tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81739372965211136732024-03-13T14:43:48.241-07:00My Sweet PotatoesMy Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-54044873519559935352011-04-28T09:10:00.000-07:002011-04-28T09:39:50.025-07:00Photographic Tour Though the Enchanted Gardens<p align="center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/creative/?action=view&current=1-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/creative/1-1.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br />On Earth day, which was also Good Friday, the boys both had off school. I decided that it would be a perfect day to go to Powell Gardens to see the Enchanted Gardens and view all the fairy houses that had been made for the exhibit. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the fee into Powell Gardens was free because of earth day.<br /><div></div><br />My oldest is really into his camera (a hand-me-down gift from a sweet cousin) so I wanted to use this opportunity at the garden for him to snag some great pictures of all the fairy gardens. So enjoy my son’s photographic tour throughout the enchanted gardens…<div></div><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/creative/?action=view&current=2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/creative/2.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/creative/?action=view&current=3-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/creative/3-1.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/creative/?action=view&current=4.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/creative/4.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/creative/?action=view&current=5.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/creative/5.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/creative/?action=view&current=6.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/creative/6.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-73976716548153206782011-04-26T13:36:00.000-07:002011-04-26T14:59:13.932-07:00Gnome Homes For Rent<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nowt42iY1ok/TbcyKz5nGwI/AAAAAAAAAJo/Zv8CxNTd58U/s1600/DSC03442.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599999822970428162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nowt42iY1ok/TbcyKz5nGwI/AAAAAAAAAJo/Zv8CxNTd58U/s320/DSC03442.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />The other day we checked out the book “Gnomes” by Rein Poortvliet and Wil Nuygen. It is all you could ever want to know about gnomes. One area we focused our studies on was how a gnome build his home. He starts building the home 15-20 years before he is married. He looks for where moss is growing and for a secret entrance. We have a ton of trees in our back yard and the boys and I talked about how cool it would be for us to have a whole gnome city in our backyard.<br /><br />My oldest thought we should make some doors for all the places we thought would be nice gnome homes so maybe a wandering gnome might find our yard appealing.<br /><br /><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XxhyfM9M0FM/Tbcu-GvbUuI/AAAAAAAAAJI/frVaAqJJ6xc/s1600/DSC03430.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599996306154803938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XxhyfM9M0FM/Tbcu-GvbUuI/AAAAAAAAAJI/frVaAqJJ6xc/s320/DSC03430.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />So we spent a day gathering stuff to make our doors with. Sticks, rocks, nut shells, leaves, etc… We painted some of the sticks to add some color. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YZ4-eC3Om9E/Tbcv-4IZkaI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/3FQHF_OfgF0/s1600/DSC03431.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599997418924511650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YZ4-eC3Om9E/Tbcv-4IZkaI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/3FQHF_OfgF0/s320/DSC03431.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />We also made some decorations using some clay you bake in the oven. We made some door knobs, windows, hinges, etc. This took a few days for us because we just kept getting distracted with some other things we needed to do. <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zPghg_S3clg/TbcxQG_1H9I/AAAAAAAAAJg/tu0PNEey5fs/s1600/DSC03435.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599998814484504530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zPghg_S3clg/TbcxQG_1H9I/AAAAAAAAAJg/tu0PNEey5fs/s320/DSC03435.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />I had my husband cut up some thin plywood into rectangles that I had painted with a cream colored paint. Once that was done with glue stick in hand we were ready to decorate. <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dkz3B-1-m-k/TbcwtWKyWnI/AAAAAAAAAJY/875fzMpmm7o/s1600/DSC03433.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599998217261570674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dkz3B-1-m-k/TbcwtWKyWnI/AAAAAAAAAJY/875fzMpmm7o/s320/DSC03433.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />These are a few we came up with. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H2RrEhPMefc/Tbc9jLxUwJI/AAAAAAAAAKA/pmqyYA4IPVE/s1600/DSC03448.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600012336322887826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H2RrEhPMefc/Tbc9jLxUwJI/AAAAAAAAAKA/pmqyYA4IPVE/s320/DSC03448.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9MO_AicF7gA/Tbc82UTFvyI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/oFOaRzgleNI/s1600/DSC03447.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600011565517881122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9MO_AicF7gA/Tbc82UTFvyI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/oFOaRzgleNI/s320/DSC03447.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V1sCcg3afLM/Tbcy0epMELI/AAAAAAAAAJw/NXpSUxj0qgE/s1600/DSC03444.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600000538818908338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V1sCcg3afLM/Tbcy0epMELI/AAAAAAAAAJw/NXpSUxj0qgE/s320/DSC03444.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ijE4UmCynpc/Tbc-ZRUrwCI/AAAAAAAAAKI/c6VgdMcRJds/s1600/DSC03450.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600013265526308898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ijE4UmCynpc/Tbc-ZRUrwCI/AAAAAAAAAKI/c6VgdMcRJds/s320/DSC03450.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iEob8Li9LBo/Tbc_SDqNubI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/4pXfD-bH3Lc/s1600/DSC03443.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600014241111062962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iEob8Li9LBo/Tbc_SDqNubI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/4pXfD-bH3Lc/s320/DSC03443.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /></p>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-18519353741467060272011-04-15T07:25:00.001-07:002011-04-22T20:17:36.303-07:00Why Do I Garden?<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02346.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Cantoloupes" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/DSC02346.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>
<br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left">Gone are the days when we are expected to garden for our survival. As I grew up, I always remember my grandparents gardening. They were some of the last of their era. They gardened because that is what they knew and what they did to feed their family. Even then the paradigm was shifting. My grandfather would work days at a grocery store and because of convenience and cost he began to bring things home from the store more and more. As the years went on their garden slowly got smaller and smaller. They still garden today, not because they have to, but because it is what they know. There is something beautiful and simple about that.</p>
<br /><p>It may seem I am romanticizing gardening but that is not it at all. A gardener works hard and long hours in their garden to be able to enjoy the fruits of their harvest. The two best parts about gardening are knowing where/how/what went into your food (from seed to mouth), and the knowing of my history.</p>
<br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02363.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/DSC02363.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>
<br /><p>I remember as a young child helping my grandparents and parents in their quarter of an acre garden. Flashbacks to my youth were filled with memories of long hot summer days in my grandparent’s garden, summer canning, the snapping of beans and shelling black eyed peas. There is nothing that can bring a group together better than working a garden together and at the end of the day coming together for a meal that together you grew.</p>
<br /><p>I think you can grow more by listening to those that have “grown” before you. I am not that little kid helping out in the garden but my grandparents and I share a common interest in gardening. Though these conversation with them I am gaining glances into our history. For example, last year when I started growing melons, I learned that my great granddaddy was a watermelon grower and he could grow some of the best watermelons in their community. They told me how he would save the biggest and best for collecting seeds from for the next year.</p>
<br /><p>This was a story I had never heard before and probably would not have heard about had we did not share a common interest in gardening. I may not garden with my grandparents still, but they are still passing on our history of gardening to me, which I hope to be passing down to my grandkids one day. Happy growing!</p>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-48683153683354423772011-04-15T07:23:00.000-07:002011-04-25T08:37:07.378-07:00My Forays into Gardening<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02280.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/DSC02280.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p>Over the years I dabbled in gardening (read planted a lot of stuff and watched it die or not thrive). Then I had kids of my own, and initially I was more focused on buying organically and locally grown produce for health reasons. I first joined a CSA, but really had a hard time with it because I did not know what veggies I could expect to be picking up on my pick-up day. Working outside the home 40 hours a week I use the weekends to plan the next week’s meals and also I do some initial food prep for the week. So getting unknown items in the middle of the week was really throwing off our schedule. It made it hard not to waste some of the great veggies I was getting. The nice thing about the CSA was I was supporting the local farmers and my family was eating better and fresher produce. In the end it was the cost that got me, I just could not justify the cost with what we were wasting weekly. So we did not sign up for another year.</p><br /><p>I was still concerned about feeding my family organically and locally but finding organic produce in my local grocery store was next to impossible. 5 years later there are more organic choices but still you are very limited and most options are not from local sources. The great thing about the CSA was it delivered foods to me that I would not have tried from my grocery store. So the new found explorer in me was disappointed and needed another way to satisfy my sense of adventure. We then shifted our produce shopping to the local farmers markets. At first find an organic farmer was hard, but doable. Over the years this has changed, I have found more and more farmers at the markets that are growing their food “organically”. I use the quotes because sometimes you ask a farmer if their produce is organically grown, some have started to pause, break eye contact and then say, “well yes it is”… This left me feeling less than confident that what I was feeding my family, was what I wanted them to eat.</p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02239.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="My Plot" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/DSC02239.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p>That is when I started experimenting in growing my own stuff, but as I stated earlier I was not that successful. My first year I had just gotten a new puppy that was very destructive, so I decided to do some container gardening in my front yard. That was sadly the year of the groundhog… We would almost have a ripe veggie to eat only to find it missing the next day. It was so frustrating. That winter I started researching different gardening methods and in the spring we chose the perfect spot for our small raised bed garden. The spot seemed perfect except for one thing… when the leaves grew in on the surrounding trees our garden was mostly shaded 50% of the day. I called in my dad to consult on cutting down a few trees in the backyard for the garden but was quickly vetoed (by my dad and Dh). Needless to say that although some stuff grew that year we were not harvesting the bounty I had dreamed about.</p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02242.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Squash Plot" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/DSC02242.