tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4311474575458976832024-03-12T22:26:44.689-04:00my shiny objectsmag·pie (mag′pī′)- Loud and talkative birds that have an eye for shiny objects.Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.comBlogger106125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-33925896886502251972011-11-15T09:33:00.001-05:002011-11-15T14:15:21.431-05:00Thankful Tuesday<div style="text-align: center;">Thankful Tuesday resumes. Maternity leave is quickly coming to an end, which means orders are increasing and the blog awakens from hiatus. For those readers who are new to my blog, I <i>try</i> every week to document what I am thankful for. This gives me the chance to reflect on my week and to be grateful for the good things in my life.</div> <br />
<b><i>I am THANKFUL for...</i></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: center;"><li>Lights, heat, TV and Internet. With the recent historic Nor'easter that came up the coast a couple weeks ago, we were without power for 8 days! I do love my technology, and without it, my life would be terribly hard. Try running an online business without power...and try making jewelry with ice cold hands due to no heat! Thanks to all my patient customers for understanding the extended production time.</li>
</ul><ul style="text-align: center;"><li>The opportunity for Evy to meet her Great Grandpop and Great Pop-Pop. How special!</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1XGZK5cnho/TsHRqg8hTiI/AAAAAAAAA7s/d4hYJnLOLB8/s1600/photo%2528129%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1XGZK5cnho/TsHRqg8hTiI/AAAAAAAAA7s/d4hYJnLOLB8/s200/photo%2528129%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a9KEbQmtQ6s/TsHRsUuim2I/AAAAAAAAA70/qaI_8GcEHtc/s1600/photo%2528126%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a9KEbQmtQ6s/TsHRsUuim2I/AAAAAAAAA70/qaI_8GcEHtc/s200/photo%2528126%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<ul style="text-align: center;"><li>My hubby and FIL for spending hours cleaning up fallen limbs and branches from the storm. Our property looked like a bomb hit it.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_VTWWa0emxo/TsHTJwnK2_I/AAAAAAAAA8U/2zdvbQijSw0/s1600/photo%2528134%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_VTWWa0emxo/TsHTJwnK2_I/AAAAAAAAA8U/2zdvbQijSw0/s1600/photo%2528134%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<ul style="text-align: center;"><li> My parents who took Evy and I in for a week while we were in the black in CT. Home cooked meals, heat and extra arms to hold Evy were a godsend. </li>
</ul><ul style="text-align: center;"></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kE9A4OhMVCs/TsK6Pdc-d0I/AAAAAAAAA80/LCTqg-yCED8/s1600/photo%2528138%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kE9A4OhMVCs/TsK6Pdc-d0I/AAAAAAAAA80/LCTqg-yCED8/s320/photo%2528138%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul style="text-align: center;"><li>Those extra arms held Evy while I could have some craft time. I pulled out my glue gun, fabric, elastic and felt to make some headbands for my little girl.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QbtMwj-Eej4/TsHUYv7ynyI/AAAAAAAAA8k/JvplyMGAp0A/s1600/photo%2528136%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QbtMwj-Eej4/TsHUYv7ynyI/AAAAAAAAA8k/JvplyMGAp0A/s200/photo%2528136%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3yfu8liOg6E/TsHUW1s6wGI/AAAAAAAAA8c/xREJ1LBmKg0/s1600/photo%2528135%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3yfu8liOg6E/TsHUW1s6wGI/AAAAAAAAA8c/xREJ1LBmKg0/s200/photo%2528135%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qwJKqbAEnmg/TsHUbNJV-rI/AAAAAAAAA8s/3iEb5CO68fc/s1600/photo%2528137%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qwJKqbAEnmg/TsHUbNJV-rI/AAAAAAAAA8s/3iEb5CO68fc/s200/photo%2528137%2529.JPG" width="200" /></a> </div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><ul style="text-align: center;"><li>A hardworking husband, who works extremely hard so that I can stay home with Evy.</li>
</ul><ul><li> A clean refrigerator. One of the downsides of the storm was all of the wasted food that we had to throw away. My freezer and fridge were emptied into 8 garbage bags. With that came a good clean wipe down. Why does a clean and organized fridge make me so happy? It's a sickness.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mL2ViQyGRX8/TsHRv2jF2KI/AAAAAAAAA78/13RLJT8EbPg/s1600/photo%2528132%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mL2ViQyGRX8/TsHRv2jF2KI/AAAAAAAAA78/13RLJT8EbPg/s320/photo%2528132%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">That's it for now, although I could go on and on. What are you thankful for today?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #990000; text-align: center;"><i><b>November 20th is the last day for guaranteed Holiday delivery. Orders placed after this date will not arrive in time. Please plan accordingly friends! </b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://magpiedesignz.com/">visit my shop</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-57733304030710593212011-10-17T21:23:00.001-04:002011-10-17T21:26:17.154-04:00My Favorite Things {Mommy Edition}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">As I prepared for baby Evy to come along, I spent hours of research on the best products out there. I was one of those crazy preggo mamas that went to Babies R' Us every week to tweak and add items to my registry. I even changed my car seat a day before she came, talk about cutting it close!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">A <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2010/06/something-free-five-lifesavers/">favorite blog</a> of mine wrote about their 'Top Five Lifesavers' when they had their first bambino. I'm not a follower, but in this case, I thought I would share my own version of my favorite things, because who knows, it may help a new mama out there get through those first few months of mommyhood. Don't get too excited, I'm not Oprah, so there isn't a fantastic giveaway at the end of this post. I couldn't do just five lifesavers like <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/">YHL</a>, just because there have been so many items that have helped keep me sane for these past four months. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u> Top Ten Favorite things for <i>this</i> mommy:</u></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">1. Summer Infant Swaddle seen <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3726443">here</a>. Yeah yeah, you've all heard of swaddling, it's not a new concept. The old fashioned way of swaddling by using the hospital blanket doesn't work all that great if you have a little one that likes to get their limbs free. The velcro on this swaddle is key! This blanket was my saving grace when it came to getting her to sleep in 2-3 hour stretches.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-03jeNO10uW0/Tpy5TRqfRsI/AAAAAAAAA5k/Dl1iOO2h2vU/s1600/photo%252894%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-03jeNO10uW0/Tpy5TRqfRsI/AAAAAAAAA5k/Dl1iOO2h2vU/s320/photo%252894%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">2. The iPhone app called <a href="http://www.babybrainapp.com/">Baby Brain</a>. This app was a godsend when it came to keeping track of those diapers and feedings in the early weeks. My sleep deprived and drugged up mind could not even remember the name of my brand new child, yet alone the important details of nursing :) The rubber band switch-a-roo on the wrist trick wasn't cutting it. For $2.99, this baby log gave me a sense of organization amongst the chaos. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AjOnVxq0YZw/Tpy7IlzW_nI/AAAAAAAAA5s/h6UqpZ_UwnU/s1600/babybrain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AjOnVxq0YZw/Tpy7IlzW_nI/AAAAAAAAA5s/h6UqpZ_UwnU/s320/babybrain.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">3. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2404507">Gas drops</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mommys-Bliss-Liquid-4-Ounce-Bottles/dp/B001F0RB2Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1318894583&sr=8-1">Gripe water</a>. Gripe water is a natural herbal digestive aid for babies to ease the discomfort due to colic, gas, hiccups and teething. Evy tends to be extra gassy and having these two items have been a lifesaver for us. The gas drops are wonderful for the typical upset tummy, but the gripe water work wonders for a fussy, constipated, and reflux baby. It seems to soothe her right away, sometimes putting her to sleep in minutes. Both are perfectly safe and healthy for babies. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tGIMQYHucc4/Tpy94cZ9elI/AAAAAAAAA50/AXXjiPY0sC4/s1600/gripe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tGIMQYHucc4/Tpy94cZ9elI/AAAAAAAAA50/AXXjiPY0sC4/s320/gripe.