tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15519985765348589312024-03-12T19:09:15.031-05:00The Potter & His ClayKatie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.comBlogger110125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-1583843601192214582021-06-22T01:18:00.007-05:002021-06-22T17:29:15.092-05:00More Backyard Projects<p style="text-align: center;"> First came Presley's Garden. Then came Bud Boulevard. What was next, you ask? The last frontier, duh!! Ollie's Outer Space Outpost is officially ready for blast-off!</p><p style="text-align: center;">Sometimes I get in these kamikaze project moods and just can't stop! The last few months have been FULL of them. Every time my kids to go grandma's I just start going. It's almost involuntary at this point. I have a problem. So to make myself feel productive, I thought I'd share a few with you!</p><p style="text-align: center;">During our extensive quarantine last year I transformed our backyard into a fun play-space for the kids. You can read about that <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2020/07/backyard-in-quarantine.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. While doing so I had the idea to make special projects for each of my little people. </p><p style="text-align: center;">I started by creating a little garden for my girl, Presley. She loves beautiful flowers and growing herbs/things we can actually eat. It's been SO much fun taking care of it and watching it grow. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Where it began:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WRkajleeato/YNFNwccdQ-I/AAAAAAAAIU0/ojXH7U-pkFMF1APLSGfQ1UaPx0LIqUKQQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252824%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WRkajleeato/YNFNwccdQ-I/AAAAAAAAIU0/ojXH7U-pkFMF1APLSGfQ1UaPx0LIqUKQQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252824%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">Next came my Leo's special project. Bud Boulevard was born. It was unexpectedly one of the hardest projects I've ever done. So hot. So many mosquitoes. So. Much. Digging. I had grand plans to landscape around it and make it beautiful but the ground is so dang hard right there and surrounded by huge tree roots. Not super conducive to plants. So I threw a bunch of rocks around it and walked away.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-caJEboEMLfY/YNFOAfMw66I/AAAAAAAAIU8/aDwU2v0tqIwYg2i0lQS1dT_Y6LaDNMeWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Bud%2BBoulevard.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-caJEboEMLfY/YNFOAfMw66I/AAAAAAAAIU8/aDwU2v0tqIwYg2i0lQS1dT_Y6LaDNMeWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Bud%2BBoulevard.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"> I've been thinking for over a year about what I can do for my little Oliver. I liked the idea of something Space-themed. Like, I don't know about him being that he's 1 and all, but I'm obsessed with Space. It fascinates me. Like, WHAT IS IT!? Why aren't we more concerned about potentially falling off of the Earth into a vast chasm of dark, infinite energy? What else is out there? Aliens? Do they too have names? Do they like to eat treats? Do they have a Target on planet Woobaku (Note: I maybe made this up, but you can't tell me it's not real. Have you BEEN to all of Space?)? It's miraculous! I can't wait to ask God all of my questions one day. Fast forward..so like, how do I make Space happen in my backyard? I put it on the backburner until I was inspired.</p><p style="text-align: center;">So here's what happened. I was minding my own business when my previous backyard project started calling for me again, much like a siren gently summoning me forth from Ahtohallan. "Mom, is that you?" Unfortunately for me it was a little less dramatic than Elsa discovering her life's calling. It was just my back patio asking for help. "Ahhhhhahhhhhhaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh." Ok ok I'm coming. What do you need?</p><p style="text-align: center;">I follow CottonStem (Erin Kern) on Instagram (I don't know her but I love her...one of those guilty pleasure things). She is the queen of DIY. She and her husband painted and stenciled their back patio and I thought it was so lovely. I NEEDED to make it happen. Find the link to her blog post <a href="https://cottonstem.com/diy-painted-and-stenciled-porch/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </p><p style="text-align: center;">I ordered her same <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/739567282/star-tile-stencil-geometric-cement-tile?ref=yr_purchases" target="_blank">stencil on Etsy</a> (because, like, I want to be just like her). I wanted it larger (which also meant QUICKER) so I got the 16 inch one. The Sterns talked on their blog about how long and grueling this project was. I was up for the challenge. After Bud Boulevard I felt like I could accomplish anything. Bring it on. I also didn't want to paint a base coast color like they did. We have a long walkway stemming from our patio and I was not about to do the whole thing. But I also didn't want it to look weird if some was painted and some wasn't. So I decided to just stencil on top of bare concrete. It turned out pretty cool. AND it only look like 5 hours total! I was expecting 3 days so this was a real treat. </p><p style="text-align: center;">I followed most of their steps like a good student. I started by pressure washing the concrete well. Then I used a roller to apply a clear concrete primer so that my stenciling will last as long as possible. I used Behr Concrete and Masonry bonding primer (Home Depot). It applies like an opaque-white color and dries completely clear.</p><p style="text-align: center;">*Husband comes out and sees what I'm doing.* </p><p style="text-align: center;">"Katie, I just really don't think that's accomplishing anything. Is that milk?"</p><p style="text-align: center;">......</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MDXl2jmXTTA/YNFS5OofFdI/AAAAAAAAIVE/XhwcFghT2p4ZRTaQdwRe7BOP9e_j9bnLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/patio%2B%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MDXl2jmXTTA/YNFS5OofFdI/AAAAAAAAIVE/XhwcFghT2p4ZRTaQdwRe7BOP9e_j9bnLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/patio%2B%25281%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">So here is my EXCITING find. I was casually walking by a little clearance section at Lowe's a few months ago and they had a ton of random quarts and gallons of exterior, un-tinted paint. Many quarts were as low as TWO DOLLARS!!! They still had gallon-sizes available in the paint department for full-price, but I guess they were phasing out quart-sizes and just stuck them all on clearance. I took them to the paint tinting lady and asked her if I bought them now and brought them back another day would they tint them for me then. She said no problem. So I bought a few (making educated guesses on which base numbers to choose, after a little google paint education). I got 2 quarts of exterior porch/patio/concrete paint for like $5 total. I didn't know the color I wanted at the moment, but I knew the color family I was going for. I also got a quart of exterior paint in a deep base that I'll tell you about later. A gallon of this same paint is in the $30+ range and I only needed a quart anyways. Basically, the paint was just about free. AND I got to pick the color. I took it as a definite sign from the Lord that I was on the right track. All was found. </p><p style="text-align: center;">I've been really drawn to the color Acacia Haze by Sherwin Williams. We're waiting to have our exterior shutters painted this color and I wanted everything to flow. Since Lowe's sells Sherwin Williams paint they were able to make me this exact color! So I gave them my $2 quart of paint I bought a week prior and they made it happen! It turned out more of an icy-blue on the concrete than expected but I still really like it. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZA00Yz9w1AA/YNDeUw-s7HI/AAAAAAAAIUk/eOeajVdJJEEGycaUgGfWs5K27AJ2SdoSQCNcBGAsYHQ/s225/images.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZA00Yz9w1AA/YNDeUw-s7HI/AAAAAAAAIUk/eOeajVdJJEEGycaUgGfWs5K27AJ2SdoSQCNcBGAsYHQ/s0/images.png" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I started in the middle at the crossroads of the slab and painted one large concrete square at a time (4 squares total). It all matched up pretty well pattern-wise. Nothing ended in a weird place. I held the stencil in place as I painted each one (no adhesive spray necessary- that didn't work at ALL for me). I used a small roller to apply the paint in a thin layer (use too much or push down too hard and the paint will bleed passed the stencil). </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--C2XtMUNAG4/YNFTmboLMlI/AAAAAAAAIVM/8yrNfbLFpAQLY1vbzVTDtg9H376AQxItgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/patio%2B%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--C2XtMUNAG4/YNFTmboLMlI/AAAAAAAAIVM/8yrNfbLFpAQLY1vbzVTDtg9H376AQxItgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/patio%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tKem1WIwOgk/YNFTmZ1zfNI/AAAAAAAAIVQ/6fQjm4jfXIkCCez6jK4PClGAnoNxpNqqACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/patio%2B%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tKem1WIwOgk/YNFTmZ1zfNI/AAAAAAAAIVQ/6fQjm4jfXIkCCez6jK4PClGAnoNxpNqqACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/patio%2B%25283%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Once I was done painting and it was dry, I topped it off with Behr Low-Lustre Concrete Sealer (Home Depot). </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Isn't she beautiful!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zsrmi8yL85I/YNFUXFch_XI/AAAAAAAAIVk/_phVxFHcisUhVFa0TR2lghVxwFxfpfL0wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/patio%2B%25284%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zsrmi8yL85I/YNFUXFch_XI/AAAAAAAAIVk/_phVxFHcisUhVFa0TR2lghVxwFxfpfL0wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/patio%2B%25284%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zaT1pRw03zk/YNFUWywNb8I/AAAAAAAAIVg/DN8LqJug8LcKf5hNXML4h8UbYbzQtIZhACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/patio%2B%25285%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zaT1pRw03zk/YNFUWywNb8I/AAAAAAAAIVg/DN8LqJug8LcKf5hNXML4h8UbYbzQtIZhACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/patio%2B%25285%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WgOXWrjFYb8/YNFUWbKwz6I/AAAAAAAAIVc/6-VbfrsX8CgOvH0b-6rjLRI-siDS7UTtgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/patio%2B%25286%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1506" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WgOXWrjFYb8/YNFUWbKwz6I/AAAAAAAAIVc/6-VbfrsX8CgOvH0b-6rjLRI-siDS7UTtgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/patio%2B%25286%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">My son is in a hat phase and it makes me laugh. He's 3 going on Eminem.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So of course this led me down a rabbit hole. I blacked out and before I knew it I was in the depths of my backyard project...again.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So rewinding...after I primed my concrete to begin that project, it came to a pause. It unexpectedly took a few weeks for my stencil to come in the mail. Meanwhile, while I was waiting I decided to replace the boards on the picnic table under our swing set. I mean, the kids never actually use the picnic table, but the wood was rotting and I wanted it to look nice. So I bought some 2x4s to replace it all. I proceeded to rip out the old wood (basically breaking my hand at one point...like 3 months later it still hurts. Concerning or no?). This left just a large open space under the slide. As I was about to do my simple assembly and be done, it happened again. The siren. But this time she was an extraterrestrial enchantress serenading me from some uncharted planet. That's when I started seeing stars! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Houston, we have a problem. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">"THIS IS THE MOMENT WE'VE BEEN WAITING FOR, KATIE!" she exclaimed to herself as her children stared at her blankly. "She's doing that thing again."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HAscN4fiEfg/YNFa0mDKMUI/AAAAAAAAIWI/WJ6It4xlpu4ndzjMku7nFq4q8xEOX68WACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252860%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HAscN4fiEfg/YNFa0mDKMUI/AAAAAAAAIWI/WJ6It4xlpu4ndzjMku7nFq4q8xEOX68WACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252860%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I had to get to work right away. I measured and planned...into the night. I gazed up at the night sky and saw the stars glistening overhead. "Soon," she smiled. Gently her eye gaze fell from the heavens onto the house next door. The mood changed. The new neighbors are staring out their fully-illuminated kitchen window at the weirdo next door again. I'm on the swing set with a tape measure. In my colonial-era-esque night frock. "Keep calm, Katie. They will never understand." </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I drew a picture for a visual. I did a lot of research on supplies. Lumber prices are kind of insane right now, but I found that it was a little more cost effective to buy longer pieces of wood and cut them shorter. I actually measured my van before I went to The Home Depot to make sure they'd fit. Luckily for me, my little bro lives a few houses down and is an amazing woodworker. I dropped off a million pieces of wood with a post-it of my dimensions and he made it happen. I couldn't have done it without him!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DmIwaBX32O0/YNFYVHEnRjI/AAAAAAAAIV0/3rSbP9neEP4-3tTr8P-6G_NG5LaYjP3OQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252858%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DmIwaBX32O0/YNFYVHEnRjI/AAAAAAAAIV0/3rSbP9neEP4-3tTr8P-6G_NG5LaYjP3OQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252858%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Suddenly I was seeing the swing set in an entirely different color. I stained it last summer but it was looking a little dingy again. And if I was going to work this hard on one part of it I want it ALL to look good. So I decided to paint the entire swing set...again. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">But before I started painting the wood, I spray painted all of the metal pieces black. It was mostly bright yellow before and some exposed screws and things were rusty. I didn't remove it all to paint since I was painting the wood around it anyways. I also removed all of the grab pieces (I'm sure this is their very official name) from the climbing wall. Some of them were FULL of ants inside! Like, entire colonies taking up residence in the little plastic things my kids touch a million times a day. A nightmare, of sorts. So I had to do some serious exterminating/cleaning before I could spray paint those. I also measured the super rusty screws/hardware and bought replacements in bulk on Amazon (MUCH cheaper than buying at Lowe's).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The paint I chose was Valspar Season Flex exterior paint from Lowe's in the color Murky Sage (very similar to but a little darker than Acacia Haze). I was worried Acacia Haze would turn out too light again like it did on the concrete. I wanted it to be a little more deep and earthy. Which is ironic because Earth is what we're trying to avoid, right? Head in the clouds. A gallon was the perfect amount and it was about $30. It doesn't look like a lot of surface area but believe me, it's a lot. And the wood is weird and super porous and required THREE coats! This basically took 2 days and a million touchups. Bless you, naptime.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mVg7otQlWMI/YNFazrjYpsI/AAAAAAAAIWA/Vk7D3BaP2xImk1kncBUeDofgtAvm0ZvbwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252857%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mVg7otQlWMI/YNFazrjYpsI/AAAAAAAAIWA/Vk7D3BaP2xImk1kncBUeDofgtAvm0ZvbwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252857%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fw9LTVid5QM/YNFbVfGQHcI/AAAAAAAAIWc/80cr9KAiXcAVsn9MJL2RleoqquMHeumrgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252856%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fw9LTVid5QM/YNFbVfGQHcI/AAAAAAAAIWc/80cr9KAiXcAVsn9MJL2RleoqquMHeumrgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252856%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I ended up ordering an entirely new canopy from an international company called <a href="https://www.coversandall.com/" target="_blank">Covers and All</a> who makes custom vinyl tarps! Who knew! I couldn't find the size I needed anywhere online. Everything was a few inches too small, which made a big difference. I actually ordered one that was way too small and ended up cutting it up and using it for something else (I'll show you what I did with it later). The one I landed on is really nice, arrived super quick and was less than $40, including international shipping! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hNyXIydpLcA/YNFb8UI2EYI/AAAAAAAAIWo/h_K_hxt6BuMAHAhaHJDv8uLN0C8HH-K4ACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252813%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hNyXIydpLcA/YNFb8UI2EYI/AAAAAAAAIWo/h_K_hxt6BuMAHAhaHJDv8uLN0C8HH-K4ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252813%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The next time my kids were at grandma's I got to work building as fast as I could. I got all of my walls up (basically just screwed them into the existing wood on the swing set). I painted the exterior of the new walls Murky Sage like the rest of the swing set. The inside was a little more...involved. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-03joAbFAIaU/YNFcS6KLX5I/AAAAAAAAIWw/YbGeWl-NgtUKZmE07AMatjSuZHNtTuA5QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252854%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-03joAbFAIaU/YNFcS6KLX5I/AAAAAAAAIWw/YbGeWl-NgtUKZmE07AMatjSuZHNtTuA5QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252854%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I got another $2 quart of the exterior patio paint in the color Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams. The paint swatch looked black but it's more of a really deep gray. But I think straight black would've been too dark anyways. I painted it on the ceiling and 3 walls. The other wall I did in a gray ombre with paint leftover from Leo's mountain mural that I painted in his room last year. But before I painted it with the grays I painted a base layer in Murky Sage, simply for wood protection. My gray paint is interior paint and it couldn't protect the wood like exterior paint could.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's the original source of the paint:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vc9uK-A66DY/YNFdTx9x72I/AAAAAAAAIW4/wLlIL3vGecIy3Bmuql93gC0EeHnAJ46qACNcBGAsYHQ/s960/128524531_10217174540891453_7153121879771457615_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vc9uK-A66DY/YNFdTx9x72I/AAAAAAAAIW4/wLlIL3vGecIy3Bmuql93gC0EeHnAJ46qACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/128524531_10217174540891453_7153121879771457615_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">For the ombre gray wall I wanted to paint a rocket ship! How else would we get to the moon? I got a few little $4 paint samples at Lowe's in the colors I needed. I ended up cutting a long piece of cardboard off of a box and drawing half of the spaceship then cutting it out. This way when I traced it onto the wall then I could flip it and trace the other side as well, making it perfectly symmetrical. Then I filled it in with paint! For the stars I bought this <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/626110091/star-burst-783-866-stencil?ref=yr_purchases" target="_blank">stencil on Etsy</a> for $3 and used leftover trim paint to paint them around the rocket. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kGSGPbogzFk/YNFd-7j6nPI/AAAAAAAAIXU/jOuz8IUsp6ATTtkI07Oua6xSa4BZk-lNACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252851%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kGSGPbogzFk/YNFd-7j6nPI/AAAAAAAAIXU/jOuz8IUsp6ATTtkI07Oua6xSa4BZk-lNACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252851%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SMn4C5wlEBM/YNFd-Dp7oDI/AAAAAAAAIXI/at0zsIiC8N0VgTuBbmBztGIuANOUlsZWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252850%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SMn4C5wlEBM/YNFd-Dp7oDI/AAAAAAAAIXI/at0zsIiC8N0VgTuBbmBztGIuANOUlsZWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252850%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SdEE7-Q0jCM/YNFd-B4lWcI/AAAAAAAAIXM/STDxxr3mfA0bMqlP0G-oe095I_jGCL8GACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252848%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SdEE7-Q0jCM/YNFd-B4lWcI/AAAAAAAAIXM/STDxxr3mfA0bMqlP0G-oe095I_jGCL8GACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252848%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cY5XehjARgM/YNFd-hFSVoI/AAAAAAAAIXQ/iJ23lQHOC0AQ-7klRQFr3eBh6X7RGRuDwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252849%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cY5XehjARgM/YNFd-hFSVoI/AAAAAAAAIXQ/iJ23lQHOC0AQ-7klRQFr3eBh6X7RGRuDwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252849%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I was originally just going to cut a round hole in the wall until my brother introduced me to these convex dog fence windows! I found a pack of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B083TMD28D/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">2 for $40 on Amazon. </a> Then I made him come over and cut out the holes because I had no idea what I was doing. I ended up painting black around the clear edge inside. I didn't like that you could see some imperfections through the plastic. I used a tiny jar of black enamel hobby paint. It looks so much more complete with that simple detail.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rIxwcNQZVJw/YNFej5_w22I/AAAAAAAAIXk/2Y3r208e7o0YZxGaSXSV8__3lVusZhW7ACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252823%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rIxwcNQZVJw/YNFej5_w22I/AAAAAAAAIXk/2Y3r208e7o0YZxGaSXSV8__3lVusZhW7ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252823%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Another exciting thing I found ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD were these rubber tiles! These are so dang expensive. Someone had probably 100 of them on the curb a few streets over. I took around 20 but I wish I took a lot more. They're so versatile! I already had some rubber tiles under our saucer swing (see, I've been thinking about Space back here for a while) and ended up moving those inside the space station for flooring and replaced the swing ones with the curb ones. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9a6_LWIr2pI/YNFfBG_W8HI/AAAAAAAAIXs/ceXwd9C1g1kIa4p7MPeGkHLeCJ2kvPRvgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%252875%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9a6_LWIr2pI/YNFfBG_W8HI/AAAAAAAAIXs/ceXwd9C1g1kIa4p7MPeGkHLeCJ2kvPRvgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%252875%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">For the wall facing the swings I decided to make a half-wall. I wanted good air circulation + light to be able to get in. This is where the too-small canopy came in. I decided to just cut it up and make a curtain! It was around $15 from Amazon and I couldn't buy exterior fabric for that price. I also liked that it was super lightweight and black on the outside+silver metallic on the inside. Spacey. I hung it up with a $5 shower curtain tension rod from Walmart and a $1 pack of plastic shower rings. I just used my handy sewing machine to hem the new edges and made some button holes along the top to put through the rings. Now it also doubles as a puppet show stand! I bought some cute Melissa and Doug puppets to keep in a storage container under the bench for impromptu puppeteering (I just spray painted a clear $1 container from Target).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sIXJGgu4A-c/YNFfptsy6MI/AAAAAAAAIX4/Lj23UcjCPpQR311iVLhMCrLqKO1czsTlgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252852%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sIXJGgu4A-c/YNFfptsy6MI/AAAAAAAAIX4/Lj23UcjCPpQR311iVLhMCrLqKO1czsTlgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252852%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3BdCIau2cRI/YNFf6DpwHVI/AAAAAAAAIYU/he_Ldo_Li-MPlr5ir6A6Baw-zjgXxy__QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252847%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3BdCIau2cRI/YNFf6DpwHVI/AAAAAAAAIYU/he_Ldo_Li-MPlr5ir6A6Baw-zjgXxy__QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252847%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IAWA7Pdx_Mw/YNFfphDrRfI/AAAAAAAAIX8/F_NPKMK_4ewjp_t2zCGOaPbwV4VZSq43gCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%25285%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IAWA7Pdx_Mw/YNFfphDrRfI/AAAAAAAAIX8/F_NPKMK_4ewjp_t2zCGOaPbwV4VZSq43gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%25285%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zh3PwLYkdy4/YNFfpuke9LI/AAAAAAAAIX0/HOj9FXgUW8s5qkAVA25SNeIkTtE88ioIQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%25286%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zh3PwLYkdy4/YNFfpuke9LI/AAAAAAAAIX0/HOj9FXgUW8s5qkAVA25SNeIkTtE88ioIQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%25286%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">While I was building the half wall I also added a bench. I ended up getting 2 seatbelts on Ebay for $15 and installing them there. That might be my kids' favorite part of the whole thing. Like they've never seen a seatbelt before!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qJ_MHcZZu2c/YNFf559QTRI/AAAAAAAAIYQ/8lMKznnHy1kp7f9cSlKPIqzLRO60_L61QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252821%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qJ_MHcZZu2c/YNFf559QTRI/AAAAAAAAIYQ/8lMKznnHy1kp7f9cSlKPIqzLRO60_L61QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252821%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T77lT_t5tm4/YNFf5o3f_jI/AAAAAAAAIYM/9Gwg5xOpOoUqgHGB8qNcJiOWs_LbqlC2ACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252826%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T77lT_t5tm4/YNFf5o3f_jI/AAAAAAAAIYM/9Gwg5xOpOoUqgHGB8qNcJiOWs_LbqlC2ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252826%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">For the inside of the entrance wall I just hung a few signs and added this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014TF6ABO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">black and silver fringe curtain</a> ($10 on Amazon). I doubled it and attached it with a TON of staples. It's actually incredibly sturdy and has held up really well with a lot of kids pulling on it. I just trimmed the length to the right size with scissors. I also attached an extra piece of stained wood above the door to add a decorative element and make it look more finished. I found the flag sign in the 4th of July section at Hobby Lobby and the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07TGKTPF9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">NASA sign</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08W42YQLC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">"I love you to the moon and back" sign</a> on Amazon. The moon one was originally black and I spray painted it gold since I just had it on hand. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EXoI7BQkUeA/YNFgW6SJDGI/AAAAAAAAIYk/Cd0bsWgo8MsjHdtv0taSxr0SyJeIIcmmgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252822%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EXoI7BQkUeA/YNFgW6SJDGI/AAAAAAAAIYk/Cd0bsWgo8MsjHdtv0taSxr0SyJeIIcmmgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252822%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">On the front side of the entrance wall (under the slide) I used the same starburst stencil and leftover Iron Ore paint to stencil yet more stars. For the sign I found a metal sign at Hobby Lobby and spray painted it. It was made for outside so I knew it would hold up and wouldn't rust. I originally ordered a vinyl sticker with the words on Etsy, but I waited 2 months and they never came in and then the shop just disappeared. Not sketchy at all. Etsy eventually gave me my money back. It was the last thing I needed to do so I just painted them myself. I did get the cute little <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/287476903/rocket-ship-to-the-moon-high-quality?ref=yr_purchases" target="_blank">vinyl rocket sticker on Etsy</a> and it got here super fast.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hpMNeEUf32w/YNFg9IokhYI/AAAAAAAAIYs/u58mub-tYRADJmT5AJiOXrFYcO4Z5la1gCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252810%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1720" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hpMNeEUf32w/YNFg9IokhYI/AAAAAAAAIYs/u58mub-tYRADJmT5AJiOXrFYcO4Z5la1gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252810%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cutest Rocket Man I've ever seen!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dA1lrOx98a0/YNFg9JuRrbI/AAAAAAAAIYw/FnhKI0hIRKc2732r3eATWH5HQFTJEF51QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252816%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dA1lrOx98a0/YNFg9JuRrbI/AAAAAAAAIYw/FnhKI0hIRKc2732r3eATWH5HQFTJEF51QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252816%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Before of my $3 Hobby Lobby sign:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l5ontXW9nco/YNFhKeM39DI/AAAAAAAAIY0/2erjuHCy2oA0gUbVubFKKQ50qqt4bxppQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252843%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l5ontXW9nco/YNFhKeM39DI/AAAAAAAAIY0/2erjuHCy2oA0gUbVubFKKQ50qqt4bxppQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252843%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">For the ceiling I got some glow in the dark plastic stars from Hobby Lobby. I also found these awesome <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B083G337YP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">solar-powered twinkle lights on Amazon</a>! They are so cool! The solar panels are right outside and the cord goes under and up the side corner of the wall inside. I used my staple gun to attach them. They charge all day and when it gets dark they automatically come on! The whole place comes alive and twinkles, just like you're in space.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jfm9Atmr-Rc/YNFhh8a5VlI/AAAAAAAAIZA/CLF6ff-3c_M0Kz72c_pZ0NahCsSyo7r-ACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jfm9Atmr-Rc/YNFhh8a5VlI/AAAAAAAAIZA/CLF6ff-3c_M0Kz72c_pZ0NahCsSyo7r-ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cQVk4bhEjt8/YNIMVo-tiMI/AAAAAAAAIgA/T7a_1udXdws5SvN0d4AajGrIGkQ6cpfjACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/205039693_556290558700539_7890470187045584605_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cQVk4bhEjt8/YNIMVo-tiMI/AAAAAAAAIgA/T7a_1udXdws5SvN0d4AajGrIGkQ6cpfjACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/205039693_556290558700539_7890470187045584605_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-in2prWdnWPU/YNFhoY-TqGI/AAAAAAAAIZE/AGee664fDNQF-IM3RWlp7GheQ3s7-PefwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-in2prWdnWPU/YNFhoY-TqGI/AAAAAAAAIZE/AGee664fDNQF-IM3RWlp7GheQ3s7-PefwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">LASTLY, the main event, the mission control wall. I thought long and hard about how I wanted this to go. I wanted the kids to be able to sit in front of it and pretend like they were flying a spaceship. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">To start, I got the old computer keyboard from my in-law's attic. I took off the back, removed all of the wires, then screwed the plastic back onto a piece of wood for easy securing. I then messed around and used a combination of scraps of wood and metal brackets to make it stick out and at an angle. I found the cute metal chalkboard above it on clearance at Hobby Lobby for $5. I painted the "3,2,1 blast off" on the top. The metal bucket above it holds glow in the dark chalk I found in the Target Dollar Spot. I screwed a few holes in the bottom of the bucket to make sure it drained if it got water in it. I got the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0912FTQQR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">Space X </a>and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08GC6B3GG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">solar system</a> signs on Amazon. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LjR3S8BBJq4/YNFiEdBJBmI/AAAAAAAAIZQ/P40wf_pNh5oIEcebkESEMz7q72YPwYApgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252824%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LjR3S8BBJq4/YNFiEdBJBmI/AAAAAAAAIZQ/P40wf_pNh5oIEcebkESEMz7q72YPwYApgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252824%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g9RJE6JqDcU/YNFiESy4pBI/AAAAAAAAIZU/FWYzXDCF4l8UxMmfHbzGFXFeg__qIA1wQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252833%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g9RJE6JqDcU/YNFiESy4pBI/AAAAAAAAIZU/FWYzXDCF4l8UxMmfHbzGFXFeg__qIA1wQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252833%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The mission control board was fun. My dad had a bunch of old switches and things in his garage that he let me have. I used leftover wood from the bench inside as the base and attached the buttons. My dad had to help me cut some of the larger holes in the wood to install some that I couldn't make fit with just my paddle drill bit. They don't light up or make noise but they're fun to push. I labeled the buttons with my label maker. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iB2pL_1qRkY/YNICW4HXTRI/AAAAAAAAIf4/tnCUU2BQ4jgcZBb-_7XUYU-DDbskioNLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/205834207_829139254400772_3796500525644876404_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iB2pL_1qRkY/YNICW4HXTRI/AAAAAAAAIf4/tnCUU2BQ4jgcZBb-_7XUYU-DDbskioNLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/205834207_829139254400772_3796500525644876404_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I REALLY wanted a joy stick inside instead of a wheel to feel more authentic. I looked on Amazon and they were like $100! Granted they were in working order and connected to game systems so I get it. But I didn't need that. I was going to tear it apart anyways. I ended up finding a pack of 3 old/used joysticks on Mercari of all places. They were dirty and who knows if they worked or not, but that didn't matter. Including shipping they were $25 for all of them, plus they came with the speedometer I used on my mission control button board. SOLD! They came quickly and I just used one. (If you decide to build a spaceship in your yard too and need a defective joystick, let me know!) I took off the back, cut out all wiring, screwed the backing onto a piece of wood, then reattached the back. Then I spray painted it matte black. Since it now had wood on the back it attached easily. I set it up at an angle and inserted a screw into the wall from the outside, if that makes sense. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IB7fy-sZUjE/YNFjL-inkiI/AAAAAAAAIZ4/WuFmcHqmB1oyBpXXkUSv3WpIOr-B-1fXgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252834%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IB7fy-sZUjE/YNFjL-inkiI/AAAAAAAAIZ4/WuFmcHqmB1oyBpXXkUSv3WpIOr-B-1fXgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252834%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h08-FWwAXpk/YNFivGUW5XI/AAAAAAAAIZg/E8cbHxAwbl8TWQwkEtl3lKRq9SOhmC6ywCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252832%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h08-FWwAXpk/YNFivGUW5XI/AAAAAAAAIZg/E8cbHxAwbl8TWQwkEtl3lKRq9SOhmC6ywCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252832%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>And now for my FAVORITE part of the whole thing! The space window!! For the second window we, ahem, my brother, installed it just above the joystick. I wanted you to be able to look out the window like you're flying. But it didn't look like space outside!<span> I ended up removing the climbing wall (right outside the window) and painting the BACK of it to look like the galaxies! It was so easy and my kids even helped! I painted it a deeper black that I already had, then used some acrylic craft paint and a sea sponge to created the galaxy-esque effect. Then I splattered some white paint to look like stars. I then found some glitter-burst spray paint at Hobby Lobby and it is magic. I sprayed a nice coat of glitter over the top, which sealed it and made it sparkle. Now when you look out the window it looks like you're in space! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yobdoQPJkEY/YNFjtklT5fI/AAAAAAAAIaU/jO-lRAY45zUwv8aPHbhoe_Np8fOk1ztWACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252846%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yobdoQPJkEY/YNFjtklT5fI/AAAAAAAAIaU/jO-lRAY45zUwv8aPHbhoe_Np8fOk1ztWACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252846%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lHA3Lc2kEfg/YNFkGiA_ubI/AAAAAAAAIao/YprWIagsX7A9j8HhRKnxh0UJzgEHS8eWwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252844%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lHA3Lc2kEfg/YNFkGiA_ubI/AAAAAAAAIao/YprWIagsX7A9j8HhRKnxh0UJzgEHS8eWwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252844%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VF5Jo11rJ4k/YNFjttO1fqI/AAAAAAAAIaQ/tBiMQhH6Smw8p3FER0QEFQMj4M7fynkiQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252842%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VF5Jo11rJ4k/YNFjttO1fqI/AAAAAAAAIaQ/tBiMQhH6Smw8p3FER0QEFQMj4M7fynkiQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252842%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mvKCo1_yGoY/YNFjrRSfAqI/AAAAAAAAIaI/JfkbcOeDWDknvW7gOdheFODYOeaOp0R8gCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252841%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mvKCo1_yGoY/YNFjrRSfAqI/AAAAAAAAIaI/JfkbcOeDWDknvW7gOdheFODYOeaOp0R8gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252841%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1L5PxT7wz-I/YNFjqZqaLkI/AAAAAAAAIaE/iz0ZSaess6IKnl18buf9X0rA6n8mMp5JACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252827%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1L5PxT7wz-I/YNFjqZqaLkI/AAAAAAAAIaE/iz0ZSaess6IKnl18buf9X0rA6n8mMp5JACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252827%2529.JPG" /></a></div><span><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y7QBeb7vyjY/YNFkWBxEvlI/AAAAAAAAIaw/wHalOH1CLb4UPPV9ZliEgKloD4oEOthCQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252815%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y7QBeb7vyjY/YNFkWBxEvlI/AAAAAAAAIaw/wHalOH1CLb4UPPV9ZliEgKloD4oEOthCQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252815%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span>Basically, I had WAY too much fun creating this for myself...I mean, my kids. So if you need me I'll just be star gazing in my space ship. Peace out, Earth.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OtA0bVoycy0/YNFkwG3k8wI/AAAAAAAAIa8/tvr9dFk7MQYyQOGi6jkviG3fQDCQpypPACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252811%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OtA0bVoycy0/YNFkwG3k8wI/AAAAAAAAIa8/tvr9dFk7MQYyQOGi6jkviG3fQDCQpypPACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252811%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ae9OTpHEDE/YNFkwcMDACI/AAAAAAAAIbA/xl08xSeJQPIALI_V_IgidSlELrnGXDHmwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252818%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4ae9OTpHEDE/YNFkwcMDACI/AAAAAAAAIbA/xl08xSeJQPIALI_V_IgidSlELrnGXDHmwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252818%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FaDEfw0daL8/YNFkv_PQIPI/AAAAAAAAIa4/I_UUDSRMbeoWLYopgtvI_1qLQcT4Mo3ewCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252819%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FaDEfw0daL8/YNFkv_PQIPI/AAAAAAAAIa4/I_UUDSRMbeoWLYopgtvI_1qLQcT4Mo3ewCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252819%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jl8dnOYdqbI/YNFkxJSlr4I/AAAAAAAAIbE/5bfGJhq_L3AnkzQduhCeLIyxhh_drO6HACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252829%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jl8dnOYdqbI/YNFkxJSlr4I/AAAAAAAAIbE/5bfGJhq_L3AnkzQduhCeLIyxhh_drO6HACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252829%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4fYO7l62riA/YNFkxqFYgQI/AAAAAAAAIbI/3kABGGpm8JAfBuCRW8TKRu19RmeF6-BWwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Space%2BStation%2B%252853%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4fYO7l62riA/YNFkxqFYgQI/AAAAAAAAIbI/3kABGGpm8JAfBuCRW8TKRu19RmeF6-BWwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Space%2BStation%2B%252853%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span>So after my months-long side project I started simply because I had to wait an extra week for an unrelated stencil to come in for an entirely different project *takes breath*, I decided to just keep the fun going and do a few more things around the yard. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">This project I actually started when the concrete was primed and BEFORE I was thrust Into the Unknown on my space ship voyage. Ya know, while I was waiting for the dang stencil. We have had lights strung above our patio for many years, but I loved the idea of having them strung around the whole yard. I found these <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08TMMTQPR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">53 ft lights on Amazon</a>. After measuring, I needed 4 strands to go around the whole perimeter. I also bought these <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08XBDNMQM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">little hooks</a> to attach them to the trees. It only took about 2 hours total and I did it by myself. I used my drill to make a pilot hole on the first tree as high as I could get on my ladder. I measured how high that was from the ground and made sure to make every pilot hole the same height up the tree as the first. This is so they look uniform and not up and down and all over the place. I got a long exterior extension cord to connect the strand that ended closest to the patio to the outlet. I can't believe how bright it makes the whole backyard at night! It's so *magical* I can't wait to enjoy more dinners outside in the Fall when it feels awesome and it actually gets dark before 9 PM. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7I8veyWqtBw/YNFlTL8PP5I/AAAAAAAAIbY/qBOwsjjWJRceOSbEV0wnzJF_lLD2Uep7gCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%2528449%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7I8veyWqtBw/YNFlTL8PP5I/AAAAAAAAIbY/qBOwsjjWJRceOSbEV0wnzJF_lLD2Uep7gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%2528449%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mzL5pVsmJ7Q/YNFlTAyXMII/AAAAAAAAIbU/K3JXGeTX9uA9TptxsW-SwgtSWWLZ77EMwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%2528545%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mzL5pVsmJ7Q/YNFlTAyXMII/AAAAAAAAIbU/K3JXGeTX9uA9TptxsW-SwgtSWWLZ77EMwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%2528545%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I wish you could see it in person! The pictures don't do it justice. Basically I just want to be surrounded by stars.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So back to the rubber tiles from the side of the road. I found so many uses for them! The first thing was the saucer swing hanging from our big tree. The rubber tiles I had there were a bit more flimsy and were a better size for the space ship flooring. These are huge and very thick and durable. I also put them under the swings on the swing set and the slide! We have rubber mulch as ground cover, but there are always bare spots in those areas from foot traffic. These tiles completely solved the problem. I also put some under our water table and the awesome seesaw my brother handcrafted for my kids for Christmas. Again, wish I took all hundred of them. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zRwfhTSPxoc/YNFmWIOcYRI/AAAAAAAAIbk/L91z9vDFYAAUI7W1CkFT46Lj0NtUf23UACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%2528209%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zRwfhTSPxoc/YNFmWIOcYRI/AAAAAAAAIbk/L91z9vDFYAAUI7W1CkFT46Lj0NtUf23UACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%2528209%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mNiiBhhMuB8/YNFmWUC4s-I/AAAAAAAAIbo/h9W0TaZXYkgUszWBkIxZA3Qdf8yx9UtAACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%2528282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mNiiBhhMuB8/YNFmWUC4s-I/AAAAAAAAIbo/h9W0TaZXYkgUszWBkIxZA3Qdf8yx9UtAACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%2528282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Ahem, speaking of curbside treasures. So like, my husband HATES it when I go curb shopping. But to my defense, I don't go looking for curb treasures. The curb treasures FIND me. And once I see them I have a hard time passing them up. He will never understand. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So a few doors down one day there was this metal table, 4 chairs and another little outdoor table. They looked horrible but I knew they could be beautiful again. "He never has to know," she smiled and whispered maniacally to herself. I get in the minivan with my son and we start piling it in. WHAT ARE THE ODDS my husband leaves the house for a lunch date and he passes me in that exact moment. "KATIE PUT IT BACK WE DO NOT NEED THAT NASTY TABLE! DON'T DO IT" Drat. He found me. He drives away. I do it anyways. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NJvt8lcntYE/YNFoO-krFwI/AAAAAAAAIb0/DuTW8Db8DFMAOZhZDX-_Dsusywk41Dy6ACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252820%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NJvt8lcntYE/YNFoO-krFwI/AAAAAAAAIb0/DuTW8Db8DFMAOZhZDX-_Dsusywk41Dy6ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252820%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A cryptic message in outdoor debris. But what does it mean? Is it aliens?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-owxfMF7U0MQ/YNFoOyHyh5I/AAAAAAAAIb4/tKuFpppeBsMbzT9Eb22XUagyF-LHnMyJQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252821%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-owxfMF7U0MQ/YNFoOyHyh5I/AAAAAAAAIb4/tKuFpppeBsMbzT9Eb22XUagyF-LHnMyJQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252821%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WQj6-h1aFOI/YNFoPPOU0pI/AAAAAAAAIb8/eD0VEfVvbwswhLpy_RVOVAEpKcCy8yJGwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252822%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WQj6-h1aFOI/YNFoPPOU0pI/AAAAAAAAIb8/eD0VEfVvbwswhLpy_RVOVAEpKcCy8yJGwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252822%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I get back home, unload it all in the driveway, and then start to pull into the garage. It does not phase me that my back door is still wide open. I pull in slowly. Suddenly I hear the LOUDEST CRUNCHING/SHATTERING SOUNDS ALONG WITH RESISTANCE AND OMG I HAVE KILLED SOMEONE. I run to the back of my van yelling Leo's name. He is not responding. I am panic-sticken even though I knew he was safely inside the car. He is wide-eyed, staring at the back of the van, and then just starts yelling "OH NO MOM IT'S BROKEN LOOK LOOK!" My back windshield has shattered into 8 billion bits in the driveway. Apparently when my door was up, the back windshield wiper came into contact with the garage frame, put pressure on it and it just exploded. But while that was traumatic...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">the worst part was having to make the phone call of shame to my husband after he told me to put it back. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">He was so kind. He's too good to me. Then he spent half of his day the next day at the glass shop getting it fixed. I might listen to him next time. Or I might do it again. Jury is still out.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3QU2Lt0iwmY/YNFocI-rTXI/AAAAAAAAIcE/pDJMIncVA0kF3TPzsVLiE6Nxk03amitUgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3QU2Lt0iwmY/YNFocI-rTXI/AAAAAAAAIcE/pDJMIncVA0kF3TPzsVLiE6Nxk03amitUgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%25281%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d8QJBMPY-DI/YNFob34_lEI/AAAAAAAAIcA/RYuODm4ZLVElLfrhhhZMKhEpb8PVFNC5gCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252823%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1539" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d8QJBMPY-DI/YNFob34_lEI/AAAAAAAAIcA/RYuODm4ZLVElLfrhhhZMKhEpb8PVFNC5gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252823%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So was my exciting new project piece worth the $357 the new windshield cost? TBD. But where's the adventure in buying a brand new table when you could find one on the side of the road, destroy your vehicle, spend a day and a few hundred dollars having that repaired, spend more money and time redoing it, and THEN enjoy it? psh. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">But anyways, I started by pressure washing. The chairs immediately looked almost like new! The fabric is coming off the frame in a few places but it's not affecting their use. The little table looked like new as well! For the big, rusty table, I used the Rustoleum rubberized undercoating spray paint. I actually got it because they were out of my usual spray paint but it is awesome! I love the texture and it seems super durable. I used 2 $5 cans to cover the whole table. I set it up in Presley's Garden and I love the extra seating! It also filled in a seemingly useless space. And only for $10 in supplies ;) (and a few extra hundos in...other costs)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5YQYmhq6K8k/YNEP9PYsW-I/AAAAAAAAIUs/CLMWLSIdOzcVDBgion-vwnnr3V597aa2wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/flat-black-rust-oleum-automotive-car-paint-248657-64_1000.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5YQYmhq6K8k/YNEP9PYsW-I/AAAAAAAAIUs/CLMWLSIdOzcVDBgion-vwnnr3V597aa2wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/flat-black-rust-oleum-automotive-car-paint-248657-64_1000.webp" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tqN91e9G-tw/YNFo0uHFdhI/AAAAAAAAIcU/nEmsuuQG5BsOSnjgb5jydDYupzF0r9uxgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252816%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tqN91e9G-tw/YNFo0uHFdhI/AAAAAAAAIcU/nEmsuuQG5BsOSnjgb5jydDYupzF0r9uxgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252816%2529.JPG" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FUlLFV_x1u4/YNFo07yi94I/AAAAAAAAIcY/QlqwnracD3kcUNUEyaJ9eRvGU-27_AMAACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252817%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FUlLFV_x1u4/YNFo07yi94I/AAAAAAAAIcY/QlqwnracD3kcUNUEyaJ9eRvGU-27_AMAACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252817%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-riZ0H06FTiE/YNFo0zWfHaI/AAAAAAAAIcc/AB30j8oq6nYnfnbuRIJecd7C8ny4AF7IQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252818%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-riZ0H06FTiE/YNFo0zWfHaI/AAAAAAAAIcc/AB30j8oq6nYnfnbuRIJecd7C8ny4AF7IQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252818%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5LV1JyeSJTk/YNFo17xo4DI/AAAAAAAAIcg/KzKdEqL7ef8D4NFHTq0hvC9J_oIXi2cSgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252819%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5LV1JyeSJTk/YNFo17xo4DI/AAAAAAAAIcg/KzKdEqL7ef8D4NFHTq0hvC9J_oIXi2cSgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252819%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The big tree near the garden has a huge hole in it that I decided to stick a pot of flowers in this year. They are thriving and I'm in love. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DGNPwCV-I38/YNFpQCt6rAI/AAAAAAAAIc0/ytarIFRHjd0xgg1DXnafGnwKlF2hyF4ugCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252813%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DGNPwCV-I38/YNFpQCt6rAI/AAAAAAAAIc0/ytarIFRHjd0xgg1DXnafGnwKlF2hyF4ugCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252813%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here are some current pics of Presley's Garden. We've grown a few flowers from seed this year! She made the cute popsicle flag at art camp.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MmgYS1UGPiU/YNFpgdt8hfI/AAAAAAAAIc8/DPfR2ZqWVu8DfFNHLIgOiKA26Z21yg8sQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252814%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MmgYS1UGPiU/YNFpgdt8hfI/AAAAAAAAIc8/DPfR2ZqWVu8DfFNHLIgOiKA26Z21yg8sQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252814%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sRopx1RGXtU/YNFpgcIBojI/AAAAAAAAIdE/vjN53D-pvwYi5YMVesAjqw3YY77hcvymwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252815%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sRopx1RGXtU/YNFpgcIBojI/AAAAAAAAIdE/vjN53D-pvwYi5YMVesAjqw3YY77hcvymwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252815%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zKEsDv8wI1g/YNFpgbiEn-I/AAAAAAAAIdA/IPNQzOA7w4UcpMp4L3mCvlxBpko2GX3uwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252825%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zKEsDv8wI1g/YNFpgbiEn-I/AAAAAAAAIdA/IPNQzOA7w4UcpMp4L3mCvlxBpko2GX3uwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252825%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The kids' FAVORITE part by far has been the carrots. They beg me every day to go pull one. But like, I keep having to buy and plant more carrots. TBH it is SIGNIFICANTLY cheaper to just go buy carrots at Kroger, where they're basically tupins a bag. But instead I've bought like 18 $5 carrot plants that sprout maybe 5 carrots a piece over the course of a month. But again, where's the adventure in that? We also have strawberries, Basil, Parsley, Oregano. Rosemary, Mint, Peppermint and cherry tomatoes! I know I know. We're pioneers. So if a zombie apocalypses happens y'all can come over and we can ration out the 3 carrots and a few sprigs of basil it took a decade for us to grow.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7y2DkhjxVk/YNFph6qAMjI/AAAAAAAAIdI/lr-pY8mqzbQPJp-OlUN6SlYNAeV2HqBmQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252829%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7y2DkhjxVk/YNFph6qAMjI/AAAAAAAAIdI/lr-pY8mqzbQPJp-OlUN6SlYNAeV2HqBmQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252829%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lJapkm3dLZY/YNFpiBCl_VI/AAAAAAAAIdM/-xcsT5vMqeIzlKB8UFMeuMgJMtRWop3vgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Garden%252BTable%2B%252830%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lJapkm3dLZY/YNFpiBCl_VI/AAAAAAAAIdM/-xcsT5vMqeIzlKB8UFMeuMgJMtRWop3vgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Garden%252BTable%2B%252830%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Back to the patio, one thing that has always bothered me is our glass table. It's a nice table but I HATE the glass. It is never clean for longer than a day and you can see all the dirt from the top to the bottom because...clear. I ended up pressure washing the table and just removing the top piece of glass. I then used a glass spray paint to spray the under-side of it. That way it won't chip off the top but you still can't see through it! I don't know how long it will hold up, but I don't mind touching it up as needed. So far so good! It looks SO much better. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yXcgHM9nqIM/YNFqm5mmrOI/AAAAAAAAIdg/eJiHS4hAxTMm69voyoN6dBtMoHoAWj3ewCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Table%2B%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yXcgHM9nqIM/YNFqm5mmrOI/AAAAAAAAIdg/eJiHS4hAxTMm69voyoN6dBtMoHoAWj3ewCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Table%2B%25281%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2z7nQaCx-zw/YNFqx_edzbI/AAAAAAAAIdk/8Ma6MFd-hAQrhHs2DF_MyIwari2ZgKkQACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Table%2B%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2z7nQaCx-zw/YNFqx_edzbI/AAAAAAAAIdk/8Ma6MFd-hAQrhHs2DF_MyIwari2ZgKkQACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Table%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I also wanted to re-arrange the patio to make the table side-ways and not take up so much space. And I wanted the stenciling to be more noticeable. Before the table was covering up a lot of it. But to make room to do that I had to extend the patio for the grill/smoker. I ended up using some 60 cent pavers to make a little landing area next to the patio. It was a lot of math/planning but I was able to build it all in a naptime. I did the Home Depot curbside pickup and they were brought straight out to my car and the guy put them in. No going in, looking around, carrying around, etc. There were like 60 pavers so this was a huge time saver. I measured the area and used spray paint to mark my guidelines. I dug it out as deep as the pavers were thick, laid down leveling sand, and made my pattern. It's not totally perfect but I love the extra space it gave us. Overall it was around $50-60 in materials.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w2-3IBGYcdM/YNFrPaIgpjI/AAAAAAAAId4/laKmtHbJKKMhpyGXGWACf3FoSHH94ZPJwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Grill%2B%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w2-3IBGYcdM/YNFrPaIgpjI/AAAAAAAAId4/laKmtHbJKKMhpyGXGWACf3FoSHH94ZPJwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Grill%2B%25281%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fN-3nTVMoto/YNFrPm5Z5uI/AAAAAAAAId8/0NOovCZlp40JD61xUIkAHyp-tm9W81i5ACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Grill%2B%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fN-3nTVMoto/YNFrPm5Z5uI/AAAAAAAAId8/0NOovCZlp40JD61xUIkAHyp-tm9W81i5ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Grill%2B%25282%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QLDZarQx7AI/YNFrPX1k5vI/AAAAAAAAId0/1ZkO1EQRaMwnFb9j3VmfYrA6KSnJDqgewCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Grill%2B%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QLDZarQx7AI/YNFrPX1k5vI/AAAAAAAAId0/1ZkO1EQRaMwnFb9j3VmfYrA6KSnJDqgewCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Grill%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Lastly, I spruced up a little orange table I also found on a FB resale site a few years ago for less than $10. I pressure washed it and gave it a fresh coat of paint. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Before:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YoN_wHnm6qo/YNFrrFRmSXI/AAAAAAAAIeQ/GtQL-89DV54rIWya3ErTokPBXPBGeJRVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%25285%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YoN_wHnm6qo/YNFrrFRmSXI/AAAAAAAAIeQ/GtQL-89DV54rIWya3ErTokPBXPBGeJRVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%25285%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I found these new plastic Anarondak chairs at Walmart for $20. I also replaced my $5 FB resale plastic kid table with a cute wooden one from IKEA. The black and white pillows were $5 each at Five Below! I also recently stained the wooden frame that we built a few years ago to hold the lights.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pnUgQ6qRgYk/YNFrnIpkWnI/AAAAAAAAIeI/XhFG_CbJ0vcXmJTTOZFij3jjF-TtbtFJACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/patio%2B%252810%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pnUgQ6qRgYk/YNFrnIpkWnI/AAAAAAAAIeI/XhFG_CbJ0vcXmJTTOZFij3jjF-TtbtFJACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/patio%2B%252810%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w7lYZuhWXRg/YNFsoYb31QI/AAAAAAAAIeg/fYP2jifvEsEH4nBFO40lRNHeu7Q1m8M7QCNcBGAsYHQ/s261/202906719_197397698962113_8253586708286176958_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="196" data-original-width="261" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w7lYZuhWXRg/YNFsoYb31QI/AAAAAAAAIeg/fYP2jifvEsEH4nBFO40lRNHeu7Q1m8M7QCNcBGAsYHQ/s0/202906719_197397698962113_8253586708286176958_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UDRqXcRL3V0/YNFsofMGbwI/AAAAAAAAIec/oVlwudJ16Awh_t8V_yiSjKR9a6YvPp61gCNcBGAsYHQ/s261/204403441_334134435093099_1064744137729424074_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="196" data-original-width="261" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UDRqXcRL3V0/YNFsofMGbwI/AAAAAAAAIec/oVlwudJ16Awh_t8V_yiSjKR9a6YvPp61gCNcBGAsYHQ/s0/204403441_334134435093099_1064744137729424074_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5pr9_zIPTlo/YNFsojMAyMI/AAAAAAAAIek/vtBXvDL7DxIdow5vU29Z6LELkq9u2cltgCNcBGAsYHQ/s261/204639731_236966041253576_1022461133652741468_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="196" data-original-width="261" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5pr9_zIPTlo/YNFsojMAyMI/AAAAAAAAIek/vtBXvDL7DxIdow5vU29Z6LELkq9u2cltgCNcBGAsYHQ/s0/204639731_236966041253576_1022461133652741468_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Bud Boulevard today:</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uHvG3h7lSTw/YNFspZVsJdI/AAAAAAAAIes/Rqrd9oWF0u4GvNKgNqFSlesytc6ml2NMQCNcBGAsYHQ/s261/205726545_1463532950666698_325153166396224694_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="196" data-original-width="261" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uHvG3h7lSTw/YNFspZVsJdI/AAAAAAAAIes/Rqrd9oWF0u4GvNKgNqFSlesytc6ml2NMQCNcBGAsYHQ/s0/205726545_1463532950666698_325153166396224694_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I moved our green chairs to the back of the yard next to the bird feeder stand. I finished that little seating area off with a bamboo table that I, you guessed it, found on the side of the road. I just cleaned it and spray painted it black. I love how it's made for a corner so it's the perfect weird little shape to fit between the 2 chairs. And it just so happens to be Ollie's favorite seat in the house.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8yIlIvST5LA/YNFsoWgtnhI/AAAAAAAAIeY/gJ2459__Hwc6JEUMKSNVnFxqKUuIUOM2QCNcBGAsYHQ/s261/204557595_327100578875802_894779399150364163_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="196" data-original-width="261" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8yIlIvST5LA/YNFsoWgtnhI/AAAAAAAAIeY/gJ2459__Hwc6JEUMKSNVnFxqKUuIUOM2QCNcBGAsYHQ/s0/204557595_327100578875802_894779399150364163_n.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YYmGOWby5AA/YNFso2vX2uI/AAAAAAAAIeo/WjJKqJVFsXAgL8ZI0CD7tG9XcMRbsHRZQCNcBGAsYHQ/s261/204704738_326969378992761_7967432703502455263_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="196" data-original-width="261" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YYmGOWby5AA/YNFso2vX2uI/AAAAAAAAIeo/WjJKqJVFsXAgL8ZI0CD7tG9XcMRbsHRZQCNcBGAsYHQ/s0/204704738_326969378992761_7967432703502455263_n.