tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70213170906197937112024-03-15T18:09:23.629-07:00My Little Gems diy, crafts, kid's crafts, sewing, and home.family.creations.treasures.mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.comBlogger929125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-73886516177073075062014-12-02T12:16:00.004-08:002014-12-02T12:17:09.780-08:00Photo Tile Coaster POEM for CardI have had many requests for my poem from the <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2010/01/diy-photo-tile-coaster-gift-tag-poem.html">Photo Tile Coasters. </a>There is a link for it, but it isn't working for everyone. So here is the POEM I made up to go with the Photo Tile Coasters. I do these for parent gifts in preschool, and the parents love it so much- so now I do it every year. You are welcome to copy and paste this for PERSONAL USE ONLY. Please do not copy this and claim it as your own or publish it in any form. Please link my website and post to your blog if you want to share this with your readers. Thanks and Happy Holidays!<br />
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PHOTO TILE COASTER POEM FOR GIFT CARD:<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Smiley Monster"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">You’ll never have to ask, “Was that my cup?” again,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Smiley Monster"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When hanging out with family or enjoying a meal with friends.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Smiley Monster"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Because now you have a coaster with my handsome happy face, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Smiley Monster"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">To put your drink of choice on and in its proper place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Smiley Monster"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">So when you are with loved ones this happy time of year,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Smiley Monster"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just use your personalized coaster when you toast to Holiday
Cheer! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Smiley Monster"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Merry Christmas! LOVE,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-79742975227962915562014-05-01T22:15:00.000-07:002014-05-01T22:15:23.324-07:00Updates, Priorities, Thoughts...Apparently someone out there is still reading this little blog because my traffic more than doubled yesterday- almost to what it used to be. That is fun to see...but it isn't super important to me. Since having a significant birthday, having twins, and finding out I'm lucky to be alive after having the twins.... I have really looked at my priorities. AND...while I'm still working on them, I have really realized the only things that really matter, are my children and my husband, and my relationship with God. When it comes down to it, people, family, and faith are what matters.<br />
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<i>Easter Sunday 2014</i></div>
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With that said, I am not sure what direction I'm going to take this little blog. I have turned a little more private with my use of the internet. I have very limited time with two babies, and four other children. However, I really enjoy the wonderful people I have met through blog connections. So I am not "closing shop", and I hope to find time to post a little more frequently. So for now, here is a glimpse into my days, via instagram.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ6tDkSp36FPfJEYXdzy0IC60eKWWon8tgkntmio8oIjGa6iYUqR2M3dWue3m-yANod7c28RnY3bZf2tnS5Z0sENn8QthxAP6xhdwCCeiVanN0_7S67RA5yRahK0ssvYnbbrBC9V_hyphenhyphenMY/s1600/094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ6tDkSp36FPfJEYXdzy0IC60eKWWon8tgkntmio8oIjGa6iYUqR2M3dWue3m-yANod7c28RnY3bZf2tnS5Z0sENn8QthxAP6xhdwCCeiVanN0_7S67RA5yRahK0ssvYnbbrBC9V_hyphenhyphenMY/s1600/094.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>January 2014-first ride in this stroller</i></div>
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<i> February 2014 -sick lots, on the nebulizer all. the. time.</i> </div>
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<i> One of the many fun school projects from this year! </i></div>
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<i>Big birthday- last year my husband was in the hospital on my birthday...this year ....</i></div>
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<i> He sent me to a spa and a night in a hotel by myself!</i></div>
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<i>Somehow these guys reached 6 months!! I can't believe it! We survived!!</i></div>
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<i> A little reunion with some of my favorite ladies! Such a sweet experience! </i></div>
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<i>The twins just started doing this trick!</i> </div>
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<i> One of my kids was awarded a new bike at school for being the TOP BOY READER in his grade! So fun!</i> </div>
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<i> It's the little things- like being able to put your babies in a shopping cart instead of bringing a stroller and getting a shopping cart! </i></div>
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<i> What a great preschool year so far! Such a sweet group of kids this year! </i></div>
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<i> Festival of Books! So much fun for my reading boys!</i></div>
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<i> That one time when I went to JoAnns' in December to find that they copied my idea and were selling it! I made these up in 2009.....and in 2013 found them for sale at JoAnn's. </i></div>
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<i>Go ahead, do a search for "burlap ornaments" and you will find my unique design that JoAnn's copied exactly....still not sure what to do about this. They could have at least used a different font, or size, or ribbon, or something! Geesh. Not cool JoAnn's....</i></div>
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<i> 5 Months old...sporting their football jerseys....</i></div>
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<i>I'm in the midst of finally potty training this sweet guy. He had to get glasses-- hope it helps him! He can't see. </i></div>
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I wish I could tell you I've sewed up lots of quilts, and have a designer nursery, and I had tons of organizing tips, or a bunch of new recipes. But that is not the case. I have six wonderful sons who keep my busy and make my tired. They are loud, dirty, happy, and give me hugs and kisses. They suck up all my time and energy- especially the twin babies. My house has never been so messy, but my heart has never been so full. I love them so much! But I tell you, I dream of a late night crafting or sewing. I plan on getting there...it is just taking some time! </div>
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I'd love to hear from you via comments or email! Thanks for reading! </div>
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<i><br /></i>mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-79216958401291833822014-03-28T17:17:00.003-07:002014-03-28T17:17:27.019-07:00Apple Star Story Visuals My twins hit the 6 month mark! I am not going to tell you it is lots easier now, though it is a little bit, but our house is still a mess, I am still really tired, and I still look pregnant! I have had a lot of comments and questions lately- about where I got things on posts, so I am going to try to answer them. Since I have had several requests for the<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2011/09/storytime-apple-star-story-little-red.html"> "Apple Star Story" visuals</a> here they are! This is actually a repost. I guess some people never saw the first ones I posted three years ago- so here they are again . :) They are nothing exciting. I drew them or traced them and I'm not artist. Left click on the photo. Click SAVE. Save on your computer, then print them on white cardstock and laminate. I cut up the story and put the part that goes with it on the back. It's funny how such a simple story with simple pictures can really engage children! There is also a blank apple tree- I used for a game. Let me know if you have any questions! I'll will try to answer them as timely as possible. <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2011/09/storytime-apple-star-story-little-red.html">Here is the link to the story</a>.<br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-56925740801905726732014-03-28T17:03:00.000-07:002014-03-28T17:03:24.822-07:00Featured on Bob Vila { the guy fromThis Old House}I just discovered a very cool feature on <a href="http://www.bobvila.com/articles/diy-kids-furniture/?noredirect=true#.UttVGKTn-Ul">Bob Vila's website</a>. This guy has been around a lot longer than any blog or blogger. I remember watching This Old House on PBS growing up. I found that he has a post on <a href="http://www.bobvila.com/articles/diy-kids-furniture/?noredirect=true#.UttVGKTn-Ul">DIY Kids Furniture</a> and he featured and linked <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2010/03/diy-play-kitchen-from-nightstand.html">our play kitchen</a> made from a nightstand back in 2010.<br />
