tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26392559732848248322024-03-05T10:01:00.953-05:006 berriessewing, crafts, kids, homeschoolUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger144125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-63910121952632312812017-10-30T22:36:00.000-04:002017-10-30T22:36:48.636-04:00Scrap Monster Sew Along: Day 3Day 3: Monster Mouths! <br />
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Monster mouths are one of my favorite parts of making monsters. So many choices. The simplest I've made was to cut pointy teeth out of felt and sew them in to the face. There are two ways to do this. One is by pinching the body fabric where you want the mouth to go, then sewing the pinched part with the teeth sticking out. The other is to sew 2 separate pieces of fabric together and making the seam the mouth. Again with the teeth sandwiched in between like the little yellow monster below.<br />
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The larger monster is my zipper pocket mouthed monster. Make a pocket out of scrap fabric and sew the opening of the pocket and the mouth opening together with the zipper sandwich in between. I had hoped to make my own monster version of a zipper pocket tutorial, but since I haven't yet you will have to find one of the many tutorials online for how to sew this kind of pocket into a bag. I used the same method here.<br />
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You can also embroider a mouth. I would recommend embroidering once you have the monster somewhat put together, but before stuffing. If you have at least the front and back of the head sewn together you will have a better idea of where the mouth should be and how it's all going to come together.<br />
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This time I went for a wire edged mouth. I haven't done this before but when I started playing with my piece of triangle shaped fabric I knew it needed to have a posable mouth.<br />
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First I cut a square of fabric for the inside of the mouth and sewed 2 corners to the two corners of my triangle pieces and then together where they met at the corners of the mouth. I used 5/8" seam allowance so that I'd have room to attach the wire to the allowance<br />
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I measured and cut a piece of wire equal to the perimeter of the green square pieced I had cut for inside the mouth. Then, using the longest and widest zig zag setting on my machine, I basted the wire to the seam allowance.<br />
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It was a little funky turning everything right side out. The wire at the point of the "beak" needed to be bent the opposite way it had been. I made sure that the corner where my wire was twisted together ended up at a corner of the mouth, not one of the beaks, so those corners were easy to reshape. Once turned I pinned all around the outside wiggling the wire as close to the seam as possible and used a zipper foot to top stitch around the whole mouth, securing the wire in place.<br />
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In order to keep the inside of the mouth from popping out when the head was stuffed I decided to learn a new skill and used my blind hem foot for the first time ever. I did not get a truly blind hem, but I did get the inside of the mouth securely sewn to outside and I'm happy with how it looks.<br />
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Now I need to figure out where to go from here. This turned out a little different than I imagined so my monster is going to be a little more involved than I originally planned, but I really love it so far.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-4571666065136710252017-10-25T23:44:00.001-04:002017-10-25T23:44:49.134-04:00Scrap Monster Sew Along Day 2: monster limbsToday's post is so very late because a certain little one (who has decided to give school a try this year) needed some extra mama time tonight. She is doing well and liking school, but commented that it does make it harder to do ALL the things you want to do with your mom... <br />
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Come. On.<br />
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She knows my weaknesses so well. Anyway, she has been fed desserts, cuddled, read a story, given some undivided attention, and tucked in so now, on to the monster making!<br />
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Day 2: Monster Limbs<br />
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Do you have some long strips leftover from quilt making? or a bit along the selvage? I am using the long thinnish pieces to make my monster's limbs. I'm still not sure if they will become arms or legs.<br />
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To aid in turning the long tube of fabric right side out, I tied an oversized safety pin to a scrap of yarn, fed it through the inside-out tube of fabric, sewed the end of the yarn into the end of fabric, then pulled the safety pin to turn the tube right side out. It takes a little finagling to get it started but is super smooth once it's going.<br />
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One of my favorite extras to add to the limbs is wire. wrap it in the
stuffing or wiggle it in after the piece is stuffed and you now have a
poseable limb. My wire was a little too thin so I wrapped it around
itself until I had a strong enough wire to hold a pose when put into the
limb I had. The thinner the limb or the less stuffing the thinner the
wire can be.<br />
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Some other fun ideas for the limbs would be to use a tapered piece, or add "fingers" of yarn or felt. These can be added when you sew closed one end of the limb before stuffing, just turn the raw edge under slide some yarn scraps or pointed felt pieces in and top stitch closed.<br />
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If you are planning to piece together your main monster body that can be done with this step.<br />
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OK, tomorrow I should have some more time for monster making. If you have any questions about this step (or any others) please comment below or send me a message. I did plan a more detailed explanation for this step so I may add some later. Night everyone. Remember to snap some pictures of your progress, tag, and share #monstersewalongUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-44177492704634428842017-10-24T19:40:00.000-04:002017-10-25T23:45:09.480-04:00Scrap Monster Sew AlongWant to join me in a little Halloween Scrap Monster Sew Along? In an attempt to encourage myself to use my art/craft/making time more productively I have decided to invite you to make with me :) I have never done a sew along type thing so any tips will be appreciated. The plan is to post a video, along with short blog post for those who don't love watching videos, of the steps I go through to make my cute monsters. [edited: We have been having some technical difficulties with the videos. :( I might get up the nerve to do a live <a href="https://www.instagram.com/6__berries/">Instagram</a> thing so follow me there if you must have videos, or you want to see what a goof I am]<br />
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Day one: Gather your supplies<br />
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If you sew you probably have all sorts of scraps available for your scrap monster. My favorite scraps are the oddly shaped leftover bits that seem useless for most projects. If you don't sew regularly you can use old clothing or buy remnants at a fabric store for a discounted price.<br />
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This is a great project for trying to work with fabric you've never used before because really anything goes. If you twist your knit fabric, it only adds to the character of your monster. If your needle pulls threads on a fine satin and it runs, it gives a bit of gruesome wear and tear to the monster. Plus you get a lesson in choosing the proper needle.<br />
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The point is don't over think it and have fun letting go of the usual rules for sewing. This is really my sewing happy place. I love making a perfect piece from a perfect pattern, but a carefree, rules free project like this gives my creative mind a nice big stretch. So gather any bits of ribbon, fabric, scavenged zippers and buttons and start playing around with a design.<br />
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Supplies List:<br />
<ul>
<li>Fabric scraps</li>
<li>Fabric scissors</li>
<li>Stuffing </li>
<li>Thread</li>
<li>Embroidery floss </li>
<li>Needles</li>
<li>Pins </li>
<li>Sewing machine (unless hand sewing)</li>
</ul>
Possible extras:<br />
<ul>
<li>Bits of lace or ribbon </li>
<li>Wire</li>
<li>Zippers</li>
<li>Buttons</li>
<li>Beads</li>
<li>Felt</li>
<li>Fusible interfacing</li>
<li>Leftover biased binding</li>
<li>Yarn scraps</li>
</ul>
Gather your supplies and start brainstorming. I like to use the odd shapes in the scrap fabric, you know that corner left behind when you cut out a skirt, or the curved part from a sleeve. Use the shapes of your scraps to help determine the shape of the monster. Most important remember to have fun, there's no wrong way to make a scrap monster. (If you haven't figured it out already you don't really need me but it's fun to sew together anyway right)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPSvqq3BILfz9seq4XoioeIFbP-jeNG-0oaLDBr3F74Sy7gwiR7SuGQYvF1T_Fdq26lU6kFmm13ETDTEpcw3xGUJHXNiC16afrb0mWpj-hK1MLN71yDrmeibYs7iSFtMM0cwy7VDo24_o/s1600/monsterideas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="479" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPSvqq3BILfz9seq4XoioeIFbP-jeNG-0oaLDBr3F74Sy7gwiR7SuGQYvF1T_Fdq26lU6kFmm13ETDTEpcw3xGUJHXNiC16afrb0mWpj-hK1MLN71yDrmeibYs7iSFtMM0cwy7VDo24_o/s1600/monsterideas.jpg" /></a></div>
