tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3397883246810882282024-03-13T06:20:45.189-07:00Greetings from the AsylumCrafting, Cooking, and other CrazinessAsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.comBlogger70125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-27112715726954898882013-10-02T00:00:00.000-07:002013-10-02T00:00:08.458-07:00Yo-yo, are you still updating? (Part 2)Welcome to PART 2 of my update post...to find Part 1 click <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2013/10/udating-again-yo-yo-part-1.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
I gave myself a vacation from this project for a few weeks (bad idea)
because my husbands business, <a href="http://harrisonlawaz.com/" target="_blank">Harrison Law, PLLC</a>, was BUSY in addition to moving our offices. By
the time the dust settled it was October. I snatched a few bags out of
my out-of-sight, out-of-mind storage area and got to work. I had no
real plan for this part of the project only sew the darn things
together. After about six weeks, I realized that I'd made a fatal flaw
in my sewing. I now had six "squares" that weren't square and weren't
oriented correctly. *SIGH* I began the slow, laborious process of
picking out all of the hand stitching that I had done returning the
"squares" back to their "pile of little circles" state. *SIGH*
However, all of this time spent picking out sloppy stitching was not
completely wasted because it gave me a chance to do the planning that I
should have done in the first place. <br />
<br />
First, I did this...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3N82Xdy8wuw/UjoPb9m7R5I/AAAAAAAABjk/h6vb25CKlAM/s1600/DSCN0472.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3N82Xdy8wuw/UjoPb9m7R5I/AAAAAAAABjk/h6vb25CKlAM/s400/DSCN0472.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mark each of the segments with a washable sewing marker.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I
went back to my geometry roots and made a sewing template. Each
segment is 60 degrees of the circle. That division separates the circle
into six equal segments to assist with the sewing.<br />
<br />
As
shown above, I divided the yo-yo circles into sixths and marked them
using the template I made. Since some circles are face up and some are
face down on the quilt, I mark each circle on the wrong side of the
circle. That way I can see my hash marks as I am sewing. I have found
that different fabrics react differently to the fabric marker. Some
fabrics will hold onto the mark for weeks. On others, the marker starts
to fade the moment I draw on the circle. The printed designs interfere
with the fabric marker too. This is especially true for the
white-on-white yo-yos that border the quilt. I learned to draw
extra-long hash marks to make sure that the mark transferred to the
fabric and not just to the printed design. The marker wipes right off
the paint.<br />
<br />
From then on sewing together the squares was "simple." You have to
picture those as air quotes because the process was simple-er but I
still have to put a lot of thinking into what I'm doing. I still have
to pick out seams on a semi-regular basis. As soon as I get tired and
my concentration slips, I sew something wrong and have to pull out my
seam ripper. (I keep it in the bag with the squares. It just saves time
that way!)<br />
<br />
I make a mini-template of the current
square as a quick reference so that I don't have to pull out my road
map. It is getting really fragile. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AlKw6I_jQSs/UjoPP3KqbDI/AAAAAAAABjM/2AVq0vJ5W2U/s1600/DSCN0470.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AlKw6I_jQSs/UjoPP3KqbDI/AAAAAAAABjM/2AVq0vJ5W2U/s400/DSCN0470.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My tools: reference photo, mini road map, circle template, fabric pen, circles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I separate each bag of circles into
individual strips of six following the photograph to get the correct
order. I use the road map to determine which circles are face up and
which are face down. Then, I do my marking. I load the lines into
plastic zipper bags numbered 1 - 6, and finally, I'm ready to sew. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JBXxnr4Bt2Y/UjoPjqMAPEI/AAAAAAAABj8/NDo23fJL8h4/s1600/DSCN0474.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JBXxnr4Bt2Y/UjoPjqMAPEI/AAAAAAAABj8/NDo23fJL8h4/s400/DSCN0474.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awaiting the needle and thread</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Match up the hash marks and whip stitch two circles
with the right sides together. Since the hash marks are on the wrong
sides of the yo-yos, it is easy (usually) to see when to stop sewing.
Here I must confess that I did not pre-wash my fabric before making the
yo-yos. This was a HUGE mistake. Some of the fabric circles shrunk in
the wash so not all of the finished yo-yos are the same size. I have to
ease some of the larger circles down to match the smaller segments on
the smaller circles. Also, some of the yo-yos dried funny leaving them
misshapen. Sewing these yo-yos together is more of a challenge.<br />
<br />
Let me take another opportunity to laud the glories of <a href="http://you%20still%20need%20to%20keep%20a%20careful%20eye%20on%20your%20thread.%20%20it%20will%20still%20tangle%20if%20you%27re%20not%20careful,%20but%20this%20eliminates%20much%20of%20the%20trouble./" target="_blank"><b>Thread Heaven, Thread Conditioner</b></a>! As I stated in my first post, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thread-Heaven-Protectant-and-Conditioner/dp/B0019CYD42/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1379621864&sr=8-1&keywords=thread+conditioner" target="_blank">Thread Heaven</a>
is what I use to make my thread smooth and keep it relatively
tangle-free. (You still need to keep a careful eye on your thread. It
will still
tangle if you're not careful, but this eliminates much of the trouble.)I
began this project using beeswax, but it just wasn't just working out.
I run my thread back and forth across the conditioner three or four
times to get a really good coating. As per the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thread-Heaven-Protectant-and-Conditioner/dp/B0019CYD42/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1379621864&sr=8-1&keywords=thread+conditioner" target="_blank">Thread Heaven</a> directions, I run the coated thread through my fingers once to create a static charge. Then I'm off... <br />
<br />
Ready, Set, SEW!<br />
<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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M5Kdf5HZ6Q0/UjoPye1NU2I/AAAAAAAABkM/FKyNNY79Na8/s1600/DSCN0476.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M5Kdf5HZ6Q0/UjoPye1NU2I/AAAAAAAABkM/FKyNNY79Na8/s200/DSCN0476.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Line up the hash marks.</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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--uAwycq4mHY/UjoP0gF5jjI/AAAAAAAABkc/Ii9gKlj2q8w/s1600/DSCN0477.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--uAwycq4mHY/UjoP0gF5jjI/AAAAAAAABkc/Ii9gKlj2q8w/s200/DSCN0477.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whip Stitch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tah5H9IKhTE/UjoP_QlFcoI/AAAAAAAABk0/mOX3p65zWvw/s1600/DSCN0481.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tah5H9IKhTE/UjoP_QlFcoI/AAAAAAAABk0/mOX3p65zWvw/s200/DSCN0481.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stop at the next hash mark and tie off your thread.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Add the next yo-yo onto the chain and stop when all six are connected. Like this...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ANAGQn09Iig/UjoQO84vTmI/AAAAAAAABlM/LAuHFZ04Bb8/s1600/DSCN0493.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ANAGQn09Iig/UjoQO84vTmI/AAAAAAAABlM/LAuHFZ04Bb8/s400/DSCN0493.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strips of circles, so many strips of circles.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Once all of your strips are complete, it
is time to assemble the finished square. I chose that the top right
corner of every square would be shifted to the right to allow the
circles to nest against each other. (I could have done this project
much more quickly and with fewer yo-yos if I had opted to sew the yo-yos
together without nesting.)<br />
<br />
Here is where it gets a little tricky...(for me, maybe not for you!) :)<br />
<br />
For the strips to be bumped <b>OUT</b>, sew <b>ONE</b> hash mark up from the strip sewing. For the strips being bumped<b> IN</b>, sew <b>TWO</b> hash marks from the strip sewing. WHAT!?! This is where I mess up all the time!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NIjahEZuux0/UjoQXRKnrVI/AAAAAAAABlc/QTxpzQMFxL4/s1600/DSCN0495.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NIjahEZuux0/UjoQXRKnrVI/AAAAAAAABlc/QTxpzQMFxL4/s640/DSCN0495.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look closely.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You will see that the flowered circle is <b>bumped IN</b>.
Two segments are sewn - the first to the tan circle and second to the
green circle. The tan circle is hidden in the back, but it is <b>bumped OUT</b> and the green circle next to it is also sewn once. See the photos below for a better idea of the finished product.<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-koXcDuNhW8c/UjoQaBe6H8I/AAAAAAAABlk/PHV0f4mm2VQ/s1600/DSCN0496.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-koXcDuNhW8c/UjoQaBe6H8I/AAAAAAAABlk/PHV0f4mm2VQ/s400/DSCN0496.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All of the circles nest together.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Keep adding strips bumping each odd numbered strip <b>OUT</b> and each even numbered strip <b>IN</b>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8uVp82W71ac/UjoQi0WItVI/AAAAAAAABl8/z-2dnhNJQcc/s1600/DSCN0499.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8uVp82W71ac/UjoQi0WItVI/AAAAAAAABl8/z-2dnhNJQcc/s400/DSCN0499.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm almost done. It is time to put more thread on the needle. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As of this posting I am finished with half
of the squares for the quilt. I have a bag that I carry everything
around in and work as I have time. You will notice that the upper
pictures have my old carpeting as the backdrop, but the last picture is
me working while my children were in swimming lessons (one year later).
I get a lot of work done waiting in the car line at school. (Before
you gasp and clutch your pearls, the car is turned off! I come early to
get a good spot.)<br />
<br />
My husband asks me when this project
will be done. I tell him sometime in 2015. I'm not kidding when I say
that. Every time I update (and sometimes each time I pick up the bag)
reconsider spending the $450.00 that Land's End was asking for their
yo-yo quilt, but I'm into it now. I'm not turning back. Also, Land's
End isn't even selling it any more. *SIGH*<br />
<br />
Click <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/04/yo-yo-many.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> to see my first post about how to make yo-yos, <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2012/07/yo-yo-its-update.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> for my first update on this project, and HERE for Part 1 of my second update. <br />
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I would love it if you became a follower of my blog. You can find me <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greetings-From-the-Asylum/206491229375811?ref=hl" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Facebook and <a href="http://pinterest.com/asylumtanya/" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Pinterest. Come check me out there!<br />
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If you enjoyed this post you might enjoy my post for this <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2013/06/rainbow-jell-o.html" target="_blank">Rainbow Jell-o</a>. Find out how to make your Toddler his or her own textbook <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/05/every-toddler-needs-textbook.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Get ready for Thanksgiving with some <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2012/11/let-us-all-give-thanks.html" target="_blank">"Give Thanks" Board</a>. </div>
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Thanks for visiting!</div>
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<br />AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-43118277935472937132013-10-01T00:00:00.000-07:002013-10-01T08:46:36.555-07:00Updating Again - Yo-Yo! (Part 1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You may recall that I am making a king-sized bedspread entirely out of yo-yos that are 2" in diameter. You can read my first post about it <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/04/yo-yo-many.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> and my progress update from last summer <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2012/07/yo-yo-its-update.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Since my last update I have finished making all of the yo-yos necessary to complete the bedspread and two pillow shams - 2,808 to be exact. I finished the last one while my children were in swimming lessons. I sat there kind of feeling lost thinking, "Well, now what do I do?" I knew there was something that I should be doing, I just didn't know what it was. I celebrated the fact that I was done making yo-yos for a couple of days and then I began phase two - SEWING THE YO-YOS TOGETHER!<br />
<br />
That sounds quick and easy right? Yeah, right! I popped all 2,808 yo-yos into the washing machine thinking that surely they would all come apart and I would have to begin again. Blessedly I have only found one that has come apart! You are asking yourself, "What does a pile of 2,808 yo-yos look like anyway?" Well a lot like this:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IM6Mw0nfJPY/UbFkZpG85YI/AAAAAAAABhs/hk498hqfLnc/s1600/DSCN2038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IM6Mw0nfJPY/UbFkZpG85YI/AAAAAAAABhs/hk498hqfLnc/s400/DSCN2038.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's a lot of yo-yos. Yo!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I wanted the pattern of the bedspread to be random so I needed to <b>PLAN</b> the randomness. I prepared myself for a LONG evening and monopolized my entire family room floor. (No other room is big enough.) I began laying out the pattern. I edged the entire quilt in the white on white circles that I showed in the last post. I made extra so they are scattered throughout the pattern as well. I know you are dying to see what they looked like all over my carpet........Take a look:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ivkbQ4RrzmE/UbFkkQ1B_6I/AAAAAAAABh0/rr3j8sZzxl4/s1600/DSCN2039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ivkbQ4RrzmE/UbFkkQ1B_6I/AAAAAAAABh0/rr3j8sZzxl4/s400/DSCN2039.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the view from my kitchen. You can just see the laundry basket empty of its yo-yos in the top right corner.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2WPBBfJZ4Ws/UbFklQVnhuI/AAAAAAAABh8/nGbDNdjQzRQ/s1600/DSCN2040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2WPBBfJZ4Ws/UbFklQVnhuI/AAAAAAAABh8/nGbDNdjQzRQ/s400/DSCN2040.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the view looking the other direction. I think it looks incredible!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I just love how all of the colors blend together and compliment one another with a pop of color here and there of navy, shades of green, and white.<br />
<br />
Um, yeah, now what.....I can't just leave them there and sew them together one at a time. Also, I set them all out with the back/solid side up so that I could get the full effect of the colors for contrast. That is a gorgeous look, but I love the traditional gathered/top side too. This was my dilemma. I'll come back to my solution to that problem later. At that time, I just needed to get all of my yo-yos off of the floor before my children woke up. <br />
<br />
My solution involved a bunch of quart-sized Ziploc bags, an unopened package of index cards, and a camera. I sub-divided the quilt into squares. Each square contained 36 circles - 6 rows with 6 circles each. I then numbered the squares beginning with 1 in the top left-hand corner and working down to 9 in columns. Square 10 was at the top of the second column and so on down and across the quilt. I wrote the square's number on the index card, placed it next to the square, and took a picture. Then I removed the 36 squares from the floor, placed them all into a Ziploc bag, and shoved the numbered card in with them. This process went on for several hours. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MX_QrG6Emio/UbFkqKFziPI/AAAAAAAABiM/hcUz79lkBNk/s1600/DSCN2049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MX_QrG6Emio/UbFkqKFziPI/AAAAAAAABiM/hcUz79lkBNk/s200/DSCN2049.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AhUjwZkWD4s/UbFkneX4gNI/AAAAAAAABiE/_J0zrKuTBOc/s1600/DSCN2078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AhUjwZkWD4s/UbFkneX4gNI/AAAAAAAABiE/_J0zrKuTBOc/s200/DSCN2078.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
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What was my husband doing, you ask, while I was galumphing all Gollum-like across our family room floor? At first he watched a movie, (I don't remember which one) and then he turned to this...<br />
<br />
Yup, Angry Birds...We have it on our <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Roku-4200R-3-Streaming-Player/dp/B00BGGDVOO/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1370581630&sr=8-5&keywords=roku" target="_blank">ROKU</a> Internet TV box. WE LOVE IT! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kV7qC0Z0rkQ/UbFksppomdI/AAAAAAAABiU/IMpCS81eWb4/s1600/DSCN2068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kV7qC0Z0rkQ/UbFksppomdI/AAAAAAAABiU/IMpCS81eWb4/s400/DSCN2068.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That bird is an-gry!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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As I mentioned before, I took photos of every square with the cards next to them. I did that so that when the time came to sew the squares together, I would not need to guess where I put all of the circles. I worked hard to keep from repeating colors as I laid them out, and I didn't want to mess that up. (Even with all of the planning, I did end up with some like colors matching up.) I took the photos to Costco and had the pictures printed out so that I had physical photos. The next step was to match the photos up to the numbered index cards and put them into the bags with the other items. There were a few mistakes that I needed to correct when matching up the photos with the bags. <br />
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Now I'm ready to start sewing, or am I?<br />
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As I mentioned before, I wanted to show both the solid/back sides of the yo-yos and the gathered/front sides of the yo-yos on the same quilt. I solved this problem by creating this...<br />
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I made this road map to decide which yo-yos to leave up and which ones to flip over. The white lines represent the front (gathered) sides and the black lines represent the back (solid) sides of the yo-yos.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a9UyZr6iRNg/UbFtOfX9TwI/AAAAAAAABik/OGioKu9DL2Y/s1600/Scan0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a9UyZr6iRNg/UbFtOfX9TwI/AAAAAAAABik/OGioKu9DL2Y/s320/Scan0001.jpg" width="232" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My road map</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Did you notice that my picture is upside down? *SIGH* Oh well, you get the idea. Or don't you? If you look closely at the square below, you can see how some of the yo-yos are facing "up" and some of the yo-yos are facing "down." The road map above helps me remember which is which. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8uVp82W71ac/UjoQi0WItVI/AAAAAAAABl8/z-2dnhNJQcc/s1600/DSCN0499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8uVp82W71ac/UjoQi0WItVI/AAAAAAAABl8/z-2dnhNJQcc/s640/DSCN0499.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the yo-yos are facing "up" and some of the yo-yos are facing "down."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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This post is getting LOOOONG. To find out what I did to begin sewing the squares together, come visit again tomorrow!<br />
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Click <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/04/yo-yo-many.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> to see my first post about how to make yo-yos and <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2012/07/yo-yo-its-update.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> for my first update on this project. <br />
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I would love it if you became a follower of my blog. You can find me <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greetings-From-the-Asylum/206491229375811?ref=hl" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Facebook and <a href="http://pinterest.com/asylumtanya/" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Pinterest. Come check me out there!<br />
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If you enjoyed this post you might enjoy my post for organizing your <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/02/feelin-spicy.html" target="_blank">Spice Cabinet</a>. Find out how to make your own vanilla extract just in time for holiday gifting by clicking <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2013/02/va-va-va-vanilla-extract.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Get ready for Thanksgiving with some <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2012/11/let-us-all-give-thanks.html" target="_blank">Thankful Blocks</a>. </div>
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Thanks for visiting!</div>
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<br />AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-6095548976501930592013-06-04T00:00:00.000-07:002013-06-04T00:00:03.637-07:00Rainbow Jell-O!For my son's birthday he wanted an ARTIST PARTY. The guests decorated the cake, did all kinds of artsy crafts, and we even played "Pin the Beret on the Artist." <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R_gz2JBrvFU/USmqPvj8TzI/AAAAAAAABdw/XsiEowUP3iY/s1600/DSCN2239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R_gz2JBrvFU/USmqPvj8TzI/AAAAAAAABdw/XsiEowUP3iY/s640/DSCN2239.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monet looks like he was wearing a beret for his photo! (Don't you wish more men would wear flowers in their mustaches?)</td></tr>
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The kids had a great time, and instead of ice cream with the cake, we served <b>THIS</b>....<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5sV3UXlEGdw/USmw5H2LLJI/AAAAAAAABeU/DKFfT1VgxYw/s1600/DSCN2244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5sV3UXlEGdw/USmw5H2LLJI/AAAAAAAABeU/DKFfT1VgxYw/s640/DSCN2244.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Rainbow Jell-O</b>!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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That's right, I made a <b>Rainbow Jell-O</b>! It was the hit of the party. One party guest has a severe gluten intolerance and was extra glad to be able to join in some of the party treats.<br />
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The idea behind the rainbow stripes is to have a darker layer and a lighter layer for each gelatin color to create a rainbow pattern. You'll need a bundt pan and a large empty space in your refrigerator. <br />
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I'm not going to lie to you about this one...this is an easy project, but it takes a <span style="font-size: large;"><b>LONG</b></span> time! It isn't something to throw together in the morning and bring to the church potluck in the evening. It is this kind of dessert that you throw together the morning <i>the day before</i> you need it for the church potluck.<br />
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Put on the Colin Firth/Jennifer Ehle version of <b><u>Pride and Prejudice</u></b> or maybe <u><b>Anne of Green Gables</b></u> with Megan Follows and get busy. Here is what you need:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gx_VFnlLSYA/UawdxcnWbZI/AAAAAAAABfE/AWyTKd0kGsM/s1600/DSCN2225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gx_VFnlLSYA/UawdxcnWbZI/AAAAAAAABfE/AWyTKd0kGsM/s400/DSCN2225.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">JELL-O - LOTS of JELL-O! (And some sour cream)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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3 oz. packages of each color of the rainbow of gelatin. (6 boxes plus 1 for a total of 7)<br />
Violet - Grape<br />
Blue - Berry Blue<br />
Green - Lime<br />
Yellow - Lemon or Pineapple (I like pineapple for this.)<br />
Orange - Orange or Apricot<br />
Red - Strawberry or Cherry<br />
boiling water <br />
1 quart of sour cream, vanilla yogurt, or Cool Whip<br />
1 bundt pan<br />
cooking spray<br />
a paper towel <br />
a kitchen timer<br />
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You need <b>TWO</b> packages of the last color of your rainbow. I began with the violet so I needed two packages of the red gelatin. If you begin your rainbow with red then you will need two packages of violet. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LUGP_IN4kWA/Uawd6c-X6uI/AAAAAAAABfU/G5bFNj87MUs/s1600/DSCN2230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LUGP_IN4kWA/Uawd6c-X6uI/AAAAAAAABfU/G5bFNj87MUs/s400/DSCN2230.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TWO packages of the last color. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Definitely get two 3oz. packages of the last color instead of one large package. It will make everything a whole lot easier later.<br />
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Stack up the gelatin boxes in the order they will be needed. You will need to remember: <b>ROY G. BIV</b>. Begin the stack with red on the bottom and follow the rainbow up from there.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FLoHTiB8AwA/Uawd4r3jwvI/AAAAAAAABfM/vDJ8KuUJfHs/s1600/DSCN2224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FLoHTiB8AwA/Uawd4r3jwvI/AAAAAAAABfM/vDJ8KuUJfHs/s400/DSCN2224.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keeping track of the gelatin.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Let's get to it!<br />
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Spray the bundt pan lightly with cooking spray and use a paper towel to wipe out the excess. Prepare your first color of gelatin with 1 1/4 cup of boiling water. COOL IT DOWN! You want the gelatin to be around room temperature before it goes into the bundt pan. If not, it will take forever to gel properly.l Pour 3/4 of a cup of prepared gelatin into the bundt pan to make the darker layer.<br />
