tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30562826271218886362024-03-19T00:18:45.528-07:00The Blue BasketJessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.comBlogger146125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-84374888444716191652013-11-12T11:31:00.002-08:002013-11-12T11:31:51.966-08:00Train Play Shirts are in!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm excited to have my Train Play Shirts designed and ready to sell in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheBlueBasketShop" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a>! These shirts were designed with the little train lover in mind and provide a fun way to interact (and relax!) with your kids. Just in time for Christmas!</div>
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<br />Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-7472019022613269522013-11-04T19:08:00.000-08:002013-11-04T19:10:00.003-08:00$100 Sephora, Etsy & T-Shirt Giveaway!We are excited to announce that we're partnering with <a href="http://www.prettythrifty.com/" target="_blank">Pretty Thrifty</a> and doing a huge giveaway during November! Pretty Thrifty is THE best resource for legitimate, 100% free makeup and beauty samples. Together we are giving away a prize worth over $100! <br />
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The winner will receive:<br />
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One $50 Gift Card to <a href="http://Sephora.com/">Sephora.com</a><br />
One $30 Gift Card to <a href="http://Etsy.com/">Etsy.com</a><br />
One men's or women's Alphabet Tracing Shirt from our <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/thebluebasketshop" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a><br />
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Sephora carries just about every kind of makeup or beauty product you could want, and Etsy is THE go-to place for one of a kind fashions and gifts. And with the holidays around the corner, the Alphabet Tracing Shirt will make a perfect gift for any mom, dad or grandparent. Or keep it for yourself!<br />
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There are a TON of different ways you can enter. You don't need to do every entry type, but the more you do, the more times you'll be entered and the more chances you'll have to win!<br />
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Our giveaway starts now and runs through Monday, November 25th, 2013 at 10 pm EST. It is open to U.S. residents only, 18 years of age and up.<br />
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Good luck!
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/98082632/" id="rc-98082632" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-7833204558300173352013-10-07T21:44:00.000-07:002013-10-07T21:45:58.602-07:00The Alphabet Tracing Shirt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am so excited about these Alphabet Tracing Shirts! I just posted them in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thebluebasketshop" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a> today. Who doesn't love a little back tickle, right? Wear it to the park, at home, or after a long day, then sit down with your kids and relax :) </div>
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Arrows and numbers show the correct way to write each letter.</div>
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I got the idea for this shirt after watching my kids write letters on their daddy's back. They would write a few letters, then he would try to guess what they were spelling. The kids thought it was fun, and my husband loved how it felt, it was a win-win!</div>
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I'm selling a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164906427/alphabet-tracing-shirt-womens-chalkboard?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">women's shirt</a>, that is fitted, and a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/165034868/alphabet-tracing-shirt-mens-chalkboard?ref=listing-shop-header-0" target="_blank">men's shirt</a>, that is a standard-fit size. Both have the same design on the back with nothing printed on the front.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XvzvcJTCtiU/UlOGuJ-AsgI/AAAAAAAAGOI/H9ZaonqiLZo/s1600/DSC_0389-edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XvzvcJTCtiU/UlOGuJ-AsgI/AAAAAAAAGOI/H9ZaonqiLZo/s640/DSC_0389-edited.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The colors I chose for this shirt were inspired by the classic chalkboard. I chose a heathered dark grey for the shirt, and crisp white lines for the letters.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7mxtYUVuBk8/UlOGwNLq0pI/AAAAAAAAGOQ/Xhq9lMEynow/s1600/DSC_0400-edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7mxtYUVuBk8/UlOGwNLq0pI/AAAAAAAAGOQ/Xhq9lMEynow/s640/DSC_0400-edited.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Enjoy interacting with your kids in a new, creative way!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0r5YjegQfyI/UlOGx8arEFI/AAAAAAAAGOY/BE4ER4tV0hg/s1600/DSC_0411-edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0r5YjegQfyI/UlOGx8arEFI/AAAAAAAAGOY/BE4ER4tV0hg/s640/DSC_0411-edited.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And don't forget about our other shirts! Also available in the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thebluebasketshop" target="_blank">Shop</a>.</div>
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From left to right:</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/165101173/car-play-shirt-with-sign-that-can-be?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">Car Play Shirt WITH SIGN</a> that can be customized</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/165098355/car-play-shirt-kids-drive-cars-on-map?ref=listing-shop-header-3" target="_blank">Car Play Shirt</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/165085848/car-play-shirt-outlined-kids-color-in?ref=listing-shop-header-4" target="_blank">Car Play Shirt OUTLINED</a>, for kids to color in and make their own</div>
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And coming soon... A TRAIN PLAY SHIRT!</div>
Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-62691564760767928762013-06-06T18:30:00.001-07:002013-06-06T18:32:04.057-07:00Father's Day garden rock<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Gifts for the grandpa's are always tough for me. Men in general are always harder to buy/make for, and it seems most grandpa's are at the point in their lives where they have everything they need/want and a lot of what we could give them are just going add to the clutter. So I try to think of things that are thoughtful and useful.</div>
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Pete's dad (and mom) loves to spend time in the yard, so we decided to make a rock that could be put in the garden. We collected rocks to spell out "PAPA ROCKS" (our kids call him Papa John). Kind of cheesy, I know. In hind sight I may have just had the kids make a cool design with the rocks. Oh well.</div>