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The LAST thing I did was work a little bit on our little rock bed. Instead of keeping up with the mulching/weeding/etc in this random bed, we rocked it instead and just covered it in kid stuff. The rocks kept getting all over the walkway (to be expected) so I got some plastic landscape edging ($15 at Lowe's) and installed it around the perimeter. It still doesn't contain it all but it's much better. Then I decided to put the same edging around the pretty flower bed under the kitchen window. The mulch is always getting washed out when it rains so this helps a lot. I found the 2 rose bushes on clearance at Lowe's for $10! I also planted 2 more $10 rose bushes in Presley's garden. The ones in the sun are doing a LOT better than the ones in the shade.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sXmlZT40SZQ/YNFtkeuUdTI/AAAAAAAAIfE/avSrAwhu-WQmeYprSos_S3gq9wBed4AqwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%2528152%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sXmlZT40SZQ/YNFtkeuUdTI/AAAAAAAAIfE/avSrAwhu-WQmeYprSos_S3gq9wBed4AqwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%2528152%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lWeJIaHDgkQ/YNFtksw9ISI/AAAAAAAAIfI/B8F-2GTv0Rw61vYcivYvsQB987xLPS7fACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%2528271%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lWeJIaHDgkQ/YNFtksw9ISI/AAAAAAAAIfI/B8F-2GTv0Rw61vYcivYvsQB987xLPS7fACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%2528271%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H8U1XutcQtM/YNFtkRASVKI/AAAAAAAAIfA/5QjdxU4UFkcC_Myj3ZMl02QaFxHO1OIVwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%2528273%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H8U1XutcQtM/YNFtkRASVKI/AAAAAAAAIfA/5QjdxU4UFkcC_Myj3ZMl02QaFxHO1OIVwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%2528273%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rZ3Yk_r-d-M/YNFtlfzmhTI/AAAAAAAAIfM/CyjvAQ2LzScqWNbLgBTb2UoBXY9DfejhwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%2528309%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1969" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rZ3Yk_r-d-M/YNFtlfzmhTI/AAAAAAAAIfM/CyjvAQ2LzScqWNbLgBTb2UoBXY9DfejhwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%2528309%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So that's it back here! Until I hear the music calling me again, I don't think there's much more that I can do. We're in the process of hiring someone to replace the rotten railroad tie wall with a stone one which will really improve the aesthetic of the yard. We're also waiting on our contractor to repair some windows and paint them dark like the kitchen one. When that's all done I'll update with more pictures :) And one day we're really going to focus our efforts on making grass grow in our mostly-shaded yard. Who am I kidding, it'll just always be a work in progress.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To end this 80 page essay about a fake space ship that I've spent way too much time thinking and writing about, I'll show you one more quick inside project I did a few weeks ago. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So I've painted my entry/stairs/upstairs hallway at least 4 times now. I can't get the color right. However, the last time I painted it (about a year ago), it actually wasn't my fault. The color was mixed completely wrong at the paint store and it was not at all the color I picked out. It was a pinky beige, when what I wanted was a cool gray/beige. I know it wasn't right because the right color is in most of my house and I love it (Balboa Mist by Benjamin Moore). I should've noticed it way earlier than I did when painting, but I kept thinking "oh it'll look right when it's dry." It never did. So I finally sucked it up and just painted it again. *HOPEFULLY* for the last time. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2020/11/quarantine-house-projects.html" target="_blank">redid the entry </a>less than a year ago and made an accent wall with board and batten and wallpaper. I wanted to carry that idea upstairs. I ended up painting the wall Pure White (Sherwin Williams), which is the same color as my trim. Although my trim is satin and my walls are eggshell. It looks so good. Finally. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's my entry (upstairs inspo):</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dMFMDnaAeP0/YNJkCObrmaI/AAAAAAAAIrI/-HERIhYOK-gEoflAPw2tWBUJdKb67UsdwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_9303%2B%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dMFMDnaAeP0/YNJkCObrmaI/AAAAAAAAIrI/-HERIhYOK-gEoflAPw2tWBUJdKb67UsdwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_9303%2B%25284%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oiGO9n_PBMc/YNJkCNNGGnI/AAAAAAAAIrE/vsLX2EmIU48Ysd6DP_cX2TuutOCEz-dXQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_9307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oiGO9n_PBMc/YNJkCNNGGnI/AAAAAAAAIrE/vsLX2EmIU48Ysd6DP_cX2TuutOCEz-dXQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_9307.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When I ordered the beautiful wallpaper for the entry from <a href="https://www.livetteswallpaper.com/" target="_blank">Livette's Wallpaper</a>, there was a mix-up and they sent me the wrong kind. I ordered self-adhesive and they gave me the pasting kind. They were very kind and quick to fix the problem by sending me my correct order. (Highly recommend them. CUTEST wallpaper ever and great customer service). Since they are international they told me to just keep the other paper. I finally got a chance to actually use it! I created a mini-version of board and batten on my upstairs hallway wall and wallpapered the top (my first time with wallpaper paste and it was super easy). I had hooks leftover from the entry so (besides the wall paint), this project was free! I already had everything I needed! I love how bright and clean it is now. And no more weird, pink hue.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I got the new wall art on clearance at Hobby Lobby for $5.99 and the cute, felt kid's art display in the Target dollar spot! I ended up spray painting the letters black and shortening the string to fit my space, but I love how it turned out. This is my view as I walk out of my bedroom.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eMypml_nsys/YNF0WdYRh6I/AAAAAAAAIfk/wT0JFSnXfi0N3FxXycigZBVAaLhy2j-fQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/204709941_925281064691765_7737289541912396146_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eMypml_nsys/YNF0WdYRh6I/AAAAAAAAIfk/wT0JFSnXfi0N3FxXycigZBVAaLhy2j-fQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/204709941_925281064691765_7737289541912396146_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Kp8Zmw5CEw/YNF0WQJJKgI/AAAAAAAAIfo/ylXOv0_wZy0DkoEnPQkHqpAYb1OO_2xCQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/205238049_507787547225272_4094408458192989698_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Kp8Zmw5CEw/YNF0WQJJKgI/AAAAAAAAIfo/ylXOv0_wZy0DkoEnPQkHqpAYb1OO_2xCQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/205238049_507787547225272_4094408458192989698_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fo9hJMDq0hM/YNJkJTOauLI/AAAAAAAAIrM/wEaH31ScmGQhtZHX-gGrKqniPfQlp0K9ACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_9310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fo9hJMDq0hM/YNJkJTOauLI/AAAAAAAAIrM/wEaH31ScmGQhtZHX-gGrKqniPfQlp0K9ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_9310.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ke-FSgxq4Xo/YNF0WC7nxHI/AAAAAAAAIfg/l7GWpEU3et0aFn53xpGzl9Y681qSIN66gCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/204833307_1647018618826450_1724552603717590245_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ke-FSgxq4Xo/YNF0WC7nxHI/AAAAAAAAIfg/l7GWpEU3et0aFn53xpGzl9Y681qSIN66gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/204833307_1647018618826450_1724552603717590245_n.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So that's it for now! I'm sure I'll be spastically building and/or painting something random next month. I'll keep you posted. Until then! If you made it this far, thank you for your undying patronage!</div></div>Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-27788149466918269922021-02-03T14:01:00.004-06:002021-02-03T21:03:38.842-06:00A Year Later...<p></p><div style="text-align: center;">February is here again I’ve found myself overwhelmed with emotion, but struggling to find the words to express exactly how I feel. This month marks ONE YEAR since the darkest days of my life.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">At this point last year I was just starting to get used to having 3 kids. Life was overwhelming at times and I had my own struggles, but it was…normal. Something I will never take for granted again.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HcgGrLmDYDQ/YBr7SlJBRLI/AAAAAAAAIHM/WwTxd2UY0MA9a6zPm8LoBhrGFMpM3xfcwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/84156183_10215120188653931_946347106816229376_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1321" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HcgGrLmDYDQ/YBr7SlJBRLI/AAAAAAAAIHM/WwTxd2UY0MA9a6zPm8LoBhrGFMpM3xfcwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/84156183_10215120188653931_946347106816229376_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Because in one day EVERYTHING changed. My Ollie got sick and suddenly every problem I thought I had disappeared as I became consumed with my greatest fear on Earth. Living in a PICU for 10 straight days, I saw things I knew existed, but never truly felt. I saw pain and heartache all around me and I felt emotions I never knew possible. Everything felt so hopeless.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uoT6ivMQRlQ/YBr8HcVgkKI/AAAAAAAAIHU/SKUqLl5Qzgoa3I0AqT93dv1mAvHPhYE8wCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/88015788_10215264082531188_3514215281801035776_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uoT6ivMQRlQ/YBr8HcVgkKI/AAAAAAAAIHU/SKUqLl5Qzgoa3I0AqT93dv1mAvHPhYE8wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/88015788_10215264082531188_3514215281801035776_n.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I remember one specific moment walking through the hospital halls at 3 AM. Passing room after room of sick children, some of them completely alone with few visitors. I was leaking through my shirt, completely exhausted with tears in my eyes (Ollie was having a rough night and my surroundings made me feel SO heavy) as I walked back to the lactation room to pump. As I wrote the date on yet another label for my milk bottles, I lost it. I felt like I had done the same thing a million times. I had written down a million dates. WHEN was this going to end? Was it ever going to end? Would I ever hold my baby again? Would I ever get to feed him all of this milk? Would I ever sleep in my own bed again? Would I ever NOT feel the crushing weight of this emotional pain again? Would I ever stop crying? It didn’t seem possible. I never thought I’d be the same again.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And the truth is I’m not the same. But in an unexpected way.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here we are now, a year later. The crushing weight is gone. By the grace of the good GOOD Lord, my sweet, precious baby is still in my arms. The pain still lingers sometimes, but not in the same way.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">God took my hopeless, desperate, and defeated spirit and He renewed it. He showed me Himself and overwhelmed me with peace and strength that could only be found in Him. He took my utter despair and turned it into hope. He made Himself so incredibly known to me. He was so real. Not only did he save my baby, but He saved me.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yb5RXJBMjWI/YBr8f__kmwI/AAAAAAAAIHc/_H__H6BeyQEqUv7Ap2nLDhsf2_8LiY2XACNcBGAsYHQ/s960/120821023_10216860584522740_3924105747402161346_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yb5RXJBMjWI/YBr8f__kmwI/AAAAAAAAIHc/_H__H6BeyQEqUv7Ap2nLDhsf2_8LiY2XACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/120821023_10216860584522740_3924105747402161346_n.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">By the time we left LeBonheur, the world was in utter disarray. Pain was everywhere. And if I hadn’t gone through what I had just experienced I probably would’ve joined right in. But instead I KNEW without a doubt who was the One in control. Not the president. Not the doctors. ONLY Jesus. And I had JOY in that. Being back at home with all 3 of my babies felt euphoric. I knew God had a plan and I knew it was good.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">While I admit that I don’t know what God’s plan is for this pandemic and I probably never will this side of Heaven, I trust Him. Because I had the privilege of seeing SO many blessings come about as the result of my suffering. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">To name a few:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">-He healed my baby. He is now 98% in weight and healthy as can be. A precious miracle from God.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">-He gave me a renewed since of motherhood. Before everything I was tired and weary. Having a 5 year old, toddler and newborn was rocking my world. While I still have my moments, I TRULY understand what a blessing my babies are. I try not to take even the most frustrating days for granted. Every single second is a GIFT. Life and health are a gift. Savor it.</div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">-I was able to donate over 800 oz of breastmilk to NICU babies all over the US. Only by the grace of God did He equip me in that way. I pray that it was a blessing and answer to prayer to those parents.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">-He instilled a strong sense of compassion in me. We experienced so much kindness from strangers, nurses, doctors, friends, family, and acquaintances. It made me so aware of how much better I could be doing in that regard. Now when I tell someone I’m going to pray for them, I really mean it. When someone is experiencing something hard, I do better at reaching out by telling them I’m praying for them and asking what I can do. Even with a mask I try to smile at strangers and really ask cashiers how their days have been. The other day I went to pick-up my ClickList and they came out to my car (with backup) to apologize because they lost half of my order. Sure it was inconvenient with a car full of little people, but I said not to worry and I’ll come back later. Accidents happen, I’m aware of that 80 times a day at my house. They were taken aback. They thanked me profusely for not getting angry at them. The must have said it 5 times. Clearly it was not the typical response they get and that made me sad. We all can do better. Even the smallest acts of kindness and understanding can make the hugest difference. It can be the difference in turning someone’s bad day good. I experienced it first hand in my time of need and I pray that I am now able to show others the light of Christ through my actions as well. Not only in an emergency but every day of my life.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">-It has kept my heart focused on what really matters. That silly thing I was worrying about yesterday? God’s got it. That huge thing that gave me anxiety a year ago? God’s got that. Absolutely nothing is out of God’s hands.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">-Due to our insurance situation afterwards I decided to have a mass removed from my back, mostly for cosmetic reasons. I’ve had it since I was a teenager and no less than 5 doctors have told me that it was simply a cyst and nothing to worry about. They all said to leave it alone instead of create an unsightly scar. After it was removed it was found to be a rare diagnosis (like 40 recorded cases ever) that had high potential to become cancerous. So basically, if we hadn’t met our deductible last year with Ollie I would have continued to have trusted the doctors who said not to worry and it could’ve eventually metastasized and killed me. But instead I was able to discover it and have further surgery to remove it entirely. Praise the Lord.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">-My faith is stronger and my fear is weaker. And that is ONLY because I have seen God’s hand in my life and I am confident that His plan is good. Instead of finding panic amongst this pandemic and just 2020 in general, I found peace.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">-I have seen how Ollie’s story has been used to encourage others in their own faith, especially in this crazy year. I’ve had strangers come up to me at the store saying they recognize me from posts and how Ollie helped them through their own dark times. My father-in-law had a stranger approach him at Walmart saying he was praying for my baby. That is the Lord. No other explanation. Even at 6 weeks old God was using him to speak to those 50 times his age. And the amount of people He led to pray for my baby and plead for his life on our behalf continues to overwhelm me. Thank you, God.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CrJ-nutE0YU/YBr864-L6CI/AAAAAAAAIHk/LJ2fGHy5IS49ZPWz0PJusvq_2DvVK3h4gCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/121067524_10216871679240101_3907366064932283767_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CrJ-nutE0YU/YBr864-L6CI/AAAAAAAAIHk/LJ2fGHy5IS49ZPWz0PJusvq_2DvVK3h4gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/121067524_10216871679240101_3907366064932283767_n.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I could go on and on about the things I’ve learned in the last year. We just celebrated my precious boy’s first birthday. There was a day when I didn’t know if I’d ever get to do that. I have the honor of getting to watch him grow and tell him about all of the things the Lord has done through his life. He is such a gift. He is the smiliest, sweetest human I have ever met. He continues to draw people in wherever we go. He’s melted so many hearts and broken down so many barriers. His sweet smile gets so much attention and allows me the opportunity to tell strangers how the Lord saved him.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Let me encourage you. If you’re going through something right now and you don’t see an end in sight, have faith. With Jesus you will get through it. Give it to Him and let Him fill you with peace that only He can give. He will carry your burdens for you. He is the light in the dark dark tunnels.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So a year later here we are. We made it. God has used this past year to guide and heal us in ways we didn’t even know we needed. Not a day goes by when I don’t think about all of it. But every day I have the privilege of looking into my sweet boy’s smiling eyes and seeing how much my God loves me. I pray that his life continues to point all of us to Jesus. He’s a miracle and a blessing and I will praise God forever for giving me my precious Ollie.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rpLBMOtDweI/YBsDjgMiZII/AAAAAAAAIH8/-2ZvEE50m7Y_IjdBLzA_bTzqDrkK1RPOgCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/138317169_10217417668809499_1518863090367535084_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rpLBMOtDweI/YBsDjgMiZII/AAAAAAAAIH8/-2ZvEE50m7Y_IjdBLzA_bTzqDrkK1RPOgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/138317169_10217417668809499_1518863090367535084_n.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">If you'd like to read my first post with Oliver’s story, you can find it here:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2020/06/life-in-2020-praise-him.html">https://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2020/06/life-in-2020-praise-him.html</a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VGJOaBaLhho/YBsDoqZ0DNI/AAAAAAAAIIA/T6xaXUf1dCkBhLtbXz0YLtJ21qkee49WgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/126043617_10217123934906335_5103741510360187182_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VGJOaBaLhho/YBsDoqZ0DNI/AAAAAAAAIIA/T6xaXUf1dCkBhLtbXz0YLtJ21qkee49WgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/126043617_10217123934906335_5103741510360187182_o.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Psalm 139:12</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. </div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Isaiah 43:12</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>John 16:33</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Ephesians 3:20-21</b></div></div>Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-45793827946147947152021-01-27T00:09:00.006-06:002021-01-27T12:16:25.063-06:00Princess Presley is 6! A Unicorn/Rainbow Party<p style="text-align: center;">Well, the unthinkable has happened. My best lady is SIX! I can't believe it. I don't deserve her. I truly don't know how I'd raise my boys without her. She is so incredibly helpful and has just the sweetest, kindest spirit. God blessed me so much when he gave me my girl. She made me a momma and continues to make me so proud every day. Basically, she is magic.</p><p style="text-align: center;">And speaking of magic, what other way to celebrate Princess Pres than with a rainbow/unicorn party?! She actually came up with this theme pretty much the day after her 5th birthday party and we've been planning ever since. I love how involved she gets now. She appreciates every little detail of the things we create and it makes me so happy. A woman after my own heart. She says that next year we're going full mermaid so I'm sure we'll be diving under the sea in no time.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Last year we had 2 parties in the same weekend: One with a few friends and another with family. It was just right so we did it again! On Saturday a few friends came over for crafts, cake, and play. Then Sunday afternoon we had family come celebrate with more food and cake. By Sunday night we were pooped but had so much fun celebrating our girl.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ysB8zh0ltE/YBDzne6zTmI/AAAAAAAAIEc/Af9ZnxwTO-UMYI82tbZck2p2U16bbeE4ACNcBGAsYHQ/s1334/UGOPE1184.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1334" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ysB8zh0ltE/YBDzne6zTmI/AAAAAAAAIEc/Af9ZnxwTO-UMYI82tbZck2p2U16bbeE4ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/UGOPE1184.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b>6 years ago in a land far away,</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Our fairytale began on Presley’s birth day.</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Then came magic and glitter and unicorns with wings!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Rainbows, bright colors and more pretty things!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Now our princess’ day is once again here,</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>and we wish to celebrate with those she holds dear!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Come visit our kingdom, happily ever after awaits;</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>You won’t want to miss it! So please save the date!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I tried to get away without writing a poem for Ollie's birthday and my family revolted. I didn't make that same mistake again. I usually just make a Facebook invite with a cute picture and all of the deets. This saves $$ on invitations/postage and is much easier to keep up with RSVPs. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We had so much fun decorating!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I found this giant horse at TJ Maxx before Christmas! I tried to walk passed it until I heard a quiet whisper in my ear, "You need it, Katie. Pick up the horse." I suddenly don't know what came over me. I found myself carrying this life-size Pegasus through the store, then through the checkout line..before I knew it I had strangers stopping me in the parking lot asking me where in the world I had purchased such a thing. "I'm not sure," I replied. "It's all a blur." I hung my head in shame and reluctantly stuffed it into my car. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The disappointing part is that Santa got all of the cool points for this purchase! Santa also noticed pretty late in the game that Pegasus is JUST a flying horse. How...unimpressive. He does NOT have a horn. Good thing Santa shops at Target as well and found an interesting contraption to strap to his head to solve the problem. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Well, now here we are. The only thing to do with Pegasus is look at him. Believe me. The 3 year old has tried to ride him a few times, to no avail. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Well! It was Peggy's time to shine! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ljQAu0Py-bU/YBDd0bDqQdI/AAAAAAAAICA/OZuTtOIw6KEyP5Qi2vKrTPlkf8xe935hACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3810.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ljQAu0Py-bU/YBDd0bDqQdI/AAAAAAAAICA/OZuTtOIw6KEyP5Qi2vKrTPlkf8xe935hACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3810.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ju9wPYRFPBE/YBDd0O4DmRI/AAAAAAAAIB8/NGpvbOHgtuE5uQo12CxQ8tmI3PrpWAFVQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3811.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ju9wPYRFPBE/YBDd0O4DmRI/AAAAAAAAIB8/NGpvbOHgtuE5uQo12CxQ8tmI3PrpWAFVQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3811.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I made this "6" to hang on the door out of poster board, glittery foam paper and misc trinkets I found amongst my craft supplies.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9hroBs7nnv4/YBDhwQ3h2LI/AAAAAAAAICU/n4OZuMB2a08gmJ5WNGo3tQ8D0iqrpsjPgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3812.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9hroBs7nnv4/YBDhwQ3h2LI/AAAAAAAAICU/n4OZuMB2a08gmJ5WNGo3tQ8D0iqrpsjPgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3812.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-df7fJmV8rFE/YBDhwd9mO9I/AAAAAAAAICQ/bHqlKzSrIEABK0J6WyCEaKiRVLH-XDb5wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3813.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-df7fJmV8rFE/YBDhwd9mO9I/AAAAAAAAICQ/bHqlKzSrIEABK0J6WyCEaKiRVLH-XDb5wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3813.JPG" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">I made 5 large glittery stars out of single-sheet scrapbook paper from Hobby Lobby. I glued them to clear thread and hung them from the ceiling with Command hooks. I found the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RM1QYW1/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s04?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">iridescent doorway curtains on Amazon</a>! They were $8 for 2 of them. My mom found the pink balloon cluster on clearance at Michaels. She used it to decorate her car when she picked Pres up from school and a week later IT'S STILL LIVING! I just taped them to my wall with packing tape because classy.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6e6Sh2cYcr4/YBDiJBMvIhI/AAAAAAAAICg/dv8TZ1ULVYQdvEnhLcS12d83XtkobWgqACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1128.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6e6Sh2cYcr4/YBDiJBMvIhI/AAAAAAAAICg/dv8TZ1ULVYQdvEnhLcS12d83XtkobWgqACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1128.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">I found this unicorn banner at Five Below for, you guessed it, $5! It had another piece that said "Birthday" but I thought "Magical Birthday" was a weird exclamation to put on the wall. It was giving me Dwight Schrute "It is your birthday" vibes. "Have a magical birthday" would've been acceptable. I probably put more thought into than I should have. It is what it is. So I only used half.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nqQ_Z8kyyOo/YBDiI_YAn1I/AAAAAAAAICk/Hxq0gcwWy0gZFpUC-A4Zw9vhhCiohcNwgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1129.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nqQ_Z8kyyOo/YBDiI_YAn1I/AAAAAAAAICk/Hxq0gcwWy0gZFpUC-A4Zw9vhhCiohcNwgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1129.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gUxB774P1P4/YBDiJWpqFyI/AAAAAAAAICo/CXLkTvwVhd83Hx-jfcBpmt2k5TQy-tz4wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3763.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gUxB774P1P4/YBDiJWpqFyI/AAAAAAAAICo/CXLkTvwVhd83Hx-jfcBpmt2k5TQy-tz4wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3763.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The dining room is always my favorite room to decorate! This is where I go all out. I only had food on the table for the family party. I just provided cake and ice cream for the friend party. These pictures are from the second party. It was rainy then so Pegasus made his debut indoors.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And when I say food I mean sweets. A lot of sweets. We couldn't resist. It was at 3:30, right after naptime and before dinner, so I figured it was acceptable. It probably wasn't but I'd do it again.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T18fN1cT3QM/YBDkTJkaqHI/AAAAAAAAIC4/RfR_QL1daS80luIeYIZ8_w7ERhw4-xYqgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1118.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T18fN1cT3QM/YBDkTJkaqHI/AAAAAAAAIC4/RfR_QL1daS80luIeYIZ8_w7ERhw4-xYqgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1118.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xa-KVhWpU6c/YBDkTI-w-cI/AAAAAAAAIC8/wvxjt_lVEJQ4Z9guT_qvECDJRIqLIDhlQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1136.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xa-KVhWpU6c/YBDkTI-w-cI/AAAAAAAAIC8/wvxjt_lVEJQ4Z9guT_qvECDJRIqLIDhlQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1136.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I told yall you'd be seeing this balloon arch at every party forever. I wasn't lying! I promise to change it up though. This time I used this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08FH5NWXV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">pastel balloon set from Amazon</a> to create a magical balloon rainbow. $7 well spent. I traced and cut out more stars in different sizes to tape to the balloons AND covered it in twinkle lights! And what's more magical than<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075NHR4DC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank"> twinkle lights</a>? I found them also on Amazon and used both strands. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I already had the subtle purple overlay (purchased as a piece of fabric from Joann) and found the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011BIFX4C/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">champagne-colored sequin table cloth</a> on Amazon for just $12. I then covered the table in more glittery paper stars and some cute unicorn-themed glitter I found on the craft aisle at Target (near the party/office supplies). I also found the white tiered serving tray in the Dollar Spot at Target for just $5! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">For our sparkling sweets we had:</div><div style="text-align: center;">White chocolate covered unicorn strawberries</div><div style="text-align: center;">Unicorn "Little Debbies"</div><div style="text-align: center;">Lucky Charms "rice krispie treats"</div><div style="text-align: center;">Fruit with glittery, sweet unicorn dip</div><div style="text-align: center;">Rainbow pasta salad</div><div style="text-align: center;">CAKE</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3UUY8uS5paw/YBDx9dCh_fI/AAAAAAAAIDE/BEsuxzDOov8-goCPFczaky9hsyJp-6tXwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1122.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3UUY8uS5paw/YBDx9dCh_fI/AAAAAAAAIDE/BEsuxzDOov8-goCPFczaky9hsyJp-6tXwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1122.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The unicorn strawberries were a true labor of love. They started off a disaster. But then I began to embrace my new role as a chocolatier and things started falling into place. The trickiest part was getting the chocolate the right consistency for the pink hair and eyes. 4 seconds in the microwave and it was too liquidy. 4 seconds in the fridge and it was too hard. I eventually figured out that having a cup of warm water nearby worked wonders as the chocolate hardened in the piping bag. A few days before the party I made the horns and ears out of fondant (purchased at HL). The night before the party I dipped the berries in the white chocolate and stuck on the horns and ears (this must be done when the base is still wet). Then I did the eyes, hair and pink cheeks (edible petal dust from my local cake supply store) the day of. But they turned out so cute and yummy that they were totally worth it. So if you're local and you'd like to order some for Valentines Day I'm actually taking orders! I know I know. Getting a little over zealous. However, they made me feel like French royalty (probably not a thing) so I'm accepting it. *Kisses fingers into the air dramatically as notes of cocao and berry float around blissfully in the air, wrapping me in a tight hug full of warmth, comfort, and endless love*</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Ahem</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Moving on</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YgjUf-cjZcc/YBDyGHZeXcI/AAAAAAAAIDI/EMzkRZ7mMqQOv1fw1cB7WjiwHgolQi9VwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1133.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YgjUf-cjZcc/YBDyGHZeXcI/AAAAAAAAIDI/EMzkRZ7mMqQOv1fw1cB7WjiwHgolQi9VwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1133.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I found the unicorn cakes on the "snack cake" aisle at Kroger! They come in a box $2/8 and they are SO TASTY! No labor of love needed. I simply unwrapped them and placed them on my $5 Dollar Spot find and looked fancy AF doing it. I got the paper mache "6" at Hobby Lobby and traced it onto more glitter paper and just glued it on.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H6esVJMRlzA/YBDyTceoCyI/AAAAAAAAIDQ/cW0c0XX7vt8u56zQECXZPuIo-nnq25VyACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1130.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H6esVJMRlzA/YBDyTceoCyI/AAAAAAAAIDQ/cW0c0XX7vt8u56zQECXZPuIo-nnq25VyACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1130.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I followed <a href="https://www.momsandmunchkins.ca/lucky-charms-marshmallow-treats/?epik=dj0yJnU9bzh2WmJfWkVfUVdtcGhJOF9Lc0NuMEJjQkpINjhEWXMmcD0wJm49VjdsOG51SFh5TU4wNHA5UkdURTR6dyZ0PUFBQUFBR0FRNnJN" target="_blank">this recipe</a> to make Lucky Charms Treats. I made them the day before. No Rice Krispies were used in the making of these delicious treats. I think my son snuck and ate at least 5 during the party, which is probably why he was so lit. They're made of just Lucky Charms, marshmallows and butter. A perfect trio. Need I say more?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The fondant rainbow I made for the little cake we had the day before and I repurposed it here. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i1FLJe2A2qk/YBDyqs1GYyI/AAAAAAAAIDc/cbkm_U2hB3YTPULdbTLr4-yADZLivv5hgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3855.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i1FLJe2A2qk/YBDyqs1GYyI/AAAAAAAAIDc/cbkm_U2hB3YTPULdbTLr4-yADZLivv5hgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3855.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iPFI8xCboo0/YBDyq6iV6PI/AAAAAAAAIDg/AK6EL3RPw0gF-NEkbjv5HdYqjCQ9fCDnACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3856.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iPFI8xCboo0/YBDyq6iV6PI/AAAAAAAAIDg/AK6EL3RPw0gF-NEkbjv5HdYqjCQ9fCDnACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3856.JPG" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">The "unicorn" dip really did me in. I think I passed out and came back to life after one taste. Much like the day when Pegasus came home with me in my back seat. It was a gift from the Lord. I found the <a href="https://www.simplisticallyliving.com/unicorn-dip/?epik=dj0yJnU9d05fc1QwR1o0bDRPaXFlRWNIUXd3aHBWVzgzZlhIZVEmcD0wJm49RW95WWlYRFpRN3pYekxvaDV0cWtSUSZ0PUFBQUFBR0FRNjNJ" target="_blank">recipe here</a>. HOWEVER, LET ME WARN YOU! The recipe says to use THREE DANG CUPS OF SUGAR. The more I thought about that concept the more I laughed because that amount of sugar would've literally made my children launch off to space and I would've never seen them again. Basically, someone who made this recipe as it stands on the website is still not okay. I put maybe a tablespoon of sugar in it and had a sugar buzz for an hour. Granted I had like a pound of it in one sitting but dang! THREE CUPS? I truly can't imagine. Surely it is a typo. I read it appx 100 times thinking it said tbsp or something and I wasn't seeing correctly. So now you can't say I didn't warn you. I mean it has marshmallow fluff, cream cheese, and heavy whipping cream in it. Even if you emitted the sugar all together it'd still taste like King Neptune smiled upon it. To top it off I added rainbow sprinkles and edible glitter which truly made it irresistible. My kids and I have been binge-eating the leftovers with graham crackers like we have no shame. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AHLRT02tFes/YBDy0TDpu4I/AAAAAAAAIDk/dzn6IjgYA9gVhE_RwmxruT298ZfTaK0DwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3840.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AHLRT02tFes/YBDy0TDpu4I/AAAAAAAAIDk/dzn6IjgYA9gVhE_RwmxruT298ZfTaK0DwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3840.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W3LVY-CMCJQ/YBDy4S5ZhfI/AAAAAAAAIDo/X2HyD7oRFKQQt6H9Vzuy2tZ9sSf22XlfACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3838.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W3LVY-CMCJQ/YBDy4S5ZhfI/AAAAAAAAIDo/X2HyD7oRFKQQt6H9Vzuy2tZ9sSf22XlfACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3838.JPG" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">So for the pasta salad I found a recipe that looked good then found another tutorial on how to dye pasta. The result was, well, magical. My husband and I were rationing the leftovers. The basic pasta salad recipe is linked <a href="https://doughmesstic.com/2012/05/25/dreamfields-summer-pasta-broccoli-saladand-a-contest/?epik=dj0yJnU9ajJyTXFGbjltbzhwZ3VNUTllQzd4Y2g5ZVVUR1Z3am0mcD0wJm49VG1jSzlvUXNCdTV3aGpoOHNDSkVvdyZ0PUFBQUFBR0FRNzQw" target="_blank">here</a>. Dying the pasta is so simple! And it would be so fun to do with regular noodles for spaghetti night or something to make the kids excited to eat it. I mean, you don't have to tell me pasta's for dinner twice. I'm already at the table before you start cookin. But my kids are a different story. They don't know what's good. But all you do is cook the pasta al dente, drain it, separate it into ziplocs (as many bags as colors as you want), add 3 cups of sugar to....LOL sorry! Can't stop thinking about the fruit dip. Ok ok. Where was I? Separate the noodles into baggies, add 2 tbsp of warm water to each bag and a few drops of food coloring. So 1 bag for blue, 1 bag for green, etc. Slosh it around and voila! Magic! Be sure to rinse each colored bag of noodles separately in a colander as not to mix the colors as you rinse off the excess dye. The most fun part was combining it back together and seeing the beautiful noodle oasis you had created. IDK what a noodle oasis is but it sounds LOVELY!</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1_hhfudq5Zk/YBDzEViLeHI/AAAAAAAAID0/WCjHcSGNRMoByfFv_rkQEGxtUpNdScuHQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1125.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1_hhfudq5Zk/YBDzEViLeHI/AAAAAAAAID0/WCjHcSGNRMoByfFv_rkQEGxtUpNdScuHQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1125.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6gD-vgh0XsM/YBDzEmt8y5I/AAAAAAAAID4/55Slo1pq2tw5MItu5Ji1BpF5HdcrymZ9QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3719.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6gD-vgh0XsM/YBDzEmt8y5I/AAAAAAAAID4/55Slo1pq2tw5MItu5Ji1BpF5HdcrymZ9QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3719.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWJRU3cnLCU/YBDzJDYZQvI/AAAAAAAAIEA/1pIFB6rYDtkCoD9lcluj4UVQAhh_YtJfwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3865.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWJRU3cnLCU/YBDzJDYZQvI/AAAAAAAAIEA/1pIFB6rYDtkCoD9lcluj4UVQAhh_YtJfwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3865.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">I've mentioned before but I actually have a cake business. I'm no longer making cakes for hire because I have 100 kids. But I still love baking for my babies. I loved the sprinkle collage (is that what these are called? Sprinkle sets? Sprinkle collection? Sprinkle MishMosh? PishPosh? Sprinkle mahem? SPRINKLE ASSORTMENT- THAT'S THE WORD!) I couldn't find what I was looking for so I made my own. I found Wilton brand Valentine's sprinkles in the Valentines section at Target and went from there. It was super cute and had most of what I was looking for. I removed the gold arrow sprinkles individually because I'm terrible at archery and felt personally attacked by them (or they just didn't match). And apparently I have too much time on my hands. I added more gold and rainbow sprinkles I already had to tie everything together. </p><p style="text-align: center;">SO, that was all for the family party. For the kid party I made a little 6 inch rainbow cake to serve a much smaller crowd. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SSPBEi_d3ic/YBDzUOulcvI/AAAAAAAAIEM/4VoBXQvDWVEmHHQ8dry3yypcm4aFypXfgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3709.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1778" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SSPBEi_d3ic/YBDzUOulcvI/AAAAAAAAIEM/4VoBXQvDWVEmHHQ8dry3yypcm4aFypXfgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3709.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uwtIHcZbEtY/YBDzUS3cGmI/AAAAAAAAIEQ/Jp2gjFW5dkAn2MmhL4AIVlU__W72NtYRwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3756.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uwtIHcZbEtY/YBDzUS3cGmI/AAAAAAAAIEQ/Jp2gjFW5dkAn2MmhL4AIVlU__W72NtYRwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3756.JPG" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">On the other side of the room is the table for plates/napkins/utensils and I always have a themed book for everyone to sign, kind of like a guest book. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDEBwUMnyk4/YBD0B6PqSjI/AAAAAAAAIEs/sPa-EyTceIoVpF7bS3TIw9E_9rwjZm88QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3707.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDEBwUMnyk4/YBD0B6PqSjI/AAAAAAAAIEs/sPa-EyTceIoVpF7bS3TIw9E_9rwjZm88QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3707.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hpFn1ieIv5M/YBD0BfcB6RI/AAAAAAAAIEo/iRjCY1TIOnM9ae1omKNEtC0AZmL2nPyWACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3755.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hpFn1ieIv5M/YBD0BfcB6RI/AAAAAAAAIEo/iRjCY1TIOnM9ae1omKNEtC0AZmL2nPyWACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3755.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pA1BqNc1itM/YBD0A7qWTQI/AAAAAAAAIEk/LbdoODCDE0Q9THo2vvN-muY2M2yana8LwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3757.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pA1BqNc1itM/YBD0A7qWTQI/AAAAAAAAIEk/LbdoODCDE0Q9THo2vvN-muY2M2yana8LwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3757.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yguhOSXhAzo/YBD0CBZdHiI/AAAAAAAAIEw/zSSuD-ltbfQALfAiQ6hfzh6fgKVD2dRpwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3760.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yguhOSXhAzo/YBD0CBZdHiI/AAAAAAAAIEw/zSSuD-ltbfQALfAiQ6hfzh6fgKVD2dRpwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3760.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I found this unicorn pinata at HL for $15 and I used my 40% off coupon. I wanted him to match better so I cut up some gold streamers I already had and glued them in his hair. I'm just a little extra but it was bothering me a lot more than it should have.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7QHfSn3ISrU/YBD0I1YXKfI/AAAAAAAAIE0/-UUypi3hshc6t6Zkz6CLkDR-i165obpLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2049/IMG_1135.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2049" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7QHfSn3ISrU/YBD0I1YXKfI/AAAAAAAAIE0/-UUypi3hshc6t6Zkz6CLkDR-i165obpLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1135.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">For the girls' party favors we had a plethora of things. I made all of them a bag and it included a sparkly mask lanyard (another one of my random business ventures I did this year), homemade unicorn slime, a really creepy and slightly unsettling rubber finger puppet I came across at the Osh Kosh B'Gosh in Florida this summer, and their homemade crafts!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LaqZnxglO3U/YBD3Wc16IuI/AAAAAAAAIFU/HqBSE_sXD3QF3lObdO4wx1IXekS9iayWgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/143438397_509111830462647_1689198055630237527_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LaqZnxglO3U/YBD3Wc16IuI/AAAAAAAAIFU/HqBSE_sXD3QF3lObdO4wx1IXekS9iayWgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/143438397_509111830462647_1689198055630237527_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K4yZohsjzkc/YBD3Ws7a5hI/AAAAAAAAIFY/cVHuQ2Ex4hklJ610ALek6CIBt4pRwMxqQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3803.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K4yZohsjzkc/YBD3Ws7a5hI/AAAAAAAAIFY/cVHuQ2Ex4hklJ610ALek6CIBt4pRwMxqQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3803.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">First were these cute unicorn slime jars. I was originally going to let them make this as a craft but decided they'd rather play and I just made it myself. I got all of the supplies at HL. The jars were $1 each and I used glitter foam to make the horns, white paper for the ears, paper flowers from the scrapbooking area, and black puffy paint for the eyes. Make sure the jar lids are screwed on tight before you paint the eyes. I made this mistake and they weren't lining up with the tops when screwed on tight. I had to wipe off and start over.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The slime was so easy. I used 2 bottles of clear Elmer's glue, 2.5 tbsp contact solution, 1 tbsp baking soda and some of the leftover unicorn glitter from Target (a softer, less pointy glitter will work better). Just mix it all together and eventually it turns into slime! Pretty cool. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v4H-3YsHdDE/YBD0tvw41hI/AAAAAAAAIFE/8A2wmYtueCsWGZDY7yAPBPGvUAeTFKfmgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3695.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v4H-3YsHdDE/YBD0tvw41hI/AAAAAAAAIFE/8A2wmYtueCsWGZDY7yAPBPGvUAeTFKfmgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3695.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2No2rmV-tS0/YBD0tsMRcNI/AAAAAAAAIFI/--mt-ZEgdwM5FHwLToyYpDPQeJiWI2VyQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3697.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2No2rmV-tS0/YBD0tsMRcNI/AAAAAAAAIFI/--mt-ZEgdwM5FHwLToyYpDPQeJiWI2VyQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3697.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">I had 2 crafts for the girls to do before I released them to open presents and go play, which is what they really wanted to be doing anyways. We made cute little unicorn canvases that took maybe 10 minutes and beaded some bracelets, which took another...10 minutes. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QrJmPK6vui0/YBD3vw40eCI/AAAAAAAAIFk/-_Yo07PahzoNtxP1kdnCIqEnJdCRXlZowCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/143223546_444573860192766_6649131458107595299_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QrJmPK6vui0/YBD3vw40eCI/AAAAAAAAIFk/-_Yo07PahzoNtxP1kdnCIqEnJdCRXlZowCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/143223546_444573860192766_6649131458107595299_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I got the wooden easels at Joann's for $1.50 each (I spray painted them blue) along with the tiny canvases that were the cutest things ever, also $1.50 each. I traced out the eyes on all of them so the girls could have a template. I gave them Sharpies to draw the eyes and crayons to color the cheeks and inside the ears, that I already had cut out of white paper. I also had the sparkly unicorn horns prepared and I let them pick their flowers. Then my MIL hot glued them all together. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">For the DIY bracelets I got the cute cording and alphabet beads at THE DOLLAR TREE WHO KNEW and the larger beads at HL. They were $2 a bag and I got 2 bags total. One bag actually had unicorn and rainbow beads. Nailed it. So this craft cost $7 total and they loved their beautiful creations. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's is the kitchen decor where they did their creating:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KJYYgH_Lyi4/YBD4703vXUI/AAAAAAAAIF4/JQuFutD3yZkk5JPMnnmN4N8fAbbnWghtACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3768.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KJYYgH_Lyi4/YBD4703vXUI/AAAAAAAAIF4/JQuFutD3yZkk5JPMnnmN4N8fAbbnWghtACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3768.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I found these star plates at The Dollar Tree (again 8/$1!) and used them as place settings. I wrote their names on them and it was a good place for them to craft on. I included some unicorn horns I found in the party section at Target for less than $3. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ptwo-YsMsIk/YBD47BoeeEI/AAAAAAAAIFw/7uxqQsDZgTcW1s5Vs8xMlCeRzDrq7nylgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3767.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ptwo-YsMsIk/YBD47BoeeEI/AAAAAAAAIFw/7uxqQsDZgTcW1s5Vs8xMlCeRzDrq7nylgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3767.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I actually made the Happy Birthday banner for Presley's 2nd birthday and have re-used it at almost every party since. So versatile! The <a href="https://www.target.com/p/faux-floral-garland-spritz-8482/-/A-54251107?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df_free_local&CPNG=Seasonal&adgroup=53-21">felt hanging flower banner </a>behind the birthday banner was also a Target party aisle find. So cute and only a few dollars! I got the rainbow pinata also at HL and used my 40% off coupon making it around $7. I re-purposed the gold star confetti from <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2020/11/bud-lightyear-is-3-toy-story-party.html" target="_blank">Bud's Lightyear is 3</a> a few months ago (originally from Amazon).</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9y-aoWRlLXU/YBD461MRG_I/AAAAAAAAIFs/oc3jyDz-UFok2m-sTtRxFnsN-PAxbgUIQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3751.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9y-aoWRlLXU/YBD461MRG_I/AAAAAAAAIFs/oc3jyDz-UFok2m-sTtRxFnsN-PAxbgUIQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3751.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gRwKXMq8enI/YBD47Hh6JNI/AAAAAAAAIF0/rldBZk51nQctuXWrBfm3DqoItYUDYorVwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3704.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gRwKXMq8enI/YBD47Hh6JNI/AAAAAAAAIF0/rldBZk51nQctuXWrBfm3DqoItYUDYorVwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3704.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The living room has the bar where I serve drinks and I made a unicorn backdrop for pictures and to just look pretty. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I found this gold fringe garland at Target as well! I only bought enough for one doorway, which was a miscalculation on my part. It was way too narrow because the bar is the size of 2+ doorways. Instead of buying another one like a normal person, I spent like an hour crafting it into a longer version, strand by strand. I had to cut it in half anyways because it was too long, so I glued the excess to a long piece of cardboard to keep it going. Basically, I would not recommend. However it actually turned out ok! I hung a white plastic table cloth behind it so you couldn't see through and added more glitter paper stars. I had a strand of pink lights, more little star confetti, and this cute unicorn sign from HL. I just served pink lemonade and blue Hawaiian punch.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6xkKyr6cp1Y/YBD6qs7bDwI/AAAAAAAAIGU/439trE14xb0qlAVaMvQ1CYLx1taO67tOQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1142.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6xkKyr6cp1Y/YBD6qs7bDwI/AAAAAAAAIGU/439trE14xb0qlAVaMvQ1CYLx1taO67tOQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1142.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OkP7UOU1ELU/YBD6sv6uBOI/AAAAAAAAIGc/zRh1S5bXHkciPzhSbGg8iuATiHSiQaF3QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3869.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OkP7UOU1ELU/YBD6sv6uBOI/AAAAAAAAIGc/zRh1S5bXHkciPzhSbGg8iuATiHSiQaF3QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3869.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I already had this backdrop stand/fabric that I've used a million times (much like my balloon arch) and I will continue using it until I die. Many years ago I decorated for a dance at my church. I bought this white rosette fabric and ended up sewing 2 big pieces together so it would be large enough for a photo backdrop. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I looked everywhere for a paper flower tutorial but a lot of places want you to pay for a template, which would still require a ton of tracing and cutting and gluing. I finally came across this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GCXFBRK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">unicorn face on Amazon </a>for only $12. "Alright Alright," she said in her best Matthew McConoaughey voice. I didn't like the ear/horn material, BUT I was able to use that as a template to trace the design onto paper that I did like. Simple. The paper flowers still required a lot of TLC but no tracing. I just had to punch out the pieces and hot glue them together. Not hard, just a little time consuming. The eyes are felt and I kept them as is. Definitely worth it. I hung some curtain LED lights (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B084M65H6Z/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">purchased on Amazon </a>for Christmas..truly magical) behind the fabric to make it twinkle. It was really pretty and the pictures turned out real nice. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NZyYdsWXNts/YBD6tHsf-vI/AAAAAAAAIGg/BlNVKU1fcFMLjFpqZQTSN53bVy3CZQqiwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3764.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NZyYdsWXNts/YBD6tHsf-vI/AAAAAAAAIGg/BlNVKU1fcFMLjFpqZQTSN53bVy3CZQqiwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3764.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jg3YuCE-dZk/YBD6qfcHuUI/AAAAAAAAIGM/Py0DQt4oCiglXwkaFoIMLRyO58A1mH8EQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1519/IMG_1159.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1383" data-original-width="1519" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jg3YuCE-dZk/YBD6qfcHuUI/AAAAAAAAIGM/Py0DQt4oCiglXwkaFoIMLRyO58A1mH8EQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1159.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UeybeKyYZZI/YBD6qWm_zZI/AAAAAAAAIGQ/tZhbI2ZFpzASUxFFV3CLlj8soicAoq0AQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1179.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UeybeKyYZZI/YBD6qWm_zZI/AAAAAAAAIGQ/tZhbI2ZFpzASUxFFV3CLlj8soicAoq0AQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1179.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Ohhhhhh I love them</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IN-HhE3YNGQ/YBD6rLl3ObI/AAAAAAAAIGY/Bih__ZJ7Gz013j2ElimM7PbqwusBk5qggCNcBGAsYHQ/s1914/IMG_1181.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1364" data-original-width="1914" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IN-HhE3YNGQ/YBD6rLl3ObI/AAAAAAAAIGY/Bih__ZJ7Gz013j2ElimM7PbqwusBk5qggCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1181.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And that was that! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another year in the books for my sweet PP. And my whirlwind birthday party extravaganza is over for now. Somehow I birthed all of my children around the same time (1 in November and 2 in January) which is proving itself to be quite complicated. Add in my birthday in October, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years and it's one big party over here for 3 straight months! I'm tired. But I'm sure I'll come up with another crazy project in no time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thank you so much for reading! Have a magical week! Pegasuses and unicorn dip for everyone!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p></div>Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-84402148436121455622021-01-10T20:34:00.002-06:002021-01-11T21:03:11.703-06:00Our Little Nugget is ONE- A Chick Fil A Birthday<p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you know us</span></span>, you know we are Chick Fil A's BIGGEST fans. Not to be dramatic, but it is an integral part of our lives. In fact, my husband Matt was a Chick Fil A employee when he was a teenager. Uhhh FATE! I actually remember going to the CFA where he worked when I was 15 and he was on the register. Like, we knew each other but weren't close or anything. In those days I liked my chicken sandwich without pickles, but I didn't want him to think I was high maintenance. So I was sure not to mention that in my order that he was taking. LOL. Young love. And now we've been married almost 10 years and, pickle fetish aside, he would probably tell you I'm high maintenance. But IT'S TOO LATE, MATTY! And now I actually love pickles so we've come full circle over here. I should've known that Chick Fil A knew the way to the perfect sandwich all along. They always know what's best for me. Bless you, Truett Cathy. Bless you, CFA.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I digress. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So Cow Appreciation Day (ahem THE most wonderful day of the year) is a v important right of passage in our family. We cancel all plans that day so we can enjoy the Lord's' bounty over and over again while continually thanking Him for his goodness to us in this way. Since it was cancelled last year due to Covid, we decided to just make our own! And what better way to celebrate the sweetest boy than with the Lord’s food? It just made sense. We made his first official unofficial cow day one to remember.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is our pregnancy announcement on Cow Day in 2019. In case you didn't believe our dedication was real.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--iZ307iKXNE/X_uDXkjl23I/AAAAAAAAIAk/-3B2WiCCtJUecd4WMOs_ot97oXUJqcwJgCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/66213090_10213597139458653_5725619257325125632_n.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--iZ307iKXNE/X_uDXkjl23I/AAAAAAAAIAk/-3B2WiCCtJUecd4WMOs_ot97oXUJqcwJgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/66213090_10213597139458653_5725619257325125632_n.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We had so much fun celebrating our little nugget turning one! We had a smaller celebration than usual to keep everyone safe. Ollie, you’re sweeter than sweet tea and you have so many people who love you SO much! It was truly MY PLEASURE to plan and throw this birthday for you, Buddy.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">If you don't know my sweet boy's story you can read a little bit about it <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">here</a>. Basically, his life is an absolute miracle and we are completely smitten with him. The smiliest, happiest man on the planet. We owe his life to the good Lord and know that each and every day with him is a gift. That being said, this birthday was an emotional one for me. There was a day last year that I thought about how painful January 8 was going to be for the rest of my life. I was so sure I was about to lose my boy. But praise the Lord for healing my Ollie. In those hard months, God taught me so much about relying on Him and Him alone. So instead of crying tears of sadness this year, I cried tears of joy. Because I get to watch my son grow. I'm bursting with thankfulness. I get to hold him everyday and kiss him and tell him I love him over and over again. He made 2020 SO worth it. He is the greatest gift and I will never stop praising the good GOOD Lord for giving him to me. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So without further ado, </div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Our Little Nugget Is ONE</b>! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Starting with his Facebook party invitation:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What makes us warm and fuzzy and filled with much glee?</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chicken sandwiches, sweet tea and our little Ollie!</div><div style="text-align: center;">What better way to celebrate our man turning one</div><div style="text-align: center;">Than with nuggets and fries and parfaits and fun!?</div><div style="text-align: center;">It’s MY PLEASURE to invite you to share in our joy!</div><div style="text-align: center;">So come Eat Mor Chikin with our precious boy!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BanxfT0jhEE/X_t9c5GM7CI/AAAAAAAAIAc/VczUbU-jm4s2ku-cdhfltr5sZjPe0u3lgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1874/BLFDE9617.JPG"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BanxfT0jhEE/X_t9c5GM7CI/AAAAAAAAIAc/VczUbU-jm4s2ku-cdhfltr5sZjPe0u3lgCNcBGAsYHQ/w400-h253/BLFDE9617.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">For this party I didn't get a ton of inspiration from Pinterest so I had to actually come up with original ideas. GASP! However, it wasn't too hard because CFA lives in my heart. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Like always, I'll just walk you through the house starting with the entry! I found this i<a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">nflatable cow on Amazon</a> for $8 and it spoke to me. Hobby Lobby (the next love of my life...next time) had these cow print balloons in their farm party section. $1.59 for 10. To celebrate, my overzealous 3 year old promptly (and I mean promptly) released them. So they partied in the neighbor's tree instead (sorry, neighbors). For the door decor I just used a canvas, paint, paper, ribbon and Mod Podge. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3jUfSPM1rMY/X_t9FBBDHwI/AAAAAAAAH_c/ibksu2Xdh2QM0aL-zt_J9nf7DC7PiLTlgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3360.