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> 4. This<a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3763010"> video monitor</a>. I know that it is a luxury item and definitely not needed if the budget is tight. We splurged on this monitor and are so glad we did. For this first time paranoid mother, the fact that I can just sneak a peak at my baby in her crib gives me a sense of peace. This way I don't have to get up every 5 minutes to peak in her room, taking a risk of waking her up with our creaky doors. It will come in handy when shes a toddler too, that way I can spy on her as she gets into trouble during her "nap-time".</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">*this video captures her afters she rolls over in her crib for the first time. I wouldn't of witnessed this cuteness if I didn't have the video monitor. Have I sold you yet? </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=AD6v5dxbah0YOAIIqNbEZhdEegu9Y12Jgs54kHo02JXfQtAPS6Z-onDOXM7Sr86H-HRNS906yBMVqCII7oCehsNozg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">5. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3532777">Moby Wrap</a>. Oh how I love you Moby. You have allowed me to eat, vacuum, cook and even sleep with my baby attached to me. I heard mixed reviews about the Moby Wrap when I was doing my months of research- the consensus was that you either love it or hate it. I absolutely LOVE it. Yes, it was difficult at first to get the hang of wrapping yourself with 6 feet of jersey fabric, but after a few times you get the hang of it. Evy loves being snuggled up with me and I love having her close, mostly so I can smell her sweet head. It gave her the sense of being in the womb for the first couple of months, which was a great comfort for her. Now at four months, I use it with her facing out so she can explore her surroundings a bit. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3khpVW7MpIY/TpzDv_e6wrI/AAAAAAAAA58/nWI8Lwnwe1I/s1600/photo%2528122%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3khpVW7MpIY/TpzDv_e6wrI/AAAAAAAAA58/nWI8Lwnwe1I/s320/photo%2528122%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">6. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4309325&prodFindSrc=search">Sound Machine</a>. This machine is wonderful! My goal for the first couple of months was to make Evy's surroundings as womb-like as possible, hence babywearing with the Moby Wrap and this sound machine. It has a womb-like sound that is very similar to what she heard for 9 months. I was hesitate about getting her attached to a "prop" as many baby books warn you of, but I went with my gut on this one and am so glad I did. The sounds soothe her to sleep and give her a sense of comfort if she wakes up in the night. And let's face it, when you live in a home that's 100 years old, you need something to drown out the creaky wood floors and squeaky doors. Oh and it also has a MP3 feature so we can hook up our ipod in the future when the meatball wants to listen to music or a book on tape as she falls asleep.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L7PAzxxgRgM/TpzGpvkZjOI/AAAAAAAAA6c/eBgUfr59cf0/s1600/sound.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L7PAzxxgRgM/TpzGpvkZjOI/AAAAAAAAA6c/eBgUfr59cf0/s1600/sound.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">7. While we are on the topic of noise, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dog-Tag-Pet-Silencer--Black/dp/B0006N9LKG/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1318897388&sr=1-2-catcorr">this dog tag silencer</a> is a must have for any dog owner who has a pup that likes to obnoxiously shake it's head to get your attention. It's not the most attractive thing I've ever seen, but who cares. She can shake all she wants now. Go ahead Maisey, I dare you.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Uuuko3GQhA/TpzHYR9KSEI/AAAAAAAAA6k/6iL34-fRUfo/s1600/silencer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Uuuko3GQhA/TpzHYR9KSEI/AAAAAAAAA6k/6iL34-fRUfo/s320/silencer.jpg" width="246" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">8. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3613458">Sheet saver</a>s. Whoever invented these is a genius in my book. Instead of changing the crib sheets every other day due to spit up, all I do is change these suckers. They are soft and cozy for her head to rest on too. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kmhl6t6lhCU/TpzGdlPtKCI/AAAAAAAAA6U/mlU6b97D3EY/s1600/photo%2528103%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kmhl6t6lhCU/TpzGdlPtKCI/AAAAAAAAA6U/mlU6b97D3EY/s320/photo%2528103%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">9. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jeep-90117R-Deluxe-Changing-Pad/dp/B002GWVDNS/ref=sr_1_21?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1318898127&sr=1-21">Travel Diaper Changing Pad</a>. Many of you moms have these, so it's nothing new or terribly exciting but I didn't think of it when registering. Good thing I have a sister who knows what I needed after raising three kiddos. There are tons of prints and styles to choose from out there! These are handy when changing in the car or on your friends guestroom bed, especially when the babe decides to relieve herself mid diaper change.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BlqPtDmEvhA/TpzLdcIXjGI/AAAAAAAAA6s/1vo4rskLj6c/s1600/changing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BlqPtDmEvhA/TpzLdcIXjGI/AAAAAAAAA6s/1vo4rskLj6c/s1600/changing.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">10. For all you cloth diapering mommas out there, this <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4060019&prodFindSrc=search">diaper sprayer</a> is my BFF. Since the poo's aren't exactly solid yet, using the sprayer is a quick and efficient way to get off all the yuckiness before washing. It takes some practice in the beginning to get the poo in the pot. I have switched out our tooth brushes and washed the shower curtain several times after a few bad experiences. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OM-brGOX5Yw/TpzM6HWjs6I/AAAAAAAAA60/JDZxnXQFIUU/s1600/sprayer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OM-brGOX5Yw/TpzM6HWjs6I/AAAAAAAAA60/JDZxnXQFIUU/s1600/sprayer.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">So there you have it, my TOP TEN favorite things for this new mommy. I'm sure life would've gone on if I didn't have any of these "gadgets", but they certainly made my life much easier. And we all know that mommy's need a little help once and awhile :)</div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
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</tbody></table>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-65860283764046331012011-10-06T12:55:00.003-04:002011-10-06T21:26:36.822-04:00Life as I knew it...<div style="text-align: center;">...is different, but it's a <i>good</i> different.<br />
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Ya'll read while I was pregnant about my fears and anxieties about having a baby. I couldn't imagine what a baby would do to our cozy lives. My hubby and I were content, happy, peaking in our careers, social butterflies...and so on. However, <i>now</i> I look forward to trying new crock pot recipes and choosing which cute nighty my little Evy Spaghetti will wear to bed. Pathetic, right? Yes, I miss the care free lifestyle we had, but I would never go back. I say that now, although ask me when she starts throwing a tantrum in the middle of Target or takes a sharpie marker and practices spelling her name on my brand new "off white" sofa. (More on that bold purchase later.)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oIbJtXDei3o/To3YhhLpLQI/AAAAAAAAA5U/TCj0Rp2UgSk/s1600/photo%2528107%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kca="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oIbJtXDei3o/To3YhhLpLQI/AAAAAAAAA5U/TCj0Rp2UgSk/s320/photo%2528107%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I am enjoying motherhood more then I thought. The first two months were rough due to a slow recovery from a long and ridiculously torturous labor. After three months, I finally feel like myself again and can start focusing on other things besides how to get that yellow mustard poo off of my pants.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yuArXqLyx1c/To3Yu5WNcRI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/cAnAZtxgzy4/s1600/photo%2528105%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kca="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yuArXqLyx1c/To3Yu5WNcRI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/cAnAZtxgzy4/s320/photo%2528105%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: center;">I've been a mom for three months now. In those three months, I have learned a few things about myself:</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i> That when I have NO sleep, I chatter on about bunnies, </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>jalepenos and hot Fox News anchors.</i><br />
<i> </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>That I am more of a germaphobe then I thought. </i><br />
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<i>That I love my baby more then I ever imagined.</i><br />
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<i>That I'm more patient then I thought.</i><br />
