tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55316746995774031712024-03-19T08:13:03.291-04:00Seamingly SimpleFake It Until You Make ItMom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-81976386301450438592011-02-15T09:40:00.000-05:002011-02-15T09:40:27.808-05:00Good Morning.Good morning so far. Both little ones actually ate their breakfasts! No cajoling, threats or rumbling bellies on the way to school. I try to make our morning routine as pleasant as possible. Who wants to start their day screaming and hollerin?' Mornings are also time for Ian and I to spend a few moments alone. Chit chatting about stuff he's interested in while I prepare breakfast.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ian lying on the couch watching Full House</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoyLizZ3ROUM1nAsC26JIQ70GeQWPHfMP-3kehbrhMxEyFw1-iJRtaTSHFUHGJK9On4V7KV41ltnM2pUaDvdE5qGCmGuz8lplTld__JU10a5Ir-Az0mgin76OkdxRJ8_0LevGdA_CyYfg/s1600/IMG_2737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoyLizZ3ROUM1nAsC26JIQ70GeQWPHfMP-3kehbrhMxEyFw1-iJRtaTSHFUHGJK9On4V7KV41ltnM2pUaDvdE5qGCmGuz8lplTld__JU10a5Ir-Az0mgin76OkdxRJ8_0LevGdA_CyYfg/s320/IMG_2737.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweetpea eating her breakfast in Mama's chair</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsE7Pegw_NnbXWC_pAP9KgaSN4uHO3X6Aia1RiruNwAdKNXIkVYTGCJzqOD7S5uX_PDK0ufVFGnm5pVGuQhN2kR_lkpjN9iaTe7tx6XTwE9-mjYBmyenkerYQB1Yu2to2Y3T790sdRGzg/s1600/IMG_2742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsE7Pegw_NnbXWC_pAP9KgaSN4uHO3X6Aia1RiruNwAdKNXIkVYTGCJzqOD7S5uX_PDK0ufVFGnm5pVGuQhN2kR_lkpjN9iaTe7tx6XTwE9-mjYBmyenkerYQB1Yu2to2Y3T790sdRGzg/s320/IMG_2742.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweetpea and Harley playing under the table</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Anyway, I thought I'd practice my photography skills this morning. Figure you gotta start somewhere, right? The resource I'm using to help me learn to take better blog picture is Darren Rowse' <a href="http://www.digital-photography-school.com/">Digital Photography School</a> forum. If I work a little bit at it every day I can't help but get better, right?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hmm. Wonder if I can make a light box today?</div>Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-68741444796071906212011-02-15T09:29:00.000-05:002011-02-15T09:29:29.233-05:00Spring FeverI'm so ready for Spring! The cold, wind and snow have made me impatient for warmer weather. To bide the time I've been busy making seasonal preparations. The living room is where I've focused most of my efforts so far. Believe it or not, my color palate is pretty calm and light. Which is the exact opposite of my original intent!<div><br />
</div><div>I started off wanting juicy bold colors like citrus fruit! Pops of orange, green and/or yellow here and there. So I went out and purchased a pair of brass lamps at Goodwill to paint green. They came out pretty good but I had the hardest time accessorizing and making the green work with adjacent rooms. So the next day I painted the lamps light blue. Looks like the decor will be North Carolina Coastal! But I can work with it.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMxH_k3hFshXg_vieLth2LQfkF5bpkoI0sYbnfffKZDmp7u-BOxvfihWWOuIXrO85GQJsy5Vz1e1GTHtPI5locFnchCBJ3_2GejOMF4a_cr7vfSMG5DP241NaO2Yv1uGQSB7jBjWYTEQ/s1600/IMG_2717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMxH_k3hFshXg_vieLth2LQfkF5bpkoI0sYbnfffKZDmp7u-BOxvfihWWOuIXrO85GQJsy5Vz1e1GTHtPI5locFnchCBJ3_2GejOMF4a_cr7vfSMG5DP241NaO2Yv1uGQSB7jBjWYTEQ/s320/IMG_2717.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>When the lamps were finished I decided to work accessories. Just grabbing things from around the house to make interesting vignettes. I bought a set of craft markers at Michael's and decided to experiment on a Thrift store vase I picked up for a couple of dollars. It originally had multicolored homemade flowers strewn across it with a shiny glaze. Very 1980's. So I primed and spray painted it blue. The white flowers and squigglies were done with white acrylic paint markers. I think I'll add yellow blooms for a shot of color later:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWUoj57-lx7Aq04sxnmcIMW6btLR9DIT-wtaEO8I8XjcB3UBIay6a8aSLBJ8z4kMaBz-Nx2Rjd-j1zu2EMa4PnFNzbvJzoDg9rce8rxXdTkm6V-zNElFw_Tfydo0i6BJ3byz4qOVCvkns/s1600/IMG_2728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWUoj57-lx7Aq04sxnmcIMW6btLR9DIT-wtaEO8I8XjcB3UBIay6a8aSLBJ8z4kMaBz-Nx2Rjd-j1zu2EMa4PnFNzbvJzoDg9rce8rxXdTkm6V-zNElFw_Tfydo0i6BJ3byz4qOVCvkns/s320/IMG_2728.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhowKZ81eTWliqx1XFJkfCJTbNgdVurR66IWJ3V2iarAMa0qlNjB7w-lzdagGbMLSKCAuD-UwOcN4ZCiwGxc7nwrrHMvaRsxql0NOndXkfS5PcR5DkMjp6tNL5_c5wHYKl9MhHJskLwLHw/s1600/IMG_2731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhowKZ81eTWliqx1XFJkfCJTbNgdVurR66IWJ3V2iarAMa0qlNjB7w-lzdagGbMLSKCAuD-UwOcN4ZCiwGxc7nwrrHMvaRsxql0NOndXkfS5PcR5DkMjp6tNL5_c5wHYKl9MhHJskLwLHw/s320/IMG_2731.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div> Next up: layering a second accent color and textures to make the space come alive. Oh, and artwork! I need to do something with the big blank space behind he couch.</div>Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-36820103194293308022010-10-07T13:23:00.000-04:002010-10-07T13:23:53.021-04:00My Living RoomWe've finally sold our townhouse and I can finally do some serious shopping for our new house. When I say "new" I mean new to us. Our current home is a rancher built in the 60's! We have neighbors who've lived in the area for 40 years! Ain't that sumthin?'<br />
