tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63430696635352648362024-03-14T07:50:41.764-04:00The Secret Life of a Scientist's WifeLife and times of a twenty-something mom, dog owner, DIY dabbler, and all-around spectacular (but strange) little lady.MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.comBlogger83125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-65479064485844631532013-06-04T12:41:00.001-04:002013-06-04T12:41:56.188-04:00No Longer The Scientist's WifeNo worries - we're still married! Whew. Scared you, didn't I?<div><br></div><div>It looks like things will be changing a bit around here since Scientist Husband has decided to become Med School Student Husband. Um, yeah. Doesn't have the same ring to it, does it?</div><div><br></div><div>The bittersweet news is that we will be relocating to another city and leaving this house (and most of my projects) behind. Though we aren't selling, but renting it out until we come back, I'm really glad that I blogged about most of this house's projects so that I can look back on them and smile.</div><div><br></div><div>I just have a feeling that bigger and better things are coming along for us, which is exciting and a little scary all at the same time. Blogging about the last two years has been awesomely fun and provided a great creative outlet. But, I've decided to stop writing for and developing this blog. The content will continue to float around in cyberspace (and maybe on Pinterest?), so I hope people continue to read and enjoy some photos in this little space.</div><div><br></div><div>Cheers!</div><div><br></div><div>The Scientist's Wife</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-20774744343021817612013-04-15T21:03:00.001-04:002013-04-15T21:24:48.755-04:00Evicting The Slipper Chair<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Ah, here it is: one of two chunky microfiber slipper chairs that I have. This one sits in my living room ...<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_kWt4RoKqpfsGM7sx4luiL5mBGaQPfmDcqjuF8bXjJtmDAFDFWgxnrcACmRe7mt-QH2wVB-nsxE-W4egkXI_ptYCDiGlDKgbAVGloBWsiV56N3c_ACITDMUkdjiPjG2EALrQjbr8MMadu/s640/blogger-image--551840366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_kWt4RoKqpfsGM7sx4luiL5mBGaQPfmDcqjuF8bXjJtmDAFDFWgxnrcACmRe7mt-QH2wVB-nsxE-W4egkXI_ptYCDiGlDKgbAVGloBWsiV56N3c_ACITDMUkdjiPjG2EALrQjbr8MMadu/s640/blogger-image--551840366.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doesn't everyone have a saddle in their living room?</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
Here's the scoop. These chairs were originally purchased by my mother at a grocery store. No lie. When I moved to my own place, they came with me. Then they moved again to my current house. They were under $100 each and I have to say they've held up ridiculously well. They've outlived the cat that clawed the corner of of them (RIP, Spiffy). They've been spat up on, completely dogged, and jumped on.<br />
<br />
Yes, they've served us well. And they will continue to do so in the basement rec room. Seriously though, I'm sick of seeing this chair in my living room. Since it doesn't have arms, it isn't well suited to lounging for a good period of time. Plus, it's just chunky - a giant cube of microfiber. And it's microfiber. I can't tell you enough how much I loathe microfiber.<br />
<br />
I've been dreaming of replacing our black leather couch (from scientist husband's bachelor pad) with a gorgeous (and expensive) distressed brown leather couch. But yeah, that's not in the budget. However, I think I could settle for a distressed brown leather chair instead. Why all the leather? It's amazingly easy to clean and care for and dog hair brushes right off with the swipe of a hand. It has its pitfalls, though: it's cold in the winter and sticky in the summer. But the advantages outweigh the whomp whomps for us.<br />
<br />
Here are a few choices that appeal to me:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgl7tztSKSebYNGDyXxkeJebKuJopnQ_7WeqJN6MOr4bcXO0UcAAdyUFMa5Musaa5gk2UklHi6bZ3GI3Uf8wMig2ciHuFOU1aGnFaotID4ISQBXxFDBCmABVooRUIQ2ps6MOp0O_UztFjO/s640/blogger-image--1702194671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgl7tztSKSebYNGDyXxkeJebKuJopnQ_7WeqJN6MOr4bcXO0UcAAdyUFMa5Musaa5gk2UklHi6bZ3GI3Uf8wMig2ciHuFOU1aGnFaotID4ISQBXxFDBCmABVooRUIQ2ps6MOp0O_UztFjO/s640/blogger-image--1702194671.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eames chair. Practical, comfortable and the leather looks divine. From sylvesteroxford.com</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Snknwl1YVNy81BJX11Q9JABYin2O2hiaIWdOi0TYCF328__kUEe_FkCz3AuvgGVvaFDDeR0zB-GjPOfZE7h0THn6RrrJR9gb8S-AvUdEc0IzsefDS3X_YBszw9Wusk3ABGTPtx-gF3U3/s640/blogger-image--1201234419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Snknwl1YVNy81BJX11Q9JABYin2O2hiaIWdOi0TYCF328__kUEe_FkCz3AuvgGVvaFDDeR0zB-GjPOfZE7h0THn6RrrJR9gb8S-AvUdEc0IzsefDS3X_YBszw9Wusk3ABGTPtx-gF3U3/s640/blogger-image--1201234419.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loving the nail head detail. From my deco.com</td></tr></tbody></table><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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisvuqw1Oo04pJ2TnMCwrnXDOC2DzYAOts2EmeAsSHU3o3-DgSIWCRn7Q8MOZm0RJEwh9r0qQ9X_WF77WjNzJuH9xkpmoSjME7QXeuk5CIVM-1X5khSlP5R32fqclhzdTqCAvXlOAFJQlML/s640/blogger-image--1603816404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisvuqw1Oo04pJ2TnMCwrnXDOC2DzYAOts2EmeAsSHU3o3-DgSIWCRn7Q8MOZm0RJEwh9r0qQ9X_WF77WjNzJuH9xkpmoSjME7QXeuk5CIVM-1X5khSlP5R32fqclhzdTqCAvXlOAFJQlML/s640/blogger-image--1603816404.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The chrome adds a little modernity. I can't believe I lost the source to this one. Bummer.</td></tr></tbody></table><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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiETfw4eiqaVih4iVFVvjjrv6fhA4jf_txpCuqFUBcXw4DDZVePnfLNyysSjc4kp02Co6knS0pkg8JlQeNuxpdKy9Z2BaPEo04bfzhEq1VzIpg-o6tpVxeORIcy8z3n0wkA-J6VSAE5qhC-/s640/blogger-image-953425761.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiETfw4eiqaVih4iVFVvjjrv6fhA4jf_txpCuqFUBcXw4DDZVePnfLNyysSjc4kp02Co6knS0pkg8JlQeNuxpdKy9Z2BaPEo04bfzhEq1VzIpg-o6tpVxeORIcy8z3n0wkA-J6VSAE5qhC-/s640/blogger-image-953425761.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ok. Here a little secret: I'm in love with the BBC show 'Sherlock' and every time the character lounges in his worn in Corbusier chair, I swoon ...</td></tr></tbody></table><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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Vofx93BAudPIOuQ7J2tOUn5Z2qoxP5_6ozWon7DtDCQP4jRmE1ZjqL5sPYTOP96stvLdhclftgE-JpWHDkcw7NEg2qLbfRfsZBU22rzRLAtcUoijhlFBX6XAWy7uHbtDbLC0FyXTLN3_/s640/blogger-image--1872213040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Vofx93BAudPIOuQ7J2tOUn5Z2qoxP5_6ozWon7DtDCQP4jRmE1ZjqL5sPYTOP96stvLdhclftgE-JpWHDkcw7NEg2qLbfRfsZBU22rzRLAtcUoijhlFBX6XAWy7uHbtDbLC0FyXTLN3_/s640/blogger-image--1872213040.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">... but, I'm not sure I like how they look brand spanking new.</td></tr></tbody></table><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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_xKTGzciao0CiA6x4nSJGDuZBzRr1uKhJcuvF6MIgavd2BjjpAX0ZC_KPFybuY2bhjZNjI4vxZuTnzOPNpkV95TxVTgOd-vbJvtwKvKvxU_9cbHssFCysBOhduXt19jeKgBs0osUtzc3B/s640/blogger-image-1264888816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_xKTGzciao0CiA6x4nSJGDuZBzRr1uKhJcuvF6MIgavd2BjjpAX0ZC_KPFybuY2bhjZNjI4vxZuTnzOPNpkV95TxVTgOd-vbJvtwKvKvxU_9cbHssFCysBOhduXt19jeKgBs0osUtzc3B/s640/blogger-image-1264888816.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm digging the clean lines of this chair. It feels nice and vintage, without any hipster activity. The 'Sorensen' can be found at RestorationHardware.com</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Ack, the choices. It will mostly come down to a price and quality balance when the time comes. But one thing is for sure: the slipper chair must go ...</span></div></div>MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-48728166302158103002013-04-10T10:52:00.002-04:002013-04-10T10:52:22.306-04:00They Grow Up So Fast: Giant Ruler Growth Chart<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So I made the infamous ruler growth chart that is everywhere online. Everyone who has ever made one has also written a tutorial, so I won't. But check out the pictures for inspiration, because there no such thing as too much inspiration when you're a DIYer. I believe the idea and product originated at the Pottery Barn, but don't quote me on that.<br />
<br />
Seriously though, this is the easiest project and it is also inexpensive - I'm talking about $20 and that is only if you need to buy new materials. If you're a beginner crafter, this one is for you!<br />
<br />
I used a 1x4x6" plank of white pine, a sanding block, a bit of MinWax in 'Red Mahogany' and a black Sharpie marker.<br />
<br />
Oh man, was I tired of seeing these penciled in chicken scratches on the doorway to the dining room ... <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseaXsfC_lX0ggQK5oaRsvgpNo4ZWXU5aw5MrOxL7GPtg-C4qxCtjy338V_7cIje4yGv-FatmH2Ughi2yqyNlG36ryVFH0ZK6e5aOSe0E4yrICzi20euVt33D_XY5lE47qTM_rvbzVCI7-/s640/blogger-image--217217178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseaXsfC_lX0ggQK5oaRsvgpNo4ZWXU5aw5MrOxL7GPtg-C4qxCtjy338V_7cIje4yGv-FatmH2Ughi2yqyNlG36ryVFH0ZK6e5aOSe0E4yrICzi20euVt33D_XY5lE47qTM_rvbzVCI7-/s640/blogger-image--217217178.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
