tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67097092024-03-13T18:42:12.736-04:00Oiyi's CraftsA weblog of Oiyi's craftiness in NY, USA. She knits, crochets, sews and bakes.Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.comBlogger419125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-71697566541065763282013-08-09T08:00:00.000-04:002013-08-09T08:00:09.877-04:00Craftsy Mystery Knit-Along with Angela Tong<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Craftsy Mystery Knit-Along with Angela Tong" height="374" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5341/9466899598_1996ee255b.jpg" width="500" /></div>
I'm thrilled to announce the <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/supplies/mystery-workshop-club-september13/2595" target="_blank">Mystery Knit-Along for September</a>, featuring a pattern I designed exclusively for Craftsy! Join in for only $19.99 and you'll receive detailed written instructions with step-by-step photographs, plus a hand-picked yarn delivered straight to your door!<br />
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The project is a surprise, but I promise you'll adore this all-season accessory. Chic and classic, it also makes a great gift - especially because you can knit it using only one skein of yarn! It's easy to forget about the holidays while we're still basking in the summer sun, but you'll be delighted to have this pretty pattern in your back pocket as your gift list grows.<br />
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I'll be there to offer assistance and encouragement as you knit, and you can also exchange insights with your fellow Knit-Along members to achieve a perfect finished product. Join in on the fun and act fast to take advantage of this very <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/supplies/mystery-workshop-club-september13/2595" target="_blank">special price</a>! Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-59383242202721049462013-05-28T10:23:00.000-04:002013-05-28T10:23:43.911-04:00Farewell, Napoleon.<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Napoleon 5/20/2013" height="375" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2847/8758785174_7253225b0f.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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<b>July 7, 2005 - May 21, 2013</b></div>
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One week ago today, we lost our beloved friend, Napoleon, to kidney failure. <span class="userContent">We were with him the whole time as he passed
away peacefully. It was the hardest thing that we have ever had to do,
but we wanted us to be the last thing he saw. We wanted him to know
that he w<span class="text_exposed_show">as loved and will never be
forgotten. He was part of our family and now our family went from 5 to
4. Our hearts feel like there is big hole in it and I can't even
describe the pain and hurt I feel. My only solace is that I know he is no longer in pain. He was too young. But now he will be
forever young sprinting through grass in doggie heaven. Until we meet
again my sweet and loyal friend.We will always love you, Napoleon.</span></span></div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-2271094578324850802013-04-17T10:48:00.000-04:002013-04-17T10:48:10.458-04:00Garden State/New Jersey Yarn Crawl<div style="text-align: center;">
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The <a href="http://gardenstateyarncrawl.com/" target="_blank">NJ Yarn Crawl</a> is starting tomorrow, April 18, 2013 and will end on April 21, 2013. Yarn Crawls are a great excuse to visit local shops that you have never been to before. It's fun to meet other knitters and each yarn store have raffles, prizes and other unique events going on. On Sunday, April 21, I will be at <a href="http://www.trilliumyarns.com/" target="_blank">Trillium Yarns</a> with my rigid heddle loom. Come on by if you ever wanted to learn how to weave or see what it is like. I will have my loom set up for anyone that wants to try weaving.</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-50072927067972903252013-04-05T10:25:00.003-04:002013-04-05T10:25:59.103-04:00Spring Sale on Craftsy Online Classes!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.craftsy.com/ext/AngelaTong_holiday"><img alt="Craftsy Spring Sale: Select online classes up to 75% off. Sale ends Monday, April 8th, at midnight!" src="http://static-sympoz.s3.amazonaws.com/email/2013/sale/20130405_spring_sale/affiliate_300x250.jpg" /></a> </div>
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Spring Sale on classes at Craftsy.com from April 5-8! Each day they will offer a different selection of classes for sale. Maybe it's time to learn to knit, crochet, sew, quilt or maybe weave? Not only do I love being a Craftsy instructor, I also enjoy taking classes there in the comfort of my own home. </div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-80893243135945882902013-03-17T14:22:00.000-04:002013-03-17T14:23:11.555-04:00Easter Egg Dyeing Class<div style="text-align: center;">
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Over the weekend, our local <a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/" target="_blank">Williams-Sonoma</a> was offering a Easter Egg Dyeing Class for children. I had seen the sign last week when I was driving by. I knew this would interest my little crafty daughter so I signed her up. </div>
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Each child received the Williams-Sonoma Egg Decorating Kit and 1 dozen eggs. <a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/easter-egg-decorating-kit-13/?cm_sp=CatHero-_-Easter-_-Decor&pkey=ceaster-decor" target="_blank">The kit</a> came with everything you need to decorate eggs. </div>