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Snap some pictures and share them on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/6__berries/">Instagram</a>, or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/6-Berries-570244150030407/">FB</a>, or Twitter, or the comments here. Make sure to #monstersewalong so we can all share in the fun.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-13517114395745941072015-04-12T08:00:00.000-04:002015-04-12T08:00:05.681-04:00It's not about sewingWhen people see or hear about my kids sewing, most think it's pretty great, everyone comments on their creativity and no one says, out right, that it's a waste of time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgn0DCvDlkz2uEqqN2rDckTTggh0BsSDX9wU1cGe9Y81_sReTpVXSNb9gj4fSXD5NPKwwIBamZI8ZZANE3Bb0djy-6BBv5__vBKjGLKJV3yOILLQIQK8jIkvX1T2eYpdS5LL5YGBk4Ue0/s1600/Lfringedress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgn0DCvDlkz2uEqqN2rDckTTggh0BsSDX9wU1cGe9Y81_sReTpVXSNb9gj4fSXD5NPKwwIBamZI8ZZANE3Bb0djy-6BBv5__vBKjGLKJV3yOILLQIQK8jIkvX1T2eYpdS5LL5YGBk4Ue0/s1600/Lfringedress.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L's first dress, designed and sewn herself</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They don't point out any obvious flaws and seem genuinely impressed with the finished product. They want to be supportive and encouraging. And, for the most part they are. I love the feedback my kids get and they grow immeasurably in the light that the wonderful people in our lives shine on their hard work. Most of our friends and family, this is what they give, in endless waves, building and encouraging.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5VOBibgGtJMPND-_k6GVQnFD_S0duWPsRH0AlqQS4ikBZ2OTB8YirViYSEmyjOvyHdg8cHhhKjr89VNIosOsuydCsXO6S6witCqk8BBRAhY3uzzGgpY3h-NvaYVbIE18DBeOmMIFZ2g/s1600/playmat-024-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5VOBibgGtJMPND-_k6GVQnFD_S0duWPsRH0AlqQS4ikBZ2OTB8YirViYSEmyjOvyHdg8cHhhKjr89VNIosOsuydCsXO6S6witCqk8BBRAhY3uzzGgpY3h-NvaYVbIE18DBeOmMIFZ2g/s1600/playmat-024-2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> K and her cousin made a playmat for a teacher's first baby</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Inevitably, though, there's that one person who, as the kids walk away, or occasionally just before, turns the conversation to the usefulness of such a skill. There is almost always someone who, in essence, says sure it's a neat thing to know how to do, but it's so much more costly to sew your own clothes nowadays. You can buy stuff so cheap and fabric is pricey. Or maybe they imply, there aren't many good jobs in the field of fashion design, seamstresses aren't paid high wages. Oh, but maybe they could work in costume design for movies! In fact, maybe, there have been times when that person was me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8uGJuyjuA40Hat9iU9jX7A0yiui4aU_NHvWAfvd3vCAgRrT9ZidV0lQTRHXPG2eNsUR4dmPj8Xa6DR6T6pRzs4inMPkCRgdcZO59E9JZtoMWN4Yy6LcGgBCVOAQoYnHpXvFoUekM0bDE/s1600/Csews.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8uGJuyjuA40Hat9iU9jX7A0yiui4aU_NHvWAfvd3vCAgRrT9ZidV0lQTRHXPG2eNsUR4dmPj8Xa6DR6T6pRzs4inMPkCRgdcZO59E9JZtoMWN4Yy6LcGgBCVOAQoYnHpXvFoUekM0bDE/s1600/Csews.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">C's first time solo at the machine, a gift for a cousin's birthday</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But, here's the thing...It's not about the sewing. Sure, if my kids choose a job in the fashion, sewing, fabric, or textile fields (of which I am quite sure there are opportunities) they may have a leg up being exposed so young, but maybe not and, really now, they're kids, we're not planning career paths just yet.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4KSkJrLd_BFuroMO9Mf1BKwLtvvuXhQmV7L6ikzwSA8OiYDdR6EVyIPSlN6JOx3LdxZcQq68DTM04XgfUmcJLKOk7R16MV3v68jeAtwu7OdXjMPXwO-51UbjnORBMWEJC5aB4plP0v8/s1600/sewing.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI4KSkJrLd_BFuroMO9Mf1BKwLtvvuXhQmV7L6ikzwSA8OiYDdR6EVyIPSlN6JOx3LdxZcQq68DTM04XgfUmcJLKOk7R16MV3v68jeAtwu7OdXjMPXwO-51UbjnORBMWEJC5aB4plP0v8/s1600/sewing.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">B's first sewing project a tree decoration we still use every winter solstice.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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No it's not about the sewing. They sew because I sew and it's accessible.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QnF9bHXSN1ZJhUTlLCutd5uE6YBaVZvFeyqezNE6QJvoAzKu24ftVAZglsnwzq5tUdrURGZrxzBCyDLH7_TB_EaUGUqB34DOP9GKo4hrg6NDzU28a09IMdSwHs8LWE8xPqeze9qksWI/s1600/playmat-007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1QnF9bHXSN1ZJhUTlLCutd5uE6YBaVZvFeyqezNE6QJvoAzKu24ftVAZglsnwzq5tUdrURGZrxzBCyDLH7_TB_EaUGUqB34DOP9GKo4hrg6NDzU28a09IMdSwHs8LWE8xPqeze9qksWI/s1600/playmat-007.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What it's really about is taking that thing in their mind and making it real. It's about seeing an idea, turning it over, looking at it from every angle and figuring out how to share it with the world.<br />
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They do this in other ways too. They do it with their drawings, their stories, their Minecraft worlds, the small businesses they start, the skits they perform for us, the movies they write, direct, film and edit, the dances they choreograph for family get togethers, and the video game designs and animations they dabble in.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZsV4nMWnYZinKjQZlaT_pOrLYSvkt5GMyLIKZwZLsmOhsyF9SHiuCF0iU5wc7cDzBwb5CFaVOI1Ne_Ql5xRvs37OcAW3Mw5Y_8LPYk4ONjEYnyu0bCrJn-tvbiS4breHda7utcfTSzA/s1600/medieval-costume1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZsV4nMWnYZinKjQZlaT_pOrLYSvkt5GMyLIKZwZLsmOhsyF9SHiuCF0iU5wc7cDzBwb5CFaVOI1Ne_Ql5xRvs37OcAW3Mw5Y_8LPYk4ONjEYnyu0bCrJn-tvbiS4breHda7utcfTSzA/s1600/medieval-costume1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">K designed and sewed herself a medieval costume</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So while I'd be proud if any of them chose to pursue a career that put the sewing skills to good use, it's not about the sewing. Instead, lets talk about the research, the trial and error the figuring out when to ask for help and when to plow through. Or about setting deadlines and falling short, all the times it goes wrong . The tears and tantrums and try it agains.<br />
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Lets talk about that feeling you get when you add that small
detail or find the perfect ribbon that makes all the hard work so worth
it because the finished product is even better than you ever could have imagined it would be.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ZQspJ-QhrKIRI207mbpqL_TQz25dP-7h0AxHdPLlOQjIfWUzJM5aC1fiWk3jMlbU-7WaiW5YWC87R-hREvg0DPipNewSyPyTMK6bwcfMjn4LQDcu3bSNO5gfnmwb3jacFQ5jJCR-aRw/s1600/lsews.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ZQspJ-QhrKIRI207mbpqL_TQz25dP-7h0AxHdPLlOQjIfWUzJM5aC1fiWk3jMlbU-7WaiW5YWC87R-hREvg0DPipNewSyPyTMK6bwcfMjn4LQDcu3bSNO5gfnmwb3jacFQ5jJCR-aRw/s1600/lsews.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L attaching her first zipper, an invisible zipper. A squeal worthy accomplishment.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yes, I'd much rather, after we build my kids up, filling their buckets with our beautiful comments, if we could then talk about learning how to learn, learning we are capable, learning we'll mess up and it'll still be fine because that right there, the process, that's what it's really about.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-42701579041770569042015-04-04T16:31:00.000-04:002015-04-04T16:31:02.676-04:00The Pirate Quilt<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ah the pirate quilt. Took me about 9 years from dreaming it up to finished. It's taken me over a year to blog about it. It's like my ultimate procrastination triumph. <i>Never give up!</i> </div>
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I started this quilt with a fair amount of confidence, 3 years sewing experience in my pocket, but not a whole lot of real skill beyond the basics. This quilt was all about pushing my limits. Every piece I dreamed up required techniques I hadn't mastered.<br />
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I do this a lot with sewing, rarely using a pattern or changing it drastically when I do, adding details I have no idea how to work with. I think we all need these things in our lives. Something to show us that when we push our skills we grow. Something that maybe we don't have to take too seriously, that gives us the courage to test our limits.</div>
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Goodness, this pirate quilt is so loaded for me. There are many different directions I can go with its story. This is my 3rd attempt in a week and if I hadn't given myself this deadline, done today or move on, I'd still be working on it. </div>
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We can talk about the growth in my sewing skills, the late nights after finally putting babies to bed working a little here and there while trying to stay awake long enough to make it through a movie with my husband. </div>
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Or, how much I learned about fabric. When you spend that much time with a piece of fabric, you get to know it intimately. Bottom line, don't skimp on the big projects and PJs are perfect trial runs for anything.</div>
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I could tell you how each piece reminds me of the growing boy who waited so patiently for his quilt, piping in with ideas of his own. How while I was working on the palm tree, one of my most favorite, skill stretching pieces, my boy had fallen in love with Franz Ferdinand and would request <i>his</i> song then bop along to the fun beat while I maneuvered each leaf through the machine, sketching with my needle </div>
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I could go on about work spaces. The kitchen table set up I had, with a wall plug just a hair<i> </i>too far away, which caused an innocent hop over a stretched out cord to send my machine crashing to the floor bending metal bits in impossible places at impossible angles, and how that led to a basement studio near to the playroom that sounded like a good idea but, out of sight out of mind, my sewing frequency slowed. </div>