I was surprised at how the MinWax stain brought out the grain in the pine. When we were poking through the pile of planks at Rona, none of them seemed to look very grainy at all. Love the result, though!<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhijvy5UZz9W_NVTgOTICaokeGp-MjTRpGBvvTMna6hyphenhypheneE_DKKalm1T9aKBvP0XDYdL-5AhvRwKgF8bBBzgJlI07-vBUKozYl2XEFY9gf7KuttZtrVL91djlA8USoRbru8FJGVkZ4HBpP8D/s640/blogger-image-1761181687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhijvy5UZz9W_NVTgOTICaokeGp-MjTRpGBvvTMna6hyphenhypheneE_DKKalm1T9aKBvP0XDYdL-5AhvRwKgF8bBBzgJlI07-vBUKozYl2XEFY9gf7KuttZtrVL91djlA8USoRbru8FJGVkZ4HBpP8D/s640/blogger-image-1761181687.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still needs to be hung. For some reason, I can only find one half of my flush-mount hardware. Ha, how does that even happen?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYoN4fl0hX7jGA1cbNP3TgIRuSbjw_FM-1xfbWDtvFb0RH83ersLdK5cetS_VUFZPvcfG59VxjwIPeeq-OfDTfSejU9_yR4U1wNHZc-wrnr-IYeESAsyzRBLFElAw8By_WMYzryExdIvpz/s640/blogger-image--535313754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYoN4fl0hX7jGA1cbNP3TgIRuSbjw_FM-1xfbWDtvFb0RH83ersLdK5cetS_VUFZPvcfG59VxjwIPeeq-OfDTfSejU9_yR4U1wNHZc-wrnr-IYeESAsyzRBLFElAw8By_WMYzryExdIvpz/s640/blogger-image--535313754.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand-numbering is the way to go. It's not that hard, I promise!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-53299434413168405462013-02-25T19:50:00.001-05:002013-02-25T19:55:02.231-05:00The Foyer Hooks Are Up<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The aforementioned hooks from a local antiques store have been installed, and I'm digging the outcome quite a bit. A mirror or artwork would finish things off nicely, I think.<br />
<br />
(Please look beyond my filthy/stained carpet. Scientist husband won't let me tear it up ... Yet.) <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv7JtdC4j46a334fK2h5fCZoKkxDLzZ8OSYqXMN3qnYCu4WbOAhHAa7gB56S_E6R7idXruhjSp4IJJZQOfFz3hmW9WA5oaGT8BXOgp0BU0zy9BvPTkSLvZXQjgjWMuVO0niIxxROPWn2FH/s640/blogger-image--1547384763.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv7JtdC4j46a334fK2h5fCZoKkxDLzZ8OSYqXMN3qnYCu4WbOAhHAa7gB56S_E6R7idXruhjSp4IJJZQOfFz3hmW9WA5oaGT8BXOgp0BU0zy9BvPTkSLvZXQjgjWMuVO0niIxxROPWn2FH/s640/blogger-image--1547384763.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlPEQS6bltfhcQTm5qdiLanAUcHhx-gaYTvapQnvp-u9M_KLvUtLiIftGXUNjbjxZ61DcLnoqUrDgEjBUYcMyPp3ZOUXi42j3FcUZtnDlt5q7lJlODzPWK9whCj0UN3-5rMoTjheAK9Hmm/s640/blogger-image--600772493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlPEQS6bltfhcQTm5qdiLanAUcHhx-gaYTvapQnvp-u9M_KLvUtLiIftGXUNjbjxZ61DcLnoqUrDgEjBUYcMyPp3ZOUXi42j3FcUZtnDlt5q7lJlODzPWK9whCj0UN3-5rMoTjheAK9Hmm/s640/blogger-image--600772493.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tZJIb3MtnA_rr0Z2DOHpjqOSlBT7ZaLJSJ_VISzPH3Bajw2QQpd5fpZk18EdGScZDnuprf50UzHrVcgsw9caNK9HXU72dZP5mXWN9ztJDclxFU5Gjx_DpNaVztjxjv9VINOPSNbq5vUJ/s640/blogger-image-76398569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tZJIb3MtnA_rr0Z2DOHpjqOSlBT7ZaLJSJ_VISzPH3Bajw2QQpd5fpZk18EdGScZDnuprf50UzHrVcgsw9caNK9HXU72dZP5mXWN9ztJDclxFU5Gjx_DpNaVztjxjv9VINOPSNbq5vUJ/s640/blogger-image-76398569.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-13261525435589369012013-02-22T16:38:00.000-05:002013-02-22T16:38:47.484-05:00Foyer Storage. Just Can't Get Enough.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Yeeeeeeah, I hate foyers, overall. The word "foyer" is pretentious, too. Usually, these spaces are cluttered, wet, sandy places that cause panic when a group walks in the front door. That group is usually my family, and the pandemonium is every day. The coats and boots all end up in various places where they don't belong. In this house, the entrance is right at the bottom of the main stairs - whoever designed this house was clearly an idiot. Just saying.<br />
<br />
Last year (maybe two years ago), I followed Sherry's example from <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/" target="_blank">Young House Love</a> and purchased two RETUR recycling bins from IKEA to use as shoe storage. Best. Idea. Ever. They are easy to keep clean and have a streamlined look that doesn't overload this already super tiny space.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOAadXqhVw6dV6qUBJOLa5CO2iNTaosZp2KjyR3uHApEIuErCr82rhEiZ0zH2T5la2VO5PSrjMsblUpdcXTPiPoj4GmLV5f25wFlArCYyusbMqJbU0WCxoR5xNH7zoPDr46gXJTvCPPLr/s640/blogger-image--516437284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOAadXqhVw6dV6qUBJOLa5CO2iNTaosZp2KjyR3uHApEIuErCr82rhEiZ0zH2T5la2VO5PSrjMsblUpdcXTPiPoj4GmLV5f25wFlArCYyusbMqJbU0WCxoR5xNH7zoPDr46gXJTvCPPLr/s640/blogger-image--516437284.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stoooooorage! This puppy holds a lot. The top one is actually filled with winter mitts/hats right now. And hey, toes!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTFRbUsGxr0Xz1KyiXSu65ySzPKOBmjs6cAZ5zcMRHuHRzWvE8WEpRG4NLNyNGzOn7LaCi1uGJP7GPonOmtnpCKvWrKa3E4FD2S5gD6vgDpZ9EIglNLPkqkTPH1cVEXTbivABs4QyhFCM/s640/blogger-image-306982403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTFRbUsGxr0Xz1KyiXSu65ySzPKOBmjs6cAZ5zcMRHuHRzWvE8WEpRG4NLNyNGzOn7LaCi1uGJP7GPonOmtnpCKvWrKa3E4FD2S5gD6vgDpZ9EIglNLPkqkTPH1cVEXTbivABs4QyhFCM/s400/blogger-image-306982403.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best dog ever, keeping it real.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKOAadXqhVw6dV6qUBJOLa5CO2iNTaosZp2KjyR3uHApEIuErCr82rhEiZ0zH2T5la2VO5PSrjMsblUpdcXTPiPoj4GmLV5f25wFlArCYyusbMqJbU0WCxoR5xNH7zoPDr46gXJTvCPPLr/s640/blogger-image--516437284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a>
We do have a coat closet, but no one really likes to use it because you have to take your shoes off and walk a few feet before you reach it. So, coats usually end up on the stairs or anywhere else that isn't a hanger in the closet. It's weird. I can't fight it, nor explain it, so I decided to install some coat storage closer to the door. Scientist husband was against this idea, so I've been stewing over this for a few months. But screw it, I'm doing it anyway.<br />
<br />
We have a few rental places in town, which is great because we have lots of building odds and ends in the basement. For one particular office space, we had used beadboard wallpaper under the chair rails and still have quite a bit leftover. Since our house already has real wood beadboard in the foyer, I thought this could be put to good use.<br />
<br />
I did buy a few pieces of casing to trim off the wallpaper and some quarter round to finish the existing baseboard.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUaz5AjfxgaYfqNpvxALuDxDtR1fxYhxwDXHa-29BJy0B8Xpy49-17alD0P2hn2k014sKH_apE_viRftx2-nKTC2CtTZ31zeqgTHYr49rfysvyW8E83-BXnKUuUrrY3ZytGBlI33NXo_V7/s640/blogger-image--620675966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUaz5AjfxgaYfqNpvxALuDxDtR1fxYhxwDXHa-29BJy0B8Xpy49-17alD0P2hn2k014sKH_apE_viRftx2-nKTC2CtTZ31zeqgTHYr49rfysvyW8E83-BXnKUuUrrY3ZytGBlI33NXo_V7/s400/blogger-image--620675966.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The before.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqBT5_OMEYSf8Jku83xc4NdAzfNLCUvBqrKVPD2ES5NJWQu0udjrZAtmW4GPt-ijXXPlMHPwbkyUHEkHbRI4zaQMFOw2TfYaCpC-IXDNqBZsxhk61LHIO_QCAlroVfjyO8vvSqv8TKFGZ/s640/blogger-image--792530569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqBT5_OMEYSf8Jku83xc4NdAzfNLCUvBqrKVPD2ES5NJWQu0udjrZAtmW4GPt-ijXXPlMHPwbkyUHEkHbRI4zaQMFOw2TfYaCpC-IXDNqBZsxhk61LHIO_QCAlroVfjyO8vvSqv8TKFGZ/s400/blogger-image--792530569.jpg" width="299" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The in-between. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I have my eye on this robin's egg blue wooden board with cast iron hooks at a local antiques store. I'm thinking it'll help finish off this project and we can actually hang coats when we first come in. Woot!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-66230714299549706362013-02-22T16:23:00.002-05:002013-02-22T16:42:32.790-05:00Signs That You Are, Indeed, Turning Into Your Mother<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">It was inevitable, I'm sure. The time has come. I'm turning into my mother, with an unhealthy dose of my father.<br />
<br />
Here are the signs that you may be doing the same:<br />
<br />
<br />
<ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Organizing and/or relocating your utensil drawer is exciting. The rest of the family is pissed because they keep opening the newly appointed dish towel drawer when they need a fork.</li><li>Baseboard cleanliness becomes an actual concept. </li><li>When you rant at your kids, your brain is so tired that you mess up your words. The kids giggle. You lose. Walk away and drink wine.</li><li>Mascara is applied roughly once per week. Twice, if you have an doctor/car/school appointment. God forbid the real world know what lurks beneath the makeup.</li><li>You start slamming cabinet doors, tossing books, and lobbing toys into their place to show your disapproval of the house's messiness. No one notices the reason behind it - you just look insane.</li><li>The kids start asking why you look mad when you're not even mad.</li><li>Your joints hurt and you're still under 30.</li><li>Coffee is the answer to everything before 11AM. </li><li>Wine is the answer to everything after 5PM (4PM on weekends).</li><li>You start finding new ways to use everything. Pre-Pinterest, this is what moms always did, we just didn't see the genius until that magical website came along. </li></ol><div>So, thanks, Mom. You're rad. A little insane and borderline alcoholic, but so am I. </div></div>MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-79065258142451618112013-02-07T13:06:00.002-05:002013-02-07T13:06:27.423-05:00Diaper Clutch from Scratch<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
There are about a bazillion tutorials for diaper clutches floating around the Internet. I originally tried <a href="http://www.jenniferkramer.ca/2011/06/27/a-sewing-sunday-afternoon/" target="_blank">this one by Jennifer Kramer</a>, but it didn't turn out so well. After modifying the instructions and the pattern size, I made a clutch that fit my things - and my style - perfectly. <br />
<br />