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I think my favorite was the wax crayon which created a resist on the egg when you dip it in the dye. She seemed to like that crayon, too. It was like magic seeing the design reveal itself when you dipped it in the dye.<br />
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She had a great time decorating the eggs. The lovely ladies at Williams-Sonoma also baked Easter shaped sugar cookies for all the children to snack on after the class. That made the class even better for the children. She loved the cookies so much, I bought the kit so we can make some at home.<br />
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She was very proud of her finished eggs. I also decorated a few eggs because I couldn't hold back my crafty self. :-) It was way too much fun to resist.<br />
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We still have plenty of supplies in the kit to decorate more eggs. Williams-Sonoma used their own dyes so that we could go home with the dyes for future use. I told her that she could decorate more eggs when we finished eating all the current eggs. I didn't want to be left with dozens of hard boiled eggs since I am the only one that eats them.</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-76599760618439099402013-03-01T10:00:00.000-05:002013-03-01T10:00:41.411-05:00{this moment} The 3 Amigos<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/48925764@N00/8518949830/" title="3 Amigos by Oiyi, on Flickr"><img alt="3 Amigos" height="449" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8530/8518949830_1d8573d85f.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a
moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment
I want to pause, savor and remember.<br />
Participating in <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/2013/03/this-moment.html" target="_blank">SouleMama's {this moment}</a>.</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-73503304577696527832013-02-26T13:31:00.000-05:002013-02-26T13:31:15.331-05:00Deadlines<div style="text-align: left;">
Sorry it has been a while since I have checked in. I have a little updating to do. Let's begin where I left off, my darling daughter's birthday.</div>
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<img alt="Birthday bouquet for the little one." height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8515/8379957723_c0eaaabfa7.jpg" width="500" /></div>
Melody loves flowers. I surprised her with a bouquet on her birthday when she got home from school. You should have seen the expression of delight on her face. She thanked me every day for a week. :-)<div style="text-align: left;">
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She had a memorable birthday party. Friends and family far and near came to celebrate her special day. She requested a Princess Cake and my local Shop Rite did a fantastic job. The cake is topped with 3 Princess figurines and a Rose Ring that changed color in the sun light. The flavor? It's a vanilla cake with bavarian cream and buttercream frosting. </div>
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After my darling daughter's birthday party, things got busy. It was one deadline project after the next. Currently, I have 2 more design projects due soon. I am just catching my breath since lots of late nights no longer agree with me any more. I remember the last 2 years staying up all night when I needed to and I could still recover. Now my body is protesting against the abuse and it takes me many days to recover. I am no longer a spring chicken and I am trying to listen to my body more.</div>
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Before the new year, I was having some health issues. Since the end of December 2012, I have eliminated gluten and grains from my diet. No more processed foods/products and I am cooking all my meals from scratch. It has been 2 months and I am feeling so much better. My energy level has increased and I no longer have any sugar cravings. I was going to do it for 1 month to see how it would affect me. Since things are going so well, I am going to continue this new way of life. </div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-41039351731971563952013-01-14T07:00:00.000-05:002013-01-14T07:00:10.983-05:005 Years Old!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Happy Birthday, to my sweet beautiful girl! Remember <a href="http://oiyi.blogspot.com/2012/01/my-little-girl.html" target="_blank">last year</a>, <a href="http://oiyi.blogspot.com/2011/01/melody-is-3.html" target="_blank">2 yrs ago</a>, <a href="http://oiyi.blogspot.com/2010/01/birthday-girl.html" target="_blank">3 yrs ago</a>, and <a href="http://oiyi.blogspot.com/2009/01/melodys-1st-birthday.html" target="_blank">4 yrs ago</a>? Time is just flying by.</div>
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<br />Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-59038785690051715042012-12-26T15:33:00.000-05:002012-12-26T15:33:36.410-05:00Merry Christmas from the Jersey Shore!<div style="text-align: center;">
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We spent Christmas day at Rose & Marc's beach house at the Jersey Shore. I felt the need to commemorate the occasion with a group photo. </div>
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A silly photo is always fun. And it was appropriate because there were lots of laughter and giggles from the adults and the kids that night.<br />
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<img alt="IMG_3163cr" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8077/8310992143_71382e4dce.jpg" height="500" width="333" /><br />
