tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16133818930752510792024-03-13T08:50:20.795-07:00Finley and OliverUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger201125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-83709935298679368182013-05-09T10:01:00.000-07:002013-05-09T10:01:59.406-07:00{Locals} Arizona Restaurant Week PreviewI feel like I'm always apologizing for my sporadic posting but as I know many of you can relate, life gets in the way of these things. Sorry about that. I've been busy, busy with my other job but wanted to pop over here and share with my local friends that the most edible time of year is fast approaching! <a href="http://www.arizonarestaurantweek.com/">Arizona Restaurant Week</a> (May 18th through 27th). ARW gives food lovers the opportunity to enjoy a
prix-fixe dinner at a number of participating Arizona
restaurants. Seriously, don't miss out on this. Jason and I love to eat out but with two little guys and a limited budget, it doesn't happen as often as we like. ARW is the time of year we make it a point to get out and try a new place - we are never disappointed. Ever. <br />
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I was invited to attend a preview the other night (how lucky am I?) and sample
some of the offerings from four different valley restaurants who are
participating. All of the restaurants were amazing - totally different vibes and I had a blast shooting photos of them.<br />
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<a href="http://www.taggiascottsdale.com/"> Taggia</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.searsucker.com/">Searsucker</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.benandjackssteakhouse.com/home.html">Ben & Jack's Steak House</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tFCgT82DiRI/UYvUP8lwj1I/AAAAAAAADHk/x-5DUvlxBzM/s1600/IMG_9730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tFCgT82DiRI/UYvUP8lwj1I/AAAAAAAADHk/x-5DUvlxBzM/s640/IMG_9730.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.davantiscottsdale.com/">Davanti Enoteca</a> </div>
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You can find a full list of participating restaurants <a href="http://www.arizonarestaurantweek.com/">here</a>.<br /><br />Book your sitter and try something new! Trust me - you won't regret it.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-75515537581817512632013-01-16T10:11:00.001-08:002013-01-16T13:17:27.297-08:00DIY Heart Pillow Cover<div style="text-align: center;">
I am not one to go overboard for Valentine's Day. It's a fun day and the kids love it but I don't think I've ever decorated my home in hearts or anything like that. Until now. I'm a minimalist by nature but who can resist a little (or big) hot pink heart here and there? Not me.</div>
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This tutorial is SUPER easy and is a quick way to add some pop by dressing up a plain pillow cover.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pct6pxULy6o/UPbqg5FoExI/AAAAAAAADBY/HBbsqVD3TvY/s1600/IMG_4099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pct6pxULy6o/UPbqg5FoExI/AAAAAAAADBY/HBbsqVD3TvY/s640/IMG_4099.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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What you'll need:</div>
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<li>A plain pillow cover (I prewashed mine). If you don't have one on hand and don't want to buy one, there are a ton of great tutorials online for sewing pillow covers (I'm not that ambitious).</li>
<li>Pillow insert (both my pillow cover and insert came from IKEA but you can find them all over) </li>
<li>Felt - I used Rainbow Classic eco fi felt on this one because I'll probably need to wash it</li>
<li>Sewing machine (you could always hand sew it if you don't have a machine)</li>
<li>Scissors, pins, and paper</li>
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Getting started:</div>
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My pillow cover measured 20 x 20 so I taped four sheets of paper together to measure the same. I hand drew a heart on the paper. You can get a heart template online but I like the wonky style of a hand drawn heart.</div>
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Use your template and cut out the heart from your felt.</div>
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Place your heart on your pillow cover and pin it into place (be sure to pin it to just the top of layer of the cover).</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-laaxVYEDK1I/UPbr7FdKuzI/AAAAAAAADB4/ZubhnNyyAWk/s1600/IMG_4087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-laaxVYEDK1I/UPbr7FdKuzI/AAAAAAAADB4/ZubhnNyyAWk/s640/IMG_4087.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Slide the opening of the cover onto your sewing machine arm and sew into place. This part was a little tricky because my pillow cover is really thick so I really had to maneuver it around the arm of my machine. Be extra careful to only sew it to the top layer of the cover.</div>
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Stuff your pillow inside and you're finished.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l8r3WhvlKnE/UPcXnCVT8sI/AAAAAAAADFo/InZGFJ6WonE/s1600/IMG_4100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l8r3WhvlKnE/UPcXnCVT8sI/AAAAAAAADFo/InZGFJ6WonE/s640/IMG_4100.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Super easy and fun. Quick enough and inexpensive enough that I'm happy to have it out for just a few short weeks.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LAtpsGzLi7c/UPbsxDGWY0I/AAAAAAAADCQ/IQ164CYSzYw/s1600/IMG_4108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LAtpsGzLi7c/UPbsxDGWY0I/AAAAAAAADCQ/IQ164CYSzYw/s640/IMG_4108.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Let me know if you have any questions. Cheers!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-39951764401899120262013-01-11T10:41:00.001-08:002013-01-11T10:41:52.480-08:00Six.<div style="text-align: center;">
A few days after Christmas, my Finley turned six. The tiny baby with the giant head who could barely wait to make his grand entrance, is now SIX YEARS OLD! I didn't expect that six would be such a big deal for me but it is. It's as if overnight he has become more thoughtful, patient, mature, and caring. I am liking six very much (but I'll try not tempt fate because he's only been six for a couple of weeks). </div>
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Love this little guy.</div>
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And on a totally separate note, I am starting to feel a bit crafty again so I'm thinking that a tutorial (or two) for Valentine's Day is in order. Until then, you can check out some tutorials from last Valentine's Day <a href="http://www.finleyandoliver.com/2011/09/diy-appliqued-love-tee.html">here</a>, <a href="http://www.finleyandoliver.com/2012/01/diy-valentines-banner.html">here</a>, and <a href="http://www.finleyandoliver.com/2012/01/diy-puffy-hearts-mustache.html">here</a>. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-71048020265433080842012-12-18T13:49:00.001-08:002012-12-18T13:49:44.121-08:00<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello! Remember me? I used to blog here once upon a time. I've been totally absent from the blog and I apologize for that. Just taking a little break from things to soak up my family and prepare for Christmas.</div>
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Wishing you and yours peace, comfort, love, and joy this holiday season. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-7066667416280319772012-11-01T11:25:00.003-07:002012-11-01T11:25:48.580-07:00We have to wait a whole 'nother year<div style="text-align: center;">
Finley is so bummed that we have to "wait a whole 'nother year" to go trick or treating again. We had an awesome time and I think the boys would agree it was the best Halloween yet complete with great food, family, crazy festive neighborhood, haunted house, and a boat load of candy.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-10098051414943687702012-10-15T09:18:00.000-07:002012-10-15T09:22:56.081-07:00Fall Break at Disneyland<div style="text-align: center;">