Before I post the tutorial, I want to reiterate that I am an absolute beginner in the world of sewing. My machine jams a lot, I swear from time to time, my lines are wonky, and I frequently end up with stiff shoulders from being super tense. Sounds fun, no? :) My point is, beginners should start simple as to not get frustrated. But there is also a lot of room for personalization and size tweaking for most patterns and tutorials. Just experiment. You win some, you lose some.<br />
<br />
The obviously awesome part about making small and simple projects is that you can use up fabric scraps. This particular fabric was first used a few years ago when I overhauled a thrift store side chair (no post about that - it was pre-blog). The second, dark blue fabric is a denim remnant from when I hemmed my jeans. Don't throw out scraps - ever. Ha!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVwQj52tjOQ0uLBctEm7Re9OepKaxpBzvqxWKE1Bc8fWxURZtW0AbCSVDl9f6DF5xfuf0TG3Gy0QoY-wiRsZc0BoQE-gA-cTFLRdB9GKNI78T4j2Bx9uxS6Vxs3mb0TCWERdrJZRKr2fpV/s640/blogger-image-660398984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVwQj52tjOQ0uLBctEm7Re9OepKaxpBzvqxWKE1Bc8fWxURZtW0AbCSVDl9f6DF5xfuf0TG3Gy0QoY-wiRsZc0BoQE-gA-cTFLRdB9GKNI78T4j2Bx9uxS6Vxs3mb0TCWERdrJZRKr2fpV/s640/blogger-image-660398984.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlEoDfkPvkHMY6ANC2jMY-g9knuHLdEX0ZUJqqY-VjJGL6IbrLZLg0z7OehQ0h1akE5aiCDPpn_HcUw4XgbbixosL5XZSu7AolsVv2RtOIfkbtmDh3Y1-4bmlVRfnIx0J8AgcieT-Vvtah/s640/blogger-image--1295656035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlEoDfkPvkHMY6ANC2jMY-g9knuHLdEX0ZUJqqY-VjJGL6IbrLZLg0z7OehQ0h1akE5aiCDPpn_HcUw4XgbbixosL5XZSu7AolsVv2RtOIfkbtmDh3Y1-4bmlVRfnIx0J8AgcieT-Vvtah/s640/blogger-image--1295656035.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Right. So, here's what you need if you want to make one yourself:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li>Main fabric 12 x 10" </li>
<li>Contrasting (or the same, which is what I used) fabric 11 x 3"</li>
<li>Main fabric 10 x 5.5"</li>
<li>Main fabric 10 x 5.5" *This will be amended later on in the instructions. But, it's optional.</li>
<li>Choice of fastener. I used Velcro and more denim scraps.</li>
</ol>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><b>Leave only 1/4" seam allowance for all sewing on this project. </b></li>
</ul>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRKh7atzAsplFnvVyUGDlohv-KOUWN1IdunQyy1e0-k6Zo5IL2qWYf8VG78Ak6BrdhdnIvD3lCxMCFNBrmXWqCzbIycpkTBHwKJdQeYW42_YgFscxQB3YjWJQHytfBQqRKLOLrmeronF9U/s640/blogger-image--442333950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRKh7atzAsplFnvVyUGDlohv-KOUWN1IdunQyy1e0-k6Zo5IL2qWYf8VG78Ak6BrdhdnIvD3lCxMCFNBrmXWqCzbIycpkTBHwKJdQeYW42_YgFscxQB3YjWJQHytfBQqRKLOLrmeronF9U/s400/blogger-image--442333950.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super "accurately scaled" diagram of pieces needed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So the easiest way to proceed is to iron/pin the raw edges of certain pieces and sew: all sides of #2, one long size of #3 and #4. If you're choosing to make an opening for the wipes container dispenser (the dotted lines), then cut and hem the raw edges of that opening, too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Once all your raw edges are sewn, place #2 in the center of the wrong side of #1 (biggest, unaltered piece of fabric). Sew in place.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgpG49JVF4mLe4XfO4wxLa61rDyjCXaw_xeMVrZX8-OxnzVFUScgwtW0Fu53Sl9pqS9SL29YLpqHJGcoiqUetwo48iHnCeM4R6Kow2SiEukKpSG4pSICK7o50VhoUqFrc37DuHq1xM89L/s1600/blogger-image--443476838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgpG49JVF4mLe4XfO4wxLa61rDyjCXaw_xeMVrZX8-OxnzVFUScgwtW0Fu53Sl9pqS9SL29YLpqHJGcoiqUetwo48iHnCeM4R6Kow2SiEukKpSG4pSICK7o50VhoUqFrc37DuHq1xM89L/s320/blogger-image--443476838.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See where I'm pointing? Your Velcro should be under there.<br />(You'll be able to see a tiny amount peeking out!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Flip over #1 so that you are now looking at the right side of the fabric. If are are using a Velcro fastener, now is the time to place it between #1 and #3. Pin #3 and #4 (right side down) in place.You shouldn't be able to see the fastener at this point - it will be hidden under #3! Sew along all four edges. I ran a few lines back and worth across the fastener edge to make sure it would stay put.<br />
<br />
Turn your project right side out. Fold over the top and bottom (raw) edges of the center and sew. At this point, you'll want to insert your wipes container and diapers. Close your clutch and figure out where you'll want the other piece of Velcro fastener; it should end up just about where your wipes container opening is. Sew your Velcro in place and you're done!<span id="goog_986104354"></span><br />
<br />
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizR4o7McVvjwu6Gff8V8GDhuBXo4bqOmRab0utt97yALZkSJPo4xiKoDyifOWlnvQF-fvcExEFz3K_wsXcTBrEEzfnFEs2NrbDgJsZqaH5RFqhS8JjVfcNopYiM_vX2fvi0yBRgUd1-ctk/s640/blogger-image--1361251426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizR4o7McVvjwu6Gff8V8GDhuBXo4bqOmRab0utt97yALZkSJPo4xiKoDyifOWlnvQF-fvcExEFz3K_wsXcTBrEEzfnFEs2NrbDgJsZqaH5RFqhS8JjVfcNopYiM_vX2fvi0yBRgUd1-ctk/s640/blogger-image--1361251426.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cute!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-8806114298748787652013-02-07T08:52:00.001-05:002013-02-07T09:50:22.581-05:00More Free, Personalized Art<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I love my dog. She's the bomb. I love most things Greyhound, especially art. Aaaand, I really dig silhouettes. My dining room is no stranger to some homemade silhouettes of other things (namely, my son's head and a pig's head), so I figured that my dog should have one as well.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuV5Jn0Zme0lrc6rB6bKObM2W-hXrvAKyzcshsf6dayvl33h1ZJoj_kizzzWc5t1d0_DBrmlJ74BSICbmdpY0enolQrCDKkXvK3lMR9y010NjtLz9rRnB5O65rtPic9a0mvGzjscd-O-J7/s640/blogger-image-703861770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuV5Jn0Zme0lrc6rB6bKObM2W-hXrvAKyzcshsf6dayvl33h1ZJoj_kizzzWc5t1d0_DBrmlJ74BSICbmdpY0enolQrCDKkXvK3lMR9y010NjtLz9rRnB5O65rtPic9a0mvGzjscd-O-J7/s640/blogger-image-703861770.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silhouettes hanging out in the dining room.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<br />
Somewhere on the Internet, I discovered that <a href="http://www.farrow-ball.com/" target="_blank">Farrow & Ball</a> sends out free samples (up to three samples, anyway) of their wallpapers. Naturally, I couldn't pass that up, so I ordered a few. They're awesome and I thought they'd come in handy for something crafty. Today, the opportunity presented itself! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbcE_ABtBAGJzLNj_l5uLhwtZZigtdDriWkcv8FgeeERmPfxxgmaPMrXw4ef_KbWo57f-aSXtM5biDFFE22P5XRY3_HPvCYpkrJBZIi6K9o6ty0iMoVsJ-_98h-U4iM3iHd73i5_Y_4Rp/s640/blogger-image-828318873.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbcE_ABtBAGJzLNj_l5uLhwtZZigtdDriWkcv8FgeeERmPfxxgmaPMrXw4ef_KbWo57f-aSXtM5biDFFE22P5XRY3_HPvCYpkrJBZIi6K9o6ty0iMoVsJ-_98h-U4iM3iHd73i5_Y_4Rp/s640/blogger-image-828318873.jpg" /></a></div><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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3aqK9d_Utb8OX30lUghhp6gSpaWJiOzwmq_us0XZhaPo0QvLV0tJb1ky_PovSVev2C6sXpqIcQ5_wmMe5QcCsdWqap5V-wCnZVO5ocibpFw4VbVJKhuO1FY6CIsOXW2SXD1rkysyXcCC3/s640/blogger-image-790316387.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3aqK9d_Utb8OX30lUghhp6gSpaWJiOzwmq_us0XZhaPo0QvLV0tJb1ky_PovSVev2C6sXpqIcQ5_wmMe5QcCsdWqap5V-wCnZVO5ocibpFw4VbVJKhuO1FY6CIsOXW2SXD1rkysyXcCC3/s640/blogger-image-790316387.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greyhound silhouette art - cheap, easy, and supa cute.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div><br />
It's as easy as cutting out a Googled shape and gluing it to a background piece of paper. By using a frame we already had, this piece cost absolutely nada. I like free. You?MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-78411933631683562122013-01-15T14:14:00.001-05:002013-01-16T15:14:44.392-05:00Personalized Art<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Making your own art is a pretty popular way to jazz up a space, and for good reason - you get exactly what you want and you can save some major bucks.<br />
<br />
I've had some previously painted canvases in the basement that I wasn't really digging anymore, so I decided to make something for my little lady's bedroom wall. We are both fans of Bruno Mars (dancing tunes and a pretty face are tough to resist), so I came up with art that incorporates some of his lyrics. Now that the little lady is nearing the pre-teen stage, she's begun to think more about her image and how others perceive her. For that reason, I thought that this simple sentiment would be best displayed beside the full length mirror in her bedroom: "You're amazing just the way you are". I did shorten it a little, as you will see below.<br />
<br />
Everyone could use this reminder daily, don't you think?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwIgUVmidmNkZdpa3XEv4QLdPNW-ZLHdSaHgiXb0SKLDB6QPRXfJjsU-mOiVRID7ER5H7uRkSARIFSRxgGJ7fYtgAh81cgd4oTB5EbsTe_ZUS6ZFWYvAqNUitxIM0WmGAem1eQSFQjEiHo/s640/blogger-image--1637777639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwIgUVmidmNkZdpa3XEv4QLdPNW-ZLHdSaHgiXb0SKLDB6QPRXfJjsU-mOiVRID7ER5H7uRkSARIFSRxgGJ7fYtgAh81cgd4oTB5EbsTe_ZUS6ZFWYvAqNUitxIM0WmGAem1eQSFQjEiHo/s640/blogger-image--1637777639.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The canvas was originally painted a black and white graphic print (a couple of whirlwind painting sessions while listening to Bowie will do strange things). I decided to use whatever paint I thought suitable from my stash - some dark purple leftover from painting the front door, and some brushed nickel spray paint. I painted thick, uneven horizontal lines using these two colours and let it dry.<br />
<br />
