tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86861244098598800322024-03-05T11:29:25.152-05:00Inside My PresentThe eclectic adventures of a
culture-seeking, travel-hungry,
kitchen-crazy nurseLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-50070428619075043252012-05-29T00:00:00.000-04:002012-05-29T00:00:10.586-04:00Tuesday Time Out Linky Party<br />
<center>It's my last week to co-host the Tuesday Time Out Linky Party from <a href="http://www.reasonstoskipthehousework.com/">Reasons to Skip the Housework</a>- it's been fun!</center><center><a href="http://www.reasonstoskipthehousework.com/"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="257" src="http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad308/azparis3/cohostbutton.png" title="co-host " width="320" /></a></center><center>Here are my favorites from last week:</center><center><br /></center><center><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://stellabskitchen.blogspot.com/2012/05/lofthouse-sugar-cookies.html">Lofthouse Sugar Cookies from Stella B's Kitchen</a></span></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF8a_nJ4NqmNGD_reVKARo1ZsfjN1N7_HXv5U5OrIi3VGkT1JmatrB-P3QE54GJIEO6JY0X_5R3YJlu1cEMjPcLpTRcihj09iZnUkaNSbznMGwQX1J_kYjFBimd_QsQ3obdFatxpC5WX4/s640/DSC_1342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF8a_nJ4NqmNGD_reVKARo1ZsfjN1N7_HXv5U5OrIi3VGkT1JmatrB-P3QE54GJIEO6JY0X_5R3YJlu1cEMjPcLpTRcihj09iZnUkaNSbznMGwQX1J_kYjFBimd_QsQ3obdFatxpC5WX4/s320/DSC_1342.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<center><br /></center><center><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://hippiedogcompany.blogspot.com/2012/05/kale-chips.html">Kale Chips from Hippie Dog Company</a></span></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYHhps253Hz0SeB6spo5HRtuFlksECjUKsq3JKSNg0ZGbHTTf4lqY-D9bDgSfEtq72x1_xEO7jF5PTxMqGQqB970DaI7i6axw-3JPwGqhb2OGK-2CnBliAPeYTrQSWg0RdER2BV0aQLSro/s320/IMG-20120319-00065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYHhps253Hz0SeB6spo5HRtuFlksECjUKsq3JKSNg0ZGbHTTf4lqY-D9bDgSfEtq72x1_xEO7jF5PTxMqGQqB970DaI7i6axw-3JPwGqhb2OGK-2CnBliAPeYTrQSWg0RdER2BV0aQLSro/s320/IMG-20120319-00065.jpg" /></a></div>
<center><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></center><center><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.shugarysweets.com/2012/05/chocolate-malt-cupcakes-and-my.html#">Chocolate Malt Cupcakes from Shugary Sweets</a></span></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguVK21TlJpnVaGmAccm-Rasti-n1hTkqUaiTOsOJ8ZpRUDoMkNuvBPzBNkcU27fPLACqT36fagtDZm5AQFkF5Bp087-pLRwOoGyF8kUv0Tz2nzkWFqYXTZSuTSaHu0qSAgYtBL_o-RxEc/s640/maltcupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguVK21TlJpnVaGmAccm-Rasti-n1hTkqUaiTOsOJ8ZpRUDoMkNuvBPzBNkcU27fPLACqT36fagtDZm5AQFkF5Bp087-pLRwOoGyF8kUv0Tz2nzkWFqYXTZSuTSaHu0qSAgYtBL_o-RxEc/s320/maltcupcakes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<center><br /></center><center>Now be sure to link up all of your greatest stuff! I wanna see what everyone has been up to...</center><center><br /></center><center></center>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-67928509663111346012012-05-23T00:00:00.000-04:002012-05-23T07:41:56.118-04:00Fabric-Covered FramesToday I'm going to share with you a craft with endless possibilities- beautiful fabric-covered picture frames. A great solution for your thrifty finds and those remnant fabrics, you can take any drab frame and customize it to match your decor or the theme of your photo. A custom frame also makes a great gift! This one was for my mother for Mother's Day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTMrwn8G5m4NiEKP09SgKgeVjwQzQJ3Ci-4Ur8w698rop6-Hg0rrK2Cx49EP51tRvtUAFKAATyPMjsZhSxbmdf6c3MKWpTVhj4mdvrsHwYibmFOV8SNEbjz6Z5ed_AXm35dt523wVCWc/s1600/IMG_2323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSTMrwn8G5m4NiEKP09SgKgeVjwQzQJ3Ci-4Ur8w698rop6-Hg0rrK2Cx49EP51tRvtUAFKAATyPMjsZhSxbmdf6c3MKWpTVhj4mdvrsHwYibmFOV8SNEbjz6Z5ed_AXm35dt523wVCWc/s320/IMG_2323.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This project started with this frame that just wasn't my style. I wanted to refinish it somehow to blend with mom's decor- paint wasn't an option on the frame's mosaic surface but fabric choices were endless. I found a beautiful pewter fabric and some coordinating accents and got to work.<br />
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Unfortunately, you couldn't disassemble this particular frame so I used painter's tape to protect the glass before spraying the front of the frame with spray adhesive. The spray adhesive worked perfectly for this project- it didn't discolor the fabric or show any lumps or bumps below.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAG-RlTmfeY_851CG0R_POrXJ5R7J_Ud5a8Tq_2eO8vKcQJQ6JBWZ96gfdCwtKIMMRghE4J7Tx8q6QYP3ZZ_hH7GkYMh8onR7NcFkHB1cCxvPHqXhuH3lmHQkzLj_GX6tGM2iny6IqlL4/s1600/IMG_2285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAG-RlTmfeY_851CG0R_POrXJ5R7J_Ud5a8Tq_2eO8vKcQJQ6JBWZ96gfdCwtKIMMRghE4J7Tx8q6QYP3ZZ_hH7GkYMh8onR7NcFkHB1cCxvPHqXhuH3lmHQkzLj_GX6tGM2iny6IqlL4/s320/IMG_2285.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I used an exacto knife to cut out the fabric covering the glass, making sure the edges were adhered well, and used fabric glue to glue the fabric to the back of the frame.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4KeabmyjQE2yRjxB3bh37TXPTbvJornuz-jmIOItFRUGLEJ3ryjqdzdT1FMH4HDoWIFNZXXpW5FkTsfcqUud049OOGHl4G3Ut-a_-xER3XH3IOWxjUuDpyAPPPTKToEPtfPggQZwNW0/s1600/IMG_2288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG4KeabmyjQE2yRjxB3bh37TXPTbvJornuz-jmIOItFRUGLEJ3ryjqdzdT1FMH4HDoWIFNZXXpW5FkTsfcqUud049OOGHl4G3Ut-a_-xER3XH3IOWxjUuDpyAPPPTKToEPtfPggQZwNW0/s320/IMG_2288.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Depending on the look you want, you could be done at this step! If you have some fabrics you want to showcase, they would look great unadorned and perhaps grouped together on a table. Or you could use some fabric glue to add accents of a coordinating fabric. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh12E41b_NFQ7TVJFdIiH5rszm1t2nH0x5tbHlogDqwc-V8lYLaIuviF3IRktH40-Z3PccXovwJvs_6OkEZq0k46EfucmTo3ma0B-UfOCkbOJ9FqofgTZtXJJmZsuwuGLiZK-4LGec7HA/s1600/IMG_2326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh12E41b_NFQ7TVJFdIiH5rszm1t2nH0x5tbHlogDqwc-V8lYLaIuviF3IRktH40-Z3PccXovwJvs_6OkEZq0k46EfucmTo3ma0B-UfOCkbOJ9FqofgTZtXJJmZsuwuGLiZK-4LGec7HA/s320/IMG_2326.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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You can decorate your frame with anything your glue will stick to! Have some mementos from your latest vacation? Showcase them on your frame with a photo from the trip. Use your collection of old keys, buttons or broaches- anything! I decided to decorate mine with these pretty fabric flowers I had made and some ribbon- you can read how to make the flowers <a href="http://insidemypresent.blogspot.com/2012/04/how-to-make-fabric-flowers.html">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkslDCOK8J1oA6HtKbDju3KvOSPLZa5KRTwmINo8SuKqOp3-93Y_vzLzxML-rP6LcfT7XY-iJD7O625_jlz2FuBENmMMTRyfytvLr_h3TScr24rqUwQJuUgEBg7Jh3McD6BUHkvOsP_U/s1600/IMG_2325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkslDCOK8J1oA6HtKbDju3KvOSPLZa5KRTwmINo8SuKqOp3-93Y_vzLzxML-rP6LcfT7XY-iJD7O625_jlz2FuBENmMMTRyfytvLr_h3TScr24rqUwQJuUgEBg7Jh3McD6BUHkvOsP_U/s320/IMG_2325.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have a ton of nicked up frames I'm looking forward to refinishing- I'm thinking a groups of burlap-covered frames would look great! </div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-73467286943704824162012-05-22T09:48:00.001-04:002012-05-22T09:48:02.436-04:00Tuesday Timeout Linky Party!<br />