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Put it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. I found that I needed the full 20 minutes with my refrigerator.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3I8AhlFVxsA/UawticfMq0I/AAAAAAAABf0/C7n_xzOHgGE/s1600/DSCN2218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">/<img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3I8AhlFVxsA/UawticfMq0I/AAAAAAAABf0/C7n_xzOHgGE/s320/DSCN2218.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Use and ice bath for quick cooling!</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fAw2uDDJnw4/UawtcrWbyrI/AAAAAAAABfs/865D_pPEHJA/s1600/DSCN2215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fAw2uDDJnw4/UawtcrWbyrI/AAAAAAAABfs/865D_pPEHJA/s320/DSCN2215.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Make sure you place your gelatin on a FLAT surface!</td></tr>
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Then add a big scoop (about 2 tablespoons) of sour cream to the remaining 3/4 cup of gelatin. COOL IT DOWN!<br />
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You can use vanilla yogurt or Cool Whip instead of the sour cream. I haven't tried the Cool Whip, but I did try yogurt when I made this recipe once before. I did not like the texture of the lighter layer. It kept separating while the darker layer was chilling. Also, I felt the finished dessert was too sweet for my taste. I wanted the tarter contrast that sour cream provides. I have not tried Greek yogurt. Either plain or vanilla might work beautifully because of the thickness, and the tartness could be just perfect. Try it and let me know...m-kay?<br />
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<table 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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AXQob5NEs9w/UawtopJXLvI/AAAAAAAABgc/AnFMeAQMRv4/s1600/DSCN2223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AXQob5NEs9w/UawtopJXLvI/AAAAAAAABgc/AnFMeAQMRv4/s320/DSCN2223.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wasn't very precise about this!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IaipsHJmoUE/UawtVALxaII/AAAAAAAABfk/UlSKU-UE3jQ/s1600/DSCN2214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IaipsHJmoUE/UawtVALxaII/AAAAAAAABfk/UlSKU-UE3jQ/s320/DSCN2214.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is the whipped layer. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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You can't run errands while you do this because you don't want the gelatin to be completely set. You want it to be a little bit tacky. That way the next layer will glue itself to the prior layer. If the lower layer gets too set, the next layer will just slide off once the dessert gets un-molded. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LpCc7zMxms4/UawtjVkgMiI/AAAAAAAABf8/scRHtgagERo/s1600/DSCN2219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LpCc7zMxms4/UawtjVkgMiI/AAAAAAAABf8/scRHtgagERo/s400/DSCN2219.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gelatin should stick to the back of a spoon just a little. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Pour the lighter layer onto the darker layer and chill for 10 - 15 minutes. Again, I needed the entire 15 minutes. (I don't think my refrigerator is very cold.)<br />
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*Pour the gelatin over the back of a spoon.* The spoon slows down the descent of the liquid so it does not puncture the previous layer. This will also happen if the liquid is too hot when you pour it. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T4faTqz0V0U/UawtkAtgxAI/AAAAAAAABgE/lOIDfcxpaYE/s1600/DSCN2220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T4faTqz0V0U/UawtkAtgxAI/AAAAAAAABgE/lOIDfcxpaYE/s200/DSCN2220.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slowly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L2ilkL8wKJ4/UawtnpJrTnI/AAAAAAAABgQ/YzE-tusH1PY/s1600/DSCN2221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L2ilkL8wKJ4/UawtnpJrTnI/AAAAAAAABgQ/YzE-tusH1PY/s200/DSCN2221.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slowly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table 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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7d0hEaFSDLc/UawtnzYl0fI/AAAAAAAABgM/4roYcxpddpg/s1600/DSCN2222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7d0hEaFSDLc/UawtnzYl0fI/AAAAAAAABgM/4roYcxpddpg/s200/DSCN2222.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slowly</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jr1O3hz9ZlU/UawtsGW08MI/AAAAAAAABg0/PYMTRVawFtQ/s1600/DSCN2245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jr1O3hz9ZlU/UawtsGW08MI/AAAAAAAABg0/PYMTRVawFtQ/s400/DSCN2245.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This spot happened because my liquid was too hot. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Keep building first a darker layer, then the lighter layer with each color of gelatin.<br />
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You can make all of your gelatin colors all at once at the beginning or make one at a time as you build each layer. The gelatin may gel too much sitting out on your counter before going into the fridge so they might need a bit of a warm. If you make them all at once, you won't need an ice bath for more than the first two colors or so. Also, just keep them covered with plastic wrap until you need them. I make my colors one at a time. <br />
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Prepare one whole package of your final color with water and another whole package with water and sour cream. It makes for easier math. <br />
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Chill the finished mold in the refrigerator overnight! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_k2iB7zMjZ4/Uawtro6Cq8I/AAAAAAAABgk/yunz1AP78dI/s1600/DSCN2243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_k2iB7zMjZ4/Uawtro6Cq8I/AAAAAAAABgk/yunz1AP78dI/s400/DSCN2243.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just chillin' in the fridge!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To release your mold, have a platter or pan ready to accept your mold before you begin. Dip your mold in a sink of warm water for just a <b>FEW SECONDS</b>!!! If you go any longer than that your mold will begin to melt. Dry off the bundt pan quickly with a towel. (You don't want any water dripping onto your beautiful dessert!)<br />
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Put your prepared pan or platter over the top of the bundt pan.....and........FLIP! The pan should slip right off without any resistance whatsoever! AND...Voila! Rainbow Jell-o! You might want to pop it back into the fridge for a few minutes to firm up the outsides, or you can just slice it and serve!<br />
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MMMMM...RAINBOW JELL-O!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BdLuV1xdE9Q/UawtrjIf3PI/AAAAAAAABgo/C3GHTnsGG6Q/s1600/DSCN2244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BdLuV1xdE9Q/UawtrjIf3PI/AAAAAAAABgo/C3GHTnsGG6Q/s640/DSCN2244.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Release the gelatin mold! Release it, I say!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ID8mFbsAiwc/UawtvGbPOZI/AAAAAAAABhE/nsnfJ7lTYNw/s1600/DSCN2246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ID8mFbsAiwc/UawtvGbPOZI/AAAAAAAABhE/nsnfJ7lTYNw/s400/DSCN2246.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You are getting sleepy...sleepy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-etDRQR3KCbQ/UawtuuUC7sI/AAAAAAAABg8/R7eqwHDdajY/s1600/DSCN2247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-etDRQR3KCbQ/UawtuuUC7sI/AAAAAAAABg8/R7eqwHDdajY/s400/DSCN2247.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See, I told you. SLEEPY!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Your guests will love it better than cake! (Especially if they are seven.)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lat1unoW0Pc/UawtvaNfomI/AAAAAAAABhM/xjZxLpqkMEo/s1600/DSCN2250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lat1unoW0Pc/UawtvaNfomI/AAAAAAAABhM/xjZxLpqkMEo/s640/DSCN2250.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side View!</td></tr>
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I would love it if you became a follower of my blog. You can find me <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greetings-From-the-Asylum/206491229375811?ref=hl" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Facebook and <a href="http://pinterest.com/asylumtanya/" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Pinterest! Come follow all of the craziness!<br />
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You might find these other perfect-for-summer posts at Greetings From the Asylum interesting...What do you think....<br />
<a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/03/fool-em-april.html" target="_blank"><br /></a>
Just in time for your summer vacation put together a <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2012/07/need-sack-for-your-back.html" target="_blank">TRAVEL BACKPACK</a> or two (or more). My kids loved them and yours will too! Decorate festively for the Fourth of July with this <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/06/wreath-for-fourth-and-state-fair-ribbon.html" target="_blank">FABULOUS WREATH</a>! You'll be the hit of the summer barbecue when you bring either <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/05/ive-got-eggs-now-what-do-i-do-with-them.html" target="_blank">POTATO SALAD or DEVILED EGGS</a>. They never disappoint! <br />
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Thanks for visiting! Come back soon! ;)<br />
AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-21003095630702512132013-02-22T06:00:00.000-07:002013-02-23T23:25:19.680-07:00Va-Va-Va-Vanilla Extract!<div style="text-align: justify;">
I purchased some Mexican Vanilla Extract from a friend several years ago. It was completely authentic and easily the BEST Vanilla Extract I have ever tasted. I savored it. I used it in everything. I loved using a teaspoon here and a tablespoon there. Then, my friend moved away, several states away. My source for this excellent extract dried up. The label on the bottle was in Spanish and didn't have an address so I was at a loss to get more. I tried a local Mexican market, but unfortunately, all I could find was a "Mexican Vanilla Blend." Blend? Huh? This is unacceptable. It contained Mexican vanilla, yes, but it also contains an artificial vanilla flavoring - vanillin. YUUUUUCK! Nope, that is not for me. <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/">Martha Stewart</a> drilled into my head as a young baker that only pure vanilla extract was good enough to put into my creations. </div>
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What was I to do? My stores of outstanding vanilla were dwindling, and while I can buy "Pure Vanilla Extract" at my local grocery store, it simply isn't the same as the robustly flavored vanilla extract to which I and my baked goods have become accustomed. I was just about to get desperate and make a run for the border when I came across <a href="http://www.kelseyskitchen.com/recipes/homemade-vanilla-extract.html">THIS</a>. Kelsey Nixon (remember her from <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0461727/">The Next Food Network Star</a>) gives a great, <b>EASY</b> recipe for making your own vanilla extract. There isn't even any cooking involved! SAY WHAT?!? I can make my own vanilla extract!?! Well alrighty then, let's get to it. </div>
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To make vanilla extract Kelsey says you need three things...</div>
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1. Vanilla Beans</div>
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2. 80 proof Vodka</div>
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3. A glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid</div>
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That's it. I can <i>totally</i> do that. Let's get to it!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PTlj1wEe4V0/UMQiLYiK57I/AAAAAAAABRE/vsS4l2aVlzU/s1600/DSCN2346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PTlj1wEe4V0/UMQiLYiK57I/AAAAAAAABRE/vsS4l2aVlzU/s400/DSCN2346.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See -- Three things!</td></tr>
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You want to use non-reactive glass bottles with tight fitting tops. I got mine <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Liter-Round-Italian-Swing-Bottle/dp/B002XUA6UY/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1355031527&sr=8-5&keywords=glass+bottles+with+swing+top">HERE</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bormioli-Rocco-Square-Swing-Bottle/dp/B0000CFMBL/ref=pd_sim_hpc_1">HERE</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnBPoSpz1w4/UMQiQw0rYJI/AAAAAAAABRU/-lTUi0cX428/s1600/DSCN2348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnBPoSpz1w4/UMQiQw0rYJI/AAAAAAAABRU/-lTUi0cX428/s320/DSCN2348.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zlGiewz5n-k/UMQiOJU_ttI/AAAAAAAABRM/xX0FQMo4C0c/s1600/DSCN2347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zlGiewz5n-k/UMQiOJU_ttI/AAAAAAAABRM/xX0FQMo4C0c/s320/DSCN2347.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Kelsey Nixon used a smaller glass bottle (half the size of mine) and
only five beans. My bottles hold 1 liter of liquid so I am using 12
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Uk4J0ppxEg/UMQiTvLaXsI/AAAAAAAABRc/-mtaJU9vbTM/s1600/DSCN2349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Uk4J0ppxEg/UMQiTvLaXsI/AAAAAAAABRc/-mtaJU9vbTM/s400/DSCN2349.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are plump, moist, beautiful beans! I cannot wait to get working!</td></tr>
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*There are three common varieties of vanilla beans: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Award-Winning-Mexican-Vanilla-Beans/dp/B000CQ5D1I/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1355032450&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=mexican+vanilla+beans">Mexican</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Arizona-Vanilla-12-Tahitian-Beans/dp/B000COC0PC/ref=sr_1_3?s=grocery&ie=UTF8&qid=1355032493&sr=1-3&keywords=tahitian+vanilla+beans">Tahitian</a>, and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bakto-Flavors-Vanilla-Beans-Madagascar-Gourmet-10/dp/B00765PU2K/ref=sr_1_1?s=grocery&ie=UTF8&qid=1355032541&sr=1-1&keywords=Madagascar+vanilla+beans">Madagascar</a>. Each type of beans has special qualities making each better suited to specific uses. The Madagascar vanilla bean is the most common type of vanilla. This is the type that is most often found in grocery store vanilla. Tahitian vanilla is the most aromatic. It is best used for things where the smell is the most important factor. Mexican vanilla beans pack the most flavorful vanilla punch. Click <a href="http://www.thespicehouse.com/spices-by-category/vanilla">HERE</a> for more information about vanilla beans. MMMMM! They are the beans for me!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uWvhMtj2k9s/UMQiEgf2uuI/AAAAAAAABQ8/vXzMvZ1vA_A/s1600/DSCN2350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uWvhMtj2k9s/UMQiEgf2uuI/AAAAAAAABQ8/vXzMvZ1vA_A/s400/DSCN2350.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Use a sharp knife. Slice each bean down the center lengthwise. Keep all of the tiny seeds inside the bean. <br />
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This process smells so great! Stick the sliced beans into the bottles. If you use a smaller bottle, you may need to cut the beans in half the other direction too. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0DIReE-SQtw/UMQiYn5n6kI/AAAAAAAABRs/0_lkZ8Hd8iE/s1600/DSCN2356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0DIReE-SQtw/UMQiYn5n6kI/AAAAAAAABRs/0_lkZ8Hd8iE/s320/DSCN2356.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bPqg6vE6xE4/UMQiWPBm4iI/AAAAAAAABRk/w-Na_FOnsQE/s1600/DSCN2355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bPqg6vE6xE4/UMQiWPBm4iI/AAAAAAAABRk/w-Na_FOnsQE/s320/DSCN2355.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Don't spend a lot of money on fancy vodka. Don't get anything with a flavor. The most important thing is the proof. GET 80 PROOF! By the way...I don't drink alcohol. I've never purchased alcohol before. Should I be offended that I wasn't even carded at Costco? SIGH! My 1.75 liter bottle at Costco was $13.99. Ironically, it was across the isle from a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Crystal-Head-Vodka-1-75L-Glasses/dp/B0062PD6JE/ref=sr_1_4?s=grocery&ie=UTF8&qid=1355033196&sr=1-4&keywords=crystal+skull+vodka">Crystal Skull</a> full of vodka for around $75.00. Nope, I didn't get that. That is a little too <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0367882/">Indiana Jones</a> for my taste.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0MnDxKrBgjg/UMQibavLvEI/AAAAAAAABR0/VuXy08AUlbI/s1600/DSCN2357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0MnDxKrBgjg/UMQibavLvEI/AAAAAAAABR0/VuXy08AUlbI/s400/DSCN2357.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pour (use a funnel)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M8uTV-aXTT0/UMQihRFv38I/AAAAAAAABSE/QUANZf8Vy_g/s1600/DSCN2359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M8uTV-aXTT0/UMQihRFv38I/AAAAAAAABSE/QUANZf8Vy_g/s400/DSCN2359.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glamor Shot! Notice how clear the vodka is. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WFkDAQPM4RE/UMQikDn36rI/AAAAAAAABSQ/Hx3HIfbmm-M/s1600/DSCN2360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WFkDAQPM4RE/UMQikDn36rI/AAAAAAAABSQ/Hx3HIfbmm-M/s400/DSCN2360.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SHAKE!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qnO8XcfIJzs/UMQimpx2sTI/AAAAAAAABSY/KR5S5CqD6k0/s1600/DSCN2361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qnO8XcfIJzs/UMQimpx2sTI/AAAAAAAABSY/KR5S5CqD6k0/s400/DSCN2361.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Side-by-Side after a good shake.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-55YEI6ZMA0A/UMQisAkDgmI/AAAAAAAABSo/CrcLNXY9wWw/s1600/DSCN2363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-55YEI6ZMA0A/UMQisAkDgmI/AAAAAAAABSo/CrcLNXY9wWw/s400/DSCN2363.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Store in a cool, dark place. </td></tr>
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Don't judge my cabinets. :) I'm just trying to keep it real! Take your bottles out once a week and give them a good shake. In 6 to 8 weeks your extract will be ready to use! Now <i>you</i> go make some extract!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AWl4tpv6gzI/UMQixN6kpWI/AAAAAAAABS4/zMAsNUga85E/s1600/DSCN2392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AWl4tpv6gzI/UMQixN6kpWI/AAAAAAAABS4/zMAsNUga85E/s640/DSCN2392.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how the liquid looks after <b>one day</b> of soaking. </td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JFwQKbd-chA/UPNOb5FbESI/AAAAAAAABUw/C76BRpQDU-g/s1600/DSCN0064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JFwQKbd-chA/UPNOb5FbESI/AAAAAAAABUw/C76BRpQDU-g/s320/DSCN0064.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mbOnsYWAyFM/UPNOcrSS56I/AAAAAAAABU4/hmfHw30QYK4/s1600/DSCN0065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mbOnsYWAyFM/UPNOcrSS56I/AAAAAAAABU4/hmfHw30QYK4/s320/DSCN0065.JPG" width="240" /></a><br />
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This is what you have after<b> 4 weeks</b> of soaking. </div>
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This is how the extract looks after <b>6 weeks</b>...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--zh_vctGwSI/UQ36lNSPacI/AAAAAAAABX8/o8W8S81EYD8/s1600/DSCN0129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--zh_vctGwSI/UQ36lNSPacI/AAAAAAAABX8/o8W8S81EYD8/s400/DSCN0129.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The extract is really smelling more like vanilla and less like vodka. Yummy!</td></tr>
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I waited 8 weeks for maximum potency before I decanted my homemade extract. Strain the extract through a coffee filter. Leave the vanilla beans in the bottle. Cover the beans with new vodka and make more extract. Add a new bean every now and then. You'll have new vanilla extract almost indefinitely!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H2pto58Lx3Y/USmhAfNyBdI/AAAAAAAABas/XpwVor4YPkA/s1600/DSCN0181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H2pto58Lx3Y/USmhAfNyBdI/AAAAAAAABas/XpwVor4YPkA/s400/DSCN0181.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Make sure your bottle is <span style="font-size: large;"><b>DRY!</b></span></td></tr>
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Water will ruin your new extract. Even one drop will destroy all of your patience and hard work. I let my bottle dry for over a day and a half. I even used a blow drier. Blowing down the neck of the bottle was not very effective, but blowing the warm air onto the bottom of the bottle did a great job. It warmed the glass and caused the small beads of water to evaporate. It didn't effect the larger beads of water. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_OeDsZzl7U/USmg84975EI/AAAAAAAABak/epCqbaavgj0/s1600/DSCN0189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_OeDsZzl7U/USmg84975EI/AAAAAAAABak/epCqbaavgj0/s400/DSCN0189.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New extract on the left, ready-to-use extract on the right!</td></tr>
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I can't wait to try it!<br />
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I would love it if you became a follower of my blog. You can find me <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greetings-From-the-Asylum/206491229375811" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Facebook and <a href="http://pinterest.com/asylumtanya/" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Pinterest! Come follow all of the craziness!<br />
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You might find these other cooking posts at Greetings From the Asylum interesting...What do you think....<br />
<a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/03/fool-em-april.html" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/03/fool-em-april.html" target="_blank">Hamburger Cookies</a> make great treats for when it is your turn to bring the snacks to preschool. I recreated the <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/03/pucker-up.html" target="_blank">Orange Blossom Lemonade</a> from my favorite Middle Eastern restaurant that is now a pancake place. You could also try my recipe for <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/05/ole-its-dinnertime.html" target="_blank">Green Chili Shredded Beef</a>. It is for the crock pot so it is E-A-S-Y and DELICIOUS!<br />
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Thanks for visiting!<br />
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AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-81308564717121133652013-02-05T06:00:00.000-07:002013-02-12T13:52:53.236-07:00Dress Up Your Drawers!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As you may know, I am redoing my daughter's bedroom. Yesterday I showed how adding a little fabric dressed up <a href="http://www.amazon.com/ClosetMaid-8644-9-Cube-Organizer-White/dp/B000ETOG6G/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1359945836&sr=8-2&keywords=nine+cube+bookshelf" target="_blank">THIS</a> bookcase. Today I'll show you how I fixed up the open-backed spaces in the shelf. I picked up four of these small canvas storage drawers like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/ClosetMaid-829900-Fabric-Drawers-2-Pack/dp/B001UTW32S/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1359945886&sr=1-1&keywords=small+canvas+storage+boxes+pink" target="_blank">THESE</a>. I added a little paint and...Voila! I had this....</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OhdG0bN-7Vo/UQ8hkOV2WZI/AAAAAAAABZs/bQ9uFpmByh4/s1600/DSCN0162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OhdG0bN-7Vo/UQ8hkOV2WZI/AAAAAAAABZs/bQ9uFpmByh4/s640/DSCN0162.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daughter saw her shelf and said, "I LOVE IT!"</td></tr>
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My canvas drawers a slightly smaller than the ones linked above. That was important because I had some electronics connectors and plugs taking up some of the space in the middle right square. See...</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MKGxYeHBpMM/UQ8hj-uOs2I/AAAAAAAABZo/D5oOaWMfVfI/s1600/DSCN0164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MKGxYeHBpMM/UQ8hj-uOs2I/AAAAAAAABZo/D5oOaWMfVfI/s320/DSCN0164.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The smaller sized drawer doesn't even touch the plug!</td></tr>
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O. K. Here's what you need to make these cute drawers...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f49ODR6mLJM/UQ8jR2X4hsI/AAAAAAAABaA/9jf60d_G2pg/s1600/DSCN0127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f49ODR6mLJM/UQ8jR2X4hsI/AAAAAAAABaA/9jf60d_G2pg/s400/DSCN0127.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Four canvas storage drawers.</td></tr>
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I picked up mine at Walmart. They come in several different colors. Choose the ones that match your decor.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I38XY-QYEPc/UQ8hXYIy23I/AAAAAAAABYs/LjTi24VAjLw/s1600/DSCN0152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I38XY-QYEPc/UQ8hXYIy23I/AAAAAAAABYs/LjTi24VAjLw/s400/DSCN0152.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One smiling girl, some acrylic paint, stencils, spouncers.</td></tr>
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It was all I could do to work on this project without this girl on top of me. She wasn't interested in the Super Bowl which you can just make out in the background playing on the television. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C65sIoU58SY/UQ8ha7MUq7I/AAAAAAAABY0/SZlxBQvaPgM/s1600/DSCN0154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C65sIoU58SY/UQ8ha7MUq7I/AAAAAAAABY0/SZlxBQvaPgM/s320/DSCN0154.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This plate is left over from my son's first birthday. (He's seven.) I'm not a hoarder, really I'm not!</td></tr>
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I needed only a small squirt of paint. I used the medium and small sized spouncer to fill in the stencil. The medium-sized spouncer fulled in the larger spaces easily. I needed the small spouncer to get into the corner details. You could also use a sponge brush. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zfx0oc9KiAE/UQ8hbJ03bZI/AAAAAAAABY4/wh7P02hCrEw/s1600/DSCN0153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zfx0oc9KiAE/UQ8hbJ03bZI/AAAAAAAABY4/wh7P02hCrEw/s200/DSCN0153.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E9InjCNZX6E/UQ8hb4xAIjI/AAAAAAAABZE/laiPNv4nCUw/s1600/DSCN0155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E9InjCNZX6E/UQ8hb4xAIjI/AAAAAAAABZE/laiPNv4nCUw/s200/DSCN0155.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