At some point last year, I had purchased some vinyl stick-on letters because the whole package was only $2 - see, I knew that they would come in handy. Since the adhesive on the backs of these letters is pretty lame, they're reusable! After the purple and silver paint on the canvas had dried, I just stuck the letters on and rolled some black acrylic paint over the whole thing. The letters peeled off very cleanly afterwards and I called it a day. Finito, Benito.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpuwf7hjl0kvMJUZSRAU9YLO1T89U05VbOtHElEeo5MNkwmRMLm0Azlbbk9EfFsFrNldFOZfPeGYWdOKtE8H7wikfYOgv8QfBsOA-VtDChvhOaLuBbksa8JMWWTvkJzaNZ4Ot2adGMnL9b/s640/blogger-image-1296268512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpuwf7hjl0kvMJUZSRAU9YLO1T89U05VbOtHElEeo5MNkwmRMLm0Azlbbk9EfFsFrNldFOZfPeGYWdOKtE8H7wikfYOgv8QfBsOA-VtDChvhOaLuBbksa8JMWWTvkJzaNZ4Ot2adGMnL9b/s640/blogger-image-1296268512.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-29810088619008729892013-01-14T14:46:00.001-05:002013-01-16T15:15:12.172-05:00Ralph Lauren Nastiness<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Ever wonder what the inside of a used paint can looks like after a few years of dormancy?<br />
<br />
I patched and sanded some holes in the foyer over the weekend (after a 3M hook disaster) and needed this paint for touch-ups. It was part glob, part rusty soup, and oddly bubbly. Did I go ahead and use it anyway? You bet, I did! I dabbed my brush into that glob and a bit of that gross liquid, for good measure. Not exactly the same colour, but better than glaring white patches.<br />
<br />
I love the old colour on the walls. It's "Cobblestone" from Ralph Lauren; a rich taupe with grey undertones. The past owners graciously left all their paint cans in the basement when they moved out. The past lady of the house clearly had great taste! Since Home Depot no longer seems to carry Ralph's paint collection, I suppose I'll have to colour match some Behr for future touch-ups. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZiJGz6c37wfcBzkTgE-bQ7yZ6dvyjeZCqCRcSvylNIXBSatWywgpYlPvgNJzoRNCTxlE2jcACyY53RSFKNa0eDaydbowuSM9sZ2rUZYBDd980WBxbrNl37Vk67ZZ1NJOy9cDV6g96yyW/s640/blogger-image-2071257510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZiJGz6c37wfcBzkTgE-bQ7yZ6dvyjeZCqCRcSvylNIXBSatWywgpYlPvgNJzoRNCTxlE2jcACyY53RSFKNa0eDaydbowuSM9sZ2rUZYBDd980WBxbrNl37Vk67ZZ1NJOy9cDV6g96yyW/s640/blogger-image-2071257510.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-40434216755457269432013-01-10T09:53:00.001-05:002013-01-10T09:53:34.200-05:00Speaking of Gifts ...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I sure did receive a new mug that replaces my previous "favourite" spot in the cupboard. Kristen (who made an appearance in <a href="http://scientistswife.blogspot.ca/2011/12/craftin-and-gansta-rappin.html" target="_blank">my first post</a> and our <a href="http://scientistswife.blogspot.ca/2012/03/diy-faux-boxwood-topiary.html" target="_blank">topiary DIY</a> project) was sweet enough to design her own herringbone mug in white and red and I absolutely love it. She used a small brush and paint and got to work making her angled lines on a neat white mug from President's Choice. Seriously, who can resist "the centre aisle" at Independent grocery stores? Not me. And, apparently, not Kristen. There are way too many kitchen/home gems to pass up, especially when they're on sale!<br />
<br />
The best part about this mug gift is that the lines are imperfect - each stroke is slightly different and it just makes it that much more interesting! I can totally picture Kristen, hard at work, dabbing her paint brush to create the design. It's visually appealing and I love it. Love. It.<br />
<br />
The first week after I received it, I swear I drank every single drink out of this mug. Behold its beauty and simplicity:<br />
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvDfaZyfwIAvisVPN8HrQTk2Zklx-E0wdBMco3baXHXzuEQaO7ETpwYtce9DKJMPqDiLF3BVWvRfPtT9jPJPd1wSa6uJN742NT5jVlnPo-Jh1HetNVkFbuQUdAXX2-CE-RCBOXW88RrMQ/s640/blogger-image-1469067922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvDfaZyfwIAvisVPN8HrQTk2Zklx-E0wdBMco3baXHXzuEQaO7ETpwYtce9DKJMPqDiLF3BVWvRfPtT9jPJPd1wSa6uJN742NT5jVlnPo-Jh1HetNVkFbuQUdAXX2-CE-RCBOXW88RrMQ/s640/blogger-image-1469067922.jpg" width="472" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hands off, it's mine! *curls up on the couch with delicious coffee*</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-11289874672657247452012-12-30T09:47:00.001-05:002013-01-10T09:54:03.925-05:00Now That The Gifts Have Been Received ...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I can finally share with you some of the things I've made for others! As you may well know, there are loads of great and simple tutorials out there to make just about anything. <br />
<br />
For Ma, I decided on a festive half apron. Choosing the coordinating fabrics was probably the hardest part, I promise. The full tutorial can be found at Jona G.'s right <a href="http://jonag.typepad.com/stop_staring_and_start_se/2008/12/your-christmas-gift-from-mean-apron-in-an-hour.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. They've included printable .pdf instructions, too.<br />
<br />
The terrific thing about this project is that you only need one fat quarter of one fabric and 1/2 yard of a coordinating fabric! I ended up grabbing some decorative ribbon to finish off the apron, but I really only chose to do that because it was a Christmas style. These can be whipped up in cute and simple prints and look just as great.<br />
<br />
Here is my daughter, showing off Gramma's gift:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCQBiII8zeREj_WAzQkVSIITtWtt3BTkuzw434wI7pjBO4owzgjR3nbdZVSy8FpKXDepYiBBECCKkdOVWoP0KbRunhYGEdVuiFNVjg80uHAL3_IIVq4w92S5_zk0fBS_f0HqbwVRsLWyfv/s640/blogger-image--258170382.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCQBiII8zeREj_WAzQkVSIITtWtt3BTkuzw434wI7pjBO4owzgjR3nbdZVSy8FpKXDepYiBBECCKkdOVWoP0KbRunhYGEdVuiFNVjg80uHAL3_IIVq4w92S5_zk0fBS_f0HqbwVRsLWyfv/s640/blogger-image--258170382.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-89596921634961046582012-11-20T12:08:00.001-05:002013-01-10T09:54:55.450-05:00Christmassy Front Step<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's coming. The holiday season. <br />
<br />
And we're doing things differently this year. I'm pretty sure that Scientist Husband is getting the year off from having to put up Christmas lights on the eaves. He hates doing it and I just won't. We both have a fear of heights (well, ladders, really), so I decided to jazz up the front step instead.<br />
<br />
Usually, I have pine garlands and rope lights twisted around the railings, but I got to thinking about these tomato cage porch trees you see all over the Internet (you and I both know that I really mean Pinterest). And, guess what? I don't grow tomatoes, but the past owners of this house sure did leave a tomato cage behind! After jamming the cage into a plastic urn planter, I used my old garlands and rope lights and got to work. I also found an old gold coloured sheer curtain as a garland and topped the tree off with an paper star lantern that I was about to trash.<br />
<br />
As I was about to post the picture of my front door, I realized that I completely forgot to post a before & after sequence of my front door colour change from this summer. Ha! You'll just have to imagine that it was a dark taupe before and now it's dark purple. It sounds classier if you call it "deep aubergine", so let's do that instead.<br />
<br />
For $0 and 20 minutes of work, I'm pretty satisfied with the front step. You're welcome, husband. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4p0B1RLKcbix2iJokLF8cLbj3_zG6AbAvjjFUvYMPpb206eU5358qDeOM5IXryy_Vk4q238JLgdTVGWNWH3e4T_DileQvLibsSDC5dcLsGgBHyoOL6Zno7nsyhJuMBOlQn9dqevkmbQpj/s640/blogger-image-1423626315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4p0B1RLKcbix2iJokLF8cLbj3_zG6AbAvjjFUvYMPpb206eU5358qDeOM5IXryy_Vk4q238JLgdTVGWNWH3e4T_DileQvLibsSDC5dcLsGgBHyoOL6Zno7nsyhJuMBOlQn9dqevkmbQpj/s640/blogger-image-1423626315.jpg" width="432" /></a></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-61521587864860198302012-11-16T22:11:00.001-05:002013-01-10T09:55:24.231-05:00Making a Crayon Roll<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My niece is a budding little artiste. She's always been "the quiet one", with big eyes that are always watching. It shouldn't have really surprised us when she started doodling instead of battling to get attention, like her older sister and cousin (who are both loud, crazy confident girls).<br />
<br />
After seeing a great tutorial at<a href="http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2010/05/crayon-roll-tutorial/" target="_blank"> The Pleated Poppy</a> on how to see your own crayon roll, I knew that my little niece would be getting one for Christmas. Since I started sewing a few months ago, I'm always on the lookout for simple projects to take on. And let me tell you, if you can sew a straight line (actually, lots of them), you can make a crayon roll!<br />
<br />
Please read the full tutorial at <a href="http://thepleatedpoppy.com/2010/05/crayon-roll-tutorial/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. This project is completely hers, and I thank her for making her instructions clear and easy to follow. <br />
<br />
The only thing I did differently was filling the roll with wood-less pencil crayons, instead of regular wax crayons. I just thought they were neat, since there's no sharpening needed. I also used flannelette fabric throughout the project. I only did this because I liked the prints better than the ones I found in the cotton and canvas sections.<br />
<br />