The boys had their fall break from school last week so we took them to Disneyland for a few days. We waited until they were a little older so it was the first time for both of them. The experience couldn't have been any better for us. The boys totally rocked it - they were agreeable, patient, excited, happy, etc. They were back to their normal selves when we got home. ;)</div>
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We did have a few minor mishaps along the way including a mad search for deodorant (who forgets to put on deodorant before a long day at Disneyland??) and a wardrobe malfunction on Splash Mountain. </div>
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We had enough time that we were able to go on most rides and see the attractions that we wanted to. The boys loved every. single. bit. of. it. Each ride we went on was their favorite. One of the highlights was visiting the new Cars Land at California Adventure. You really feel like you're walking around in Radiator Springs (along with a gillion other people). Pretty cool.</div>
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Although the kids were troopers, we did a lot of resting and sitting around waiting for parades so that we didn't completely wear them out. </div>
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Our last day there we had a Magic Morning so we were able to get into the park an hour early. We managed to squeeze in several rides and finished up our day with a butt kicking to the dark side.</div>
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Overall it was an amazing Disneyland experience for our family. Looking forward to doing it again in a few years.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-30427510680717744402012-10-01T10:30:00.000-07:002012-10-01T11:14:55.065-07:00Tap the Cask<div style="text-align: center;">
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We spent some time this weekend at our favorite little escape here in Arizona - <a href="http://www.pagespringscellars.com/">Page Springs Cellars</a>. They hosted a "Tap the Cask" event for members and we were treated to a discussion about harvesting and fermenting led by winemaker Eric Glomski. By far, the highlight of the day for me was getting to spend time in
their cellar. The lighting was definitely a challenge but I had fun
photographing (and tasting) barrels upon barrels of some really remarkable wines.</div>
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The boys even tagged along with us and spent the afternoon fishing, playing bean bag toss next to the vines, LEGOs on the deck, and reveling in the attention of the super friendly and welcoming PSC staff. As usual, we didn't want to leave but are looking to our next visit again in the near future. </div>
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Happy Monday.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-18294968843593938352012-09-25T10:38:00.001-07:002012-09-25T13:58:19.916-07:00DIY Superhero Costume<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Finley wants to be a superhero this year and I know I could buy a superhero costume for him at the store (complete with built in muscles), but I knew this one would be fun to make and I couldn't pass up the chance to use the tackiest, shiniest fabric I could get my hands on. </div>
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This costume was pretty easy to make and took me about 3ish hours total. You'll notice above that he is wearing a headband rather than the mask I made. He hated wearing the mask. He hated wearing his mask last year so I should have had a clue. Anyhow, I made him a headband instead. I'm including templates for both so you can choose which one floats your kid's boat. </div>
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I broke this tutorial down into three different segments: the t-shirt, the cape, and the headband/mask. You can make just one part or all three. </div>
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<b>What you'll need for the superhero t-shirt:</b></div>
<ul>
<li>T-shirt in color of your choice</li>
<li>Two sheets of felt in contrasting colors - for washability and durability, I recommend eco-fi felt by Kunin</li>
<li>Fusible webbing - for this project, I used Heat n Bond lite</li>
<li>Lighting bolt template (or you can draw your own) - download <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/106932016/Lightning-Bolt">here</a></li>
<li>Child's initial template. There are a lot of free comic fonts available online. I used <a href="http://www.dafont.com/comica-bd.font">comica bd</a>. You can download the font of your choice and create your own template for the initial. (The initial template will need to be backwards because the image will be reversed once you've put your applique together).</li>
<li>Sewing machine/thread</li>
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<li>Take your lighting bolt and initial templates and place them under your fusible webbing. Trace them.</li>
<li>Iron them onto your sheets of felt following the instructions for your fusible webbing. If you're using Heat n Bond, iron them for a few seconds on the wool setting (NO steam).</li>
<li>Carefully cut them out.</li>
<li>Iron the lighting bolt onto the t-shirt following the instructions for your fusible webbing. Again, if you're using Heat n Bond, you'll iron on the wool setting (NO steam). I like to place a scrap piece of fabric over the appliques on this step just to be safe. Make sure the applique is firmly adhered. Machine stitch the lighting bolt to the t-shirt (I used a running stitch). </li>
<li>Iron the initial on top of the lighting bolt applique. Machine stitch. </li>
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<b>What you'll need for the cape:</b></div>
<ul>
<li>You'll need a cape. There are so many great tutorials on the web (like <a href="http://www.georgialeigh.com/?p=57">this one</a> and <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/852619/superhero-cape-and-t-shirt-how">this one</a>) for making capes and I didn't feel the need to reinvent the wheel. Laziness on my part? Perhaps. Both of the tutorials I linked also include instructions for the applique on the back so you can go with theirs or you can follow below to make one that matches the tee.</li>
<li>Three sheets of felt. One to match the color of your t-shirt and the other two to match the applique that you made for the the tee. Again, I recommend eco-fi felt by Kunin.</li>
<li>Lighting bolt template - download <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/106932016/Lightning-Bolt">here</a></li>
<li>Child's initial template (use the same one you used for the t-shirt). </li>
<li>Fusible webbing</li>
<li>Sewing machine/thread</li>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-96T1ArI88QU/UGHl8UkV_8I/AAAAAAAACvE/YIGZqRPSE_M/s1600/Cape+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-96T1ArI88QU/UGHl8UkV_8I/AAAAAAAACvE/YIGZqRPSE_M/s640/Cape+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<li>Just as you did for the t-shirt, trace your lighting bolt and initial templates onto fusible webbing. Iron them onto the felt and cut them out. You'll also want to cut out a circle large enough to fit your lightning bolt and initial inside. I did NOT use fusible webbing on my red circle since the shiny cape fabric I used cannot be ironed. </li>
<li>Iron the lightning bolt onto the red circle.</li>
<li>Machine stitch the bolt onto the circle</li>
<li>Place your initial onto the lightning bolt and iron. Machine stitch on.</li>
<li>Since I did not use fusible webbing on my red circle, I pinned it onto the cape and machine stitched it on.</li>
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<b> What you'll need for the mask or headband:</b></div>
<ul>
<li>Two sheets of felt. I used contrasting colors to match the applique on the cape and tee but they could be the same color if you choose.</li>
<li>Fusible webbing</li>
<li>Elastic</li>
<li>Sewing machine/thread</li>
<li>Template - download the headband <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/106931976/Headband">here</a> or the mask <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/106931984/Mask-Headband">here</a>. These templates are sized to fit my 5 year old's head - you may have to adjust accordingly. The instructions are the same for the mask and headband.</li>
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<ol>