<center>It's time for another edition of Tuesday Time Out Linky Party- and I'm co-hosting! Hope everyone had a chance to check out the awesome links from last week- there's some great stuff out there!</center><center><a href="http://www.reasonstoskipthehousework.com/"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="257" src="http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad308/azparis3/cohostbutton.png" title="co-host " width="320" /></a></center><center>Here are some of my favorites:</center><center><br /></center><center><a href="http://amyscookingadventures.blogspot.com/2012/05/poblano-pesto.html"><span style="font-size: large;">Poblano Pesto from Amy's Cooking Adventures</span></a></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu87UGw2nCwdzZ-WrRV-9NMaBmOcgy6Y3-DCJ4zClQ6-vFu0ZK0dgneFrmFTuu2fGOfXuJO0Dyahex1ioBsnimpv9U1EMPKC411at58Y1rIlb351-y6UpSaApQBdUPOS5sHj6ADxCqWR4/s1600/poblano+cilatro+pesto+2+%2528c%2529Amy%2527s+Cooking+Adventures-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu87UGw2nCwdzZ-WrRV-9NMaBmOcgy6Y3-DCJ4zClQ6-vFu0ZK0dgneFrmFTuu2fGOfXuJO0Dyahex1ioBsnimpv9U1EMPKC411at58Y1rIlb351-y6UpSaApQBdUPOS5sHj6ADxCqWR4/s320/poblano+cilatro+pesto+2+%2528c%2529Amy%2527s+Cooking+Adventures-001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<center><a href="http://vintagemellie.blogspot.com/2012/05/vintage-picnic-baskets.html?m=1"><span style="font-size: large;">Amazing Vintage Picnic Baskets with image transfers from Shabby Love</span></a></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmbC8doiz4RSQMvUtpgdpHT8NRQNa7SqfK-VyQbqST2nnfk7KH82sghrJdvanKS5raZzvqZ_niqIeYuM0qLF6xgi2cIuqpYE9YwscJRYUygMG_zksFJFh9e_YKlpJHoSK9NXNTiHm6rF3/s280/DSC_0661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqmbC8doiz4RSQMvUtpgdpHT8NRQNa7SqfK-VyQbqST2nnfk7KH82sghrJdvanKS5raZzvqZ_niqIeYuM0qLF6xgi2cIuqpYE9YwscJRYUygMG_zksFJFh9e_YKlpJHoSK9NXNTiHm6rF3/s280/DSC_0661.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.littlehouseinthebigd.com/2012/04/wine-bottle-torches.html"><span style="font-size: large;">Wine Bottle Torches from Little House in the Big D</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3AZhy9VJ4cjBNrJiZDsnfw6N0BGWHfRZk7YyFJhA0yNtt8uDACj8V4NilZ2ncbzo21iKCTjVLxV7vzj4h4hBBkhe7zsFDFgx3tUDKoE5Mwxfp53mCQoLpYjMno0M703DB-XnHwTGRKh8/s640/IMG_1929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3AZhy9VJ4cjBNrJiZDsnfw6N0BGWHfRZk7YyFJhA0yNtt8uDACj8V4NilZ2ncbzo21iKCTjVLxV7vzj4h4hBBkhe7zsFDFgx3tUDKoE5Mwxfp53mCQoLpYjMno0M703DB-XnHwTGRKh8/s320/IMG_1929.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<center><br /></center><center>Be sure to give your host- <a href="http://reasonstoskipthehousework.com/">Reasons to Skip the Housework</a>- some love for throwing this party! Now, go link up your greatest posts!</center><center><br /></center><center><br /></center><center></center>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-74491434166299070122012-05-19T10:00:00.000-04:002012-05-19T10:00:03.261-04:00The Last Giveaway!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It's the last day of Blogapalloosa! Stop by </span><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://atirinspireddecor.blogspot.com/">Atir Inspired Decor</a> to take a peek at her giveaway goodies! They include this great wallet along with other treasures.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a ;="" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfCPhpF69utejSArgB85wy0x0bnRNB9Y_7VrNeNenY6Mzx3EVhRuDyt6Wyas_bEednC56O75ubHfBu5Zchq6EclmmVY9wuyAvKY4tdERlmpaxcye9N6i-EVKqh1sPpfIU6LVQH00TArYJ/s1600/1st+giveaway+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img ;="" border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfCPhpF69utejSArgB85wy0x0bnRNB9Y_7VrNeNenY6Mzx3EVhRuDyt6Wyas_bEednC56O75ubHfBu5Zchq6EclmmVY9wuyAvKY4tdERlmpaxcye9N6i-EVKqh1sPpfIU6LVQH00TArYJ/s200/1st+giveaway+010.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And don't forget to visit past day's giveaways- many are open for a week. You can find them by selecting the giveaway category on the left side of the page.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-23285198969071390982012-05-18T00:00:00.000-04:002012-05-18T17:09:14.314-04:00Blogapallossa Giveaway- $20 to UUPP Prints!<span style="font-size: large;">I am so excited to be doing my first giveaway as part of Blogapalloossa hosted by <a href="http://www.randeesorganizedchaos.com/">Randee's Organized Chao</a>s! I'm sure you have been following along for the past couple of weeks, now it's my turn to share something with you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last month, I received this gorgeous print in the mail from a dear friend displaying my favorite Julia Child quote. Sneaky girl had it custom made for me from a great Etsy shop she found- UUPP. (<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/UUPP?section_id=7795879">Click here to visit the shop</a>)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I checked the shop out and found so many amazing prints and cards. Her work is fresh and inspiring! Whether you're looking for an uplifting phrase or something endearing for your sweetheart, she's got it. There were even categories dedicated to Jane Austen, Julia Child and Food quotes! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So now for the good stuff! The winner of this giveaway will win a $20 gift certificate to UUPP! That's enough for an 8x10 print! Or use it towards a custom piece displaying your favorite text!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIh8FFrx2x6S6uZom2a2xK8Ut0j1BeRLIH6A3EQDMaP67B6aAU2Hp4ANQFxQQt1Q_SPBbvK5_KPJ_d5jHHAcSdvsEK-nbT5-kClrhBufOD5e8Z1NyDLLnO4Y3RRElwXJ3Ua2UTxvgxbIM/s1600/iusb_760x100.9452471_6cya.jpg"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIh8FFrx2x6S6uZom2a2xK8Ut0j1BeRLIH6A3EQDMaP67B6aAU2Hp4ANQFxQQt1Q_SPBbvK5_KPJ_d5jHHAcSdvsEK-nbT5-kClrhBufOD5e8Z1NyDLLnO4Y3RRElwXJ3Ua2UTxvgxbIM/s320/iusb_760x100.9452471_6cya.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here are some of my favorites:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUIl0dLKmnhElKW7ppFexuF4xHdVQoxMTpQuyFW2e8SPJ6e5WdhZgF7-Dh_ugTM1UHUPOtHJnQ5iOGoCZEoOz9NSDqxikxOF4eiKFFhrae4s1korW6YphkuB5IZrFOWtDlBy_4tIO9Pk/s1600/il_570xN.314260355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUIl0dLKmnhElKW7ppFexuF4xHdVQoxMTpQuyFW2e8SPJ6e5WdhZgF7-Dh_ugTM1UHUPOtHJnQ5iOGoCZEoOz9NSDqxikxOF4eiKFFhrae4s1korW6YphkuB5IZrFOWtDlBy_4tIO9Pk/s320/il_570xN.314260355.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ZctToCrWg8bsIwwntwjcBEpIFMlsOxT5OGop80ir82BBuVP_FIUbZ2YZKRR8Vrt4nDXcBseB5ds0JpGOu0jHI0o4pYAxMYE9beZLxs78_xipOlLnx9CdMMTyiH6OntCNbp9YMK4jNRI/s1600/il_570xN.293309292.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ZctToCrWg8bsIwwntwjcBEpIFMlsOxT5OGop80ir82BBuVP_FIUbZ2YZKRR8Vrt4nDXcBseB5ds0JpGOu0jHI0o4pYAxMYE9beZLxs78_xipOlLnx9CdMMTyiH6OntCNbp9YMK4jNRI/s320/il_570xN.293309292.jpg" width="263" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Use the Rafflecopter below to enter to win! The more love you give, the more entries you can get! You have a week to enter- have at it!</span><br />
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<span style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></span></span><br />