Happy sewing!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzuzdqJuAio46nT2KB8qQcXRrxdPB1nu8fovgvnY3sjwdBzVNhqzXr_95U0hC0NK8sEK2ZKYzAmxVkmTwl5dA3DkDAKjBQxvbRP9PCs8bkr5b1VqJ2vOYcFjomsao6jXFAxZ2OO3MHLHo/s640/blogger-image-1913473291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzuzdqJuAio46nT2KB8qQcXRrxdPB1nu8fovgvnY3sjwdBzVNhqzXr_95U0hC0NK8sEK2ZKYzAmxVkmTwl5dA3DkDAKjBQxvbRP9PCs8bkr5b1VqJ2vOYcFjomsao6jXFAxZ2OO3MHLHo/s640/blogger-image-1913473291.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-79972151146586522552012-11-16T13:00:00.001-05:002013-01-10T09:55:53.657-05:00Felt Slipper Project<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
How freaking cute are felt slippers? They just are. Like little elfin shoes. <br />
<br />
Felt is super easy to work with, too. And cheap. For a toddler, you can use two sheets of felt, which can cost as little as $.40! When I saw Martha Stewart's tutorial for making a pair of slippers, I (sarcastically) thought, "Great. Let me get comfortable and pour a glass of wine - this could be arduous". But then, it wasn't! In fact, it was a quick and easy project. I winged it without actually printing the template and changed a few things: I sewed a strip of elastic inside the back of the heel for a better fit and drew puff fabric paint snowflakes on the soles for traction. Hey, just because I can sew a slipper does not mean I can draw a snowflake properly.<br />
<br />
My normally barefoot little dude fought the slippers at first, but he now calls them his "elf shoes" and will at least pad around in them for my benefit. <br />
<br />
You can read the full tutorial on MarthaStewart.com <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/864540/stephanies-sewn-felt-slippers?czone=holiday/santas-workshop/santas-handmade-gifts&center=307035&gallery=275134&slide=864892" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-535Rx6UJk2q70TvtfKN7TKav_l5-YXmjuZz7ZXTCU5Mm-HAY0uzUZEQqwSfz7zxomtgI3BLa0nucKzwAFw554HAGSyFoqeOoaPcY7T8OgCX6WueHtikTWAc9IDQxHg9Ez77SYks3zvZC/s640/blogger-image-1572967654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-535Rx6UJk2q70TvtfKN7TKav_l5-YXmjuZz7ZXTCU5Mm-HAY0uzUZEQqwSfz7zxomtgI3BLa0nucKzwAFw554HAGSyFoqeOoaPcY7T8OgCX6WueHtikTWAc9IDQxHg9Ez77SYks3zvZC/s640/blogger-image-1572967654.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-wqV7v28lH6y2U5VuWtiaPd3jEE4ZQ1gZUp_Gr5eMcZvpS6yhtDzXzCZg3lPotvmiCmQWzLfQFVmonVsF9BdkfQn7im9fe0oOs-aI9nQAJjhXJq-XZlRtub6YfInnJYDhov9LPZBWeyFU/s640/blogger-image--1203362797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-wqV7v28lH6y2U5VuWtiaPd3jEE4ZQ1gZUp_Gr5eMcZvpS6yhtDzXzCZg3lPotvmiCmQWzLfQFVmonVsF9BdkfQn7im9fe0oOs-aI9nQAJjhXJq-XZlRtub6YfInnJYDhov9LPZBWeyFU/s640/blogger-image--1203362797.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-38124438346494558932012-11-07T10:05:00.002-05:002013-01-10T09:56:16.405-05:00Bookmark Corners - Made From Envelopes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinteres</a>t has pretty much changed the way I look at things. I can't give all credit to a mere website, since it is really a massive collection of creative ideas from thousands of real people and amazing sources.<br />
<br />
Disappointed with my recent library book choices a few weeks ago, I scoured my bookcases at home and found a heavy volume of Sherlock Holmes mysteries. I can't believe I've never actually read any of Arthur Conan Doyle's famous stories until now! Since this collection is big and heavy, I really felt the need to have a good bookmark that wasn't a) my library receipt, or b) the 'Cat in the Hat' bookmark that I borrowed from my toddler.<br />
<br />
So, inspired by a <a href="http://craftandcreativity.com/blog/2011/10/22/dagens-pyssel-bokmarken-craft-of-the-day-bookmarks/" target="_blank">Pin</a> (yeah, I capitalized that), I made a cute corner bookmark with an envelope and some flocked stock paper. Just cut a corner off an envelope and glue some fancy shmancy paper on it. You can finish the edges in a ton of different ways - I've seen some really neat cutout designs online. I followed the edges of my chosen paper's design. It's pretty and the flocking is soft, so my OCD will be satisfied.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvSYvysHJNTTwp28wEFbsfr7B5RYWl7cpjZ5SZeV8xQWXV3aOrA1EV5OBmkQe1GYeqg3CdrF66aQ7T7f48MMAw4UFsuAY9TEtVUyHk8u7zydoPyvivChmVDCZ__gDHjPiGLGEQbhP9Wp7/s640/blogger-image-1954158758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvSYvysHJNTTwp28wEFbsfr7B5RYWl7cpjZ5SZeV8xQWXV3aOrA1EV5OBmkQe1GYeqg3CdrF66aQ7T7f48MMAw4UFsuAY9TEtVUyHk8u7zydoPyvivChmVDCZ__gDHjPiGLGEQbhP9Wp7/s640/blogger-image-1954158758.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;">I'm thinking that these handmade bookmarks would make a cute and quick project for kids to make for friends - they can make them as fancy or simple as they want. It would also add a nice touch to a gifted book; a personalized surprise hidden in the pages (I can't be the only one who loves finding surprises in books)!</span></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-36639065915210812802012-11-05T19:45:00.000-05:002012-11-05T19:45:00.251-05:00Kids' Pants for Under $3<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
You read that right, friends.<br />
<br />
I stumbled upon a cute little pair of DIY pants via Pinterest (obviously) that are made entirely from only two bandanas. You can find the tutorial on Sew, Mama, Sew (by Stefani from <a href="http://www.blueyonderranch.com/" target="_blank">Blue Yonder Ranch</a>) right <a href="http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/2008/07/summer-sewing-bandana-pants-pattern/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Because I actually had bandanas laying around, leftover from my daughter's birthday party - and Halloween, for that matter - I thought this would be a great project to try out. Not only did I have the materials on hand, but I just so happened to start sewing about a month ago and am really enjoying it! (My first project, a sham-type pillow cover was made for the <a href="http://scientistswife.blogspot.ca/2012/10/the-product-guest-room-edition.html" target="_blank">guest room makeover</a>).<br />
<br />
My bandanas were originally purchased at the dollar store for a whopping $1.25 apiece. So, if I round up, maybe to account for thread and such, these pants cost about $3 to make. Three freaking dollars, folks!<br />
<br />
The site from which I got this tutorial calls these boys' summer pants, but they would be just as cute on girls and/or as pajama bottoms. On my little dude, they are the perfect length (he is 2 1/2 and on the tall side), but can be worn until they are capri length or even shorter. I'd love to see these made in tons of other colours, too.<br />
<br />
The only thing that I changed from the original tutorial is that I re-used a waistband from a pair of the little dude's ratty lounge pants instead of buying plain elastic. The original lounge pants still fit around the waist, they were <i>way</i> too short and the knee was ripped. Bonus: I didn't have to measure for the waist and the elastic was already neatly covered by soft fabric, which adds more substance to the finished waistband.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLOuJFbR3CPOn6rjljjYu0tE0LA9ne_-CtrHKBhlAJof1zFhqF7T15TFTZ3Er5QNlMb3GC-pkdhc3OFMK5YHxqt1KWHjdoNj4OW_6CLWMx9dGEpwQXMW0I7DsU0ExdMCyqt_I_uww1AB_K/s640/blogger-image-333470096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLOuJFbR3CPOn6rjljjYu0tE0LA9ne_-CtrHKBhlAJof1zFhqF7T15TFTZ3Er5QNlMb3GC-pkdhc3OFMK5YHxqt1KWHjdoNj4OW_6CLWMx9dGEpwQXMW0I7DsU0ExdMCyqt_I_uww1AB_K/s640/blogger-image-333470096.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not only were these pants easy to make, but the little dude LOVES them! Score.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-62470323757837661032012-10-24T12:49:00.001-04:002012-10-24T13:05:35.649-04:00Quick Cabinet Refresh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Ever since I met my husband's little china cabinet, I always felt that it needed finishing. It's cute and functional, but the bare pine wood was calling for attention.<br />
<br />
It wasn't until we brought in the dining room set that I realized there were far too many competing wood finished in the room. Someday, I'd love to re-finish the table and chairs, but that's a pretty big project and it's tough for me to be so ambitious about a project that involves a room that we use frequently. Is it just me? I'm not even sure that's a good reason!<br />
<br />
Anyway, I already had the stain (which I had purchased for <a href="http://scientistswife.blogspot.ca/2012/10/the-product-guest-room-edition.html" target="_blank">the guest room pallet headboard</a> project), so I just got to work emptying the cabinet and cleaning all the dust off. I'm pretty impatient, so I didn't even bother to sand the wood. Frankly, I just wanted to quickly tone down the yellow in the wood, so I wasn't too particular.<br />
<br />
I used Varathane Wood Stain in 'Sun Bleached' and used a rag to wipe it on. When you are staining anything, <b>be sure to stir the stain</b>. You'll be amazed at how much gunk lies at the bottom of the can. That's where all the colour hides! For nooks and seams, I grabbed one of the kids' cheap art brushes and wiped the excess off.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEevGY6oMjEO0jEIqSJH92kgv2mmxOgLgTpsu1qQ2bJi8Cg7AIFUTRseaqgJAWs0Mopz1pRSiRjGRtO4BZMrupkMddcNGpGItBensa70X5qkuxySUNiylf5ofYlf0seNcs-HSoG2v7ZVZO/s640/blogger-image--1370017865.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEevGY6oMjEO0jEIqSJH92kgv2mmxOgLgTpsu1qQ2bJi8Cg7AIFUTRseaqgJAWs0Mopz1pRSiRjGRtO4BZMrupkMddcNGpGItBensa70X5qkuxySUNiylf5ofYlf0seNcs-HSoG2v7ZVZO/s400/blogger-image--1370017865.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJosB7U6E7XuhK7zjsk5gcg2UA10E_A5PerzTpB3b84DSDuN3DBsnZjqsU0j5Ck3xLfxl8VzA_JGNRU5F0v6XRv5jCb10jmc9CtzYYyGzhLKdH0MbnKlpKJc-OjpKVVD8eFWY993GonmGy/s640/blogger-image--864917698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJosB7U6E7XuhK7zjsk5gcg2UA10E_A5PerzTpB3b84DSDuN3DBsnZjqsU0j5Ck3xLfxl8VzA_JGNRU5F0v6XRv5jCb10jmc9CtzYYyGzhLKdH0MbnKlpKJc-OjpKVVD8eFWY993GonmGy/s640/blogger-image--864917698.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up close and personal.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XvoBQ7SHAMvgvtY1R9PFDqi9IrcZaG61mMfkNREC8gA904_cPmQ6h59hD8AwSt4RaBI3_dVQXjqyiI3CV-YW2bIMPoRVWLKjeqI90pPoygTc6ao4oAOtqVoOzRZ8w4Lpj_fAKh1MkKal/s640/blogger-image--247774635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XvoBQ7SHAMvgvtY1R9PFDqi9IrcZaG61mMfkNREC8gA904_cPmQ6h59hD8AwSt4RaBI3_dVQXjqyiI3CV-YW2bIMPoRVWLKjeqI90pPoygTc6ao4oAOtqVoOzRZ8w4Lpj_fAKh1MkKal/s640/blogger-image--247774635.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cabinet: before & after. It's subtle, but trust me ... in person, it's a lot less yellow and in-yo-face.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-69924302746866978972012-10-24T09:12:00.001-04:002012-10-24T13:05:59.028-04:00Mint & Gold, Oh My!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Something lovely came in the mail last week and since I'm so pleased, I wanted to give a shout out to its creator.<br />