<li>Place your mask or headband template under the fusible webbing and trace.</li>
<li>Iron it onto the felt. </li>
<li>Carefully cut it out. Iron it onto the second sheet of felt.</li>
<li>Carefully cut it out.</li>
<li>Machine stitch together.</li>
<li>Not pictured. Stitch on some elastic for the band (measure your child's head for best fit).</li>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cEhow8BudSU/UGHrDQyLcXI/AAAAAAAACv8/xpAIAgvWXRg/s1600/Bat1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cEhow8BudSU/UGHrDQyLcXI/AAAAAAAACv8/xpAIAgvWXRg/s640/Bat1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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In case you were wondering, Oliver is going to be a bat. I made him some killer ears and a mask to match his wings but he won't wear them either (these kids!). </div>
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If you get hung up on any of the steps or have any questions, don't hesitate to let me know. Good luck! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-15849509234718965952012-09-24T10:44:00.002-07:002012-09-25T09:08:08.992-07:00As if having three legs wasn't hard enough<div style="text-align: center;">
I was looking forward to photographing Finley in his superhero Halloween costume so I could get the tutorial posted a few days ago. However, my poor Johnny had other plans. Fin was all excited to be dressed up in his costume the other evening and before I could snap the first photo, we noticed that Johnny could hardly walk across the yard. Every second or third step, his front leg (the only one he has!) would give out on him and he'd do a face plant. I panicked and took him to the doggie ER. Since he only has the one good leg up front, I was worried that he'd injured it.</div>
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It turns out that he has hypertrophic osteodystrophy (HOD). It's a bone disease that can affect young, rapidly growing dogs. Fortunately, he will outgrow this disease when his bones are done growing. Unfortunately, it is extremely painful for him to walk right now so his leg gives out every few steps (as if it wasn't hard enough with three legs). His mind is still incredibly active but his body can't keep up so he's feeling down in the dumps. Anorexia and depression are symptoms of HOD so we're doing our best to snuggle him, support him, and entertain him. This poor guy has had such a rough start to life - he needs to catch a break.<br />
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Even Sodapop is bummed out that her wrestling buddy and partner in crime is out of commission for a while. </div>
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We were able to entertain him for most of Sunday. He sat on the porch and watched Oliver make snow angels (yep.) in the water.</div>
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Love that wacky kid.</div>
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Anyhow, have any of you heard of HOD or have any experience with it?<br />
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9/25/12 Update: Johnny seems to be feeling a bit better this morning. He's spent a fair amount of time walking around the yard. His gait is off but he's not falling quite as often. Hoping this is a sign of good things. </div>
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PS - will have the superhero costume tutorial posted in the next couple of days. Promise!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-16681389376319843832012-09-17T10:09:00.003-07:002012-09-17T10:15:43.004-07:00Signs of Fall<div style="text-align: center;">
After enduring a scorching summer here in the desert, I am always clinging to and looking for signs of fall. It is my favorite season and sadly, we don't get too much of it around here. However, I am definitely noticing some early signs of cooler, crisper weather this year. It might be a stretch since our days are still hovering around 100 but the mornings and evenings are absolutely perfect.</div>
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One sure sign for us that cooler weather (remember, it's a relative term for us) is here is that the girls don't touch their feed. They are out ranging all day foraging for their own food. In the summer, they're too hot to work that hard so they gobble their feed right up. Also, egg production is way down because the three older hens are molting and I'm thinking that the young girls will start any day now too.</div>
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Even Sodapop and Johnny are noticing the change of seasons. They pretty much hole up inside during the hotter months but they are spending as much time as possible outdoors - especially in the mornings. Johnny can't get enough of the cool, soft dichondra. </div>
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We've been getting out more too. We've resumed our evening walks around the neighborhood to visit our animal friends. We were stoked to see some new turkeys down the road. These guys (and gals?) are a kick to watch and listen to. I'm pretty sure they'll disappear in a couple of months though.</div>
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I gave Finley an old point and shoot camera and he is in absolute heaven. The kid loves to bring his camera on our walks to take pictures of the animals (and other random things).</div>
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And the best sign of fall? HALLOWEEN! My favorite holiday by far. I spent a few hours this weekend whipping up Finley's costume (tutorial coming soon) and plan to get started on Oliver's this week. </div>
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We've got a lot of fun plans for the season including the boys' first trip to Disneyland, a visit to <a href="http://www.pagespringscellars.com/">Page Springs Cellars</a>, some college football games, Halloween hijinks, and a few concerts. Good times - looking forward to it all. I hope you guys are enjoying this change of season as much as I am.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-19238198483908099982012-09-12T05:00:00.000-07:002012-09-12T05:00:01.033-07:00What He Wore: BOY style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aNugqfr_9yY/UE9vnoBcJyI/AAAAAAAACoc/KeaJF0sDv4M/s1600/finley+and+oliver+what+he+wore+blog+banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aNugqfr_9yY/UE9vnoBcJyI/AAAAAAAACoc/KeaJF0sDv4M/s640/finley+and+oliver+what+he+wore+blog+banner.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I've had several lovely people send me photos of their little men for BOY style but I took a break from regular posting over the summer so they've had to wait month and months. Sorry, friends. I am excited to *finally* share these cuties with all of you! Love how they are all rocking their own unique styles. </div>
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First up we have handsome brothers, Sam and Will! </div>
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On Sam:</div>
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Plaid shirt and shorts: <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/">Janie and Jack</a> </div>
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T-shirt: <a href="http://www.thechildrensplace.com/">The Children's Place</a></div>
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On Will: </div>
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Shorts and hat: <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/">Janie and Jack</a></div>
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T-shirt: <a href="http://www.thechildrensplace.com/">The Children's Place</a></div>
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Beautiful photos by <a href="http://www.michelletiekphotography.com/">Michelle Tiek Photography</a></div>
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Next we have Oliver and Peyton! Loving their matching outfits from one of my favorite places to shop for my boys.</div>
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Shirts, shoes, and pants: <a href="http://www.hm.com/">H&M</a></div>
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And last but definitely not least, we have little rocker Jackson! </div>
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Hat and T-shirt: <a href="http://www.gap.com/">Gap</a></div>
