tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81297678751077287312024-03-13T09:43:22.280-07:00Homemade SerenitySimple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.comBlogger319125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-83361236804180784842012-11-19T09:02:00.002-08:002012-11-19T09:02:49.085-08:00Kindergarten Day 50<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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How did that happen so fast?</div>
Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-6373479908959316502012-11-17T12:49:00.001-08:002012-11-17T12:49:17.801-08:00One Kings Lane<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Just a quick share today as we're on our way to a birthday party.<br />
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My shop, Green Baboon Designs had the opportunity to work with the amazing online home decor site, <a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/">One Kings Lane</a> for the holiday season. You can find my felted acorn ornaments<a href="https://www.onekingslane.com/sales/17021"> here</a>. Get them fast though, because once they sell out on the site there aren't any more available this season. <br />
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Cheers!<br />
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Simple Mama</div>
Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-30111672949290736322012-10-22T01:38:00.003-07:002012-10-22T01:38:39.524-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
As it seems to do lately, life just keeps flying by. <br />
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We're well into October (Hello! My birthday month! Feel free to send presents) and this is the first time I've had to myself to sit down and blog anything. And at 1:15 a.m. no less. <br />
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The Boy is thriving in kindergarten. He's made friends, loves his teacher, thinks P.E. is awesome. We had a few moments of worry about another student on his bus initially, but he worked through that problem with a grace and maturity that most fully grown adults lack. <br />
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Our mornings have settled into a wonderful routine. After dinner, lunch is packed for the next day and placed in the fridge. We look at the lunch offerings and he chooses the school hot lunch one day a week. Clothes are picked and placed on a special bedroom chair for easy changing the next morning. A story is read each night at 7 p.m. By 7:30 it's lights out. Because everything is prepared the night before, our mornings tend to run smoothly. We have a little hiccup now and then, but thus far we seem to have this getting-to-public-school-on-time thing down. <br />
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We even carve out a bit of space for this:<br />
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Yes, we're doing a kindergarten picture a day - these are just some of them. Totally his idea. I particularly like Day 26. It was a Monday.<br />
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Sometimes I remember to pull out the fancy camera. Sometimes I grab a quick shot with my camera or ipad. We change the number on the chalk board each night so it's not one more thing we're trying to remember in the morning. My plan at the end of the school year is to create a photo book using Mixbook or Shutterfly. Cool present for the grandparents, no? <br />
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I'm working (contemplating) getting back into the blogging habit. It seems like the world rushed by at break neck pace this summer and I just didn't have enough hours in the day.<br />
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Until I see you all here again,<br />
Simple Mama</div>
Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-37870894564388552902012-09-07T10:11:00.001-07:002012-09-12T11:34:40.422-07:00Kindergarten....already? <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
A month again since my last post. So much has been happening. Our little man had a tonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, and tubes in both ears two weeks ago. Recovery was rough. And while this mama was in the hospital with him I managed to pick up a raging case of strep throat and double ear infections. <br />
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Yes. Things have been awesome around here.<br />
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Which is why, when my boy started feeling better a few days ago I was thrilled. <br />
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Today was his first day of kindergarten. I don't think anything could have held him back. He was SO excited. Excited for the school bus, excited for new friends, excited for a new teacher, excited to learn new things.<br />
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Do you remember when you last had that kind of excitement about life? About new possibilities?<br />
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It was amazing to see. Inspiring to witness. A little heart breaking because my baby is growing up so fast. <br />
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This journey is a whirlwind.<br />
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Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-88195888403775977282012-08-06T14:12:00.000-07:002012-08-06T14:12:24.915-07:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Bless me interwebs, for I have sinned. It's been over a month since my last posting.<br />
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We've been busy playing with Legos, reading books, participating in dance recitals and swim lessons, canning, cooking, going to the gym, thinking about washing piles of laundry, etc., etc., etc., We even threw in a round of illness and a severely sprained ankle. <br />
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In other words, we've been busy living life. <br />
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I did want to take a moment and share two recent photos. The first is of my precious little boy and his dance troupe. We signed him up for Ballet/Tap level one after he went to a take-your-friend-to-dance-class event. He loved it so much that he wanted to go every week. What's a mama to do? <br />
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I love this photo so much. The thing that blows my mind is that all of these kids are within a year of each other. 4 and 5 years old. My boy, who is 5 in this picture is clearly on his way to becoming a giant. Is this what happens when you breastfeed for 2.5 years? <br />
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Anyhow...I digress. Dance is over for the summer, but he's graduated into Ballet/Tap II and has asked to continue. So we will. <br />
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The second photo I want to share with you, dear readers, is of the honey we have brewing on our counter. The Boy and I went to a local shop just outside of town and picked up a gallon of local, raw honey. We came home and poured the honey into quart jars over organic vanilla beans and organic sage freshly plucked from our garden. The vanilla honey will be a nice variation from our usual this fall. The sage honey is specifically for the upcoming sniffles, sore throats and colds that accompany a new school year and winter season. <br />
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I'm surprised by how much honey we consume here- between canning, tea, peanut butter and honey sandwiches and as a sweet topper to oatmeal, ice cream, and crisps, we often go through 2 - 3 gallons a year. <br />
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I hope your summer is keeping you sunny and warm,<br />
Simple Mama</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-67938590128790086712012-07-01T13:41:00.002-07:002012-07-03T08:48:25.379-07:00Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil - Giveaway! Ends 7-13<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's time for a giveaway folks!<br />
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I recently had the opportunity to receive and sample <a href="http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/virgin_coconut_oil.htm">Tropical Traditons Gold Label Coconut Oil</a>, and let me share with you how wonderful it is! Creamy, smooth, light and imparting a hint of that tropical coconut flavor I love....this is truly some of the best coconut oil I've had the pleasure of tasting - or using. <br />
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If you haven't tried coconut oil, you definitely should. We use it for a variety of applications in our home, not all of them cooking (although it's great for that too!)<br />
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When I opened my heavy 32oz glass jar of <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%28http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/%29">Tropical Traditions</a> Gold Label Coconut Oil I knew exactly what my first order of business would be - I set about making some much needed, all natural lotion bars. In a few days I'll post a tutorial with my favorite lotion bar recipe, but I will tell you now this coconut oil imparted a lovely texture and scent to the bars - I was just thrilled with the outcome. I have plans to meet with a friend of mine and spend a whole afternoon making more for personal use.<br />
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I've also used my new coconut oil as a dairy free "butter" for an evening snack of salted popcorn. It does give the popcorn a slight coconut-y flavor, but both the 5 year old and I loved it. My husband? Not so much...but he's a well known diary connoisseur so I wasn't really surprised. For my son, who has a dairy intolerance, it was the perfect solution for his popcorn snacking needs. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/virgin_coconut_oil.htm" target="_blank">
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Win 1 quart of Gold Label
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Tropical Traditions is America's source for <a href="http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/" target="_blank">coconut oil</a>.