<br />
Check out these adorably perfect mint & gold (plated) pyramid drop earrings! They're from an Etsy shop out of Honolulu, Hawaii called <b>twin pearls</b>. You can visit their shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/twinpearlsjewelry?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGL49hBeJHem9Iyk967-iqrHfvjc-axTlp7G4PUehU1MYwwWGQ52DgZMuH6jO7hzMIOy4AkN-Ok-rxfopBPWA5GcChUVIjIkc9AOYl4UqZYpxkf-q8086YR1DapZOID0v4XvDCatapQIB4/s640/blogger-image--1810748130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGL49hBeJHem9Iyk967-iqrHfvjc-axTlp7G4PUehU1MYwwWGQ52DgZMuH6jO7hzMIOy4AkN-Ok-rxfopBPWA5GcChUVIjIkc9AOYl4UqZYpxkf-q8086YR1DapZOID0v4XvDCatapQIB4/s640/blogger-image--1810748130.jpg" /></a>Squee!</div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
While we're on the topic of Etsy and jewelry, a pal of mine opened shop and specializes in making super pretty beaded pieces. Check out <b>essCreations'</b> shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/essCreations?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKlx2auQNJI1XUTrIcX1hgNksjfiuuSdIVqvJe6Fsw46v58OivYwQIzTeeK48z0JMMMO4RQ-ooBlSESlTDutUpYm3DE3h7JAC9XVsz-zJEiOmZxkYo68Q9vkB57LhyphenhyphenllXC8O6hyphenhyphen3LSBHYc/s640/blogger-image--1628806259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKlx2auQNJI1XUTrIcX1hgNksjfiuuSdIVqvJe6Fsw46v58OivYwQIzTeeK48z0JMMMO4RQ-ooBlSESlTDutUpYm3DE3h7JAC9XVsz-zJEiOmZxkYo68Q9vkB57LhyphenhyphenllXC8O6hyphenhyphen3LSBHYc/s640/blogger-image--1628806259.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_l6eOXTDQj743K0rc4wMOVL825nqPJSb7WwVhOcRy2UhHtRXjOwdnnEeJdMPA6XUMwWEuwDA2YFZbxb4nmVRkckDr9iKhtjLjv7bjSygGDjJU797NTFkv7czlaHlqIDVhx8unMoWJFB-W/s640/blogger-image-1094635702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_l6eOXTDQj743K0rc4wMOVL825nqPJSb7WwVhOcRy2UhHtRXjOwdnnEeJdMPA6XUMwWEuwDA2YFZbxb4nmVRkckDr9iKhtjLjv7bjSygGDjJU797NTFkv7czlaHlqIDVhx8unMoWJFB-W/s640/blogger-image-1094635702.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-34063751614394455942012-10-23T20:31:00.001-04:002012-10-24T13:07:31.746-04:00The "Final" Product: Guest Room Edition<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's done! It's done! Sort of. No room is ever really done, but all the heavy lifting is complete and I'm at least satisfied that an actual guest could enjoy a night or two spent in this room. Actually, I sort of want to!<br />
<br />
Alrighty. So, the project that got this whole room started was undoubtedly the headboard that I decided to make from pallets. I know, I know .. we all have DIY ambitions that involve pallets and if you're anything like me, you have a number of <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> pins dedicated to it. So I scoured the ... back parking lots ... of hardware stores ... wow, that sounds creepy. I also did it with a toddler in tow and felt pretty much like I was dumpster-diving. Which I was. So I picked the best one I could find and threw that puppy in the truck. I might go into that project in detail in another post, but for today, I'll let it slide.<br />
<br />
<br />
The inspiration for this room was simple enough: I wanted it to feel super relaxing and bring in some outdoor details. Here's a rundown of what direction I wanted to go in before I started:<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><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPkTCo8VKHuqD56Ou07KElQ-bEqx9v7uWmo5tZJ8r3E8pUg9WQYBOiVlspKZzzVWCWMqqIXDU8hmtMwSwGeW4-y4i2PsH5Y6qQjK4o0w4jI_GiDeFCBt0VEtxYmJArzi5Js5I-aICUYTis/s1600/Guest+Room+Inspir+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPkTCo8VKHuqD56Ou07KElQ-bEqx9v7uWmo5tZJ8r3E8pUg9WQYBOiVlspKZzzVWCWMqqIXDU8hmtMwSwGeW4-y4i2PsH5Y6qQjK4o0w4jI_GiDeFCBt0VEtxYmJArzi5Js5I-aICUYTis/s640/Guest+Room+Inspir+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">1. Colour board, using the CLR Concepts App for iPad.<br />
2. Turquoise coral decor, from <a href="http://www.zgallerie.com/" target="_blank">Z Gallerie</a>.<br />
3. 'Leaves' print, by Frank Tschakert.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptbeYHWB-PtJpFhFW62rJeLiV8CbJ_bk6S5YruPFUiV5GKl_8czWJkJUNpkQy20-GtoBLYxupQ3ugvq3BTs5_mzC3S5pFjcAEFbmZj30rH0Xb2IibWc-B4W6XPZ78kxQS0zarGfn6jQnm/s1600/Guest+Room+Inspir.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgptbeYHWB-PtJpFhFW62rJeLiV8CbJ_bk6S5YruPFUiV5GKl_8czWJkJUNpkQy20-GtoBLYxupQ3ugvq3BTs5_mzC3S5pFjcAEFbmZj30rH0Xb2IibWc-B4W6XPZ78kxQS0zarGfn6jQnm/s640/Guest+Room+Inspir.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">1. Sheepskin rug, <a href="http://www.evadesigns.com/" target="_blank">Eva Designs.</a><br />
2. Natural grey driftwood.<br />
3. Premier Prints 'Chipper' in slub/twill, available <a href="http://www.fabric-guru.com/" target="_blank">here!</a><br />
4. Honeycomb lamp, <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/" target="_blank">Marks & Spencer</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Quickly, the decision was made to paint the walls grey, though in hindsight, I would have liked the colour to finish a little darker than it did. I painted all four walls SICO Classique (RONA Collection) in 'Barley Beige' (VOC-free!). The rest fell into place through brainstorming for natural accents, textures, and prints. I already had the Premier Prints 'Chipper' fabric leftover from <a href="http://scientistswife.blogspot.ca/2012/04/lets-get-this-curtain-party-started.html" target="_blank">the dining room curtains mom made</a> a few months back, and knew I wanted it to appear in the guest room, too. You'll see those ikat blobs pop up here and there. Let's take a peek:<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMQjzAbChmBpG1YUtWA4OriIVZu9RX00MT1ZbY2Nba5lBUvv1-w9oHQQxLHs4QoeoVHqw0n9zE2n1rGhKtShgsKPUE2U56FW4aIu4S0t3xbd1KXNv_i-1pLwHXYFTiCekDuhgP7T85ja4T/s1600/Bed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMQjzAbChmBpG1YUtWA4OriIVZu9RX00MT1ZbY2Nba5lBUvv1-w9oHQQxLHs4QoeoVHqw0n9zE2n1rGhKtShgsKPUE2U56FW4aIu4S0t3xbd1KXNv_i-1pLwHXYFTiCekDuhgP7T85ja4T/s640/Bed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi369I4NE9_zZU3Ai4wR-PQgLt66LBgCFXlDqBQxTZqhmq9rf4NW6h1Q8crMH3Td9WT21upA23nK542XG9PSAWe_fkXPrMEmiPoNGGyc0ToHptLySniEzhjf5F5j4UCOGkEu3zX-z0N6yGg/s1600/Window+&+Curtain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi369I4NE9_zZU3Ai4wR-PQgLt66LBgCFXlDqBQxTZqhmq9rf4NW6h1Q8crMH3Td9WT21upA23nK542XG9PSAWe_fkXPrMEmiPoNGGyc0ToHptLySniEzhjf5F5j4UCOGkEu3zX-z0N6yGg/s640/Window+&+Curtain.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG47GWBLvP_kqQo7KQExCGXXpanJPzRXYQhjGTbWa7kvwOuUcKGKiZZWOKNiiMiICGJJYWXKMbJ4vJ9ExYQ8uiE_XN44G2FIzsu4vilp_cxXZ9UHAG7ui6RgOSEWKcmM2GYs_q0IR-kWEu/s1600/Honeycomb+lamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG47GWBLvP_kqQo7KQExCGXXpanJPzRXYQhjGTbWa7kvwOuUcKGKiZZWOKNiiMiICGJJYWXKMbJ4vJ9ExYQ8uiE_XN44G2FIzsu4vilp_cxXZ9UHAG7ui6RgOSEWKcmM2GYs_q0IR-kWEu/s640/Honeycomb+lamp.jpg" width="520" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honeycomb lamp, $39.99 from Winners (this was the room's only "splurge"!). Original black/white photograph of a local dive bar. I mounted a peacock feather right on the stock paper that came with the frame. All the books came from my bookshelf in the living room - a mix of grown up and children's books, because my nieces use this room the most.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA5YKt7mvj9FVyo-mwwc9LvrWUKoYJYRtp-r8L9XngnN_nBIHVGga_IvztrIywDi1rDS6zWJ-jd7yENyHp_28tP58mLzDPCjrg6B_GJ1mOlXVqtfsdeP30f3nhU2oJVo_JHcQi1HBVKEQS/s1600/Leaves+&+IKEA+lamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA5YKt7mvj9FVyo-mwwc9LvrWUKoYJYRtp-r8L9XngnN_nBIHVGga_IvztrIywDi1rDS6zWJ-jd7yENyHp_28tP58mLzDPCjrg6B_GJ1mOlXVqtfsdeP30f3nhU2oJVo_JHcQi1HBVKEQS/s400/Leaves+&+IKEA+lamp.jpg" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The little dude and I often collect things while we're out walking - that's where these bright yellow leaves came from. I pressed them in a book for a few days and put them behind glass. The lamp was a quick and sloppy DIY job that I did a month or so ago - see <a href="http://scientistswife.blogspot.ca/2012/09/lamp-re-do.html" target="_blank">HERE</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJdPyoEqESV3Mx-5T-rf792eaXWim5ma5XLvmTemDS1G1MPsQL77gJgF_tpepUgs5rX1bYMvPv4uvFHYvg9tfiLdupt21LHoIYR9T52R2mm83JE5eZjuCwqPnzkn_7nGrbzjYzjkI0tb4-/s1600/Embroidery+Hoops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJdPyoEqESV3Mx-5T-rf792eaXWim5ma5XLvmTemDS1G1MPsQL77gJgF_tpepUgs5rX1bYMvPv4uvFHYvg9tfiLdupt21LHoIYR9T52R2mm83JE5eZjuCwqPnzkn_7nGrbzjYzjkI0tb4-/s400/Embroidery+Hoops.jpg" width="336" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had purchased two sets of embroidery hoops at Value Village last year for 99 cents and used some leftover fabric to make cheap art. See? I knew I'd use those hoops! The clock has been with me for ages - I'm pretty sure it was in my first apartment.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnu4INWtp8BRUBH7SsX31d7mqisFxHxVNb5x8DkQH04TTPwPOPBVaPrUlAEbxocZCgVSslxF5Hq_gBezmPj57aYHUP5wneyehxUwhx1stbXdgXAss-WpYB5flAc-YaYTeTbKhEcm3gqX12/s1600/Grey+throw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnu4INWtp8BRUBH7SsX31d7mqisFxHxVNb5x8DkQH04TTPwPOPBVaPrUlAEbxocZCgVSslxF5Hq_gBezmPj57aYHUP5wneyehxUwhx1stbXdgXAss-WpYB5flAc-YaYTeTbKhEcm3gqX12/s640/Grey+throw.