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Plaid shirt and jeans: <a href="http://www.thechildrensplace.com/">The Children's Place</a></div>
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Tie: <a href="http://shop.alamodish.com/Gavin_Tie_Canary_Yellow_p/sp8-2011-06.htm">A la modish</a></div>
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Shoes: <a href="http://www.converse.com/">Converse</a></div>
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Photos by Jackson's mama at <a href="http://www.dfpphotography.com/">DFP Photography</a></div>
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Thank you ladies for sharing some great BOY style with us and for being patient with me the past couple of months.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-11364069554033384852012-09-11T09:43:00.000-07:002014-10-29T17:19:56.457-07:00DIY Skeleton Costume<div style="text-align: center;">
I love making the boys Halloween costumes each year and I'm busy prepping for this years costumes. Finley wants be a super hero (Super Fin) and Oliver wants to be a bat. I'm glad that they both chose things that are still kind of classic and will be fun for me to make. I hope to get them made soon so I can document the process in case any of you would like to see.</div>
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Some of you might remember that I made skeleton costumes for the boys last year. I've had a bunch of questions about the construction of their costumes so I thought I'd share how I put them together. These were a bit more labor intensive (time wise) than other DIYs I've posted but they were not hard to make and they turned out RAD! Totally worth the effort.</div>
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<b>What you'll need:</b></div>
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<li>Long sleeved t-shirt </li>
<li>Matching leggings </li>
<li>White felt (Eco-fi felt by Kunin is the best for holding up in the wash)</li>
<li>*Fusible webbing (I used Heat n Bond Ultrahold for this project)</li>
<li>Scissors (small scissors with a pointy tip work best)</li>
<li>**Skeleton Template - download <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/105501908/Skeleton-Costume-Template">here</a>. The mask is not included in the template.</li>
<li>Embroidery floss in color of your choice (I used black on Oliver's and red on Finley's)</li>
<li>If you make the mask, you'll need elastic for the band and a piece of black felt and white felt </li>
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*Since I use Heat n Bond, my instructions will follow Heat n Bond's
instructions. If you are using a different fusible web, simply change
out my instructions with the instructions on the package. </div>
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**I scoured the web last year for a template I could use for the boys' costumes. I wasn't able to find one so I came up with my own by taking measurements of the kids. I'm warning you that my template is pretty rudimentary but I like it that way. It would most likely fit costumes in the 3T/4T size range. If you want to make the costume bigger or smaller, just adjust the size of the template.</div>
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I did not take photos when I made these costumes but I know you guys are smart and I will answer any questions you may have. If you want to see photos of my applique process, check out any of my <a href="http://www.finleyandoliver.com/p/tutorials.html">applique tutorials</a> and you'll get a good idea of what's in store for you.</div>
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<b>Directions:</b></div>
<ol>
<li>Print out skeleton <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/105501908/Skeleton-Costume-Template">template</a> and adjust size if needed. </li>
<li>Place the template under your fusible webbing and trace all of the bones.</li>
<li>Iron the webbing/bones that you traced onto your felt. For Heat n Bond, set it on the "wool" setting (NO STEAM). Iron
the design onto the felt for about 3 or so seconds</li>
<li>Cut out all of the bones. Small, pointy scissors will make it easy to get in between the ribs and cut out some of the small openings.</li>
<li>Peel off the wax paper from the back of the bones.</li>
<li>Carefully place the bones where you want them on the shirt and leggings and iron them on for about 10 seconds (remember, no steam). For this step, I like to place a scrap piece of fabric between the applique and the iron for extra protection. Check to be sure that all of your bones are firmly adhered.</li>
<li>Now that your bones are attached, you're ready to start the applique process. You can do
this with a machine or by hand. I'm a hand stitcher and although it took a while with both of these costumes, it was totally worth it - the stitching was the icing on top! To stitch by hand, cut about 3-4 feet of your
embroidery thread. Your skein of thread will have six strands.
Separate two of the strands from the piece you've cut and thread them
through your needle. I used a <a href="http://sewing.about.com/od/beginner1/ss/blanketstitch.htm">blanket stitch</a> for these costumes but a <a href="http://cyberseams.com/article/105045/basics/how_to_sew_by_hand_basic_stitches.html">straight stitch</a> (running stitch) would look great too. Pop in a movie (or two or three) because this part takes the longest. </li>
<li>I do not have a template for the mask and to be honest, my kids hated wearing them. If you want to make one, it's pretty simple. I took two pieces of different colored felt (I used black and white for one mask and white and grey for the other) and cut out two matching ovals that would cover the top half of their faces. I guesstimated where the boys' eyes were and cut out circles through both pieces of felt for the eyes. For the nose and teeth, I cut out just the white felt so that the darker, contrasting felt would show through. I then sewed an elastic band in and hand stitched them together using the same blanket stitch that I used on the body of the costume. </li>
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Once you're done, sit back and marvel at the handmade awesomeness that you've just created for your kiddos! And remember, it doesn't have to be perfect - that's part of the charm.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tAQ7Pj4Nwoo/UE9pvf_HCPI/AAAAAAAACnI/dW4auZBsx2Q/s1600/IMG_9946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tAQ7Pj4Nwoo/UE9pvf_HCPI/AAAAAAAACnI/dW4auZBsx2Q/s640/IMG_9946.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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ETA: The leggings and tees are from American Apparel.<br />
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As always, feel free to comment or message me at finleyandoliver@gmail.com if you have any questions. </div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-71915410547435188432012-09-04T07:22:00.000-07:002012-09-05T08:48:30.136-07:00What He Wore: BOY style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FqlW8NPLwoo/UEUe5yeol6I/AAAAAAAACfo/xLhsMAz7I2U/s1600/finley+and+oliver+what+he+wore+blog+banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FqlW8NPLwoo/UEUe5yeol6I/AAAAAAAACfo/xLhsMAz7I2U/s640/finley+and+oliver+what+he+wore+blog+banner.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's been a long few months but BOY style is back and I can't wait to show you guys my newest discovery for the little guys. Several weeks back a friend of mine posted a link on Facebook to<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/iLego"> iLego</a>. The second I clicked on over I knew my boys would flip when they saw the iLego tees. Especially the Ninjago ones.</div>
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I admit that I'm not a huge fan of character tees but I am a huge fan of anything LEGO and these shirts are pretty darn <b>rad</b>. They are well priced, well made by two creative mamas, and my boys think they are the coolest things ever. Win/win.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-huWMD21lNXQ/UEUgwNzOKVI/AAAAAAAACgA/QGg8thCo9KY/s1600/BoystyleLEGO1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-huWMD21lNXQ/UEUgwNzOKVI/AAAAAAAACgA/QGg8thCo9KY/s640/BoystyleLEGO1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-beTEr451NBA/UEUmHlC3RrI/AAAAAAAAChI/F5Us_yQpsHo/s1600/IMG_5087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-beTEr451NBA/UEUmHlC3RrI/AAAAAAAAChI/F5Us_yQpsHo/s640/IMG_5087.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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On Finley:</div>