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</tbody></table>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-33645291156084626262012-05-17T10:00:00.000-04:002012-05-17T10:00:06.923-04:00Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Giveaway<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Meet today's giveaway hostess- she's got something you want!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Howdy! I'm Jennifer from </span><a href="http://www.sassypantsstudio.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: xx-large;" target="_blank">Don't Mess With My Tutus!</a><span style="font-size: x-large;"> - a sassy little place I used to use to sell custom-made children's clothing but now I keep to share my recipes, redos and realities of life! Since becoming a full-time SAHM, I have been having fun </span><span id="goog_1590882149" style="font-size: x-large;"></span><a href="http://sassypantsstudio.blogspot.com/2012/03/my-friday-find.html" style="font-size: xx-large;" target="_blank">'junkin' in jammies'</a><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span id="goog_1590882150" style="font-size: x-large;"></span><span style="font-size: x-large;">most Fridays and recently took the plunge with </span><em style="font-size: xx-large;">Resuscitation Annie</em><span style="font-size: x-large;"> - Annie Sloan Chalk Paint that is! Now this fabulous paint that requires NO PREP WORK when refinishing furniture (HUGE bonus!!) was sold to me by fellow re-decorator AND courageous momtrepeneur Rhonda McCleskey from </span><a href="http://www.therestoredhome.com/" style="font-size: xx-large;" target="_blank">Restored ~ Home</a><span style="font-size: x-large;"> who has graciously offered us today's prize!!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXHgozw0dvgBrBpBclIUdXGVzC43zNInIU99GUp9dLQs9UrF31gMPqQ2iC4yE3UTBGFSWBbZXsJbPtOnZzrUjPl_AC4f_RVbrb1oQ5bi50M6fQUSEeboPVvfbJriQMEK1RQ35IriMY3mHy/s1600/jenn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXHgozw0dvgBrBpBclIUdXGVzC43zNInIU99GUp9dLQs9UrF31gMPqQ2iC4yE3UTBGFSWBbZXsJbPtOnZzrUjPl_AC4f_RVbrb1oQ5bi50M6fQUSEeboPVvfbJriQMEK1RQ35IriMY3mHy/s640/jenn.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">3 samples of Annie Sloan Chalk paint and an ASCP color chart, 2 chip brushes and 1 bar of handmade "Painter's Friend' Soap!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Rhonda has such a generous spirit and I am excited to let you know that in addition to this giveaway, 'local' gals can also enter to win <strong><a href="http://www.therestoredhome.com/Register-For-Our-Workshops.html" target="_blank">An Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Techniques Class</a></strong> at Rhonda's new store in Alvin, TX - a $165 value!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I'm sooo excited to introduce you to Rhonda and tell you about the Grand Opening of her new store Restored ~ Home, so head on over to my blog to read all about it AND register to win!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Good Luck!</span></div>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-22521048913826535682012-05-16T10:00:00.000-04:002012-05-16T10:00:04.555-04:00Giveaway Day Eleven!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Today's giveaway is from <a href="http://www.claimingourspace.com/" target="_blank">Claiming Our Space</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.randeesorganizedchaos.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">
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<a href="http://www.randeesorganizedchaos.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">
</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE0p75bgnMSWcLm-fEUyQb1_Nci1NhzFAJR4C3fmh9GkmH5xwV6zGAMrJE2xI1EbHgQpvNT3-jTpImk2cU3dQsq0N_FxUk8nQ5AipkAWBtrYahHLCO93waRfw1nKkpndwhIA4F8XOp8CQ0/s1600/COSGiveawayItemsv2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE0p75bgnMSWcLm-fEUyQb1_Nci1NhzFAJR4C3fmh9GkmH5xwV6zGAMrJE2xI1EbHgQpvNT3-jTpImk2cU3dQsq0N_FxUk8nQ5AipkAWBtrYahHLCO93waRfw1nKkpndwhIA4F8XOp8CQ0/s400/COSGiveawayItemsv2.jpg" width="352" /></a></div>
Claiming Our Space is giving away a set of 4 hand stamped tumbled travertine tiles, a set of 4 slate fridge magnets with a Celtic design and a set of 4 porcelain tile magnets stamped with green dragonflies.<br />
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I hope you will head on over to <a href="http://www.claimingourspace.com/" target="_blank">Claiming Our Space</a> to enter!<br />
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To see the other giveaways, click <a href="http://www.claimingourspace.com/search/label/Blog-a-Pal-Loosa" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.randeesorganizedchaos.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Blog-a-pal-oosa" height="125" src="http://measuredbytheheart.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/blogapalloosa.gif" width="125" /></a></div>
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Dont forget to follow them on
Twitter www.twitter.com/claimourspace
Pinterest http://pinterest.com/claimourspace/
and on the web http://www.claimingourspace.com/
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-38651264779062362972012-05-15T10:00:00.000-04:002012-05-15T10:00:00.695-04:00Pick Your Plum: Giveaway Day Ten<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Today's giveaway is from Connie @ <a href="http://measuredbytheheart.com/" target="_blank">Measured by the Heart</a>:</span></div>
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Hi guys, I am excited to host a giveaway of $50 worth of the best crafting, baking, home decor and fashion items. This giveaway comes to you from<a href="http://pickyourplum.com/" target="_blank"> Pick your Plum. </a></div>
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<a href="http://measuredbytheheart.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/round-sticker-2.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter wp-image-1329" height="180" src="http://measuredbytheheart.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/round-sticker-2-300x300.jpg" title="round sticker 2" width="180" /></a></div>
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Pick your plum is a daily deals site that scours the globe to bring you the best deals on high quality items. Because their deals are so HUGE, they can only offer 1 per day. They also come in limited quantities. Once they are gone they are gone. Some of their past deals include:</div>
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<a href="http://measuredbytheheart.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pick-your-plum.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1340" height="125" src="http://measuredbytheheart.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/pick-your-plum.jpg" title="pick your plum" width="450" /></a></div>
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Pick your plum has been nice enough to giveaway a swag box with $50 of the best crafting, baking, home decor and fashion items!!</div>
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To enter, visit <a href="http://measuredbytheheart.com/" target="_blank"> Measured by the Heart.</a></div>
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You can also connect with me here:</div>
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<center><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/measuredbytheheart/lzHJ" target="_blank"><img alt="Subscribe to my rss feed" border="0" src="http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq188/cjdemille/rssheart-1.png" /></a> <a href="http://www.twitter.com/heartblog" target="_blank"><img alt="Twitter" border="0" src="http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq188/cjdemille/twitterheart-1.png" /></a> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Measured-by-the-Heart/145768885487336" target="_blank"><img alt="Facebook" border="0" src="http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq188/cjdemille/facebookheart-1.png" /></a> <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=measuredbytheheart/lzHJ&loc=en_US" target="_blank"><img alt="Subscribe by Email" border="0" src="http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq188/cjdemille/emailheart-1.png" /></a> <a href="http://pinterest.com/heartblog" target="_blank"><img alt="Pinterest" border="0" src="http://i446.photobucket.com/albums/qq188/cjdemille/pinterestheart-4.png" /></a></center>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-91727283086819440192012-05-15T00:00:00.000-04:002012-05-15T00:00:03.281-04:00Tuesday Timeout Linky Party<br />
