640/finishedburpcloth+005.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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You know how when you're pregnant, you're not really supposed to say if you want a boy or a girl? The correct stance is: <i>as long as the baby is healthy</i>, I'll be happy. <a href="http://tharshesews.blogspot.com/2012/02/brief-message-about-broken-hearts.html?showComment=1328734653353#c4014190115141596179">As a mom of a baby who was decidedly not healthy at birth</a>, I get this, totally. That said, I'll admit: the first time I found out I was having a boy, I felt disappointed. I think to some degree, we ladies all want a baby girl, a daughter who will grow up and share things with us that boys just can't. I'm totally happy with the way things worked out for me with two adorable, sweet, smart little boys. But the wanting-a-girl thread is still in there something deeply buried. I know this because when I found out my sister-in-law is pregnant with a baby girl, I squealed and basically skipped around the room in excitement. A girl! A niece! My first. I'm so very excited. </div>
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It's fun to make little girl things at the sewing machine. Here's my first project for my niece, due in May. <br />An owl appliqued burp cloth! I guess some people never use burp clothes because I suppose their children are perfect little creatures who never regurgitate anything. Mine were quite the opposite. I went through at least one a day. I suppose I hope it runs in the family! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VonmSGOEX1E/T3b3O4THMVI/AAAAAAAAGPE/in8YkYjIbAo/s1600/finishedburpcloth+008.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VonmSGOEX1E/T3b3O4THMVI/AAAAAAAAGPE/in8YkYjIbAo/s640/finishedburpcloth+008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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For this project, first I cut three rectangles of fabric and sewed them together with about a quarter inch seam. Iron those seams flat and then fold the new long piece of fabric down the middle. I use another burp cloth I like as a pattern. I love burp clothes in this oversized bone shape. They fit on your shoulder well and cover a nice portion of your back, which is nice when the adorable baby really lets it fly. </div>
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After getting the top done, I turned to the owl applique. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8OGOhsq1hV4/T3b2tuHI4nI/AAAAAAAAGOY/aV3ymRkvpiw/s1600/burpcloth+420.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="502" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8OGOhsq1hV4/T3b2tuHI4nI/AAAAAAAAGOY/aV3ymRkvpiw/s640/burpcloth+420.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I freelanced a pattern by cutting and play with the pieces. For mine, you need an ovalish body, a smaller oval for the belly, a half-circle for the face, two oval-shaped eyes and the wings. I cut the shapes and then ironed them onto medium-weight interfacing and cut them out. The interfacing makes the applique process a little sturdier and also, I hope, will prevent from fraying of the ends. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YIGlFeWDe8k/T3b2vmS4K6I/AAAAAAAAGOg/FJDIv_wDj94/s1600/burpcloth+423.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YIGlFeWDe8k/T3b2vmS4K6I/AAAAAAAAGOg/FJDIv_wDj94/s640/burpcloth+423.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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First I sewed on the body around the edge with a straight-stitch. You could also use a zig-zag, but I went for straight stitch with everything on my owl. After the body, I sewed the face on top, overlapping the body slightly.</div>
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I then placed the wings and sewed them only along the inside edge. You'll sew the outside edge down when you attach the owl to the burp cloth. </div>
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Finally, I sewed on the eyes. The left one looks better because I took it really really slowly, hand-cranking the stitches for the most part and rotating the fabric every two stitches. <br />
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Here's how our little owl looks ready to be appliqued on!<br />
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Then it's simple. Place Mr. Owl in the middle of the burp cloth and sew around him using an edge stitch. And the top is done!<br />
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I backed my cloth with white terry cloth. I used my top as the pattern, placed the two pieces right sides together and sewed, leaving a hole for turning on one end, with a quarter-inch seam. Turn right-side out, iron very well, and then top-stitch around, being sue to close your turning hole. And you're done. One cute owl burp cloth for one, I'm sure, very cute niece.<br />
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<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-23176438158123518302012-03-23T08:36:00.000-04:002012-03-23T08:36:19.203-04:00This and thatI have nothing sewing-related to show you, unfortunately. So how about everything else in my camera? Maybe see what else I've been up to recently? <br />
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Cute baby in a bath. You are welcome. </div>
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My Dad and his grandkids. I love this picture.</div>
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Mom2Mom season is back! I will be going out tomorrow, and a couple of weeks back, I rounded up this loot at a sale. I think I spent $14 for all of this.</div>
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When my friends Martin and Michelle moved to Germany, they didn't want to take this cute Ikea shelving unit. So I bought it from them for a very reasonable price. I honestly don't know how I lived without it. Not only does it fit perfectly in my dining room, but it is holding all sorts of things that before were crowded up my drawers and cabinets. </div>
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Napkins, bibs (in the basket), cookbooks, huge salad bowls -- everything has a place now!</div>
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I found this cute orange Pyrex at an antique store. </div>
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The other side. I love having my KitchenAid on display. Let's be honest, that baby is a work of art. It deserves a spot in a display case.</div>
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Moving on, I bought this cute pre-ruffled black and white fabric and can't figure out what to do with it. Pillow? Cute baby dress? Ruffly scarf? Ideas, please!</div>
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Do you need anything around your place fixed? I'll send him right over. </div>
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Have a nice weekend! I have the very best intentions of actually sewing. Hopefully will have something to show you soon. </div>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-5257339364884102532012-03-19T21:56:00.000-04:002012-03-19T21:56:33.435-04:00A mid-winter tank<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YaM_bqtxRnY/T2feahgatpI/AAAAAAAAGE0/3TiMmz_m91s/s1600/Royal+Oak-20120226-00285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="585" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YaM_bqtxRnY/T2feahgatpI/AAAAAAAAGE0/3TiMmz_m91s/s640/Royal+Oak-20120226-00285.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We ave been having a heat wave here. Are you enjoying this, too? For about a week and a half, it has been at least 60 degrees. Now, we're into the 70s, and in the next day or two, 80s! I know, I know, I'm blathering on about the weather and you're thinking, why do I care what the weather's like there? You probably don't. But it's SUMMER in the winter! It's literally my dream come true.<br />
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And so, this tank top is totally appropriate sewing for March. That's the bottom line.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d9f4oD0ePnc/T2fV7dD-zlI/AAAAAAAAGEY/lbKsEINhZ0Y/s1600/mom2mom,+bedroom+030.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d9f4oD0ePnc/T2fV7dD-zlI/AAAAAAAAGEY/lbKsEINhZ0Y/s640/mom2mom,+bedroom+030.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tfKTWLfDs1E/T2fV_qhE3eI/AAAAAAAAGEg/-7svNPLc9j0/s1600/mom2mom,+bedroom+032.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tfKTWLfDs1E/T2fV_qhE3eI/AAAAAAAAGEg/-7svNPLc9j0/s640/mom2mom,+bedroom+032.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It started as this pretty polyester fabric, the same one I used for <a href="http://tharshesews.blogspot.com/2012/03/easy-infinity-circle-scarf.html">my infinity scarf.</a> I saw it made into a maxi dress at the fabric store and just loved it. I thought about turning it into a skirt, but I also wanted to try something new. Enter, tank!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b6P3HrGqKew/T2fd5jOHhWI/AAAAAAAAGEs/3v47AbAmaYM/s1600/Royal+Oak-20120224-00264.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b6P3HrGqKew/T2fd5jOHhWI/AAAAAAAAGEs/3v47AbAmaYM/s640/Royal+Oak-20120224-00264.jpg" width="640" /></a> <br />
