tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45801409990774033412024-03-12T21:20:46.952-05:00brittneyBrittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.comBlogger235125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-80307368231500036712017-08-19T16:43:00.000-05:002017-08-19T16:43:58.062-05:00Scrappy Strip Quilt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i5DDqCLvRy8/WZikRljIV1I/AAAAAAAALxY/SEqp-zyxA3si0kAAiFtO9dNEEo2DUzO0QCKgBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_1205.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1281" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i5DDqCLvRy8/WZikRljIV1I/AAAAAAAALxY/SEqp-zyxA3si0kAAiFtO9dNEEo2DUzO0QCKgBGAs/s320/fullsizeoutput_1205.jpeg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HagfGC9XhrQ/WZikRtu_90I/AAAAAAAALxY/xB1p4USQhaEfqPi_AQXGJO43ao7DxWT1gCKgBGAs/s1600/fullsizeoutput_1206.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1281" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HagfGC9XhrQ/WZikRtu_90I/AAAAAAAALxY/xB1p4USQhaEfqPi_AQXGJO43ao7DxWT1gCKgBGAs/s320/fullsizeoutput_1206.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
If this quilt looks familiar, it's because I used only scraps from my <a href="https://brittneyanderson.blogspot.com/2017/05/ring-around-rosie.html" target="_blank">Ring Around the Rosie</a> quilt. I had many strips all cut into three widths from the pattern. After cleaning and sorting, I decided to put the scraps to good use and make a new quilt!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-umIpRzT6hIg/WZimPFTfSUI/AAAAAAAALyA/81vrdBcvFDcEc37gDF4Ae7Kd6hg27mgDgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_0834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-umIpRzT6hIg/WZimPFTfSUI/AAAAAAAALyA/81vrdBcvFDcEc37gDF4Ae7Kd6hg27mgDgCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_0834.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I simply stitched same-sized strips together along their shorter ends. I didn't put a whole lot of thought into the fabric placement, aside from avoiding the same fabric sewn together. I stitched all strips end-to-end, then sewed the 1 1/2" and 2 1/2" joined strips together along the length. I cut the length in half and sewed those lengths together, before sewing on the 3 1/2" width strip. </div>
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If you are familiar with a <a href="https://weefolkart.com/jelly-roll-race-quilt-directions-notes/" target="_blank">Jelly Roll Race Quilt</a>, I used a similar method, just with different width strips! The quilt stitches up very quickly and is the perfect quilt to sew while listening to your favorite audiobook or show because there's no thinking necessary! The results are random and scrappy, and thanks to spreading fabrics out along my original strips, I think I achieved a balanced top without stressing about color placement. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4haNhxKAyFY/WZipC7YvvuI/AAAAAAAALyk/LckSExs5enUxhMa1-6LcVE4IAzN04qZ7wCKgBGAs/s1600/16904724_1255022757909266_5340162291807697752_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4haNhxKAyFY/WZipC7YvvuI/AAAAAAAALyk/LckSExs5enUxhMa1-6LcVE4IAzN04qZ7wCKgBGAs/s640/16904724_1255022757909266_5340162291807697752_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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To make the back, I took larger scraps and sewed them together to create a scrappy back that looks just as cute as the front! I tried spiral quilting for the first time, and although it's not perfect, I'm happy with the result and will try it again, probably on a smaller quilt. It will look great washed & crinkled and sitting on someone's lap. The quilt measures approximately 50"x 60"- a great throw size. I used even more scraps for the binding. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M4iJ-f_KFqk/WZip5vRLkoI/AAAAAAAALys/miZYnOFh_gQ4XkIllXccMHV0PmrgX79igCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_8884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M4iJ-f_KFqk/WZip5vRLkoI/AAAAAAAALys/miZYnOFh_gQ4XkIllXccMHV0PmrgX79igCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_8884.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This quilt was donated as a raffle prize at a recent Neurofibromatosis fundraiser to benefit NF Michigan. You can find out more about NF and the organization at their <a href="https://www.nfmich.org/" target="_blank">website</a>. My cousin was diagnosed with NF at a very young age, and that was the first our family learned about the disorder. Thankfully, she is a healthy, smart, loving, soon-to-be 5-year-old, but many others have much more severe health and developmental problems. My cousin is blessed with top doctors and researchers right near their home in Michigan, where she can receive top-notch care.</div>
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If you would like to support NF Michigan, you can <a href="https://www.nfmich.org/donate" target="_blank">donate through their website.</a> Contributions go toward supporting persons affected and their families, assisting in medical care, education, and research. </div>
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For every quilt pattern that makes it into final form, I only get to actually sew about half of them into actual quilts. It's always amazing to see how the computer files I have been working with for months in digital form translate into tangible fabric and quilts. Although the fabric is new to the market, it often feels like an old friend to me. As I work on virtual quilt designs, I become familiar with little details and nuances, the way the colors play within the collection, and how the patterns all measure up against each other. I can identify them by SKU numbers and color ways. It's a rather sterile beginning for an end product meant to bring warmth and comfort. So to finally get my hands on <i>real</i> fabric and make a <i>real</i> quilt comes as somewhat of a relief.</div>
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A few months ago, I had the privilege of sewing a quilt top for one of my new patterns. My <a href="http://www.freespiritfabrics.com/coatsb2b/en/Collection/Love-%26-Friendship/Ring-Around-the-Rosie/p/FS2002VM" target="_blank">Ring Around the Rosie</a> quilt features Verna Mosquera's Love & Friendship collection for Free Spirit Fabrics. These are some seriously cute fabrics with little flowers, love notes, hearts, and a really great twisted stripe. I made the quilt top and sent it off for quilting. Check out how cute the final quilt looks!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nbdft932des/WSe3OVDOGeI/AAAAAAAAJ74/UEMLlrTWrx4FXiFQBNNoogMTfTC6_EUcQCLcB/s1600/FS2002VM_420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="420" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nbdft932des/WSe3OVDOGeI/AAAAAAAAJ74/UEMLlrTWrx4FXiFQBNNoogMTfTC6_EUcQCLcB/s400/FS2002VM_420.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The quilt is made of four generously sized log cabin blocks, each employing every fabric in the collection. The final quilt is 70" x 90" aka perfect for a twin bed. How sweet would this be in a little girl's room?! Don't need a twin quilt? -- Each log cabin is 35" x 45", which is a great size for baby or wheelchair quilts.</div>
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When I was designing this quilt, I wanted to make sure the construction was as straightforward as possible. My favorite detail in the instructions is that there is no need to sew lengths of fabric together to achieve the large blocks. I might be the only person excited by that fact, but in my opinion, the fewer steps, the better.</div>
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This quilt would be easy to adapt to another line if your tastes are different. It uses 24 different fabrics and would also look great as a scrappy stash-buster. Let me know what you think of the quilt and of course I would love to see if you make your own <a href="http://www.freespiritfabrics.com/coatsb2b/en/Collection/Love-%26-Friendship/Ring-Around-the-Rosie/p/FS2002VM" target="_blank">Ring Around the Rosie</a> quilt!</div>
Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-47353778718402191582017-04-10T14:13:00.002-05:002017-04-10T14:13:40.512-05:00Monday Book Club<div style="text-align: center;">
One of my goals for 2017 is to read more! In an effort to share the book love, I've included links in this post that are Amazon Affiliate links, which means I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using the links.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TaffdFMrymU/WOvQz56SfrI/AAAAAAAAIL8/ocsnZy_aEC0TnBtR2IntDfQiKKXUKU1owCPcB/s1600/IMG_2377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TaffdFMrymU/WOvQz56SfrI/AAAAAAAAIL8/ocsnZy_aEC0TnBtR2IntDfQiKKXUKU1owCPcB/s640/IMG_2377.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We were on a lovely family vacation to the beach last week, which meant I had a little extra time to read. Some people like to get out and do things on vacation - see new sights, visit new places. Me? Give me a chair and a book and just leave me alone. Even with extra help from family, two little kiddos make my vacation fantasy a hard sell, but I was able to finish one book and start another before heading home.<br />