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I laid out the stencil and held it down while I painted. The stencil was small, and the canvas took the paint nicely so I didn't need to tape the stencil down to the drawer. I know, I was living on the edge. I am just lucky it worked out. </div>
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Here are the finished drawers.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yTyxC-3v0Qk/UQ8hfFjb1HI/AAAAAAAABZQ/3ugHcPVfzVs/s1600/DSCN0157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yTyxC-3v0Qk/UQ8hfFjb1HI/AAAAAAAABZQ/3ugHcPVfzVs/s320/DSCN0157.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close-Up!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-12xXfwNutHU/UQ8he9mhiWI/AAAAAAAABZM/PMxD_53yJc4/s1600/DSCN0159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-12xXfwNutHU/UQ8he9mhiWI/AAAAAAAABZM/PMxD_53yJc4/s320/DSCN0159.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All four drawers</td></tr>
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<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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-keYCbCDT46U/UQ8hhQh9_WI/AAAAAAAABZc/wFzTlpf1Qc4/s1600/DSCN0160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-keYCbCDT46U/UQ8hhQh9_WI/AAAAAAAABZc/wFzTlpf1Qc4/s200/DSCN0160.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left and right drawers</td></tr>
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<table 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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HsqrLnKo7OE/UQ8hj0FA1wI/AAAAAAAABZk/s5paqa2yHKY/s1600/DSCN0161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HsqrLnKo7OE/UQ8hj0FA1wI/AAAAAAAABZk/s5paqa2yHKY/s200/DSCN0161.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top and bottom drawers</td></tr>
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The finished shelf is perfect! My daughter can't wait to fill them up with all of her precious treasures. </div>
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I would love it if you became a follower of my blog. You can find me <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greetings-From-the-Asylum/206491229375811?ref=hl" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Facebook and <a href="http://pinterest.com/asylumtanya/" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Pinterest. Come check me out there!</div>
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If you enjoyed this post you might enjoy my post for this <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/06/wreath-for-fourth-and-state-fair-ribbon.html" target="_blank">4th of July Wreath</a>. Find out how to make your Toddler his or her own textbook <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/05/every-toddler-needs-textbook.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Get ready for Easter with some <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2012/03/6-year-easter-eggs.html" target="_blank">Thread-wrapped Easter Eggs</a>. </div>
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Thanks for visiting!</div>
<br />AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-85142320868637663372013-02-04T06:00:00.000-07:002013-02-12T13:53:37.159-07:00Dress-Up Your Bookcase!<div style="text-align: justify;">
For Christmas, my daughter received a paint bucket, roller cover, and a paint brush. Her face was priceless. She had gotten the shaft in the present department, and she knew it. However, once I explained that she was getting her room redecorated, she was excited about her present. The task was supposed to take up the vacation time between Christmas and New Year's. Illness made that impossible, but the room makeover is underway!</div>
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We painted the walls white and added lots of pink accents. I have been looking for decorating ideas for the last several weeks. I even set up a secret board on Pinterest! She needed a bookcase to hold all of her treasures. I wanted it to have some personality. I came across <a href="http://inmyownstyle.com/2012/04/ikea-billy-bookcase-makeover.html" target="_blank">THIS</a>, which gave me the idea to do this....</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QpzWbX6HAFs/UQ3gONjxmXI/AAAAAAAABVU/XjKK3pavmBA/s1600/DSCN0122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QpzWbX6HAFs/UQ3gONjxmXI/AAAAAAAABVU/XjKK3pavmBA/s400/DSCN0122.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="center"><td class="tr-caption">A quick fabric makeover for a build-yourself shelf!</td></tr>
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I picked up <a href="http://www.amazon.com/ClosetMaid-8644-9-Cube-Organizer-White/dp/B000ETOG6G/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1359864059&sr=8-5&keywords=bookshelf+with+9+cubes" target="_blank">THIS</a> little kit at the store and set about putting it together. It was a really easy project. It took about an hour to assemble (and that includes my extra work covering the backs). Four of the nine cubes are open to the back. The other five have a closed back. I covered the cardboard backs before I nailed them to the back of the bookcase. Here's how...</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xih3Q6ceNGs/UQ3kDTfwVZI/AAAAAAAABWo/OQ0fpaxBPDE/s1600/DSCN0114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xih3Q6ceNGs/UQ3kDTfwVZI/AAAAAAAABWo/OQ0fpaxBPDE/s400/DSCN0114.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Assemble your bookcase.</td></tr>
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Use a large open space in your house to put your bookcase together. It is really simple. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L5j3TRAwZSE/UQ3kEutnmfI/AAAAAAAABWw/_TRy-lsgwIY/s1600/DSCN0115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L5j3TRAwZSE/UQ3kEutnmfI/AAAAAAAABWw/_TRy-lsgwIY/s400/DSCN0115.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are the fabrics my daughter chose for her room. They are absolutely perfect! </td></tr>
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My daughter always wonders why my favorite color is green. She says that it is not a girl color. I disagree. Green is an awesome girl color. She prefers pink so with these fabrics we have the best of both worlds! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a1dNIGWWVaY/UQ3jZLIsoMI/AAAAAAAABVw/ZeZSiONAq-g/s1600/DSCN0116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a1dNIGWWVaY/UQ3jZLIsoMI/AAAAAAAABVw/ZeZSiONAq-g/s400/DSCN0116.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fold the fabric several times.</td></tr>
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I laid a cardboard back on the folded fabric and cut several covers at once. I opted to use the paisley fabric on the four corners and the green in the center. I left about two inches on each side for folding and securing. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wLA8Esxh2QQ/UQ3jcT_g6MI/AAAAAAAABWI/NiJwAFCH5i8/s1600/DSCN0118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wLA8Esxh2QQ/UQ3jcT_g6MI/AAAAAAAABWI/NiJwAFCH5i8/s400/DSCN0118.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cut the fabric at least 2 inches larger than the cardboard. </td></tr>
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Fold over the corners and secure them with packing tape. Pull them tightly. The cardboard pieces came folded in half. I weighted them down with my pinking sheers to keep them from folding while I did the taping. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GiqxOYhfJZE/UQ3jeCGEZOI/AAAAAAAABWY/fSuofaEg4Nw/s1600/DSCN0119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GiqxOYhfJZE/UQ3jeCGEZOI/AAAAAAAABWY/fSuofaEg4Nw/s400/DSCN0119.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had to use my pinking sheers because I could not find my sewing scissors. Can you believe that! Shameful, truly shameful.</td></tr>
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The cardboard backs had tiny divots to show you where to place the nails when securing the cardboard to the back of the bookcase. I used a pen to transfer the marks to the fabric from the cardboard. That way I would know where to pound the nails. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ra1FtDIw4JI/UQ3jd4qnTiI/AAAAAAAABWQ/s4OkOoaZAJQ/s1600/DSCN0120.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ra1FtDIw4JI/UQ3jd4qnTiI/AAAAAAAABWQ/s4OkOoaZAJQ/s400/DSCN0120.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look closely, you can see the marks.</td></tr>
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I started by nailing the center panel because it was the most difficult to reach AND because it needed to be in place before the outer panels were secured. Each panel took 12 nails. It is a wonder that I only have one bruised thumbnail. It did not feel good. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bUtM0kdab8M/UQ3je_5lEhI/AAAAAAAABWg/pYSwy4_GGzU/s1600/DSCN0121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bUtM0kdab8M/UQ3je_5lEhI/AAAAAAAABWg/pYSwy4_GGzU/s320/DSCN0121.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Securing the panels! Watch out for your thumbs. </td></tr>
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<i>I</i> LOVE how the bookcase turned out, and more importantly, my daughter <span style="font-size: large;"><b>LOVES</b></span> it. It is perfect for her dolls, books, jewels, and such. Here are a few close-ups of the cubby holes. <br />
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<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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U3jZsV3-b_U/UQ3v3k4gW2I/AAAAAAAABXE/aB4pNKyzbTs/s1600/DSCN0124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U3jZsV3-b_U/UQ3v3k4gW2I/AAAAAAAABXE/aB4pNKyzbTs/s200/DSCN0124.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corner squares</td></tr>
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<table 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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VdS_Rrcrx2Q/UQ3v4G8iTjI/AAAAAAAABXM/uctDS5AYzSc/s1600/DSCN0125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VdS_Rrcrx2Q/UQ3v4G8iTjI/AAAAAAAABXM/uctDS5AYzSc/s200/DSCN0125.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Center square</td></tr>
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The center square fabric is difficult to see, but it looks awesome especially as a contrast to the paisley fabric at the corners. It looks great peeking out from behind her books and toys. See...</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W8D-CngYUEg/UQ8eELWDQGI/AAAAAAAABYU/wHXZZ6Qu3bU/s1600/DSCN0136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W8D-CngYUEg/UQ8eELWDQGI/AAAAAAAABYU/wHXZZ6Qu3bU/s400/DSCN0136.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm still trying to figure out what to do with the lamp.</td></tr>
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I have plans for the open-backed cubbies too. My plan involves these canvas drawers. Check back or click <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2013/02/dress-up-your-drawers.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> to see what I do with them. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canvas drawers</td></tr>
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I would love it if you became a follower of my blog. You can find me <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greetings-From-the-Asylum/206491229375811?ref=hl" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Facebook too, and of course, I'm <a href="http://pinterest.com/asylumtanya/" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Pinterest! </div>
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Here are some other crafty things from my blog you might enjoy!<br />
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Make your own <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/03/hide-seek-baby.html" target="_blank">Hide And Seek Bag</a>! This headband looks great on little heads and even not-so-little heads - <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/04/flowers-on-my-mind-part-deux.html" target="_blank">Twisted Flower Headband</a>. Put together a <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2012/07/need-sack-for-your-back.html" target="_blank">Lined Canvas Backpack</a> just in time for travel season. <br />
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Thanks for visiting!<br />
<br />AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-53913829258700496402013-01-13T17:13:00.002-07:002013-01-14T19:45:12.670-07:00Is that Ironman?My daughter was invited to a birthday party yesterday. It was a superhero party. The invitation instructed attendees to dress as their favorite superhero. There really was no contest. My four-year-old daughter was going to be Ironman. There had to be a mask. That was a must. She also wanted eyelashes and sparkles. Hmmmmm......Eyelashes and sparkles. How about this...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ET1-Hgw00hM/UPNKo0lcncI/AAAAAAAABT8/Gen3e25xX_Y/s1600/DSCN0049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ET1-Hgw00hM/UPNKo0lcncI/AAAAAAAABT8/Gen3e25xX_Y/s640/DSCN0049.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red tinsel eyelashes - just what Ironman needs. Don't you think?</td></tr>
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Tough with a touch of femininity!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XlY_tmuj5Qw/UPNKpajcg9I/AAAAAAAABUA/jAwgp2BHBlg/s1600/DSCN0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XlY_tmuj5Qw/UPNKpajcg9I/AAAAAAAABUA/jAwgp2BHBlg/s400/DSCN0050.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Profile! Look at that smile!</td></tr>
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She was so excited!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pair the awesome mask with a pre-printed Ironman t-shirt and you are cooking!</td></tr>
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She looked so CUTE! The mask didn't last long on her face. (The party had a bounce house after all.) I also must add that I think Tony Stark would approve of the pink tennis shoes. She fit right in with all the other superheroes at the park. Our neighborhood is definitely safer with all these super kids living so close to us!<br />
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I would love it if you became a follower of this blog! You can also follow me on Pinterest! Thanks for visiting!<br />
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<br />AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-56621022133212037622012-11-25T00:00:00.000-07:002013-08-13T15:58:47.447-07:00I am Thankful for...A History Lesson!My American family tree is pretty tiny. I am only a third-generation American on my mother's side. My father's side goes back farther, but only about a hundred years or so. I have some neat family stories. I'm just not sharing them right now.<br />
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My children, however, have a <b>LONG</b> and <b>STORIED</b> genealogical history in America. My mother-in-law is a member of the <a href="http://www.dar.org/">DAR</a> <i>and</i> other historical societies. Yeah, there is some serious history there! For instance, do you know what this ship (The <i>Mayflower</i>):<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mayflowerhistory.com/images/Mayflower2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://www.mayflowerhistory.com/images/Mayflower2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mayflowerhistory.com/History/MayflowerShip.php">source</a></td></tr>
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This country (Bermuda):<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.experiencebermuda.com/maps/images/IslandMap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://www.experiencebermuda.com/maps/images/IslandMap.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.experiencebermuda.com/maps/island-map.html">source</a></td></tr>
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and This playwright (William Shakespeare):<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a2/Shakespeare.jpg/250px-Shakespeare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a2/Shakespeare.jpg/250px-Shakespeare.jpg" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Shakespeare">source</a></td></tr>
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Have in common? You don't? Hmmm... Well, I'll tell you! It's him:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_j3iCwTHaFBY/S8zdl2yvT5I/AAAAAAAAAKY/kbe9Y7YgMoY/s400/Hopkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_j3iCwTHaFBY/S8zdl2yvT5I/AAAAAAAAAKY/kbe9Y7YgMoY/s400/Hopkins.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://oldbluegenes.blogspot.com/2010/04/mayflower-ancestors-murch.html">source</a></td></tr>
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This is Stephen Hopkins. He joined the passengers of the <i>Mayflower</i> with his family. My children are related to him as well as his daughter, Constance, who was 14 at the time of her first and only trans-Atlantic crossing. I mention that it was her first crossing because it was her father's third. Steven Hopkins originally traveled across the Atlantic to settle in the Jamestown colony. However, that is where the country of Bermuda comes into the story. Back in 1609 Steven Hopkins boarded a ship, the <i>Sea Venture</i>, headed for the Jamestown colony and bound to the Virginia Company for a period of time in exchange for his passage and land in the New World.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ziZoJIvSPKE/SiWSSrMkjuI/AAAAAAAAAHE/ofDZbj9L9fo/s400/Bermuda-coin-SeaVenture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ziZoJIvSPKE/SiWSSrMkjuI/AAAAAAAAAHE/ofDZbj9L9fo/s400/Bermuda-coin-SeaVenture.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman;"><span style="font-size: 85%;">Bermuda's 1987 commemorative $5 coin shows wreck of the <span style="font-style: italic;">Sea Venture <a href="http://1609chronology.blogspot.com/2009/06/voyage-and-wreck-of-sea-venture.html">Source</a></span></span></span></td></tr>
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Here is a brief history of the ill-fated voyage of the <i>Sea Venture</i>...<br />
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The <i>Sea Venture</i> was one of a group of nine ships that departed in June of 1609. The voyage passed uneventfully until the flotilla was about one week away from their destination. At this time a vicious hurricane struck the group of sailing ships. Eventually all but two of the nine boats reached Jamestown. One of the two boats was lost at sea and the <i>Sea Venture</i> which was shipwrecked. Where was it shipwrecked, you ask? Bermuda, of course.<br />
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At this time in history Bermuda was uninhabited because it is surrounded by shallow water that made travel to the island extremely difficult in the large sailing ships of the day. Colonizing nations hadn't bothered with Bermuda because it wasn't easily accessed from any point. While this is a good defensive position to have, it is highly inconvenient in all other aspects of colonization (particularly trade). Bermuda was also viewed as a highly supernatural place. For the superstitious sailors living four hundred years ago, that was a deal breaker. They just gave Bermuda a wide berth on their way back and forth across the Atlantic. <br />
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The former passengers of the <i>Sea Venture</i> had no choice but to make their way ashore on Bermuda. That is where their captain aimed their battered and broken ship. Once there, they found plentiful food, mild weather, and abundant resources. They set to work immediately building two new pinnacles to carry them to Jamestown. Stephen Hopkins was a bit of a revolutionary thinker at this time, but he was able to talk his way out of serious trouble (<i>i.e.</i> a death sentence). <br />
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The passengers' time in Bermuda was not without perils, souls were lost, hardships abounded, but overall, those Bermuda castaways lived an easy and worry-free existence when compared with the trans-Atlantic crossers from the other ships that actually arrived at their destination. The Jamestown settlers were suffering through the "Starving Time" while the two small ships were being readied and stocked in Bermuda. <br />
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When the pinnacles <i>Deliverance</i> and <i>Patience</i> arrived in Jamestown in May of 1610, laden with food and supplies they had gathered from Bermuda, their arrival was viewed as a miracle. The souls on board the <i>Sea Venture</i> were thought to have been lost so to have them arrive bearing desperately needed food was a remarkable sight indeed. The experiences of the <i>Sea Venture's</i> crew were sent in reports to England and were distributed widely in London. One person who was very interested in the account of the <i>Sea Venture</i> was William Shakespeare who, it is believed, utilized many of these real-life experiences as a foundation for his fictional play <i>The Tempest</i>.<br />
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You can read about the whole adventure in Hobson Woodward's book: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Brave-Vessel-Castaways-Jamestown-ShakespearesThe/dp/B002XULXTC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1353811239&sr=8-1&keywords=a+brave+vessel"><u><b>A Brave Vessel: The true tale of the castaways who rescued Jamestown and inspired Shadespeare's THE TEMPEST</b></u>.</a><br />
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I read this book with my book club. We enjoyed it very much. The best parts are surely the adventurous parts surrounding the hurricane and life in Bermuda! <br />
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Less than two years after his arrival at Jamestown, Stephen Hopkins returned to England because his wife had died and he was needed to care for his young children. His previous experience in America was most likely the reason he joined (or was recruited to join) the passengers on the <i>Mayflower</i> a few years later. He was not traveling to America with his family to find religious freedom as the Pilgrims were. The knowledge Steven Hopkins gained while in Bermuda and Jamestown was seen as a great asset to a group of religious separatists who had never been outside of Europe. Steven Hopkins saw it as an opportunity for a better life for both himself and his family. With that hope, Steven, his second wife and their family became passengers of the <i>Mayflower</i>.<br />
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Upon his arrival in Plymouth, Stephen Hopkins was chosen as the first mayor and also an ambassador to Indian relations. One of his house guests you might recall - Squanto. Yes, that Squanto!<br />
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For more information about Stephen Hopkins, you can read: <u><span style="font-size: small;"><span id="btAsinTitle"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Here-Shall-Die-Ashore-Jamestown/dp/1425796338/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1353811905&sr=1-1&keywords=here+shall+i+die+ashore"><b>Here Shall I Die Ashore: STEPHEN HOPKINS: Bermuda Castaway, Jamestown Survivor, and Mayflower Pilgrim</b></a></span></span></u><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Here-Shall-Die-Ashore-Jamestown/dp/1425796338/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1353811905&sr=1-1&keywords=here+shall+i+die+ashore"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51yt8t3R0xL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA300_SH20_OU01_.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It is a great read about an interesting, important man in American history! I am so excited that my children are related to him! His life is a great example of perseverance in the face of adversity! <br />
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I would love it if you became a follower of my blog! You can also like my page on Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greetings-From-the-Asylum/206491229375811?ref=hl">HERE</a> or follow me on Pinterest <a href="http://pinterest.com/asylumtanya/">HERE</a>! Remember to add <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greetings-From-the-Asylum/206491229375811?ref=hl">Greetings From the Asylum</a> to your news feed to see all of the updates from the Asylum! <br />
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Thanks for visiting! AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-12007786189380278952012-11-17T00:00:00.000-07:002012-11-17T00:00:01.731-07:00CRANBERRY THANKSGIVING BREAD!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One of my husband's favorite holiday books as a child was <b><u>Cranberry Thanksgiving</u></b> by Wende and Henry Devlin. He's been searching for it online since our son was born because it has been out of print for over 15 years. We could buy it, but it was being sold for over $100.00 as a collector's item on Ebay. YIKES! That's a lot of money for a children's book. He has renewed his search time and again until this year when we found it! <a href="http://www.purplehousepress.com/" target="_blank">The Purple House Press</a> is a company that reprints popular classic children's books. Hooray! They have all kinds of fun titles, but <b><u>Cranberry Thanksgiving</u></b> is their most recent release. Click <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cranberry-Thanksgiving-Wende-Devlin/dp/1930900635/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1353120899&sr=8-1&keywords=cranberry+thanksgiving" target="_blank">HERE</a> to get your own copy!<br />
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The story revolves around four characters: Grandma, Maggie, Mr. Horace, and Uriah Peabody aka Mr. Whiskers and a sinister plot to steal Grandma's Famous Cranberry Bread recipe.<br />
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My son was so excited to see the recipe on the back. He wanted to make it right away. That was not possible because I didn't have the ingredients on hand. I headed to the store and gathered everything to make my own batch of Grandma's Famous Cranberry Bread!<br />
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Let's go!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0tA5dmNlUGY/TOUzV9O0bbI/AAAAAAAAIuU/Q22VipzumRs/s650/cranberry6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_0tA5dmNlUGY/TOUzV9O0bbI/AAAAAAAAIuU/Q22VipzumRs/s640/cranberry6.jpg" width="594" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.vintagechildrensbooksmykidloves.com/2010/11/cranberry-thanksgiving.html" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
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I made this recipe years ago when my husband and I were first married. It was a colossal flop! What I ended up with was a dense brick more suitable for building than eating. YUCK!<br />