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I used concrete mix (only costs a few bucks) and used a flat rate shipping box as my mold (because we'll be shipping it... talk about getting your money's worth, this thing is heavy!) I simply put the box together, sprayed it with cooking spray, then poured in the mix. Then I wrote the letters with a stick and had the kids place all the little rocks.</div>
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Once it dried, I painted over the rocks with mod podge a couple times to make them stand out a little more. And that's it! I'm crossing my fingers that it can get to him without cracking :)</div>
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Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-50554956477699167892013-05-22T21:10:00.000-07:002013-05-22T21:10:00.996-07:00What's for lunch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This has become one of our family's favorite lunches. We call it the "snack plate." We grab some fruits and veggies, cheese, nuts, crackers, whatever we've got, cut it all up and throw it on a couple trays. Everything can be eaten with your hands, so no plates necessary, and the kids get plenty of options. Easy to cleanup, healthy, and the kids are happy. Win, win, win!</div>
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<br />Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-25022938837011496712013-05-17T20:07:00.000-07:002013-05-17T20:14:19.511-07:00The sandbox<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My sweet husband honored my one birthday request and built me a sandbox. Yes, for <i>me</i>! I may not be the one spending hours playing in it over the summer, but I <i>will</i> be the one spending hours sitting on the porch, making dinner, working in the yard, cleaning the house, or, if I'm lucky, reading a book while these little guys are entertained.</div>
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We got the plans for this sandbox from <a href="http://ana-white.com/2011/10/plans/sand-box-built-seats" target="_blank">Ana White</a>. Pete got most of the wood cut at Lowe's after he bought it, since we don't have a fancy saw. Then all he needed was a drill and screws. The instructions were easy to follow and he was able to finish it in 3-5 hours.</div>
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The seats on either side have hinges and fold down to double as a cover.</div>
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I <i>love</i> how it turned out... simple design and super sturdy. Now I just need to find a way to keep the sand from making its way into our house.</div>
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Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-8728154547034119062013-05-13T08:40:00.001-07:002013-05-13T19:10:10.725-07:00Car Play Shirts for Father's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There's a reason I haven't been posting on this blog much lately (besides keeping my 4 children alive and somewhat happy). I've been working on the design and production of my Car Play Shirt! It's been a lot of fun (and a lot of work) designing this shirt and working out the logistics, and I'm excited to announce that these shirts are now for sale in our <a href="http://www.thebluebasketshop.etsy.com/" target="_blank"><b>Etsy shop</b></a>! The Car Play Shirt is the shirt that lets daddy stretch out and relax while playing with the kids. They make great Father's Day/birthday/Christmas gifts and offer a unique and fun way to interact with your children. </div>
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A couple years ago I posted my tutorial for the <a href="http://thebluebasket.blogspot.com/2011/09/tutorial-car-shirt.html" target="_blank">car shirt</a> and since then have had an overwhelmingly positive response. So I decided to redesign the shirts and sell them to those who want one but do not have the time, resources or desire to actually make it.</div>
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I made two different versions of the shirt: one in <b>full color</b> that is ready to be worn and played on the moment it arrives, and a <b>black and white</b> version that can be colored in with fabric markers or paint, then given to dad/grandpa as a semi-homemade gift.</div>
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<a href="http://www.thebluebasketshop.etsy.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hcpzUvFbGXA/UZD0Mh3j1MI/AAAAAAAAF90/5ghroo0v0i8/s640/color+with+type.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Both shirts have a welcome sign that allows you to personalize the car shirt by writing in the last name of your family. "Welcome to Jacksonville!"</div>
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With the black and white version the kids can make it their own. Kids always love playing with things that they put time into making, right? </div>
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<a href="http://www.thebluebasketshop.etsy.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9PBkiKUdOgg/UZD0OHcC3UI/AAAAAAAAF98/I0lRPQduOOA/s640/bw+with+type.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And my kids love giving gifts that they help create. They could hardly wait to get their hands on this shirt.</div>
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Start by putting a piece of cardboard or poster board in between the front and back of the shirt so the markers/paint won't bleed through.<br />
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Pull the fabric tight around the board and use clothespins or tape to hold it in place.<br />
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Pull out your fabric markers and let the kids go at it!<br />
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Within seconds of showing the kids the shirt they were choosing the buildings they each wanted to color. John picked the store and one of the houses, Dan the gas station and the other house, and Joe was assigned the hospital by his brothers. <br />
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And I couldn't let the kids have all the fun! I helped by coloring the fire station.<br />
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Give to daddy and let him rest and relax while the kids give him a message with their cars :)<br />
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Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com82tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-39509046376254983212013-04-15T19:23:00.001-07:002013-04-15T19:23:46.158-07:00Eat your greens: pesto pasta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My kids have never been the best raw veggie eaters. We're working on it. Until they start eating their salad, broccoli and green beans (I'm not giving up!), I have to be more creative with how I prepare and serve veggies, especially green ones, because those are scary. Pesto pasta is one place we have succeeded.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FnaSoGdrlOE/UWW7Hnl9xtI/AAAAAAAAF0o/M6P2tCZYHKA/s1600/IMG_0461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FnaSoGdrlOE/UWW7Hnl9xtI/AAAAAAAAF0o/M6P2tCZYHKA/s640/IMG_0461.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have found that it doesn't matter what kind of green I use for the base... I've used basil (in the summer when we have a lot), cilantro, parsley, spinach, even a spring greens mix. Every batch I make is a little different, I just use whatever we have on hand. I don't normally measure things out, but here's the basic recipe, you can change it to suit your taste:</div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Pesto Pasta</span></b></div>