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left">Then the answer to what I had been looking for came two winters ago I saw a email for a community garden, which was being hosted by someone I had met when pregnant with my second. I went to the initial meeting not sure what to expect, and came away with dreams of fabulous dinners created with all the foods grown by us. I knew we had many months of hard work ahead of us. The garden was 6000 square feet, it had been gardened organically on for 6 years but the year prior it was not gardened. It needed some improvements, new fencing, trenches dug for row ways, mulch laid, a new gate made, composting bins, watering system figured out… Oh and of course planting and gardening. <img class="wp-smiley" alt=";)" src="http://kc.freshconnect.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif" /> </p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02342.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Garden" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/DSC02342.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p>We got a late start on all of this, starting the month of May. It was June before many of us got anything planted in the ground. It was one of the hardest working spring/summers I have ever had and our list of to do items did not get completely done, but all and all was a year of many successes. I grew things I never would have thought about doing, we ate more produce we grew that what we bought, I learned things from the group I never would have learned on my own, my kids had experiences that will be with them for a lifetime, and our family made friends and found a community that share a common interest and goal and it was fabulous.</p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03312.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03312.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p>As we enter our second year of the garden, our family is excited and eager to garden with the group again. We already have stuff growing in the garden! This is earliest I have ever gotten anything in the ground. The enthusiasm of the group has a way of motivating you and getting you excited, especially when gardening may be the last thing you would want to do. I am really looking forward to enjoying the garden and the community this year again, but I won’t lie, I hope this year is a little easier.</p>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-27074594179280755942011-04-15T07:21:00.000-07:002011-04-16T05:47:05.789-07:00Sunflower Houses<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02256.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/DSC02256.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>Ever heard of sunflower houses? Well neither did I until last year. We checked out the “Sunflower House”, by Eve Bunting at the library and after reading it we decided it was a must for the community garden. Each plot at the community garden is 20’x10’ so we decided to make two rooms four our house. We planted clover for the “carpet” and then all different kinds of sunflowers for our walls.<br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02407.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/DSC02407.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left">The reason we chose clover as our “carpet was because clover is a great cover crop. It is grown to help suppress weeds, prevent erosion and build healthier soil. Cover crops also add valuable organic matter and nutrients to the soil and are sometimes called "green manures". Clover also provides bees with good sources of pollen and nectar. We all want bees in the garden to pollinate and make a healthier garden.</p><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02403.jpg" target="_blank"></a><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02420.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/DSC02420.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>There were a few details that we will change the next year we do it but all and all the sunflower house was a fun project for my kids and I. We should have let the clover grow and get established before we planted the sunflowers, it never came in nice and thick, but a year later it is a lush carpet of clover. ;) Also we had two furry friends that liked to visit the garden. (A baby raccoon and ground hog) They both liked to pull the sunflower branches down and eat our walls. Finally since we did not make real thick wall in the house the sunflowers seemed to fall over with the wind.<br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02418.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/DSC02418.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>These are however me as an adult looking at the things I would change for next year. For the kids the sunflower house was a great escape, the perfect peak-a-boo spot, great place to watch without being watched and a wonderful spot for pictures. Sadly we won’t be doing it again this year at the garden, but I want to do another one at home so the boys can have a sunflower “fort” for the summer.<br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02426.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/DSC02426.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-47506178837118292722011-04-15T07:09:00.000-07:002011-04-18T09:56:40.740-07:00Everything but the Kitchen Sink Brown Sugar ScrubAWWWWW… That is what you say when you watch as your favorite brown sugar facial scrub goes down the drain, thanks you your 6 year old who just wanted to “use a little…” I am not typically one of those girly types but this scrub is to die for, in my opinion, and it is probably one of the few “girly” things I have in my bathroom. I love it, and apparently so did my son. Bless him he felt so bad, and then my husband wanted to see what the big deal was so he tried a little drop that was left on the counter and he claimed “this stuff is pretty awesome…” Great state the obvious, make us feel even worse. ;) Later that night I awoke and had a thought that in that moment was simply brilliant (if I do say so myself). Who says everything in your kitchen <em>HAS </em>to be for consumption? We have brown sugar in the refrigerator, why can’t I make some of this myself? At least something that will do until I can buy my little slice of heaven again. So the next day over lunch I found myself making Brown sugar body scrub instead of my typical pb&j. If you want some too here is what you need to do. Everything but the Kitchen Sink Brown Sugar Scrub <br /><ul><br /><li>1 cup organic brown sugar</li><br /><li>1/3 cup organic white sugar</li><br /><li>2-3 tablespoons of organic coconut oil (melted)</li><br /><li>¼ cup of local honey</li></ul>Mix the above together with your hand mixer and put in an old mason jar. To use: wet hands add a scoop of mixture and scrub away. Verdict is it works great and the best thing is I had all the ingredients in my own pantry. So it was very inexpensive and I know exactly what went into it. I do think I will have to put this mixture in a jar with a wider mouth though, to make it easier for my hand to scoop it out. The boys have already requested their own jar and I caught DH showering in my shower so he could use my good stuff. It looks like I will be making some more real soon.My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-15945714087877638092011-04-15T07:08:00.001-07:002011-04-26T07:02:20.929-07:00Homemade Deodorant<a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03307.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03307.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />For personal and health reasons I choose to not use deodorant that contains aluminum. I have gone though a ton of the ones that you can buy in the store and have just never been pleased with the results. So a few years ago I decided to try to try homemade deodorant. I started using coconut oil for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal, and antibacterial qualities and because it has a nice scent. But it was missing the keep me dry feeling. So I ordered some deodorant from and etsy friend and I it is perfect!! The last batch she made me is sweet orange and I absolutely love it. Though I love the orange smell and the uplifting qualities of orange essential oils, citrus oils can make an individual photo-sensitive. I am already fair skinned, so I usually burn fairly easily. I do not need to add anything that will make it worse. So I need to find a new scent that I love just as much as the orange and I can then order a summer batch of deodorant in that scent. Since everyone body chemistry works differently with essential oils I thought it would be best to try a few different essential oil blends on myself before I order. Therefore making a few small batches of easy homemade deodorant to add my mixtures to was necessary. I took:<br /><ul><br /> <li>2-3 tablespoons of coconut oil</li><br /> <li>1 tablespoons baking soda</li><br /> <li>1 tablespoon corn starch or arrow root</li><br /> <li>3-5 drops of your favorite essential oil</li><br /></ul><br />Mix the above all together. At this point you could divide this into two bowls, so you can experiment with different essential oil blends. For my essential oil blend I used 3 drops Lemongrass, 1/2 drop of peppermint, and 1 drop of frankincense. If I had tea tree oil I would have added it instead.<br /><br /><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03308.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03308.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />I have been saving a small empty travel size deodorant for just such an occasion as this. I scooped the mixture up and into container. Half of this mixture fits in the smaller travel size.<br /><br /><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03309.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03309.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket" /></a><br /><br />What I love about this is you can make small batches and try out different oil blends. The absolute best thing about this is that I know everything that went in my deodorant and I cook with it on an almost daily basis. :) Be warned though, coconut oil melting point is 72 degrees so you may have to put your deodorant in the fridge if you have a hot house or live in a hot area.My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-1313798821491598392011-04-15T07:06:00.000-07:002011-04-20T10:35:12.524-07:00Fairy Butter<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X-B8HWRf-ys/Ta8W1LGd52I/AAAAAAAAAIw/uMAyDCiBFYY/s1600/DSC03341.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597717964613609314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 360px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 270px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X-B8HWRf-ys/Ta8W1LGd52I/AAAAAAAAAIw/uMAyDCiBFYY/s400/DSC03341.JPG" border="0" /></a><br><div>This month the boys and I are learning about all things fairies. Since we all like to cook together, I thought it would be fun to google what kinds of recipes we could find on fairies and make a project out of it. Many of the recipes I found contained all kinds of processed items but I did stumble across a recipe for fairy butter. The original recipe can be found <a href="http://www.theoldfoodie.com/2008/04/butter-to-follow-bread.html">here.</a><br><br />The original recipe sounds delish but I did not have any orange flower water and I was a little unclear on some of the directions so I improvised. ;) I just mixed together: </div><ul><li>2 yokes of hard boiled eggs (mashed to a fine powder)</li><li>1 tablespoon of water (took 1/4 cup of water and added a drop of sweet orange essential oil)</li><li>2 tablespoons of powder sugar</li><li>Added about 5 tablespoons of your favorite butter (we did shatto) or churn your own</li></ul>Spread on some fresh homemade bread. We use a 5 minute artisan bread recipe found <a href="http://family.go.com/blog/catherinewman/fantastic-fearless-five-minute-bread-889536/">here.</a><br><br />Final product was a great sweet early morning snack served under a tree observing our fairy gardens for movement. Of course we had to leave some for them too. ;)My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-64466864454393489092011-04-15T07:04:00.002-07:002011-04-20T10:43:08.041-07:00Oh You Nutty Monkey Smoothie<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dX1tu0Fi5lg/Ta8Z_g7r1AI/AAAAAAAAAI4/V_HhADOld_o/s1600/DSC03260.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597721440807539714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dX1tu0Fi5lg/Ta8Z_g7r1AI/AAAAAAAAAI4/V_HhADOld_o/s400/DSC03260.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>We are a hockey family with two boys and a husband that turn just about every second of free time into a hockey match either on the ice or off. Both DH and my oldest son sometimes complain of their stomachs not feeling good after some intense exercise. To help with this DH doctor told him he needed plenty of fluids and to eat some potassium after he exercised. So when my son started complaining of the same thing after his hockey practices, I decided to find something they both will eat and enjoy. </div><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RF5ameMYJMc/Ta8aaaCG2RI/AAAAAAAAAJA/SUE0D6tfCHc/s1600/DSC03365.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597721902811896082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RF5ameMYJMc/Ta8aaaCG2RI/AAAAAAAAAJA/SUE0D6tfCHc/s400/DSC03365.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I came up with the Oh You Nutty Monkey Smoothie it is chocked full of all kinds of great things to help you rebound after a hard game or workout. Add a banana for the potassium. 