tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77959050278753544652024-02-08T05:00:28.705-08:00The Skillful BeeIf you love to imagine, explore, and create, The Skillful Bee is here for you! From Art to Gardens to Recipes, I share my real experiences living a creative life on these pages. All images on this website are the property of The Skillful Bee. <a href="http://pinterest.com/debbibee/"><img src="http://passets-lt.pinterest.com/images/about/buttons/follow-me-on-pinterest-button.png" width="169" height="28" alt="Follow Me on Pinterest"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-89736842834771413292019-04-18T08:40:00.003-07:002022-03-17T06:28:34.957-07:00Hollow Sugar Easter Eggs HOW TO<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #6fa8dc;">EASTER SUGAR EGGS</span></h2>
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Making hollow sugar eggs is almost as much fun as giving them away! It's a fairly simple process that includes mixing granulated sugar with water and meringue powder (dried egg whites). Fresh egg whites can be used instead of Meringue powder, but I have not used that method.</div>
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You will press the moist sugar mixture into plastic molds to create each half egg, then hollow them out and attach the two halves together after decorating the interior. These eggs will last for YEARS! And yes, they are completely edible! Complete instructions are below.</div>
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<b>Egg Shell Sugar Mixture</b></div>
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4 1/2 Cups granulated sugar</div>
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3 TBLS. Water approx.</div>
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1 TBLS. Meringue Powder</div>
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<i>(A 10 lb. bag of sugar will make approx. 12 med. size (5"x3.5") eggs)</i></div>
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Mix sugar and meringue powder. Add water by dripping slowly as you mix quickly with your hands until mixture holds together in lumps when you squeeze a handful. If it's too moist it will stick to the mold and have small ruts and dents on the surface due to the sugar melting. If it's too dry it wont stick together. The brand of sugar as well as humidity level will affect the water to sugar ratio. I find the cheapest brand of sugar works best because of its fine grain.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I have purchased the hard, clear plastic egg molds from a cake decorating store. I have also purchased a flimsier, medium sized plastic egg from the dollar store. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Press the sugar firmly into the plastic sugar molds, especially near the narrow end where you will cut the opening. Scrape the open surface flat with the backside of a butter knife and flip the egg over onto waxed paper. Release mold. At this point, I cut about a 3/4 inch off the front of each half of the egg to prepare for the opening. I make the cut by slicing down using a thin piece of 1.5" by 2.5" cardboard I've cut from a cereal box. Then I place the small piece of cardboard against the cut edge so the interior wont dry out too much. I also use the tip of a pointed knife or even a toothpick to gently trace a U shaped outline around the edge of the area I will be scooping out of this opening, about 3/8" from outer edge. By doing this, I avoid breaking the delicate edges of the opening when I scoop it out later.</div>
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About 2 to 6 hours later, depending on the size of the egg as well as the temperature and humidity level, the egg halves are dry enough to gently lift, hold securely in cradled palm of hand and carefully scrape out the interior sugar, which is still soft. The exterior is hard. If you do this step too soon, the exterior isn't hard enough and it breaks. If you do it too late, the exterior is very hard and too thick to end up with a dainty egg. Adjust your drying time to allow for the remaining shell to be about 3/8 inch thick. Use the sugar you scoop out to fill more egg molds. Allow eggs to dry thoroughly after scooping. Drying overnight, or at least for several hours, is advisable.</div>
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Once the hollowed egg halves are completely dry you can decorate the bottom interior with royal icing (recipe below) and purchased decorations or those you make yourself. Put royal icing on the rim of each half to attach them together. Decorate the exterior with royal icing and decorations.</div>
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<b> Royal Icing</b></div>
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2 TBLS. Meringue Powder</div>
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3 Cups Powdered Sugar</div>
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Approx. 4 TBLS warm water</div>
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Mix at low speed for about 10 minutes.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-31958411913424798192017-03-26T09:27:00.000-07:002017-03-26T09:32:21.135-07:00In the Classroom-Artist Trading Card Project<h2 align="center">
Students Share Art Their Art With Others</h2>
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The ARTIST TRADING CARD Project</h3>
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ATC's are a fun way to get the year started with a small, but meaningful project. It's also a great filler project when you have just a couple of days to work on art. I like to choose a loose theme, such as ' My Community' , then allow students to explore their own interpretation of what that means to them. </div>
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We share our ATC's with other classes within our district as well as in other states and countries.</div>
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To learn more about ATC's in the classroom visit"</div>
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<a href="http://studentatc.com/">http://studentatc.com/</a></div>
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and check out this article in</div>
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ARTS and ACTIVITIES magazine for art educators December 2011</div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><a href="http://pubdev.ipaperus.com/ArtsandActivities/AADecember2011/"><span style="color: blue;">http://pubdev.ipaperus.com/ArtsandActivities/AADecember2011/</span></a></span></div>
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The theme of this ATC lesson was to pull two words from a hat and create art depicting those words. This student got BALLOON and TORNADO</div>
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The ceramics students make ATC's...with Clay!</div>
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For this project I had ceramic students make an abstract art paper collage first, </div>
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then replicate it using clay.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-32271760578556441212017-03-26T09:02:00.000-07:002017-03-26T09:02:44.145-07:00In the Classroom-High School Oil Pastel Project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Pastel Flag Project</h2>
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My high school students love this project because their drawings are always a success! We use a fail proof, easy-to-understand process that teaches them how to use accurate drawing and rendering processes. We focus on value to convey depth in the billowing curves of our nations flag. If you would like detailed information about this project check out this article in </div>
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ARTS and ACTIVITIES magazine for Art Educators. November 2016</div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt;"><a href="http://pubdev.ipaperus.com/ArtsandActivities/AANovember2016/"><span style="color: blue;">http://pubdev.ipaperus.com/ArtsandActivities/AANovember2016/</span></a></span></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-49195480788570552702017-03-26T08:48:00.003-07:002017-03-26T09:28:05.039-07:00In the Classroom-High School Abstract Art Project<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Always a Success!</h2>