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The hubby and I agree that we want to save a majority of the money we'll make on the sale of the townhouse. We're taking a small percentage to put the house together before November. That's prior to the holidays, our son's birthday and super cold weather.<br />
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My first challenge: the L-shaped living / dining room. This is what I'm working with:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispO0n9ksGjemkh_QvcKDJI0lk5cMLnPzkP28qbLtZKPhQW6NfANo_-32bi80G90vBYOkbmSrET0asnj9TlRQZz5NF-f6fUoh6KhkEJ-ydL_pHEqgJ3y1FFgAB6gCRMrgdj4BwuYbMkI0/s1600/IMG_2559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispO0n9ksGjemkh_QvcKDJI0lk5cMLnPzkP28qbLtZKPhQW6NfANo_-32bi80G90vBYOkbmSrET0asnj9TlRQZz5NF-f6fUoh6KhkEJ-ydL_pHEqgJ3y1FFgAB6gCRMrgdj4BwuYbMkI0/s320/IMG_2559.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRJA0u5RYuCUNFx5u-1dYUA_D49xo9BPqkGkAEziwb3Lst5JWYX8yMTVnWGmawhTrEq8zoLkzIuHcEG-Jw7ni86F5i39hCwF9eTjhKXKy4PAdJL4l3iDfmskb92L4BNmJmBT5QDu0yqSs/s1600/IMG_2561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRJA0u5RYuCUNFx5u-1dYUA_D49xo9BPqkGkAEziwb3Lst5JWYX8yMTVnWGmawhTrEq8zoLkzIuHcEG-Jw7ni86F5i39hCwF9eTjhKXKy4PAdJL4l3iDfmskb92L4BNmJmBT5QDu0yqSs/s320/IMG_2561.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGEIeOtkjSmQPl_-XOLHSwn0wz-qZ8lmhPadozM3PaVXxOxV5TmtkyW4Jsmva_yKdX5cibXy9RdHoIkjDZ_uQDN-f5QJ5ss9kjZfkoihcrHQHUzCBqZiLL99ODzoMiXHJV8ZJPsoA24wA/s1600/IMG_2562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGEIeOtkjSmQPl_-XOLHSwn0wz-qZ8lmhPadozM3PaVXxOxV5TmtkyW4Jsmva_yKdX5cibXy9RdHoIkjDZ_uQDN-f5QJ5ss9kjZfkoihcrHQHUzCBqZiLL99ODzoMiXHJV8ZJPsoA24wA/s320/IMG_2562.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyczGn57CX_5VMX8G_IovwGCEAP1t9z-TLIsxZeyIAnw21Mg63A7CgEbgt0w2pwuSnXI6Ee_xRagh0apoC10PqYNmQrHTGSKxrCYXRiioXc8NqmVGKq-K37cggjsogjVqJXXti7td982I/s1600/IMG_2558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyczGn57CX_5VMX8G_IovwGCEAP1t9z-TLIsxZeyIAnw21Mg63A7CgEbgt0w2pwuSnXI6Ee_xRagh0apoC10PqYNmQrHTGSKxrCYXRiioXc8NqmVGKq-K37cggjsogjVqJXXti7td982I/s320/IMG_2558.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>My hubby wants chocolate brown leather furniture in here. Which is fine, I guess. I mean, we have leather furniture in the family room. Having it in both living spaces isn't ideal. But we have 4 kids and leather is so much easier to clean. Just wipe it and go.<br />
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So once again I'm faced with the the challenge of warming up the space with accessories. Throw pillows, carpet (I'm replacing the one under the dining table), lamps, etc will have to do the trick.<br />
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However, too much crap would clutter the place quickly. So I have to be thougthful in my selections. Tomorrow I'll post a list of accessories I think may work in the room.Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-12422633657114495722010-10-07T13:03:00.000-04:002010-10-07T13:03:26.030-04:00I Went Dumpster DivingI found these two babies at the dumpster near my mother's townhouse. They were dirty but in fairly decent condition. I thought my husband would be irritated when I lugged them into the house. But he simply looked at me cleaning them up then pitched in! Maybe his attitude changed when I said, "Look honey, they were free!"<br />
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Originally I envisioned painting them with some light antique-y finish. But Michael was all like "NO! You can't paint wood." So I'll have to figure out a way to make them seem "less heavy." These are big honkin' end tables. And our living room isn't the smallest (granted we haven't furnished it yet). What we put on, under and near them will make a big difference. Cuz if the scale is all wrong and weird I'll have to get rid of them. And I don't want to do that.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYxr2TXaYDBYSZpbuffyz387szw6lG7SrboL0j_v7KARyYKUkQyHLM23PA8-0y1cHAMTqA8v09pNri85pqPhsRy4CROPJpcrbfPXQmzdP6uIUCtO11Vejg_f8GZr0d7exanqEbF7SaDeM/s1600/IMG_2573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYxr2TXaYDBYSZpbuffyz387szw6lG7SrboL0j_v7KARyYKUkQyHLM23PA8-0y1cHAMTqA8v09pNri85pqPhsRy4CROPJpcrbfPXQmzdP6uIUCtO11Vejg_f8GZr0d7exanqEbF7SaDeM/s320/IMG_2573.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdVmdmMMFGuClz9wVZbKiP59AQnyR6a7GdRDf4S2aW6exzC1dFujEgaU1pW9xdPN9jQ03Ik2HbaOIs3jsJBSC8a20mk9KFNdQ_uCed0x20LsMMGD0gbDWdwpvPyMmWKkdXdBeUjvrnUc/s1600/IMG_2574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdVmdmMMFGuClz9wVZbKiP59AQnyR6a7GdRDf4S2aW6exzC1dFujEgaU1pW9xdPN9jQ03Ik2HbaOIs3jsJBSC8a20mk9KFNdQ_uCed0x20LsMMGD0gbDWdwpvPyMmWKkdXdBeUjvrnUc/s320/IMG_2574.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If I can't paint them then I'll just have to be satisfied changing the knobs. Some kind of fabric insert for the basket would be nice too. I may put books in there. Something colorful and functional for sure.</div>Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-23570437347593710492010-07-24T21:25:00.000-04:002010-07-24T21:25:16.933-04:00Beach Inspired Bathroom ArtThe hubby and I have been racking our brain trying to come up with a beachy bathroom theme that kids and adult will like. The kids bathroom is also the "company" bathroom. So we want to keep things colorful, yet nice. we also don't want to spend too much moolah.<br />