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<u>Ingredients</u></div>
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1 lb favorite pasta</div>
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4-8 cups greens (basil, cilantro, parsley, spinach or other greens)</div>
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1 cup nuts (pine nuts, cashews, peanuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, pecans, etc. or a combination)</div>
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1/3+ cup olive oil</div>
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1 cup shredded parmesan cheese</div>
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1 tsp. salt</div>
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<u>Directions</u></div>
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Cook pasta until al dente. While pasta is cooking, place remaining ingredients in a food processor.</div>
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I normally fill the food processor almost to the top with greens. I was just running low.</div>
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Pulse until smooth. Add more olive oil if needed.<br />
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When pasta has finished cooking, save a couple cups of the water and drain the rest.</div>
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Toss the pasta, pesto sauce and about 1 cup pasta water (plus or minus... add more water if the pesto isn't mixing well.) Then serve! I hope your kids (and you) like it as much as we do.<br />
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Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-2949505516184542942013-04-02T16:33:00.000-07:002013-04-02T16:33:07.628-07:00Saying thank you<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With each of the kids birthdays comes many gifts and well wishes from family and friends. So I try to spend some time in the days (or weeks) after each one helping the kids thank those who remembered them. I'm certainly not perfect at it, sometimes we forget, and sometimes a simple phone call or text is all I can squeeze in. But there is something about a handwritten note that I love.</div>
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I took this picture of Will the day before his birthday and thought it would make a cute thank you card. After printing it, I glued it to some cardstock so I could write a little note on the back.</div>
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I also love to have a stash of homemade cards on hand to use for birthdays and thank you's so we don't have to be scrambling at the last second.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4oSPuRfGvhg/UVtpascE8AI/AAAAAAAAFzw/QcIUkBf93F8/s1600/IMG_7343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4oSPuRfGvhg/UVtpascE8AI/AAAAAAAAFzw/QcIUkBf93F8/s320/IMG_7343.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://thebluebasket.blogspot.com/2012/10/scribble-drawings.html" target="_blank">Scribble drawings </a><br />
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<a href="http://thebluebasket.blogspot.com/2012/03/rainbow-of-cards.html" target="_blank">Water color</a>Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-69930021350227702082013-03-31T11:52:00.000-07:002013-03-31T11:52:00.632-07:00Easter eggs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This week we painted our Easter eggs. I was trying to figure out the best way to keep little fingers from getting too messy, and these bamboo skewers proved to be the perfect solution.</div>
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Hope you all had a nice Easter weekend!</div>
<br />Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-28040643559594831822013-03-29T13:25:00.000-07:002013-03-29T13:25:08.455-07:00Cinnamon Apple Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For Will's birthday I made a Cinnamon Apple Cake. I'm not a huge lover of cakes, but with whole wheat flour and 4 entire apples in this cake, I can't turn it down. And it is oh so yummy! I thought I would share the recipe.</div>
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This is a cake that the kids love to help with. My sister got us this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Back-Basics-Apple-Potato-Peeler/dp/B0000DE2SS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1364587473&sr=8-1&keywords=apple+peeler" target="_blank">apple peeler</a> a few years ago, and it has become one of my favorite kitchen tools.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--h_UKRG_tGw/UVXIce9LY-I/AAAAAAAAFyQ/OCpHNXuVkKE/s1600/IMG_0496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--h_UKRG_tGw/UVXIce9LY-I/AAAAAAAAFyQ/OCpHNXuVkKE/s640/IMG_0496.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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After I put the apples on, the kids can grind it through themselves. </div>
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And it makes eating the apples so fun! You end up with a very long string of apple peel, and a slinky of perfectly sliced apples. Then all I have to do is dice the slices up.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Vu93L4EIvg/UVXI9O9Al9I/AAAAAAAAFyo/kl68fFZk3bs/s1600/IMG_0503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Vu93L4EIvg/UVXI9O9Al9I/AAAAAAAAFyo/kl68fFZk3bs/s640/IMG_0503.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Cinnamon Apple Cake</b></div>
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<b>Ingredients:</b></div>
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2 cups white sugar</div>
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2 cups whole wheat flour</div>
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3 tsp. cinnamon</div>
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1 tsp. salt</div>
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2 tsp. baking soda</div>
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2 eggs</div>
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1 cup oil</div>
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1/4 cup orange juice</div>
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4 cups apples, peeled, cored and finely chopped (about 4 apples)</div>
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<b>Cream cheese frosting </b>(whip together)<b>:</b></div>
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1/4 cup butter at room temperature</div>
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5 oz. cream cheese at room temperature</div>
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1 cup powdered sugar</div>
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<b>Directions:</b></div>