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<i><a href="https://alexa.design/2orzXFP" target="_blank">The Fate of Mercy Alban</a></i> has been sitting on my bookshelf at home for a very long time and I thought it seemed like a good choice for beach reading. It's a story about a wealthy family and the ghosts (literally and figuratively) that haunt them and their historic home. It was a fun little read full of everything - murder, mystery, a haunted house, and even a romance. There were a couple decent twists and turns but I was able to "figure it out" before the big reveal. The book was fast-paced, sometimes annoyingly so, but squeezed in enough story to satisfy my vacation needs. Wendy Webb has a number of other books that seem to be similar in subject that may land on my to-be-read list.<br />
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My mom finished John Grisham's latest, <i><a href="https://alexa.design/2pmJ0Fb" target="_blank">The Whistler</a></i>, in time to pass it on for Curt and me to read next. I haven't read a Grisham book in a couple years after <i><a href="https://alexa.design/2nyqblS" target="_blank">Gray Mountain</a> </i>left a sour taste in my mouth. Mom assured me this book is back in line with what we expect and love from John Grisham. I'm only a few chapters in, but it seems to be headed in a promising direction. Curt is currently reading Grisham's <i><a href="https://alexa.design/2oRW2hJ" target="_blank">Rogue Lawyer</a> </i>so I may be on a John Grisham kick for a few weeks to get caught back up on his catalogue.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Fate-Mercy-Alban-Wendy-Webb-ebook/dp/B0092TED6W/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1491849654&sr=8-1&keywords=the+fate+of+mercy+alban&linkCode=li2&tag=brittney0a-20&linkId=5c4496f53fe597342d6beb25582f4e3f" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B0092TED6W&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=brittney0a-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=brittney0a-20&l=li2&o=1&a=B0092TED6W" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Whistler-John-Grisham/dp/0385541198/ref=as_li_ss_il?_encoding=UTF8&me=&linkCode=li2&tag=brittney0a-20&linkId=26d48479148eea25d6a764fbeb184caa" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0385541198&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=brittney0a-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=brittney0a-20&l=li2&o=1&a=0385541198" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qvFR8ckHuaI/WNwhCi4Eu0I/AAAAAAAAHVU/hTvRX1TIFuowpjABf8mnjlop6E8pVri8ACPcB/s1600/IMG_7681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qvFR8ckHuaI/WNwhCi4Eu0I/AAAAAAAAHVU/hTvRX1TIFuowpjABf8mnjlop6E8pVri8ACPcB/s640/IMG_7681.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am prepping for a new <a href="http://www.craft-south.com/" target="_blank">Craft South</a> class and made these Sawtooth quilt blocks last night. </div>
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Aren't they the sweetest?! </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aILbr1jXFx8/WNwhCoiqzcI/AAAAAAAAHVU/JjC6v5cnqxIgc4CIY1_U74VgpixCP_F3QCPcB/s1600/IMG_7678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aILbr1jXFx8/WNwhCoiqzcI/AAAAAAAAHVU/JjC6v5cnqxIgc4CIY1_U74VgpixCP_F3QCPcB/s200/IMG_7678.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rBahEGhM5W4/WNwhCqB8lNI/AAAAAAAAHVU/koc4_BndYyU297MP6V1y2BgA_QaG9csKQCPcB/s1600/IMG_7680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rBahEGhM5W4/WNwhCqB8lNI/AAAAAAAAHVU/koc4_BndYyU297MP6V1y2BgA_QaG9csKQCPcB/s200/IMG_7680.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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I grabbed some small scraps to sew, yielding these widdle sweet widdle bwocks. </div>
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{That would be baby talk for "little sweet little blocks" if you don't speak cutesy.}</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E6fGi73VtUU/WNwhCmeUJVI/AAAAAAAAHVU/UShuCu5yGkMTZGw6FPNi0O963Nof8JKMACPcB/s1600/IMG_7687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E6fGi73VtUU/WNwhCmeUJVI/AAAAAAAAHVU/UShuCu5yGkMTZGw6FPNi0O963Nof8JKMACPcB/s200/IMG_7687.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q44ybDRj9_Q/WNwhCoHwPiI/AAAAAAAAHVU/PlbqpVGLrVUrcT1soYv_D54sTUW4-dQOwCPcB/s1600/IMG_7698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q44ybDRj9_Q/WNwhCoHwPiI/AAAAAAAAHVU/PlbqpVGLrVUrcT1soYv_D54sTUW4-dQOwCPcB/s200/IMG_7698.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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The larger blocks are 6" finished and the smaller ones are 4" finished. </div>
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Stitched them up together for a 12" block that would look great as a pillow or sewn into a cute bag.</div>
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<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 203px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 816px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 203px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 816px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-59604251866934339952017-03-15T22:39:00.000-05:002017-03-15T22:40:45.615-05:00Monday Book Club <div style="text-align: center;">
One of my goals for 2017 is to read more! In an effort to share the book love, I've included links in this post that are Amazon Affiliate links, which means I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using the links.</div>
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Please forgive my delayed book this week! We were on a small family getaway but that meant I got in some extra reading time!<br />
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I started <i><a href="http://amzn.to/2mvyVF9" target="_blank">When in Doubt, Add Butter</a></i> at the beginning of our trip and had it finished within a few days. It was light, fun, and mostly predictable with a few little twists. I've never read anything else from Beth Harbison, but I will be open to checking out more for my next trip.<br />
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Next from the vacation pile was another Carl Hiaasen novel: <i><a href="http://amzn.to/2ncwTgo" target="_blank">Bad Monkey</a></i>. I'm about 100 pages in and enjoying the hint of mystery unfolding around the different characters who, at first glance, have nothing to do with each other, but will surely be fully intertwined by the end of the book.</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0446556157/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0446556157&linkCode=as2&tag=brittney0a-20&linkId=dba81941c1ccd67b92616a1f357b6754" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0446556157&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=brittney0a-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=brittney0a-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0446556157" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312599080/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0312599080&linkCode=as2&tag=brittney0a-20&linkId=e65f8c5cf360f8bfa63e9668c0765def" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&MarketPlace=US&ASIN=0312599080&ServiceVersion=20070822&ID=AsinImage&WS=1&Format=_SL250_&tag=brittney0a-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=brittney0a-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0312599080" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-54517493174312602012017-03-06T15:10:00.002-06:002017-03-06T15:10:34.634-06:00Monday Book Club<div style="text-align: center;">
One of my goals for 2017 is to read more! In an effort to share the book love, I've included links in this post that are Amazon Affiliate links, which means I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using the links.</div>
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I finished <a href="http://brittneyanderson.blogspot.com/2017/02/monday-book-club.html" target="_blank">last week's</a> <i><a href="http://amzn.to/2lKs8b2" target="_blank">First Comes Love</a></i> just in time to hit up the library for a new book. My first choice is still on hold so I quickly perused the stacks and the bright colors of the Carl Hiaasen section jumped out at me. After virtually no consideration, I settled on <i><a href="http://amzn.to/2muDO3T" target="_blank">Star Island</a>.</i><br />
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I'm nearly halfway through this book and enjoying it so far. It's a quick read full of over-the-top characters and the fast-passed world of celebrities. I have never read any of Carl Hiaasen's other books, but after reading reviews, it seems they are easy and fun reads. I will probably pick up another one before my next trip to the beach.<br />
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Thank the Crayola gods for an hour of painting while I could do the dishes, tidy up, vacuum, and actually sit down and read today. </div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Star-Island-Carl-Hiaasen/dp/0446556130/ref=as_li_ss_il?ie=UTF8&qid=1488833784&sr=8-1&keywords=star+island+by+carl+hiaasen&linkCode=li2&tag=brittney0a-20&linkId=612d79d42a1b6d2684b0b4a9ea88a8a6" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0446556130&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=brittney0a-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=brittney0a-20&l=li2&o=1&a=0446556130" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-73646474201001167602017-03-02T06:00:00.000-06:002017-03-02T06:00:01.882-06:00Liam's Library : They All Saw A Cat<div style="text-align: center;">
I love reading to my boys and think that sharing a love of books and reading is one of the greatest gifts I can give them. I am always looking for new favorite books and happy to share my recommendations. In an effort to share the book love, I've included links in this post that are Amazon Affiliate links, which means I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using the links.</div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/2muRmgM" target="_blank"><i>They All Saw A Cat</i> by Brendan Wenzel </a></div>