I don't have photos of the process, sorry. I used Anna's <a href="http://www.noodle-head.com/2011/07/racerback-tank-tutorial-sewing-with.html">"Sewing with knits" tank tutorial </a>as a guide. A tank on hand with a similar shape served as my pattern. I tried my best to match the pattern up on the sides, and honestly, it turned out really well. It's worth the time to try and get that one right!<br />
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After that, it was fairly straight-forward except for two things. My needle broke on my very first stitch, which seemed like an ominous sign. And I burned a hole in my fabric with my iron. Oh yes! I did! I didn't realize it was polyester until I heard the sizzle. The hole was on the back near the top. I thought the entire thing was ruined, and then, light bulb! Darts! Darts can save the day! And so, if you look back at the top back, you'll see two darts coming now from the neckline. They make the tank slightly more racer-backish, which I like. <br />
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The whole thing only took about an hour. I left the hem untouched. The bias tape closures for the neck and holes was the most time consuming part. When you add them, you cut the strips to about 75 percent of the area they're covering and have to stretch them a bit to fit. It's a little tricky. When I can I leave myself more bias trim and then trim it to fit near the end.<br />
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All in all, for an intermediate sewer, someone who is a bit familiar with knits, it's not a hard project at all. <br />
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<br />I'm getting lazy with my self-portraits. One of the things about making something to wear -- it's funny when no one notices it. Is that good or bad? They think it is a run-of-the-mill store-bought item, I'd guess. So do you focus more on the fact that they think it is run-of-the-mill or that they think it is something mass produced? I guess I will leave you with that deep thought for the day. <br />
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<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-33843022528109423902012-03-16T09:34:00.000-04:002012-03-16T09:34:23.751-04:00The Sewing Circle: Jessica from A Little Gray<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">I've been sitting on this latest interview of The Sewing Circle for a week now. Bad me! And it's a good one! Meet Jessica from the blog <a href="http://alittlegray.blogspot.com/">A Little Gray</a>. I've enjoyed Jessica's blog for quite some time. Her projects are always flawless, but she comes across are totally mortal; not like some sewing bloggers I read and think they must have bobbins for fingers or something. Her voice is friendly and funny, and she's got a great eye for fabric. She makes a little of everything, from kids' clothes to bright, modern quilts. She's a rising star, too; Jessica is participating in <a href="http://projectrunandplay.blogspot.com/">Project Run and Play </a>(a blog version of Project Runway for kids' clothes) this session. She also routinely hosts sew-alongs, including an ongoing one now through the book Little Things to Sew (which is now on hold due to her Project Run and Play.) Thanks to that sew-along, I was inspired to complete my puppet theatre in time for Christmas. So I owe her!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">Read more about Jessica on her <a href="http://alittlegray.blogspot.com/p/about-me.html">About page</a>, and find her <a href="http://alittlegray.blogspot.com/p/tutorials.html">Tutorials here. </a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">Now, onto the interview. I've created a set of questions now that I'm going to use for all Sewing Circle interviews moving forward. Here she is! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><b>How old are you?</b> 29 (No really.)<br /><br /><b>Where do you live?</b> Cincinnati, OH<br /><b><br />Do you have kids? </b>If so, how many? 2 kids- Hendrix, nearly three. Elsie, nearly one.<br /><br /><b>How long have you been blogging? </b>About 2 and 1/2 years, I think.<br /><br /><b>How long have you been sewing? </b>Almost 4 years.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-19yRyWCsEDw/T2M9rn8eOGI/AAAAAAAAGAc/y0g60godmB8/s1600/Jessica5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-19yRyWCsEDw/T2M9rn8eOGI/AAAAAAAAGAc/y0g60godmB8/s640/Jessica5.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this simple, colorful baby bibs. <a href="http://alittlegray.blogspot.com/2012/01/oh-yeah-stuff-i-forgot-to-show-you.html">Found here! </a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><b>Who
taught you how to sew? </b> My mom showed me how to use the machine. From
there it was just me and the internet. I also recently took a quilting
class, which was great. If you've never taken a local sewing class, I'd
highly recommend it.<br /><br /><b>What kind of sewing machine do you use? </b>I
use a Brother Project Runway PC-420. I won it in Prudent Baby's
potholder contest last year!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lenoqEtAZ0w/T2M8C68WkCI/AAAAAAAAGAM/qfGvRkmbbDk/s1600/jessica3.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lenoqEtAZ0w/T2M8C68WkCI/AAAAAAAAGAM/qfGvRkmbbDk/s640/jessica3.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the colors in this<a href="http://alittlegray.blogspot.com/2011/09/mini-quilt-for-your-monday.html"> mini-quilt</a>. Isn't this gorg? Found here! </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><b>What kind of things do you sew?</b>
Probably too many kinds of things. I have become a full-on obsessive
quilter in the last 9 months. But I still love sewing things like bags,
gifts, home decor, and especially clothes for my kids. This summer I'd
really like to spend some time sewing clothes for me, which I've always
been a little scared of.<br /><br /><b>How often do you find the time to
sew (or do other creative pursuits?)</b> I usually sew at least a little
every day. Sometimes naps will align for this to happen, but mostly it's
after bedtime. My husband is a restaurant manager and works most
nights, so I have that time all to myself. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"></span><br />
<br /><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><b>Do you have a
dedicated space in your home for sewing? If so, tell us about it! </b>Yes, I
am very lucky to have a sewing room set up (also a guest room, but
mostly a sewing room.) I definitely do not have one of those beautiful
organized spaces you see on the pretty blogs. I can't operate that way.
My creating is very messy by necessity. I try to clean up occasionally,
but that doesn't even last until lunch. <br /><br /> <b>Do you have an
out-of-the-house job?</b> Tell us about that if you can. I actually work in
a fantastically adorable local fabric shop called Sewn Studio. It's
perfect. Close enough for me to walk there, very flexible schedule, fun
and creative co-workers, and 25% off all my favorite fabrics.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span><br />
<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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZIoc6AqJIq4/T2M8y94n6kI/AAAAAAAAGAU/5bSDzLivqMA/s1600/jessica4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZIoc6AqJIq4/T2M8y94n6kI/AAAAAAAAGAU/5bSDzLivqMA/s640/jessica4.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is that <a href="http://alittlegray.blogspot.com/2011/07/first-finished-quilt.html">first quilt she mad</a>e. Found here!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><b>What's
your favorite thing you've ever made? </b>Definitely the first quilt I ever
made, last July. I used all bright solids and did heavy straight-line
quilting. It's on my son's bed, but sometimes I'm tempted to steal it
for myself. <br /><br /><b>OK, now what was the most disastrous thing, and
why? </b>One time I tried to refashion one of my shirts with a yellow
ruffle. It was the saddest ruffle you've ever seen. Also, I <i>cannot</i> pull off ruffles. Lose-lose.<br /><br /><b>Do
you most often sew for yourself (whether to wear or keep for your home,
etc) or for others (your kids, gifts, etc)? </b>The items are for others.
But the act of sewing is really all about me- I'm sure you can relate!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"></span><br />
<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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S6lSyRQNpHY/T2M8CGISCvI/AAAAAAAAGAE/W4jiQ0519MQ/s1600/jessica2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S6lSyRQNpHY/T2M8CGISCvI/AAAAAAAAGAE/W4jiQ0519MQ/s640/jessica2.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pair of pants from <a href="http://alittlegray.blogspot.com/2012/03/that-time-i-made-clown-pants.html">Sewing for Boys</a>. Adorable. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"></span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"></span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><b>What are some of
your favorite sewing books? </b>Right now I'm leading a sew-along thru
Leisl Gibson's Little Things to Sew. I think I've made eight of the
projects now and I love them all! I've also been making a lot of things
from Sewing For Boys.<br /><br /><b>What's your favorite sewing tool, aside from your sewing machine?</b> My Havel's Snip-Ease clippers. Cannot live without them!<br /><br /><b>Where
do you most often find your inspiration? </b>Well, blogs and flickr of
course. I'm trying to limit my internet inspiration consumption though.
