tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52833040684529188612024-03-19T02:48:49.177-06:00Stories by Me!Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.comBlogger284125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-28497556391827202052013-06-07T20:46:00.001-06:002013-06-07T20:46:20.003-06:00DAD letter blocks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1fepIk85wyQ/UbKa4iHTV-I/AAAAAAAACQg/kUf3p8_d1X8/s1600/LetterBlocks_DAD1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1fepIk85wyQ/UbKa4iHTV-I/AAAAAAAACQg/kUf3p8_d1X8/s1600/LetterBlocks_DAD1.jpg" height="123" width="320" /></a></div>
It's been awhile since I posted to our blog. Sorry about that. Life has a way of getting busy. Just thought I'd take a quick minute to post a link for the <a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6j-J0cNz1LNN2hvLUtVRXR0UGc/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">DAD letter blocks</a> as there have been so many requests.<br />
<br />Enjoy!Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-34763577473456907502012-01-28T08:20:00.005-07:002012-01-28T08:36:43.539-07:00Another 2012 Valentine Project<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-si8aAxBWyck/TyQScgxqwmI/AAAAAAAACPI/Qid9MqXtD7o/s1600/Love%2BBlock%2B1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 384px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-si8aAxBWyck/TyQScgxqwmI/AAAAAAAACPI/Qid9MqXtD7o/s400/Love%2BBlock%2B1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702703309201785442" border="0" /></a>Ah yes. I forgot to mention the super simple project that we're offering at our upcoming class for those who only have a few pictures...or about 10 minutes to finish a project!<br /><br />You finish the project the exact same way as we detailed in the <a href="http://www.storiesbymeblog.blogspot.com/2012/01/2012-valentine-love-project.html">previous blog</a> entry. The beauty of this project is that it's so fast that you can make one for each family member!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Free downloadable file for project here: <a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B6j-J0cNz1LNMmY0NmZmZjEtOWZlYy00YTcyLWIwM2ItYjFiOTc2NzNkYzIy&hl=en_US">Love Blocks Valentine Project .pdf</a><a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B6j-J0cNz1LNMmY0NmZmZjEtOWZlYy00YTcyLWIwM2ItYjFiOTc2NzNkYzIy&hl=en_US">.</a> Just be sure to use a laser printer!</span><br /></span><br />Beth Graham is an amazing photographer. She shared some darling pictures of her own kids which we used for this sample. Be sure to c<a href="http://bethgrahamphotography.blogspot.com/">heck out her blog</a> for more examples of her work.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-szdKd8VxglU/TyQSc4EalhI/AAAAAAAACPU/v2h1_U8PZWM/s1600/Love%2BBlock%2B2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 342px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-szdKd8VxglU/TyQSc4EalhI/AAAAAAAACPU/v2h1_U8PZWM/s400/Love%2BBlock%2B2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702703315454432786" border="0" /></a>Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-37323664460115307232012-01-27T18:06:00.003-07:002012-01-28T08:17:47.619-07:002012 Valentine Love Project<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iy4JBke5enk/TyNPNnQO68I/AAAAAAAACOY/LGA7xTAddek/s1600/I%2BLove%2BYou%2Bblocks%2B1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 291px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iy4JBke5enk/TyNPNnQO68I/AAAAAAAACOY/LGA7xTAddek/s400/I%2BLove%2BYou%2Bblocks%2B1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702488648475143106" border="0" /></a>One of the sweet things about going through Grandma's house this past Christmas was the wonderful pile of family photographs that we discovered. Up to that point, I had about 3 photographs from my husband's childhood.<br /><br />We are gearing up to teach another holiday class at <a href="http://deseretbook.com/stores/index/77">Deseret Book</a> in February. (We'll be there February 4th from 10-12.) Our ornament projects are pretty popular there and with Valentines Day right around the corner, we thought of another simple project that uses the 2" wood block.<br /><br />Suni was tasked with coming up with our samples. Imagine my joy when she returned these using pictures featuring photos from the life of our mom and grandma that had just passed away. I think it's the perfect way to say I Love You!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3BF01_LvhCA/TyNPOcth1nI/AAAAAAAACOg/WyOemUIccUg/s1600/I%2BLove%2BYou%2Bblocks%2B2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 291px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3BF01_LvhCA/TyNPOcth1nI/AAAAAAAACOg/WyOemUIccUg/s400/I%2BLove%2BYou%2Bblocks%2B2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702488662825096818" border="0" /></a><br />Of course, we want to share this project with you...<br /><a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B6j-J0cNz1LNMmY0NmZmZjEtOWZlYy00YTcyLWIwM2ItYjFiOTc2NzNkYzIy&hl=en_US"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 307px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Q38iZ-YyiI/TyNPNSPppOI/AAAAAAAACOI/h61-ZdOYGSc/s400/I%2BLove%2BYou%2Bblocks.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702488642835555554" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">First, you need to gather some supplies:</span><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold"></span><br />2" Wood Blocks<br />Decorative Paper - or print out our <a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B6j-J0cNz1LNMmY0NmZmZjEtOWZlYy00YTcyLWIwM2ItYjFiOTc2NzNkYzIy&hl=en_US">Love Blocks Valentine Project .pdf</a>. Just be sure to use a laser printer!<br />Decoupage Glue - We like ModPodge's Matte Glue<br />Foam Brush<br />Scissors<br />2" Pictures (Print these on regular paper using a laser printer.)<br />Sandpaper / Sanding block<br /><a href="http://storiesbyme.com/?p=/demos-and-tutorials/finishing-hints">Distress ink / chalk (optional)<br />Finishing Spray</a><br /><br /><p><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Step 1:</span><br />Prepare your pictures. You have two options. Either print each picture to be at least as large as your blocks. Use the edge of the block to trace around each picture and cut away the excess. Or, you can use the <a style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold" href="http://storiesbyme.com/?p=/photo-wizard">Photo Wizard</a><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold"> </span>to get your picture to the exact size that is needed for this project. <span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">[Use the Block/Box - ORNAMENT option for the 2" block.] </span>Need help using the Photo Wizard. See our <a href="http://storiesbyme.com/?p=/demos-and-tutorials/photo-wizard-basics">demo.</a> Still need help? We're only a mouse click away. Just email us at <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">mythoughts@storiesbyme.com</span>. Cut each picture to size.<br /><br /><span style="FONT-STYLE: italic; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Be sure to print your pictures using a LASER printer! Ink jet colors tend to smear when they get wet!!</span><br /><br /><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Step 2:</span><br />The cut ends of the wood absorb more glue than the grained ends. Before beginning this step, apply a layer of glue of glue to the ends with the rougher (cut) surfaces. Let glue dry.<br /><br />Apply a thin layer of glue to the first side of one block. Place picture over glue and press in to place. Remove any air bubbles.</p> <p>Check for overhanging paper edges. It is <span style="FONT-STYLE: italic">important to WAIT</span> for the glue to dry before attempting to remove any excess paper.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BeZO0F4LAto/S0_Bm9_oD8I/AAAAAAAAA9g/qmRpY3JpS_U/s1600-h/BlockProject2WEB.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 230px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426768951225356226" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BeZO0F4LAto/S0_Bm9_oD8I/AAAAAAAAA9g/qmRpY3JpS_U/s320/BlockProject2WEB.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BeZO0F4LAto/S0_BmgTeVzI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/zoM-5iHAmgA/s1600-h/Block_Project3WEB.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426768943255541554" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BeZO0F4LAto/S0_BmgTeVzI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/zoM-5iHAmgA/s320/Block_Project3WEB.jpg" border="0" /></a>Once all of the picture are in place, add decorative paper to the top and bottom of each block. Don't worry about matching sides. A random look is great!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BeZO0F4LAto/S0_BnUyytWI/AAAAAAAAA9o/qZmn4qMUstQ/s1600-h/Block_Project4WEB.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 243px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426768957345543522" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BeZO0F4LAto/S0_BnUyytWI/AAAAAAAAA9o/qZmn4qMUstQ/s320/Block_Project4WEB.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Step 3:</span><br />If you like the vintage look shown in our example, sand all the corners of the block being careful not to sand across the picture.</p> <p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BeZO0F4LAto/S0_ByLezZnI/AAAAAAAAA9w/PlicrQvS2RU/s1600-h/BlockProject4bWEB.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 251px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426769143824344690" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BeZO0F4LAto/S0_ByLezZnI/AAAAAAAAA9w/PlicrQvS2RU/s320/BlockProject4bWEB.jpg" border="0" /></a>This step gives the block a worn look; like it's been around for ages. We darken the exposed wood to make the project look even older!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BeZO0F4LAto/S0_ByTm2kWI/AAAAAAAAA94/jdgQmuH8Dzo/s1600-h/BlockProject5bWEB.