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Blue ninjago tee - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/iLego">iLego</a></div>
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Jeans - Denizens from <a href="http://www.target.com/">Target</a></div>
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Shoes - <a href="http://www.converse.com/">Converse</a></div>
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Hat - <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/kids-clothing.jsp?navLoc=top_nav">Crewcuts</a></div>
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On Oliver:</div>
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Grey ninjago tee - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/iLego">iLego</a></div>
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Green pants - <a href="http://www.hm.com/">H&M</a></div>
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Shoes - <a href="http://www.vans.com/">Vans</a></div>
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Be sure to pop by the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/iLego">iLego shop</a> and check out their awesome tees. Also check out their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/iLego?ref=ts">Facebook page</a> because they offer some pretty generous coupon codes from time to time.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-40979150013825456052012-08-26T14:18:00.003-07:002012-08-26T14:28:23.203-07:00DIY Personalized One Piece<div style="text-align: center;">
A friend of mine is having a baby girl in the next couple of weeks and I wanted to make her a small gift to celebrate her upcoming arrival. Appliqued one pieces are usually my "go to" gift because they are fun to make and people always appreciate the thought and uniqueness that goes into them. Baby Liv will be adorable in this. How could she not?</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-53-tigouB4c/UDqNdy4-JbI/AAAAAAAACdI/tJizlzFDnbo/s1600/IMG_4811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-53-tigouB4c/UDqNdy4-JbI/AAAAAAAACdI/tJizlzFDnbo/s640/IMG_4811.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Making personalized one pieces and t-shirts is super easy following the exact same steps in my <a href="http://www.finleyandoliver.com/2011/09/diy-appliqued-love-tee.html">appliqued love tee tutorial</a>. The only difference is that you will create your own template. Simply type up the name or word of your choice in the font of your choice. A larger, chunkier font is always easiest for cutting and stitching. Another thing to keep in mind is that you will need to flip the text so that it is backwards on your template. The image will be reversed once you've put your applique together. (If you have questions about making your own template, feel free to let me know and I'll be happy to help).</div>
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These one pieces whip up pretty quick and make an awesome handmade baby gift. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NKJfKf1Sb8g/UDqPO0tZAQI/AAAAAAAACdg/y76yHHetBf4/s1600/IMG_4825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NKJfKf1Sb8g/UDqPO0tZAQI/AAAAAAAACdg/y76yHHetBf4/s640/IMG_4825.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Try it! I promise - super easy. Your friends will thank you. And so will their babies.</div>
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Follow the instructions in the tutorial <a href="http://www.finleyandoliver.com/2011/09/diy-appliqued-love-tee.html">here</a>.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-84735544001305722612012-08-22T10:41:00.000-07:002012-08-22T10:41:25.063-07:00Catching up<div style="text-align: center;">
I have to apologize for being seriously MIA from the blog these past few weeks. The boys started back to school and it's taken me a while to get back in my groove with the new schedule. Oliver started pre-k and Finley started kindergarten! Yes, kindergarten. I can't believe he's old enough to be in school all. day. long. And I can't believe I miss him as much as I do. I was itching to get those little guys out of my hair towards the end of summer and now I can't wait until it's time to pick them up each day. </div>
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Anyhow, they are loving school and having a blast.</div>
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I'm not usually one to dress my kids alike but they have to wear uniforms to school and holy heck, it makes things so much easier! </div>
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A few of you have asked how our <a href="http://www.finleyandoliver.com/2012/07/my-new-friend.html">Johnny</a> is doing and he is still fitting in like a champ and running around like he's got four legs (which he doesn't). He is totally living up the puppy stage that he didn't get in his earlier months and getting into everything he can (fortunately, he leaves the stuff inside the house alone for the most part but he can't keep sticks, rocks, pine cones, etc. out of his mouth) - we're working on that. He's a <b>super</b> curious and clumsy dog and the veterinarian was joking with me this morning that I might need to start a savings account for an inevitable emergency surgery. Yikes.</div>
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This post was a bit random but the point is that I'm alive and will be back to regular blogging soon! I've got some really fun BOY style features lined up that I'm looking forward to sharing with you and I'm hoping to whip up some tutorials for the best day of the year - HALLOWEEN! </div>
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Hope everyone is doing well.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-59771317179162249182012-07-30T12:57:00.000-07:002012-07-30T20:14:55.048-07:00Backyard Olympics<div style="text-align: center;">
We had our second annual (is it annual if it's every four years?) backyard Olympics yesterday and it was a blast. My mom spends hours organizing this event and pulls out all the stops. We were assigned our teams a few weeks ago so we had time to properly prepare.</div>
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I was selected to be the captain for Team USA and my number one priority was getting our team uniforms together. You know what they say, "It's not whether you win or lose, it's how awesome you look doing it." I whipped up the tees and actually had to fabric paint the socks. Who knew that the striped tube socks of our younger years would be so freakin' expensive now!? I blame the hipsters.</div>
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We had four teams representing in our Olympics: USA, Great Britain, France, and China. </div>
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The events ranged from shot put, shooting, diving, relays, etc. (These terms are all used <i>very</i> loosely).</div>
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Look at Jason's form! </div>
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Despite the storm that blew in in true British fashion, it was crazy hot so we moved on in for some diving and shooting.</div>
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We finished the games off with anthems, medals, and Cornish pasties. </div>
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Yes, we are big dorks. And yes, we totally embrace it. Looking forward to our games in 2016!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-88792039276408080032012-07-22T19:05:00.001-07:002012-07-22T19:14:55.508-07:00My New Friend<div style="text-align: center;">
I went to LA last weekend for an architectural photography workshop and came home with this little (big) guy. Meet Johnny.</div>
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Johnny is a 7 month old doberman who was rescued from a high kill shelter a few weeks ago. He had pneumonia, a severely deformed leg, and some battle scars including a hole in his ear. My best friend who is out to save the world one dog at a time, had been fostering him through an amazing <a href="http://www.westcoastanimalrescue.org/">rescue</a> the past few weeks following his rescue. She knew that we were looking to adopt a new dog for our family after we had to put my mom's dear old dog down a couple of months ago and suggested that Johnny (a.k.a. Brownie/Dobie) would be a perfect fit.</div>