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We can share frustrations, the times it was put aside and sat until the guilt of not working on it for ages became unbearable, or a burst of excited inspiration caused it to be picked back up. And how the stories that fill those moments in between, when it was set aside, they are here too. Little reminders in each stitch of all the life happening along the way. </div>
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We could talk about how much I learned about learning and how infrequently I applied that knowledge when we first started homeschooling, even though I really wanted to and knew it was the best way, for me and my kids. </div>
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Or, how about the nuts and bolts of it all? How I did the appliques, each piece has it's own method. And the hand quilting I opted for. Having burned through two sewing machines by then, I was left with only my daughter's, too small to handle a twin size quilt, Hello Kitty Janome. which is actually much nicer than either of my other machines ever were. I loved laying the quilt down on the carpeted living room floor, a book under the spot I planned to quilt next, to sketch the swirls in the water, the ropes of the ship, the fish hidden throughout. Then sitting with needle and thread on winter evenings, cozy under it, many times my boy snuggled next to me his patience wearing as the finishing seemed so close. It was already getting regular use even before it was done.</div>
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See loaded. I've already rambled on and on and I've just scratched the surface of all I see and feel when I look at this quilt, at these nine years of my life, at the time I've had with my boy who is quickly becoming a young man. (he has assured me he will cherish it forever, will never be too old for its childish appliques and embroidery, and plans to pass it on to his own children one day)</div>
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I could go on for days. I haven't started another quilt since finishing this one, but my youngest and I have started planning hers. Actually we started planning long before the pirate quilt was done, and she and her brother still shared a room, and so Mermaids and sea creatures it is. We've started buying the fabric. She's much older than her brother was when I started his quilt, but I'm faster and have learned to dedicate more time to my sewing so I'm confident we'll have it finished up before she's 9...maybe...we can dream. And even if it takes another nine years to finish it, we will have another nine years of learning and growing and memories wrapped up in the finished quilt. I think I can handle that.</div>
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For those who never met Steve, he was an accident, he was never supposed
to be. But a goofed attempt at a piñata led to the creation of Steve,
and a brother and cousin refusing to take part in the girls' big movie
brought Steve to life in his first role as "the groom" in their
inaugural film.<br />
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After that he became a part of our everyday lives. Steve helped us out in a moment of need, playing the part of scarecrow when a crazed bird was relentlessly bashing itself into our window trying to get to the trees reflected in it. He loved playing the creepy silhouette on the porch to scare tick-or-treaters on Halloween. But, most of the time he could be found modeling the gowns and capes L or I designed and sewed. He wore them well, and always with a little extra flare.<br />
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Yesterday Steve was unceremoniously laid to rest. Too many late nights spent in a damp basement led to a soggy noggin and after holding on for the past month or so with a misshapen, flattened form he finally began to fall apart. We started finding a piece of stiff paper here, a pile of floury dust there. When he lost an eye we finally accepted his fate and said our good-byes with a promise to never forget our Steve and the wonderful acting, haunting, and general support he showed for all of our projects.<br />
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There are plans in the works for attempting a reincarnation, alas we all
know the second Steve can never be the same as the first, but his legacy will live on in the
paper-mâché heads of tomorrow. Steve you were loved, you will be missed,
you will live on in our hearts and projects evermore.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-76759499059547590462014-02-24T23:42:00.000-05:002014-02-24T23:43:15.525-05:00Finding Comfort<span style="color: #b6d7a8;"><i>I actually wrote this a few months ago, while <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/2013/11/why-ive-been-away.html">my niece</a> was having <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/2013/11/in-love-with.html">her surgery</a>. It felt too real to share at the time, but I want to remember these feeling, this moment in time. I don't want it to be lost in a list of </i><i><i>drafted, never </i>published posts, so here it is.</i></span> <br />
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My heart is so tired lately. All the worry, sadness, and truly amazing things happening around me everyday are exhausting.<br />
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I am finding some comfort in meditative stitching, working on a quilt that has been in the making for 9 years now, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.<br />
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And in appreciating how truly blessed I am by spending more time really watching and listening to my kids during the times I have them all to myself.<br />
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And in the fun and engaging distractions my Adobe Generation Pro courses give me when I need to quiet my mind. <br />
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And, in the kindness and generosity of friends who send meals for my sister's family, while they travel an impossibly rough road.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-70941408840858964952014-01-10T11:43:00.000-05:002014-03-12T15:57:05.930-04:00The Bellabee Apron PatternI finally did it. I have finally listed the<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/175138537/bellabee-childs-reversable-apron-pdf?"> Bellabee Apron Pattern</a> for sale in the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/6berries?ref=l2-shopheader-name">6Berries Etsy shop</a>. Yay!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiiS7XcjZTf5XurTemngQV1S7o5qSMtxjzM5wU9WByKZ3222XOlKuA6BI0FxcWlnu9kAA6Rjnsp0NR3DntO-WdhNRIoa_KT2zSOwO7rfomujCuL3PFoQ9AQc2NPcjjDaLNvqzyp9LZwE0/s1600/apron2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiiS7XcjZTf5XurTemngQV1S7o5qSMtxjzM5wU9WByKZ3222XOlKuA6BI0FxcWlnu9kAA6Rjnsp0NR3DntO-WdhNRIoa_KT2zSOwO7rfomujCuL3PFoQ9AQc2NPcjjDaLNvqzyp9LZwE0/s1600/apron2.jpg" /></a></div>
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I really am this excited to finally have this project complete. You can <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/175138537/bellabee-childs-reversable-apron-pdf?ref=shop_home_active_1">head on over to Etsy</a> to check out all the info.<br />
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I'm going to show you the out takes from my photo shoot with my youngest here, because, well, it's fun and they're simply adorable pictures. If I do say so myself. Although I could have done better with the lighting. <br />
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She was very excited about getting to model the apron. She loves hers and couldn't wait to play the mad scientist. Which really is how she uses hers. Sitting at the kitchen table mixing different ingredients to make strange concoctions and calling it science.<br />
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And, she insisted on wearing her goggles. You're just not a scientist, mad or otherwise, without proper eye protection.<br />
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I think a sibling dropped the lid to the cooler holding the dry ice just as I snapped this. We all got a good laugh from this picture. My silly girl. Shy as can be in person, but always goofing off for the camera. I just love her to bits.<br />
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OK, so even she get tired of the camera eventually. Enough with the pictures mom, can't I just play with the colored liquid in the test tubes already.<br />
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Well, now that I've made this post feel completely self indulgent with pictures of my cutie pie wearing the apron pattern I'm hoping to sell, I might as well add one last plug. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/6berries?ref=l2-shopheader-name">Go check out my shop.</a> :)<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-11751831012163677692014-01-05T23:25:00.002-05:002014-01-05T23:25:40.360-05:00With Chilly Cheeks and Warm Bellies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I just tucked in my two youngest. Their cheeks chilly, and their bellies warm. The winter storm has caused quite a bit of excitement around here. We're downing hot cocoa and soup like they're going out of style and my entryway is in a constant state of soppy, snowy, mess. I just can't keep up. And, I don't care. I am so in love with right now. I'm not sure what it is, but I'm just going with it. Don't get me wrong, things are far from perfect. I was grumpy a bit today too, but the overall feeling I have of contentment is wonderful. I thought I might sit and write and work something out here, but you know what? I'm just going to take the opportunity to make note of it, to help me remember this feeling, while it's abundant.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-28058444099209159202014-01-03T18:04:00.000-05:002014-02-24T22:51:19.721-05:00Wintery Pics<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Is it bad form to post Christmas pics so long after the holiday? Probably, but I love this picture so much. I snapped it in my early
morning fog, from my viewing spot on the sofa, just seconds before
dragging my sleepy butt back to bed. The kids were up early this year.