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 298px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426769146005590370" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BeZO0F4LAto/S0_ByTm2kWI/AAAAAAAAA94/jdgQmuH8Dzo/s320/BlockProject5bWEB.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://storiesbyme.com/?p=/demos-and-tutorials/block-ornament-instructions">Video of the entire process</a> </span>- long and BORING...but very detailed! <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Step 4:</span><br />Protect the pictures by adding several layers of decoupage glue over the top of the photos. This process is time-consuming because you must wait for the glue to dry. Instead of glue, we'll sometimes add several light coats of a matte acrylic spray when pressed for time.<br /></p><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VRvfm9FmFMc/TyNPPQboNrI/AAAAAAAACO4/vCbgWHPI-Rk/s1600/I%2BLove%2BYou%2Bblocks%2B4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 360px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VRvfm9FmFMc/TyNPPQboNrI/AAAAAAAACO4/vCbgWHPI-Rk/s400/I%2BLove%2BYou%2Bblocks%2B4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702488676708660914" border="0" /></a> Sending much love your way!Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-75563104406917979762012-01-17T20:21:00.006-07:002012-01-17T21:15:31.645-07:00Grandma's Snicker Doodle Cookies<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Y8RTOKd4p0/TxY_oqTwVaI/AAAAAAAACN8/kwVPQd86vJg/s1600/_DSC0812.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Y8RTOKd4p0/TxY_oqTwVaI/AAAAAAAACN8/kwVPQd86vJg/s400/_DSC0812.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698812346268407202" border="0" /></a>It's been a busy couple of weeks around here. Our grandmother passed away Christmas morning. Some people would think that it should have been a sad day...but it wasn't. We'll miss her immensely, but we were comforted by the fact that she didn't have to suffer. (She had been diagnosed two weeks earlier with pancreatic cancer.) Right up to the very end, she was thinking of everyone else by leaving earth life when it would be most convenient for family and friends to come together to celebrate her life. Because her funeral was during the Christmas break, everyone got to attend and it really was quite a joyful occasion.<br /><br />This past Sunday evening I learned that another grandparent had passed away. He wasn't a direct grandfather, but he was a <a href="http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/deseretnews/obituary.aspx?n=stanley-smoot&pid=155514798&fhid=12973">Grandparent Superhero</a> by his incredible love and amazing example.<br /><br />If you ask my kids about their memories of Grandma, they'll be sure to include stories of her Snicker Doodle cookies. One time, my kids had a cookie eating contest to see who could eat the most Snicker Doodles (I happened to have been out during this <span style="font-style: italic;">grand </span>moment of brain loss.) We got to enjoy the game for weeks as my youngest <span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">WON </span></span>the contest and <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">shared </span></span>the spoils later that night by literally tossing his cookies all over the car!<br /><br />As we were clearing out Grandma's things we came across a treasure... a copy of her cookie recipe. I knew immediately what needed to be done! Each of my kids got a copy in ornament form.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--f1q_H2W4x8/TxY_oHE78TI/AAAAAAAACNw/RZ6Vz1XYhCU/s1600/_DSC0817.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 216px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--f1q_H2W4x8/TxY_oHE78TI/AAAAAAAACNw/RZ6Vz1XYhCU/s400/_DSC0817.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698812336811012402" border="0" /></a>These cookies are GOOD! We'll share the cookie recipe here. If you want to finish the project, it's been designed for a 5x6 placard. To finish the backside of the ornament, you can use scrap book paper (pink - on right), fabric (brown dots - on left) or personalize it with a family picture (center one is going to my son in the Netherlands so he can enjoy a little bit of Grandma love!!!)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kMcdRwmYsNI/TxY_npfUyHI/AAAAAAAACNk/guHsUkB5GUw/s1600/_DSC0819.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 286px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kMcdRwmYsNI/TxY_npfUyHI/AAAAAAAACNk/guHsUkB5GUw/s400/_DSC0819.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698812328868628594" border="0" /></a>We'll be offering this project at our March class at Deseret Book for those local to the Salt Lake area.<br /><br />Get <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B6j-J0cNz1LNNTc4ODM5YjEtODhmNy00NTBiLTg5MGYtYjU1NjFkYjE3ZGY3">recipe cards here</a><a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B6j-J0cNz1LNNTc4ODM5YjEtODhmNy00NTBiLTg5MGYtYjU1NjFkYjE3ZGY3">.</a> (BIG file, be patient while it loads!)<br /><br />Still trying to think of something to keep our memories of Stan close to our heart. More to come!Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-87585514738446746412011-12-23T18:32:00.002-07:002011-12-23T18:32:00.376-07:00All I Want For Christmas is a...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rwtXGyaL8ZY/TvFpLxEQjII/AAAAAAAACNY/4pu3LsXj8Mo/s1600/phone.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 321px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rwtXGyaL8ZY/TvFpLxEQjII/AAAAAAAACNY/4pu3LsXj8Mo/s400/phone.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688443455216323714" border="0" /></a>Believe it or not, my ONE Christmas wish involves a ring...but not of the jewelry type. In less than 48 hours I get to talk to my missionary son via the telephone. He's been gone now for 7 months [plus 5 days and about 6 hours --but who's counting?]<br /><br />I get the rules of having missionaries focus on their service efforts and not on what's happening at home. Typically, LDS missionaries get to call home three times the first year they are gone.<br /><br />I got cheated out of phone call number one!<br /><br />My husband feels pretty bad about it, maybe because I <span style="font-style: italic;">kind of</span> blamed him for missing the call. My son called from the Atlanta airport as he prepared for his final flight to Belgium. Only problem is that he called the wrong number (Due to some wacky schedules, Dad got the first phone call and suggested that son call my work # even though I had been tethered to the home land-line all day waiting for the call.)<br /><br />I will NOT miss phone call number two!!<br /><br />I share the story of the first phone call only because it relates to phone call number two. Yesterday we got the necessary information so we could contact our missionary on Christmas morning. Hubby must be feeling a bit anxious given the events of the last contact so he wanted to make sure everything was working properly. What does he do? He calls the number. Yes, he does. He calls the number and guess who answers? A very shocked missionary son. Hubby quickly hung up so I could enjoy the surprise on Christmas day!<br /><br />I did get an early Christmas present from a new friendship that has developed out of the Netherlands. T recently had a birthday. This sweet family threw a birthday party for my son and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4NhDpFoxgs&feature=email">video taped</a> it so I could enjoy the celebration.<br /><br />Now I just wish I understood Dutch!Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-32419050684069570382011-12-22T09:15:00.000-07:002011-12-22T09:15:01.492-07:00More Christmas Memories<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4omrOavT128/TvFd6dCb-7I/AAAAAAAACM0/SI2LiK9CmTU/s1600/Christmas%2BRecipe%2Bornamnent%2B3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4omrOavT128/TvFd6dCb-7I/AAAAAAAACM0/SI2LiK9CmTU/s400/Christmas%2BRecipe%2Bornamnent%2B3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688431063154293682" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CaSO4GuRSIg/TvFgy_cArfI/AAAAAAAACNM/c_UyzKNqG0M/s1600/1967%257EChristmas_GreendaleRentalHouse.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 315px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CaSO4GuRSIg/TvFgy_cArfI/AAAAAAAACNM/c_UyzKNqG0M/s400/1967%257EChristmas_GreendaleRentalHouse.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688434233484291570" border="0" /></a>When I was a little girl, our Christmas tree was decorated with homemade ornaments, most that were the edible type. It was such a temptation. By the time Christmas arrived, you would be hard pressed to find an untouched 'ornament'. One year, I remember my little brother actually pulled the tree over trying to discretely remove a decoration.<br /><br />I had BIG plans for this year's tree. I really thought I'd have time to locate all of my mother's old cookie recipes and decorate the entire tree with recipes and homemade cookies. That didn't happen, but I'm still LOVING what I DID ACCOMPLISH!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RKFLZO0dvrI/TvFd52B_K1I/AAAAAAAACMo/JKyHAN43GGc/s1600/Christmas%2BRecipe%2Bornamnent%2B2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RKFLZO0dvrI/TvFd52B_K1I/AAAAAAAACMo/JKyHAN43GGc/s400/Christmas%2BRecipe%2Bornamnent%2B2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688431052683422546" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EdWDW2qtQWQ/TvFd5sgjhxI/AAAAAAAACMc/ydu2D6y-uGg/s1600/Christmas%2BRecipe%2Bornamnent%2B1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EdWDW2qtQWQ/TvFd5sgjhxI/AAAAAAAACMc/ydu2D6y-uGg/s400/Christmas%2BRecipe%2Bornamnent%2B1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688431050127279890" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zVbf22bsAeU/TvFd64_U_pI/AAAAAAAACNA/yAjpvKxoZFU/s1600/Christmas%2BRecipe%2Bornamnent%2B4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zVbf22bsAeU/TvFd64_U_pI/AAAAAAAACNA/yAjpvKxoZFU/s400/Christmas%2BRecipe%2Bornamnent%2B4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688431070657445522" border="0" /></a>Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-33062535824574368252011-12-20T20:19:00.005-07:002011-12-20T21:15:29.546-07:00Long Live Traditions!