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I have learned a lot about baking since then. I'll show you some of my tricks!<br />
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First, you need to prep the pans beforehand with cooking spray and parchment paper. The parchment paper is a MUST! This batter is sticky and it will cling to the pan like glue.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spray the pan with cooking spray. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Line the pan(s) with parchment paper. The cooking spray will glue it to the sides of the pan. </td></tr>
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Next, Baked goods will become dense if too much flour is put into your batter. The recipe calls for sifted flour. You don't really need to sift your flour. You definitely don't need to look for pre-sifted flour at the grocery store. I <b><i>NEVER</i></b> use a measuring cup to measure flour. I only weigh it. That is the most accurate method for measuring flour. A cup of flour weighs 5 ounces. For this recipe we need 2 cups of flour so - 10 ounces. Use a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Biggest-Pounds-Kitchen-Platform/dp/B001DQOEIE/ref=sr_1_11?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1353124780&sr=1-11&keywords=food+scale" target="_blank">food scale</a>. Mine was about $20.00 and I have been using it for years. My son loves to weigh various things on it. You can also get an ultra fancy one <a href="http://www.amazon.com/OHAUS-FD15-Food-Portioning-Scale/dp/B0014BY06E/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1353124650&sr=1-1&keywords=food+scale" target="_blank">HERE</a>. I would suggest a simpler one more like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/EatSmart-Precision-Digital-Kitchen-Silver/dp/B001N07KUE/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1353124823&sr=1-1&keywords=food+scale" target="_blank">THIS</a>. <br />
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Keep your butter COLD before you cut it into the dry ingredients. This will keep the consistency correct. My daughter had a great time helping me with this.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7MZKlZFmL-o/UKcN5ciXd1I/AAAAAAAABOo/RsAIwi6iKUA/s1600/DSCN2293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7MZKlZFmL-o/UKcN5ciXd1I/AAAAAAAABOo/RsAIwi6iKUA/s400/DSCN2293.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>COLD</b> butter and a pastry cutter</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0JDs3Gk7aUg/UKcN76ZyQiI/AAAAAAAABOw/Hf5R1xtEQP8/s1600/DSCN2294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0JDs3Gk7aUg/UKcN76ZyQiI/AAAAAAAABOw/Hf5R1xtEQP8/s400/DSCN2294.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the butter is evenly incorporated. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qX5ihbn9luo/UKcN-42i_NI/AAAAAAAABO4/o55ngdjojVk/s1600/DSCN2295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qX5ihbn9luo/UKcN-42i_NI/AAAAAAAABO4/o55ngdjojVk/s400/DSCN2295.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little helping hands! </td></tr>
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I added the orange zest next and whisked it into the dry ingredients. I did this even though the recipe says to add it with the wet ingredients. This was another place in the recipe that I recieved help.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YU2unTaWMvM/UKcOBoY2tRI/AAAAAAAABPA/4Ylv6DxMb-8/s1600/DSCN2296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YU2unTaWMvM/UKcOBoY2tRI/AAAAAAAABPA/4Ylv6DxMb-8/s400/DSCN2296.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She was having F-U-N!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MZEZK4HYxsY/UKcOEYy9CEI/AAAAAAAABPI/5FlqY4XTxGI/s1600/DSCN2297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MZEZK4HYxsY/UKcOEYy9CEI/AAAAAAAABPI/5FlqY4XTxGI/s400/DSCN2297.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I got 1 teaspoon of zest from one medium-sized orange. </td></tr>
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I was tempted to use mandarin oranges, but I decided to follow the recipe and not deviate from it - yet! Now that I know that it is possible to make a yummy treat and not just a door stop, I might do a little experimenting! *Just don't tell my husband. I have ruined many a great recipe with my experimentation.* :)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8BeBM5XA_5U/UKcNu0k3QRI/AAAAAAAABOI/wQDEMu-6pFE/s1600/DSCN2289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8BeBM5XA_5U/UKcNu0k3QRI/AAAAAAAABOI/wQDEMu-6pFE/s400/DSCN2289.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For the first loaf I used whole cranberries. I added them with the wet ingredients and folded everything together at the same time. I love how bold the red of the cranberries are! PRETTY!</td></tr>
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I popped a cranberry into my mouth just to try it out. Yikes! That was TART! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NEDxigEY0Vc/UKcOG0pCVII/AAAAAAAABPQ/pepr7xcbhFM/s1600/DSCN2298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NEDxigEY0Vc/UKcOG0pCVII/AAAAAAAABPQ/pepr7xcbhFM/s400/DSCN2298.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The recipe calls for the wet ingredients to be added before the cranberries and raisins. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpJbB3rKfYU/UKcOJU173GI/AAAAAAAABPY/jL-S7qpFYaM/s1600/DSCN2299.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpJbB3rKfYU/UKcOJU173GI/AAAAAAAABPY/jL-S7qpFYaM/s400/DSCN2299.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The recipe called for "Chopped" cranberries.</td></tr>
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I could not wrap my mind around chopping cranberries with a knife, using a potato masher wouldn't work, and I didn't want to drag out my food processor. Instead, I put the cranberries in a bag and crushed them with a measuring cup. (It was available since I didn't use it to measure the flour!) Cranberries are not tender. I put some muscle into crushing them - hence the baking mitt to protect my hand. I guess I should get a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/OXO-Good-Grips-Meat-Tenderizer/dp/B00004OCJJ/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1353127591&sr=1-2&keywords=meat+tenderizer+tool" target="_blank">meat tenderize</a>r. :)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--KZwSCmhhaY/UKcOMOyAi7I/AAAAAAAABPg/5cQPLX3549o/s1600/DSCN2300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--KZwSCmhhaY/UKcOMOyAi7I/AAAAAAAABPg/5cQPLX3549o/s400/DSCN2300.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crushed Cranberries - MMMMMM!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kbt97OyTPk4/UKcNx4d8tGI/AAAAAAAABOQ/wSvstUgchuE/s1600/DSCN2290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kbt97OyTPk4/UKcNx4d8tGI/AAAAAAAABOQ/wSvstUgchuE/s400/DSCN2290.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished batter with whole berries.</td></tr>
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You may have noticed that the recipe calls for raisins. You also may have noticed that I have not added any - anywhere. I really HATE raisins. This saying pretty much sums it up:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/upload/101260691592209206_D9YbLrlq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/upload/101260691592209206_D9YbLrlq.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></td></tr>
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I also didn't add double cranberries. I just didn't think that the bread needed to be stuffed with berries. That is just my opinion though. <br />
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Scrape the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 70 minutes. I rotated the pans halfway through baking to even the browning.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xKg9u3kl1yE/UKcOOwg0LfI/AAAAAAAABPo/PALsAkqO5vY/s1600/DSCN2301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xKg9u3kl1yE/UKcOOwg0LfI/AAAAAAAABPo/PALsAkqO5vY/s400/DSCN2301.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">350 degrees for 70 minutes rotate after 35</td></tr>
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Here is a little side note to entertain you whole your loaves of cranberry bread are baking....The fresh cranberries you buy in the store are harvested first using a rake. The cranberries that are harvested after the bogs are flooded are used for juice and cranberry preserves. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lnQzwELGd6E/UKcORrb83wI/AAAAAAAABPw/_rOdDU7HPHE/s1600/DSCN2302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lnQzwELGd6E/UKcORrb83wI/AAAAAAAABPw/_rOdDU7HPHE/s400/DSCN2302.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CLOSE - UP!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x-wRExa_jqU/UKcOUtwrwyI/AAAAAAAABP4/tsbB4-buP1M/s1600/DSCN2303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x-wRExa_jqU/UKcOUtwrwyI/AAAAAAAABP4/tsbB4-buP1M/s400/DSCN2303.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two loaves!</td></tr>
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Let the loaves cool for 10 minutes before removing them from the pans to continue cooling. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7PSLv5UHn3A/UKcOXkuvmGI/AAAAAAAABQA/bPeBclZMWGM/s1600/DSCN2304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7PSLv5UHn3A/UKcOXkuvmGI/AAAAAAAABQA/bPeBclZMWGM/s400/DSCN2304.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Run a butter knife around the ends of the loaf or THIS will happen. </td></tr>
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The parchment paper will help the loaves to lift out easily. However, the ends will stick even after the cooking spray. You must run a butter knife around the ends to loosen them because they will stick to the pan. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NK_ghRM21U8/UKcOaPta6KI/AAAAAAAABQI/hdIIAzW5Xcc/s1600/DSCN2305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NK_ghRM21U8/UKcOaPta6KI/AAAAAAAABQI/hdIIAzW5Xcc/s400/DSCN2305.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I used a butter knife on the loaf on the left and not on the loaf on the right. Notice the stickage!</td></tr>
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Once the loves are cool you can enjoy your creation! Delicious!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-598GkAMBgXI/UKcd-z04-gI/AAAAAAAABQo/ybdDoaNrM2E/s1600/DSCN2308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-598GkAMBgXI/UKcd-z04-gI/AAAAAAAABQo/ybdDoaNrM2E/s400/DSCN2308.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What's not to love?</td></tr>
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The crust of this bread is thick and crispy - not at all like the moist crust of banana bread. (It will soften up after you seal it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.) It is sweet and delicious. Orange is the perfect counterpoint to the tartness of the cranberries. This is definitely a recipe that would become famous. Try it for your Thanksgiving feast!<br />
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I would love it if you became a follower of <b>Greetings From the Asylum</b>! You can also find me on <a href="http://pinterest.com/asylumtanya/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greetings-From-the-Asylum/206491229375811?ref=hl" target="_blank">Facebook</a>. Remember to add my page to your news feed so you get all of the fun updates from the Asylum. Add all of your favorite pages to your newsfeed - you'll see all of the updates you've been missing since Facebook changes its algorithm!<br />
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Thanks for visiting and enjoy your <b>CRANBERRY BREAD</b>!<br />
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<br />AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-20806673406666538252012-11-15T00:00:00.000-07:002012-11-19T07:17:43.484-07:00Let Us All Give Thanks!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Halloween didn't turn out so well here at the <b>Greetings From the Asylum</b>. It involved some gastrointestinal distress followed by a garbage bag full of bathroom mats. (In my defense, they were really old and beginning to fray before the "incident." I put "incident" in quotation marks because that is the word my seven-year-old used when asking if it would keep him from trick-or-treating. Yes, unfortunately, it did.<br />
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Instead, we carved our jack-o-lantern on November 4th. It was a wonderful Sunday afternoon activity. Roasted pumpkin seeds were followed by fresh banana bread with chocolate chips. MMMMM! I don't have a photo (sorry) we ate it too fast. Stay tuned for the recipe...<br />
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Here is our delightfully happy jack-o-lantern. It made me smile for days!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z2-2Rq7U-LA/UKKqx_i03PI/AAAAAAAABJU/Nwnjg2qjdEw/s1600/DSCN2264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z2-2Rq7U-LA/UKKqx_i03PI/AAAAAAAABJU/Nwnjg2qjdEw/s400/DSCN2264.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I dare you to look at this photo and NOT smile! You can't do it!</td></tr>
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I just love the freckles! In my humble opinion, all jack-o-lanterns should sport freckles!<br />
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Then it was time for Thanksgiving decor:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_vjPad3gq4/UKKq5bUU29I/AAAAAAAABJc/y8vL7OQTUFI/s1600/DSCN2268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_vjPad3gq4/UKKq5bUU29I/AAAAAAAABJc/y8vL7OQTUFI/s400/DSCN2268.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One Thanksgiving display</td></tr>
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I have this strange space-sucking shelf in a long hallway in my house. I usually use this space as a catch-all of junk. (You know you have one in your house, we all do!) For the holidays I try to keep it clean-er.<br />
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Here are some close-up shots of the fun:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jA2v9Gx3mDs/UKLLSGPqUCI/AAAAAAAABKs/OQZmjoT5WrA/s1600/DSCN2270.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jA2v9Gx3mDs/UKLLSGPqUCI/AAAAAAAABKs/OQZmjoT5WrA/s400/DSCN2270.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do you see my "junk" in the background?</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R7NARgAL6yg/UKLLUjYYlEI/AAAAAAAABK0/ndFA9dNaiGs/s1600/DSCN2271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R7NARgAL6yg/UKLLUjYYlEI/AAAAAAAABK0/ndFA9dNaiGs/s400/DSCN2271.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A close-up of some of my junk. </td></tr>
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Funny (now) story: All of my smoke detectors went off at 3:20 in the morning a few nights ago. Can you say adrenaline rush? Whew! The batteries are out because they continued to scream even after they had been forcibly ripped from the ceiling. They each gave a final plaintive cry as the last of their power drained away. SIGH! It took my husband and me over an hour to go back to sleep after that, but our children slept right through it all!<br />
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It turns out that smoke detectors are only good for about 7 years. (We got 5 extra years out of ours.) SO, if yours are older than that you need to replace them! (If only to avoid a late-night non-emergency wake-up call.) The electrician came today and fitted us with a big batch of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/First-Alert-SA320CN-Double-Battery-Powered/dp/B004TSK9TG/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1352867898&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=smoke+detectors" target="_blank">brand spankin' new smoke detectors</a>. My son wanted to know if the new detectors will be able to tell when I am cooking. That gave the electrician a good laugh, but I swear, I have never set off the smoke detectors while cooking! ;)<br />
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Alrighty then...back to the decor... <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e1FcjvVsT8I/UKLLZ6cPR5I/AAAAAAAABLE/HOFNIjV-WH0/s1600/DSCN2273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e1FcjvVsT8I/UKLLZ6cPR5I/AAAAAAAABLE/HOFNIjV-WH0/s400/DSCN2273.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cousin made these glittered pressed leaves and sent them to me. They look great scattered around with the other holiday stuff!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vdDem5DV058/UKLLogZ4XbI/AAAAAAAABL0/OcRFR-FkSFU/s1600/DSCN2279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vdDem5DV058/UKLLogZ4XbI/AAAAAAAABL0/OcRFR-FkSFU/s640/DSCN2279.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We won this centerpiece at a company picnic several years ago for my husband's previous employer. It still looks great! </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eFg4YGeiN9w/UKLLxR6g-qI/AAAAAAAABMM/9QP961aJfhM/s1600/DSCN2283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eFg4YGeiN9w/UKLLxR6g-qI/AAAAAAAABMM/9QP961aJfhM/s640/DSCN2283.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have had these little metal pumpkins for YEARS! I love putting electric tea lights in them and watching the shadows dance on the walls. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XpAP74Dr6v8/UKLLiJvUBbI/AAAAAAAABLc/XBZTX6u2xHw/s1600/DSCN2276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XpAP74Dr6v8/UKLLiJvUBbI/AAAAAAAABLc/XBZTX6u2xHw/s640/DSCN2276.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my FAVORITE thing!</td></tr>
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I made this write-on thankful plaque two years ago when I got the inspiration <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/2010/10/give-thanks-frame/" target="_blank">HERE</a> from Bev at <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Flamingo Toes</a>. It has been a big hit ever since! My kids love to write what they are thankful for! <br />
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<u><b>UPDATE</b></u>: I used embroidery to make the words after choosing a cute font on my computer to use as a pattern. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-elW0y4rnDTk/UKLLXBEI1JI/AAAAAAAABK8/y8SMZXiXJNY/s1600/DSCN2272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-elW0y4rnDTk/UKLLXBEI1JI/AAAAAAAABK8/y8SMZXiXJNY/s320/DSCN2272.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Use <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Expo-Pen-Style-Markers-Colored-86601/dp/B000Z88D2E/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1352868997&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=colored+dry+erase+markers" target="_blank">colored Dry Erase markers</a>. I like the fine point!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D78TOrnJan0/UKLLk5IodII/AAAAAAAABLo/oZuW0VSTWvA/s1600/DSCN2278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D78TOrnJan0/UKLLk5IodII/AAAAAAAABLo/oZuW0VSTWvA/s400/DSCN2278.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can write on your favorite thankful thing and wipe it off tomorrow and write something new!</td></tr>
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AND speaking of Bev.....I got to meet her! You heard that right. I met the world-famous Bev from <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Flamingo Toes</a>!!!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U_4Q19B0kIk/UKKrXV192BI/AAAAAAAABKA/KOXHBxplZ3A/s1600/DSCN2253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U_4Q19B0kIk/UKKrXV192BI/AAAAAAAABKA/KOXHBxplZ3A/s400/DSCN2253.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, I know I have a big, cheesy grin, but I am meeting one of my bloggy heroes after all! :)</td></tr>
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Bev was a few miles down the road so I simply had to go and say hello. She is super nice and has a great smile! Seriously, check out her blog. She has TONS of fun ideas especially if you like <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/tutorials-2/jewelry/" target="_blank">jewelry</a> or <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/tutorials-2/clothes-accessories/" target="_blank">sewing</a> or <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/tutorials-2/home-decor/" target="_blank">home decor</a> or <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/tutorials-2/random-stuff/" target="_blank">whatever</a>! Highlight of my November!<br />
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Here are some more shots of my other Thanksgiving decorations...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p5ep8gbMC24/UKMZMVmtpXI/AAAAAAAABNg/aCk7goFXDA8/s1600/DSCN2285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p5ep8gbMC24/UKMZMVmtpXI/AAAAAAAABNg/aCk7goFXDA8/s640/DSCN2285.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I made these Pilgrims several years ago. My kids just love them.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uJN6LR95hnM/UKMZJol-udI/AAAAAAAABNY/gT7wVOoYWTQ/s1600/DSCN2282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uJN6LR95hnM/UKMZJol-udI/AAAAAAAABNY/gT7wVOoYWTQ/s400/DSCN2282.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See, they love them. They did question the pumpkin and the pie though. I don't know why, they make sense to me.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4NyriwGjPTE/UKMZOwCyhVI/AAAAAAAABNo/y1HplA-gJbk/s1600/DSCN2286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4NyriwGjPTE/UKMZOwCyhVI/AAAAAAAABNo/y1HplA-gJbk/s400/DSCN2286.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I made this Mod Podge masterpiece about four years ago. </td></tr>
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Here are some close-ups of my favorite letters. The letter and background are smooth, but the flower, button, and cord are 3D. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1EUH3eCasB8/UKMZRjxHTOI/AAAAAAAABNw/FnUKcB2H7lc/s1600/DSCN2287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1EUH3eCasB8/UKMZRjxHTOI/AAAAAAAABNw/FnUKcB2H7lc/s400/DSCN2287.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5rXA56_CpA/UKMZUDJ7DQI/AAAAAAAABN4/ei4qcFkmQA0/s1600/DSCN2288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5rXA56_CpA/UKMZUDJ7DQI/AAAAAAAABN4/ei4qcFkmQA0/s400/DSCN2288.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the sparkly leaf stickers and the square brads. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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When I made these I had to put everything away before I could finish. I had all of the letters laid out just right. Unfortunately, I needed the stove to cook dinner. I took pictures of each letter before cleaning up my supplies. It made it so easy to come back and remember what I had designed in my mind. Also, I used <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Adhesive-Backed-Felt-Black-Pack/dp/B007BF8LDU/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1352867697&sr=8-7&keywords=sticky+back+felt" target="_blank">sticky back felt</a> on the bottoms of all of the letters. This keeps the letter blocks from sliding around on the shelf and also keeps any of the paint from coming off on the counter. It is a win-win!<br />
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Well, there is the sum total of my Thanksgiving decor. I am open to any ideas you have to make my house a little more festive!<br />
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I would love it if you became a follower of <b>Greetings From the Asylum</b>. I can also be found on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greetings-From-the-Asylum/206491229375811?ref=hl" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://pinterest.com/asylumtanya/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>. Come check me out! Remember to add Greetings From the Asylum to your news feed on Facebook so that you can see all of the latest updates!<br />
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P.S. Add all of your favorite pages to your news feed. Your page administrators will love it!<br />
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Thanks for the visit! Come back soon!<br />
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<br />AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-74953385704881898642012-11-14T00:00:00.000-07:002012-11-14T00:00:01.688-07:00Welcome to the Whole NEW Asylum!We have been very busy here at the Asylum lately: cooking, crafting, cleaning... You know, the usual crazy stuff. At the same time I have been helping out a lot at my husband's wildly successful law firm. We have spent many a Friday evening followed by Saturday mornings getting legal stuff done. All that business has kept me away from my blog for too long! I have folders full of photos on my computer that are full of fun projects and adventures to share with you! <br />
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I am so excited to reveal the new look here at Greetings From the Asylum! I absolutely <b>LOVE, LOVE, LOVE</b> it! Everything you see here was designed by the completely talented designer who designed my husband's website <a href="http://harrisonlawaz.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. She did some AMAZING work on the straight jacket don't you agree? :) Email me if you would like her contact information! You too could have a stunning new look! I cannot decide which I like better:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOIonZPemgo/UKKqL1bjdxI/AAAAAAAABJE/M8O4oo-TiDA/s1600/Asylum-Button-II.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOIonZPemgo/UKKqL1bjdxI/AAAAAAAABJE/M8O4oo-TiDA/s1600/Asylum-Button-II.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With a fancy frame</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GQ0jt8mZUtA/UKKqQvEU32I/AAAAAAAABJM/1vbbtlHM1Sg/s1600/Asylum-Button-II-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GQ0jt8mZUtA/UKKqQvEU32I/AAAAAAAABJM/1vbbtlHM1Sg/s1600/Asylum-Button-II-1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simple clean lines</td></tr>
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What do <i>you</i> think?<br />