Their Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil is hand crafted in small batches by family producers, and it is the highest quality coconut oil they offer. You can read more about how virgin coconut oil is different from other coconut oils on their
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Since the FDA does not want us to discuss the health benefits of coconut oil on a page where it is being sold or given away, here is the best website to read about the <a href="http://coconutoil.com/" target="_blank">health benefits of coconut oil</a>.<br />
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To enter the contest, fill out the form below. You must sign up for the Tropical Traditions Sales Newsletter. Earn extra entries by commenting on this blog post and by following this blog, Homemade Serenity. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: <span class="il">Tropical</span> <span class="il">Traditions</span>
provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was
under no obligation to review it if I so chose. Nor was I under any
obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in
return for the free product.</span><br />
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<br /></div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-72728985536533590442012-06-23T20:50:00.003-07:002012-06-23T20:50:41.338-07:00Silent Saturday - Preschool Graduation<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
They really do grow up fast, don't they?<br />
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<br /></div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-75559027641276647852012-06-18T15:23:00.002-07:002012-06-18T15:26:33.145-07:00Fun With Science<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Sick kid = science project time. Baking soda, vinegar tinted with liquid food coloring, plastic water dropper. A whole hour of quiet, focused fun. </div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-80407948611955451532012-05-16T11:48:00.000-07:002012-05-16T11:48:27.483-07:00The Lego Party - Part Two<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
When I asked my friend <a href="http://amywilbanks.blogspot.com/2012/05/lego-heaven-birthday-party.html">Amy</a> to take photos of H's 5th birthday party I knew she'd do a great job, but I wasn't prepared for just how beautifully she'd capture all the special moments that made up that great day. There's just so much to share and tell, so I'll jump right back in.<br />
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After we spent some time outside, it became clear that the kids (and adults) were getting warm. We moved everyone inside for our version of Pin the Tail on the Donkey...only this time it was Pin the Birthday Number on the Minifig. I found a basic black and white outline of a classic minifigure online and had my local print shop enlarge it for me. Using the same Avery round label stickers we used for the water bottles, we made #5 stickers for each child. We wrote their name on the front of the sticker and had them try to get as close the number 5 on the minifig's chest as possible. We had a couple of peekers...but it was all great fun. <br />
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The kids cooled off, and it was back outside for cupcakes and singing.<br />
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There are those stickers again! I had NO idea they'd come in so handy. The cupcakes were homemade, white wrappers were gluten free vanilla and red wrappers were regular vanilla. Can you tell it was my first time frosting cupcakes? My best friend drove down to help with final party prep a night early and we laughed and laughed about how "artistic" and "homemade" they looked. <br />
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We played "Guess How Many Legos?"<br />
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And just generally had fun.....<br />
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We made our way back inside for presents. I was torn about opening presents during the party. When I was a kid, we always opened presents during the party, but it seems that this is out of fashion nowadays. I've been to many parties where the presents sit discretely out of the way until after all the kids leave. I'm not sure the reason for this change in social norm, but I decided I wanted my son to open his gifts while his friends were there. If for no other reason than for a gentle lesson in grace and thankfulness. And, it seemed, all the kids wanted him to open their gifts while they were at the party as well. So that's what we did.<br />
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After we finished unwrapping presents, we had two things happening simultaneously. The mother of all balloon fights broke out, and kids took turns having their photos snapped in our homemade photo booth - which was really just a large piece of wrapping paper tacked to the wall. It was noisy, crazy, exhilarating fun!<br />
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It was such a perfect day. The kids all had a great time giggling, playing, socializing, running around and gorging themselves on sweets. My beautiful boy told me later that it was his most favorite day ever, and is busy "planning" his next birthday party. Me? I'd be remiss if I didn't admit I've already started thinking about the next party too. I had as much fun as he did. Thank you again to everyone who helped put this party together...from decorations, to sweet treats, to set up, to photography. You helped us make some very special memories together. </div>
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Simple Mama</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-51932262141870060242012-05-15T11:17:00.003-07:002012-05-15T16:15:22.046-07:00The Lego Party - Part One<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I feel like we've been prepping for this party for months now. I knew I wanted to make it special for Hunter. My birthday always fell right around Halloween, and while I don't remember much about the presents and gifts, I do remember my parents always invited a ton of friends over and made the party incredibly special. I wanted that so much for my own son, especially now, knowing that he's just at that age where he's going to start having memories of his childhood.<br />
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*We always order his birthday crown from my dear friend, Kelli at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ohsewsweetcreations?ref=ss_profile">Oh Sew Sweet Creations</a>*<br />
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With so much going on the day of the party I figured I wouldn't have much time to snap photos, so I enlisted the help of my friend and photographer, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/amywilbanksphotography">Amy Wilbanks</a> to document the day. She did such a stunning job capturing the little details and amazing fun we had. <br />
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We sent out invitations my techie inclined husband created. Simple postcards printed at home that could be hand delivered or mailed depending on the destination:<br />
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I scoured the web and Pinterest for inspiration. There are so many great Lego birthday party ideas out there. I borrowed from some of my favorite parties and just ran with the rest.<br />
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Our dessert table was so much fun to put together. The weather has been gorgeous here in the Pacific Northwest for several days straight, so rather than keep all the kids couped up inside, (which was the plan if it rained) we held the party both indoors and out. It was a last minute decision to move the dessert table outside, but it really opened up space in our house for the kids to play and move around freely - even if it was a bit windy at times outside. <br />
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The Lego Head cookies created by our friend Lisa, from <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%09http://www.halfacrehomestead.com">Half Acre Homestead</a>. The Lego men/women cookies created by our friend Joi at <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%09http://www.robotslovecupcakes.com">Robots Love Cupcakes</a>. I created the DIY Lego marshmallow head pops from the tutorial at <a href="http://www.livinglocurto.com/2010/06/lego-cake-pops/">Living Locurto</a>. The "Happy Birthday" flags are from <a href="http://homemadeserenity.blogspot.com/2012/05/lego-party-part-one.html">Anders Ruff</a></div>
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The sweet Lego brick cookies were sent by my friend, Anna. The edible minifigs I made using Wilton candy melts and a Lego minifig silicon mold. <br />
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I created Lego straw toppers using some free Lego head clip art I found online (Just type in "free Lego clip art" in Google.) We filled square acrylic containers up with various Lego colored candies as part of the buffet. The Lego brick candy can be found on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Concord-Confections-Candy-Blocks-Lbs/dp/B0000DJT3C">Amazon.</a> We layered pudding in the classic yellow, red, and blue Lego colors - although in the above picture it's been mixed a bit after one of the kids was eating it. I dipped giant pretzel sticks in more Wilton candy melts and sprinkled them with coordinating colored sugar - they were also placed in the square acrylic containers. Our water bottle labels were handmade. I cut 2 inch strips of bright card stock and placed a hand made sticker (Avery round lables) dead center. I sealed it to the water bottles using clear packing tape. Here's a good <a href="http://www.jasonandshawnda.com/foodiebride/archives/10197">water bottle label tutorial.</a><br />