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There are a lot of play kitchens out there....it was pretty neat to have a DIY celebrity notice ours! Thanks Bob Vila, or can I call you Bob? <br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-31938827335000637742014-01-06T21:47:00.001-08:002014-01-06T21:50:08.089-08:00Popular Posts from 2013As you may have noticed, I did not post much in 2013. This was due to the TWINS that joined our family in September! It has been a crazy wonderful ride, and we have learned and are still learning a lot about being parents of multiples. There were definitely a few "gems" that I did post-the most had over 10K views, and the lowest shared here was about 500 views. I hope to share a few more posts from 2013, that I never had time to post. Twins sure take a lot of time! Here are the most viewed posts from 2013. {Click on words above the photo to go to that post. Photos are not linked to the posts.}<br />
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<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/06/disneyland-tips-and-hints.html">Disneyland Tips and Hints</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/07/preschool-color-songs-free-printables.html">Preschool Color Songs Free Printables</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/09/loft-makeover-all-details.html">Loft Makeover</a> <br />
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<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/08/colors-quiet-book-sewing-craft-project.html">Colors Quiet Book</a> <br />
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<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/06/diy-disney-autograph-and-memory-books.html">DIY Disney Autograph and Memory Books</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/07/the-best-blueberry-muffins.html">The Best Blueberry Muffins</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/07/disneys-cars-birthday-party-ideas-for.html">Disney Car's Birthday Party Ideas</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/07/nutella-swirl-blondie-bars.html">Nutella Swirl Blondie Bars</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVoRLfWH2fO4yJkDbx_jtKitMLtfo-rZnMke3of6fuLGL0HflcLn6mQWz87vCOHMf9M-TbHqiQTntVmC_G9Be6X-ChExOP0yV1NhPJM6FTBGFPoe4rPNzu91VxRDnHsbQx1ErXkBfATl8/s1600/nutellabars2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVoRLfWH2fO4yJkDbx_jtKitMLtfo-rZnMke3of6fuLGL0HflcLn6mQWz87vCOHMf9M-TbHqiQTntVmC_G9Be6X-ChExOP0yV1NhPJM6FTBGFPoe4rPNzu91VxRDnHsbQx1ErXkBfATl8/s1600/nutellabars2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/01/new-front-door-wreath-idea-for-less.html">Front Door Wreath for $2</a><br />
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Wishing you a healthy, happy, creative 2014!!<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" width="200" /><span id="goog_1116296479"></span><span id="goog_1116296480"></span>mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-57495214910755282802014-01-06T21:44:00.001-08:002014-01-06T21:44:19.033-08:00A Word about Blogging and Copyrights. Hello....if anyone is still reading this, then you have probably noticed that I had twins this past fall, and whoa...that has really changed my life and priorities. <br />
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I have also become a bit discouraged by the amount of bloggers out there for the "money". It seems that everyone these days is blogging to make some money, and they are using everyone else's ideas to to so. This doesn't really sit right with me.With the creation of Pinterest, your ideas are really be thrown around the internet too. I have also had a few of my original ideas "ripped off" for lack of a better word. I found one of them during the holidays- that you will not find anywhere else, and it was being sold at JoAnn's of all places! I have been advised on this, but have not had the time to completely follow up due to being very busy with twins and 4 other children. I was also advised, that when you publish an idea, with an attached date, even if it is just on your own blog, you are the owner of that idea, and if someone else claims to have created or made it up it,after you, you are the owner of the idea, due to the fact that you published it first. If they reproduce the exact thing, and sell it for profit, you can sue them even if you have not a patent or trademark. You have a copyright, just by the fact that you published it where it is dated, and that is all you need. This is how I was advised.<br />
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This sort of thing has happened to me more than once when I have published something I made up on my blog. If I see an idea somewhere else, and create the exact thing, I will give credit to that person and include a link. I do this often with recipes, even if I change it a little, I will link where I saw the recipe when I share the recipe with you.<br />
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Obviously I am not going to take the time to be the blog police and go after everyone who has taken my work and claimed it for their own or sold it for a profit. {cough...cough...car...cough...cozy.....}<br />
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So if you find me not sharing as much as I would like to, you will know it is for two main reasons: <br />
one- I have 3 month old twins, and a lot going on with my family; and two- I don't appreciate others stealing from me, even if it is an idea from a blog it is wrong no matter what, and I don't have time to let it upset me, so I'd rather just keep my ideas to myself sometimes.<br />
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I know I am probably going to get some "mean mail or comments" from this post. I want you to know I am just going to ignore them. THANK YOU to those of you who have followed me and read this little blog over the years. I'm not ending it, I just may change the direction it is going, and save my good ideas for those who are going to respect them instead of steal them. I appreciate those who have encouraged me, read my posts, and blogged along with me over the years! Wishing all my readers a very happy and healthy 2014!!<br />
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Thanks for reading!<br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-59280000227132024412013-12-08T10:08:00.000-08:002013-12-08T10:08:32.337-08:00Delicious Cinnamon Roll Breakfast CakeHello! I thought I'd take a second to share a family favorite recipe- great for the holidays. I actually started this post in the summer -- and then twins and life took over!<br />
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This is rich enough to be dessert, but we eat it for breakfast! It was a hit at our house and is one of our family favorites! I lowered the amount of butter a little from the original recipe, but it is still very rich, moist, and delicious! You can make substitutions-{flax seed for eggs, soy milk instead of dairy, etc.} in this recipe and it still works and turns out great.<br />
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<b>Delicious Cinnamon Roll Cake</b><br />
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<b>3 cups flour</b><br />
<b>1/4 tsp. salt</b><br />
<b>1 cup sugar</b><br />
<b>4 tsp. baking powder</b><br />
<b>1 1/2 cups milk</b><br />
<b>2 eggs</b><br />
<b>2 tsp. vanilla</b><br />
<b>1/2 cup butter, melted</b><br />
<b>TOPPING:</b><br />
<b>3/4 cup softened butter (1 cube plus a half)</b><br />
<b>1 cup brown sugar</b><br />
<b>2 TBSP flour</b><br />
<b>1 TBSP cinnamon</b><br />
<b>GLAZE: </b><br />
<b>2 cups powdered sugar</b><br />
<b>5 TBSP milk</b><br />
<b>1 tsp. vanilla</b><br />
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<b>Preheat oven to 350. Prepare a 9 by 13 pan by spraying it with cooking spray. </b><br />
<b>In your mixer, combine flour, salt, sugar, baking powder, milk, eggs, and vanilla. When that is combined, slowly add the melted butter. Pour into the prepared pan. </b><br />
<b>Next, combine the topping ingredients 3/4 cup softened butter, 1 cup brown sugar, 2 TBSP flour, </b><br />