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<i>That a smile from the babe will make everything better and nothing else matter.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mdAhyuKWwAo/To3dQC-dgrI/AAAAAAAAA5g/xqGuKJ6bk8Q/s1600/035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kca="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mdAhyuKWwAo/To3dQC-dgrI/AAAAAAAAA5g/xqGuKJ6bk8Q/s320/035.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Some have asked about Evy's birth story. I will sum it up for you:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Induced on Friday night, had her early Sunday morning at 4 am. Yep, it was long, painful and emotionally draining. Three months later, I can finally look back at the experience and not cry. Speaking of crying, the litle bean is bored in her boucey seat and needs some snuggles, kisses and some more kisses. <br />
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Be back soon my friends!<br />
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</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-8437618027506419032011-06-23T09:38:00.000-04:002011-06-23T09:38:39.912-04:00Meet Evy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zpL1slngqd8/TgM__L6gTeI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/HlLYrcLFNGc/s1600/photo%252872%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zpL1slngqd8/TgM__L6gTeI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/HlLYrcLFNGc/s320/photo%252872%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">After 30 hours of labor, our little girl Evelyn ("Evy") Jane arrived on Father's Day June 19th at 4:05 in the morning. As many of you know, my husband and I chose to wait to find out the gender of the little one. I am so glad we did, it was amazing to pull her up onto my chest and wait with anticipation on the sex. I was convinced, I mean, CONVINCED it was a boy. So you must know, I am still in shock that I have a little girl. We are smitten and think she is pretty darn cute. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Meet Evy my friends.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mBxwDtpC3Uc/TgNAmfTQg5I/AAAAAAAAA3c/tANakX7BmlU/s1600/photo%252873%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mBxwDtpC3Uc/TgNAmfTQg5I/AAAAAAAAA3c/tANakX7BmlU/s320/photo%252873%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zVZ4m3IbIHk/TgNAp1rJ7vI/AAAAAAAAA3g/v84VC38euqY/s1600/photo%252874%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zVZ4m3IbIHk/TgNAp1rJ7vI/AAAAAAAAA3g/v84VC38euqY/s320/photo%252874%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LZp_tSDmCyU/TgNAsHizYYI/AAAAAAAAA3k/xSc5EgCssgA/s1600/photo%252875%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LZp_tSDmCyU/TgNAsHizYYI/AAAAAAAAA3k/xSc5EgCssgA/s320/photo%252875%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rJuLVlDGrpk/TgNAuYOwVVI/AAAAAAAAA3o/8szoaONn5u0/s1600/photo%252871%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rJuLVlDGrpk/TgNAuYOwVVI/AAAAAAAAA3o/8szoaONn5u0/s320/photo%252871%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rIaeuiDh1NQ/TgNAwcERqaI/AAAAAAAAA3s/-P_NLH6z2Do/s1600/photo%252876%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rIaeuiDh1NQ/TgNAwcERqaI/AAAAAAAAA3s/-P_NLH6z2Do/s320/photo%252876%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">I will share more of Evy's birth story at a later time, but now those frozen bags of corn are more important.</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-36233546673508413182011-06-15T09:58:00.000-04:002011-06-15T09:58:21.576-04:00the lazy post<div style="text-align: center;">I am feeling especially lazy, tired, moody, emotional, anxious and excited as the days wind down until this little babe comes. So in honor of my laziness, I bring you a lovely post that my friend Alexi wrote about my baby shower. Lexi, along with many other great friends threw me a "surprise" baby shower last month. It was so thoughtfully done, with my favorite pregnancy foods, handmade shower scrub as favors, an amazing invitation that Alexi designed herself and a pinata. Yes, a pinata. I haven't had an Airhead candy strip in so many years :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So go check out <a href="http://yellowonthehill.blogspot.com/">Alexi's awesome blog</a> where she talks about her newly married life, a new puppy and other random ramblings and while you're there, enjoy some <a href="http://yellowonthehill.blogspot.com/2011/06/baby-shower.html">baby shower goodness.</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_QoxQuFbMaY/Tfi5Ll-1T2I/AAAAAAAAA3U/qzh4mtZuL8g/s1600/196.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_QoxQuFbMaY/Tfi5Ll-1T2I/AAAAAAAAA3U/qzh4mtZuL8g/s320/196.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-21519967677477352632011-06-08T19:04:00.003-04:002011-06-08T19:08:08.832-04:00Thankful Wednesday<div style="text-align: center;">Oops, I'm a day behind, so we'll make this post Thankful Wednesday. </div><ul><li>I am certainly thankful that I have TWO WEEKS left! Come baby come!</li>
</ul><ul><li>A sweet midwife who delivered her delicious spring rolls to my house today. They hit the spot!</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--p0ZChshiPY/Te__Zn3dBqI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/koJ3pfXFIbM/s1600/photo%252870%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--p0ZChshiPY/Te__Zn3dBqI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/koJ3pfXFIbM/s320/photo%252870%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>A hubby who is committed to making me comfortable these days. He comes home from work and picks up the slack here in the house right away (well... after he opens that beer) </li>
</ul><ul><li>Jersey skirts! I've had these skirts for years and just pulled them out, hoping they would work with this belly. Buying maternity summer clothes right now is NOT going to happen.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Huq80b0JSFo/Te-pekVEuqI/AAAAAAAAA3I/RT5JN2YzzUo/s1600/photo%252869%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Huq80b0JSFo/Te-pekVEuqI/AAAAAAAAA3I/RT5JN2YzzUo/s320/photo%252869%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ul><li> We are thankful for having a state cop (hub's brother) in the family who is crazy OCD about installing car seats. He gave us a tutorial, however, I don't think we will ever get it in as tight as he did!</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TPhVn6UDIws/Te-p3vSi1SI/AAAAAAAAA3M/uDUV3qZEKto/s1600/photo%252868%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TPhVn6UDIws/Te-p3vSi1SI/AAAAAAAAA3M/uDUV3qZEKto/s320/photo%252868%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li> A feeling of peace as we wait for this little one to come.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Feeling thankful AGAIN for all of our generous friends and family who have supplied our every material need and more for this baby. We only had to buy a few things, which blows me away when I think about it. </li>
</ul>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-29433070627290844452011-06-01T10:35:00.001-04:002011-06-01T10:39:32.962-04:00"maternity leave" {whatever it may mean}<div style="text-align: center;">I put it in quotes because it's not really maternity leave. Shop remains open, orders can/will come in, and I still stamp away your "shiny objects". I still have to work BUT I have extended the production time to 4-6 weeks. I have tried to make it <u>VERY</u> obvious of this extension on my <a href="http://magpiedesignz.com/index.php/">website</a>, so hopefully I won't get bombarded with status updates while I transition into my new routine. I can't promise my response to those emails won't be grumpy. I hear you don't sleep much when a new baby comes ;) </div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">My maternity leave in quotes doesn't mean I will be sniffing my 'just about to pop' peonies in my garden.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ufbz5VHWfh8/TeZLHvv53DI/AAAAAAAAA24/b-H0agFmmlQ/s1600/photo%252866%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ufbz5VHWfh8/TeZLHvv53DI/AAAAAAAAA24/b-H0agFmmlQ/s320/photo%252866%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">It also doesn't mean I will be going to the beach to collect more heart rocks.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0oxEUSi-pc/TeZLPwvbwTI/AAAAAAAAA28/zLIl5kuOcgg/s1600/photo%252865%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0oxEUSi-pc/TeZLPwvbwTI/AAAAAAAAA28/zLIl5kuOcgg/s320/photo%252865%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Or even lounging in my favorite porch swing...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fW97FlpJeLU/TeZLZwpCbiI/AAAAAAAAA3A/eGSIFJr_tRI/s1600/photo%252864%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fW97FlpJeLU/TeZLZwpCbiI/AAAAAAAAA3A/eGSIFJr_tRI/s320/photo%252864%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Well, it kinda means I will be taking it a tad bit easy, trying to soak up these last three weeks of a quiet life. So, take it as you want, but I like saying " I'm on "maternity leave"", whatever it may mean.