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Most of our decorations were handmade. From the giant Lego artwork created using old canvases, empty satin ribbon spools, craft paper, puffy alphabet letters and spray paint, to the paper garland from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/hoopdaloop">Hoop Da Loop</a> on Etsy and my friend Lavina. Our home looked like a Craft Warehouse and Lego factory exploded in it for several weeks prior to the party.<br />
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This great poster with Hunter's name came from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/andersruff">Anders Ruff.</a></div>
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Once the kids all arrived it was time to get down to some serious party fun. They all received Lego minfig t-shirts I created using iron on transfer paper. A few of the little girls opted not to wear their t-shirt during the
party in lieu of their cute party dresses. Who could blame them? I made goody bags to look like Lego bricks and printed out each child's name in a free Lego font I found online, coloring around their name in yellow to give it the classic Lego appearance. Inside each gift bag I placed some Lego crayons, stickers and handmade Lego rings and necklaces for each child to wear.<br />
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Party bags securely in little hands, it was time to get down to the business of partying. We took the kids outside for photos in the <a href="http://www.homemadeserenity.blogspot.com/2012/04/more-party-planning.html">Lego Minifig Place-Your-Face</a> cardboard cutout I created. This was a huge hit for parents and kids alike. They all lined up to wait patiently for their turn to be photographed. </div>
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We attempted a relay race where two teams split up and ran a Lego atop a spoon down the length of the yard and placed it into a bowl on the other side.<br />
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Notice I said, "attempted." The first few runners were totally on point, dashing across the lawn. But apparently the waiting in line was too much for the other 4 and 5 year olds, because soon, this is what we found:<br />
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I should have known that the big bin of Legos would be more fun than an organized relay race!<br />
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I let the kids play for a bit, and then we moved onto the pinata! Picture high pitched excited squeals and a raucous round of, "Pinaaaaaaata!!!!!" when the kids saw it come out. I opted for a pull string pinata because, well...I'm just leery of 5 year olds and sticks. Call me crazy. I followed the pinata tutorial <a href="http://deliacreates.blogspot.com/2011/01/lego-pull-pinata.html">From Delia Creates</a> and it turned out great!<br />
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We opted to fill the pinata with goody bags instead of loose candy. Each bag contained a little Lego notepad, a Lego Memory game, and some Lego brick candy. All the kids picked out one bag - no hurt feelings because someone wasn't quick enough to gather up loose candy. Not pushing, frantic grabbing, shoving, etc. The pinata, because it wasn't bashed open with a stick can be used as a decoration in my sons bedroom now that the party is over. (Did I mention he's getting a bedroom remodel in Lego paraphernalia?) <br />
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Part 2 still to come...<br />
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Simple Mama</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-54932533741873141472012-05-14T17:16:00.000-07:002012-05-14T17:16:25.976-07:00Ikea Hack - Lack Lego Table<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've been looking and looking for a suitable Lego table for my son. Something that was durable, lightweight, large enough for some serious Lego building marathons, but not so big as to overwhelm our living space - and finally, not terribly expensive. <br />
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Everything I found online was either hideous, over $100, or huge! I searched Craigslist. I searched Freecycle. I looked on Ebay and Etsy. Nothing fit the bill. <br />
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I contemplated building my own, but I'm not terribly handy with a saw or drill. And by not terribly handy, I mean I didn't want to end up in the emergency room missing a finger. <br />
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On a whim, I typed in Lego Table on Pinterest and was rewarded with this <a href="http://www.ikeahackers.net/2010/08/lack-lego-table.html">Ikea hack</a>. <br />
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Yes! Something I could do. No sawing, drilling, painting, or sweating. Ikea is located just across the river from us. Lack tables? $10 bucks. Amazon Prime for the four 10 inch Lego base plates? $23. The epoxy I already had. Far under the $100.00 Lego tables I'd been eying online. <br />
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I ordered the base plates and made my way to Ikea a few days later while The Boy was at preschool. So excited was I, that I put the table together the same day I had all the materials gathered. Ikea Lack tables are amazingly lightweight. The table itself measures 21x21 - which allows just a bit of red(!!) to peek out from around the sides of the base plates. <br />
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I used <a href="http://www.jdindustrialsupply.com/e6000adhesive.html">E 6000 adesive epoxy </a>to glue all the base plates securely to the table. Before it set, I made sure to space the base plates with blue Lego pieces. This is VERY important. If you butt them right up next to each other where the 4 corners meet your Legos won't lock down correctly. You can see the small gap that is necessary for interlocking Lego pieces in the first picture, dead center. <br />
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The final table is totally awesome if I do say so. It's already receiving a ton of play and was a perfect addition to our Lego party we had this weekend. (Those photos coming soon.) <br />
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If you build it....<br />
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Simple Mama <br />
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<br /></div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-5569132838829480602012-05-08T09:37:00.000-07:002012-05-08T09:37:07.657-07:00And He's Five!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Happy 5th Birthday to my spirited, curious, life loving, beautiful son, Hunter!<br />
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I love you more than my own life. You are the best part of my day. . <br />
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With his daddy, celebrating his birthday a day early since we have parent/teacher conferences tonight.</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-6456457494145891522012-05-01T11:47:00.002-07:002012-05-01T11:55:38.428-07:00Featured in Baby Talk Magazine<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Wow...time really gets away from me. I completely meant to post about this last month. In April my Etsy store, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/greenbaboondesigns">Green Baboon Designs</a> was featured in the Naturals edition of Baby Talk Magazine. What an amazing honor to be included in this great publication.<br />
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I supplied them with some of my felted Easter eggs, which were used as photo props in the spring fashion opener. Aren't those babies the cutest?!<br />
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Here are the photos from that shoot:<br />
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Thank you <a href="http://www.parenting.com/Babytalk/babytalk.jsp?genID=7">Baby Talk</a> for offering me this opportunity!<br />
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Cheers,<br />
Simple Mama<br />
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<br /></div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-79711181239096040222012-04-27T15:39:00.001-07:002012-04-28T06:30:39.992-07:00More Party Planning<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've been trying to work on The Boy's Lego party a little bit at a time - between Etsy orders, a little boy sick with a fever, tackling Mount Washmore, dirty dishes, cleaning chicken coops, yard work, etc., etc. <br />
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Our house it seems, is in a perpetual state of disarray. Legos scattered everywhere. Half finished projects strewn about. Glue sticks mixed in with minifigs and Waldorf toys. Welcome to the juxtaposition of the almost 5 year old child. Classic toys meet plastic. House meet mess. <br />