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3jUfSPM1rMY/X_t9FBBDHwI/AAAAAAAAH_c/ibksu2Xdh2QM0aL-zt_J9nf7DC7PiLTlgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3360.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mvhPzvcS8OM/X_t9FStnC4I/AAAAAAAAH_g/LwXyH3aCNnQ6lsePfauoeFp8jvvdJjEewCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3362.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mvhPzvcS8OM/X_t9FStnC4I/AAAAAAAAH_g/LwXyH3aCNnQ6lsePfauoeFp8jvvdJjEewCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3362.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">For the entry I just hung these red pinwheels from the ceiling (also from Hobby Lobby that I bought for my 6 year old daughter's <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">THIRD birthday</a>. I think I've used them appx 40 times since. They've seen better days but were perfect for yet another occasion). I also found this red striped banner at HL on clearance for $1. I Googled "chick fil a font" and found the whole alphabet. The more you know. I used that to copy his name onto the banner with a Sharpie.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7XFYmTTeBM/X_t9Dd3baRI/AAAAAAAAH-4/Vo1RcvnBv8QyyGXd2zAydgMvzakae_iJQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1093.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7XFYmTTeBM/X_t9Dd3baRI/AAAAAAAAH-4/Vo1RcvnBv8QyyGXd2zAydgMvzakae_iJQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1093.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-slhTnU5BZCM/X_t9CWZkXcI/AAAAAAAAH-k/CdeO3iF3F0U6iHm4tZelPqpV7wowCRfLACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1086.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-slhTnU5BZCM/X_t9CWZkXcI/AAAAAAAAH-k/CdeO3iF3F0U6iHm4tZelPqpV7wowCRfLACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1086.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The dining room is the food room...so the best room. I bought my <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">balloon arch b</a>ase on Amazon a few years ago and I hope you're ready to see it at every party forever and ever amen. I'm obsessed. It's so versatile. I bought 4 packs of balloons at Hobby Lobby ($1.59 each), got out my pump (trust me, you'll want a pump), and turned my house into a balloon pit for a few hours until I had time to assemble. The children were in heaven. I always get cool mom points on balloon arch day. Just be sure to expect a few casualties. The balloons, not the children. Just to be clear.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8WJaQ6VxFks/X_t9EHFoYHI/AAAAAAAAH_Q/g-hnbSz82LMsNRIBJ3QmMrVelQDQHyU7wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1986%2B%252812%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8WJaQ6VxFks/X_t9EHFoYHI/AAAAAAAAH_Q/g-hnbSz82LMsNRIBJ3QmMrVelQDQHyU7wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1986%2B%252812%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W-gqfNQU7Nw/X_t9Bbn8NMI/AAAAAAAAH-c/XNS5Q56kPFkIxbW9WThCa2eVoXjlCfSDgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%25289%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W-gqfNQU7Nw/X_t9Bbn8NMI/AAAAAAAAH-c/XNS5Q56kPFkIxbW9WThCa2eVoXjlCfSDgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%25289%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6OZoVhxAuMQ/X_t9BphfmyI/AAAAAAAAH-g/cGAjvHHDsw8yKpsgWt_Si8xqWj_JcbwBwCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/1%2B%25288%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6OZoVhxAuMQ/X_t9BphfmyI/AAAAAAAAH-g/cGAjvHHDsw8yKpsgWt_Si8xqWj_JcbwBwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%25288%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">On the menu:</div><div style="text-align: center;">A chicken nugget platter from CFA DUH</div><div style="text-align: center;">Our 3 favorite large sauce bottles (you know you can buy these at CFA for $2.50 each??)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Waffle fries </div><div style="text-align: center;">Yogurt parfaits</div><div style="text-align: center;">Copycat CFA mac n cheese</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ijie2Ugwkyk/X_t9BGyZ6MI/AAAAAAAAH-Y/HLC0tSd9vEAkHYCbtnLoziOSYcKilCFTACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%25287%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ijie2Ugwkyk/X_t9BGyZ6MI/AAAAAAAAH-Y/HLC0tSd9vEAkHYCbtnLoziOSYcKilCFTACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%25287%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is the Lord's food.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The mac and cheese was a true labor of love. I first saw the price on the CFA catering menu and felt personally attacked. But then I paused and thought, certainly this is for a reason. I know their intentions are pure and it surely must be worth it. Well, I found a copycat recipe online and now understand that it is worth every penny. It took me a solid hour of active cooking (plus 30+ min of grating the day before) while my children destroyed the house. However, the result was an angelic symphony of cheeses singing the Hallelujah Chorus on my tongue. An out of body experience. Remarkable. The recipe said it feeds FOUR. So I doubled it crossing my fingers that it was enough. Well, by four I think they meant four hundred. Times 2. I rejoice. So I [<i>accidentally]</i> made appx 8 tons of it. Blessings. The leftovers have been making my heart soar. You can find the recipe <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">here</a>. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I did replace the BellaVitano Gold cheese (like, what is this- I could find it nowhere) with a Gouda block from Trader Joes. I read that the Gold cheese was nutty. So I did some forensic work and found that Gouda is also nutty. Then the last step called for a torch. Yes. Torch. So I borrowed one from my brother to melt the cheese on top (it's not actually baked). But as soon as I triggered the blaze I instantly assumed my new role as a flame-throwing cartoon villain. Then reality sunk in and I foresaw myself burning the house down in a passionate cheese-fueled rampage. And Truett would not have wanted that. I couldn't risk my family's well-being for the mac. As important as it was. So Matt had the genius idea to just broil it in the oven to brown the top. This is why I married him. How...safe.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I also made tiny parfaits. I got the cute clear, plastic serving cups at Dollar Tree and filled them with vanilla yogurt, granola and berries.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It was morning when we picked up our CFA order so the restaurant wasn't serving fries yet. So we just bought frozen waffle fries at Kroger and baked our own. Not nearly the same but whatever. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Potato- po-tato. Amirite?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O-nhVBP8FK4/X_t8_U1NSDI/AAAAAAAAH-U/2d3r28SX5kgDbBZUfNNrGQJbIqrfOpMWACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%25284%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O-nhVBP8FK4/X_t8_U1NSDI/AAAAAAAAH-U/2d3r28SX5kgDbBZUfNNrGQJbIqrfOpMWACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%25284%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Featured in the picture above is Matt's actual nametag from when he worked at CFA. A national treasure. It even says "1 year service." It was MADE for my party. I just replaced Matt's name with Ollie's with my label maker. I've also had that "1" since my daughter's first birthday and just keep replacing the paper to match my themes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--oLxvReuWAk/X_t8_FyeQFI/AAAAAAAAH-M/ftSe3zuhM9A9s2iJuqSJU2_4VlsO9EYrACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%25283%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--oLxvReuWAk/X_t8_FyeQFI/AAAAAAAAH-M/ftSe3zuhM9A9s2iJuqSJU2_4VlsO9EYrACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%25283%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I also saved a few packaging components from previous meals to use as decor. A few bags (that weren't greased through), nugget/fry containers, and cups. I used the cups to house little flower arrangements. As a high-class, fancy fast food establishment, you can often find carnations on their tables. I mean, RIP dining in there these days, but, ya know, in the old days. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A2Ox7abG69s/X_t8_BbHV7I/AAAAAAAAH-Q/2sYsbm3miTUVVNWv7_aIc-YW6wO6PX7nQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%25282%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A2Ox7abG69s/X_t8_BbHV7I/AAAAAAAAH-Q/2sYsbm3miTUVVNWv7_aIc-YW6wO6PX7nQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%25282%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I found the red/white check table cloth at Hobby Lobby a year ago and it is actually one thing that inspired this theme. I saw it and instantly had a vision of steamy chicken nuggets swirling around in a mystical sea of red and white. Cows were picketing nearby and my eyes simply gleamed at the sight. Then I came back to Earth and gazed at my then-infant, asleep in the stroller. I smiled softly and thought, "It is good." I've been planning ever since. Again, not to be dramatic.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I got a yard of cow fabric at Joann for a few dollars and just folded it to make a table runner. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7MBZx1DgnEw/X_t8_H-h3gI/AAAAAAAAH-I/lUgDD4x9GG4sm7jp0-vbpitbd0ZWDkQbQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1%2B%25281%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7MBZx1DgnEw/X_t8_H-h3gI/AAAAAAAAH-I/lUgDD4x9GG4sm7jp0-vbpitbd0ZWDkQbQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%25281%2529.JPG" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So I actually have a cake business called Katie Cakes. I'm so thankful for all of the biz I got in that area. It was a blessings. However, as my herd of Hedges has kept growing I just don't have the time or energy to keep up. So I put it on pause for the foreseeable future. Maybe one day I'll do it again. But until then, I just enjoy making my babies birthday cakes and whatever strikes my fancy throughout the year. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">In addition to the banner, the Chick Fil A alphabet heavily inspired his cake as well. I used fondant to make the details. I used to color all of my fondant by hand (and will continue to do so if I need a large amount of one color), but I just discovered how cheap it is at Hobby Lobby! You can buy small amounts of any color for $$3.50. AND it often goes 30% off! It was the exact amount of black and red that I needed and saved me so much time and dyed hands not having to make these deep colors myself. It's so hard to make a pure red and black. I found the little wooden "1" at HL and painted it and glued it to a popsicle stick for the cake topper. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Cute pic of Ollie because he's tastier than cake and I just feel like it:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3XBV3bIh7lk/X_t9KkZSOEI/AAAAAAAAH_8/uq4whPbA9soXFIKeAH2gpUHIxOkdrEwdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/UXNL3960.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3XBV3bIh7lk/X_t9KkZSOEI/AAAAAAAAH_8/uq4whPbA9soXFIKeAH2gpUHIxOkdrEwdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/UXNL3960.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The other side of the room had plates/utensils, the smash cake and book. I started the book thing at Presley's first birthday and have done it at every birthday since. Instead of a guestbook I buy a themed book and ask everyone to write a note to the birthday kid in it. Then I put it in their baby box so they can read them all one day. There's "Sign a page for Presley," "Write a letter for Leo," and now "Write an ode to Oliver." Way too proud of these alliterations. I usually get my plates/napkins/forks at Dollar Tree because they have every color AND THEY'RE JUST ONE DOLLAR! An invigorating concept. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HGVIlPfIYe8/X_t9DPfPXBI/AAAAAAAAH-0/HtEcGfvFINsKSzlMTeXawEU7t1Bi4HKVQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1731/IMG_1092.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HGVIlPfIYe8/X_t9DPfPXBI/AAAAAAAAH-0/HtEcGfvFINsKSzlMTeXawEU7t1Bi4HKVQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1092.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VBH8ZThvsMs/X_t9D11XqLI/AAAAAAAAH_I/oOqGXIM_CzYTeSwqcDX7O7YsHx4hZbSBACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1106.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VBH8ZThvsMs/X_t9D11XqLI/AAAAAAAAH_I/oOqGXIM_CzYTeSwqcDX7O7YsHx4hZbSBACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1106.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gL_GELYZdEA/X_t9D2m_AmI/AAAAAAAAH_M/rrYtZasOx_oJZBCqlbyjmvq3oprGD5dowCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1107.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gL_GELYZdEA/X_t9D2m_AmI/AAAAAAAAH_M/rrYtZasOx_oJZBCqlbyjmvq3oprGD5dowCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1107.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The living room has the drink bar and the king's throne. All of my parties here have basically the same layout. It just works. I bought a bunch of plastic cow-print table cloths (<a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Amazon</a> or Hobby Lobby for under $5) and used them around. I hung one behind the bar along with a banner made of Ollie's month pictures. I just used cow print, red and black scrapbook paper and ribbon to make it. We served Coke/Diet Coke, sweet tea and lemonade to drink. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7leTrcwWRSw/X_umQOxvBBI/AAAAAAAAIAs/-nWvPJPw_Rg7nEqD0v1sqJeilnTnJ-IrwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1104.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7leTrcwWRSw/X_umQOxvBBI/AAAAAAAAIAs/-nWvPJPw_Rg7nEqD0v1sqJeilnTnJ-IrwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1104.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>I've made this picture-covered "1" for every kid's first birthday. I originally cut the "1" out foam core and collaged pictures of their first year onto it. At some point Presley's got destroyed so I reused the base to make Leo's. Then it got destroyed. So now it's covered in Ollie Wally's face. It makes me smile.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GhSk2OfVOIo/X_t9DibgFUI/AAAAAAAAH_E/dae9oH1vwek4VjBDw1BGBxG54kiOf5RRwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1105.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GhSk2OfVOIo/X_t9DibgFUI/AAAAAAAAH_E/dae9oH1vwek4VjBDw1BGBxG54kiOf5RRwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1105.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l-dq3KcMVqM/X_t9C5-loaI/AAAAAAAAH-s/Doy4SnF4PfY8Eazup0GZKpvYuQ0MpdTiACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1088.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l-dq3KcMVqM/X_t9C5-loaI/AAAAAAAAH-s/Doy4SnF4PfY8Eazup0GZKpvYuQ0MpdTiACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1088.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Friendly piece of advice: If you live in a house full of young children, do not hang foreign objects from the ceiling a week in advance. Or any days in advance. Save yourself the time and heartache. I can't tell you how many times this was obliterated in the 7 days between me hanging it and the actual party. It's fine. Everything's fine. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I just used tape (it didn't harm the paint) to tape streamers and another plastic table cloth to the ceiling for the backdrop. I borrowed my mother-in-law's high chair because it's cuter than mine and I'm bougie and I care about those things. Is that what the kids say? Bougie? I used my embroidery machine to embroider his name onto some fabric then used coordinating fabric (all from Joann) to slipknot strips around the jute ribbon to make the high chair banner. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-boSTPpPWb3s/X_t9DYuaJPI/AAAAAAAAH-8/LTmM87Dq6_gEcZ0MFEqqvN67BYpKl_CSwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1096.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-boSTPpPWb3s/X_t9DYuaJPI/AAAAAAAAH-8/LTmM87Dq6_gEcZ0MFEqqvN67BYpKl_CSwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1096.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I got the cute <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">red corduroy overalls </a>for the cake smash on Amazon for $8. My buttercream has Crisco in it and it is MESSY! I always plan ahead to avoid covering cute outfits in grease spots. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">LASTLY, speaking of icing on the cake. All of my dreams came true as I turned my children into my very own Chick Fil A employees. If only they could actually bring me chicken and clean up after themselves. And tell me I'm pretty. Ok well the real employees don't actually do that but I bet they would if you asked! And also, to my delight, one of my children did assume her role quite literally. I found her organizing and deep cleaning my house after the party. She is a delight. It is my pleasure to get to raise that girl. I bought their red polos from Children'sPlace.com and found the <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">CFA logo on Etsy</a> as an embroidery file. My machine proceeded to finally find it's true purpose as she delicately stitched out this beloved symbol of American joy and pride. She felt honored. I tittered with delight.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4KVyLrKZx88/X_t9JWombkI/AAAAAAAAH_0/GR80N-oxYR034GwvejN9JSZ2K6n9zR2RACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/TXYG6117.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4KVyLrKZx88/X_t9JWombkI/AAAAAAAAH_0/GR80N-oxYR034GwvejN9JSZ2K6n9zR2RACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/TXYG6117.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">All that to say, we had so much fun celebrating our precious miracle boy in the best way we knew how. I pray that he grows up to know and love the Lord, understanding fully how blessed he is to be HIS. We are humbled and honored that God entrusted our little Ollie to us. I think we got the best gift the day he was born. This year was HARD but the reward has been oh so sweet. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So here are some pics of my cute boy enjoying his very own cake for the first time.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o6dnWhRMqks/X_t9C-skXLI/AAAAAAAAH-w/izMnQoMrRxAunbe_78-GYZjhlIzw9aCjwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/FWVB7119.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o6dnWhRMqks/X_t9C-skXLI/AAAAAAAAH-w/izMnQoMrRxAunbe_78-GYZjhlIzw9aCjwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/FWVB7119.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W4nxnStryk4/X_t9JW_W3lI/AAAAAAAAH_4/EBppc1C39cEQKgjjHTN5Ju_52DsvjiZIwCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/TJTK3934.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W4nxnStryk4/X_t9JW_W3lI/AAAAAAAAH_4/EBppc1C39cEQKgjjHTN5Ju_52DsvjiZIwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/TJTK3934.JPG" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zTzNkysme7k/X_t9CtLE2UI/AAAAAAAAH-o/sHlMSL2xKvgv5BgLaVxHcFJ-92ihO-zLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/EQYA8964.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zTzNkysme7k/X_t9CtLE2UI/AAAAAAAAH-o/sHlMSL2xKvgv5BgLaVxHcFJ-92ihO-zLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/EQYA8964.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qg9-meaQmvI/X_t9JLTLdhI/AAAAAAAAH_w/M4ARzwRstkE8e6xO20z7v40iQrVgmk2AACNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/SWZK1608.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qg9-meaQmvI/X_t9JLTLdhI/AAAAAAAAH_w/M4ARzwRstkE8e6xO20z7v40iQrVgmk2AACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/SWZK1608.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lmfq5zN-kAQ/X_t9HrhpRII/AAAAAAAAH_s/qUjEoxmDoP4xXPWhZDSTT3U0JEJiBHpJACNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/RTZX8633.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lmfq5zN-kAQ/X_t9HrhpRII/AAAAAAAAH_s/qUjEoxmDoP4xXPWhZDSTT3U0JEJiBHpJACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/RTZX8633.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JjesK2x-IzU/X_t9HBvLG5I/AAAAAAAAH_o/tIpgGBRelbg6TJuttnkwPqEZRjXfpNoBgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/QFSL6687.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JjesK2x-IzU/X_t9HBvLG5I/AAAAAAAAH_o/tIpgGBRelbg6TJuttnkwPqEZRjXfpNoBgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/QFSL6687.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bSSAFEzK4uc/X_t9GvIpLmI/AAAAAAAAH_k/z8AI_5eg7zgXRi2tULItWIgZbI6j1mGEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/MQON9759.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bSSAFEzK4uc/X_t9GvIpLmI/AAAAAAAAH_k/z8AI_5eg7zgXRi2tULItWIgZbI6j1mGEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/MQON9759.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Happy birthday, Ollie Wally. You light up our lives. Momma loves you SO MUCH! More than Chick Fil A. And after spending an hour writing about how much I love Chick Fil A, I love you a lot, okay?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6d8tXDPTdsA/X_uxdGBNTuI/AAAAAAAAIA0/DoT-UGu0w7YxA47xp0qxTlL8b07dzRt_QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1440/IMG_3406.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6d8tXDPTdsA/X_uxdGBNTuI/AAAAAAAAIA0/DoT-UGu0w7YxA47xp0qxTlL8b07dzRt_QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3406.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">As always, don't forget to Eat Mor Chikin!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Blessings.</div><p></p><div><div><div><div><p></p></div></div></div></div>Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-61614350183242125522020-11-16T21:45:00.003-06:002021-06-22T17:33:18.393-05:00Quarantine House Projects<p style="text-align: center;">As mentioned before, I got a little carried away this year. I had too much time staring at my walls. That paired with too much time on Pinterest was a little dangerous. </p><p style="text-align: center;">First thing, I redid our downstairs half bath! This was completely spontaneous and was like the start of a domino effect around the downstairs. I was looking on Pinterest for something completely unrelated when I came across a picture and stopped dead in my tracks. I forgot what I was researching to begin with! It had to be done. 3 days later I was staring at my finished project with hearts in my eyes. Unfortunately since there's no natural light it's impossible to get a good picture. But here's my best effort.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Before:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wagYj3D2u5M/X7LdV-GuJhI/AAAAAAAAH00/l-kTzvFzMKoCIyWxo5hFfI1VCnmxFHhRgCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/DSC_0012.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6000" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wagYj3D2u5M/X7LdV-GuJhI/AAAAAAAAH00/l-kTzvFzMKoCIyWxo5hFfI1VCnmxFHhRgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0012.JPG" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">After:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VZ1khzDBM24/X7LWA13EqGI/AAAAAAAAH0M/pkamcAv1lIcMPNvx7hlujBhN8kcZB0oAACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6243.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VZ1khzDBM24/X7LWA13EqGI/AAAAAAAAH0M/pkamcAv1lIcMPNvx7hlujBhN8kcZB0oAACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6243.JPG" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">Here's what I found on Pinterest:</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/budget-painted-powder-room-36662413">https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/budget-painted-powder-room-36662413</a></p><p style="text-align: center;">I fairly recently painted my half bath blue but was not really loving it. I've recently developed a passion for creamy white paint (as you'll see later). Ollie's nursery is Glacier White by Benjamin Moore so I went with that again. It took at least 3 coats to cover the blue. </p><p style="text-align: center;">I was introduced to Fusion Mineral Paint in the link above. I did some research and found that they sell it locally on the Collierville Square (I ordered it online from a store called <a href="https://southernfarmhouse.com/paint/" target="_blank">Southern Farmhouse</a> and they had it sitting outside by the door when I went to pickup- they were still technically closed from the lockdown at this time). I'm kind of obsessed now. It's so much cheaper and (I think) overall better than chalk paint. You don't have to use wax (unless you want) because it includes a built in top coat, unlike chalk paint. $20 gets you a decent size that is more than plenty for a project like this. I used less than half of it. </p><p style="text-align: center;">I chose the green neutral color called Lichen (like in the Pinterest picture). It painted easy and has held up great considering its where my kids wash their hands 8 times a day. I also got new pulls and spray painted them black. Since we were towards the beginning of lockdown and I was hesitant to get out much, I wanted to avoid a trip to Lowe's. So to make the accent wall I ended up getting a sample size of mineral paint in the color Putty. It was TINY but only $5 and the exact amount I needed. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jbW-tI8mEjU/X7LW4nqpTSI/AAAAAAAAH0o/lX_XvSdcd2gw3zeBpJSaa4Q460afhskUQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6286%2B%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jbW-tI8mEjU/X7LW4nqpTSI/AAAAAAAAH0o/lX_XvSdcd2gw3zeBpJSaa4Q460afhskUQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6286%2B%25283%2529.JPG" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">I just followed the advice of the blog above for the accent wall. I made a little triangle template out of cardboard to keep me on track. The whole wall took about 30-45 min. The wall art was originally in my master bath (from Hobby Lobby), but I knew it would go so much better in here. I had the mirror already. It was gray and I spray painted it black. I bought the hanging light fixture a few years ago at Lowes. It was the last one and a display so they sold it to me for just $30! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jZ7DxGfyO88/X7LWNEfUGaI/AAAAAAAAH0Q/4AJQM5uPW74LBv3F5IZ6Y7eRAqtm7lmlQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6261%2B%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jZ7DxGfyO88/X7LWNEfUGaI/AAAAAAAAH0Q/4AJQM5uPW74LBv3F5IZ6Y7eRAqtm7lmlQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6261%2B%25282%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mY-t-8MO29I/X7LWNMuD0RI/AAAAAAAAH0U/zzZUn1i80i0wtuNQ8qHhl18IvbQFcp0OQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6287.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mY-t-8MO29I/X7LWNMuD0RI/AAAAAAAAH0U/zzZUn1i80i0wtuNQ8qHhl18IvbQFcp0OQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6287.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O3DduOP66Do/X7LWxlsvneI/AAAAAAAAH0k/hFsd2zy_5cE_j6CnVwjvuRBgoRtwLDawwCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/DSC_0011.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6000" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O3DduOP66Do/X7LWxlsvneI/AAAAAAAAH0k/hFsd2zy_5cE_j6CnVwjvuRBgoRtwLDawwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0011.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So that excitement led me to my dining room. I painted it Sea Salt (Sherwin Williams) a few years ago and redid most of the decor. But it was bland and had fallen victim to my kid's quarantine projects. This is where we kept all of the art supplies, activity bins, games, etc. It was always a mess and the chair bottoms were now covered in Sharpie, etc. So naturally I just needed to redo the entire thing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Before (like a long time ago- peep the baby legs. She's almost 6 lol):</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0v7TQCFBbOM/X7LdnODbKFI/AAAAAAAAH08/O7PjujqU_-Unc6pbvm4Z-ey_XCPfnNVRQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_0037%2B%25282%2529b.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0v7TQCFBbOM/X7LdnODbKFI/AAAAAAAAH08/O7PjujqU_-Unc6pbvm4Z-ey_XCPfnNVRQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0037%2B%25282%2529b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rebHE2q1UiM/X7LdzHXJ3eI/AAAAAAAAH1A/8Y2EDQl5Y7oB5uZ4kvND4mkwxwK-BJcSwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0543b.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rebHE2q1UiM/X7LdzHXJ3eI/AAAAAAAAH1A/8Y2EDQl5Y7oB5uZ4kvND4mkwxwK-BJcSwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0543b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After:</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B6dGkeOD-xU/X7Lh9S24heI/AAAAAAAAH2Q/HTomYrDoe1YNV0SHX4CYzwDXKoF0w_vLgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1641.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B6dGkeOD-xU/X7Lh9S24heI/AAAAAAAAH2Q/HTomYrDoe1YNV0SHX4CYzwDXKoF0w_vLgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1641.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nsX5yXf70Rs/X7Lh9OhwRXI/AAAAAAAAH2M/nDPuhMUvISUceIjGRFOp8o7QiXFvWo1cQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1643.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nsX5yXf70Rs/X7Lh9OhwRXI/AAAAAAAAH2M/nDPuhMUvISUceIjGRFOp8o7QiXFvWo1cQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1643.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I sold my jute rug on FB resale because I wanted something more interesting. It was basically a blue room with all white details. Boring. I did a lot of Instagram polls to get my friends advice on what looks best. I had a lot of fun putting it together. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OPh2nqECpdo/X7LeF9bmFhI/AAAAAAAAH1k/iERCawW-9wQ3EKkPYHpwnoi1IMOnYFn4gCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_8550.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OPh2nqECpdo/X7LeF9bmFhI/AAAAAAAAH1k/iERCawW-9wQ3EKkPYHpwnoi1IMOnYFn4gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_8550.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I started by painting it Glacier White, like the bathroom. It took almost FOUR coats! I thought I would never be done painting. I bought a rug originally that I loved online but when it came in it was awful. I didn't even unroll it. It looked woven in the picture, but in actuality it was a slick, texture-less fabric with the woven design just PRINTED on it. It was so cheap looking, except it wasn't cheap, so it went back immediately. After that buzz kill I found another rug that was just right.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wS7WuZ67nJg/X7LiTCT1fiI/AAAAAAAAH3Q/JJidAXuaQ-gMnoYIS--LQCTl_N9uF3s-wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1642.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wS7WuZ67nJg/X7LiTCT1fiI/AAAAAAAAH3Q/JJidAXuaQ-gMnoYIS--LQCTl_N9uF3s-wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1642.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://shop.wellwoven.com/collections/cotton-stem-rug-collection-crafted-by-well-woven/products/rodeo-virden-bohemian-eclectic-tribal-aztec-grey-rug-ro-97">https://shop.wellwoven.com/collections/cotton-stem-rug-collection-crafted-by-well-woven/products/rodeo-virden-bohemian-eclectic-tribal-aztec-grey-rug-ro-97</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was later introduced to CottonStem on Instagram by my MIL. I think this girl is so real and joyful and I got to stalking her account. I come across her dining room and SHE HAS MY RUG! I feel so validated. I later learn that she actually designs rugs and this is one of her originals. Uhh it was meant to be. From there I noticed her dining room fixture and it was just perfect. I really wanted to replace ours with a sleek, bronze chandelier and it was so beautiful. I found it on her blog and it was $400 at Pottery Barn. Ugh. BUT she linked a very similar <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07R59JPPD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">dupe on Amazon</a> for just $100! (I got it $20 off because I bought it on Prime day). So you should definitely follow her. She might just inspire you!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I had a desk/vanity piece of furniture that I used as my buffet. I've given it lots of makeovers but I was just done with the style and wanted wood grain instead of a painted finish. So I sold it on FB resale and purchased a new buffet I found on Zulily for $200. Here it is for sale on <a href="https://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Coffee-Sofa-End-Tables/2030/subcat.html?featuredproduct=21234833&featuredoption=35346551&kid=9553000357392&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=26999751-000-000&cnc=US&cid=248961&type=pla&targetid=pla-431180529994&track=pspla&gclid=Cj0KCQiA48j9BRC-ARIsAMQu3WSScgaJknDHAIvmI8WMNwYTzSJJX6I1LJ9SxGJ1B7KlCge-E6jpk0EaAmYFEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Overstock</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CSgboAelBVw/X7LimV_ctKI/AAAAAAAAH4A/dAmSKkndmZsW2W9tB0IxknlIl7Lg1DvLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1643.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CSgboAelBVw/X7LimV_ctKI/AAAAAAAAH4A/dAmSKkndmZsW2W9tB0IxknlIl7Lg1DvLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1643.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Since I wanted to add color I did some more home rearranging. I bought this big painting on <a href="https://www.target.com/c/canvas-wall-art-decor-home/-/N-4yifc" target="_blank">Target.com </a>for $50 1.5 years ago. It had been living at the top of my stairs. It matched my rug perfectly so I just switched the original big mirror with the canvas. The big mirror now lives at the top of the stairs. I got the watercolor lamp at Target. I added a snake plant and I like it better already. The plant on the floor is a combo of 2 different fiddle leaf figs that were both on the verge of death. However I combined them and stuck them in the window for a while and they are THRIVING! Growing new leaves and everything. Figgy Azalea, you fancy, gurl.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I recovered the chairs (since that's what started this whole thing) with a gray, textured fabric I found on clearance at Premier Fabrics. Not super exciting but looks alot better than the stained fabric from before.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z0UigR4D41c/X7LivDXxchI/AAAAAAAAH4E/9uKAoqMFcIMGXgRXyeSERqQEfMz37XsqwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1645.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z0UigR4D41c/X7LivDXxchI/AAAAAAAAH4E/9uKAoqMFcIMGXgRXyeSERqQEfMz37XsqwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1645.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For the front wall I got this wooden criss-cross decorative piece from Hobby Lobby. The white plate collage was already there before and I kept it because I like it. It gives me Southern Living vibes. I bought the sheer curtains and iron rod a few years ago at Tuesday Morning.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iHoLhbgTph4/X7Li3ZOgLHI/AAAAAAAAH4I/rW-Q4cNNJcYrLbqJFHWuv9x7cnSR9UFvQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1641.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iHoLhbgTph4/X7Li3ZOgLHI/AAAAAAAAH4I/rW-Q4cNNJcYrLbqJFHWuv9x7cnSR9UFvQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1641.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My friend Olivia took some sweet pictures of our family and I was excited to display them in my dining room. I found these <a href="https://www.dickblick.com/products/blick-modern-gallery-frames/?clickTracking=true&wmcp=pla&wmcid=items&wmckw=17397-9015&gclid=Cj0KCQiA48j9BRC-ARIsAMQu3WSg9P08igObO2sV0pSqEzghDlDzS2MnYUz2p3PA3vXuirmy0oudbrgaApCqEALw_wcB" target="_blank">gold gallery frames on Blick.com</a> for $20 each. They have plexiglass instead of glass but you really can't tell. They look very high end at a very affordable price. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qGprcUCHNNk/X7LjVMc5pfI/AAAAAAAAH4Y/oQfL8-6jb1EQP099pqxh6ebJOY3-6o1KACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1644.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qGprcUCHNNk/X7LjVMc5pfI/AAAAAAAAH4Y/oQfL8-6jb1EQP099pqxh6ebJOY3-6o1KACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1644.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lEjWUrYp8xU/X7LjVIlpgFI/AAAAAAAAH4U/a_Jl3b7aXWEyazLlZCa1TkneRBppkVNMwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1648.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lEjWUrYp8xU/X7LjVIlpgFI/AAAAAAAAH4U/a_Jl3b7aXWEyazLlZCa1TkneRBppkVNMwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1648.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">LASTLY, the china cabinet! We bought this piece at an estate sale my summer after college. I want to say we paid less than $100 for it. When we were leaving someone came up to us and offered us double! But at that point I felt like I had found a real treasure and was too excited about it. It was green with a gold finish with a gold interior. When we moved to this house I painted it white and the interior a brown/beige color (Big Spender by Farrell Calhoun). I really wanted it to be navy. I was especially inspired by some pictures I found on Pinterest. I seized the opportunity to get more mineral paint! I chose Homestead Blue and used the Fusion antiquing wax on top to deepen the color and add depth.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QmodF-9454Q/X7NJI8bjgHI/AAAAAAAAH8o/np9J0z9eFMId0Yb-2xaF6BFGNKldJ-d0wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_9990%2B%252824%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QmodF-9454Q/X7NJI8bjgHI/AAAAAAAAH8o/np9J0z9eFMId0Yb-2xaF6BFGNKldJ-d0wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_9990%2B%252824%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">SO, now that my dining room is different, my entry hall doesn't flow. Guess I gotta re-do that too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-__K1Zwz0paA/X7LjdGr5yII/AAAAAAAAH4c/zmwn6CoNddsQyZAM4fE__3tV1rzzHdffACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1649.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-__K1Zwz0paA/X7LjdGr5yII/AAAAAAAAH4c/zmwn6CoNddsQyZAM4fE__3tV1rzzHdffACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1649.JPG" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My entry/stairs/upstairs hallway was a yellowish neutral most of the time we lived here. I really liked it. Then I painted my whole house that yellowy color and I HATED it. A few months later I just had to fix it. I settled on Balboa Mist by Benjamin Moore. It's a wonderful color. I wanted something that could go both gray or beige and it does both. So I went crazy and painted everything: Entry, living room, kitchen, laundry, master and kid's bathroom. But for some reason it was really splotchy and discolored in the entry/stairs area. I guess I didn't stir it good when I painted at some point because every time I tried to touch up scuffs and, ahem, marker art the color dried much darker. So basically it was a mismatched mess and driving me nuts. I seized this opportunity to just paint the whole thing again. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C3YoczjdAzA/X7NCvzvPaHI/AAAAAAAAH6E/gIneDbaw99IG8uJcU1bhzHSzO2EMVHsiwCNcBGAsYHQ/s225/download.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C3YoczjdAzA/X7NCvzvPaHI/AAAAAAAAH6E/gIneDbaw99IG8uJcU1bhzHSzO2EMVHsiwCNcBGAsYHQ/s0/download.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But another huge buzz kill..the paint store didn't mix it correctly and I didn't notice until it was dry/basically done. It's less gray than its supposed to be and more beige with pinkish undertones. I'm sure no one will notice or be bothered by this but me but I don't think I have it in me to paint it all the same color AGAIN! Thankfully the tone is even all over so I fixed one problem. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Before (with the yellow color):</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wm_gvYXcgWM/X7M_F4JFdOI/AAAAAAAAH4s/rEsCev3iv2Y1wZVy_ZgZWleFLL2B2GtEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_0025b.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wm_gvYXcgWM/X7M_F4JFdOI/AAAAAAAAH4s/rEsCev3iv2Y1wZVy_ZgZWleFLL2B2GtEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0025b.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lzMVJwphikE/X7NG0-Hi8yI/AAAAAAAAH8Q/T_qlpTxRHhYtGaUifuzn4uqV5It85cJfgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1506.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lzMVJwphikE/X7NG0-Hi8yI/AAAAAAAAH8Q/T_qlpTxRHhYtGaUifuzn4uqV5It85cJfgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1506.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9N0eywoXiL4/X7NG05FBdYI/AAAAAAAAH8M/TFxBJX3Hp0stVmSpdgyRKir1i6q83hJywCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1508.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9N0eywoXiL4/X7NG05FBdYI/AAAAAAAAH8M/TFxBJX3Hp0stVmSpdgyRKir1i6q83hJywCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1508.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So it's not the color I'd like but I'm living with it. First world problem 100%. I'm embarrassed that it even bothers me. Since I moved the art around in the dining room and changed the color scheme the entry didn't flow like I wanted. The window hanging on the wall was too similar to the crisscross wood thing that was right next to it on the other side of the doorway. I was going to replace it with something bright and cheery but couldn't get inspired. I bought a few different things at Hobby Lobby, hung them up, but none of them spoke to me. So I just left it blank for a while instead of settling for something I didn't like. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Then one day it came to me! And my brother is an excellent woodworker and just so happens to be my neighbor. I knew he could help me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">BOARD AND BATTEN!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It looks intimidating but it was so easy. I got the measurements then went to Lowes to buy the wood. I got pine boards in a few different sizes. It was about $50 for the wood.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GDIk4lJYjvs/X7M_c5Jp5aI/AAAAAAAAH40/P5ckTDAZw3sxGk_MIj4PNlFyGtUKapyHgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0658.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GDIk4lJYjvs/X7M_c5Jp5aI/AAAAAAAAH40/P5ckTDAZw3sxGk_MIj4PNlFyGtUKapyHgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0658.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8woy2bh42_c/X7M_c6a6g0I/AAAAAAAAH44/jsBF60JrxnQorJJUHa5Xr0KxzPVb29wCwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0664.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8woy2bh42_c/X7M_c6a6g0I/AAAAAAAAH44/jsBF60JrxnQorJJUHa5Xr0KxzPVb29wCwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0664.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ndWG0jvamB0/X7M_dMfTRAI/AAAAAAAAH48/BvvTnenLGDIb6KGG8l6b4ffGQHp6Ewk-wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0665.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ndWG0jvamB0/X7M_dMfTRAI/AAAAAAAAH48/BvvTnenLGDIb6KGG8l6b4ffGQHp6Ewk-wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0665.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My brother cut the pieces for me and I attached them myself. I just used a hammer and thin nails to hang the boards. After that I used a nail punch to make the nails sink deeper into the wood so I could putty over them to make them smooth. After that I did a lot of sanding and caulked around the boards. Once everything was attached and prepped I just painted it with my trim paint! I got the cute farmhouse-esque <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RXCNM9N/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">hooks on Amazon</a>. 10 for $10!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I also wanted to tone down the brick floor a little so I whitewashed then sealed it. I go back and forth on whether I like it or not. It's growing on me. My dad installed these pavers when we moved in almost 7 years ago. It was our first home project here. I still love the brick! It definitely looks alot better than the broken up Italian marble that was there before. I got the new runner from Rugs USA.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jt09F1A0Vak/X7NAazIMPxI/AAAAAAAAH5M/j3opZuAH0sUp6e8KskPWffRBAGbQOGZdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0722.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jt09F1A0Vak/X7NAazIMPxI/AAAAAAAAH5M/j3opZuAH0sUp6e8KskPWffRBAGbQOGZdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0722.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QyCdUxDWMY8/X7NAbPTHT5I/AAAAAAAAH5Q/sA44OiyXom81K5hpgH_85r4o4CN0evrpwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0739.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QyCdUxDWMY8/X7NAbPTHT5I/AAAAAAAAH5Q/sA44OiyXom81K5hpgH_85r4o4CN0evrpwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0739.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's the ORIGINAL before/after 7 years ago:</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Agm4_4RGIfo/X7NA31wAwcI/AAAAAAAAH5c/8kR_NoVzCT8wS78wHYW6PCF0e_DhfYTXACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Entry4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1530" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Agm4_4RGIfo/X7NA31wAwcI/AAAAAAAAH5c/8kR_NoVzCT8wS78wHYW6PCF0e_DhfYTXACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Entry4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After that I loved the overall look but still felt like it was missing something. I started googling and disappeared into a black hole covered in wallpaper. I came across a company in Latvia with the cutest designs. It's called <a href="https://www.livetteswallpaper.com/" target="_blank">Livette's Wallpaper</a>. And the colors are customizable for no extra charge! The customer service was great and helped me find what I needed. I ended up choosing the <a href="https://www.livetteswallpaper.com/collections/floral-wallpaper/products/subtle-floral-removable-wallpaper" target="_blank">Subtle Floral paper </a>and they whitened the background a little more for me (less off-white and more of an ivory). I purchased the self-adhesive paper that just sticks on and peels off. No mess! It was expensive for how much I got (thankfully I didn't need a larger amount) at $140 total including shipping (which was super fast considering it had to come from the other side of the world). But the price was worth it because I really love the final product. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It was easy to install! Just line up the design, stick it on, then trim it to fit! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AjkQbAp9yr4/X7NHC-EgzRI/AAAAAAAAH8U/PO-iL3ZmLb8w6r8utrFqoS3XB1bX3fxggCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1509.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AjkQbAp9yr4/X7NHC-EgzRI/AAAAAAAAH8U/PO-iL3ZmLb8w6r8utrFqoS3XB1bX3fxggCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1509.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rgmNiQFNEgE/X7NHDNUpbgI/AAAAAAAAH8Y/EgRsmDK60uMjwP0QcO0k41nQ-nPxp8cPgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1527.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rgmNiQFNEgE/X7NHDNUpbgI/AAAAAAAAH8Y/EgRsmDK60uMjwP0QcO0k41nQ-nPxp8cPgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1527.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tada! Cutest model ever not included.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Co4OUxILm8/YNJkdkTrIpI/AAAAAAAAIrc/rxYmjDvQ3pYTm6Vqx2vmFguM7UcZLkbawCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_9303%2B%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Co4OUxILm8/YNJkdkTrIpI/AAAAAAAAIrc/rxYmjDvQ3pYTm6Vqx2vmFguM7UcZLkbawCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_9303%2B%25284%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HanzyPwhpAQ/YNJkdmCuaJI/AAAAAAAAIrg/bB8DWr0doU4p3T6Dv0aFETF2tZDhvCY7QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_9304%2B%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HanzyPwhpAQ/YNJkdmCuaJI/AAAAAAAAIrg/bB8DWr0doU4p3T6Dv0aFETF2tZDhvCY7QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_9304%2B%25285%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I faced a similar problem on the back wall of the upstairs hallway. I just couldn't find wall art that I liked (since I rearranged my house this hallway was left bare). Since the wall color is wrong the art needed to distract me from that. I found this pretty floral picture at Hobby Lobby but it was still lacking something interesting. I came across another hand-painted accent wall on Pinterest and had to try it. I already had the paint and did the whole thing in less than an hour. I started by measuring it out then making another cardboard template: Just a straight line in the length I wanted. I used a small craft brush and just went for it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BRXTOvTow1M/X7NBeupsNJI/AAAAAAAAH5k/SRCgb1Jgbr4PC0xd3Csb8H3nuzEmH1saQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0695.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BRXTOvTow1M/X7NBeupsNJI/AAAAAAAAH5k/SRCgb1Jgbr4PC0xd3Csb8H3nuzEmH1saQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0695.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I might go crazy and wallpaper this wall in the future. I actually ended up with extra paper because the company accidentally sent me traditional paper instead of self-adhesive like I asked. However, they were very kind to correct it quickly and send me the right kind at no extra cost. If it's the right amount I might try it. I haven't measured. Traditional wallpaper scares me with all of the pasting, etc, but I'm always down if it's going to be worth it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">UPDATE:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I did it! I repainted the walls to match the white trim and added a mini-version of the board and batten upstairs. I used the leftover wallpaper and it was super easy, even with the paste.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VGpScM3jrEY/YNJk3b3jO6I/AAAAAAAAIrw/Hj8MQlQFJRgPi_6DOzavvJijvW0Xwk2aQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/204709941_925281064691765_7737289541912396146_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VGpScM3jrEY/YNJk3b3jO6I/AAAAAAAAIrw/Hj8MQlQFJRgPi_6DOzavvJijvW0Xwk2aQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/204709941_925281064691765_7737289541912396146_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oETWkLQVX3c/YNJk3e6SaBI/AAAAAAAAIrs/eRVENqjw4qk2nyDTf7r1wuljfLcNwE1aACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/205238049_507787547225272_4094408458192989698_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oETWkLQVX3c/YNJk3e6SaBI/AAAAAAAAIrs/eRVENqjw4qk2nyDTf7r1wuljfLcNwE1aACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/205238049_507787547225272_4094408458192989698_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">LASTLY, with my new-found love of wood-working I decided to make a shelf in my laundry room! I found a $15 board at Lowes and that was all I needed. I had my brother cut it into 3 pieces (as seen in the picture) and I screwed the little pieces to the wall. The larger piece just sits on top of those. I stained it with stain I already had. Super easy and makes a world of difference in my laundry room! It's cute AND functional! I can't believe I didn't think of it sooner! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kyVYm3uKs7s/X7NBxjS_tcI/AAAAAAAAH50/A8EbxzfJsPkEueVnNL6vHehfdz48rkFHQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0833.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kyVYm3uKs7s/X7NBxjS_tcI/AAAAAAAAH50/A8EbxzfJsPkEueVnNL6vHehfdz48rkFHQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0833.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ggG5evrbbwM/X7NBxNQ7r7I/AAAAAAAAH5s/rN7xaB1N2wskM4IE6T4AEb6hNd-c3j0VACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0834%2B%252826%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1781" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ggG5evrbbwM/X7NBxNQ7r7I/AAAAAAAAH5s/rN7xaB1N2wskM4IE6T4AEb6hNd-c3j0VACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0834%2B%252826%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Like, I'm WAY too proud of this sign.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_eldpy3Yh7w/X7NBxiMupQI/AAAAAAAAH5w/TeTOZzHv_k0DtNc-TOIgE7L8ubkfXdDdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0893.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_eldpy3Yh7w/X7NBxiMupQI/AAAAAAAAH5w/TeTOZzHv_k0DtNc-TOIgE7L8ubkfXdDdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0893.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Of course I don't spend ALL of my time re-doing. My 3 kids keep me busy. Like really busy. It was a crazy few months. Or was it a year? I honestly don't know. Time doesn't exist any more. Add in Ollie's hospital stays/health issues and it was incredibly scary and stressful at the beginning. However once we were home for good and things settled down I needed to do something that made me feel like me again. I'd been living in a dark hole and just wanted to do something to make me feel happy. I don't know why but this kind of stuff just makes me happy. Hence why my house is one never-ending project. My husband thinks I'm crazy. So when naptime or bedtime hit, I had my paint brush. And that's how all dis happened.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So these were NOT quarantine projects but I thought I'd give an update on the kid's rooms! They're always an ongoing project as their interests evolve. And let's be real, most of the time they look like they just got through detonating a bomb inside. But hey! The 4 times a year they look like this it sparks joy so that's all we can ask for these days.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Presley's room has been evolving for years. Cats, princesses, etc. It never ends. She now has a fun conglomeration of things she loves, that's age appropriate, within this pastel-y color theme. It's fun and whimsical and just right for my girly girl. She's so proud of it that she keeps it on lockdown. No brothers allowed. Occasionally she will let Oliver in but it has to be a special occasion or something. She is SERIOUS about her stuff.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aWZhW5-gFn4/X7NDkOM3wUI/AAAAAAAAH6U/Nt3hNHpm2W8WdVSYYkyhHtiBljtfyijxQCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/DSC_0064.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aWZhW5-gFn4/X7NDkOM3wUI/AAAAAAAAH6U/Nt3hNHpm2W8WdVSYYkyhHtiBljtfyijxQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0064.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZH9A0rXwUR8/X7NDkMozXNI/AAAAAAAAH6Q/VXlhS8g94qYnxaVbhjeo0NyAU8Q_hHlWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/DSC_0069.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZH9A0rXwUR8/X7NDkMozXNI/AAAAAAAAH6Q/VXlhS8g94qYnxaVbhjeo0NyAU8Q_hHlWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tltfP3uxU4M/X7NDjimWa9I/AAAAAAAAH6M/h5ijLAs9e8IjKAd-N6ssGw086WOYNEvkgCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/DSC_0075.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tltfP3uxU4M/X7NDjimWa9I/AAAAAAAAH6M/h5ijLAs9e8IjKAd-N6ssGw086WOYNEvkgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0075.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wDDfidjIrqI/X7NDkc4IjSI/AAAAAAAAH6Y/RZM9Yp9KL0ISh3WwyZ_7ifY6HVoPuFBxwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_9812.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wDDfidjIrqI/X7NDkc4IjSI/AAAAAAAAH6Y/RZM9Yp9KL0ISh3WwyZ_7ifY6HVoPuFBxwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_9812.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fm0jDHHVpqI/X7NDkkU-LiI/AAAAAAAAH6c/0BJRSAhJeKUMXlos2az81qVR8fwP5X00ACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_9813.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fm0jDHHVpqI/X7NDkkU-LiI/AAAAAAAAH6c/0BJRSAhJeKUMXlos2az81qVR8fwP5X00ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_9813.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Leo's room was originally adventure/transportation themed but he has since developed a deep love of Toy Story (hence the <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2020/11/bud-lightyear-is-3-toy-story-party.html" target="_blank">outrageous birthday party </a>last week). So I've added some TS flairs throughout. He even got his first big boy bed for his birthday! No more toddler bed for Bud! However, some of these pics are right after he got his toddler bed and was so proud. I had to include them. He loves his room. TRASHES it often. But at least he has fun. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZnlRqkTX65A/X7NEB6rebyI/AAAAAAAAH6w/Cq62UjuLIRgPQUfDSaCwG8lr_bAZ7o-dQCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/DSC_0016.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZnlRqkTX65A/X7NEB6rebyI/AAAAAAAAH6w/Cq62UjuLIRgPQUfDSaCwG8lr_bAZ7o-dQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ah0uOiW2Ld4/X7NECGukcgI/AAAAAAAAH60/KcOCnFb1wB8MQNClOzuBP8PJ6p24ESjEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/DSC_0035.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ah0uOiW2Ld4/X7NECGukcgI/AAAAAAAAH60/KcOCnFb1wB8MQNClOzuBP8PJ6p24ESjEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0035.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uiVHa2oLUi0/X7NECOUdXiI/AAAAAAAAH64/Km8p7NasJCEpN_0leO1k0MjWxsSrkVDIgCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/DSC_0049.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6000" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uiVHa2oLUi0/X7NECOUdXiI/AAAAAAAAH64/Km8p7NasJCEpN_0leO1k0MjWxsSrkVDIgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0049.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">LOL</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_gXj27CD7yA/X7NGez2NtGI/AAAAAAAAH8A/U5naTdzjVmsOx9Qs-GkMbCgjX-KCmB0eQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1097.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_gXj27CD7yA/X7NGez2NtGI/AAAAAAAAH8A/U5naTdzjVmsOx9Qs-GkMbCgjX-KCmB0eQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1097.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2MwmQYsB-30/X7NED_JcXXI/AAAAAAAAH7A/rvBIEAbQ-qEQLHbYT1Mm6DbSNUHKL6eLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s6000/DSC_0051.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2MwmQYsB-30/X7NED_JcXXI/AAAAAAAAH7A/rvBIEAbQ-qEQLHbYT1Mm6DbSNUHKL6eLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0051.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ollie's nursery is neutral (we didn't know if he was a boy or a girl) and simple. I love spending time in there. And I'm excited to learn about what he loves over the next few years so I can tailor his room to fit his personality. Right now he's just the sweetest, happiest boy no matter where he is or what he's doing and his room is just right. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rLufSVukdyE/X7NEavDDyRI/AAAAAAAAH7U/sHcuu4dxMHAru7CYyrbqh_7ubCkCeLIiQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20200120-DCS_8339.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rLufSVukdyE/X7NEavDDyRI/AAAAAAAAH7U/sHcuu4dxMHAru7CYyrbqh_7ubCkCeLIiQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/20200120-DCS_8339.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SLZrDnZ9598/X7NEa13eNNI/AAAAAAAAH7c/udP9uh0ts5oZFYU49WN5epUYpOn0nqyBACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20200120-DCS_8346.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1367" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SLZrDnZ9598/X7NEa13eNNI/AAAAAAAAH7c/udP9uh0ts5oZFYU49WN5epUYpOn0nqyBACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/20200120-DCS_8346.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--QPAWYoSCL0/X7NEaukPOWI/AAAAAAAAH7Y/tEByr3RHcX886LQsf5eSQc-0bvfslFf9ACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20200120-DCS_8348.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1367" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--QPAWYoSCL0/X7NEaukPOWI/AAAAAAAAH7Y/tEByr3RHcX886LQsf5eSQc-0bvfslFf9ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/20200120-DCS_8348.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ChAx4fWycrw/X7NEbE5c1RI/AAAAAAAAH7g/7ZHMIgvUtDU4NsRZ9opmnm2jk7sUhkqPwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20200120-DCS_8352.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1371" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ChAx4fWycrw/X7NEbE5c1RI/AAAAAAAAH7g/7ZHMIgvUtDU4NsRZ9opmnm2jk7sUhkqPwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/20200120-DCS_8352.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I don't think I've blogged our master since I re-did it. It was originally blue with orange accents but it's been evolving ever since (as does everything in my house). Now it's Balboa Mist (the RIGHT Balboa Mist) and mostly neutral and simple and relaxing. Which is just what I need. Here are some pics from our newborn shoot with Ollie. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g-CSs_64T4I/X7NE4IdW2YI/AAAAAAAAH74/hP3WFZwT8nQ_uXt4GxwJUySN9dg005D9gCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20200120-DCS_8129.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1367" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g-CSs_64T4I/X7NE4IdW2YI/AAAAAAAAH74/hP3WFZwT8nQ_uXt4GxwJUySN9dg005D9gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/20200120-DCS_8129.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wuuYbabuucI/X7NE4CCrS3I/AAAAAAAAH70/0HWDwMsbMNoDdTUplaWKhH4XYwRY2RxpgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/20200120-DCS_8379.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1373" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wuuYbabuucI/X7NE4CCrS3I/AAAAAAAAH70/0HWDwMsbMNoDdTUplaWKhH4XYwRY2RxpgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/20200120-DCS_8379.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C1Mgvln0drw/YNJlGoJYgUI/AAAAAAAAIr0/5znZ-WBammgIpuDRd7Jf_ztcuHPYeX91gCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_9327%2B%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C1Mgvln0drw/YNJlGoJYgUI/AAAAAAAAIr0/5znZ-WBammgIpuDRd7Jf_ztcuHPYeX91gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_9327%2B%25289%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well, that's all for now! I'm sure tomorrow will call for another project I'll need to complete ASAP, but until then! As always, thanks for reading!</div></div>Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-41421162332922521462020-11-14T14:28:00.008-06:002020-11-15T14:16:48.352-06:00Backyard in Quarantine<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello again! </div>
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I can't believe it's mid NOVEMBER! Unfortunately Covid-19 is still a thing. But guys, God is so good. My faith in humanity has grown exponentially. I've seen so many people teaming together to help others. The world has adapted in creative and unique ways and there has been so much beauty in the midst of this darkness. Of course I also pray for all of the families devastated by this terrible virus. I can't imagine and I am so sorry. I in no way want to downplay it. But I do believe there is always a silver lining. Now let's do our part to love our neighbors and make this world a better place.</div>