<b>1 TSBP cinnamon, until creamy consistency. Drop evenly over the batter using a tablespoon. Swirl it into the cake using a knife. </b><br />
<b>Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes.</b><br />
<b>GLAZE: Combine glaze ingredients-powdered sugar with 5 TBSP milk and 1 tsp vanilla. Use a wire whisk to combine well. Drizzle all over the warm cake. This can be served while still warm or later...it is great either way. </b><br />
<b>{recipe adapted from Chef In Training}</b><br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" height="66" image="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-25373536082885993012013-10-11T12:22:00.002-07:002013-10-11T12:23:26.950-07:00The Twins are HERE!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It happened. About two weeks ago! I was scheduled to have my C-section TODAY. BUT things happened and they came about 2 weeks ago. It has been quite an adjustment to have to take care of two babies. Two babies is a lot more work than one.So if I don't get back here for a while, you will know why. <br />
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I have quite the story to tell about their birth- as it was a true miracle that they came when they did. Right now besides doctor appts, and feeding babies, and trying to recover, I'm also trying to figure out how on earth I can be a good mother to SIX boys! <br />
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Thanks for reading for all your sweet comments and support! <br />
oxoxo<br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" height="66" image="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-19778530504104419972013-09-22T20:49:00.000-07:002013-09-22T20:49:11.017-07:00Baby Shower Favor Idea<br />
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A few very nice friends gave me a baby shower, since I'm having twins. I'm usually of the belief that is proper to have one on your first baby, or if you have like 3 boys, and are finally getting a girl. So I have not had a baby shower for 8 years-since I am a mother of all boys- there was no need for one. I am so grateful for the many people that came, and for the kindness of the ladies who put it together. <br />
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I did not get many photos.... oh well. <br />
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I wanted to let the ladies know how much I appreciated their support, love and kindness. With every one of my babies, I have made a little "mix CD"- yes I still listen to CD's- for each of my pregnancies. I listen to this in the car, when I'm preparing things around the house, and in the hospital. So I made one for the friends who came to the shower- a little party favor. Some of the songs are lullabies, some are just favorites, but most are about family, love, and babies. <br />
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I had many people tell me how much they loved this, so hey- maybe you will too. I'm on the final count down to having these little twins....so wish me luck! Thanks for reading and Happy Fall! <br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-55808031991764340772013-09-05T16:34:00.000-07:002013-09-06T22:28:54.849-07:00Loft Makeover {ALL the Details}I have had a lot of questions about our <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/07/diy-loft-make-over-before-and-after.html">recent makeover of our loft</a>, and where we got the things in it-especially the rug. So here is the post with all the details of how this room came together. Thanks to <a href="http://www.betterafter.net/2013/09/lofty-dreams.html">Before and After for the Feature! </a>I'm sure I left something off, so please leave a comment if you have a question and I'll get back to you. There is one wall that isn't featured here, so as soon as it is finished- photos hung up- I'll add it to this post. <br />
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Re-doing this loft has really helped me to see, that it's not about the size of the space you have- it is about what you do with it. This is one of my favorite rooms to be in now, and it was a beige box. <br />
I did not want to repaint the walls, because that was a lot of work, and we don't plan on staying in this house forever, so we went with basic colors for walls and floors. <br />
**The bean bag is from <a href="http://www.uglysofa.com/">uglysofa</a>. I get a lot of great deals from her website. The <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2010/03/diy-play-kitchen-from-nightstand.html">toy kitchen</a> to the left has been moved out and a wing-backed chair sits there. *Most of the decorative items on the shelves I either already had, or I got on clearance at Target or Marshalls or Hobby Lobby. <br />
More details about the other pieces are listed below. <br />
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Let's look at the <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2011/06/family-gallery-wall-loft-re-do.html">before</a>: (link has more before photos) <br />
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The paint color is Sherwin Williams Kilm Beige- I think. When we built this house, we upgraded our carpet, but it is still a basic beige color. Really, this room is pretty boring- minus my cute son who likes to read. ☻<br />
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We found inspiration all over Pinterest, and some of my favorite decorating blogs. After seeing a few people use basic IKEA shelves to make built-ins, I got measuring. I found shelves from IKEA that fit the amount of space we had available. <br />
I think we used BILLY shelves, but it really depends on the size of the space you have. <br />
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We first painted the backs of the shelves with an accent color. We used Behr's Teal Zeal. My husband also added pieces down the edges of the shelves, to make it look more built in. We also added the molding, and had to match the paint. For the white pieces we added we used a paint from Lowes, Valspar's Creamy Delight. I think Censational Girl used this and it matched perfectly we discovered! <br />
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We did not fill the holes on the sides for adjusting the height of the shelves. It would look more professional if we did, but I think I may want to adjust the height of the shelves. Caulking the edges of the shelves where they touch the walls, will also make them pretty permanent. <br />
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Most of the basics for this room we already had. I just moved stuff from other rooms in the house, to this room. <br />
1. The couch was a deal from Costco. We have had it for several years. The pillows in the picture, are mostly made by me. The turquoise ones are bought from Marshalls, but the rest are slip-covered <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2011/07/painting-horizontal-stripes-master.html">pillows</a> I have had. In fact, many were in my bedroom a long time ago. Above the couch is our <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2011/06/family-gallery-wall-loft-re-do.html">family gallery art wall.</a> <br />
2. The yellow rug- I love this rug so much, I ordered it in another color for our great room. This rug is from<a href="http://www.rugsusa.com/"> rugsusa</a>. If you buy a rug from them at the right time, you can get a huge discount. I have gotten my rugs at 65-80% off! They also offer free shipping. It is really helpful to read the reviews on the rugs before you order, because returning a rug can be a huge pain. This rug was found under the "modern rugs" tab, and is nice and thick. It is a polyester blend rug, not wool. <br />
3. The <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2010/11/end-table-makeover-in-yellow.html">end table</a> I have also had for years. It was from a thrift store, and cost about $7. It has always been this yellow color, which is actually a tractor spray paint color. The lamp is from Home Goods, and was always in this room. I actually picked the bookshelf paint color based on this lamp color. <br />
4. The curtains and curtain rod are from IKEA. <br />