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One of the things I knew I wanted to make for the party was a balloon wreath. I've seen them floating all over Pinterest and for sale on Etsy. Being a consumate DIYer I thought for sure I could make mine cheaper than I could find it online. Do yourself a favor and heed my advice. Support a work at home Momma and buy her balloon wreath! 525 balloons and greening pins later I finally had a finished wreath - along with a sore thumb and lighter wallet. <br />
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I'm telling you now, this wreath will make an appearance at every single birthday in our home from now until the day I die. As far was wreaths go, it was easy to make but very expensive and time consuming. <br />
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I also knew I wanted to make a Lego "wreath" or rather, a door hanging to announce the birthday boy's big day. <br />
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This is what I came up with:<br />
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This? Much easier. I used a 10x10 green baseboard and made the number 5. It needed a little something extra to make it pop, so I outlined it with 1x1 black Legos. Rather than taping or gluing the ribbon to the back, I simply used industrial strength paper clips to secure a bright blue ribbon for hanging. The whole thing can be taken apart and played with later since nothing is glued down. This project I love.<br />
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And finally, a not so great picture of the Lego Place Your Face activity I've been working on. My trooper of a kid posed for the picture even though he wasn't feeling well this week. I knew I wanted to create a photo prop for all the kids, but I wasn't sure what to do. I wanted something inexpensive but colorful and fun. I ran across <a href="http://nobaddays.wordpress.com/2010/10/06/lego-party-your-face-here/">this blog post</a> at No Bad Days and knew I'd hit gold! A quick call to my local Home Depot's shipping and receiving scored me a free 8x8 piece of flat cardboard. A little primer, paint, and cutting later and the outcome was this adorable Place Your Face Lego minifig photo op.<br />
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I'll have better photos the day of the party. I'm still figuring out my new editing software and this current picture doesn't show the pretty blue sky or grassy green bottom of the photo very well - but you get the general idea. Fun times coming up! Also - I do want to note that I followed a very intricate and detailed minifig to-spec drawing when designing and painting this picture. It wasn't until it was all down and outlined that I realized my eyes were continually drawn to the Lego men's...eh....well, you know. They're just happy to see us. One of my friends refers to this picture as "Legos After Dark."<br />
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Much more to come. <br />
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Cheers,<br />
Simple Mama<br />
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<br /></div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-15946568985608754592012-04-22T20:39:00.000-07:002012-04-22T20:39:03.849-07:00Silent Sunday - Work in Progress - Place Your Face<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2Qlbmiqro-CyS8HiLeepZdC9vJjg9NPySnqqt4tSjLQIdhNlGHoJTbwm_h1Xz9NZAmZa9bYdjTq-0hYdJomu56Q7e1BgIeRnqWTSfikRXX5cr7sCaMcxUrlWtn2svUvu6VZQzhh5Uvao/s320/IMG_0126.JPG" width="320" /></div>Background next. </div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-35349806604725041362012-04-16T15:07:00.000-07:002012-04-16T15:07:23.934-07:00Planning a Lego Party<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I haven't been blogging as much lately. In part because I was busy with Etsy orders during the Easter season, and in part because I've just needed a bit of a break from the interwebz. Some time to disconnect and be more present in my every day life, with my family, with my son, with myself and creativity.<br />
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While I've been absent, we've been planning my son's 5th birthday party. Originally he wanted an Angry Birds party at our local indoor bouncy house play land. I was ok with that, but was finding it hard to dredge up inspiration. I searched Pinterest and found lots of fantastic Angry Birds birthday party ideas, but I just wasn't excited about it. I was happy to try though, because after all, this is his birthday - and you only turn 5 once. <br />
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Recently, during a trip to OMSI (The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) we found that one of the displays had changed to a LEGO exhibit. Amazing. I gave The Boy my camera and let him snap pictures to his hearts content (it was allowed). <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtmSDZeeeqRLj_H5uXoVxKVJKQ6VihNOJayY3Vw_6z8PNRvKkgElrrSGLcSY-oEfTZ5a5SrL7srAOhTBblwu7Y7aGV7ixgDGKELmLstqtG17mkh8-SBuxae0FI1hEnELT3EoAVE8Pvk9Q/s1600/Lego+Exhibit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBtmSDZeeeqRLj_H5uXoVxKVJKQ6VihNOJayY3Vw_6z8PNRvKkgElrrSGLcSY-oEfTZ5a5SrL7srAOhTBblwu7Y7aGV7ixgDGKELmLstqtG17mkh8-SBuxae0FI1hEnELT3EoAVE8Pvk9Q/s320/Lego+Exhibit.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>Then later while we were building with his Legos, he asked me about the possibility of a Lego birthday party at our house. Finally, something I could get behind. I was inspired. And I'm only a teensy bit ashamed to admit that I pushed for him to commit to the Lego party over the Angry Birds party. Thankfully it didn't take much convincing. <br />
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So here we are - a few weeks out and we've been plotting and crafting and dreaming and building and creating general mayhem in our house. All in the name of Lego fun. <br />
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Please excuse the next few photos. My lap top crashed, requiring a new purchase and I haven't downloaded my editing software yet. I'll make sure to get better photos during the actual party. <br />
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We've been making Lego rings as party favors (necklaces too - but I didn't feel like running upstairs and bringing them down for a photo shoot.) ;) <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRW7TaZIuRE1y_jWmSKNZhYGNzcB4Dwt0FORmK2m0wHzPiIxIJXKLDX5g78Mk_CCuVYkBmcWThkGA33zBj4X8r9ulcx1ZPzPoaH3gmBtTIfjvKWE_qOZZpWKpiwq3YqpjMKh6H_UK_4s9J/s1600/DSC_7761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRW7TaZIuRE1y_jWmSKNZhYGNzcB4Dwt0FORmK2m0wHzPiIxIJXKLDX5g78Mk_CCuVYkBmcWThkGA33zBj4X8r9ulcx1ZPzPoaH3gmBtTIfjvKWE_qOZZpWKpiwq3YqpjMKh6H_UK_4s9J/s320/DSC_7761.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy-F24P4Gczod72kPDpFU7w3tPOsOfUsxS9SloEgC5WVVJEYnaVOBmpovLkpuyk8nJTsH25QzYKUPav5ISVHFVptP3pmx66jtZCrFnTO2_DxQkHfpNLSTkfX19XCSizsLQG2zbHSF3j-AW/s1600/DSC_7764.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy-F24P4Gczod72kPDpFU7w3tPOsOfUsxS9SloEgC5WVVJEYnaVOBmpovLkpuyk8nJTsH25QzYKUPav5ISVHFVptP3pmx66jtZCrFnTO2_DxQkHfpNLSTkfX19XCSizsLQG2zbHSF3j-AW/s320/DSC_7764.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The rings were really easy to put together. 2x2 Legos epoxied onto a silver adjustable ring. We used this <a href="http://www.jdindustrialsupply.com/e6000adhesive.html">epoxy</a>.<br />
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We printed out Lego heads on yellow cardstock from free clip art found on line. I hand cut each one while watching a movie with my family one night and used an exacto knife to cut a slit above the eyes and below the smile and slipped them over drinking straws. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc-V7H0UdBfYLTM7mTbhogLEH03u9n-ef3c8tokkFCkxKr4n6Q1Tp0HP_kE1kgo3H7b2lNeRKwRb2qY79pIJjp1q9v-BPnBDbOvF3preqQCtmCjW2G190Got_PBCNkWJXfbjUODs0OA02x/s1600/DSC_7759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc-V7H0UdBfYLTM7mTbhogLEH03u9n-ef3c8tokkFCkxKr4n6Q1Tp0HP_kE1kgo3H7b2lNeRKwRb2qY79pIJjp1q9v-BPnBDbOvF3preqQCtmCjW2G190Got_PBCNkWJXfbjUODs0OA02x/s320/DSC_7759.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>And finally, two projects I'm currently working on - cupcake toppers:<br />
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These are images we've printed out on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Avery-High-Visibility-Label-Permanent/dp/B001O6LFWQ">Avery round stickers</a>, stuck to slightly larger card stock circles that I cut out with my Cricut and then glued to a toothpick. <br />
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And giant 3-D Lego art. I used canvases that I've had sitting in my portfolio for years. I spray painted each canvas in primary colors and used leftover cardboard ribbon spools as the pegs. I glued a round piece of construction paper the size of each spool to the top in order to cover the hole, hot glued them to the canvas and then spray painted again. I still need to finish the yellow canvas - but I love the way they turned out.<br />
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More party planning to come. I think I'm having as much fun planning this as my son is.<br />
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Cheers,<br />
Simple Mama<br />