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Hey, isn't this supposed to be about your backyard, Katie? Yes. Yes it is. But I hafta say I owe this project to quarantine. While being home like, all the time, my brain had almost gone into full nesting-mode again. I wanted to do ALL the things. I did my fair share of inside projects as well, but I really wanted to highlight my outside ones in this post. My kids couldn't stay couped up inside much longer. We had a big, vast yard with absolutely nothing to do. So with all my time I went to work.</div>
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Here are some before pics when we moved in:<br />
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So when we first moved here almost 7 years ago the backyard was a jungle. I think it was really beautiful at one time but it had been left to the elements for decades and was very overgrown. We had the overgrowth around the perimeter removed. It instantly made the yard feel so much bigger. Then we stuck a playhouse and a little slide in the middle, hung a swing and left it alone. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AIOOEi2kUzQ/XyDQSzKy9MI/AAAAAAAAHjw/YWawA2S9QtE6D3wZjCLcX1e2nUPJNO-TgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/yard%2B%25288%2529%2521.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="728" data-original-width="1082" height="215" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AIOOEi2kUzQ/XyDQSzKy9MI/AAAAAAAAHjw/YWawA2S9QtE6D3wZjCLcX1e2nUPJNO-TgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/yard%2B%25288%2529%2521.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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About 3 years ago I had the idea that we needed LIGHTS! I really was pregnant and in full and validated nesting-mode so it was going to happen. My little bro helped me with this project. We got some wooden posts and beams and used cement to create a structure to hold them. I got the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Amico-Commercial-Weatherproof-Incandescent-Heavy-Duty/dp/B07CJNTJL1/ref=sr_1_4_sspa?crid=LTTGSPD4FI1X&dchild=1&keywords=outdoor+lights&qid=1595907690&sprefix=outdoor+li%2Caps%2C223&sr=8-4-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyNjQ0VzdDM1BDM0gxJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNDk4NTI1M0NBTzVMNzdTRU84NCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMDY0MDg5SElGT1o5WlhXU1BRJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==" target="_blank">lights on Amazon</a> and we strung them up! It is *magical* at night. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jwZuOjGtLCY/XyDRC7jyfwI/AAAAAAAAHj8/INgMTRystvI6Q-iuG4iJyhLoWzoq1SLjgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/yard%2B%25289%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1076" data-original-width="1600" height="215" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jwZuOjGtLCY/XyDRC7jyfwI/AAAAAAAAHj8/INgMTRystvI6Q-iuG4iJyhLoWzoq1SLjgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/yard%2B%25289%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Then it sat</div>
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....for many more years.</div>
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So now it's time for my exciting NEW projects!<br />
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Here is my current update!<br />
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The first thing we did was get a play set! My mom actually found a preowned one for $100. It needed some TLC but it was perfect. My dad, brother and husband disassembled it and got it here. I started out by pressure washing the wood. </div>
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UH INTERMISSION HOW COULD I FORGET. Matt bought me, I mean himself but really me, a PRESSURE WASHER! It is a stunning piece of machinery and is now one of my most prized possessions. I have pressure washed everything in sight. Driveway, fence, house, patio, walkways, YOU NAME IT! I dedicate this project to my new boyfriend. Look how cute he is! His smile lights up my life.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6OH2_xnDlNs/XyICbeTwMQI/AAAAAAAAHkc/AUwadfq0OboiypA9XW_fHfc2L3INa_87wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_7546.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6OH2_xnDlNs/XyICbeTwMQI/AAAAAAAAHkc/AUwadfq0OboiypA9XW_fHfc2L3INa_87wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_7546.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So to do the entire fence in my backyard took a few kid-free days. It was a huge undertaking. But one day I was determined to get it done before my kids got home from grandma's. I washed for 5.5 straight hours without stopping. I knew I was dirty but like, I didn't know HOW dirty. So after I finish I leave my backyard for .5 seconds to put my boyfriend back in the garage. What do you know, the Amazon man showed up. And instead of leaving my package at the door, he saw that I was outside and hand-delivered. He looked at me funny but whatever. When I finally saw my reflection I think I blew a hip laughing so hard. This is what he saw:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4t0PG93es2s/X7BDywlbzbI/AAAAAAAAHzk/7TyGA5tQjuoHbNaINBfNkxskMYxijSXxQCNcBGAsYHQ/s990/IMG_1592.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="990" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4t0PG93es2s/X7BDywlbzbI/AAAAAAAAHzk/7TyGA5tQjuoHbNaINBfNkxskMYxijSXxQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1592.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's fine. I'm also pretty sure my neighbors think I'm crazy. But surely they're used to it by now.</div>
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Ok ok. So I pressure washed the wood on the playground. I feel the need to point out that I succeeded in doing this in a single naptime. It was a miracle and I've never worked so fast. After that I re-stained it. I used a semi-transparent outdoor wood paint from Lowes. It's richer than a stain so it covers better. I was drawn to this because it covered alot of flaws. </div>
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But it still didn't look finished. We don't have great grass in the back (it's very shady) and it would get so muddy! So I did a lot of research and found a solution. Rubber mulch! It was safer, cleaner, and I love the way it looked (I used GroundSmart brand in the color brown). So I researched more and found the cheapest option. I found it at <a href="https://www.samsclub.com/p/groundsmart-mocha-brown-1-25-cu-ft/prod8370071" target="_blank">Sam's Club </a>of all places. You can get rubber mulch at places like Lowes, but I needed a lot and was on a budget. The bags at Sam's were larger than the ones at Lowes and a few dollars cheaper. My grandfather has a membership that we used. I ordered online for pickup in store. It was a huge pain. Store after store only had a portion of the amount we needed. It took 55 bags at $7 each. My father-in-law picked up from I think 2 different local Sam's Clubs. But we were still short. So my dad drove all the way to Tupelo to the Sam's there to pickup the remainder. So a huge pain but worth the money we saved by purchasing it there.</div>
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I bought <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MG4ARN7/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">plastic landscape edging from Amazon</a> for $50 to form a border where I wanted it to go. I then put down landscape fabric (purchased at Lowes in the garden department) with pegs (you buy these separately). This prevents a lot of grass/weed growth and will save you a lot of work in the long run. However, I think if I did it again I would use something a little more sturdy. I still get some occasional weed growth through the barrier. A plastic tarp might be better. You won't see it because it will be covered by mulch. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">Now my kids can play in the backyard even when the ground is wet! No mud here! And I'm a little biased but look at my crazy-haired, half-pajamaed quarantine babies! They're the best.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RydPWFzv_xU/XyIDVkPWdbI/AAAAAAAAHlU/EDE2PPb8III7rliPoqpYfT8wBmB5exHEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_5193.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RydPWFzv_xU/XyIDVkPWdbI/AAAAAAAAHlU/EDE2PPb8III7rliPoqpYfT8wBmB5exHEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_5193.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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With the leftover landscape edging we had the idea to create a garden for Presley (she loves beautiful flowers and growing tomatoes). From there I was inspired to create an herb garden. This has become my baby. I've given it so much TLC. I kill everything so this is a miracle. Well, I killed everything at first and had to replenish. But I found a better, sunnier spot and it is THRIVING! I have lavender, rosemary, basil, oregano, thyme and mint. Presley's garden has mostly flowers (all planted from seed) and a tomato plant growing up the middle! I surrounded the edging with square stones from Lowes. This started by accident but I thought it looked pretty so I bought more. And now I can walk around it and tend to it without getting my shoes dirty! I made her first sign out of a wood plaque that I "Weather proofed" but it still completely fell apart. So to make the new sign I literally bought a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003XU7J76/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">piece of plastic from Amazon</a> that I cut to size (it cost $1.30 on Prime). I bought the vinyl letters and sticker on Etsy. </div>
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I found this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IK3UTKA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">planter on Amazon</a> for $60 that I really love. I bought 3 large stones to put underneath it (sand underneath those to make them sit even) at Lowes. And to make it look less weird sitting out in the middle of the yard. And CHECK OUT my basil tryna go see Jesus. It's the Lord's plant. Look at it grow!</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VJSLR9TPE8M/X7AyY_CCelI/AAAAAAAAHyE/LagbYrQ-Kr026MierSfX2NoWONqlEnCOwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_7794.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VJSLR9TPE8M/X7AyY_CCelI/AAAAAAAAHyE/LagbYrQ-Kr026MierSfX2NoWONqlEnCOwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_7794.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3L89NmJv2SI/X7AyYjYg7YI/AAAAAAAAHyA/tb9NsloEvI0nc-kU9ZAAbN0hi3ykkejUACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_7796.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3L89NmJv2SI/X7AyYjYg7YI/AAAAAAAAHyA/tb9NsloEvI0nc-kU9ZAAbN0hi3ykkejUACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_7796.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I also mulched the bed up by the house and added a few floral touches!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-57YWLMJqos0/XyIEKral-FI/AAAAAAAAHl4/HKVv3NmC2_UueY3b-ZjRGvNdQ3lTiZzUgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6566.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-57YWLMJqos0/XyIEKral-FI/AAAAAAAAHl4/HKVv3NmC2_UueY3b-ZjRGvNdQ3lTiZzUgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6566.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Next I made a chalkboard! I had some supplies already and bought the rest at Lowes. The chalkboard itself is a piece of treated plywood. I primed it with an exterior primer for extra coverage and protection then painted it with chalkboard paint. I bought the frame wood, painted it and my little bro actually cut it to size and assembled it all. I bought some <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0714CF6FP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">masonry screws/drill bit online</a> and have gotten really good and screwing things to our brick. The kids love it!</div>
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Another thing I did was paint our back doors! They were in pretty terrible shape (the previous owner's dogs had scratched them up pretty good) and I didn't have the paint to match the house. I wanted them to be interesting anyways. I came across the color Oyster Bay by Sherwin Williams (one of Joanna Gaines' fav colors) and I was in love. I painted both back doors. They also had storm doors on them. One of the storm doors (to the living room door we most often use) was in bad shape. The glass had broken out after the lawnmower sent a rock through it and it was basically pointless. I removed it and replaced it with a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0832FLTZ2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">magnetic screen</a>. It attaches with velcro (then I reinforced with a staple gun) and it was very easy to install. The other storm door to the laundry room worked good but was super ugly. I removed it, took it apart, spray painted it black and put it back on. It looks so much better. I love the way it pops now. We also replaced the outdated light fixture by the back door.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">Living room door before:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JVuzHrNk_F8/X7Ay0yy_DeI/AAAAAAAAHyQ/0gGYKj8wQUAnHm_Or583UV3Qokh-0W3jACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_0017c.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1383" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JVuzHrNk_F8/X7Ay0yy_DeI/AAAAAAAAHyQ/0gGYKj8wQUAnHm_Or583UV3Qokh-0W3jACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0017c.JPG" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">After:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tim9azZ38yU/XyIEa_8k_tI/AAAAAAAAHmE/1ojFcVBQ5dEqQX_wWT8ci6Na9btMyd9igCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6570.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tim9azZ38yU/XyIEa_8k_tI/AAAAAAAAHmE/1ojFcVBQ5dEqQX_wWT8ci6Na9btMyd9igCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6570.JPG" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Laundry room door before:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YtRA19z21dU/X7GLDyjSd7I/AAAAAAAAHzw/WgbSt89RSAAzxlXbifealaIQpQOFimbSwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/DSC_0030b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1376" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YtRA19z21dU/X7GLDyjSd7I/AAAAAAAAHzw/WgbSt89RSAAzxlXbifealaIQpQOFimbSwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/DSC_0030b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">After:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wpc7_MKb-pY/X7GK3zUOdaI/AAAAAAAAHzs/yygcQMM2SHwiuElB5K60C9RkoFcU000PQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wpc7_MKb-pY/X7GK3zUOdaI/AAAAAAAAHzs/yygcQMM2SHwiuElB5K60C9RkoFcU000PQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Back on the patio I did a few more things. It already had the pretty lights but I added a few more touches.<br />
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First was the nasty green mildew/crap on the siding. It had to go. We found this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Home-Armor-FG511-House-Wash/dp/B0758G7ZZW/ref=sr_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=siding+cleaner&qid=1605382935&sr=8-6" target="_blank">solution on Amazon</a> and tried it. It worked great! I put it in a bottle that allowed it to spray through the hose nozzle and just sprayed it on. I waited for about an hour then rinsed it off. Voila! So easy and made such a drastic impact. Peep my naughty boy in the window NOT napping during naptime. LOL.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Before:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ci8UdmT8XSs/XyIEoLFSubI/AAAAAAAAHmI/N2s5azhjawE3Q8-oDL4qE3BQWfDs5Ew8gCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_4672.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ci8UdmT8XSs/XyIEoLFSubI/AAAAAAAAHmI/N2s5azhjawE3Q8-oDL4qE3BQWfDs5Ew8gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_4672.JPG" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">After:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--paXXWHOg4A/X7A8xnJrVlI/AAAAAAAAHys/lUouUOGCISc0IMvz9GtYx8KSYmiDRbP1wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1583.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--paXXWHOg4A/X7A8xnJrVlI/AAAAAAAAHys/lUouUOGCISc0IMvz9GtYx8KSYmiDRbP1wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1583.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Our rainboots are always collecting by the backdoor. They would fill with water when it rained and just looked bad all strewn about. I decided to hang hooks on the wall to hang them up on. This way they were held shut and wouldn't fill with water and were up off of the concrete in a more organized fashion. I got the hooks at Hobby Lobby for $1.50 each. </div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yllA1lI7mCs/X7GLV4R-mGI/AAAAAAAAHz8/yx9sbcof7OEWJeueRmRrTycNVbX8lJvbQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yllA1lI7mCs/X7GLV4R-mGI/AAAAAAAAHz8/yx9sbcof7OEWJeueRmRrTycNVbX8lJvbQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1608.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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I always wanted speakers outside but wanted access to Alexa because that's how we listen to most of our music. Of course none of those devices are waterproof. I saw that Echo Dots were on sale one day for $30 so I went ahead and bought one. I bought an <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07P6T8J87/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1" target="_blank">Echo mount</a> and mounted it on the brick. When we go outside I just take the Dot with me, plug it in and stick it in it's holder. It works! I love having tunes outside. And being able to yell commands at it from afar. Here's the mount that lives on the wall outside. The outlet is right below it.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xduLpaL9B1w/X7A9EEGp7-I/AAAAAAAAHy4/Q6s3VnstEL81BJ9bltO_epSTJCc-4QToACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1585.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xduLpaL9B1w/X7A9EEGp7-I/AAAAAAAAHy4/Q6s3VnstEL81BJ9bltO_epSTJCc-4QToACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1585.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I REALLY want to paint the patio floor using a stencil eventually. I think it will make it look so unique and special. Maybe this spring when all of the leaves are gone.</div>
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So as I'm actually recording all of the things I did I'm having a hard time not relating myself to one of my daughter's favorite books. Y'all ever read If You Give a Mouse a Cookie? Like, one thing leads to another and another and eventually you don't even know what you're doing? Story of my brain. </div>
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So then Katie mouse got to lookin more closely at the back windows. They looked bad. Again, the previous owner's dog had done some damage to the screens on the storm windows and the windows were so dirty. During another nap time I decided to try and remove the storm windows. I wanted to clean behind them and I actually bought a kit to replace the screens so they're all new and the same. They were caulked around and it was a challenge but I got one off. And OMG it looked so much better! I kept going until all 3 were off. I cleaned the windows and knew the storm windows were a thing of the past. Then I removed all of them because I'm a strong, independent woman. Or I'm just incredibly impatient and had to have it done ASAP. So once those were gone I quickly saw that our actual windows needed some help. The glazing was damaged and they desperately needed painting. I did manage to match the exterior trim paint fairly closely and touched up some spots on the window trim that had paint chipping off. </div>
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<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here they are right after I removed the ugly storm windows. You can see they're in need of some TLC:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n5afIb7PRfk/XyIFFNJlHvI/AAAAAAAAHmU/W0JmP3O8nakXqogsh2uV87cBpC6cslL6wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6030.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n5afIb7PRfk/XyIFFNJlHvI/AAAAAAAAHmU/W0JmP3O8nakXqogsh2uV87cBpC6cslL6wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6030.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FnhAH-dfd7U/XyIFFSP9OoI/AAAAAAAAHmY/I0B9iRr-6kMj_sv5pU0Q87HkNi5XQO6VQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_7489.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FnhAH-dfd7U/XyIFFSP9OoI/AAAAAAAAHmY/I0B9iRr-6kMj_sv5pU0Q87HkNi5XQO6VQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_7489.JPG" /></a></div>
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We got some quotes to replace them entirely, however that was a big/expensive project and we weren't sure if we were ready for that ($8000-9000). Since the windows are solid wood, function great with no leaks or issues other than cosmetic, we decided to just work with them to make them beautiful. We got a few quotes on window repair + painting and at about about 1/8 of the cost of replacing them we decided to go for it. Lately I've been super drawn to black windows. But before we committed I painted our large kitchen window to make sure I liked it. It's so beautiful and dramatic. I'm sold.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-COMp2uDV8Fk/X7A9PuRJSiI/AAAAAAAAHzA/J5clbpwD3TsibQusn7IFmaEBZKhxBOkpACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1586.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-COMp2uDV8Fk/X7A9PuRJSiI/AAAAAAAAHzA/J5clbpwD3TsibQusn7IFmaEBZKhxBOkpACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1586.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We hope to paint the whole house one day which will make them stand out and look better. So we have hired our contractor and are on his calendar for February! I'll upload some pictures of the finished window project early next year when it gets done.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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Ok I'm getting close to the end I promise.<br />
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We had a swing hung in our big tree in the back but it was dry rotting and a pain to get the kids in and out of it. I've always wanted a saucer swing so I bought one. I thought it was going to be a lot bigger but it works. I got this one on Overstock.com but you can find them lots of places. Both kids can even fit at one time and they love it! However, it also started to get muddy underneath with all of the traffic. I saw that Lowes has rubber "stone" tiles. I laid down some sand and put the tiles on top. I got 9 at I believe $6 each. Look at these happy little people.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vRt4MUCbZb0/XyIF4IQaYzI/AAAAAAAAHms/z92X_PYd-6kN40v0jhA4JkUanakuVfQCACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_4868.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vRt4MUCbZb0/XyIF4IQaYzI/AAAAAAAAHms/z92X_PYd-6kN40v0jhA4JkUanakuVfQCACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_4868.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gcmyYTxcAlE/XyIF31r4dPI/AAAAAAAAHmo/wLgW8GQK2wQAE4YdMI08LS4tKRIBEEfxwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_4888.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gcmyYTxcAlE/XyIF31r4dPI/AAAAAAAAHmo/wLgW8GQK2wQAE4YdMI08LS4tKRIBEEfxwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_4888.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Excuse the leaves. Like billions and billions of leaves.<br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UIgjYzNWilY/X7A9YjMjEGI/AAAAAAAAHzI/UPXe61QsAcA2irQb5kHBv8OZHdF_ctSOACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1589.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UIgjYzNWilY/X7A9YjMjEGI/AAAAAAAAHzI/UPXe61QsAcA2irQb5kHBv8OZHdF_ctSOACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1589.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b>
We also have a tall bird house stand in our backyard that has been there since we moved. It was old and ugly. We have so many beautiful birds in our backyard so I thought it'd be fun to give it a makeover. I spray painted it black and hung up some new bird feeders and houses to attract some feathery friends. Sadly I didn't get a picture before the whole yard died. My SWEET neighbor also BUILT us this adorable blue bird house! Presley couldn't wait to paint it. <br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m-IzEL_0ihQ/X7A9uguP1_I/AAAAAAAAHzU/gE76I-yIx4QJ2c39Qt5t-RfDI1VzmHXLACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1591.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m-IzEL_0ihQ/X7A9uguP1_I/AAAAAAAAHzU/gE76I-yIx4QJ2c39Qt5t-RfDI1VzmHXLACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1591.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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LASTLY, one of my favorite projects: BUD BOULEVARD! I saw these cute DIY car tracks on Pinterest and couldn't stop thinking about them. I had a shady spot in the yard that was longing for one. And Presley had her garden so Bud needed something too (Side note: My son is named Leo but everyone calls him Bud). Bud Boulevard was born. I started out by spray painting the route on the ground so I knew where to dig. This project was so dang hard. But only because of when I decided to do it. It was the hottest time of year and it hadn't rained in many weeks. The ground was as hard as a rock and it was almost 100 degrees with zero breeze. Oh and SWARMING with mosquitos. Trying to dig a track 3-4 inches deep was killing me. I kept watering it to make it easier. I did a lot of it with a small hand shovel. My big shovel, even with all of my body weight on it, was hardly budging. But hey. I made a good dent in it, got in a serious full-body workout and was proud of the progress. Then finally a downpour came! The ground was so wet and, therefore, it became so much easier to dig. I was able to finish my trench to prepare for concrete. It was a muddy project for sure.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHLqHbiF0vo/XyIGQMhPb2I/AAAAAAAAHm4/Egy3h-hy7ksfe3jF5fWY5u9kpGtefAniACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_7400.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UHLqHbiF0vo/XyIGQMhPb2I/AAAAAAAAHm4/Egy3h-hy7ksfe3jF5fWY5u9kpGtefAniACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_7400.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LylLynPxbnM/XyIGQVdhI8I/AAAAAAAAHnA/HdEF5UFifYAwDhTRGta3HOIzZV3NReWFQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_7543.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LylLynPxbnM/XyIGQVdhI8I/AAAAAAAAHnA/HdEF5UFifYAwDhTRGta3HOIzZV3NReWFQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_7543.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I mention my brother a lot, but he and his wife live a few doors down and he's super handy with all of my crazy projects I think up. They came over and he mixed the concrete for me since I had NO idea what I was doing at this point. I bought 1 bag that covered basically nothing. LOL. I also bought black concrete dye that was a waste. I would've had to have so much of it to do anything. So another trip to Lowe's was warranted and we ended up with I think 6 bags of Quickcrete Sand and Topping Mix total. The boys poured and I leveled. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Soudp3KkNHk/XyIGQGdh5_I/AAAAAAAAHm8/9P1FYoXqXHAPwWT6GsfdzoJ_Vt8lS_wmACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_7558.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Soudp3KkNHk/XyIGQGdh5_I/AAAAAAAAHm8/9P1FYoXqXHAPwWT6GsfdzoJ_Vt8lS_wmACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_7558.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">After it dried I painted it black with an exterior concrete paint since the dye was a dud. The next day I painted on the details! And I couldn't forget Bud's sign I got on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/257551860/custom-name-your-text-street-road-mini?" target="_blank">Etsy</a>. It has some drainage issues because of the placement in a lower area of the yard. I added some drainage rocks from Lowes. I'm hoping to landscape is more when the weather gets a little warmer. But until then this is what we have! When it's all cleaned up it's lots of fun. </div><div>
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Now we just need to come up with a good idea for something for Ollie! You think it'd be too much work to plant Ollie's Orchard? Ok ok. I'm currently accepting fresh ideas for that one.<br />
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The last thing I'd really like to do in the near future would be to replace the railroad ties. I think if we removed them entirely the backyard would flood. We don't want to risk that. When the budget allows we will come up with an alternative, be it different wood or a short stone wall. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Al1J1CQHeKU/X7A95xLCn3I/AAAAAAAAHzY/tLklhNf1HR8Hau8MA246SLR0ygbiC9xiQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1590.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Al1J1CQHeKU/X7A95xLCn3I/AAAAAAAAHzY/tLklhNf1HR8Hau8MA246SLR0ygbiC9xiQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1590.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
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So that's it! I'm so excited about our "new" backyard and the entertaining we can do there. ESPECIALLY the entertaining of my own children. They have so much fun and I love letting them run free and get some fresh air. We need it more than ever these days. I especially love enjoying it in this beautiful Fall weather. Plus ALL OF SATAN'S BUGS I MEAN MOSQUITOES ARE DEAD! Ugh was so over those guys. </div>
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As always, thanks for reading my novel and let me know if you decide to do any of these projects! I love pictures! Maybe I'll blog about my exciting indoor projects next. Stay tuned!</div>
</div>Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-723924203056306762020-11-13T14:30:00.003-06:002020-11-13T14:30:54.849-06:00Bud Lightyear is 3! A Toy Story Party<div style="text-align: center;">Ya know, this year has had its fair share of ups and downs. I can definitely attest to that. In fact, I'm sitting here now writing this after having a semi-abrupt surgery just yesterday. I'll be trying to catch up on my blogging in the next few weeks so I will talk about that soon. The whole thing was so crazy and I can't wait to tell y'all about God's goodness once again. It's just so mind blowing to me.</div><div style="text-align: center;">After so much time away from my family earlier this year due to our VERY long <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">hospital stay with Ollie</a>, I welcomed home quarantine with open arms. I was so thankful to get to spend so much uninterrupted time with my older babies who I had missed SO much. One thing that that hard time gave me was a renewed outlook on motherhood. Being trapped at home with a baby, toddler and 5 year old was hard, of course. But when I would've previously been losing my mind, I was rejoicing. Rejoicing that I still had all THREE of my babies in my arms. Rejoicing for health. Rejoicing for time spent together. Rejoicing having my husband home with us. Rejoicing that I didn't have to put pants on for 2 weeks (a month living with no privacy was really affecting me in that sense 😅). And rejoicing because absolutely nothing is out of our good Father's hands. My life has been a living testament to that this year. Phew. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Another thing being trapped at home gave me was SO MUCH CRAFTING TIME! My favorite 3 year old benefitted greatly from this because I got just a "little" carried away with his birthday party this year. Quarantine crafting got the best of me. I was so excited to see the joy on his face as I created a Toy Story wonderland in our own house. I couldn't stop. I just kept crafting until I was completely out of ideas. The result was worth it. The amazement in his eyes made my heart melt. And THAT is why I do it. And it's super fun for me too which is obviously a bonus. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So now to the reason you're here! I introduce: </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KJ8ZXs8Z87s/X67N57m8CkI/AAAAAAAAHpk/9BfazReRf6YPoa_JMf0Pr3d8BwPP9PYwwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1828/120398783_2710682112535797_8118461158029617041_nb.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KJ8ZXs8Z87s/X67N57m8CkI/AAAAAAAAHpk/9BfazReRf6YPoa_JMf0Pr3d8BwPP9PYwwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/120398783_2710682112535797_8118461158029617041_nb.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>“Hey Howdy Hey,” it's Leo's birthday!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Now hop in your rockets and join us to play.</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>“To infinity and beyond!” It’ll be a CABOOM!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>We’ll have fun with the toys in Andy’s room.</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>We’ll say “So long, Partner,” to naughty number tw”OOOOOOOO”</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>And blast off to three with a snake in our shoe! </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>So don’t be a Stinky Pete. It will be GREAT!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Bud’s got a friend in you, so come celebrate!</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">My Bud Bud. I was so excited to celebrate his sweet, naughty little self and his passionate love for Buzz and Woody. We love you to infinity and beyond, Leo. Our favorite space ranger.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I got my inspiration from Pinterest and from watching each of the Toy Story movies appx 3849 times each. But who's counting.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I will walk you through the party from the front door to the backyard, including all the details in between.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">ARE MY BABIES NOT THE CUTEST EVER??? I'M BIASED OK BUT THEY'RE WONDERFUL.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyzT9jqSe_Y/X67OaTalxiI/AAAAAAAAHpw/Dloh3sQxA2MjxAqX4ZP_vjHreLeOTsBLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1616-1.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyzT9jqSe_Y/X67OaTalxiI/AAAAAAAAHpw/Dloh3sQxA2MjxAqX4ZP_vjHreLeOTsBLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1616-1.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I bought Leo and Ollie's costumes at Target and created Presley's. She wanted to be Bo Peep but I didn't like the costume version. She already had this cute denim romper so I just modified it. I just sewed lace ribbon I already had on the front and around the bottom cuffs. I used loose, wide stitches so I could easily remove the details after and it could go back to normal. I tied pink ribbon around her waist that I also already had and got the pink, sparkly hairbow at Hobby Lobby. I made the cape out of royal blue velvet and added a big, dramatic button at the clasp. She already had a superhero cape so I used that to trace out the pattern then sew it together. It connected with a little piece of velcro. Super simple.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The front door:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The letter blocks. I had a hard time finding perfectly square boxes without writing on them so I made my own. I got these square, cardboard cake boards from Hobby Lobby instead. I got 3 packs of 6 and just hot glued them into cubes. I used regular acrylic paint to add the details. I used our own wooden blocks as an example to copy. One of my favorite details. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I threw out some cones to look like that's how the toys arrived (In Toy Story 2 they used these cones to disguise themselves as they crossed the road). The good news about this theme was that, being there are 4 movies, I had lots to work with.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I bought the wood hanging on my door for 25 cents at a garage sale (lol) and wrote on it with Sharpie:</div><div style="text-align: center;">"Hey Howdy Hey! It's Bud's Birthday!"</div><div style="text-align: center;">I think the guy I brought it from thought I was crazy for wanting it. It was falling apart and he felt so bad that he threw in a rather nice basket for free. As if 25 cents was too much. Haha. A few nails later it was just what I needed. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I got the jump rope and bag of army men at Dollar Tree and glued the men to the rope. There were army men all over my house spying on the party. Making sure Leo didn't get any new toy that would show anyone up. They've been burned before.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I was excited to find the "Andy's Room" sign on Google images, along with more of Andy's art (seen inside). I just printed it on a full page and went over it in crayon so it didn't look printed out.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NEYLBmM3ad4/X67OacsRP6I/AAAAAAAAHps/O8zCNmbuptQDuYdLlYiVOD6Y8-v-PuSwwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1648.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NEYLBmM3ad4/X67OacsRP6I/AAAAAAAAHps/O8zCNmbuptQDuYdLlYiVOD6Y8-v-PuSwwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1648.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oHOcX740OSs/X67Oaa-qemI/AAAAAAAAHp0/1fwB-r9Hbso1gmzX2lOaXCaAjYV65Md6wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1667.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oHOcX740OSs/X67Oaa-qemI/AAAAAAAAHp0/1fwB-r9Hbso1gmzX2lOaXCaAjYV65Md6wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1667.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9jsylynrVg/X67Oa4crkmI/AAAAAAAAHp4/bzd5lArih104gKif2qfurAzcb7W_Gp2XACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1670.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9jsylynrVg/X67Oa4crkmI/AAAAAAAAHp4/bzd5lArih104gKif2qfurAzcb7W_Gp2XACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1670.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ry2L3SxmaxM/X67ObM2IaMI/AAAAAAAAHp8/O_vkzdkruwQi05MBK0oi7ZhbABKESbZxgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1681.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ry2L3SxmaxM/X67ObM2IaMI/AAAAAAAAHp8/O_vkzdkruwQi05MBK0oi7ZhbABKESbZxgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1681.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The entry hall:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We had Alexa play the Toy Story soundtrack throughout the house and backyard to set the mood as you open the door. Always one of my favorite ways to immerse our guests.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I bought the balloons in Twister colors at HL, blew them up with my pump and sewed them together to make a garland. Once you tie them off just use a thick thread and needle to sew through the tied off ends (obviously not the inflated part). I hung them up using command strips and by the grace of the good Lord they stayed! I just stuck the strip on the ceiling and the balloon on the strip. After living there for 3 days it fell down an hour after the party ended. Nailed it!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I had already hung these parachuting army men in Leo's bedroom so I moved them downstairs for the party. I think I got them on Amazon. I love using Command hooks for my parties because they make it easy to hang things and they don't ruin paint.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I found the orange Barrel of Monkeys at a consignment sale for a whole dollar that I hung from the chandelier.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Potato Head sign was another piece of Andy's art I found on Google and colored over.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Lastly, the party favors. I got the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WS74WNS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">boxes on Amazon</a>. I liked these because they looked like mini moving boxes. They included some cute themed toys from Dollar Tree: Little Buzz/Woody figurines, markers with TS characters (the younger kids got crayons), sheriff badge, TS stickers...I think that's it. Just a few happies.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gn2bQyupudM/X67Sz4cOX5I/AAAAAAAAHqk/WUBTyUWvJkkvjsy00Eepx5-FTScfU0g6gCNcBGAsYHQ/s960/124541090_277975646967334_3124486829150868868_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gn2bQyupudM/X67Sz4cOX5I/AAAAAAAAHqk/WUBTyUWvJkkvjsy00Eepx5-FTScfU0g6gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/124541090_277975646967334_3124486829150868868_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aeFrGQ56YH8/X67S8izvJxI/AAAAAAAAHqo/N4PoUe0TKLEHm3dTOrAO7gKlSLSRFf5twCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aeFrGQ56YH8/X67S8izvJxI/AAAAAAAAHqo/N4PoUe0TKLEHm3dTOrAO7gKlSLSRFf5twCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1675.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qyuKKVD6r5Q/X67S8yUklqI/AAAAAAAAHqs/_nsaBZIHGnshUBKPAxSN_y0FE-scip7NQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2049/IMG_1712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2049" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qyuKKVD6r5Q/X67S8yUklqI/AAAAAAAAHqs/_nsaBZIHGnshUBKPAxSN_y0FE-scip7NQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1712.JPG" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The dining room:</div><div style="text-align: center;">I bought the background stand on Amazon many years ago for a photobooth I made at my church for an event. I've used it appx 3930 times since then. WORTH IT! I bought this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F87BBNC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">cloud backdrop on Amazon</a> as well and attached it to the stand. I then made another balloon garland and attached it to the top to conceal the top edge. I used balloons filled with helium to camouflage the sides.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I already had the decorative paper circles I bought years ago from HL. I taped more Andy's artwork from Google on the background. I also tied more army men to some jute and hung it down the side.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Instead of a table cloth I used the game Twister, which we already had. I bought a few extra Toy Story characters here and there over the past few months (a lot of them were super cheap on clearance one day at Target- score for me), but we already had most of them. I found the mini Barrel of Monkeys at the Dollar Tree to hang from the chandelier.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">For the food we had cake (had to dust off the old pans for this one and I had so much fun), a fruit tray with a pineapple potato head, Bagel Bites (with Pizza Planet sign- I got the vinyl on Etsy and stuck it on paper and laminated it), Forky string cheeses (just drew the faces with Sharpies, hot glued on the eyes from DT, and wrapped them in pipe cleaner arms), chocolate coins to go under Hamm (available in season at Trader Joes OR at the checkout counters at HL), and alien marshmallows (marshmallows on a stick dipped in white melting chocolate dyed green with eyes- I bought white confetti sprinkles and used an edible marker to draw the pupils). For the marshmallows, be sure to dip the stick in the chocolate BEFORE putting them in the marshmallows and let that harden again. THEN dip the whole thing in the chocolate.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QO37ibe7SU4/X67V8YjA8EI/AAAAAAAAHss/Tw0tYEPEE6MrC_RAyfDEW9v9rAz1F3cAgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1739-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QO37ibe7SU4/X67V8YjA8EI/AAAAAAAAHss/Tw0tYEPEE6MrC_RAyfDEW9v9rAz1F3cAgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1739-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kcrak-IUxpE/X67V8YTsKsI/AAAAAAAAHsw/vCVpimX9uXYu2unF0f9IENxRhns6SMd9QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kcrak-IUxpE/X67V8YTsKsI/AAAAAAAAHsw/vCVpimX9uXYu2unF0f9IENxRhns6SMd9QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1747.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R8UiV7pugjA/X67VJgnrhMI/AAAAAAAAHrU/xO84k4qvxDE5Rf0jH2KYrLGUYeThLTgjgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2049/IMG_1671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2049" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R8UiV7pugjA/X67VJgnrhMI/AAAAAAAAHrU/xO84k4qvxDE5Rf0jH2KYrLGUYeThLTgjgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1671.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WpLn1NZnX5E/X67VKWJlLxI/AAAAAAAAHrY/eQengTblsXM_QzVAw0ZZSSUJzLeHmkzsgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WpLn1NZnX5E/X67VKWJlLxI/AAAAAAAAHrY/eQengTblsXM_QzVAw0ZZSSUJzLeHmkzsgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1679.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n-MP0v9BCGA/X67VK5vAwmI/AAAAAAAAHrc/JhunZ8hJCPQB5NB-kNVfJ42GX6e3yo4YwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2049/IMG_1680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2049" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n-MP0v9BCGA/X67VK5vAwmI/AAAAAAAAHrc/JhunZ8hJCPQB5NB-kNVfJ42GX6e3yo4YwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1680.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6yA951pkLao/X67VLQsWh8I/AAAAAAAAHrg/RFjGfmJN2pg5RKX_PBFFYjYDVUNYTA7PgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6yA951pkLao/X67VLQsWh8I/AAAAAAAAHrg/RFjGfmJN2pg5RKX_PBFFYjYDVUNYTA7PgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1682.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8KOBr29Z1GM/X67VMPEYJfI/AAAAAAAAHro/247NOMydpvkfM23F7BQXiAlsQV5AB1X4ACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8KOBr29Z1GM/X67VMPEYJfI/AAAAAAAAHro/247NOMydpvkfM23F7BQXiAlsQV5AB1X4ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1706.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i8rCE92nHuE/X67VMr3blTI/AAAAAAAAHrs/N2FLovXj7dYl78dhbGaFVz4Sy7DnpCd2wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2049/IMG_1707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2049" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i8rCE92nHuE/X67VMr3blTI/AAAAAAAAHrs/N2FLovXj7dYl78dhbGaFVz4Sy7DnpCd2wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1707.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xlgpAI9mspg/X67VNZiXTkI/AAAAAAAAHrw/J9tp1y4jskcxq6us4Aa4SUWneLyeClSigCNcBGAsYHQ/s2049/IMG_1710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2049" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xlgpAI9mspg/X67VNZiXTkI/AAAAAAAAHrw/J9tp1y4jskcxq6us4Aa4SUWneLyeClSigCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1710.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z77H9RHhH8E/X67VObyQ3II/AAAAAAAAHr4/54AsEGOfb28A1IUrSBAz_T1BE-Tc2v2MgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z77H9RHhH8E/X67VObyQ3II/AAAAAAAAHr4/54AsEGOfb28A1IUrSBAz_T1BE-Tc2v2MgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1725.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KFDrkQ1zmn0/X67VQ_4I-SI/AAAAAAAAHsM/wdZajo7rwyETd78PnRBs7CpD8GEZu_AnQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1755.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KFDrkQ1zmn0/X67VQ_4I-SI/AAAAAAAAHsM/wdZajo7rwyETd78PnRBs7CpD8GEZu_AnQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1755.JPEG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Please enjoy this video of Bud seeing his cake for the first time. It put the hugest smile on my face. Made all of the hard work SO worth it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dznT0cT9IXIPmeoiADKoRy0lqhzlxy029E4SRa-EJMMhdQIt0t084Y7Dt9MChCHrGMAZ5XgMcOsgHCHzLHHpQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">For a memento I always have a themed book for party guests to sign. I put these books in my kid's keepsake boxes for them to read down the line. I hope they love looking through them one day. I always get my paper/plastic goods at DT because they have every color and they're so cheap!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_d5-5sLASa8/X67WPC92DMI/AAAAAAAAHs8/9UKAOTXvB4QDbZynTIzOS6Jjrmg_7nrrACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_d5-5sLASa8/X67WPC92DMI/AAAAAAAAHs8/9UKAOTXvB4QDbZynTIzOS6Jjrmg_7nrrACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1296.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FyIlV4AVFic/X67WPIa_f3I/AAAAAAAAHtA/AV1xO_g7rSUh-x6MK782p_7IeAk-OCRXQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FyIlV4AVFic/X67WPIa_f3I/AAAAAAAAHtA/AV1xO_g7rSUh-x6MK782p_7IeAk-OCRXQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1297.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Army men everywhere. We will probably be finding them for years to come.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z8RytrZ3DkA/X67WbwD1t7I/AAAAAAAAHtM/qIVLEhiLApk334MJwYjuhJafawA7MihiQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z8RytrZ3DkA/X67WbwD1t7I/AAAAAAAAHtM/qIVLEhiLApk334MJwYjuhJafawA7MihiQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1295.JPG" /></a></div></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ku_nqkCQ3mE/X67Wbq14AmI/AAAAAAAAHtE/TJy3oH4IbpE-KXHbrNdUQIuuNzsx7bEnwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ku_nqkCQ3mE/X67Wbq14AmI/AAAAAAAAHtE/TJy3oH4IbpE-KXHbrNdUQIuuNzsx7bEnwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1714.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I made this Etch A Sketch out of scrapbook paper. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tdLNHVGouhM/X67aID4c6fI/AAAAAAAAHto/GsIwiVBW5pEhxxUAkUJ8f5KPNb-8g8E0ACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tdLNHVGouhM/X67aID4c6fI/AAAAAAAAHto/GsIwiVBW5pEhxxUAkUJ8f5KPNb-8g8E0ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1699.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The kitchen:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This room was simple. I used the piñata we later hit outside as the centerpiece. I got the cowboy boot at HL and filled it with little snakes (Dollar Tree) and lots of Halloween candy. Because, ya know, there's a snake in my boot! I hot glued a big snake to the front as well. I already had the Happy Birthday banner I made for a previous party. I had already bought the cow fabric and checkered table cloth for another v important party coming up in January. Of course I had to put a "Trash" sign on the trash can. It just made sense. Lastly, Presley made some beautiful Toy Story artwork of her own to hang up on the bulletin board. We added a Sunnyside flyer as well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cS-qpGl9EXA/X67bVTydEPI/AAAAAAAAHuE/0S_yCejs4REWl3tPLhun78CqYcGXrNPOACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cS-qpGl9EXA/X67bVTydEPI/AAAAAAAAHuE/0S_yCejs4REWl3tPLhun78CqYcGXrNPOACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1691.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t--u4x-vOY8/X67bVLj4wxI/AAAAAAAAHuA/_brpvwdmuLw0U1fyLtsLNfHgxlJ-1MVMgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t--u4x-vOY8/X67bVLj4wxI/AAAAAAAAHuA/_brpvwdmuLw0U1fyLtsLNfHgxlJ-1MVMgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1722.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WMc79kZFNSc/X67hvIdsqAI/AAAAAAAAHu8/XJikmCnjWGYnbNVeggynvx7FBVt5sP4DACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WMc79kZFNSc/X67hvIdsqAI/AAAAAAAAHu8/XJikmCnjWGYnbNVeggynvx7FBVt5sP4DACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1752.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The bathroom:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is where I was a little extra. 2 words: Forky. Toilet. Gross? Endearing? Idk but this is what I meant when I said I crafted until I ran out of ideas. This was the end for me. (And I want to point out that the toilet is very clean, it's just 50 years old and needs replacing- Maybe I shouldn't post a picture of my toilet on the internet. It's fine.). I also hung a "Bonnie's Room" sign on the door.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77ohfS4sRCw/X67bAVic_8I/AAAAAAAAHtw/-VfNFw72Lx48ggVRAr1Tw3bHll_jAURfACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1535" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77ohfS4sRCw/X67bAVic_8I/AAAAAAAAHtw/-VfNFw72Lx48ggVRAr1Tw3bHll_jAURfACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1727.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3zvFAJ8gv8w/X67bAYVsPBI/AAAAAAAAHt0/ixZige5BUoUnUgVTOd3gwcDnQbo670LywCNcBGAsYHQ/s2049/IMG_1729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2049" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3zvFAJ8gv8w/X67bAYVsPBI/AAAAAAAAHt0/ixZige5BUoUnUgVTOd3gwcDnQbo670LywCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1729.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The living room:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I made the "To Infinity and Beyond" banner out of scrapbook paper. I recycled the "You've Got a Friend in Me" art from Leo's bedroom (I made it a few months ago). The banner was made from scrapbook paper (had to paint on the red plaid and the cow spots). And the letters were recycled from <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2019/11/budasaurus-is-2.html" target="_blank">Budasaurus</a>! The "O" was actually already a dinosaur so I just added the head at the top to look like Rex. The "L" was already blue so I just removed the spikes and painted on the clouds. And the "E" I painted from scratch. I plan on reusing these again and again for parties to come. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I actually found the Woody/Buzz cutout on Zulily and bought it at the beginning of the year! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VIMWm-YD8H0/X67c9UgrMcI/AAAAAAAAHuY/nGcjxrHstNwoe7ZfJ1HJ-34vgDiVWG4CACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VIMWm-YD8H0/X67c9UgrMcI/AAAAAAAAHuY/nGcjxrHstNwoe7ZfJ1HJ-34vgDiVWG4CACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1293.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxE-PIKypg0/X67c9I9om9I/AAAAAAAAHuQ/f5BhY6REwcwqH_6ErUN9Hkx6W_XBk4ymQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxE-PIKypg0/X67c9I9om9I/AAAAAAAAHuQ/f5BhY6REwcwqH_6ErUN9Hkx6W_XBk4ymQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1686.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--YhkF5_2Isc/X67pJQbYWuI/AAAAAAAAHxY/iws6XURwzuMd7KmnhiQ5Q8MquofzNmpgwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1336-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--YhkF5_2Isc/X67pJQbYWuI/AAAAAAAAHxY/iws6XURwzuMd7KmnhiQ5Q8MquofzNmpgwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1336-1.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ui7_7gi-gr4/X67pJVUxGtI/AAAAAAAAHxc/IhpWFC4PDfgIkxcH9xsML6oS2Ic9TLU5wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1334/IMG_1409.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ui7_7gi-gr4/X67pJVUxGtI/AAAAAAAAHxc/IhpWFC4PDfgIkxcH9xsML6oS2Ic9TLU5wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1409.PNG" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyiKN2v_MLKdwcz3yl8OWgaBFo0Xzujc70sL3ET6LnJzursDUYCg1cbId5HGiT1vuw4AZIobHlp7U8ctXgIFw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">But my FAVORITE part of the living room was the bar. Excuse me. The Refueling Station. I got the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074W949RV/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">space backdrop on Amazon</a> and created the claw. I am way too proud of my claw. I measured and cut it out of foam core board and covered in aluminum foil. I got the cups and googly eyes at Dollar Tree and duh I can't have THE claw without WHITE Claw! I think the adults appreciated it :) The "Alien Slime" punch was a mixture of frozen orange/pineapple juice, Sprite, and green Hawaiian Punch. We just mixed it till it tasted good. It was so tasty. Lastly, I covered the bottom with <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MTV74L8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07_s03?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">star confetti from Amazon.</a></div></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GcADNftrljc/X67c9PG-DDI/AAAAAAAAHuU/qtB_vWCc118OGV2lmpjG4indkd7dZ9l8QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GcADNftrljc/X67c9PG-DDI/AAAAAAAAHuU/qtB_vWCc118OGV2lmpjG4indkd7dZ9l8QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1715.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qSz9JYEcVXs/X67fDJoQQKI/AAAAAAAAHus/jnnizj2pMlU_4QOxP57k6xBFxg2u8JVWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0195%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qSz9JYEcVXs/X67fDJoQQKI/AAAAAAAAHus/jnnizj2pMlU_4QOxP57k6xBFxg2u8JVWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0195%2521.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K_rgGTqJGg4/X67c9pRfzGI/AAAAAAAAHuc/3ehcBPsIh4wEospCmlm84iL3lKfGg4l1QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K_rgGTqJGg4/X67c9pRfzGI/AAAAAAAAHuc/3ehcBPsIh4wEospCmlm84iL3lKfGg4l1QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1716.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">LASTLY, the place where most of the party took place:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The backyard: Woody's Round-Up!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tcR-ONMm5JI/X67fr7i-ReI/AAAAAAAAHu0/Yn15ka_xMFUcDZ7PFkYEbUmpf0gK9w19QCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tcR-ONMm5JI/X67fr7i-ReI/AAAAAAAAHu0/Yn15ka_xMFUcDZ7PFkYEbUmpf0gK9w19QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1424.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was where the kids played for hours. The backyard was another quarantine project I will blog about soon. I was excited to share it with more kiddos. I decorated it in a Western theme to go with Woody's Roundup.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I got the cow print table clothes at Hobby Lobby along with the banana/cow print banner, wooden deer head (He was on clearance for $2 because 1 antler was broken, but I made new ones with paper and glued them on), and bananas on the table. I got the little wooden cactus' at Dollar Tree and painted them myself. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I hung one of the cow print table cloths on the fence and made a sign out of cardboard that said "Stinky Pete's Photo Booth." It was accompanied with a basket of Western-themed photo props from Hobby Lobby. I made a few other cardboard signs to hang on misc things in the backyard that included "Jail", "Saloon", and "Bank." </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The kids has fun hitting the piñata outside too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lastly, Bud Boulevard (will be included in my backyard blog post) finally got some action! I set out some cars and made little road signs that pointed to Pizza Planet, Second Chance Antiques, Al's Toy Barn and Sunnyside Daycare. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sixAIB3-zQs/X67iO8QKkKI/AAAAAAAAHvI/-3-XBxHl9-AbWcSxj0_Td-POYzku_x9WgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1317.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sixAIB3-zQs/X67iO8QKkKI/AAAAAAAAHvI/-3-XBxHl9-AbWcSxj0_Td-POYzku_x9WgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1317.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8c1QvUDOxnY/X67iOWMek_I/AAAAAAAAHvE/VxJr5NhVat0IApjAL-QFbjENd_7tFcJ2wCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8c1QvUDOxnY/X67iOWMek_I/AAAAAAAAHvE/VxJr5NhVat0IApjAL-QFbjENd_7tFcJ2wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1689.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uqaWtfHaMKo/X67kH0mIG5I/AAAAAAAAHw8/9ixUc2aYOPYeFuVexsGcP_IgkCQaIq0lgCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1283.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1650" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uqaWtfHaMKo/X67kH0mIG5I/AAAAAAAAHw8/9ixUc2aYOPYeFuVexsGcP_IgkCQaIq0lgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1283.JPEG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vpmteVGge_Y/X67kHoVIHdI/AAAAAAAAHw4/x-hsuqq9InESi9qkMRsB3gHrPKFUIC3vACNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vpmteVGge_Y/X67kHoVIHdI/AAAAAAAAHw4/x-hsuqq9InESi9qkMRsB3gHrPKFUIC3vACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1284.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lLO6PGd1oaw/X67kJNlc1KI/AAAAAAAAHxE/A0ZdyXdqw_4DnjXX3Wnl_viFLr7stahlwCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lLO6PGd1oaw/X67kJNlc1KI/AAAAAAAAHxE/A0ZdyXdqw_4DnjXX3Wnl_viFLr7stahlwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1285.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OF86B9BZ7wc/X67kJYqlHnI/AAAAAAAAHxI/X9wE9mzxdUMNeskIhyA3sqPDHsixCUvmQCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OF86B9BZ7wc/X67kJYqlHnI/AAAAAAAAHxI/X9wE9mzxdUMNeskIhyA3sqPDHsixCUvmQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1286.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well, I think that's about it! We had so much fun celebrating our Bud. A much needed happy place/distraction from all of the craziness going on in the world today. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stay tuned for more quarantine project posts! They've been abundant. I've been out of control. It's fine.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As always, thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you enjoyed! And don't forget to always "Reach for the sky!"</div></div></div></div>Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-42175261313732941622020-06-27T16:22:00.003-05:002020-07-27T20:41:00.703-05:00Life in 2020- Praise Him<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, hello! Has it been an eternity since I last blogged? January feels like years ago. 2020 has been the craziest 12 years of my life and it's only half over. I'm sure many others will agree. Besides the obvious state of the world, I will explain what I mean.</div>
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I will say that it started out on a mountain top! We met our newest babe, Oliver, on January 8. We didn't know if he was a boy or a girl and I decided that I was SO sure he was a girl and I bought a lot of hairbows but then he was a boy all along and that just shows what I know but he is absolutely perfect and we're obsessed with him *takes breath*. But for real. We are so thankful for our sweet Ollie (who is almost 6 months now) and he will ALWAYS make 2020 worth it.<br />
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He is also why I will never forget it.</div>
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<i>Olivia Marino Photography </i></div>
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This is our story in a nutshell.<br />