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The leather ottoman is from Costco. I have had it for about a decade. While I would have loved to do a white bench to match the shelves, I am glad we left this here. It holds many of the bigger toys- cars, trucks, etc. The pillows are all ones that used to be <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2011/07/painting-horizontal-stripes-master.html">in my bedroom. </a>I know they are wrinkled...but you know, with a house full of boys, they use these for one thing: jumping on them. There is no reason for me to have fancy pillows at this time. I sewed the covers, so that they are washable and I can change them if I want. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5NxrwrjcArdncd-OULq1wifZ74S8tsEhVTgFUvqUqFv1HLzAQPcWyU5ZXZPhEtPrHlQ4toQXmYZvUSnx2PhNCMuMlXMgPIDqYWevgCJ6Hr0RkPPznQyUswoF104VCEuI5axYeUwmZRvk/s1600/loftmakeover9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5NxrwrjcArdncd-OULq1wifZ74S8tsEhVTgFUvqUqFv1HLzAQPcWyU5ZXZPhEtPrHlQ4toQXmYZvUSnx2PhNCMuMlXMgPIDqYWevgCJ6Hr0RkPPznQyUswoF104VCEuI5axYeUwmZRvk/s1600/loftmakeover9.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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1. I removed the <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2010/03/diy-play-kitchen-from-nightstand.html">small play kitchen</a> (that you see a little bit of in some of the photos), and put Grandma's chair back in the room. I have thought of recovering this chair, but it sort of goes with the room, so we have kept it as is for now. <br />
2. The turquoise throw is from Marshalls. <br />
3. The pillows are more of the <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2011/07/painting-horizontal-stripes-master.html">same pillows</a> I have had that are slip covered, for easy cleaning or changing. <br />
4. This<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2011/06/hutch-is-finally-finished-another.html"> hutch/ entertainment center</a> was a thrift store find many years ago. We painted it white, but left the top the original color. We have hung our T.V. above it, and have a collage of family photos to hang above that- all in white frames. <br />
5. Mirror- also had for a while - a clearance find from Kirkland's. <br />
That pretty much covers the entire room. It is literally 100 square feet of space- very small. But wow- it feels so much bigger now! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zKpcgwli8nWZHPStXt6vmvYy4AantRiAsgDL9xIpq6b-1zKYc2eTx9Xgwu9Q7moo17sDwpyYfLzPqc4bsXt3Xyuw0DdcDZMvH8pJsvebpi_ofn4JW_xEx13FabLCrgPUWTAGzarUDFk/s1600/loftsidebyside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8zKpcgwli8nWZHPStXt6vmvYy4AantRiAsgDL9xIpq6b-1zKYc2eTx9Xgwu9Q7moo17sDwpyYfLzPqc4bsXt3Xyuw0DdcDZMvH8pJsvebpi_ofn4JW_xEx13FabLCrgPUWTAGzarUDFk/s1600/loftsidebyside.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
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Thanks for reading or stopping by! We have more makeovers coming as we try to get our house ready for these TWINS coming in a month!! On another note, This is my 1000th post!! Crazy! <br />
I did not know I had that many things to write about. :) <br />
Thank you to everyone who reads, and leaves nice comments. <br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-66049987890322852042013-09-01T17:02:00.000-07:002013-09-01T20:46:07.449-07:00White Chocolate Pudding and M&M No-Bake CookiesHello.... I know I have been MIA from this little blog. Too much going on around here- preparing for two new babies who will be here in just over a month! Since school has started, a month ago, it has been really busy running kids here and there, doctor appointments, doing preschool twice a week- just crazy busy. We wouldn't have it any other way, but it leaves less time for blogging and sharing what has been happening with you. <strong>☺♥♥♥ So thanks for reading anyway!</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNq1WbCppuhdXwBHXYygdDjrUevyxlzq3txWOY52ONFpMnjC70cCdzpQQzvZKmxZto531Fy9YNOnUJJJMdVHqGqqGbhabLU3TVKc0zSJYQHtdE_7zpaiuM2HbfKuTyWdFiamQiplmPY6A/s1600/whitechocolatem&mcookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNq1WbCppuhdXwBHXYygdDjrUevyxlzq3txWOY52ONFpMnjC70cCdzpQQzvZKmxZto531Fy9YNOnUJJJMdVHqGqqGbhabLU3TVKc0zSJYQHtdE_7zpaiuM2HbfKuTyWdFiamQiplmPY6A/s1600/whitechocolatem&mcookies.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<strong>Here is a delicious treat, so fun, quick, and easy,- and also a great one that your children can help you with! </strong><br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">White Chocolate Pudding and M&M No-Bake Cookies</span></strong><br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;"></span></strong><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 1/4 cups sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 TBSP butter</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">6 oz. evaporated milk</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">4 oz. white chocolate instant pudding mix (just the mix) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3 1/2-4 cups old fashioned oats</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 - 11/2 cups M&M's</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
Combine sugar, butter, milk, and pudding mix in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat. Stir in oats. Remove from heat. Cool for at least 15-20 minutes. When cool, stir in M&M's. If you do this too soon, the M&M's will melt-so make sure the mixture is cool. Drop by spoonfuls onto a cookie sheet covered with parchment or wax paper. Pop the pan in the fridge for quicker cooling, and so the M&M's don't melt. When cool, they are ready to eat! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigCj_NauX1vcsbXEOnwLLkglUNy0eWCzSk3Ec0JkZXU3SsHdOygWhrbhHrtIvucP5SaigxqEO7cz6ZGVpteuVmN1t_L8H2-h4cLBw8CwQttYn4-6vJZ6lHGdolc_XdURgrn9fHSNvywNg/s1600/whitechocolatem&mcookies2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigCj_NauX1vcsbXEOnwLLkglUNy0eWCzSk3Ec0JkZXU3SsHdOygWhrbhHrtIvucP5SaigxqEO7cz6ZGVpteuVmN1t_L8H2-h4cLBw8CwQttYn4-6vJZ6lHGdolc_XdURgrn9fHSNvywNg/s1600/whitechocolatem&mcookies2.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-44678545239759207862013-08-27T21:33:00.000-07:002013-08-27T21:34:22.067-07:00Winner of The Burnout CureThe winner of The Burnout Cure is ....<br />
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<span dir="ltr"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/10815707095501854377" rel="nofollow">The Clark's</a></span> said...<br />
<dd>Who doesn't feel overwhelmed some days? Being a women we are constantly juggling our time and resources as well as being pulled in a million directions. I think this book would be a wonderful way to help me prioritize and feel less guilty when I can't be that wonder women.</dd><dd> </dd>Please contact me via email or a comment with your address so I can get the book mailed out to you. <br />
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Thanks to everyone who entered! I strongly recommend purchasing this book for yourself! <br />
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Thanks for reading! <br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-12096942494841570802013-08-22T04:30:00.000-07:002013-08-27T21:31:51.477-07:00Book Review & Give-a-way: The Burnout CureI'll admit, I suffer from burnout quite often. Did you read my <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/08/until.html">last post</a>? <br />
So I was thrilled to hear that one of my favorite experts on emotional health, Julie de Azevedo Hanks, had written a new book called The Burnout Cure. Julie Hanks has been featured in Real Simple, Women's Day, Parenting, Women's Health, to name a few. She has also been seen on Fox News, TLC, and the Discovery Health Channel. <br />
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Burnout doesn't just happen to moms. It can happen to anyone. Julie defines burnout as "a state of exhaustion and lack of motivation due to prolonged stress or frustration." She continues to let us know that burnout can include "the perception of failure to attain certain results, successes, blessings, and rewards" after doing all we can do and giving all our time and energy. Sound familiar? I know I have felt this way many times- especially now as I'm pregnant with twins, have four other children, and many other responsibilities and commitments.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHBBKX0Yiwf8oefwYOwr1MuDPOpKR6Q0d0lw7L2r351e2ffKDjfm4YGTd-x5gjPLehLyuf7fLq3oI-x89jirNLQRrrev0T5xH3W7TJzEMYc4wOs2Aq_Bfx8Qrg_krWF-G2wS_TD6NOZlA/s1600/burnoutcure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHBBKX0Yiwf8oefwYOwr1MuDPOpKR6Q0d0lw7L2r351e2ffKDjfm4YGTd-x5gjPLehLyuf7fLq3oI-x89jirNLQRrrev0T5xH3W7TJzEMYc4wOs2Aq_Bfx8Qrg_krWF-G2wS_TD6NOZlA/s1600/burnoutcure.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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While The Burnout Cure is written for LDS women, it applies to anyone who gives a great deal of their time and talents to helping and showing love for others. <br />
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The book is filled with Myths and Truths about our emotions, self-care, and offers many tools for identifying your emotional needs, and letting go of the guilt and perfectionism. There are many opportunities in the book to write down your own thoughts, feelings, experiences and reflect and answer questions about yourself. <br />