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While he was being fostered, he had his leg amputated. It's only been three weeks and he is getting along like a champ. I'm absolutely amazed at how gentle and trusting he is considering what he's been through in his short little life. He's only been with us for a week now and we are all absolutely smitten with him. <br />
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Johnny is a super snuggly guy and the boys and Sodapop can't get enough of him. Sodapop was particularly depressed over the loss of her dear friend so Johnny has been a welcome addition for her.<br />
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I am so grateful to <a href="http://www.westcoastanimalrescue.org/">West Coast Animal Rescue</a> for saving sweet Johnny from certain euthanization. Dozens of people donated to help Johnny on the road to recovery including my amazing BFF and we are so incredibly thankful. This guy is such a gift to us and we promise to give him the life he deserves.<br />
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{A missing leg definitely isn't slowing this guy down}</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-70094948843565174932012-07-06T09:58:00.000-07:002012-07-06T10:00:34.902-07:00Keeping Chickens Cool<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w-pDa-OL73Q/T_cT_7LiCGI/AAAAAAAACXY/FozjEkaslCY/s1600/IMG_1060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w-pDa-OL73Q/T_cT_7LiCGI/AAAAAAAACXY/FozjEkaslCY/s640/IMG_1060.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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I have been getting a lot of traffic lately to <a href="http://www.finleyandoliver.com/2011/06/keeping-chickens-cool.html">this post</a> from last summer about how I keep my chickens cool so I thought I'd put up a quick little refresher for everyone. I am not a chicken expert by any means but have come across so many great tips and tricks from other chicken owners that we have incorporated for our girls. Because it is always in the triple digits here during the summer and early fall months, we strive to keep our girls as comfortable as possible.</div>
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<b>Our chicken essentials for summer: </b></div>
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<li>Plenty of shade. It is important that chickens have lots of shady spots to enjoy during the heat of summer and our coop and chicken yard is shaded throughout the day.</li>
<li>Plenty of fresh water. Our girls have three different water sources available to them. I don't know if it's true but I have been told that chickens don't like to walk through direct sunlight on a super hot day to access water so we've got water placed in all of their favorite hangouts.</li>
<li>Ventilation. Our coop has plenty of ventilation to help keep air moving. We also ran electrical to our coop last summer and installed a fan in the ceiling that is now on 24/7.</li>
<li>We have 4 large terracotta plant saucers in their "chicken yard" and fill them with fresh water each morning and afternoon. The girls love to stand in them and wet their feet. We also like to freeze milk cartons and large plastic bottles with water and place them in the saucers to keep them cool.</li>
<li>No scratch. I don't give the chickens any scratch treats in the summer no matter how hard they beg for it. Their bodies have to work too hard to break scratch down which causes them to heat up.</li>
<li>The best investment we have made in keeping our girls comfortable is a $10 dollar portable mister from the local hardware store. It attaches to our hose and we keep it on during the hottest parts of the day in their chicken yard. The girls love it and spend the majority of the afternoon hanging out underneath the mist.</li>
<li>Occasionally we'll make the girls veggie popsicles. We'll chop up leftover veggies from the garden and place them in a tupperware container filled with water. Freeze and then let them enjoy. </li>
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If you have any tried and true tips you'd like to share, please do. We're always looking for new ideas to keep the chickens happy and comfortable.</div>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-18537279131814376912012-06-28T16:33:00.000-07:002012-06-29T15:47:47.387-07:00DIY {BE...} Appliqued Tees<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2p6kI_T5fHs/T-zdWJv-39I/AAAAAAAACUU/IEZJK7tGwgc/s1600/scottsdale-child-photographer-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2p6kI_T5fHs/T-zdWJv-39I/AAAAAAAACUU/IEZJK7tGwgc/s640/scottsdale-child-photographer-8.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is going to be one of the very few tutorials I post over the summer and I'm really excited to share it with you. My good friend <a href="http://www.laurawinslowphotography.com/">Laura</a> of <a href="http://www.laurawinslowphotography.com/">Laura Winslow Photography</a> and I were chatting over dinner a few weeks ago how our little guys (both just 5 years old) are *already* starting to feel pressure from friends and classmates to act a certain way, hang out with certain kids, or do certain things. We both feel strongly (really, I'm sure most parents do) that it's our job to give them the confidence and sense of self worth that they need to be comfortable with who they are. We came up with these designs and this super fun shoot to help our kiddos learn to embrace who they are and let their unique personalities really shine. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4r-MHfBfz-w/T-zfZ6i6YjI/AAAAAAAACUs/cBuGlDmgR2I/s1600/scottsdale-child-photographer-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4r-MHfBfz-w/T-zfZ6i6YjI/AAAAAAAACUs/cBuGlDmgR2I/s640/scottsdale-child-photographer-21.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Laura is not only an amazing photographer, but she is the one person who can really get my kids to be themselves in front of the camera. They had such a blast with this shoot and it was so fun to see Laura in action. I'm pretty sure her mantra is BE AWESOME - because she totally is. To see more photos from our fun day (and to read a <b>far more eloquent</b> reasoning behind this idea), you can visit Laura's blog <a href="http://laurawinslowphotography.com/blog/2012/06/28/celebrate-inspired-shoot-finley-oliver-tutorial-laura-winslow-photography/">here</a>. Take your time. It's pretty amazing.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ReFOzz4f66k/T-zd3y_tfNI/AAAAAAAACUc/JOd0L3ORL80/s1600/scottsdale-child-photographer-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ReFOzz4f66k/T-zd3y_tfNI/AAAAAAAACUc/JOd0L3ORL80/s640/scottsdale-child-photographer-5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We thought it would be fun to create a tutorial of this and share these three designs with you all. Yay for you! Aside from the designs you see in these photos, you can create so many others...BE UNIQUE, BE YOURSELF, BE HAPPY, etc. I kept these designs short so I didn't have to sew too many letters. </div>
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<b>What You'll Need:</b></div>
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Blank t-shirt, one piece, or tank (pre-washed)
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Felt or fabric piece for the applique (I prefer to use eco-fi felt by Kunin - it holds up great in the wash)</div>
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Sewing Machine or embroidery floss and needle</div>
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Scissors (small scissors with a pointy tip work best)</div>
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Fusible webbing </div>
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Templates for the applique (download here - <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/98593045/berad">BE RAD</a>, <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/98593046/Becool">BE COOL</a>, <a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/98593047/bekind">BE KIND</a>).