4:30 to be exact.<br />
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Yeah, so Christmas morning nap, was not optional this year.<br />
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We had a wonderful holiday with family and friends, and fun and food. We've totally obliterated any semblance of routine or schedule with endless hours of video games and new books and puzzles and a little bit of fun in the snow when the sun was shining. There is just something about the combination of snow and sunshine that is irresistible.<br />
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The Kindle Fires Santa delivered have us all in a trance, my husband and myself included. Why did no one ever tell me about Temple Run? Oh, yeah, because I can become extremely obsessed with those silly, pointless games. (There is a span of a few months, shortly after my husband and I started dating, that is sort of a big Tetris blur for me.) Every morning. This is how I find them every morning.<br />
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These early days of the new year always have a hang over feel to them. We've started to loose the holiday buzz, and the lazy days lacking our normal routines are wearing on us. So, as we groggily emerge from our junk food comas, I am trying to nudge us back to normal.<br />
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It's difficult, though, because we can't just return to the pre-holiday routine. You never can go back, you know. Just a few short weeks, but already we're all so different. And, with new toys and tools needing our attention and time, a new schedule must be forged.<br />
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This was not at all my intended direction for this post. I kinda love when that happens. It's like I'm telling myself, no no no, that's not what's really on your mind. Here let me show you what you've been working through while running that little animated character through the treacherous temple run. Let me clue you in on what happens when you ignore your original inspiration to write, putting off blog post after blog post. Much like those routines you can never really return to those original thoughts.<br />
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Which had something to do with challenging myself to take wintery photos every day to help get through this dark and cold season. A little push to get myself outside more often and remind myself of all that I truly love about Michigan winters, because I really do, I love all the snow and the crisp air, I just forget sometimes.<br />
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I'll leave you with a quick update on <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/2013/11/why-ive-been-away.html">my niece</a>. I know some of you have been wondering and hoping all is well, and it is. As well as we can hope for under the circumstances. Her surgery went better than expected, she recovered quickly and was home for Thanksgiving dinner with the family. Radiation is done, and although it took a toll on her poor little body, she did well. She is back to her chemo schedule, with a break for the holidays and has reached the halfway point. She spends as much time as she can playing in the snow and enjoying every minute of those good days, surrounded by the people who love her.<br />
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<i>Hoping your holidays were filled with good food, loving family and fun. And, may the new year live up to your every wish.</i></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-59192280317165519842013-12-12T19:54:00.000-05:002013-12-12T19:54:06.855-05:00Holiday CraftingI wanted to pop in here to let you know that my <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/2009/12/bitty-bag-gift-bag-tutorial.html">Bitty Bag Tutorial</a> has been featured in a fabulous digital magazine, <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/diy-decorating-addict/id716243659?mt=8">DIY Decorating Addict</a>
available through the itunes store. Free for the month of December!
Head on over and check out all the holiday crafty goodness. And, to
those who found their way here through the magazine, welcome.<br />
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I would love to write a nice long post today about all the crafting going on around here, but I am sick, and either my kids are soon to follow or they love tormenting their poor sick mama with grumpy moods and lots of arguments. I think I have appeased them for the time being with a movie, but we'll see. For now, a few links to posts from the past that I hope will inspire you.<br />
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Check out my <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/search/label/sewing">sewing category</a> to see my fabric creations. There is the <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/2013/05/zipper-fly-plaid-pants-or-how-to-catch.html">zipper fly plaid pants</a> I made for my boy. My first attempt at a zipper fly. I had intended to do my own tutorial, but Oliver + S beat me to it and it is a <a href="https://oliverands.com/blog/2013/10/zipper-fly-tutorial.html">wonderful tutorial</a>.<br />
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My <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/search/label/crafting%20with%20kids">crafting with kids category</a> shows some of the cool gift exchange gifts we make each year. I'm sure there is some great holiday inspiration for you in there, like the <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/2012/01/secret-agent-spy-kit.html">secret agent spy kit</a> we put together for my sister's kids. Oh my, that was a fun one. Or, the <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/2011/12/craft-gift-reveal-part-2.html">peppermint sugar scrubs</a> my girls gave to their Aunties. (links to the recipes are in the post)<br />
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And, of course, don't forget to check out my <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/p/blog-page.html">tutorials tab</a> at the top of the page for detailed tutorials on adding elastic to waistbands using ribbon, or sewing a cowboy vest, as well as the Bitty Bag tutorial.<br />
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If you like what you see, you can now subscribe to my blog by RSS feed, e-mail, or follow me on twitter to get notified of my newest posts. Thanks for visiting and happy holidays.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-38469323767889492013-11-18T13:33:00.001-05:002013-11-18T18:00:53.323-05:00Loving<ul>
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<i>This is a post I had almost ready to publish when my niece got sick. I found it today and it made me smile and think of the fun summer days that feel like so long ago already, so I thought I'd share it. Today there is so much more that I am in love with and thankful for. I don't think I have the stamina to post them just now. This week my niece has her big surgery. They will remove the tumor and her kidney and will clean out a major artery. There is a lot of prepping for cousins who will be staying here, and plenty of other, normal life things happening too, but I find myself pausing frequently throughout the days to worry, and to think, and most of all, to take stock and appreciate all that I have. </i><br />
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<ul>
<li>The Black Eyed Susan's and Daisies popping up between our yard and the pond. </li>
<li>The boy teaching his little sister how to pitch so he has someone to play baseball with now that the little league season has ended.</li>
<li>My youngest daughter's firm belief that some day soon she will be able to fly because she wished in a wishing well. And, her daily attempts to determine if today is the day.</li>
<li>Celery in my garden! It's stupid how happy this makes me. (It's also kind of stupid that I didn't realize that's what it was until yesterday.)</li>
<li>The way my kids pulled together and amused and impressed me with their
problem solving skills to retrieving a runaway balsa glider when they
were told that, "no they could not climb out the bedroom window onto the
roof." (See above) I didn't
snap a picture in time but, it involved a broom, a pool noodle, 3 kids
strategically placed for optimal viewing of said glider shouting
directions, and 1 precariously perched on the porch railing.</li>
</ul>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-36775483170572243272013-11-02T22:05:00.000-04:002013-11-02T22:05:25.169-04:00Digital Creativity in the (Home) Classroom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As I mentioned yesterday, I recently decided to take some classes from <a href="http://edex.adobe.com/">Adobe's Education Exchange</a>. Our first assignment was titled Big and Small and we were asked to use
Photoshop to put a small version of ourselves into a picture with a
larger version. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjEXSTUNCUBYMHEEuYyE4d1-agWzynQKlq2ja3QJm1GsCKOLXRCast-0yZK2a8hni2T2-OSgzMldrjDMpmDhiXVJTljxn-xWGlkL3h2TSo2l-IA9l7ayfs10pWjlMKnx2XQGEpOOHBAbQ/s1600/AGP-assignment1-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjEXSTUNCUBYMHEEuYyE4d1-agWzynQKlq2ja3QJm1GsCKOLXRCast-0yZK2a8hni2T2-OSgzMldrjDMpmDhiXVJTljxn-xWGlkL3h2TSo2l-IA9l7ayfs10pWjlMKnx2XQGEpOOHBAbQ/s1600/AGP-assignment1-2.jpg" height="562" width="640" /></a></div>