1 cup Hazelnut milk because hazelnuts are an excellent source of vitamin E, dietary fiber, magnesium, heart healthy B vitamins, and they are one of the highest natural sources of antioxidants. Of course some peanut butter because of the protein. Did you know our bodies use amino acids found in protein to build and repair muscle tissue? As if this drink is not healthy enough, lets add some Chia seeds. Yes I said chia seeds, they are not just for use on your favorite chia pet. Chia seeds are not only high in omega-fatty 3’s but also have antioxidants, fiber, protein and calcium. Another interesting fact about the chia seed is that they were an ancient super food used by the Mayans, Aztecs and Incas. In fact, Chia means "strength" in the language of the Mayans, and was considered running food because messengers could run all day with the help of these tiny seeds. For more information on chia check out this <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salvia_hispanica">wiki.</a> Oh You Nutty Monkey Smoothie</div><br /><ul><br /><li>1 banana</li><br /><li>1 cup chocolate hazelnut milk</li><br /><li>1 tablespoon all natural peanut butter</li><br /><li>1 tablespoon chia seed</li><br /><li>2 handfuls of ice cubes</li></ul><br /><div>Mix all of the above for some yummy goodness. Enjoy!</div>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-57737731929458247442011-04-15T06:57:00.000-07:002011-04-23T13:50:32.336-07:00Homemade Pizzas with Whole Wheat Honey Crust<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03301.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="alignnone" alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03301.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p>I am not sure about you, but I think every night should be a pizza night. We love pizza at our house, but we all have our own likes and dislikes. For Example DS#1 does not like red sauce, DS#2 likes and dislikes change like the weather, I love veggie pizzas and DH likes everything on his pizzas. So how can you satisfy everyone so someone is not left unhappy? Have a make your own pizza night of course!</p><br /><p>I have always wanted to try to make my own pizza dough but have always thought it to be too difficult. Then one day I was inspired (well kind of). I wanted pizza for dinner and we did not have a crust or pre-bought dough at home and the thought of dragging to boys to the store at 5:00 was not appealing in the least. Therefore I decided to make a challenge for myself to make my own dough. I looked at a few recipes and compared them. Basically you have flour, yeast, water and you can add some sweetener and oil if you choose. So this is the recipe I came up with.</p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03293.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03293.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p><strong>Honey Whole Wheat Pizza Crust</strong> </p><br /><ul><br /><li>1 ½ cup warm water</li><br /><li>1 packet of yeast</li><br /><li>1 tablespoon of olive oil</li><br /><li>2 tablespoons of honey</li><br /><li>1 teaspoon of Sea Salt</li><br /><li>1 ¾ cup Organic Whole wheat flour</li><br /><li>1 ¾ cup Organic Unbleached White flour</li></ul><br /><p>Mix warm water and yeast packet together and let it bloom (about 10 min). (Hint if using packet of instant yeast you might not get a nice bloom). While that is doing its thing, mix the salt, and both flours together in a bowl. Make a reservoir in your flour. After 10 mins is up add oil and honey to water mixture, stir and pour into reservoir. Fold in flour from sides into reservoir until ball is formed. Knead the dough, place in bowl and cover with wet towel or plastic wrap. Let sit for 1-3 hours, then spilt dough into 4 balls, and cover and let sit for 30 mins. (Note: A warm place is a good idea for the bowls.) Spread out dough and add toppings. Cook in oven for 10 min.</p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03295.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03295.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p>Note: I used a pizza stone in my oven, so I set my oven to highest setting and let it preheat longer than normal (the stone takes longer to warm than the oven does). Sprinkled cornmeal on stone and then placed pizza on top. Cook for 10 min. Oh what yummy crunchy goodness. I have never been able to make my store bought dough come out where a slice did not droop, so my expectations in that area were low. This pizza crust had no drooping and was crispy throughout.</p><br /><p>One con was it seemed that this dough was pretty dense around the edges. I will be experimenting with different flours and raising processed over the next few months. Or just coming up with a few dipping sauces to serve on the side. <img class="wp-smiley" alt=";)" src="http://kc.freshconnect.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif" /> </p><strong><em>Toppings at our house last night included:</em></strong> <br /><ol><br /><li>Olive oil, turkey pepperoni, olives and mozzarella</li><br /><li>Olive Oil, Roasted mushrooms, onions, garlic cloves with havarti cheese</li><br /><li>Butter, pears, walnuts, blue cheese with a balsamic reduction drizzled over the top when finished</li></ol>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-66547520405089760152011-04-15T06:55:00.000-07:002011-05-02T17:27:41.677-07:00SFG (AKA Square Foot Gardening)<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02240.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="My Plot" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/DSC02240.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>As I began my forays into gardening a few years ago I researched and chose to go with a gardening method called Square Foot Gardening. Square foot Gardening was founded by Mel Bartholomew. The key difference in SFG and raised bed gardening is the use of “Mel’s Mix” as apposed to dirt…. Mel’s Mix consists of a blend of vermiculite, peat moss, and compost. This blend is created to maintain and retain moisture while providing optimal nutrients to plants. SFG is great if you have a small space or are an urban gardener such as myself. <br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02239.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="My Plot" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/DSC02239.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>What I love about SFG is the division of your beds into a grid system with each individual grid supporting a single type of plant. For some reason this appeals to my need to have a place for everything. Also it makes it real easy to weed a space because you know where everything should be. And the added plus is you can grow a greater variety of items within a smaller space. The utilization of growing vertically as well as horizontally allows for such beautiful and versatile garden. So when I joined the community garden I was totally overwhelmed with the prospect of actually growing in the “dirt”. LOL so of course I created my own little square foot garden in my plot. But the beauty of the community garden was that I could grow what I wanted in my own plot and experiment with growing the traditional way in some of the community plots. It was a great learning experience to grow some of the same veggies using the different methods. <br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02343.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Sweet potatoes and corn" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/DSC02343.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>My first planting in the real dirt was to plant sweet potatoes. I had research and researched how to grow sweet potatoes in a SFG but I think because sweet potatoes need depth to grow you would need to grow your sweet potatoes in a high rise. I did not have the time, space or money to make high rises for 24 sweet potato plants, but I did have some great nutrient rich dirt to grow it in. Oh my, if you never have had the chance to grow sweet potatoes you really should try it this year. We had such a great yield in the fall and really it was the healthiest and easiest plant to grow the whole year. I am still eating sweet potatoes grown in the garden last year. <br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02373.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="eggplant" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/DSC02373.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>I also did a side by side comparison of tomatoes, eggplants, watermelons, cantaloupes, and variety of squash. Overall I think the plants liked growing in the dirt (they grew faster) but the plants in the Square foot garden did not have weeds, disease or pests as much (or they were the last to fall to these issues). I believe that my plants in the Mel’s mix would have done much better if I had watered my plot more regularly. I fell into the trap that I did not need to water as much because of the Mel’s mix. <br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02359.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Cantoloupes trellised" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/DSC02359.jpg" border="0" /></a> </p>When growing the cantaloupe and watermelons, I trellised the melons in my SF plot and did the traditional mound planting for the community plot. As I stated above the melons planted in the dirt grew much faster. I think melons preferred to be trellised it not only kept them healthier but they also produced more fruits. My plants did eventually develop the powdery mildew but it was months after the other plot was gone due to the same thing. <br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02344.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Melon patch" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/DSC02344.jpg" border="0" /></a><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02376.jpg" target="_blank"></a></p>An added bonus of the SFG is the versatility of my plot. When having to rotate my crops I have many different options available to me. For example lets look at my tomatoes. I can either plant them in a different box than I did last year or I can chose to empty a box and just plant them in the ground. I choose to do the latter this year. I took out two boxes and moved the Mel’s Mix into my other boxes picked them up dug up the dirt added com compost and the ground is ready for me to plant my tomatoes, eggplant and peppers in this year. Who know what I will do with them next year, the options are almost endless… ;) <br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/?action=view&current=DSC02376.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Our plot" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202010/July%2031%202010/DSC02376.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>I love Square foot gardening, it is just SO easy, but I am also learning to love growing in real dirt… it is just taking me a while to fall “in love” ;)My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-6819642203756350312011-04-15T06:53:00.000-07:002011-04-15T06:54:56.925-07:00Fairy Gardens<p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03326.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03326.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>After studying many books about all the different types of fairies what they like and how to welcome them, we decided to make some fairy gardens. Both boys had a blast and it was a really fun project that continued to span over the next few days. The gardens themselves only took a few hours. We picked bright and fragrant flowers for the potted gardens. Picking lots of Alyssum for how fragrant it is and Snapdragons because we all just love how pretty they are. I am sure any fairy would be attracted to them. <br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03327.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03327.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03320.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03320.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>We made one pot have a bathtub because the water changes properties if fairies take a bath in there. This put even had a clothes line in back for the fairies to hang their towels to dry. <br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03317.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03317.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>Another we added a bed and chair for the fairies to rest and relax. Bed has a simple felt blanket and pillow. Take note of the entry way in back welcoming the wandering faire. <br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03322.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03322.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>Another had a swing for the fairies to swing on, because what is more fun that swinging on a swing? We planted chocolate mint in this one, because frankly I can think of nothing I would rather do than swing while smelling chocolate and mint… Like a slice of heaven. <br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03324.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03324.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03323.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03323.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03325.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03325.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>Our last one was in our biggest pot and really we ran out of flowers so it left a lot of space for my oldest to create the perfect haven for fairies. He added lots of little foot bath areas, a garden, chair with a seashell lamp, a swing, and even an easel for the artistic fairy (we are still on the search for the perfect set of paint brushes). The arched entry way is sure to welcome many a fairies; I only hope this oasis is not so perfect they fight over who can live there. <br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03333.