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</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-48280352877733581172012-03-27T00:01:00.001-07:002012-03-27T13:19:20.099-07:00Cracked<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">When our plans for an egg hunt fell through, we decided to take some of our homemade and Etsy purchased <a href="http://homemadeserenity.blogspot.com/2012/03/make-it-cascarones.html">Cascarones</a> outside and make our own springtime fun.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbN4UHQhIyqruWXz55EtYlPq8_CO6V-S4q40o8AbYcIs4Jwer4DogUJhGIZsSOhjEtvjyR0A-5_soUfocFndd1EKFBp1kekXx7W4zAluE25Mk362z9_QWMABkseJ1evMOenokdX73vijH/s1600/IMG_0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbN4UHQhIyqruWXz55EtYlPq8_CO6V-S4q40o8AbYcIs4Jwer4DogUJhGIZsSOhjEtvjyR0A-5_soUfocFndd1EKFBp1kekXx7W4zAluE25Mk362z9_QWMABkseJ1evMOenokdX73vijH/s320/IMG_0016.JPG" width="242" /></a></div><br />
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The glitter and confetti was everywhere! Yes, some made it down my shirt. Most of it actually, it seemed. <br />
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Our own eggs from our chickens proved tough to crack. The shells were thicker than your run of the mill store bought white egg - so we had to crack them in our hands rather than on heads. Can you believe my head wasn't hard enough to crack an egg? We're still laughing about that. <br />
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He was so busy trying to take a cool shadow picture that he didn't even see me coming!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpUOnZMTDKB3oyx0o71JCy3rTp-vahdxy2GxLq0h0TZYJFvf0DEtD_qcGmvGCJupwZ9o8DC_xrvOZCLxZ8gUuq6ujKWYILAMKNrGYfbCunHTHr91jc6AlBGeBr4-2QvOkMj3uto6nFp9mE/s1600/IMG_0060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpUOnZMTDKB3oyx0o71JCy3rTp-vahdxy2GxLq0h0TZYJFvf0DEtD_qcGmvGCJupwZ9o8DC_xrvOZCLxZ8gUuq6ujKWYILAMKNrGYfbCunHTHr91jc6AlBGeBr4-2QvOkMj3uto6nFp9mE/s320/IMG_0060.JPG" width="320" /> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInhn2Gayexem7Ki29xRF0Xe0LcO5iJegOFrWkh-DLF5oav06Bh6PjzeSnC8kZRONGoGrTcT8w-rxj3sA8f4dXn_u8aTI6PPHULDLW4Z1zmJuMnKeFoXxcDsl1Br8REG_uDzu8DFZwEPLC/s1600/IMG_0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInhn2Gayexem7Ki29xRF0Xe0LcO5iJegOFrWkh-DLF5oav06Bh6PjzeSnC8kZRONGoGrTcT8w-rxj3sA8f4dXn_u8aTI6PPHULDLW4Z1zmJuMnKeFoXxcDsl1Br8REG_uDzu8DFZwEPLC/s320/IMG_0058.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div> An impromptu hug from my boy. I'm so glad Super Hubby caught this moment. <br />
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The best part is we still have plenty of eggs to crack open in the coming weeks! (And lots of glitter scattered all over the floors of our house after dragging it in on our clothes.) Fun stuff, these memories. <br />
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Simple Mama <br />
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</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-16060486810050514892012-03-26T10:36:00.000-07:002012-03-26T10:36:25.227-07:00Make It! Peanut Butter Play Dough<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">We were long due for a play dough making session. We were completely out. Absolutely none left in the house. When raising a four year old boy, this is tantamount to sacrilege.<br />
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The problem? I was also completely out of food coloring. How does this happen? These are normally staples in our home. I jumped online to order more food coloring - I prefer <a href="http://www.amazon.com/AmeriColor-Student-Soft-Paste-Color/dp/B0029YDR82/ref=sr_1_sc_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1332781178&sr=1-2-spell">Americolor</a> soft gel paste for vibrancy. It would be here soon, but not today. And we needed play dough TODAY!<br />
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So I took a quick look around our kitchen and decided to make an old standby - peanut butter play dough. This play dough isn't for everybody, including those with peanut allergies, but for us? It's a perfect go-to fix. <br />
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For this recipe you'll need:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_b0MK4v69DUFnF4anFqEEr1pR7miGp3k6ldUjjrXmgjckGFjRR9xtQcWeYGIjr1IbmGPKL5FyfD4lFO2EC_pIS22hIYHx6uTxcsK98o07LjbxnyoV81ivui5Y1KUTyGdtGqz6-szonQXG/s1600/IMG_0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_b0MK4v69DUFnF4anFqEEr1pR7miGp3k6ldUjjrXmgjckGFjRR9xtQcWeYGIjr1IbmGPKL5FyfD4lFO2EC_pIS22hIYHx6uTxcsK98o07LjbxnyoV81ivui5Y1KUTyGdtGqz6-szonQXG/s320/IMG_0068.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
1 cup creamy peanut butter<br />
2 cups powdered sugar<br />
1/2 cup honey<br />
Veggie oil of your choice - we used olive oil<br />
A large mixing bowl<br />
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Combine in a large mixing bowl the peanut butter, powdered sugar and honey. A coating of veggie oil on the inside of your measuring cup allows the honey to slide right off. Pour any extra veggie oil right back into the bottle before adding the honey. No need to waste it. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4eGghGJXBg3q0joE21X4JBWcNNB7oifLsUidAvQR95VSERPGxf23voGXSmliGdu7OtGOH_lGuVn-AZW3VJmTGrPbvQcC2iFUj23v7ltU2RtBFiJj3iNIIStGOtNDt8SZClL_mdUSaYp1T/s1600/IMG_0075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4eGghGJXBg3q0joE21X4JBWcNNB7oifLsUidAvQR95VSERPGxf23voGXSmliGdu7OtGOH_lGuVn-AZW3VJmTGrPbvQcC2iFUj23v7ltU2RtBFiJj3iNIIStGOtNDt8SZClL_mdUSaYp1T/s320/IMG_0075.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>See how the honey just slides off without sticking to the measuring cup?<br />
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Mix thoroughly with your hands. If the play dough is too stiff, a little drizzle of oil will help loosen it up. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGRBmQMG_PNu2DmNV9QxWaCFwK5jifXx31UZqwPRbpDO5EMX0FnNAE99zM8FWmBsPeWGir5iRv3ShV5Ql6PtaNtwuJEL1bIh8I_DtQ5MTQYX0iN-T-jCjirZctphr7Mc_pEiRHhTYnpFAr/s1600/IMG_0081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGRBmQMG_PNu2DmNV9QxWaCFwK5jifXx31UZqwPRbpDO5EMX0FnNAE99zM8FWmBsPeWGir5iRv3ShV5Ql6PtaNtwuJEL1bIh8I_DtQ5MTQYX0iN-T-jCjirZctphr7Mc_pEiRHhTYnpFAr/s320/IMG_0081.JPG" width="242" /></a></div>The great thing about peanut butter play dough is that it's edible. I don't recommend eating huge portions since it's extremely (!!!) sweet, but who hasn't accidentally placed salty fingers in their mouth and grimaced in disgust when using traditional salt play dough? I promise you will not have that problem with this dough. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsdAbe8nRIBjFxOmQSQTaQtjFF1xLUVvn1MvIP781kOOWOOJKijwz23FVMwIhurK4I4a0lysc0yQpbRgBBSJD2JJq2i6nJD3Bk0_QYY6JvmS4lOH9HBmPcbj7-rZwlJh4zi6aqxdHu3kkd/s1600/IMG_0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsdAbe8nRIBjFxOmQSQTaQtjFF1xLUVvn1MvIP781kOOWOOJKijwz23FVMwIhurK4I4a0lysc0yQpbRgBBSJD2JJq2i6nJD3Bk0_QYY6JvmS4lOH9HBmPcbj7-rZwlJh4zi6aqxdHu3kkd/s320/IMG_0084.JPG" width="242" /></a></div>Make sure to store it in a air tight zip lock bag when not in use and add a drizzle of more oil if you need to reconstitute it a bit before the next play session!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmSihtovix5JpjvlkH5rCd2wSfENACUNDaNUDn1F_wqncLLCU_ZFzmelw9o5qRzhYMD9TYLudqYVlh7UdP-ibr5QRYHqwuQtSuCYG7-_L0BU7jdFLMmlm-l-YDAIUAXbbbphRKVOYknqRo/s1600/IMG_0093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmSihtovix5JpjvlkH5rCd2wSfENACUNDaNUDn1F_wqncLLCU_ZFzmelw9o5qRzhYMD9TYLudqYVlh7UdP-ibr5QRYHqwuQtSuCYG7-_L0BU7jdFLMmlm-l-YDAIUAXbbbphRKVOYknqRo/s320/IMG_0093.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>What are some of your favorite play dough recipes?<br />
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Simple Mama</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-30635209342734637942012-03-25T18:44:00.000-07:002012-03-25T18:44:45.332-07:00Silent Sunday - Lego Exhibit at OMSI<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHZtDNmwzsO6tn2Mu-4yDjer2Rp9yJOF-FD-liTuMvRGjpJQr5uDZnufHjszkUFUyRQ3loDfzwfyVX02jJocKNfYGKq4975hZJkSuiaYBdgcDGtSY5p6Jiz7xepfAfy6pyZv8H3Y8_Z38X/s1600/lego+exhibit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHZtDNmwzsO6tn2Mu-4yDjer2Rp9yJOF-FD-liTuMvRGjpJQr5uDZnufHjszkUFUyRQ3loDfzwfyVX02jJocKNfYGKq4975hZJkSuiaYBdgcDGtSY5p6Jiz7xepfAfy6pyZv8H3Y8_Z38X/s1600/lego+exhibit.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJhREUk4IS0d6EHwzg_BB3Z-pHOx-R2WkyuR2PzEK2HOT2b43xU1XHw9Jh3St5nlNEq_iBGtzOI_z2I1J933YmTi2NjLaafQ_CT-kTln-R3Ui9lv5V9h2jEoWhAVkZmvQ0EgoB0REea51/s1600/292161_10150689906418252_519353251_9245409_1269493465_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJhREUk4IS0d6EHwzg_BB3Z-pHOx-R2WkyuR2PzEK2HOT2b43xU1XHw9Jh3St5nlNEq_iBGtzOI_z2I1J933YmTi2NjLaafQ_CT-kTln-R3Ui9lv5V9h2jEoWhAVkZmvQ0EgoB0REea51/s320/292161_10150689906418252_519353251_9245409_1269493465_n.jpg" width="292" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Sp6v4_ag3Q4T8-iTB-e19otM9skR0sdA510lHPTOdgH7Qb-cAHSGruLLKjaNjstnA1iR8TEICfngKfIPzZxXQ8dZzF86qiV_lH3zKVNPFaSDpN-9-65PsZ2ZYkavpkBdUnHvTz4sSteP/s1600/536864_10150689907953252_519353251_9245413_1603203194_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Sp6v4_ag3Q4T8-iTB-e19otM9skR0sdA510lHPTOdgH7Qb-cAHSGruLLKjaNjstnA1iR8TEICfngKfIPzZxXQ8dZzF86qiV_lH3zKVNPFaSDpN-9-65PsZ2ZYkavpkBdUnHvTz4sSteP/s320/536864_10150689907953252_519353251_9245413_1603203194_n.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZiJtilefgXUdWR8b43cUS1YAMTyJTGVPbpDPzkxFDzHtB8P7bKCID9AxZL5q-f0y5tloEhRygwX3exLn6rlcQdMxVS9aIj5w6YzxKlhsjgqD2rdY-6xskV-r6AAk7pkBWWSDyJ9wVwgp/s1600/legos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEZiJtilefgXUdWR8b43cUS1YAMTyJTGVPbpDPzkxFDzHtB8P7bKCID9AxZL5q-f0y5tloEhRygwX3exLn6rlcQdMxVS9aIj5w6YzxKlhsjgqD2rdY-6xskV-r6AAk7pkBWWSDyJ9wVwgp/s320/legos.jpg" width="238" /></a></div><br />