Rose's lovely tree with a Winter Wonderland display beneath.<br />
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<img alt="IMG_3156cr" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8071/8310992371_62c95d6859.jpg" height="500" width="333" /><br />
The adults' table with pretty decorations. I love the vintage looking glassware. This was my first time getting a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_cracker" target="_blank">Christmas Cracker</a> and boy was I excited. <br />
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The kids' table was charming and adorable. They got real china and glasses. Very grown up!<br />
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As you can see, they enjoyed themselves tremendously. More interested in playing than eating the delicious meal that Rose prepared. They broke into the chocolates before dinner even began. Kids! <br />
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I hope you all had a Happy Holiday. And I wish you all a Happy New Year!</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-25218459240740102572012-12-22T17:01:00.000-05:002012-12-22T17:01:22.488-05:00Craftsy Christmas Sale!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.craftsy.com/ext/AngelaTong_holiday"><img alt="Craftsy Holiday Sale: All online classes up to 75% off. Sale ends Mon. Dec. 24th, at midnight!" src="http://static-sympoz.s3.amazonaws.com/banners/2012_holiday_tier300x250.jpg" /></a></div>
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It's a great time to try some new classes at <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/ext/AngelaTong_holiday" target="_blank">Craftsy.com</a>. My Rigid Heddle Weaving Class is on sale for $9.99! <span class="userContent"> The sale will start this Saturday, December 22, and run through midnight on December 24. </span></div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-85768137928791381592012-11-30T13:10:00.000-05:002012-11-30T13:11:26.568-05:00A Wonderful Long Weekend<div style="text-align: center;">
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Turkey roasted to perfection. Delicious. </div>
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Plenty of leftover Salty Honey Pie to last the whole weekend. The salty & sweet combination is just heavenly on the tongue.</div>
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I even managed to take out my tripod to take a group picture in our new backyard. </div>
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Napoleon</div>
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Caesar</div>
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The day after Thanksgiving, I used the leftover turkey to make a hearty & comforting pot of Turkey <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Congee" target="_blank">Congee</a> (rice porridge).</div>
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We invited a small group of family and friends over to help celebrate my DH's milestone birthday. </div>
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It was the perfect ending to a wonderful weekend.</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-33011318531927010782012-11-22T20:59:00.000-05:002013-02-26T14:19:56.310-05:00Happy Thanksgiving!<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Happy Thanksgiving!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8340/8207808149_b74bb3e57e.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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Handmade by Melody.<br />
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<img alt="Salty Honey Pie" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8480/8210275142_93d4c4105f.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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Handmade by me. (Salty Honey Pie using <a href="http://southbrooklynpost.com/2011/02/pie-mavens-share-recipe/" target="_blank">Four & Twenty Blackbirds</a>'s recipe)</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-19521293127427605112012-10-26T10:15:00.000-04:002012-10-26T10:15:09.338-04:00{this moment} Birthday Party<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Party!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8469/8124900189_ae100a4038.jpg" width="375" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a
moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment
I want to pause, savor and remember.<br />
Participating in <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/2012/10/this-moment-3.html" target="_blank">SouleMama's {this moment}</a>.</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-75656814310432754212012-10-15T11:16:00.002-04:002012-10-15T11:16:34.925-04:00Toothbrush Rag Rug Progress Days 1, 2, & 3<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Toothbrush Rag Rug Progress, Day 1" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8090217551_015b5593a1.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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<b>Day 1</b></div>
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<img alt="Toothbrush Rag Rug Progress, Day 2 & 3" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8190/8090220686_f50495a3fd.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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<b>Day 2 & 3</b></div>
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It's already big enough for Melody to sit on, but I want it big enough so she can play on it. Each day, she checks on my progress and exclaims in delight to see a new fabric/color added. Then she likes to tell me that I am taking "forever". The kid needs to learn some patience. Lol.</div>