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Stop what you're doing and get this book. I casually grabbed this book off the shelf because it was about a cat and Liam loves cats. The minimalist illustration on the cover also drew me in .. yes I judged this book by its cover. Hard. I'm always drawn to books with hand drawn illustrations and this book goes far beyond my expectations. </div>
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<i>They All Saw A Cat</i> is about a cat walking through the world, meeting other animals. There is plenty of repetition and a simple sentence structure. An early reader could easily work his way through this book. Even a nonreader like Liam can quickly catch on and know what words to expect. I love these types of books for working on sight words, and the varied text formatting and capitalization in this story make it so simple. </div>
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After pointing out " A CAT" in the title to Liam, we talked about the letters and what they spelled. Then we read through the book, pointing as we read, and I allowed Liam to finish the sentences reading "A CAT." Now, I know he's merely spitting back the words I told him to say, but I hope it is creating a good foundation for when he does start reading.</div>
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Let's talk illustrations! As the cat encounters new animals, the pictures reflect how that animal views the cat. Some of the animals see in black and white, others are blurry, and as Liam excitedly noticed, the bee views the cat as "polka dots!" With every new page, it's exciting to see who the cat will run into next and how their views of the cat vary.</div>
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In its simplest form, <i><a href="http://amzn.to/2muRmgM" target="_blank">They All Saw A Cat</a></i> is a cute story about a cat and the animals in its world. But there is so much more to this book: animal habitats, predator versus prey, or how our perceptions of the world can be so different. The illustrations are gorgeous and engaging, the story is simple, and we could easily spend a week studying the book and find something new to talk about every day. A+</div>
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What's your favorite children's book this week?</div>
Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-10148476823091314272017-02-27T06:00:00.000-06:002017-02-27T06:00:16.803-06:00Monday Book Club<div style="text-align: center;">
One of my goals for 2017 is to read more! In an effort to share the book love, I've included links in this post that are Amazon Affiliate links, which means I receive a small kickback if you make a purchase using the links.</div>
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What are you reading this week? I've been reading <a href="http://amzn.to/2lKs8b2" target="_blank">First Comes Love</a> by Emily Giffin. </div>
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I've read a number of her books, beginning with <a href="http://amzn.to/2lJWcF5" target="_blank">Something Borrowed</a> when it first released. It is what it is - easy-to-read chick lit. Most of her books have left me feeling 'meh' and I admit to abandoning one halfway through, but they are the equivalent of another notch on my book bedpost. </div>
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Next on my list will most likely be finishing <a href="http://amzn.to/2l0B8eN" target="_blank">A Gathering of Shadows</a> by V. E. Schwab. According to my Goodreads, I started it 9 months ago which just so happens to be right around when I gave birth, so that explains the lack of a finish! I enjoyed the first book in the series, <a href="http://amzn.to/2mkgK8Y" target="_blank">A Darker Shade of Magic</a>, and look forward to reading the whole three-book series.</div>
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Let me know what you're reading, what you loved, or what's next on your list!</div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/First-Comes-Love-Emily-Giffin-ebook/dp/B014NZ4SXW/ref=as_li_ss_il?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1488142993&sr=8-1&linkCode=li2&tag=brittney0a-20&linkId=a5f15ae1fe4af01d3e2a46130981c75b" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B014NZ4SXW&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=brittney0a-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=brittney0a-20&l=li2&o=1&a=B014NZ4SXW" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></div>
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Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-60991683099927633352017-02-10T15:09:00.000-06:002017-02-10T15:38:24.765-06:009 Patch Class<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last weekend I taught a really fun class all about 9-patch quilt blocks. I shared some of my favorite shortcuts for quick and easy piecing and everyone in the class did such great work. Some made pillow covers while others got started working toward a larger quilt. </div>
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Here are a few little snaps from my phone. </div>
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Trimming up her finished pillow - this little sweetie had a great eye for color and design! </div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">The dark and light prints in these fabrics created a great contrasting block.</span></div>
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These fabrics were the perfect pops for spring - she definitely has a favorite color, her pants and glasses matched the bright blues in her fabric perfectly!</div>
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I wish I had a shot of this one flipped right-side-out, the colors were really fun.</div>
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Here's a glimpse at the classroom space at Craft South. Despite our recent chilly temperatures, the sun was shining and supplied us with great afternoon light!</div>
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If you love a great 9-patch, I have a <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/brittney/9-patch-and-simple-squares/" target="_blank">Pinterest board</a> devoted to all things patchy and square! </div>
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If you want a 9-patch pillow of your very own, I have a couple pillow covers available in my<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/brittneyanderson?ref=l2-shop-info-avatar&section_id=18002640" target="_blank"> Etsy shop right now</a>! </div>
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I hope you all have a fabulous weekend. I plan to spend it playing with the boys, working on a couple Quiltcon projects, and maybe *just maybe* sneaking in a bubble bath!</div>
Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-77249473619167582452017-02-02T00:49:00.000-06:002017-02-02T00:49:38.961-06:00That thing where I recharge the blog at the beginning of a new year…. But seriously, maybe this time I can stick with it! Stay tuned, slight bloggy update coming soon. *winky face * *kissy face* xoxoBrittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-71956605837330723252015-02-14T15:15:00.002-06:002015-02-14T15:15:27.871-06:00Liam's LibraryReading has always been a huge part of my life. When I was younger, I always had a book in tow and read whenever I could. I don't read nearly as much as I used to or would like to for me, but Liam and I spend lots of time reading together everyday. Reading introduces us to new worlds and characters, teaches us, makes us laugh and cry, and for me and Liam, is a great way to wind down before a nap or bedtime.<br />
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Before he was born, my family gave us a shelf-full of books at a baby shower and we have continued adding to them since. In addition to adding to our own collection, we visit the library on a regular basis to enjoy baby story time and borrow new books. </div>
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I decided to start documenting our book reading, both our personal library and the books we check out from the public library. I hope it will be a good resource for others looking for a good book for their little ones and I would love for you to share your favorites as well! I'd also love to update posts in the future after Liam is older and has his own opinions and favorite books.</div>
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To kick things off, I thought I would start with two new books Liam received for Valentine's Day from his grandparents. </div>
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"<a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689847122/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0689847122&linkCode=as2&tag=brittney0a-20&linkId=2YE56F5LCVKWFOEG%22%3EToes,%20Ears,%20&%20Nose!%20A%20Lift-the-Flap%20Book%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=brittney0a-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0689847122%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Toes, Ears, & Nose!</a>" by Marion Dane Bauer, illustrated by Karen Katz. </div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0689847122/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0689847122&linkCode=as2&tag=brittney0a-20&linkId=3YIJOALKZZ4OQAHP"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0689847122&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=brittney0a-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=brittney0a-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0689847122" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