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fLYxvWuwRVg/TvFVAFqxpxI/AAAAAAAACL4/SlarKtru7rM/s1600/Nativity%2B2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fLYxvWuwRVg/TvFVAFqxpxI/AAAAAAAACL4/SlarKtru7rM/s400/Nativity%2B2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688421264355600146" border="0" /></a><p class="MsoNormal">I love traditions! Some years I'm better at keeping up with the list of traditions our family has deemed <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">all important</span> than others, but this year I noticed that even the simplest of traditions go a long way to creating the nostalgia that is associated with the holidays.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">As my kids get older (and less wanting to help me decorate the house for Christmas) I have found myself cutting corners on the decorating aspect of our traditions. I keep thinking to myself "What goes up, must come down!" This year I almost skipped a few of the decoration boxes. Some of our decorations are now 20-plus-years old (<span style="font-style: italic;">when did THAT HAPPEN?</span>) and are looking more ratty than festive. We have an advent calendar that I made when T was just a little tike. I can still remember those chubby little fingers anxiously moving our Mary and Joseph 'counter' closer to the town of Bethlehem to announce the special day. I honestly didn't think that anyone would notice if it didn't grace the pantry door where it has hung every year since we moved into this house. It's really isn't anything special...<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n_aWG0vLoSg/TvFVAZW35hI/AAAAAAAACME/xNCCR3_rc_U/s1600/Nativity%2B1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n_aWG0vLoSg/TvFVAZW35hI/AAAAAAAACME/xNCCR3_rc_U/s400/Nativity%2B1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688421269640832530" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Or it is?<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">It seems that this calendar is an important part of my kids memories. My 14-year-old was not only genuinely happy to see this treasured decoration, but has faithfully moved the marker forward every day since December 1. In four days he'll move Mary and Joseph to their positions right outside the stable. Once the Babe is placed in the manager, I'm sure his thoughts will turn to the loot stashed under the tree, but at least for a few seconds each day in December, my teenager has been reminded of the reason for the season...and famly.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sZid3NXsXWg/TvFU_sDBKYI/AAAAAAAACLs/0N15lkagGrc/s1600/Nativity%2B3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sZid3NXsXWg/TvFU_sDBKYI/AAAAAAAACLs/0N15lkagGrc/s400/Nativity%2B3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688421257477958018" border="0" /></a></p> <p style="font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">What are some of my favorite family traditions?</p><ul><li>Christmas Eve pizza</li><li>The Hughes Neighborhood Christmas Concert</li><li>Going downtown to look at the Christmas lights and store windows</li><li>Secret Santas<br /></li><li>Having Uncle Earl over for Christmas dinner</li><li>Opening one present on Christmas Eve...and always finding new PJ's!</li><li>Putting out my Woof-n-Poof collection and remembering each gift my hubby gave me over the years</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">What is the one Christmas tradition that you couldn't live without? </span></span><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">For me, it wouldn't be Christmas without the reading of the first Christmas story taken from the pages of Luke.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KbSRNVeFAHE/TvFazgo2ZkI/AAAAAAAACMQ/GEN1hrmRN-Q/s1600/xmas-star.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KbSRNVeFAHE/TvFazgo2ZkI/AAAAAAAACMQ/GEN1hrmRN-Q/s400/xmas-star.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688427645326747202" border="0" /></a></p>Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-5528568276108875362011-12-03T11:28:00.008-07:002011-12-03T13:12:37.463-07:00A Wind Storm To Remember!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u09f0313rA0/Ttp8pJELKEI/AAAAAAAACLE/WI9_pzU05gA/s1600/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B9.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 254px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u09f0313rA0/Ttp8pJELKEI/AAAAAAAACLE/WI9_pzU05gA/s400/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681990926131210306" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xmeiA1ExOp0/Ttp8o3iGCbI/AAAAAAAACK4/varM42CPE1A/s1600/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B8.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 241px; height: 361px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xmeiA1ExOp0/Ttp8o3iGCbI/AAAAAAAACK4/varM42CPE1A/s400/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681990921424865714" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SRcoxWuPueo/Ttp8o6Gc-jI/AAAAAAAACKw/kyUIIa5vk2o/s1600/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B7.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 241px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SRcoxWuPueo/Ttp8o6Gc-jI/AAAAAAAACKw/kyUIIa5vk2o/s400/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681990922114234930" border="0" /></a>Two nights ago, I was awakened at 3:30AM to the sound of howling winds. 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</style> <![endif]--> </a></p><p class="MsoNormal">Surely the storm would abate once the sun came up?! At 7:00AM, I drove my 17-year-old to school, mostly because school was still in session and I wanted to make sure he got there safely. The high school is next to a major freeway and it was eerie to see all of the semi trucks pulled off to the side of the road in an effort to remain upright. We pulled in to the school's parking lot. Everything was dark but kids were swarming around the campus so my son hopped out to join the confusion. Despite the howling winds, downed trees and power outages, life seemed to be moving forward so my youngest prepared for a day of school. His trip across town to the middle school was harrowing as they witnessed the strength of the wind. His school was also dark, and as many of the students attend classes in portables that were shaking to the beat of every wind blast, the school officials had already determined it best to turn the kids around and send them home. It wasn't much longer before they closed all the public schools in the area and the kids rejoiced in their first official weather related holiday (A BIG DEAL here as the kids complain that school's NEVER closed for weather!)</p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l5lyn_LShPg/Ttpq6L6jNTI/AAAAAAAACJ0/fmx97EjvR3E/s1600/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B6.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 296px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l5lyn_LShPg/Ttpq6L6jNTI/AAAAAAAACJ0/fmx97EjvR3E/s400/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681971427744625970" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> 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We turned the disaster into a holiday by having Suni's family over as it would be nearly 48 hours before their power was restored. </p> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EPttk8UQOcY/TtpqrMeF4OI/AAAAAAAACJg/JGAigLPZqSs/s1600/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B4.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 296px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EPttk8UQOcY/TtpqrMeF4OI/AAAAAAAACJg/JGAigLPZqSs/s400/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681971170195661026" border="0" /></a>The word that came to mind as I drove around town looking over the extent of the destruction was 'somber.' I nearly cried as I drove through the Bountiful cemetery and witnessed all the 100-year-old trees that had been ripped out of the ground. Kevin's ancestors are buried in that cemetery and most of their resting spots were obliterated by the fallen trees.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0ixXbz9huU/TtpqqdZlrjI/AAAAAAAACI4/NFtXniBL09s/s1600/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B1.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0ixXbz9huU/TtpqqdZlrjI/AAAAAAAACI4/NFtXniBL09s/s400/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681971157560307250" border="0" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal">Gratefully, trees can be replanted. Headstones can be replaced. In reality, we were really quite lucky. The Bountiful area has been known for intense winds over the centuries and we had gotten off relatively unscathed. 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font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">On <span style="font-weight: bold;">February 10, 1864</span>, the fifteen-month-old son of John Rigby became very ill. The nearest medicine was in Salt Lake City, fifteen miles from his home in Farmington. On his return home, he encountered a terrific east wind that had been blowing since noon in the Davis County area. The lower road had drifted full of snow, making it impossible to follow, so he attempted the mountain road. <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">{We know it today as Orchard Drive.