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03333.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03328.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03328.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03330.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03330.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>As I said before this project lasted many days, I keep seeing the boys walking by the pots and checking to see if anything has been disturbed. My littlest decided to add a seashell bowl full of “grapes” (from a Grape Hyacinth) for them to eat. I have been directed to leave out some almond milk and fruit for the fairies to dine upon. My oldest decided to make a gnome that is there to greet new fairies. And lastly we had to make some mushrooms for the garden, because well of course that is what fairies would grow in their gardens. ;) <br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03329.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03329.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: left">Currently Powel Gardens has an Enchanted Garden exhibit that has lots of fairy houses on display. We plan on making a trip down to the garden to check it out. Check back here to hear how our trip went. <a href="http://www.powellgardens.org/default.asp?page=Enchanted">Powell Gardens</a></p><br /><p style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03334.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03334.jpg" border="0" /></a></p>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-26076862985037708982011-04-05T08:21:00.000-07:002011-04-15T07:57:01.444-07:00What's in your garden?<div align="center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03335.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03335.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div align="left">Well I am excited, I thought I was done ordering some seeds this year but I started looking though the catalogs again... I knew I shouldn't but I did... Now I have some broccili rabe (sp?), ground husk cherries, Black pole beans, jelly melon, and some Honey Boat Delicata. </div><br /><div align="left">I really wanted the Rich Sweetness 132 from Bakers creek but they were sold out. I did find Emily over at <a href="http://michiedo.blogspot.com/">Michiedo</a> who was willing to share her seeds with me. YAY!!! She mailed me 3 seeds. Thanks you Emily! DS#2 will be over the top. Orange is his fav color and these are pretty (orange with orange stripes) little melons from the old soviet union. Check them <a href="http://rareseeds.com/rich-sweetness-132-melon.html">out.</a> I started in starter pots and one I will plant directly in the dirt just incase they like to be planted like that better. Melons don't usually like to have their roots messed with so planting directly in soil is best. </div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03336.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03336.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div align="left">I also wanted to get these hardy Kiwi, it is a vine with tiny hairless kiwis. I think you leave over the winter and they come back. I "think" they grow like grapes. I was so sad I don't have the space for that this year... Maybe next year I will find a space for these? Maybe have a whole plot to these little guys with some strawberries growing underneath? </div><br /><div align="left"></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://s683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/?action=view&current=DSC03312.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" src="http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv198/auna01/Garden%202011/DSC03312.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div align="left">This is what is on my list (most are already in the ground or are started in the back room):</div><br /><ul><br /><li><br /><div align="left">Herbs (pineapple sage, regular sage, dill, chives, rosemary, cilantro, lemon thyme, english thyme, greek oregano, and spicy oragano) </div></li><br /><li><br /><div align="left">Lettuce - butter, Lettuce - mixed, spinach, Kohlrabi, mini bok choy, regular bok choy, swiss chard</div></li><br /><li><br /><div align="left">carrots (3-4 different varities), broccili rabe, brussle sprouts, beets (2 kinds)</div></li><br /><li>black beans - Cherokee trail of tears, lima beans- Dixie Speckled Butterpea Lima Bean </li><br /><li>eggplant (two kinds), okra, bell peppers (2 kinds), tomatoes, ground husk cherries</li><br /><li>Squash Butternut, Honey Boat Delicata, spaghetti, zuchini, yellow squash </li><br /><li>Melons Rich Sweetness 132, Watermelon - 2 kinds, jelly Melons, cantaloupe </li><br /><li>Community plots will have: Sweet potatoes potatoes, white yams, fingerlings potatoes, red potatoes, red onions, yellow onions, tomatoes, corn (2 kinds), beans (lots of bush beans), herb bed, butterfly garden, lots of editable flowers</li></ul><br /><div align="left">What are you growing this year? </div>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-35850140450152827352011-04-03T20:40:00.000-07:002011-04-03T20:41:09.269-07:00March’s Families, Create Challenge<a href="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-4203" title="Families Create Button" src="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg" alt="" width="125" height="125" /></a><br /><br />March’s Families, Create! challenge was filled with awesome animal-themed posts. From Mo Willems to monkey finger puppets, our writers and crafters kept busy getting creative with the little animals in their lives.<br /><br />Visit <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/04/01/apr-fam-create-call/">Code Name: Mama</a> and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/04/01/families-create-call-for-april-submissions/">Living Peacefully with Children</a> to find out how you can participate in the next Families, Create! Carnival. Our April theme is "Fantasy" - childhood is a fascinating time, filled with magic around every corner. What can your family imagine and create?<br /><br />Please take time to read the March submissions by the other carnival participants:<br /><ul><li>Lizz at <a href="http://libismorgan.blogspot.com/2011/03/roar-meow-hiss-or-chirp-he-loves-them.html"><strong>Am I a Funny Girl</strong></a> turns a family outing at the zoo into a picture book to keep.</li><li><a href="http://mamanadroit.blogspot.com/2011/03/monkey-felt-finger-puppet-free-pdf.html"><strong>Maman A Droit</strong></a> shares her easy pattern for a felt monkey finger puppet with you!</li><li>The kids at <strong>Living Peacefully with Children</strong> celebrated the emergence of Spring with butterflies. Check out their <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/20/coffee-filter-butterfly-mobile/">Coffee Filter Butterfly</a> mobile and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/24/pipe-cleaner-art/">Pipe Cleaner Art</a>.</li><li>Aunalise at <a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/03/calming-your-beast-basket.html"><strong>My Sweet Potatoes</strong></a> offers helpful ways for a child to remember calming techniques with a “Calming your Beast” basket.</li><li>Most of us have monkeys running around our house at times. Or lions. Or elephants. Make your child's creative animal play even better with stuffed animal tails! Dionna at <strong><a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/03/24/animal-tail-tutorial/">Code Name: Mama</a></strong> shares an easy tutorial.</li><li>Galit Breen at <strong><a href="http://theselittlewaves.com/blog/families-create-animals/">These Little Waves</a></strong> shares an easy way to get creative with Mo Willems' "We Are In A Book."</li><li><strong><a href="http://mamanadroit.blogspot.com/2011/03/bunny-finger-puppet-free-pattern.html">Maman A Droit</a></strong> shares her pattern for a felt bunny finger puppet-a perfect Easter basket filler!</li><li>Brenna at <strong><a href="http://www.almostallthetruth.com/2011/03/make-things-monday-butterfly-craft-and-books/">Almost All The Truth</a></strong> shares a look at butterflies through metaphor, books and a coffee filter craft.</li><li>Mandy at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/19/nugget-bunnies/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong> knitted some simple Nugget Bunnies for her children's Ostara baskets while practicing a new technique.</li><li>Amy at <strong><a href="http://www.anktangle.com/2011/03/amigurumi-turtle.html">Anktangle</a></strong> shares photographs of crocheting a lovable stuffed turtle for her son to play with.</li><li>Aunalise at <strong><a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/03/for-birds.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> knows a few ways to bring beneficial birds to the garden.</li><li>Megan at <strong><a href="http://purpledancingdahlias.blogspot.com/2011/03/my-son-zach-has-wanted-to-learn-to-sew.html">Purple Dancing Dahlias</a></strong> shares a fun little first sewing project.</li><li>Lauren at <strong><a href="http://www.hobomama.com/2011/03/hide-and-seek-memory-game-for-activity.html">Hobo Mama</a></strong> has a fun and easy game to make to stimulate your preschooler's memory.</li><li>Using her children's artwork as inspiration, Mandy at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/16/wooden-eggs-from-childrens-art/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong>woodburned wooden eggs for them to color in honor of Spring.</li><li>Aunalise at <strong><a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/03/nature-or-field-bags.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> is making nature bags or field bags for nature journals and the other things we may need as we explore our planet.</li><li>Animals are the inspiration for this set of handmade clay items for an I Spy bag at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/07/i-spy-items-animals/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong>.</li></ul>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-53611434429886701892011-03-31T18:32:00.000-07:002011-04-05T10:31:49.659-07:00Nature or Field Bags<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7rcrb5gA790/TZU1e1lpO2I/AAAAAAAAAHs/sWh_yTy6iDU/s1600/DSC03280.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590433316347657058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7rcrb5gA790/TZU1e1lpO2I/AAAAAAAAAHs/sWh_yTy6iDU/s400/DSC03280.JPG" border="0" /></a> As we begin to spend more and more time in the garden, the boys have begun to explore the nature around them again. It is so neat to see how new everything is to them again every year even after just a few months away from the garden. I decided that for their Easter baskets I want to get them things that would encourage them to explore nature so I am getting field guides, binoculars and compasses. <br><br>I also have been meaning to make them nature bags or field bags for their nature journals and other things we seem to drag back and forth to the garden. So I asked them to pick a fabric and I was going to make them some with the chosen fabric, but I was concerned that just cotton fabric would not stand the test of time. I remembered I have a stack of pants from my oldest and I can't pass them down to the littlest because the right leg of every pair is ripped out. I have been looking for a project to use these on and I found one. <br><br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iOWwT5vq71M/TZU2sVh6xDI/AAAAAAAAAH8/HWDd6BhYh_Y/s1600/DSC03290.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590434647771890738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iOWwT5vq71M/TZU2sVh6xDI/AAAAAAAAAH8/HWDd6BhYh_Y/s400/DSC03290.JPG" border="0" /></a><br>The first pair of khakis I found had some cool pockets and the bottom of the pant legs had some really nice stitching that I wanted to be at the opening of the bag to give it a nice finished look. This bag was for my oldest. He picked out some fabric that looked like a turtle shell. His camera fits perfectly in the old pants pockets. I really like how this one ended up. I want it for myself... LOL I now need to make myself one, I have my eye on a pair of DH pants that would be perfect. DH better watch out. ;) <br><br><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NwHBBpublYk/TZU3gQg8N9I/AAAAAAAAAIE/Cm7dv5jJZAQ/s1600/DSC03288.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590435539778811858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NwHBBpublYk/TZU3gQg8N9I/AAAAAAAAAIE/Cm7dv5jJZAQ/s400/DSC03288.JPG" border="0" /></a><br>The second pair of pant I picked were these old carpenters pants that had this red hammer holder. I love how jeans look with red. My youngest had picked out some outer space fabric that matched very nicely. <br><br>This bag I did slightly differently than the first. I had planned on making a smaller bag because of how little my guy is, but the bag still ended up being just as big as the other - if not a bit bigger. I may have to modify it a bit so it fits him better. <br><br>I added reflector buckles to both because I knew the boys would think it was cool. I also added extra fabric loops for hanging water-bottles off of or anything else they might want to do. Extra pocket in back for holding pencils. <br><br>I gave them the bags tonight because I wanted to get some pictures and they were a hit! Such a hit that I could not get my pictures taken. I will have to take some when the newness wears off. LOL <br><br>The boys played with these all night, filling them with all kinds of stuff and exploring the wilds of Africa (in our living room). Both boys hung their bags next to their beds with strict orders to all grown ups "not to touch them". They also requested that we go to the garden really soon. ;) <br><br>The plan is to put together different nature bag collections so that we can just grab the collection we want take our nature journals and go exploring. I think this year will be a blast at the garden, hiking, and just exploring nature.