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This book is a cute pop-up style with flaps that reveal different body parts. The text is pretty straight forward: "Inside my mittens I've got fingers. Inside my boots I've got toes." etc. There is a little bit of a rhyme throughout the book, but I think the purpose is more about identifying body parts than cutesy wordplay. The illustrations are colorful and full of cute prints and patterns. The kids are boys and girls of different races, which I appreciate.<br />
The book itself is a nice size and weight. Although it is a board book, the pages have a little bend to them. The flaps are made of a thick paper glued on to the pages; they will definitely rip if Liam gets ahold of them, so I think this will be a "long-distance" read (aka at an arm's length and out of Liam's reach) until Liam understands what 'gentle' means.<br />
Overall "Toes, Ears, & Nose!" is a cute book and will be even more fun once Liam starts to identify body parts.<br />
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"<a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0545029317/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0545029317&linkCode=as2&tag=brittney0a-20&linkId=HBU736ZQ6HDXGRWJ%22%3EI%20Love%20You%20Because%20You're%20You%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=brittney0a-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0545029317%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">I Love You Because You're You</a>" by Liza Baker, illustrated by David McPhail<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0545029317/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0545029317&linkCode=as2&tag=brittney0a-20&linkId=TL3SN5OHRS6DHBJX"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0545029317&Format=_SL160_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=brittney0a-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=brittney0a-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0545029317" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
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This is a really cute book all about when a Mommy fox loves her son. The story goes through all different feelings and situations in a nice verse style that rhymes: "I love you when you're happy and grinning ear to ear. I love you when you're sleepy and want to snuggle near." I think it will be a nice introduction to feelings and behaviors, as well as the fact that no matter what moods Liam is in, he is always loved. The pictures are cute little vignettes that go with each emotion.<br />
The cover of the book is a thick, squishy material that Liam would love to get his teeth on. The pages are very bendable, so this may be another one Liam will have to wait to get his hands on.<br />
In the meantime, we will add this to our daily reading and practice showing our emotions by making silly faces as we read.<br />
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Both these books are cute and fun to read, and we will learn a lot in the process!<br />
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**This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a percentage of sales if you make a purchase using these links.**Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-83790132933654255902014-09-15T13:16:00.003-05:002014-09-15T13:16:56.337-05:00How We Do Cloth Diapers<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9Vx26wTv87M/VBcptyfl4XI/AAAAAAAAEPM/-Vo-GCHGpDc/w780-h555-no/IMG_0930.JPG" width="450" /></div>
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I have a number of family and friends who are pregnant right now, and many of them want to know about our experience cloth diapering. So I'm sure some of you out there may be interested as well, or know someone you can share this information with. We knew we wanted to use cloth diapers, and I had been researching the options even before I was pregnant, so I had an idea of what was out there, but it was so overwhelming! In the haze of pregnancy, I spent an evening on the verge of tears on the phone with my mom stressing about diapers. I confessed to her I was more concerned about how we were going to cover baby's butt than the whole process of getting him out. HA! Yes, pregnancy hormones are a real thing and they are nothing to be messed with. The fog cleared and I went with my original plan. I'll get right down to business and if you want more detail, read on.</div>
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24 Size Newborn <a href="http://www.greenmountaindiapers.com/cloth-eez-prefold-diapers.html" target="_blank">Cloth-eez Prefolds</a></div>
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12 Size Small <a href="http://www.greenmountaindiapers.com/cloth-eez-prefold-diapers.html" target="_blank">Cloth-eez Prefolds</a></div>
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4 <a href="http://www.greenmountaindiapers.com/thirsties-duo-wrap-diaper-covers.html" target="_blank">Thirsties Duo Wrap Covers</a></div>
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3 <a href="http://www.greenmountaindiapers.com/snappi-diaper-fasteners.html" target="_blank">Snappis</a></div>
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14 <a href="http://www.cottonbabies.com/index.php?cPath=98" target="_blank">BumGenius 4.0</a> Snap Diapers</div>
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Cloth wipes I made with flannel</div>
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2 <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G2G2ZPO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">Planet Wise Large Wet bags</a> & 1 <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G2G0ZGK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">smaller one</a> for travel</div>
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~I washed the Prefolds & Covers with Purex Free & Clear. Warm pre-wash, Hot wash with detergent, extra rinse. Hung the covers and wet bags to dry, everything else in the dryer on Perm Press.</div>
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~I wash the BumGenius diapers with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GODIEE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">Nellie's All Natural Laundry Soda</a>. Cold pre-wash, Hot wash with detergent, extra rinse. Hang the diapers to dry and wet bags to dry, everything else in the dryer on Perm Press.</div>
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~If there are a number of extra nasty diapers, I will add a little detergent to the pre-wash cycle.</div>
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~If a diaper is still poop colored after washing, an afternoon in the sun removes the stain.</div>
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~I do diaper laundry about every other day. When I get down to two clean diapers, I wash. Sometimes the timing is weird and we supplement one of the prefolds or a spare disposable.</div>
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~The Duo Wraps dry within a couple hours, quicker if they are in the sun or a breezy spot. In a pinch I've thrown them in the dryer for just a couple minutes.</div>
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~The BumGenius diapers dry in an afternoon outside or overnight inside. We have a cool drying rack my dad found that fits them all and works great.</div>
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~The wet bags take longer to dry indoors - a day or two, but they are always ready by the time we need one.</div>
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If that's all the info you wanted, carry on. If you would like to know more, here you go….</div>
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We used disposables for the first two weeks. The real concern was getting through the nasty meconium stage. If you absolutely want to use cloth from the start, I'd recommend a disposable liner so that the tar poop doesn't ruin your diapers.</div>
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**SIDE NOTE** Our midwife gave us the most spectacular advice: Rub coconut oil on baby's bum during diaper changes and the meconium will slide right off. It's true! No need to use multiple wipes to scrape that stuff off, oil up that bum and get on with your day. **</div>
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<img alt="1 month" nopin="nopin" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TO7i1aw4TaG67nPWRh5iS2SPxarINpk7SfWueNsvXMA=w506-h555-no" width="450" /></div>
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Around two weeks old we started the cloth diapers. We used Cloth-eez Prefolds from Green Mountain Diaper in the Newborn size. Liam was back up to birth weight of 7 lbs, 11 oz at that time and the newborn size fit until he was about 11 lbs + at 2 months. At that point we were also using the Small size in the mix for nights and naps when he needed more absorbency. We used Thirsties Duo Wrap covers in Size One with all the prefolds.</div>
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**SIDE NOTE** If you go the disposable path, do yourself a favor and get a couple of the Duo Wraps. It's like a rite of passage in parenthood to clean up a blow-out but it's not necessary! We don't have problems with the cloth diapers but I don't trust the disposables we use while traveling. So we put a Duo Wrap over the disposable and voila! - no blow-outs. And trust me, there have been a bunch of diapers that would have completely ruined Liam's outfit and spoiled the day of whoever was holding him at the time. Totally worth the $12 investment to grab a couple of them, plus they look cute. **</div>