}</span> When he reached the Heber C. Kimball. Mill at the mouth of Mill Creek Canyon <span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">{less than a block from where Suni lives}</span> his team and wagon broke through the frozen crust of a snowdrift and was rendered useless. He unhitched the team, tramped a path for them, and then started for home, still 6 or 7 miles away. <span style=""> </span>After leading them for nearly a mile and a half, he realized he was slowly freezing the death. He made it as far as the John Corbridge home in Bountiful and was put up for the night. With the winds still howling the next morning, he pressed on towards home. He found his team of horses frozen to death. One of them was frozen in a standing position.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Rueben Blazedell, then a small boy and neighbor of Rigby's, had been playing at the Corbridge's home when the storm hit so he was compelled to spend the night. Knowing that the boy's parents would be anxious, John Rigby took the boy with him. Reuben was freezing and John had to drag him and shake him to keep him alive. He found that if they dropped to the ground during the most violent of gusts and then ran as hard and fast as they could when <span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">the wind drew breath for its next attack, they were able to move in a forward motion. </span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">When they arrived at the Centerville store, John learned some very sad news. His wife and baby had been blown into a fence and pinned there while trying to get to a neighbor's home after the roof had been blown off their cabin. They had frozen to death. He also lost two</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;">hundred head of sheep, six horses, ten cows and 4 pigs. All that was left was a calf, a colt and a black dog. </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">{Here's the part that shows the gumption of our forefathers and provides the true message of the story}</span><br /></p> <p style="font-style: italic;font-family:trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Although understandably bitter, John did not leave the area but stayed and started a new life.</p> <p face="trebuchet ms" style="font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">The City Bountiful, by Leslie T. Foy<span style="">, </span>Carr Printing Co., Revised 2005.<span style=""> </span>Page 54.</span></p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vhoYdaScB4o/Ttp8pRodaqI/AAAAAAAACLU/xSHXBSDa0CQ/s1600/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B10.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 246px; height: 304px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vhoYdaScB4o/Ttp8pRodaqI/AAAAAAAACLU/xSHXBSDa0CQ/s400/2011%2BWind%2BStorm%2B10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681990928430885538" border="0" /></a></p>Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-50552182994263753302011-11-15T09:29:00.006-07:002011-11-15T09:43:20.728-07:00It's a Small World!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P-DBHXhPbHY/TsKVNGkz2CI/AAAAAAAACIs/JgnPAu8CRKg/s1600/hughes029b.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 380px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P-DBHXhPbHY/TsKVNGkz2CI/AAAAAAAACIs/JgnPAu8CRKg/s400/hughes029b.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675262532776089634" border="0" /></a>Last night I spent some time on a project for a dear friend. We've been working on her parent's personal histories. It's been a work-in-progress...for a very long time. We are now pulling out the stops and pushing hard in hopes of having a book ready for Christmas. Recently my friend brought over 3 very large family albums with priceless memorabilia that needed preserving. As I was going through one of the books, I came across a picture that had a familiar looking name. The photograph snapped more than 60 years ago and lovingly kept all these years by close friends was my own husband's Uncle K and Aunt Ina.<br /><br />Not only am I helping to tell my friend's story, but in the process, I found a small family story of my own!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lSsu3D8vW58/TsKUWAwubDI/AAAAAAAACIg/B7CmZ7-E8aw/s1600/hughes032.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 292px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lSsu3D8vW58/TsKUWAwubDI/AAAAAAAACIg/B7CmZ7-E8aw/s400/hughes032.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675261586322648114" border="0" /></a>Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-16930741384079645082011-11-04T15:03:00.009-06:002011-11-04T18:55:58.954-06:00Family History Subway Art<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OGug77RCGKc/TrRVjv_XOkI/AAAAAAAACFY/NTcLxrxXaw8/s1600/family%2Bhistory%2Bsubway%2Bart1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 360px; height: 246px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OGug77RCGKc/TrRVjv_XOkI/AAAAAAAACFY/NTcLxrxXaw8/s400/family%2Bhistory%2Bsubway%2Bart1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671251903432309314" border="0" /></a>I've been dreaming about this project for months. Back in May, I bought a large piece of canvas (24x48") and painstakingly hand-painted 4 generations of family names onto the canvas. NEVER AGAIN!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2U5wmj7H9n0/TrR5J5ErdPI/AAAAAAAACGc/BzDqyDQa_o4/s1600/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix4.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2U5wmj7H9n0/TrR5J5ErdPI/AAAAAAAACGc/BzDqyDQa_o4/s400/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671291041612526834" border="0" /></a>In my typical hurried fashion to get the project done, I slathered on what I thought was a clear antiquing gel. Turns out that <span style="font-style: italic;">opaque </span>crackle paste <span style="font-weight: bold;">doesn't</span> turn transparent over time.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Lesson LEARNED!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w6b1b87xqbE/TrR5ITA6bII/AAAAAAAACF8/NxaIY-q-1ZU/s1600/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w6b1b87xqbE/TrR5ITA6bII/AAAAAAAACF8/NxaIY-q-1ZU/s400/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671291014216313986" border="0" /></a>At first, I thought the sign was ruined. But the good news is that this little faux pas simply forced me to find an easier way to do this project!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uTH-3jpstB4/TrR5I989wXI/AAAAAAAACGU/D2lJ80y_0mw/s1600/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uTH-3jpstB4/TrR5I989wXI/AAAAAAAACGU/D2lJ80y_0mw/s400/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671291025742479730" border="0" /></a>My computer is my favorite art tool. I decided to create a poster-sized print and with the aid of my second favorite art medium, Mod Podge, get this project done.<br /><br />First I created two different layouts for my 24x48" canvas. I really preferred the vertical design as it's more in keeping with Subway Art, but I have the perfect spot to hang the horizontal version so I went with design #2.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-908rmw4_FvQ/TrRkGYZXOsI/AAAAAAAACFw/-ByWIt6CJj4/s1600/Subwary%2BArt%2BVerticaql%2BDesign.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-908rmw4_FvQ/TrRkGYZXOsI/AAAAAAAACFw/-ByWIt6CJj4/s400/Subwary%2BArt%2BVerticaql%2BDesign.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671267891557120706" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tAA6-9vgdng/TrRdH8ZrurI/AAAAAAAACFk/WPfffk6SJto/s1600/Subwary%2BArt%2BHorizontal%2BDesign.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 201px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tAA6-9vgdng/TrRdH8ZrurI/AAAAAAAACFk/WPfffk6SJto/s400/Subwary%2BArt%2BHorizontal%2BDesign.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671260221820615346" border="0" /></a>Here's a nifty cost-saving trick. <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Print your poster using only black ink</span></span>. It'll save you you a TON of money!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gx9dZX0mu70/TrR5jJhGJDI/AAAAAAAACH4/JEYopbqghgQ/s1600/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix12.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 184px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gx9dZX0mu70/TrR5jJhGJDI/AAAAAAAACH4/JEYopbqghgQ/s400/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix12.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671291475523413042" border="0" /></a>Once the poster is trimmed and checked, you're ready to glue!<br /><br />Here's another helpful hint... Get a <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">BIG bottle of Mod Podge glue</span></span>. I used most of a 16oz bottle. Also, go for the matte variety. I think a glossy sheen would have made the end result look too modern.<br /><br />I wish that I could say that the gluing step was easy, but alas, it was a major pain in the bum...and since I have 'mod-podged' 1000's of projects over the years I'd like to think I'm not a mod podge newbie. You'll wrestle with curling paper <span style="font-style: italic;">and </span>bubbled paper. <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Don't give up! </span></span>I spent the better part of a day trying to tame my bubbled beast, but I think the end result was worth the effort (and my kids definitely didn't mind frozen orange chicken for dinner!)<br /><br />Once the glue is dry and bubbles popped (yes, I ended up popping a few bubbles), you want to beat up your lovely masterpiece. This step might be hard for the perfectionist. I happen to love that my slap-in-on, tear-it-up approach only makes the end result that much more authentic looking.<br /><br />I distressed...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3NdvWGI_KcM/TrR5ePJbveI/AAAAAAAACHk/vLbDh_tpIgA/s1600/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix11.