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This grey striped throw was one of those finds that made me gasp in delight! A hilarious and wonderful friend of mine runs a local antique and collectible shop (<a href="http://www.thequeenscupboard.com/" target="_blank">The Queen's Cupboard</a>). I stopped in to visit her and this throw made me swoon. I have no idea its age or origin, but I do know it cost me a mere $5 and that it unravels in the wash (oops).</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYHx6Hb2GmwlP2t-OHcYsjoYesT_y77F2TWm1MLs3kZtq3lUvWgmW5dOIn-iOMYvqZ6JCCKO0icjMuT7NOAzpQ4FkT4ZA6t3Tvly1bYmyIPXh1jGYQQPkwDmGz5NZw0PY6VDq6X9JfaJ6_/s1600/Guest+Pillows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYHx6Hb2GmwlP2t-OHcYsjoYesT_y77F2TWm1MLs3kZtq3lUvWgmW5dOIn-iOMYvqZ6JCCKO0icjMuT7NOAzpQ4FkT4ZA6t3Tvly1bYmyIPXh1jGYQQPkwDmGz5NZw0PY6VDq6X9JfaJ6_/s640/Guest+Pillows.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pillows are the main source of colour in the room. The turquoise pillow cover on the left was purchased from Fabricland (50% off!). The turquoise one on the right was picked up last year at this awesome store called <a href="http://www.fabindia.com/" target="_blank">FabIndia</a> in Bangalore. The zebra pillow, again, came from my last apartment - there is <a href="http://scientistswife.blogspot.ca/2012/06/little-sirs-woodland-retreat.html" target="_blank">a matching one in the little dude's room</a>. And finally ... the big deal ... the yellow throw pillow! I sewed it myself. My very first solo sewing project. I know that's not a big deal to a lot of people, but I battled that machine like it was Mount Everest. I even called my Grandma for help at one point. Truth.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8rZGXQdW_5anPgCZcKb_oTAX20Uta8DVJTXMS6EspZ7XVFCBqshH5dzK2GnxnmuetK6hzeZLJV9F3MO9jFY4iH8wLyYlvIcAkjV4PAtEtPftu22JMz0vTsAgcCJCyg4tYE6zR1hl7YKF/s1600/Curtain+&+Final+detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8rZGXQdW_5anPgCZcKb_oTAX20Uta8DVJTXMS6EspZ7XVFCBqshH5dzK2GnxnmuetK6hzeZLJV9F3MO9jFY4iH8wLyYlvIcAkjV4PAtEtPftu22JMz0vTsAgcCJCyg4tYE6zR1hl7YKF/s400/Curtain+&+Final+detail.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Faux silk grey curtain panels and wooden pineapple rod finials are both from FabricLand. I already had the rod and hanging hardware kicking around in my basement.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
All final decisions about purchasing items for this room fell on the price tag. With the exception of one lamp, all items, furniture, and textiles were either discounted or previously owned. For the millionth time, I'll admit that I am one frugal sonofabitch. But hey, bargain hunting is actually fun, especially when you are really pleased with the final product. Here are some of the (exciting!) deals I scored at FabricLand:<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9BgwaNrq-fANo2XNBGOhYodWraKY8bBx0UB86Fi3k6KzwLsl7XWVnNXUyThitv7-nUpFxoXHTYn2HVBsiajafxikTgJhIvbiyhL7CAjkpwyCnV0HvZUQAKFDVsxQcMzXaL2D-GNH3GlF/s1600/Curtain+deal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9BgwaNrq-fANo2XNBGOhYodWraKY8bBx0UB86Fi3k6KzwLsl7XWVnNXUyThitv7-nUpFxoXHTYn2HVBsiajafxikTgJhIvbiyhL7CAjkpwyCnV0HvZUQAKFDVsxQcMzXaL2D-GNH3GlF/s400/Curtain+deal.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$21.66, marked down from $64.98 - huzzah!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fk5TyFx0WypgUP7EubXz92hZgVu00PNYapyJeVKmqqWQpxOkTX_OMegpVzFUKoyzUwutWu6X5VXthvydF0QheqrJYNqFLOhB-D1O8548RQAr_B_BPDslAdp9-X8IiAOZfa4eih2rYbUY/s1600/Finial+deal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-fk5TyFx0WypgUP7EubXz92hZgVu00PNYapyJeVKmqqWQpxOkTX_OMegpVzFUKoyzUwutWu6X5VXthvydF0QheqrJYNqFLOhB-D1O8548RQAr_B_BPDslAdp9-X8IiAOZfa4eih2rYbUY/s400/Finial+deal.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">$6.25 down from $24.99 - woot!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6MZCy_j3fBNetz-Yz5u6c3lXwSf2MXjLiKyEzV1ljWcpDJvPAO3GSC1fIMB7gWCoDTs5FUWx58eJ7ha-F1Y-hxTY_W_bsoa3cccuMBybX0gNU0iejVnmsLdSkyoMg7Aof2eTtS6kpxMM/s1600/Fabric+deal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE6MZCy_j3fBNetz-Yz5u6c3lXwSf2MXjLiKyEzV1ljWcpDJvPAO3GSC1fIMB7gWCoDTs5FUWx58eJ7ha-F1Y-hxTY_W_bsoa3cccuMBybX0gNU0iejVnmsLdSkyoMg7Aof2eTtS6kpxMM/s400/Fabric+deal.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two fabric remnants that were marked down <b>twice </b>- that's $12 instead of $48! I didn't end up using the grey and white striped one, but you can bet I've got a project lined up for that one already.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There are still a few details that need to be ironed out. Literally. The curtain panels still need to be ironed & hemmed. I'm debating whether or not to paint the curtain rod and finials, too. In the window covering department, a shade of some sort needs to be hung. Maybe bamboo, to keep with the natural vibe?<br />
<br />
The framed art all meeds to make it on the walls, as I am crazy indecisive about placement. You may also have noticed that one corner of the room wasn't really photographed - that's because it's still a dropping ground for scientists husband's clothes and random crap that collected in the guest room over the past three years.<br />
<br />
Anyway, it's amazing how a few key items and concepts can become so ingrained in your mind and drive a project for weeks, or even months at a time. My mind was set to inspiration boards and making creative uses of the things I already owned, or could find on the cheap. I love the feeling of working on a room and looking back at how I came to all the decisions that led to its (almost) completion. Hope you've enjoyed!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-15959306951594735682012-10-22T10:27:00.002-04:002012-10-24T13:08:03.202-04:00Exercise and You: Let's Get Real<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Let me start by saying that I love Pinterest. I visit it daily and have pinned my fair share. My boards are organized and awesome. What I don't have, however, are any pins that are exercise-related. I visit Pinterest because it's like mental crack; I get to fantasize and explore creative solutions! No part of me really wants to know how to "flatten that pesky lower stomach pooch". Not that I particularly like my lower stomach pooch that makes me look perpetually 4 months pregnant (oh yes, you know, the stage at which you are feeling like a clumsy blob). I just know that this involves hard work and consistency, which is something I'd just rather not deal with. Plus, I really do enjoy mentally heckling joggers (you crazy bastards).<br />
<br />
To set things straight, I'm not a terribly unhealthy person. I've been a vegetarian for something like 14 years. I don't smoke or drink any wine whatsoever (the latter is a dirty lie). I consciously choose healthy food options for our family. I walk the dogs everyday and ride horses a couple of time per week. But, I'm generally non-committal about exercise regimes and drastic dietary changes; this girl doesn't need to make public declarations about my health. I'm afraid of failure, mostly. I did start practicing Pilates when I was 10 weeks pregnant with the last babe and it was awesome. I felt so good and eliminated most of my little aches and pains ... until the time came for labour and delivery, obvi. But, Pilates was so amazing that I returned to the studio when my son was a mere 4 weeks old and added some yoga classes in between.<br />
<br />
So, what happened? Horses. They cost a lot. I decided to start riding again and couldn't shoulder the cost of both riding and Pilates classes. Passion won. My back hurts, I'm tired, and I smell like manure and horse sweat. Yum. I do feel the need to clear something up though: equestrian sports are, indeed, sports. Sometimes, of the extreme variety. My inner thighs are usually ON FIRE and my upper body is putting up quite a battle. I might be putting my bones on the line every time I tack up and help my teammate hurl himself over obstacles, but I'm having a good time. So, take your paleo-gluten-free-jogging self-righteousness elsewhere.<br />
<br />
K, thx.</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-29699415515655545642012-10-05T13:53:00.001-04:002012-10-24T13:08:31.404-04:00Guest Room Sneaky Peeky<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The walls are painted and the headboard installed ... <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEd3SaaZzF_u5SIiqhwInThoi-IWY1nOSz_s2XUDlYIR0QBZ7MU2E0w88esEJ_r9Yy_P0_YYyvROH7hGe-5XNC0usOeHmV4g0fpDeLS9IOpEdWA1yTWh-XDyvWrHnBPWmhuSuAviMj7Lu2/s640/blogger-image-1351180844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEd3SaaZzF_u5SIiqhwInThoi-IWY1nOSz_s2XUDlYIR0QBZ7MU2E0w88esEJ_r9Yy_P0_YYyvROH7hGe-5XNC0usOeHmV4g0fpDeLS9IOpEdWA1yTWh-XDyvWrHnBPWmhuSuAviMj7Lu2/s640/blogger-image-1351180844.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqxFbilNU-1-CihdUezOiV5ctL85u1pObfnM9CW-CbYptPXetv_BIk0TUWRpJ9lMqLLDwbGJ5UJqKWisN61Sh2trBSceiUWGZWZ0AzTlMphyphenhyphenvAIOKu-8YguUVLwtawJqslyK16oiiOivnW/s640/blogger-image--1063365462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqxFbilNU-1-CihdUezOiV5ctL85u1pObfnM9CW-CbYptPXetv_BIk0TUWRpJ9lMqLLDwbGJ5UJqKWisN61Sh2trBSceiUWGZWZ0AzTlMphyphenhyphenvAIOKu-8YguUVLwtawJqslyK16oiiOivnW/s640/blogger-image--1063365462.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-16561154697893155262012-10-05T13:44:00.001-04:002012-10-24T13:08:54.506-04:00Organizing Wrapping Paper<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's no secret that IKEA is full of unique products and ideas to help make your space tidier and more aesthetically pleasing. One of the greatest pleasures about flipping through a new IKEA catalogue for the first time is spying all the new ways they manage to re-use the old products we already know and love.<br />