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So last week I bought 2 Malma Mirrors at Ikea for $5 a piece. I pulled them out today and made great bathroom art. Even my hard to impress hubby likes it:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGDV-6d9ovATvwaSDxvWWG01Bv8bm0xtGeVQrreIGfu7xLmrMO0Tt8_sX8sM0n3Qswzy9lRAoQi3Mv9NDTh0oQ7WvDV84sp7zBXe3mrbHgz13KDpTkaOZnECkDOoUyaZIUJFN4RpSx4lM/s1600/Beachy+Bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGDV-6d9ovATvwaSDxvWWG01Bv8bm0xtGeVQrreIGfu7xLmrMO0Tt8_sX8sM0n3Qswzy9lRAoQi3Mv9NDTh0oQ7WvDV84sp7zBXe3mrbHgz13KDpTkaOZnECkDOoUyaZIUJFN4RpSx4lM/s320/Beachy+Bathroom.jpg" /></a></div><b>The supplies I used are:</b><br />
<i>2 Malma Mirrors ($5 a piece @ Ikea)</i><br />
<i>Torquoise craft paint (59 cents @ Michaels)</i><br />
<i>Primer (already had)</i><br />
<i>1 Sponge (already had)</i><br />
<i>Sand ($1 @ Michaels)</i><br />
<i>Wooden cut outs from Michaels (89 cents a piece @ Michaels)</i><br />
<i>Elmers Glue (already had)</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<b>Instructions</b><br />
Paint the mirror with primer and dry.<br />
Apply 2 coats of torquoise acrylic paint.<br />
Lightly drag a sponge over the wet paint in one direction, then the other. Let dry.<br />
Apply Elmers Glue at the bottom. Make sure you have good coverage. No gaps.<br />
While the glue is wet pour sand on top. Wait a minute then pour excess onto a napkin or whatever is handy.<br />
Affix wooden cutouts to your frame with glue or heat gun.Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-47545882706451992572010-06-24T08:40:00.001-04:002010-06-24T09:12:06.170-04:00Cheap World Of Warcraft T ShirtHere's a quick tutorial for making cheap WoW shirts.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt7jQ0TiO3tlV6JQe4f05vt8-BjvMKLgLjzYXwnpGuQ08Gc0kWrKnpGHQrJL9TNs48qvjrhwQ6NeWp1tnq6x9gSkNeSJhi-by243y2fVKwntTWXXG_N8NYjSA5mKxvLk5-Xqv6dmf2INg/s1600/IMG_2208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt7jQ0TiO3tlV6JQe4f05vt8-BjvMKLgLjzYXwnpGuQ08Gc0kWrKnpGHQrJL9TNs48qvjrhwQ6NeWp1tnq6x9gSkNeSJhi-by243y2fVKwntTWXXG_N8NYjSA5mKxvLk5-Xqv6dmf2INg/s320/IMG_2208.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<b>Supply List:</b><br />
Plain T-shirt ($5) <br />
Fabric transfer paper ($7)<br />
Image (free)<br />
Iron <br />
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1.) Plan your World Of Warcraft shirt design. Will the shirt be dark or light? Choose transfer paper based on the color of your shirt: light or dark. <br />
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2.) Find the image you'd like on your shirt. You can find free graphics all over the web. I think we found the Horde Symbol used in the picture above on Picasa. Or you can do a search on World Of Warcraft art.<br />
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3.) Download the image to your computer.<br />
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4.) If you want, edit your image with a graphics program. There are tons of free ones to download. I used <a href="http://www.irfanview.com/">Irfanview</a> to sharpen the image here.<br />
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5.) The free <a href="http://www.avery.com/avery/en_us/Templates-%26-Software/Software/Avery-Design--Print-Online.htm">Avery Design & Print Online</a> application can be used to create the layout. You can add images and texts under the Basic Designs Category.<br />
<br />
6.) Once you're finished print your design onto transfer paper. It should print in reverse. <i>You may need to use more than one sheet as you figure out which size looks best for your shirt.*</i><br />
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7.) Cut your decal out. <i>Cut excess transfer paper from your decal. Otherwise it leaves a hard shiny film on your project. Not cute when working on dark material.</i><br />
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8.) Place your decal/s on your shirt and iron for a few minutes.<br />
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9.) Let cool then peel the back of the transfer paper off.<br />
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10.) Finished!<br />
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*Note - You can print more than one image on your transfer paper if you have space. It wastes less paper.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiluUAKYL2GGVv4lAESLf4AbC5eAvryxTWiz_BSHsPNS9sm0MQZGGH08xHDmwW3MvhHmnDQvo8PmDTWAfn11bSOxpO3hVfVELdCQ8NK1xP9O8tfF4r-77PslYr9xlWvcx2IkIjYThssBRQ/s1600/IMG_2209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiluUAKYL2GGVv4lAESLf4AbC5eAvryxTWiz_BSHsPNS9sm0MQZGGH08xHDmwW3MvhHmnDQvo8PmDTWAfn11bSOxpO3hVfVELdCQ8NK1xP9O8tfF4r-77PslYr9xlWvcx2IkIjYThssBRQ/s320/IMG_2209.JPG" /></a></div>Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-48766829527443041092010-06-20T16:20:00.001-04:002010-06-20T16:20:50.673-04:00I Have My Eye On YouInstead of the usual couch/love-seat/chair furniture grouping I want to try something different this time around. Our new living room is much longer than our current one and has a wider window. Two wing-back chairs with a half moon wooden table between them would look great in there. It's perfect for quiet conversation, reading or entertaining.<br />
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Here's a fantastic wing back chair for $25 on craigslist:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.craigslist.org/3k13mc3o25T55Z35X4a6keb0b1d7359601117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.craigslist.org/3k13mc3o25T55Z35X4a6keb0b1d7359601117.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I've emailed the owner to see if it's still available. If so, I'll pick it up tomorrow and sneak it into the our new house before my hubby gets home. sssshhhhhh! It's our secret. <br />