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Butter and flour a 13x9 dish. Combine dry ingredients and set aside. Whip eggs until frothy, about 3 to 4 minutes then add oil and orange juice and mix thoroughly. Add dry ingredients and beat with whip at low speed until thoroughly combined. Fold in apples and pour into prepared pan. Bake for 1 hour, covering with aluminum foil the last 20 minutes so the top doesn't get too brown. Cool completely, then frost.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AX26RuDzsNU/UVXJTQFOuVI/AAAAAAAAFyw/rMSEPVZh_lM/s1600/IMG_0531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AX26RuDzsNU/UVXJTQFOuVI/AAAAAAAAFyw/rMSEPVZh_lM/s640/IMG_0531.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here's Will going at it. He used his thumb and index finger to pinch off tiny pieces, taking about 30 minutes or so to finally eat the whole thing. But he loved every bite!</div>
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<br />Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-45343538118030871692013-03-27T03:00:00.000-07:002013-03-27T06:35:25.451-07:00Easter baskets and egg hunts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A couple weeks ago, a friend referred me to this fabric <a href="http://sewlux.blogspot.ca/2012/04/easter-basket-tutorial.html" target="_blank">Easter Basket Tutorial</a> by Sew Lux Fabric. I thought it would be fun to have baskets the kids could use year after year, so I got to work. Here's my version of them. They don't look anything like the ones in the tutorial. I didn't have lining, batting, or interfacing, but I did have vinyl and bias tape. So I went with what I had. (Try not to look too closely at/judge my sewing... sometimes you have to go for quantity over quality.)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oUmC3wogIA/UVJK_nMIs_I/AAAAAAAAFwI/Wy9dPoVpnUY/s1600/IMG_0593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7oUmC3wogIA/UVJK_nMIs_I/AAAAAAAAFwI/Wy9dPoVpnUY/s640/IMG_0593.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I used <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Printworks-T-Shirt-Transfers-Sheets-00480/dp/B00005ATZ8/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1364353829&sr=8-3&keywords=white+t-shirt+transfer+paper" target="_blank">white t-shirt transfer paper</a> to put the names on the fabric.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F-rRldpIUzA/UVJLJUdeF0I/AAAAAAAAFwY/TzkROMvT11Y/s1600/IMG_0587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F-rRldpIUzA/UVJLJUdeF0I/AAAAAAAAFwY/TzkROMvT11Y/s640/IMG_0587.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Saturday it's supposed to be 52 and partly sunny. 52 degrees!! The kids haven't been wearing jackets when it hits 40, so 52 might call for shorts. Definitely <i>outdoor</i> Easter egg hunt weather. And this year we're going to try something a little bit different. Each of the kids will be assigned one color of egg that he can find. That way we can hide each color in age-appropriate locations, and when they're done finding their own eggs they can help each other. Hopefully doing it this way will still be fun but a little less competitive. We'll see.<br />
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Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-15645300596530619152013-03-25T03:00:00.000-07:002013-03-25T03:00:15.201-07:00Birthday crown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Friday was Will's birthday. 1 year old! I can hardly believe it. We didn't do anything too grand or glorious apart from the traditional present opening and cake gorging. But we did make him a crown. I really like the idea of helping the kids make gifts for each other. It helps them think about the person, and is fun to watch how excited they get when they give the homemade gift.</div>
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For this crown, I sewed white fabric onto some vinyl and sewed velcro at either end. Then I had the kids use fabric paint to decorate it. I decided to go with something a little longer lasting than just paper.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WOFt55mXzeg/UU-vW5NBBFI/AAAAAAAAFvY/zHuBhVuHWag/s1600/IMG_0507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WOFt55mXzeg/UU-vW5NBBFI/AAAAAAAAFvY/zHuBhVuHWag/s640/IMG_0507.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And here's the birthday boy in all his glory! It looks like he's super excited to be wearing his crown, right?</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5IqHESLM6Ps/UU-vIh6v6dI/AAAAAAAAFvI/B9n2tVBJgqo/s1600/IMG_0562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5IqHESLM6Ps/UU-vIh6v6dI/AAAAAAAAFvI/B9n2tVBJgqo/s640/IMG_0562.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Well, truth be told, I think it stayed on his head for a total of 3 seconds before he found it, pulled it off and dropped it on the floor.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hl6MIKPUKR0/UU-viczhXxI/AAAAAAAAFvo/Z-mbdX0ZOls/s1600/IMG_0575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hl6MIKPUKR0/UU-viczhXxI/AAAAAAAAFvo/Z-mbdX0ZOls/s640/IMG_0575.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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We did this about 20 times so I could attempt to get a picture of the beautiful crown, with pink hearts and all. I guess if nothing else this crown gave us a good game to play. He certainly liked it (the game). The velcro makes the crown adjustable, so maybe we'll save it for next year. I'm just sure he's going to love it.</div>
Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-35432094057706770672013-03-20T21:13:00.000-07:002013-03-25T04:03:51.732-07:00Essential Swimwear giveaway!Today I'm excited to bring you a giveaway from Essential Swimwear! If you haven't found that perfect new suit for Spring break, here's your chance.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nasD9MEP6Ac/UUqGNVvYJ4I/AAAAAAAAFug/_2Y5XTdRmMc/s1600/essential-swimwear3-0109_web900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nasD9MEP6Ac/UUqGNVvYJ4I/AAAAAAAAFug/_2Y5XTdRmMc/s640/essential-swimwear3-0109_web900.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Essential Swimwear is generously giving away a <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">$50 gift certificate</span></b> to put towards a suit of your choice!<br />
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<strike>To enter, simply leave a comment on this post (one entry per person, please).</strike><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED</span><br />
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You can visit Essential Swimwear <a href="http://essentialswimwear.com/" target="_blank">online</a> or follow them on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/essential-swimwear/274193246890" target="_blank">Facebook</a> for the latest deals and promotions.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e9ejoZ0EVFg/UUqGVUWC9wI/AAAAAAAAFuw/2V5leCR7PnQ/s1600/retro+one+piece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e9ejoZ0EVFg/UUqGVUWC9wI/AAAAAAAAFuw/2V5leCR7PnQ/s640/retro+one+piece.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My talented sister Brittney started this company in 2008. After being frustrated with expensive prices, wrong fits and the hassle of searching online for hours, she decided to experiment with making her own swimsuits. After a lot of trial and error, she was finally able to sew swimsuits that were comfortable, stylish and flattering and began making them for friends and family. Word spread quickly, and she began selling hand-made women's swimsuits to more and more people. After two years of personally fitting hundreds of women, she took the knowledge she gained and began designing swimsuits that could be manufactured to keep up with the demand and increase quality.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VpTdCTRG1-M/UUqGWUJvlFI/AAAAAAAAFu4/lMpm24JGlD4/s1600/ruffle+tankini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VpTdCTRG1-M/UUqGWUJvlFI/AAAAAAAAFu4/lMpm24JGlD4/s640/ruffle+tankini.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's a little bit more about Essential Swimwear, in their own words:<br />