<br><br><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AOWyUcDV1JA/TZU142q058I/AAAAAAAAAH0/FoghmjL94F0/s1600/DSC03281.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590433763314427842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AOWyUcDV1JA/TZU142q058I/AAAAAAAAAH0/FoghmjL94F0/s400/DSC03281.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-4203" title="Families Create Button" height="125" alt="" src="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg" width="125" /></a> March’s Families, Create! challenge was filled with awesome animal-themed posts. From Mo Willems to monkey finger puppets, our writers and crafters kept busy getting creative with the little animals in their lives. Visit <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/04/01/apr-fam-create-call/">Code Name: Mama</a> and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/04/01/families-create-call-for-april-submissions/">Living Peacefully with Children</a> to find out how you can participate in the next Families, Create! Carnival. Our April theme is "Fantasy" - childhood is a fascinating time, filled with magic around every corner. What can your family imagine and create? Please take time to read the March submissions by the other carnival participants: <br /><ul><br /><li>Lizz at <a href="http://libismorgan.blogspot.com/2011/03/roar-meow-hiss-or-chirp-he-loves-them.html"><strong>Am I a Funny Girl</strong></a> turns a family outing at the zoo into a picture book to keep.</li><br /><li><a href="http://mamanadroit.blogspot.com/2011/03/monkey-felt-finger-puppet-free-pdf.html"><strong>Maman A Droit</strong></a> shares her easy pattern for a felt monkey finger puppet with you!</li><br /><li>The kids at <strong>Living Peacefully with Children</strong> celebrated the emergence of Spring with butterflies. Check out their <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/20/coffee-filter-butterfly-mobile/">Coffee Filter Butterfly</a> mobile and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/24/pipe-cleaner-art/">Pipe Cleaner Art</a>.</li><br /><li>Aunalise at <a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/03/calming-your-beast-basket.html"><strong>My Sweet Potatoes</strong></a> offers helpful ways for a child to remember calming techniques with a “Calming your Beast” basket.</li><br /><li>Most of us have monkeys running around our house at times. Or lions. Or elephants. Make your child's creative animal play even better with stuffed animal tails! Dionna at <strong><a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/03/24/animal-tail-tutorial/">Code Name: Mama</a></strong> shares an easy tutorial.</li><br /><li>Galit Breen at <strong><a href="http://theselittlewaves.com/blog/families-create-animals/">These Little Waves</a></strong> shares an easy way to get creative with Mo Willems' "We Are In A Book."</li><br /><li><strong><a href="http://mamanadroit.blogspot.com/2011/03/bunny-finger-puppet-free-pattern.html">Maman A Droit</a></strong> shares her pattern for a felt bunny finger puppet-a perfect Easter basket filler!</li><br /><li>Brenna at <strong><a href="http://www.almostallthetruth.com/2011/03/make-things-monday-butterfly-craft-and-books/">Almost All The Truth</a></strong> shares a look at butterflies through metaphor, books and a coffee filter craft.</li><br /><li>Mandy at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/19/nugget-bunnies/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong> knitted some simple Nugget Bunnies for her children's Ostara baskets while practicing a new technique.</li><br /><li>Amy at <strong><a href="http://www.anktangle.com/2011/03/amigurumi-turtle.html">Anktangle</a></strong> shares photographs of crocheting a lovable stuffed turtle for her son to play with.</li><br /><li>Aunalise at <strong><a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/03/for-birds.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> knows a few ways to bring beneficial birds to the garden.</li><br /><li>Megan at <strong><a href="http://purpledancingdahlias.blogspot.com/2011/03/my-son-zach-has-wanted-to-learn-to-sew.html">Purple Dancing Dahlias</a></strong> shares a fun little first sewing project.</li><br /><li>Lauren at <strong><a href="http://www.hobomama.com/2011/03/hide-and-seek-memory-game-for-activity.html">Hobo Mama</a></strong> has a fun and easy game to make to stimulate your preschooler's memory.</li><br /><li>Using her children's artwork as inspiration, Mandy at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/16/wooden-eggs-from-childrens-art/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong>woodburned wooden eggs for them to color in honor of Spring.</li><br /><li>Aunalise at <strong><a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/03/nature-or-field-bags.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> is making nature bags or field bags for nature journals and the other things we may need as we explore our planet.</li><br /><li>Animals are the inspiration for this set of handmade clay items for an I Spy bag at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/07/i-spy-items-animals/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong>.</li></ul>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-67061270510622673452011-03-31T18:07:00.000-07:002011-04-05T10:33:39.726-07:00For the Birds<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rtg-XQTdAxU/TZUpNujeHLI/AAAAAAAAAHk/YoseZ2Wequk/s1600/DSC03283.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590419828262182066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rtg-XQTdAxU/TZUpNujeHLI/AAAAAAAAAHk/YoseZ2Wequk/s400/DSC03283.JPG" border="0" /></a> As we prepare our seeds for the garden. The boys and I were talking about what we wanted to grow this year. Brussels sprouts, watermelon and swiss chard are on the list of must haves. <br><br>We also talked about ways to bring beneficial bugs and birds to the garden. My oldest was very interested in selecting flowers and plants that would attract certain birds to the garden. We began to talk about other ways we could attract birds with. <br><br>Bird feeders and bird house were among the top of the list, so I had an old bird feeder the boys painted. I just need to find a sealant that will keep the paint from chipping and getting into the bird food. We also got a bird house kit from the toy store. It was the perfect project for papa and the boys to do together. It turned out real well and the boys had a great time making it. Now we just need to find the perfect place for this to go. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OLrncTSWlxQ/TZUotL6aHrI/AAAAAAAAAHc/nDEyyShAlEk/s1600/DSC03282.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590419269207334578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OLrncTSWlxQ/TZUotL6aHrI/AAAAAAAAAHc/nDEyyShAlEk/s400/DSC03282.JPG" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-4203" title="Families Create Button" height="125" alt="" src="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg" width="125" /></a> March’s Families, Create! challenge was filled with awesome animal-themed posts. From Mo Willems to monkey finger puppets, our writers and crafters kept busy getting creative with the little animals in their lives. Visit <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/04/01/apr-fam-create-call/">Code Name: Mama</a> and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/04/01/families-create-call-for-april-submissions/">Living Peacefully with Children</a> to find out how you can participate in the next Families, Create! Carnival. Our April theme is "Fantasy" - childhood is a fascinating time, filled with magic around every corner. What can your family imagine and create? Please take time to read the March submissions by the other carnival participants: <br /><ul><br /><li>Lizz at <a href="http://libismorgan.blogspot.com/2011/03/roar-meow-hiss-or-chirp-he-loves-them.html"><strong>Am I a Funny Girl</strong></a> turns a family outing at the zoo into a picture book to keep.</li><br /><li><a href="http://mamanadroit.blogspot.com/2011/03/monkey-felt-finger-puppet-free-pdf.html"><strong>Maman A Droit</strong></a> shares her easy pattern for a felt monkey finger puppet with you!</li><br /><li>The kids at <strong>Living Peacefully with Children</strong> celebrated the emergence of Spring with butterflies. Check out their <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/20/coffee-filter-butterfly-mobile/">Coffee Filter Butterfly</a> mobile and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/24/pipe-cleaner-art/">Pipe Cleaner Art</a>.</li><br /><li>Aunalise at <a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/03/calming-your-beast-basket.html"><strong>My Sweet Potatoes</strong></a> offers helpful ways for a child to remember calming techniques with a “Calming your Beast” basket.</li><br /><li>Most of us have monkeys running around our house at times. Or lions. Or elephants. Make your child's creative animal play even better with stuffed animal tails! Dionna at <strong><a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/03/24/animal-tail-tutorial/">Code Name: Mama</a></strong> shares an easy tutorial.</li><br /><li>Galit Breen at <strong><a href="http://theselittlewaves.com/blog/families-create-animals/">These Little Waves</a></strong> shares an easy way to get creative with Mo Willems' "We Are In A Book."</li><br /><li><strong><a href="http://mamanadroit.blogspot.com/2011/03/bunny-finger-puppet-free-pattern.html">Maman A Droit</a></strong> shares her pattern for a felt bunny finger puppet-a perfect Easter basket filler!</li><br /><li>Brenna at <strong><a href="http://www.almostallthetruth.com/2011/03/make-things-monday-butterfly-craft-and-books/">Almost All The Truth</a></strong> shares a look at butterflies through metaphor, books and a coffee filter craft.</li><br /><li>Mandy at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/19/nugget-bunnies/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong> knitted some simple Nugget Bunnies for her children's Ostara baskets while practicing a new technique.</li><br /><li>Amy at <strong><a href="http://www.anktangle.com/2011/03/amigurumi-turtle.html">Anktangle</a></strong> shares photographs of crocheting a lovable stuffed turtle for her son to play with.</li><br /><li>Aunalise at <strong><a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/03/for-birds.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> knows a few ways to bring beneficial birds to the garden.</li><br /><li>Megan at <strong><a href="http://purpledancingdahlias.blogspot.com/2011/03/my-son-zach-has-wanted-to-learn-to-sew.html">Purple Dancing Dahlias</a></strong> shares a fun little first sewing project.</li><br /><li>Lauren at <strong><a href="http://www.hobomama.com/2011/03/hide-and-seek-memory-game-for-activity.html">Hobo Mama</a></strong> has a fun and easy game to make to stimulate your preschooler's memory.</li><br /><li>Using her children's artwork as inspiration, Mandy at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/16/wooden-eggs-from-childrens-art/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong>woodburned wooden eggs for them to color in honor of Spring.</li><br /><li>Aunalise at <strong><a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/03/nature-or-field-bags.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> is making nature bags or field bags for nature journals and the other things we may need as we explore our planet.</li><br /><li>Animals are the inspiration for this set of handmade clay items for an I Spy bag at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/07/i-spy-items-animals/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong>.</li></ul>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-63513404301198198622011-03-31T13:03:00.000-07:002011-04-11T08:17:30.787-07:00“Calming your Beast” basket<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dqie8TUqu2g/TZTnPFWs9DI/AAAAAAAAAHU/ravKhapU5I8/s1600/DSC03277.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dqie8TUqu2g/TZTnPFWs9DI/AAAAAAAAAHU/ravKhapU5I8/s400/DSC03277.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590347283795080242" border="0" /></a><br />Learning the inner beast inside of you takes a long time. I am (ummm) getting up there in age and I am still learning about my inner beast. Image how it is for a little one. All these new emotions are shoving their way up, and they have to figure out a way to understand what is going on and how to handle it. Having a spirited child who feels emotions pretty intensely in the house, means we have high highs and low lows. The happiness, excitement, etc are pretty easy to handle. It is the anger, frustration and sadness that can be tough. So we have been on a mission to teach the kids different ways how our bodies/minds react to different emotions. For example when we are angry what does your body do? Maybe you get tense, maybe you grit your teeth, maybe you hold your breath, maybe your heart races.