<br />
BTW, is this slipcover the cutest thing or what?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.surefit.net/images/products/environment/env_Collette_cocoa_wc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.surefit.net/images/products/environment/env_Collette_cocoa_wc.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Yeah! It's all very "neutral-ly." Nothing that brightly colored or patterned pillows couldn't remedy. Besides, hubby wants a wine or chocolate hued leather sofa.Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-40616511850825638592010-06-16T13:58:00.000-04:002010-06-16T13:58:51.972-04:00$55 White Craigslist Desk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.craigslist.org/3n53pf3lb5U25R05S1a6g3eb90c255ea715a5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.craigslist.org/3n53pf3lb5U25R05S1a6g3eb90c255ea715a5.jpg" /></a></div>If only I had a babysitter and a truck today!! I love this desk set. It would look great in my 17 year olds room.Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-87646382171262508792010-06-16T13:55:00.000-04:002010-06-16T13:55:38.664-04:00Two Days Til ClosingWow. Time seems to be flying by. We can hardly wait to move into the new house. The boys are excited about having their own bedrooms. So much so, we bought sheet sets at Wal-Mart today. <br />
<br />
Ian chose "How To Train Your Dragon" sheets and drapes. Darrin just wanted black sheets. I'm still trying to figure out how to create a World Of Warcraft theme in his room.<br />
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The girls are getting the diva treatment. Pink and Green for Katie. Black, white and torquoise for Ebriana. I've got my work cut out for me!<br />
<br />
Craigslist will definitely have to come through for me. We could probably buy brand new stuff for the kids. But I really want to save $$ and create one of a kind looks that suit each kids personality.<br />
<br />
Look what I found today:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.craigslist.org/3na3kd3l85Y05X05S6a6g743de82d310d10c0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images.craigslist.org/3na3kd3l85Y05X05S6a6g743de82d310d10c0.jpg" width="173" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This $50 dresser would be nice in Ian's room.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.craigslist.org/3n43oa3pb5Y15W35X0a6g6173cb1d624d10fd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://images.craigslist.org/3n43oa3pb5Y15W35X0a6g6173cb1d624d10fd.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Painted white (I know, I know) this would be darling in Katie's room.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.craigslist.org/3o33pe3ld5Q65P65S4a6fe6f150154cc218c2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.craigslist.org/3o33pe3ld5Q65P65S4a6fe6f150154cc218c2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A little bit of glossy black paint and new drawer pulls could turn this $65 dresser into a great sideboard.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-19118511545330216472010-06-15T22:01:00.000-04:002010-06-15T22:01:20.980-04:00Questioning My TasteI easily read a couple dozen home decor blogs each week. Thrift store finds, high end knock offs and tutorials catch my eye. The thing is....when I find something I love it throws me off. One day I'm all about Tuscan kitchens. The next I'm into the clean lines of minimalism. Then off on a Cottage inspired vibe.<br />
<br />
I really need to narrow down what I really like. What's MY personal style. <br />
<br />
Not sure I know the answer yet. But I'd better get a clue before we move into our new house and end up with a hodge podge of crap! In the past couple of weeks I've gotten a little clearer about what I DON'T like. And please don't take this as a criticism of anyone else's style but....<br />
<br />
1.) Painting everything white is boring to me. Sure it looks chic. But with 4 kids and a hubby running around it isn't practical. We need furniture that hides dirt!<br />
<br />
2.) 50,000,000 patterns in one room gives me a headache.<br />
<br />
3.) I don't want my house to look like everyone else's. This is where personal creativity (or lack thereof) comes in. I need to get some PRONTO.<br />
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4.) I no longer like cheap stuff. I mean, cheaply made....not inexpensive.<br />
<br />
5.) I don't really know why everyone is over the moon about subway art, chore charts, barn stars and pottery barn. Maybe I'll figure it out as my taste develops.Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-15165280428125630362010-06-12T09:40:00.001-04:002010-06-12T09:43:08.276-04:00DIY Kitchen ArtWow! Didn't know Etsy had so many amazing artists. I did a search for "kid's room decor and discovered 2 artists that really appeal to me. Kathy Jeffords from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thedreamygiraffe">TheDreamyGiraffe</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/reniebritenbucher">Renie Britenbucher</a>. Both have a whimsical colorful style befitting the happy kind of aesthetic I envision for our new house.<br />
<br />
Though I love color I can't imagine painting a room in loud primary hues. The way around that dichotomy is to use juicy punches of color to accessorize the room. And these two artists provide lots of that:<br />
<br />