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 309px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3NdvWGI_KcM/TrR5ePJbveI/AAAAAAAACHk/vLbDh_tpIgA/s400/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix11.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671291391135432162" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-44JD1ukRnwE/TrR5cPK4CwI/AAAAAAAACHI/KGymWDDE1l0/s1600/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix7.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-44JD1ukRnwE/TrR5cPK4CwI/AAAAAAAACHI/KGymWDDE1l0/s400/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671291356781742850" border="0" /></a><br />And sanded...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tjwoQ8-HpFw/TrR5dsl9AfI/AAAAAAAACHc/PbInjBw5gC4/s1600/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix9.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 257px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tjwoQ8-HpFw/TrR5dsl9AfI/AAAAAAAACHc/PbInjBw5gC4/s400/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671291381859811826" border="0" /></a>And painted touch ups.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XS4qFlEE1Gk/TrR5cw0N2fI/AAAAAAAACHU/B9axhnFtUrA/s1600/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix8.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XS4qFlEE1Gk/TrR5cw0N2fI/AAAAAAAACHU/B9axhnFtUrA/s400/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671291365813508594" border="0" /></a>Once everything was to my liking, I added layer after layer of Mod Podge glue, letting each layer dry and giving it another good sanding before slathering on another layer of glue.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DH9laFrbaXQ/TrR5KHYdkvI/AAAAAAAACGk/lyI4fDLPb3A/s1600/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix5.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DH9laFrbaXQ/TrR5KHYdkvI/AAAAAAAACGk/lyI4fDLPb3A/s400/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671291045453599474" border="0" /></a><br />Anyone who has taken a craft class from me knows that my mantra is '<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Less is More</span></span>' when using Mod Podge. This is one of the few times you want to ignore that advice!<br /><br />Loving my new piece of family artwork!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9TkKiLgTvY0/TrR5bx-dEFI/AAAAAAAACG8/uuDcglSPc0k/s1600/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix6.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 212px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9TkKiLgTvY0/TrR5bx-dEFI/AAAAAAAACG8/uuDcglSPc0k/s400/Subway%2BArt%2Bpix6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671291348945014866" border="0" /></a>Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-58598756398004642142011-10-18T22:42:00.005-06:002011-10-18T23:05:49.665-06:00Yahoo! Memory Puzzle Kits are Back!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YOw2Zaqz25s/Tp5WpAG0a-I/AAAAAAAACD0/25xKGuZ0Dvg/s1600/WebHome_Flash1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 258px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YOw2Zaqz25s/Tp5WpAG0a-I/AAAAAAAACD0/25xKGuZ0Dvg/s400/WebHome_Flash1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665060643681889250" border="0" /></a><br />We are now ready for Christmas! We only say that because our puzzle kit order arrived and we can now help you get your gifts ready for the holidays!<br /><br />You didn't think we meant that <span style="font-size:130%;">WE were READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS?</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Oh yeah, we can't even find 15 minutes to blog about our lives right now. </span>(One of us...only trying to save face here by not mentioning names, actually mailed last year's holiday cards in April.) OK, I can't drag Suni down into my world. She is MUCH more on the ball than I am. Knowing her, she's already scheduled a photographer for this year's family picture. I think we'll just be using last year's picture again!<br /><br />Life might be out of control, but I do have some fabulous memories that will be enjoyed for years and years! Here are some of the puzzles that I've made over the years. I wish that we had kept count of all the puzzles that we've made or helped to make. It is easily in the thousands by now.<br /><br />As you can see, every one is a masterpiece!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpQaVp4-fkQ/Tp5WqXCPKkI/AAAAAAAACEQ/xFZOpqJofZQ/s1600/2007_Christmas1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 382px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpQaVp4-fkQ/Tp5WqXCPKkI/AAAAAAAACEQ/xFZOpqJofZQ/s400/2007_Christmas1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665060667016555074" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MOS5NAe59yk/Tp5W_yxufaI/AAAAAAAACE0/4TFS7vL_y7o/s1600/Puzzle_kids1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 376px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MOS5NAe59yk/Tp5W_yxufaI/AAAAAAAACE0/4TFS7vL_y7o/s400/Puzzle_kids1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665061035240750498" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0O6B6UVjBq8/Tp5W_kNObrI/AAAAAAAACEs/WEz5VsW14wo/s1600/Puzzle_Pets1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 357px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0O6B6UVjBq8/Tp5W_kNObrI/AAAAAAAACEs/WEz5VsW14wo/s400/Puzzle_Pets1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665061031329558194" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b18m_tNW4i0/Tp5WqtX6xFI/AAAAAAAACEg/WgoZBuhf5rw/s1600/2007_Thanksgiving.jpg"><br /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LxsT6nOux7w/Tp5WpQqUgTI/AAAAAAAACEI/bxhrHZvRusw/s1600/_DSC2895.JPG"><br /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--l3FHPzNB-4/Tp5WpN8K0XI/AAAAAAAACDs/8MCRwYU_Oek/s1600/_DSC2923.JPG"><br /></a>Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-74349516026433131562011-09-07T16:24:00.005-06:002011-09-07T16:34:11.576-06:00Baby Ben is 1!<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" >It's hard to believe that this little one</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mI97NwFjYpc/TmfwdsvRBVI/AAAAAAAABws/ZjwoAo1d3PE/s400/baby%2BBW2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649748650575856978" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 293px; " /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" >is now this little one!</span></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6zxU72AcjE/TmfvxJAnTQI/AAAAAAAABwk/EQ2uUbNknzY/s400/Benjamin-132artistic.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649747885070699778" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " /></span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6zxU72AcjE/TmfvxJAnTQI/AAAAAAAABwk/EQ2uUbNknzY/s1600/Benjamin-132artistic.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6zxU72AcjE/TmfvxJAnTQI/AAAAAAAABwk/EQ2uUbNknzY/s1600/Benjamin-132artistic.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div>What a year we've had. We're still recovering from Swiss Days and celebrating the birthday boy! We'll be back with more stories soon!</div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" >Happy Birthday, Benjamin!</span></b></div>sunihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13565790202802581408noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-7392733483245168672011-08-29T10:57:00.005-06:002011-08-29T11:02:53.720-06:004 Days to Swiss Days!<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" >Remember these?</span></b><div>
<br /></div><div><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NP99J0Np6pQ/TlvFWycKN5I/AAAAAAAABwc/BRmq3X_UMc0/s320/teacup.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5646323553126725522" /></div><div><a href="http://storiesbymeblog.blogspot.com/2010/06/grandmas-teacups.html">Grandma's Teacups</a></div><div>
<br /></div><div>We managed to gather a variety of Grandma's teacups this summer to make more birdfeeders. And a lucky few will be able to purchase these treasures at Swiss Days this weekend! Quantities are limited and not one is the same - just like Grandma. We hope to see you Friday! </div><div>
<br /></div>sunihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13565790202802581408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-58515819974661880932011-08-27T11:08:00.001-06:002011-08-27T11:08:00.340-06:007 Days and Counting to Swiss Days, 2011<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gsJb1CBxHB4/Tlh9Qh5ftgI/AAAAAAAACDk/PwAL2FMjZdg/s1600/Wire%2BTree%2BKit.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gsJb1CBxHB4/Tlh9Qh5ftgI/AAAAAAAACDk/PwAL2FMjZdg/s400/Wire%2BTree%2BKit.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645399855839819266" border="0" /></a>If you were at Swiss Days two years ago, you might remember our Wire Tree kit. We hadn't planned on selling them, but we thought it would be fun to provide one as a give-away. The response was overwhelming. This fabulous little tree actually got us a stint on KSL's Studio Five. About 6 months ago, we received an order from a customer in Tokyo. Typically, we don't take international orders because the shipping is so outrageous, but this new friend 1/2 way around the world REALLY wanted the kit for a company team-building project. When I took the package to FedEX, I asked for the different shipping options. They came back with two prices, one that was 940 something and another in the 600 range. I was confused. Was that in yen? I asked for the conversion rate. <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Oh no</span>, that was in US dollars!! <span style="font-size:130%;">CRAZY</span>. Technology is an amazing thing. I texted the customer right then and there in the middle of the FedEx store. I could NOT feel good about charging someone 6+ times the price of the kit just to ship it to them. Thousands of miles (and several time zones) between us and I get a response within 2 minutes to go ahead and ship the kit at the $650 rate. I kid you not!