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<i>At Essential Swimwear, our goal is to create beautiful, elegant and affordable swimwear for women of all shapes and sizes. We believe it's more classy and appealing to be modestly covered than unnecessarily provocative. Women should feel empowered and confident in their swimwear, whether they're laying out by the pool, chasing kids around the splash park, surfing at the ocean or swimming at the local rec center.</i><br />
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<i>Our vintage-inspired shapes paired with modern prints and solids create one-of-a-kind looks that work for every body type. With an emphasis on excellent quality of materials and construction, we are confident your Essential Swimwear suit will be one you'll have in your wardrobe for years.</i><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ca6rOlm4Jgk/UUqGUFkDtOI/AAAAAAAAFuo/osnBi6w6Y40/s1600/girls+flutter+tankini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ca6rOlm4Jgk/UUqGUFkDtOI/AAAAAAAAFuo/osnBi6w6Y40/s640/girls+flutter+tankini.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This giveaway ends Sunday at midnight. Winner will be announced Monday morning. Good luck!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Szns9bRQBr0/UVAuCdZRLfI/AAAAAAAAFv4/kmFxbJFRJmc/s1600/Picture+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Szns9bRQBr0/UVAuCdZRLfI/AAAAAAAAFv4/kmFxbJFRJmc/s1600/Picture+2.png" /></a></div>
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The winner of this giveaway is Jill Lau! She said, "Your sister does an amazing job!"<br />
Enjoy your new suit!Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-22658132575924609002013-03-20T06:00:00.000-07:002013-03-20T06:00:12.556-07:00Lego Minifigure display case<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For our Christmas homemade gift exchange (yes, I'm still showing projects from Christmas), Joe drew Dan's name. My friend <a href="http://mommymita.blogspot.com/2011/12/mini-fig-display.html" target="_blank">Alison</a> bought one of these drawers for her boys to house their Minifigures in, and I thought that would make the perfect gift for my Lego lover (all the kids like Legos, but Daniel <i>loves</i> them... really, he can play with them for hours). We found this old printers drawer from an antique shop. My favorite part is the old handle.</div>
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I guess this gift was semi homemade. Joe helped me glue in old Lego pieces so the figures could stand up. Then he helped put figures together to display.<br />
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The drawer can hold 89 figures! And I'm almost embarrassed to admit, we are close to filling it up.<br />
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I had to snap a picture while all of the figures were in there, because it never lasts very long. Before I know it they'll be picked off one by one to fight in the next battle.<br />
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Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-13402899113597357042013-03-19T08:56:00.002-07:002013-03-19T08:56:24.870-07:00Duct tape wallet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
John's class recently took a field trip to the library and he received his very own library card. He was pretty excited about this, to say the least. John was wondering where he should keep his card, so we brainstormed a bit and decided to try making a duct tape wallet. We already had colored duct tape, so it was free (an extra bonus!), and I found an easy to follow tutorial on <a href="http://youtu.be/xDPM-lktozg" target="_blank">YouTube</a>.</div>
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I love it when I can find projects to work on with the older boys. It takes a little more creativity and thought to find things they're really interested in doing, but when we do, it's time well spent together. I had to do most of the cutting, measuring and folding, but John enjoyed being in charge of playing and pausing the video as we worked. </div>
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Now John can keep dollar bills in his wallet, and coins in his <a href="http://thebluebasket.blogspot.com/2013/03/painted-money-jars.html" target="_blank">money jar</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFm7aZgBSGM/UUiCNSUmraI/AAAAAAAAFpk/h3r3HTVzUe4/s1600/IMG_0394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wFm7aZgBSGM/UUiCNSUmraI/AAAAAAAAFpk/h3r3HTVzUe4/s640/IMG_0394.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a><br />
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We found an old wallet sized picture he could put in the wallet (although he requested I get an updated one with Will in it).<br />
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And a nice little pocket for that library card. <br />
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Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-70576950869374327102013-03-18T11:15:00.002-07:002013-03-26T18:08:57.175-07:00From wheat to grass<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The first day of Spring is quickly approaching. Normally I would be more excited, but winter here seems to be dragging on and on. No real "spring" is on the horizon. Temperatures here are in the 30's and below all week, but we're surviving. We're planning on more sewing, crafts, and lazy afternoons!</div>
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At the beginning of March we started our wheat grass in hopes that it would be ready to go for Easter. 9 days later, the blades were more than a couple inches long! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qxsjj68sNl4/UUdKYbR-F2I/AAAAAAAAFpM/9jjR8ejAxlE/s1600/IMG_0379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qxsjj68sNl4/UUdKYbR-F2I/AAAAAAAAFpM/9jjR8ejAxlE/s640/IMG_0379.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a></div>
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We used <a href="http://www.deliacreates.com/2011/04/wheat-grass.html" target="_blank">Delia's</a> method for soil-less wheat grass. It was a bit high maintenance the first few days, having to rinse the wheat a few times a day. But fun to watch. This is the wheat on day 5, just after it came out of the jars.</div>
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And by day 8, here's what we had! Beautiful long blades of green grass.<br />
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The roots of the grass had grown right into the paper towels, so all I had to do was cut the rugs of grass into circles and place them in our pots. I found these pots at Ikea for $1 each, then filled them each half way with rocks.<br />