This fun, easy and educational project begins with students making a collage from magazine pictures.<br />
Next, they create a painting based on their observations of the collage. Students learn so much about composition, problem solving and technique in this project. It's always a good time and every painting is a success because every student advances their skills while having a great time in the art room!<br />
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To learn specific details about this project go to this informative article in ARTS and ACTIVITIES magazine for art educators. April 2017 issue.</div>
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<a href="http://artsandactivities.com/abstract-painting-be-your-own-captain-of-creativity/">http://artsandactivities.com/abstract-painting-be-your-own-captain-of-creativity/</a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-32200410702403293172016-12-26T18:31:00.001-08:002017-01-02T20:04:11.310-08:00Vintage ChristmasBlending vintage items with modern décor is like sipping aged wine with a freshly cooked meal. Each lends it's own distinct character while enhancing the other. I've made new pillows from old fabric and photos, repainted furniture to fit my décor and combined wood candlesticks from the 80's with china from the 50's to make colorful serving platters. While I enjoy the fruits of my labors, it is the actual 'making' of the items that provides me with the greatest pleasure. <br />
This Christmas I filled our home with old and new as we look back on the past with fond memories and move forward with dreams of projects yet undiscovered.<br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">MERRY CHRISTMAS!</span></h2>
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My home is filled with 'earthy' colors that provide a warm background for the timeless, worn colors of delicate glass ornaments from Christmas past. What stories these graceful objects would tell...if only they could speak!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gBdclsdRi_M/WGHIHNhnMGI/AAAAAAAACG8/bPq8odHxV2gf3o_ECzKyy7to7iyob25xQCEw/s1600/20161214_163135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gBdclsdRi_M/WGHIHNhnMGI/AAAAAAAACG8/bPq8odHxV2gf3o_ECzKyy7to7iyob25xQCEw/s320/20161214_163135.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K9yYqf1wZqQ/WGHIIK-vTEI/AAAAAAAACG8/_b5C4wkAonc7O5SA5giW2RlSPG1Dd7dMgCEw/s1600/20161226_171619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K9yYqf1wZqQ/WGHIIK-vTEI/AAAAAAAACG8/_b5C4wkAonc7O5SA5giW2RlSPG1Dd7dMgCEw/s320/20161226_171619.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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This chunky, hand carved (in North Carolina!) wood bowl with it's rough, uneven edges provides a dramatic contrast with the clean edges of vintage 50's ornaments. Most of these were probably made in Poland, Germany or the good 'ol USA!</div>
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I like to sprinkle my vintage cards around the house as decorative accents. You'll find them propped up with the teacups in my glass-door cupboards and hanging from a red velvet ribbon draped across a large mirror in the dining room. Gosh, they're swell!</div>
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Last summer I found a few rolls of Christmas wrap at a garage sale. It was a lot cheaper than the new stuff and sooooo adorable! Looks like it might be from the 70's.</div>
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What else can I say? He's adorable. He holds the candy canes.Vintage 40's or 50's.</div>
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I got this very old (circa turn of the century), VERY heavy (25 lbs.) doll bed at a garage sale for TEN dollars. Repeat...TEN dollars. I painted it pink and made some new bedding. I was quite certain the four year old recipient of this gift was going to be fairly ecstatic when she received it for Christmas. Bingo. Nailed it.</div>
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And since our little princess bears a striking resemblance to Shirley Temple, I got her the doll from an antique mall. It's not one of the expensive originals, but it is from the 70's. She was in pretty good shape so all I had to do was wash her clothes, hair and a little body scrub and she's just perfect for little hands to cuddle! The last time I looked, Shirley was sharing the bed with four other 'modern' dolls. What a hoot!<br />
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Lastly, a fond remembrance of a mom who rests in peace this Christmas. Her recipes for meatballs and manicotti has been a tradition for decades and surely will live on, as well as the potential for re-discovering some lost 'secret recipes' stored in her well-worn recipe file. </div>
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Click<a href="http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-cookies.html" target="_blank"> Here</a> for the link to Spumoni Cookies!</div>
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<a href="http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-cookies.html" target="_blank"><img alt="http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-cookies.html" border="0" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0EpDycQ916c/UMUV9Knm2CI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/dgYGNOJC9wYtmmMd8HYNJ8UbrbRJh4KtgCPcB/s200/spumoni%2Bunbaked%2Bsm.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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To see more vintage holiday décor from a previous post, click <a href="http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2014/12/vintage-ornaments-holiday-decorations.html" target="_blank">here</a></div>
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<span style="color: #741b47;">and now it's time for a</span></h3>
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">HAPPY NEW YEAR!</span></h2>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-4017483460279957112016-09-07T16:13:00.002-07:002016-09-07T16:13:34.569-07:00Autumn <h2 class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Autumn</h2>
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A perfect blend of warm and cold, smooth and rough, light and dark, orange and blue.</div>
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My favorite time of year!</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-76542223783605760362016-07-14T11:01:00.002-07:002017-01-02T20:25:59.873-08:00Tea Quotes- For the love of teacups!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The teacups' siren's song has lured me countless time into thrift shops, yard sales and antique malls. I heard it first when I was a small child. The dainty porcelain maidens rested neatly behind glass cupboard doors in our formal dining room. My mother, a Polish immigrant, had a collection of about ten mid-century sets which she allowed me to touch and hold but once a year. She would pull them out from the cabinet for their annual washing (a ritual she swore kept the porcelain from becoming too dry and brittle) and gently soak them in a lukewarm, sudsy bath. It was the 1960's and we lived a half a block from the city of Detroit where racial tensions had reached their peak. The Vietnam war raged on, a new breed of rebellious, long-haired teens were erupting and the sweet innocence of the 50's was fading fast. I didn't know my mom and the neighbor ladies she would share a coffee-clatch with would be the last of the stay-at-home moms. I didn't know that the world was about to change. I only knew those simple little teacups with their cheerful florets, meticulous details, and soft-as-butter colors made me very, very happy.<br />