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<br />I share the story because it is one that has gone into the Stories by Me Hall of Fame. I also share the story because we were able to get our hands on another 20 trees. Even better news is that we have a second version that is quite a bit less...both in price and amount of work! Be sure to check it out if you're at Swiss Days!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9oeTMD3DVy8/Tlh8KQvEgdI/AAAAAAAACDc/jZomSNYLBus/s1600/New%2BWire%2BTree%2BKit.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9oeTMD3DVy8/Tlh8KQvEgdI/AAAAAAAACDc/jZomSNYLBus/s400/New%2BWire%2BTree%2BKit.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645398648641847762" border="0" /></a>Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-39356435397094256882011-08-25T22:31:00.004-06:002011-08-25T22:42:57.864-06:00Losing Count and Sleep!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bed0Spo94Uw/Tlci_leXgaI/AAAAAAAACDM/ZJvtyC5P-Bc/s1600/New%2Bcalendar.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bed0Spo94Uw/Tlci_leXgaI/AAAAAAAACDM/ZJvtyC5P-Bc/s400/New%2Bcalendar.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645019133718790562" border="0" /></a>I'm already slipping on my resolve to share all of our new projects for Swiss Days, but here's our latest calendar design. There's a funny story that accompanies it. Suni was making up a few sets for the non-do-it-yourselfer. About an hour into the project I got a phone call. "Did you mean to leave off the #12?" <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">What?</span></span> In my haste to get the file to the printers, I somehow deleted an entire day from our perpetual calendar. Now, anyone who knows me, knows that if given the chance, I'd ADD days to my month, not take one away! Grateful, it was an easy fix. Our printer is used to my 'fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants' and has already provide the errant #12.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-coUf0S_gqcI/TlcjAM9pxAI/AAAAAAAACDU/m2rufPLU7Uk/s1600/New%2Bcalendar2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 252px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-coUf0S_gqcI/TlcjAM9pxAI/AAAAAAAACDU/m2rufPLU7Uk/s400/New%2Bcalendar2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5645019144318993410" border="0" /></a>Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-20837682547172961362011-08-23T09:25:00.000-06:002011-08-23T09:25:00.363-06:0011 Days to Swiss Days!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lpKNWrVbr7Y/TlMhBuHTMSI/AAAAAAAACCk/CiIzZq8Xc18/s1600/Raisin%2BCookies.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 271px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lpKNWrVbr7Y/TlMhBuHTMSI/AAAAAAAACCk/CiIzZq8Xc18/s400/Raisin%2BCookies.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643891071467598114" border="0" /></a>A couple of weeks ago, I had one of those Reese's Chocolate and Peanut Butter moments. Last year we started having fun with these thin wooden plates that make the most perfect backdrop for pictures! Maybe you'll remember the <a href="http://storiesbymeblog.blogspot.com/2010/12/ready-for-christmas.html">ornaments</a> that I shared at Christmas time...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xl3eJpNZ0bE/TlMiG3UglcI/AAAAAAAACC8/qMzA24Ww16w/s1600/ornament4.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xl3eJpNZ0bE/TlMiG3UglcI/AAAAAAAACC8/qMzA24Ww16w/s400/ornament4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643892259349894594" border="0" /></a>
<br />We also used them for a <a href="http://storiesbymeblog.blogspot.com/2011/02/valentine-top-ten-project.html">Valentine project</a> that we did at a local store...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vZTBbIbT0os/TlMiHAy1WtI/AAAAAAAACDE/uXyGEGrnJDs/s1600/1%2BValentine%2BProject%2B0.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vZTBbIbT0os/TlMiHAy1WtI/AAAAAAAACDE/uXyGEGrnJDs/s400/1%2BValentine%2BProject%2B0.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643892261893003986" border="0" /></a>For Swiss Days, we decided to make up a few ornaments using the same definitions that we used on our pillow projects...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kzlK5PzdyFc/TlMhBljtfCI/AAAAAAAACCs/UimRxcJiU0U/s1600/Definition%2BOrnaments.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 309px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kzlK5PzdyFc/TlMhBljtfCI/AAAAAAAACCs/UimRxcJiU0U/s400/Definition%2BOrnaments.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643891069170842658" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2_5NQHAKFI/TlMhBADc7BI/AAAAAAAACCU/ZXnd9pxUga0/s1600/Family%2Bornament.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2_5NQHAKFI/TlMhBADc7BI/AAAAAAAACCU/ZXnd9pxUga0/s400/Family%2Bornament.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643891059103427602" border="0" /></a>So what was the Chocolate and Peanut Butter moment? I have cherished old recipes of my hubby's grandmother. I never knew quite what to do with them. There I sat in my kitchen one day when the light went on! Why not feature these fabulous family heirlooms on these versatile wooden placards? Suni dug out a couple of her grandmother's recipes and we now have enough ornaments to do a whole cooking themed tree this holiday. I want to find the recipe that my mother used for making our gingerbread cookies. Wouldn't that be fun to have a tree filled with recipes and cookies?
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<br />We created a fun paper backing to our project. (Be sure to print it using a laser printer as ink jets can smear when they get wet.) We added a name and picture to remind us of family. You can use this f<a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B6j-J0cNz1LNOGEwNGVkNmUtNmViMy00ZDQwLWE0M2EtYzc1ZjEwMzlhZjcw&hl=en_US">ree down-loadable .PDF</a> to create your own family memory!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NBIaSzLxT7c/TlMhB_sYnsI/AAAAAAAACC0/cJ-fnnZMXK8/s1600/Recipe%2BOrnament%2BProject.jpg">
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NBIaSzLxT7c/TlMhB_sYnsI/AAAAAAAACC0/cJ-fnnZMXK8/s1600/Recipe%2BOrnament%2BProject.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NBIaSzLxT7c/TlMhB_sYnsI/AAAAAAAACC0/cJ-fnnZMXK8/s400/Recipe%2BOrnament%2BProject.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643891076186545858" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--xCBJdIGgwE/TlMhBTw367I/AAAAAAAACCc/D-d9in5-Aeg/s1600/Pie%2BCrust%2BRecipe.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 310px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--xCBJdIGgwE/TlMhBTw367I/AAAAAAAACCc/D-d9in5-Aeg/s400/Pie%2BCrust%2BRecipe.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643891064394214322" border="0" /></a>
<br />Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-21548063372237000452011-08-22T09:17:00.000-06:002011-08-22T09:17:00.332-06:0012 days til Swiss Days!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--u4IJ3Utpaw/TlHL7wK2jbI/AAAAAAAACB8/RPbXoItL2U4/s1600/Tree%2BPillow.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--u4IJ3Utpaw/TlHL7wK2jbI/AAAAAAAACB8/RPbXoItL2U4/s400/Tree%2BPillow.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643516035475082674" border="0" /></a>
<br />Did the math. There really are only 12 days until the highlight of our year, Swiss Days. Thought we'd better crawl out of our holes to show you some of the things that have kept us so very quiet. Check back over the next week and a half and we'll try to unveil a new creation every day.
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<br />Of course, we hope that you'll want to check them out in person on September 2&3 in Midway, Utah! Look for us in booth B44 this year...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4vXIB1lYv2c/TlHL7a0jTGI/AAAAAAAACBs/uUgForbpYEU/s1600/2011%2BSwiss%2BDays%2BMap.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 334px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4vXIB1lYv2c/TlHL7a0jTGI/AAAAAAAACBs/uUgForbpYEU/s400/2011%2BSwiss%2BDays%2BMap.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643516029744401506" border="0" /></a>
<br />Suni has been busy sewing. These are her creations. She received the Family Tree pillow as a Christmas gift from her sister and of course, I had to have one! The 'Nest' definition pillows that she made for her own Christmas gifts were such a hit that we decided to expand the list and created designs for 'Family' and 'Love.' If our printer gets them done in time, we also hope to have a couple of other designs that include Sister and Friend.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C4nO7zuj24g/TlHL7iIlZpI/AAAAAAAACB0/rZs267TpBk4/s1600/Family%2BPillow.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 282px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C4nO7zuj24g/TlHL7iIlZpI/AAAAAAAACB0/rZs267TpBk4/s400/Family%2BPillow.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643516031707473554" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m7WUEsXJ2rE/TlHN2R7nyxI/AAAAAAAACCE/w76etEwY3dE/s1600/Distressed%2BTree%2BPillow.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m7WUEsXJ2rE/TlHN2R7nyxI/AAAAAAAACCE/w76etEwY3dE/s400/Distressed%2BTree%2BPillow.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643518140482046738" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SvNW6FTMQNg/TlHOO-BvX9I/AAAAAAAACCM/a40rn_VoAZo/s1600/Pillow%2BCollection.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SvNW6FTMQNg/TlHOO-BvX9I/AAAAAAAACCM/a40rn_VoAZo/s400/Pillow%2BCollection.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643518564635729874" border="0" /></a>Be sure to read the 'Family' definition carefully. We thought the dictionary definition didn't quite do the word justice.