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You can still see the wheat berries down by the roots.<br />
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I thought the grass would look good under our <a href="http://thebluebasket.blogspot.com/2012/03/easter-egg-garland.html" target="_blank">Easter egg garland</a>. We come up with a new method to decorate eggs every year then string them all together for display. I'm still trying to decide what to do this year...<br />
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So now I have something beautiful and green to look at when I look out the window! Although we won't see the real stuff for some time now. Until then, this will have to do.<br />
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And I just found out that my pictures that I linked from Flickr are not working with Pinterest. Grrrr. So I'm going to try to load them right onto blogger and hope that that works. Sorry for the inconvenience!<br />
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<i>**Update: Unfortunately, about a week after we had this beautiful green grass, it all died from mold. And I'm not quite sure how we could have avoided it. So no green grass for Easter. Although the process of growing the grass from wheat was fun to watch, next year we might just go with plain old grass seeds planted in soil.</i>Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-86005443129830539322013-03-15T10:01:00.001-07:002013-03-15T10:01:07.778-07:00Painted money jarsThe kids needed a place to keep their money, and I had been wanting to paint jars. So we combined the two and came up with these money jars.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8552584001/" title="IMG_0277 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0277" height="483" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8227/8552584001_d3d904fb70_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I had John, Dan and Joe each pick out 2-4 colors they wanted to use. They poured about a tablespoon of each color into the bottom of the jar, then rolled the jar around until it was sufficiently covered with paint (we used acrylics).<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8552582073/" title="IMG_0278 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0278" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8525/8552582073_c3b1813f31_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I wanted to make sure the paint was completely dry before they used them, so we let them sit for about a week. For the top, I cut a circle out of some clear plastic, then cut a rectangle to put the coins through.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8553688864/" title="IMG_0276 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0276" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8236/8553688864_20e10ce98c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I was nervous that the coins would chip the paint, but surprisingly, they haven't chipped a bit. I hope our jam jars are happy with their new life! The kids sure love using them. And I do think they look nice sitting up there on the dresser :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8552587015/" title="IMG_0272 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0272" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8089/8552587015_ac84224f53_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-898460637235205192013-03-13T06:00:00.000-07:002013-03-13T06:00:04.916-07:00Surviving the transition from winter to springWe've entered the time of year when everyone is getting tired of the dirty snow, the rain, the gray skies, the mud and the cold weather. Even John has admitted he's tired of the snow... and that's saying something! But with this slow transition from winter to spring has come some downtime that has been quite enjoyable. I haven't filled up our days with too many activities away from home. Instead, we've settled into a slower routine, read a lot of books, played a lot of dragons, checkers and hide-and-seek, and worked on a few projects.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8552598381/" title="IMG_0309 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0309" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8230/8552598381_01505d1890_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We all seem to migrate to the couch by the window when the sun is out. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8552597235/" title="IMG_0319 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0319" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8388/8552597235_981cba9178_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I don't think the kids are used to seeing me lay down so much. But I could get used to this.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8552596491/" title="IMG_0325 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0325" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8383/8552596491_cc0fc1a080_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Even Will will lay still for a few... seconds.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8553698192/" title="IMG_0337 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0337" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8102/8553698192_df0a0a7cab_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Many forts have been built in our front room.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8552594123/" title="IMG_0387 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0387" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8371/8552594123_923c59af18_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And many games of checkers have been played.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8553696052/" title="IMG_0353 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0353" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8101/8553696052_8e8c8a9db0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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And of course I can't lie around all day long... this is the time of year when I do the most sewing. I have about 10 projects floating around in my head, it's just a matter of deciding which ones I should actually do, what I actually have time for. Currently a jean picnic blanket is in the works (don't look too close, I'm a beginner quilter).<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8552591853/" title="IMG_0354 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0354" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8516/8552591853_6dd85afb18_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Our wheat grass continues to grow. Yes wheat! It's actually growing! Who would have thought. A couple days more and we'll transplant them into something better looking.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8552590455/" title="IMG_0351 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0351" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8233/8552590455_7e83dc6ebf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Our garden plans have begun. We made <a href="http://thebluebasket.blogspot.com/2012/05/mothers-day-gift-garden-markers.html" target="_blank">garden markers</a> last year for Pete's mom but never got around to making our own. We'll use a wood burner to trace the letters, then nail the signs to stakes. Even though planting most of the garden won't happen for a couple of months, just the thought of it is exciting.