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I <i>do</i> know I will be taking in more of this precious face before her life is completely turned upside down. Signing off for some belly rubs.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nk88WpfjfaA/TeZMqwKTbXI/AAAAAAAAA3E/R7j0hEaeq5Y/s1600/photo%252867%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nk88WpfjfaA/TeZMqwKTbXI/AAAAAAAAA3E/R7j0hEaeq5Y/s320/photo%252867%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-23205947771181638962011-05-25T11:15:00.001-04:002011-05-25T11:17:16.179-04:00Chalkboard window project revealed!<div style="text-align: center;">My chalkboard window project ended up taking longer then I expected but I'm in LOVE with the result! It was fairly easy but the weather didn't coorperate with me, which delayed the project a bit. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Note</i>: Don't start this project if you have a projected forecast of rain for two weeks straight.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">As mentioned <a href="http://magpiedesignz.blogspot.com/2011/04/chalkboard-window.html">here</a>, I went to a local salvage yard and picked up some old windows: one which is painted white and another in a stained wood finish. Make sure to pick a window with no panes to insure you have a large chalkboard surface to write on.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ABh1spJ_FXA/Td0OfbM4EOI/AAAAAAAAA2I/gbdBLSanXJc/s1600/photo%252860%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ABh1spJ_FXA/Td0OfbM4EOI/AAAAAAAAA2I/gbdBLSanXJc/s320/photo%252860%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I found the chalkboard paint at Home Depot, and chose to go with the tintable version which was about $13ish. After much debate, I decided to tint the paint in the Schoolhouse Green color, to continue the vintage vibe of the project. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_AC9zcUHcvc/Td0PP7EmAqI/AAAAAAAAA2M/Ek7K9v8dkmk/s1600/photo%252854%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_AC9zcUHcvc/Td0PP7EmAqI/AAAAAAAAA2M/Ek7K9v8dkmk/s320/photo%252854%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r6qzHOr3-QE/Td0PSEicSLI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/bDOLQgeoKXY/s1600/photo%252855%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r6qzHOr3-QE/Td0PSEicSLI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/bDOLQgeoKXY/s320/photo%252855%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I practiced on the white window first, experimenting with different techniques. I made sure to throughly clean the window so debris wouldn't effect the smooth finish. Even though I did this step, I still have a few bumps here and there, but it doesn't bother me too much. I started to apply the paint and realized it goes on pretty thin, which means many coats to follow. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FhYvFXBsXRs/Td0P0BktuUI/AAAAAAAAA2U/UVWoJNtjMGM/s1600/photo%252858%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FhYvFXBsXRs/Td0P0BktuUI/AAAAAAAAA2U/UVWoJNtjMGM/s320/photo%252858%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I let it dry about 20 minutes, felt the paint and thought it was ready for a second coat. OH but I was so wrong. I realized this very quickly when the first coat started peeling off when I went painted over it. This is what I ended up with: </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kc4kjhG9pVo/Td0QNzacXXI/AAAAAAAAA2c/ExajndQZyIg/s1600/photo%252857%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kc4kjhG9pVo/Td0QNzacXXI/AAAAAAAAA2c/ExajndQZyIg/s320/photo%252857%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I sanded the spot in attempt to smooth it out and maybe, just maybe you wouldn't see my mess up. In the end, you can definitely see the imperfection, BUT when it's against the wall with no light shining through, it's hardly visible, even when I write over the spot with chalk. After the hiccup, I had to wait the full 24 hours it instructed on the box. I'm not a patient person when it comes to drying times when I'm in the middle of a project but I obeyed the rules and since then, I had no further uh-oh's. I guess it helps to read the directions and actually abide by them sometimes. Boo.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">After about a week and half later, I was finally done applying the paint, about 5-6 coats in the end. If I was to do it again, I would make sure to brush the paint on the surface in one direction every time. My chalkboard has a cross hatched effect which is fine with me, but if I went in one direction the chalkboard finish would be smoother and more consistent. Also, I believe if I primed the window first, the paint would of adhered better, and possibly lessened the amount of coats I had to do.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">I had the hubby pre-drill holes in the back to thread two screw eyes on each side, about 1/3 of the way down.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8JPDwJyIji8/Td0SGwguMdI/AAAAAAAAA2s/ZKKVtB9JVXg/s1600/photo%252861%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8JPDwJyIji8/Td0SGwguMdI/AAAAAAAAA2s/ZKKVtB9JVXg/s320/photo%252861%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Then I attached some picture hanging wire, making sure it was sturdy enough to hang on the wall.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zc4irEGD3mE/Td0RPjHh2fI/AAAAAAAAA2k/rrCVTzza62w/s1600/photo%252852%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zc4irEGD3mE/Td0RPjHh2fI/AAAAAAAAA2k/rrCVTzza62w/s320/photo%252852%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">FINALLY it was time to hang it up! As I said before, I chose the wood frame for the nursery, since the hubs thought there was too much "white" in the nursery. He's worried that the nursery is too "girly" and maybe the wood frame would make it more "boyish". Here it is, written with 36 weeks which was the backdrop for my recent belly picture. (My dear mother demanded an updated picture)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8_mSRPftc64/Td0RNR90JsI/AAAAAAAAA2g/YIJb7Tj3BhA/s1600/photo%252851%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8_mSRPftc64/Td0RNR90JsI/AAAAAAAAA2g/YIJb7Tj3BhA/s320/photo%252851%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I chose to put the white window in our screened in porch. We celebrated my hubby's 30th birthday a few weekends ago and this is what I wrote on it for his party:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LitLiJd_pQE/Td0RR0m2gFI/AAAAAAAAA2o/D7Hqb6Gxv34/s1600/photo%252853%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LitLiJd_pQE/Td0RR0m2gFI/AAAAAAAAA2o/D7Hqb6Gxv34/s320/photo%252853%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I also decided to paint the backside of our medicine cabinet with the same paint. Much better then the yucky gray color it was before.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bhR-LB8xnKo/Td0Tp4YG89I/AAAAAAAAA2w/aWCZKxkoiio/s1600/photo%252862%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bhR-LB8xnKo/Td0Tp4YG89I/AAAAAAAAA2w/aWCZKxkoiio/s320/photo%252862%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KmU_nDGiT1s/Td0UcnF7opI/AAAAAAAAA20/ZLFmO7bM-mk/s1600/photo%252863%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KmU_nDGiT1s/Td0UcnF7opI/AAAAAAAAA20/ZLFmO7bM-mk/s320/photo%252863%2529.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So there you have it, my chalkboard window project is complete and I LOVE it. Try it for yourself and I'm warning you now that you will find anything and everything around your house to turn into a chalkboard. I promise.</div><br />
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</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-58599350420132844922011-05-19T12:14:00.004-04:002011-05-19T12:17:15.899-04:00Since when....<div style="text-align: center;">did Payless get so expensive? I love this new <a href="http://www.payless.com/store/product/detail.jsp?catId=cat10088&subCatId=cat10243&skuId=086315065&productId=69836&lotId=086315&category=&catdisplayName=Womens">ankle strap</a>, but $49.99? Really Payless?</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SVs-yXFWXr4/TdU-_H34ZoI/AAAAAAAAA18/48t7pPwqZBw/s1600/payless.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SVs-yXFWXr4/TdU-_H34ZoI/AAAAAAAAA18/48t7pPwqZBw/s320/payless.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">However, I can handle these <a href="http://www.payless.com/store/product/detail.jsp?catId=cat10088&subCatId=cat40026&skuId=084086050&productId=68791&lotId=084086&category=&catdisplayName=Womens">peep toe flats</a> at $22.99. Cute, huh?<br />