Adjust the size of your template as needed. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RxGlRecsYgk/T-zhh4Qrp-I/AAAAAAAACU8/wzk9j5OWV8E/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RxGlRecsYgk/T-zhh4Qrp-I/AAAAAAAACU8/wzk9j5OWV8E/s640/PicMonkey+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Since I use Heat n Bond, my instructions will follow Heat n Bond's
instructions. If you are using a different fusible web, simply change
out my instructions with the instructions on the package. If you have
any questions, don't hesitate to contact me and I can help you.<b> </b><br />
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<b>Getting Started:</b><br />
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The first thing you'll want to do is take the template and
place it under a sheet of your fusible webbing. Take your pencil and
trace your letters on to the webbing. Any time you applique letters or numbers,
you'll want to trace them in the reverse since you will flip them when
you adhere them to your garment.</div>
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Next you'll want to iron your webbing onto your felt or
fabric. For Heat n Bond, set it on the "wool" setting (NO STEAM). Iron
the design onto the felt or fabric for about 3 or so seconds so it looks
like this:</div>
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Carefully cut out your letters. Peel off the paper backing.</div>
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Place the letters exactly where you want them on the t-shirt with the
glossy/fusible webbing side face down. Iron the appliques on to the
t-shirt pressing for about 10
seconds. I ironed BE first and then KIND second. Again be sure to
use the wool setting with no steam. Check to
be sure that the appliques are firmly adhered to the shirt.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bu99JsLBHlQ/T-zg-GD9CqI/AAAAAAAACU0/jgSg-CDdQJY/s1600/IMG_0207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bu99JsLBHlQ/T-zg-GD9CqI/AAAAAAAACU0/jgSg-CDdQJY/s640/IMG_0207.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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At this point, you can either hand stitch the letters using a basic straight stitch (great tutorial <a href="http://cyberseams.com/article/105045/basics/how_to_sew_by_hand_basic_stitches.html">here</a>)
or you can use a sewing machine. I usually prefer to hand stitch but
for this project I used my machine. If you use your machine, you'll do a
running stitch just inside the border of each letter.<br />
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Once the letters are stitched, trim the thread and you are finished.<br />
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Easy, fun, cute, encouraging.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gXERFlSyQsg/T-zkJhMAxVI/AAAAAAAACVk/EcpHirlA9tU/s1600/scottsdale-child-photographer-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gXERFlSyQsg/T-zkJhMAxVI/AAAAAAAACVk/EcpHirlA9tU/s640/scottsdale-child-photographer-16.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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As always, if you get stuck on a step, feel free to let me know so I can help!</div>
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A HUGE thank you to <a href="http://www.laurawinslowphotography.com/">Laura Winslow Photography</a> for these amazing photos and designs.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-77493162089305208022012-06-19T11:45:00.000-07:002012-06-19T11:57:53.000-07:00Camping at Big Lake<div style="text-align: center;">
This past weekend we took the boys camping up at Big Lake (near Eagar, AZ). This is one of the few areas of Arizona I've yet to visit and I was absolutely blown away at the beauty. If you've never been to Arizona or you've just stuck to the Phoenix area, you might not know that there are rich, green pine forests and rolling meadows covering a lot of the state. Although I love the raw beauty of the desert, it's nice to escape (especially when it's 110+ degrees).</div>
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I grew up camping and used to be able to hang with the best of them but
since I've gotten older, I've learned that I appreciate a few camping
"luxuries" like flush toilets and showers. I did my research and found
the perfect campground for us - Apache Trout Campground right next to Big
Lake. Gorgeous. As soon as we arrived, the boys dove right in and
started exploring.</div>
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Sticks and dirt. Life doesn't get much better for Oliver.</div>
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Once we got settled, we headed down to the lake to check it out. We could have stayed there for hours but it was getting super cold so we headed back for dinner.</div>
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Unfortunately, I decided it would be a really fun idea to come down with strep throat after a five hour drive to go camping so we had to cut our trip short after just one night. I did manage to pump enough ibuprofen so we could spend the next morning exploring roads to nowhere, giant skies and giant clouds before we headed home.</div>
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Thankfully, I am on the mend and looking forward to another adventure this weekend. More on that soon. I hope you are all staying healthy and enjoying summer!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-86468373409569224062012-06-06T08:19:00.001-07:002012-06-08T13:10:42.482-07:00Blogging Over at All for the Boys<div style="text-align: center;">
As a mom of two little guys, <a href="http://www.allfortheboys.com/">All for the Boys</a> is one of the few blogs I
read daily and I'm excited to be guest blogging for my friend Allison
today while she's on vacation with her family. It's a tutorial you may have seen here but in case you haven't, pop on over there and <a href="http://www.allfortheboys.com/home/2012/6/6/diy-appliqued-tee.html">check it out</a>. And while you're there, check out all of the other guests posts she's lined up so far - fun, fun stuff. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i3CHx5Y6Uvo/T89zoFTIJtI/AAAAAAAACRA/NCgb-Z_5uhU/s1600/431104_262045667206248_79316986_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i3CHx5Y6Uvo/T89zoFTIJtI/AAAAAAAACRA/NCgb-Z_5uhU/s200/431104_262045667206248_79316986_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Thanks for having me, Allison!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-25091959933457236962012-05-31T19:08:00.001-07:002012-05-31T19:11:00.845-07:00Slowing things down...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RoU7G4wionQ/T8gh1aMIvtI/AAAAAAAACQs/Zs7XHKALJV0/s1600/IMG_1205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RoU7G4wionQ/T8gh1aMIvtI/AAAAAAAACQs/Zs7XHKALJV0/s640/IMG_1205.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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I am going to be slowing down things on the blog just a little for the summer. I'll have a tutorial here and there and the occasional BOY style post but I'm planning to spend my days having fun with the boys and helping with Jason's company. I'll be posting about our summer adventures but don't want the pressure of "regular" features while F&O are out of school. </div>
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And totally off topic but today Jason and I are celebrating our 15th wedding anniversary. I'll spare you our cheesy wedding photos and share this oldie but goodie taken in a photo booth at the beach 19 years ago. So, so young. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8_rZ6U7ieGg/T8gjP0enBtI/AAAAAAAACQ0/lPB-n6WXMkk/s1600/63530_1751666714458_3239777_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8_rZ6U7ieGg/T8gjP0enBtI/AAAAAAAACQ0/lPB-n6WXMkk/s400/63530_1751666714458_3239777_n.jpg" width="315" /></a></div>
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Happy Anniversary to my love and Happy Summer to you!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-31813701892112062002012-05-22T11:22:00.001-07:002012-05-22T11:22:21.190-07:00Searching for gold and the eclipse<div style="text-align: center;">
We took the boys to the <a href="http://azstateparks.com/parks/lodu/index.html">Lost Dutchman State Park</a> at the base of the Superstition Mountains this past Sunday afternoon for a little exploring. Legend has it that there is an old gold mine somewhere on the mountain. We filled the boys in on the details on our drive to the park and Oliver became obsessed. Whenever we ran into someone on the trail, he made sure they knew that the gold was his and that he was going to find it. I love his adventurous spirit.</div>