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Photoshop is <i>my </i>program. I love it and used it for photo editing for years. I am out of practice, however, and the last version I owned is now, over 10 years old. This was a great assignment to help me learn to navigate through the newer versions.<br />
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When my son heard me talking about my Big and Small assignment, he excitedly suggested that I make him one of his knights. He loves setting up battles with his action figures. He has even taken photos that play out a stop motion style scene when flipped through quickly. My reasons for taking these courses is to be able to teach my kids, and their friends, to use the programs, so being able to include them in these assignments appealed to me, plus it was a really cool idea, so I went with it.<br />
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Our next assignment used Flash. I had never even opened the program before and I got too hung up on creating the artwork which left little time for developing the story. It was fun though, and I was able to show my 12 year old enough to get her started with the program. She has had a lot fun making short animations and I'm so impressed with how much she is learning. This was my animation, the idea for which was decided while doodling with my 6 year old, just before Halloween.<br />
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Next up was video, using Premiere Pro. I was very nervous about this lesson. Thinking in terms of video did not come naturally to me, but my kids are fascinated with how movies are made and I knew they would love to help out with this one. Boy was I right. Honestly, I have to give credit for this video to my 12 year old daughter. I wrote some ideas, a rough storyboard, she chucked most of it and added some of her own ideas. Then, she recruited her cousins and little sister to act for her and she video taped all the scenes with my digital camera. I wrote, and she read, the voice over using some feature on my cell phone I didn't realize existed, and then together, late last Monday night, we worked together in Premiere editing, searching for the background music online, and taking photos to fill in where we needed something more. It was so much fun working with her. The assignment was to create a promotional video for your favorite book. This is a family favorite read aloud.<br />
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This week we were asked to start a blog, or if we already have one, to write a post about our experience in the class. I have to say that the community that has been created is wonderful and supportive and so much fun. I am having a great time brushing up on programs I haven't used in a while and learning some new ones along with my kids. I hope that these new tools will inspire them in their project work. I am looking forward to the next course, <a href="http://edex.adobe.com/pd/course/Imaging1/">Digital Imaging for Beginners</a>. I suppose I'm not technically a beginner, but the programs have changed a lot in the past 10 years, so I'm sure I'll get a lot out of the course.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-74525936385923285542013-11-01T15:12:00.000-04:002013-11-01T15:13:22.483-04:00Why I've Been AwayI haven't been here in a while. It's because I haven't been able to
write much. Summer ended pretty rough for us and I just couldn't write
and once I could, there was only one thing to write about. I
wasn't sure it was mine to share. I don't know how I can continue here
without filling in this empty space though, and it has become such a
huge part of our everyday life here that even if it is not truly my
story to share, I have a part in it, and it is a part of my story, so
here goes.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-b3KA_6ywLPGWxFfQ9cEamvbPXJYwWRfHCEt9oFM29UUF64QUSSacK4ZX1zD-k63NAj0M4y1Eue6w5I69ItMU8qPDxwv9x5F3T6aobMJRCcebHvuyIs97kGqkeThRjPmfMUkLUhqzv8/s1600/IMG_2816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-b3KA_6ywLPGWxFfQ9cEamvbPXJYwWRfHCEt9oFM29UUF64QUSSacK4ZX1zD-k63NAj0M4y1Eue6w5I69ItMU8qPDxwv9x5F3T6aobMJRCcebHvuyIs97kGqkeThRjPmfMUkLUhqzv8/s1600/IMG_2816.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abby at Science Club just days before heading to the ER</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I woke early on a Saturday morning in August, 4 a.m. early, to the boing boing ring of my phone. I think we've all had it happen. A call too late at night or early in the morning, that makes your stomach flop. Something is wrong, no one would call this early unless it was an emergency. I leaped from my bed, running through all the possible reasons. My father-in-law was going to the hospital, something happened to my mom or dad. I told myself to relax. This has happened before. I worry and it turns out it's nothing. I grabbed my phone and with eyes still sleepy saw it was my sister. I was confused, but somewhat relieved. She probably just woke up when her husband had. He must have had some side job to get to and she didn't even realize it was insanely early for making phone calls. She's just going to ask me to bring something to the birthday party she's having later today for her two girls.<br />
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To be honest, the phone conversation is a bit of blur. I remember realizing she was upset, and stepping outside onto my porch for better reception, as my husband wandered sleepily out of the bedroom wanting to know who it was. And, I remember the words, "Kerry, it's a tumor." and, "this <i>is</i> the nightmare." She was referring to every parents worst nightmare. The thing you always talk yourself out of stressing about when you bring your baby to the doctor for a checkup. The thing you worry about, but somehow know, everything will be fine, because it does happen, but chances are, it won't happen to you.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk35kuPSB1F7CaNTZTDtKJRVTIvrSPW1lhk69jiBKwV6EqXPiU1QfYSszvExdA35ARgsoArwbl9uIw3G5GyRHkJ-SJidUxy8Bl_TYvyzAhbDC1AocqMXkul9AW2VWaagNhHyFfz5UMSvw/s1600/IMG_3259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk35kuPSB1F7CaNTZTDtKJRVTIvrSPW1lhk69jiBKwV6EqXPiU1QfYSszvExdA35ARgsoArwbl9uIw3G5GyRHkJ-SJidUxy8Bl_TYvyzAhbDC1AocqMXkul9AW2VWaagNhHyFfz5UMSvw/s1600/IMG_3259.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All following picture credits go to my sister </td></tr>
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I don't know if I got the whole story in that phone conversation, probably not. By the time I left the hospital late that Saturday night, I knew that the flu like symptoms my niece had been experiencing for a few days were caused by a tumor the size of an orange on her kidney. I knew that because of the tumor, fluid had built up in her abdomen and had been crushing her lungs and heart, and that she had almost died 2 or 3 times since being brought to the emergency room for dehydration Friday evening. And, I knew they were starting chemo that night.<br />
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It's been a roller coaster of good days and bad since that August morning. My niece, with my sister at her side, was in the hospital for one month, released the day after her 6th birthday. There are lots of friends and family coming together to help any way we can. We know that the tumor is a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wilms%27_tumor">Wilms tumor,</a> a cancer that has a good recovery rate. Treatment is going well and surgery is being scheduled to remove the tumor and the kidney.<br />
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If you'd like, you can read more about Abby's journey <a href="http://www.gofundme.com/42lvg0">here</a>. It's a page my sister's roller derby friends set up to help out. My sister has had to leave her job at a pediatrician's office. They own a small waste disposal company and she spends her days caring for Abby, her 3 other kids, and running the office side of the business. Although medical expenses for Abby's care are covered. There are many other expenses, as I'm sure you can imagine, so if you are moved to, donation can be made there and are deeply appreciated.<br />
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As I mentioned earlier, this has, of course, changed our lives as well. Everything from what I'm sewing and making to the way we are homeschooling this year. We have cousins here often, watching them whenever Abby goes to the hospital for treatments or transfusions. All of this will find it's way into my posts, and so I felt it important to bring my blog up to speed with the rest of my life.<br />
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I have started freshening up my <a href="http://edex.adobe.com/">Adobe </a>skills and I will be talking about that in the next couple days. In fact, the class I'm taking is the push I needed to get this written and posted so that I can get back to blogging about homeschool, sewing, gardening and of course those many bits of Abby's journey that overlap my own. I won't regularly post about my sister's or niece's lives. As I said, that is their story to tell, but I won't leave you hanging either. I will post occasional updates on her progress. And, I will be putting a link in the sidebar to <a href="http://www.gofundme.com/42lvg0">Abrielle's Fight Fund</a>, so if you're wondering how it's going, you can check in there too.<br />