I think they made my mother happy as well. She had survived a Nazi war camp, had lost her family in WWII and was living in a foreign country. It would be safe to say the teacups were a bittersweet reminder of the formal, yet secure, years she spent living as a displaced person in a convent in Austria. She escaped the life as a forced laborer and became a war nurse, trained by the nuns in a Catholic hospital. By day she tended the wounded in a crowded hospital ward. At night she retreated to her 'home' amongst historical religious paintings, marble floors and pillars, gilt adornments and all the simple, yet elegant surroundings that the church and convent had to offer. Fine porcelain was the norm. <br />
Today, as I gather a cheerful brigade of vintage cups and saucers I am transcended to the place in my mind where those happy, childlike thoughts dwell. I often think about what good use I could possibly have for these tiny bearers of good will and if, indeed, I will ever find a way to share the pleasure they bring to others in need of a moment of simple goodness. <br />
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This was probably my favorite set as a child. I love the detail, the colors and the promise of spring it represents. Now I use it like a super model, posing it with flowers and backgrounds that compliment its design.</div>
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Somehow, the dishtowel in the background of this photo was spared over the decades. When I found it in my mothers' old linens I immediately recalled it. I've always been fond of blues and purples together and the sweet fruit motifs remain imbedded in my mind as first perceptions of 'art'.</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-22825384701833264112016-07-05T15:00:00.001-07:002016-07-13T09:41:39.244-07:00Turkey, Cheese, Artichoke and Pesto sandwich in MAINE<h3 style="text-align: center;">
A Great Sandwich Combination...turkey, artichoke, cheese and pesto!</h3>
While visiting Camden, Maine one sunny day, we came across a great deli that served outrageously delicious sandwiches.<br />
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It is called THE CAMDEN DELI <a href="http://www.camdendeli.com/#_=_" target="_blank">website</a> and the view from our upper deck table was as good as it gets. <br />
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The prices were reasonable and the staff was very pleasant. We will definitely return when we travel through Camden again! In the meantime, I had such a craving for a sandwich like the one I ordered that I gathered similar ingredients and made a knock off sandwich that is slightly different, but every bit as scrumptious. <br />
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I entered the ingredients into a website calculator and used a photo imaging program to paste the image of my sandwich together with the nutrition label. It's high in protein (20 g) but I will have to figure out how to reduce those carbs just a bit before I can add it to my low carb diet plan! (is it possible to slice a bagel thin in half?) :) <br />
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EDIT: I found a great solution to the carb. problem. It's HEALTHY LIFE brand Sourdough bread. Tastes great! 16g carbs and 70 calories for 2 slices. (that is 8 carbs and 40 calories LESS than the bagel thins...therefore this sandwich is 310 calories and 23 carbs)<br />
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Cooking directions:<br />
Butter a skillet, brown both sides of the bread/bagel thin and warm the turkey. Place turkey, Havarti cheese, artichokes and a dollop of pesto on bottom slice. Cover with the top slice and heat until cheese is melted.<br />
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Besides EATING, we enjoyed touring and hiking throughout the beautiful coast of Maine, including Acadia National Park.<br />
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We took a boat tour, which I highly recommend. Although it does seem it would be 'touristy' it was far from it. Highly educational and interesting! We learned about history, ecology, geography and of course, lobsters. Plus, there is no other way to see the sights (seals on rocky islands, the lighthouse on the state quarter, etc.) or travel to smaller island unless you take a boat!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-47288750744122827312016-05-29T07:25:00.002-07:002016-05-29T07:42:43.120-07:00Teacher Humor. If you're a teacher, you'll understand.<h2>
<span style="color: #741b47;">Some days are like this....</span></h2>
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<img alt="Pretty much describes my Reading Group :) Community Post: The 61 Best Teacher Memes On The Internet: " class="pinImage rounded" data-load-state="pending" height="400" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/88/8d/e0/888de0ce233c495d6ce187b12464f4b7.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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<img alt="39 and feeling great!: " class="pinImage rounded" data-load-state="pending" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/3b/21/4a/3b214a9566fb2529e61f903be5787179.jpg" /><br />
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Teachers looking for great ideas for ART projects can find lots of ideas on my PINTEREST boards by <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/debbibee/" target="_blank">clicking here</a></h3>
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My favorite art projects in the classroom are found on<a href="http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2013/02/favorite-art-projects-in-classroom.html" target="_blank"> this page</a> of my blog.</h3>
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<em>The images on this 'teacher humor' page were found on the internet and are not images taken by the skillful bee. I have tried to include links to original sources when possible.</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-55886479330229933062016-04-10T08:31:00.000-07:002016-07-13T23:08:40.589-07:00Vintage Cup and Saucer Mismatch Photos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Time to mix up those orphaned teacups and saucers for a little photo fun!</div>
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My stash of vintage teacups...and pictures of them...continues to grow. </div>
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For more of my teacup images click here <a href="http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2014/08/tea-and-tea-again.html" target="_blank">http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2014/08/tea-and-tea-again.html</a><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-60973805076559285762015-12-11T19:15:00.002-08:002016-03-06T15:34:22.314-08:00Elf makes tiny sugar cookies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mini Cookies</div>
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from</div>
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The Elf on the Shelf</div>
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Looks like the Elf has been baking while we're asleep!</div>
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I'm pretty sure he used the recipe mentioned on my previous post, </div>
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here <a href="http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2014/12/holiday-cookie-exchange-2014.html" target="_blank">http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2014/12/holiday-cookie-exchange-2014.html</a></div>
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The little ones really liked these tiny sugar cookies! Mommy's like them too because they are sooooo small they can let the kids have 2 or 3 without getting too sugared-up!</div>
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I decided to make a few cookies, myself! These melting snowman turned out so nice last year I decided to make them again. These are sugar cookies topped with melted wafer 'frosting' and a marshmallow. I apply the frosting (candy wafers are melted in the microwave) with a small round icing tip, with the exception of the eyes which are applied by dipping a toothpick in the frosting and poking/dotting on the marshmallow. I put the cookies in individual clear plastic bags (dollar store) and give them away to anyone with kids. Here's a link to more details and recipes </div>