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I cannot say enough about the wisdom in this book, and the ways it has already helped me in my own life. It has helped me understand that there are many misconceptions about emotions, that have held me back. Reading this book, has helped me realize the truth about emotions and how to effectively share them in my relationships in a way that is healthy and helpful. I know this is a book I will refer to often and read again. <br />
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The Burnout Cure is a book any woman could benefit from. <strong>Want to win a copy? LEAVE A COMMENT and a reason why you think this book may be helpful to you! You can also purchase the book on </strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Burnout-Cure-Emotional-Overwhelmed/dp/1621084027"><strong>AMAZON</strong></a><strong> or at </strong><a href="http://deseretbook.com/Burnout-Cure-Julie-de-Azevedo-Hanks/i/5111156"><strong>Deseret Book</strong></a><strong>. Give-a-way ENDS on SUNDAY August 25th at Midnight, P.S.T. </strong><br />
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Want to read more about<a href="http://www.juliehanks.com/"> Julie Hanks</a>? Check out<a href="http://www.juliehanks.com/"> her website</a> for more blog tour book reviews, and interview clips from TV and radio. <br />
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And for all my LDS friends out there, check out Julie's new song, <a href="http://www.juliehanks.com/2013/08/06/molly-mormon-died-today/">"Molly Mormon Died Today."</a> <br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" /><br />
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<br />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-60341712702168090182013-08-18T16:37:00.001-07:002013-08-18T16:37:07.131-07:00until...I had a great recipe to share with you today....until I spent the entire weekend taking care of one of my children. My husband took him to the hospital today to run a few tests....so it just doesn't seem right that I "blog" when my family needs me. So UNTIL I have a calm moment, I'll have to put this on hold. I do have a great book I'm reviewing, and offering a copy to give-a-way- coming later this week! <br />
thanks for reading!<br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-54060942055106632062013-08-12T06:00:00.000-07:002013-08-12T06:00:06.402-07:00Colors Quiet Book- {Sewing & Craft Project using scraps from your stash}<br />
<em>Confession: I made this back in January. It has only taken my 8 months to share it with you. I had the letters for about 2 years before I finally used them. Yes it is taking me a long time to get things up on the blog to share with you these days- - but I'm still here. :)</em> <br />
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Today at church, my 2 year old, went through this book a few times, and named all his colors! I have never had a two year old know all their colors when they could just barely talk. <a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/07/preschool-color-songs-free-printables.html">The color songs</a>, have really helped, along with this little book, and - I confess- an awesome DVD called Preschool Prep. Colors. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_USh9C2MM8FfCAE2xIkjzDxHU5AU4oAGhZWttKG-kEEPRw_V2FBSFGLDPyk2zzN6gCp3hFB8CISoToPXFCeVxTPKhyooacK9xywaEATrDj8DxPW3D0RG6rFxZZCV5E1zhZUlM3tRcQ0/s1600/colorsquietbook1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_USh9C2MM8FfCAE2xIkjzDxHU5AU4oAGhZWttKG-kEEPRw_V2FBSFGLDPyk2zzN6gCp3hFB8CISoToPXFCeVxTPKhyooacK9xywaEATrDj8DxPW3D0RG6rFxZZCV5E1zhZUlM3tRcQ0/s1600/colorsquietbook1.jpg" height="492" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is a really fun little book, and I put mine together a little differently from some I've seen, so I'll share that with you. <br />
First, here are all the pages: <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqUQN2YaHDNqmRrm_rLAXosnsikdR6UVUNP7soPG6LXo4vWf3gsvl4KR3FHz2cEBbmMV-K_npgAYAIU0nqiKdpkJ2D_p2dyIB5vGAVS35PcIdJVuBysfEc7YNdXkdfxx0hqToqvtMs7f8/s1600/colorquietbookpages1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqUQN2YaHDNqmRrm_rLAXosnsikdR6UVUNP7soPG6LXo4vWf3gsvl4KR3FHz2cEBbmMV-K_npgAYAIU0nqiKdpkJ2D_p2dyIB5vGAVS35PcIdJVuBysfEc7YNdXkdfxx0hqToqvtMs7f8/s1600/colorquietbookpages1.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">HOW I MADE MY COLOR QUIET BOOK:</span></strong> </div>
I bought the letters from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/everydaycelebrations">Everyday Celebrations Etsy shop</a>. You could make your own if you have a cutting machine. I attached them with Wonder Under- any iron on adhesive will work. Then I used scraps from my stash. I just cut scraps- no hemming - just zig zag the pieces onto the pages. <br />
The pages- are fabric cut from a sheet- but you could use muslin. I put some lightweight batting in between the fabric. The pages are two cut together- so that they form a large rectangle. I zig-zagged around the edges, attaching the pages together with the batting in between. BEFORE doing that, I sewed all the color scraps to the page. The cover: I added scraps to the back, and front, and then made some binding (very unperfectly) from some scraps. I did this before sewing the pages together. To make the book, I laid all the pages on top of each other (two pages were attached together already by the way I cut the pages) and stitched down the center, turning it into a book. If you have ever made those pre-printed fabric books, it is very similar to that. The book tucks easily into a diaper bag or purse. My boys have loved it, and I think it has really helped the younger ones learn their colors. The finished size is about 5 by 7 inches. <br />
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What fun things have you made lately for your kids? <br />
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Thanks for reading! <br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-47151853171072598392013-08-11T21:11:00.003-07:002013-08-11T21:14:32.765-07:00My Despicable Me Cake {it;s even lemon flavored}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We have seen a lot of fun movies this summer, and loved Despicable Me 2! With all the birthdays we had this summer, we just had to make a Minion Cake. I owe this inspiration to Pinterest- <em>thank you you incredibly creative people with lots of time on your hands- you all had so many great ideas</em>! Mine is a little different - because I only do super easy cakes. I will share the recipe with you later- because the cake is lemon flavored- and really good! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiXVmbDdm8ittLpbCwPqS1tM7BX97cNzSWWgZKwSWvEPDwFxvfJL3z_5ikYisVoTXA5V0nGVPIaMF2TZb6ltRoHsoLDjjmbzaFJwylOW0PDESpBdDuh2Z8NBtpFXPVd-ZTrnal1Qz1b5Q/s1600/despicablemecake1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiXVmbDdm8ittLpbCwPqS1tM7BX97cNzSWWgZKwSWvEPDwFxvfJL3z_5ikYisVoTXA5V0nGVPIaMF2TZb6ltRoHsoLDjjmbzaFJwylOW0PDESpBdDuh2Z8NBtpFXPVd-ZTrnal1Qz1b5Q/s1600/despicablemecake1.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<strong>Minion Cake:</strong><br />
I made one rectangle cake and cut off the corners to round it as shown. After frosting it as above, I used a Little Debbie's whoopee type pie with the top cut off for the eye, with a Hershey's kiss placed in it. The glasses are just gray frosting, and black licorice. The buttons on the overalls/pants are also Hershey's kisses. No fondant- I did find a great frosting recipe that spread really smooth that I used for the yellow. <br />
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Anyway, it was a fun and super easy cake! <br />
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Thanks for reading!<br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-82196185360308033792013-07-28T17:21:00.001-07:002013-07-28T17:21:37.710-07:00Nutella Swirl Blondie BarsI have a great recipe for you today- using one of our favorite things- Nutella!<br />
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These bar cookies are great, and very delicious and rich. These are also a fun twist on a traditional bar cookie, such as congo bars -a family favorite around here. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisUmDbEfUunAU2GJV07dT_lzjdHuxEgypypj6pW-7wWGlJ61V-ssQ-TspKdCH2KogCrXYOogwhzimbwKlSJjHMQCOuc5NFl9TFTa38nBIBqfGbJyqQNcrYWpXqTJEhT6n0pv-5nRbQ8Y8/s1600/nutellabars2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisUmDbEfUunAU2GJV07dT_lzjdHuxEgypypj6pW-7wWGlJ61V-ssQ-TspKdCH2KogCrXYOogwhzimbwKlSJjHMQCOuc5NFl9TFTa38nBIBqfGbJyqQNcrYWpXqTJEhT6n0pv-5nRbQ8Y8/s1600/nutellabars2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Nutella Swirl Blondie Bars</span></strong><br />
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<strong>1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar</strong><br />