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I'm not exactly sure how to end a post like this so I'll just ask you to keep my niece and her family in your thoughts or prayers.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-90547089744384626332013-07-11T19:14:00.002-04:002013-07-11T19:27:39.059-04:00My KryptoniteI think some sort of transformation happened to me when I became a mom. I now have these crazy superpowers that give me the otherworldly <i><b>strength</b></i> to remain calm and not panic when I see blood gushing from my four year old's finger while her big sister sobs that she just cut off her baby sisters digit with a shovel (<a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/2012/06/loving.html">was only a fingernail whew</a>). <br />
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I can<i><b> leap tall chairs in a single bound</b></i> to scoop up a choking toddler and administer the baby Heimlich <i><b>faster than a speeding bullet</b></i>.<br />
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I have even been known to<b><i> fly</i></b> down a flight of stairs to rescue a fallen child, (though I did not emerge unscathed from that adventure, of course, the kid was fine). <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilfoK1eY6w81A7rtoh8yIMnxc2B5u2t9UYy7bTLNWB0QBCEZhB05DfWsSUqnVB1dARuFCihpg5qmC3yZ1eVXGAJFDv_Fmct4PEpLr3UucCkVW1ymGacYshpnTDh-_xK0y6fmP5Tilllas/s1600/DSCN0051.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilfoK1eY6w81A7rtoh8yIMnxc2B5u2t9UYy7bTLNWB0QBCEZhB05DfWsSUqnVB1dARuFCihpg5qmC3yZ1eVXGAJFDv_Fmct4PEpLr3UucCkVW1ymGacYshpnTDh-_xK0y6fmP5Tilllas/s1600/DSCN0051.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
I have determined that about 90% of my parental supervision is done with my<b><i> supersonic hearing</i></b>, Which enables me to get to the root of almost any conflict between siblings (it's usually hunger), to distinguish real cries of pain, terror and distress from the not so critical and, to sense when and where major mischief is happening.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixsw3bTBgh5E36M1lfGAoAB4aE04box2gXJduJzlbFGK5PM4LrnHW0qv5pJxX_7NNavF4D-yNNv-TuWraJg6ezovoPl4o73fJlAOpyqNhxseoKDMd-bklJo_K8LGBp9JqWv0ArxdRxrro/s1600/DSCN0052.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixsw3bTBgh5E36M1lfGAoAB4aE04box2gXJduJzlbFGK5PM4LrnHW0qv5pJxX_7NNavF4D-yNNv-TuWraJg6ezovoPl4o73fJlAOpyqNhxseoKDMd-bklJo_K8LGBp9JqWv0ArxdRxrro/s1600/DSCN0052.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
I have even been known to use <b><i>x-ray vision</i></b> to detect when a certain preschooler had skipped the underwear when dressing. Seriously? That sounds so uncomfortable to me, but apparently one out of four preschoolers hates to wear underwear.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIXVgbhVOe5hHZhdgSV1ZGfOKhQ7_fk66hkNrPxklRJ8EfQgx12hQD2JQyQ3lvnwqD5S9sMCpX7dVXeLXLGEln-dYmeWtZf-Fs0wSiBDhiw5-GuxJ6UijKL8UdzeZ1_XMpl2nLuBE2cWA/s1600/DSCN0054.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIXVgbhVOe5hHZhdgSV1ZGfOKhQ7_fk66hkNrPxklRJ8EfQgx12hQD2JQyQ3lvnwqD5S9sMCpX7dVXeLXLGEln-dYmeWtZf-Fs0wSiBDhiw5-GuxJ6UijKL8UdzeZ1_XMpl2nLuBE2cWA/s1600/DSCN0054.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
These super powers have served me well in my role as mother but they came at a price. It appears, that for me anyway, the birth of supermom meant saying good-bye to the tough tomboy who picked up snakes, caught frogs and would attempt any trick on bike, board or swing that her big brother deemed too dangerous after first attempting himself. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPtkbsEQMpHOTy0UDkxESUc3-0a3ECsAMmBiRci31DpNkgtWRuxnhpXlwB7uz7X_Oa1WtmjxT-qRrSsDgOaqfQJdYmjUNNryqs0Cp_uoub9KYLHt-YuQimeEF9AKiE9xgseBJeBk_G1RY/s1600/DSCN0056.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPtkbsEQMpHOTy0UDkxESUc3-0a3ECsAMmBiRci31DpNkgtWRuxnhpXlwB7uz7X_Oa1WtmjxT-qRrSsDgOaqfQJdYmjUNNryqs0Cp_uoub9KYLHt-YuQimeEF9AKiE9xgseBJeBk_G1RY/s1600/DSCN0056.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
I may be able to stand in the face of danger to protect my kid, I can keep my cool in the most frighting of scary mommy moments but, A pet chicken sneaking up behind me and pecking at my shoe? A mouse scurrying across the lawn? <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PIJMUgQcs_LKEdNbW08ypkQPNrQhRoOswUOKzR7domjAlxM4b1pImwvjKfkQne4GPehxf-PKsP342ETLAVKgqOQQ-PqFE-tCAJM9yvW7sVukljepG7g2BPILs3WFQqyShlxZ_ziOgj4/s1600/DSCN0058.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PIJMUgQcs_LKEdNbW08ypkQPNrQhRoOswUOKzR7domjAlxM4b1pImwvjKfkQne4GPehxf-PKsP342ETLAVKgqOQQ-PqFE-tCAJM9yvW7sVukljepG7g2BPILs3WFQqyShlxZ_ziOgj4/s1600/DSCN0058.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
Finding a garter snake staring at me from a shelf in my shed after I'd already stuck my head inside looking for a trowel!? Forget it. I'm ashamed to admit it, but my 10 year old self would have been embarrassed of my reaction, and supermom is pretty disappointed too. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji6IvDCmnwyWK_B0JsWBELIMFq_TDx680YucrWZHYjAEqU_S52IYSVEBVeWJLk_DHhggTQYscs2iu53olFY1gQHYAxKyqXr8aBqxmw7SN2pJagUjHWJy1BFLoWy2qHOEy-APhmVHPKufM/s1600/DSCN0059.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji6IvDCmnwyWK_B0JsWBELIMFq_TDx680YucrWZHYjAEqU_S52IYSVEBVeWJLk_DHhggTQYscs2iu53olFY1gQHYAxKyqXr8aBqxmw7SN2pJagUjHWJy1BFLoWy2qHOEy-APhmVHPKufM/s1600/DSCN0059.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
My garden this week, dedicated to all the supermoms, and anyone who screams and flails and calls her 8 year old son and 10 year old daughter to come rescue her at the mere sight of a garter snake.<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>The main garden.</li>
<li>Cucumbers growing outside the fence of the main garden. There is no way we will have enough.</li>
<li>Bush beans are looking good.</li>
<li>I decided to try planting some heirloom pumpkins. I hope I gave them enough time.</li>
<li>Hops flower buds? I'm not sure. I've never seen them bud before. :)</li>
<li>The cabbage butterfly has decimated the brassica plants once more. I'm spending the rest of the summer planting flowers that will attract ladybugs and wasps to help me combat these evil little caterpillars.</li>
<li>A little surprise from the compost.</li>
</ol>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGpEqxmnH78z5elAja_Vr6TvbEECIp3jJr0xPnnrBAWCrIEr8av-865ag0UtQNWqX-W1dRk-P5DYsDJLB1unGG913zgqX4ez-rJIHgwrLrLJs8UQSeIvGhv_SG5381zUwFsC7O8W2tcTQ/s1600/DSCN0039.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGpEqxmnH78z5elAja_Vr6TvbEECIp3jJr0xPnnrBAWCrIEr8av-865ag0UtQNWqX-W1dRk-P5DYsDJLB1unGG913zgqX4ez-rJIHgwrLrLJs8UQSeIvGhv_SG5381zUwFsC7O8W2tcTQ/s1600/DSCN0039.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
My friend, who scared me last week, startled my daughter today, he had trapped himself in some netting in my shed.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGK96URPacbRpiXAxji8UXnPEl34ggbaPM3EVrPCnBMBZeUFKUS70ggRdEBXy9JCfm_LLxsKiDFuVHbtA-ETN_xFGb3DN_-5n0ipJ_89Xgb8C9f-TgVqeVKIla0yBAWpBlf7WbM2AvyQ/s1600/DSCN0043.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCGK96URPacbRpiXAxji8UXnPEl34ggbaPM3EVrPCnBMBZeUFKUS70ggRdEBXy9JCfm_LLxsKiDFuVHbtA-ETN_xFGb3DN_-5n0ipJ_89Xgb8C9f-TgVqeVKIla0yBAWpBlf7WbM2AvyQ/s1600/DSCN0043.JPG" /></a><br />
<br />
My chicken loving, farmer wannabe, daughter was able to keep her cool and set the poor fella free. Creepy or not, we couldn't let him suffer.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-32940333598233644522013-07-07T22:44:00.002-04:002013-07-07T22:44:57.423-04:00Mad Scientist in the Making<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4sk_ZYf4MyckVkdK8n7wkf9YRK2zn3qCq7xUUf3DezR_MIxi6lZmkUy7CTmyERGmq-O6lvPe-gJ9X-xjlm-Sx0MjDATT-4v3uNl__75K8eJnmlKf9gRkn6dVEJWFglUKFvZRPZlowNr0/s1600/IMG_2654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4sk_ZYf4MyckVkdK8n7wkf9YRK2zn3qCq7xUUf3DezR_MIxi6lZmkUy7CTmyERGmq-O6lvPe-gJ9X-xjlm-Sx0MjDATT-4v3uNl__75K8eJnmlKf9gRkn6dVEJWFglUKFvZRPZlowNr0/s640/IMG_2654.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Photo shoot prep for the apron pattern was so much fun. I'm planning to have it in the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/6berries">etsy shop</a> ready for download by next week.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-24007195276543834942013-06-27T12:50:00.001-04:002013-06-27T12:50:28.561-04:00I am a Gardener Gardener: One who works in or tends a garden for pleasure or hire.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMIdypdwtASAWDc1UaI1XQIsbl1FCswG1vj9zyzJzZYJveb-YRsvzhV7e0qo3Lqpq4-3NN1AXPomifEfjSckaHTCrr6MdJ3m0uKmYGeFYZBew9__dJYptPebOMh5v9qC1HeRMXiG6TzyI/s800/DSCN9849.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMIdypdwtASAWDc1UaI1XQIsbl1FCswG1vj9zyzJzZYJveb-YRsvzhV7e0qo3Lqpq4-3NN1AXPomifEfjSckaHTCrr6MdJ3m0uKmYGeFYZBew9__dJYptPebOMh5v9qC1HeRMXiG6TzyI/s1600/DSCN9849.JPG" /></a><br /><br />For the first time ever I've started to consider myself a gardener. I realized it the other day, when I had an half hour conversation with an acquaintance about amending soil and shade tolerant plants, and then came home and had a temper tantrum while watching the cabbage butterflies, my arch nemesis, flit around my yard.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It might seem strange I suppose, since I have this big, fancy, fenced in