<br><br>A lot of these conversations happen when we are all calm. But how do you help your child when they are in mad or angry. I don’t know about you but my guys don’t really want to talk at that time, they just want to be mad. But I want to help them remember the things we talk about when they are calm so I made a “Calming your Beast” basket. When the kids get upset I offer them love and support but if they need time I set the basket next to them. <br><br>The basket contains bubbles, play dough, bubble wrap, stickers, bead work, markers, paper, and cards. Each thing has a purpose. Bubbles are for blowing and calming your breaths. Play dough and bubble wrap are for relaxing tense angry hands. Stickers and bead work are for calming the mind with some challenging peaceful work. The cards can also do this or maybe they could be a counting exercise. Markers and paper can be for drawing/writing what we are feeling, or maybe for ripping up into little pieces just because it feels good. :) <br><br>I also like to stick a lavender scented rice pack in there too. The lavender is for its calming effects, and rice pack for mediation or just playing with. I usually take a big smell of it before I pass the basket on because it is easy for me to get wrapped up in their emotions too… ;) It is up to them if they use the basket or not but at least I feel like I am helping them learn some ways to calm their beast.<br /><br /><a href="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-4203" title="Families Create Button" src="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg" alt="" width="125" height="125" /></a><br /><br />March’s Families, Create! challenge was filled with awesome animal-themed posts. From Mo Willems to monkey finger puppets, our writers and crafters kept busy getting creative with the little animals in their lives.<br /><br />Visit <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/04/01/apr-fam-create-call/">Code Name: Mama</a> and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/04/01/families-create-call-for-april-submissions/">Living Peacefully with Children</a> to find out how you can participate in the next Families, Create! Carnival. Our April theme is "Fantasy" - childhood is a fascinating time, filled with magic around every corner. What can your family imagine and create?<br /><br />Please take time to read the March submissions by the other carnival participants:<br /><ul><li>Lizz at <a href="http://libismorgan.blogspot.com/2011/03/roar-meow-hiss-or-chirp-he-loves-them.html"><strong>Am I a Funny Girl</strong></a> turns a family outing at the zoo into a picture book to keep.</li><li><a href="http://mamanadroit.blogspot.com/2011/03/monkey-felt-finger-puppet-free-pdf.html"><strong>Maman A Droit</strong></a> shares her easy pattern for a felt monkey finger puppet with you!</li><li>The kids at <strong>Living Peacefully with Children</strong> celebrated the emergence of Spring with butterflies. Check out their <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/20/coffee-filter-butterfly-mobile/">Coffee Filter Butterfly</a> mobile and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/24/pipe-cleaner-art/">Pipe Cleaner Art</a>.</li><li>Aunalise at <a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/03/calming-your-beast-basket.html"><strong>My Sweet Potatoes</strong></a> offers helpful ways for a child to remember calming techniques with a “Calming your Beast” basket.</li><li>Most of us have monkeys running around our house at times. Or lions. Or elephants. Make your child's creative animal play even better with stuffed animal tails! Dionna at <strong><a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/03/24/animal-tail-tutorial/">Code Name: Mama</a></strong> shares an easy tutorial.</li><li>Galit Breen at <strong><a href="http://theselittlewaves.com/blog/families-create-animals/">These Little Waves</a></strong> shares an easy way to get creative with Mo Willems' "We Are In A Book."</li><li><strong><a href="http://mamanadroit.blogspot.com/2011/03/bunny-finger-puppet-free-pattern.html">Maman A Droit</a></strong> shares her pattern for a felt bunny finger puppet-a perfect Easter basket filler!</li><li>Brenna at <strong><a href="http://www.almostallthetruth.com/2011/03/make-things-monday-butterfly-craft-and-books/">Almost All The Truth</a></strong> shares a look at butterflies through metaphor, books and a coffee filter craft.</li><li>Mandy at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/19/nugget-bunnies/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong> knitted some simple Nugget Bunnies for her children's Ostara baskets while practicing a new technique.</li><li>Amy at <strong><a href="http://www.anktangle.com/2011/03/amigurumi-turtle.html">Anktangle</a></strong> shares photographs of crocheting a lovable stuffed turtle for her son to play with.</li><li>Aunalise at <strong><a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/03/for-birds.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> knows a few ways to bring beneficial birds to the garden.</li><li>Megan at <strong><a href="http://purpledancingdahlias.blogspot.com/2011/03/my-son-zach-has-wanted-to-learn-to-sew.html">Purple Dancing Dahlias</a></strong> shares a fun little first sewing project.</li><li>Lauren at <strong><a href="http://www.hobomama.com/2011/03/hide-and-seek-memory-game-for-activity.html">Hobo Mama</a></strong> has a fun and easy game to make to stimulate your preschooler's memory.</li><li>Using her children's artwork as inspiration, Mandy at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/16/wooden-eggs-from-childrens-art/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong>woodburned wooden eggs for them to color in honor of Spring.</li><li>Aunalise at <strong><a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/03/nature-or-field-bags.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> is making nature bags or field bags for nature journals and the other things we may need as we explore our planet.</li><li>Animals are the inspiration for this set of handmade clay items for an I Spy bag at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/03/07/i-spy-items-animals/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong>.</li></ul>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-20399003672059544942011-03-31T12:49:00.000-07:002011-03-31T13:02:18.816-07:00Superheroes!February was a busy month, with work, vacations, sickies, and snow days! So my family and I did not get our family carnival submission done in time for the cut off. We did still do it though. It was just a work in progress. February theme was superheroes, which is perfect for or family because the boys are superhero crazy. All month long we talked about, read about and played with all things superheroes.<br /><br />One of the boys favorite books was Captain Underpants. If you have never read one of the books it is about these two boys who are always up to no good. They are the creators of a comic book “Captain Underpants” that they sell to their friend. So my 5 year old thought it would be cool to make his own comic book. <br /><br />My son is really into his camera and is always snapping pictures, so I wanted this project to teach him a different technique for using his camera. He set all his superheroes in different positions and then took a lot of pictures. He told me the words he wanted the comic to say and I typed it up. We applied a style to the photos to make them look like they were drawn and added them to the frames. We had a great time doing it and DS is already coming up with how the story continues… This may become our continuing Saturday naptime project. Here is the final product, enjoy. <br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590336260056826994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 291px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TAVTdglecyg/TZTdNausRHI/AAAAAAAAAHM/2RefcHhs7_w/s400/comic1.jpg" border="0" />My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-47368075091004491582011-02-06T15:38:00.000-08:002011-02-06T15:39:42.524-08:00January's Families, Create! Carnival.<a href="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-4203" title="Families Create Button" src="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg" alt="" width="125" height="125" /></a><br /><br />Visit <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/02/02/feb-fam-create-call/">Code Name: Mama</a> and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/02/01/families-create-call-for-february-submissions/">Living Peacefully with Children</a> to find out how you can participate in the next Families, Create! Carnival.<br /><br />Our February theme is "Heroes and Heroines" - what can your family create this month to celebrate the heroes and heroines in your lives?<br /><br />Please take time to read the submissions by the other carnival participants:<br /><div class="clear"></div><br /><ul><br /><li>What's the perfect way to snuggle up on a cold winter night? <strong>Acacia at <a href="http://fingerpaintsuperheroes.blogspot.com/2011/01/perfect-soup.html">Fingerpaint & Superheroes</a></strong> knows the answer: make the perfect soup!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Simply decorated jars by children bring warmth and light to cold Winter's days at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/01/18/te-light-jars/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong>.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong><a href="http://theartsymama.blogspot.com/2011/01/i-love-you-stinky-face-inspired-no-sew.html">The ArtsyMama</a></strong> teaches us how to create a no sew fleece throw inspired by your favorite snuggle time book.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Movies made from books are often pretty poor representations, but this family-made movie from <strong>Dionna at <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/01/26/jeremy-monster-1/">Code Name: Mama</a></strong> is monster-ific!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong>Aunalise at <a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/01/cozying-up-with-good-book.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> created a cozy for her Kindle, to protect it from little hands that think they need to cuddle with it.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>What better way to cuddle and get cozy than in new jammies made by <strong>Mama G @ <a href="http://zeveryday.blogspot.com/2011/01/cuddle-up.html">Z everyday things</a></strong>?</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Inspired by her family's love of the Harry Potter series, <strong>Mandy at <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/01/26// ">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong> decided to make a series of ornaments based on the theme.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong>Laura at <a href="http://nestledunderrainbows.blogspot.com/2011/01/snuggies.html">Nestled Under Rainbows</a></strong> shared a reflection on and a celebration of snuggies, lovies, cuddlies and specials.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Little Hedgehog got a wonderful idea when his red hat from Father Christmas didn't fit, and <strong>Megan at <a href="http://purpledancingdahlias.blogspot.com/2011/01/one-snowy-night.html">Purple Dancing Dahlias</a></strong> got a wonderful idea to knit a sweet hedgehog!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Monster-inspired artwork by a monster-clad kid. Despite the growling, he really is cuddly! Monster love courtesy of <strong>Dionna at <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/01/27/jeremy-part-2/">Code Name: Mama</a></strong>.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong>Arpita at <a href="http://www.updownandnatural.com/2011/01/our-family-creates-carnival-cuddle-up.html">Up, Down & Natural</a></strong> shares a quick tutorial on how to make your very own Pippalily inspire pouch sling, with zippered pocket & key ring, and a matching nursing cover to boot!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong>Amy at <a href="http://www.anktangle.com/2011/01/gift-for-daniel.html">Anktangle</a></strong> finally completed something cuddly and warm for her son Daniel: his very own afghan, crocheted with love by Momma.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Who'd want to cuddle with a cuttlefish? <strong>Aunalise at <a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/01/cuttlefish-are-just-so-cuddly.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> thinks you might want to cuddle up with this sweet plush cuttlefish!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>In an attempt to slow down and relax while watching her children, <strong>Mandy at <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/01/24/process-knitting/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong> decided to give knitting another chance.</li><br /></ul><br /><br />Join us in February to create something with (or for) your own family. Visit <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/02/02/feb-fam-create-call/">Code Name: Mama</a> and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/02/01/families-create-call-for-february-submissions/">Living Peacefully with Children</a> to find out more about February's "Heroes and Heroines" theme.My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-21694777515553200752011-01-29T20:12:00.001-08:002011-01-29T20:48:47.847-08:00Hermit Crabs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bf/Hermit_Crab_-_Polinesia.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bf/Hermit_Crab_-_Polinesia.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Well my oldest has been saving his money for some new pets. For months he has been obsessed with African Dwarf Frogs since we saw them a year ago. So we were going to get some of them, but after some sound advice, we decided to get some hermit crabs. I was freaked out but this really has been so much fun.