(For example, I'm stubbornly refusing to get on Pinterest. It's silly, I
know. But I'm steadfast!) Not that I don't love all the inspiration
from my internet friends, but I want to give myself room to also look to
things like nature, the city, and my family and kids for inspiration. </span><br />
<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wpLRxRIOL0w/T2M-uBD1cEI/AAAAAAAAGAk/QefDxs-mJSs/s1600/jessica6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wpLRxRIOL0w/T2M-uBD1cEI/AAAAAAAAGAk/QefDxs-mJSs/s640/jessica6.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A<a href="http://alittlegray.blogspot.com/2011/02/second-potholder-entry.html"> hand-embroidered potholder,</a> which won her a new sewing machine from Prudent Baby. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><b>What's
your favorite place to buy fabric?</b> Well, <a href="http://www.sewnstudio.com/">Sewn Studio </a>obviously. But if I
buy online, my favorites are Hawthorne Threads and an Etsy shop called<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/FreshModernFabric"> Fresh Modern Fabric.</a><br /><br /><b>Do you have a favorite fabric designer
or line or fabric? If so, do tell. :) </b>I can't help but love everything
Anna Maria Horner does, and <a href="http://www.hawthornethreads.com/fabric/designer/anna_maria_horner/innocent_crush">Innocent Crush</a> is one of my all-time
favorites. But lately <a href="http://lizzyhouse.typepad.com/lizzyhouse/fabric-design/">Lizzy House </a>has become a tie for favorite. I'm
working on a quilt for my bed using all her fabrics right now. <br /><br /><b>Do
you pick the fabric after you know what project you're working on or do
your more often just buy to build a stash and then pick from it when
you find a project you want to do?</b> For a while there when I first began
working in a fabric store I went a little crazy building my stash. Since
the new year though, I've really tried to focus on using that up now
and hold off on buying unless it's something basic like solids or linen.
I've kind of realized that I don't really <i>need </i>to buy every new
line of fabric that I love because I just love it all! So when the time
comes that I do need something for a project, there will be new fabric
to love then too. I think it's all about balance with this issue, and
being able to get to work whenever inspiration strikes.</span><br />
<br />
<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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1gDnh9x9k0/T2NAojLqNKI/AAAAAAAAGAs/SWqs1d6uRs0/s1600/jessica7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1gDnh9x9k0/T2NAojLqNKI/AAAAAAAAGAs/SWqs1d6uRs0/s400/jessica7.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Airplane applique available through<a href="http://alittlegray.blogspot.com/2011/06/airplane-banner-shirt-free-templates.html"> free download free.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><b>If
you could meet one other sewing blogger, who would you want to meet? </b>
There are SO many cool people I've met through blogging and getting to
actually hang out with them would be one of the coolest things in the
world. My real-life friends like to give me a hard time about my
"virtual friends." Psh. They just don't know! This summer I will have at
least one opportunity to meet up with a group of these friends for a
sewing weekend- maybe two. I'm so excited about it! But anyway, since
those people are way too many to list (including Krista!) I will just
tell you the person who I might consider a sewing-blogger crush. I'm so
struck with her talent that I never even comment on her blog or flickr
photos, just admire them from afar. (Isn't that silly?!) It's <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_246016933">Amy of </a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_246016933" target="_blank" title="Badskirt">Badskirt</a><a href="http://badskirt.blogspot.com/">.</a>
She's got the best eye for fabric, she's always trying something new,
she's hilarious, she's thoughtful about sewing, and she's just plain
bad-ass. And I would totally be embarrassed if she ever saw this.<br /><br /><b>What's
on your sewing to-do list now? </b>Most urgently, I need to finish a mini
quilt for a flickr swap I'm in, and a charity quilt for a flickr bee I'm
in. (If you aren't familiar, the quilting world on flickr is... well,
cultish.) I also really need to start thinking Easter clothes for the
kids. Oh! And I have one more (HUGE! GIANT! EXCITING!) project coming up
that I can't tell you about just yet- check my blog Monday if you are
curious! (<i>Ed note: this is the <a href="http://alittlegray.blogspot.com/2012/03/lttsa-explorer-vest-part-1-and.html">Project Run and Play announcement.</a> Congrats, Jessica!)</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;">Thanks so much to Jessica! Sorry it took so long to get this up. Life is crazy right now! If you'd like to be featured in the Sewing Circle, or have another sewing blogger to suggest, drop me an email at tharshesews@gmail.com. To read more Sewing Circle Interviews, <a href="http://tharshesews.blogspot.com/search/label/the%20sewing%20circle">just click here! </a></span>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-12016295339499001442012-03-09T08:52:00.001-05:002012-03-09T09:40:42.304-05:00An unenviable task -- a photo storyWhen you're 3, it might sound like a lot of fun to take a box of Ziploc baggies and throw them all over the kitchen floor, creating a pool of slick plastic fun.<br />
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That is, it's fun until your meanie mama says you have to pick up the hundred of so slippery suckers and put them away.<br />
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Then, you've got a serious job to do.<br />
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Let's see how that unfolds.<br />
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Success! Except for that lone remnant on the floor. And the spillage coming out of the drawer. Which you know is going to burst forth with Ziplocs the second you open it.<br />
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Still. A for effort. <br />
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<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-50784616209605024742012-03-04T06:00:00.004-05:002012-03-04T06:00:08.871-05:00My "before" bedroom tourI mentioned last week that we're embarking on a bedroom redecoration project. You can't head down that path without a round-up of "before" pictures. So here we go. Let's take a look.<br />
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Won't you come on up? These stairs are part of our bedroom, which comprises the entire second floor of our home. We're Bungalowers.<br />
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The carpet is light, which I like. But that's the only thing I like about it. The walls are such a weird non-color I don't know what they are. Sometimes they look absolutely neutral. Othertimes, blue. Still others, violet. What do you think they are?<br />
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Once you come up the stairs, you're on this end of the long room. The room right now is split into two areas -- the bedroom and an office area, which I used when I was working at home. I'm no longer working at home, so honestly, this area is not getting much use at all. I've thought about making it my sewing nook, but worry that my fabric and projects will overtake the bedroom and ruin any trace of "restful" vibe we have going on (which isn't much, it's usually a mess).<br />
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Here's the bedroom side. The dark furniture was picked for this room, because we thought it would go well with the dark wood trim. Even the ceiling fan is dark wood. I've thought about replacing it with an awesome pendant, but it does get scorching hot up here in the summer, and we do use it. The duvet cover is silver, if you can't tell. I don't hate it, but I don't love it. I do hate those black pillows. And what I really love is totally missing: color and pattern. There's just really nothing about this that's "me." Again, I don't hate it. I do think all the neutral is sort of soothing. But nothing about this inspires me. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dlA8nwaO61g/T1J1kIbcqgI/AAAAAAAAF9A/Ep-43m0-dZY/s1600/mom2mom,+bedroom+062.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dlA8nwaO61g/T1J1kIbcqgI/AAAAAAAAF9A/Ep-43m0-dZY/s640/mom2mom,+bedroom+062.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Between the two spaces there is this bench-cubby thing. We don't really use this for sitting, but I do have sweaters shoved inside the bench. That chipped paint has been like that for years. I do like how the cubby is painting a bold color, and I'm thinking I'll most likely do the same with whatever paint palette we pick. <br />
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Here's the view from the bedroom area into the other side of the room. That wicker chair is just there filling the roll of "comfy" chair. I envision an actual comfy chair there, an upholstered one in a great pattern maybe?<br />
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Can you see a sewing nook here? Keep in mind that right now, it's in my basement, which has its pros and cons. Pros = it's an area we spend a lot of time as a family, so I can sometimes sew without totally ignoring everyone. Cons = it's a basement and very cramped and of course there is almost no natural light.<br />
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Our closets are doorless. We use curtains to hide the mess inside. (Well, I did until my tension rod broke at least a year ago. Why I haven't bought a new one? I can't tell you). This is where I really want to have an awesome, colorful textile on display. With neutral walls, and perhaps one or two accents pulled from the fabric and used in accent walls in the room, I think the fabric could really make the room. Now... what fabric? That's gotta be the first decision, and I need to make it soon!<br />
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Thanks for visiting my room. Please close the door behind you, I'm going to go right ahead and take a nap now. Bye! <br />