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<center>I'm back with another edition of Tuesday Time Out Linky Party- I'll be co-hosting every week this month with <a href="http://www.reasonstoskipthehousework.com/">Reasons to Skip the Housework</a>!</center><center><a href="http://www.reasonstoskipthehousework.com/"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="257" src="http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad308/azparis3/cohostbutton.png" title="co-host " width="320" /></a></center><center>I hope all of you mothers had a wonderful Mother's Day and that you feel so loved! </center><center><br /></center><center>I loved seeing what everyone was up to last week and wanted to share some of my favorites with you. If you were featured, be sure to grab my button!</center><center><br /></center><center><b><a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.ca/2012/05/freezer-paper-transfer.html">Turtles and Tails</a> uses freezer paper to transfer images to fabric. What a great and EASY trick! </b></center><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freezer Paper Image Transfer</td></tr>
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<center><b>Nancy from <a href="http://homefront.prudentliving.com/frugal-tips-making-mozzarella-cheese/">Prudent Living</a> shows you how to make your own mozzarella. And it only requires 4 ingredients- fabulous!</b></center><br />
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<a href="http://homefront.prudentliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_4151-300x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://homefront.prudentliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/IMG_4151-300x225.jpg" /></a></div>
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<center><br /></center><center><b><a href="http://www.blissimagesandbeyond.blogspot.com/2012/05/mothers-day-photo-wood-transfer.html">Bliss Images and Beyond</a> shows you how to transfer photos to wood for a great addition to your decor or a heartfelt gift. </b></center><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuW-BkHrdPM7PgpRu4L8PzxKuPGjyRnfFsybN4fFA4x8Xns_fgGbU6utSO2eHmPwbCs6-cRKGrEd61uHaZ8aQ45h-m2fqcKAXrgh2RGMRGld9su7xBRcqsqobOeByxYQLU-ZDISq0xIIif/s400/bothsquareclose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuW-BkHrdPM7PgpRu4L8PzxKuPGjyRnfFsybN4fFA4x8Xns_fgGbU6utSO2eHmPwbCs6-cRKGrEd61uHaZ8aQ45h-m2fqcKAXrgh2RGMRGld9su7xBRcqsqobOeByxYQLU-ZDISq0xIIif/s320/bothsquareclose.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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On to the party- show me all the fabulous things you've been making! And please, be a doll and follow me and your host. We would much appreciate it! </div>
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<br /></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-84419886803734541832012-05-14T10:00:00.000-04:002012-05-14T10:00:03.989-04:00Blogapalloosa Day 9 Giveaway<div style="text-align: center;">
The giveaways are still going strong! We continue <a href="http://www.randeesorganizedchaos.com/">Blogapalloosa</a>, hosted by Randee's Organized Chaos, with <a href="http://www.modernyetoldfashioned.blogspot.com/">Modern Yet Old-Fashioned</a> giving away one of her favorite products...</div>
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<a ;="" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKYowbvYOVSFO-n5CTeghzqysBoOjKNC8vdMCikkW3lb_SCGRRmqkJzQ49_79Ck8xbMKndDeHaL485pPRK-a2Iiw786WgDxgrI5H438Nz5xGT7fWokAPzXaB7RWWQC4fQj2c1_rYdJa0/s1600/On-The-Go+Giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img ;="" border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXKYowbvYOVSFO-n5CTeghzqysBoOjKNC8vdMCikkW3lb_SCGRRmqkJzQ49_79Ck8xbMKndDeHaL485pPRK-a2Iiw786WgDxgrI5H438Nz5xGT7fWokAPzXaB7RWWQC4fQj2c1_rYdJa0/s400/On-The-Go+Giveaway.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The winner will receive a Sport Mixer Blender Bottle, her favorite Nogii Paleo Bar and 3 Clif Kids Organic Z bars. Courtesy of <a ;="" href="http://www.lifefuelsupplements.com/" target="_blank">Life Fuel Supplements</a>.<br />
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Visit <a href="http://www.modernyetoldfashioned.blogspot.com/">Modern Yet Old-Fashioned</a> to enter to win!</h3>
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<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-23569644249755452412012-05-13T10:00:00.000-04:002012-05-13T10:00:03.098-04:00Giveaway Day Eight!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Jullee from The Grubery wanted to give away something that has a real meaning and purpose behind it. Something that you will cherish and hold very close to your heart. Something that...well...you can eat! She posts about food so she thought she might as well give away food related goodies. She didn't think tonight's dinner will transport very well so she decided to give away....</span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZbUJ-DlJoEAFKhaTaRckyn2KKg0DJg5X43Edfs0Q4lpsqmhjAYIulpegrBBypUHfHBmAY2vaG6xIGsWdTkjX1nKzpHkZ-gkALIimsD4C7bGKxbVyqT-R9kUuFRsA3z1hHGRqaGc-B9j4/s1600/giveaway+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZbUJ-DlJoEAFKhaTaRckyn2KKg0DJg5X43Edfs0Q4lpsqmhjAYIulpegrBBypUHfHBmAY2vaG6xIGsWdTkjX1nKzpHkZ-gkALIimsD4C7bGKxbVyqT-R9kUuFRsA3z1hHGRqaGc-B9j4/s320/giveaway+3.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Eat This Not That Restaurant Survival Guide book and a $5.00 gift card to Jamba Juice! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">So stop by </span><a href="http://www.thegrubery.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: xx-large;">The Grubery</a><span style="font-size: x-large;"> to sign up for this awesome giveaway!!</span></td></tr>
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<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-78008200679414478562012-05-12T11:15:00.000-04:002012-05-12T11:15:25.202-04:00DIY Monogram Tray: Trading Blogs with Midsouth Stagers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have a treat for you today- I'm trading blogs with a fabulous Tennessee girl who's going to show you a DIY project that is right up my alley! Be sure to stop by her blog and check out all the other amazing things she's done!</div>
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Hi! Thanks to Trading Blogs, today you are getting to hear from a new "Lauren", as my name is Lauren as well! I am so thrilled to be hopping over to the fabulous "Inside My Present" today from my usual spot, <a href="http://www.midsouthstagers.blogspot.com/">www.MidsouthStagers.blogspot.com</a>. I own a home staging business in Memphis, TN and my blog is a place where I share lots of DIY, re-fashioning, and design/staging from my own home as well as an occasional client job.</div>
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Today I wanted to share with you a recent DIY project. </div>
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What I used:</div>
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A wooden tray from my closet</div>