<br /><br />All week we talked about the crabs, read books and tried to figure out what were the "bear(bare) necessities"** we needed (**NOTE: We also watched Jungle Book this weekend). I will admit I was freaked out and DH was worried about how much work we would be adding. After some more great advise, I took the kids to the pet store where we each got a crab. DS#1 named his General Grievous, DS#2 named his Scooby Doo, and I named mine Sebastian. In less than 24 hours these little guys have dug their way into our hearts. :) DH felt left out without his own crab, so this afternoon we went to get him one and a bigger tank. He named his Cornelius the Crab. LOL You may not be able to cuddle with them but they sure are cute. I am already trying to figure out a a new hermit crab plushie. Maybe I should make it like Eric Carles crab in his "House for a Crab" and really decorate the shell...My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-15583783530536375562011-01-29T19:56:00.000-08:002011-02-06T15:37:49.916-08:00Cuttlefish Are Just So... Cuddly<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY0QtiWhdI/AAAAAAAAAF4/E6JHdodehZk/s1600/DSC03188.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 164px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY0QtiWhdI/AAAAAAAAAF4/E6JHdodehZk/s200/DSC03188.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568195450996426194" border="0" /></a><br />As I said yesterday finding a project(s) for the first month’s <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/01/01/january-families-create/">“Families, Create” theme, “Cuddle Up,”</a> almost too easy. At Christmas time a friend asked me to make her a cuttlefish for her. Um well, to be honest I had never heard of a cuttlefish let alone seen one. So I did a quick google and found all the information and pictures I needed. A Cuttlefish is such a beautiful Cephalopoda. Well after researching and thinking how I would go about making one, my friend decided she was going to wait. So I put the project to the side to finish up my holiday presents, but I just could not get this little one out of my head. Well once I have something in my head I have to do it or I just obsess about it daily.... And obsessing was what I began to do. I would find myself in a meeting drawing cuddle fish. He is just so cute and I HAD to make him. So when this months theme was cuddle up my project was a no brainer... I had to get this guy out of my brain and into my hands. So I would like to introduce you to Curtis The Cuddle fish, enjoy!<br /><br /><a href="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-4203" title="Families Create Button" src="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg" alt="" width="125" height="125" /></a><br /><br />Visit <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/02/02/feb-fam-create-call/">Code Name: Mama</a> and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/02/01/families-create-call-for-february-submissions/">Living Peacefully with Children</a> to find out how you can participate in the next Families, Create! Carnival.<br /><br />Our February theme is "Heroes and Heroines" - what can your family create this month to celebrate the heroes and heroines in your lives?<br /><br />Please take time to read the submissions by the other carnival participants:<br /><div class="clear"></div><br /><ul><br /><li>What's the perfect way to snuggle up on a cold winter night? <strong>Acacia at <a href="http://fingerpaintsuperheroes.blogspot.com/2011/01/perfect-soup.html">Fingerpaint & Superheroes</a></strong> knows the answer: make the perfect soup!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Simply decorated jars by children bring warmth and light to cold Winter's days at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/01/18/te-light-jars/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong>.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong><a href="http://theartsymama.blogspot.com/2011/01/i-love-you-stinky-face-inspired-no-sew.html">The ArtsyMama</a></strong> teaches us how to create a no sew fleece throw inspired by your favorite snuggle time book.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Movies made from books are often pretty poor representations, but this family-made movie from <strong>Dionna at <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/01/26/jeremy-monster-1/">Code Name: Mama</a></strong> is monster-ific!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong>Aunalise at <a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/01/cozying-up-with-good-book.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> created a cozy for her Kindle, to protect it from little hands that think they need to cuddle with it.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>What better way to cuddle and get cozy than in new jammies made by <strong>Mama G @ <a href="http://zeveryday.blogspot.com/2011/01/cuddle-up.html">Z everyday things</a></strong>?</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Inspired by her family's love of the Harry Potter series, <strong>Mandy at <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/01/26// ">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong> decided to make a series of ornaments based on the theme.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong>Laura at <a href="http://nestledunderrainbows.blogspot.com/2011/01/snuggies.html">Nestled Under Rainbows</a></strong> shared a reflection on and a celebration of snuggies, lovies, cuddlies and specials.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Little Hedgehog got a wonderful idea when his red hat from Father Christmas didn't fit, and <strong>Megan at <a href="http://purpledancingdahlias.blogspot.com/2011/01/one-snowy-night.html">Purple Dancing Dahlias</a></strong> got a wonderful idea to knit a sweet hedgehog!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Monster-inspired artwork by a monster-clad kid. Despite the growling, he really is cuddly! Monster love courtesy of <strong>Dionna at <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/01/27/jeremy-part-2/">Code Name: Mama</a></strong>.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong>Arpita at <a href="http://www.updownandnatural.com/2011/01/our-family-creates-carnival-cuddle-up.html">Up, Down & Natural</a></strong> shares a quick tutorial on how to make your very own Pippalily inspire pouch sling, with zippered pocket & key ring, and a matching nursing cover to boot!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong>Amy at <a href="http://www.anktangle.com/2011/01/gift-for-daniel.html">Anktangle</a></strong> finally completed something cuddly and warm for her son Daniel: his very own afghan, crocheted with love by Momma.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Who'd want to cuddle with a cuttlefish? <strong>Aunalise at <a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/01/cuttlefish-are-just-so-cuddly.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> thinks you might want to cuddle up with this sweet plush cuttlefish!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>In an attempt to slow down and relax while watching her children, <strong>Mandy at <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/01/24/process-knitting/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong> decided to give knitting another chance.</li><br /></ul><br /><br />Join us in February to create something with (or for) your own family. Visit <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/02/02/feb-fam-create-call/">Code Name: Mama</a> and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/02/01/families-create-call-for-february-submissions/">Living Peacefully with Children</a> to find out more about February's "Heroes and Heroines" theme.My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-20654816279840480522011-01-29T19:12:00.000-08:002011-02-06T15:38:37.168-08:00Cozying Up With A Good Book<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY0kmQeBsI/AAAAAAAAAGA/DF92228SQ54/s1600/DSC03180.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 113px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY0kmQeBsI/AAAAAAAAAGA/DF92228SQ54/s200/DSC03180.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568195792639755970" border="0" /></a><br />Coming up for a challenge for our first month’s <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/01/01/january-families-create/">“Families, Create” theme, “Cuddle Up,”</a> was pretty easy. The hard part was to find the motivation, that seemed to leave me at the beginning of 2011. Since my husband bought me a Kindle for Christmas I have been cuddling up to it, reading book after book and crafting has just been out of my mind. I found myself needing to find something to put my Kindle in to protect it from little hands that think they need to cuddle with it. ;)<br /><br />So early in this months challenge I began thinking about the many different types of cozies I wanted to try to make. You see I just can't make one... it is part of my personality. I have to find the "perfect" one that works for me. I drew up many different designs. I then thought about the supplies I would need. And of course a girl can never have enough fabric, right? So I went shopping. I wanted to try out a fabric I had never tried before and that was linen. Well... I did not realize how pricey that stuff is!! Wozzers! I got just a little and I revised my plans on how much I would use with each cozy.<br /><br />I came up with many different "types" of cozies but limited myself to just do 5 cozies. I ended up with 3 styles but different techniques applied to each.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY0xAj1DSI/AAAAAAAAAGI/6gHISul1lMs/s1600/DSC03181.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY0xAj1DSI/AAAAAAAAAGI/6gHISul1lMs/s200/DSC03181.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568196005858708770" border="0" /></a><br />The first was a flap with jute "rope" that is wrapped around a poppy flower button to keep it closed. I LOVE this one, it is by far my favorite. I just love how the poppy looks and how the linen looks next to the orange fabric. So pretty!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY1WH7CDRI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/BLpCTOGPtaI/s1600/DSC03183.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY1WH7CDRI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/BLpCTOGPtaI/s200/DSC03183.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568196643490237714" border="0" /></a><br />My second had a flap too but I used the rope to make something that the flap can be tucked into to keep it closed. I added a heart applique to the front and finished it off with a simple stitch. Simple and sweet.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY1w-cWHnI/AAAAAAAAAGY/sz3nzpbynB0/s1600/DSC03185.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY1w-cWHnI/AAAAAAAAAGY/sz3nzpbynB0/s200/DSC03185.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568197104802078322" border="0" /></a><br />My third style is just a sleeve that is made in some cool guitar fabric. I love this fabric and had it for a while just looking for the right project to use it on.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY2INRFh_I/AAAAAAAAAGg/412y-x-nqrI/s1600/DSC03186.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY2INRFh_I/AAAAAAAAAGg/412y-x-nqrI/s200/DSC03186.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568197503918376946" border="0" /></a><br />I used the sleeve style to try using appliques on linen to see how I like it. Isn't this little fox so cute? I made her a while ago but just could not bring myself to put her on a shirt... she was special and I wanted her on something special. She makes me smile every time I see her.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY2bkYKCsI/AAAAAAAAAGo/FuTaXIGpxgs/s1600/DSC03187.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY2bkYKCsI/AAAAAAAAAGo/FuTaXIGpxgs/s200/DSC03187.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568197836539562690" border="0" /></a><br />The last one I did was with the sleeve style and I had wanted to do some quilting on the front. However with two boys running around here, I just ran out of time. So I just added a simple band of different fabric on the front. I got a really bad picture of this one though. :(<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY3crYUaYI/AAAAAAAAAGw/J5FQxsNJe7c/s1600/DSC03182.JPG"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 153px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/TUY3crYUaYI/AAAAAAAAAGw/J5FQxsNJe7c/s200/DSC03182.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568198955110787458" border="0" /></a>I have one felt one left to finish, but I may not do that one... I am just so in love with the orange one, and how it works. I will probably do a few different cozies with more closure options others, but right now I can't stop thinking my phone needs a matching orange cozy and of course I should make myself a matching coffee cozy. ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-4203" title="Families Create Button" src="http://codenamemama.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Families-Create-Button.jpg" alt="" width="125" height="125" /></a><br /><br />Visit <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/02/02/feb-fam-create-call/">Code Name: Mama</a> and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/02/01/families-create-call-for-february-submissions/">Living Peacefully with Children</a> to find out how you can participate in the next Families, Create! Carnival.<br /><br />Our February theme is "Heroes and Heroines" - what can your family create this month to celebrate the heroes and heroines in your lives?