</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-48116836996546129042012-03-19T13:09:00.000-07:002012-03-19T13:09:12.734-07:00Make It! Cascarones<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">My son recently started at a new preschool where one of the things they do is learn a new Spanish word each day. The deluge of his cultural questions began from there, and hasn't stopped since.<br />
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Inspired, I decided that since he was home sick with a bug last week, we might as well do a little seasonal and cultural crafting.<br />
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Cascarones are a Mexican tradition. Hollowed out eggs are decorated and filled with small toys and/or confetti. The hole is covered with a delicate layer of tissue paper and allowed to dry. Near Lent and continuing through Easter these eggs are then joyously cracked on top of heads, covering friends and family in a shower of confetti and eggshell. <br />
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For this project you will need:<br />
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Raw Eggs<br />
Markers<br />
Two small bowls - 1 for egg shell garbage, one for raw egg material<br />
Confetti, glitter, rainbow rice crispie treats, etc.<br />
Tissue paper,<br />
Scissors<br />
Qtip <br />
Elmers Glue<br />
Butter Knife<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgachVYEJIMTUb7akUuhTg6HN6UATGC7B-iMOddy19x_p3hdtAwMzA6sCLL19FMUjXYwOR6rrxS3C4OCMqgH63ta8R4chILFS8OErw5Luii9Gp8_cxtMSgfnUmO6pSGlv7Tm4QyqY4mBP3/s1600/DSC_7669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgachVYEJIMTUb7akUuhTg6HN6UATGC7B-iMOddy19x_p3hdtAwMzA6sCLL19FMUjXYwOR6rrxS3C4OCMqgH63ta8R4chILFS8OErw5Luii9Gp8_cxtMSgfnUmO6pSGlv7Tm4QyqY4mBP3/s320/DSC_7669.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Begin by holding a raw egg over a bowl. With a small, sturdy butter knife gently tap the pointed end of the egg to crack the shell. Using your fingers remove any loose egg shell hanging from the egg. Try not to make the opening too large. You want it big enough to place the confetti in, but not so big that it's difficult to cover with tissue paper. Dump your raw egg into a bowl to be used later - scrambled eggs, egg bakes, etc. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiphZ2boepDDzrxwVzqXujXGPP_QUTtwLoWAwbM5fueKxV8agKQqfidffmVWfc4gYqwCxxfoZ3fG5BeavENcfTyCjIV-uYNlXcKDs51G16uSb-x525AgIMCqS7DVCqdl7THaHe5GDNGEmQ8/s1600/DSC_7670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiphZ2boepDDzrxwVzqXujXGPP_QUTtwLoWAwbM5fueKxV8agKQqfidffmVWfc4gYqwCxxfoZ3fG5BeavENcfTyCjIV-uYNlXcKDs51G16uSb-x525AgIMCqS7DVCqdl7THaHe5GDNGEmQ8/s320/DSC_7670.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCv-ZCu1DRVPOOJTeD3fOgGG6JsEPky2CCbzRssUJd4S9j8TpVx5dZtqDH6D5d-2N0S1GYQe-6qNSgt8A6IuoWqVb3q6agY8tHjwy3ZpML5xbCXXhJAYoLjAePvIo3vM0e3bfizT218vIF/s1600/DSC_7671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCv-ZCu1DRVPOOJTeD3fOgGG6JsEPky2CCbzRssUJd4S9j8TpVx5dZtqDH6D5d-2N0S1GYQe-6qNSgt8A6IuoWqVb3q6agY8tHjwy3ZpML5xbCXXhJAYoLjAePvIo3vM0e3bfizT218vIF/s320/DSC_7671.JPG" width="251" /></a></div>Rinse your shells out and allow them to dry over night upside down so that all the water drains out.<br />
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Get busy with markers! Traditionally, the eggshells are dyed at this point - but we were lazy. Sharpies worked just fine for us. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJFd2csc1t089RgXySnwhXGAHx_RnxlDNL8mRXgR6wCOtSB1uALOM015koGoRuKz6s8BHQbQgv1-eYRa-yMmgHEppYaeno5N9u53nS8-rwN5a5chwxLUtoj5psk2_Kx2DCwoDqU0UTxcg5/s1600/DSC_7677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJFd2csc1t089RgXySnwhXGAHx_RnxlDNL8mRXgR6wCOtSB1uALOM015koGoRuKz6s8BHQbQgv1-eYRa-yMmgHEppYaeno5N9u53nS8-rwN5a5chwxLUtoj5psk2_Kx2DCwoDqU0UTxcg5/s320/DSC_7677.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>After the eggs are colored to your satisfaction fill them partway with punched paper bits, glitter, rice cereal, tiny toys...whatever your heart desires! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEja7g5ZijkBvBmqBbpT78wziT50TptfVeTq_l4nrEuuhp75aKdYR-XXHDxffm9BSMs_aoHW0wpyqlqdyphfYJXk0OCBIay90ZHajyXkowhhykNb-mvKZeRtex4fytv3xItQs8WWK3tPN6/s1600/DSC_7673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEja7g5ZijkBvBmqBbpT78wziT50TptfVeTq_l4nrEuuhp75aKdYR-XXHDxffm9BSMs_aoHW0wpyqlqdyphfYJXk0OCBIay90ZHajyXkowhhykNb-mvKZeRtex4fytv3xItQs8WWK3tPN6/s320/DSC_7673.JPG" width="216" /></a></div> We kept things fairly simple with just the confetti paper and glitter. The paper went in via our fingers - the glitter we poured in through a spout.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1SVuOurga3DRfy5apG_eOgxobPJqFStX8BtmSllo_Sj5_0nUAhtc2ZzTqAHj31Ape7APpkvdB_PXcS34UE_GvbsXO28fA4d-VZ-9Mevve9-3okuN0kZhx_rnuud0eSFs0vfqtYSETb5I/s1600/DSC_7679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1SVuOurga3DRfy5apG_eOgxobPJqFStX8BtmSllo_Sj5_0nUAhtc2ZzTqAHj31Ape7APpkvdB_PXcS34UE_GvbsXO28fA4d-VZ-9Mevve9-3okuN0kZhx_rnuud0eSFs0vfqtYSETb5I/s320/DSC_7679.JPG" width="217" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDD2WfuNai8oG8PYbGTwIu37GvvoGDQUVMOFlOWhtGqGVlp3h1N-H95_tv1IDm7BJvEp7BzhzvOzm8R9gEZMdv_uLZB1CVm4SGeTHwKymD5mO07Z2o_u7_mpng5cd5QvaOgA5Cpyi2cO3w/s1600/DSC_7688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDD2WfuNai8oG8PYbGTwIu37GvvoGDQUVMOFlOWhtGqGVlp3h1N-H95_tv1IDm7BJvEp7BzhzvOzm8R9gEZMdv_uLZB1CVm4SGeTHwKymD5mO07Z2o_u7_mpng5cd5QvaOgA5Cpyi2cO3w/s320/DSC_7688.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Using a Qtip, spread a little white glue around the outside rim of the eggshell. Cut a small piece of tissue paper just slightly bigger than the opening and press it down. I found going over the edges of the tissue paper with another thin layer of glue really helped the tissue paper stick down.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOtiiydgDMyhXtZY3Q6DUBOdDSMYNa8Szw0kO1XBga-IZfEaOly9BB0SYf2VtlF3xWOwmZ4U2qeeiVJ7ON7deonSfKNAtfwnhmvD19jB8J1d-CTrhzAvWKOYZgMAN8cLLyoQLVCJhbtzDi/s1600/DSC_7691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOtiiydgDMyhXtZY3Q6DUBOdDSMYNa8Szw0kO1XBga-IZfEaOly9BB0SYf2VtlF3xWOwmZ4U2qeeiVJ7ON7deonSfKNAtfwnhmvD19jB8J1d-CTrhzAvWKOYZgMAN8cLLyoQLVCJhbtzDi/s320/DSC_7691.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseFWZgms6VEYLWeWT7K06C-e2bS35U1WZS9xHlP9vwVvzmEEoG6KFbws_qI3-nri0ztVdfHSL7BzcVAWZbw9tzoYWldsIM-h2fgTsnbaCyJj-L0UFEVYRpzNC58-qcpMfNVqmVY99vutt/s1600/DSC_7693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseFWZgms6VEYLWeWT7K06C-e2bS35U1WZS9xHlP9vwVvzmEEoG6KFbws_qI3-nri0ztVdfHSL7BzcVAWZbw9tzoYWldsIM-h2fgTsnbaCyJj-L0UFEVYRpzNC58-qcpMfNVqmVY99vutt/s320/DSC_7693.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Allow your eggs to dry for several hours. They are now ready for cracking! Ours are set aside for a spring Ostara egg hunt planned with friends in a few days. You can crack them directly on top of heads, or if you have little ones, try cracking the egg several inches above their head and let the confetti rain down on them. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgtM5Ls1i74h7OFBr1Po8EFZl0kqR3ColClGK6bRNhhN0bdJgPdpNzbI4kwwJhsMIYPAIZczlglwBUIPhXB4dnwVS-hh9HlN6RnpFMCLnEabRDFbpPHqrAALVJ6tyb0vSIBXJgOWP1DVo/s1600/gracies+eggies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgtM5Ls1i74h7OFBr1Po8EFZl0kqR3ColClGK6bRNhhN0bdJgPdpNzbI4kwwJhsMIYPAIZczlglwBUIPhXB4dnwVS-hh9HlN6RnpFMCLnEabRDFbpPHqrAALVJ6tyb0vSIBXJgOWP1DVo/s320/gracies+eggies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We also purchased several dozen beautifully dyed cascarones from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/gracieseggies">Gracies Eggies</a> on Etsy, knowing we wouldn't have time to make that many ourselves. They came carefully shipped and ready for some springtime festivities!<br />
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Make some with your own kiddos. I promise you'll have fun!<br />
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Simple Mama <br />
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</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-51043029861363840252012-03-18T14:40:00.000-07:002012-03-18T14:40:10.756-07:0030 Day Declutter Challenge<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">My first Goodwill run included 15 + magazines, 10 antique books, 1 set of stereo speakers, a child's coat, old couch cushion pillows that had never been used, and three glass kitchen jars. Two small grocery store plastic bags were discarded with miscellaneous health and beauty odds and ends that were outdated, dried up, or otherwise useless. A total of 33 + items gone from our home forever. Yay!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5_eFNgX50COSPW7bO5sgPZmD-H5iIZt5sPEJ3dJ7fo6eJfmwKfH_M8EHxEtlggATDbYZvKmY0Ftf3sSPTB9UEbygO2seAaG5RGGsuHCP3c6iyt0P8mRgrAUSVuTOlxCs32uuJ-OW_40R/s1600/DSC_7666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5_eFNgX50COSPW7bO5sgPZmD-H5iIZt5sPEJ3dJ7fo6eJfmwKfH_M8EHxEtlggATDbYZvKmY0Ftf3sSPTB9UEbygO2seAaG5RGGsuHCP3c6iyt0P8mRgrAUSVuTOlxCs32uuJ-OW_40R/s320/DSC_7666.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUiT236zpQ_ZGDvnqvQ2aaZ7YosojcOLn6kwNGS3Hw-_1X5erAXqgc33UXmK0P57XGmLzTi3Beu8mhvPGdy9KZhUiNHY-_xRPpqaq_LperdzxCUXt5M7_0Bi_P4Eld09giHh1NvjA_cff/s1600/DSC_7665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUiT236zpQ_ZGDvnqvQ2aaZ7YosojcOLn6kwNGS3Hw-_1X5erAXqgc33UXmK0P57XGmLzTi3Beu8mhvPGdy9KZhUiNHY-_xRPpqaq_LperdzxCUXt5M7_0Bi_P4Eld09giHh1NvjA_cff/s320/DSC_7665.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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You can read more about the 30 day declutter challenge <a href="http://homemadeserenity.blogspot.com/2012/03/30-day-declutter-challenge.html">here.</a><br />