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Acrylic paint/brush (already had)</div>
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A stencil from my craft drawer</div>
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Painters tape (already had)</div>
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A plastic cup (from my kitchen cabinet :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEv0hqpulBHWxO53rDj0ne2dikBUMEEWbCLsqVIZ6L2xaD5gfZITs0odeXdAQxBC2iZoz9reYi-FlzQ669L0Vcbqgtst5tYyM5Sp_PRDfdENSouPwlQGlxP_Ohh1NWLJbdcDsLS6se-V6U/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEv0hqpulBHWxO53rDj0ne2dikBUMEEWbCLsqVIZ6L2xaD5gfZITs0odeXdAQxBC2iZoz9reYi-FlzQ669L0Vcbqgtst5tYyM5Sp_PRDfdENSouPwlQGlxP_Ohh1NWLJbdcDsLS6se-V6U/s640/002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
This lady had been sitting in the closet for oh, 5 or so years, and it was time I did something about it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBVEl59RQdgs_nBAwLas_J7DRHMxob9Id8foAZENpgtz-FTmI-L9WHDpemIsVrKJHEmUrfBurPgQ37zqB9Lw1ZZ2F-qg1hnhkj7_Jf88PB-_gjiEcgK6P7JxDP8TURnoSnPJIL852JkuPN/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBVEl59RQdgs_nBAwLas_J7DRHMxob9Id8foAZENpgtz-FTmI-L9WHDpemIsVrKJHEmUrfBurPgQ37zqB9Lw1ZZ2F-qg1hnhkj7_Jf88PB-_gjiEcgK6P7JxDP8TURnoSnPJIL852JkuPN/s640/004.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I decided to paint the inside of the tray to give it an updated look. I wanted to personalize it as a gift to someone, so I dug through my craft collection and got busy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0BqrPCm30B0-Q1s3xEjxzxJDDzY-e5yaEvsQlf9Uhfjy8WVYrVIdT2GEX1pkOQoH-OVKEwCJiMyotznLR4umPz6VfOTpY92v15kdWD5rnSfAqPKP-LAcsNig49TuuWBH4sZ_ewDmK6Br4/s1600/paint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0BqrPCm30B0-Q1s3xEjxzxJDDzY-e5yaEvsQlf9Uhfjy8WVYrVIdT2GEX1pkOQoH-OVKEwCJiMyotznLR4umPz6VfOTpY92v15kdWD5rnSfAqPKP-LAcsNig49TuuWBH4sZ_ewDmK6Br4/s640/paint.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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First, I taped it off and gave it a spray-paint primer coat. Once that was dry, I went back over it with acrylic paint to make sure the old image was gone. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1hP_b1NmgpOt_XNs3l9EuQxZsoQroMpnS32Uiyd2NEPoaaRbzYUxZ-jVBh0kibh5foTvW9rN-tlw03FX9TdrMBBd2jqoTc6GIvCxFkRfiyih6rpzzYRNDA9EDwTjAaoJ-rQHPfyGmKXB/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1hP_b1NmgpOt_XNs3l9EuQxZsoQroMpnS32Uiyd2NEPoaaRbzYUxZ-jVBh0kibh5foTvW9rN-tlw03FX9TdrMBBd2jqoTc6GIvCxFkRfiyih6rpzzYRNDA9EDwTjAaoJ-rQHPfyGmKXB/s640/006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I love the bamboo look right now, so I decided to paint a bamboo-type pattern in gray, as kind of a tone on tone effect. I didn't want anything too bold for the print. Then I used a plastic cup to trace a circle in the center.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_wKQtHMNK5D8Ckd68mvvk6XWS5A4rwQ8YELL-hkr9aK8nux7MzSxL7AkTbr0eJIaZV68fgGJhyr9NN4oICw_19mBAKKkEG0vlBI5vGOUK3dodp9IIfg3qAIC5KJ4BnaLgXT3-TUEhIN0/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_wKQtHMNK5D8Ckd68mvvk6XWS5A4rwQ8YELL-hkr9aK8nux7MzSxL7AkTbr0eJIaZV68fgGJhyr9NN4oICw_19mBAKKkEG0vlBI5vGOUK3dodp9IIfg3qAIC5KJ4BnaLgXT3-TUEhIN0/s640/007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I did all of the painting by hand with no measuring (because I'm impatient) so it's not perfect, but lets just say that adds to the charm, Ok? :) I chose a bold tangerine for the center so that the monogram would pop.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJZpN_ZE6ZIkYn53C_IS7fnwfVOzflG7RiJKIJvPrnyw0bn2iCTwWtgs_9MgOqN2jNhXVjGlpkk-DWHnEYOSvmfZ54Otya87NVQCgXakxFVDpcTuNSC-MbMr6qJRS4g0jpfW7m0lYFaPpE/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJZpN_ZE6ZIkYn53C_IS7fnwfVOzflG7RiJKIJvPrnyw0bn2iCTwWtgs_9MgOqN2jNhXVjGlpkk-DWHnEYOSvmfZ54Otya87NVQCgXakxFVDpcTuNSC-MbMr6qJRS4g0jpfW7m0lYFaPpE/s640/008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Once everything was dry, I used a stencil that I already had and centered it on the dot. I used the white paint again to really make it stand out. <br />
Tip: Try to remove painters tape when your paint is still a little tacky for nice lines. As for the stencil, I like to remove it immediately for the best results.<br />
Now, for a quick reminder:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1sS95YoQo7HdvLmZ7j7THqpL1UOSaPnwkTTe00_tgWTxDYHY2Q_GGp3KVNm9fE8xbyK6Ld6DLAdjhaZuZglKVysv2Ru0KWvkHS_M90qrRXVlQLFVtEhYswDR59DGrY4hI0H9wZn_4elA/s1600/bubble+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1sS95YoQo7HdvLmZ7j7THqpL1UOSaPnwkTTe00_tgWTxDYHY2Q_GGp3KVNm9fE8xbyK6Ld6DLAdjhaZuZglKVysv2Ru0KWvkHS_M90qrRXVlQLFVtEhYswDR59DGrY4hI0H9wZn_4elA/s640/bubble+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
And here is the finished product! About an hour and a half total time spent, all with things I had on-hand!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFq7TnaBQbe_zO0gKpObo7FXyKHdJVD00I77c_pGyQb-CpoTr0zNyoqaAO4Q5qw7M0U6p7-_84Cam-lM3k93xdIQQv4-PtGWKHQwKkoEmOuybX78sged2gmWZ5xG1xnsUpUMWq8GY4Zz0b/s1600/bubble+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFq7TnaBQbe_zO0gKpObo7FXyKHdJVD00I77c_pGyQb-CpoTr0zNyoqaAO4Q5qw7M0U6p7-_84Cam-lM3k93xdIQQv4-PtGWKHQwKkoEmOuybX78sged2gmWZ5xG1xnsUpUMWq8GY4Zz0b/s640/bubble+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Although I'm giving it as a gift, I thought I would do a little "staging" to give you an idea of how to use this easy and personlized piece!<br />
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I can just see some yummy cheeses displayed on it to pair with a nice wine!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ju2OEUvUw4vOnDk4GSDg3Ya_sDuZgC8ALW-TAeqCxCqtpHmfTwsnz3TIkk7elXeHZJ2CV9k22k2FNHqe4hMGrRFoQf0ZqUzJFhcLvaBasl0axwntYFTb0A-MDSSgzINEW9sVQ_q6wAKi/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ju2OEUvUw4vOnDk4GSDg3Ya_sDuZgC8ALW-TAeqCxCqtpHmfTwsnz3TIkk7elXeHZJ2CV9k22k2FNHqe4hMGrRFoQf0ZqUzJFhcLvaBasl0axwntYFTb0A-MDSSgzINEW9sVQ_q6wAKi/s640/011.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Fresh flowers always make everything better!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU5uGMi0blwRKOstPrlVpRzj_LcrxwYdobZCkxU1hzAtePdAhaAFk-hn7d-_9EafR4gU0C_Y7OZGYiVKFAVWBW5KwpxT7OhUVyjuMh1gX-n0wOoGzQb_tTyo20uRC2sAWDPjQ1Y_39GtAk/s1600/bubble.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU5uGMi0blwRKOstPrlVpRzj_LcrxwYdobZCkxU1hzAtePdAhaAFk-hn7d-_9EafR4gU0C_Y7OZGYiVKFAVWBW5KwpxT7OhUVyjuMh1gX-n0wOoGzQb_tTyo20uRC2sAWDPjQ1Y_39GtAk/s640/bubble.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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I hope you enjoyed my little project today and that it inspired you to get crackin' on some of those things collecting dust in your closet!</div>
If you love tray makeovers, check out the herringbone tray that I painted earlier this year <a href="http://midsouthstagers.blogspot.com/2011/12/thrift-store-tray-makeover.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
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Also feel free to grab my button for your blog and stop by often to see more fun projects like this!<br />
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<center><textarea id="code-source" name="code-source" rows="3"><center><a href="http://www.midsouthstagers.blogspot.com/"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNR9IqGawAXUaa16ztfW7QCcdnqUkNDT82JDylTzUacGkfhBJYZASXkqLemYiWKE71EAcpytkUrrz7aZaVstgkqJ2fOoYW2zbXolLd9CVgxWI41vFEglvNW6TA3togx0d910KvyORrd1oP/s1600/blogger+button.jpg" /></a></center></textarea></center><center> </center></center>
Thank you, Lauren for letting me share a little piece of my blog world today!