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So at the end of February, 6 weeks later, Ollie started hacking a lot. The big kids both had a cold and I figured he got it too. Since it was the weekend (anyone else's kids ONLY get sick when the pediatrician is closed? Just me?) we had to take him to LeBonheur Urgent Care. We were in and out in 30 minutes. The doc there said, "He has a little congestion. We're not going to test him for RSV because he's fine. Minor issue." "Ok, they're not concerned so I won't be either." I then went about my day. The next day was a Sunday and Ollie was now completely miserable. He was coughing nonstop, screaming and crying all day (very unlike him), and was now refusing to nurse. It didn't feel right at all. For most of the day I hesitated taking him back to urgent care because I was just there 30 hours ago and they said he was fine. Are they going to think I'm crazy?? Should I wait for the pediatrician to open tomorrow morning and take him then? Then something clicked and I was like nope! I'm getting him help right now. I strapped him in his car seat and he vomited. Not spit up. Throw up. I then frantically rushed him back to urgent care. Due to his young age they took him straight back to be seen ASAP. They did an RSV test and while we waited for his results they did a deep nasal suction. After that he finally nursed a little. He now had a little fever and his oxygen saturation wasn't great. The results came back positive for RSV and they sent us downtown to LeBonheur Children's Hospital to be admitted right away. Always follow your Momma gut no matter what. I should've taken him that morning but wrestled in my head until the afternoon when I finally gave in.</div>
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Everyone's baby gets RSV at some point, yes? Maybe not everyone but I knew it was super common so I wasn't TOO concerned. I absolutely hated seeing him not feeling great, but I didn't think this was a life or death situation by any means. He was given a high flow cannula and seemed to do well over night. The next day, however, was a different story. He went from being ok to being in bad shape over the course of a few hours. Matt and I were quickly becoming very concerned. By the end of the day we were in the PICU for a more intense treatment route. He was really struggling to breathe on his own. I'm now hysterical and we are TERRIFIED. The next morning he was worsening and they made the decision to intubate him. A sight I don't wish on any parent ever. Along with that he was heavily sedated and on a paralytic that made him motionless. This was mostly how he remained for the next 10 days.<br />
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For unknown reasons his illness peaked many days after it was expected to. The docs were even discussing putting him on ECMO at one point (a machine that basically removes blood from the body, continuously sweeping the excess CO2 away and putting it back in- don't quote me on this but I think that's the jist). I do believe this would've been the last thing they could've done to help him. His lungs were so sick and not only not improving, but were continuing to get worse. For days. On top of that he developed NEC (Necrotizing Entercolitis). His belly got very big and distended. This condition is most common in preemies and has a very high mortality rate. This led to other GI issues that he still carries with him.<br />
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I could go on and on telling you every little setback and scary medical thing that happened that terrified us to our core, but that doesn't matter any more. Overall what I took from this is MUCH greater than fear.</div>
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So long story short, we were there in total for 29 nights/days. A week after we came home after our first stay his belly became distended again and he started vomiting/not eating. We took him back for 3 days. A week after that the same thing happened. 3 more days. Then finally we were home for good.</div>
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I can't say ANY of it was easy. The beginning of it all was the darkest time of my life. The helplessness I felt as a mom who couldn't help her baby. Seeing him lay there lifeless and not being able to pick him up and nurse or cuddle him. I was emotionally and physically so weak. I didn't know I could cry so much. For days I could see the worry in the doctors' eyes when they came in to examine him and give us an update. No one would tell us he was going to be ok. They said over and over again, "He is very sick but we really hope he will get through this."<br />
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The picture above was taken 6 days in. My worst day. For some reason I always had the idea that a week in he would be on the mend and everything would be fine. That was a day away and he was the worst I had seen him. His whole body became swollen over night and his eyelids were bulging. He did not look like my baby. I woke up crying and I don't think I stopped until I fell asleep that night. His nurse that day kept rubbing my back as I sobbed (bless the healthcare workers who have to see people at their worst every time they go to work- it takes someone so special). She set me up to hold him for I think the second time since we got there. I kept waiting for him to flinch or open his eyes. Or smile at me. But he didn't. He was limp and heavy. I don't know why Matt took this picture. I had tears in my eyes and I did not feel like smiling. You can see the exhaustion in my face. I can't look at it without all of those feelings rushing back over me.</div>
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BUT! The very next day God began His work in me. When I was at my absolute emotional breaking point and didn't know how much more I could take.<br />
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I can't even explain how near He was to us. I constantly felt Him whispering in my ear, "I am with you. I am near to the brokenhearted. I will give the weary strength. Ollie is mine. You are mine. And I WILL provide for you."<br />
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As the days and nights dragged on I began feeling different. My utter hopelessness began to transform into faith and my weakness to strength. I knew it wasn't coming from within myself, but from the giver of life. He was literally breathing life back into me. I began to feel myself in my body again. I was no longer numb and nauseous. I began to feel JOY. Joy because I accepted that HE was in control. Not me. It was liberating. I was filled with hope. I was at peace. I could eat. I could sleep. I was able to be there for my baby and be strong for him. I could rub his sweet head and smile at him without being overcome with immense sadness and grief. The weeping began to fade. Because I knew God was the one in control. He took my burden from me. And it was SO heavy. I could feel the maker of the entire universe taking care of ME. My baby was in HIS hands. How amazing is that? While the first week was dark, even while Ollie was still super sick, God's restoration began to take shape. Not only in Ollie, but in me. </div>
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Now I know that often God does not choose to save. Sometimes His perfect plan does not include physical healing. Of course I knew this. I knew that if that were the case for us He was still good. And yes I struggled greatly with the thought of losing my baby and what that would look like for me. But while the doctor's couldn't tell me confidently that my son was going to live, God did. In His own way He expressed to me the words I craved. "Our baby will be okay. Because He is mine." I can't explain it but at that point I KNEW he would live. God spoke this comfort into my heart and I held onto that hope with all the faith that I had.</div>
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Can you see the difference? This smile isn't the same as than the last. I still had a very sick baby, but I KNEW to whom we belonged and I felt safe in His grasp. </div>
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The hardest thing I've ever had to do was give my baby up. To relinquish all control and fully give him to God. To trust Him COMPLETELY with my most precious possession. But once God gave me the strength to do so, the result was far greater than I could imagine. I traded fear for rest. Like real rest. Not just physical rest but mental and emotional rest. Rest that ONLY could be found in Him. He took my weary soul and began to restore it. And He was faithful to His promise to me.<br />
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He saved my baby.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BP13XRA78Gk/XvewBYl8y4I/AAAAAAAAHgI/kIa3Hb0Pcp4ZTT4L3C8ToKrnElmvSmRZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/88220150_10215302196564015_8592010414118666240_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BP13XRA78Gk/XvewBYl8y4I/AAAAAAAAHgI/kIa3Hb0Pcp4ZTT4L3C8ToKrnElmvSmRZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/88220150_10215302196564015_8592010414118666240_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
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<i>The moment they removed the ventilator and I heard his little voice and saw his whole face for the first time in 10 days. Sweet angel. One of the greatest moments of my life. I will never forget it as long as I live.</i></div>
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Now I'm not going to lie and say I didn't have moments of weakness after God got a grip on my heart. I definitely had moments when Satan tried to sneak in thoughts of fear and "what if." He tried to steal my hope. He tried to wake me up in the night with a beeping machine just to fill my head with lies. But God was with me. And I found him constantly pulling me back to Him. No matter how far I would let my thoughts and fears take me. Satan did not win. </div>
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I'm also not going to lie and say that I don't still carry those thoughts and fears with me even today, 3 months later. Every day I have some kind of flashback that brings me pain and often tears. Trauma doesn't just go away no matter how strong your faith may be. Satan will always be there to remind you of it and try to use it to take you down with him.<br />
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Don't let him.<br />
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When this happens to me I look at my baby. If he's sleeping. If he's awake. If he's with grandma I look at a picture. Because when I look in my son's eyes I see Jesus. I am reminded that He loves me far greater than I even love my own children. He feels our pain and He carries our burdens. He is with us. And now the little scars on his body remind me not of my pain (which was far greater than Ollie's), but of His faithfulness that brought us through the worst days of our life.</div>
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I want THIS to be the thing I remember from all of this. I will most likely carry the scary stuff with me forever. It's hard to forget it. But God not only saved my boy, but He saved me through this experience. And for that I am eternally grateful. </div>
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So to wrap up and encourage you in the weird world today (I could type for days about God's goodness to me through this experience):<br />
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Whether it be a pandemic, a sick child or something else you're going through personally, God is with you. He hears you. He loves you. He longs for you to know Him. LET HIM! Give Him your burdens, your fears, your babies, and let Him carry you. I promise it will never be something you regret. No one is too broken to be restored by our Savior. </div>
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I pray that Ollie's story is used for His glory and encourages you. Even though we left the hospital and went straight into home-quarantine, I had a new outlook on life. I was able to rest in the hope and peace I get from Christ instead of dwelling in fear. I pray that you are able to do the same because of what He's done for you on the cross.<br />
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I also want to use this space to thank every one of you who prayed for our Ollie, brought/sent food and gifts, the texts and cards, etc. The comfort we felt knowing the extent of how many people were lifting us up and loving on us can't be put into words. God heard our prayers. We wish we could thank you all individually. We love and appreciate you from the bottom of our hearts. </div>
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I also wanted to point out how THANKFUL we are for LeBonheur. While I never wish you have to call that place home for any amount of time, the love and care we received there was truly a gift from God. I'm so thankful God placed it in our city so that we could benefit from all of the smart and wonderful people there in our greatest time of need. </div>
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<i>This was the HAPPIEST day- the first time we left after 22 days inside. </i></div>
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<i>(Poor Ollie hadn't seen the sun in so long he forgot how to be outside)</i></div>
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<b>Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.</b></div>
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<b>Ephesians 3:20-21</b></div>
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P.S. If you desire to read all of the posts that were made in real time while we were there, they're available on my Facebook and Instagram. They have all of the details and I feel they are a better representation of how God began to re-mold my heart to be completely reliant on Him. From fear to redemption. He has already written such a beautiful story into Ollie's life.<br />
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Praise Him.</div>
Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-68446770786103947812019-12-31T14:07:00.000-06:002019-12-31T14:07:02.827-06:00Presley is FIVE! A Rapunzel Party<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello again! I am just DAYS away from giving birth to our third child. But before I have my hands even more full I wanted to get on here to talk about our sweet Princess Presley's super fun birthday party we had a few days ago! My technical due date is January 13, although my baby is measuring a little farther along so we're not entirely sure. BUT I'm being induced on the 8th so at least I can see an end in sight! I AM GIGANTIC! Presley's birthday is January 19. Instead of throwing her party with a newborn in tow I decided to do it a little early. Like 3 days after Christmas early. It's been crazy trying to put away Christmas/organize{what feels like} hundreds of new toys after the holidays, clean the house and redecorate for the party in just a few days but the Lord sustained me and we got it done. It helped having everything made and ready to go many weeks in advance. And now my house is super clean (hardcore nesting probs) and covered in baby equipment. And it's giving me hardcore flashbacks of my first 2 and making me realize how FAST time flies! Like HOW is my first baby already five??? I can't believe 2020 brings Kindergarten for us. I'm in complete denial about it. Like I'm positive I'm going to need to be enrolled in a mental institution when August gets here. Which reminds me that we should start budgeting for that ASAP. Ugh. Why they gotta grow up. Now that I'm completely off topic, I'm going to get back on track and actually tell you about her party!</div>
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The day after her last <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2019/01/prelsa-is-4.html" target="_blank">Elsa party</a> P came to me and said, "Mom, next year I want a Rapunzel party. With LANTERNS hanging from the ceiling!" And thus we've been planning it ever since. I have been so excited about it because Rapunzel is CLEARLY the greatest princess of all time so all of my wildest dreams were coming true.</div>
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As always, I started by sitting down with Pinterest and a piece of paper and sketching out my favorite ideas. After that I make a list of what I need to make and another list of what I need to buy. I put the buy list in a note on my phone so I can always have it with me when I'm out. This is how I keep my parties so cheap! If I see something on sale or I have a coupon I can buy it right then! Basically making everything at least 40% off. Including food this whole party was less than $200. And we had TWO!</div>
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Now that Pres is older she wanted to start having friends over. Before we just did a big family party. Since our families are so large we couldn't possibly fit everyone in our house at the same time. About 30-35 people come to the family party so we decided to do a small friend party the day before that one. It really wasn't a problem since the house was already decorated. We invited 5 friends from church and had lots of fun, themed activities. I'll get to that in a minute.</div>
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For the family party I just do a Facebook event invite. I have to text a few people separately who don't have FB but this is the cheapest/easiest option and everyone gets reminders and can RSVP right there. For her friend party I sent an actual invitation in the mail. I had a shutterfly code and got 10 for free, I only had to pay like $8 shipping. They turned out super cute.</div>
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Here are some pictures!</div>
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For the entrance I made a long braid out of 3 yellow table cloths! This was so cheap. Like $3. You can get tablecloths at Dollar Tree (note that they have an awesome party supplies section- I get almost all of my paper goods there) or Hobby Lobby for $ 1 each. I just braided them together (I got 2 shades of yellow) and tied them together with a cute purple gingham ribbon I found at Hobby Lobby. I also hung up a "WANTED Flynn Rider" flyer I found on Google images. I just printed this off and taped it to cardstock to make it more sturdy. For the front door I got some yellow yarn and made a long braid. I weaved it through my wreath that was already there, added a cute bow and a paper sun that says "Climb In." For the paper suns (I cut out quite a few of these) I just found a Tangled sun on Google, pasted it in a document, made it the size I wanted, printed it out and traced it onto yellow cardstock. You can also buy these already made on Etsy for around $10. I was going to do that but decided to save a few dollars and do it myself.</div>
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For the entry we, of course, hung lanterns we made out of purple cardstock. We had a new Joann open in town (best day ever!) and I went opening day to score so many awesome deals for the party. I got a lot of things and think I spent $13. Their cardstock was like 10 pieces for $2. I just cut each piece into a rectangle and hot glued it into a lantern shape. Then I glued some of my yellow suns to the fronts. To hang them I hot glued ribbon to them in differing lengths. I made 10. I thought about stringing lights over the ceiling as well but ended up nixing that idea.</div>
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One of my favorite aspects of the party was the tulle hair! I bought an entire bolt of yellow tulle at Joann. With my coupons it ended up being about $20. I think I got around 30 yards. I just weaved it through the house as far as it would go starting in the entry. I used a combination of curtain rods and command hooks to hang it.</div>
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Here's the dining room! I wish the lighting was better for pics in here but it is what it is.</div>
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I bought my <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0771M4TND/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">balloon arch kit </a>(these are surprisingly SO EASY to assemble) for <a href="https://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2018/11/buds-flood-leo-is-one-plus-halloween-in.html" target="_blank">Bud's Flood</a> last year and have used it at every party since. AND I WILL NEVER STOP! It is so versatile and really fills the room/makes a big impact. I typically use about 50 balloons. I really put my $2 pump I found on clearance at Walmart a few years ago to work. DO NOT TRY TO BLOW THESE ALL UP YOURSELF! My husband almost passed out doing this last year. Invest in a cheap pump. You'll thank me. No helium needed. I buy my balloons at Hobby Lobby because they have so many colors to choose from at about $2 a color. This time I used light pink, darker pink, light purple, clear and yellow. I also added some fake flowers to make it more princess-y. I prefer real ones but thought it'd be easier to plan for if I just went fake this time. I got 2 bunches at Hobby Lobby when they were 50% off. One bunch of pink and one lavender-esque bunch of purple. I bought way more but returned them because I didn't need them. But warning. If you use fake flowers watch out! They have wire in the stems and if the cut ends touch a balloon wrong they will explode without notice. I was hoping all of the times I was scared out of my mind with the abrupt explosions would jumpstart my labor. But to no avail. On top of this I actually bought a bag of defective balloons which would pop at random. This was horrifying. I finished building this at night when the kids were at grandmas. In random intervals throughout the night a balloon would pop while we were asleep. a horrifying sound to be jolted awake by every hour. I think Matt wanted to killed me by morning. When we woke up only the dark pink balloons were gone! The other ones were fine. RIP. So I bought a different bag of darker pink at Michaels and all was well. </div>
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For the table cloths I used a light pink cloth one I made for Presley's 2nd birthday that has definitely come in handy ever since. Or you could buy one. You could even use a $1 plastic one! I got the dainty, sparkly purple overlay at Joann (appx 3 yards). And I added the pink polka dot runner I also made for her 2nd birthday.</div>
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I made another braid out of yellow table cloths for the centerpiece! With this one, however, I braided in some battery-powered twinkle lights. I got these on <a href="https://www.ebay.com/itm/20-50-100-LED-String-Fairy-Lights-Copper-Wire-Battery-Powered-Waterproof-USA/143041607700?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&var=442005760097&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649" target="_blank">Ebay</a> for like $4 but they had them everywhere at Christmas time. Maybe you have some lying around. I tied it at the end with the purple gingham Hobby Lobby ribbon and placed a few flowers on top. I found the flowers at HL in the paper crafting aisle near the paper/sticker section. They were 50% off and I think $2. I actually bought 2 packages of these and turned one into hair accessories for Pres. I glued them to bobby pins so she could wear them in her hair.</div>
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My food was super low key. Mainly because I didn't have the energy to do anything high maintenance. This was the main place the kid and family parties differed. Other than the activities.</div>
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Friend party food:</div>
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Max's apples (just a basket I found in my attic with apples in it)</div>
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Paint brushes (pre-made rice krispy treats dipped in white chocolate dyed purple (I used Ghirardelli white chocolate melts) and stuck with a popsicle stick. I already had the cute little pink ribbon bows (HL) so I glued those to the sticks as well.</div>
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Pascal's Puffs or Popcorn (huge bags at Trader Joes for only $2!)</div>
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Juice Bags</div>
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Frosting-less cupcakes (got the cute sparkly wrapper covers at Joann- Wilton brand)</div>
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Sprinkles in artist dishes (to decorate their own cupcakes with)</div>
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Family party food:</div>
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Max's apples</div>
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Pascal's Popcorn/Puffs</div>
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Paint Brushes</div>
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Mother Gothel's Garden (vegi platter served in an iron skillet)</div>
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Rapunzel cake</div>
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DONUT TOWER (my fav part duh)</div>
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For the cake I bought the Rapunzel doll at Target and just built the dress around her out of cake, buttercream and fondant. Warning that the YouTube videos make it look so easy but it took about 6 hours and I said more bad words than I'd like to admit. But I was happy with the outcome and Pres loved it so that's all that matters in the end, right!? I also actually baked the cake and cupcakes 2 weeks in advance, wrapped them up and froze them until needed. This was super helpful when it came party time. And the cake tastes just as good!</div>
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The donut tower, however, was my personal fav food item. I just got a cube of foam from the floral aisle at Dollar Tree, covered it in fabric, and stuck a large dowel in it from HL. I already had the pink silicone ice cream cone to stick on the top. You could also use a regular ice cream cone. I used about 2.5 doz donuts from a local bakery in the end. I had to keep adding more to the top because the weight of the donuts kept squishing the ones at the bottom. So every time I walked through the room there was more space at the top. Lol at the donut pancakes at the bottom. But whatever. Still delicious. You could also just make the dowel smaller if you don't need as many.</div>
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I got 2 boxes of rice krispy treats (16 each) for the paint brushes. OR you could make your own. That would be way more tasty. But I liked how these were super low maintenance and they'd all be the exact same size. I only ended up using one bag of Ghirardelli white chocolate melts. If you want to make different colors I'd buy at least 2 bags. I used every bit of it for the 32 treats that I dipped. And I only dipped them a little bit each.</div>
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For the other table in the living room I just did my usual. I always set out a themed book for everyone to sign as a guest book. My kids each have a keepsake box where I put things like this. I also put plates/napkins/silverware here. And since the cake was smaller I decided to make another one just in case. It's a 3-tiered 6 inch cake (same as the Rapunzel dress one). Surprisingly the dress cake fed everyone with a few pieces to spare. So I wrapped this one up and froze it for us to have on her actual birthday in a few weeks. I've always wanted to see what would happen if I did this so this a perfect time to test it.</div>
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I decorated it with a sparkly gold table runner (found in the wedding section at HL for $10), another "Wanted Flynn" flyer, a spare lantern, and a "Best Day Ever" banner I found a few years ago in the dollar spot at Target and have been hoarding for this very moment. I got the paper mache "5" and yellow yarn at Joann and hand-crafted it. It took a lot of patience and glue but it happened. Once it was covered in yarn I added a few paper flowers from HL and a mini strand of lights. I have like 5 boxes of these when I stocked up after Christmas last year when they were 90% off at HL. I got the lace-wrapped jar at Michaels in May and the flowers came from Kroger. I made the plates to look like frying pans. Little did I know that the children at the party would turn these into an activity and start using them as actual weapons. A battle ensued in the living room. Things I didn't see coming. But they turned out cute and no one got hurt. I got the black plates at Dollar Tree and just cut out handles from black cardstock and hot glued them on at the bottom. Super simple. Lastly, I got the cute <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079KZ5Z9T/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">BEST DAY EVER rosegold metallic napkins</a> on Amazon. I splurged and spent $9 on these after I hand-stamped about 50 napkins just to wake up the next day to see that the ink had bled and they looked like pink napkins with fat purple blobs in the middle. </div>
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The kitchen was simple. A purple plastic table cloth with a pink runner I made many years ago. I got the gold glitter castle 2 years ago on clearance on Michaels.com. I think it was $2-3. I found the Happy Birthday banner in my party supplies bin in my attic! I was organizing it (part of my hardcore nesting problem) and remembered I made it for Presley's 2nd birthday! It was a cat-themed party but I used gold, purple and pink colors so it was perfect! I also found a matching "Presley" banner I used in another room. I'll explain what's on the table in a bit. But for the family party it was empty. The yellow tulle hair was draped through this room as well. </div>
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I decorated the bathroom just a bit.</div>
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And here's the living room! Also where I keep the drinks because we have a bar.</div>
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For the mantle I painted this super simple picture onto a piece of foam core board. I hung yet more table cloths to the ceiling to look like curtains. I nailed them up on the side edges into the trim of the built ins (in an unnoticeable location) then I just used tape to attach the rest.</div>
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I made this sparkly sun banner from cardstock and ribbon and the Ruffians and Thugs sign from a plaque I found on the wood aisle at HL. It was already on jute for hanging! I got the streamers (who knew gold streamers existed!) at HL and taped them up as a back drop. The pink lights were 66% off in the after Christmas sale at HL. I made the paper sign about the magic flower and decorated it with little gold flowers I found in the Christmas craft section at HL as well. For the actual magic flower I just bought a white Christmas lily at Joann and painted it + added some glitter. I also curled some gold wire to put in the center. I ended up having to glue it to the dowel because it didn't come with a stem. I got the glittery ribbon at HL and tied it around the vase I already had. I had plans to wrap more battery-powered lights around the flower but I forgot to keep out my lights from Christmas and they were already put away in the depths of my attic. You can also see in the top right corner where the tulle hair ends. It almost made it around the entire circumference of my downstairs!</div>
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For drinks I had Coke, Diet Coke, water with lemon and "Magic Flower Juice" that was SO GOOD! It is called Pineapple Lemonade Punch and I found the recipe <a href="https://thenymelrosefamily.com/pineapple-beverages" target="_blank">here</a>. Instead of making homemade lemonade as suggested I used Milo's lemonade and it was just as tasty. After it was too late to order I thought about adding glowing ice cubes. That would've been a cool feature to actually have it light up. </div>
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This is the other pink/purple/gold banner I had made for a previous party. This was a fun game that P played with her friends. Pin the nose on Flynn. I found this picture again on Google images and just enlarged and printed it out. The nose was already missing. I got a piece of beige cardstock and cut out a few crazy noses. Each girl went twice and they seemed to really enjoy it.</div>
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Lastly, here are a few fun activities I had planned for the friend party. Since it was only a few girls (6 including Pres) it was really manageable and they had a lot of fun. </div>
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We started by painting some wooden flower frames I found at the Dollar Tree! I also found individual princess paint sets there. They painted them then I set them aside to dry for the rest of the party. I had them paint them on top of paper plates to keep their spot clean. I took a group picture and am going to give them each a printed picture to put in them as soon as I get them developed.</div>
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Next, they decorated gold paper crowns! I found these cute sets in the party aisle at HL. Each crown came with it's own jewel sticker sheet but I bought a lot of extra stickers to go with them. They had some really cute ones in the craft aisle at Dollar Tree. I also added some fancier ones from Hobby Lobby. I wrote each of their names on their crowns to mark their seats. </div>
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Kind of last minute I thought of the idea to have them decorate their own braids! I made each of these out of yellow yarn, pink ribbon and hair clips. I already had these supplies on hand in my craft room so this didn't cost me anything. They were super easy to make, just kind of time consuming. They then decorated them with flowers and more jewels.</div>
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Lastly, since Rapunzel is an artist I thought it'd be cute to have them decorate their own cupcakes! This also solved my problem of not wanting to make 2 fancy cakes 2 days in a row. I think they enjoyed doing this a lot more than if they had been pre-made. I found the paint dishes at Michaels (they also have them at Dollar Tree) and filled each spot with different fancy sprinkles and a few fondant flowers I had made before. I got the cute sprinkles in little 99 cent Wilton packets at Michaels (and I had a 20% off coupon so they were about 80 cents each). They had so many to choose from and 1 packet of each was more than plenty. I picked out little diamonds, crowns, flowers and purple nonpareils. I also let them ice their own. </div>
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After all of the activities they played pin the nose on Flynn, opened gifts then they went and played in her room. Honestly I think the last part was their favorite. Just being free to do what they wanted LOL. But I think they definitely had fun doing my structured part too.</div>
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And here are a few pics from her family party! I found this cute chameleon costume in Leo's size at Target after Halloween for TWO DOLLARS! I was very proud of this find. All of the people at the party who hadn't seen the movie (ahem like at least half) kept asking me why he was dressed as a lizard. But that's besides the point.</div>
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We had SO MUCH FUN celebrating you, Princess Pres, and can't wait to do it again in a few weeks on your real birthday! This time with a new baby brother or sister in tow. I know you'll be amazing, just like you have been with Leo. We love you so much, Sweet P!</div>
Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-88373064652325583712019-11-03T16:19:00.000-06:002019-11-03T16:49:09.195-06:00Budasaurus is 2!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's been a minute but HELLO AGAIN! While I've still been creating all kinds of random things since my last post (almost a year ago oops), I don't exactly have the time to blog about it like I used to. My SWEETEST creations need me more than my blog. We're about 10 weeks away from meeting number 3 and I am TIRED! But that didn't stop me from celebrating my favorite little boy BIG. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Our little Leo is so much fun. He is literally the craziest, most energetic person I've ever met. Other people who know him would say the same. He is so full of personality and makes me laugh like no one else. Every once in a while he'll stop being outrageous for just a second to come give me a hug. I don't take any of those moments for granted. He is the most precious boy and I don't know what we'd do without him. Nothing prepared me for this man (especially his very calm, organized, book-reading, cuddly big sister) but I know God is using him as a tool to sculpt me into the person He wants me to be. As a mother, wife, friend, etc. I can already tell that I've become more patient (LOL). I know God is going to use his passionate soul to do something wonderful and I can't WAIT to see what it is. I'm so honored that I'm the one who gets to call him my son and watch him grow. I love you so much, Budasaurus. Your dad and I will always be your biggest fans.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I went through a lot of party themes in my head and finally landed on a car theme. As I started planning it fell as flat as a flat tire. I found cute ideas online but it just wasn't right. (I obviously take these parties way more seriously than I should). He likes cars but I needed something more personal. I wanted something to RAWR about! DINOSAURS! Leo loves dinos. Every time he sees one he gets excited and growls. How appropriate for our little 'saurus. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I got to work (cough 6 months ago cough) and got so sucked in. The first thing I always do when starting to plan a party is Pinterest + sketch + chill. Forget Netflix! I draw out everything and make a list of what I need. After I write it all down I make a note on my phone of everything I need to buy. That way I always have it with me! If I'm at Hobby Lobby (let's be real...when am I not at Hobby Lobby?) I'll get one or a few things and eventually I'm ready to go! I buy almost everything on sale. Either with a coupon (Joann and Michaels are also great places to check out and they have excellent coupons) or I just keep an eye on the weekly ads. If I need something super random I check Ebay and Amazon. I've also found that Facebook resale is a great tool! I scored a huge, Bud-sized dinosaur stuffed animal for $3! So this whole party cost me about $200-250 including food. Not too bad!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So without further ado, here is Budasaurus is 2!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I save money (and it's just so convenient) to do the invite via Facebook! It can still be cute and decorated! Plus everyone can RSVP there! I just created an event and let FB do all the work. I can communicate with everyone there and it even sends reminders! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lets go way back in time. Our Budasaurus is TWO!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So RAWR and stomp on over. He wants to see you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We'll have lots of fun. It'll be DINO-mite!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Herbivores and carnivores, bring your appetite!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Date: 2 November 2019 AD</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Time: 1530 hours</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Location: Meet us at the time machine to catch a ride to the Jurassic Period</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I've said this before but I like for my parties to be an immersive experience. Starting with the front yard. Duh. I need a time machine. After all, it is a dino party. And like, it has to be realistic, right? What's more realistic than a time machine!?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My dad actually built this many years ago for my school's prom. It has proven itself to be very handy since then. I actually used it for a winder wonderland dance I planned at my church a few years ago. For that I painted it silver (it was originally gold). It was PERFECT! My dad dropped it off and I assembled it. Not to brag but I'm excellent with power tools. I added a few touches (including a time clock I made out of a plastic plate I found in my kitchen). The "time machine" letters came from Michael's and the silver fringe backdrop came from </span><a href="https://www.ebay.com/itm/Metallic-Foil-Fringe-Curtain-Tinsel-Photo-Backdrop-Party-Birthday-Decor-3-8FT/323775652406?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&var=512768141308&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649" style="font-family: inherit;">Ebay</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The signs after that were meant to indicate which year you were passing through as you traveled back in time. First was 2017 (the year of Leo's birth), etc. I bought this paper at Hobby Lobby (HL), cut them to printer paper size, and sent them through my printer. I taped a piece of cardboard to the back so they wouldn't flop and taped them to big wooden skewers (party aisle at HL- in the luau section).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Once you got to the door you made it! The Jurassic Period! I borrowed (ahem stole) these plants from my mom's porch because I wanted there to be a lot of foliage. I got the fake fern wreath from Joann. Not for sale: The v excited big sis (although I found her cute "Party-saurus" shirt at Kohls (carters brand) for $8).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So you walk in and there were vines hanging from the ceiling (from </span><a href="https://www.ebay.com/itm/12pcs-Artificial-Leaves-Hanging-Vines-Fake-Sweet-Grape-Leaf-Vines-Home-Deco/183872676100?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649" style="font-family: inherit;">Ebay</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">) and the Jurassic park theme song was playing. Granted when everyone's arriving and talking it's not super noticeable but it still made me happy. I'm sorry for mentioning it because you're probably singing it in your head now and, speaking from experience, it probably isn't going away any time soon. Worth it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">However, the dining room was my FAVORITE room! I bought this </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0771M4TND/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1" style="font-family: inherit;">balloon arch kit on Amazon</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> for</span><a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2018/11/buds-flood-leo-is-one-plus-halloween-in.html" style="font-family: inherit;"> Bud's Flood </a><span style="font-family: inherit;">last year. Spoiler alert: You're going to be seeing a lot of it from here on out. IT'S SO VERSATILE! Best $15 ever. I got the balloons at Hobby Lobby. They have such a large selection at about $1.50 a bag (10-20 balloons a package depending on the design). I bought a package of </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07D132GJ2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" style="font-family: inherit;">"tropical leaves" on Amazon </a><span style="font-family: inherit;">and used almost all of them all over the place! I really liked how they looked in the balloon arch. I also bought a dino sounds file on Itunes for 99 cents and had it playing in the background.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I got the "RAWR" paper mache letters at Hobby Lobby and spray painted and decorated them. The spots I painted on with plain acrylic paint (but you'll thank yourself for saving time spray painting the backgrounds- I had this spray paint already on hand). I had all of the serving dishes. I got the plastic table cloths at Dollar Tree and Hobby Lobby (these are only 99 cents at HL). I got the light green one at Dollar Tree, dark green at HL. All I did was layer them and use scissors to cut spikes at the bottom. So easy AND I got to wad it up and just throw it away at the end! I already had the burlap runner (Fun fact: You can also buy these at HL in the party decor section- super cheap and even cheaper with a coupon! I have like 3). I also got the 2 paper mache dinos at HL, spray painted them gold and made them little party hats out of cute scrapbook paper (also HL). As you'll see later, I made a LOT of tiny party hats for this event. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I was so excited about my themed food this time. But I was ESPECIALLY excited about my nacho volcano! It looks impressive but was so easy. I found the idea online and it wasn't hard at all to recreate. All you need is half of a poster board, aluminum foil, tape, and a little dish (I used a small tupperware bowl). Here are some pics of the process:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I used a round object (I used a bowl) to trace a circle on the poster board. Cut it out then cut a gap up to the center. Roll it into a cone and measure out how big the opening needs to be for your dish. Cut the top of the cone. Tape it. Then cover it in foil. After you've made your volcano form, put your dish in from the bottom. I taped it into place. It wasn't deep enough to touch the bottom and I was worried it'd come out once it was full of cheese dip. So I turned a ramekin upside down and but it under it and it was the perfect height. I covered the foil in refried beans with a spatula then added a few black beans for texture. I covered the base in shredded lettuce to hide the ugly bottom. I filled the dish with Panchos cheese dip (you can get a big thing at Costco for $6-7) and just dripped it off the side! Surround with chips and voila!! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here's my other food! Not near as exciting but still super cute.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s9wm8akfGyA/Xb9FGslKWlI/AAAAAAAAHNM/90MiHJWmyxMGI6z0akDkGTNgDOUgpZR_QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0265.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s9wm8akfGyA/Xb9FGslKWlI/AAAAAAAAHNM/90MiHJWmyxMGI6z0akDkGTNgDOUgpZR_QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0265.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"Dino Bones" are yogurt pretzels from Walmart (I always do Walmart pickup for my party food- It's FREE plus everything is so cheap!) </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVqwVmeYydc/Xb9FGiYGe3I/AAAAAAAAHNQ/9bGV3iMMpLc6faNXzhbwFZPWh2H6vz-jwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0299.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVqwVmeYydc/Xb9FGiYGe3I/AAAAAAAAHNQ/9bGV3iMMpLc6faNXzhbwFZPWh2H6vz-jwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0299.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I also always make a special trip to Costco for things like vegi trays. This one came with dip and was only $10! This was for "Herbivores Only."</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4zv_ntY2E1s/Xb9FS4R4g8I/AAAAAAAAHN8/-pyfkAdTyrg1wBzKqknq_NSdyrLSpzOlgCEwYBhgL/s1600/1%2B%252823%2529.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4zv_ntY2E1s/Xb9FS4R4g8I/AAAAAAAAHN8/-pyfkAdTyrg1wBzKqknq_NSdyrLSpzOlgCEwYBhgL/s320/1%2B%252823%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wiOiMvV_MIQ/Xb9FG5hEupI/AAAAAAAAHNU/bO1LgPWwnOoMiD4KIM2-OnbAVbixhYqxgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0357.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wiOiMvV_MIQ/Xb9FG5hEupI/AAAAAAAAHNU/bO1LgPWwnOoMiD4KIM2-OnbAVbixhYqxgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0357.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My mom made these cute "Raptor Eye" deviled eggs! She just dyed the filling green and added an olive.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ow8LO4CcgMY/Xb9FIabQvzI/AAAAAAAAHNY/Dm6siazBeDAkPWup8qHkkDckMEh3ch5pwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0361.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ow8LO4CcgMY/Xb9FIabQvzI/AAAAAAAAHNY/Dm6siazBeDAkPWup8qHkkDckMEh3ch5pwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0361.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I found these cute mini "Dino Egg Rolls" at Costco too! A box of 50 was only $10 and they were really good. I originally wanted chicken dino nuggets to go here but Costco was out and I didn't want to make a special trip to Kroger. These were just as good IMO.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6y4nw3nknEM/Xb9FIiSUIFI/AAAAAAAAHNc/U1MPRQ6S3i4pVIH7pKSCkPA8Xr60rtY3ACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0362.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6y4nw3nknEM/Xb9FIiSUIFI/AAAAAAAAHNc/U1MPRQ6S3i4pVIH7pKSCkPA8Xr60rtY3ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0362.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I spent so much time trying to come up with a design for this cake. I finally landed on this. I wasn't super happy with it (couldn't tell you why- but I never really like cakes I create so it's to be expected). One thing I did differently this time was add crushed oreo to the buttercream on the top tier. And I don't use chocolate ganache that often but it is yummy. I made the leaves and eggs out of fondant. The "2" is a candle from Target that I cut teeth marks into. I got the dino at Dollar Tree and spray painted it gold. I cut Leo's name out of paper and made the tiny hat out of paper and tiny pom poms. I dyed the inside tie dye with the party colors.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xDlZZswEN0g/Xb9FSxiin4I/AAAAAAAAHNk/aI8y4BStIt4WY5T8kBSr5WAHgryduMoTgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1%2B%252819%2529.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xDlZZswEN0g/Xb9FSxiin4I/AAAAAAAAHNk/aI8y4BStIt4WY5T8kBSr5WAHgryduMoTgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%252819%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lmyaRMn4F94/Xb9FSpeyEXI/AAAAAAAAHNg/V2-9x-8RGi42yvdKvd6CQ6pBwXS2d1Y7gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1%2B%252822%2529.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lmyaRMn4F94/Xb9FSpeyEXI/AAAAAAAAHNg/V2-9x-8RGi42yvdKvd6CQ6pBwXS2d1Y7gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%252822%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qCKfG3RJOsc/Xb9HJxB7w0I/AAAAAAAAHOE/2Kmyi_v_hkMzjK4HYrJS_OCS5TwA0FWHgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0371.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qCKfG3RJOsc/Xb9HJxB7w0I/AAAAAAAAHOE/2Kmyi_v_hkMzjK4HYrJS_OCS5TwA0FWHgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0371.JPG" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The other little table in the dining room had plates, napkins, forks, a little smash cake no one ate (RIP) and a book to sign! I set one of these out at every party for everyone to sign. It's like a guest book! I put them in my kid's keepsake boxes so one day they'll have all of these books full of notes from their fav people over the years. The wooden and little orange dinos were from HL, plates and forks from Target, and napkins from HL. I already had the plant.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WfxpeqlXtsw/Xb9H9E29N2I/AAAAAAAAHOM/nhIY0g85bOkFrDE1SMcHu7-mVy8ftsAwgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0259.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WfxpeqlXtsw/Xb9H9E29N2I/AAAAAAAAHOM/nhIY0g85bOkFrDE1SMcHu7-mVy8ftsAwgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0259.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gV74W6Dg8R8/Xb9H9AuLTgI/AAAAAAAAHOQ/MmTzdQ8JmvQHj9RtC5ra9-wlzazcgQTyQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0261.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gV74W6Dg8R8/Xb9H9AuLTgI/AAAAAAAAHOQ/MmTzdQ8JmvQHj9RtC5ra9-wlzazcgQTyQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0261.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JYdYzDGgDbg/Xb9H9bf_ZeI/AAAAAAAAHOU/-STMHYccXr03s4uTRM95ZVtQFPbXKkrbACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0262.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JYdYzDGgDbg/Xb9H9bf_ZeI/AAAAAAAAHOU/-STMHYccXr03s4uTRM95ZVtQFPbXKkrbACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0262.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Funny story (at least I think it is). So I went to Good WIll looking for dinosaurs. Specifically a flying one. LOL I knew that was a long shot. WHAT DO YOU KNOW I FOUND A FLYING STUFFED DINOSAUR! It was 2 whole dollars and matched my color theme perfectly. I used a needle and thick thread to sew through the fabric so I could hang it from the ceiling with a Command hook. It photobombed us in this pic!</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jMl_4XcBoXE/Xb9Jf659S2I/AAAAAAAAHOk/1NcXKJoiGYgSs3d0lP4r1izn102TdmfewCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0311b.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jMl_4XcBoXE/Xb9Jf659S2I/AAAAAAAAHOk/1NcXKJoiGYgSs3d0lP4r1izn102TdmfewCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0311b.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The kitchen was cute but simple. No one spends much time here but I still wanted to decorate. I found this awesome pinata at HL for $13! Of course I used my 40% off coup and it was like $7. I filled it with Halloween candy and left it on my kitchen table until it was time to hit it. I got the cute plastic table cloth at Target.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-65GpleA0ABk/Xb9JuH7rC0I/AAAAAAAAHOo/eWqMhZvlAdErycEP6X0My5UhnWzjgNqfACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1%2B%252839%2529.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-65GpleA0ABk/Xb9JuH7rC0I/AAAAAAAAHOo/eWqMhZvlAdErycEP6X0My5UhnWzjgNqfACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%252839%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rFGsg2g2gj0/Xb9KDDYGBBI/AAAAAAAAHO8/ccjU-KxNRbQjHxDgjECec1gdtjcfahTqwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0353.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rFGsg2g2gj0/Xb9KDDYGBBI/AAAAAAAAHO8/ccjU-KxNRbQjHxDgjECec1gdtjcfahTqwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0353.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I wanted to do a little something in the bathroom as well.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QHK3YdJNQb0/Xb9KDJw1Z4I/AAAAAAAAHO4/RlpLPSS6FNYC4TQNwkGz7ENJbuwS-9b5gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0354.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QHK3YdJNQb0/Xb9KDJw1Z4I/AAAAAAAAHO4/RlpLPSS6FNYC4TQNwkGz7ENJbuwS-9b5gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0354.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VzO91R4zTYk/Xb9KCwr8LFI/AAAAAAAAHO0/8F9ICo4MuZYhDClnoGUskHuXVZA_jGbYQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0271.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VzO91R4zTYk/Xb9KCwr8LFI/AAAAAAAAHO0/8F9ICo4MuZYhDClnoGUskHuXVZA_jGbYQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0271.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We have a bar in the living room where I like to serve drinks. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4jmrrOyVNnI/Xb9K3vC97JI/AAAAAAAAHPQ/nPeHUhGNYl83VNV-I1WcKj2UZxY5g73XgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1%2B%252843%2529.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4jmrrOyVNnI/Xb9K3vC97JI/AAAAAAAAHPQ/nPeHUhGNYl83VNV-I1WcKj2UZxY5g73XgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%252843%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I made the "Watering Hole" sign out of cardboard. The blue fringe backdrop (supposed to resemble a waterfall) came from </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07MKQGQZQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" style="font-family: inherit;">Amazon</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">. Cups and cute paper straws were from Dollar Tree. The dino was part of Leo's b-day gift from Home Goods (super random). The hanging palm tree came from the party aisle at HL as well in the luau section. This was recycled from <a href="https://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2019/01/prelsa-is-4.html" target="_blank">PrELSA is 4</a>!</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D9epcXOfuok/Xb9LBfNbWPI/AAAAAAAAHPU/FmR0pbdcuGUXsv5IKNrusf2q-QwvYWiFwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0253.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D9epcXOfuok/Xb9LBfNbWPI/AAAAAAAAHPU/FmR0pbdcuGUXsv5IKNrusf2q-QwvYWiFwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0253.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6L8IZR1i5_E/Xb9LBa8rsPI/AAAAAAAAHPY/-yTteRiKgZsSVPxm_eo6CbOsO_O-g4TBACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0254.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6L8IZR1i5_E/Xb9LBa8rsPI/AAAAAAAAHPY/-yTteRiKgZsSVPxm_eo6CbOsO_O-g4TBACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0254.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The "Pterodactyl Punch" was just a mixture of green Hawaiian punch, Sprite and a package of frozen pineapple juice. I thought it was so tasty and fruity! I added some limes to the water to make it interesting.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dex58Han4Rw/Xb9LBuXGgsI/AAAAAAAAHPc/zrwMf0Du18ARfiWzI3azoLcacBXGuPkLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0255.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dex58Han4Rw/Xb9LBuXGgsI/AAAAAAAAHPc/zrwMf0Du18ARfiWzI3azoLcacBXGuPkLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0255.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rHYQ_a5izxA/Xb9MYpDKHtI/AAAAAAAAHP8/9OgPfCUghwIG2LOS86zPvRkYeP9QF08ygCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1%2B%252841%2529.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rHYQ_a5izxA/Xb9MYpDKHtI/AAAAAAAAHP8/9OgPfCUghwIG2LOS86zPvRkYeP9QF08ygCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1%2B%252841%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iBaai3eHBZs/Xb9LCoLdVGI/AAAAAAAAHPg/juI99C5EBA0bkzqa8xIMW3MPurPS7I5GQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0256.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iBaai3eHBZs/Xb9LCoLdVGI/AAAAAAAAHPg/juI99C5EBA0bkzqa8xIMW3MPurPS7I5GQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0256.JPG" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For the mantle I got some huge paper mache letters at Joann and spray painted/decorated them. I taped more leaves to the fireplace to fill in space. I got the Happy Birthday banner on </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07X95XHK7/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" style="font-family: inherit;">Amazon</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">!</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_VFOCuDTC0U/Xb9MYKykFFI/AAAAAAAAHP4/ewGTmFcIq44s9r3hLm0sgJbH_lVcAA0TwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0356.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_VFOCuDTC0U/Xb9MYKykFFI/AAAAAAAAHP4/ewGTmFcIq44s9r3hLm0sgJbH_lVcAA0TwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0356.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wPAN5Tf8WTA/Xb9Q8fthjxI/AAAAAAAAHSo/d6_KMsNVduc-9U3ICOYL6h5cuGyIF5xXwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_0401.JPG" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wPAN5Tf8WTA/Xb9Q8fthjxI/AAAAAAAAHSo/d6_KMsNVduc-9U3ICOYL6h5cuGyIF5xXwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0401.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It was such a beautiful, sunny day so I wanted the kids to be able to run free outside! The only thing I really did out here was hang a </span><a href="https://www.ebay.com/itm/dinosaur-party-supplies-birthday-decorations-room-decor-15-ballons-1-banner-DIY/163719610166?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649" style="font-family: inherit;">banner</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and add a table cloth to the table. I carved a dinosaur in my Halloween pumpkin so I could recycle it for the party. Later into the party we hung the pinata out here as well. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">BUT MY FAVORITE PART (and I think the kid's as well) was our special visitor! I asked my dad a few months ago if he'd be cool with wearing a dino suit to the party. He was excited! I found this one on sale on </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07VTS6PG3/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1" style="font-family: inherit;">Amazon</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> for just $31. I snatched it up. It was GIGANTIC! He was awesome and chased the kids around the yard for like an hour. They had so much fun.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Although the real dino had to bust the pinata, the kids had fun taking a whack at it as well.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here's a pic of my beautiful P.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We had so much fun celebrating our Budasaurus and can't wait to do it again next year. We sent our friends off with their very own dinos (Dollar Tree + handmade party hats). </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We love you so much, Bud Bud!!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">On an unrelated note, Halloween is only 2 days before Bud's birthday! This year's costume was ALL Presley's idea. She's been fired up about it for months. Since only a little bit was DIY (mainly Leo's and a few pieces of Presley's) I'm not going to make an extra blog post like I normally do. So I'll just leave a pic here for you to enjoy. We hope you had a happy Halloween! We are so excited about the HOLIDAYS! Then Presley's birthday (duh already been planning for months) then BABY TIME! I can't wait to share the next thing with you! </span></span></div>
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Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-56188602385271504552019-01-14T01:25:00.000-06:002019-01-16T13:17:53.037-06:00PrELSA is 4!<div style="text-align: center;">
“Pres, what movie should we watch? Frozen might be fun!”</div>
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I turned it on and that was that. It had only just begun.</div>
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Elsa’s icy powers captivated her right there. </div>
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Then “Elsa’s hair” and a sparkly dress were all that she would wear.</div>
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We know you like warm hugs like us so come join us in Arrendelle.</div>
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See Olaf, Sven and Anna, too! We promise it will be swell.</div>
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So let it go! Let it go! Don’t hold it back anymore!</div>
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Shout it from North Mountain’s top, “OUR PRESLEY GIRL IS 4!”</div>
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If you know my daughter personally or have any association with my social media accounts you know for a fact that she is Elsa. As the above poem states, it just took one Frozen-viewing and she was completely hooked. True story. She wore her wig every day for at least a year (although now she thinks "it's a little itchy" IDK). She taught herself to put her own clothes on at a very early age because I couldn't get to her room fast enough every morning to put her Elsa dress on RIGHT when she woke up. And I will never forget giving my sincerest thanks to the Academy and makers of Frozen in my many dramatic, tear-filled speeches when I was pretending to give myself an award after each small victory while potty training this child. I am being completely serious when I say that without Elsa-related bribes, me passionately belting 'Let It Go' every time I put her on the potty to poop, plus a lot of prayers and grace from the good Lord she would probably still be in diapers. Bet you didn't know that Elsa had more than ice powers, eh? More like ice POOwers! And at one point when we were trying to get Baby Brother to say "mama" and "daddy" Pres chimed in and in all seriousness looked him in the face and said "EL-SA!" Have I convinced you yet? Back in 2013 when childless Matt and Katie decided on a whim go see Frozen in theaters they NEVER could've imagined how much of a role this movie would play in their lives one day. </div>