<br />Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-75507630951925706972011-08-05T15:09:00.003-06:002011-08-05T15:15:11.475-06:00Yes, we're alive!Has it really been over 2 months since we've posted here on the blog?! Yikes!! One of you faithful readers, Joanne in Florida, emailed to make sure everything was ok. How sweet of her! It makes our hearts happy to know that there is someone out there that does check in from time to time and enjoys our projects and stories! <div><br /></div><div>No need to worry about us though. We are preparing for the biggest show of the year. Like 100,000+ people big! For those of you who missed us last year, we'll be back at <a href="http://www.midwayswissdays.com/">Swiss Days</a>! We are over-the-top excited and can't wait to show off what we have been working on! </div><div><br /></div><div>For now we'll crawl back into our holes and continue to work. Keep checking back for a peek into what we will have in our booth!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>sunihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13565790202802581408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-15829524256531377262011-05-17T16:57:00.005-06:002011-05-17T17:36:47.822-06:0024 hours and Counting<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-US8uI-S42Cg/TdMBjRt3-5I/AAAAAAAACBg/WL_1mXD17hg/s1600/Flag.gif"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 100px; height: 87px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-US8uI-S42Cg/TdMBjRt3-5I/AAAAAAAACBg/WL_1mXD17hg/s400/Flag.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607827666569264018" border="0" /></a>Today is the day before we drop our oldest boy off at the MTC in Provo for a two-year mission that will take him half way around the world and only allow me brief visits via email and 2 phone calls per year. There was a LOT to get done today!<br /><br />Son and hubby met me downtown for a quick lunch. Blocks from our destination my car konked out without any warning. Just a slight whimper and she was gone. Gratefully my strapping 19-year-old didn't mind pushing an over-sized SUV through downtown traffic to the one available parking spot. Did I mention that it was pouring rain?<br /><br />That put a slight damper on the day, but hubby graciously waited for the tow truck and son and I dashed off to our new favorite dining spot, <a href="http://www.brugeswaffles.com/main.php">Bruges Waffles and Frites</a> for a delicious 'last lunch date.' Oh my, it was good. I ate at least a pound of potatoes that I dipped in this amazing fry sauce (something mayonnaisey with a bit of kick) and more than my fair share of the most delicious caramelized waffles. T's new home away from home promises to treat him well in the food category!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PVZF5cVO250/TdMAtGw7X-I/AAAAAAAACBQ/Y5ksWkaskF4/s1600/Day%2Bbefore%2B1.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PVZF5cVO250/TdMAtGw7X-I/AAAAAAAACBQ/Y5ksWkaskF4/s400/Day%2Bbefore%2B1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607826735916343266" border="0" /></a><br />We found out the fuel pump on my car needs replacing...not exactly how we wanted to spend $500, but grateful it was nothing more serious. We took just enough time to grab a second waffle for kind dad (who took pulled the short straw so we could have our lunch date) and ran to pick him up and rent a car for the big day. Somehow, cramming the family into the Honda Prelude, not to mention the two big bags that is holding all of my son's earthly possessions for the next two years, did NOT sound like fun.<br /><br />We were moments from our freeway exit when traffic came to a screeching halt. The first few seconds of waiting weren't bad, but as the minutes ticked on it became painfully apparent that we were not going anywhere soon. As i sat there thinking of the things were were supposed to be getting done, I started to nimble on the waffle that I so lovingly held for my better half.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cSbyPOYpWU8/TdMAs1DzbTI/AAAAAAAACBI/aLfinuFbJok/s1600/Day%2Bbefore%2B2.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cSbyPOYpWU8/TdMAs1DzbTI/AAAAAAAACBI/aLfinuFbJok/s400/Day%2Bbefore%2B2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607826731163675954" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PGnNRnuC-KE/TdMAsihZdkI/AAAAAAAACBA/ignvBNrdC-0/s1600/Day%2Bbefore%2B3.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PGnNRnuC-KE/TdMAsihZdkI/AAAAAAAACBA/ignvBNrdC-0/s400/Day%2Bbefore%2B3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607826726187529794" border="0" /></a>It took more than an hour, but traffic finally started moving again. We got to the school in time to rush in for an end-of-year recital. We made it the bank to take care of all the important paperwork that we left until the very last moment. We ran by several friends homes for quick last good byes.<br /><br />All in all, I'd say our day was better than this poor driver's!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d8CIomsWZ0U/TdMBjCLuBGI/AAAAAAAACBY/5M94WiQip5E/s1600/Day%2Bbefore%2B4.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d8CIomsWZ0U/TdMBjCLuBGI/AAAAAAAACBY/5M94WiQip5E/s400/Day%2Bbefore%2B4.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607827662399472738" border="0" /></a>I was NOT driving when I took this picture. T was behind the wheel!!<br /><br />Hug the one's you love and let them know how grateful you are to have them in your life!Stories by Me!http://www.blogger.com/profile/10456410616242020516noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-46788457682680323442011-04-15T11:16:00.005-06:002011-04-15T11:53:04.421-06:00SURPRISE!<div>Spring has signs - forsythia in bloom, birds chirping, tulips, green grass, rain, fresh clean smells, baby colts. WHAT?!</div><div><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-arPUIxa_a_s/TaiANYYvs9I/AAAAAAAABvo/5d_3TEpppPk/s320/DSC_0855.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595863504380736466" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></div><div>We were surprised to learn this morning that our horse, Belle, had a baby last night. WOW! We didn't even know she was expecting. We're grateful that all went well and that both mama and baby are doing great.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6KvecteR5sk/TaiFU-s3DKI/AAAAAAAABwI/RxMcZb1xlKE/s1600/DSC_0892.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><br /></a></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w_f7qDYj8Oo/TaiFUS0luLI/AAAAAAAABwA/sT9uR9POpk4/s320/DSC_0889.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595869120704133298" /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6m8oMZ3LUfQ/TaiFUJsLLQI/AAAAAAAABv4/u95xzSPAK7k/s1600/DSC_0867.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6m8oMZ3LUfQ/TaiFUJsLLQI/AAAAAAAABv4/u95xzSPAK7k/s320/DSC_0867.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595869118252920066" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H6lNARmOqK8/TaiANipeUBI/AAAAAAAABvw/g2QPiXN6_Uo/s320/DSC_0860.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595863507135254546" /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" >Happy Spring!</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div>sunihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13565790202802581408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-71385229977275255762011-04-12T09:00:00.004-06:002011-04-12T09:00:11.473-06:00Forts in April<div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XyJuTXxtbuA/TaOy9P5ES3I/AAAAAAAABvA/DzcJLXHZgkM/s1600/snowcave%2B003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594511927431940978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XyJuTXxtbuA/TaOy9P5ES3I/AAAAAAAABvA/DzcJLXHZgkM/s320/snowcave%2B003.jpg" border="0" /></a> <br /><div>One thing about living in Utah is having the greatest snow on earth. Somehow I have a hard time enjoying the 'greatest snow on earth' in April. Honestly, it's been snowing and snowing all weekend. Some spring break! But I'll be grateful for the water when it's water skiing season! (Which, I am sure, is right around the corner!) Instead of complain about all of the white stuff, my boys made the most of their spring break. Here is the proof! Max spent hours building - pretty impressive!! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594513291730211186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k2Dz7jx9jyw/TaO0MqTH0XI/AAAAAAAABvY/I4sAvhjEfuI/s320/snowcave%2B001.jpg" border="0" /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594513795487570482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rnjT7HR87LA/TaO0p-8PGjI/AAAAAAAABvg/xxYqbW3MjsI/s320/snowcave%2B002.