Saturday was great (minus the rain, hail, thunder, and lightning!), as I spent the day learning the basics of crochet from my Grandma M.! I've got the single crochet, double crochet, and the half double crochet stitches under my belt. I'll be the first to admit that took a lot of patience on both our parts, practice, and chanting the stitch directions out loud (to myself), but it's officially in my memory bank!
I hope I remember this story correctly (and Grandma if I goof it up let me know and I'll revise it!)...my Grandma learned to crochet when she was 10 years old, with twine! She said that when her mother bought lettuce that it would be wrapped in brown paper and tied with twine. Upon her mom's arrival home, the package would be untied and the twine would be saved and added to the existing twine skein (from previous trips for lettuce). How cool is that? My Grandma has come a long way from crocheting with twine, as she makes amazing afghans, baby clothes, and baby accessories...just to name a few!
Should you want to learn how to crochet, or are in need of video refresher courses, take a minute or two to check out Teresa's additions to the crochet world, as it is one of the best resources I've stumbled upon!
February 28, 2010
February 25, 2010
DIY Successes!
Saturday's Bridal Shower was a success- woo hoo! Many of the Shower elements were handmade including the favors, the centerpieces, advice cards, recipe cards, all of the games, and the invitations (which I already revealed). Today I'd like to showcase the graphic projects as well as the game stationery, and as the day of photos trickle in (I must admit that I forgot my camera when I left the house!) I'll do a separate post.
I'm a lover of games (what about you?)! Three games were created for the Shower- How Much Do You Know About Megan?, Purse Scavenger Hunt (my favorite!), and Gift Bingo. It's just my opinion, but I think game #1 and #2 were the favorites among the guests. Gift Bingo was played later in the afternoon, and with 50+ guests, I think it was hard for many to see Megan opening the presents (you live and learn- right?).
First up are the recipe cards, which were sent with the invitation. The color theme of Megan's shower was black, red, and white polka dots (hence the invitations and recipe cards!). The recipe cards were created in Photoshop, with use of a digital (although slightly modified) polka dot paper background. I'm super happy with how the cards came out, as they look great by themselves and even better in Megan's new red recipe box! :)
I also created the Words of Wisdom graphic below, and printed them on small cards for the experienced guests to share valuable marriage advice with the Bride-to-be. I originally spotted the idea for the Words of Wisdom in the bridal aisle at Michael's. They directed all to their website for directions where it said something to the tune of "find chat bubble, and print on cards". Needless to say I was frustrated, as where in the world was I supposed to find a stylish chat bubble? I took it upon myself and created the graphic in Photoshop. I hope Megan references the advice cards in the future!
I'm a lover of games (what about you?)! Three games were created for the Shower- How Much Do You Know About Megan?, Purse Scavenger Hunt (my favorite!), and Gift Bingo. It's just my opinion, but I think game #1 and #2 were the favorites among the guests. Gift Bingo was played later in the afternoon, and with 50+ guests, I think it was hard for many to see Megan opening the presents (you live and learn- right?).
February 23, 2010
First Etsy Purchase!
(Image from Sylver Designs)
My Grandma M. and I have a 'learn how to crochet' date on Saturday that I'm definitely looking forward too! I checked out a book from the library and have been using YouTube videos as a tutorial, but I think I need someone to walk me through the motions!
February 18, 2010
Lemon Overload!
HELP! The branches of our {tiny} lemon tree are overloaded with ripe fruit. I enjoy making fresh lemonade (although I haven't made any lately- shhh don't tell anyone), and I also love adding lemons to the garbage disposal, making the kitchen smell nice and fresh.
How do you use lemons?
February 16, 2010
Italy Is On My Mind!
I opened a new body wash Monday morning, and have been so overwhelmed with the smell (in a good way!) as it's taken me back to my days in Florence, Italy!
The fresh crisp smell reminds me of the beautiful architecture, the romantic language, the busy grocery stores, the clean air, the Tuscan countryside. The busy pizzerias, the outdoor Farmer's Markets, the Vespas, friendships, and so much more!
To add even more reality to my memories, a new bakery/cafe opened in the neighboring building at work (which I walk by every morning on my way into the office)...and they make their own bread daily! I have to say that the bakeries on every street corner in Florence were definitely my #1 weakness! ;)
The fresh crisp smell reminds me of the beautiful architecture, the romantic language, the busy grocery stores, the clean air, the Tuscan countryside. The busy pizzerias, the outdoor Farmer's Markets, the Vespas, friendships, and so much more!
To add even more reality to my memories, a new bakery/cafe opened in the neighboring building at work (which I walk by every morning on my way into the office)...and they make their own bread daily! I have to say that the bakeries on every street corner in Florence were definitely my #1 weakness! ;)
February 12, 2010
Learning to Crochet!
With the endless inspiration from Etsy, I've found myself very inspired to learn how to crochet! With the help of my Grandma M. and this book (on loan from the library!) I hope to be crocheting away in no time! I already have yarn and a set of hooks (thanks Grandma!), and now just need to wait for my finger to heal a bit more.