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-51530971214404505272012-05-12T10:00:00.000-04:002012-05-12T10:00:00.797-04:00Thirty-One Flat Iron Case Giveaway!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Alicia at </span><a href="http://littlesprinklesoffun.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">Little Sprinkles Of Fun</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> is giving away a Thirty-One flat iron case in circle spirals!</span></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This flat iron case is made of a sturdy canvas in a fun circle spirals print. The silver thermal lining can withstand heat up to 400 degrees- so have no fear if you need to pack up your hot iron directly after use! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Retail value of $20</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-46969473927257859712012-05-11T10:00:00.000-04:002012-05-11T10:00:01.156-04:00Day Six of Giveaways!<div style="text-align: center;">
Today, Mammy Made is giving away darling accessories for the kiddo in your life- all the way from England!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9y1BcBzAhUWg1vyXlE4gqw80iI_WZxiptN0v_aH3lTmVyidEqKan5lJXD9KtsdiaOqcTQ9_R6BdSyA-m4aERwlbxVIzDXToimDCswrTGQvoBj92w0wh7JEp8X7rY0sKCq2isyV8YUHX0/s1600/blog-a-pal-loosa-giveaway-mammymade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9y1BcBzAhUWg1vyXlE4gqw80iI_WZxiptN0v_aH3lTmVyidEqKan5lJXD9KtsdiaOqcTQ9_R6BdSyA-m4aERwlbxVIzDXToimDCswrTGQvoBj92w0wh7JEp8X7rY0sKCq2isyV8YUHX0/s320/blog-a-pal-loosa-giveaway-mammymade.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here's what she has to say:<br />
"Today I am going to be giving away EITHER a purple gingham bow tie OR an apron skirt made in the same purple gingham and flowery broderie anglaise. </div>
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They both turned out so cute and I am excited to be able to make one for the little boy or girl in your life. I know you will love them too!</div>
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Both are toddler size but can be made bigger or smaller, depending on measurements. </div>
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Please bear in mind that I live in England. I do not mind posting worldwide but please allow at least 2 weeks for delivery.</div>
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Head over to my blog, <a href="http://mammymade.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Mammy Made</a>, to enter :)"</div>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-33650052481538042632012-05-10T10:00:00.000-04:002012-05-10T10:00:05.703-04:00Giveaway Day Five<div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Today's giveway for Blog-A-Pal-Loosa is from </span><a href="http://www.ajennuinelife.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: xx-large;" target="_blank">A Jennuine Life</a><span style="font-size: x-large;"> for a custom reversible pinafore!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiF7sRlPdh6ATyX3gR7irlJdeLwTtjKMcaYlB2UFF2vBrNuFOqeCqzqyJ3HmMtrHoR-Q6iokXZP7tQ57VHQvT3Wu52kdwS1z92LSEsjVKG63CfghA43R39MRrtMtq8RdI6euUjjKY2kFg/s1600/Hummingbird+Front+Model+2T.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="400" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiF7sRlPdh6ATyX3gR7irlJdeLwTtjKMcaYlB2UFF2vBrNuFOqeCqzqyJ3HmMtrHoR-Q6iokXZP7tQ57VHQvT3Wu52kdwS1z92LSEsjVKG63CfghA43R39MRrtMtq8RdI6euUjjKY2kFg/s400/Hummingbird+Front+Model+2T.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Jenn will handcraft an adorable reversible pinafore for the little girl in your life sized between 6 months and 6T.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGX0SFNRCmg_4aGGmTuc8XnjSDom9r2aPQYWqg0UoQJdjSaB_OcDE943fiotLhohRlwNLg4lm7LPRclfIV_QSD-QTmHXK-bge_8G7NkTkYWgPx8xduKsfOEqXxMVrfB7Ofd5o0DOJTmGQ/s1600/Hummingbird+Back+Model+2T.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="400" oda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGX0SFNRCmg_4aGGmTuc8XnjSDom9r2aPQYWqg0UoQJdjSaB_OcDE943fiotLhohRlwNLg4lm7LPRclfIV_QSD-QTmHXK-bge_8G7NkTkYWgPx8xduKsfOEqXxMVrfB7Ofd5o0DOJTmGQ/s400/Hummingbird+Back+Model+2T.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">The winner will get to choose colors, fabrics and details like a ruffled embellishment or pockets for stashing treasures.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-37151218060345430712012-05-10T00:00:00.000-04:002012-05-10T00:00:07.390-04:00Game Show Looking for Home Cooks!I got an exciting email yesterday about a fabulous opportunity! The Game Show Network is casting for a new show, Beat the Chefs, where home cooks compete with their signature dish against the pros for a chance at some big bucks! Check out the flyer below for more information on how you can enter:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnNVl4QTEawm39csRC46iGW0cGcUzbLioRSokMil17Icxh5B1CLlvPcWOxfV3nid5YgusvP2yxqUVcwoUbG2pODbJNTYimmoWTGfqOHTJrWIx17YRFL1XsfIZ8ffR8oeP0oysXrO4X44/s1600/BTC+Flyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnNVl4QTEawm39csRC46iGW0cGcUzbLioRSokMil17Icxh5B1CLlvPcWOxfV3nid5YgusvP2yxqUVcwoUbG2pODbJNTYimmoWTGfqOHTJrWIx17YRFL1XsfIZ8ffR8oeP0oysXrO4X44/s640/BTC+Flyer.jpg" width="492" /></a></div>
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I've got my sous chefs picked out, now I've got to think about what to cook. I never seem to cook the same thing twice! So, are you going to apply??</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-70928274274227591502012-05-09T10:00:00.000-04:002012-05-09T10:00:06.486-04:00Giveaway Day Four!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Up for grabs today is a $20 credit to the lovely online store </span><a href="http://lonestarlovlies.bigcartel.com/" style="font-size: xx-large;">LoneStar Lovlies</a><span style="font-size: large;">!</span><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VFwyeeP2QM8/T6GIuYmiaqI/AAAAAAAADu0/qscWQllw_kI/s1600-h/LONESTAR%252520banner%25255B3%25255D.jpg" style="font-size: xx-large;"><img alt="LONESTAR banner" border="0" height="307" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-X9f_1r07IHo/T6GIvYyV9BI/AAAAAAAADu8/lGvIrSV3XRg/LONESTAR%252520banner_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="LONESTAR banner" width="644" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">There are lots of new things in there- be sure to check it out! And if you head over to <a href="http://findingmywayintexas.blogspot.com/">her blog</a> to enter the giveaway, you may discover a discount code :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Also one of my fav bloggy people, Brandi has offered up a, super cute Gold Fish Pouch</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><img alt="Zipper Pouch Goldfish" height="216" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.305479514.jpg" width="286" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Head on over the <a href="http://findingmywayintexas.blogspot.com/">Finding My Way in Texas</a> to enter! :)</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-27485654829402515052012-05-09T00:00:00.000-04:002012-05-09T00:00:01.368-04:00Happy-Go-Lucky Guest Feature!Another first for me! I will be featured as guest today by Kara at <a href="http://www.happygoluckyblog.com/">Happy-Go-Lucky</a>! Kara features <i>amazing</i> crafts and printables that will make anyone's home a little brighter as well as the occasional recipe.<br />
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<center><a href="http://happy-go-lucky-harvey.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Happy Go Lucky" border="0" src="http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m13/harveyusn/733design/button.png" /></a></center>
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One of my favorite posts of hers teaches you how to make fun magnets from your favorite Instagram photos. Wouldn't those make a great gift? <a href="http://www.happygoluckyblog.com/2012/02/instagram-magnets.html">Check them out here</a>!<br />
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I really hope you stop by and give her a visit- my guest post will feature my three favorite posts as well as a little more about me :)<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-18213314710354085852012-05-08T10:00:00.000-04:002012-05-08T10:00:01.289-04:00Giveaway Day Three!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Free money!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Check out today's Giveaway at </span><a ;="" href="http://www.secondchancetodream.com/" style="font-size: xx-large;" target="_blank">Second Chance to Dream</a>- <span style="font-size: x-large;"> a $20.00 Gift Certificate!</span></div>