<b>Kathy Jeffords </b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.124802062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.124802062.jpg" width="238" /></a><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.132338752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.132338752.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.122405745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.122405745.jpg" width="229" /></a></div><br />
<b>Renie Britenbucher</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.90591893.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.90591893.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.22677924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.22677924.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>Since we're moving soon I don't have the $$ to purchase original art work. So I decided to make my own:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmA7oxqK2tPkP5Y2F9V77TqrNUtW_R97IEZ2oJUsaCddG0IxdduJIlO_FSP42AZFanro1WEfO0IblKlSnwbwz_ShBHWJEVvCKP3oH-BWHC8gjDq-vGbQVRply_K60AVnpG7HB9VjytR4k/s1600/IMG_2199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmA7oxqK2tPkP5Y2F9V77TqrNUtW_R97IEZ2oJUsaCddG0IxdduJIlO_FSP42AZFanro1WEfO0IblKlSnwbwz_ShBHWJEVvCKP3oH-BWHC8gjDq-vGbQVRply_K60AVnpG7HB9VjytR4k/s320/IMG_2199.JPG" /></a></div><br />
It's not as nice....but I like it. Mine is acrylic paint on a small canvas board purchased from Wal-Mart.<br />
<br />
<a border="0" href="http://tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://hadfield.smugmug.com/photos/825895175_xmTVA-O.jpg" alt="Join us Saturdays at tatertotsandjello.com for the weekend wrap up party!" /></a><br />Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-50388833802742116202010-05-22T09:58:00.001-04:002010-05-22T09:59:11.363-04:00New House. New Projects.It's been well over a year since we started our house hunting effort. The six of us were bursting out of this little townhouse. Some days it seemed like the house was trying to eat us! Just too much stuff and not enough space.<br />
<br />
In 3 weeks we'll be moving to our lovely 5 bedroom single family home in a nearby town. We're so excited. Yet the scope of work ahead of us crazy! There are so many things I want to do. But until we actually move in I have to be contented with planning and creating small crafty items for the extra space......<br />
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I can't go overboard. My husband will be so annoyed if I create more junk to move. So here's what I'm working on: Kid's Decor.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2mDFMnIfS9XiotYjuV4l9lQpOB1n6zLlpDMPzX1CyBuFblzFwzeaux2dghcLDyjQ_YrFHRMUajgyU_0hUP_nNclJOxoAv4kCHV1uR5IUc-TNG7t1GLtZ-2do5gxZ7ncUO9ntagx_U3mM/s1600/IMG_2138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2mDFMnIfS9XiotYjuV4l9lQpOB1n6zLlpDMPzX1CyBuFblzFwzeaux2dghcLDyjQ_YrFHRMUajgyU_0hUP_nNclJOxoAv4kCHV1uR5IUc-TNG7t1GLtZ-2do5gxZ7ncUO9ntagx_U3mM/s320/IMG_2138.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I'd like to create custom pictures for my daughter room. She'll have a fairy theme in her room. Her furniture is white. So I'd like to create art work that's bright, dreamy and appropriate for a toddler. Green, pink and orange will be prevalent in the room. Though I haven't found nor created the pop of orange I want.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00HJHT1uygDSeLdw_XWN2OT1bQY2oeLsyuYZh773QwtNvAL3ihzrM5uQh4MBnSetBFDWXVJ9GuUbGxkeOVXRt49eu_SrR_eJIwv-sC3edL1r0YyYdMKjDqBTBmWxvWEzNvA2TMIwfqUI/s1600/IMG_2136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00HJHT1uygDSeLdw_XWN2OT1bQY2oeLsyuYZh773QwtNvAL3ihzrM5uQh4MBnSetBFDWXVJ9GuUbGxkeOVXRt49eu_SrR_eJIwv-sC3edL1r0YyYdMKjDqBTBmWxvWEzNvA2TMIwfqUI/s320/IMG_2136.JPG" /></a></div><br />
The lamp was $7.99 at Target. I'd like to embellish it with contrasting ruffles. Kinda like these Pottery Barn Lamps:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.potterybarnkids.com/pkimgs/rk/images/dp/wcm/201020/0034/img41l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://www.potterybarnkids.com/pkimgs/rk/images/dp/wcm/201020/0034/img41l.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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I picked up the frame for $3 at AC Moore. The initial was $1.99. I painted it a pale pink with the crap load of acrylic paint I have in the house. I'll likely hang this over her crib.Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-19851983889131041052010-05-12T08:09:00.000-04:002010-05-12T08:09:25.822-04:00We Bought A House!Gosh. Michael and I have been looking for a bigger place for a whole year. The six of us are bursting out of the 3 bedroom townhouse I purchased BEFORE becoming a mom and wife. This little home has sustained us well. But I'm SOOO looking forward to having more space.<br />
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Yesterday I pulled out all of my home decor magazines looking for stuff I want to do in the new house. You know, quick things we can do within the first few weeks that will make the house feel like it's ours. So here's my quick list of Homecoming projects:<br />
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<b>Outside</b><br />
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1.) Door Wreath.<br />
2.) New House Numbers<br />
3.) Barn Star for the exterior (<i>I'm on the fence about this one</i>)<br />
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<b>Inside </b><br />
1.) Family room curtains<br />
2.) Kitchen table and chairs and/or bench<br />
3.) Storage shelf for kitchen<br />
4.) Floor pillows for the family room<br />