<br />
Between browsing Pinterest and IKEA, I feel like my ability think think creatively has increased tremendously. I'm sure that the allure of Pinterest has a lot to do with this for many people, especially those who like to DIY in their homes.<br />
<br />
I was sick of pulling out my gift bag full of wrapping paper and accessories from the bottom of the guest room closet every time I wanted to gussy up a gift. So I decided to us a few of IKEA RATIONELL VARIERA plastic bag holders to help me out. Because of the holes, I can store ribbon spools in the bottom and unroll as needed. I've already been using these holders for their intended use (thank god for that!), so why not just keep on going?<br />
<br />
In the famous words of my mother: "(gasp!) Do you know what you can do with this!?". Sorry, Ma. Shopping with her can be a serious investment of time, but I totally appreciate her creativity. It's people like her who gives us those "duh" moments when we find amazing and easy solutions.<br />
<br />
Edit: I just became aware that the inside of this closest is, indeed, pink. Another project for another time ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzszLYPDAFljRAiYduO88C18HCDeoBdINqgjZJIp8NVi1h_BSsqZdj3vjihyphenhyphenxDirwtr5MDudBB4ZnwzplJ3-nOcSO9GhMoQcvOLRquuBnQiCucNW0L0EMfc6TEt0YoI5KZF6bQGlQidKG9/s640/blogger-image-1266458318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzszLYPDAFljRAiYduO88C18HCDeoBdINqgjZJIp8NVi1h_BSsqZdj3vjihyphenhyphenxDirwtr5MDudBB4ZnwzplJ3-nOcSO9GhMoQcvOLRquuBnQiCucNW0L0EMfc6TEt0YoI5KZF6bQGlQidKG9/s640/blogger-image-1266458318.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIyasd0Ib5lG6oZpPVHl2BJLopNhJhqckXFauTqLZGYalXk0B6vPMPfKJmptlc6a7LB-FItye3SM83snyu9CFFiTbLRQ83fYbh8M8VAwSfeAk1SeHJ8zkTC203r-QEWGoykiu296486ko/s640/blogger-image--171488095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEIyasd0Ib5lG6oZpPVHl2BJLopNhJhqckXFauTqLZGYalXk0B6vPMPfKJmptlc6a7LB-FItye3SM83snyu9CFFiTbLRQ83fYbh8M8VAwSfeAk1SeHJ8zkTC203r-QEWGoykiu296486ko/s640/blogger-image--171488095.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-16418502422629107192012-09-23T20:38:00.001-04:002012-10-24T13:09:45.693-04:00Party Hard-y!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Gosh, what a busy week.<br />
<br />
It's the week I decided to start painting the guest room, even though I was also prepping for my daughter's TENTH birthday. Holy crap. Ten years old.<br />
<br />
I went with a very typical fall theme. It's weird because my daughter is now at the age when cutesy themes just aren't cool anymore. It was a small affair of just family and two of my daughter's closest pals. The latter kept us up with their sleepover giggles and screams.<br />
<br />
Here are a few snacks and treats I prepared. Thanks to Pinterest, I scored some fabulous recipes and ideas for yummy things to serve. The best part is that they are all super easy to make. Pumpkin fluff dip literally consists of whipped cream, canned pumpkin, one package of instant vanilla pudding mix, and pie spice (nutmeg, cinnamon, clove). The skewers were made from sliced strawberries, lemon cake cut into rounds, and whipped cream. Mmmmm, someone loves whipped cream ...<br />
<br />
The acorn treats are fun to assemble, even of your kids want to help. I used almond Hershey Kisses, Voortmans mini coconut cookies, milk chocolate chips, and natural peanut butter for the glue. So. Good. And a little too easy to pop in your mouth, FYI.<br />
<br />
I love the vintage quality that pennant or bunting garlands lend to party decor. I buy scrapbooking paper when it goes on clearance at craft stores, because you never know when it might come in handy. So I used that to make my pennants and they are especially cute when paired with pom-poms in coordinating colours. For the place settings, I made name cards from patterned paper and secured them to pinecones. These were then nestled into folded bandanas, which I thought felt pretty country and tied into the fall theme. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5N9GNTmmPOSGhgrgcrtws29vnu8LYZMf3okXEE-dLBjlJZlFv3cao3TrQeWw9LzOyhQcqyrEhwzSQRDeagwB65_jqUSVkw0yszrCh7E752Ow-0sj4zZrmjktKbCTFUs22zrlTMXugb1u8/s640/blogger-image--1312241710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5N9GNTmmPOSGhgrgcrtws29vnu8LYZMf3okXEE-dLBjlJZlFv3cao3TrQeWw9LzOyhQcqyrEhwzSQRDeagwB65_jqUSVkw0yszrCh7E752Ow-0sj4zZrmjktKbCTFUs22zrlTMXugb1u8/s640/blogger-image--1312241710.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NMzR99UgFYpPXwOl49BDlWvqn36ODhUPlKzUZwbPvfi-DtV8OVqpep2Zh0urCk78A0WlxOeiI07FVQVMYeHJ2f54UT6lcX-tVJkRwXRdfuxRN8auww0yynjB5oQtADUfjDEk2lp_tl6T/s640/blogger-image--1756041870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NMzR99UgFYpPXwOl49BDlWvqn36ODhUPlKzUZwbPvfi-DtV8OVqpep2Zh0urCk78A0WlxOeiI07FVQVMYeHJ2f54UT6lcX-tVJkRwXRdfuxRN8auww0yynjB5oQtADUfjDEk2lp_tl6T/s640/blogger-image--1756041870.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxNCESiaxX6As1Hewg7mXokzp2AtiF4FsurVkmG8McurXJ0_omF8xSoLNVphDRZBLHjO1oAjFTTGSFsoLpepkhZUJIbkD6MAynua-OBN4DQ62S93DaGQ8V4hm815nVRwOneBz6E_aDOlQk/s640/blogger-image--758784726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxNCESiaxX6As1Hewg7mXokzp2AtiF4FsurVkmG8McurXJ0_omF8xSoLNVphDRZBLHjO1oAjFTTGSFsoLpepkhZUJIbkD6MAynua-OBN4DQ62S93DaGQ8V4hm815nVRwOneBz6E_aDOlQk/s640/blogger-image--758784726.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCZprSU7jIzyvLi_MuJynazZ6stqlba60LY4hNufLWLA9cOE9zrTPpVh5oaxdY4Df2wmKd7xuPJ6G8iBR0n4dp-oK5dmemWnR3OGIA44gZxl38OUC7Dg4l0sjEkgKzZQG4iBMWIggNuZNp/s640/blogger-image-1135369870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCZprSU7jIzyvLi_MuJynazZ6stqlba60LY4hNufLWLA9cOE9zrTPpVh5oaxdY4Df2wmKd7xuPJ6G8iBR0n4dp-oK5dmemWnR3OGIA44gZxl38OUC7Dg4l0sjEkgKzZQG4iBMWIggNuZNp/s640/blogger-image-1135369870.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-9Rnm9kiz90_Hzysk-LwWMJ59csjBUMc0dq-15fuihzwDF7o4DRIM4u-EoZyo1LIeAhH3naQnzghuHA_-96ieZhT8oDpRshBg6DhcFzASwT6SVpjRocEwjn1ezlTFhXCgTC_ElhE2Yiwh/s640/blogger-image--495805880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-9Rnm9kiz90_Hzysk-LwWMJ59csjBUMc0dq-15fuihzwDF7o4DRIM4u-EoZyo1LIeAhH3naQnzghuHA_-96ieZhT8oDpRshBg6DhcFzASwT6SVpjRocEwjn1ezlTFhXCgTC_ElhE2Yiwh/s640/blogger-image--495805880.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6343069663535264836.post-560046255838386902012-09-18T18:32:00.001-04:002012-10-24T13:10:05.089-04:00Yellow Vegetable Thai Curry<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Every now and then, I get the urge to have a creamy coconut curry with noodles. Since our little dude loves tofu (weird, right?), I figured I could throw something together to suit us all. <br />
<br />
I had picked up some smoked tofu the other day, which is something I've never seen before. Turns out, it's a great addition to this curry. <br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
1 yellow onion, roughly chopped<br />
2 tbsp vegetable oil<br />
1 tbsp puréed garlic<br />
1 tbsp puréed ginger<br />
1 tsp red Thai curry paste<br />
1 tsp turmeric<br />
3 tbsp natural peanut butter<br />
4 cups vegetables (I used sliced red peppers, white mushrooms, celery, carrots, and shredded zucchini)<br />
1 can of coconut milk<br />
1 pkg smoked tofu, cubed<br />
1/2 cup water<br />
Salt, to taste<br />
1 cup toasted almonds, cashews, or peanuts<br />
<br />
Heat oil in a pan and cook onion until golden. Add garlic, ginger purées and the curry paste and fry, being careful not to burn. You'll want to keep the heat on low for this part, as the puréed tend to spit - ouch!<br />
<br />
Throw in the vegetables, peanut butter, tofu and turmeric and fry for a few minutes, until everything is incorporated. Pour the coconut milk and water in and simmer for 15-20 minutes. It should thicken into a nice, creamy sauce. Don't forget to add your salt at this point, if you dig it.<br />
<br />
Serve on flat rice noodles or rice and sprinkle with toasted nuts. I have my almonds a little whir in the food processor before toasting, but you can do whatever the heck you want. Enjoy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj8xDVw_fH6Y8BJo09zolFmfS6j7rUjogMkTlCI9QVQCVqEounPMZiQG652_AAL6yr8rIwC-y-LUnxtVm95N7zochSZO4tcM32UwFVRH0TCqRKO9w_pRJ5e_g6QPIF8_3SpXMRV91mIYb_/s640/blogger-image--1562511875.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj8xDVw_fH6Y8BJo09zolFmfS6j7rUjogMkTlCI9QVQCVqEounPMZiQG652_AAL6yr8rIwC-y-LUnxtVm95N7zochSZO4tcM32UwFVRH0TCqRKO9w_pRJ5e_g6QPIF8_3SpXMRV91mIYb_/s640/blogger-image--1562511875.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYfRrxIo0Jc-QYhnX8wf18WtrfXIkFQ2n_SwzqaV8w1Y_Y4JRkiU-XpjwVbrB3AsN_zVrJBhUYq0u0bISVyFL8QS-KLW9wu5PC0T_iu-0FzV57rgQu28TjTSQJ1LD_kh3uCLS4R8CgsknJ/s640/blogger-image-1811169632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYfRrxIo0Jc-QYhnX8wf18WtrfXIkFQ2n_SwzqaV8w1Y_Y4JRkiU-XpjwVbrB3AsN_zVrJBhUYq0u0bISVyFL8QS-KLW9wu5PC0T_iu-0FzV57rgQu28TjTSQJ1LD_kh3uCLS4R8CgsknJ/s640/blogger-image-1811169632.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIAbaftccXAHT6fCTHNr0316BhQ6xZfunqa0qmf0xDRTwGdGpzz6O4GcqUkDZ88DEWbViNLu3OLb_4TR5_niXAlvxNRC-Cj9VqNaVTSByqAKAk_1ulfBrB_IrPxWZxklT5dIzbvzI2yGK/s640/blogger-image--973851286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIAbaftccXAHT6fCTHNr0316BhQ6xZfunqa0qmf0xDRTwGdGpzz6O4GcqUkDZ88DEWbViNLu3OLb_4TR5_niXAlvxNRC-Cj9VqNaVTSByqAKAk_1ulfBrB_IrPxWZxklT5dIzbvzI2yGK/s640/blogger-image--973851286.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovtLlnBpuWPw-H6w6ZeYHGMKgZESuiseoWTjcI84VC5TEvY1wCxMJ18oc2MsurYzYrBRPWLHIh01DPjR7Gakg_l8wqcFwue1qSEXSxvogYcP26igCckSVy7Z_35sMXmcbW509t9-7G1yv/s640/blogger-image-1271739879.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovtLlnBpuWPw-H6w6ZeYHGMKgZESuiseoWTjcI84VC5TEvY1wCxMJ18oc2MsurYzYrBRPWLHIh01DPjR7Gakg_l8wqcFwue1qSEXSxvogYcP26igCckSVy7Z_35sMXmcbW509t9-7G1yv/s640/blogger-image-1271739879.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
MamaJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03461955371948878449noreply@blogger.com0