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<a ;="" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3rwmTe2J0Dw4W4GWuNQGr9ahhaNrV9J_4sX1DRSUTTmlyexNHbQLXbSzRsPb0SP9hYZqw6tpHVM5mOkjmCDqDa4eqrrHBwdNz33RJaEaSRzxvZRskIcFqwP9kHpf_j18G67NYDhV9kWw/s1600/Amazon+GC+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img ;="" border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3rwmTe2J0Dw4W4GWuNQGr9ahhaNrV9J_4sX1DRSUTTmlyexNHbQLXbSzRsPb0SP9hYZqw6tpHVM5mOkjmCDqDa4eqrrHBwdNz33RJaEaSRzxvZRskIcFqwP9kHpf_j18G67NYDhV9kWw/s320/Amazon+GC+copy.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Head on <a ;="" href="http://www.secondchancetodream.com/" target="_blank">over</a> for a chance to win!</span></div>
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-87138329686592344652012-05-08T00:00:00.000-04:002012-05-08T00:00:08.009-04:00Tuesday Time Out Linky Party!<span style="text-align: left;">I'm back this week with another dose of </span><a href="http://www.reasonstoskipthehousework.com/" style="text-align: left;">Reasons to Skip the Housework</a><span style="text-align: left;">'s Tuesday Time Out linky party! I'm so excited to be co-hosting this month! </span><br />
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<center style="text-align: left;">I hope everyone enjoyed all the great posts shared last week- here are some of my favorites:</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: center;">Sarah from Renewed Upon a Dream made these delicious <a href="http://www.reneweduponadream.com/2012/04/pesto-feta-turkey-burgers-one-of-my.html">Pesto and Feta Turkey Burgers</a>. If pesto is on the menu I'm ordering it! So I can't wait to try these healthy <i>and</i> tasty burgers!</center><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yJn7smETfoU/T55qLDHTp6I/AAAAAAAAB9g/9eOQa6oCFFU/s1600/Pesto+feta+turkey+burger.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yJn7smETfoU/T55qLDHTp6I/AAAAAAAAB9g/9eOQa6oCFFU/s320/Pesto+feta+turkey+burger.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I remember trying to make birthday cake shakes in high school... I guess the trick is not to put in cooked cake! Alana at <a href="http://alanasramblings.blogspot.com/2012/05/cake-batter-milk-shake.html">Alana's Ramblings</a> teaches you how to make them right- with some fabulous pictures!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjovKMMRo7aD49b0M35oZO66oLlZrgv5RJoMpsAQtz2ZtMfm1n3cAPj1zHmclb_X_f7dFEIS7S1SWGvNy-rCkN-L5lnuCWJQ8KxC8bsM0uU5pw26dgw-Nbh5k79Vx1BuE5vQ_eo9Mi7F2gY/s640/IMG_4087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjovKMMRo7aD49b0M35oZO66oLlZrgv5RJoMpsAQtz2ZtMfm1n3cAPj1zHmclb_X_f7dFEIS7S1SWGvNy-rCkN-L5lnuCWJQ8KxC8bsM0uU5pw26dgw-Nbh5k79Vx1BuE5vQ_eo9Mi7F2gY/s320/IMG_4087.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<center style="text-align: center;">Next is Ashley from Cherished Bliss with these great <a href="http://www.cherishedbliss.com/2012/04/chrysanthemum-paper-flower-tutorial.html">Chrysanthemum Paper Flowers</a>. What a great way to add some flair to packages, parties, garland... anything you could stick them to! Can't wait to experiment with different color combinations.</center><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0HDE-7kUO9s/T5gceKTiyPI/AAAAAAAADYU/HxI-pFwTH58/Paper%252520Flower%252520Tutorial_thumb%25255B8%25255D.png?imgmax=800" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0HDE-7kUO9s/T5gceKTiyPI/AAAAAAAADYU/HxI-pFwTH58/Paper%252520Flower%252520Tutorial_thumb%25255B8%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="320" /></a></div>
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<center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">So are you ready to share your greatest recipes, crafts, DIY's and brilliant ideas this week? Link up below! </center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">Be sure to stop by and visit our host, Melanie from <a href="http://www.reasonstoskipthehousework.com/">Reasons to Skip the Housework</a> and my other co-host, <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Libby O’Regan</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">f</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">rom <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_285380756">PSA Stamp Camp</a>!</span><i style="color: #333333; font-family: 'trebuchet ms', 'century gothic', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold;"> </i></span>And I would love it if you'd follow me on GFC, Bloglovin', Facebook... however you keep up with all of the great blogs out there :)</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center></center><center></center>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-65287920088883033072012-05-07T09:00:00.000-04:002012-05-07T09:00:13.669-04:00Blogapalloosa Day Two!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Today's giveaway is Pink Lemonade Apron and Chef Hat </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">with matching Recipe Cards from </span><span style="font-size: large; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><a href="http://www.rhapsodyofcacophony.blogspot.com/" style="text-align: -webkit-auto;" target="_blank">Rhapsody of Cacophony</a> for that budding chef in your life!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2BnlbTy_xZ4PXS8CbdltudSi6Pds_A8sevLT_nIXlr15Qug0afy-M_CtRQMmBw2aamvcFr-BdqTYlybsqerzthcdhFRz0FaKxD_u-L7FNpYluVoXXlojEp7LFmu1PtBY4m3qOkGqrAA/s1600/Blogapalooza+Apron+and+Chef+hat+set.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2BnlbTy_xZ4PXS8CbdltudSi6Pds_A8sevLT_nIXlr15Qug0afy-M_CtRQMmBw2aamvcFr-BdqTYlybsqerzthcdhFRz0FaKxD_u-L7FNpYluVoXXlojEp7LFmu1PtBY4m3qOkGqrAA/s320/Blogapalooza+Apron+and+Chef+hat+set.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
A 4T (ish - it could probably fit 3T-5T quite easily since it's adjustable), easy on/off (yeah
velcro!) chef hat and apron set, hand made by me. The pink fabric has
little tiny polka dots on it that don't show up on camera, so I think
it's even sweeter in person.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyodOpfVmovPIraiFz_Wn7Hyl-IUdoY5kaEXWeWBVMX-HdiLzdFfzVY8QnGYPYKynx96V_j6y_bnmI3LnqULBd1vdCvXqT-_Zs7O2U2qe8u2WhUlgiDyA6jGVwABSKN1FHdiksGP5_A/s1600/blogapalooza+recipe+cards.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyodOpfVmovPIraiFz_Wn7Hyl-IUdoY5kaEXWeWBVMX-HdiLzdFfzVY8QnGYPYKynx96V_j6y_bnmI3LnqULBd1vdCvXqT-_Zs7O2U2qe8u2WhUlgiDyA6jGVwABSKN1FHdiksGP5_A/s320/blogapalooza+recipe+cards.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Oh
and of course I had to include some matching recipe cards, because
every new chef has to start her recipe collection at a very young age!<br />
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To enter, hop over to <a href="http://www.rhapsodyofcacophony.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Rhapsody of Cacophony</a>. Good luck!<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-60830038049025149662012-05-06T09:00:00.000-04:002012-05-06T15:22:48.697-04:00Blogapalloosa Giveaway Day One!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">WOOOO HOOOOO!!! The day has FINALLY arrived- today is the first day of </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">BLOG-A-PAL-LOOSA!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">And I am the GIVEAWAY-ER!!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Here is what I have for you today....and let me tell you, I am JEALOUS that I can not win this awesome set!! My great friend Stacey from over at the </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/#!/TheGlamorousCowgirl">The Glamorous Cowgirl</a> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">has graciously given us 2 FANTASTIC items!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">They have an $85 Retail Value!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">The BLING BLING "HIDE N SOLE" flip flops are to DIE for and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the "ALBA" bag to match!! I can see me looking pretty darn cute in these all over town!!! ;)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjYcLtQrwC6-TCGP-4OoOQxsDw1ZfhiHs60wevZvoWSG1NFAWXFuxM53woHhJoBbhei4deeWzhCWuNb7S_UcczoWj74XaHqGnUvvK09HKbZKz4whbNnBtNvyPFbWbgnzxF4_eGQPBV14Y5/s1600/giveaway+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjYcLtQrwC6-TCGP-4OoOQxsDw1ZfhiHs60wevZvoWSG1NFAWXFuxM53woHhJoBbhei4deeWzhCWuNb7S_UcczoWj74XaHqGnUvvK09HKbZKz4whbNnBtNvyPFbWbgnzxF4_eGQPBV14Y5/s400/giveaway+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Stop by<a href="http://www.randeesorganizedchaos.com/"> Randee's Organized Chaos</a> to enter to win!</span></div>