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<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-62639014202714274102012-03-03T11:22:00.000-05:002012-03-03T11:22:41.299-05:00Easy infinity (circle) scarf<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1z1-hFqbSCM/T1JC0JvD_cI/AAAAAAAAF70/hvtx0UUzIRM/s1600/circle+scarf+026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1z1-hFqbSCM/T1JC0JvD_cI/AAAAAAAAF70/hvtx0UUzIRM/s640/circle+scarf+026.JPG" width="530" /></a></div>
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Easiest project ever! This is a polyester knit. I used <a href="http://www.maybematilda.com/2012/02/3-step-3-infinity-scarf.html">Maybe Matilda's tutorial</a> as a reference, but made a slight deviation. Cut long, wide piece. Fold wrong sides together. Sew using ballpoint needle and zig-zag stitch along long side all the way until a few inches from one end. Turn right-side out. Take two short ends and using the side that you left unstitched a few inches, match it up with the other side, wrong sides together. Sew together. Turn end back right-side out. Then you'll have a small hole -- fold the edges in, place two sides together and sew with a zig-zag stitch (this will be visible, but once you're wearing your circle scarf, that little stitch will be lost in the folds of the fabric, I promise).<br />
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Ta-da!<br />
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So easy.<br />
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The really exciting thing: I also made a tank with this fabric. Will be sharing that soon! <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mhORoCSslTk/T1JC8xgTLmI/AAAAAAAAF8U/a74t1Q5ZrLM/s1600/circle+scarf+046.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mhORoCSslTk/T1JC8xgTLmI/AAAAAAAAF8U/a74t1Q5ZrLM/s640/circle+scarf+046.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-64489255500063861552012-02-26T11:10:00.000-05:002012-02-26T11:10:29.377-05:00Bedroom redecorating planning begins!Happy weekend, everyone!<br />
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We were sick yesterday. JJ and I. He threw up every meal, including one all over me. Lovely! And I left my workout class mid-way through it because I felt nauseous, and then spent the rest of the day laying around in bed or on the couch. I hate wasting a Satruday like that. (How come the 24-hour flu always has to fit on a day off, amIright?)<br />
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One thing on my to-do list: get my bedroom in order so I can take photos of it and send them to our painter. I'm fairly certain we will be redecorating the bedroom next month, and we're getting ready now. I've been furiously pinning fabrics I like for curtains, paint colors, inspiring bedroom photos, cute bedding options, etc. But it's getting close to decision-making time. I thought I'd share a few of the things I am weighing and I'd love to hear your feedback. Oh and I'll upload some "before" pictures of the room this week, so you can see what we're working with.<br />
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We have two closets that are door-less and use a curtain to hide all the stuff shoved within them. I'm approaching the whole redecorating process by trying to start with an inspiring fabric for new closet curtains, which I'll make. I figure I'll find that fabric and then base my paint and even flooring on it, as well as new accessories. So finding just the right fabric is No. 1 on the priority list! Here are some of the favorites I've collected so far.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KADW053rvD4/T0pXxzFOnDI/AAAAAAAAF7U/7J1S6sCeCCI/s1600/paint5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KADW053rvD4/T0pXxzFOnDI/AAAAAAAAF7U/7J1S6sCeCCI/s400/paint5.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
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We have dark wood trim in the room that I'm a little confused about. Paint it white? Leave it? I'm not sure. But I do think this fabric would pick up the richness of it well. We want to have three colors on the walls -- a neautral, a pop of color on one accent wall, and potentially a light-color on the ceiling. <br />
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Sherwin-Williams has a great tool called "Chip It!" that allows you to put a picture into it and find a bunch of matching paint colors. Amazing, right? So you can see some of the paint options for each fabric.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5x1HZW7tL0k/T0pXyUHfxmI/AAAAAAAAF7c/LnOoic85JeU/s1600/paint6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5x1HZW7tL0k/T0pXyUHfxmI/AAAAAAAAF7c/LnOoic85JeU/s400/paint6.jpg" width="387" /></a> </div>
I am leaning toward a blue-green-yellow color scheme. I love decorating with blue and figure, eh, why not, even if I already have two other blue rooms in my house. That's the kind of thing that ties a house together, right? This is an Anna Maria Horner print, and I'm really loving all of her fabrics right now. They're so playful and bright.<br />
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Here are some paint options for that one! <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PnTRTFH-5V8/T0pXxRSwXnI/AAAAAAAAF7M/GhSYWmv9ER0/s1600/paint4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PnTRTFH-5V8/T0pXxRSwXnI/AAAAAAAAF7M/GhSYWmv9ER0/s400/paint4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The third option I'm looking at. I really love the richness of this print. I think with a white wall it would really pop. And I could see a really dark accent wall playing nicely with this.<br />
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What do you like of these options? I'd love to hear! And I'll post some "before" bedroom pictures hopefully in the next couple of days. <br />
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<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-69091730117123665822012-02-21T17:17:00.000-05:002012-02-21T17:17:40.776-05:00Deep thoughts while sitting in my quiet dining room all by myselfI am in my house in the middle of the day -- alone! It is the most amazing thing. My kids will be returning here at any moment though, but I thought I'd attempt to steal a moment to share a couple of interesting reading links for you.<br />
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<a href="http://www.maybematilda.com/2012/02/are-you-there-blog.html"> This post on Maybe Matilda</a> said a lot of what I've been fighting internally when it comes to my blog. I know it is a cop out to just point to her post and say, more or less, "Ditto!" But that's what I'm doing. You understand. I think going through a blogging identity-and-time-suck crisis happens to most bloggers at some point. So I really do feel like in this case, she said what I -- and probably a lot of other people -- are thinking. And then the bottom line: just blog you. Write about what you want to write, when you want to write about it. It's your blog. <a href="http://www.maybematilda.com/2012/02/3-step-3-infinity-scarf.html">She summed up that realization here</a> -- and also shared a tutorial for a super-easy infinity scarf, which I plan to make the next time I sit down at my machine. <br />
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Here's another "deep thoughts" type post that spoke to me. Rachel at Stitched in Color <a href="http://www.stitchedincolor.com/2012/02/too-much-inspiration.html">wrote about the issue of "too much inspiration</a>." I suffer from this as well. Can I blame Pinterest? OK? Good. Well, Pinterest as well as the vast internet sea of amazing talent. It's all so much, and while I love reading and soaking it all up... I can spend so much time doing so, that I am then all spent up. I have no time for writing, for sewing, or for thinking. You must give your creativity space. That's a big part of what my hiatus has been about. We all need a break sometimes. Rachel said all this more eloquently than I, and then there were oodles of comments where the discussion continued. Fine reading (if you have the space and time to read it, of course). :)<br />
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Finally: <a href="http://www.freep.com/article/20120219/FEATURES01/202190336/A-room-of-her-own-Repurposed-spaces-become-creative-havens-for-the-woman-of-the-house?odyssey=mod%7Cnewswell%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE%7Cp">I wrote this article for my day job about three lovely craft rooms.</a> It was a wonderful project and I loved seeing each room. There's a photo gallery, so you can see them as well. As much as I need the mental space to find creativity, my physical space also needs work. Organization, attention, cleanliness, all of that. I need to make getting my space there -- and keeping it there -- a priority if my sewing is ever going to get back on track.<br />
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Oh, and one final thing! I have a goal of sharing more interviews for The Sewing Circle Series. There are many bloggers out there I know I'd love to interview. But I'd love to hear your suggestions as well. Who would you like to know more about? And it is OK to nominate yourself. Drop me a comment or an email at tharshesews@gmail.com. <br />
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That's all! I am going to go enjoy my last moments of blissful silence before my two sweets come back to tear the place apart with their beautiful noise.Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-21271908315311704782012-02-18T09:34:00.000-05:002012-02-18T09:34:33.824-05:00The Sewing Circle: Jeni from In Color Order<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oarNNYaE0HU/Tz-1CHUZkaI/AAAAAAAAF6Q/VM_fU2Pam6Y/s1600/jeni2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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<![e-->I started the series The Sewing Circle last year, meaning for it to be a regular feature of my blog. I got off track from it a bit but am hoping to revive it now. The idea is simple: I send my favorite sewing bloggers questions through email, they respond and we all get to learn more about the talented people in the online sewing community. You can read past interviews with <a href="http://tharshesews.blogspot.com/2011/05/sewing-circle-interview-with-anna-from.html">Anna</a> from <a href="http://www.noodle-head.com/">Noodlehead</a> and <a href="http://tharshesews.blogspot.com/2011/06/sewing-circle-interview-with-marigold.html">Marigold </a>from <a href="http://www.hideousdreadfulstinky.com/">Hideous! Dreadful! Stinky! </a></div>