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from last years' post...</div>
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<a href="http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2014/12/holiday-cookie-exchange-2014.html">http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2014/12/holiday-cookie-exchange-2014.html</a></div>
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A special HELLO to Natasha!</div>
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<span class="hps">Отдельный привет</span> <span class="hps">Наташе</span>!</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-15293287808506177542015-11-04T17:52:00.000-08:002015-11-04T18:05:14.842-08:00Island Life....minutes from mainland.Somehow, time passes slower on an island. The waves and the breeze seem to drag each second a little bit longer and smoother. The energy that drives us on the mainland dissolves into a gentle cadence that is easy to follow. 'Island time' is measured on clocks with slow faces.<br />
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I was lucky enough to spend time on two islands this year. First, on Harsens Island, a little known haven located less than an hour from Detroit and a stone's throw from Canada. Most of the businesses are located on one short block in the 'downtown' area of Sans Souci. This is not a tourist destination. This is a quiet place for those looking to take meandering bike rides down winding dirt roads or relax in a lounge chair while watching giant freighters stream down the St. Clair river, which separates the U.S. and Canada. Harsens Island is surrounded by the amazing crystal clear waters of Lake St. Clair which means fishing, swimming and boating are a big part of life on the island. To get to Harsens you must take a ferry. The ride across is only about 2 minutes, but once you land on the island you will think you are hundreds of miles away from the hustling, bustling life on the mainland.<br />
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Harsens Island MI</h2>
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The second island I visited was Hilton Head, in sunny South Carolina. What a special place! Immediately one senses that this is an island that is easy to fall in love with. City planners have done an excellent job of keeping the local environment genuine while providing the conveniences of shopping, hotels and restaurants. The beach....the view.....the giant oaks dripping with moss...everything was so pleasant and relaxing I didn't want to leave!<br />
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Hilton Head Island SC</h2>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-1303375881709103012015-07-26T07:05:00.000-07:002015-12-11T19:42:14.211-08:00Honing my skills or just having fun?<h2 style="text-align: center;">
BOTH!</h2>
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Summer provides the opportunity for busy teachers to 'sharpen their saw' as the saying goes. I've been cutting down a lot of trees all year and now I get to have some fun of my own as I sit back and bask in the freedom of leisure time activities that also function as a means to exploration, discovery, invention and creative learning experiences. This is exactly the agenda I promote for my students in the classroom. I'm learning new techniques that remind me what is involved in an inspirational lesson, thus, sharpening my professional 'saw'. </div>
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It's no secret that a good teacher is also a lifetime learner. I think most parents and educators embrace this process of 'work and replenish'. But for those who only see summer vacation as 'time off' for teachers...think again! If I didn't have time to explore and expand my own creativity, I'd be more weary than cheery. Likewise, a student needs the time and freedom that summer provides to build their characters independent of school. They come back to us each year with minds refreshed by the easy, breezy sunlit patience of summer.</div>
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So, here's a taste of what I have been doing this summer. It may look like pure PLAY...but somewhere in the background this lumberjill is sharpening that 'ol saw one tooth at a time.</div>
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<u> FOOD FOR THOUGHT...</u></h2>
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<em>It all starts with a hearty breakfast. Sliced peaches and apples are dipped in pancake batter and cooked on the griddle. Topped with butter and a touch of that awesome maple syrup we tapped in spring.</em></div>
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DIA</h2>
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<em>A trip to the DIA (Detroit Institute of Art) is always inspirational. While it's great to go on a school field trip, going sans students is a totally different experience. I enjoy the leisurely pace which allows me to look closely at the details of my favorite paintings.</em></div>
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Inside the DIA (Detroit Institute of Art)</div>
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Roses on a Wall, 1877 George Cochran Lambdin American, 1830-96</div>
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The Nut Gatherers, 1882 Adolphe-William Bouguereau French, 1825-1905</div>
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Portrait of Postman Roulin, 1888 Vincent vanGogh Dutch, 1853-90 </div>
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Reading the Story of Oenone about 1883 Francis Davis Millet American, 1846-1912</div>
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<u>CHAMOMILE TEA</u></h2>
<em>I was super excited to make my own chamomile tea using the abundant flowers growing right in my own backyard. Apparently, I have a rogue variety as the dried flowers made some of the nastiest tea I have ever tasted. At least I got some pretty photos as I played around with my 'orphan' teacups and saucers, combining mix 'n match sets that may be even more beautiful than the coordinated sets! Lesson learned....sometimes things don't work out the way you planned, but even Einstein acknowledge 'Failure is success in progress.'</em><br />
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<u>3D COLLAGE</u></h2>
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<em>I started with some random costume jewelry bits and buttons. Glued them to the inside of a box. Spray paint: Green. Halfway done. At this point I decided to stop and take some photos and play with them in Photoshop. Discovered PicCollage.com. Had a little more digital fun as I continue to work on collage. I'll be sure to share the image when completed.</em></div>
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I used the APP 'PicCollage' to quickly combine the images below.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QSDA23afPgQ/VbTxlqC7W3I/AAAAAAAABwQ/_ONMcPOg9HM/s1600/Collage%2B2015-07-26%2B09_15_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QSDA23afPgQ/VbTxlqC7W3I/AAAAAAAABwQ/_ONMcPOg9HM/s400/Collage%2B2015-07-26%2B09_15_10.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
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3D collage to be continued.....</div>
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<u>A BIT OF YARDPLAY</u></h2>
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I love working/playing in our garden. However, pulling weeds from the brickwork is not one of the tasks I enjoy. I saw this tip on Pinterest and decided to give it a try. I didn't exactly follow the directions (artists rarely do). I'm kinda lazy in the summer so instead of mixing the <strong><u>white vinegar</u></strong> and <strong><u>baking soda</u></strong> I just sprinkled it on the bricks, did a little sweeping with a broom and sprayed water on it with the hose to 'mix it up' a bit. Worked like a charm. This is the second summer I have done this. Great success. It makes the pH of the soil between the bricks intolerable for weeds. SCORE for 'all natural' weed killer and preventer!<br />