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-6107237059421258452012-05-05T10:29:00.001-04:002012-05-05T10:29:17.843-04:00Cinco de Mayo!I had planned to make a delicious treat for the day but I unexpectedly had to go back to Tulsa for a couple of weeks- my dish will have to come later! In the mean time, mix yourself up a batch of my delicious <a href="http://insidemypresent.blogspot.com/2012/04/strawberry-basil-margaritas-with-basil.html">Strawberry-Basil Margaritas</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4iw33bttuh-4QR8VmGkuEHsouun7hweeI7qblFTl8Y7GgW7GZ5P5bC5mM2pqwBCEMQa9RM_E6Fbp3EVDi_XfxJi2_rtSFgQ0d5kJfO1kZCJmJB_IzzcE7VqGbaKz0O-Ip4-GuVcKbrw/s1600/StrawberryBasilMargarita.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4iw33bttuh-4QR8VmGkuEHsouun7hweeI7qblFTl8Y7GgW7GZ5P5bC5mM2pqwBCEMQa9RM_E6Fbp3EVDi_XfxJi2_rtSFgQ0d5kJfO1kZCJmJB_IzzcE7VqGbaKz0O-Ip4-GuVcKbrw/s320/StrawberryBasilMargarita.jpg" width="244" /></a></div>
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Now go knock around a pinata, sip a margarita and enjoy some good quacamole... Have some fun!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-88836201897996973452012-05-01T00:00:00.000-04:002012-05-01T00:00:06.621-04:00Tuesday Time Out Linky Party<span style="text-align: left;">I am please to announce that this month I will be co-hosting the Tuesday Time Out linky party over at </span><a href="http://www.reasonstoskipthehousework.com/" style="text-align: left;">Reasons to Skip the Housework</a><span style="text-align: left;">! Your host, Melanie has a fabulous blog full of amazing recipes and plenty of craft and DIY projects to keep you busy for a long time... check her out!</span><br />
<center style="text-align: justify;"><div align="center" style="padding: 5px;">
<a href="http://www.reasonstoskipthehousework.com/" style="text-align: -webkit-center;"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="257" src="http://i946.photobucket.com/albums/ad308/azparis3/cohostbutton.png" title="co-host " width="320" /></a></div>
</center><center style="text-align: left;">What's a linky party, you say? A linky part is a great opportunity to share your lastest recipe, creation or brilliant ideas with the rest of the blogging world and to discover what all those other bloggers have to offer. Simply enter the web address of your post, its title and you email address into the form at the bottom of the page and you're good to go!</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">Next week I will feature my favorite posts from the party so bring out your best stuff! I'm excited to see everyone's great ideas :)</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">I would love if you would follow me on GFC, Bloglovin', Facebook... however you keep up with your reading! Thanks so much!</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /><center></center></center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54490/140/3F061D48C2B063CA21CADA5F401FEAD0.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8686124409859880032.post-27195308524696843362012-04-30T00:00:00.000-04:002012-05-04T19:02:52.398-04:00How to Make Fabric FlowersI've been having fun making these beautiful little fabric flowers. I got the idea from <a href="http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/226194/ribbon-crafts?center=272429&gallery=231155&slide=163663">Martha Stewart</a> and tweaked it with a little sparkle. We all need a little sparkle, right?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfA0JQmEua27v3OnOWMHukf1-_iDQRrYEAp3F-197DP-ljbqVS7MmwQlk7zQdnfA7rERAzZpLNKqzB0vvVFU4yJTxSIfrQILKYvIWk6oJ0weT8LVR5zljrWHNP5RdIdFdl7-UD8lFBPw/s1600/IMG_2305E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfA0JQmEua27v3OnOWMHukf1-_iDQRrYEAp3F-197DP-ljbqVS7MmwQlk7zQdnfA7rERAzZpLNKqzB0vvVFU4yJTxSIfrQILKYvIWk6oJ0weT8LVR5zljrWHNP5RdIdFdl7-UD8lFBPw/s320/IMG_2305E.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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These little darlings would be great to decorate just about anything- headbands, hairpins, picture frames, boxes or even to make a bouquet out of. Anything you can think of! And the flower possibilites are equally endless. Use your favorite fabric or ribbon to coordinate with your latest project and pair it with any combination of beads, buttons or other decorative doodad to achieve the right look. Layering flowers of increasing sizes would be a great way to give your project depth! I would tell you what I'm going to do with mine but it's a secret for now!</div>
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You can find the full directions at <a href="http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/226194/ribbon-crafts?center=272429&gallery=231155&slide=163663">Martha Stewart's article</a> but I'll give you the basic run down. Start with your fabric or ribbon of choice. She recommends using 4 inches of half inch ribbon or 8 inches of inch-wide fabric. You can really play around with these numbers to get the look that you like.<br />
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Start by stitching a <a href="http://www.embroiderersguild.com/stitch/stitches/running.html">running stich</a> down one side of the ribbon close to the edge. Normally you would use a coordinating thread color, but this is easier to see. I also did a running stitch on the other side of the ribbon for decoration.<br />
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Once you stitch to the end of the ribbon, pull the thread tight to bunch the fabric. You'll be able to see the flower forming now!<br />
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Sew up the two ends of the ribbon, making sure to hold the bunching in place so you don't lose your shape. A couple of stitches will be enough to hold it in place. And that's your basic flower shape! You can use some Fray Check on your edges to keep them from unraveling, but check your fabric first to make sure it wont show once it dries.<br />
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I personally liked the look of the fabric flowers better because they laid flat instead of poofing up. Perhaps my ribbon was a bit too wide?<br />
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Now for the stamen. You can use artificial ones but I like the look of the crystals. Simply take a piece of wire (mine was 26 gage) 3-4 inches long and thread on your bead. Wire color is another place to personalize your flowers, there are a lot of colors available!<br />
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Kink the wire above the bead, leaving 3/4-1" tail above the bead.<br />
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Then wrap the tail of the wire right under the bead to hold it in place. You may need wire cutters or pliers to get rid of the sharp point of the wire end.<br />
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To make the cluster of stamens, take the number of stamens you want to use and position the beads at the height you like. I think it looks best to use and odd number and to stagger the beads a little. Bend the wires in half 1 inch below the beads so that the ends are pointing towards the beads.<br />
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To finish, wrap the wire around the center of the bunch, making sure it is below the area that will show on the flower. Now you can slip the wire through the middle of the flower and glue the wire on the back side of the flower and you're done!<br />
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How will you use your fabric flowers?<br />
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<a href="http://www.serendipityandspice.com/2012/04/manic-monday-linky-party-16.html">Serendipity and Spice</a>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01645432223004863835noreply@blogger.com7