area, a shed and a few edibles at the end of each season, that I hadn't
thought of myself as a gardener before now. I certainly spend enough
time planning, caring for and reading about gardening, but it kind of
snuck up on me. I never really intended to be a gardener it happened
sort of by accident.</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFDDuDDzd4gMDaUFl4St5cG7_NW1BekwooPTEfrpGy6Q1gzZknRhM9PxW6VwM4QdeBM0Pgo9XUnAlaMgNnomA5WeRuL2YyYcelQFUlUhr0-lyY4chIw4AMDSiG2bcLOUyU4xcT1-GCwMk/s1600/potatoe-flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFDDuDDzd4gMDaUFl4St5cG7_NW1BekwooPTEfrpGy6Q1gzZknRhM9PxW6VwM4QdeBM0Pgo9XUnAlaMgNnomA5WeRuL2YyYcelQFUlUhr0-lyY4chIw4AMDSiG2bcLOUyU4xcT1-GCwMk/s1600/potatoe-flowers.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I suspect my husband has known for a while now. He did build the garden boxes, fence and shed after all.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I think that because I never felt like I knew what I was doing and we
never get enough to skip a trip to the farmers market or grocery store
and because I never really took it too seriously, I didn't really count
myself with all those out there who are so good at it. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipLfFsBgmpTquuklfKwtvvZIaCoNyzTYqX1hqvYVck1rUGOTyBDAknyW-2Mz8iv-omVpMEPjgFduZK5ongf-SJUfvihQVeBJiYwXuFkBdReV3cD2h5z2LQaWuot-gQMRM_qUH3Fei5ISk/s800/garde.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipLfFsBgmpTquuklfKwtvvZIaCoNyzTYqX1hqvYVck1rUGOTyBDAknyW-2Mz8iv-omVpMEPjgFduZK5ongf-SJUfvihQVeBJiYwXuFkBdReV3cD2h5z2LQaWuot-gQMRM_qUH3Fei5ISk/s1600/garde.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
But, That conversation, the fact that I could have a conversation, with someone who considered themselves a gardener without sounding like a complete idiot, that is when I realized it. I started to notice how much I really love gardening and how much I have
learned in the past few years. Maybe I do know a little, most learned
through trial and error. Lots and lots of error. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinjv3DGL5B7vBzSv9gPTnr1e_kdKve90aiDFuRxlTG0v_mkOfos8Tll1htWLyq60WFcx5szeLZTvoHh01iZp6UDYFEZSl0IzZMXbm3UqagYFNw__g4bbShPRSgm-YkPtFScGquQ4DES_A/s800/hops.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinjv3DGL5B7vBzSv9gPTnr1e_kdKve90aiDFuRxlTG0v_mkOfos8Tll1htWLyq60WFcx5szeLZTvoHh01iZp6UDYFEZSl0IzZMXbm3UqagYFNw__g4bbShPRSgm-YkPtFScGquQ4DES_A/s1600/hops.jpg" /></a><br /><br />There are so many who know so much more than I do, and my garden could never compare to most I've seen, but I'll make it official, not that anyone else cares or thought I wasn't but,<br />
<br />
I am a gardener.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVazboK3KYzR_Ac4Uv3YufyWO3Hs8NBLkAKP-ShKXlZi6jloj1ANYg0bH4fflYnmuy5kShDn9ERBi6mVaovy-FczOnPUX1qbIn0w6bOWbnN9i_mzSser0mL7l0Vg3rKTjiGeYNRk4hxkg/s800/rye-grass-isles.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVazboK3KYzR_Ac4Uv3YufyWO3Hs8NBLkAKP-ShKXlZi6jloj1ANYg0bH4fflYnmuy5kShDn9ERBi6mVaovy-FczOnPUX1qbIn0w6bOWbnN9i_mzSser0mL7l0Vg3rKTjiGeYNRk4hxkg/s1600/rye-grass-isles.jpg" /></a><br /> <br />The photos<br />
<ol>
<li>The view of my garden from my front porch where I love to sit and drink my tea.</li>
<li>Potato blossoms. Last year we did a small experiment with potatoes and it went well, this is the first time I've seen the flowers though.</li>
<li>Potatoes in the back cucumbers with radishes mixed in on the side, an attempt at some brassica plants, though that cabbage butterfly never lets me have any, and I think there are a few beets in there somewhere. The back corner growing over the fence is the hops that we planted last year</li>
<li>The hops are doing really well this year and we're excited about the idea of brewing from our homegrown harvest.</li>
<li>We decided to remove the bark mulch from the isles this year and plant an annual rye grass. It's supposed to nourish the soil and clippings can be use as mulch or compost. </li>
</ol>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-91886202690010214332013-06-04T12:23:00.000-04:002013-06-04T12:23:23.848-04:00I Think I have a Sewing ProblemMaybe it's a designing problem? Here's the thing. I'm so close to finished with the apron pattern. One more adjustment another proofread a cute photo shoot and I'm ready to send it out into the wide world. But do you know what's on mind today. Can you guess?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbsLKxCwiLQDW4kG_rV_ZFKJ71Q3QR9J0YGHrqVcuT6QShR62BjJP3k4LH2DKVr3Sl53SQVvw1urMG3hKpkTiKWGLlE4hIJXwyb-9v8Gx_yH1govUVVGiZP2G9Jz9g46fUmqeE3XzeDuQ/s1600/IMG_2515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbsLKxCwiLQDW4kG_rV_ZFKJ71Q3QR9J0YGHrqVcuT6QShR62BjJP3k4LH2DKVr3Sl53SQVvw1urMG3hKpkTiKWGLlE4hIJXwyb-9v8Gx_yH1govUVVGiZP2G9Jz9g46fUmqeE3XzeDuQ/s1600/IMG_2515.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
My next project that's what. The only thing I can think about is this cute baby deer fabric and the sweet little outfit that I'm dreaming up for my one kid who actually doesn't need any clothes. Like at all. 2 big sisters, multiple cousins and friends? This girl is swimming in like-new hand me downs that she absolutely loves. But, then again, handmade by mama clothes are rarely about the real need for them. No, this was never about the <i>need</i> for a new outfit. It is a classic case of remnant bin perfection combined with a stumbled upon perfect pairing. If you add to that my recent craving for more time designing and sewing, I don't see how I ever stood a chance really.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYJ744pphzwCrdXrMilQoGmKNnggjSv3sdmZLsP2uPsKFC_v3LtiEVixm-Wx8yF_8C17ZySjwB4AAw9KesExjcMm82giGSVhgNpv0KDef3dlrj7xbDqSlUJembRCg8n7c3tQl4u1wTGPE/s1600/IMG_2512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYJ744pphzwCrdXrMilQoGmKNnggjSv3sdmZLsP2uPsKFC_v3LtiEVixm-Wx8yF_8C17ZySjwB4AAw9KesExjcMm82giGSVhgNpv0KDef3dlrj7xbDqSlUJembRCg8n7c3tQl4u1wTGPE/s1600/IMG_2512.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm trying to keep strong. I'm trying to stay focused, and with a day at home with no obligations to laundry or cleaning (it can wait another day or two. . . I hope) and mine craft keeping the kids engaged and creating and happy, I will finish this apron pattern. And, maybe even get a start on that outfit.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-87172111119831505642013-05-29T13:05:00.000-04:002013-05-29T13:05:16.893-04:00Ramblings with Unrelated Photos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGKkRI_KkaSikUF9oejG8G9mWOMrpoOYSWK0hIzIKQ1pYx9m3elftHalAnfKRVvB7m-tUz2Smx9ntDssog1sc7oQycDqWPbTnVltL0bNOiT8rk_1AFCdxbhzPyhFKZTisVW-ZuWKE6KQ/s1600/deer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGKkRI_KkaSikUF9oejG8G9mWOMrpoOYSWK0hIzIKQ1pYx9m3elftHalAnfKRVvB7m-tUz2Smx9ntDssog1sc7oQycDqWPbTnVltL0bNOiT8rk_1AFCdxbhzPyhFKZTisVW-ZuWKE6KQ/s1600/deer.jpg" /></a></div>
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</div>
<br />
Well, I suppose we do trial runs for a reason. All that progress with my fabric was a bit of bust or at least not quite as perfect as I'd thought. I'm testing out my pattern. You know <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/2011/12/handmade-gifts.html">the one I promised over a year and a half ago</a>?<br />
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Yeah, that one. it's finally ready to go, but somehow, when I put it down so long ago I didn't finish estimating the amount of fabric required and for some reason put a ridiculously low number for the trim and tie fabric. I knew it seemed fishy when I was buying the fabric but, wanted to stick with what I'd written for my trial run. I didn't realize it until I went to start cutting over the holiday weekend and by then it was too late to head back to the fabric store for more.<br />
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Luckily I've been taking <a href="http://beautythatmoves.typepad.com/beauty_that_moves/2013/04/30-day-vegan-2013-spring-session.html">Heather's 30 Day Vegan course</a>, and my energy level and focus have skyrocketed. It' amazing, I'm more patient with the kids, my husband and I have started doing morning yoga again and I'm getting so much more done every day. I don't know if it's just the better food, the half hour of exercise and meditation or taking time out of every day to focus on myself, but I'm feeling great.<br />
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I'm sure I'll have my pattern ready in no time, but right now, I've got to make some delicious vegan lunch, take some pictures of the prettiest little ballerinas I know and get back to that fabric store before the baseball game tonight.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-84378308009696563122013-05-26T08:00:00.000-04:002013-05-26T08:00:02.653-04:00My Most Productive Trip to the Fabric Store Ever!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Can't wait to get started on some aprons and some summery loveliness! I should make him come with me every time :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-47757242542017923942013-05-25T09:54:00.000-04:002013-05-25T09:54:36.542-04:00A Tooth PillowEarly this week there was a sudden need for a tooth pillow. No warning, just a startled realization of the loose bugger at dinner, a quick brushing to make those little pearls sparkle and pop! Before the dishes were cleared from the table we had our last, first tooth fall out.<br />