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So needless to say, it didn't take much time for me to decide on her 4th birthday party theme. She actually fell in love with Elsa well over a year ago but I had already planned her a Pooh party (one of the downfalls of planning your kids' birthday parties 6 months in advance...their seemingly passionate interests may take a DRASTIC turn over the course of a very short period of time). So that's why she was dressed as Elsa when we were trying to celebrate <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2018/01/poohresley-is-three.html">POOHresley is 3</a>. But hey! Our time had finally come! And Elsa is still VERY relevant in our lives.</div>
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I was SO EXCITED to start planning this party. Considering I've seen Frozen now appx 3920 times, I had a lot of inspiration whirling around in my head. Just picture Elsa while she was creating her ice castle while casually transforming into a blue-sequined goddess with EXCELLENT hair. That's EXACTLY what I felt/looked like. Or maybe I'm getting confused with what I think was happening vs my actual reality. It's possible I was sporting my 4-day old mom bun, no make-up, and let's be real...I probably wasn't wearing pants. But, being the queen of my own castle, I threw my gloves to the wind and really went for it because THE COLD NEVER BOTHERED ME ANYWAY!</div>
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Like I've mentioned in every birthday party post I've ever made, all of the planning and hand-made details were carefully thought out and executed over 6+ months and I KNOW you think I'm crazy. I'd love to tell you I threw it all together gracefully during the course of singing one song, like some other people I'm familiar with. But as much as I like to compare myself to her, I'm just not Elsa. I mean, pastey white skin..CHECK. But that's about it. But here's why I start planning so early. So I love to throw themed parties. It brings me immense joy. But I ALSO love to be ballin on a budget. While I don't know how this translates into Arrendelle dollars, I only spend around 200 American dollars total on this whole party, including food and everything (however not including Elsa but she was a gift to Pres from my mom so that doesn't count...will discuss more later). Hobby Lobby is 2 blocks from my house (always count your blessings) so I go there ALOT! So what I do is I have a date with Pinterest and a notepad one night and I start researching and brainstorming what I want to do. Then I make a list of everything I need! Every time I go to HL (believe me...it's a lot) I grab one thing on my list with my 40% off coupon. Even if it's a $2 item. Or if it's an item that goes on sale I ONLY buy it then. So it may seem like insignificant savings at the time but it really adds up. Trust me. Food came from Kroger, Trader Joes, and Costco. I always plan my parties from 3:30-6 because it's right after naptime and convenient for our kids' schedule and it also takes the pressure off of having to provide a full meal. I like for my food to be themed as well and that's harder to do when you have to come up with more substantial food choices for 30+ people. So a few yummy snacks/treats, some kind of fruit or vegetable tray, maybe a more hearty/meaty item and cake works for me! So by the time the party rolls around I have all of my supplies at 40% off and I'm ready to get to work! And I know exactly what food to buy and where to find each component the cheapest. And I totally understand that if these kind of parties don't spark joy for you (been watching too much Marie Kondo on Netflix send help I've completely destroyed and reorganized my bedroom and my husband can't find any of this clothes and I'm going on day 5 of pretending like I don't know where my pants are anymore) then I know this all probably seems cray cray. I totally understand. I also accept the fact that I am a little bit cray cray and that is FINE! So yeah I go to Hobby Lobby like every day and I don't like to wear pants. So what? Moving on.</div>
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Okay. So lets get to the good stuff. I love for my parties to be an immersive experience that starts right when you get there. Unfortunately it was raining and washed away my chalk, but I managed to get a good pic the day before! I wanted the walkway to look like the icy fjord that Elsa freezes when she's escaping from Arrendelle because SHE WAS SO EMBARRASSED BECAUSE SHE JUST FROZE LIKE THE WHOLE COUNTRY IMAGINE WHAT THAT WOULD FEEL LIKE?! Ugh. Poor Elsa. I actually downloaded the Frozen font online (couldn't tell you where because I don't remember) to make this sign. Dedication.</div>
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So I got to decorate my church's Father/Daughter Dance a few years ago and I made it winter wonderland themed with elements of Frozen throughout. I had way too much fun. A lot of my decorations were leftover from that. Instead of getting rid of them I saved them because I knew that ONE day my daughter was inevitably going to ask for a Frozen party and I WAS GOING TO BE READY FOR IT! Nailed it.</div>
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So a few years ago I found an axe and went and chopped down some branches in my parents' forest-y backyard like a dang lumberjack. It is harder than it looks, okay!! I forgot my flannel and beard but I DID succeed. My dad helped me mix/pour concrete in a terracotta pot, we stuck the branches in and let them set. Then I spray painted the whole thing silver. So I used these at the dance years ago but asked my dad to keep them in his basement for this v important imaginary party I was going to have one day. And blessings upon us because he still had them! Their structure was questionable because bugs but they did the job. I hung snowflakes from the branches (thank you, Hobby Lobby 90% off after-Christmas sale) and put fake snow in the bottom. I actually got the snowy wreath at Wal-Mart a week ago that was part of their after-Christmas sale. It was $4!!!! I got the wooden snowflake in the middle at Dollar Tree (also a great place for decorations/inspiration when you're ballin on a budget). I just painted it white and wrote on it with Sharpie. Then I sprinkled a few half-eaten carrots around because duh Sven had been there.</div>
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So right inside wasn't that exciting but I had the song 'Vulie' from the Frozen soundtrack playing. You'd know if it you heard it. It's on the opening credits before you see the ice people. It was kinda like the opening credits of the party. I had some snowflakes hanging from the ceiling as well and this STUPID "4" balloon that would not stay inflated! This was my second one in 2 days that kept dying for no reason. Picked this up like 4 hours before the party...one day I'll figure that mystery out.</div>
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So you turn to the left and that's where all of the good stuff is. I made the icicles out of white paper. To make one I think I cut a deformed triangle, rolled it up and hot glued it shut (these were also leftover from the F/D dance years ago so I'm a little rusty on how exactly I made them). I got the snowflake hanging curtain from Amazon (also from years ago but you can still probably find them there..or at least something similar).</div>
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In the dining room I had snowflakes (HL Christmas decor) hanging from the ceiling and icicles hanging from the chandelier. The china cabinet decor came from the after Christmas sale and was basically free. I traced some letters onto blue and silver glitter paper for her name. Ice castle was from Santa so we can thank his elves for that. I also had a rotating playlist in here playing Let it Go, Do You Want to Build a Snowman, Love is an Open Door, and Perfect Day (from Frozen Fever).</div>
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For the main table I bought a big piece of blue, textured fabric from Joann and put it over a white table cloth. I decorated with snowballs (HL Christmas) and snowflakes (also HL Christmas...it bode well for me that Christmas happened right before this).</div>
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For the food I had:</div>
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Anna and Han's Sandwiches (rolls, ham, cheese, mayo. tomato)</div>
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Snow Balls (powdered donut holes from a local bakery I maybe ate appx 12 of it's fine)</div>
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Warm Hugs (Hershey's hugs)</div>
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Sven's Snacks (vegi platter with ranch)</div>
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Han's Frozen Hearts (white choc ganache-dipped strawberries with sugar crystal sprinkles and edible glitter. Also added some DIY edible glass. I used the same ganache as was on the cake but it didn't set well so I recommend just melting chocolate and dipping them in..don't add the cream for these. Although I can't believe I'm saying that because CREAM IS SO GOOD. I'll talk about the glass and ganache below)</div>
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I actually own a cake business from my house but stopped baking around when Leo was born because it became too much for me to handle. BUT I still love to bake for my babies! I researched for forever to find inspiration from elements of different Frozen cakes to see what I wanted to incorporate into my cake. After much deliberation I finally came up with this. I did 2 things adventurous (for me at least) on this cake. One was the white choc ganache drip (super easy and yummy). In a saucepan on low I melted 1.5 cups of Ghiradelli white choc chips with .5 cup of heavy whipping cream. Be sure to add a few tbsp of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NBUNE96/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">titanium dioxide</a> to it when it's melted to make it go from yellowy to pure white! Magic! I let it cool for a sec then poured it on and got it to go where I wanted it to go. And I also made edible glass out of sugar! I did this once years ago for a Breaking Bad party for Matt but it had been a minute. It was super easy but looked more impressive than it was. Here's the <a href="https://nerdymamma.com/sugar-glass-recipe-or-candy-glass/">recipe</a>. Just be careful when adding coloring. I barely added any blue gel and it got really dark and was on the verge of turning green. Thankfully it ended up a pretty color and a nice contrast with all of the lighter elements.</div>
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For the other little table in here I put paper plates/forks/napkins (Elsa-themed little plates came from Dollar Tree!), homemade hot chocolate party favors, and a guest book for everyone to sign. I do this with all of my kid's parties with a themed book. I keep them in their keepsake box so one day they'll have all of these sweet books with notes from their favorite people from their birthdays past. I got the snowflake table runner at HL after Christmas and the silver glitter frame in the Target dollar spot! Pres and I made the stunning silver glitter tree as a craft one day.</div>
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For the party favors I got treat bags (party aisle at HL) and added <a href="https://altonbrown.com/hot-cocoa-mix-recipe/">diy hot cocoa mix </a>and a few marshmallows. Then I twisted and zip-tied them shut good, added sparkly tulle ribbon and a little note that says "You're worth melting for." The back has the instructions to mix it with 3 cups of very hot water. They turned out cute!</div>
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Moving on to the kitchen. I had a simple centerpiece with $5 flowers from Trader Joe's. I got the snowflake fabric at Michaels.com (yes you can order fabric on Michaels.com. Who knew, right?). The night before the party I was inspired to make the rock trolls. I went to HL (duh) and bought a bag of rocks and a piece of paper (for the ears). When I buy super random things at stores like to make jokes when I get to the register but usually no one cares what I'm buying or why and I end up just making things super awkward, something I'm super good at. This time I was like "Well I got a bag of rocks and a piece of paper" and she was like "Okay" and then I tried to explain that it was v important that I make some rock trolls ASAP and I could tell she was like "WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS INSANE WOMAN ROCK TROLLS??" So then I left and replayed the incident back in my head 200 times and came to the conclusion that it probably would've been best to just not say anything about the contents of my basket. It is what it is. Then I picked some leaves outside to for the hair and turned them into trolls and they were one of my favorite parts. I made a "game" out of my ORIGINAL little Fixer Uppers and gave a treat bag to whoever could find one. I had 4. I think my brother took home 2 or 3 treat bags. I mean they weren't very hidden but I thought it was cute. The prize was 2 pieces of chocolate (to stuff in your face) and some white choc pretzels (snowflakes). </div>
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Also in the kitchen was another last-minute idea and that was my sauna. I found this pic of Oaken on google and just added a white vignette filter and any other softening filter I could find on Picasa to make him look steamy and printed it at home. Then I made a frame out of paper. I wanted it to look like we were looking at him in the sauna. OKAY I THOUGHT IT WAS FUNNY AND THAT'S ALL THAT MATTERS! Also, I thought the sign I put in the bathroom was funny after all of our potty-training shenanigans. But it's possible I'm the only one who thought that was funny as well..</div>
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Back to the entry way, To the right is our office and I decided to make that Olaf's summer room. I got the hanging palm tree and Aloha banner on the party aisle at HL and just blew up some pool floats we already had + dressed up our Olaf in a hat, lei and sunglasses. I had summery music playing in here softly. Like The Beach Boys, Here Comes the Sun and, of course, In Summer by Olaf.</div>
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So last but not least was the living room! This is also where all of the drinks are. Wandering Oaken's Beverage Post..And Sauna. I made the ribbon banner myself and recycled the backdrop from <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2018/11/buds-flood-leo-is-one-plus-halloween-in.html">Bud's Flood</a> in November (from HL). I had Hot Grog (hot chocolate) with misc toppings like peppermint sticks and marshmallows and I TOTALLY FORGOT to put out the whipped cream. The water was "Melted Snowman" and was just a pitcher of water with a carrot in it. Heh. Then we had YooHoo Big Summer Blowout! Cokes. And Kristoff's Ice. I put a few chomped carrots in front of Sven for obvious reasons and also included my original fondant Elsa that I think I spent 6 hours on that turned out to look like a middle-aged, busty woman. I have a lot of jokes I could add here but I'll refrain. After Pres told me "She looks like that beautiful princess in Shrek who turns into a yogurt (ogre) at night" I knew I had to LET HER GO. But I couldn't throw her away so I put her here. New Elsa was a much better fit on the cake. The snowflake cups, again, came from Michaels.com! </div>
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And here's a random little table in this room.</div>
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And very last was my main centerpiece. I already had the frame and fabric backdrop. I just made some tissue balls and added some snowflakes (big ones from Dollar Tree) plus a glittery "Let it Go" sign I made. I hung Christmas lights behind it which made it extra magical. But I think what really did it was the life-size Elsa in the corner (Kohl.com OR Amazon). That is until...</div>
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OMG ELSA ACTUALLY SHOWED UP AT MY HOUSE AND IT WAS MAGIC!! As Presley's birthday gift from her my mom hired THE Elsa to come to the party. Idk about Pres but I was completely star struck. I knew she was coming (Pres didn't) and I was still speechless, sweating and a bit teary. I had nothing to do with this. It was all my mom. She mentioned hiring her a few weeks before and I think it sealed the deal. Best day ever? For me at least. When I tucked Pres into bed that night and asked her what her favorite part of her party was she said "It was magic when Elsa came to my house." Ugh, gurl I know. She gave lots of warm hugs, took pictures, sang some songs and just hung out with and talked to Pres for a while. THEN she helped us sing Happy Birthday and I think Presley said it best. It was just magic! </div>
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Also, we dressed Leo up as Olaf and I will never regret that decision as long as I live. Or this PICK.</div>
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As always, thanks for sticking with me and reading until the end! I hope you enjoyed your virtual trip through Arrendelle and feel inspired to create, go watch Frozen again and/or maybe not wear pants. You do you. And a very special happy birthday to my sweet, magical girl. Pres, you inspire me every day with your quirky, fun sense of humor and your passionate love for everyone around you. God has TRULY blessed us with the most beautiful ice queen ever. We love you, Sweet P!</div>
Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-51848269994602854022018-11-05T20:49:00.002-06:002018-11-05T20:49:32.952-06:00Halloween in Neverland!<div jsname="U8S5sf" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Roboto, arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 1.24; margin-bottom: 12px;">
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But, Peter, how do we get to Never Land?</div>
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Fly, of course!</div>
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I had so much fun putting together our costumes this year. They were very low key but still had a few personal touches. We were Wendy, Mr Smee, Tinker Bell and Peter Pan.</div>
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My costume was super simple. I found this basic blue dress on Zulily for like $15. I just added some navy ribbon around my waist and in my hair and that's that!</div>
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I was going to make Matt Captain Hook but decided to give him a comfortable costume this year that he can enjoy himself in. I usually make him wear something super uncomfortable (lol sorry Matt) but I think I made it up to him this year. So instead I went with Mr Smee. I got the chambray shorts and striped t-shirt from OldNavy.com and red beanie from Ebay.</div>
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I started making Presley's Tinker Bell costume but I just didn't like it. I then went to a consignment sale and came across this costume. It's an authentic Disney costume but it was still $25, which is way more than I usually spend on one thing. Especially at consignment. BUT THEN I accidentally pressed a button and the wings lit up! SOLD! It reminds me of Disney's Electrical Parade (RIP) and Pres just loved it. The wings also glow in the dark sooo basically I just wish it was in my size.</div>
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Last is my cute little Peter Pan. </div>
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This was my Bud last year. Just 2 days away from me giving birth.</div>
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But this year I was so happy to have him in my arms and not in my huge belly.</div>
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For his costume I made him a little hat out of green felt and a red feather (found this tutorial online. Google it). I got the green t-shirt at Hobby Lobby and just cut it up a little bit to look like Peter Pan. I tied a brown grosgrain ribbon around his wait and attached a little felt sword I sewed for him to it. I got his leggings in the baby girl department on OldNavy.com. I lucked out and found his brown moccasins at a consignment sale.</div>
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Although it was rainy this year we still got some good trick or treating in between showers and Pres had a great time. Halloween is one of my favorite holidays so I always look forward to coming up with costumes for my little fam. </div>
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All you need is faith and trust...and a little bit of pixie dust!</div>
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Can't wait until next year!</div>
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Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-80599955089853259982018-11-05T16:04:00.002-06:002018-11-05T20:14:30.503-06:00Bud's Flood- Leo is ONE! <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's been a minute since I've blogged! But I had to shake the dust off of my computer for this one because my baby boy just turned 1! He's basically a grown man now so my job is done, right? LOL. He is a handful. He has SO MUCH ENERGY but is just the sweetest, smiliest little Bud and I love every inch of him. We're so proud to be his parents. God has richly blessed us.</span></div>
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So when he was about 6 months I started my birthday brainstorming (as I do). Plus Presley's birthday is in January so I just kinda start doing it all together way earlier than what's socially acceptable. I went through a lot of ideas but the one I kept coming back to is Noah's ark! I knew I could incorporate a lot of cute details from the story into the party plus I loved the idea of planning an event around a Bible story. </div>
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The first thing I did was start with a poem and go from there. During this process I found my party title, "Bud's Flood." His name is Leo but just about everyone calls him Bud (my fault) so I thought this title was too perfect. So naturally I got pretty obnoxious with that. So back to the poem. I love writing. I mean I HATED writing papers and things in school but I really enjoy writing for pleasure. One thing I especially love doing is writing poems about funny situations. I incorporated that hobby into Leo's invitation that I sent out to friends and family via Facebook. I also wrote a poem for <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2017/01/purresley-is-two-kitty-cat-party.html">PURResley's kitty cat party </a>a few years ago and hope to make it a tradition for my kids. Although it may be something just I get excited about but hey that's fine too!</div>
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I also included this pic that I enjoyed way too much:</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hnEq-KOHwQs/W-C4-8tNhLI/AAAAAAAAG9c/NmcZMjcuJBI0rLBaOtz84beRYG4wOWxSQCLcBGAs/s1600/1%2B%25281%2529.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hnEq-KOHwQs/W-C4-8tNhLI/AAAAAAAAG9c/NmcZMjcuJBI0rLBaOtz84beRYG4wOWxSQCLcBGAs/s320/1%2B%25281%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>God told Noah and his fam to build a great big boat.</b></div>
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<b>"Here are my plans and supplies too to make it stay afloat!"</b></div>
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<b>The people said, "That's crazy!" and laughed at them all day long.</b></div>
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<b>But it didn't take much time to find that they had been all wrong.</b></div>
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<b>With 2 of every animal Noah's family board to stay.</b></div>
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<b>The days began to pass them by; they didn't hesitate to pray.</b></div>
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<b>Darkening hues of grays and blacks start to fill the weary skies.</b></div>
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<b>Now the rains are coming down; the floods begin to rise.</b></div>
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<b>But Noah remains faithful until he sees God's sign.</b></div>
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<b>Then swirls of colors paint the skies; the sun begins to shine!</b></div>
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<b>In honor of God's covenant He made by this great flood.</b></div>
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<b>We will throw a special party to celebrate our Bud!</b></div>
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<b>We're thankful for this year and that God's promises ring true.</b></div>
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<b>And how amazed are we to see how much this boy grew!</b></div>
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<b>365 days and nights have passed of filling our hearts with sunlight,</b></div>
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<b>so come celebrate our Leo with us and share in our great delight!</b></div>
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And because the homemade beard was a huge fail but these pics also brought my an immense amount of joy:</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ERm5Wqsi5LM/W-C5tDL_dyI/AAAAAAAAG9s/NTyp6C0E40QbgibqBvOAGxo8WpedekVjwCLcBGAs/s1600/1%2B%25285%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ERm5Wqsi5LM/W-C5tDL_dyI/AAAAAAAAG9s/NTyp6C0E40QbgibqBvOAGxo8WpedekVjwCLcBGAs/s320/1%2B%25285%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2qpfc71ffHI/W-C5rFnM1mI/AAAAAAAAG9o/ovsHhCo1QjYPEnsTz-poB2qNIWq2bheWgCLcBGAs/s1600/1%2B%25289%2529.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2qpfc71ffHI/W-C5rFnM1mI/AAAAAAAAG9o/ovsHhCo1QjYPEnsTz-poB2qNIWq2bheWgCLcBGAs/s320/1%2B%25289%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
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There unfortunately weren't a ton of ideas with this theme online but I did a lot of research and pulled things I liked from here and there and came up with something that worked for me. I really wanted guests to feel immersed in the story as they walked in. I like to start the themeing outside and move it in through the house in a logical order. Okay as I type this I'm realizing how ridiculous it is that I've put this much emotion and preparation into a baby's birthday party but they JUST MAKE ME SO EXCITED! I think that the things that make a themed party so special are the little, thought out details that I get so excited about thinking through and putting together. And when they all come together it's as if the rains stops and the flood begins to recede and the rainbow beams brightly out of the clouds. </div>
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I'm just going to walk through the party with pictures so you can experience it the same way as our guests did. I used the lyrics from the Rise and Shine/Arky Arky song to pave the way. Part of me really was hoping that it would rain because THE FLOODS ARE COMING! But it was actually a stunningly beautiful day so that was great too.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DFzXE0GWuy8/W-Cn5TP7H-I/AAAAAAAAG4o/nKsrZ2xwVtAkwY6WfohAp49NRgrbFENtQCLcBGAs/s1600/2%2B%25281%2529b.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DFzXE0GWuy8/W-Cn5TP7H-I/AAAAAAAAG4o/nKsrZ2xwVtAkwY6WfohAp49NRgrbFENtQCLcBGAs/s320/2%2B%25281%2529b.JPG" /></a></div>
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I wanted the door frame to resemble an ancient ark, only I didn't measure correctly and it didn't quite touch the bottom which REALLY bothered me but it is what it is. I also used scrapbook paper to put in the windows to resemble the floods rising inside.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iFC8jQe7tns/W-CodUXimkI/AAAAAAAAG48/-g8JGUyVqWoB0jeabJQGF9zCxs3lzTOVQCEwYBhgL/s1600/2%2B%25287%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iFC8jQe7tns/W-CodUXimkI/AAAAAAAAG48/-g8JGUyVqWoB0jeabJQGF9zCxs3lzTOVQCEwYBhgL/s320/2%2B%25287%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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And I was also v excited about my 2 little turtles filing in.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B6T1F5sFvWc/W-Cob26FcDI/AAAAAAAAG44/kYvAkz8c2h4QqwLozMny3O71gBwNDpwYgCEwYBhgL/s1600/2%2B%25286%2529b.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B6T1F5sFvWc/W-Cob26FcDI/AAAAAAAAG44/kYvAkz8c2h4QqwLozMny3O71gBwNDpwYgCEwYBhgL/s320/2%2B%25286%2529b.JPG" /></a></div>
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So side note, this is a cute, well-known Bible story but like this really happened. Can you imagine?? The WHOLE EARTH WAS FLOODED! I got curious and started researching and it is estimated that Noah and his fam had approximately 7,000 animals to take care of on a BOAT that they HAND MADE! And they couldn't go to Lowes in their pickup truck, pickup a few 2x4s, mallets and nails. NO! They had to make their supplies! SO it took like 55-75 YEARS just to build this ark. Also take into consideration that Noah was SIX HUNDRED YEARS OLD when the floods came. Now I found all of this info on the internet and I'm just assuming it's Biblical/factual but WOW. Now just imagine if I had 80 years to plan this party!</div>
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Anyways, so at this point everyone is getting the point that THE FLOODS ARE COMING! So the animals are loading two by twosies. Then they walk into the entry and the rains are comin down! I used Leo's sound machine on the thunderstorm setting to make this more of an immersive experience. I made the gray tissue balls then used transparent paper to cut out raindrops and clear thread to attach them. I got the rain walls in the doorways at Hobby Lobby (duh the best).</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MS4uickTZyc/W-Cqsk8i59I/AAAAAAAAG5Q/auhxjD5l9owlHu8soVKmKSyqI6W2QOZOACLcBGAs/s1600/3.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MS4uickTZyc/W-Cqsk8i59I/AAAAAAAAG5Q/auhxjD5l9owlHu8soVKmKSyqI6W2QOZOACLcBGAs/s320/3.JPG" /></a></div>
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Then it was time. The dove returned with the olive branch. The flood was over and God's promise was fulfilled. Enter...the rainbow room.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7NRsIUN8RTY/W-CrU5d6e0I/AAAAAAAAG50/dTIE1BYBerUji0a9fikb2ivt3U5JVPIOwCLcBGAs/s1600/3b%2B%25284%2529b.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7NRsIUN8RTY/W-CrU5d6e0I/AAAAAAAAG50/dTIE1BYBerUji0a9fikb2ivt3U5JVPIOwCLcBGAs/s320/3b%2B%25284%2529b.JPG" /></a></div>
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My mom actually smocked me this dress Pres is wearing when I was her age and I love that she kept it because it was so perfect for the party!</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kd5VamII-S0/W-Crhz_-QiI/AAAAAAAAG6A/wWBvmhQpk1kGvawDCh12xXoxzAfjf9xAwCLcBGAs/s1600/4%2B%25282%2529b.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kd5VamII-S0/W-Crhz_-QiI/AAAAAAAAG6A/wWBvmhQpk1kGvawDCh12xXoxzAfjf9xAwCLcBGAs/s320/4%2B%25282%2529b.JPG" /></a></div>
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Okay. So the balloon arch. It was so easy and definitely recommend. I bought the kit on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0771M4TND/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Amazon</a> for $20 and a pack of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074P43M4S/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">100 rainbow balloons</a> (only used 50) but like DEFINITELY USE THE PUMP! Actually the pump it came with was crap but if you have another pump, use it. I really built it up with my husband that YEAH WE'RE GOING TO BUILD A BALLOON RAINBOW TOGETHER the night before the party. He insisted on blowing them up himself and legit almost passed out. Granted he was going so fast and not taking a break but I was terrified. Like I didn't know what to do. So DON'T BE LIKE MATT! JUST USE A PUMP! So it didn't take too long and besides the near-death experience I think it was worth it! The clips that came with the kit made it super easy to assemble and I love how it turned out. Just think about the possibilities! I can't wait to use it again. </div>
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Here's a better pic of it in a naked room:</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wZpgBqrM2HQ/W-CtU2LmTYI/AAAAAAAAG60/56Dre423vuIVhRT3EtO-N_oMzCfchsxFwCLcBGAs/s1600/45494914_546020989195554_1475367690477502464_nb.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wZpgBqrM2HQ/W-CtU2LmTYI/AAAAAAAAG60/56Dre423vuIVhRT3EtO-N_oMzCfchsxFwCLcBGAs/s320/45494914_546020989195554_1475367690477502464_nb.jpg" /></a></div>
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As I do, I struggled for months when it came to deciding party food. Should I go all colorful/rainbow food? Food that looks like food for the animals? ANIMAL-SHAPED FOOD? The internet was v unhelpful. I just couldn't decide! 3 days before the party I finally decided on an array of food themes and came up with this. A Trader Joe's feast (we just got a TJs in Memphis like 2 min from my house and it is just about as magical as Hobby Lobby. Like I'm already obsessed). Also, the party was at 3:30 so this was supposed to be light snackage.</div>
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These <a href="https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/73565/asparagus-wrapped-in-crisp-prosciutto/">prosciutto-wrapped asparagus</a> were SUPER easy and were supposed to resemble olive branches. I cut the meat in half before I wrapped so it would go further. They were a big hit and completely gone at the end. Actually</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9c0x8rgkLzs/W-Crmvky5DI/AAAAAAAAG6M/_rvis-envNg5ZGGui_QnzJyamITIo4lggCLcBGAs/s1600/6%2B%25281%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9c0x8rgkLzs/W-Crmvky5DI/AAAAAAAAG6M/_rvis-envNg5ZGGui_QnzJyamITIo4lggCLcBGAs/s320/6%2B%25281%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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Animal crackers (I've shamelessly eaten an entire bucket of these completely alone).</div>
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Rainbow KaBUDs. These were fun to make. I take that back. If you know how to cut up round, robust, oddly shaped and sometimes hairy fruits, these would have been fun to make. LOL at me on the struggle bus just trying to cut up a kiwi. Also, cantaloupe. How.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hg_wXZjE72E/W-CrqiUr5ZI/AAAAAAAAG6Y/Rqr6mfMyJ0wJIv6rL2gY1Afeh7bTCEQOQCLcBGAs/s1600/6%2B%25283%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hg_wXZjE72E/W-CrqiUr5ZI/AAAAAAAAG6Y/Rqr6mfMyJ0wJIv6rL2gY1Afeh7bTCEQOQCLcBGAs/s320/6%2B%25283%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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I found these Vegi Sticks at Traders Joes because I thought they looked like straw and thought "no one will eat these they look disqusting" but people loved them!! Presley was chowin down by the handful. So good to know, right?</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WrgXUOIIRfg/W-CrrDpUgEI/AAAAAAAAG6c/TPATeFrubZE150H-G9HhpMcWlDZ7ET5ZACLcBGAs/s1600/6%2B%25284%2529.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WrgXUOIIRfg/W-CrrDpUgEI/AAAAAAAAG6c/TPATeFrubZE150H-G9HhpMcWlDZ7ET5ZACLcBGAs/s320/6%2B%25284%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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Lastly is this cake I spent SO MANY HOURS preparing. The ark alone took me 6 straight hours. I haven't made a cake in so long and haven't been super active with my cake business in general since Leo was born, so I was really nervous. I actually forgot how to make my buttercream that I used to crank out by the pound and had to look it up in my recipe book. Oops. But anyways, I wasn't super happy with the outcome. Maybe it's the colors. I'm not sure. I couldn't put my finger on what went wrong but I think everyone else enjoyed it. It is supposed to be the ark landed on top of Mount Ararat with the floods receding below. Also, fun fact. When I was in high school I was obsessed with Mt Ararat and would research it in my spare time because I thought it was SO COOL that we can know the location(ish) of where the ark landed. They found evidence of gopher wood here and other things but I'm a bit rusty on my facts here. I'm nerding out again. Also, I love space. WHAT IS IT? It's so big. So vast. I have so many questions! Ahem. So turning Mt Ararat into a cake kinda thrilled my soul a little bit...or alot. Okay alot. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LtvktH6apEA/W-CrgOdY5pI/AAAAAAAAG54/wh4kT8oBm3MdU-hQCw3mBZ_UOWt5J6RlgCLcBGAs/s1600/45345808_460106167846331_178367797074591744_nb.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LtvktH6apEA/W-CrgOdY5pI/AAAAAAAAG54/wh4kT8oBm3MdU-hQCw3mBZ_UOWt5J6RlgCLcBGAs/s320/45345808_460106167846331_178367797074591744_nb.jpg" /></a></div>
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And here's the cake with the last part of the song to finish out the story.</div>
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The other little table was for plates/forks/napkins, Leo's smash cake and I always like to have a themed book for everyone to sign and I put them in my kids' keepsake boxes for them to have forever. I made the little chalkboard out of a wood slice (Hobby Lobby) and chalk paint for <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2018/01/poohresley-is-three.html">Presley's Pooh party</a> earlier this year.</div>
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I did love his smash cake. The different colored cake layers made me feel v happy.</div>
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Bud agreed.</div>
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So the kitchen was boring. I just put a blue table cloth on our kitchen table with a Noah's ark toy and totes forgot to take a pic. </div>
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Here are some pics of the living room. I made the ark out of poster board from Michaels. I found the animals in the wood aisle at Hobby Lobby and my dad cut them to make them fit in the window. And I couldn't resist adding a pic of Floody Buddy in his Noah suit. I cut out 12 pieces of paper to make the rainbow above and included his monthly pictures. I used blue tissue paper to make the "water" and the Happy Birthday banner was recycled from <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2018/01/poohresley-is-three.html">Presley's Pooh Party</a> as well.</div>
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I totally forgot about the high chair banner (tragic) until kinda last minute so I only used supplies I had in my craft room. I tied on misc ribbons and used a fusible interfacing to attach the "1" to the banner.</div>
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For the drink bar I made this rainbow banner out of different tones of rainbow colors. I just had Coke, water ("Rain Drops") and a blue punch ("Flood Waters"). The punch was 2 packages of frozen pineapple juice concentrate, about 3/4 container of blue Hawaiian punch and a 2 liter of lemon lime soda. It was surprisingly tasty!</div>
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I recycled this "1" from <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2016/01/presleys-1st-birthday-tea-party.html">Presley's first birthday </a>and replaced her pictures with some of my favorites of Mister Bud throughout the year.</div>
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We had so much fun celebrating a whole year with our sweet boy! Leo, you're a rainbow in our lives. Sweet boy.</div>
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I can't wait to do it again next time. I'm sure I'll start planning in like 6 months so I don't have much time! Oh gosh I'm getting behind. </div>
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PrELSA is 4 coming soon! Thanks for sticking out this flood with me!</div>
</span>Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-63148260924453870952018-01-21T15:27:00.000-06:002018-01-21T15:35:37.020-06:00POOHresley is THREE<div>
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I've said it before but I'll say it again, I CAN'T BELIEVE MY BABY IS THREE! Geez where does the time go. It's been a little over a year now since her Winnie the Pooh obsession began so I thought it'd be the perfect theme for her birthday this year. Plus there's so much material so I thought it'd be really fun to plan/craft for.</div>
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Come join us in the Hundred Acre Wood to celebrate POOHresley’s third birthday! We will have some smackerels to eat plus a few good friends and a stick or two. It will be as sweet as a pot of hunny. We hope you can join us!</div>
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I wrote most of this blog post in October before baby Leo got here because I'm crazy. OR am I actually smart?? Eh? A good portion of my pre-baby to-do list included all of the things I wanted to make for Presley's birthday party. I knew I wouldn't be up to going all-out with a 3 year old and 2 month old so I wanted to get the majority of the crafting done while I had the time/energy. I love little details and wanted to spend the time I could making this party just POOHfect for my POOHresley.</div>
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I did my typical buy one thing at a time at Hobby Lobby method because it works for me. Here's how that works: I sat down one night and researched and planned the whole party like 6 months in advance. I wrote a list of everything I wanted to make and everything I needed to do so. I put it on my phone and every time I went to Hobby Lobby I bought one thing for the party with my 40% off coupon. OR if something I needed was already on sale I'd just buy it then. HL is 2 minutes from me and I go like 3 times a week and I realize that this is a weird thing to do so this method isn't realistic for most people. BUT for me it works and in the end the whole party (sans the food) ends up being 40-50% off! It really does add up and I usually end up saving $50-100 doing it this way. I'm a psycho planner so doing it this way just comes unusually natural for me. </div>
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<b>Here are the things I made:</b></div>
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Hunny pots</div>
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"Happy Birthday" banner</div>
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"Pres" banner for mantle wreath<br />
Paper leaves for the big paper tree<br />
Tree made from brown wrapping paper (2 rolls)</div>
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Bees+bee hives to hang from the ceiling</div>
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Misc paper signs 'TTFN", "For the rumbly in your tumbly", etc</div>
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Cardboard signs for the door "Mr Sanderz" and "Rnig Also"</div>
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Little honey jars w/ bee fabric + Pooh quote (party favors)</div>
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Rabbit's garden wood signs</div>
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"Pooh and Presley corner" wood sign</div>
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Wood slice chalkboard with Pooh quote</div>
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Pin the tail on Eeyore<br />
Wood slice food labels</div>
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<b>Things I bought/already had/borrowed:</b></div>
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Little woodland creatures</div>
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Acorns </div>
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Burlap table runners</div>
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Little straw hat for Rabbit's garden</div>
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Little watering can for Rabbit's garden</div>
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Little wooden food signs</div>
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Big balloon + Pooh<br />
Lots of Command hooks and stickers to attach things to the wall/ceiling<br />
Fresh flowers (got mine at Kroger)</div>
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<b>Food:</b></div>
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Beehive cake + cupcakes</div>
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Rotini pasta salad (Tigger tails) [from Tazikis]</div>
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Vegi tray with ranch (Vegetables from Rabbit's Garden) [Costco]</div>
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Applesauce pouches (Kanga's pouch) [GoGo Squeeze from Costco]<br />
<a href="https://www.justapinch.com/recipes/main-course/main-course-sandwiches/really-yummy-baked-ham-cheese-sandwiches.html" target="_blank">Hot ham sandwiches</a> (Hunny Ham Sandwiches)<br />
Pigs in a blanket (Pig(let)s in a Blanket) [frozen from Costco]</div>
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<a href="https://www.cutest-baby-shower-ideas.com/baby-shower-punch.html" target="_blank">Pink punch</a> (Piglet's Pink Lemonade)<br />
Sweet Tea (Tigger Tea) [Milo's sweet tea]<br />
Honey for party favor honey jars<br />
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I think that a great themed party is all in the little details. I like for it to be an immersive experience from the second you walk in. I decorated the front door like Pooh's house, complete with Rabbit's garden.<br />
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I downloaded a few songs to have playing in the main room that you could hear when you opened the door. The playlist included the Winnie the Pooh theme song, A Few Good Friends (from Piglet's Big Movie), Little Black Rain Cloud, Rumbly in my Tumbly, etc). Along with this TRULY MASSIVE BALLOON HAVE YOU EVER SEEN SUCH A THING??? I bought it at Hobby Lobby thinking it was going to be a little bigger than a regular balloon. I sent Matt with it when he went to go pickup the balloons the day of the party. Then he came home with THIS and I couldn't stop LOLing. They charged him $10 to blow it up because it was so huge. So the entry hall was the only place it'd fit and not be in the way. And it legit took up the whole room. This pleased me.<br />
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"For the Rumbly in your Tumbly"<br />
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And the main room! And duh the best one because it had all of the food.<br />
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For the beehives I just got a 3-pack of yellow paper lanterns at Hobby Lobby and made some little bees and glued them on. I made the bees out of tiny wooden pots from Joanne (lol that they make these), paint, little black pom poms, iridescent translucent white paper for the wings, and skinny black beads for the stinger. I hung them to the ceiling with Command hooks that don't hurt the paint.<br />
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For the tree I legit had no idea what I was doing and really can't really tell you exactly what I did because I don't really know. It's made of 1.5 rolls of brown wrapping paper from Hobby Lobby. I just crumpled it up and attached to the wall with Command strips. I got 10ish sheets of green paper in different tones and cut leaves out. After I got the tree up I hot glued them on. I got the little squirrel at Michaels.<br />
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I got the big wood slice above from Hobby Lobby painted it with chalkboard paint and wrote a cute Pooh quote:<br />
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"Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart"<br />
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I also liked using some of the 80 Pooh books we had in my decor. I used the little wood slices to write the names of food on in a big bag for $4 at Hobby Lobby as well.<br />
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This table had plates, napkins, forks, Presley's special cupcake, party favors and the guest book (a Pooh book that I had everyone sign).<br />
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I made these little jars and filled them with honey for party favors.<br />
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I had some simple decor on the kitchen table:</div>
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And here's the living room! I got this cute window at a garage sale across the street a year ago for ONE DOLLAR! I hung a cheap grapevine wreath from it with a little banner I made with Presley's nickname on it. The shutters always live on my mantle so I just used little clothespins to hang my favorite Pres pics up. I made the "Happy Birthday" banner with cute paper I cut out and glued to twine.</div>
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But my favorite part is my floating Pooh. It's just clear thread that I sewed through the top of Pooh's head and hung with a Command hook. I also sewed his hands together then I just tied a balloon to him. Matt and I got Presley this Pooh in the Magic Kingdom when we went to Disney World a few years ago. This was a good year before the Pooh obsession began. Nailed it.</div>
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We served drinks at our bar (as you do at a bar). We had water, cucumber water, a pink punch (Piglet's Pink Punch), sweet tea (Tigger Tea), Coke and Diet Coke. I got the cute red fan things at Hobby Lobby. It was like $6 for 6 of them (and of course I used my coupon so they were super cheap).<br />
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We also had pin the tail on Eeyore but totes forgot to play. </div>
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But I can't forget my very favorite part, my very own little Christopher Robin. I got the shirt/pants on Kohls.com then got white fabric paint and painted the shirt to look like Christopher. I got the red mocassins on Ebay for $5 and just cut the fringe off.<br />
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Here are a few more pics!<br />
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LOL at our family pic.<br />
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That's about it! Thanks so much for reading.<br />
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TTFN! TaTa for Now!!<br />
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Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-84140296910111380532017-11-16T18:06:00.002-06:002017-11-17T11:05:01.423-06:00Little Leo's Nursery<div style="text-align: center;">
Our sweet boy, Jack Lennon "Leo" Hedgepeth, was born on November 2 weighing 8 lbs 6 oz.<br />
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I can't believe it! All of the sudden we have TWO children! I can't begin to explain how much joy these little people bring me. I love being their mom so much. This pregnancy was alot more rough on me than the last (hence the lack of blog posts) but this sweet boy is so worth it. And his big sister loves him so much. GEEEEZZZ is it possible for my heart to literally explode? I think it might explode. I'm so tired but so thankful. So much love for all of my Hedges, big and small. </div>
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A few months ago we moved Presley to her big girl bed that's been waiting for her for quite a while. She loves it. She immediately started referring to her old nursery as "Babbby Brodder's room." She understood it right away. I'm moving up so little brother can move in here. I'm always amazed at what she comprehends. In my mind she's still like 2 months old. But she's like almost 3 sooooo I guess it's about that time. I'm so proud of how excited she's been leading up till now and how helpful and sweet she's been with her baby brother.<br />
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So for his nursery I wanted it to be kinda simple and neutral. No theme really. I worked on it for months and months, starting the week I found out we were having a boy back in May. I decorated and redecorated (per my usual self) until I got it right. It took me a while. Idk why I couldn't quite figure out what I was doing. I lose a good 75% of the creative side of my brain when I'm pregnant but my nesting portion explodes by like 239023%. So like I have the desire but I don't know what I'm doing. Anyways, it is what it is and this is as good as I could do. Here are some pics!</div>
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When I was pregnant with Pres our mom's painted her nursery while Matt and I were babymoon cruisin in Alaska. I picked out a neutral color so that if we had a boy in the future (nailed it) we wouldn't have to repaint. The focal wall has thick, tonal neutral stripes to add a little something interesting. The colors are White Clay and Sandstone Cove by Behr. The main room color is the darker one, Sandstone Cove. We did paint the closet pink originally so we had to go ahead and paint it to match the rest of the room too. So a little painting was involved but not much (thanks, Matty). I also went blue/white polka dots when I <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2015/01/our-girls-nursery.html" target="_blank">recovered the glider </a>for her room so that it could easily transition to boy if it needed to one day (nailed it again).<br />
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So there really wasn't much to this room that required alot of skill. I basically took Presley's nursery and tweaked it and made it boy-friendly. The things that were pink (like frames, a little table, etc) I just painted blue or white or gray. I kept the same layout of everything because it worked. </div>
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The main thing was the dresser. We moved Presley's big, pink dresser to her new bedroom and bought a new one for BOY's room. I found it on a FB resale page for $75. It was scratched up but a nice piece of furniture. Plus I knew I'd paint it so I didn't care what condition it was in as long as it was sturdy. I bought new brushed nickel hardware for it on Ebay. The spacing for the handles was abnormal so I couldn't find those sizes at Lowes or Home Depot which is why I looked online. However that turned out to be MUCH cheaper anyways. I did end up having to drill some new holes for the single knobs on the top drawers and putty/sand the 2 holes left behind. I couldn't find the right size handles that matched the handles at the bottom (they were 2 different sizes). So anyways, finding the hardware and redoing it a little was a bit of a challenge but not too bad. Just alot of internet searches. I painted it Annie Sloan's Paris Grey with just a clear sealant from Lowes. Before I sealed it I sanded the edges a little bit as well. I just love it! I also found cute contact liner paper on <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Duck-Brand-Adhesive-Peel-and-Stick-Laminate-20-x-12-Grey-Quatrefoil/38055933" target="_blank">Walmart.com</a> of all places and covered all of the drawer bottoms. One package was all I needed. I got the clear organizer bins at The Dollar Tree (THEY HAVE SO MANY GREAT THINGS!!!). I got the hamper at Burlington for like $10. BTW Burlington is awesome. They have weird things but if you look hard enough you can find some really cheap/great treasures. They especially have good baby stuff. The cute, acrylic lamp came from Hobby Lobby on sale 66% off for about $15. I loved it so much I bought both of the ones they had (other one was very slightly different) and put it in Presley's room on her dresser. I glued a cute, white trim around the bottom of her lamp shade to make it a little different/more feminine but I kept Leo's plain.<br />
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My mom actually got these shutters for me at a local antique mall 3.5 years ago. I was pregnant with Presley and SO sure she was a boy. I had his nursery all planned out and knew I wanted shutters. She saw these and bought them then SURPRISE it's a girl! So I've literally had them for forever just waiting to use them in my boy's nursery one day. My time has come. My father-in-law cut them into 4 pieces and I painted them blue. They were such a pain to paint because SO MANY CREVICES! CREVASSES! (HOW DO YOU SPELL THAT WORD??) I've painted lots of shutters before because I'm strangely obsessed with them and they're all over my house but these were harder because they were so dark originally. I ended up using some chalk paint I had (Hobby Lobby brand for $8...love this stuff for smaller projects because it works pretty well and it's super affordable. Plus you can use your 40% off coupon!) That provided a much easier base to paint over than bare, dark wood.<br />
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I made the name banner myself. I got the white, linen bases at Michaels. They came in a big package. To make the letters I actually used leftover linen fabric from my <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2017/01/not-another-home-makeover.html" target="_blank">master bedroom makeover </a>earlier this year. I ironed the linen fabric on to a heat bond double-sided adhesive paper (obsessed with this stuff). So now it has fabric on one side and paper on the back. I then printed "Lennon" off in a font I liked on Microsoft Word and cut them out. I flipped them backwards and traced them onto the paper that was attached to the fabric. After that I just cut them out! Take off the paper on the back then iron them where you want them. One I had all of my letters attached I folded over the top edges of the white linen banner bases and used my sewing machine to sew a tube to threat the jute thru. AND HIS NAME IS LENNON SO IT'S ALL SUPPOSED TO MAKE SENSE.<br />
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One thing I love to buy when working on smaller paint projects is little paint samples. Lowes and Home Depot have them for about $3-4 but they're pretty small. BUT you can get any color you want! For this project I actually got a Sherwin Williams coupon in the mail that was super handy. It was buy one sample tub, get one free! Their samples are $7 but they're so big! Like I feel like I've used alot but you can't even tell anything is missing. And you can pick out any color they have. So I got 2 big tubs of SW paint for $8 including tax. So much cheaper than buying a quart and much better quality paint than you can get at the craft store. Plus you can get the exact shade you want. I used this paint to redo little things around the room including the shutters.<br />
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I just changed out some things on the book shelves to make it less girly and to personalize it to Leo instead of Presley. I added a bird and new frames and some bears from my childhood. I got the cute giraffe wood art at Hobby Lobby (duh) for around $10.<br />
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LOL at my model<br />
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I bought the window curtains at Home Goods. 2 panels for $20. Of course they were too short so I had to get creative. I already had opened and hung them and so they could no longer be returned. In hind sight maybe I should've measured first...I like my curtains to be hung a good bit higher than the top of the window frame. It makes the room look taller and bigger and really does make a difference. So I removed the little hem at the bottom and re-sewed it. That added a few inches, but then the fabric was uneven for unknown reasons and looked weird at the bottom. It barely touched the floor which made it super noticeable. So I ended up undoing the rod pocked at the top to add more length and sewed pieces of ivory satin ribbon in 5 places per panel. I used a lighter to melt the edges of the ribbon so they wouldn't fray and tied them up in bows. Hey! It worked. And I ended up having a few inches of fabric to spare so it pooled nicely at the bottom. I love the pooled look so I was happy with how they turned out. And total they cost about $25.<br />
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I originally painted the little side table blue but didn't like it (too bright) so I repainted it gray with leftover dresser chalk paint. Much better. </div>
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I recovered the little pillow on the glider with some cute white swiss-dot-esque fabric I found at Hobby Lobby.<br />
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I got the fuzzy ivory/gray chevron rug on sale at Target for $50! It's so soft. Me and Pres would pretend to go to sleep on it all the time before he got here. Well I really almost did fall asleep. Pres was pretending. She'd turn off the light, turn on the sound machine, give me a pillow and a blanket and say "Night night, Momma. Love you, Sweet Pea." She also loved to say "Got a new, soft rug for Babby Brodder!" Man I love her. I also got the new nickel hook for the wall at Target for $5. I loved having a hook for Presley when this was her room so I could easily lay out clothes for the next day, etc without them getting wrinkly. Of course it was pink so I moved it up to her big girl room and replaced it with this simple one. It's super handy.<br />
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I made just about all of Presley's crib bedding but with this pregnancy I was just so tired and weak I couldn't even find the energy to think about making a whole new set. I found this plain, pleated, white crib skirt on Target.com for less than $20 and went for it. I got some fun sheets to make it a little interesting.<br />
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I decided against a bumper. People have some serious opinions about crib bumpers these days. When I was a baby I think everyone had one but now they're considered sketchy and a hazard. I mean this did freak me out a little because if something were to happen to my baby due to there being a bumper I'd obvs never forgive myself. I went ahead and made one for Presley (yes I made it and I swore I'd never do that again) but once she started sleeping in her crib I was too afraid to actually leave it in there. So I didn't. It ended up just being for looks. Or really basically for a picture. So this time I decided not to waste money or time looking for/making a new one for his room. </div>
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I got the frames above the crib at Ross for $9 each. My grandmother actually watercolored the animals and I'm obsessed. I really love how special they are because she made them. Kinda last minute I made the crib mobile with supplies I got on Etsy. I was inspired by one I found there but it was $50 and coming from Kiev, Ukraine. Ain't nobody got time fo dat! I loved this chick's stuff and it wasn't super pricey but I knew it'd take a while to get here and I'm impatient and stuff. So I bought the felt balls on Etsy (very inexpensively) and the rest of the supplies at Hobby Lobby (duh) and made my own! I like the pizazz it adds. It needed something interesting over here.<br />