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Goodwill and The Salvation Army will be my two BFF's for the foreseeable future. There's no way I'm spending more money than I have to to create my domestic ideal. Now that I'll have my own space to create stuff in the sky is the limit.<br />
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Oh, I just hope I can contain myself long enough to pack our stuff up and get the townhouse ready to sell. My husband will be so annoyed if I start buying stuff BEFORE we move.Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-46284577386911589082010-03-20T08:06:00.001-04:002010-03-20T08:09:58.443-04:00Broccoli Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0LFNj0zWmThwSGb-aHy203DTDlhoma0UcjzxlTveQYAnVxEPxVFtG0pgYyni5EDojApgv7Gv_CdwOAPD4x2rsOMhhpVcQJ1CZoeaVS8l9JH-PyRmyGp2gc3HhGf-3AB9i0ttoA460Co/s1600-h/broccoli+soup2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0LFNj0zWmThwSGb-aHy203DTDlhoma0UcjzxlTveQYAnVxEPxVFtG0pgYyni5EDojApgv7Gv_CdwOAPD4x2rsOMhhpVcQJ1CZoeaVS8l9JH-PyRmyGp2gc3HhGf-3AB9i0ttoA460Co/s320/broccoli+soup2.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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This was a record week for my expanding culinary repertoire. I think I've mastered broccoli soup! Sweet Pea loves this stuff. And so does mommy. We warmed it up for lunch yesterday and it was just as good as th enight before.<br />
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I used stale homemade bread for the croutons. The Soup recipe is from FoodTV's Down Home With The Neely's:<br />
<h2>Ingredients</h2><ul><li class="ingredient">4 tablespoons butter, room temperature</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 1/2 pounds fresh broccoli</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 large onion, chopped</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 carrot, chopped</li>
<li class="ingredient">Salt and freshly ground black pepper </li>
<li class="ingredient">3 tablespoons all-purpose flour </li>
<li class="ingredient">4 cups low-sodium chicken broth</li>
<li class="ingredient">1/2 cup cream</li>
<li class="ingredient">Homemade Croutons, recipe follows</li>
</ul><h2>Directions</h2><div class="instructions">Melt 4 tablespoons butter in heavy medium pot over medium-high heat. Add broccoli, onion, carrot, salt and pepper and saute until onion is translucent, about 6 minutes. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, until the flour reaches a blonde color. Add stock and bring to boil. </div><div class="instructions">Simmer uncovered until broccoli is tender, about 15 minutes. Pour in cream. With an immersion blender, puree the soup. Add salt and pepper, to taste, and then replace the lid back on the pot. Serve hot with Homemade Croutons. </div><div class="instructions">Cut bread into cubes and place in a large bowl. Drizzle cubes with olive oil, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Mix well. </div><div class="instructions">Spread seasoned bread onto a sheet pan and bake for about 15 minutes.</div><div class="instructions">Yield: 4 to 6 servings<br />
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<a border="0" href="http://tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://hadfield.smugmug.com/photos/787195466_KJraZ-O.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-56455385353319197142010-03-16T20:01:00.000-04:002010-03-16T20:01:03.789-04:00Easy Peasy Chicken ParmI'm all over <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/">The Pioneer Woman Cooks</a> these days. After discovering her website last week I've spent a lot of time perusing the recipes and pictures. Trying to decide which delicious meal to try first.<br />
<br />
Well, the <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2009/11/braised-short-ribs-heaven-on-a-plate/">Braised Short Ribs</a> and <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1268783307650">Chicken Parmigiana</a><a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2009/10/chicken-parmigiana/"></a> won! I'm not as talented as Ree. But just look at my handy work!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqrqjHHn6Uh35ktUlgqi6aPKtQ6PVZcF5GL20p2fbOJGSJpdTe0AIs1EK6Nz4thMjHCkDXJvMu6r0Kkomws3LTxfRfzw3LrF1Brvzteh3d6JQxs_BLYwU66m_gDkEQapq8A_IWRFLxbbU/s1600-h/IMG_2015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqrqjHHn6Uh35ktUlgqi6aPKtQ6PVZcF5GL20p2fbOJGSJpdTe0AIs1EK6Nz4thMjHCkDXJvMu6r0Kkomws3LTxfRfzw3LrF1Brvzteh3d6JQxs_BLYwU66m_gDkEQapq8A_IWRFLxbbU/s320/IMG_2015.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Both dishes have wonderful flavor and texture. I've never made short ribs before. But we'll likely have it on occasion now.<br />
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The Chicken Parmigiana is my favorite. The meat was well seasoned, tender and juicy. While the sauce was slightly sweet and subtle. It's a great combination. I followed the recipe exactly....OK....except I pureed the sauce a bit with my hand mixer. My son eats better when his veggies are hidden.<br />
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The kid doesn't like tomatoes....or so he thinks.Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-82601697525455887902010-03-14T09:34:00.002-04:002010-03-14T09:38:48.434-04:00Weekday Projects 3.14.2010Well, my first stab at redecorating Ebriana's room <span style="font-size: large;"><b style="color: red;">failed</b></span>. So I'll have to come up with new ideas for recovering her lamp and doing something with the blank wall above her bed. Perhaps I can plan this week, purchase supplies then put it together next Saturday.<br />