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Picked some wild raspberries growing on the fence....</div>
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Harvested some MELROSE PEPPERS from my garden. </div>
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Absolutely the BEST sweet green pepper ever! Click <a href="http://theskillfulbee.blogspot.com/2013/08/bruschetta-with-fresh-tomato.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> to see my post on this outrageously delicious Italian style pepper as well as a link to a time-tested recipe for stuffed peppers.</div>
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This ceramic candle ring/vase lets me bring a little of that sunny goodness inside!</div>
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I get a lot of idea's about color combinations by looking at nature.</div>
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Summer is....time for simple pleasures.</div>
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<u>Mosaic Tile Table</u></h2>
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I had an old table that had a solid round tile surface that was badly broken. I busted out the old top and cut a circle from plywood for the new top. I made a few ceramic flowers and busted up some old ceramic pieces to combine with glass baubles I got at the dollar store. I applied the adhesive to the back of the tiles pieces using a plastic knife. Some of the pieces were thin and some were thick, so I had to adjust the amount of adhesive to allow them to sit flush with each other to create a fairly smooth surface. After the adhesive dried I applied the grout, let it sit for a few minutes until it set up, then wiped the surface with a sponge. Applied grout sealer to avoid staining and porosity. Voila! Old table is new again and better than ever!</div>
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Gotta love that PicCollage app!</div>
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<u>KID FUN...Handprints, Footprints and Chalk paint</u></h2>
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Sidewalk chalk is lots of fun. Spreading chalkpaint with a brush provided a whole new experience to my budding artists, who loved mixing the liquid colors. There are many recipes online for you to choose from. Pick whatever is easiest for you and paint away!</div>
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Thinking about Christmas in July? Clean-up is a breeze when you can make clay items outdoors! We had lots of little hands helping us make these charming Santa's. <br />
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Stamps were used to add the names and a straw was used to punch a perfect hole. After bisque firing them I painted on watered down semi-transparent layers of color with acrylic paints (paint on, then quickly use a sponge to gently wipe off: white, red, green, black wash. Add loose outlines with a black permanent marker) I sealed the paint with a quick spritz of clear acrylic matte glaze spray. </div>
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<u>Oreo Brownies</u></h2>
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Because brownies don't have enough calories on their own.....</div>
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<em>Note: Totally worth it.</em></div>
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Cute 'n Casual Girls Dress</h2>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k28NOX_v-GE/VmuPUQyVlTI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/Auz4pHTHibs/s1600/Collage%2B2015-11-25%2B13_44_38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k28NOX_v-GE/VmuPUQyVlTI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/Auz4pHTHibs/s640/Collage%2B2015-11-25%2B13_44_38.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The little girls in my life want to be comfy in their little dresses and mommies don't want to worry about ruining high-priced garments. I kept that in mind when I created these one-of-a-kind dresses that were soooooo easy to make! I bought long sleeve shirts at Walmart (yes....$3.88!), satin ribbon + about 2 ft. of elastic (OR just wide elastic as shown in pink dress) and about a half a yard of ADORABLE fabric (foxes, squirrels, hedgehogs, oh my!) for each toddler dress. I also used wide elastic instead of the satin ribbon on some of the dresses.I cut the shirt off 3 inches below the armpit. I gathered and hemmed the skirt and after attaching it to the shirt I added the satin ribbon. I don't have instructions and don't measure things (as I mentioned earlier, artists rarely follow directions) other than 'eyeballing it' for size. But I can tell you that I made the elastic stretchy enough that this could be a dress that pulls on over the head comfortably (kids can't be bothered with silly buttons or zippers) and I attached the ribbon only in front so the elastic could expand. Wash it, wear it, play in it...no worries. </div>
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The summer is only halfway through and I've got a list of things to make that, ironically, keeps getting longer! (Shame on you, Pinterest!)</div>
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All in the name of.....</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-84683885534739690922015-02-03T08:11:00.001-08:002015-02-03T08:11:02.050-08:00CHICAGO A View From My Room<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Chicago</h2>
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<em>A View From My Room</em></div>
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It's no secret that I love Chicago. New York and Paris are lovely...but lack the charm that a good 'ol Midwestern big city offers. The people are so....Midwestern. The city is big...but not overwhelming. The art museum is my favorite, and I've been to quite a few. We go often and always request 'a room with a view'. While this is not the most spectacular view we have had, it did provide a nice opportunity to take these photos. I took them as the sun was rising, so in the reverse order as shown. It was a beautiful way to start the day....Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-58959464977117529222015-02-02T07:44:00.004-08:002015-02-02T12:20:38.578-08:00PAPER ROSES from old book pages<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Paper Roses</span></h2>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">made from vintage children's book pages </span></h3>
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I created some paper roses recently for a baby shower I was hosting. The theme of the shower was 'Vintage Children's Books'. Colorful mid-century picture books were clustered together to form centerpieces on tables covered with brightly flowered tablecloths from the same era. The paper roses, with gently curled petals stacked on a wooden skewer, were placed in teapot vases and added interest as well as aesthetics to the décor. Instructions are below....<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LIYTfiwQnMM/VM7qzERBqhI/AAAAAAAABpI/lk_C7fWj-9Q/s1600/paper%2Broses%2Bhow%2Bto%2Bbanner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LIYTfiwQnMM/VM7qzERBqhI/AAAAAAAABpI/lk_C7fWj-9Q/s1600/paper%2Broses%2Bhow%2Bto%2Bbanner.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cut several squares of paper from the book pages. You can make your roses more or less dense depending on how many layers of petals you create. In this sample, I have created 5 layers of petals.</div>
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Fold the paper square as shown in top row of instructions below. Repeat for each petal layer as shown in the bottom row. When you cut off some petals, be sure to leave about a half inch tab remaining on one side so you can glue it to the adjacent petal as shown.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JFBnqOUcBUs/VM7q0K8H_CI/AAAAAAAABpQ/d4XqNBtZfhI/s1600/paper%2Broses%2Bsteps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JFBnqOUcBUs/VM7q0K8H_CI/AAAAAAAABpQ/d4XqNBtZfhI/s1600/paper%2Broses%2Bsteps.jpg" height="366" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span id="goog_2084035858">Apply glue to each side of the tab and petal you will adhering together.<br />