They come in red too!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aze4eiUifeY/TdU_uX52UwI/AAAAAAAAA2A/REWRu6BvQgU/s1600/payless2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aze4eiUifeY/TdU_uX52UwI/AAAAAAAAA2A/REWRu6BvQgU/s320/payless2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But I think I'll be heading in for these <a href="http://www.payless.com/store/product/detail.jsp?catId=cat10088&subCatId=cat220016&skuId=083615080&productId=68876&lotId=083615&category=&catdisplayName=Womens">woven wedges</a> on sale for $16.99!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KjJrGWoCO7c/TdVBW76uUHI/AAAAAAAAA2E/bvwVTpPePSE/s1600/payless3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KjJrGWoCO7c/TdVBW76uUHI/AAAAAAAAA2E/bvwVTpPePSE/s320/payless3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Just sharing some online shopping fun will ya'll. How's that for avoiding work this morning?</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-5484894563998320302011-05-18T13:14:00.000-04:002011-05-18T13:14:41.947-04:00It's time to answer your questions...<div style="text-align: center;">As most of you know, I am having my first baby around June 22nd. I can't even imagine how life will change once baby comes, I have a small idea, but I am not putting any crazy superwoman expectations on myself. So you ask....what does this mean for <a href="http://magpiedesignz.com/">Magpie Designz</a>?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Answers to your common questions: </u></b></div><ul><li>I plan on leaving my shop open during my "maternity leave". Yes, I know....pretty insane, BUT, I have hired help for the studio. </li>
<li>However, even with this help, the production time will go from<i style="color: red;"> <b>2-3 weeks </b></i><span style="color: black;"><b>to</b></span><i style="color: red;"><b> 4-6 weeks</b>.</i> This extended time will give me the flexibility to adjust to my new life while juggling a thriving business. </li>
<li>The extended production time will start at the <b>beginning of June</b>. I do not have a specific date in mind yet. It all depends on my comfort level as I get closer and closer to my due date. You will see an announcement on my home page letting you know of the extension. You will also have a 'terms and conditions' to check before you submit your order, agreeing that you understand the new terms.</li>
<li> This means that <i>YOU</i> need to plan ahead and order your jewelry <b>now</b>!</li>
<li>This also means that if you order in June, you need to <i><span style="font-size: large;">be patient</span></i>. Do not expect your jewelry right away. It may get there fast, it may not. Pretty PLEASE do not ask for a rush on your jewelry or to have it by a certain date. I cannot make any promises.</li>
<li>The quality and standards of Magpie jewelry will remain the same. I take great pride in my work and will not send out anything that does not reflect my high standards.</li>
<li>I should be up and running at full speed in the Fall, just in time for the Holiday rush. I will be back to 2-3 week production at this time.</li>
</ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Did I miss anything? Leave me a comment if you have a question about Magpie Designz during this transition. Thank you for supporting my business. You all give me the opportunity to work from home, create jewelry that is special and meaningful for you while being a new mom. I am forever grateful for your support and patience as I adjust to this new life. Five weeks to go!</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-70468584130471106292011-05-17T20:01:00.005-04:002011-05-18T12:46:38.807-04:00Thankful Tuesday<div style="text-align: center;">I've been slacking on blogging lately. Too much to do as the weeks wind down until baby time! However, amidst the craziness, I will always find time to be thankful.</div><br />
<ul><li>Peanut butter and banana sandwiches. Peanut butter has been my BFF though out this pregnancy.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TWOnW5GHaDw/TdKV7U9w4EI/AAAAAAAAA1s/ya6RXMLAlKU/s1600/photo%252847%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TWOnW5GHaDw/TdKV7U9w4EI/AAAAAAAAA1s/ya6RXMLAlKU/s320/photo%252847%2529.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><br />
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<ul><li> A weekend to celebrate my hubby's big 3-0 birthday. I took ZERO pictures at his party, boo. We have known each other for half our lives now. That's pretty insane.</li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2pI2sU3iAZA/TdKzYVi6rpI/AAAAAAAAA10/9koII_gYaaM/s1600/photo%252849%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2pI2sU3iAZA/TdKzYVi6rpI/AAAAAAAAA10/9koII_gYaaM/s320/photo%252849%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><ul><li>The chalkboard window project is finally done! (as you see in the picture above) I will tell you all about this project later this week. I love my last minute idea to paint the back of the medicine cabinet door with the same application because the hubs likes to leave sweet notes to surprise me. No pictures of those sweet notes though, I'll save him the embarrassment.</li>
</ul><br />
<ul><li> We are so thankful for all the baby gear we've received as gifts. I know you're probably sick of hearing me mention this, but I just feel so overwhelmed with the generosity. </li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;">Swing assembly: CHECK.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fcyma_hLu9k/TdMKrBTRNJI/AAAAAAAAA14/z8DYzmFQjo4/s1600/photo%252850%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fcyma_hLu9k/TdMKrBTRNJI/AAAAAAAAA14/z8DYzmFQjo4/s320/photo%252850%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b>So much to be thankful for. How about you?</b></div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-52799064524620878162011-05-10T11:12:00.005-04:002011-05-10T15:06:07.432-04:00Mulch and girlfriend's<div style="text-align: center;">My Dad sent me <a href="http://365grateful.com/">this website</a> because he thought it sounded like my mission here on my Thankful Tuesday posts. Remembering to be thankful and have gratitude for the little things in life (like chocolate covered raisins from Trader Joe's) has taught me to slow down and put life into perspective. So here we go again...</div><br />
<i><b>Lately, I have been thankful for:</b></i><br />
<ul><li>A relaxing day with my college girlfriend's yesterday. It was a day of shopping, coffee sipping, baby staring at Wyatt, laughing, dreaming, sharing ideas and goals, Target strolling and constant gabbing. I seemed to have forgotten about my camera in my purse during the gabbing and laughing. Not ONE picture. Boo. </li>
</ul><ul><li> Speaking of Baby Wyatt...his mom Kait is contemplating a new business. After leaving the Interior Design world (like myself) she realizes that being creative in her life is vital. SO, after sharing with us the artwork she did (along with her hubby) for Wyatt's room, we are pushing her to take it to the next step. I will keep you all updated on her progress but in the meantime, check out the artwork she sketched and cut by hand out of colored paper...with a knife. It's unreal! What a talent!</li>
</ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dNpZ6EAOu3Y/TclWvASDyqI/AAAAAAAAA1o/xRIu9tkjlBw/s1600/photo%252846%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dNpZ6EAOu3Y/TclWvASDyqI/AAAAAAAAA1o/xRIu9tkjlBw/s1600/photo%252846%2529.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoom in to see the detail!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><ul><li> A lovely family shower with yummy food, hammy down maternity clothes for the summer, Yankee's game for the hubby and deviled eggs! We have so many wonderful people in our lives and feel blessed for their generosity towards us and this cantaloupe in my belly .</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnLKWTpMJxs/TclRAO5eVqI/AAAAAAAAA1c/iPbZCYzg32Q/s1600/photo%252843%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnLKWTpMJxs/TclRAO5eVqI/AAAAAAAAA1c/iPbZCYzg32Q/s320/photo%252843%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<ul><li> My favorite herbs are finally planted and marked with my favorite silverware <a href="http://magpiedesignz.com/index.php/garden-markers/vintage-silverware-garden-markers.html">Garden Markers</a>. For the rest of the garden, this summer we decided to buy a share at a local organic farm. With the new baby on the way, we thought this would relieve some yard work. Not sure how I feel about not having a garden right outside my door, but I keep telling myself it's just this one year. I will have more important things to tend to ;)</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VrLg68o4Dfc/TclSIimLqJI/AAAAAAAAA1g/FS5JgXyTBVk/s1600/photo%252845%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VrLg68o4Dfc/TclSIimLqJI/AAAAAAAAA1g/FS5JgXyTBVk/s320/photo%252845%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><ul><li> My hardworking man. He spent all Saturday doing yard work. I usually help, but with this belly and lack of energy, I was only able to do small projects. Spreading mulch was not on my to-do list, but it certainly was on his. He finished all of our flower beds in 5 hours, with two Diet Coke breaks. It looks amazing!</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-el6-PwhdJP0/TclTL0noDNI/AAAAAAAAA1k/MMaOO5nPdG8/s1600/photo%252844%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-el6-PwhdJP0/TclTL0noDNI/AAAAAAAAA1k/MMaOO5nPdG8/s320/photo%252844%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>What are you thankful for this week? Please share... </i></b></div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-15703695911213480302011-05-06T10:05:00.002-04:002011-05-06T10:24:13.219-04:00Bunnies for Bugembe {adorable}<div style="text-align: center;">Good morning friends!