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It's been a lot of fun picking out fabrics from my collection. What a great way to use up the fabrics that I will never get around to sewing with. I love how simple the technique is and that there is no pattern to memorize or look at. </div>
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For those of you that want to give this a try, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/blog/en/2008/learning-how-to-make-a-rag-rug-a-how-to/" target="_blank">these videos</a> via Etsy are a good starting point. But she doesn't talk about increasing which is important if you want your rug to lay flat. <a href="http://brush-family.blogspot.com/2010/12/simple-lives-thursday-making-rag-rug.html" target="_blank">Day to Day Adventures</a> has a 4 part tutorial on how to make a oval rug and where to increase. After you do this for a while, you will get a feel for when you need to make increases. It's best to do this on a flat surface so you can check to make sure your rug is flat.</div>
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There are so many ways to make a rag rug. The more I search, the more techniques I find. If you know how to crochet, <a href="http://www.sugarbeecrafts.com/2010/02/rag-rug-tutorial.html" target="_blank">Sugar Bee Crafts</a> and <a href="http://vintagechica.typepad.com/the_life_and_times_of_thi/2006/10/rag_rug_tutoria.html" target="_blank">Vintage Chica</a> have crochet tutorials. <a href="http://crazymomquilts.blogspot.de/2012/03/crazy-mom-quilts-one-way-to-knit-rag.html" target="_blank">Crazy Mom Quilts knitted a rag rug</a> with the selvedges that she has collected from her sewing projects. If I have more time some day, I want to make a braided rag rug. <a href="http://www.homesteadweaver.com/braidedrug.htm" target="_blank">Homestead Weaver</a> and <a href="http://littlehouseinthesuburbs.com/2008/11/secrets-of-no-sew-rag-rug.html" target="_blank">Little House in the Suburbs</a> have tutorials on a no sew braided rag rug. Moda Bake Shop has a tutorial on a <a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/2009/02/braided-rag-rug.html" target="_blank">hand sewn braided rag rug</a>. If hand sewing is not your thing, <a href="http://captaincrafty.com/2011/11/braided-rug-tutorial/" target="_blank">Crafty Captain</a> has a faster technique by using the zig zag stitch on a sewing machine to join the braids.</div>
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Happy Monday, everyone! </div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-84491590103202930342012-10-11T10:52:00.000-04:002012-10-15T11:38:15.825-04:00Trying Something New<div style="text-align: left;">
There are some days that I am itching to try something new. Often it's triggered by seeing something on the internet that peaks my interest. Then I scour the internet and fall down the rabbit hole into information and inspiration overload. Other times I call it Crafter's <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attention_deficit_disorder" target="_blank">ADD</a>. Wave something new or shiny at me and I am immediately distracted. Most of the time I curb the desire to start something new by allowing myself to browse the internet to my heart's content. After that, I remind myself I still have 10,000 work in progresses that I have neglected. Then there are times that I give in because the desire stays with me for days and weeks. Hey, we all have our weak moments. I am only human.</div>
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<img alt="IMG_2290cr02" height="334" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8466/8076983018_0a3e169b02.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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This week, I decided to indulge in a few small projects. I saw some pretty woven squares and rectangles on a Pinterest board that uses small hand looms like the Weave-its or Weavette. <i>(No, I do not have a account. I already get distracted enough. I don't need more temptation.)</i> I noticed it was not woven the same way as I usually use those looms. It was warped like a regular loom with warp threads running just up and down. Of course, I immediately wanted to experiment and give it a try. That little square above was my first go at it. Not bad, but I need to experiment further. I was satisfied that I gave it a try so now I can move on.</div>
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<img alt="Toothbrush Rag Rug" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8463/8077005459_d6edbaa6be.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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I am not sure how I found out about Rag Rugs. I saw a colorful rug online and boom, I fell down the rabbit hole head first. I spent a few days researching techniques and different styles of rag rug making. The technique that I came to focus on is called Toothbrush Rag Rug or also called<span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-weight: normal;"><span dir="auto"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/N%C3%A5lebinding" target="_blank">Nålebinding</a>. Basically, if you can make knots, you can make this rag rug. I happily dug through my collection of fabrics and ripped up strips of fabric. </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span dir="auto"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span dir="auto"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span dir="auto">Since
I didn't have a toothbrush handle that I could cut up, I took a large
paperclip and altered it with pliers and electrical tape. It works great
as a "needle". </span></span></span>With