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<img alt="2 month" nopin="nopin" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/mkeHPtzWJBbnN7leFXuqQMl3OOrRfpYJJRmmXNYjyFo=w504-h555-no" width="450" /></div>
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When Liam hit 2 months old and was over 11 lbs, we switched him to BumGenius 4.0 snap diapers. He probably could have started those sooner, but the prefolds were still doing their job and I needed to buy different detergent for the BumGeniuses so I was waiting. We love these diapers! I would happily do prefolds for the rest of his diapering life, but the biggest improvement with the BumGenius is the moisture wicking liner fabric - the inserts can be soaked through but Liam's buns stay nice and dry. The snap adjustments make it easy to get a good fit and they are as easy to change as disposables. The adjustments also mean Liam can wear these diapers until he is ready for the big boy potty. Awesome!</div>
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We use the normal insert during the day and add the additional newborn insert for bedtime sleeping. I haven't had issues with absorbency, but the beauty of our diaper system is that if Liam ever needs something extra inside the diaper, his old prefolds work just like another insert.</div>
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<img alt="4 month" nopin="nopin" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/b707Xz-wxhwTbiFopaPBH1PcAG5RJ9G3Dc69rQiKZZE=w466-h555-no" width="450" /></div>
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Today I decided to adjust the rise on the height of the diapers. Liam is 4 months old and over 15 lbs with chubby thighs. BumGenius recommends changing to the middle rise around 16 lbs but it can vary depending on the size and shape of every baby, so Liam seems to be falling right in line with that. You can see in that picture above how it is pulling a little in the middle - time to extend!</div>
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Before he was born, I put my serger to good use and made 50 cloth wipes from leftover flannel. I just cut squares about 8X8 and serged the edges. I made some double sided, but the single ply has worked just fine. If you are cloth diapering, it only makes sense to use cloth wipes - you just throw them right in with the rest of the laundry and never run out. You can purchase cloth wipes or use wash cloths, but making them was really simple and free for me.</div>
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We keep a squirt bottle with water next to his change pad to wet the wipes. When he was younger we would spray right on the wipe, but now Liam gets a kick out of spraying his bum. I tried an aloe, tea tree, soap mixture, but something in that seemed to irritate his bottom so we have just been using water. Most experts recommend water for the first few months anyway to keep the sensitive skin happy.</div>
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We use two wet bags in rotation .. one gets washed with the diapers and hung to dry while the other one starts the cycle of filling up with diapers over again. They contain the stink and keep things dry. We had intentions of hanging them up but couldn't find a good spot or system, so they just sit between the dresser and trashcan on the ground and that has worked well for four months so I assume we'll just keep it that way.</div>
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Did I miss anything? Do you have any questions? Do you now know more about cloth diapers than you ever wanted to? Great! Not a super interesting post, but hopefully helpful!</div>
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Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-26052209203156338192014-09-05T12:46:00.000-05:002014-09-05T12:46:14.473-05:00A New Season<div style="text-align: center;">
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My poor, abandoned blog.. last updated in the beginning of spring, over five months ago, and now here we are approaching fall. It's not only a new season on the calendar, but a new season in our life as well.</div>
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Our little Liam was born on May 8, 2014. He started as the sweetest, cutest, most perfect newborn you've ever seen (oh, perhaps I am a little biased) and now he is a sweet, spunky, perfect almost-four-month-old. I can't believe how the time flies!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jezgiypml6w/VAn2PVWXBpI/AAAAAAAAEL4/zdWTPDEO5hc/s1600/IMG_7126.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jezgiypml6w/VAn2PVWXBpI/AAAAAAAAEL4/zdWTPDEO5hc/s320/IMG_7126.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TiwZXLYDNN8/VAn2PTNezzI/AAAAAAAAEL8/4NvE--lZqB8/s1600/IMG_7413.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TiwZXLYDNN8/VAn2PTNezzI/AAAAAAAAEL8/4NvE--lZqB8/s320/IMG_7413.jpg" /></a><br />
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The first few months were filled with lots of family, traveling adventures, and a bit of slowing down to get to know our new little man. In his short life, Liam has already traveled to four states and through even more.<br />
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He's been on eight airplanes, one on which the captain invited him to sit in the cockpit. He went to sleep away camp, attended a wedding, and even spent a week camping and lounging on the beach. <br />
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Things have calmed down since then and we are all getting back into the groove of life at home before our next adventure. I'm trying to get back into old habits like sewing and quilting and, as evidenced here, blogging. <br />
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In what felt like overnight, Liam turned into a napping champion (jinxing myself here, I realize) and I suddenly have a chunk of hours in a day to get things done. So let's see what happens, I'm not promising anything, but I hope to keep up best I can. </div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of baby preparations. Immediately after he returned from a three week tour of Australia, Curt & I took a long weekend to visit our families in Michigan and had the pleasure of attending two baby showers hosted by my family. It was so nice to see many of our loved ones and see the excitement and love they already have for our baby. We are so blessed to have tight knit families who support us, even if it is from a distance most of the time. </span></div>
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Last weekend my parents arrived and after a few splendid hours of sunshine, we headed off to our frIends' house for a fabulous party to celebrate their new books. It was a lot of fun and <a href="http://www.themomcreative.com/2014/03/simple-tips-on-hosting-a-party-for-50-people.html" target="_blank">Jessica</a> always throws the best get-togethers. </div>
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The next day I had a surprise party of my own with my work friends to celebrate the baby & my birthday. They snuck into the house and decorated the whole place with the cutest poms, streamers, and balloons. Fatemeh made that gorgeous cake complete with sparkler candles. A couple long distance friends made the trek to our house and I couldn't have asked for a sweeter gathering. </div>
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The rest of the week was spent finally getting the nursery ready for Baby. My dad painted the room, transforming it from boring tan to a <a href="http://www.behr.com/consumer/ColorDetailView/PPU18-9" target="_blank">calming greige</a>. Curt refinished an old dresser, a project that has been in the works for a few months but was stalled by cold weather and multiple tours. My mom painted a thrifted baby <a href="http://www.dutailier.com/produits/?Reg=5&Col=181" target="_blank">glider</a> and helped me make and upholster new cushions. </div>
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Among the smaller details, this birch tie-back I've had in my head and my dad was able to construct. There are still a few things to finish - hanging shelves and art, creating a mobile out of more birch branches, putting the crib together (it should arrive this week), maybe replacing a table lamp, and adding the little finishing touches. We still have about seven weeks until Baby is due to arrive, but it feels so good to have most of the nursery ready and I know those weeks will fly by. </div>
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I got up early this morning to see my parents off, throw in a load of laundry, and crawl back into bed. Curt snuck out at some point to get his sister and her friend from the airport while I slept in for the first time in a few weeks. I usually hear him get up and ready but I was so tired I slept through it all and woke up to find the last few bites of <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-baked-chai-french-toast-recipes-from-the-kitchn-198717" target="_blank">this amazing chai French toast</a> waiting for me on my bedside. I realize once Baby comes that my days of sleeping in will be long gone, so I am trying to soak in as many as possible when I have the chance. </div>