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Jeni, today's interviewee, writes one of my most favorite sewing blogs, <a href="http://incolororder.blogspot.com/">In Color Order. </a>Her blog is inspiring, educational and very approachable. Jeni seems like the kind of girl most anyone would want to be friends with -- warm, smart and easygoing. Her blog is positive and encouraging without making you feel like there isn't a real person there behind all the sunshine and rainbows. And her sewing, that speaks for itself. She produces <a href="http://incolororder.blogspot.com/p/quilts.html">more finished projects</a> than almost any other blogger I read, and everything she makes is so well-constructed and eye-catching. Her sense of color is outstanding, a fact that led her to write an <a href="http://incolororder.blogspot.com/p/art-of-choosing.html">entire series helping sewers and quilters pick the right colors for their projects</a>. She alone inspired my own desire to start a vintage sheet collection, as she has an <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ironsea">Etsy shop devoted to them. </a></div>
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With that bit of background, let's get to Jeni, who lives in Wisconsin. You can find her <a href="http://incolororder.blogspot.com/">on her blog</a>, on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/In-Color-Order/189973187724477">Facebook</a>, on <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/jenib320">Twitter</a>, on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenib/">Flickr</a>, on <a href="http://pinterest.com/jenib/">Pinterest </a>and on Instagram. Oh, and <a href="http://meylah.com/incolororder">she has a pattern shop here.</a></div>
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<b>When did you start your blog and what was your original plan
for it?</b></div>
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I started my blog just over 3 years ago in February
2009.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, I started journaling online way back in 2001, so I was no
stranger to blogging! When I started my blog I had planned for it to be
a blog to document my sewing projects, products I liked, and decor,
which has stayed pretty much the same!</div>
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<b>How has it changed over the years?</b></div>
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The biggest change in my blog over the years is the amount I
post! I'm blogging about a lot of the same topics, but on a regular
basis! I've also focused more on tutorials and informational series in
the last year or so, which I really have come to enjoy!</div>
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<b>If you have one, what's your day job?</b></div>
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This is a tricky question for me! I just graduated with a
degree in marketing and studio art this past May and am still trying
to find my niche in the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For now, I run my etsy shop selling vintage sheets and teach sewing classes part time at The Sewcial
Lounge in Madison, WI.</div>
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<b>Who taught you to sew?</b></div>
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My Mother taught me the basics of using the sewing machine,
helped me with my first few projects and answered my early questions,
but I mostly learned from trial and error.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was never one for reading the directions or asking for a lot of help, I just liked to dive
right in and try my strength at things! Sewing was no different!</div>
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<b>Do you typically pick fabric first or a project first?</b></div>
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Almost always the fabric first! I joke sometimes that I sew
in order to have an excuse to collect fabric.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I draw most of my inspiration from the fabric itself and figure out a design based around
the fabric. When I do it the other way around, I tend to struggle
about making a final decision.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oarNNYaE0HU/Tz-1CHUZkaI/AAAAAAAAF6Q/VM_fU2Pam6Y/s1600/jeni2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oarNNYaE0HU/Tz-1CHUZkaI/AAAAAAAAF6Q/VM_fU2Pam6Y/s640/jeni2.jpg" width="426" /></a><span id="goog_2012899428"></span><span id="goog_2012899429"></span></div>
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<b>How do you find time to sew? I'm constantly amazed at the
amount you accomplish in a week!</b></div>
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Do you want to know the real secret? I don't have a
full-time job, and I don't have any children! This helps a lot! I also don't
sleep a whole lot! Believe me, there are weeks I don't feel like
I've gotten a lot done. I keep lots of lists and set deadlines for myself,
which helps me stay on track.</div>
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<b>How did your vintage sheet business begin and how much time
do you devote to it during a typical week?</b></div>
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I first started collecting vintage sheets in 2010, when I
participated in a fat quarter swap on Flickr.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I soon got hooked, but realized that I was quickly going to be eaten out of house and home by my collection! In order to grow my stash without amassing too
many sheets, I started selling the "leftovers" of
sheets that I didn't need</div>
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for my collection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This continues to be a main driver in why I run my shop! In the winter I don't spend as much time on the shop,
as I thrift less and sell less because of the cold and
gloom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During the summer though, I'm often going thrifting twice a week and
between washing sheets, cutting and packing orders, 20-25 hours a
week.</div>
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<b>How do you avoid burnout (or deal with it) when it come to
sewing and blogging about it?</b></div>
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I let myself have days where I don't do much of anything I'm
"supposed to do". I mix in projects that I do just for fun, and
only blog when I truly want to. Sometimes this means a few days between
blogging, but in the long run it's healthier for me than blogging when I'm
not up to it.</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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EsbayPcq90c/Tz-2AMLa2YI/AAAAAAAAF6g/2PISrKo4ZRE/s1600/jeni7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EsbayPcq90c/Tz-2AMLa2YI/AAAAAAAAF6g/2PISrKo4ZRE/s640/jeni7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://incolororder.blogspot.com/2012/02/monday.html">A recent picture of Jeni's bunny George.</a></td></tr>
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<b>I love the way you post a<a href="http://incolororder.blogspot.com/2012/02/monday.html"> weekly wrap-up post including</a> "good
things about today" and "today I love." You hit all the
senses. And of course, there's always a cute picture of George the rabbit. How did that feature of your blog evolve?</b></div>
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Years and years ago I saw a photo online of a
calender/journal that had something similar and saved it to my computer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately I don't even have the photo anymore, let alone know who
manufactured it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It stuck with me and
in an attempt to find the good in everyday, it wound up on my blog! I added the "good things"
soon after, simply to remind myself that no matter how bad the day, I can still
find a few happy moments!</div>
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<b>I've never sewn a single quilt block. I'm a bit intimidated.
I'm not the most accurate sewer. What advice do you have for someone
like me (besides, just do it already!)? Also, if you want to
recommend a couple easy blocks to try as a first block, that'd be
fantastic.</b></div>
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Just practice! Grab some scraps and play around. And, I
think start off with simple patchwork. It becomes easy to see where
you're going wrong (seam allowance? cutting? etc), and so easier to
fix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I'd also recommend giving half-square triangles a try! Once you
master them, you can make so, so many different blocks!</div>
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Also, in almost all quilt blocks (and many other projects),
when instructions say 1/4" seam allowance, what that really
means is a scant 1/4". This means that if you measure your seam,
it measures just inside the 1/4" line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>You'd be amazing how much that can mess up your projects!</div>
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<b>What's the one sewing tool you couldn't live without,
besides the obvious (machine, scissors, etc.)</b></div>
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Definitely my thread snippers. I use them more than any
other tool in my sewing room! Having a good pair that are sharp and easy
to use make my life much, much easier!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OFQwdqiNVvg/Tz-z4FERi3I/AAAAAAAAF6I/4qqhZeRrwU0/s1600/jeni4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OFQwdqiNVvg/Tz-z4FERi3I/AAAAAAAAF6I/4qqhZeRrwU0/s640/jeni4.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b>Your sense of color is so spot on. I love your "Art of
Choosing" series. Did you study this stuff or just gain an
understanding through trial and error and practice?</b></div>