any craft, there are many ways to go about doing something and it takes a
lot of trial and error to find a technique that produces the results I
want. </span></span></span>I made mistakes along the way, but I think I have the look I want and the rug is growing and growing. Okay, enough writing. I need to get back to <strike>my new obsession</strike> rug making.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span dir="auto">Have a great weekend! And go out and try something new. :-) </span></span></span></div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-78709097543753134982012-10-08T09:54:00.001-04:002012-10-08T09:54:39.928-04:00Over the Weekend<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Another WIP" height="344" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8317/8066678538_0d7e97f01d.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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During the early morning hours while everyone was still asleep, I pulled out a old weaving project. It's a 6 inch Weavette and the yarn is Stonesthrow Farm Vintage IV (53% Cormo/47% young mohair). I am still not sure what it will become and it's fine with me. For now, I am just enjoying a mindless weaving project. I will see how many squares I end up with when I am done weaving. </div>
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<img alt="Yummy Breakfast" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8459/8066676414_75c1b4d9a0.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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Another advantage of waking up early is that I get to enjoy one of my favorite breakfasts in peace. A toasted NYC Everything Bagel with whipped cream cheese, tomatoes and lox, sprinkled with sea salt, black pepper and dill. Delicious. Usually, I am busy making everyone their breakfast requests and I am always the last person that gets to eat.</div>
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<img alt="Garage sales" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8170/8066788882_1e6ec95de6.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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One of the fun things we have discovered after we moved to the suburbs are Garage, Yard and Estate Sales. In NYC, we were use to Stoop Sales since most people don't have yards or garages. The selections here are very different. Most of the garage sales around here are empty nesters or older folks getting their house ready to sell. There are lots of treasures to dig through. In NYC, I rarely ever bought anything since it's usually younger people or people my age getting rid of their things to make space in their tiny apartments or people moving out. Whenever you see moving trucks in NYC, you can be sure that it's either the end of the month, the first of the month or the middle of the month.</div>
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I think we went to 6 yard sales over the weekend. Melody's treasures are on the left of the picture above and mine is on the right. See those clogs? She put them on and never took them off. The girl does love shoes! I was happy with my single purchase. One of my neighbors had a box of crocheted doilies, table cloths and runners. She told me that her mother-in-law made them for all the daughter-in-laws in the family. I picked out a very large table runner. It just needs to be washed and blocked. </div>
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<img alt="Lil Princess" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8034/8066777760_f98b875062.jpg" width="412" /></div>
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As you can see, she adores everything she got. The doll has never left her side once. It plays music when you wind it up and the song is starting to grate on our nerves. She plays it in the house, in the car, while eating dinner ...etc. Lol.</div>
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What did you do over the weekend?</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-14858772000991169542012-10-04T14:39:00.000-04:002013-02-28T09:54:02.460-05:00Anniversary Sale on LaReine Shawl<div style="text-align: center;">
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<img alt="LaReine Shawl in Malabrigo Yarn Sock" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8031/8054355596_e08b1d4e58.jpg" width="357" /></div>
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<br />LaReine Shawl was my first knitting pattern design and it still remains as one of my favorite shawls to wear. It's small so I can tuck it in my bag and pull it out if I get a little chilly. I knit this one for my sister with <a href="http://www.malabrigoyarn.com/sub_yarn.php?id_sub_yarn=16" target="_blank">Malabrigo Yarn Sock</a> in Tiziano Red. Isn't she gorgeous?<br />
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Two years ago I released this pattern and I thought it would be fun to celebrate the anniversary. For the month of October, I am offering a $2.00 discount for fans of my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/AngelaTongDesigns" target="_blank">Facebook Page</a>. Just enter the coupon code "FBOctober" when you add <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/lareine" target="_blank">LaReine</a> to your cart. (<i>For those that don't know, </i><span class="userContent"><i>you don't need to be a member of Ravelry to
purchase the patterns. Just click on "Buy it Now" and you can check out
with Paypal or your credit card.</i>)</span></div>
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<span class="userContent">The pattern has both written directions and charts. Although, it was
designed to use one skein of sock yarn, it can be easily customized