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It took me FOREVER to settle on a new light fixture in here. The old one was pink so that obvs wouldn't work and I sold it on a FB resale site. I ended up finding this adorable drum fixture with acrylic balls on <a href="https://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/acrylic-hanging-drum-pendant/?pkey=e%7Cacrylic%2Bdrum%7C1%7Cbest%7C0%7C1%7C24%7C%7C1&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH" target="_blank">PotteryBarnKids.com</a>. It was on sale for about $110 including shipping. I LOVE IT!<br />
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And here is a photo collage on this big, blank wall. And Presley again.</div>
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And here are a few pictures of his closet. SO MANY DIAPERS!</div>
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So that's basically it! Not much to it. I just wanted his room to be sweet and babyish but not cheesy. I hope I accomplished that. I don't sleep anymore so I don't even know what's happening and I haven't really noticed his room since he's been here. And I think there's poo in my hair. BUT I LOVE HIM SO MUCH!!!</div>
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Presley will be 3 in 2 short months (is this real life?) and we have an exciting birthday party planned so stay tuned!</div>
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Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-55811292822973110722017-11-01T18:09:00.002-05:002017-11-01T18:09:28.122-05:00A Frozen Halloween<div style="text-align: center;">
Well here I am again...July and writing my costume blog post...I mean it's October or something. FINE IT'S JULY!! I really did have an excuse to make these early this year though. I'm due with our son on November 8 which is like a week after Halloween. And who knows when he'll actually get here! And I'll be huge and pregnant like really soon and I just wanted to get it done, ya know! </div>
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Nesting is in full-swing and I'm hardcore knocking out dat pre-baby to-do list. Today I went to organize Presley's sippy cups in the cabinet (maybe a 5 minute task) which somehow turned into a complete kitchen overhaul (5+ hour task). I cleaned out every drawer and cabinet and now my dining room table is covered in crap I haven't used in 6+ years of marriage and I'm assuming I never will. So now I have to have a garage sale! I feel like that mouse in If You Give A Mouse A Cookie. Where one thing leads to another and another and it never ends. That's my life right now. One big stream of consciousness that's translated into actions and I'm basically just tearing my house apart all the time so I can put it back together "the right way." Idk...I don't know what I'm doing. My brain is a vast chasm right now AND NONE OF IT MAKES ANY SENSE.</div>
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Anyways! So Presley is OBSESSED with Elsa and all things Frozen (like every other little girl in America for the past 4 years). I'm all about Tangled and I tried hard to push it but no. Frozen. I don't know what it is about that movie that has literal magical powers over the children. But hey, it is good so I can't complain. I can recite it in my sleep.<br />
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One of the best parts of this is that Pres already has an Elsa dress! It's technically a Frozen Fever Elsa dress (the summer version) but it's still Elsa. It lights up and sings and she loves it. My husband was like "is that some weird knock off with Elsa's voice?" Lol. No it's legit. So that was easy, eh? It's missing the jewel that goes in the middle so I found some paper flowers at Hobby Lobby (duh) and glued them on. It cost a whole $2.50 and came with a big pack of them.<br />
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I got her beautiful wig at Target for $10 and it just made the whole costume. I bought her crown secondhand on a Facebook resale page.</div>
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I needed a costume that fit my robust figure so duh Olaf. And it was also super easy (maybe that's really my theme here). I'm used to going all-out for Halloween but this year has me all fatigued and things (preggy probs) so basically all I'm saying is no dog costume this year. Sorry, Elphie. I had so much of these supplies on hand so these were so cheap to make.<br />
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Everything was purchased at Hobby Lobby unless otherwise noted. Everything was also purchased on sale (at 50% off) or with my coupon (this may take a few trips if you're dedicated to saving the most money). Total (not including the things I already had) I spent $30 between all 3 costumes. Kristoff was the most expensive at about $18, Olaf was about $11 and I already had Presley's Elsa dress so that was free.</div>
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<b>Olaf </b><br />
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<b>Supplies:</b></div>
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White shirt</div>
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Large black pom poms</div>
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White beanie hat (Ebay)</div>
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Orange, white, black felt (1 sheet each is plenty)</div>
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Black or brown pipe cleaners</div>
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<b>Cloud Supplies:</b></div>
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Long dowel</div>
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Fluff</div>
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Cardboard or foamcore board (something sturdy)</div>
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Piece of ribbon</div>
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Thread</div>
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Snowflakes</div>
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Most of this is pretty self-explanatory! I just free-handed the felt face and glued it on the hat. Not hard at all.<br />
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UPDATE: So Pres and I had the most magical night ever at Disney on Ice the first weekend in October and I spent FIFTEEN FREAKING DOLLARS on a bag of cotton candy because it came with an Olaf hat that was just too good to be true. It's made of like foam and terrible quality but hey! It's just what I needed. So now Pres thoroughly enjoys playing dress up in this DIY Olaf hat so it was still worth it.<br />
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The cloud wasn't hard at all but was a little more complicated just because I didn't have directions and had to figure it out. I think it really made the outfit though so it was worth it.</div>
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I painted the dowel white then poked it through a piece of sturdy, rectangular cardboard. I hot glued it in place on the top and bottom. It was a little saggy so I cut up some foamcore board and glued it on. Still a little floppy. So I got a piece of ribbon and glued it taught on one side of the cardboard to the top of the dowel on the other side. That way it's being held up by something. This will make more sense in a picture.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Pr2iWLDQbM/WdFLiLOYSNI/AAAAAAAAGpw/UDq1fXjs6JUKQyS7hu1IjqwDgoTmWN_xgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3277b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="832" data-original-width="1600" height="166" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Pr2iWLDQbM/WdFLiLOYSNI/AAAAAAAAGpw/UDq1fXjs6JUKQyS7hu1IjqwDgoTmWN_xgCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_3277b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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After this I glued the snowflakes to string and the string to the bottom of the cardboard (underside of cloud). I already had these because I was in charge of decorating the Father Daughter Dance at my church in February and it was Winter Wonderland themed. I went all out Frozen. I gathered supplies right after Christmas when everything was 90% off . So I had a ton of these snowflakes from that. Lucky me! </div>
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After I did that I just started gluing the fluff to the cardboard. This made me want to say bad words and the glue kept burning me but it happened. You just have to work with it to make sure everything is covered. I was sure to wrap it around the edges so you couldn't really tell there was something in it. I poked the snowflakes out as I was gluing the fluff around them. That's it!</div>
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Matt was Kristoff. This was probably the most complicated costume but it wasn't bad. </div>
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<b>Kristoff</b><br />
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<b>Supplies:</b></div>
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Gray tshirt</div>
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Red grosgrain ribbon</div>
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Purple grosgrain ribbon</div>
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Red decorative ribbon for sash</div>
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Appx 1/2 yard of fur from the fabric department</div>
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Black beanie (Ebay)</div>
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Big black pom pom ball</div>
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I first cut the "v" at the neckline. Then I cut the fur into strips and sewed them around the bottom, sleeves and inside the neck. I did it with a zigzag stitch so it'd have some give to it. You could probably just use hot glue as an alternative. I just glued the ribbon around the neck for the red/purple design, being sure to use a lighter to melt the edges of the ribbon to prevent fraying. I also glued on the sash at the waist. So that's it! A little time consuming but wasn't hard at all.<br />
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So now we're ONE DAY AWAY from having our boy and I'm finishing this blog post up before I finish up packing our hospotal bags (omg). Last night was Halloween and we had a great time. Of course I'm MASSIVE so not my most comfortable holiday but I ate alot (like alot) and had a great time anyways. It was so fun seeing Presley really getting into it this year. She left her wig on all night and kept reassuring us that "I'm Presley and I'm Elsa." She wanted to make sure that even though she was an exact replica of the real Elsa she was still Presley. Now every time I show her a pic from that night and point at her and ask her who that is she will only say "That's Elsa."<br />
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I can't believe that next year I'll have a one year old little boy to dress up! He's going to hate me. JK he's going to love me he has no choice. Well, until then!! Nursery post to come soon!</div>
Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-88169656251289974602017-10-15T15:35:00.004-05:002017-10-15T21:44:22.017-05:00Freezer Meals- Baby #2<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm not entirely sure how many times I've done this but I'm super pregnant again and and therefore fully immersed in the "no chill" phase of my nesting. Like I spent all week last week deep cleaning my house. Like hardcore cleaning: Re-caulking/grout refreshing my shower, deep cleaning the oven/microwave/fridge/etc, wiping my cabinets, shampooing my carpets and rugs, Windexing all of the windows/blinds in my house, etc...Just basically everything that I could possibly think of that I don't typically clean on a weekly basis. BECAUSE MY BABY IS GOING TO CARE IF MY CLOSET HAS BEEN ORGANIZED AND RE-ORGANIZED 80 TIMES BEFORE HE GETS HERE!! It's fine. I'M FINE!! Actually I want to die but I'm fine.</div>
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I could go on and on about all of the weird things I've done to prepare for baby #2. Luckily I didn't have to buy hardly anything this time which was nice so I focused all of my energy on doing things like deep cleaning my Keurig (which I rarely use IDK) and having a garage sale at 36 weeks. SO I'm going to spare you all of the ridiculous details of my many to-do lists I created. Like I basically have a list to organize all of my different lists. When I start to talk to people about it I realize how crazy I sound. I KNOW I KNOW I KNOW I JUST CAN'T HELP MYSELF!</div>
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So when I was toddler-free this week I seized the opportunity to make some more freezer meals! I made like a million (slight exaggeration) last time I was pregnant, unaware of how awesome our church family is about providing meals for families with new babes. It was so sweet. We had meals for at least 2 months that were provided by them. So I didn't have to start using the meals I made for a while but I was still happy that I did it!</div>
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For these I tried something totally different. Before when I've done this I've focused on finding actual freezer meal plans that are laid out for me. Sometimes, though, the recipes didn't look super appealing to us and we weren't that into them. This time I just found recipes on Pinterest that looked good and like they'd freeze well. I sat down and planned it out by figuring out how many each recipe serves (for instance, one serves 12 so I split it into 3 but a few only served like 4 so I had to be sure to make a note to double them) and I also compiled a combined grocery list. </div>
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A good thing about these recipes is that they require common or not many ingredients. I had at least half of the ingredients on hand which greatly saved on costs. I spent exactly $80 (weird) on all 11 meals. They ended up being $7.27 each (note that this doesn't count the ingredients that I already had). I started by doing the bulk of my shopping at Aldi (awesome quality and prices) then going to Kroger for the leftover things that Aldi didn't have. I love Aldi for things like freezer meals but I'm far too addicted to ClickList so there's no way I'd go there every week for my shopping. They have a great selection with most of the necessities but you're probably going to have to go to Kroger or any other large grocery store afterwards to pickup a few leftover items. As a mom of a toddler + infant (ALMOST) there's no way I have the time/energy to plan like this every week then make trips to 2 different stores for my weekly groceries. That's another rabbit trail I could go on and on about. ClickList that is. THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR YOUR SWEET BOUNTIES UPON MOMS OF LITTLE PEOPLE WHO HATE DRAGGING THEM THROUGH THE GROCERY STORE EVERY WEEK!</div>
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Moving on to the actual reason you're reading this right now!</div>
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<b>The recipies include</b>:</div>
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<a href="https://www.laurenslatest.com/crock-pot-honey-mustard-chicken/" target="_blank">CrockPot Honey Mustard Chicken</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.familyfreshmeals.com/2014/06/best-crockpot-bbq-chicken.html#_a5y_p=1921199" target="_blank">CrockPot BBQ Chicken</a></div>
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<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/sloppy-joes/" target="_blank">Sloppy Joes</a></div>
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<a href="https://lilluna.com/chicken-tetrazzini/" target="_blank">Chicken Tetrazzini</a></div>
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<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/the_best_lasagn/#comments" target="_blank">Lasagna</a></div>
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Each recipe and where I found it is linked in the titles above.</div>
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Here is the document I made of all of my compiled recipes and my prep work! Click the link below!</div>
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<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9_LXZdBku1bWUtEZVlsd0NGYVE/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B9_LXZdBku1bWUtEZVlsd0NGYVE/view?usp=sharing</a></div>
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<b>Here's the order I made them in</b>:</div>
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I started by making the 2 chicken recipes that just require you to dump ingredients in a bag (honey mustard chicken and BBQ chicken). They were super easy, required no cooking, and I just wanted to get them out of the way.</div>
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I then boiled the noodles for the tetrazzini then the lasagna noodles just so that would be done.</div>
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After the noodles were done I brought my big pot of water back to a boil and boiled my chicken for the tetrazzini. You can cook your chick anyway you'd like for this recipe. I didn't read ahead so I just cooked it the quickest, easiest way I knew how. It'd probably be tastier if you baked it sprinkled with some spices. It would also probably be beneficial to do this first so your oven can be pre-heated and your chick chick can be cooked and cooled by the time you need it.</div>
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While the noods were cooking I made the Sloppy Joes. You can use a pot or skillet for this. I tried to minimize clean up so I did most of my cooking in my dutch oven.</div>
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After my Joes were done I rinsed out my dutch oven and added the leftover ground beef, sausage and garlic to cook the meat for the lasagna. Then you add some more ingredients and it has to simmer for 45 minutes. For this reason you might want to do this after you get your chicken in the oven. Although a time-consuming step I actually didn't mind doing it at this time because it gave me time to assemble my tetrazzini, clean up and organize myself a bit. </div>
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After that meat was cooked and simmered I assembled my lasagna!</div>
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<b>Some notes</b>:</div>
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If you split the lasagna into 3 pans be sure they're smaller, maybe square pans. I had 3 large, deep, rectangular pans and I didn't have enough ingredients to spread it out to cover 3 large pans. So I'd either just split the recipe into 2 of the larger pans or use 3 smaller pans so you can make your layers alot thicker than I did.</div>
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I wrapped my pans a few times each with plastic wrap and then 2 layers of foil. I want them to be as fresh as possible because I'm not sure when we'll actually be eating them. I also double freezer bagged all of my bagged meals for the same reason. I bought name brand supplies to do this just to ensure their freshness.</div>
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We don't like bell peppers over here so I left them out of the sloppy joes. So if you want to add those to your recipe be sure to add them to your shopping list!<br />
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Be sure to write the cooking instructions on the bag so you don't have to pull the recipe up when it's time to make them. Most require them to be thawed first so I just make a note to myself to move them from the freezer to the fridge the night before I want to cook them. Also, make a note on the bag with suggestions of what to eat with it. For example, you'll probably want buns for the sloppy joes. You'll need to put those on your grocery list the week you want to eat that. It's easy to forget those things when they're not written on the bag.</div>
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Time saving tip: At the beginning you may want to chop your vegis/mince your garlic so you can just grab that when it's time to use it. I did my choppin/minicin as needed when I could've knocked it all out at once. Also be sure to organize your meats at the beginning to make sure you have enough per recipe. I bought my ground beef and chicken in bulk so I separated that out first thing.</div>
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<b>And here are some pics!</b></div>
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Chicken Tetrazzini</div>
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Lasagna</div>
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I felt so accomplished (and a little bit dead) when I finally finished and got to take this picture of my 11 completed meals!</div>
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There you have it! If you decided to do this please comment and let me know how it goes! I think these are going to be the best ones yet!</div>
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Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-52479231465599077012017-05-06T16:02:00.004-05:002017-11-01T18:20:23.646-05:00Another Kitchen Update + New Light Fixtures + Dining Update<div style="text-align: center;">
Matt, Presley and I are so excited to be welcoming another sweet babe into our family in early November! Everyone knows that with many pregnancies come nesting. So basically for me with pregnancy comes...just more Katie. But like an extreme home makeover version. I'm basically just in a perpetual state of nesting even when not pregnant but now I'm like...well basically I'm just a sick, hungry and tired insane person. </div>
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I liked my kitchen before. I loved it at one point but if you keep up with this blog to any extent you know that my style changes on a weekly basis. So last week I JUST NEEDED TO CHANGE EVERYTHING! LIKE RIGHT THEN! </div>
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Before Before:<br />
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Before:</div>
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My "theme" before was like a mint green plus a bright floral print. I wasn't entirely sure where I wanted to go with this I just knew I wanted it different. I started with the curtains. I looked online for over a week trying to find the perfect ones that would inspire the rest of the room. I finally found them on <a href="https://www.kohls.com/product/prd-2816983/corona-addison-curtain.jsp?skuId=corona+addison+curtain&search=corona+addison+curtain&submit-search=web-ta-keyword" target="_blank">Kohls.com</a> (Corona Addison in the color Glacier). They were about $30 a panel. I was worried they'd be super bright but they were very subtle and so perfect for this space. It also complimented the Sherwin Williams's Sea Salt I have painted in the living and dining rooms next door. That's one thing that really bothered me about the mint before. It didn't flow from room to room very well. I got a new brushed nickel curtain rod from Target.com.<br />
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My brother gave us a hand-crafted table for Christmas and we love it! It goes with our IKEA chairs ($40 each) perfectly. It's so beautiful and he made it all by himself. If you have an idea for a custom piece in mind hit me up and I'll give you his info (shameless plug). He can deliver in Memphis or Starkville, MS. </div>
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So from there I knew I had to change the color of my coffee bar furniture. I would've painted with enamel paint (it was painted enamel before) because it holds up well, I could've matched the exact color of the curtains, and it would've been way cheaper...but I'm pregnant and those paint fumes are super strong and, like I said, this needed to happen NOW. I've had experience before with chalk paint and my <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2014/04/dining-room.html" target="_blank">dining room table</a>. I used Cece Caldwell and was not a fan. I had to constantly water it down because it was too thick on its own but then it'd get too thin (the place where I bought it actually recommended I do this). I had to paint 3 coats over 6 chairs and a table which was not ideal and took FOREVER. It looks great now but I swore I'd never use chalk paint again. It's expensive and just didn't live up to its name for me. Well, chalk paint is 100% safe for pregnant people so 3 years later I decided to give it another try. I first went to Farrell Calhoun to buy some but they only had a few colors in stock and none of them were what I wanted. Then I called Sherwin Williams. They don't sell it but told me about this place called Annie's on the Collierville Square. I drove 20 minutes there. Annie's is not a place that does or ever existed on the Collierville Square. So that was just for fun I guess. Then I discovered a place srsly 5 minutes from me in Germantown called Me and Mrs Jones. They sell basically anything Annie Sloan you could possibly need. They had every color and were very helpful. I bought a quart of the color Duck Egg which didn't match my curtains exactly but it was in the same color family and complimented it well. It was $38+tax which was alot more than I wanted to spend on this little furniture update but I had no other options. I actually ended up using just a little then saving up to 1/2 quart in a mason jar for touchups and sold the other 1/2 of the quart on FB resale for $20. So $18 wasn't so bad. SO that's how I ended up with this chalk paint. </div>
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I loved it. Annie Sloan offered me a completely different chalk painting experience. It was so much better. It covered very well and I was just really impressed. I used a clear satin-finish coating I had in my garage already to seal it. I changed out the knobs to these rustic iron ones I got for $4 each also at Me and Mrs Jones. I love the update!</div>
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I got the Bible verse print from one of my favorite Etsy shops <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PrintableWisdom?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">Printable Wisdom</a>. $5 for the download and you just get it printed at your favorite photo place in any size. For details on anything else you see here go to my <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2014/01/chandelier-update-kitchen-chairs-coffee.html" target="_blank">previous kitchen post</a>. </div>
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Another thing we changed was the light fixture. I legit got the previous chandelier at a garage sale for $1. ONE. DOLLAR! I fixed it up with some paint and TLC and I loved it. I was hoping for something a little more modern though. I would describe my typical style as "Southern DIY" (is that a thing?) but I occasionally like to add a modern flair to things. I found this drum fixture on <a href="https://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Indoor-4-light-White-Shade-Pendant-Chandelier/5493226/product.html" target="_blank">Overstock.com</a> for $100 (with a coupon code I had) and it was just right. I bought it and Matty installed it beautifully and I just love it. </div>
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I already had the sign above the window but the words were darker and 2-toned which, of course, bothered me. Because the weirdest little things drive me crazy. Especially crazy, pregnant Katie. So I took it down and painted over all of the letters in white. I like it alot better now that it's brighter and more crisp. </div>
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I didn't have to change my little speaker/charger/plant station. When I first went to college I bought the iron table at Hobby Lobby. It was a million different colors but I spray painted it brown when we moved into this house. I found the shutters on the side of the road and spray painted them. My MOPS friend Summer painted me the piece of wood I hung above it. It's sweet because she asked what I wanted my "word for the year" to be around Christmas time 2016. We had been trying to get pregnant for a little while at that point and I was starting to get discouraged. I told her I wanted my word to be "trust" because I wanted to fully put my trust in Him who is the creator of life. I knew that He heard my prayers and would give us another baby in His perfect timing. I hung it up in a place where I'd see it all the time and it served as a great reminder through the next few months. I saw it every day and was reminded to pray for my little baby who we so longed for. Now I love to see it as a reminder of God's faithfulness to our family. I'll treasure it forever. THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR THIS SWEET LITTLE BABY OF OURS! And for sweet friends who pray for and encourage us through happy and hard times. </div>
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I got this grassy Safavieh rug on <a href="https://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Safavieh-Casual-Natural-Fiber-Hand-Woven-Sisal-Natural-Beige-Seagrass-Runner-26-x-6/4760638/product.html" target="_blank">Overstock</a> for just $30. I love the way it looks and WHAT A DEAL but it feels so bad on bare feet. Usually I at least have on socks if I'm walking through the house but sometimes I don't and it feels like I'm walking over a pit of sharp rocks. It's odd but I'd do it again. </div>
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That was basically the main of it since the rest of the kitchen is just cabinets. I covered the cornice above the sink in a new material that matched everything better. I bought it at Joanne's. I also added some of the Duck Egg chalk paint to the church painting hanging on the wall to make it match (it was more minty before) and completely painted and redid the "As for me and my house..." sign above the door. The new sink mat was only $13 from Target.com. A few months ago I came across the adorable bird lamp at Target. Originally $30 but on sale for $8 so I couldn't resist it. It matches my new stuff so well! Plus I sold my lime green canisters on FB resale and got a new clear jar for my sugar on the counter (also Target).</div>
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AND check out my beautiful new sink! My in-laws are redoing basically their whole house. Their kitchen is getting a complete overhaul and they gave us their old stainless sink. I HATED that black sink. It was brand new when we moved in but it always looks dirty and scratched easily and one side (the side I used most with the disposal) was really shallow and water constantly splashed everywhere. This new sink is so deep on both sides and is so easy to keep clean. Basically, it's just great. AND (bonus) I love the way it looks and how it matches all of the other stainless around it.</div>
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So that's my "new" kitchen! I'd seriously love to paint it Wool Skein like my entry hall. Like I don't know if I'll be able to rest until that's done because the idea is in my head and it won't leave until it happens. But I CAN'T PAINT BECAUSE I'M PREGNANT THIS IS SO HARD! I'd have to convince or pay someone else to do it. We've been in this house 3 years and it would be the 3rd color I've painted my kitchen and everyone thinks I'm crazy. Well 3 is maybe excessive. Hey, only a color a year! OK IT'S EXCESSIVE BUT I CHANGE MY MIND OFTEN OKAY!! I like the Agreeable Gray we have in here but I recently decided that I have too many colors painted downstairs and want them to flow better. I currently have 4 colors between 5 rooms. IT JUST BUGS ME! I have Wool Skein in my entry, stairwell and upstairs hallway and I just keep falling more in love with it. I've never second guessed it like I have with basically everything else. I wish I had thought to do that 2 Christmases ago when I painted the kitchen gray. I love the gray but it also shows fingerprints and like everything that has every touched it. Not super ideal with a toddler and new baby on the way. And I'm fully aware that this is a serious first world problem. I have guilt even writing down my thoughts about it out right now. Moving on.</div>
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Another thing that my psycho preggy brain needed to do right away was change out light fixtures. Instead of just splurging on them I actually spent time saving for them. I did lots and lots of research on them beforehand as well. I had a baggie labeled "light fixture fund" in my kitchen and I put all of my FB porch pickup money I made there. Once I had enough for a new fixture I'd buy it! You can make a lot of money on resale sites. I have so much stuff I've been purging. More crazy nesting Katie probs.</div>
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The first one we changed was the entry hall. The one before was fine but I really wanted a cage-like fixture. My dad gave us a beautiful new door in January and I really wanted to continue updating this space. I found this one by Allen + Roth for only $70 at <a href="https://www.lowes.com/pd/allen-roth-Collinwick-10-in-Specialty-Bronze-Country-Cottage-Single-Cage-Pendant/50356228" target="_blank">Lowes </a>and was in love. With both the fixture and the price. </div>
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The kitchen was second but I already talked about that. Then we did the bar fixture. It's also from Lowes. I found one that looks almost just like this online but it was $200 and I couldn't spend that much on something people won't even really see since in kind of a hidden space. $200 is a lot to me and wanted to spend that kind of money on something more prominent. So I found a mock up of the one I loved at <a href="https://www.lowes.com/pd/allen-roth-12-01-in-Brushed-Nickel-Art-Deco-Single-Clear-Glass-Urn-Pendant/50356052" target="_blank">Lowes</a> for $80 which was a much better price. I love the update!<br />
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LASTLY, my dining room. The other one was new with the house 3 years ago and I loved it then but I just didn't love it now. It was too....bulky. I wanted something more dainty. I originally thought I wanted a black iron one but then I found on on Joss and Main that was so beautiful. It was like $400 and I just couldn't. After days and hours of searching the internet I found one that was super similar to the Joss and Main one for $200 on<a href="https://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Austin-Allen-Company-Zoe-Collection-6-light-French-Antique-Chandelier/10745783/product.html?recset=9996e518-7206-4c31-94c2-e4fc6048126f&refccid=3UJ2RRBLQHUJR3SHVPKPRWSKOA&recalg=879,873,839&recidx=0" target="_blank"> Overstock</a> with my coupon code! It's Austin Allen brand. It arrived and I put it together and it just wasn't what I was picturing. I was freaking out a bit because I had already basically destroyed the packaging getting all of the pieces out and assembling it and the price didn't include free return shipping. That would've cost a small fortune because it was in a huge, heavy box. I was so nervous to touch it with paint because I didn't want it to lose its return value but I figured it was worth it to give it a try. </div>
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The thing I didn't like about it was the arms. In the online picture they were really light but in person they were alot darker. Like a dark printed-rustic brown. It didn't look real rustic. It looked fake rustic, if that makes sense. It's a rustic-looking fixture and I loved the look of it on the rest but not the arms. So I did it. I painted it. I had alot of leftover paint from my china cabinet and dining buffet furniture pieces (Big Spender by Farrell Calhoun) so I used that to go over the arms. I didn't think it'd adhere well because I painted on a slick surface but it did good! I did 2 coats and it looks like it was made that way. Now I'm obsessed with it and adding the brown arms made it match the rest of my dining room perfectly. The brown also went with the rest of the fixture beautifully without looking like it was an add on. I'm so happy that I decided to go for it. I got my Joss and Main look on a Katie budget. My dining room looks alot more light and open now without that big, bulky fixture in the middle of it.<br />
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I also was over the burlap curtains I made 3 years ago. With my new rug (stay tuned for info) it was just too heavy and (if it's possible in the South) too much burlap. I found the perfect new curtains at Tuesday Morning. They were super long which is hard to find on a budget and guess what!! They were only $20 for both panels!! The room gets so much brighter in the daytime and it's just so much more light.<br />
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This room really lacked some color (everything is basically the same) so for my birthday my husband had the most beautiful floral painting made for me by my friend, Mariet. I love it and it's just perfect for this space. Look her up on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ArtbyMarietRogers/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!<br />
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(Please look closely for my child who has a mouth full of string cheese. She's crazy but I'm obsessed with her)<br />
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I also sold the iron candle sconces on the sides of my china cabinet and traded them out for big picture frames ($12 each at Home Goods). I painted the frames Big Spender (the brown color) and now they match great. And you know how my plate wall started out super colorful? Then over Christmas I made it less colorful. Well now it's totally white and I've never been more pleased with it.<br />
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I got the big sisal rug from a resale site a few months ago. I had one before this one but it was way too small and bugged me for years. I just didn't feel like returning it so I left it there for a long time. After Christmas I came across a listing for this huge rug right when it was posted and I was lucky enough to have claimed it first. It was $40ish. It had a few issues though that didn't bother me at first...but that's before I was pregnant. It was unraveling in a few places and driving me cray cray all of the sudden so I posted it on a resale site. I had 22 people wanting it within 15 minutes. So now I needed a replacement! I found another one on my new favorite website, Overstock. It was the same big size and just what I needed AND, best of all, it was fully intact. It was $180 which is alot for a spur of the moment purchase but I figured that if I sold the other one for $45 (which I did in 2 seconds) this new one was only like $140 which isn't so bad. Right? RIGHT?? Oh well, it's fine. I love my new rug and I'm finally happy with it and it's here to stay. Until I change my mind in 2 years and tear my house down and start over because I'll be pregnant again or something.<br />
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So that's what I've been up to and I'm only 13 weeks along. THERE'S STILL SO MUCH TIME! My house will probably be purple or something by the time this babe actually arrives.<br />
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We find out the gender of our baby in only a few weeks so as soon as that happens then DUH NURSERY!!!! I can't wait. Well I guess if it's a girl it won't change much but if it's a boy it's getting an overhaul. Pres will be moving to her <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2017/01/playroom-updates-and-things.html" target="_blank">big girl bedroom</a> soonish that's already ready for her. I guess we'll do that at the same time I potty train her and take away her paci. All things that need to happen before baby gets here. I JUST DON'T WANT TO THINK ABOUT THOSE THINGS! I just bought a little potty seat and tiny panties and I've never been so intimidated about something so cute. I know it'll be so worth it though. She's growing up too fast. So until next time! Or until I decide to randomly turn another room upside down! Whichever comes first :)</div>
Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-53952918871479824012017-01-23T22:28:00.001-06:002017-01-23T22:48:37.336-06:00Playroom Updates and Things<div style="text-align: center;">
Like every room in my house, the playroom/Presley's future big girl room is always evolving. I want it to be a fun, whimsical space that's really personal to her. As her interests develop and change it helps me to kind of mold the room into a place she really enjoys. Or maybe it has 8 million toys in it (only a slight exaggeration) so duh she loves being in there. But every time she points at something on the wall and smiles at it because it's something she loves it makes me so happy. We love spending time in here.</div>
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It hasn't changed too much from the <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2015/07/presleys-playroom.html" target="_blank">last update</a> but I've added a few personal touches that I wanted to share!</div>
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Here is the before before right when we moved in:</div>
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Here's what it looked like when I had Pres:</div>
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Here are my first decorative touches that took 32 hours (another slight exaggeration) that I immediately took down because THEY JUST WEREN'T RIGHT OKAY!</div>
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So basically I handmade all of those pom pom balls that I strung onto string and hung up. HAND. MADE. I thought they'd be cute but I just didn't like them. It was too much. The curtains were just some I had on hand and were way too dull for this space. With the white walls I needed something more vibrant. Especially for a little girl's room. I love the purple doors. Again, the white wall needed some pizazz. The ceiling is a light pink.</div>
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Then there was this:</div>
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Then I made this <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2016/07/marquee-p.html" target="_blank">massive "P"</a> that ALSO took 3233234932839 hours (actually not an exaggeration) that I liked for a day then I was like.....things have gotten a little out of hand here, Katie.</div>
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It was huge. It lit up and was cool but it was the size of a walrus. Ain't nobody got time for dat.</div>
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So I wasn't kidding when I say I've changed this room 8 times (is that the actual number? It actually probably is). And lets be real. This isn't going to be the end. But this is where we stand and I'm happy with it at the moment. It's a fun space with too many toys where we love to play and watch movies and kiss every puzzle piece before we put them together (I literally have no idea why she does this but I've embraced it and I'm all "you do you, girl").</div>
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The thing that I'm MOST excited about is my new IKEA light fixture. It's so weird...just like me. I felt a deep connection to it the moment I saw it. It's like it stared into my soul and just whispered "yes." And I was all "Here IKEA take all of my money." BTW have you heard that MEMPHIS HAS AN IKEA NOW?? I've been 3 times in a month and a half which I don't think is too bad considering how magical it is. And lets be real. I mainly go for the hot dogs. 2 hot dogs and a drink for $2 *head spins around*. LET ALL OF MY DOLLARS BE TURNED INTO HOT DOGS! I love hot dogs....hot dogs.</div>
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It was $60 so it was probably the most expensive thing there (worth 80 IKEA hot dogs) and it was apparently impossible to install (because Sweden) but it happened and I love it (shout out to Matt and my FIL, Jeffrey)! It's just what this room needed. I've been holding out to buy a light fixture for this room (it has had a super cheap brushed nickel flush mount light in it for 3 years) but I thought I eventually wanted to move Presley's chandelier from her <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2015/01/our-girls-nursery.html" target="_blank">nursery</a> over. She's not leaving her nursery any time soon and I just decided that that is too fancy and I wanted something more funky in here. *Enter IKEA*</div>
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I got this cute table and chairs on a local FB resale site and painted it. Pres loves it and sits here and "reads" almost every day. Also, she LOVES flowers (fake, real, flowers in books...she doesn't discriminate). She will spot one then start dramatically sniffing and it makes me laugh every time. I'll hear her start to sniff (it's that loud) and I'll look up and she'll be sniffing a page in a book with a flower on it. Makes me LOL every time. You should see her in the silk flower aisles of Hobby Lobby. She could sniff for hours. So I got her a little bouquet of silk daisies (that actually came from my high school bedroom that I saved for some reason). </div>
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Santa loves a good deal and stood in a 45 min long line at Walmart on Black Friday to get Pres the cutest Hello Kitty kitchen for Christmas. It was $40 on Black Friday but originally $70 (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Just-Play-15895-Hello-Kitchen/dp/B0199R53SI/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1485230216&sr=8-2&keywords=hello+kitty+kitchen" target="_blank">Amazon</a>). It was so dang packed I..I mean Santa...literally held this huge box above my...I mean his...head to maneuver around the place. Which, let me point out, wasn't easy after my...his...large Thanksgiving feast that was just indulged in. Who needs a new years resolution to exercise or whatever when there's Black Friday? You'll lose like 39 lbs in one day trying to master the vicious crowds. That was a free tip. You're welcome. </div>
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My MIL gave her the adorable apron to go with it. I hung that with a decorative Command hook. Have I mentioned that Pres is obsessed with cats? Hence the <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2017/01/purresley-is-two-kitty-cat-party.html" target="_blank">kitty cat birthday party</a> she had a few days ago.</div>
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She went to grandma's like this a few weeks ago. She's in love she's in love and she doesn't care who knows it. </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzIDX3RNKz81s0bWze9txsn-z0npiP6TULsrZEdeIfHGeBIjT6wEZ9ZIIo69mn_61OkuelX77dBxyemrFOIGA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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This cute window was originally blank inside but I added the poster and cat for her bday party and thought it was too purrfect to take apart. So I left it. And I like it. One day when she's actually ready to move in here we'll put her pink dresser (currently in her nursery) under this.</div>
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This bulletin board (super cheap from Hobby Lobby that I painted) is still decorated from her 1st birthday party because I'm in denial and can't make myself take it apart and update it.</div>
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I painted her this Pooh picture for Christmas. She is OBSESSED with Winnie the Pooh so I wanted to incorporate that in some way. She loves to point at it and giggle and say "Pooh Pooh" which makes my day.</div>
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Lastly, my MIL gave Pres the CUTEST kitty cat bedspread for her birthday from <a href="http://www.target.com/p/crayola-purrty-cat-comforter-set/-/A-50211296" target="_blank">Target</a>. As soon as she saw it she gasped, crawled up on the bed and did this:</div>
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I'll end this post with yet another picture of my majestic "ALF"</div>
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Hope you enjoyed!</div>
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Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-65801977039426122192017-01-22T22:27:00.000-06:002017-01-25T15:33:57.493-06:00Purresley is TWO: A Kitty Cat Party<div style="text-align: center;">
Is this really possible?? So my little squishy baby is officially not a little squishy baby anymore?! She's two now so basically she's a strong independent woman who don't need no mom. Gah I just can't believe it. When you're pregnant everyone tells you how fast it goes by but you can't fully wrap your mind around that fact until they're born and you experience first hand how fast it actually does go by. It's definitely bittersweet. Of course with each stage I've experienced with my daughter I've found the beauty (and challenges) that come with it. Newbornhood was HARD but seriously sweet. I've never experienced exhaustion quite like that before but it was so worth it. I miss it. But then she grew and she grew and she grew until she was 6 months old! She was sitting up and crawling and playing and laughing. It was HARD but seriously sweet. Then that little girl grew! And she grew and she grew and she grew until she was TWO YEARS OLD! Yes some days I do feel like I'm in a zoo and it's still hard but seriously sweet. Presley is quirky, hilarious, sweet, full of energy and just so joyful. She loves to laugh and make other people laugh. She loves animals, playing with her baby dolls and Pooh. OMG I can't tell you how much she loves Pooh. She brings me the remote multiples times a day requesting it. Every day with her is an adventure for sure. IDK why God decided to let us be her parents. We are so blessed.<br />
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So Presley is madly in love with cats. I'm not a cat person. They make me itchy. We have a dog. Presley does not care. At 2 years old she is the definition of a crazy cat lady. Of course her birthday party had to be cat-themed. Pretty sure she had the best day of her life. And surprisingly there was very little Pooh involved!</div>
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Per usual I started planning this a million months in advance (ok like 6). But before you judge me I have a point to doing that! First, her birthday is in January right after the holidays. We're so busy the whole month of December so I like to have most things (decor-wise) purchased and made before life gets hectic. Second, around mid summer a glass of vino and I sit down on a date with Pinterest and plan her party! I make a list of everything I want to make then make another list with everything I need for crafting, food, etc. Once I have that list I make a note on my phone of all of the things I need. Every time I go to Hobby Lobby and am not using my coupon (because the thing I need is already on sale) I look at my list of what I need and buy something for the party! If I know all that I need early enough I have plenty of time to gather everything. This makes almost the whole party 40% off! It doesn't seem like you're saving alot when you're buying a single item for $4 plus 40% off but it really does add up. I end up saving about $100 in the end by doing this. Plus buying it item by item over a few months is alot easier on the bank account than buying everything at once. I buy almost everything at Hobby Lobby including plates, plastic silverware, napkins and cups. So what's the hassle in doing this? Just plan a little earlier (you're going to have to do it eventually anyways) and save money! Of course I can't buy perishable things in advance so I save that until the week before but everything else was ready to go!</div>
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So obviously this party was cat-themed but I wanted it to be super girly so I went with pink, purple and gold accents. Here are a few pics!<br />
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Instead of mailing an invitation this year I went the free-route and made a Facebook event! This is so much easier because everyone (well everyone with a Facebook which is basically everyone) sees it and they can RSVP right there! Also, did I mention it's free??</div>
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I made this glitter banner with supplies from Hobby Lobby then took a picture of it outside where the lighting was good. I just cropped it to FB banner size. I love this gold paper from the fancy paper section at HL! I bought like 4 packages of these cute cat stickers when they were on sale. I bought a big bag of tiny pink bows and hot glued them to all of the cats' necks. I also made an actual invitation and uploaded a picture of it along with a poem I wrote about the event!</div>
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“What was Presley’s first word?” you inquire.</div>
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If I said it was “Momma” I would be a liar.</div>
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Her first word was “keecaa,” I know this to be true.</div>
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Thus began her crazy love of whiskers, paws and mew.</div>
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Nothing brings her joy quite like kitty cats do.</div>
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She can spot one a mile away! Is that something you can do?</div>
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We can’t believe our Pres Pres is TWO!</div>
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Of course a kitty cat party was soon to ensue.</div>
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We’ve chosen January 21 as the party date.</div>
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It’s safe to say that she definitely can’t wait!</div>
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She loves you all so very much and hopes to see you there.</div>
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So RSVP, friends of ours, and join our cat affair!</div>
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Note: This invite looks alot cuter when the address isn't blurred. Better safe than sorry, people.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">So back to the party...</span></div>
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What I made:</div>
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Invitation + "Purresley" is 2 sign</div>
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"Litterbox" bathroom sign</div>
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"Sign a page for Pres" sign</div>
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Cat ear headbands + sign</div>
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Cat head for the door</div>
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"2" with cat stickers</div>
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"MEOW" covered in yarn</div>
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Table runner + cat tablecloth</div>
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2 banners (Happy Birthday + Presley)</div>
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Yarn balls...LOTS of yarn balls</div>
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Tissue balls for the ceiling</div>
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Felt mouse</div>
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Picture frame</div>
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Garden flag</div>
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I found some chalk paint (no not what you're thinking) at Joann on sale for like $2. It's sidewalk chalk powder and you add water and it's actual chalk paint that washes away just like any other sidewalk chalk does. It is so vibrant and easy to use. I loved it! The pack came with pink and purple. How purrfect! (You might start to get sick of my cat puns but I LITTERally don't care ;) ) I'm sure I looked pretty ridiculous to my neighbs on my hands and knees painting what felt like 80 of these on my walkway. The things we do for our children.</div>
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We have a little garden flag stake by our front door. I sewed this pink flag for her <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2016/01/presleys-1st-birthday-tea-party.html" target="_blank">tea party</a> last year and just remade it to fit the theme this year. Again, just lots of hot glue. And scrapbook paper. And bows. And more cat stickers.<br />
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I kinda made up this cat head as I went along. I was originally going to cover this foam wreath with yarn balls but I got inspired and went in a different direction. I had all of this fabric already on hand! I just used hot glue to stretch and attach the fabric to the wreath. I then folded over the white fabric and drew that design freehanded. Doubling it over and cutting it that way makes sure both sides are even. Worked like a charm. I used a thick cardstock to cut out ears then covered them with fabric as well. The pink accents and eyes are felt and the whiskers are skinny pipe cleaners. I used white paint to add the little mark to the eyes. I think it really gives them depth and makes them look better. I finished it with a bow made of ribbon. This was so easy and turned out so cute! And I already had everything except the foam base!</div>
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For the living room I used things I already had. The window with fabric garland was hanging in Presley's playroom already. I got this cute polka dot white and gold poster from Hobby Lobby to put behind it along with a cute cut out picture of my in-law's cat Archie when he was the cutest kitten ever. I covered my shutters in yarn and made the banner out of paper, glitter sticker letters and ribbon (all from HL). I got the big glitter "2" at Joann for $5 (originally $10 but I had a 50% off coupon).</div>
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I served drinks from the bar in the living room. The tassle garland was $5 from Michaels (also originally $10 but I had a coupon).</div>
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For the signs/invitation I just picked out a variety of paper patterns in pink and purple along with some glittery paper and sticker letters. I used a black scrapbooking pen (Le Pen) to do the writing. Super easy and I love the textured, handmade look.</div>
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These cat headbands were super easy but time consuming. We invited about 40 people (I know! Big family probs) but I wasn't about to make 40 of these. Not everyone will want to wear them, right? So I made 20. The headbands came in a pack of 5 at Hobby Lobby for $2.99 ($1.79 with coupon) and the ears are made of felt. So 4 packs of headbands plus the felt made this project about $10. I got the cute little chalkboard bin at HL for around $6.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lEUiESEtAyk/WIV6MWTn6qI/AAAAAAAAGWA/8TDkvcEbSh8vqiGC8vcs5oDop5bfbFfiACLcB/s1600/6%2B%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lEUiESEtAyk/WIV6MWTn6qI/AAAAAAAAGWA/8TDkvcEbSh8vqiGC8vcs5oDop5bfbFfiACLcB/s320/6%2B%25288%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I started by making 2 paper templates. One for the ear and another for the pink inside. I doubled the felt over and traced the ear template onto the felt with a sharpie and cut it out! I doubled over the pink felt as well but they only have to be 1 layer so this was just for efficiency. Look at the picture to see how the ears are. They fold over so they can slip onto the headband easily.</div>
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I found that the easiest way to do this was to glue all of the ear pieces closed with hot glue before attaching them to the headbands. I was having a hard time centering the ears so I used a piece of tape to guide me. I got a headband, found the center at the top then put a piece of scotch tape there. I slide one ear on one side up to the side of the tape and hot glued it all the way shut and in place. I did the same with the other side. This ensures all of the headbands have ears that are exactly the same distance from each other and none are CATiwompus. Remove the tape and voila! I glued the pink on last. It needed to be scrunched a little at the bottom to fit right since it's being glued onto a curved surface. I had to work with that but it wasn't so bad. Are these incredible? No. Do people get the point? Yes! I love how they added to the party and Pres loved the fact that everyone looked like a cat so that's all that matters, right?</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g-kOFusl_M0/WEYz2o0oV5I/AAAAAAAAGLQ/YaJ9sFrwfrIZE9SPmv2yJvz5K2jJ_d4iQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0001b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g-kOFusl_M0/WEYz2o0oV5I/AAAAAAAAGLQ/YaJ9sFrwfrIZE9SPmv2yJvz5K2jJ_d4iQCLcB/s320/DSC_0001b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another tradition I started with Presley's first birthday was to have everyone sign a page in a theme-related book. Last year I found a book entitled "My First Tea Party." Appropriate? YASS. This year I chose "If You Give a Cat a Cupcake." I got it in the mail a week before the party and I think Pres "read" it to herself appx 392 times. But now it's super special because each page has a sweet note from one of her favorite people! Something we'll treasure forever.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HHKG26idXgA/WIV9LDzkuzI/AAAAAAAAGWg/1yHn0A4qwbcfhCU2PX162hBsCSA-FRdKACLcB/s1600/z%2B%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HHKG26idXgA/WIV9LDzkuzI/AAAAAAAAGWg/1yHn0A4qwbcfhCU2PX162hBsCSA-FRdKACLcB/s320/z%2B%252810%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I had so much fun making these cakes for my girl! She called the big one her "keecat cukkake" and the little one (her own personal cake) just "cat." </div>
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If you're in the Memphis area and need a cake HIT ME UP (Shameless plug). </div>
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<a href="http://katiecupcakes.weebly.com/" target="_blank">Katie Cakes</a></div>
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This was a weird thing to spend my time doing but what don't I do that's not at least a little bit weird? I made this mouse out of felt to put on my cheese plate. I have no idea how this happened. There's fluff and a glass ball I had amongst my craft supplies inside of it. I just worked with it until it looked kind of like a mouse. I guess my advice is hot glue. Lots of hot glue. BTW his name is Evinrude.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-61Ak5uZaeF8/WEYz2hz_NtI/AAAAAAAAGLM/qLiHM6obUJsN_ctO2RcfX3wSs21WJY9XgCLcB/s1600/DSC_0004b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-61Ak5uZaeF8/WEYz2hz_NtI/AAAAAAAAGLM/qLiHM6obUJsN_ctO2RcfX3wSs21WJY9XgCLcB/s320/DSC_0004b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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So these yarn-covered letters seemed like a great idea but took FOREVER! Since I had so much time to do this I just worked on one thing at a time when I could. I'd only tackle one letter a day to maintain my sanity. It wasn't hard it just made me want to throw stuff that's all. My advice is to figure out the plan before you start. See, all of the sides need to be covered so the yarn has to go every direction. By the time I got to "W" I was being lazy and the top and bottom are yarnless. No one knew because I had them up high. You'll know what I mean if you decide to do this. THEY'RE SO CUTE THOUGH! Worth it. My main goal with the initial wrap was to fill in all space. So I'd spend a lot of time and yarn wrapping methodically to achieve that. Once it was all covered I just started wrapping in random patterns to get the look I ended up with. I didn't want it to look perfectly organized. But lets be real, unless you're Martha Stewart that's not happening anyways. I also suggest hot gluing your yarn wherever you are every few minutes. This helps keep it from unraveling. Or if you drop it mid wrap you won't say too many bad words because you won't have to start totally from (cat) scratch. Speaking from experience here, people.</div>