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8553692220/" title="IMG_0347 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0347" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8090/8553692220_3a6a83198f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<i>What do you do to survive this time of year?</i>Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-64418282606530027812013-03-11T06:00:00.000-07:002013-03-11T06:00:08.600-07:00Fabric napkinsI made some <a href="http://thebluebasket.blogspot.com/2011/12/christmas-cloth-napkins.html" target="_blank">fabric Christmas napkins</a> last year for our family to use during the holidays and decided it might be nice to have some plain ones for every day use. I basically sewed two rectangles together, turned them right side out, then sewed around the edge. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8541860187/" title="IMG_0292 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0292" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8382/8541860187_99fcc6b16a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I love using them most for muffins, bread and cookies. Sometimes you can get away with just shaking them off and reusing them. Other times I throw them in the laundry basket.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8542961300/" title="IMG_0287 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0287" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8250/8542961300_9e748e5a9a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Will didn't use a napkin, but this was his first time eating a cookie. We make a lot of cookies around here, so it will not be the last. And my baby turns one in 2 weeks! I can hardly believe it!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8541858013/" title="IMG_0294 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0294" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8109/8541858013_ac6f951375_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-70565547576760571562013-03-09T10:03:00.000-08:002013-03-09T10:03:00.662-08:00Oil paintingFor our Christmas homemade gift exchange, John drew Will's name. I went over a few ideas with John, but he knew exactly what he wanted to do. Paint a picture for Will. He remembered the <a href="http://thebluebasket.blogspot.com/2012/03/nesting-mobile-and-nursery.html" target="_blank">mobile</a> we had made for Will before he born and wanted him to have something new to look at when he wakes up in the morning (those are John's words, not mine).<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8540124936/" title="IMG_0300 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0300" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8526/8540124936_37f4319702_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I bought some canvas and unburied my dusty oil paints that hadn't been used for probably 10 years (!) John drew the picture with pencil first, then set to work filling it in with color. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8539021759/" title="IMG_0032 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0032" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8234/8539021759_56328a7afc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8539019489/" title="IMG_0299 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0299" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8242/8539019489_6a6aa6e377_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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I love the texture you get with oils. But I do not love the mess that comes with them... we may just bury those paints for another 10 years or so. Stick to watercolors and acrylics.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8540123562/" title="IMG_0301 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0301" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8111/8540123562_7d29ec19fb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Will really does love the painting. Although when I hold him in front of it, he always tries to grab it. Such a naughty baby :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8539020545/" title="IMG_0298 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0298" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8506/8539020545_a8607fbe34_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-87078796047759114242013-03-07T17:41:00.003-08:002013-03-12T19:39:13.348-07:00Finding joy in each seasonI never thought I would say this... but I have <i>loved</i> the snow, the ice, and the subfreezing temperatures this winter. Yes, even the cold! Because with those things have come many hours spent outside playing in the snow, ice skating, skiing out the back door and on trails, many, many cups of hot chocolate (way too many to count), cuddling underneath blankets on the couch, playing make-believe dragons, reading books, catching up on mending and sewing projects, and slowing down a bit. Pete has always said he couldn't live somewhere without the seasons, and I have always said I could do without winter. But this year, instead of dreading the cold and being stuck inside, I have decided to simply enjoy winter for what it is.<br />
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This is the first year that John and Dan have been able to put on all their snow gear by themselves. Snowpants, coats, boots, hats, gloves and scarves. It was so fun to see them come out of the laundry room together, all geared up for a snowy adventure. And even more great that I didn't have to help them and they didn't have to ask. John is the snow king, he LOVES the snow. I've never met another boy who loves the snow more. He hung up signs he made on all the windows that said, "Let it snow!" and looked out the window first thing every morning to see if it had. He often got ready for school as fast as he could so he could get outside and play before the bus came. I think John's love for the snow rubbed off on everyone.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8537751026/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0069 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0069" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8382/8537751026_0c38734b9a_z.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="480" /></a></div>