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594512730549986434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PpzSp-DvqbI/TaOzr_vVJII/AAAAAAAABvQ/Q2bKSjXZeyY/s320/snowcave%2B004.jpg" border="0" /> </div></div></div></div>sunihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13565790202802581408noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-28061928113544616272011-04-11T10:00:00.002-06:002011-04-11T10:00:11.793-06:00California CousinsSome things in life are inevitable. Unfortunately, death is one of those things. My brother-in-law had a death in his family this past week. Among the sadness there were a lot of smiles because my sister and her 3 girls got to come to Utah (from sunny San Diego) to see us for a quick dinner! <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JqVle-wPigg/TaMixkxvpiI/AAAAAAAABuw/hiXMjwPtGd0/s1600/boys%2Bwith%2Blucy.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JqVle-wPigg/TaMixkxvpiI/AAAAAAAABuw/hiXMjwPtGd0/s320/boys%2Bwith%2Blucy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594353397205542434" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">(Max, Luke & Lucy)</span><br /></div><br />We're always happy when we get to see family - and this was the first time Ben had met his California cousins. They all loved each other!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0AzTgeMjzRs/TaMixoua58I/AAAAAAAABu4/tuEUHL9xa3Q/s1600/cousins.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0AzTgeMjzRs/TaMixoua58I/AAAAAAAABu4/tuEUHL9xa3Q/s320/cousins.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594353398265341890" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">(Lucy, Sofi, Luke, Max, Kaylee, Ben)</span><br /><br /></div>Glad we got to see you guys!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J3Fvb2WGnMo/TaMixdjn3oI/AAAAAAAABuo/j7UJn85v4co/s1600/bills%2Bwith%2Bmom%2B%2526%2Bdad.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J3Fvb2WGnMo/TaMixdjn3oI/AAAAAAAABuo/j7UJn85v4co/s320/bills%2Bwith%2Bmom%2B%2526%2Bdad.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594353395267264130" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">(Bills Family with Mom & Dad)</span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Thanks to my<a href="http://mealsandmoves.wordpress.com/"> sis </a>for the pictures!<br /></div></div>sunihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13565790202802581408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-4729330363902377802011-04-06T09:00:00.000-06:002011-04-06T09:00:15.620-06:00Grandma's Teacups<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-trmgGFSQarc/TZuWWC8Pf0I/AAAAAAAABuA/JXeK5V5E284/s1600/DSC_0821.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-trmgGFSQarc/TZuWWC8Pf0I/AAAAAAAABuA/JXeK5V5E284/s320/DSC_0821.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592228667801435970" border="0" /></a><br />We're at it again...using Grandma's old teacups. If you remember, we first put grandma's teacups on display as a <a href="http://storiesbymeblog.blogspot.com/2010/06/grandmas-teacups.html">bird feeder</a>. I had more cups that needed to be out there! Once I saw<a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?navAction=jump&id=860093&parentid=SEARCH_RESULTS"> this beautiful lamp</a> I knew I needed my own personalized version.<br /><br />What you'll need:<br /><br />A variety of teacups and saucers<br />Bowl for base<br />Diamond drill bit (I used 1/2")<br />Cordless drill<br />E6000<br />Lamp Kit (I found mine at WalMart for around $5)<br />Lamp shade<br /><br />The hardest part was figuring out the configuration. Play around - use different pieces, upside down, matched or not, big and small. Once you know how you want it, take a picture! It will be helpful to reference when putting your lamp together.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nWrsftMRvds/TZIkVZULc3I/AAAAAAAABtY/Ias5VVuhaMk/s1600/DSC_0811.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nWrsftMRvds/TZIkVZULc3I/AAAAAAAABtY/Ias5VVuhaMk/s320/DSC_0811.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589570037511582578" border="0" /></a><br />Now to drill. Remember, you MUST use water with this drill bit! (or you will be very sad when your drill bit is ruined.) I eyeballed the center of each piece and went for it. I'm sure if you want it perfect you could measure! Drill each piece.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BTX_cYV279c/TZIkVthuGsI/AAAAAAAABtg/2R4-7SkX0pY/s1600/DSC_0812.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BTX_cYV279c/TZIkVthuGsI/AAAAAAAABtg/2R4-7SkX0pY/s320/DSC_0812.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589570042937088706" border="0" /></a><br />Now for assembly. I started with the bowl at the base and threaded the cord through the holes. Then the next piece. And the next. I put the cord through one piece at a time, and glued as I went. It's helpful if the cups and saucers balance on their own, but if not, hold them together until the glue sets.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XM6296svgHU/TZIkWWA0N4I/AAAAAAAABto/an7FhmeAMaU/s1600/DSC_0813.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XM6296svgHU/TZIkWWA0N4I/AAAAAAAABto/an7FhmeAMaU/s320/DSC_0813.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589570053804930946" border="0" /></a><br />Once your lamp base is done, wire the light socket, put a light bulb in and put your lamp shade on.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_d8PC-EKycg/TZIkW7U68AI/AAAAAAAABtw/aRzPwdbVKoQ/s1600/DSC_0814.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_d8PC-EKycg/TZIkW7U68AI/AAAAAAAABtw/aRzPwdbVKoQ/s320/DSC_0814.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589570063821369346" border="0" /></a><br />Enjoy your own creation featuring Grandma's teacups!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MYm5Ku1x-k4/TZuWWvdaRSI/AAAAAAAABuI/cmS4UW67ojU/s1600/DSC_0823.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MYm5Ku1x-k4/TZuWWvdaRSI/AAAAAAAABuI/cmS4UW67ojU/s320/DSC_0823.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592228679751714082" border="0" /></a>For a more detailed tutorial check out <a href="http://vintagerevivals.blogspot.com/2010/10/crafting-with-starswinning-tutorial.html">Vintage Revivals</a>.sunihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13565790202802581408noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-55040661914156769452011-04-04T08:40:00.000-06:002011-04-04T08:40:00.835-06:00Family Tree Wall Art<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DzTMJm6EnGQ/TZkzRl37WuI/AAAAAAAABt4/mifVdI0ameQ/s1600/cardboard%2Btree.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DzTMJm6EnGQ/TZkzRl37WuI/AAAAAAAABt4/mifVdI0ameQ/s400/cardboard%2Btree.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591556789674662626" border="0" /></a><br />You've got to check out <a href="http://nodimedesign.blogspot.com/2011/03/cardboard-yes-expensive-no.html">this amazing family tree</a> over at <a href="http://nodimedesign.blogspot.com/">No Dime Design</a>! I was shocked at the how-to! Such a fun and simple way of displaying your family faces!sunihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13565790202802581408noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5283304068452918861.post-931350884641090612011-03-29T11:48:00.006-06:002011-03-29T11:57:02.671-06:00Baby Ben<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PQWBV2r6rSE/TZIcWnPByxI/AAAAAAAABtQ/U81eBeaSpgE/s1600/296.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PQWBV2r6rSE/TZIcWnPByxI/AAAAAAAABtQ/U81eBeaSpgE/s320/296.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589561262334921490" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Where does the time go? Our sweet SbM baby is 6 months already! Enjoy his latest photo shoot!</span></span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XYWbJVpIUFo/TZIcV7RCqFI/AAAAAAAABtI/30iaRG-U0D8/s1600/465.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XYWbJVpIUFo/TZIcV7RCqFI/AAAAAAAABtI/30iaRG-U0D8/s320/465.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589561250532206674" border="0" /></a>He is ALWAYS so happy. And look at those baby blue eyes. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ATrOGzlBRro/TZIcVQWsTWI/AAAAAAAABtA/xdLyC64WPKs/s1600/452.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 210px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ATrOGzlBRro/TZIcVQWsTWI/AAAAAAAABtA/xdLyC64WPKs/s320/452.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589561239013182818" border="0" /></a>He has learned how to eat his toes. mmm!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SJpwTsODnto/TZIcUZKyUNI/AAAAAAAABsw/20qYsDlTpQA/s1600/231.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SJpwTsODnto/TZIcUZKyUNI/AAAAAAAABsw/20qYsDlTpQA/s320/231.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589561224199295186" border="0" /></a>Such a handsome little man - what did we ever do without you?!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vYpL5yh7-dY/TZIcU2OG7II/AAAAAAAABs4/lf614WVJNj8/s1600/355.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 222px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vYpL5yh7-dY/TZIcU2OG7II/AAAAAAAABs4/lf614WVJNj8/s320/355.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589561231997856898" border="0" /></a>sunihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13565790202802581408noreply@blogger.com2