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The banner I just made from paper, glitter sticker letters and sewed each piece onto a piece of ribbon with my sewing machine (or you can use hot glue). I actually glued them in place before I sewed so everything would be spaced right.</div>
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Making <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/design/make-and-celebrate/handmade/how-to-make-tissue-pom-poms" target="_blank">tissue balls</a> is so easy. I hung the with little command hooks. </div>
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Then there were the yarn balls. Guys, I bought like 8 packages of foam balls thinking no big deal I'll just cover all of them. LOL. I got through 3 packages including 2 different sizes. The original goal was to make some kind of garland that draped from the ceiling. Once I started wrapping that idea went out the window and tissue balls were sounding alot better. These really were easy just redundant. </div>
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I think I had 5 different yarns to work with. I wanted a variety of shades and textures. Most was on sale for like $2 for a whole loaf. Can I call it a loaf? I have no idea what a package of yarn is supposed to be called. Or maybe it's just supposed to be called "a package of yarn?" Whatever now it's a loaf. For the larger balls I actually used foam Christmas ornaments. They're just foam balls but alot cheaper because they're technically Christmas so 50% off! Only $2 for a pack of 6. I started by hot gluing the end of the yarn to the foam ball then just started wrapping! Again, don't forget to use the glue to hold the yarn in place every few minutes. I left a string hanging off at the end so it'd look more like a yarn ball. I just laid them around the table and in misc places around the house.</div>
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I had a ton of leftover yarn so I covered both the dining room and kitchen chandeliers with it.</div>
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I got this "2" for $1.50 (it was 50% off). I turned it over and traced it onto this polka dot paper. I cut that out and just glued it to the "2". Add a few cat stickers and glue on a few bows and this was so easy.<br />
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I found these cute fabrics and couldn't resist them. The pink polka is from Hobby Lobby and the cats are from Joann. I made a table cloth out of the cats for my smaller kitchen table and a table runner for my dining room out of the pink. So easy. I just cut the fabric, folded over the edges and ironed them, then just sewed a straight line around the sides! That's it!<br />
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I was a little too excited about this idea on the bathroom door:</div>
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The food was simple and affordable thanks to Kroger and Costco plus a little couponing! Everything was less than $100. The decorations were a little less than $100 so this whole party was less than $200 total! Plus I paid for most of it over 6 months so it wasn't a big deal at all.</div>
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These were chicken salad ($10 from Costco) sandwiches. I got a good quality bread (Bunny) and used a cookie cutter (from HL) to cut out the shape! Be sure to make these the day of and keep them covered in plastic wrap until the party starts so they don't dry out and they will taste nice and fresh.</div>
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I couldn't decide if these were cute or terrifying. But I'd do it again. These little mouse cracks are just Ritz, Laughing Cow fancy cheese (I used an assortment of flavors that were on sale at Kroger for $3 for a pack of 8), almond slices (for the ears), chives (for the tails), blueberries (cut in fourths for the eyes) and a tiny dolp of apricot preserves (for the nose). These were gone in like 2 seconds. Probably because the cheese/cracker ratio was way off making them justttt rightttt. I made these the day before and kept them in an airtight container in the fridge. The cracks got soggy but it was no big deal to change them out. So you can make the mice the day before but be sure to add the cracks the day of. Cracks Cracks Cracks.<br />
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My brother's girlfriend is a cookie MASTER and I was so excited she was in town to make these for Pres Pres. They were a huge hit! So yummy and basically the cutest thing there (besides Pres Pres). If you're in the Memphis/Starkville area and want her contact info hit me up and I'll be happy to share!<br />
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IDK what I was doing with these. I was originally using a "2" cookie cutter to make each rice krispie treat a "2" but that clearly isn't what happened because that was a huge fail. Not sure how people accomplish that but I ended up just making these round shapes and dipping them in candy coating dyed pink then adding gold sprankles. The white candy coating is in the baking aisle at Kroger for $3. It's so easy to use! I just molded the big "2," put a dowel in it then doused it in chocolate so it wouldn't fall apart. It was basically a hot mess but it is what it is.<br />
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Chex mix in a cute cat bowl from TJ Maxx and fruit with the yummiest fruit dip dyed purple. It's just a 10 oz container of marshmallow creme, 8 oz of cream cheese (room temp) and 1 cup of powdered sugar. How can you go wrong with that combo? I just dumped it in my kitchen aid mixer with a little food coloring and that was that was cat was hat was bat...sorry. Been reading too much Dr Seuss. IF I HAVE TO READ HOP ON POP ONE MORE TIME I MIGHT EXPLODE! Basically have the whole book memorized. FISH IN A TREE? HOW COULD THAT BE? I digress.</div>
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This yummy spinach, artichoke, parmesean dip from Costco is SO GOOD ($10 for a huge tub) along with pita chips (same brand is sold at Costco and Kroger). A huge bag of the chips at Costco is $7 and a small bag at Kroger is $2.50. We went big and haven't looked back. I got the cheese slice sampler at Costco for around $10 as well.<br />
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For the drinks I had Coke and Diet Coke, coffee punch (courtesy of my grandma who is a Katie-proclaimed coffee punch master), sweet tea (from a gallon because ain't nobody got time for homemade), cucumber water and MILK!</div>
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This is my husband Matt who insisted on being in this pic. Now you know I'm not the only weirdo who lives here. JK MATT I LOVE YOU.</div>
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I was sure to infuse the cucumbers in the water overnight to give it a stronger flavor. So crisp and refreshing. Although it was gone before I ever got any so I just made that up. RIP. </div>
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I was so excited about this milk! I got these glass jars at Michaels when they were on sale legit 5 months ago for $12 TOTAL! I was proud. My time has finally come. I got pink Pillsbury icing and dipped the rims in then in gold glitter. I filled them with milk using a funnel and added cute paper straws (leftover from <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2014/10/gender-reveal-party.html" target="_blank">Presley's gender reveal party</a>) and it was the perfect addition to all of the sweets we had. But lets be real..they were cute and that's really all I cared about.</div>
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I got the pretty flowers from Kroger. They matched perfectly and I'm obsessed with tulips and hydrangeas so the Lord provides.</div>
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Pres had so much fun and we're so thankful to have so many wonderful people in our lives who are so excited to get together and celebrate Presley's life. She is our biggest blessing and we adore her. Happy 2, sweet girl. Here are some fun people pics!</div>
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Maybe my fav pic from the day. LOL.</div>
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I hope you enjoyed! CATcha next time!</div>
Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-90557484644829442382017-01-09T15:41:00.001-06:002017-01-13T15:20:56.602-06:00Not Another Home Makeover<div style="text-align: center;">
This month marks 3 years of living in our house in Germantown. We love it more today than we ever have. Raising our girl here has been such a blessing. The location and the neighbors are better than we ever could have imagined. These people love our daughter and we're so spoiled by them. Plus so many little lady friends around for her to grow up with! We had our last house (that we also loved for different reasons) on the market for a while. During that time we saw new houses we liked come and go. I was discouraged. We wanted to move into a more family-friendly area with more space and get settled there (for me that meant a little construction and a whole lot of painting which I knew would take a while) then start a family right away. So every month that went by with no one interested in our house was another month of pushing back something that we were longing for greatly. This house became available right when it was time for us to buy at a great price and we continue to be so thankful that God was saving it specifically for us. His timing is perfect even if we might not recognize it in the present. Even when we're frustrated that things aren't happening at the rate we'd like them to happen. Then right on time He gave us Presley who is the greatest little person in the world (not biased) and we are just so blessed. I'm so horribly impatient and I hate waiting but knowing that everything happens exactly when it's supposed to is the most comforting thing in the world. He is sovereign and He is so so good. He has blessed our family immensely and we are so thankful. </div>
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So speaking of longing, at the beginning of every year I feel this longing/deep desire to redecorate my house. Not everything. Just some things. Is this a legitimate new years resolution (every year) or is this a mental disorder? Isn't the first step admitting you have a problem? IS THERE SOMETHING WRONG WITH ME?? </div>
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Now that we've determined that I most likely do have a legitimate problem we can discuss what brought this on. First off, our bedroom.</div>
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I think this is our 3rd bedroom makeover. If you spread it out over the 3 years we've been here it doesn't sound as bad, right? One makeover a year? Ok fine. It's alot of makeovers.</div>
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Here's the <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2014/07/master-bedroom.html" target="_blank">evolution</a>:<br />
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See?? It didn't change too much between the first and second makeover. BUT this last one has been pretty drastic. I love it though! I love it most! I'm obsessed. This is what I've been holding out for! I was finally inspired and went in a whole different direction from my previous ones. Before I was feeling this deep connection with orange for some reason. I got to a point, however, where I felt like it was necessary to break up with it once and for all. It was weighing me down. It was holding me back. Orange? Don't get me wrong. It's a nice color. But it just wasn't me. Maybe it was at some point but I've moved on. I've changed. I'm a new woman in 2017. My orangey bedroom and I are never getting back together. Like ever. </div>
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I haven't been truly satisfied with this room for a while but what really sealed its fate was one morning a few weeks ago when Matt woke up with yet another scratch on his hand. I loved how rustic our headboard was. My dad did a beautiful job hand-crafting exactly what I described to him in literally 20 minutes one day. I wanted it this way but I didn't think through it. The wood was rough and if you weren't careful you could scrape yourself if you unconsciously flail your hands in your sleep. Which apparently we both have issues with (???). And how can you be careful if you're unconscious? That's like asking me to refrain from singing Hakuna Matata every time I see a meercat at the zoo. It's a natural impulse that one simply cannot simply control. There were not enough bandaids to heal our broken hearts (or hands). The time had come for me to deal with the situation literally at [our] hand[s]. With me, however, one doesn't simply change something. The headboard situation led to an entire room breakdown and before I knew it I had gone totally Oppa Katie Style and wiped it out to start over. Then my bedroom and I exchanged some words. I sang to it:</div>
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"All I know is you held the door</div>
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You'll be mine and I'll be yours</div>
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All I know since yesterday is everything has changed."</div>
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We were getting back together. </div>
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I don't feel like one (or maybe just me) can simply move into a house and immediately know what needs to happen there. Like be immediately inspired and stick with it. It takes time. Patience. Moving things around. Finding your unique style. Being inspired by situations and people around you. By other people's unique styles. By places you visit and sites you see. Sounds you hear. Textures you feel. Sometimes the inspiration comes from many different places and maybe even happen over a few years. Eventually you'll find that style that's uniquely yours. Everyone has their own flair. Embrace your flair. Be your flair. I FOUND MY FLAIR, GUYS! It took 3 years but I finally love it. And all sans the orange.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7T8mGlWUbmM/WHKiOB2aXsI/AAAAAAAAGQQ/ddVKBvJQqgkI5BbJ-W3BYkbfoSS4P6goQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0061b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7T8mGlWUbmM/WHKiOB2aXsI/AAAAAAAAGQQ/ddVKBvJQqgkI5BbJ-W3BYkbfoSS4P6goQCLcB/s320/DSC_0061b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's neutral. It's cozy. I never want to leave. </div>
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Here's what I changed:</div>
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Headboard makeover</div>
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Pillows</div>
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Bed blanket</div>
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Bedskirt</div>
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Lamps</div>
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Most of collage wall</div>
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Curtains</div>
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Doesn't seem like alot but it made a huge difference. And one of the best parts? Thank you, Jesus, for Facebook resale sites because I made back so much money making these little changes super affordable. For example, I sold my old curtains online for $20 and got these new ones at Tuesday Morning for $30 (including both panels). The way I see it that makeover only cost me $10 out of pocket! I sold everything I changed out and used that money to buy new things!</div>
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Lets start with the headboard. The way it was made there were 2 "columns" on the sides that were connected by the big middle piece. The columns weren't flush with the middle piece. It sunk in a few inches. If I were to cover it in fabric it would need to be flush all the way across. This would require basically taking the whole thing apart and putting it back together a little differently. I texted my little brother (who is a brilliant wood worker) and we discussed some options. I was like "Thanks, Bro. I'll try this during naptime tomorrow." He was like "LOL okay Katie." Like I had no idea what I was doing and it was never actually going to happen. He was right about one thing. I literally had NO idea what I was doing. But by the grace of our good Lord it happened. And all during naptime. </div>
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Here's what I'm talking about:</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bX13-M7BxxM/WHMpY3x2OQI/AAAAAAAAGRM/Bn6d0vxdRL0U0DFtxWOfNid1VmdwncpXwCEw/s1600/IMG_9963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bX13-M7BxxM/WHMpY3x2OQI/AAAAAAAAGRM/Bn6d0vxdRL0U0DFtxWOfNid1VmdwncpXwCEw/s320/IMG_9963.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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I took my headboard in the attic and started beating it with a hammer. Nothing was happening. I started walking all over it and the boards started coming apart one by one. My plan was working. And by plan I mean I had no plan I was just originally beating it with a hammer and I accidentally stepped on it and a board popped out (which is what I was trying to accomplish). The headboard was disassembled. I took a moment to mourn its loss but then rejoice because it was being made new. Its beauty was being transformed into a more functional, less tear- and blood-inducing beauty which was far more exciting (insert spiritually-renewing metaphor here). THANK YOU JESUS THAT YOU HAVE MADE US NEW! </div>
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I obtained my drill and continued on not having any idea what I was doing. I somehow managed to screw the wood back together in the semi-correct place. It's not perfect but, in the words of my great grandmother Reba, "WHO CARES!" All of the wood in the front is now flush so all one depth. I covered it in 3 layers of padding (making up for lost time here, people) and then fabric with my staple gun. I got the padding at Joann in a 10 yard roll for about $20. The fabric was from Premier Fabrics in Germantown (obsessed) for only $8 a yard (it was on sale for $2 off/yard). I got 3 yards. This headboard from start to finish cost less than $50. My dad originally made it out of scrap wood he already had. All I had to actually pay for was the padding and fabric (and screws and staples that I already had if you want to count that). </div>
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Here are some super-creepy attic/Katie's headboard workshop pics:</div>
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I tried to *nicely* and then forcefully (didn't work) ask my dog to please get out of my picture but she insisted on Vogue-ing for all of them. But then I was like, fancy decorating magazines often have some majestic creature lounging in their scenes so I decided that Elphie was to be my fancy, majestic creature. She's not a $10,000 pure-bred poodle who speaks fluent French like I'm sure the Southern Living ones do but she did poop in my house this week. My daughter (who was lucky enough to find it first) proudly presented me with said poo saying "poop poop." She calls everything "poop." I took it in my hand without looking (it's a daily occurrence that she hands me something saying "poop"). I was overcome by a scent that only Satan himself could've produced. I reluctantly glace at my hand. Staring back at me was what nightmares are made of. The worst possible scenario had become a reality. A steamy dog turd. She was right. It was actually poop. I was proud and horrified all at once. But that's motherhood, amiright? And everyone poops, right? My Shih Tzu can still be considered fancy and majestic, right? SHE'S MAJESTIC OKAY! Thanks for making me fancy, Elph. Or as Presley likes to call her, "ALF." Which is clearly just the fanciest name in the world. I feel like all of those fancy poodles are named something like Lady Tremaine. Or Alyssa. Or Lord Farquad. Or Adele Dazeem. Or maybe just Benedict Cumberbatch. All spoken ONLY in an English accent. I digress. </div>
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And here is my headboard in all of its poofy, non-rigid beauty. </div>
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I wasn't into the idea of spending $25-50 a pillow so I made my own! I got the euro pillow forms as well as the forms for the 2 square ones in the center (that were actually for chair cushions not pillows) from IKEA for super cheap. The euros were $10 and the cushion ones were $4. WHAT A DEAL! I got a new <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00YGB9SKC/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=34XGNL7CQZXPF&coliid=IA8KJ5SDL5UFK&psc=1" target="_blank">linen bedskirt</a> from Amazon for Christmas and wanted to incorporate that into my pillows. I bought the linen fabric at Joann for $16 total and made them myself. Super easy if you can sew a straight line. I got the fabric for the middle square pillows at Premier Fabrics again. One yard was on sale for $8 and that's all I needed for the 2. It's the same color family as the headboard fabric so I liked how it was similar and matched but still a nice contrast. The center blue pillow came from Stein Mart and matched so well I had to splurge and pay $20 for it. I already had the white bedding (I think originally from Overstock.com) and the polka dot pillows (originally from Etsy). The new throw blanket came from Home Goods ($20).</div>
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The cute glass lamps came from Home Goods and were only $30 each. I had a giftcard from Christmas so that was awesome. Plus I sold my old lamps on the FB resale site for $40 so logically I can say the lamp update was only $20, right? RIGHT?</div>
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I got the frames above the bed from Home Goods for $12 each earlier in the summer. I'm obsessed with the middle print I just bought from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PrintableWisdom?ref=shop_sugg" target="_blank">Printable Wisdom</a> on Etsy. I love her stuff. I have it all over my house. Check it out!</div>
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I updated my collage wall a bit with inspirational wooden blocks (naturally) from Ross and Marshalls and embroidery hoops and more Printable Wisdom. And another "H" from Hobby Lobby just in case someone comes in our room and is like "BUT WHAT IS THE FIRST LETTER OF YOUR LAST NAME?"</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CDS3Ofn_uFM/WHMxF_3fDII/AAAAAAAAGSM/BiJsoicwi0sh3y3SIKYYOLgjiNT_aGYZACLcB/s1600/DSC_0080b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CDS3Ofn_uFM/WHMxF_3fDII/AAAAAAAAGSM/BiJsoicwi0sh3y3SIKYYOLgjiNT_aGYZACLcB/s320/DSC_0080b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love my $30 Tuesday Morning curtains. They were so long so I had to hem them but they're so pretty and made with a linen blend which perfectly fit into my linen-esque vibe. </div>
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And here are the things I didn't change:</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LwOlNtGSDY0/WHP4mXfphXI/AAAAAAAAGSo/T-7Wk5GxsRsPBn3IAG03OIZAc5Gr1ganQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LwOlNtGSDY0/WHP4mXfphXI/AAAAAAAAGSo/T-7Wk5GxsRsPBn3IAG03OIZAc5Gr1ganQCLcB/s320/IMG_1703.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love this shutter photo display I found on the side of the road while taking Pres Pres on a walk in my hood. I have another one in my entry hall. See my post <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2016/08/shutter-picture-display.html" target="_blank">here</a> for more details on that.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-evB1IhxUyXg/WHP5LdOEDFI/AAAAAAAAGS4/9UHTJq2PuCo-FnHmnFs7x-w1HehlhwFTwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4895b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-evB1IhxUyXg/WHP5LdOEDFI/AAAAAAAAGS4/9UHTJq2PuCo-FnHmnFs7x-w1HehlhwFTwCLcB/s320/IMG_4895b.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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I got a new shower curtain for my bathroom a few months ago. I came across this one at Target and it matched so perfectly I couldn't resist it. I swapped out the orange fabric in the frames with some leftover fabric from my headboard. Super easy fix.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kd2XE4EyvvI/WHP5qSM3lWI/AAAAAAAAGTA/2MN7mUzesxM1BQMB1HZCVgjLfxHrSEEeQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0096b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kd2XE4EyvvI/WHP5qSM3lWI/AAAAAAAAGTA/2MN7mUzesxM1BQMB1HZCVgjLfxHrSEEeQCLcB/s320/DSC_0096b.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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I'm so happy with how our bedroom finally turned out. It only took 3 years.</div>
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Another thing I felt a calling to redo a bit was my dining room. Last January I <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2016/01/house-update-2016.html" target="_blank">completely redid my dining room</a>. Like painted the walls, furniture, etc. I still love most of it but wanted to change just a few things. </div>
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I loved the previous fabric (that was only a year old) on the chairs but the blue clashed a little with the blue walls and I never found the inspiration to bring more yellow into the room like I thought I would. I went to Premier Fabrics (duh) and fell in love with this new fabric. I brought home a swatch and we made an instant connection. It serenaded me with a love song and I was hooked. Decision made.</div>
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Changing out chair fabric is so easy. Just unscrew the cushions from the chair, staple the new fabric to the bottoms, then screw them back onto the chair. It took maybe 45 minutes from start to finish. I ended up selling the old fabric on FB resale for $10. The new fabric was $16 so this change was technically only $6! I only needed 2 yards to cover 6 bottoms. </div>
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Old:</div>
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New:</div>
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Last year I also made a plate wall. The floral and colored plates never looked quite right. I just traded them out with white ones. I kept the 2 beige ones from Target because they still matched. You can find plain white plates everywhere. I got most of mine in the clearance section of Tuesday Morning as well as Home Goods and Target. I love the different patterns and shades of white. It makes it interesting but still neutral. Now I'm looking for any excuse to eat a meal in here. And you thought plates were just for eating on...shame.</div>
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Old:</div>
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New:</div>
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So those were my main focuses. BUT! My dad bought us a beautiful new front door for Christmas and I'm so excited to get it installed. It'll totally change the look of our house and entry hall. I'll post pics of that soon.</div>
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Also, I've been continuously working on Presley's playroom/future big girl room for a while now. Like every other room in my house it's always changing and evolving. It's finally really coming together. Plus I bought an adorable light fixture from Ikea that I can't wait to install. Pics of that to come as well! </div>
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But until then, my baby turns TWO in 10 days and we're going all out with a kitty cat party. She's so excited and of course I've been planning this for 6 months don't judge me so I think I'm MOST excited. I've already started setting up decor and I just can't wait. Of course there will be a post to come. I can't wait to share in a few weeks! </div>
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As always, if you've made it this far thanks so much for reading and HAPPY 2017 ERREBODY!</div>
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Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-17118315154610606612017-01-07T11:28:00.001-06:002017-01-09T15:46:32.287-06:00Snowy Nummies: Tomato Soup & Pizza Burgers<div style="text-align: center;">
I live in Memphis where it snows like 1-2 times a year (2+ if we're really lucky). Usually we just get a dusting and we freak. out. Kids are out sledding in basically cold, wet grass and having the best time of their lives. the grocery stores have NO bread or milk (side note: WHY are those the 2 things we don't think we can live without? I could totally live a few days without those things. Now bacon and chocolate on the other hand...). I love how crazy MEM gets in the snow. It's the little things. </div>
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How Memphis sees it:</div>
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How the north sees it:</div>
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What actually happened:</div>
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Occasionally, though, we'll get a really good one. Like an actual good one that we can all agree on. This year on January 6 (mind you it was kinda warm on Christmas less than 2 weeks ago) we got a pretty good snow! It wasn't our best by any means but it was still so beautiful. Usually our snow doesn't come until late February or March so this was a real treat so early in the year. </div>
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I love waking up to a winter wonderland. Presley and I got up around 8:30 (Matt was already at work) and it was still snowing. The peaceful stillness a snowfall brings literally brings tears to my eyes. Just watching it come down. There's nothing like it. Especially in my own neighborhood. Seeing it covered in a fresh layer of white makes you see it from a whole new perspective. It turns something seemingly mundane into a beautiful work of art. Thank you, Jesus, for these special days. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0UU1m7W-N0c/WHEX8QLc9JI/AAAAAAAAGO0/tE89bh5IJOgZ_JLRh69ZlRxZBF-LXJkZQCLcB/s1600/DSC_0031b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0UU1m7W-N0c/WHEX8QLc9JI/AAAAAAAAGO0/tE89bh5IJOgZ_JLRh69ZlRxZBF-LXJkZQCLcB/s320/DSC_0031b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I thought Pres would be hesitant to go out in it but she just went for it. I had her all bundled up in her cat hat, gloves and rainboots (these are a few of her favorite things) so she was on cloud 9. While I was reveling in its beauty, however, she was calling it "poop" and freaking out when it got on her boots. Not crying but stopping, pointing and yelling "POOOOOOP POOOOOOOP." You know. Naturally. </div>
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(Fun story: A few days ago she handed me something saying "poop." I took it without looking because she calls everything poop. I look down. An actual dog turd was staring back at me courtesy of our dear furry friend "ALF." #ThanksGirl). </div>
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Our houses look nice dressed pretty in white.</div>
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On snow days I always feel the need to be extra cozy. Hot chocolate, warm food that melts my soul, heated blankets and lots of Disney movies (which always has to include Frozen because DUH). I made Pres a sippy cup of "warm" chocolate and she downed it. I'm talking DOWNED. Then promptly followed with "more more." My girl. </div>
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I wanted to share a few recipes that I love on frosty days. I didn't make these this time because this snow caught me off guard and I wasn't about to head to the grocery store (because, you know, it's Memphis in the snow). </div>
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<a href="http://cincyshopper.com/slow-cooker-creamy-tomato-soup/"><span style="font-size: large;">Crockpot Tomato Soup</span></a></div>
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This soup is so cheap, easy and yummy. It's my go to for any fall/winter evening. I love to pair it with grilled cheeses. I like to make them with a nice, thick bread and cheese from the deli to make them EXTRA fancy and delicious. </div>
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<b>INGREDIENTS</b></div>
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28 ounce can Crushed Tomatoes</div>
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4 cup Chicken Broth</div>
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1 tsp Oregano</div>
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1 tsp Basil</div>
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1 cup Heavy Cream</div>
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1 tsp Salt</div>
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1 tsp Pepper</div>
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2 tbsp Butter</div>
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<b>DIRECTIONS</b></div>
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Add tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano and basil to crock pot. Stir well.</div>
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Cook on high for 4-6 hours or low for 8 hours.</div>
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Strain soup and puree chunks in blender (I use my immersion blender directly in the crock pot); return puree to slow cooker.</div>
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Add cream and butter and stir well.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a47675/pizza-burgers-recipe/">Pizza Burgers</a></span></div>
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Another recipe that's good all year long that I recently found on the internet is PIZZA BURGERS! Yes it's as good as it sounds. Perfect for a frosty evening or even a summer meal around the pool. This recipe comes with a video demonstration as well which I think is obvs exta cool (click link above where it says "pizza burgers"). Believe me, I'm not the greatest of cooks and if I can make these anyone can.</div>
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<b>INGREDIENTS</b></div>
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1 lb. ground beef</div>
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2 garlic cloves, chopped</div>
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1/4 c. chopped parsley</div>
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kosher salt</div>
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Freshly ground black pepper</div>
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2 tbsp. vegetable oil</div>
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4 slices mozzarella</div>
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8 pepperoni slices</div>
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2 c. jarred marinara</div>
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4 Italian rolls (or hamburger buns)</div>
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2 tbsp. melted butter</div>
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2 tsp. garlic powder</div>
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1 tsp. Italian seasoning</div>
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1/4 c. grated Parmesan</div>
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<b>DIRECTIONS</b></div>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.</div>
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In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, garlic and parsley. Mix with spatula until just combined. </div>
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Using your hands, form 4 equally-sized patties. Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste</div>
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Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the burgers and cook for 4 to 5 minutes (for medium). Flip the patties, then immediately pour marinara around them in the pan. Simmer for another minute, then top each with cheese and 2 slices of pepperoni. Cover pan and cook until the cheese melts and the burger is cooked to your liking, about 3 minutes more.</div>
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Meanwhile, make garlic buns. Brush melted butter on each half of the rolls. Sprinkle both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and parmesan. Bake until golden, about 10 minutes.</div>
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Spread a dollop of marinara on each bottom bun followed by cooked burgers and the top bun halves.</div>
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So there you go! We've made the tomato soup probably 10 times. I've been meaning to share this finding with the world (or whoever actually reads these posts) for a while but haven't gotten around to it. But the snow has inspired me and here I am...finally getting around to it. ENJOY!! And may the good Lord bless you with many magical snow days this year. Happy 2017!</div>
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Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-42586124297380236922016-11-01T15:37:00.001-05:002016-11-01T22:35:32.015-05:00Wicked Halloween Costumes<div style="text-align: center;">
So it's July again...I mean...October? FINE I'M WRITING THIS IN JULY AGAIN DON'T JUDGE ME OKAY!!</div>
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When I'm lying awake at night I do weird things like watch random cake tutorials on Youtube that I will NEVER use, try and figure out a theme for my daughter's 2nd birthday (BECAUSE SHE JUST TURNED 18 MONTHS I'M SO BEHIND), and research family Halloween costumes because...well just because. I saw so many cute ideas but the next day Presley was walking around in the front yard with her broom embarrassing me (per usual) and it hit me. Why WOULDN'T she be a witch??</div>
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I know it's weird to dress my cute little girl up as a witch for Halloween but it just made so much sense! She is OBSESSED with her brooms. This red one is the nasty one that lives in the garage to sweep up spiders, dirt and other nasty stuff so naturally it's her favorite. If I want to take her outside to play we have to go through the front door because if we go through the garage she's going to grab the broom and that's that. The broom will go on our walk with us, will be pushed around in the wagon and basically will be treated like a prized turkey (idk first thing that came to mind). She got a little Pres-sized broom and she loves it but this one holds such a special place in her heart. She throws a huge fit when it's time to go inside and she has to leave the broom outside. I know I know. I'm such a mean mother for not letting her cover my kitchen in misc nasty broom debris.</div>
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We love Wicked (and by we I mean I do) so I was excited to incorporate that into my witch theme. We already have one Elphie in the family (our dog), what's one more? I was to be Galinda, Matt Fiyero/the scarecrow (because he wasn't into the idea of an outrageous costume this year and this was simple), and lastly, of course, our Elphie had to be a flying monkey because she's already Presley's sidekick and it just had to happen (don't judge me for making my dog a costume).</div>
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These costumes were pretty simple and cost me $100 exactly (weird) for all 4 which isn't so bad. That doesn't include all of the super random things I had on hand already though. </div>
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<b><u>Elphaba</u></b></div>
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This costume cost me $26 to make</div>
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<b>What you need</b>:</div>
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Black shirt (childrensplace.com)</div>
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Leggings (childrensplace.com)</div>
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Black shoes (found for $1.50 at a consignment sale)</div>
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1/2 yd black satin fabric for cape</div>
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5 yds black tulle for tutu</div>
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1/2 yd black felt</div>
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Black ribbon for tutu</div>
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Decorative black ribbon for cape/shirt accent</div>
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Green ribbon for hat</div>
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Sticks and jute ribbon for broom</div>
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The broom was so easy! I just collected some sticks (one bigger one and lots of little ones) and hot glued them onto the bottom of the bigger stick one at a time. After they were all secure I hot glued some jute around the bunch. Not quite the same as Presley's beloved but she doesn't discriminate. She still wouldn't put it down.</div>
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I found these leggings on Childrensplace.com for $4 with free shipping. They were perfect! Somehow at the end of Halloween night the entire butt of them was ripped open. Only a toddler. To that I say RIP to these leggings. At least they served their purpose and were super cheap. A few months ago I was at a consignment sale on 1/2 price day and got these black shoes for $1.50. WHAT A DEAL!</div>
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I pulled up a tutorial on making a witch hat but there were so many steps and alot of sewing and I was like "there has to be an easier way." I made a cone out of the felt and hot glued it together. Then I traced a big circle using a bowl. I cut a smaller circle out of the middle of the big circle the same size as the cone opening. Then I just hot glued everything together! I made the bow with wire-edged ribbon and hot glued elastic inside so it stays on her head. </div>
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Of course she'd only wear it when it was HER idea...not mine</div>
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Example of it being my idea:</div>
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For the tutu I just cut out strips of tulle and slip knotted them onto a fat black ribbon. I doubled the tulle per strip to make it thicker. I made 2 tutu's <a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2015/11/tangled-halloween-costumes.html" target="_blank">last Halloween</a> so I already knew how to do it but here's the tutorial I used last year:</div>
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<a href="http://treasuresfortots.blogspot.com/2009/10/cut-tulle-for-tutu-using-quick-and-easy.html">http://treasuresfortots.blogspot.com/2009/10/cut-tulle-for-tutu-using-quick-and-easy.html</a></div>
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For the cape I just cut out a triangle of fabric. I love this cheap, satiny fabric because it's just like ribbon! You don't have to hem it, you can just burn the edges with a lighter and it melts (appropriate for a witch?) and keeps it from fraying. I got a yard of this at Hobby Lobby for $3 (with my coupon) but 1/2 yd would've been plenty. I found this decorative ribbon at Hobby Lobby 1/2 off for $2 a spool. I sewed it around the edges and also used it to decorate the black shirt.</div>
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I tried to "paint" her face with really green eyeshadow but it faded so quickly it was pointless. I wasn't about to put bright green paint on my 21 month old's face. That was a smear disaster I thought I'd avoid while I was ahead.</div>
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<b><u>Galinda</u></b></div>
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This costume was the most expensive at about $55 total</div>
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<b>What you need</b>:</div>
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Cinderella costume dress (Ebay for $19)</div>
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4 yds shiny blue fabric for skirt scallops (Joanne)</div>
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Jewels for bodice (Michaels)</div>
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Piece of stiff white felt for collar (79 cents at Hobby Lobby)</div>
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Crown (Ebay for $4 including shipping)</div>
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Dowel for wand (79 cents at Joanne)</div>
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Decorative star or wand topper</div>
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Metallic silver spray paint for wand</div>
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I didn't know where to start with this one so I did what I usually do! I found a base to work with. It's so much easier than starting from scratch. I found this Cinderella costume on Ebay for $19 (including tax and shipping). It was the perfect starting point.</div>
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Of course it came and was a crinkled mess. And why do costumes have to be made with the cheapest fabrics?? It was pretty poor quality but that's to be expected with an adult costume like this. I started by steaming it and getting a lot of the wrinkles out. I was scared to iron it because I think the fabric would melt. It feels almost plasticy. But, like I said, it was the perfect starting point.</div>
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I started with completely remaking the skirt. I loved the scalloped skirt on the original dress. I thought it was important to carry that aspect into my dress. I got 4 yards of this shiny fabric at Joanne. It was on sale for $6 a yard but I had a 25% off of the total purchase coupon so it was about $18 for all of it. I made 3 scallop templates in different sizes. Bigger ones went on the bottom and smallest on the top. I doubled the fabric over and pinned the template to it so I could cut out 2 at a time.<br />
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I started at the bottom (now we're here..sorry) and pinned the larger scallops in a line around the bottom of the original skirt. I used clear thread and just sewed them across the tops of the scallops. I kept building up to the top, which was alot trickier. </div>
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I can't really explain what I did at the top. I had to sew them from the inside so they'd fold over and wouldn't show the ugly edge at the top. My sewing machine kept messing up (because clear elastic thread is the WORST to work with) so I ended up hot gluing alot of them. But hey! Whatever works. It turned out fine. </div>
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I liked this fabric because, like the cape fabric, it was made of a ribbony, plasticy material so I could burn the edges to keep it from fraying. I was NOT about to hem all of these pieces.</div>
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I sewed an inside skirt as well made of solid white fabric. I'm not sure what my thought process was behind that other than I thought it'd make the blue more vibrant if white was behind it. Although it was kind of pointless it did make it alot more comfortable. Before my legs were against scratchy, plasticy tulle but now I have a soft, cotton barrier. </div>
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I also had to take in the sides some because it was like a sack and I wanted it to be more fitted. I also removed the little butterflies. </div>
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Next I made this collar like in the original picture. I used a white piece of stiff felt (on the felt aisle). I cut out the shape then hot glued wire along the 2 sides. I folded the felt over the wire to hide it. That way it'll hold it's shape when it's curved over. I hot glued a white ribbon to it to connect to the dress. I hot glued one piece to the dress and ended up making a button contraption for the other side so it'd be easier to put on and take off. I used my machine to make a button hole on the ribbon and sewed a little button inside. It actually worked!</div>
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To tie the skirt fabric into the top I cut out a strip of it and just hot glued it to the top center. I got these jewels from Michaels and hot glued them to the front. </div>
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I was so impressed with this crown from <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/262005814854?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">Ebay</a>! It's so heavy and well made. It came from China and only took a week to arrive! Since it was $4 with free shipping I wasn't expecting much but was pleasantly surprised. Every time Pres sees it she brings it over to me and puts it on my head. She already knows I'm the queen around here.</div>
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I bought this pink shiny star ornament literally in middle school at Target and it hung in my bedroom on my mirror. I've kept it around ever since and I have absolutely no idea why. Well it finally paid off because it was just what I needed!! I used a combination of hot glue and E6000 glue to attach it to the dowel and spray painted it silver. After it dried I hot glued little clear jewels onto it that I had on hand.<br />
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<b><u>Scarecrow</u></b></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vUOirYogcHg/V5FVk9Q4L7I/AAAAAAAAGAI/ipcwV5r-ZvkkJEZ5CUtD_7CaU9HoU74swCEw/s1600/the-wizard-of-oz-three-disc-collectors-edition-20051028042302551-000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vUOirYogcHg/V5FVk9Q4L7I/AAAAAAAAGAI/ipcwV5r-ZvkkJEZ5CUtD_7CaU9HoU74swCEw/s320/the-wizard-of-oz-three-disc-collectors-edition-20051028042302551-000.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This cost $5. Very expensive</div>
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<b>What you need</b>:</div>
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Overalls and a flannel shirt (had)</div>
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Straw hat (Michaels for $3)</div>
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Pack of raffia ($4 at Hobby Lobby)</div>
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Thick elastic for arm bands<br />
(I used a 40% off coupon for both of the purchased items)</div>
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All I did was cut out pieces of raffia and hot glue them around the edges of the hat. I also made elastic arm bands so Matt could comfortable wear the straw at his wrist so it would poke out of the shirt sleeves. He could easily remove them and I didn't have to ruin the shirt.</div>
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<b><u>Flying Monkey</u></b></div>
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About $14 for everything</div>
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<b>What you need</b>:</div>
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Small blue shirt (Hobby Lobby for $2.50)</div>
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Red, white, & 2 shades of brown felt</div>
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Brown fluffy tail ($2 at Hobby Lobby)</div>
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Tiny top hat ($2.50 Hobby Lobby)</div>
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Wings ($5 on Ebay)</div>
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I started with the tiny hat! I found this little top hat and first I LOLed because WHY is that a thing but then I reveled in the fact that it was perfect and exactly what I needed.<br />
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I just cut off the bill and tada! I used acrylic blue paint and just painted it blue. Covering it in fabric or felt was proving to be way too difficult. I cut out a red chevron strip free-handed and very poorly but no one will notice. Then I glued it onto a piece of white felt then I cut out the white felt around the red so I got the shape as similar as possible. Then I made a little felt buckle and felt ears. I glued the elastic on then glued the ears to the elastic. So easy!</div>
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For the "coat" I just bought a 12 month children's tshirt at Hobby Lobby. I cut it down the front and glued velcroe to it so it's easy to put on and take off. I used the same technique as above for the felt designs here. Cut out the red, Glued it to the white. Then cut out the white. Then I hot glued it to the shirt.</div>
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I bought this big pipe cleaner lookin thing that was a perfect monkey tail. I hot glued it to the inside bottom edge of the shirt then hot glued a piece of thick cardstock (actually from the packaging of the tail) to the shirt as well. This keeps it from flopping all over the place. </div>
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Here's Elph at her final fitting before the wings. As you can tell, she loves it and isn't petrified at all. She LOVES Halloween</div>
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I got these butterfly wings on <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/221740761006?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&var=520583159493&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT" target="_blank">Ebay</a> for $5 including shipping. They arrived in like 3 days (I was in a real time crunch here because I only had 3.5 months to get this done)! And they also came with a wand and headband so obviously I was excited about that. I ended up cutting off the bottom part of the wing and painting acrylic black paint over the design. You can still see the butterfly design thru it but at least it sealed in all the glitter and isn't as noticeable. SO MUCH BLACK GLITTER EVERYWHERE!! Bonus: Pres is obsessed with the headband it came with so win. After I had ripped them apart and painted them I just hot glued them into place. Surprisingly it worked! WHAT WOULD I DO WITHOUT HOT GLUE??</div>
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Seriously, not hard at all. Anyone could do it. I hope you enjoyed! I can't wait until Halloween next year obvs. Such a fun holiday! And guess what day it (almost) is!!!! Thanksgiving!!! then.........CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS OMG I LOVE IT SO MUCH! Can't wait! I love this time of year so much. Cool, fall weather (HOPEFULLY soon), pumpkin candles, Halloween, turkey, Black Friday, Christmas music. It's so magical. Until then!</div>
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Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-70102822618598777772016-08-15T19:36:00.000-05:002016-08-15T19:39:38.131-05:00Shutter Picture Display<div style="text-align: center;">
My daughter always wants to be outside. Even when it's 105 degrees. I'm an indoor air conditioning/movie-watching kind of girl in the summer. I can't WAIT for Fall weather and park visits and evening walks around the block. Fall is my JAM! A few months ago when it was still bearable outside I took Presley on one of our walks around the block and came across a curb-side treasure!! I LOVE CURB-SIDE TREASURES!! I've found so many cool things on the side of the road. Well, Pres was in her wagon along with the dog when we came across these awesome shutter doors! They were in rough shape but I loved them! I was about half a block away from home but I thought that by the time I got home and loaded my babe in her carseat and got back they'd be gone! So I somehow carried both of them while pulling the wagon. I really hope my neighbors didn't see this. </div>
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All I did was remove the pull and hardware, sand them really good and paint them with some white paint I had on hand to clean them up some. I screwed them directly to the wall in my entry hall and bedroom and used little clothespins to attach pictures to them. The pictures originally covered them but my little human thought it was way too fun to remove and hide them all over the house. Thus they're now only at the top of the shutters. Every time we walk past one she gasps, points and says "daddy! daddy!" Yeah she's said "momma" before but that was about it. Only "daddy." It's not annoying at all. I BIRTHED YOU SAY MY NAME! Welp that's all I have to say bout that! I love my trashy treasures!</div>
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Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1551998576534858931.post-70930551192768125652016-07-31T22:49:00.000-05:002016-07-31T23:01:39.710-05:00Marquee "P"<div style="text-align: center;">
So I was minding my business on a Saturday during nap time while Matt stayed home with the sleeping babe. I was strolling through Hobby Lobby's aisles (naturally) full of shiny Christmas ornaments in July and feeling way too good about it. There was no particular reason why I was there, which happens way too often (rip bank account). Then I came across this clearance aisle. Like 90% off clearance. And then I saw it. The ginormous "P" that had...LIGHTS on it. I couldn't stop staring. I looked at the price tag. $180 on sale for...EIGHTEEN DOLLARS! I tried to walk away. I couldn't. I felt the need to strike up a conversation with everyone who came and went from the aisle. "It's nice isn't it...but WHERE would you put it?" "I don't know," they'd say then walk away probably thinking to themselves "um absolutely no where because it's ridiculous and the size of the entire herd of wildebeests that killed Mufasa." I walked to the nearby papercrafting aisle but the force was too strong. I was back. I needed it. It was the most obnoxious thing I'd seen in a while but I needed it. So I did it. I bought it. It barely (and I mean barely) fit in my car. I took it home and tried to play it cool. I left it in the garage at first. Then Matt saw it. He gave me his "Katie what the heck could you possibly be doing with that" look. I didn't know but it was so beautiful. </div>
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So here I am. Me, my garage and the giant letter "P". All of the sudden I felt the need to cover it in flowers. And paint it pink. This was it! The inspiration I was waiting for! I removed all of the lightbulbs. ALL of the LEDs then fell inside the "P". Apparently they were all being held in place by the empty bulbs. Dear Diary, my first setback. I now have a gigantic "P" covered in holes but no lights. I'll just paint it and pretend like that didn't happen. Maybe I'll think of a solution later.</div>
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Nap time again. I spray paint it pink. The spray paint runs out and it's splotchy. Clear solution to this one...sand paper. Make it look like it's supposed to be that way. It's "rustic." Yes...rustic. Kewl. Oh, the back comes off! This is perfect! I turn it over. I remove the back to expose all of the fallen lights. I use my heavy duty stapler and staple all of the lights in place. Surely this won't happen again. Meanwhile, why won't it turn on? Oh, when I removed the back I accidentally separated the light wires from the power source (the battery pack was attached to the backing). Dear Diary, things are getting worse.</div>
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Well at least the lights are now back in their place! It doesn't matter that they don't work, right? It matters. IT REALLY MATTERS! MATTTTTT! I put it in his office...inconspicuously. He gets home from work. "KATIE WHY IS YOUR GIANT "P" IN MY OFFICE?" "I love you. You're so good at sautering. PLEASE HELP ME MY WIRES HAVE COME LOSE (literally and metaphorically)!!" An hour passes. IT'S BACK! The Bachelorette is on. I bring my "P" into the living room to keep me company and to put it all back together. Some of the lights somehow fall in..again. I take the back off...again. This time a lot more gingerly than before. I somehow get the lights back in the correct spot and start putting the bulbs back in place. My little person P enters. She starts unscrewing the bulbs. She thinks it's hilarious. I, on the other hand, think it's past her bedtime!</div>
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So now the "P" looks exactly how it did when I purchased it but it has a splotchy pink paint job. I need to go back to Hobby Lobby. Oh no. How terrible (enter maniacal laughter). I buy 11 packages of tissue paper. I start <a href="http://heyletsmakestuff.com/2014/04/04/our-wedding-paper-flowers-tutorial/" target="_blank">making flowers</a>. And more flowers. And more...flowers. I start hot gluing them in place. They fill up half of the "P." Why is it so big? Where am I going to put this? What have I done?</div>
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I return to Hobby Lobby. Maybe I planned that. Maybe.</div>
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15 packages of tissue paper and 113 flowers later...it is finished. I can't believe it. It needs leaves. I cut out leaves. I glue them in place. </div>
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This is it. It is finished. It's appx 192 lbs. It needs to be hung on the wall. Where am I going to put this again?</div>
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I'll just hang it above the bed in the playroom/spare oom/Presley's future big girl bedroom. It won't look weird there. Enter power tools. I hang it 3 different times. Why measure when you can eye ball it? Wrong. You should measure. You should always measure. Well...was this worth it? IT'S SO BIG!</div>
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Yes. It's even more obnoxious now than it was before. Worth it? I think so. Would I do it again? No. Absolutely not. SO MANY FLOWERS DID I MENTION THERE ARE ONE HUNDRED THIRTEEN OF THEM? </div>
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Well, while I'm at it. Here are some pictures of Presley's current playroom. We play in here every day and let it be known that this room usually looks like a massive bomb went off in it. Don't let it's perfectly displayed look in these pics fool you. It was nap time. ATTENTION: THESE ARE NOT REAL LIFE.</div>
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To read more about this room check out the post I published about it a year ago only it's alot less dramatic:</div>
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<a href="http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2015/07/presleys-playroom.html">http://katiehedge.blogspot.com/2015/07/presleys-playroom.html</a></div>
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And that is the story of my life-size marquee "P"</div>
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Katie Hedgepethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15524862093277631416noreply@blogger.com0