to a larger size. There are instructions on how to make the shawl
larger. </span></div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-22827507585394194722012-10-02T12:00:00.000-04:002012-10-02T12:00:40.341-04:00Fall Accessories, Knitscene Accessories 2012As the mornings become chillier, my thoughts turn to accessories to keep me warm when I take Melody to school every morning. I don't need anything heavy yet since the weather warms up by the afternoon. When I was at the bookstore last week, I saw copies of <a href="http://www.knittingdaily.com/blogs/knitscenemagazine/archive/2012/05/18/knitscene-accessories-2012.aspx" target="_blank">Knitscene Accessories 2012</a> and was reminded that I haven't blogged about my design in that issue. This is Knitscene's first all accessories special issue and I was so excited to have a design in it. It is packed with 35 accessory designs and knitting how-to articles.<br />
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<img alt="Tong%20shawl.jpg-550x0" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8174/8047380591_b3070a0db8.jpg" width="334" /></div>
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It's called the <a href="http://www.knittingdaily.com/media/p/92490.aspx" target="_blank">Putney Shawl</a> and is knit with 1 skein of <a href="http://www.spinnery.com/shop/products.php?cat=36" target="_blank">Green Mountain Spinnery Simply Fine</a>, in the colorway Catkin. Lisa Shroyer, editor of Knitscene, always has such great taste in colors. I am always excited to see what colors she picks for my designs. </div>
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<img alt="Putney-Shawl.jpg-500x375" height="360" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8172/8047380659_cf545a200c.jpg" width="240" /></div>
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The name of the shawl is named after the town Green Mountain Spinnery is located in, Putney, Vermont. Green Mountain Spinnery was the yarn company featured in this special issue. I have become a fan of their yarns after knitting with Simply Fine. </div>
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<img alt="photo-20cr" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8311/8047385580_f633b878c3.jpg" width="375" /></div>
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At the <a href="http://www.tnna.org/" target="_blank">TNNA</a> June Show this year, I stopped by their booth and they had this displayed at their booth! Interweave had printed these cardboard displays for the show and gave them to the yarn companies to display at their booths. I was so giddy with excitement to see my design blown up that I had to have my picture taken with it. The ladies at Green Mountain Spinnery were more than happy to oblige. </div>
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The NYS Sheep & Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY, is coming up in a few weeks. If you want to see the Green Mountain Spinnery Yarns in person, be sure to stop by their booth. They always have a gorgeous display of yarns. </div>
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If you like my latest shawl pattern, please <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/putney-shawl" target="_blank">fave it or add it your queue on Ravelry</a>. It will be a wonderful accessory for your Fall wardrobe.
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Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-43976026289412550852012-09-28T09:09:00.000-04:002012-09-28T09:12:57.151-04:00{this moment} Plié<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Plié" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8314/8032638662_f9ed3cc59d.jpg" width="500" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a
moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment
I want to pause, savor and remember.<br />
Participating in <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/2012/09/this-moment-2.html" target="_blank">SouleMama's {this moment}</a>.</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-73291892395834414762012-09-24T11:22:00.000-04:002012-09-24T21:38:55.178-04:00Welcoming Fall!<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Baking with mommy" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8316/8019784970_edc249d3bd.jpg" width="500" /> </div>
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My number 1 assistant woke up early to help me bake Pumpkin Doughnuts. I was invited to a knitter's get-together brunch and wanted to bring something sweet. Nothing screams Fall like pumpkin. </div>
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<img alt="Baked Pumpkin Doughnuts" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8462/8013745104_33bff01ee8.jpg" width="500" /></div>
They turned out gorgeous and delicious. I used 2 different sizes of doughnut pans. My Quality Control Team (DH & Melody) sampled the fresh doughnuts rolled in cinnamon and sugar and they gave it 2 thumbs ups. The recipe is called <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/pumpkin-cake-doughnuts-recipe" target="_blank">Pumpkin Cake Doughnuts</a>. I subbed <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/king-arthur-white-whole-wheat-flour-5-lb" target="_blank">KA Unbleached White Whole Wheat Flour</a> because DH misread the label when he was grocery shopping. But it turned out just as good and healthier, too. <a href="http://gab-fab.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Gabby</a> was the lovely hostess and my pumpkin doughnuts paired well with the delicious soup she made. <br />
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<img alt="Kim sewing." height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8319/8013654762_7cdfd23cbe.jpg" width="500" /> </div>