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What did you get rid of today?<br />
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33/300 <br />
<br />
Simple Mama<br />
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</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-63618977376762908482012-03-17T09:18:00.001-07:002012-03-17T09:19:30.522-07:00Mischief Making<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Happy Saint Patrick's Day, friends!<br />
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Last night we spent some time setting up a makeshift, last minute leprechaun trap. It was nothing fancy, just your standard rigged cardboard box.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXCI7XU57YuixHV5cmvWVn_EGTOrdstJDGtIxHpxq8gi_iabCPYZ_3EgG9AORnvjpgTYUgingboe6trf4dkSOw0NMXFtbHYQn_B-e_zRxkMJs0mOLeFmz0ahyk2TKyybpJyXncxuu_j98r/s1600/DSC_7625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXCI7XU57YuixHV5cmvWVn_EGTOrdstJDGtIxHpxq8gi_iabCPYZ_3EgG9AORnvjpgTYUgingboe6trf4dkSOw0NMXFtbHYQn_B-e_zRxkMJs0mOLeFmz0ahyk2TKyybpJyXncxuu_j98r/s320/DSC_7625.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Before he fell asleep, my son told us that he wanted us to come downstairs with him in the morning to check on our handy work in case the leprechaun escaped when he lifted the box. After all, leprechauns are "fast and tricky".<br />
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Too few hours later we all tiptoed down the steps in the grey light of early morning to see if we caught anyone in our trap. We crouched down slowly....far, far, away from the trap to see if we could peer underneath:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4eanrhR-17CEL5PBqsHtFLEX-YPDfOYBL8CKWm5d9k8o0DqRy1QXsvQgRMat8zG_GxygsAJnm0nlo4HYX2C5z1FzL_rjzPBSoQH_HjTNs7L2Xi6upK53STHmrxAe6VZBQeFE7dLg0Dp-/s1600/DSC_7651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4eanrhR-17CEL5PBqsHtFLEX-YPDfOYBL8CKWm5d9k8o0DqRy1QXsvQgRMat8zG_GxygsAJnm0nlo4HYX2C5z1FzL_rjzPBSoQH_HjTNs7L2Xi6upK53STHmrxAe6VZBQeFE7dLg0Dp-/s320/DSC_7651.JPG" width="214" /></a></div>Obviously, someone had been here:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG9HStnPsswJwkxnCdT16sHpVNRhR2ubAWr82odb71g9RMNaY2nl7plVb80VmoXVQRvBReM2SADTAzvORj2bo9Hsz3INTQ1YvE_uQ3qCx2DaAPru8Yv_RDH0IgEbT2bcgqcZfWwbzhzMo6/s1600/DSC_7650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG9HStnPsswJwkxnCdT16sHpVNRhR2ubAWr82odb71g9RMNaY2nl7plVb80VmoXVQRvBReM2SADTAzvORj2bo9Hsz3INTQ1YvE_uQ3qCx2DaAPru8Yv_RDH0IgEbT2bcgqcZfWwbzhzMo6/s320/DSC_7650.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>But leapin' leprechauns! He got away and left a decoy in his place along with a note and gold coins that must have fallen from his pocket in his hurry to escape! Can't you hear him taunting us? Thank you to Christine at <a href="http://thepuppenstube.com/">The Puppenstube</a> for this adorable wee little green ore gnome.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiekYlpKpRA-krcF43QbAc0Fhk5ZQO7F26VQXNr-OTpfdPqH-WjThwz5a8gtQGXJY4WihdIYMnYqv9A4auXg1aXyUQa6M7-ny628xbVvYJTvzoh_rZjsriOmIdJnbAXJmc7EbRd63qeoG2z/s1600/DSC_7635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiekYlpKpRA-krcF43QbAc0Fhk5ZQO7F26VQXNr-OTpfdPqH-WjThwz5a8gtQGXJY4WihdIYMnYqv9A4auXg1aXyUQa6M7-ny628xbVvYJTvzoh_rZjsriOmIdJnbAXJmc7EbRd63qeoG2z/s320/DSC_7635.JPG" width="235" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoxU03FcL6gDkFjX__-KJmevtgNYs17JEGiSzV6PN6C7vJvbo5BMD8yzcq4nicxLGFHcyeh5KblxhyphenhyphennTH4liCKVEJLp_Kdjj1Rm71a1fj0dwxvZjJydIw41i_LjXPiqUKxQ0Vl_chR4mde/s1600/DSC_7655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoxU03FcL6gDkFjX__-KJmevtgNYs17JEGiSzV6PN6C7vJvbo5BMD8yzcq4nicxLGFHcyeh5KblxhyphenhyphennTH4liCKVEJLp_Kdjj1Rm71a1fj0dwxvZjJydIw41i_LjXPiqUKxQ0Vl_chR4mde/s320/DSC_7655.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzW5CUuhR7LTtxHkE-LSxrWt8nGoMzVBD4w4NRLU5wttvOCZ5DkiUkZtGOSFjq0iUx7yyJOOBKiHF1jYxMy3qNZKLeZsMNd5921f1OmFJeSjHiKaprrm0vlyAYhpX0wO6zGjGeayl_k_M/s1600/DSC_7659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzW5CUuhR7LTtxHkE-LSxrWt8nGoMzVBD4w4NRLU5wttvOCZ5DkiUkZtGOSFjq0iUx7yyJOOBKiHF1jYxMy3qNZKLeZsMNd5921f1OmFJeSjHiKaprrm0vlyAYhpX0wO6zGjGeayl_k_M/s320/DSC_7659.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiERbtgMdKWW24Qs2IGB5rQMlBUrbmRV1LNCJ0EguR0uLD9BawvJTZjbUyiOSUpvedE6mu-IOgmRHxlhpzt62dCZnsytF0vtmpPbkVb-UADVR4lC8ve81qWbhtNsOL_dvqVkmeiOvA9BbX/s1600/DSC_7664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiERbtgMdKWW24Qs2IGB5rQMlBUrbmRV1LNCJ0EguR0uLD9BawvJTZjbUyiOSUpvedE6mu-IOgmRHxlhpzt62dCZnsytF0vtmpPbkVb-UADVR4lC8ve81qWbhtNsOL_dvqVkmeiOvA9BbX/s320/DSC_7664.JPG" width="253" /></a></div>And what a mess he left! Glittery green leprechaun dust everywhere! We followed a trail of it into the bathroom and you'll never believe what we found there:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7p_MS1abzM78itfDw1UCj6MLALMwUtdM7WpORKoVzvvg9fQJRdg9RvPJuQ-zj2uKZ7N6lNsff80ulU8FNPumNdgASYsSwgzikS2Dg7XFBVxYCw-hIj8jwO-0DDzzrd3S9F1BLKFoXBGrq/s1600/DSC_7630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7p_MS1abzM78itfDw1UCj6MLALMwUtdM7WpORKoVzvvg9fQJRdg9RvPJuQ-zj2uKZ7N6lNsff80ulU8FNPumNdgASYsSwgzikS2Dg7XFBVxYCw-hIj8jwO-0DDzzrd3S9F1BLKFoXBGrq/s320/DSC_7630.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>That sneaky little leprechaun took a pit stop before leaving our house. Can you believe that?! Some of those little folks are very brazen indeed. (The original leprechaun pee post is floating somewhere around on Pinterest, but I can't seem to find it). <br />
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Not to be undone by such acts of malarkey and mischief, my son defiantly declared to get the leprechaun next year by building a much better (read involved) leprechaun trap.<br />
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Merry mischief making to you all!<br />
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Cheers,<br />
Simple Mama <br />
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</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-56745510133455860312012-03-15T13:50:00.002-07:002012-03-16T11:55:52.175-07:0030 Day Declutter Challenge<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Bless me Internet for I have sinned. It's been 3 weeks since my last post.<br />
<br />
Between my husband traveling for business, a sick preschooler, an influx of Etsy orders, spring planting, and general mayhem, I've been derelict in my blogging. Forgive me dear readers, as I attempt to remedy that.<br />
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As we start to head into warmer spring days (ahem...do you hear me, Mother Nature? I'm talking about you!) I've been feeling the need to clean and purge. I usually get this itch a few times a year, and I've learned to listen to it when it comes along. You see, I come from a long line of hoarders - and I fear I may have inherited this same tendency.<br />
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For those of my family members reading this blog post, "hoarders" may not seem an accurate phrase to you. Feel free to substitute clutter bugs, pack rats, collector, gatherer, etc. What I know for sure is that I never want my son to feel as I did after my mother passed away...like he just wants to take a match to the house rather than sort through it. I feel it creep in on occasion. The need to squirrel away items. To assign value to inanimate objects that aren't worthy of my space - mentally or physically. To become attached to the THING, rather than the MEMORY. <br />
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And so it's time for a 30 day declutter challenge. Each day, from now until April 15 (Tax Day!) I will challenge myself to find at least 10 items to either donate, recycle, or throw away. That's 300 items gone, banished, never to return to my home by mid April. Three hundred items that aren't beautiful, useful, or loved. Three. Hundred.<br />
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With Ostara right around the corner it's time for new beginnings. Out with the old, in the with new. So I'm clearing it all out to welcome in spring and to start fresh. I'll be posting photos as I go of the objects leaving our home - and when I'm done, of the clean spaces they've left behind. <br />
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Join me if you want - you can link up your blogs in the comment sections of each 30 Day Declutter Challenge post. <br />
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Cheers,<br />
Simple Mama<br />
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</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-31803601383060533982012-02-22T17:42:00.000-08:002012-02-22T17:42:16.213-08:00Make It! Ice Candles<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Once, while camping with my family as a girl, my parents pulled out a large plastic sterilite tub full of candle making supplies. It was that weekend, deep in the green forest with a cooler full of crushed ice that I learned how to make ice candles. <br />
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When my son asked me this week if we could roll some more beeswax candles, I felt guilty. You see, rolling candles is a yearly tradition in our house, but this year that particular craft project slipped my mind. Not having any beeswax sheets on hand, I took a look in our supply cabinet to see what we could make instead. When I saw our small six inch beeswax tapers, I knew immediately that we would revisit that candle making experience I had with my parents - only this time we would do it in the comfort of our own home.<br />