<strong>1 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces</strong><br />
<strong>2 large eggs plus one egg yolk</strong><br />
<strong>1 tsp. vanilla</strong><br />
<strong>2 1/4 cups flour</strong><br />
<strong>1/2 tsp. baking powder</strong><br />
<strong>1/4 tsp. salt</strong><br />
<strong>1 1/2 cups butterscotch chips</strong><br />
<strong>4 oz. cream cheese, softened at room temperature</strong><br />
<strong>3/4 cup Nutella</strong><br />
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<strong>Preheat oven to 375. Grease a 9 by 13 pan. Line it with foil-letting it hang over the edges- (optional) and spray or grease the foil. (I just sprayed the pan, but I think the foil would have been better.) Combine the sugar and butter on the stove over medium heat. When butter has melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Add the 2 eggs and vanilla. </strong><br />
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<li><strong>In another bowl, combine the dry ingredients- flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the other mixture. Mix until smooth. Add the butterscotch chips. Press evenly into prepared 9 by 13 inch pan. </strong></li>
<li><strong>With an electric mixer, beat the one egg yolk, cream cheese, and Nutella until smooth. Drop by spoonfuls onto the other mixture that is in the pan. Now using a small knife, swirl in the Nutella making a design or decorative pattern. Well just do the best you can and try not to scrap the bottom of the pan. </strong></li>
<li><strong>Bake for 25-30 minutes at 375 OR until a toothpick comes out pretty clean when inserted. Let cool, and chill in fridge for 1-2 hours. **I found I needed to cut them before chilling them or they were harder to cut. Serve them at room temperature. Great with a glass of milk! These are rich, and chewy and very yummy!</strong></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjuXwK4bBmtI0DHxxu65Y9A8qQCzI2eeo7Rn2SrANo3jW4aNVxJxdHImGFra_KC31OmsLfSWOydJ50QqOK0OlxQyBi-o05c-laGWpHNRRHO9KQ8jWoB8PZ24cCALA9Z8wfP3Pp0k6dyl0/s1600/nutellabars1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjuXwK4bBmtI0DHxxu65Y9A8qQCzI2eeo7Rn2SrANo3jW4aNVxJxdHImGFra_KC31OmsLfSWOydJ50QqOK0OlxQyBi-o05c-laGWpHNRRHO9KQ8jWoB8PZ24cCALA9Z8wfP3Pp0k6dyl0/s1600/nutellabars1.jpg" height="473" width="640" /></a></div>
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<strong>My kids LOVED these! They are really good. Like most bar cookies, I found it helpful to cut them while still warm. I also did not use the foil in the pan, but I think it would have been better to do so. </strong><br />
<em>*recipe found in an old issue of ALL YOU magazine</em><br />
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<em><strong>thanks for reading! ENJOY!</strong></em><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-40239400923714553542013-07-27T16:11:00.000-07:002013-09-05T16:36:02.905-07:00 DIY Loft Make-over- Before and After {Saturday Sneak Peek}<em>For all the details on this room<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2013/09/loft-makeover-all-details.html">...see this post.</a></em> <br />
We spent our summer working on a little project- our loft. I have a whole list full of projects, but since I am very pregnant with twins, and my husband works crazy hours, there wasn't much time or energy to get them all done. So I thought I'd show you just a sneak peek of our current re-do of our loft! A more detailed post will come later- with all that stuff you always want to know when you see a DIY make-over. <br />
So here is the Before:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0wIZ1HA3NhjIU-hYGLvoC6RcxLlgah22lBoLqsfmuecwVfiJHwgKkrmEbmnxMhR1hyphenhyphenaTCYZOwLXfCgwaoSglDcbGXAEq2_jju9q4aIAYEYTpq9Y7t2eF1fab-W1ocuw5_PDAq-t0sMnQ/s1600/loftbefore1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0wIZ1HA3NhjIU-hYGLvoC6RcxLlgah22lBoLqsfmuecwVfiJHwgKkrmEbmnxMhR1hyphenhyphenaTCYZOwLXfCgwaoSglDcbGXAEq2_jju9q4aIAYEYTpq9Y7t2eF1fab-W1ocuw5_PDAq-t0sMnQ/s640/loftbefore1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here is the After:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3uki4rc76ocYEBneXZuglGpa4q916LZf76fYhEu1mDwmWpeQRA5KEFpVxfTjHwQYu-jpjPI1fkm6CJdoy1rIWHaMDW3d7gpwo2xf4x2SrIOze7VlJhtvBJQJHVH2Fg-7kSSPOcwaHNdU/s1600/loft+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3uki4rc76ocYEBneXZuglGpa4q916LZf76fYhEu1mDwmWpeQRA5KEFpVxfTjHwQYu-jpjPI1fkm6CJdoy1rIWHaMDW3d7gpwo2xf4x2SrIOze7VlJhtvBJQJHVH2Fg-7kSSPOcwaHNdU/s640/loft+after.jpg" height="456" width="640" /></a></div>
And here they are side by side: <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT9LbMDO0vyz4o4uNLu1Ggo9wlXINry-Dnm__pAvlrsW5hDH6sYCTpObVFuxqxOvPVTPcaJdjaHZ17nk271s-PLA_wZsGce9Zdmj3Mua4NSEcn13tSRdTdMoEcEjJqQFbq6gHMN7Oqyg8/s1600/loftsidebyside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT9LbMDO0vyz4o4uNLu1Ggo9wlXINry-Dnm__pAvlrsW5hDH6sYCTpObVFuxqxOvPVTPcaJdjaHZ17nk271s-PLA_wZsGce9Zdmj3Mua4NSEcn13tSRdTdMoEcEjJqQFbq6gHMN7Oqyg8/s640/loftsidebyside.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
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Obviously, you can't see the entire room in these photos, but you get a good idea of the make-over we did. Watch for a more detailed post coming soon! Happy Weekend! <br />
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-62741230414593108792013-07-21T21:15:00.000-07:002013-08-10T17:47:50.525-07:00The Best Blueberry Muffins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXqP7NE1uyBKr9og9sucXV-KELCjfM5xk1M_DGsU0dW-dzVfuWQghAycebqtzHZt-AKDnCOxBgU6dHy25FxonpiEhn7-UkMiWuy_kMzqhRKg8vKXb2kMAXkPQ4TuPPO3ys7PUDk8PTdz4/s1600/blueberrymuffins1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXqP7NE1uyBKr9og9sucXV-KELCjfM5xk1M_DGsU0dW-dzVfuWQghAycebqtzHZt-AKDnCOxBgU6dHy25FxonpiEhn7-UkMiWuy_kMzqhRKg8vKXb2kMAXkPQ4TuPPO3ys7PUDk8PTdz4/s640/blueberrymuffins1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
We make these often on Sunday morning. They are really good. I have tried several blueberry muffin recipes and these are the best I have found. <em>{I adapted this recipe from one in the Savoring the Seasons with Our Best Bites Cookbook.}</em><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Best Blueberry Muffins</u></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 3/4 cup flour, plus 1 TBSP. flour</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 3/4 tsp. baking powder</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3/4 tsp. salt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 cup sugar, plus 1 TBSP. sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 tsp. orange and lemon zest (can use one but better with both)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 egg</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 container (5.3 oz) greek yogurt- any flavor but vanilla works well</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/3 cup plain applesauce</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 cup frozen blueberries (can use fresh) </span><br />
Preheat oven to 400. Combine the 1 3/4 cups flour, backing powder, salt, and1/2 cup sugar with the zest of orange and lemon. **Tip- keep orange and lemon peels in the freezer in a baggie. Then you can take it out and use it as you need it.**<br />
Make a well in the center of the mixture and add the wet ingredients-egg, yogurt, and applesauce. Mix all together. In a separate bowl, combine 1 tbsp. flour, and 1 tbsp. sugar, and toss with the cup of blueberries until well coated. Fold blueberries into the batter. <br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>FOR STEUSSEL TOPPING:</u></strong></span> <br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Combine:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/4 cup sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 1/2 TBSP flour</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 tsp. cinnamon</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cut in(using a pastry cutter or small knives)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 1/2 TBSP butter or margarine</span><br />
Spoon batter into sprayed muffin tins, or ones lined with papers. Sprinkle the steussel topping on top of the muffins. You will probably have extra. Bake at 400 for 18 minutes or until golden brown on top. Remove from pan and allow to cool- muffins will be hot- especially the blueberries. <br />
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These are great! Thanks for reading! <br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-68846521350385190782013-07-18T13:01:00.002-07:002013-07-22T08:22:07.274-07:00Disney's Cars Birthday Party Ideas for DIYOh the crazy days of summer- and having 4 active boys with birthdays- while being pregnant with twins! Time is getting away from me! Here is the CARS Birthday I did about a month ago....<br />