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Here is <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/yarnyoldkim/" target="_blank">Kim</a> working on her steek. <a href="http://choochooknits.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Karen</a>, <a href="http://gab-fab.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Gabby</a>, <a href="http://flavors.me/spajonas/" target="_blank">Stephanie, </a>and I all cheered Kim on to finish her Rhinebeck sweater. Yes, NYS Sheep and Wool Festival in Rhinebeck, NY is coming up real soon.</div>
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<img alt="Festifall" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8036/8019787046_aaf64759e4.jpg" width="500" /></div>
DH, Melody and I were very excited to attend our town's Fall Festival. It's a great way to get to know all the local businesses and services. We ran into her English teacher from school and her Karate Academy had a booth there. She had a lot of fun listening to the live music and walking around. <br />
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<img alt="Potato" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8440/8019781285_7eee762750.jpg" width="500" /> </div>
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I have never seen a Tornado Potato before and had to get one before we left the festival. Melody gobbled it up with delight. What's not to like? Fried potato with lots of salt = YUM. </div>
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<img alt="Sidewalk chalk" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8039/8019785708_9ae3bbd6c5.jpg" width="500" /> </div>
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Then we came home and she worked on her chalk art on the driveway. DH and I worked on the house and yard work. It was a lovely weekend. Did you do anything fun this weekend?
</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-90996125667178070372012-09-10T17:57:00.000-04:002012-09-10T18:03:49.030-04:00Easy Meals<div style="text-align: left;">
We all have our lazy days or those nights where you had a long day and all you can manage is a simple meal. On those days, I look for simple and fast recipes. And the less pots, pans, and utensils I have to dirty, the better. I wanted to share 2 recipes that I have made many times with success.<br />
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My friend, Jen, gave me <a href="http://www.amazon.com/In-Kitchen-Good-Appetite-Recipes/dp/1401323766" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span id="btAsinTitle">In the Kitchen with A Good Appetite</span></span></a><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span id="btAsinTitle"> a few years ago for Christmas. I read that book every night before bed time and enjoyed the author's stories behind the recipes. I love cook books that read like a story book. One day, I had one of those long stressful days and this recipe for a easy macaroni and cheese called out to me.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span id="btAsinTitle"><img alt="One-handed Mac & Cheese" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6555070333_691a06d7c0.jpg" width="430" /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span id="btAsinTitle">It was delicious and super easy. It tasted like a sophisticated mac & cheese, but simplified. It's not your standard mac & cheese with a super cheesy sauce, but it's really good. Try it! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span id="btAsinTitle"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b>Even Easier One-Handed Macaroni with Creamy Peas and Cheese</b><br />
(From<b> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/In-Kitchen-Good-Appetite-Recipes/dp/1401323766" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span id="btAsinTitle">In the Kitchen with A Good Appetite</span></span></a><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b><span id="btAsinTitle"></span></b></span></b><span style="font-weight: normal;"> )</span><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<i>Time: 10 min</i></div>
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<i>Serves 2 adults or numerous small children </i></div>
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Kosher salt</div>
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8 ounces macaroni or tiny shells pasta (2 cups)</div>
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2/3 cup frozen peas</div>
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2/3 cup heavy cream</div>
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2 large sage sprigs</div>
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1 fat garlic clove, minced</div>
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1/2 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest (optional)</div>
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, more to taste</div>
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1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg</div>
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Pinch freshly ground black pepper </div>
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1. In a large pot of salted water, cook the pasta according to the package directions. About 30 seconds before the pasta is done to taste, stir in the frozen peas. Drain well.<br />
2. While the pasta is cooking, in a medium saucepan, bring the cream, sage, garlic, and lemon zest (if using) to a simmer for about 3 minutes. Stir in the cheese, nutmeg, pepper, pasta, and peas. Stir well until the pasta is coated with the sauce and season with salt to taste. Serve hot, discarding the sage.<br />