</div><div style="text-align: center;">I stumbled across <a href="http://www.bunniesforbugembe.com/">Bunnies for Bugembe</a> this morning and I'm so excited to share it with you all! For some odd reason, I have been looking for a stuffed bunny for the baby for some time now. Not sure why a bunny but now my search is OVER!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Bunnies for Bugembe was created by Chalice, a 20 year old who is raising funds for a trip she is taking to Uganda in August. She will be working alongside <a href="http://ekisa.org/">Ekisa Ministries</a>, a beautiful organization that cares for disabled, orphaned, and special needs children.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bFEQKZzaqqA/TcP80g0FAoI/AAAAAAAAA1I/X_JDzFlCcU8/s1600/MG_7127-200x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bFEQKZzaqqA/TcP80g0FAoI/AAAAAAAAA1I/X_JDzFlCcU8/s1600/MG_7127-200x300.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Each bunny you buy, a twin bunny will be made which will then be hand delivered to a child in need over in Uganda. Can you just imagine the joy that one of these children will feel when they are given their very own stuffed bunny? I can just imagine it now! </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IMLc4G2ZkTg/TcP9G0iO53I/AAAAAAAAA1M/ofPoV6UTEbY/s1600/bunny_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IMLc4G2ZkTg/TcP9G0iO53I/AAAAAAAAA1M/ofPoV6UTEbY/s320/bunny_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I love that each bunny has this scripture sewn on the back for a sweet reminder that God is always with them. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>My peace I give you, I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. –John 14:27</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DMOt4uIqt7I/TcP9wuk9dbI/AAAAAAAAA1U/X25i5Zw9Ezk/s1600/Bunnies-3-212x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DMOt4uIqt7I/TcP9wuk9dbI/AAAAAAAAA1U/X25i5Zw9Ezk/s1600/Bunnies-3-212x300.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"> Consider supporting Chalice and her ministry by showing children they're loved two at a time. I am so excited for my bunny to come- that is when I decide on what color to get- this is when I wish we were finding out this little one's gender!<br />
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<i>(photos borrowed from Bunnies for Bugembe website) </i></div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-80344591227297881912011-05-05T12:06:00.002-04:002011-05-05T13:08:32.406-04:00Random Ramblings<div style="text-align: center;">Life has been pretty boring lately in our household, which I am thoroughly enjoying. I think we both need this down time right now before the babe comes in less then 7 weeks...ahhhhhhhh.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We had our plaster ceilings re-done as well as the walls repaired and painted for the last two weeks. I was stuck in the bedroom or studio while the work was s.l.o.w.l.y being done. Maisey certainly didn't like her house being invaded and had a hard time adjusting to her new routines. Those two weeks made me a bit anxious with how she'll adjust when her routine and wonderfully spoiled life will be interrupted...in less then 7 weeks. I keep saying that, hoping it will set in and become a reality. It's not working. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CYKU5Nr1W0g/TcLGZrITE_I/AAAAAAAAA08/z0ppNiuFE_g/s1600/photo%252840%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CYKU5Nr1W0g/TcLGZrITE_I/AAAAAAAAA08/z0ppNiuFE_g/s320/photo%252840%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I started the chalkboard window project, which is taking me MUCH longer then I anticipated. However it's coming along and I am loving the result. More to come on the finished product!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pvg4Px7Rl4Q/TcLG0yrnhDI/AAAAAAAAA1A/zQTJR_vUgYE/s1600/photo%252842%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pvg4Px7Rl4Q/TcLG0yrnhDI/AAAAAAAAA1A/zQTJR_vUgYE/s320/photo%252842%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And in other stupid hormonal news, I made a major measuring mistake. I had a vision for the baby's collage wall for the nursery to include a canvas of Maisey, since she IS part of our family after all. Well, it came in the mail and let's just say, it was a bit creepy. I ordered a 16X16 canvas of a close up shot that I took this summer in Maine. WHAT WAS I THINKING?? It is about twice the size I wanted and envisioned for the collage wall. Now it hangs in our bedroom, staring at us every morning. Hubs says it creeps him out. I would have to agree. I blame the measuring mistake on the hormones. I only have less then 7 weeks to use that excuse. Again, it's still not working. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t_SgMYeaL-U/TcLHw7-3dgI/AAAAAAAAA1E/eXyOQsx3rck/s1600/photo%252841%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t_SgMYeaL-U/TcLHw7-3dgI/AAAAAAAAA1E/eXyOQsx3rck/s320/photo%252841%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
Just some random ramblings for you all. Have a great Thursday.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<b><i>Updates:</i></b></div><ul style="text-align: center;"><li>The Lemon Chicken recipe I talked about <a href="http://magpiedesignz.blogspot.com/2011/04/sundeas-and-sunshine.html">here</a> turned out good! Not sure it was the hubby's favorite meal, so it may not make it in the meal plans in the future, but it was SUPER duper easy and tasty, in my opinion. </li>
</ul><ul style="text-align: center;"><li>We had a doctors appointment to check on the 2 vessel cord situation with the babe. The echo cardio gram of the baby's heart turned out the be great news- heart looks healthy and beautiful. Baby's growth is right on track, so doc's are optimistic for a healthy little one. Praise God! </li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-12809691055037915852011-04-28T13:29:00.000-04:002011-04-28T13:29:55.027-04:00Chalkboard window<div style="text-align: center;">Last month, I took a trip to the local indoor salvage yard. An entire warehouse was filled to the brim with charming relics that were graciously saved from old homes. The creative juices were pumping as I felt my heart rate rising with excitement. Pathetic, I know...who gets excited over a dirty and dusty warehouse full of "junk"?</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5IoTePDmC6o/TbmPDeMKnSI/AAAAAAAAA0w/ZiEb8II749E/s1600/photo%252837%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5IoTePDmC6o/TbmPDeMKnSI/AAAAAAAAA0w/ZiEb8II749E/s320/photo%252837%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I went there with the intention of looking for a single pane window to create a chalkboard for the baby's room. The idea is to periodically write messages to the baby, for example, a favorite bible verse. Another possibility is to write a message of encouragement to myself as I spend many tired moments in that room nursing. Who knows how often I'll change the text but I hope to keep it fresh and new as often as I can. The picture below is where I initially got the idea from- a wonderful blog I follow called <a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/">Life In Grace</a>. </div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J4kLjqjNenQ/TbmRXq251uI/AAAAAAAAA00/sCafbzxTYWc/s1600/chalkboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J4kLjqjNenQ/TbmRXq251uI/AAAAAAAAA00/sCafbzxTYWc/s320/chalkboard.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Edie's lake cottage kitchen</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> After searching through 60 plus windows with varied finishes, I walked away with one that is painted white and another that has dark stain frame. This is when my indecisive habit comes into play, but hey, at $4 a window, I couldn't resist both options. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bxaJInq0NH4/TbmO-9EDxQI/AAAAAAAAA0s/8LSwg1FG9A8/s1600/photo%252839%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bxaJInq0NH4/TbmO-9EDxQI/AAAAAAAAA0s/8LSwg1FG9A8/s320/photo%252839%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2HqUpcx2Tw4/TbmTaXpCUwI/AAAAAAAAA04/FUYzmJictJs/s1600/photo%252838%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2HqUpcx2Tw4/TbmTaXpCUwI/AAAAAAAAA04/FUYzmJictJs/s320/photo%252838%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This weekend's project is to get that chalkboard window completed- of course I will take precautions by wearing my attractive filtered mask so the little bean is unharmed. Stay tuned for the finished product!</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-39544864967121628892011-04-26T20:18:00.001-04:002011-04-26T20:18:52.333-04:00sundea's and sunshine<div style="text-align: center;">It's sunny and 80 degrees here in CT today! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>{Imagine me with my protruding belly doing the happy dance right now} </i></div><div style="text-align: center;">I feel like I always give a forecast report to you guys, but the weather certainly effects my mood these days. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Thankful for....</b></i></div><ul><li>SUNSHINE!</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7A7kSh5HtYo/TbdgLbjEMmI/AAAAAAAAA0o/gwNFG_SLPw0/s1600/photo%252836%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7A7kSh5HtYo/TbdgLbjEMmI/AAAAAAAAA0o/gwNFG_SLPw0/s320/photo%252836%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>McDonald's $1 hot fudge sundaes</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UUYPi1rpj5Y/TbcsGilcMQI/AAAAAAAAA0g/8CpSAYIr3sc/s1600/photo%252835%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UUYPi1rpj5Y/TbcsGilcMQI/AAAAAAAAA0g/8CpSAYIr3sc/s320/photo%252835%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ul><li>A midwife who doesn't mind if I call her personal number when I have paranoid concerns or questions.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Progress at letting the little things go. </li>