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I'm also taking the day to sit back and relax for the first time in a while and do nothing all day. The drizzly weather and constant stream of hot tea is enhancing the laziness as we work our way through our DVR. All the while trying to make a dent in my latest <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Hollow-City-Peregrines-Peculiar-Children/dp/1594746125" target="_blank">library book</a>. What are you doing this weekend? </div>
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Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-35584652764753065072014-03-10T13:06:00.000-05:002014-03-10T13:06:34.738-05:00Sensing Spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Spring is coming! Can you feel it? Here in Nashville we are looking forward to temperatures in the 70's. I know it's only a fleeting warmth and they are talking about a chance of snow later this week, but for a few days I can pretend we are well on our way to warmer weather.</div>
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Cold weather makes me want to knit - there's something about bundling up on the couch with that warm wooly project in my lap. But thoughts of spring make me think of bright colors. I got the bug in my head to dye some brightly colored yarn and I couldn't let it go. So I stocked up on Kool-Aid and got to work. I dyed two skeins of Knit Picks Wool of the Andes and one superwash wool blend sock yarn from Joann's. I love the way they turned out - all those speckled colors like the first signs of spring poking out from the ground.</div>
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I don't know what I'm going to knit with these yet, but they will probably turn into something for the baby. I tried to keep the colors relatively neutral, but who doesn't love a baby boy or girl in bright colors? I can't wait to see how these knit up and I will definitely be attempting this speckling technique again. Until I find the proper projects I will just continue looking at the yarns and dreaming of warmer weather and all the pretty colors it brings.</div>
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Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-68999447863136930072014-02-21T14:26:00.001-06:002014-02-21T14:26:42.792-06:00This Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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This week was very long. Monday was the epitome of Mondays - I wasn't feeling great and work was crazy and I knew Tuesday was right around the corner. Because Tuesday we had to wake up at 4am, which greeted us with a dense fog covering the neighborhood. Apparently we live in a valley because as soon as we hit the highway, visibility was clear. The early morning gave me a chance to catch up on a bunch of things at work and then I visited the <a href="http://annamariahorner.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">mothership</a> to pick up some fabric and plans for a new quilt project. </div>
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Wednesday brought another day of work as well as a box full of yarn. The grocery store didn't have what I needed for dinner (what a pain!) so they gave me a $10 gift card for the inconvenience (how nice!) By the time I got home, I was exhausted from the last few days and all I could muster after a late dinner was some easy knitting and Olympic watching. I cast-on a lightweight sweater for the baby with my new yarn and I love the way it looks so far.</div>
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Thursday brought 70 degree weather and a new outlook on the week. I had a baby appointment in the morning and everything checked out. Listening to the heartbeat never gets old and I love to know that all our levels and stats are where they should be. We found a foot and the baby rump, but the overall position was a bit of a mystery to the midwife. That little bony butt made an appearance Wednesday night while I was trying to relax on the couch - rumbling back and forth across the top of my belly. My mom was concerned to hear her grandbaby is already twerking! </div>
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After my appointment I set to work drafting a pattern for the new project I mentioned above. It wasn't as straight forward as we had hoped, but after a lot of math and a bit of a redesign, I made it work. I use my middle school geometry and algebra a lot when quilting, so thanks to those teachers. I'm sorry I don't remember your names.<br />
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After enjoying open windows all day, the evening brought in severe weather complete with tornado sirens and uninterrupted weather coverage. I retreated to our only "safe place" - the downstairs half bath. Which is not the most comfortable place to spend half an hour. Knitting on the toilet is also not the easiest, but I managed to get a few rows in while the storm passed.<br />
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Which brings us to Friday. I'll work on the quilt for a bit, teach my piano lesson, run some errands, and see what the rest of the day holds. The storm brought a cold front through, but this weekend looks to be a bit warmer and I hope I can open up the windows again and enjoy the fresh air while I work.<br />
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Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-19668651883295657272014-02-16T16:57:00.002-06:002014-02-16T16:57:21.087-06:00Newborn Knits<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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After years of knitting socks, I have acquired quite a stash of tiny leftover balls of yarn. I've used them for different projects, but I have a new favorite: The newborn hat! </div>
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Oh yeah, and tiny socks. </div>
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The beauty of baby knits is how fast they knit, how little yarn they use, and how sweet they look. I have knit a few already and have more on the way. </div>
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This little rainbow duty is made from many different sock yarns. I just knit a few color repeats of each and then tied on the next one. </div>
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The pattern I am using is called the <a href="http://knittygrittythoughts.typepad.com/knitty_gritty_thoughts/2010/05/free-easy-peasy-leftover-sock-newborn-hat.html" target="_blank">Easy Peasy Newborn Sock Hat</a> and here is a <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/brittney/easy-peasy-newborn-sock-hat" target="_blank">link to my project on Ravelry</a>. </div>
Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-8133511141758836672014-02-08T01:19:00.001-06:002014-02-08T13:11:53.685-06:00All of Them<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0qpX1AB7Dkc/UvXabnpNY0I/AAAAAAAAD_M/IVk2IaaSeE0/s640/blogger-image--1903072224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0qpX1AB7Dkc/UvXabnpNY0I/AAAAAAAAD_M/IVk2IaaSeE0/s640/blogger-image--1903072224.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">In an attempt to get control of, and use up, my yarn stash, I took all those odd bits of leftover cotton yarn and wound them into new assorted balls. Some people in the knitting community call it a magic cake, I think it's more of a magic onion because each layer brings a new surprise color. Some of the balls were completely random - I just reached over and blindly grabbed the next color. Others, like some above, were selected with a bit more thought, combining like colors or themes - ie, all muted colors, or all bright colors together. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I knitted and crocheted a few dishcloths from these surprise balls and I love the fun, scrappy feel they bring to my kitchen. Some are hideous and some are pretty, but they all wash dishes just the same and they all used up a small part of my overflowing stash. I can knit a whole dishcloth out of a little less than one of these balls, so I just tie those leftovers on to the next ball and start all over again. I plan to keep going until I completely run out of cotton yarn and then comes the real fun - restocking! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">As I knit each new color section, I remember the original recipient of many of the original dishcloths - specific colors for specific people - moms, aunts, grandmas, cousins, friends... It's nice to think a little part of their kitchen is also in my home. These scrappy versions are very much like a scrappy quilt made with all the cherished leftovers and memories, which also happen to be some of my favorite quilts. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I plan to spend my weekend knitting some more scrappy dishcloths while watching the Olympics. We caught a bit of the snowboarding qualifiers last night and it was so exciting to see the patriotism and competitive spirit in the athletes! I hope you have a great weekend and Go Team USA! </span></div>Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-72683566104182757172014-01-31T14:56:00.001-06:002014-01-31T14:58:36.260-06:00January 31If we were still living up north it would not surprise me that th temperatures are this chilly at the end of January. But as it is, we are not up north yet the weather still remains much colder than we prefer. <div><br></div><div>We stay warm with lots of tea and hot cocoa and our flannel sheets are enjoying an extended stay on our bed. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-jHaVu_VAvNQ/UuwODk1BqiI/AAAAAAAAD-g/cv32rzClKIU/s640/blogger-image--228783581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-jHaVu_VAvNQ/UuwODk1BqiI/AAAAAAAAD-g/cv32rzClKIU/s640/blogger-image--228783581.