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Even though John and Dan can get ready themselves, it was still quite the process getting the whole family ready to go anywhere. There was one morning in particular when I thought it would be fun to take Dan and Joe cross country skiing while John was at school. It was a sunny day (and there aren't a whole lot of those in the winter here) and I was feeling extra adventurous. I spent the whole morning getting everything ready. A thermos of hot chocolate, packing the car with everyone's skis, the chariot for Will (we have ski attachments so I can pull him behind me), making sure everyone was fed, had gone potty, and was properly dressed. After a couple hours of prep we finally arrived at the park I wanted to ski at. Then it was setting up the Chariot, getting everyone's skis on, putting some heating pads around Will (it was sunny but still below freezing) and trying to stay positive and happy so everyone would have a good time. As soon as we all started skiing, I knew the hard work had been worth it. The sun felt warm on our faces, the snow was soft, the kids were excited (it was Joe's first time), Will was content and the path we went on was beautiful. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8537745616/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0158 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0158" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8241/8537745616_75c559a24c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pete and I left the kids with a babysitter a few Saturdays so we could ski together on one of our favorite trails. Since it takes a lot of planning and effort to go anywhere without the kids, I feel like I have to enjoy every minute. Not that I don't enjoy being with the kids, it's not that at all. I just don't get to be out in nature by myself (or with Pete) without loud, sometimes needy, children very often. It's quite nice.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8536645591/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0088 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0088" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8230/8536645591_7c03787675_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Will got to experience snow for the first time this year. Let's be honest, there's not a whole lot a 9-month old can do in the snow, but he did seem to enjoy being outside if he was all bundled up. And by the end of the winter he really did like sledding. I love watching the kids try and experience new things. Their excitement and curiosity is contagious.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8536644185/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0118 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0118" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8389/8536644185_c53b0c2048_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Unfortunately for Will, he has spent a lot of the winter gazing out the back window, watching his brothers have all the fun. Surprisingly he hasn't seemed to mind, just looking outside was enough I guess. But I am getting excited at the thought of him being able to crawl and roll around on warm, green grass. </div>
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And since we still have a while until that warm, green grass will actually be here, I decided to give a go at growing grass from wheat kernels this year. We followed these <a href="http://www.deliacreates.com/2011/04/wheat-grass.html" target="_blank">instructions</a> and will hopefully have some green grass growing by Easter. The winter and the snow have been fun, but I must say, I am now really looking forward to Spring, and everything that comes with it.</div>
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Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-8655967861567783762013-03-04T10:39:00.001-08:002013-03-04T10:39:40.402-08:00A favorite gift for GIRLSYes, <i>girls</i>! Most of my projects, crafts and time is spent on boys, so I love when I can squeeze in some time to make girlie things. These wrapped leather bracelets have been one of my favorite things to make for Christmas/birthday gifts lately. They're fairly easy once you get the hang of it, can be strung up in about an hour, and only cost a few dollars per bracelet (depending how much you spend on the beads). I originally got the idea from my friend <a href="http://mommymita.blogspot.com/2012/05/wrapped-in-love.html" target="_blank">Alison</a> and used the tutorial from <a href="http://www.rings-things.com/blog/2011/03/08/how-to-make-wrapped-leather-bracelets/#.UTQA0RwTB1a" target="_blank">Rings & Things</a>. I have only tried making bracelets that wrap around your wrist one or two times, but Alison made a couple that wrap around 4 times, and they are beautiful. They make for a fun, thoughtful gift. Now I just need to make some for myself!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8525789003/" title="IMG_0260 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0260" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8250/8525789003_25d61340d1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8526901088/" title="IMG_0262 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0262" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8389/8526901088_a10845847a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8525786213/" title="IMG_0270 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0270" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8374/8525786213_f5af49b3c2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-7704981934354102042013-03-02T13:47:00.001-08:002013-03-02T13:47:24.793-08:00Wood crayon holderFor our Christmas homemade gift exchange, Dan picked Joe's name. When the kids are a bit older, we'll let them go at it on their own, but this year Pete helped Dan with his project. They made a wood crayon holder. I had originally seen one of these at an art fair and thought it would be easy to recreate. It's simply a piece of wood with holes drilled into the top. Dan made it a bit more personalized by writing on the side, then Pete traced his letters with a wood burner. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8521605075/" title="IMG_0255 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0255" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8237/8521605075_df0f4a67c3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Now when Joe is coloring, he can see all the colors at a glance. And taking them out of the holes and putting them back in is half the fun! <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8522715120/" title="IMG_0035 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0035" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8101/8522715120_078661f2e5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3056282627121888636.post-69618359132647435812013-02-28T17:42:00.000-08:002013-02-28T17:43:31.769-08:00ArtworkI originally hung up all of our Christmas cards on this door, then decided it would make a perfect place to hang the kids artwork after I took them down. It's about as simple as it gets. Twine wrapped around a door and clothes pins to attach the artwork. Done.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8516534691/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_0204 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0204" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8382/8516534691_1dbf14cf74_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8516533267/" title="IMG_0205 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0205" height="480" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8104/8516533267_4af2422000_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/65212485@N03/8517651304/" title="IMG_0203 by Jessica M Jackson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0203" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8381/8517651304_f177766bde_z.jpg" width="480" /></a>Jessica Jacksonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12212163201148504267noreply@blogger.com0