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Our little adventure happened to coincide with the solar eclipse. Because we didn't have the appropriate eye wear, we didn't tell the boys about it - we were worried they'd fry their eyeballs out trying to see it. Lucky for us, just as the sun was starting to set, we were treated to the tail end of it. Spectacular. (I didn't have a tripod or a telephoto lens so these photos aren't the best).</div>
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Such a treat for us to see that magnificent event surrounded by the mysterious beauty of the desert.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-50178020157695072162012-05-17T10:46:00.000-07:002012-05-17T10:56:11.914-07:00Mini Bedroom Makeover<div style="text-align: center;">
After my dad passed away unexpectedly a few years ago, Jason and I asked my mom if she'd like to move in with us. About a year later, she decided to take us up on our offer. We thought it would be a good idea to buy a bigger house with a nice sized yard for gardening, chickens, etc. The original plan was to build a guest house in the back for mom. However, we found the perfect home with a split plan. Since I'm a minimalist by nature and don't need or want a lot of living space, Jason and I offered the master suite to mom and we took up residence with the boys in smaller rooms on the other side of the house. The situation has been ideal for all of us. </div>
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We've lived in this house for three years now and I have hated our tiny room from day one. It was an ugly beige color, had zero personality, and although I don't mind a small room - it was not functional for us in the least bit. I could never bring myself to take "before" pictures so you'll have to use your imagination. I painted the room a few months ago and had been putting off the rest of the project until recently. With some sweat, labor, and just a few dollars, we managed to transform our little space into my dream room. </div>
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The first thing we did was build the pallet headboard. You pinners had me fooled that this would be an easy project. I thought the hardest part would be finding pallets to use but Jason assured me that there wouldn't be a ton of crafty chicks at the local hardware store fighting over them in the wee hours of the morning. Our biggest challenge with the headboard was the construction of it. We get the occasional scorpion here in Arizona and those nasty little things love to hide behind wood. My number ONE requirement was that the headboard not touch the wall. Too many scary thoughts about scorpions crawling into bed with me. And since the headboard isn't entirely secured to the wall, we had to make it super durable - the thing weighs as much as a mini cooper.</div>
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The headboard has only three points of contact with the wall and I keep telling myself that scorpions won't crawl across a slippery bolt. ;) </div>
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The headboard took the better part of two weekends but was well worth the effort. I love it. I think my favorite part is the gorgeous mirrored bunting I ordered from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/fluxglass?ref=seller_info">Flux Glass</a>. So fun.</div>
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The other challenge we had to address were the ugly, closet style built in shelves lining the far side of the wall. It's nice to have a ton of shelves but they aren't really finished so they were an eyesore. We got a quote from our carpenter to build doors for the shelves in our room and the boys room but it's just not in the budget so we settled for <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/00120979/?query=merete#/40111987">these great drapes</a> from IKEA to cover them up. Now that they are covered, they are way more functional and we're able to use them more.</div>
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We put in some inexpensive <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/50103618/">LACK shelves</a> from IKEA for nightstands, some reading lights, and we're finished for now. (Please overlook the ugly ceiling fan. In Phoenix, fans are a necessity).</div>
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Simple, tiny, perfect for us.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613381893075251079.post-58090448061211336592012-05-17T04:00:00.000-07:002012-05-17T04:00:01.976-07:00DIY Neon Gift Bags<div style="text-align: center;">
I have a ton of muslin drawstring bags left over from my clothing line and I love to use them for gifts. They can be a little "blah" on their own so I've been doing some embellishing - in NEON no less.</div>
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This is a simple and quick project with really fun results.</div>
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What you'll need for the polka dot bags:</div>
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Muslin drawstring bags (any size is fine) - find them on Etsy or do a google search for a list of suppliers</div>
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Neon fabric paint</div>
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Circle sponge applicator thing (pictured below - super cheap at craft stores)</div>
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Steps:</div>
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1. Place a piece of cardboard in the bag so that the fabric paint doesn't seep through.</div>
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2. Dab your sponge in the fabric paint - make sure you don't overdo it on the paint. It's better to have too little paint on the sponge than too much. You can practice on paper to gauge the best amount.</div>
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3. Press your sponge onto the bag to make your dots. Reapply paint on your sponge every dot or two.</div>
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4. Let paint dry completely.</div>
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5. Place a piece of scrap fabric over your bag and press with a hot iron to set the paint.</div>
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I made a ton of these bags up so that I can grab one whenever I need one for a gift.</div>
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What you'll need for the chevron bag:</div>
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Muslin drawstring bag</div>
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Paint Brush </div>
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Freezer paper</div>
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Chevron template - <a href="http://all-free-download.com/free-vector/vector-clip-art/zigzag_patterns_tile_clip_art_22340.html">available here</a></div>
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Exacto knife or small pointy scissors</div>
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The chevron bags are a bit more labor intensive than the polka dot bags but still don't take too much time. (It would save a ton of time if I could figure out a way to make a reusable template rather than cutting out new freezer paper for every bag.)</div>
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1. Print out the chevron template. Place it underneath the freezer paper and trace it.</div>
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2. Use an exacto knife (place a cutting mat or cardboard down to protect your surface) or use small pointy scissors to cut out two of the zig zags.</div>
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3. With the waxy side of the freezer paper down, iron it on to the bag. 4. Again, put cardboard inside the bag and use the paint brush to paint the fabric paint onto the design. Be careful not to use too much paint. You need just enough to cover the surface.</div>
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5. While the paint is still wet, carefully peel off the freezer paper. 6. Wait for it to completely dry and then heat press it with an iron (place a scrap piece of fabric on top of the bag to be safe).</div>
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Super easy. Not only do these make great gift bags, they can also be used for toys, crayons, party favors, etc. Endless possibilities here.</div>
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Muslin bags come in all sizes and quantities. You shouldn't have any problems finding them online but if you do, let me know and I'll help you out. Cheers!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4