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I've seen many awesome Disney Car's parties on Pinterest- some where you just buy a kit and it has everything you need- you just pull it out and put it up. If you are looking for that sort of thing, this is not it. I did pull together many ideas I found online, along with some of my own. This is my version of a Disney Car's Party for a four-year-old. <br />
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Most Disney items have a very strict copyright on them. However, there are many free images you can get online for your own personal use. For the invitation, I used a photo I took in Disneyland. <br />
Using Photoshop I printed on it. <br />
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When the children arrived, I had them choose a coloring sheet from CARS to color. I had brown paper bags (that had CARS on them with their names) to put all their items from the party in. After they colored their picture, we put them in their bag for safe keeping. </div>
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<a href="http://disney.go.com/disneyjunior/cars/cars-coloring-create">Free printable Disney coloring pages are here.</a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibiQXJwhB2Q-Qrmu-Mn2RL-Mxqj_c9P6QdERkat5at3QZMLlt_cka_FtsEq8dZfqRI_YDPHgDdRPPObhxJtp301NfxZwglexnNrCWjDank13I-PZrZtZZsynoYj1BbgkekU2zvbNTWKjw/s1600/carsparty4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibiQXJwhB2Q-Qrmu-Mn2RL-Mxqj_c9P6QdERkat5at3QZMLlt_cka_FtsEq8dZfqRI_YDPHgDdRPPObhxJtp301NfxZwglexnNrCWjDank13I-PZrZtZZsynoYj1BbgkekU2zvbNTWKjw/s1600/carsparty4.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
When they finished coloring, we had a road made with painter's tape in the hallway, along with a bucket of CARS from the movie, for them to play with, while everyone finished their coloring page.<br />
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<strong>GAMES: </strong>I had more ideas than time or energy to get ready. The first one we played, was "Bean Bag Tire Toss". If you look at Target right now, you can find these blow up tires for $3. I ordered mine online from Amazon. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-41R6DM0YdDGYpl1FgeH1DETw_qlUyzjq7VJhHeo8hbj46WNhdsprfqow422TK0vuXj3jsJIHUABbDtyJM6pmKrd7YLX76ylLi9zvg_KMUqaf3sMDQaxOp1Hee2hm7fLXiIm_Gume10/s1600/carsparty5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-41R6DM0YdDGYpl1FgeH1DETw_qlUyzjq7VJhHeo8hbj46WNhdsprfqow422TK0vuXj3jsJIHUABbDtyJM6pmKrd7YLX76ylLi9zvg_KMUqaf3sMDQaxOp1Hee2hm7fLXiIm_Gume10/s1600/carsparty5.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
My almost 2 year old, decided he would sit inside one of the tires, leaving us two to play with instead of three. For older kids, you could have points for each tire if you wanted. I made some CARS beanbags, from scraps I had on hand. <br />
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Another game we played, was "Guess which Cone the Car is Under." I found these colorful cones at ROSS. But you can pick up some at Walmart, or Target. I liked these, because they were better quality, and a better price. Everyone got a prize for these games. I bought a large package of cheap cars at Toys-R-Us, and they all got to choose a car. <br />
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Another game, was a "CARS RELAY." I bought cheap water noodles, and taped them into tires. We also had some cones from them to run around. This was a little bit of a challenge with four year olds- some of them got it and some of them did not. But they still had fun. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDdX3IyLH_4s3SKzfgzES6QAdCf0oUeXNaHP5alLMIqrjUprXEtpIv1Srta5m5bPkAKGJAC2oFQboHuD1QJWyAvaXhdWCU_Nz-eKZki1BAcr8Fo63ZBgZBGVdGQV3ZwDc2RIBr5zUlFdE9/s1600/disneycarsbday7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDdX3IyLH_4s3SKzfgzES6QAdCf0oUeXNaHP5alLMIqrjUprXEtpIv1Srta5m5bPkAKGJAC2oFQboHuD1QJWyAvaXhdWCU_Nz-eKZki1BAcr8Fo63ZBgZBGVdGQV3ZwDc2RIBr5zUlFdE9/s1600/disneycarsbday7.jpg" height="266" width="640" /></a></div>
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<strong>DECORATIONS:</strong> <br />
For DIY decorations, I used pictures I found online of scenes from CARS. I put a border on them, and printed them out in mostly 5 by 7 prints, and attached them to cones, with balloons. That is about the extent of the ideas. If you are interested in copies, please leave a comment, and I may post them to share. I tried to keep it simple- I did sew a CARS runner out of scrap fabric I had. But there are piles of dirty dishes in the sink, and clutter on the counter that I cropped out of the photo-- yep I picked decorating over cleaning....<br />
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The Happy Birthday Banner -below- came from Target- I found it on clearance. The cones- I found at Ross. <br />
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<strong>CAKE/FOOD: </strong></div>
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I have seen these parties with seven courses of treats. You will not find that at my parties. I'm not going to kill myself making themed food, and personally, if the party is for small children, I think cake and ice cream are enough. I usually do cupcakes for the kids, and make a cake, for us as a family to share later. That is what I did. I found an easy way to make a Tow Mater Cake- I will share in another post- since mine is different from what I found online, and made cupcakes. We had ice cream and water to go with it.- Simple. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-8ECNLbLtvcpfSb1CJDWXst_jEN3e7T_mBDxYKy92RPqWNSVNTDOS63ZHldCttaIXqK2dSaVRthvMiUcp587TQceEqyuz_t1QUwR-mucXNkt03tfTQ9cHY-y2eKIggZOjGhoWJoLmas/s1600/disneycarsbday10blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-8ECNLbLtvcpfSb1CJDWXst_jEN3e7T_mBDxYKy92RPqWNSVNTDOS63ZHldCttaIXqK2dSaVRthvMiUcp587TQceEqyuz_t1QUwR-mucXNkt03tfTQ9cHY-y2eKIggZOjGhoWJoLmas/s1600/disneycarsbday10blog.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<strong>FAVORS:</strong> I bought Hot Wheels cars, Disney Cars fruit snacks, and some clearance Disney Cars sticker pages I found at Target. I put them in clear bags, and used a Cars sticker to seal the bag. The Disney Cars stickers I used for the cupcake toppers, and to seal the favor bags, I found at Oriental Trading. <em>Note:After the party, I did find some Disney Cars on clearance at the Disney Store that would have been perfect for favors. I'm always keeping an eye out for a good deal.</em> </div>
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For the last few minutes of the party, we watched some of the Tow Mater Disney Shorts while waiting for parents to come pick up the kids. </div>
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I am happy to share my printable decorations and invitation...just leave a comment. I hope you find this post useful...I sure had fun throwing a little Cars party for my 4 year old. </div>
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Thanks for Reading....</div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-52027223559303811722013-07-08T07:00:00.000-07:002015-09-01T22:32:04.326-07:00Preschool Color Songs-Free Printables {Part 2}For copies of the first half of the color songs, click<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2012/12/preschool-color-songs-free-printables.html"> HERE.</a> <br />
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Finally I got these finished! It's getting ready for preschool time....and catching up on some projects from a while ago.... Here are the rest of the color song poem printables. <span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>{note: I don't know the original source of these songs; but I know they have been around for decades. I have had a typed up</em></span> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>copy of the lyrics in my files for the past 20 years. My children made crayon shaped books with these songs in kindergarten...so there are many different copies out there. I just made these up so I would have a cute copy to display and sing with my preschoolers, as we focus on a different color each month.}</em></span> I made these in a 8.5 by11 format. You should be able to print them onto white card stock from your home computer, and laminate them. If you would like a smaller format, or if you have problems downloading them, PLEASE leave me a comment with contact information, or email me at{little gems crafts} at{gmail} dot com and I'll try to get you what you need. To print, see links below photo. <strong> UPDATE: I get lots of comments on this post but unfortunately I do not have time to respond to them anymore. PLEASE click the links below. They do work. You may have to open it up in a different browser. I use explorer to open the links and they work just fine. Hope that helps!</strong> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGfHwL4Tqf_cOXMt_j20hquMiubU8AyeT8h3UVbGuyS8rsrdEiD4lUevAfEYW_xlYlTbnpn4FoUO2Sw6-Zwqif5ZxMsdwLIsc3kuYE3SUZc2LDFmKmgrmpWS_g7bWkPIDopnZgNrUEF0-G/s1600/colorsongs2blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGfHwL4Tqf_cOXMt_j20hquMiubU8AyeT8h3UVbGuyS8rsrdEiD4lUevAfEYW_xlYlTbnpn4FoUO2Sw6-Zwqif5ZxMsdwLIsc3kuYE3SUZc2LDFmKmgrmpWS_g7bWkPIDopnZgNrUEF0-G/s1600/colorsongs2blog.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.4shared.com/photo/LkGHf_m6/pink_song1.html">PINK SONG</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.4shared.com/photo/1Ntk5lhh/blacksong1.html">BLACK SONG</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.4shared.com/photo/tkxjZ4Mv/white1.html">WHITE SONG</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.4shared.com/photo/CxvWwOqo/browncolorsong.html">BROWN SONG</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.allmylittlegems.com/2012/12/preschool-color-songs-free-printables.html">OTHER COLOR SONGS ARE HERE.</a> </div>