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I'm in love with the sweet Mary Janes, and the cute baby boy loafers! The puppy dog slippers are quite cute too, and every pair of shoes needs a matching beanie! If all goes well, I think I might have found my staple baby shower gift! :)
February 9, 2010
Invitations!
I'm happy to announce that the five years I spent in architecture school have payed off, as I recently put my mad Photoshop skills (giggle giggle) to use. :) After browsing Etsy one lovely afternoon I fell in love with the idea and design of digital invitations, thus I put myself to work and came up with the following...
The middle polka dot image is a Photoshop file, which was saved as a JPEG and printed in the photo department at our local Sam's Club. The 'photo' was then backed onto red card stock and voila!
Just like old times I enjoyed the time I spent working in Photoshop, and hope to have the opportunity to do some more design work in the future! :)
The middle polka dot image is a Photoshop file, which was saved as a JPEG and printed in the photo department at our local Sam's Club. The 'photo' was then backed onto red card stock and voila!
Just like old times I enjoyed the time I spent working in Photoshop, and hope to have the opportunity to do some more design work in the future! :)
February 7, 2010
The 'D's Have Arrived!
Remember this post? Although it's a bit embarrassing that it took me this LONG to accomplish hanging up my 'D' collection, I have to say I'm in love with the display above the computer desk! Mr. D and I hung up the collection Saturday evening and it has totally transformed the rather drab room! I'm still on the hunt for more 'D's, so if you come across any please let me know! :)
In addition, the new bedding I ordered from Kohl's, for the spare room, arrived and exceeded my expectations! Hopefully I'll have the time/energy to put it on the bed this week!
P.S.- My stitches come out on Tuesday...hopefully I'll be sewing in no time! ;)
In addition, the new bedding I ordered from Kohl's, for the spare room, arrived and exceeded my expectations! Hopefully I'll have the time/energy to put it on the bed this week!
P.S.- My stitches come out on Tuesday...hopefully I'll be sewing in no time! ;)
February 4, 2010
The Gypsy Gripper
I think it's safe to say that I'm in NEED of one of these, rather than it just being a want!
"The Gypsy Gripper has a comfortable grip handle, and two large round suction cups with handy lock & release levers. Just press the suction cups to any plastic ruler with a smooth solid surface, and then flip the levers to lock The Gypsy Gripper in place. Now you can move the ruler quickly, and easily hold it on the exact position with gentle downward pressure. Your ruler hand will be up and away from the fabric, and out of harm's way if you slip with the cutter. When you need to switch to another ruler, just flip the locking levers to release The Gypsy Gripper."
By chance do any of you use The Gypsy Gripper? If so, I'd love to hear your thoughts/review of the product!
February 3, 2010
Sneak Peek...
I'm not big on surprises, but hope that you are as I promised to reveal some of the do-it-yourself projects that I've been working on for my sister's shower. First up are the invitations! Here's a sneak peek as I have to do some edits to the location and RSVP information, no offense to any as if it was my shower I'd love to have ALL of you join me, however it's my sister's and I don't think she feels the same way I do about my blog friends. ;o)
February 1, 2010
Ouchy Mama!
I have some sad news to report, as this weekend proved to be quite trying for Mr. D and I. I was cutting fabric Saturday evening, to make a reusable shopping bag for ME, when the ruler slipped and the rotary blade met the side of my left index finger. Mr. D and I rushed to Urgent Care where I received 3 stitches (my first experience with stitches at the ripe ol' age of 27!). I'm able to rest in the fact that I wasn't making a 'stupid' or dangerous cut as I was just trimming the selvedge edges off; however I know that the blade was much duller than it should have been, which makes me think twice about being so frugal, as the monetary cost of this accident could have bought years (and years!) supply of rotary blades.
Every doctor I've seen since the incident reminds me how lucky I am, as it could have been much worse. I know that deep down inside, but am still upset and quite emotional. I believe I just need to come with terms with the fact that my side-less left index finger does not change the person I am, nor should I spend the rest of my life trying to hide it. I know that God has a great plan for my life and that he always has a reason. I continue to pray that he reveals his reason; until that time I have a couple of hunches as to what he wanted me to see/learn!
Thanks for listening to me, and to all of my dear family and Facebook friends, I'm sorry to repeat myself over and over! My momma tells me that I need to get back on the horse, and I know she's right. Sewing makes me happy and gifting handmade gifts makes me even happier. My sewing machine will soon meet my dining room table, but until then I'll be working on healing and accepting my newly shaped finger. Please be careful!
Every doctor I've seen since the incident reminds me how lucky I am, as it could have been much worse. I know that deep down inside, but am still upset and quite emotional. I believe I just need to come with terms with the fact that my side-less left index finger does not change the person I am, nor should I spend the rest of my life trying to hide it. I know that God has a great plan for my life and that he always has a reason. I continue to pray that he reveals his reason; until that time I have a couple of hunches as to what he wanted me to see/learn!
Thanks for listening to me, and to all of my dear family and Facebook friends, I'm sorry to repeat myself over and over! My momma tells me that I need to get back on the horse, and I know she's right. Sewing makes me happy and gifting handmade gifts makes me even happier. My sewing machine will soon meet my dining room table, but until then I'll be working on healing and accepting my newly shaped finger. Please be careful!