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In the meantime, I have a minor kitchen project to attempt. You know how everyone has a junk drawer? Well I have a junk board. <span style="font-size: large;">My memo board is trashed!</span> Everything goes on that sucker. My dream is to find a way to organize and maintain it stylishly.<br />
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I dunno. I think the boys wouldn't mind having a prettier kitchen.<br />
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<i>But what to do with their World Of Warcraft calendar?</i><br />
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Here's the before picture:<i> </i><br />
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I'll be following the memo board tutorial just posted at <a href="http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2010/03/building-a-custom-memo-board/">Centsational Girl</a>. I'm forcing myself to complete this mini project before heading upstairs to Ebbi's room for round 2.<br />
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Wish me luck.Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-32888897207829003262010-03-13T14:46:00.000-05:002010-03-13T14:46:56.607-05:00Help For Hopeless Domestic Diva'sJust found a great site called <a href="http://www.rufflesandstuff.com/">Ruffles and Stuff</a> that is full of simple projects a hopeless Domestic Goddess like myself can master. You know my motto: "<span style="font-size: large;">fake it until you make it</span>." <br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Some women seem to be filled with so much creativity they can throw a house together at lightening speed. Not me. I've lived in my home for years and it looks just as incomplete as the day I walked in. So.....</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Mommy needs a little help. I spend a considerable amount of my online time reading home decor and craft blogs to help me create my ideal space. The thing is......<span style="font-size: large;">I'm cheap</span>. </span>Er...I mean frugal. So any savings or shortcut I find is helpful.<br />
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Since I'm doing a mini-makeover for my 16 year old I may try this <a href="http://www.rufflesandstuff.com/2009/09/shabby-chic-pleated-shade.html">pleated lampshade tutorial</a>. If only I could find a way to make a complimentary slipcover for her headboard.Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com87tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-71093383881891610932010-03-13T07:46:00.002-05:002010-03-13T14:50:10.182-05:00Cheap Bathroom ArtMichael and I have been trying to buy a house for months now. We just can't find the ideal characteristics we want. Namely great schools (elementary, middle and high school) and proximity to the base where my hubby works, I shop and the kids go to the doctor.<br />
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My time in our crowded townhouse isn't wasted. I have tons of little projects to do while we get it ready for the next family who'll occupy it. My primary focus (besides the usual paint and carpet redo) is updating the kitchen and bathrooms.<br />
Here's an inexpensive craft I tried this week to spiff up the downstairs powder room. All you need is scrapbook paper and inexpensive frames. The ones in the picture were purchased for $1 each at Target.<br />
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The theme I'm going for is calm and beachy. I want to feel like I'm sitting on a private North Carolina beach at dawn. Gray, blue and sandy brown really appeal to me here.<br />
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Next go 'round I think I'll try my hand at <a href="http://www.rufflesandstuff.com/2009/12/easy-fancy-pants-frames.html">fancy frames</a> for the living room.<br />
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<a border="0" href="http://tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://hadfield.smugmug.com/photos/787195466_KJraZ-O.jpg" /></a>Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-5919464039835149242010-03-12T14:19:00.001-05:002010-03-13T08:17:24.233-05:00Sweetpea Turned 1!Hard to believe it....but our little SweetPea is a full grown lady-baby! We celebrated her birthday at Chuck E Cheese with a few family and friends. Nothing outlandish, ya know.<br />
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The celebration was all the more poignant since it was the first family celebration we've had since Granny died in January. We miss her so much. But her mischievous spirit is always near! How lucky we are to have the spunkiest Guardian angel around!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBgWaByPTDf8GA21k-uAuI8A5hSMduCgHIUc3Ocnh5_BfZYXFtiF5g8XjBfdQwudvbwy3RkVfmHMMZbu9pVILmeZb97Ph4lSPqluI9FZyk7l37WhPQJ6gCI1plfNJWe44uYrnSixyg_24/s1600-h/birthday+cake+yum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBgWaByPTDf8GA21k-uAuI8A5hSMduCgHIUc3Ocnh5_BfZYXFtiF5g8XjBfdQwudvbwy3RkVfmHMMZbu9pVILmeZb97Ph4lSPqluI9FZyk7l37WhPQJ6gCI1plfNJWe44uYrnSixyg_24/s320/birthday+cake+yum.jpg" /></a></div>Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-378504502719645172009-12-16T16:06:00.000-05:002009-12-16T16:20:03.429-05:00Feeling CreativeSaw the cutest toddler dresses for Spring/Summer at Target yesterday. So I'm feeling itchy about preparing my lil' princess for warmer weather. As much as I procrastinate....I'd better get started now.<br /><br />Twirly skirts and applique tees seem easy enough to do. right? right?