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Well, being the youngest of 4 my sweet girl knew exactly what to do and what was needed. She immediately ran to the fabric scrap bin and started searching. We finally settled on a baby outfit that was either mine, my sister's, or both.<br />
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I had intended to make some doll clothes from it, but my girl thought it was just perfect for her tooth pillow. I finished it just after she'd been put to bed and just before her last request for a glass of water.<br />
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Perfect timing really, for her to tuck that sweet little tooth inside, just as she was tucked into bed <i>(again)</i> before drifting to sleep dreaming of lovely little fairies with glittery wings.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-24584676276543623212013-05-22T23:59:00.000-04:002013-05-23T17:21:54.166-04:00A Hard Days Work<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So these kids of mine, the same ones who refuse to help with dinner prep or clean up, who throw a fit on cleaning day when asked to do their chores, who have to be reminded a gazillion times to bring their clean and folded or hung laundry to their rooms, these same kids, love yard work. Who knew? (Actually I feel the same way and, I have a feeling that I may have unintentionally instilled in them a severe distaste for all indoor chores at an early age)<br />
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We had quite a productive day yesterday. The yard was spring cleaned. all rubbish, toys, bits of wood and anything else was cleaned up and put away. And, the lawn mowed by one very talented, tractor driving, 12 year old. Seriously she was backing up like a pro and mowing flawlessly. <br />
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The chicken coop was de-pooped, scrubbed, whitewashed and filled with fresh bedding. My sweet little chicken hugger worked hard and was so happy and exhausted at the end of the day.<br />
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We added 3 new little ladies to our flock this spring and they are loving the roomy run after spending their first few weeks inside. Now that the coop is cleaned and the big chickens are starting to <strike>accept</strike> tolerate them, they will have the choice of sleeping in the coop with the big girls, or in the nesting box they've called home for the past week and a half.<br />
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We even squeezed in a bit of gardening. My two youngest are determined to plant gardens that rival mom's. I'll be working on rototilling a bit more yard for them and helping amend the sandy soil with some compost, but the rest of the work, they have requested, is on them.<br />
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Everyone collapsed into bed exhausted, sun kissed and proud of all the work they accomplished.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-68273664821202266862013-05-03T13:50:00.000-04:002013-05-03T13:50:14.640-04:00Zipper Fly Plaid Pants or How to Catch a Chicken<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I finished up the plaid pants a couple of weeks ago. I was a little paranoid that he'd destroy them before I was able to get some decent pictures. Also, that fabric? Not cheap. Not something I would normally use to make
pants for my boy but, he really liked the plaid print and I really,
really wanted to make my little punk some super cool duds. But, you know that boy of mine is pretty observant. He saw how much work I put into them and knew how excited I was about finishing them. <br />
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I told him they are not sand pit pants and that they're perfect for days we're out and about rather than days at home or at the playground. I think he kind of likes having a "nice" pair of pants. I've seen him, twice now, run up to his room, without being reminded, to change into different pants before heading outside to practice baseball or dig in the pit. Don't get me wrong, he is as rough on clothing as any other 8 year old boy, and I have no delusions as to what state they will be in when he's through with them, but I like to tell myself that one day I'll be able to pass them on to his little sister. Maybe with a few flower patches over the holes and grass stains?<br />
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We waited for a day with mild temperatures and a little sun for the photo shoot and had so much fun with it. After getting the first two pictures up there, I just chased him around the yard while he did his thing. I didn't notice until I was choosing and editing which pictures to share with you here, that there was a bit of a story happening. It seemed to repeat itself in the photos I snapped, and had me smiling, so I thought it was worth sharing.<br />
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So, just how does an 8 year old boy catch a chicken you ask? Well, first you should sweet talk them. Use the same, high pitched, baby talky voice you would use with a toddler. As you can see they eat this up and somehow, instinctively, know that this means yummies and the affections of a doting caretaker will soon follow.<br />
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Sometimes it helps to get down at their level. Maybe pretend your a chicken, let them know you're a friend.<br />
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Next lead them to the garden shed and sprinkle something tasty on the ground.<br />
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Make sure to lock the yummies back up so no critters can get in. This also tricks the chickens into thinking you've moved on to other things.<br />
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Now that you've got them distracted it's time to go into sneaky, stealthy, ninja mode and slowly move in from behind. Then, when the moment is right, and this may take a few attempts, go for the grab.<br />
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I really love these pants and I'm so glad I decided to take the leap and try the zipper fly. I've started a monster of a tutorial for you combining the two I used and filling in the, big, gaps they had. Well I say it's for you but, honestly, it's because I know myself and, chances are, if I don't do this I'll let 6 months go by before trying it again. By then, all knowledge of how it's done will be lost and I'll be starting from scratch, so it's really for me, but I like to share.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-47186679039661088802013-04-17T22:41:00.000-04:002013-04-18T09:00:59.857-04:00Loving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<ul>
<li>How contagious his love for the game is and, that now, she's in love too.</li>
<li>That he decided to "coach" her when we showed up and realized practice had been canceled.</li>
<li>The way she lights up when her big brother plays catch with her, teaches her what he's learned and treats her like a big kid who can play the game alongside him.</li>
<li>And, the way he lights up when his little sister wants to play ball with him.</li>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2639255973284824832.post-10376267316968869922013-04-11T21:20:00.000-04:002013-04-11T21:20:08.150-04:00TwirlyWhen I first saw those bold colors and pretty flowers on the clearance rack of the local fabric shop, I instantly thought of my middle girl with her bright smile and love of color. I brought home just one yard, not wanting to buy too much without a plan for how I would use it and put it on the shelf. There, as so often happens, it sat waiting for inspiration to strike. <br />
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Then one day, over a year later, during the dull days of late autumn, you know the ones, after the leaves have all fallen and the snow stubbornly refuses to make the world sparkle, it hit. I was hoping to come up with a couple more handmade gifts for the holidays, and I was desperate for a little extra color in my crafting when I spotted the bright fabric near the bottom of the heap. The big, brilliant flowers were begging to be made into something pretty and playful, and it just so happened that my twirly girl's wardrobe was lacking a little twirl. <br />
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I love box pleats and knew I wanted to use them to add that twirl. I only had the one yard of fabric so, I decided to add a few panels of the purple, left over from the <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/2011/12/handmade-gifts.html">apron I made my niece last year</a>, to peek out from those pleats. I love the result. Then, I found some black satin blanket binding in my stash and wrapped it around some wide, stiff elastic for a comfortable and soft waistband that wont twist or collapse.<br />
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It hits just below the knees, giving plenty of length to comfortably sit, <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/2012/06/hammers-and-nails-and-shovels-oh-my.html">dig</a>, twirl and leap around the <a href="http://6berries.blogspot.com/2012/06/loving.html">sand pit</a> which is precisely where she choose to do this little photo shoot and precisely what she did while I shot.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0