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Wrap the stamen strip around skewer first. Use masking tape to secure the paper to the skewer .</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AsuHWxqHeOY/VM-YSwq0_eI/AAAAAAAABpc/86I3AXPgrSA/s1600/paper%2Bflowers%2Bsteps%2Bstamen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AsuHWxqHeOY/VM-YSwq0_eI/AAAAAAAABpc/86I3AXPgrSA/s1600/paper%2Bflowers%2Bsteps%2Bstamen.jpg" height="272" width="400" /></a></div>
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Secure each petal layer to the skewer with masking tape.</div>
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Secure base and leaves with glue.</div>
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Spray with clear glaze if desired.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-76821493301352566062014-12-23T17:01:00.002-08:002015-02-02T13:17:13.074-08:00Vintage Holiday Decorations<em>Adding lights on the mantle makes this vintage ornament display come alive with the cheerful colors of the season. I filled clear glass vases with my favorite family heirlooms as well as recent acquisitions from the antique mall. A strand of multi colored lights disperses a colorful glow.</em><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hPt_C8wqcAM/VJnhSGpRJCI/AAAAAAAABhI/9VzK22Q42qg/s1600/20141213_144818a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hPt_C8wqcAM/VJnhSGpRJCI/AAAAAAAABhI/9VzK22Q42qg/s1600/20141213_144818a.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em>Finding a time and place to use my vintage teacups is easy. </em></div>
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<em>These paper-wrapped Italian cookies were the perfect compliment. I found them at a local TJMaxx/Marshalls store. They were excellent.</em></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gUupQmR_MXc/VM7RYKEo0bI/AAAAAAAABlo/tD5DHTfD1fU/s1600/20141226_111214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gUupQmR_MXc/VM7RYKEo0bI/AAAAAAAABlo/tD5DHTfD1fU/s1600/20141226_111214.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<em>I feel so lucky to have these wonderful vintage ceramic decorations to warm up my home during the holidays. They were made decades ago by the sister of an aunt. She clearly put a lot of love and time into her work, which is appreciated and admired each holiday season.</em></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kEkw5x-iXsc/VM7RbYOQvyI/AAAAAAAABmA/7NFRO9aB5bs/s1600/20141226_125127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kEkw5x-iXsc/VM7RbYOQvyI/AAAAAAAABmA/7NFRO9aB5bs/s1600/20141226_125127.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<em>I love the warm glow cast by this sweet ceramic tree so much that I don't pack it away until February!</em></div>
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<em>I have a stash of vintage Christmas cards that I send out to friends and family I know will enjoy the unique designs. I keep some cards to put on display on bookshelves or tabletops where they lend a cheery reminder of the simple pleasures of a bygone era.</em><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BjfoV3Bgb7U/VM7RnaPvTCI/AAAAAAAABnA/-sox5nLGPyc/s1600/christmas%2Bcards%2Bvintage%2Btrain%2Bsm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BjfoV3Bgb7U/VM7RnaPvTCI/AAAAAAAABnA/-sox5nLGPyc/s1600/christmas%2Bcards%2Bvintage%2Btrain%2Bsm.jpg" height="145" width="320" /></a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-45924620042171616772014-12-23T16:14:00.002-08:002014-12-23T16:39:59.520-08:00Holiday Cookie Exchange 2014Each year a group of us get together to exchange cookies. I like being able to focus on one or two specialty cookies I make myself, while benefitting from the wide variety of cookies traded in the exchange. This year I decorated chocolate and vanilla and shortbread-type cookies decorated with melting snowmen (marshmallows and melted candy wafers) and a marbleizing design (royal icing). I found both idea's on Pinterest. Yes....sometimes we actually DO make the stuff we pin on our boards! The recipes are the best I have found for DELICIOUS cookies that don't lose there shape during baking. The chocolate ones are not too sweet, which is just perfect for adding all that sugary melted candy wafer frosting.<br />
Thanks to <a href="http://www.lilaloa.com/" target="_blank">Lila Loa</a> for sharing...<br />
Chocolate<br />
<a href="http://www.lilaloa.com/2011/03/end-all-for-chocolate-cookies-recipe.html">http://www.lilaloa.com/2011/03/end-all-for-chocolate-cookies-recipe.html</a><br />
Vanilla<br />
<a href="http://www.lilaloa.com/2012/04/vanilla-variation.html">http://www.lilaloa.com/2012/04/vanilla-variation.html</a><br />
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ROYAL ICING RECIPE from <a href="http://marthastewart.com/" target="_blank">http://MarthaStewart.com</a> </div>
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<li class="components-item"><span class="components-data" itemprop="ingredients"> 1 box confectioners' sugar (1 pound) </span> </li>
<li class="components-item"><span class="components-data" itemprop="ingredients"> 5 tablespoons meringue powder or 2 large egg whites </span> </li>
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Directions </h2>
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In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine sugar and meringue powder. Mixing on low speed, add a scant 1/2 cup water. For a thinner consistency, usually used for flooding, add more water. A thicker consistency is generally used for outlining and adding details. Mix until icing holds a ribbonlike trail on the surface of the mixture for 5 seconds when you raise the paddle. </div>
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Here is a quick, ONE MINUTE video tutorial on how I made the marbleized design using royal icing.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwVc8RWvKJJRhHFTV2CyrutexgutN2gG5PrDe-Yi3D_5nmux9X0NRnIRC-6SGg0rnTtaMDMa-jJb04hUeg8Aw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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A fun tradition during the cookie exchange is decorating an ugly sweater cookie. </div>
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Yep...those are definitely ugly. And I mean that in the nicest possible way.</div>
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Happy Holiday Baking!</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-80802501762380062932014-12-23T12:28:00.001-08:002014-12-23T16:29:22.105-08:00Lil' Peanut Christmas OrnamentsThis year we were doubly blessed with another set of boy/girl twins in the family! Mommy calls them her ' lil' peanuts' which inspired me to make these ceramic ornaments for their very first Christmas.<br />
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I made the peanut shape approximately actual size. I used a variety of textural tools to get the impressions, then added the smooth oval face and hat with textured trim. I inserted a high temp. wire loop while the clay was still soft. The babies names are incised on the back of the hats. <br />