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For this project you'll need:<br />
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A container for your candles - frozen concentrate jars work well, as do milk cartons. This is your candle form.<br />
A taper candle - 6 inches is a good size.<br />
Wax - we use beeswax<br />
An old pot you don't mind ruining<br />
A tin can large enough to hold your beeswax, or a candle making melting pot.<br />
Pam Spray <br />
Crushed ice.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJ_ok54AX7XZsjVQeuFsz2uki2mjkStPCo-S6oth-Ql23gohLnD7mCwq8xBxiVdyYl2tzJ5AOuxbYgguxxhHRKxXNx9-kMwZZCl0xm359uvu5gtVvNXzBeFIKMJluzg96K2GMwF-dqeAV/s1600/DSC_7565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYJ_ok54AX7XZsjVQeuFsz2uki2mjkStPCo-S6oth-Ql23gohLnD7mCwq8xBxiVdyYl2tzJ5AOuxbYgguxxhHRKxXNx9-kMwZZCl0xm359uvu5gtVvNXzBeFIKMJluzg96K2GMwF-dqeAV/s320/DSC_7565.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Create a double boiler by adding a few inches of water to your pot and placing your tin can/wax melter in the water. Over low heat, add your wax to your container and wait patiently for it to melt.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2hMotkxyusD6WUF4mm_ya2wgSSmAMKIlJQAHV35eD0lGjzRccdBJdVXJpTUx7plrpKmyhqSq47GuqIM4CtmWdF_paCEUI5bEwxa685VpNpFba0-GPCwV63lNKMt2gu2SSeL_4epWGu2XI/s1600/DSC_7566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2hMotkxyusD6WUF4mm_ya2wgSSmAMKIlJQAHV35eD0lGjzRccdBJdVXJpTUx7plrpKmyhqSq47GuqIM4CtmWdF_paCEUI5bEwxa685VpNpFba0-GPCwV63lNKMt2gu2SSeL_4epWGu2XI/s320/DSC_7566.JPG" width="216" /></a></div>Have a little person help you prepare your candle tapers. In our case, the tapers were double dipped, so the wick required cutting. Now spray the inside of your candle forms generously with cooking spray. This helps keep the candles from sticking to the forms.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2-gNU_DkoSmzSENjswJw4jwhR5KdSw6RVC_Yw2hhjhsI9DLu5wY0qL_fMMlS_jMkQ86_FDm6rESp9_mbnzCLsv9FLeiQQ7Kf0-KRRcs60G9Qfs8wrQv_Q4pfix3ExMZ5IXzq6cfxXM0l/s1600/DSC_7574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg2-gNU_DkoSmzSENjswJw4jwhR5KdSw6RVC_Yw2hhjhsI9DLu5wY0qL_fMMlS_jMkQ86_FDm6rESp9_mbnzCLsv9FLeiQQ7Kf0-KRRcs60G9Qfs8wrQv_Q4pfix3ExMZ5IXzq6cfxXM0l/s320/DSC_7574.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Once your wax is melted, carefully pour about 2 inches into the bottom of your candle form. Have someone help you place your tapers right in the center of the candle form and hold them steady while you wait a few minutes for the poured wax to cool.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtH7bDW1d6_2zAhs45aoasZNu_6zVO30z650eO5T_IoQr9iQqjBl9MjjPLvZsiVINNaHzL5hQfDbFL1kvKOBzyyXWSocwPr3eeremRXf74Evw3m1jqr6o0we81D6mZVd6SiUBc4uultfj/s1600/DSC_7590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtH7bDW1d6_2zAhs45aoasZNu_6zVO30z650eO5T_IoQr9iQqjBl9MjjPLvZsiVINNaHzL5hQfDbFL1kvKOBzyyXWSocwPr3eeremRXf74Evw3m1jqr6o0we81D6mZVd6SiUBc4uultfj/s320/DSC_7590.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKtMEE3PW3p6yn7XhF0EPFDZby7DFxubnOAcQvYGLswWHcHEeMWHPqmImzPz4Z2jWckQMHBK2MVaa-SoCE4-TvFKduOS4RIP7RQWr04kl8dGaQsD9a0tLc-mOp6F6o3Chyphenhyphen4Z5ZHTEbYXU/s1600/DSC_7593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKtMEE3PW3p6yn7XhF0EPFDZby7DFxubnOAcQvYGLswWHcHEeMWHPqmImzPz4Z2jWckQMHBK2MVaa-SoCE4-TvFKduOS4RIP7RQWr04kl8dGaQsD9a0tLc-mOp6F6o3Chyphenhyphen4Z5ZHTEbYXU/s320/DSC_7593.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Once the wax is cool, carefully add crushed ice all around the taper. Crushed works much better than cubed ice in this project as it lends itself to a lacy look.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3VRYatcZaFdPU1cqUrq-oIi1ElK2hibnhs0iSvP6xqT1S4kmvTjUoghDzuIytaH-NFSZGXomapj2yhAMQKILxj6cOamIxg3ofniBIE62v4CsppF6Wl9SGHPiAlw7EwitwD-aoF7o3aIj/s1600/DSC_7607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3VRYatcZaFdPU1cqUrq-oIi1ElK2hibnhs0iSvP6xqT1S4kmvTjUoghDzuIytaH-NFSZGXomapj2yhAMQKILxj6cOamIxg3ofniBIE62v4CsppF6Wl9SGHPiAlw7EwitwD-aoF7o3aIj/s320/DSC_7607.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Return to your double boiler and carefully add the melted wax right on top of the crushed ice - filling to the top. Don't overfill, as we did!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY5Kg-eZN83BU29CPSfAGGId_qBSArFp8urq4HWmK0ZPPGsG0D9-XZV8LrfkhSBleZZXceXE6zqgszM3kVGLSKnl0ytdrYilIbuxPLk7iMzU_8FE3LMCQDNU0of7JCNoQzdxPYbOKnmr6s/s1600/DSC_7610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY5Kg-eZN83BU29CPSfAGGId_qBSArFp8urq4HWmK0ZPPGsG0D9-XZV8LrfkhSBleZZXceXE6zqgszM3kVGLSKnl0ytdrYilIbuxPLk7iMzU_8FE3LMCQDNU0of7JCNoQzdxPYbOKnmr6s/s320/DSC_7610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Now wait. At least an hour. Longer if necessary for your ice to melt and your candle to cool completely. Over the sink, very carefully remove your candle from your form.. A few things to note. There will be water, and your candle is fairly delicate. Beautiful - but delicate. Unmold it carefully so as not to break off lacy wax pieces. You may need to use scissors or an Exacto knife to cut through the mold, but it should come out fairly easily since you've covered the inside with cooking spray. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie_CnuPijM2clAOsoz6IZ8-Go-M9rlpP_LedlREibR0PQsSmI4uyF3q6_FQOWVPC_nBHffjVnNg0ns5YICP9AjewCO6sdlLr5YqKaKEc0cEjyELq6rUXh7rsZcG7Yn_8Lq3_oLBqb87f4v/s1600/DSC_7619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie_CnuPijM2clAOsoz6IZ8-Go-M9rlpP_LedlREibR0PQsSmI4uyF3q6_FQOWVPC_nBHffjVnNg0ns5YICP9AjewCO6sdlLr5YqKaKEc0cEjyELq6rUXh7rsZcG7Yn_8Lq3_oLBqb87f4v/s320/DSC_7619.JPG" width="217" /></a></div>Make sure to light your candle on a candle plate with a rim. Because of the holes throughout the candle, it doesn't always burn straight down the way a normal candle would. You may have wax dripping down the middle and sides. You also may run into small pockets of water when lit. <br />
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Still, aren't they beautiful? My son wants to light one tonight after the sun goes down and save the other for when his daddy returns from a business trip. Spring is right around the corner, but we have plenty of long dark nights left to enjoy the light and warmth of our homemade candles. <br />
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Cheers,<br />
Simple Mama</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8129767875107728731.post-75412714434019867392012-02-06T00:01:00.000-08:002012-02-06T08:27:36.792-08:00Science with Kids: Microwave Ivory Soap<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I asked The Boy what he thought might happen if we microwaved Ivory Soap. He considered this carefully for a moment and then said quite thoughtfully that he believed it would melt like an ice cube. Pretty astute for a 4 year old.<br />
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We decided to find out for ourselves as we removed a bar of soap from the package. I used a kitchen knife to cut a small piece of the soap off and placed it on a microwavable safe plate. Then we watched magic happen. Or science. Take your pick.<br />
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We set the microwave on high for 60 seconds. The soap, rather than melt, began to expand to enormous proportions, overflowing off the sides of plate! I carefully removed the plate and allowed the soap to cool for a few minutes before giving it to my son. It wasn't too hot, but do exercise caution when handing nuked soap to small children. We don't want them to accidentally receive a burn.<br />
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How it works: When you heat the Ivory soap, you soften it. You're also heating air and water trapped inside the soap, which in turn causes the water to evaporate and the air expand. The increasing gases (air) push upon the now soft soap, causing it to expand and become a foam. The appearance of the soap is changed, but no chemical reaction takes place. Other types of soap don't incorporate as much air whipped into them and don't have the same reaction in the microwave as Ivory does. The Ivory soap now feels soft and almost powdery, but it still works as well as the bar form. You can actually crumble it in your hands as it continues to cool - it looks a lot like snow once crumbled.<br />
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You don't have to worry about this little experiment damaging your soap or your microwave. Any foam that overflows the edges of your microwave safe container can simply be cleaned up with water. Science and cleaning at the same time. Pretty cool.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZXuTlQIm1vpDNVxI_Mp8ynJV03YA7Xrosv3tmXyOI6KZVEzzEkmtuLtYFncPGilG5XeECxjSeSrBGp_aV7Fp0LzNGH0AY4399PE9lNrIUAHJ5y2qKXjNoGVbnxpYF6WKM-HvW7Td-x9q/s1600/DSC_7542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKZXuTlQIm1vpDNVxI_Mp8ynJV03YA7Xrosv3tmXyOI6KZVEzzEkmtuLtYFncPGilG5XeECxjSeSrBGp_aV7Fp0LzNGH0AY4399PE9lNrIUAHJ5y2qKXjNoGVbnxpYF6WKM-HvW7Td-x9q/s320/DSC_7542.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Learning as we go,<br />
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Simple Mama<br />
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</div>Simple Mamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18020765294546163510noreply@blogger.com5