<br /><br />Please take time to read the submissions by the other carnival participants:<br /><div class="clear"></div><br /><ul><br /><li>What's the perfect way to snuggle up on a cold winter night? <strong>Acacia at <a href="http://fingerpaintsuperheroes.blogspot.com/2011/01/perfect-soup.html">Fingerpaint & Superheroes</a></strong> knows the answer: make the perfect soup!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Simply decorated jars by children bring warmth and light to cold Winter's days at <strong><a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/01/18/te-light-jars/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong>.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong><a href="http://theartsymama.blogspot.com/2011/01/i-love-you-stinky-face-inspired-no-sew.html">The ArtsyMama</a></strong> teaches us how to create a no sew fleece throw inspired by your favorite snuggle time book.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Movies made from books are often pretty poor representations, but this family-made movie from <strong>Dionna at <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/01/26/jeremy-monster-1/">Code Name: Mama</a></strong> is monster-ific!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong>Aunalise at <a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/01/cozying-up-with-good-book.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> created a cozy for her Kindle, to protect it from little hands that think they need to cuddle with it.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>What better way to cuddle and get cozy than in new jammies made by <strong>Mama G @ <a href="http://zeveryday.blogspot.com/2011/01/cuddle-up.html">Z everyday things</a></strong>?</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Inspired by her family's love of the Harry Potter series, <strong>Mandy at <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/01/26// ">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong> decided to make a series of ornaments based on the theme.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong>Laura at <a href="http://nestledunderrainbows.blogspot.com/2011/01/snuggies.html">Nestled Under Rainbows</a></strong> shared a reflection on and a celebration of snuggies, lovies, cuddlies and specials.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Little Hedgehog got a wonderful idea when his red hat from Father Christmas didn't fit, and <strong>Megan at <a href="http://purpledancingdahlias.blogspot.com/2011/01/one-snowy-night.html">Purple Dancing Dahlias</a></strong> got a wonderful idea to knit a sweet hedgehog!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Monster-inspired artwork by a monster-clad kid. Despite the growling, he really is cuddly! Monster love courtesy of <strong>Dionna at <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/01/27/jeremy-part-2/">Code Name: Mama</a></strong>.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong>Arpita at <a href="http://www.updownandnatural.com/2011/01/our-family-creates-carnival-cuddle-up.html">Up, Down & Natural</a></strong> shares a quick tutorial on how to make your very own Pippalily inspire pouch sling, with zippered pocket & key ring, and a matching nursing cover to boot!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li><strong>Amy at <a href="http://www.anktangle.com/2011/01/gift-for-daniel.html">Anktangle</a></strong> finally completed something cuddly and warm for her son Daniel: his very own afghan, crocheted with love by Momma.</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>Who'd want to cuddle with a cuttlefish? <strong>Aunalise at <a href="http://mysweetpotatoe.blogspot.com/2011/01/cuttlefish-are-just-so-cuddly.html">My Sweet Potatoes</a></strong> thinks you might want to cuddle up with this sweet plush cuttlefish!</li><br /></ul><br /><ul><br /><li>In an attempt to slow down and relax while watching her children, <strong>Mandy at <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/01/24/process-knitting/">Living Peacefully with Children</a></strong> decided to give knitting another chance.</li><br /></ul><br /><br />Join us in February to create something with (or for) your own family. Visit <a href="http://codenamemama.com/2011/02/02/feb-fam-create-call/">Code Name: Mama</a> and <a href="http://livingpeacefullywithchildren.wordpress.com/2011/02/01/families-create-call-for-february-submissions/">Living Peacefully with Children</a> to find out more about February's "Heroes and Heroines" theme.My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-82208875906827294392009-12-23T06:16:00.000-08:002009-12-23T07:33:09.030-08:00Just because I can't stop<div><div>Here are a few more sets I have...</div><br /><div></div><div>For the rocker here is a sparrow (inspired from a tattoo). Legwarmers by Animal Kids.</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418436497467134690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzInSU2KUuI/AAAAAAAAAEg/CFWf0KSjt0Y/s400/sparrow.jpg" border="0" /></div><div></div><br /><div>Just <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Truckin</span>' Made to match <a href="http://www.target.com/MF09-404-002-My-First-BabyLegs-Truck/dp/B001W20N3E/ref=sr_1_27?ie=UTF8&frombrowse=0&searchView=grid5&refinementHistory=subjectbin%2Ctarget_com_age%2Ctarget_com_gender-bin%2Ctarget_com_character-bin%2Cprice%2Ctarget_com_primary_color-bin%2Ctarget_com_size-bin%2Ctarget_com_brand-bin&searchNodeID=1038576&field_launch-date=-1y&searchRank=target104545&keywords=babylegs&searchPage=1&field_browse=1038576&searchSize=30&field_keywords=babylegs&field_availability=-2">Truck <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Babylegs</span></a> found at Target. Or these <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">babylegs</span> really match great especially when on a white T-shirt.<br /></div><br /><div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzItXfIAiiI/AAAAAAAAAE4/spoRWHYENAs/s1600-h/trucks.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418443183195458082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzItXfIAiiI/AAAAAAAAAE4/spoRWHYENAs/s400/trucks.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div>Little Elephant matches two pairs of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Babylegs</span>... I just could not decide which I liked better, they are both so cute. :) </div><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzItOZfZ5fI/AAAAAAAAAEw/yIpy4P5gmUY/s1600-h/elephant+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418443027064153586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzItOZfZ5fI/AAAAAAAAAEw/yIpy4P5gmUY/s400/elephant+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418436025358475970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzIm22Gr4sI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/Z_VV9O5pND4/s400/elephant.jpg" border="0" /></div><div> </div><div>Here is a twist on my Shake Your Tail Feathers. With legwarmers by Little Leg.</div><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418443282784136034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzItdSHzK2I/AAAAAAAAAFA/pYbJ0Ts-r-Y/s400/twistedTailfeathers.jpg" border="0" /></div><div> </div><div>Wouldn't the little dancer in your house look super cute twirling around in this set? Legwarmers by Little Leg.</div><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418442916504090098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzItH9n1NfI/AAAAAAAAAEo/BrDHjdc8azM/s400/dancerWleg.jpg" border="0" /></div><div></div><br /><div>Oldie but <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">goodie</span>... This sweet little bird matches chick <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">babylegs</span>.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzIm97kWl2I/AAAAAAAAAEY/Jf0ZCHJzFS4/s1600-h/littlebird.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418436147084171106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzIm97kWl2I/AAAAAAAAAEY/Jf0ZCHJzFS4/s400/littlebird.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div>Here is one of my absolute all time <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">favorites</span> The Flaming Guitar, made to match legwarmers by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">babylegs</span>. </div><div><br /> </div><div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzImuwNf8LI/AAAAAAAAAEI/EWSksNCJock/s1600-h/gutair.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418435886337487026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzImuwNf8LI/AAAAAAAAAEI/EWSksNCJock/s400/gutair.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><br /><div>What would a little ladybug be without her spots? Ladybug matches legwarmers by Animal Kids. And these <a href="http://www.babylegs.com/Ladybug-Leg-Warmers--P158.aspx">Red and black Legwarmers by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Babylegs</span> </a>would be totally cute! </div><br /><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418443487632255474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzItpNPZafI/AAAAAAAAAFI/EVzpV-8JoPk/s400/ladybugs.jpg" border="0" /> </div><br /><div>Though I don't have a picture this rocket ship with a few color modifications would totally match these <a href="http://www.target.com/MF09-007-C-My-First-BabyLegs-Rocket/dp/B002RP6A7S/ref=sr_1_26?ie=UTF8&searchView=grid5&frombrowse=0&node=1038576&keywords=babylegs&field_browse=1038576&searchSize=30&id=MF09-007-C%20My%20First%20BabyLegs%20Rocket&field_availability=-2&refinementHistory=subjectbin%2Ctarget_com_age%2Ctarget_com_gender-bin%2Ctarget_com_character-bin%2Cprice%2Ctarget_com_primary_color-bin%2Ctarget_com_size-bin%2Ctarget_com_brand-bin&searchNodeID=1038576&field_launch-date=-1y&searchRank=target104545&searchPage=1&field_keywords=babylegs">Rocket <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Babylegs</span></a> found at target.com, so if you buy these let me know I would LOVE to make this match and get a picture. :)</div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418452209533347714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzI1k42qZ4I/AAAAAAAAAFY/Klt1ojsvzcE/s400/rocket.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-84259174019953649122009-12-23T06:01:00.001-08:002009-12-23T07:31:10.609-08:00And the WINNER is........And the winner is..... Lilly Rose for her blog posting on December 7, 2009<br /><br /><br /><blockquote>Day 7 - Mr Roboto<br /><a class="avatar-hovercard" id="av-0-06710952343278124124" onclick="" href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/06710952343278124124" rel="nofollow"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/06710952343278124124" rel="nofollow">Lilly Rose</a> said...<br />lol, I can hear that, too. Here's the<br />link of the day: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36243031and<br />I'll repost on facebook!</blockquote><br /><br /><br />If you are Lilly Rose please email me by Jan 1, 2010, at <a href="mailto:mysweetpotatoe@gmail.com">mysweetpotatoe@gmail.com</a> to figure out delivery and prize details.<br /><br /><br />Just to recap what Lilly Rose has won, it is her choice of $25 of free product out of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/mysweetpotatoes">My Sweet Potatoes</a> Etsy shop and a free natural baby wash in Lavender scent gift from <a href="http://thenaturalnewborn.com/">The Natural Newborn </a>. Not only is lavender Lullaby an awesome name this stuff is great I have been using it on my one kids now for almost a month and love it. I have also heard WONDERFUL things about her baby vapor rub. Thanks Christina!<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418433110239205746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 347px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzIkNKcF2XI/AAAAAAAAAEA/zO2YqXef6qw/s400/whitebabywash.jpg" border="0" />Thanks for all of those that played! I wish you all could have been winners - atleast you are in my heart... ;) Happy Holidays!!!!My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8173937296521113673.post-43225048117696477772009-12-22T09:11:00.000-08:002009-12-22T09:22:35.742-08:00Day 12 - Brave FirefighterFirefighter applique is made to match baby legwarmers by Babylegs. To order applique or for more information on the legwarmers email me at <a href="mailto:mysweetpotatoes@gmail.com">mysweetpotatoes@gmail.com</a>.<br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418110104538148034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_14fxYwuhAas/SzD-bwbzbMI/AAAAAAAAAD4/ymhNyjk4Guw/s400/firefighter.jpg" border="0" /></p>Be sure to enter for Day 12 to have 3 chances to enter your name into a grand prize giveaway. At the end of the 12 days I will draw the name of the winner of $25 of free product out of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/mysweetpotatoes">My Sweet Potatoes</a> Etsy shop and a free natural baby wash in Lavender scent gift from <a href="http://thenaturalnewborn.com/">The Natural Newborn </a>.<br /><br />First entry: Go check out some of the products at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/mysweetpotatoes">My Sweet Potatoes</a>, then leave a comment here containing a link to one of the listings.<br /><br />Second entry: Become a fan of My Sweet Potatoes. To become a fan, simply click on the Facebook widget on this page. If you are already a fan you can still get your second entry, just get one of your friends to become a fan. Leave a comment telling me who your friend is and when they joined.<br /><br />Third entry: Tell others about My Sweet Potatoes though either a blog/facebook/message board and then post a comment with a link to the discussion.My Sweet Potatoeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05151991444714360091noreply@blogger.com5