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It seems to be the type of thing that you either have
naturally, or develop, and I got lucky! A lot of my color sense is
instinct, although I have improved through practice for sure! I did
minor in Studio Art, but wasn't able to take color theory.</div>
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<b>What's your favorite palette to work with? Your favorite
fabric line ever? Favorite designer?</b></div>
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My current favorite palette includes Eggplant, Mustard and
Fuschia. Can't get enough of it! It also happens to be a palette
found in my favorite fabric line, Mendocino by Heather Ross! Favorite
fabric designer is a little more difficult for me! I think it's a
very close tie between Lizzy House and Erin McMorris.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although I can't say no to Aneela Hoey's fabrics either!</div>
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<b>You can eat one sweet for the rest of your life -- what do
you choose?</b></div>
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Only one?! I have a major sweet tooth! If it's for the rest
of my life, I'd have to say regular milk chocolate! The good
European stuff though! :)</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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gjtzz8E-AV8/Tz-2v9yaBfI/AAAAAAAAF6o/GLhPrfby3k8/s1600/jeni8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gjtzz8E-AV8/Tz-2v9yaBfI/AAAAAAAAF6o/GLhPrfby3k8/s640/jeni8.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The<a href="http://incolororder.blogspot.com/2011/10/lined-drawstring-bag-tutorial.html"> lined drawstring bag </a>is one of Jeni's free tutorials!</td></tr>
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Thanks so much to Jeni for taking the time to answer my questions. Hope everyone enjoyed it as much as I did! </div>
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<br /></div>Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-55799802584577583922012-02-14T20:52:00.001-05:002012-02-14T21:12:06.124-05:00A Viking's take on Valentine's DayAh, Valentine's Day. The day to stress out about what box of chocolate best says I-am-so-not-buying-this-at-the-last-minute-really! How's it going for you? Around here, my husband and I are working opposite shifts and won't be seeing one another at all, outside of passing in the hallways at work. So to make up for our lack of actual Valentine's Day romance, we went out on Sunday afternoon.<br />
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We had a fine lunch out at<a href="http://unionwoodshop.com/"> this place</a>, then we drove to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Battle-Alley-Arcade-Antiques/199431070077406">this antique store.</a> It's MASSIVE. Room after room, two floors. Doodads up the wazoo. We are not antiquers, but we thought it would be fun (and ever so romantic) to wander around with a mission: find a Valentine's Day gift for the other with a $10 budget.<br />
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Can I show you what he found me after nearly an hour of searching (and a stern warning that I did <u>not </u>under any circumstances want anything in the "figurine" category)?<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QHEKyof53a8/TzrEeWokALI/AAAAAAAAF5Y/HF8_JJ8aAHw/s1600/Royal+Oak-20120214-00257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QHEKyof53a8/TzrEeWokALI/AAAAAAAAF5Y/HF8_JJ8aAHw/s640/Royal+Oak-20120214-00257.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have to say, I was impressed. This is right up my alley, of course. And why wouldn't it be? Written and published in the early 1960s, it's a 16-chapter Bible of sewing. And of course, there are many lessons the McCall's editors want to pass on to me to make sure I am as prim and well-put together as I should be in my hand-sewn duds.<br />
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Let's take a look!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yYiM9T4gdrY/TzrC52uj4_I/AAAAAAAAF5Q/Ltwjx3oL-Ag/s1600/Royal+Oak-20120214-00258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yYiM9T4gdrY/TzrC52uj4_I/AAAAAAAAF5Q/Ltwjx3oL-Ag/s640/Royal+Oak-20120214-00258.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here I get to learn about the appropriate attire for different functions. If I'm going to a "Club Activity," I should wear "Dressmaker suits, simple dresses, such as the sheath, shirtwaist and coast dress are always appropriate. They may have soft touches, but avoid fussy styles." Luckily for the McCall's editors, I almost always avoid the fussy styles, so no issue there!<br />
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I also get to learn how to dress myself according to my body type. Like if I'm the "Tall and Heavy" type, I'm told: "Lines for the 'viking' type are a problem." Wow, McCall's, really? A Viking? Seems very unladylike of you. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-30b4myWK8Lw/TzsPMY3IL6I/AAAAAAAAF5g/I0mf6PGVN-A/s1600/Royal+Oak-20120214-00260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-30b4myWK8Lw/TzsPMY3IL6I/AAAAAAAAF5g/I0mf6PGVN-A/s400/Royal+Oak-20120214-00260.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here's a handy guide to female body types. It seems back in 1960, the top size --a misses' -- was for a woman 5-foot-5 or 5-foot-6 and "average" waist and bust. A size 6 would be a 22-inch waist. Me, with my size 30-waist, which fits me into a size 6 or 8 in today's clothes? According to McCall's, I'd be a size 16 or 18, the largest size on their chart. (In other words, Vikingesque!) I guess this just shows the pattern-makers have been crazy all along. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mL0EVz_ciBU/TzsPhnGzQwI/AAAAAAAAF5o/lYbq7nHAFY0/s1600/Royal+Oak-20120214-00261.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mL0EVz_ciBU/TzsPhnGzQwI/AAAAAAAAF5o/lYbq7nHAFY0/s400/Royal+Oak-20120214-00261.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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But all kidding aside, I think this book is great reference material. It covers everything from how to read a pattern to how to construct full garments. I'll use it, of that I'm sure. I'd still really like to make myself a dress someday. So, to my wonderful husband, a big thanks. I love my Valentine's Day sewing book, even if it is a teensy bit insulting in some sections. You clearly get me. And makes a girl feel good. <br />
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Happy Valentine's Day friends!Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-18013289297278398842012-02-11T15:23:00.000-05:002012-02-11T15:23:29.030-05:00An afternoon sewing for Africa<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0c0qUivF0CM/TzbKpCiuJKI/AAAAAAAAF3g/-BnfQgqzfY4/s1600/littledresses+032.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0c0qUivF0CM/TzbKpCiuJKI/AAAAAAAAF3g/-BnfQgqzfY4/s640/littledresses+032.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
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I broke out of my sewing funk this afternoon and attended a sewing event for the non-profit <a href="http://www.littledressesforafrica.org/blog/">Little Dresses for Africa</a>. It was held through my friend Jen's church, <a href="http://www.mercyroadchurch.org/">Mercy Road.</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eI4BdT9irNk/TzbKkLW8UaI/AAAAAAAAF3Q/A03wRLQJpcg/s1600/littledresses+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eI4BdT9irNk/TzbKkLW8UaI/AAAAAAAAF3Q/A03wRLQJpcg/s640/littledresses+030.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our sewing station. Jen and I are so cute with our matching sewing machines. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y9FmUciTmgk/TzbKmfUnaKI/AAAAAAAAF3Y/MSlfP3yU_8I/s1600/littledresses+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y9FmUciTmgk/TzbKmfUnaKI/AAAAAAAAF3Y/MSlfP3yU_8I/s640/littledresses+031.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They were so lovely to have this food spread for all the volunteers.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DXmgZ3NUCUk/TzbKrlse09I/AAAAAAAAF3o/wT25hJFueqw/s1600/littledresses+034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DXmgZ3NUCUk/TzbKrlse09I/AAAAAAAAF3o/wT25hJFueqw/s640/littledresses+034.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The workspace, everyone hard at work.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fRIyr_sPvQc/TzbKuS0Hd6I/AAAAAAAAF3w/DX1x_3TOHuw/s1600/littledresses+035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fRIyr_sPvQc/TzbKuS0Hd6I/AAAAAAAAF3w/DX1x_3TOHuw/s640/littledresses+035.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">They had all sorts of ribbon and other embellishments for us to play with.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0_EKHcy4dI/TzbKwr5pENI/AAAAAAAAF34/X4br7H_Xleo/s1600/littledresses+036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0_EKHcy4dI/TzbKwr5pENI/AAAAAAAAF34/X4br7H_Xleo/s640/littledresses+036.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pile of completed dresses.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kPB0JIBRDv4/TzbKzdObr-I/AAAAAAAAF4A/ZBO0DbVT4DM/s1600/littledresses+039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kPB0JIBRDv4/TzbKzdObr-I/AAAAAAAAF4A/ZBO0DbVT4DM/s640/littledresses+039.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's me hard at work! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XiIv8DCed28/TzbK1t_zzyI/AAAAAAAAF4I/_-0aE2u-21k/s1600/littledresses+040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XiIv8DCed28/TzbK1t_zzyI/AAAAAAAAF4I/_-0aE2u-21k/s640/littledresses+040.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was Charity, who led the event.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v10BZBueGIs/TzbK7zxqnLI/AAAAAAAAF4Q/uW-B7ZAm3O0/s1600/littledresses+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v10BZBueGIs/TzbK7zxqnLI/AAAAAAAAF4Q/uW-B7ZAm3O0/s640/littledresses+044.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There were all different stations around the room. Here they're cutting.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZlSp5fpvag/TzbLCY2egGI/AAAAAAAAF4c/PwoJl1nPeu4/s1600/littledresses+045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZlSp5fpvag/TzbLCY2egGI/AAAAAAAAF4c/PwoJl1nPeu4/s640/littledresses+045.