After bisque firing I painted on one coat of yellow underglaze on the body and pink or blue underglaze on the hats. I left the white trim un-glazed. I fired again then added another coat of a darker brownish yellow and another coat on hats. After the third firing I applied a coat of dark blackish/brown underglaze and wiped it off with a soft sponge so it remained only in the crevices. Then I coated the entire peanut with clear glaze and fired one more time.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-62225330990771612282014-08-12T10:04:00.001-07:002014-08-12T10:15:06.191-07:00Dr. Seuss Nursery Mural<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Creating this Dr. Seuss mural was lots of fun. Mom-to-be and big brother each contributed to various processes of the mural to make it extra special for baby. I traced the design on to the wall after perusing several illustrations from various Dr. Seuss books. We especially like this tree as depicted in 'Go Dog Go'. The design was painted with acrylic paint. Black outlines and details were added last.</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-83754017784428333192014-08-02T17:47:00.001-07:002017-01-02T20:12:11.879-08:00TEA and TEA again....I've posted a few times about tea, and especially TEA CUPS and SAUCERS, for which I have an insatiable desire to photograph and otherwise admire. I really can't explain it....I never, ever tire of looking at (and collecting) these lovely works of art that embody a plethora of cheery emotions for me. Maybe it's because I recall admiring the small collection of 10 or so sets that my mother had neatly arranged in a built-in china cabinet in the dining room. Quintessential vintage 50's....only it wasn't vintage at the time! In any case, I MUST take photos of my teacups every summer when I have good light and ample time to expend on such leisurely affairs.<br />
I focus on creating interesting color combinations as well as focusing on the use of line and form to construct a balanced composition. <br />
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Art truly is EVERYWHERE and even a teacup and saucer collection can provide endless opportunities for artistic exploration.<br />
If you would like to purchase the full size digital image (3888x2592 dpi), please contact me via the comment section below.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-74870465893414712052014-07-16T09:04:00.000-07:002014-08-22T19:31:55.075-07:00Versatile 'Vide Poche' Catchall Trays <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<strong>We all have a need for a</strong></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">'vide poche'</span> (French for...'empty pockets') </div>
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<strong>to place your keys, loose change, rings, etc. These versatile ceramic trays</strong></div>
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<strong>play a practical role as well as serving as decorative accents in any room. Each vide poche is custom made. No two are alike.</strong></div>
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<strong></strong> </div>
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Approximately 4"x5"</div>
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Impressions made with lace, items from nature, custom made stamps</div>
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Birds and Bees on the rim add interest</div>
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Dark glaze is painted on then gently wiped off with a sponge</div>
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Thin coats of colored glaze are added</div>
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Final step...Clear coat of glaze for added shine </div>
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Find them at: <a href="http://www.moonriversoap.com/home.html">http://www.moonriversoap.com/home.html</a></div>
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or send a comment to me (link at bottom of page) for inquiries on orders of 10 or more.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ohHHaPS38aU/U8agu8eXlEI/AAAAAAAABPY/DlFiwZncR-8/s1600/20140523_165029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ohHHaPS38aU/U8agu8eXlEI/AAAAAAAABPY/DlFiwZncR-8/s1600/20140523_165029.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I kept hearing about this AWESOME soap store in downtown Rochester (Michigan) and had to go see for myself. My daughters and friends had all mentioned to me that they used products from MOONRIVER Soap Company and were amazed with the quality of the products. Well, it ends up that the soap they make (and all of their other products) really ARE incredible! I don't know what kind of magic they perform when they make these soaps, but they are absolutely the BEST soaps I have ever used. I especially like the 'nitty gritty' soap because if feels good as it gently exfoliates. It has a super fine grit in it. I have now tried lots of other scents and am so impressed with how this stuff makes my skin feel (soft and moisturized) that I have truly become a MOONRIVER soap junky.<br />
A coworker and my daughter tell me the lip balm is the best they ever used. I bought the bug spray...love it for my little grandchildren. Everything is safe and natural. These folks know how to make Soap!!!<br />
Yes, they ship their product.Check them out here.....<br />
<a href="http://www.moonriversoap.com/home.html">http://www.moonriversoap.com/home.html</a><br />
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The casual atmosphere of the store as well as a wide variety of products makes no-pressure shopping a pleasure. After a few visits I realized my ceramic 'style' is a good match for the décor of the Moonriver Soap store. I asked the owner if she would be interested in selling my 'vide poche' trays as ceramic soap dishes in her store. So happy she said yes! Here are a few...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JdmJFqIPHAw/U8agw83ELgI/AAAAAAAABP8/7GCKY-OuVqE/s1600/20140523_165313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JdmJFqIPHAw/U8agw83ELgI/AAAAAAAABP8/7GCKY-OuVqE/s1600/20140523_165313.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hBOz_SmMSKQ/U8agyDqqMdI/AAAAAAAABQI/-n9jIBuaYVo/s1600/20140523_165720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hBOz_SmMSKQ/U8agyDqqMdI/AAAAAAAABQI/-n9jIBuaYVo/s1600/20140523_165720.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VoqXP03Kapg/U8agvezBWJI/AAAAAAAABPk/J17l_26r-hM/s1600/20140523_163759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VoqXP03Kapg/U8agvezBWJI/AAAAAAAABPk/J17l_26r-hM/s1600/20140523_163759.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aFsO5eNaSmU/U-pCImkgAhI/AAAAAAAABc8/ErDAT_Tlg7g/s1600/20140730_110634_Richtone(HDR).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aFsO5eNaSmU/U-pCImkgAhI/AAAAAAAABc8/ErDAT_Tlg7g/s1600/20140730_110634_Richtone%28HDR%29.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-710676378139620212014-07-15T22:48:00.001-07:002014-07-15T22:50:28.212-07:00LUCKY STARS! ... how to make them using paper strips<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-62K6uAgQJco/U8YO9UDkc4I/AAAAAAAABO0/Y9dex6xYXaU/s1600/20140711_090339_Richtone(HDR).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-62K6uAgQJco/U8YO9UDkc4I/AAAAAAAABO0/Y9dex6xYXaU/s1600/20140711_090339_Richtone(HDR).jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
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These adorable little stars are fast, fun and easy to make. Once you get in the swing of making them you won't want to stop! That's what happened to one of my art students, Christina. She loved creating her own simple patterns on colored copier paper that she cut into narrow strips. Then she folded the strips into neat little 3D stars. It wasn't long until she had a bag full of them, which led to a small problem....what do you DO with all those stars? She used them to make a 3D work of art. And she gave some to me. I used them to fill a pretty little jar. Thanks, Christina!<br />
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Here is a short visual tutorial. If you would like more detailed instructions simply do an internet search for 'lucky stars' and you will be sure to find all kinds of tutorials online.<br />
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<em> Cut copier paper into strips about 3/8 inch wide by 8 1/2 inches long.</em> </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ybZ5rl6tW5Q/U8YO4cbKtHI/AAAAAAAABN8/yRzKgGOtLXs/s1600/20140711_083319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ybZ5rl6tW5Q/U8YO4cbKtHI/AAAAAAAABN8/yRzKgGOtLXs/s1600/20140711_083319.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<em>Tie a knot....</em></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e-T5XTd2nGk/U8YO3VLUQQI/AAAAAAAABNo/O7pXC5oI2Ws/s1600/20140711_083411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e-T5XTd2nGk/U8YO3VLUQQI/AAAAAAAABNo/O7pXC5oI2Ws/s1600/20140711_083411.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<em>Ease the edges in to form a perfect pentagon as you press folds.</em></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5G-ro4pGhb0/U8YO4i_eyII/AAAAAAAABN4/ag4b8lJA3ko/s1600/20140711_083557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5G-ro4pGhb0/U8YO4i_eyII/AAAAAAAABN4/ag4b8lJA3ko/s1600/20140711_083557.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<em>Fold the short end in...cut it shorter if you need to.</em></div>