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<b>Egg Boat</b></div>
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<img alt="Egg Boat" height="417" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7250/6883351884_7eeb7bbb8a.jpg" width="500" /></div>
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This Egg Boat was amazing! Crispy on the outside and inside filled with eggy, cheesy deliciousness. After the first time I made it, I continued to make it 3 days straight because I loved it so much. I also made it for DH and he agreed that it tasted fantastic.<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. I took 1 demi-baguette and cut a v shape lengthwise to take out some of the bread. Then in a bowl I mixed together: 1 egg, dash of cream,
chopped up cooked bacon, 1 scallion chopped, grape tomatoes, cheddar
cheese, salt & pepper to taste. Pour the mixture into the demi-baguette and bake it until puffed
and browned. </div>
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I was inspired by this recipe, <a href="http://spoonforkbacon.com/2012/01/baked-egg-boats/" target="_blank">Baked Egg Boat</a>, but you don't really need a recipe. It's so simple. I just used
what I had in the fridge. Try it, your stomach will thank you.</div>
</div>
</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-90395540629008227812012-09-07T09:56:00.004-04:002012-09-10T18:01:21.937-04:00{this moment} Melody and Penny, BFF<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="BFF" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8455/7949450870_6837cbb589.jpg" width="500" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a
moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment
I want to pause, savor and remember.<br />
Participating in <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/2012/09/fridaymoment.html" target="_blank">SouleMama's {this moment}</a>.</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-27157568862283998232012-08-31T10:00:00.000-04:002012-09-10T18:01:30.477-04:00{this moment} Summer Block Party Fun<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Summer Block Party Fun" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8172/7898281810_548f668d55.jpg" width="375" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a
moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment
I want to pause, savor and remember.<br />
Participating in <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/2012/08/this-moment-3.html" target="_blank">SouleMama's {this moment}</a>.</div>
Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-42934432102634938742012-08-24T16:31:00.001-04:002012-08-24T16:31:47.285-04:00Changes: City Life to Suburbia.<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Moving!" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8293/7852656744_f759665672.jpg" width="500" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
3 weeks ago, we moved to the suburbs of New Jersey. After 13 yrs of living in NYC, it was a huge change. Although I miss my neighborhood and friends dearly, it was a great decision for the whole family. The peace and quiet I now have in a house has done wonders for my sleep. Melody and our 2 dogs have a fenced in back yard for them to run around in and they are so delighted. We love our new town and every time we walk into downtown it reminds us of why we fell in love with this town 2 years ago. I did have some fears the week of our move that I was making a huge mistake, but I think those were last minute jitters. My fears were gone the second we walked into our house for our final walk through. It felt so right.</div>
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<img alt="House warming bouquet." height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7123/7824754880_1891b7f0c4.jpg" width="375" /></div>
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My friend, Caiming, was our first house guest and she came to visit last weekend. She brought me this beautiful bouquet of flowers. It was perfect for the bay window in my living room. I can't wait to get the rest of the house set up so I can start having more guests over. Right now, I am still digging around in boxes for the things I need.</div>
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To keep Melody busy before school starts in September, I signed her up for Karate lessons. She has been asking for Karate lessons for a long time. It was more like begging, so I was quite surprised at her reaction when we went to class. The first 3 sessions she attended were full of tears and resistance from her. She was shy and scared. But we had a breakthrough this week and she actually participated in the whole class. After class, she ran over to me and said, "Momma, I didn't cry! I did the whole class and I had soooo much fun." Lol!</div>
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Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6709709.post-23067449034075304352012-07-27T11:03:00.000-04:002012-07-27T11:07:29.913-04:00{this moment} Super Hero<div style="text-align: center;">
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<img alt="Super Hero" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8009/7656544664_eaf5ff16b5.jpg" width="384" /> <br />
{this moment} - A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a
moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment
I want to pause, savor and remember.<br />
Participating in <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/2012/07/this-moment-3.html" target="_blank">SouleMama's {this moment}</a>.</div>Oiyihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15215832298479729971noreply@blogger.com4