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even some men came to help! You can see the plaid shirt of one on the right. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w2fPg0LpZwI/TzbLIXsT-WI/AAAAAAAAF4k/DZPM9Kms1hM/s1600/littledresses+046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w2fPg0LpZwI/TzbLIXsT-WI/AAAAAAAAF4k/DZPM9Kms1hM/s640/littledresses+046.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The busy ironing station. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rGnFkABxf5M/TzbLOMK2_KI/AAAAAAAAF4s/ytvvKmR0lx0/s1600/littledresses+048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rGnFkABxf5M/TzbLOMK2_KI/AAAAAAAAF4s/ytvvKmR0lx0/s640/littledresses+048.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My friend Jen's friend Kendal works my very best friend, the seam ripper.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cz36usdN6CA/TzbLRZUGDWI/AAAAAAAAF40/CSZmkbUvVlg/s1600/littledresses+053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cz36usdN6CA/TzbLRZUGDWI/AAAAAAAAF40/CSZmkbUvVlg/s640/littledresses+053.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We embellished this one with a fabric yo-yo flower. The first fabric yo-yos I made in my life! I finished them last week and brought them with. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXS2Mbh6MGY/TzbLUD5TBHI/AAAAAAAAF48/30wIIBWGw3s/s1600/littledresses+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXS2Mbh6MGY/TzbLUD5TBHI/AAAAAAAAF48/30wIIBWGw3s/s640/littledresses+054.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My friend Jen and me. We never have photos together, so now at least there's this one of me looking rather rough. :)</td></tr>
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It felt good! Really good. Good to sew again, good to make something and not worry about it being perfect. Nice to just focus on one thing and not the entire scope of a project (finding a pattern, finding the fabric, cutting, pinning, ironing, etc.). At my station, all we did was attach the bias tape, which finished the pillow case dresses. They came to us with everything else done, and the bias tape even pinned into place. On a few, we did add some cute finishing touches, too.<br />
<br />A lovely Saturday afternoon, I'd say! What are you up to today?<br />
<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-32591931989498746252012-02-07T11:15:00.000-05:002012-02-07T11:15:38.317-05:00A brief message about broken hearts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DPF0fEJ8uU0/TzFN8LBIKwI/AAAAAAAAF3I/SKnL6kG6HcY/s1600/bighouse+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DPF0fEJ8uU0/TzFN8LBIKwI/AAAAAAAAF3I/SKnL6kG6HcY/s640/bighouse+025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Interrupting my hiatus for a public service announcement!<br />
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Today through Feb. 14, it's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/CHD-Awareness-Week-2012-Official/137987189648297">CHD Awareness week</a>. My son, Luke, has a CHD story, so I wanted to do my part and spread a little awareness. I hope you don't mind.<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1543366586"><br /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/congenital-heart-defects/DS01117">CHD stands for congenital heart defect. </a>It is a problem with your heart present at birth. They're the most common birth defect, effecting about 1 in 100 live births. There are 35 known CHDs, and sometimes kids are born with two or three or four. Luke had three -- a ventricular septal defect, an atrial septal defect and coarctation of the aorta. The first two -- the septal defects -- are a fancy way of saying a hole in the ways of the heart chambers. They're the most common type of defect, and sometimes they close on their own. Others need surgery to fix. Luke also had the "coarc," which means his aorta, the part of the heart that feeds blood to the left and bottom half of your body, was kinked like a big garden hose. Depending on the severity, this can require open-heart surgery or a cath procedure to fix.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DvBQIXENp2A/TzFMhPr9RSI/AAAAAAAAF2k/Ft5VJQaKlMg/s1600/013.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DvBQIXENp2A/TzFMhPr9RSI/AAAAAAAAF2k/Ft5VJQaKlMg/s640/013.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luke at about four days old, in the NICU before his surgery.</td></tr>
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Luke needed open heart surgery, and he had his when he was 6-days-old. We have a fantastic pediatric heart hospital near us, routinely ranked in the top three in the country. So everything for Luke went just splendid. He was in the hospital for 14 days and by his 1-month birthday, you would never know what he went through. To this day, he's an active, healthy, completely "healthy-hearted" little boy. His CHD is really not a part of our day-to-day lives, and I'm so blessed to say that. I really don't want to make a big deal about it -- his scar down his chest is not his identity. But he did go through some tough times, and I do want to honor that.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xUHDXR4vKY4/TzFMjx6wDHI/AAAAAAAAF2s/oXXLP0qfqsU/s1600/017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xUHDXR4vKY4/TzFMjx6wDHI/AAAAAAAAF2s/oXXLP0qfqsU/s640/017.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me holding Luke for the first time in five days. He was 6-days-old and about to go into open-heart surgery at C.S. Mott Children's Hospital in Ann Arbor.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bpK2vsBcK_I/TzFMmX4Vl9I/AAAAAAAAF20/CiITQn5KWVk/s1600/023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bpK2vsBcK_I/TzFMmX4Vl9I/AAAAAAAAF20/CiITQn5KWVk/s640/023.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luke following his surgery.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9xFCNGDPNV4/TzFMpV1pJuI/AAAAAAAAF28/W2ZlbRzmlvU/s1600/035.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9xFCNGDPNV4/TzFMpV1pJuI/AAAAAAAAF28/W2ZlbRzmlvU/s640/035.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luke at one-month-old, home and healthy!</td></tr>
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Another reason I want to post this, is that lots of kids with more severe CHDs have it way worse than Luke. Some CHDs require multiple surgeries and result in many complications and side effects. Kids don't eat, they don't grow, they turn blue, they get tired, they have stomach issues, they need heart transplants, etc. And the sad reality is that some kids die. CHDs kill more children each year than all forms of pediatric cancer combined. Isn't that an astonishing fact? And while cancer is terrible, just <i>terrible </i>-- I would be so much more frightened if my child had cancer -- heart issues are no picnic either, and they deserve a little more awareness than they have. Most people seem to have never heard of CHDs, or no little about them. I know that was me before Luke was born.<br />
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Lastly, if your child is at the beginning of a CHD journey, perhaps still in growing inside you, please have hope. CHDs are far from a death sentence. My Luke is a great example of that. There are a lot of amazing surgeons out there doing amazing things every single day. Take a look at this Pinterest board: <a href="http://pinterest.com/ruth_h/the-faces-of-chd-congenital-heart-awareness-week-f/">The Faces of CHD</a>. You'll see a lot of stories that involve scary times, and yes, some children don't make it. But the majority of the stories you'll see kids who wind up being described as energetic, healthy, happy, and "normal." There's hope. <br />
<br />Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-82500918063673228852012-02-01T09:35:00.000-05:002012-02-01T09:35:54.504-05:00Hiatus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AyD3-XC5nn0/TylNSQex2qI/AAAAAAAAF2Y/WRibhb9HAjM/s1600/Royal+Oak-20120201-00231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AyD3-XC5nn0/TylNSQex2qI/AAAAAAAAF2Y/WRibhb9HAjM/s640/Royal+Oak-20120201-00231.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I've been thinking about taking a bit of a blogging and sewing break. A short hiatus. How short, I'm not sure.<br />
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My sewing nook got disassembled a bit for JJ's birthday party. It's all there behind that curtain.<br />
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Not too be all deep, but I feel like packing it up and putting it all behind a curtain is what I need at the moment. A refresher, a step away.<br />
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Part of it is because: My work schedule is changing for the month of February. I'm adding a fourth day, and I'm switching form afternoon/evenings to very early mornings. Like, I'll have to get up at least two hours earlier than I'm used to. It's going to be a big switch for our family, as my husband will now have the kids alone all morning and then will work all afternoon/evening, and I'll be doing the opposite. For those four days of the week, we really won't see one another or have any time together as a family. I know I'm going to be extra tired and stressed, and I don't want to put too much on my plate and stress about completing sewing project or blogging. This is a fun, inspirational outlet for me, and I don't want to give it up, at all. I just want the pressure off. I want to only go sit and create or sit and write because I feel inspired. And if/when that happens, I will indeed update here! <br />
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I've debated whether to post about this at all. I'm so grateful for the little outlet I've built here, and I don't want to shoot myself in the foot. But I'm trying to be honest with myself (and you) and do what's best for everyone here. I hope you understand!<br />
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So my posting might be a bit sporadic -- or non-existant -- this month. I hope you'll bear with me and keep checking back, because as soon as things calm down, or my sewing mo-jo returns, I'll be back. Maybe in a week, I don't know. Maybe sooner. Maybe later. <br />