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Here are some random shots from my life the last few weeks:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z2-2Rq7U-LA/UKKqx_i03PI/AAAAAAAABJU/Nwnjg2qjdEw/s1600/DSCN2264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z2-2Rq7U-LA/UKKqx_i03PI/AAAAAAAABJU/Nwnjg2qjdEw/s320/DSCN2264.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This pumpkin makes me SOOO happy!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_vjPad3gq4/UKKq5bUU29I/AAAAAAAABJc/y8vL7OQTUFI/s1600/DSCN2268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_vjPad3gq4/UKKq5bUU29I/AAAAAAAABJc/y8vL7OQTUFI/s320/DSCN2268.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is a peek at my Thanksgiving decor!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YPWvEblycYE/UKKrBG7Nl3I/AAAAAAAABJk/idMrsps15Cw/s1600/DSCN2175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YPWvEblycYE/UKKrBG7Nl3I/AAAAAAAABJk/idMrsps15Cw/s320/DSCN2175.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pomegranate from <a href="http://www.globeaz.gov/visitors/besh-ba-gowah" target="_blank">Besh ba Gowah</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ETeVtVom6zM/UKKrIP-77PI/AAAAAAAABJs/XyTnY-QUxQA/s1600/DSCN2246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ETeVtVom6zM/UKKrIP-77PI/AAAAAAAABJs/XyTnY-QUxQA/s320/DSCN2246.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You are getting sleeeeeepy............Happy Birthday to my guy!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CQPGsP9nOyg/UKKrRO20B7I/AAAAAAAABJ4/nxnPlY2RbHg/s1600/DSCN2257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CQPGsP9nOyg/UKKrRO20B7I/AAAAAAAABJ4/nxnPlY2RbHg/s320/DSCN2257.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our office..</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U_4Q19B0kIk/UKKrXV192BI/AAAAAAAABKA/KOXHBxplZ3A/s1600/DSCN2253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U_4Q19B0kIk/UKKrXV192BI/AAAAAAAABKA/KOXHBxplZ3A/s320/DSCN2253.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I met Bev from <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/" target="_blank">Flamingo Toes</a>!!! HOORAY! I'll tell you all about this in a few days!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ckr67dpXflw/UKKrgREqy9I/AAAAAAAABKI/oRW5o5wWV4c/s1600/DSCN2256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ckr67dpXflw/UKKrgREqy9I/AAAAAAAABKI/oRW5o5wWV4c/s320/DSCN2256.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This little guy lives outside of our office! CUUUUTE!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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I have so much to say about a plethora of topics. I just have to find the time to sit down and start saying them.<br />
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I would love it if you would become a follower of this blog. Just click the sidebar! Also, you can follow me <a href="http://pinterest.com/asylumtanya/" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Pinterest, or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greetings-From-the-Asylum/206491229375811?ref=hl" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Facebook. Make sure you add Greetings From the Asylum to your news feed so you see all of the latest news and updates from the Asylum!<br />
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Thanks for visiting!AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-75923827466818908592012-07-16T03:00:00.000-07:002012-07-21T11:48:52.795-07:00Need a Sack for Your Back?My kids are great travelers. My son has been great since he was a little guy. My daughter has come around this last year. :) We are planning a longish vacation this summer that will include car travel where my children will be strapped into booster seats. While they travel well, we don't want to push our limits.<br />
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I had this idea to get them special bags in which I would put fun activities to amuse them and also for them to stash the treasures they will invariably attain along the way. My mother made me such a handbag for a trip to Disneyland when I was just 4 years old. She made one for my cousin too. We loved those bags and traveled all over the place with them for years to come.<br />
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My bag was simple - just two rectangles with some handles and an applique' of my name. I wanted my kids to have a special bag like that. I thought of the pre-made handbags that one can purchase at various craft/fabric stores and decided that I would start there and dress them up with a pocket (maybe from old denim jeans). My mind was spinning. I had my project all planned out! And then, I didn't. :)<br />
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It turned out this way instead:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZsaGO0kFWc/T-4tgERFYTI/AAAAAAAABDk/Mn7UKkKbk6A/s1600/DSCN1985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZsaGO0kFWc/T-4tgERFYTI/AAAAAAAABDk/Mn7UKkKbk6A/s400/DSCN1985.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All tricked out and ready to travel.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I went into my local <a href="http://www.joann.com/" target="_blank">Joann's</a> looking for just the right bag. There were several great options from which to choose, but then I spied <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thousand-Oaks-Drawstring-Backpack-Black/dp/B003S952IA/ref=sr_1_sc_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1341005591&sr=8-11-spell&keywords=drawstring+bags+canvas++sackpack" target="_blank">THESE</a>. Well, they weren't those exactly, but that link is the closest thing I could find to these...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l9ogQfZBzVw/T-4iKaOhIZI/AAAAAAAABDY/OmChf0OmQOY/s1600/DSCN1997.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l9ogQfZBzVw/T-4iKaOhIZI/AAAAAAAABDY/OmChf0OmQOY/s400/DSCN1997.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green for my son, and black for my daughter.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This style of bag is called a "sackpack." I abandoned my handbag with a pocket idea as soon as I spotted these for several reasons. First of all, they are bigger than the handbags that I was looking at. Second, once the top is cinched shut, they are more secure than the handbags. And third, once the packs are on their backs, the loose ends are long enough to tie around my children's hips. AWESOME! These were WAY better than my crummy handbag idea. :) These sackpacks will be perfect for schlepping (my son's new favorite word) around souvenirs and such on our trip. I certainly wouldn't recommend using these for hiking or purposes like that. <br />
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I decided to sew a liner with pockets to the inside of the bags complete with pockets and secret hiding places. To begin, I turned the bags inside out and drew a pattern on freezer paper.<br />
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I designed the configuration of pockets to be one large pocket with a flap on one side. The flap stays closed using a magnetized purse clip that I had in my stash. The other side has a triple pocket. The small sections are perfect for pencils, a bookmark, sunglasses, or any long, thin item. The center pocket is held closed with Velcro. I cut the liners from more of the leftover sheet fabric from my project making <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2012/06/i-need-nap.html" target="_blank">Sleepy Shorts</a>. The bags are dark so the light fabric of the sheets really brightened up the interior of the bag, and I still have tons of fabric left for more projects. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Hz-CxSSbFA/T-4tklrzasI/AAAAAAAABDs/xm2VEAQIeyI/s1600/DSCN1986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Hz-CxSSbFA/T-4tklrzasI/AAAAAAAABDs/xm2VEAQIeyI/s400/DSCN1986.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here are the finished liners. (Notice my "helper.")</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You will notice that the original bag is rectangular in shape. I cut the corners of the liner so that the liner would not interfere with the grommets at the bottoms of each bag.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wVESBE6SNtM/T-4t2eTfNaI/AAAAAAAABEQ/PZ1mVnh86Bo/s1600/DSCN1992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wVESBE6SNtM/T-4t2eTfNaI/AAAAAAAABEQ/PZ1mVnh86Bo/s400/DSCN1992.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside/outside view of the corners.</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-54o5SijoE7s/T-4tpZICnVI/AAAAAAAABD4/n38CBRkPnKc/s1600/DSCN1988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-54o5SijoE7s/T-4tpZICnVI/AAAAAAAABD4/n38CBRkPnKc/s400/DSCN1988.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The magnetized purse clip, again with help!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This clip is very strong. I reinforced the pocket and flap by sewing a circle around each side of the clip. <br />
<br />
I sewed the liner together completely with all of the pockets and fasteners before attaching it to the bag. To attach the bag and the liner together I turned both inside out. I pinned the seams of each together and sewed them together. I sewed along the bottom of the bags and then along the sides. I sewed in the seam allowances so that the stitching would not interfere with the stitching of the original bag. To finish the top of the bag I folded down the top edge of the liner and stitched the liner to the bag along the seam of the drawstring. That way I didn't interfere with the ability of the drawstring to tighten. I did have to be careful to keep the strings out of the way of the sewing machine, but it wasn't difficult. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7FJE5y1VF4Q/T-4tttq9vaI/AAAAAAAABEA/XE9PSRCHBjU/s1600/DSCN1990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7FJE5y1VF4Q/T-4tttq9vaI/AAAAAAAABEA/XE9PSRCHBjU/s400/DSCN1990.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The top edge.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Look at how bright the inside of the bag looks! It is a real change from the dark original unlined bag.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_5_XNshHKI/T-4t69fRAeI/AAAAAAAABEY/po2-veJ5KyI/s1600/DSCN1995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_5_XNshHKI/T-4t69fRAeI/AAAAAAAABEY/po2-veJ5KyI/s400/DSCN1995.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I think it looks a little like flower petals. The top of the picture shows the large pocket with the flap. The bottom of the photo has the segmented pocket. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Before I sewed the bags together, I decorated the outside. For my son's bag I made a <a href="http://www.sirbubbadoo.com/2010/11/tutorial-freezer-paper-stenciling.html" target="_blank">stencil out of freezer paper</a> and colored in the space with Sharpie marker. I wanted a weathered look for his initial because I was looking for a military duffel bag look. My daughter got some iron-on bling and pink paint for her initial. Her initial was so much more difficult than I thought it would be. I got the template from <a href="http://www.needlenthread.com/2008/06/monograms-for-hand-embroidery-index.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Isn't it cute? I love it, and so does she. I went over the "C" three times with paint pen, but I had to pool the paint in a small plastic bowl and use the paint pen like a brush to apply the paint. The silver paint pen was much more cooperative. I'm not sure what the hang up was.<br />
<br />
I LOVE the finished bags! (And so do they!)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZsaGO0kFWc/T-4tgERFYTI/AAAAAAAABDk/Mn7UKkKbk6A/s1600/DSCN1985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZsaGO0kFWc/T-4tgERFYTI/AAAAAAAABDk/Mn7UKkKbk6A/s400/DSCN1985.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Travel ready!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Here they are ready to go exploring!<br />
<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eOltx3pFSKs/T_EooHhqngI/AAAAAAAABFs/XiQGnHzbjJA/s1600/DSCN2002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eOltx3pFSKs/T_EooHhqngI/AAAAAAAABFs/XiQGnHzbjJA/s640/DSCN2002.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here she is, ready for adventure!</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Z69KFkGv-U/T_EosdIfzkI/AAAAAAAABF0/UDxazszLzf4/s1600/DSCN2003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Z69KFkGv-U/T_EosdIfzkI/AAAAAAAABF0/UDxazszLzf4/s400/DSCN2003.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out the tie! ( I had to get the shoes in the picture.)</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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XWhCoNFPLvw/T_EoweHnRqI/AAAAAAAABF8/luutk6CFjl8/s1600/DSCN2004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XWhCoNFPLvw/T_EoweHnRqI/AAAAAAAABF8/luutk6CFjl8/s640/DSCN2004.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the faded look from the marker, and the stencil made the lines very crisp.</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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oUAyKjI879w/T_EozvAfR5I/AAAAAAAABGE/yc-RTrHUYtk/s1600/DSCN2005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oUAyKjI879w/T_EozvAfR5I/AAAAAAAABGE/yc-RTrHUYtk/s400/DSCN2005.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tie Close-Up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I can hardly wait to stuff these cute sacks full of road trip treasures! <br />
<br />
I purchased the bags for $4.99 each, but everything else to make this project came from my stash of stuff. What fun things can you make from your stash? I'd love to hear about them!<br />
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<br />AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-34086312887292053372012-07-09T03:00:00.000-07:002013-02-04T20:12:54.862-07:00Yo - Yo, It's an UPDATE!Waaaaaaaay back in 2010 I had this <i>great</i> idea. That idea was to make a king-sized bedspread out of little tiny yo-yos. The finished yo-yos are 2" in diameter. You need <b>A LOT</b> of itty-bitty yo-yos to make a king-sized bedspread. (Plus two pillow shams) Sheesh, you cannot forget the pillow shams. In total I needed to make 2,808. That is two thousand, eight hundred eight in expanded notation.<br />
<br />
Last year I posted about my endeavor and gave a tutorial on how I make each yo-yo. You can find that post <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/04/yo-yo-many.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdni.llbean.com/is/image/wim/259782_1168_41?wid=330&hei=295" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="571" src="http://cdni.llbean.com/is/image/wim/259782_1168_41?wid=330&hei=295" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let us remember WHY I took on this crazy project in the first place!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A lot has happened since I authored that post. I got strep throat shortly after I wrote that post (detailed <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/04/lost-week.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>), my husband started his own law firm (<a href="http://harrisonlawaz.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a> is his awesome website), and my son started Kindergarten. Those events and countless others have been my life this past year. Throughout them all, though, I have continued to make yo-yos. <br />
<br />
Today I'll give you an update on my progress.<br />
<br />
Last year I was just over half finished making yo-yos. This year I have completed over 2,700+ of the yo-yos needed to complete the bedspread. I have <u><b>less than 30 yo-yos to go</b></u> before I move into phase two of the bedspread project. I am really excited about the progress.<br />
<br />
I have a bag that I carry around that holds my fabric circles, thread, scissors, and thread conditioner. I take it everywhere! I make yo-yos while watching television. I make yo-yos during car trips. When taking my son to karate class I always have my bag of yo-yos. I complete a few here a dozen there. I just keep making yo-yos. <br />
<br />
I am working on the last pattern of fabric right now. It is a white on white pattern of spots. It is super cute, but it is extremely difficult to sew through. Sewing through it is rough on the thread and rough on my hand.<br />
<br />
I solved this problem by applying the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thread-Heaven-Protectant-and-Conditioner/dp/B0019CYD42/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1341785946&sr=8-1&keywords=thread+conditioner" target="_blank">Thread Conditioner</a> after each yo-yo I complete. Let me tell you, this stuff is AMAZING! I could not do this project without it. Earlier on (like in 2010) I used beeswax, but it just didn't cut it. You need a great <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Thread-Heaven-Protectant-and-Conditioner/dp/B0019CYD42/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1341785946&sr=8-1&keywords=thread+conditioner" target="_blank">Thread Conditioner</a> if you are doing any type of hand sewing. Your hand will thank you, your thread will thank you, and ultimately, your finished project will thank you!<br />
<br />
A couple of weeks ago while I was watching my kids in swimming lessons, I settled in with my bag of yo-yos. I had just begun to stitch when...<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SNAP</b></span>...there went my needle. The needle that was brand new when I undertook this project. Of course, I did not have another needle with me so I was stuck playing Sudoku on my cell phone until lessons were over. I felt a little out of sorts without the yo-yos to work on. I took a photo with my cell phone, but I don't have a cool phone so I don't know how to show it here. I took some shots when I got home. Here they are...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vtuPZ0Srlbk/T_Ee-l_zFoI/AAAAAAAABFg/i7lCGc87jx4/s1600/DSCN1942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vtuPZ0Srlbk/T_Ee-l_zFoI/AAAAAAAABFg/i7lCGc87jx4/s400/DSCN1942.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is my sad little needle that worked so hard for me!</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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OYeXiAoBXSg/T_Ee7LlY4xI/AAAAAAAABFY/QXQJsZ8L8UM/s1600/DSCN1941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OYeXiAoBXSg/T_Ee7LlY4xI/AAAAAAAABFY/QXQJsZ8L8UM/s400/DSCN1941.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see the pattern of the fabric that is so tough to sew through. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I have completed over 57 yards of fabric worth of yo-yos, and I have less than 1 yard of fabric yet to finish. I am already planning phase 2! Stay tuned for more updates!<br />
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<br />AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-45506059297872314222012-07-02T03:00:00.000-07:002012-09-04T13:51:11.330-07:00EGGS, AGAIN!?!From all of the posts I write about eggs, you would think that I cook
them all of the time. After all, here at Greetings From the Asylum I
have made <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/05/ive-got-eggs-now-what-do-i-do-with-them.html" target="_blank">Deviled Eggs</a>, <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2012/03/egg-cellent-sandwich.html" target="_blank">Egg Salad</a>, <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/06/do-you-want-another-egg-recipe.html" target="_blank">Cyclops Eggs</a>, <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/05/got-eggs.html" target="_blank">Baked Eggs</a>, <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2012/03/i-am-steamed.html" target="_blank">Steamed Eggs</a>, and <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/04/what-hoot.html" target="_blank">Hootenanny Pancakes</a>
with Eggs. The only thing we haven't done is boil them. So guess
what, that's exactly what I'm going to do today. I'm going to show you
how to boil eggs - to make an omelette. That's right, I said, OMELETTE!<br />
<br />
This recipe uses a fancy French cooking technique called <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sous-vide" target="_blank">Sous vide</a>.</i>
The literal translation means "under vacuum" and in basic terms you
seal the food to be cooked inside an airtight plastic bag and cook it in
heated water for an extended period of time. For accomplished chefs of
both the professional and home varieties, you can purchase a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/SousVide-Supreme-Sous-Vide-Water/dp/B003AYZIB4/ref=sr_1_1?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1340944246&sr=1-1&keywords=sous+vide" target="_blank">fancy-dancy machine</a> that will make <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duck_confit" target="_blank">duck confit </a>that will make your heart melt (or so I've heard). Then there is the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/VacMaster-Portable-Chamber-Vacuum-Sealer/dp/B003YE8FG0/ref=sr_1_5?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1340944246&sr=1-5&keywords=sous+vide" target="_blank">vacuum sealer</a>
that no one should be without. But hey, that is only if you have an
extra $1000 lying around. There are less expensive options out there,
but I'm going to show you a <i>Sous vide</i> method that you can accomplish with common tools you probably already have in your kitchen.<br />
<br />
Let's begin, shall we...<br />
<br />
Begin
by breaking three eggs into a Heavy-duty quart-sized freezer bag like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ziploc-Double-Zipper-Heavy-Freezer/dp/B002GJO6R6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1340979635&sr=8-2&keywords=ziploc+quart" target="_blank">THESE</a>. <b>(DO NOT </b>use thinner sandwich bags. That would be a disaster!) Crack the eggs
straight in, don't worry about mixing them. That will come later. Then
add your favorite fillings and a dash of salt and pepper. You really
can't go wrong. Just add what you like. Everyone chooses their own
fillings so everyone gets a perfect meal. <br />
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--ravCVZ0uvY/T-0xyZkMbuI/AAAAAAAABBw/0jiSY51_ou4/s1600/DSCN3639.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--ravCVZ0uvY/T-0xyZkMbuI/AAAAAAAABBw/0jiSY51_ou4/s400/DSCN3639.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add your favorite fillings. This is what I could find in my fridge. Sorry about the nearly empty egg carton.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once you have added what you want, squeeze
as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it and shake, Shake,
SHAKE! This is the perfect job for little helpers. Just make sure you
have a good seal or you will find yourself with a very messy child
and/or kitchen!<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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vI6eQjlpXbY/T-0x2i_bzUI/AAAAAAAABB4/_RhE5Ps9F44/s1600/DSCN3640.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vI6eQjlpXbY/T-0x2i_bzUI/AAAAAAAABB4/_RhE5Ps9F44/s400/DSCN3640.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squeeze out as much air as possible and seal.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I made the omelettes for my children with
only two eggs. First, I didn't have enough eggs for three, and they are
little and wouldn't eat three anyway so there is no use wasting. <br />
<br />
<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KHZu4VkkKfQ/T-0x7MHLFtI/AAAAAAAABCA/1bxzb0TAkD0/s1600/DSCN3641.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KHZu4VkkKfQ/T-0x7MHLFtI/AAAAAAAABCA/1bxzb0TAkD0/s200/DSCN3641.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is my son shaking his dinner.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table 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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D0k6amMotQY/T-0yDP4a4aI/AAAAAAAABCQ/3y608QhZ4I0/s1600/DSCN3643.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D0k6amMotQY/T-0yDP4a4aI/AAAAAAAABCQ/3y608QhZ4I0/s200/DSCN3643.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is my daughter shaking hers.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<br />
BOIL for exactly 13 minutes. You can cook as many as will fit in
your pot at one time - such an improvement over cooking one omelette at
a time. Also, think of how great this recipe would be for camping. It
is such a mess-free recipe. If you're careful you won't even have a
pot to wash!<br />
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hzHfa4QMX80/T-0yHzIE2AI/AAAAAAAABCY/BWCWbvKNdbs/s1600/DSCN3644.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hzHfa4QMX80/T-0yHzIE2AI/AAAAAAAABCY/BWCWbvKNdbs/s400/DSCN3644.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These omelettes can all cook at the same time so everyone eats at the same time. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The air inside the bags will expand while
in the water bath. This is why it is so important to remove as much air
as possible before placing the bags in the boiling water.<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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GVcINHAezbY/T-0yMPdn6WI/AAAAAAAABCk/gY3VXkmEhvc/s1600/DSCN3645.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GVcINHAezbY/T-0yMPdn6WI/AAAAAAAABCk/gY3VXkmEhvc/s400/DSCN3645.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bags will puff out while in the water bath.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once your timer rings, remove the bags from
the boiling water. USE TONGS!!! The bags will be hot even at the tops
that were not in the boiling water. (After all, heat rises!)<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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eAtXXAo9WEY/T-0yegddoWI/AAAAAAAABDE/MTWvNMGe4DI/s1600/DSCN3649.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eAtXXAo9WEY/T-0yegddoWI/AAAAAAAABDE/MTWvNMGe4DI/s400/DSCN3649.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is a finished adult omelette.</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hI3Jm6ssbtc/T-0yQW-ABZI/AAAAAAAABCs/FBW1UZjsUQg/s1600/DSCN3646.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hI3Jm6ssbtc/T-0yQW-ABZI/AAAAAAAABCs/FBW1UZjsUQg/s400/DSCN3646.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is a finished kid's omelette.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Open
the bags and pour the cooked eggs onto plates and serve immediately. I
served mine with toasted English Muffins, and vegetable sticks, milk
and juice. I was drinking my homemade <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/p/food.html" target="_blank">lemonade</a> in a <a href="http://www.jimmyjohns.com/" target="_blank">Jimmy John's</a>
cup. (Use the time while the eggs are boiling to prep the rest of your
meal.) It looks like a great breakfast, but for us, it was dinner. It
really doesn't matter when you cook these omelettes, they are delicious
anytime!<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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VohPKXzQ2sA/T-0yZBK0eRI/AAAAAAAABC8/nwGtBewMpOg/s1600/DSCN3648.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VohPKXzQ2sA/T-0yZBK0eRI/AAAAAAAABC8/nwGtBewMpOg/s400/DSCN3648.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My vegetable side dish. It is perfect for a hot summer day!</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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GFmLJV15XDI/T-0yizzGY9I/AAAAAAAABDM/Zw5Dggh77gU/s1600/DSCN3650.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GFmLJV15XDI/T-0yizzGY9I/AAAAAAAABDM/Zw5Dggh77gU/s400/DSCN3650.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why, yes, I will have some English muffin with my butter. Thank you for asking.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Let's review...Cooking your omelettes by boiling them (<i>Sous vide</i>)
is great because there is no mess, everyone can choose how to dress up
their own eggs, and everyone's meal is ready at the same time! What's
not to love about that? Plus, no flipping! Just think of all of the possibilities. These eggs are perfect for a lazy morning brunch, a sunrise picnic, great for a fast breakfast around a campfire, or even dinner on a busy night. What's not to love? Try it today!