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.vanessachristenson.com/2008/12/tutorial-bandanna-skirt.html">Bandanna Skirt Tutorial</a><br />I can sooo do this! Bandannas are like $1 at Walmart.<br /><br /><a href="http://blueeyedfreckle.blogspot.com/2009/07/babytoddleradult-skirt-tutorial.html">Baby/Toddler/Adult Skirt</a><br />I love the style and fabrics used here. I'm definitely going to make this look fancy with a fabulous print.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.dana-made-it.com/2009/07/market-skirt-tutorial.html">Made: Market Skirt</a><br />Love the pockets here. May be a bit much for a 1 year old. But I think it's cute anyway.Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-76881243019147276082009-09-19T16:31:00.001-04:002009-09-26T06:29:39.140-04:00Infant Hair Bows and ClippiesYep. That's my new obsession.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIddmykgVhgp5wLnpFHwSaXiReH5Ilrv2B2kzUMCohvVcMBNNcsNCLcKmYHJrp0QCzYqE7VrHAUvyqQPzg_egDO2k5TK2pXFa3y80KWmOi7yrdAFBBYyX0rD0wbTq7-9ouMEuUeTzxsUs/s1600-h/IMG_1558.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 296px; height: 207px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIddmykgVhgp5wLnpFHwSaXiReH5Ilrv2B2kzUMCohvVcMBNNcsNCLcKmYHJrp0QCzYqE7VrHAUvyqQPzg_egDO2k5TK2pXFa3y80KWmOi7yrdAFBBYyX0rD0wbTq7-9ouMEuUeTzxsUs/s320/IMG_1558.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383280491585241378" border="0" /></a><br />I'm a really simple mommy. Frilly frou-frou clothes and accessories don't appeal to me. Simple lines and uncomplicated patterns are more my style. As a result, my beautiful daughter and I leave the house looking.....well...undone most days. We need to jazz up our look!<br /><br />Improving Sweetpea's wardrobe is pretty easy. Just add a few bows and we're done. Bows are like makeup or high heeled shoes for babies. Seriously. They're super easy to make. And they can be made to match any outfit she has.<br /><br />I made tuxedo bows last week:<br /><br />Oh, and here's a fabric flower I'm working on. I know it's almost Fall. But maybe I can get away with Autumn hued ones?? Just a thought.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNNuPcEwYL2jYtmrBfBA3qLzu5dLcohyphenhyphen0uyRSCRYBdehYP1FL1ar28pXK10AwTwXG9JAjzuG2Qjw-7VTCe2BVYOM4Rq9hCn4PrqtN4016VIaZN8eBLhMYtFo2-yuR5dDdZAuFhd3Wcpk/s1600-h/IMG_1564.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 182px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNNuPcEwYL2jYtmrBfBA3qLzu5dLcohyphenhyphen0uyRSCRYBdehYP1FL1ar28pXK10AwTwXG9JAjzuG2Qjw-7VTCe2BVYOM4Rq9hCn4PrqtN4016VIaZN8eBLhMYtFo2-yuR5dDdZAuFhd3Wcpk/s320/IMG_1564.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383280997322487266" border="0" /></a>Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-46270876439801815142009-04-21T13:37:00.000-04:002009-09-19T16:15:58.570-04:00New Projects - Sew What SkirtsPicked up some great material from Joann's Fabric. I'm planning to make a few skirts for my daughter and I: Check it out.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIlB_63jk_cCD8Kw2ZVg_INHJVaA5Hn2J0xMO3WU3x4T8RUMfKKIiKluAIp-DIPVE7uO4HLjXDOlUJtmpppr5sSXmQxRbTfcUPJpvJOiOCAILa-stVo6LuObGs8kfmTWvrut0NrrK7WE/s1600-h/Fabric.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 80px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIlB_63jk_cCD8Kw2ZVg_INHJVaA5Hn2J0xMO3WU3x4T8RUMfKKIiKluAIp-DIPVE7uO4HLjXDOlUJtmpppr5sSXmQxRbTfcUPJpvJOiOCAILa-stVo6LuObGs8kfmTWvrut0NrrK7WE/s320/Fabric.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327202589470836706" border="0" /></a>I want to make A-line skirts that look great with T-shirts and tank tops this summer. Something similar to this:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://blog.craftzine.com/SewBlissSkirt.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 191px; height: 170px;" src="http://blog.craftzine.com/SewBlissSkirt.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-5834110627143142252009-04-10T19:21:00.000-04:002009-04-21T13:57:08.570-04:00Precious Little One<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzutk1QuXBSaQBUdcArlK38fcitWV0urkz5ZX7TdtHVasQe6f1cFRm2fK4wuBpTZKqZ8bfiSDsIDu7istwgS2faBs8aSdjPsbyTDJ6PK0TPzcWjwfw2ppzDco5GYUvz45LkGvZD4my1Y0/s1600-h/IMG_1164.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzutk1QuXBSaQBUdcArlK38fcitWV0urkz5ZX7TdtHVasQe6f1cFRm2fK4wuBpTZKqZ8bfiSDsIDu7istwgS2faBs8aSdjPsbyTDJ6PK0TPzcWjwfw2ppzDco5GYUvz45LkGvZD4my1Y0/s320/IMG_1164.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327205220047481954" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Little Katie is here!Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-22021194929230670182009-04-10T19:12:00.001-04:002009-04-10T19:24:29.090-04:00I'm BackI'm finally getting the hang of being a mom of 4 now! Little miss Katie is finally letting her mommy sleep a few hours uninterrupted.<br /><br />Not sure which sewing projects I'll work on next. But I do have my eye on a 25 stitch Brother XL-2600i. It costs less than $100 and sews circles around my 10 year old "antique."<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/00/01/25/02/61/0001250261520_500X500.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 334px; height: 334px;" src="http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/00/01/25/02/61/0001250261520_500X500.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5531674699577403171.post-66879957624833257582009-02-27T04:14:00.000-05:002009-02-27T04:16:04.818-05:00Having The Baby TodayI'll be away for the next week or so. Will check in when I'm feeling better and we've gotten to know our newest addition.Mom2Ianhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14941158813257476833noreply@blogger.com4