</ul><ul><li> The early surprise arrival of the crib and an anxious husband to set it up.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UFWIryTxa_4/TbcuWF-QS5I/AAAAAAAAA0k/EoGONYkp_9w/s1600/photo%252834%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UFWIryTxa_4/TbcuWF-QS5I/AAAAAAAAA0k/EoGONYkp_9w/s320/photo%252834%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Alright, it's time to get off this computer and cook some dinner, which doesn't happen much these days. On the menu tonight is <a href="http://www.barefootcontessa.com/cookbook_recipes.aspx?CookbookID=32">Barefoot Contessa's Lemon Chicken</a>. Anyone ever tried it before? I will let you know how it goes!</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-83042856713587070522011-04-26T09:07:00.001-04:002011-04-26T09:16:31.171-04:00The winner of the Grace necklace is.....<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">NADIA!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">nadiaidanadia@hotmail.com</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Congrautulations Nadia on winning the new Grace necklace! I hope you enjoy wearing it for many years to come!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SOy3LoNQS3M/TbbDaMXdTcI/AAAAAAAAA0c/Il7DBzvn0QI/s1600/grace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SOy3LoNQS3M/TbbDaMXdTcI/AAAAAAAAA0c/Il7DBzvn0QI/s320/grace.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-36831262801838723572011-04-22T10:02:00.002-04:002011-04-23T09:00:30.894-04:00NEW Grace Necklace {AND Giveaway}<div style="text-align: center;">Happy Friday friends! Today I am showcasing my new <a href="http://magpiedesignz.com/index.php/necklaces/grace-necklace.html">Grace Necklace</a>. This necklace is a great reminder that it is by grace alone through faith we are saved. </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJBUQuHG0-Y/TbGGtoAU-HI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/xZ7JSN2kuHA/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJBUQuHG0-Y/TbGGtoAU-HI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/xZ7JSN2kuHA/s320/018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast."<br />
Ephesians 2:8-10<br />
<br />
This necklace features a sterling silver oval tag which is stamped with "by grace alone". A freshwater pearl adds the perfect touch of class. </div><div style="text-align: center;">(Featured font: Lowercase typewriter)</div><div style="text-align: center;"> --------------------------------------------</div><div style="text-align: center;">Do you want one???</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I will give away ONE Grace Necklace! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>To enter giveaway: </b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Complete <u><i>one or</i><i> all</i> </u>of the requirements below. The more entries the better!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Leave link and email address for each entry as a <b>comment</b> below (Entries on Facebook, email or twitter do not count)</div><ul style="text-align: center;"><li>Blog about it </li>
<li>Tweet it </li>
<li>Facebook it</li>
<li>Follow my blog</li>
<li>Become a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/home.php#%21/MagpieDesignzJewelry">facebook</a> or <a href="http://twitter.com/#%21/magpiedesignz">twitter fan</a></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;">*Giveaway ends on Monday at midnight. Winner will be chosen using random.org. Worldwide entries welcome! Good luck.</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com94tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-85163190356049270742011-04-20T10:20:00.003-04:002011-04-20T12:25:09.462-04:00Sage Mama<div style="text-align: center;">Some of you have asked me how the <a href="http://magpiedesignz.blogspot.com/2011/04/lesson-learned.html">cloth diaper decision</a> came about. If you don't care, then skip this post and <a href="http://magpiedesignz.com/">go shop!</a> Mother's Day deadline has past but if you don't mind an IOU gift, then go for it!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I certainly know many moms who CD but it was never a topic I put much thought into. When it comes to being "green", my husband and I do our small part. We recycle, grow our own veggie garden, use cloth grocery bags, try to eat more organic veggies and meat, and of course we recycle (adopt) animals. As you can see, it's not a huge list, but it works for us.... </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">...until I peed on <i>that</i> stick. After <i>that</i> line appeared, I began to question those topics that I often looked over or rolled my eyes about. That's when I started to evaluate the choices my husband and I were making. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">As I was talking with a "green" friend, she told me I had to read<a href="http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Green-Babies-Sage-Moms/Lynda-Fassa/e/9780451222893"> this book</a>. I thought to myself "I'll browse it but it doesn't really apply to my life". Well, <i>now</i> it does apply and it was time to weigh my options and make informed decisions regarding this baby and our lives. It's a short and quick read, which I like, but full of important topics. I even got my hubby to read it so we could discuss it together. We chose several ideas that were important to us and decided to start making those small changes. As we both read it, we noticed that it's very easy to go overboard and get caught up in the organic way of living. Some suggestions were just too unrealistic and expensive to take on. However, cloth diapering was one area where we thought we could make a difference and it wouldn't take over our lives too much. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U9xu482MuxE/Ta7XmIQktoI/AAAAAAAAA0I/gLGxur-Myx8/s1600/book.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U9xu482MuxE/Ta7XmIQktoI/AAAAAAAAA0I/gLGxur-Myx8/s1600/book.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So if you're preggers or thinking about starting a family, pick up this quick read. It will make you think twice about the the choices you make, if it's the food you eat or the cleaning products you use. As I said before, it's easy to get sucked into this "green" world since it's the trendy thing to do right now but being fully informed will help you make wise decisions for you and your family in the future.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sorry for the long and "preachy" post but I wanted to share with you all how this pale-ish green girl is slowly becoming a sage mama. </div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-66762541658937520052011-04-19T10:37:00.000-04:002011-04-19T10:37:10.960-04:00raisin's and shag<div style="text-align: center;">Today's a rough day so far. It's raining again and I feel pretty gross but that doesn't stop me from being thankful. </div><br />
<ul><li>A hubby who is pushing me to get ready for the baby. I have been dragging my feet with the nursery for a while now. It feels better to at least get a cozy shag rug in there, although Maisey thinks we got it just for her!</li>
</ul><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jHXxr3_BYFs/Ta2atplxQKI/AAAAAAAAA0A/Ee2XUBgZyy0/s1600/photo%252832%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jHXxr3_BYFs/Ta2atplxQKI/AAAAAAAAA0A/Ee2XUBgZyy0/s320/photo%252832%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sneak peak.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><ul><li> A project to-do list that is almost complete!</li>
</ul><ul><li> A lazy Saturday with no plans what-so-ever. </li>