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Curt has been working hard this week, so I snuck in some sewing time to check a couple things off my list.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-BqfD47WoI_4/UuwN_l_6yXI/AAAAAAAAD-I/UAQoHFkVchU/s640/blogger-image--505996636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-BqfD47WoI_4/UuwN_l_6yXI/AAAAAAAAD-I/UAQoHFkVchU/s640/blogger-image--505996636.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>I transformed a director's chair for my parents from the original mustard yellow to a much more pleasing purple ikat-like print. I shipped it off this morning and hope it fits! I just used the old parts as a pattern, making it a quick and satisfying update (if successful). </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YqgVaeyGCGU/UuwOA8DuI2I/AAAAAAAAD-Q/tzUqkvB4G_o/s640/blogger-image-1070083297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YqgVaeyGCGU/UuwOA8DuI2I/AAAAAAAAD-Q/tzUqkvB4G_o/s640/blogger-image-1070083297.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>And how about this adorable baby quilt for friends who just had a little girl?! The back is a flannel mermaid print, which helped inspire the pinks, corals, and aquas on the front. I love this color scheme so much I might just have to make a few more. Or a big one all for myself. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-F6x4sNnTyk4/UuwOCUMj-6I/AAAAAAAAD-Y/pJKECoj02XI/s640/blogger-image--154478940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-F6x4sNnTyk4/UuwOCUMj-6I/AAAAAAAAD-Y/pJKECoj02XI/s640/blogger-image--154478940.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>I stitched it up and then quilted it yesterday. Turns out basting a quilt on the floor is not the easiest task in the world with a baby belly. Thankfully my pregnancy yoga has helped me remain somewhat agile in my rounded state. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q3j-mFIGYRo/UuwOE8tjBmI/AAAAAAAAD-o/gMmOmlrAATI/s640/blogger-image-342238570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-q3j-mFIGYRo/UuwOE8tjBmI/AAAAAAAAD-o/gMmOmlrAATI/s640/blogger-image-342238570.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>While I taught my piano lesson today, Curt ran some errands and returned with a heart donut. Delicious and cute. </div><div><br></div><div>A friend from college is visiting Nashville this weekend to audition for The Voice so she will be staying with us. I need to vacuum the house and run the dishwasher and make sure everything is ready for her arrival before I met off to work tonight. I hope you have a relaxing weekend and a fun Super Bowl Sunday! </div>Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-16488887716880534702014-01-24T15:04:00.001-06:002014-01-24T15:04:28.042-06:002014: Let's Do ThisWe won't even begin to talk about the fact that my poor blog sat abandoned for over a year ... <div>2014. New year. New blog posting. <div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--OmToMAcn4Q/UuLVSAasGFI/AAAAAAAAD9k/hkzeubZ48TE/s640/blogger-image-1687537853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--OmToMAcn4Q/UuLVSAasGFI/AAAAAAAAD9k/hkzeubZ48TE/s640/blogger-image-1687537853.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>The biggest, newest change in my life? We have a baby on the way! I'm sitting quite contently next to my husband right now, working in tandem, with a happy little baby kicking away in my belly. I'm so excited to expand our little family, and while I know it's mostly family that tunes into this space, I will try to refrain from posting everything baby. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Dw7N2qheGgs/UuLVWArgzBI/AAAAAAAAD90/ajwvYIig9DU/s640/blogger-image-1334463301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Dw7N2qheGgs/UuLVWArgzBI/AAAAAAAAD90/ajwvYIig9DU/s640/blogger-image-1334463301.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div><br></div><div>I'm still sewing, knitting, creating ... although that first trimester really kicked the creative mojo right out of me. But now I have exciting things to work on in preparation for my May due date. On the list: nursery curtains and pillows and all that good stuff, reupholster the glider I found super cheap, contInue turning my pile of scrap flannel into reusable baby wipes, keep knitting tiny baby socks, and a zillion other things I am forgetting. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MOSlsxvV9TM/UuLVUuVUp7I/AAAAAAAAD9s/tdodle8XOpI/s640/blogger-image-250851702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-MOSlsxvV9TM/UuLVUuVUp7I/AAAAAAAAD9s/tdodle8XOpI/s640/blogger-image-250851702.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Curt was away on tour for a very long time and will be heading back out soon, so in the limited time I have him home he gets to finish painting the baby's dresser, paint the glider, paint the nursery, build tv shelves, and a zillion other things I am forgetting. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vQw-VYdjmM4/UuLVQubSLSI/AAAAAAAAD9c/k8QpnqW4lXY/s640/blogger-image--2030323539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vQw-VYdjmM4/UuLVQubSLSI/AAAAAAAAD9c/k8QpnqW4lXY/s640/blogger-image--2030323539.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>So thanks for sticking around, I hope to update with some frequency and not bore you to tears. In the meantime, enjoy your weekend. We will be huddled under some warm quilts trying to stay warm in this unseasonably cold Tennessee winter weather. </div></div>Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-77242841833995818232012-09-18T11:59:00.000-05:002012-09-18T11:59:00.687-05:00Nine Patched<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Curt's family has a gorgeous stash of old family quilts around their house, and this one in particular has always been my favorite.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;">{Special thanks to Curt's little sis Cali for snapping this pic for me to reference!}</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's a simple nine-patch, set on white fabric. The fabrics are all different, but very cohesive. I've been wanting to recreate it for some time, and finally came up with the best answer I could find: use my beloved stash of Denyse Schmidt fabrics to make my own version!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">All the blocks are the same - four printed squares, five white ones.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It made for very easy chain piecing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I did a bunch at a time, working on them for a couple days.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And before I knew it, I had all the blocks I needed (56 if you are interested).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I laid it out to see how they looked and to make sure I had a good, even balance of color and such. It's still on the floor - I walk by it and move a couple blocks here and there. Once I settle on the layout I will get to work on the sashing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I love how Denyse's fabrics lend to the vintage feel of this quilt, as well as the old school pattern. And I can't wait to see it finished! </span></div>
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Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-79423101109791403962012-09-17T11:59:00.000-05:002012-09-17T11:59:10.217-05:00Dream On<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I lost my sewing mojo for a month or so there, but I think I've found it and I'm back. It was just a matter of forcing myself to stitch something, anything, together, and I now have one finished quilt top and half of another to show for it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've been hoarding a few charm packs of Dream On by Urban Chiks for Moda for quite some time now. The prints are all reproductions of vintage sheets and they are so charming. I had debated for a long time about what kind of pattern I wanted to use, but ultimately decided to just go with a simple patchwork quilt and left all the charms as squares. That also meant I didn't have to plan anything - I just randomly pieced the squares together. I also added in a couple pastel voile fabrics so I could have a nice lap size quilt.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I think I ended up doing 12X14 5" charms, resulting in a quilt that's approximately 54 X 63. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I knew I wanted to find a vintage sheet for the back, and I really lucked out in my search and found that exact yellow w/green ribbon sheet on Etsy! The original is a larger scale and a bit brighter, but it will be perfect for the back. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'm still debating how to quilt this one. Straight lines on either edge of the seam? Straight lines going diagonally through the quilt? Tie it? Any suggestions are welcome! I have some batting stashed away, so I'm planning to get it basted and ready to go this week. Hopefully by that time I will know what I want to do about quilting it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What are you working on right now? </span></div>
Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-51269652771563361652012-08-01T18:14:00.001-05:002012-08-01T18:14:30.164-05:00Finger Lickin'<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Curt left for his Australian <a href="http://www.facebook.com/curtandersonmusic" target="_blank">tour</a> a week ago which is a bummer for me, but actually big ups for my belly. See, when he goes away I can cook whatever I want - no need to worry about his picky eating habits. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Not only do I find new recipes on Pinterest, I also like to house them <a href="http://pinterest.com/brittney/yum/" target="_blank">there</a>. Here's what I've been eating for the last week.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><b>~Shrimp-stuffed avocados </b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;"><i>(Click the pics or links for Pinterest click-throughs)</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Source: <a href="http://laylita.com/recipes/2008/01/07/aguacate-relleno-con-camarones-shrimp-stuffed-avocado/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">laylita.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/brittney/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Brittney</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">YUM! I adapted the recipe a bit to accommodate the fresh veg I had on hand: red and yellow bell peppers, onion, and cucumber. I also just used the olive oil mayo I have in the fridge with cilantro and lime juice. Here's what mine looked like:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It's essentially a fancy egg salad. I ate it straight in the avocado the first night, on a sandwich the next, and munched the last of it with chips. I halved the recipe but that was still a lot of salad and I got a bit tired of it by the third day.</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">~Chicken with a Dijon/Maple Syrup sauce</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Source: <a href="http://rachelschultz.com/2012/07/11/worlds-best-chicken/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">rachelschultz.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/brittney/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Brittney</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This dish was tasty, but I don't know if it's "The World's Best Chicken" as the pin describes. I'll probably make this again though, especially since it only requires ingredients that are already in my fridge. I'll have to see if Curt likes it when he gets back. Sorry, no pictures of my own, ate it up too quick :)</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">~Orzo with Asparagus and Tomatoes</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Source: <a href="http://www.abigmouthful.com/lemon-orzo-salad-with-asparagus-and-tomatoes/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">abigmouthful.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/brittney/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Brittney</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This pin gets lots of action and now I know why - it is delicious! It was very simple to make, with lots of fresh ingredients. Here it is all chopped up and ready to go in my kitchen.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The tomatoes from my garden were especially delicious! The parsley was from my garden too :) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And there it is in my bowl, which didn't last long, and was quickly refilled. I will definitely be making this again! It was tasty hot and cold, and the leftovers tasted just as good as the first night.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">As you may be able to tell from these three, I like recipes that use simple and fresh ingredients. Even better if they are growing in my backyard! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">What are your favorite summer recipes?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v481/BrittneyMac/signature-1.jpg" /></span></div>Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-22574400558626585882012-07-23T14:04:00.002-05:002012-07-23T14:04:21.249-05:00Done Deal and Moving On.<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I finished my <a href="http://brittneyanderson.blogspot.com/2012/07/summer-socks.html" target="_blank">watermelon socks</a> prior to the weekend and took all day Sunday to rekindle my relationship with Pretty Little Liars on Netflix and start a new pair of socks.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;">{Pattern: My adapted version of <a href="http://dreamsinfiber.blogspot.com/2009/07/hermoines-everyday-socks-free-pattern.html" target="_blank">Hermione's Everyday Socks</a> | Yarn: Knit Picks Stroll Handpainted in <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/cfyarns/yarn_display.cfm?ID=5420193" target="_blank">Watermelon</a>}</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I'm head over heels in love with this new pair - not only are the colors fabulous, the yarn is lush, and the socks are fitting like a dream. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;">{Pattern: My adapted toe-up, smaller-sized version of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/jeck" target="_blank">Jeck</a> | Yarn: Knit Picks Felici Sock Yarn in <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/cfyarns/yarn_display.cfm?ID=5420165" target="_blank">Tiki</a>}</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">That yarn would make an adorable baby girl sweater - I might buy some now while it's on sale and stash it away for the next baby girl to come along in the family. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">What are you working on this week?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v481/BrittneyMac/signature-1.jpg" /></span></div>Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4580140999077403341.post-33333265467830653762012-07-17T09:00:00.000-05:002012-07-17T09:00:13.658-05:00Summer Socks<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I have been knitting up a storm this summer, and I have a few new pairs of socks to show for it.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This pair was a very long work in progress. The socks are made from the little remnant balls of yarn left from other sock projects. I knit two different yarns at a time, alternating rows, then swapping out one color for another, creating a blend of colors. It was a huge pain the bun, what with carrying around umpteen tiny balls of yarn and weaving in all those ends, but I think it was worth it. The <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/1682178@N23/" target="_blank">Scrap Vomit</a> of socks, if you will.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The pattern I used is called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/charade" target="_blank">Charade</a>, which I modified to work toe-up in a narrower size.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Next up was a very quick pair of toe-less, heel-less socks, perfect for those nights when I want something on my feet but it's just too hot to wear full-on socks.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I modified these <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/yoga-socks-153" target="_blank">Yoga Socks</a> so it's just a straight knit throughout and smaller fit.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The yarn is Knit Picks <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/cfyarns/yarn_display.cfm?ID=5420132" target="_blank">Palette</a> in Semolina *I think*</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The yoga socks were really just a stash project to tide me over until a package arrived with new yarn. Included in the package was a couple skeins of <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/cfyarns/yarn_display.cfm?ID=5420173" target="_blank">Imagination</a> - one of my favorite soft & squishy yarns. I have another pair in the Frog Prince colorway from years ago (now discontinued), and I couldn't wait to start knitting with this gorgeous Unicorn colorway.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I dove right into some late night bed knitting, as well as a few unusual spots.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The toes and feet were knit while waiting in line to see Ed Sheeran perform in Nashville. We waited outside in 90+ heat for about four hours. Needless to say, I got a lot of knitting done and the show was a-mah-zing.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The last half of these socks were knit in the car on our way to Gatlinburg, as well as while driving and hiking through the Smoky Mountains. The pattern in my own design - a simple lace in toe-up. I kept these anklets because I only had 219 yards of yarn :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">That brings me to my latest project, which is still on the needles:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><img src="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m66o0k3PpY1qzdf8bo1_1280.jpg" width="225" /><img src="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m6bccz3IfD1qzdf8bo1_1280.jpg" width="225" /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The yarn is <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/yarns/Stroll_Hand_Painted_Sock_Yarn__D5420193.html" target="_blank">Stroll</a> Hand Painted in Watermelon and the 462 yards goes a long way on my tiny feet. My plan was to knit until I ran out of yarn, but I think I might end up with weird knee socks if I do that.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I think I'm about ready to start the cuff, which will give the socks another inch or two and then I'll call it good. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Congratulations! You made it to the end of this post about socks! Go pour yourself a cold one and get someone to pat you on the back. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v481/BrittneyMac/signature-1.jpg" /></span></div>Brittneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17473268023198606378noreply@blogger.com0