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<a class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Fproduct%2F0980092310%3Fie%3DUTF8%26tag%3Dorigresocent-20%26linkCode%3Das2%26camp%3D1789%26creative%3D9325%26creativeASIN%3D0980092310&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-GFmLJV15XDI%2FT-0yizzGY9I%2FAAAAAAAABDM%2FZw5Dggh77gU%2Fs1600%2FDSCN3650.JPG"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a>AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-90913292504240566782012-06-29T06:00:00.000-07:002012-06-29T06:00:11.510-07:00I Need. A Nap.I love a good bargain. My husband teases that he is cheep, but I disagree. He is frugal, and so am I. Frugal is sooo much nicer-sounding than cheep.<br />
<br />
I want my kids to wear clean pajamas to bed every night. I just think it is icky to put on previously worn clothes on freshly washed skin. That said, I simply CANNOT bear the thought of spending money on multiple sets of new jammies every six months. Then I remembered <a href="http://makingtheworldcuter.com/2011/09/sheets-to-pjs-tutorial-to-make-kids-pajama-pants/" target="_blank">THIS</a> blog post I saw back in September from <a href="http://makingtheworldcuter.com/" target="_blank">Making the World Cuter</a>. (Check out this blog - It is really fun and of course, CUTE!) In this post, Tiffany shows how she made pajama pants for her children from used sheets. Sheet fabric is awesome! It is ideal for making sleepwear because you were sleeping in before anyway!<br />
<br />
I thought, "Hey, I've got a ton of old sheets. I can sew. I'll just make my children new sleep shorts for summer. I can get them all done in a day." HA HA HA HA! Ahem, sorry. I usually have big ideas that take vastly more time in the execution than I originally estimate.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgOrBHIHPSQ/T-vrGbQIWWI/AAAAAAAABA4/rlzwbXN2UII/s1600/DSCN0203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZgOrBHIHPSQ/T-vrGbQIWWI/AAAAAAAABA4/rlzwbXN2UII/s400/DSCN0203.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Super Sleepy Shorts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Seriously, this was a totally easy project. It just takes time to crank out 18 pairs of shorts. (At least it took me some time.)<br />
<br />
First, make a pattern. Trace a pair of shorts that fit. *<b>Be sure to leave enough space around the pattern pieces for seam allowance!*</b><br />
<br />
I first drew out the pieces on freezer paper. Then, I cut out a demo pair and got to sewing. Naturally here the tweaking began. My son's shorts fit him, but just barely. He loved them and insisted on wearing them to bed that night. My daughter's shorts were way too tight. I fixed the demo pairs by trimming the side seams and adding a contrasting stripe of fabric all the way down. (As I said before, I'm fugal, and I wasn't about to toss two pairs of nearly useable shorts. You can see them in the photos at the bottom of this post.)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Once I adjusted the pattern pieces, I began cutting them out of the sheets. For my son's shorts, I used a fitted sheet from his bed that had lost its elastic. For my daughter, I used a fitted sheet from my bed that had been artistically embellished with a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Uni-Ball-Roller-Black-0-7mm-10-Pack/dp/B003BXRTS4/ref=sr_1_19?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1340856914&sr=1-19" target="_blank">completely indelible ink</a>, (Seriously, these are my favorite pens EVER!) but what really did them in was when I tore a pillowcase one morning as I was changing the sheets.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
After all of the pattern pieces were cut out I decided to embellish the fronts of my daughter's shorts for two reasons: first, I wanted to make them cute and two: I needed a way to distinguish the front from the back. I mean, who wants to wear their shorts on backwards. <br />
<br />
My sewing machine is big and clunky and doesn't sew small seams well so I decided to put on the appliques before I stitched the pieces together. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yvdu1jTwjSM/T-vbdaNRl1I/AAAAAAAAA_A/z4y7hQAzkJc/s1600/DSCN0184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yvdu1jTwjSM/T-vbdaNRl1I/AAAAAAAAA_A/z4y7hQAzkJc/s400/DSCN0184.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished applique'</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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EHTgkOAn3Eg/T-vbZFeABWI/AAAAAAAAA-4/YoYH11yaQ4g/s1600/DSCN0183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EHTgkOAn3Eg/T-vbZFeABWI/AAAAAAAAA-4/YoYH11yaQ4g/s400/DSCN0183.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I poked holes in the wing to get the correct placement.</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BSanEv5wxpo/T-vbHren32I/AAAAAAAAA-U/o5dgywtdG0I/s1600/DSCN0179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BSanEv5wxpo/T-vbHren32I/AAAAAAAAA-U/o5dgywtdG0I/s400/DSCN0179.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I stitched around the outline of the bird after I attached the wing.</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3f6C3hi9qI/T-vbU95acFI/AAAAAAAAA-w/dGXPvwQ3sgI/s1600/DSCN0182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3f6C3hi9qI/T-vbU95acFI/AAAAAAAAA-w/dGXPvwQ3sgI/s400/DSCN0182.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I trimmed around the stitching leaving about a <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">¼</span>" of extra fabric.<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Once the applique's were done. I put together the shorts. Here is where the really scandalous part begins...I didn't finish the edges of the pattern pieces before I sewed! ACCCK! There, I admitted it. Sigh! It feels good to get that off my chest! You see, I was taught to zigzag around each piece before I started to sew to avoid having my hard work literally unravel in front of my eyes. I just didn't want to take the time to do that over, and over, and over again for 18 pairs of shorts so I faked it. I sewed the seam and then zigzagged down the raw seam to finish it off. Um, can I just say that I LOVE IT!! It made the process so much faster, and I do believe that the finished shorts look a little less homemade. Here are the steps:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XXrlAtQ8HiE/T-vbhLM3NkI/AAAAAAAAA_I/kIrr-I63VRk/s1600/DSCN0185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XXrlAtQ8HiE/T-vbhLM3NkI/AAAAAAAAA_I/kIrr-I63VRk/s400/DSCN0185.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sew the outside seam and the inseam of both the legs. Then zigzag to finish the seam! :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then zigzag the bottoms of each leg before you roll the hem.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_IvVl4ovS-c/T-vbqQfGAYI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/qoGxi_thGaQ/s1600/DSCN0187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_IvVl4ovS-c/T-vbqQfGAYI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/qoGxi_thGaQ/s400/DSCN0187.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hem each leg. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I opted to hem each leg before I attached the legs together because these shorts are not intended to be seen by the public. I just needed them to be hemmed . Amazingly, you cannot even tell that I didn't meticulously measure and remeasure before sewing. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fOONw8zWOw4/T-vbuB6ZbWI/AAAAAAAAA_g/smUGrkppdJM/s1600/DSCN0188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fOONw8zWOw4/T-vbuB6ZbWI/AAAAAAAAA_g/smUGrkppdJM/s400/DSCN0188.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slide the legs into one another right sides together.</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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8YrBe_w_VGI/T-vbyby4WBI/AAAAAAAAA_o/XRAJt4t7C3w/s1600/DSCN0189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8YrBe_w_VGI/T-vbyby4WBI/AAAAAAAAA_o/XRAJt4t7C3w/s400/DSCN0189.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sew the crotch together. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Zigzag the crotch seam and then around the top of the shorts. This finishes the edge before it is enclosed in the casing.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r5fIFxn8Tds/T-vb2YBdPOI/AAAAAAAAA_0/zV8C0sixMQo/s1600/DSCN0190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r5fIFxn8Tds/T-vb2YBdPOI/AAAAAAAAA_0/zV8C0sixMQo/s400/DSCN0190.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sew a casing for the elastic. Make sure you leave a space to thread your elastic.</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J7kzkEr3t1g/T-vb6mUT6qI/AAAAAAAAA_8/OlCwmhdwLlk/s1600/DSCN0191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J7kzkEr3t1g/T-vb6mUT6qI/AAAAAAAAA_8/OlCwmhdwLlk/s400/DSCN0191.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feed the elastic through the casing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I am feeding elastic through a casing, I have learned to pin the tail end to the fabric. I have had many a tail end slip inside the work forcing me to start over. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l2AJmkT3jOQ/T-vb_DZtl2I/AAAAAAAABAE/4Zr5yFGT8Lg/s1600/DSCN0192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l2AJmkT3jOQ/T-vb_DZtl2I/AAAAAAAABAE/4Zr5yFGT8Lg/s400/DSCN0192.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stitch the ends of the elastic together and sew up the hole. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
You will notice the crotch seam. I made sure that I kept the seam direction uniform as I sewed around the waist. I didn't want it to be strange and twisty.<br />
<br />
Here are some after shots:<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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0t20sR3AWJ0/T-vcGoqm1AI/AAAAAAAABAU/Lp8IIqVM0PU/s1600/DSCN0205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0t20sR3AWJ0/T-vcGoqm1AI/AAAAAAAABAU/Lp8IIqVM0PU/s400/DSCN0205.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's that bird again!</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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AEtyDvhJvUw/T-vcowoexkI/AAAAAAAABAc/6RPRvtoJ1dM/s1600/DSCN0198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AEtyDvhJvUw/T-vcowoexkI/AAAAAAAABAc/6RPRvtoJ1dM/s400/DSCN0198.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Faux chenille - My daughter says these are her favorite!</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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J9wuIGwSIQw/T-vozZ9-rrI/AAAAAAAABAo/naxe0kdnkqc/s1600/DSCN0201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J9wuIGwSIQw/T-vozZ9-rrI/AAAAAAAABAo/naxe0kdnkqc/s400/DSCN0201.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These use a reverse applique' process where I sewed the contrasting fabric to the back of the pattern pieces and then cut away the white. I like this look, but I didn't leave enough of an edge and some of the pieces needed to be repaired after washing. </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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U6uP4dFZFto/T-vo3BwHgPI/AAAAAAAABAw/JkR_mjn1jRQ/s1600/DSCN0204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U6uP4dFZFto/T-vo3BwHgPI/AAAAAAAABAw/JkR_mjn1jRQ/s400/DSCN0204.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My son got striped shorts!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My kids absolutely love these shorts. It is a challenge sometimes to get them out of their sleepy shorts and into "real clothes" in the mornings. My son's only complaint is that he can't tell which way is the front on his shorts. He wants me to sew in a tag. I'll have to come up with something, I guess.<br />
<br />
Here are a few shots of the finished shorts...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2e9s6iuoJgM/T-yv5mLS9zI/AAAAAAAABBI/Lj94sMhsS7A/s1600/DSCN1953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2e9s6iuoJgM/T-yv5mLS9zI/AAAAAAAABBI/Lj94sMhsS7A/s400/DSCN1953.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "O & X" shorts gave me the most trouble.</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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-63FcbHNMA0s/T-ywANaUNII/AAAAAAAABBQ/qg5IZOCxIKM/s1600/DSCN1954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-63FcbHNMA0s/T-ywANaUNII/AAAAAAAABBQ/qg5IZOCxIKM/s400/DSCN1954.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite applique' is this flower. The edges ravel nicely after laundering.</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0uNpjBqu2-A/T-ywD5n7d4I/AAAAAAAABBY/Ijz_UTXxe4Q/s1600/DSCN1955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0uNpjBqu2-A/T-ywD5n7d4I/AAAAAAAABBY/Ijz_UTXxe4Q/s400/DSCN1955.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daughter loves the HUG and KISS!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
All in all, this project took me about a week to complete. I am
still amazed that I thought I could finish in a day. Believe me, you
can totally do this project! The hardest part for me was making sure I
was sewing the applique to the "right" side of the fabric. I messed
that up once which set me back several hours while I picked out the
mistake. (See the "O & X shorts above.) I'll be honest, though, it wouldn't be a sewing project of
mine if there wasn't some picking out involved! <br />
<br />
These shorts were nearly free. I needed to replenish my elastic stash and get a new spool of thread. In all, each pair cost around $1! I paired them with plain cotton t-shirts like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hanes-Girls-2-6x-Shirt-White/dp/B004L9M5J0/ref=sr_1_5?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1340862233&sr=1-5&keywords=white+cotton+undershirts" target="_blank">THESE</a>. These summer pj's totally fit my frugal nature. Plus, I have tons of fabric left over. I used two pillowcases and a full fitted sheet for my son's shorts and not even all of my king-sized fitted sheet for my daughter's shorts. I already have plans for the remnants!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-56844559274848508282012-04-28T22:27:00.002-07:002013-02-04T20:13:24.443-07:00Here is an International Shout Out!My son is six. That being said, he LOVES geography. He knows more about how to read a map and world geography than some of the eleven-year-olds that I taught. One of his favorite things to do is to check the Stats on my blog and see that there has been a visit from a new country.<br />
<br />
He has been delighted by South Africa (where his grandparents were when he was born), by Germany (where his other grandmother lived as a child), by Brazil, Italy, and Russia, by Japan and the United Arab Emirates. The list truly is endless. Today we had a treat to get a new country - Mauritius! Talk about excitement! Let me officially give all of you international visitors a big <b>SHOUT OUT!</b> Thanks for visiting. Thanks for looking around. Thanks for sharing. In fact, Iceland is sharing right now. Click <a href="http://einstein.is/2012/04/25/budu-til-betri-hardsodin-egg-med-thvi-ad-baka-thau-eldamennska/#more-3112" target="_blank">HERE</a> for the link. <br />
<br />
We love your visits, and feel free to come back again - anytime!AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-40333792101904706402012-04-07T20:48:00.001-07:002012-07-15T19:54:08.177-07:00Let's Make A Statement (Ring)!My three-year-old daughter is all girl. Her dress-up trunk is full of frilly, sparkly, lacy things (along with the fire helmet, a pirate sword, etc.). Last year I got an email from Etsy titled "Girl's Best Friend." In it there was a link to a completely cool statement ring made out of white leather. It was shaped like a diamond and embroidered with black cord. Now, as I write this the ring has long since been sold so I don't have the original photo to show you, but trust me when I say it looked really neat. I almost bought it for myself.<br />
<br />
Well, it immediately gave me an idea for some dress-up accessories for my daughter. I used felt, embroidery floss, and little ponytail holders to make her some jewels of her own. They were a big hit!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3YUh0fDpz_c/T4ETszPLKkI/AAAAAAAAA94/tTnlK07eRbc/s1600/DSCN3616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3YUh0fDpz_c/T4ETszPLKkI/AAAAAAAAA94/tTnlK07eRbc/s400/DSCN3616.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She loves the bling! (Notice the wings in the background.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can make some for your little gal! Here's the how-to...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k8zM9uMICo4/T4ERhQ0bRbI/AAAAAAAAA8w/GprP77qYhwc/s1600/DSCN3545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k8zM9uMICo4/T4ERhQ0bRbI/AAAAAAAAA8w/GprP77qYhwc/s400/DSCN3545.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Materials</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Felt </li>
<li>Black Embroidery Floss</li>
<li>Ponytail Holders & Elastic</li>
<li>Needle and Coordinating Thread</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E8fDA8e524A/T4ERlYiuigI/AAAAAAAAA84/p-AuCY_NFiw/s1600/DSCN3546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E8fDA8e524A/T4ERlYiuigI/AAAAAAAAA84/p-AuCY_NFiw/s400/DSCN3546.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paper Patterns</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You could use any sturdy type of material you want (such as leather), but felt is soft, readily available in lots of colors and patterns, and very inexpensive. The ponytail holders are the perfect size for little fingers. Even I can slip one on without my hand getting too uncomfortable. This is a great project to do to use up felt scraps. <br />
<br />
Choose what type of jewel you want to make and pick the appropriate color of felt. I went online and did some research about diamond cuts to get a basic idea about facets for different styles. I blew each of them up to approximately 2 inches across to make my patterns.<br />
<br />
Cut two of each shape out of felt. Using the thread, sew a ponytail holder to one of the felt pieces. <br />
Use the embroidery floss to stitch facets into the other piece of felt. <br />
Stitch the two pieces of felt together to make a ring. (You could also try using fabric glue to attach the two sides of the ring together.)<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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U4_9wRhc8fo/T4ER1UiNaVI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/94lz_Y-h3FE/s1600/DSCN3550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U4_9wRhc8fo/T4ER1UiNaVI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/94lz_Y-h3FE/s400/DSCN3550.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stitching the facets.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I did not try to transfer the facet pattern to the felt before I stitched. I just eyed it. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZCZTg62Z7o/T4ER6hXrNWI/AAAAAAAAA9g/esKCWN2KFFs/s1600/DSCN3551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZCZTg62Z7o/T4ER6hXrNWI/AAAAAAAAA9g/esKCWN2KFFs/s400/DSCN3551.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished top of the ring.</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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NI4ezttK0Qs/T4ERXs9KxjI/AAAAAAAAA8g/vfKKl4WEhPI/s1600/DSCN3605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NI4ezttK0Qs/T4ERXs9KxjI/AAAAAAAAA8g/vfKKl4WEhPI/s400/DSCN3605.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A look at both sides of a ring.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Sometimes the ponytail holder matched the jewel color (like the topaz below), and other times I tried to pick something close.) <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2-XaSHwXwEQ/T4ERdNafKbI/AAAAAAAAA8o/2pG1i4tMMZw/s1600/DSCN3606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2-XaSHwXwEQ/T4ERdNafKbI/AAAAAAAAA8o/2pG1i4tMMZw/s400/DSCN3606.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A close-up look at the collection.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Notice the "diamond" pictured above is much simpler than the one above. I learned that it is best to keep the facet stitching as simple as possible. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nJG0UbG0Eqg/T4ERSJ8VbkI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/SMuaewwX5mg/s1600/DSCN3604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nJG0UbG0Eqg/T4ERSJ8VbkI/AAAAAAAAA8Y/SMuaewwX5mg/s400/DSCN3604.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entire collection!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There are diamonds, sapphires, amethysts, emeralds, topaz, rubies, and pearls. The pearls in the necklace were stitched to a long elastic cord. <br />
<br />
She loves to wear her baby bling. She eve went to church a few weeks ago wearing the "amethyst marquise" ring. It really complemented her outfit!<br />
<br />
Here is one last look at the hardware!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h1Om4T35z6c/T4ETxKjnf0I/AAAAAAAAA-A/7AIN8wgE1Ps/s1600/DSCN3617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h1Om4T35z6c/T4ETxKjnf0I/AAAAAAAAA-A/7AIN8wgE1Ps/s400/DSCN3617.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">COOL! THANKS, MOM! (Even Pink Woobie thinks so!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Have fun making your little one some bling of her own!AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-80320826630759888052012-03-31T15:00:00.000-07:002013-02-25T15:18:21.350-07:006-year Easter EggsO-K! One of the reasons that I started this blog was to finish all of the projects that I had laying around. (Believe me when I tell you there are A LOT.) This particular project I began when I was staying home when I was home on maternity leave after my son was born. He is six. That's right, six. SIGH! I got the idea for this project from my <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/" target="_blank">Martha Stewart Magazine</a>. There was this completely cute arrangement of thread-wrapped carrots, bunnies, and eggs. I knew that I could do that! <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/how-to/easter-tree-with-eggs-rabbits-chicks-and-baskets" target="_blank">HERE</a> is the link from Martha's website. (I still have the pages from the magazine that I pulled out for reference.)<br />
<br />