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mlghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12347785138872691466noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-48771384312684281122013-07-05T09:04:00.001-07:002013-07-05T09:04:59.554-07:00Happy 4th 2013!I would like to say that we did something super fun- as this is probably one of my favorite holidays-but that is not the case. All four of my kids have been due around the 4th, and I am pregnant yet again. <br />
My husband's job is such that he works most holidays- so we don't get to do much. <br />
About the only thing I did, was buy- not make- some flag shirts for my kids, and make them take a few photos. I know- thrilling. <br />
I also live in what I consider a very unpatriotic community- no parades-no 10K races-etc. It is so hot that you really can't do all day activities out there anyway. So my favorite holiday was a regular day. <br />
What was yours like? <br />
Thanks for reading! <br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-27377992001017437322013-07-02T18:10:00.001-07:002013-07-05T09:05:27.268-07:00The Evolution of my Pregnant with Twins Belly {so far}I thought some of you may be interested to see my pregnant belly. I have a lot less energy, and have to do things a lot slower...so forgive me for not getting some of those reader requests posted.{I will soon.}<br />
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However, I did take a few minutes today, using the digital version of Project Life, to document how large I have gotten so far! If you like to record family memories, but don't want to do time consuming traditional scrapbooking, you really should check out <a href="http://www.beckyhiggins.com/">Project Life</a>. I love it!<br />
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Today I saw two cute profiles- one even let us see "it" in 3-D...and opened its mouth, etc. As uncomfortable, tired, and hard as pregnancy can be, it is such a blessing, to be able to give someone life, to be a mother. I feel very grateful....even though I know this is going to change my life like crazy! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBHf9XHVquUKP1Aa7HXtzeDgLd7DbcwyuRWkb86xIMzkLkUhX4aeiq0b3ffv6uklx2KEHXe9sVtvWQtAq2CP5KTuhOs7ovVVJ4AqOYQ1O5q4LFem_BOfGc3ru0dHAj41s3tdQPIhHyvjQ/s1600/twinpregforblog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBHf9XHVquUKP1Aa7HXtzeDgLd7DbcwyuRWkb86xIMzkLkUhX4aeiq0b3ffv6uklx2KEHXe9sVtvWQtAq2CP5KTuhOs7ovVVJ4AqOYQ1O5q4LFem_BOfGc3ru0dHAj41s3tdQPIhHyvjQ/s640/twinpregforblog1.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Enjoy..... and Happy Fourth of July! <em>God Bless so many who have sacrificed for our country, our freedom, and others. {Especially the families in Arizona, who lost loved ones in the Yarnell Hill Fire this week}</em><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2738/4458005304_1d41bb950e_o.jpg" height="66" image="" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial;" width="200" />mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-6338909445722439122013-07-01T06:00:00.000-07:002013-07-01T06:00:14.329-07:00DIY Patriotic Wreath {for about $5}Happy Fourth of July this week! I wanted something new and fun for my front door. After searching <a href="http://pinterest.com/sharmlg/boards/">pinterest</a>, I was inspired by this wreath from <a href="http://tidymom.net/2013/easy-patriotic-flag-wreath">Tidymom</a>.<br />
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I did mine a little bit different. I used embroidery hoops from the thrift store- I usually find them for about 30 -90 cents, and I pick them up for projects. This is a lot more affordable than buying a wire wreath form from the craft store, but it does take a little more work. I also used plastic table cloths from the Dollar Store! I only spent $3 on these- and almost have enough to make another wreath. <br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">DIY Patriotic Wreath for about $5:</span> </strong><br />
<strong>3 hoops-</strong> I used rings from embroidery hoops. It is best to use the inside part, but you can use the outside, just remove the screw, and extra wood piece and tape it together. Don't worry about if they are not the same size- after you tie on the pieces of plastic, you won't even be able to tell!<br />
<strong>3-4 plastic tablecloths from the Dollar store-</strong> you need the most of red- so you may need two of these. Open the table cloths and keep them folded. I folded them one more time, so I had a long piece about six inches wide. I took my scissors and cut 1 1/2 to 2 inch strips, and then cut the ends apart. It was quick and easy to cut the tablecloths while they were folded up. Simply tie a knot for each piece, and push them close together. <em>I'll be honest, this took me HOURS! It looks so easy and it is, but I think I may have spent up to 10 hours tying knots- which is why I'm only getting around to posting this now....and not sooner.</em> <br />
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<strong> Wooden Stars-</strong> I had some on hand-but you can pick up a small package of stars from a craft store (Hobby Lobby, Michaels) for a few dollars- or less with a coupon! I painted some and covered some in washi tape- I also had on hand. I attached them to some twine and tied the twine on either end of the wreath. <br />
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<strong>Wire-</strong> I had some wire, and carefully wired the hoops together in four spots around the wreath. This is a very lightweight wreath- so you really could just twist some wire, or twine, at the top and bottom so that all three hoops stay together. <br />
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Hang it up and admire all those stinkin' knots you tied!! Because it does look kind of fancy...and no one will know you only spent $5 on the entire thing! Plus- since it is mostly plastic- it is water proof! We'll see how "heat proof" it is here- in the 100 plus degree desert! <br />
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Happy Fourth of July!! <br />
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mylittlegemshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08034643973014904877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7021317090619793711.post-79137052244461523022013-06-30T20:02:00.001-07:002013-06-30T20:02:37.876-07:00DIY Patriotic Washi Tape Frame 5Since the 4th of July is this week, I thought I'd share a few of the fun things I did this year. Granted, these took me a lot longer than normal-- as I have less energy and it takes me longer to do everything lately...that is being pregnant with two for you!<br />
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Here is a little craft I made-- just for the love of washi tape! I love this stuff! I use it for everything! <br />
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HERE is what I did:<br />
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I bought one wooden plain frame with a 5 by7 opening at Hobby Lobby. If you use a coupon, it is only about $3. <br />
I spray painted it white. Then, I applied washi tape- in no particular way or order. Then, I hot glued some small wooden stars that were spray painted blue- which you can also purchase at Hobby Lobby or Michaels, for about $2-3 for a small package. You could modify this a little and it would be a fun craft for kids. In fact, you could do something like this for every holiday... I'm thinking a black and white one with a little orange and purple would be fun for Halloween. <br />
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Of course the best part if the cute little face inside the frame! I love that kid!! <br />
Happy 4th of July! I have a few more little projects I'll post this week! <br />
Thanks for reading! <br />
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