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<em>Turn and fold, turn and fold, turn and fold. Neatness counts.</em></div>
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<em>Tuck the end in. Cut it shorter if you need to.</em></div>
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<em>Let your instincts guide you as you gently push in the sides to form the 3D star. Use your fingernail or the edge of a butter knife or anything else with a fine, thin edge. Think 'pillow'.</em> </div>
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<em>Experiment. Explore new ideas. Create.</em></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-64076815545373865832014-01-15T13:10:00.000-08:002014-01-15T13:22:59.832-08:00Winter Ice<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-85596529575060879232014-01-08T19:02:00.000-08:002014-01-26T13:00:31.079-08:00DYEING WOOL Fast and Easy<div style="text-align: center;">
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I had read about dyeing wool with food coloring but I doubted how effective it would be. I thought the colors would be muddy, muted or bleed easily. Wrong, wrong, wrong. This was so incredibly easy! You will find various methods posted online. I combined idea's and came up with a method I found to be extra easy and relatively neat and tidy. This is 'The Skillful Bee' method:<br />
1. Fill quart jars 1/2 full with water and place in canning pot filled to about the same level as water in jars. Just before it starts to boil, turn off the heat.<br />
2. Add about a teaspoon of food coloring. I used gel food coloring, which is concentrated.<br />
3. Add about 1/4 cup white vinegar to each jar and stir.<br />
4. Put a wad of wool batting or roving in the jar. Make sure the wool is completely immersed.<br />
5. After about a half hour, remove the wool. Rinse with water that starts slightly warm then change to cool water so you don't shock the wool temperature all at once. Rinse till water is clear. Gently squeeze out excess water and lay wool on towel to dry.<br />
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I am thrilled with the results. The colors are vibrant and colorfast. I didn't have to worry about using harsh products. It was easy to clean up and super cheap! ( I got my wool for FREE from a local petting farm...but I did have to pay to have it cleaned and carded) </div>
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I can't wait to start felting with my new colorful wool!</div>
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NOTES and OBSERVATIONS:<em> I added more wool to the jars because I thought I could squeeze a little more in. Some happy accidents that occurred were that the wool on the inside of some of the larger, compacted wads didn't get fully saturated so I got some blended colors (very pretty). Also, I found I had to add more vinegar with subsequent additions or the color didn't penetrate. The color on the subsequent wads of wool were less saturated, as shown in the yellow example below. I put in a total of three wads of wool, each about 10 minutes apart. I added a couple of tablespoons of additional vinegar with each new wad.</em></div>
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<em>I had read that the wool should be soaked first. I'm not a very patient artist, so I didn't soak mine. There was some uneven coloring, which I liked. If you want smooth, even coloring you should probably soak the wool in clear water first.</em></div>
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A little bag to hold my glasses....</div>
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I laid out my design on a cookie sheet with a piece of bubble wrap on it. Then I added some hot soapy water and rubbed it back and forth and all around...for about 20 minutes. I wrapped it around a 12" long piece of foam swim tube (dollar store), then wrapped the bubble wrap around it and taped the edges closed. I rolled it back and forth until it shrunk to the thickness I wanted. Yes...it all seems very unlikely...but it works!</div>
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A little stitchery to add some detail...and a little white mother of pearl button.</div>
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I stitched up the sides and added a snap closure. </div>
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This will keep my glasses safe inside my 'purse jungle'.</div>
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A Matryoshka for my beautiful granddaughter...</div>
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First, I laid out a very basic pattern of colors and felted it as described previously.</div>
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Then I added more details by using the needle felting method. I placed pieces of wool where I wanted them and repeatedly poked a felting needle (available at craft stores) through the wool to meld the wool together. This is good, mindless relaxation at it's best. Think of it as painting with wool.<br />
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Once I had most of the details on, I used embroidery thread and some beads to embellish my design. Eventually, I wanted the Matroyshka to be 3-dimensional so I wrapped the flat piece of wool around wool stuffing into a cylindrical shape and used a felting needle to meld it all together. It's really fun to 'sculpt' with wool! There are no sewn seams...only wool felted together to make a nice, solid shape.</div>
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I think my granddaughter will like her new doll. I had a lot of fun making it and I feel good knowing it is safe, natural and made with lots of love my for little sweetheart. Of course, her twin brother is equally as divine. I hope he likes the mouse!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7795905027875354465.post-28073393712998261002014-01-06T20:29:00.003-08:002014-01-06T20:35:46.799-08:00Mackinaw Island <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">Mackinaw Island - Grand Hotel</span></div>
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Mackinaw is a pleasant island located in northern Michigan. No cars, only bikes and horses. It has everything from touristy shops to unspoiled nature. If you despise touristy shops then I suggest you stay off the main strip. (But then you won't get any fudge...and afterall, isn't it really all about the fudge?) Take a pleasant stroll, or better yet, bike ride, around the island. And getting there is half the fun! Northern Michigan is spectacular in any season. To get to Mackinac you must take a ferry. That's when the fun begins. Look how blue the water is! </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is 'Michigan Blue'.</span> </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LSBtDoMCfic/Ust8Wlq2XTI/AAAAAAAAA4A/fH14T0RQIOw/s1600/20131025_123659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LSBtDoMCfic/Ust8Wlq2XTI/AAAAAAAAA4A/fH14T0RQIOw/s1600/20131025_123659.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
As long as you're going, you might as well stay at the finest hotel on the island. That would be the GRAND HOTEL. It is not cheap. It is worth the price, however. You won't be disappointed. This is a view from the very large porch. Lots of seating...rocking chairs to be precise. Lots of them. A good place to start your day with a cup of coffee. <br />
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Every guest room is different. This was ours.</div>
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Just outside the hotel doors is a golf course. Lovely place to sit in the sun.</div>
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