I spent several days wrapping eggs - 40 of them. Then, I moved on to another project before I could finish decorating them. SIGH! Fast forward several years. I was finishing my old projects, trying new recipes, blogging about my efforts when I was pulled up short. Decorating these eggs was on deck waiting to become my next accomplishment when I got <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/04/lost-week.html" target="_blank">strep throat</a>. Everything came to a crashing halt. After that, it seemed pointless to finish an Easter craft after Easter so I put it off again.<br />
<br />
Now, I can finally say...HOORAY! I finished another one! Of course, I readily admit that I am about six years late with this project, but it is done and that is really all that matters right? Right!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zUXblMfebGs/T3Pq5SIHMQI/AAAAAAAAA78/5JDvViiVBBo/s1600/DSCN0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zUXblMfebGs/T3Pq5SIHMQI/AAAAAAAAA78/5JDvViiVBBo/s400/DSCN0168.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eeek! Huge thumb!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I don't have any photos of the wrapping of the eggs because I wasn't thinking about blogging then. I will tell you the technique that I used to wrap the eggs.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Start by putting a straight pin in one end of the egg (or sphere). </li>
<li>Brush around the pin with a thin layer of glue (I used white glue) about a half and inch or so.</li>
<li>Leave a tail of thread about 2 inches long. Brush it with glue to secure it to the side of the egg. </li>
<li>Begin wrapping the thread around the pin. The first few wraps are the most difficult. </li>
<li>Continue wrapping around the egg until you get to the middle. </li>
<li>Stop wrapping and begin again at the other end of the egg (or sphere).</li>
<li>Finish the wrapping in the middle. </li>
</ul>
<br />
Make sure you keep the glue layer very thin. While it does dry clear, too much glue will saturate the thread fibers and affect the sheen of the thread. This cannot be fixed once it is done without removing the bad thread and starting over. This would not be as much of a problem when using larger cord or yarn. I used embroidery floss so it was a definitely something I had to think about. <br />
<br />
Once your eggs are dry (no need to wait 6 years)....DECORATE!<br />
<br />
I used both white glue and hot glue to stick down the decorations. I used various small ribbons, trims, and other embellishments to decorate the eggs. Here are some photos...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dGggut7xumc/T3PnRI7dpxI/AAAAAAAAA50/znz0RsVoyRo/s1600/DSCN0112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dGggut7xumc/T3PnRI7dpxI/AAAAAAAAA50/znz0RsVoyRo/s400/DSCN0112.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gluing on the decorations. I got the above bag of tiny trims for $5! Amazing!</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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CQSZSK-1HYk/T3PnIC4v44I/AAAAAAAAA5s/ANs7QIyPgGQ/s1600/DSCN0109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CQSZSK-1HYk/T3PnIC4v44I/AAAAAAAAA5s/ANs7QIyPgGQ/s400/DSCN0109.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had some "help."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E_PB0fhbtyE/T3PmjWT7hLI/AAAAAAAAA5c/ZGgdHNm0UTI/s1600/DSCN0114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E_PB0fhbtyE/T3PmjWT7hLI/AAAAAAAAA5c/ZGgdHNm0UTI/s400/DSCN0114.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of "help."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
(I still haven't finished organizing my ribbons and things after all of this help. :) I see a post in that mess somewhere!<br />
<br />
Now...the moment you have all been waiting for...here are the finished eggs!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6BkYwm7dyc/T3PqG6uzBbI/AAAAAAAAA6U/u9WQfveob60/s1600/DSCN0155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6BkYwm7dyc/T3PqG6uzBbI/AAAAAAAAA6U/u9WQfveob60/s640/DSCN0155.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k90dewHEBO8/T3PqMML6TQI/AAAAAAAAA6c/q0g_SKOnzVA/s1600/DSCN0156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k90dewHEBO8/T3PqMML6TQI/AAAAAAAAA6c/q0g_SKOnzVA/s400/DSCN0156.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vArxSBzVQ0k/T3PqPphFNyI/AAAAAAAAA6k/NSzFEOl4X6I/s1600/DSCN0157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="377" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vArxSBzVQ0k/T3PqPphFNyI/AAAAAAAAA6k/NSzFEOl4X6I/s400/DSCN0157.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-emhk03yGlwI/T3PqTFjeOwI/AAAAAAAAA6s/fJbYhK0E--o/s1600/DSCN0158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-emhk03yGlwI/T3PqTFjeOwI/AAAAAAAAA6s/fJbYhK0E--o/s400/DSCN0158.JPG" width="351" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I cut the long ribbon of trim into individual daisies. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lrKiGf8DMvc/T3PqYOp5YQI/AAAAAAAAA60/s_nmApHKMrI/s1600/DSCN0159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lrKiGf8DMvc/T3PqYOp5YQI/AAAAAAAAA60/s_nmApHKMrI/s400/DSCN0159.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I like the effect achieved by the flash off the corner of the glass.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AzRiLwIaLzo/T3PqjvFDZgI/AAAAAAAAA7M/_VSaQshcvBs/s1600/DSCN0162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AzRiLwIaLzo/T3PqjvFDZgI/AAAAAAAAA7M/_VSaQshcvBs/s400/DSCN0162.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More "help."</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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qC-5sr4klJo/T3PqoYkr09I/AAAAAAAAA7U/XGeMrf1EfDY/s1600/DSCN0163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qC-5sr4klJo/T3PqoYkr09I/AAAAAAAAA7U/XGeMrf1EfDY/s400/DSCN0163.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see darker spots on the upper blue and green eggs where the thread got too saturated by the glue.</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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mzln0nnJ36Q/T3Pq0Jbq7UI/AAAAAAAAA7s/uJm41p2pt10/s1600/DSCN0166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mzln0nnJ36Q/T3Pq0Jbq7UI/AAAAAAAAA7s/uJm41p2pt10/s400/DSCN0166.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is a favorite.</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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpJq1xVBV6s/T3PqfhYrQDI/AAAAAAAAA7E/xSMaCbqWNvw/s1600/DSCN0161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpJq1xVBV6s/T3PqfhYrQDI/AAAAAAAAA7E/xSMaCbqWNvw/s400/DSCN0161.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You want to use flexible trim to decorate the oblong shape of the eggs. </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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-woDL3Pmeu4o/T3Pq3RWSBfI/AAAAAAAAA70/P0jUlda9xQg/s1600/DSCN0167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-woDL3Pmeu4o/T3Pq3RWSBfI/AAAAAAAAA70/P0jUlda9xQg/s400/DSCN0167.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can add <a href="http://www.lowes.com/pd_330603-37672-491027_0__?productId=3202443&Ntt=screw+eyes&pl=1&currentURL=%2Fpl__0__s%3FNtt%3Dscrew%2Beyes%26page%3D2&facetInfo=" target="_blank">screw eyes</a> to either the top or the bottom of the eggs to make them suitable for hanging.</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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ALKcWvsvA2Y/T3Pqwo3vVzI/AAAAAAAAA7k/eJ58rqhhq64/s1600/DSCN0165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ALKcWvsvA2Y/T3Pqwo3vVzI/AAAAAAAAA7k/eJ58rqhhq64/s400/DSCN0165.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I really like the look of this bow on the top of the egg,</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4kyQxalCC3o/T3PqbzZ81dI/AAAAAAAAA68/sq9CNTr6wwo/s1600/DSCN0160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4kyQxalCC3o/T3PqbzZ81dI/AAAAAAAAA68/sq9CNTr6wwo/s400/DSCN0160.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here I used a vintage button.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--PqR69bvvuw/T3PqtBLKA6I/AAAAAAAAA7c/2ipsnun_dcc/s1600/DSCN0164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--PqR69bvvuw/T3PqtBLKA6I/AAAAAAAAA7c/2ipsnun_dcc/s400/DSCN0164.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<br />
Well, that's it. These are my eggs. I am glad that they are done (finally), and I am pleased with the way they turned out! I can now truly enjoy the fruits of my labor instead of feeling guilty about the bag full of undecorated eggs lurking in my craft closet year after year patiently waiting for me to get my act together. <br />
<br />
<br />
Finish a project that you have been putting off. You'll be glad you did! I know I am!<br />
<br />
I would love it if you became a follower of my blog. You can also find men <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greetings-From-the-Asylum/206491229375811?ref=hl" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Facebook and <a href="http://pinterest.com/asylumtanya/" target="_blank">HERE</a> on Pinterest. <br />
<br />
If you enjoyed this springtime post you might enjoy this post on <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/06/wreath-for-fourth-and-state-fair-ribbon.html" target="_blank">Making a Fabric Flower Wreath</a> or this post to make a <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/04/bunny-to-peep-ary-trio.html" target="_blank">Bunny To-PEEP-ary</a>. You could also try this post fora fun <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/05/thank-you-teachers.html" target="_blank">Teacher Pencil Bouquet</a>. AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-3826561683564437592012-03-24T21:56:00.000-07:002012-03-24T21:56:50.153-07:00An EGG-cellent Sandwich!I love, Love, LOVE a good egg salad salad sandwich! I remember one outing I had with my husband to a little deli on Saturday. I ordered the egg salad sandwich. It looked soooo good, and I had a craving. Well, imagine my disappointment when I took my first bite only to find the egg salad had NO FLAVOR AT ALL! SIGH!!!! I was so upset. I couldn't even finish my food.<br />
<br />
Well, when I make my own egg salad sandwiches - they are GREAT! See...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aygnh0RcHxE/T26T5NO1IkI/AAAAAAAAA4E/P9QQX5xTLeI/s1600/DSCN0142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aygnh0RcHxE/T26T5NO1IkI/AAAAAAAAA4E/P9QQX5xTLeI/s400/DSCN0142.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DELICIOUS!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You want one of these right now, don't you? (Nodding) I thought you did. As promised, here is the recipe...<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Tanya's EGG-cellent Egg Salad Club</b></span></div>
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<br />
One recipe of egg salad (ingredients listed below) <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>6-10 hard cooked eggs (either <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/05/got-eggs.html" target="_blank">BAKED</a> or <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2012/03/i-am-steamed.html" target="_blank">STEAMED</a>)</li>
<li><span class="instructions">mayonnaise</span></li>
<li><span class="instructions">yellow mustard</span></li>
<li><span class="instructions">dill pickle relish</span></li>
<li><span class="instructions">salt </span></li>
<li><span class="instructions">pepper</span></li>
<li><span class="instructions">celery salt</span></li>
</ul>
<span class="instructions"></span>Throw a little bit of everything into a bowl and mix it up to your desired consistency.<br />
<ul>
<li>croissants</li>
<li>bacon</li>
<li>tomatoes</li>
<li>leafy lettuce </li>
</ul>
<span class="instructions"></span><span class="instructions">DELICIOUS!</span><br />
<br />
<span class="instructions">Here are a few photos!</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-23hJaSI5tRs/T26TdpR5PHI/AAAAAAAAA3M/weIsVDfJ81E/s1600/DSCN0135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-23hJaSI5tRs/T26TdpR5PHI/AAAAAAAAA3M/weIsVDfJ81E/s400/DSCN0135.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celery salt is especially delicious with eggs!</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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BxDrnZM_fEY/T26Tk-RogLI/AAAAAAAAA3c/uR1YnzNtH4E/s1600/DSCN0137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BxDrnZM_fEY/T26Tk-RogLI/AAAAAAAAA3c/uR1YnzNtH4E/s400/DSCN0137.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grate the eggs for a nice consistency.</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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GPiGQ4H4vsw/T26TpAVqb8I/AAAAAAAAA3k/3KakepnfV_0/s1600/DSCN0138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GPiGQ4H4vsw/T26TpAVqb8I/AAAAAAAAA3k/3KakepnfV_0/s400/DSCN0138.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slice your tomatoes, sprinkle them with salt, and let them sit on a paper towel for 10 minutes to draw out some of the moisture. </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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pmBw2VRwjv8/T26TtrPYlKI/AAAAAAAAA3s/WAw2L8xesSQ/s1600/DSCN0139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pmBw2VRwjv8/T26TtrPYlKI/AAAAAAAAA3s/WAw2L8xesSQ/s400/DSCN0139.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bake your bacon! I <i><b>ALWAYS</b></i> bake my bacon. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="instructions">This is uncured bacon from our local market, but any favorite bacon will do. To bake your own bacon, Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and top it with a rack (this allows the fat to drip off the cooking bacon). Bake your bacon for at least 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it. You don't want it to burn. Baked bacon is less messy because you don't have the fat spatters all around your frying pan do deal with. Baked bacon is easier because you can cook an entire package at once. AND... Baked bacon is better because the smell of cooked bacon will only linger for a few hours instead of a few days. Plus, you can't beat this clean-up...</span><br />
<span class="instructions"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BUVT6b7t8QM/T26UIvT_p0I/AAAAAAAAA4k/yy7FbaumXCg/s1600/DSCN0146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BUVT6b7t8QM/T26UIvT_p0I/AAAAAAAAA4k/yy7FbaumXCg/s400/DSCN0146.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wad up the foil and throw it away!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="instructions"> To assemble your EGG-cellent sandwich, slap all of your ingredients on a fresh croissant. </span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Im661DJ8f-8/T26TxK_eWCI/AAAAAAAAA30/3zZP-RpDe_I/s1600/DSCN0140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Im661DJ8f-8/T26TxK_eWCI/AAAAAAAAA30/3zZP-RpDe_I/s400/DSCN0140.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These babies were mere hours old when the became dinner!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="instructions"> Voila! Dinner is served, or lunch, or breakfast if your feeling adventurous. You really can't go wrong with egg salad!</span><br />
<span class="instructions"><br /></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MorGM7fYgIM/T26T1DpfDQI/AAAAAAAAA38/g92Ytpr76qQ/s1600/DSCN0141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MorGM7fYgIM/T26T1DpfDQI/AAAAAAAAA38/g92Ytpr76qQ/s400/DSCN0141.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serve your sandwich with whatever sounds good to you!</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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1j5oTThIHzA/T26UEXjASkI/AAAAAAAAA4c/0w-kXlDr33o/s1600/DSCN0145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1j5oTThIHzA/T26UEXjASkI/AAAAAAAAA4c/0w-kXlDr33o/s400/DSCN0145.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is a close-up!</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aygnh0RcHxE/T26T5NO1IkI/AAAAAAAAA4E/P9QQX5xTLeI/s1600/DSCN0142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aygnh0RcHxE/T26T5NO1IkI/AAAAAAAAA4E/P9QQX5xTLeI/s400/DSCN0142.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here is another view...MMMMMMM!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="instructions">Okay, now I'm hungry! I'll get back to you later. My kitchen is calling! </span><br />
<br />
<br />AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-20129573000165060782012-03-13T22:15:00.000-07:002013-02-01T15:46:25.919-07:00I. Am. STEAMED!Way back last year I made a big batch of potato salad for a family party. I decided to write up a little post on my alternative (thanks to <a href="http://altonbrown.com/">Alton Brown</a>) method of cooking eggs. <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/05/got-eggs.html">I baked them</a>. I pinned my post to Pinterest <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/88312842662460918/">HERE</a> and went on my way. Well...last week someone, or should I say, LOTS of someones began pinning and pinning and re-pinning my post. <br />
<br />
Baking eggs is a marvelous way to cook LOTS of eggs. For me, it is the ONLY way to cook lots of eggs. However, there is another way to cook eggs that can accomplish the same result, perfect eggs, in half the time of baking. (Also described by Alton Brown in his book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Im-Just-Here-Food-Cooking/dp/B001H55MWS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1331414000&sr=8-2"><b>I'm Just Here for the Food</b></a>) If you only need a few eggs cooked quickly...try STEAMING them!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Alton Brown's Steamed Eggs</b></span></div>
<br />
Prep time: 5 min.<br />
Total time: 17 min.<br />
<br />
Ingredients: less than a dozen eggs - do not overcrowd your pan <br />
<br />
Special Equipment: A saucepan with a metal steamer basket and a snug lid. <br />
<br />
Directions: <br />
1. Fill a saucepan with 1" of water.<br />
2. Place the steamer basket into the pan.<br />
3. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.<br />
4. Place the eggs in the steamer basket.<br />
5. Cover the pan and lower the heat to medium-high.<br />
6. Cook the eggs for 12 minutes.<br />
7. Use tongs to remove the cooked eggs from the steamer basket.<br />
8. Place the eggs in a bowl of ice water.<br />
9. Peel the eggs when they are cool enough to handle.<br />
<br />
Here are the steps - in pictures!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cjVoXgYjqBE/T2AbJE77ZfI/AAAAAAAAA1M/PzRs4q8DnLo/s1600/DSCN0124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cjVoXgYjqBE/T2AbJE77ZfI/AAAAAAAAA1M/PzRs4q8DnLo/s400/DSCN0124.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You need three things: A saucepan, a metal steamer basket, and a lid. These pieces are all part of the same set, but I have used a vegetable steamer basket to steam eggs in the past. You just need a snug fitting lid for the saucepan. </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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QMsgGExUKzw/T2AbOUHZxVI/AAAAAAAAA1U/vo9JsV6ZWE8/s1600/DSCN0125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QMsgGExUKzw/T2AbOUHZxVI/AAAAAAAAA1U/vo9JsV6ZWE8/s400/DSCN0125.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1" of water in the bottom of the pan.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uL49TrSuMVQ/T2AbYpyhI7I/AAAAAAAAA1k/py7oMoGMDYE/s1600/DSCN0127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uL49TrSuMVQ/T2AbYpyhI7I/AAAAAAAAA1k/py7oMoGMDYE/s400/DSCN0127.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bring the water to a rolling boil. This takes approximately <b>five</b> minutes.</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FtBdVKlRXNE/T2AbUfVf_CI/AAAAAAAAA1c/xLoV_hyREAI/s1600/DSCN0126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FtBdVKlRXNE/T2AbUfVf_CI/AAAAAAAAA1c/xLoV_hyREAI/s400/DSCN0126.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I made eight eggs. I have a stockpot with a larger steamer basket that holds more, but if I need more than a few eggs I <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/05/got-eggs.html">bake</a> them. Again, this process is best for cooking a few eggs.</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fWjWmsuBKnk/T2Abcaum3iI/AAAAAAAAA1s/R-qVXj_vy6g/s1600/DSCN0128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fWjWmsuBKnk/T2Abcaum3iI/AAAAAAAAA1s/R-qVXj_vy6g/s400/DSCN0128.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Place the eggs over the boiling water.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3vBFun98Vtk/T2AbkURvgBI/AAAAAAAAA18/jyL3aGBZ_So/s1600/DSCN0130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3vBFun98Vtk/T2AbkURvgBI/AAAAAAAAA18/jyL3aGBZ_So/s400/DSCN0130.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cover the pan, lower the heat to medium-high, and steam for 12 minutes.</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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zaVzXMAeiJg/T2AborEIFCI/AAAAAAAAA2E/MN_F5sO5rmQ/s1600/DSCN0131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zaVzXMAeiJg/T2AborEIFCI/AAAAAAAAA2E/MN_F5sO5rmQ/s400/DSCN0131.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Remove the eggs from the pan with tongs and place in ice water. Peel them as soon as they are cool enough to handle. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tsz924ApT2I/T2Aa07khBdI/AAAAAAAAA08/7C8A6PZ3wtE/s1600/DSCN0134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tsz924ApT2I/T2Aa07khBdI/AAAAAAAAA08/7C8A6PZ3wtE/s400/DSCN0134.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You don't need to stir the eggs, but I had a helper that wanted a job. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now it is time to PEEL the eggs...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gcPwe9EUqVw/T2AbwNyEr8I/AAAAAAAAA2U/xqH2Qg9Jauk/s1600/DSCN0133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gcPwe9EUqVw/T2AbwNyEr8I/AAAAAAAAA2U/xqH2Qg9Jauk/s400/DSCN0133.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is VERY hard to see, but crack the egg on both ends and roll it around to put little cracks all over the shell. This will help the shell to come off in a long roll like an orange peel. </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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U0c1N94oE_I/T2AbskowpFI/AAAAAAAAA2M/1_Cm1HROhnQ/s1600/DSCN0132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U0c1N94oE_I/T2AbskowpFI/AAAAAAAAA2M/1_Cm1HROhnQ/s400/DSCN0132.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like this...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Steamed eggs are faster to prepare and easier to peel than the <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/05/got-eggs.html">Baked Eggs</a>, but there are a few trade-offs. The yolks of steamed eggs are not as creamy and delectable as their baked counterparts. Also, steamed eggs give off a more sulferous odor than baked eggs. However, both <b>Baked</b> and <b>Steamed</b> eggs are vast improvements over improperly boiled eggs. <br />