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Until then.... happy sewing!Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-7696066405515147662012-01-30T09:34:00.000-05:002012-01-30T09:34:10.292-05:00A first birthday party for JJ<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a0COvBkwn2g/TyaiBx_yy2I/AAAAAAAAF08/PyD2UpJfqLg/s1600/JJ%2527s+party+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a0COvBkwn2g/TyaiBx_yy2I/AAAAAAAAF08/PyD2UpJfqLg/s640/JJ%2527s+party+055.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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JJ's first birthday party was Saturday. I did not sew a stitch for it. I had big plans to make him a shirt, or a softie or... something. But you know, it didn't happen, and I am OK with that. He had a perfectly cute party without something hand-sewn by Mama. I did a few crafty touches, made a lot of food, cleaned my house (with a huge huge helping hand from my mother-in-law) and called it a day. Parties are a lot of work. Yes? We can agree on this? Every time we have one, a couple hours before the party, I think to myself, <i>I am never doing this again. </i>But then once everything comes together, and all the people are there, of course, it all seems worth it. <br />
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I was a lovely time. I'm just having issues lately about what's too much. Don't mind me.<br />
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Anyway, thought I'd share a few photos.<br />
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I found the "My First Birthday" shirt at Marshall's a few days before the party, and for $5, I was sold. It was cute. It took one thing off my to-do list. Check, check.<br />
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I did a photo timeline, strung on twine, around the basement, where we held the party. I found the mini colored clothespins at Jo-Anns, and they were really cute. I used about 45 photos -- almost all of the clothespins! I loved how this looked, and at the end of the party, I told everyone they could take a photo or two as a party favor. <br />
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I made the cake the day before, using the recipe from my inspiration post. I made two layer cakes, so the cake ended up pretty enormous. But he really only ate the little section right on the top of one side. I really wanted to make him a cake from scratch and really REALLY wanted to see him make a mess with it. Mission accomplished there. <br />
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For the adults, we got a chocolate peanut-butter cake from Pinwheel Bakery in Ferndale, and it was so delicious. I highly recommend. This thing was gone in an instant! <br />
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One fun thing we did was have everyone complete a time capsule for JJ to open on his 18th birthday. This was a big hit. Now the only issue... keeping track of the responses for 17 years! <br />
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For the door, I did a fairly simple wreath. Yarn wrapped a wreath form and then stuck these adorable mini-pinwheels into one side to make a cute arrangement. I stuck a "Happy Birthday" sticker on top because I ran out of time to do what I really wanted, which was make a little flag banner that said those words. Ah well. I think it's pretty cute.<br />
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I am a bit in disbelief that my baby is one. It's bittersweet. Babyhood is the best. And this little guy... he is the sweetest, most cuddly little one. It's been a most fabulous year with him, it really has.Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7302425631415270464.post-14774888415727373682012-01-25T10:06:00.000-05:002012-01-25T10:06:51.666-05:00First birthday party inspiration and ideasI work a 3-day workweek these days. I go to the office Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Those three days are a whirlwind. My work tunnel. I emerge from that tunnel each Wednesday with many things needing my attention on the home front and in my personal life, and of course, in my sewing nook. I spend the next days digging out, getting things back in order and attempting to rediscover my creativity and balance... And then I do it all again.<br />
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And so, here I am, emerging from my tunnel this week with a big deadline headed my way. JJ's first birthday party is Saturday. <br />
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Here's what I've actually accomplished: I've been dutifully <a href="http://pinterest.com/kristaj/">collecting ideas on Pinterest</a>. And I ordered the <a href="http://pinwheelbakery.com/">cake for the adults</a>. Now it's on to finalizing plans and getting things done! First, I thought I'd show you some of the things I found that I want to try. Don't know that I'll get to all of these, but they're my inspiration for the party, for sure. Wanna see?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4SPqG5wyXlk/TyAUP2AibJI/AAAAAAAAFyQ/xqThEqwttbA/s1600/birthdayJJ10.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4SPqG5wyXlk/TyAUP2AibJI/AAAAAAAAFyQ/xqThEqwttbA/s640/birthdayJJ10.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82527967/barnyard-farm-animal-birthday-shirt?ref=you_recently_viewed_this_item">Original source: etsy.</a></td></tr>
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I can't decide what kind of applique shirt to make, or whether to make one at all. This one, with the "O-N-E" spelled out in nice big letters, is cute. I'd love it to say "JJ" somewhere. And another idea we had was to make one that says, "Cake, please!" That's be cute, but maybe too many letters to deal with in applique.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PQOjD163p-8/TyAURjjGlDI/AAAAAAAAFzA/uI59566WNjk/s1600/birthdayJJ4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PQOjD163p-8/TyAURjjGlDI/AAAAAAAAFzA/uI59566WNjk/s400/birthdayJJ4.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pamelajminis.com/apps/photos/photo?photoid=12808030">Original source.</a></td></tr>
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I want to keep the decorations simple. (Ha. Famous last words.) I love the ballons tied onto the highchair here. Sweet. Simple. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LJCatgrxOuI/TyAUQmrpezI/AAAAAAAAFyo/gh1l-EwQowg/s1600/birthdayJJ7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LJCatgrxOuI/TyAUQmrpezI/AAAAAAAAFyo/gh1l-EwQowg/s320/birthdayJJ7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Maybe something cute like this for the door. Probably the last priority though. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://themcclenahans.blogspot.com/2011/01/one-year-old-in-flash-party-details.html">Original source.</a></td></tr>
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Cute banner with month-by-month photos of the first year, marked with clothespins. This I really want to do. I've been taking his photo each month, and I've printed out a bunch of them to display. So this one should be on the to-do list for sure. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://hiphiphoorayblog.com/page/6/">Original source.</a></td></tr>
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I die of cuteness with this one. Definitely doing this. Who comes up with these ideas? Thank you internet for being so awesome! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TTOthYU9u9E/TyAUR-83ZtI/AAAAAAAAFzI/YRcRWzXk15k/s1600/birthdayJJ3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TTOthYU9u9E/TyAUR-83ZtI/AAAAAAAAFzI/YRcRWzXk15k/s640/birthdayJJ3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2010/04/ham-and-cheese-sliders.html">Original source.</a></td></tr>
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For food, these ham and cheese sliders with poppy-seed sauce looked so mouth-watering, I decided I must try them. They're something you can assemble before the party and then cook once guests arrive. So they'll be nice and warm and won't make my kitchen a big mess. Yay! I will do some turkey and provolone too, for the swiss-haters (i.e.: myself.)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A6dBZSh6cog/TyAUSLkcbbI/AAAAAAAAFzQ/HVt0k-6dGFI/s1600/birthdayJJ2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A6dBZSh6cog/TyAUSLkcbbI/AAAAAAAAFzQ/HVt0k-6dGFI/s640/birthdayJJ2.jpg" width="638" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/191895634092273264/">Original source.</a></td></tr>
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Both sets of grandparents are bringing a side-dish to pass. So my only other worry are some nibbles. Pita and hummus, cheese and crackers and I think these cute fruit kabobs. Kid-friendly, you know? </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2009/07/best-birthday-cake/">Original source.</a></td></tr>
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As for JJ's smash cake, I want to do something simple. Small chocolate layer cake with a little confetti sounds about right. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sm_lHIz-N-4/TyAUPbl8UeI/AAAAAAAAFyA/8QHE7wy7VSk/s640/birthday9.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wendyupdegraff.com/search/label/Family%20Photography?updated-max=2011-10-04T15%3A55%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=20">Original source. </a></td></tr>
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All I really want.... is this photo opp! Luke didn't really tear into his smash cake. He just gingerly touched its sides and then got weirded-out by the feeling of frosting on his finger tips. He's still a dainty eater, so I guess this was just our first clue. But JJ has a much more, um, voracious appetite. I have high hopes, little one! Please. give mama that messy show she craves! <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C0XIFI5VceQ/TyAQrk3H0UI/AAAAAAAAFx4/6Hilclm6XKA/s1600/Royal+Oak-20120120-00223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C0XIFI5VceQ/TyAQrk3H0UI/AAAAAAAAFx4/6Hilclm6XKA/s640/Royal+Oak-20120120-00223.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Oh, and look! The first project is underway!Kristahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11705922505565492945noreply@blogger.com1