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Once you have your eggs you can slice them up over chef salad, eat them with a little salt and pepper as a snack, or whip up a to-die-for egg salad sandwich. Like this one...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8yaVvT3Sq9Y/T2Aa8km4caI/AAAAAAAAA1E/VMe7kAFiHlg/s1600/DSCN0142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8yaVvT3Sq9Y/T2Aa8km4caI/AAAAAAAAA1E/VMe7kAFiHlg/s400/DSCN0142.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Check back in a few days for the recipe.<br />
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In other news: I just received the <b>April 2012</b> issue of <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/food-network-magazine/package/index.html">Food Network Magazine</a> today in the mail. To my amazement Alton Brown was featured on the cover with his guide for cooking...you guessed it...EGGS! ( To find his recipes that are included in this issue, type "Alton Brown" in the search box.) In it he gives a new third way to prepare hard cooked eggs! Pick up your copy today!AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-9576177379037966152012-03-03T20:35:00.003-07:002012-03-16T21:13:08.036-07:00OH WOW!I have been on blogger hiatus for the last several months. I have been crazy busy helping my husband as he has opened his own law practice. (I am learning more about being an office manager than I ever thought possible.) It is going well. Every once in a while I have a spare five minutes or so, and I think, "I have a pile of projects, I should get one out and get working." Then the next mini-crisis arises.<br />
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Periodically I check in here at <b>Greetings From the Asylum</b> to clear out the spam in the comments folder and smile at some of my favorite posts and comments. Last week something amazing happened! (Thank you <a href="http://pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a>!!) One of my blog posts from last year <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/05/got-eggs.html">Got EGGS?</a> started getting pinned - A LOT! I have had several thousand hits a day! I am getting new followers both here and on Pinterest. All I can say is WOW, THANK YOU!<br />
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If you are looking for some other fun recipes check out my Food tab. Click <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/p/food.html">HERE</a> or on the link at the top of the page. OR if Easter fun is what you are looking for...Check out my large-scale PEEP decorations. <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/04/bunny-to-peep-ary-trio.html">HERE</a> is the link to my Bunny To-PEEP-aries. They are super fun and super cute!<br />
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Again, <b> thank you so much</b> for your visits and support! I am looking forward to finding some time to get back to blogging regularly in the next few weeks!<br />
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UPDATE: My baked egg post was referenced on lifehacker.com! Click <a href="http://lifehacker.com/5893568/make-better-hard+boiled-eggs-by-baking-them-in-the-oven-not-boiling-them">HERE</a> to read the story!<br />
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Now the story from Lifehacker was picked up by KOMO News in Seattle, WA. <a href="http://www.komonews.com/news/va?vaid=045263d458fa2a3dec8882b6af5f3cc5">HERE</a> is the link.AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-51738163390014965612011-09-15T13:26:00.001-07:002011-09-15T20:45:23.614-07:00I'm Baaaaack! (Kinda)Whew! We have been so busy lately getting the business up and running. I have lost 15 pounds on the "Harrison Law Diet." I realize that it is time to go pick up my son from Kindergarten and I have been so busy that I have missed lunch completely.<br />
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In more somber news, my father passed away on Labor Day. It was unexpected but not surprising. He'd been in and out of the hospital several times in August, and it was just his time to go "home." His services were very nice and now my son thinks that every funeral includes a bagpiper. :)<br />
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Here is some happy news...My husband's website is up and running. Click <a href="http://harrisonlawaz.com/">HERE</a> or on the logo below for a look. Tell me what you think...(but <i>I</i> LOVE it)! Our graphic designer did a wonderful job! I especially love our logo!<br />
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<a href="http://harrisonlawaz.com/"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WX4lI8E4a24/TnJeUBBTB3I/AAAAAAAAA04/QXt0jc8RFA4/s1600/email+signature.jpg" /></a></div>
It is awesome, right? I absolutely LOVE how the two "R's" are turned into the scales of justice. <b>COMPLETELY COOL</b>!<br />
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Have no fear. I am still making yo-yos, I am still cooking, and I am still working on crafts. I hope to soon have some time blog about it all.<br />
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Have a great day!<br />
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<br />AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-75432641883744108632011-07-25T12:11:00.000-07:002011-07-25T12:11:47.245-07:00Blogger M.I.A.Hey! I am so sorry that I have been keeping all of you from my crazy blogginess. My life has gotten EXTRA crazy of late. <br />
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Here is the great news why... <br />
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My husband is in the process of opening his own law firm! Hooray! (Can you hear the cheering?) Everything that goes into that has kept me on my toes, on the Internet, and on the phone! <br />
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I have been doing small projects and making fun (read that easy) recipes; the photos are waiting patiently on my computer for me to tend to them, but I simply run out of steam once my kids are in bed. <br />
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SOOO...If you live in Arizona or Utah, keep Harrison Law, PLLC in mind for all of your legal needs! :)AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-66421853589691678012011-07-08T06:00:00.055-07:002011-07-14T09:15:50.426-07:00Onesies, Twosies, Threesies, Lotsies!Who doesn't love a baby in a onesie? I'll tell you who, nobody! That's right the whole world loves a baby in a onesie. Why else would there be hundreds of them in baby stores across the globe in styles and colors to fit everyone's taste? You bet! The simple onesie is the no-fail fashion statement for all posh newborns. They are all crying for a onesie (or lunch, or a diaper change, or entertainment, or whatever). It is up to us to give it to them! <br />
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I saw a project on <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/">Martha Stewart Living</a> for <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/265623/dog-appliqued-infant-bodysuits">appliqued onesies</a>. CUTE! I told myself. I was pregnant with my daughter at the time (she just turned three). I knew that I wanted to make some appliqued onesies for her. However, my ancient sewing machine has a big chunky platform at the bottom so I couldn't applique directly onto the onesie so I had to modify the directions a bit. Here is what I created:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></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="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S7YvraYXgTY/ThYO1Tj94cI/AAAAAAAAA0U/VCvF5rpKTMs/s1600/DSCN1559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S7YvraYXgTY/ThYO1Tj94cI/AAAAAAAAA0U/VCvF5rpKTMs/s640/DSCN1559.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See...cute huh?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> And these:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FpOj4KAZqqc/ThYOxqmOGiI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/zSiA0Iz0gQQ/s1600/DSCN1558.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FpOj4KAZqqc/ThYOxqmOGiI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/zSiA0Iz0gQQ/s200/DSCN1558.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vRby6rbfZM8/ThYPRqVlBJI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/1clf5H0kYkE/s1600/DSCN1561.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vRby6rbfZM8/ThYPRqVlBJI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/1clf5H0kYkE/s200/DSCN1561.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p8AvcgQzZDk/ThYOt85PGII/AAAAAAAAA0M/7sqWqN_OJhI/s1600/DSCN1557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p8AvcgQzZDk/ThYOt85PGII/AAAAAAAAA0M/7sqWqN_OJhI/s200/DSCN1557.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O3dtYracF50/ThYPVgsJOXI/AAAAAAAAA0c/Dd6F6tQTwng/s1600/DSCN1562.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O3dtYracF50/ThYPVgsJOXI/AAAAAAAAA0c/Dd6F6tQTwng/s200/DSCN1562.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Click on the photos to get an enlarged view!<br />
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Since I made these onesies so long ago I don't have a tutorial, but I did the same steps to create these onesies as I did the cuddle blanket I made for my daughter found <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/04/snuggle-up-princess.html">here</a> with a few small changes.<br />
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<ul><li>First, I used clip art to find the shapes. Simpler designs are the best for making the patterns. Adjust them to a useable size, and print them out using your computer printer. </li>
</ul><ul><li>I transferred the design to the paper side of the fusible webbing with a fine pointed Sharpie marker. To do this I used a light box, but a bright window works great too. Make sure you reverse your design or it will come out opposite of the original. I didn't care which way these pictures went so I didn't bother with this step. </li>
</ul><ul><li>I ironed the piece of fusible webbing onto the colored fabric before cutting out the design. This gives the edge of the applique a crisp, clear line. </li>
</ul><ul><li>I sewed the applique onto a piece of white cotton fabric, and used fusible webbing to attach the white fabric to the onesie. </li>
</ul><ul><li>After ironing the white fabric onto the onesie I secured it with a decorative <a href="http://stitchschool.blogspot.com/2009/12/blanket-stitch.html">blanket stitch</a>. </li>
</ul><ul><li>I ironed soft fabric interfacing to the inside of the onesies so that the blanket stitches would not irritate the baby's skin. (Much like you find on commercially available decorated onesies.)</li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> Here are some close-up shots of the onesies pictured above.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0XvZNWN7hZA/ThYOKtJ3y-I/AAAAAAAAAz4/4UFvMHU7gBg/s1600/DSCN1563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0XvZNWN7hZA/ThYOKtJ3y-I/AAAAAAAAAz4/4UFvMHU7gBg/s400/DSCN1563.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fish with bubbles</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l-xHGTKY8oc/ThYON2qbcGI/AAAAAAAAAz8/unygYkyc8tw/s1600/DSCN1564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l-xHGTKY8oc/ThYON2qbcGI/AAAAAAAAAz8/unygYkyc8tw/s400/DSCN1564.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KgxTHphoA4Q/ThYOQ7aEfzI/AAAAAAAAA0A/RAmlfUNfu2s/s1600/DSCN1565.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KgxTHphoA4Q/ThYOQ7aEfzI/AAAAAAAAA0A/RAmlfUNfu2s/s400/DSCN1565.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shamrock</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gB-FSTKGvpk/ThYOT_4G8jI/AAAAAAAAA0E/CcVZpBKt7HE/s1600/DSCN1566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gB-FSTKGvpk/ThYOT_4G8jI/AAAAAAAAA0E/CcVZpBKt7HE/s400/DSCN1566.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paintbrush with paint. (Notice the stitching that identifies the bristles.)</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="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6hAyoNHDVDQ/ThYOZ6SfdMI/AAAAAAAAA0I/uMNrmbRJXE4/s1600/DSCN1560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6hAyoNHDVDQ/ThYOZ6SfdMI/AAAAAAAAA0I/uMNrmbRJXE4/s400/DSCN1560.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaf (There is the extra stitching for the leaf's veins.)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I made some special onesies for my long-time friend and her son. He is the same one who received a <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/01/kids-document-keeper.html">Kids Document Keeper</a> and a <a href="http://greetingsfromtheasylum.blogspot.com/2011/03/hide-seek-baby.html">Hide and Seek Bag</a>. You can read about the symbolism and see him wearing his special onesies <a href="http://daveandsarahbennett.blogspot.com/2010/05/motto.html">here</a>. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Here are some photos of those onesies (except "happiness" I'm not sure why).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EtvJXEInBeo/ThYRjq5OibI/AAAAAAAAA0s/pX-rsmLlIeY/s1600/DSCN1896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EtvJXEInBeo/ThYRjq5OibI/AAAAAAAAA0s/pX-rsmLlIeY/s400/DSCN1896.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peace</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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RcBdfr9AcEA/ThYRgkoAK6I/AAAAAAAAA0o/S8pohlJ8k44/s1600/DSCN1895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RcBdfr9AcEA/ThYRgkoAK6I/AAAAAAAAA0o/S8pohlJ8k44/s400/DSCN1895.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Happiness is supposed to go here! :) </div><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q2PG-4zLdzs/ThYRdI93DDI/AAAAAAAAA0k/4ZXLtmRUbck/s1600/DSCN1894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q2PG-4zLdzs/ThYRdI93DDI/AAAAAAAAA0k/4ZXLtmRUbck/s400/DSCN1894.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Music</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Recycling is not one of the original symbols, but my package had an extra onesie so I added this because thought it was cute. Cute, right? (Please tell me you are nodding.) <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-66VGD8pOSLM/ThYRYedUWvI/AAAAAAAAA0g/Q3j4XlzEJZY/s1600/DSCN1893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-66VGD8pOSLM/ThYRYedUWvI/AAAAAAAAA0g/Q3j4XlzEJZY/s400/DSCN1893.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recycling</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Well there you have it, appliqued onesies for those of us who cannot applique easily onto tiny things because our sewing machines date back to the Roosevelt administration (Franklin not Teddy). :) See...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9je93PRDPl8/TThQofg3NhI/AAAAAAAAAFY/BiLqPbnSM88/s1600/DSCN2289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9je93PRDPl8/TThQofg3NhI/AAAAAAAAAFY/BiLqPbnSM88/s400/DSCN2289.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big and clunky, but totally awesome!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I have made several other styles for lots of other moms, but these are the only onesies of which I have pictures. Don't think that this is a hard project. It is totally easy. You can get a crop done in a day. The hardest part is finding the pictures you want to use as a pattern. <br />
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Send me pictures if you make some of these appliqued onesies! I would love to see what you have made, AND I' love to show your work of here on my "You Made It" page!<br />
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<a _mce_href="”http://www.iheartnaptime.net/”" href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.iheartnaptime.net/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”"><br />
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<a _mce_href="”http://www.iheartnaptime.net/”" href="http://www.blogger.com/%E2%80%9Dhttp://www.iheartnaptime.net/%E2%80%9D" target="”_blank”"> </a><a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/search/label/Link%20Parties" target="_blank"><img alt="UndertheTableandDreaming" border="0" src="http://i693.photobucket.com/albums/vv298/theliebertfamily/party.png" /></a>AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339788324681088228.post-20280294147131206962011-07-06T06:00:00.002-07:002011-07-07T16:24:07.467-07:00Lovely Blog Award! Who, Me?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I checked my comments a few mornings ago to find that Lesley from <a href="http://mlsdesignsky.blogspot.com/">Life of the Cocktail Party</a> had given me a Lovely Blog Award! Wow! Fun! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PP58s-bAaTo/TgSS8eddU1I/AAAAAAAABsc/v5RC5CH-m2s/s1600/lovelyaward.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PP58s-bAaTo/TgSS8eddU1I/AAAAAAAABsc/v5RC5CH-m2s/s1600/lovelyaward.jpg" /></a></div><br />
To accept this award I am required to tell you all seven things about myself that no one knows. I have been wracking my brain trying to decide what to say. I'm still not sure what I can say, but here goes...<br />
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1. I grew up in a house that was next-door to the house in which my father grew up. My grandmother lived there until I was 10. Then she moved a few miles away. I grew up in the Phoenix/Metro area without air conditioning! Yup, no a/c! We had an evaporative cooler, but during the summer monsoon it was little to no help. My husband teases me that I married him just to get air conditioning, but my parents had a/c installed in their house during the winter before we got married. I was never living in the house when it was functional! <br />
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2. I have played several instruments throughout my life. I played the piano first, the alto saxophone in elementary school, the oboe in junior high, singing in the choir in high school, and the cello in college. I was even a councilor at band camp for two summers. It was pretty fun!<br />
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3. I was on the pom line in high school. I managed to get some kind of injury every week. I was hit in the head with something from the stands one week. (Scalps bleed a lot.) Another week I fell getting onto the bus after an away game. (Shins bleed a lot.) Then there was the dislocated thumb after the jump splits. (Twenty years later and it still looks funny.) Fortunately for me, our sponsor was the school nurse. (She really was!)<br />
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4. I participated in musical theater productions in college. During one performance of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (with my future husband in the audience) I suffered a PG wardrobe malfunction during the "Spring Dance" scene. After a quick change of costumes, my zipper got stuck and refused to go either up or down. My dresser found a giant safety pin to secure the top of the dress and my partner and I went out to do the dance. The stage manager even tried to tape the hole closed in the middle of the dance. You could feel the tension in the audience building as the dance progressed, but we got the biggest round of applause when the dance finally ended. (I still wish I had thought to throw some of the set decoration straw in my hair and into the hair of my partner to "explain" our tardiness. That would have been funny.) <br />
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5. I was born on my uncle's birthday, and when I was pregnant with my son, he was due on my birthday too. He was born 11 days early so our birthdays are not the same! One of my church friends was due on that day too. Her son was one day late so our boys' birthdays are 12 days apart. Then the next time we were pregnant, we were due 5 days apart. We totally didn't plan that!<br />
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6. I have my own candy business called "Sugarthumbs." I LOVE to make candy, but I never want to eat it after I have put so much work into making it. I guess that is probably a good thing. I have filled orders for major holidays and for special occasions such as birthday parties and business celebrations. <br />
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7. The man that was my sixth grade teacher was later my principal years later after I became a teacher. The gal that was my fifth grade teacher was in all of the classes for my Master's Degree. She seemed a little surprised when she walked into class on the first day to find me sitting there. We had a great time!<br />
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I am presenting a "Lovely Blog Award" to the following completely wonderful blogs:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blissfulanddomestic.blogspot.com/">Blissful and Domestic</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://amomnotapro.blogspot.com/">A Mom Not a Professional Nor a Perfectionist</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://dearhelenhartman.blogspot.com/">Dear Helen Hartman</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.epbot.com/">Epbot</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/">Flamingo Toes</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nicegirlnotes.com/">Nice Girl Notes</a></div><br />
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Stop by and check them out!<br />
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I am linking this up to Alphabe-Thursday! Come and check out all of the fun. Use the button below!<br />
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<a href="http://jennymatlock.blogspot.com/search/label/Alphabe-Thursday" target="_blank"><img alt="Jenny Matlock" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jennysidebar_button_THURS-2.jpg" /></a>AsylumTanyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00274817914781549494noreply@blogger.com13