</ul><ul><li>Trader Joe's Chocolate Covered Raisins. Seems shallow to be thankful for raisins, but they taste oh so good right now.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ma0uR8UaudM/Ta2bt9A-nRI/AAAAAAAAA0E/FiB7gLQr_5A/s1600/photo%252833%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ma0uR8UaudM/Ta2bt9A-nRI/AAAAAAAAA0E/FiB7gLQr_5A/s320/photo%252833%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;"><i><b>What are you thankful for today? Please share if your little heart desires...</b></i></div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-25195394867855797012011-04-14T13:10:00.000-04:002011-04-14T13:10:25.432-04:00Lesson learned<div style="text-align: center;">This package came today...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kKrRF0DDYiU/TacmR2WrguI/AAAAAAAAAz8/uW0_sdjJBV4/s1600/photo%252831%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kKrRF0DDYiU/TacmR2WrguI/AAAAAAAAAz8/uW0_sdjJBV4/s320/photo%252831%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I always made the claim that I wouldn't cloth diaper. I made fun of my sister who does it and rolled my eyes when she asked me to change <i>that</i> kind of dipe. However, the second I realized this life wasn't all about me, my hubs and that precious pup anymore, those "ideas" got tossed out the window. I NEVER, I mean <i>never</i> in a million years thought I would join the CD club. It was not for trendy reasons of course but for these:</div><ul style="text-align: center;"><li> better for baby</li>
<li>better for environment</li>
<li>better for wallet</li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;">So I learned my lesson. Never judge and never say never. We shall see how I feel about this intimidating endeavor once the baby gets here...a tad bit over 2 months! </div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-20446617904922211302011-04-12T11:48:00.002-04:002011-04-12T12:21:27.030-04:00diaper bag and lime jello<div style="text-align: center;">It's a rainy Tuesday here in Connecticut. I wish I could lie in bed all day like this ... </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m4hu7nkdHQE/TaRwLn-tDjI/AAAAAAAAAzo/O2t2nQeAZo4/s1600/photo%252827%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m4hu7nkdHQE/TaRwLn-tDjI/AAAAAAAAAzo/O2t2nQeAZo4/s320/photo%252827%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or like this kitty...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G33yAtIm-nQ/TaRwOBxCGGI/AAAAAAAAAzs/O4tLS1aBev8/s1600/photo%252828%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G33yAtIm-nQ/TaRwOBxCGGI/AAAAAAAAAzs/O4tLS1aBev8/s320/photo%252828%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Anyways, enough wishing, time to be thankful...</div><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64578161/blue-sky-damask-emma-large-by-hot-mama">this diaper bag</a> that my sister surprised me with</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TTZ1P9L_yUE/TaRxrLpOTDI/AAAAAAAAAzw/TsCdEbs8y3I/s1600/diaper+bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TTZ1P9L_yUE/TaRxrLpOTDI/AAAAAAAAAzw/TsCdEbs8y3I/s320/diaper+bag.jpg" width="278" /></a></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Lime jello (newest craving) </li>
</ul><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>for a nursery slowly coming along</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BcY_1Crmclc/TaRywEofBhI/AAAAAAAAAz0/fiDEbSrHEZk/s1600/photo%252829%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BcY_1Crmclc/TaRywEofBhI/AAAAAAAAAz0/fiDEbSrHEZk/s320/photo%252829%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>I can now feel baby body parts in my belly. Sounds creepy, but OH SO FUN to actually feel this little one. We poke each other all day long now.</li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;"><b>What are you thankful for? </b></div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-1480383926492279852011-04-07T10:08:00.000-04:002011-04-07T10:08:25.976-04:00My baby shower<div style="text-align: center;">As I mentioned before, my mom and sister planned my shower. It was a beautifully planned party with many thoughtful and unique touches. The guests were family members and close friends that I have known since elementary school. It was such a blessing to have all those loved ones in the same room, celebrating this little one's life. I didn't get many pictures, but here are some that captured the loveliness.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NpQx9gDb4o4/TZ3BpnuknLI/AAAAAAAAAzE/5diOHwTU8sc/s1600/eggfavors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NpQx9gDb4o4/TZ3BpnuknLI/AAAAAAAAAzE/5diOHwTU8sc/s320/eggfavors.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bird's nest favors that my sister made and forgot to hand out. Oops!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l2aD_BZq91E/TZ3BuolQHRI/AAAAAAAAAzM/vpMCze3GxRs/s1600/clearjar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l2aD_BZq91E/TZ3BuolQHRI/AAAAAAAAAzM/vpMCze3GxRs/s320/clearjar.jpg" width="213" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wzPxoRMMQoc/TZ3BzXnjEVI/AAAAAAAAAzg/ATlBPYDKZYc/s1600/karisjar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wzPxoRMMQoc/TZ3BzXnjEVI/AAAAAAAAAzg/ATlBPYDKZYc/s320/karisjar.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karis loved her pink straw.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8tIDlv-YeC4/TZ3BxeACOXI/AAAAAAAAAzY/F7ZKnIpwOSE/s1600/girraffe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8tIDlv-YeC4/TZ3BxeACOXI/AAAAAAAAAzY/F7ZKnIpwOSE/s320/girraffe.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sV7zH-zKhfE/TZ3ByjrIOSI/AAAAAAAAAzc/hjQovQPoY8g/s1600/jars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sV7zH-zKhfE/TZ3ByjrIOSI/AAAAAAAAAzc/hjQovQPoY8g/s320/jars.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Italian soda served in mason jars.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0y3fEHsj-A/TZ3BtY3VO2I/AAAAAAAAAzI/M0tF5sDmSck/s1600/centerpiece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0y3fEHsj-A/TZ3BtY3VO2I/AAAAAAAAAzI/M0tF5sDmSck/s320/centerpiece.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The awesome centerpiece made by my friend Jacqueline.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q15H42dOUGQ/TZ3BvwwKd4I/AAAAAAAAAzQ/Rr3zS29_DFU/s1600/doll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q15H42dOUGQ/TZ3BvwwKd4I/AAAAAAAAAzQ/Rr3zS29_DFU/s320/doll.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">no words.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c4E9TvCtXoY/TZ3BwkjsiCI/AAAAAAAAAzU/poVp0R7cxwY/s1600/flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c4E9TvCtXoY/TZ3BwkjsiCI/AAAAAAAAAzU/poVp0R7cxwY/s320/flowers.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flowers dedicated to my late Grandma.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FXKc59d5EgA/TZ3B0Jjl6NI/AAAAAAAAAzk/vbnTgDzLF2o/s1600/note.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FXKc59d5EgA/TZ3B0Jjl6NI/AAAAAAAAAzk/vbnTgDzLF2o/s320/note.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> A <i>HUGE</i> thank you is due to my mom and sister, you both did an amazing job (and thanks to my dad for helping with much of the 'behind the scenes' work). I appreciated everyone who came to love on this baby. </div><div style="text-align: center;">We feel very special!</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-67890160610507363932011-04-05T16:28:00.000-04:002011-04-05T16:28:20.210-04:00Thankful Tuesday<div style="text-align: center;">It's Tuesday, a day to stop and think about the blessings in my life. Don't we all need to do this once and awhile?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Right now, I am thankful for...</i></b> </div><ul><li>My mom and sister. I went home to Philly this weekend for my baby shower. They did an amazing job capturing my personality with everything down to the food, favors, drinks and decor (more details to come on the shower soon). </li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oXSDUmuDuOE/TZtvbFKoykI/AAAAAAAAAyU/_aey27gbb78/s1600/momjaneme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oXSDUmuDuOE/TZtvbFKoykI/AAAAAAAAAyU/_aey27gbb78/s320/momjaneme.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>A positive doctor's report this week! After learning that the baby has two vessels instead of three in his/her umbilical cord, things were a bit unsettling to say the least. However, after another look at the baby's development, doctors are optimistic for a healthy little one, with two vessels and all! </li>
</ul><ul><li> a sweet niece who exhibited her childlike joy for my baby shower the entire weekend. </li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p4-QO-Wx0D0/TZt2fuWM0WI/AAAAAAAAAyw/U8E9orbvJhA/s1600/karis2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p4-QO-Wx0D0/TZt2fuWM0WI/AAAAAAAAAyw/U8E9orbvJhA/s320/karis2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><ul><li> Generous family and friends who have purchased necessities and "just for fun" gifts for the baby. </li>
</ul><ul><li>Reuniting with childhood and college friends. It's a wonderful feeling to be back in the presence of those friends who have watched me grow up from a scrawny teen covered in pimples to a preggo mama (who still has pimples...stupid hormones!) </li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dgMEP6e4Enc/TZt2jeq55OI/AAAAAAAAAy0/n21nGvMvAsg/s1600/me+and+sarah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dgMEP6e4Enc/TZt2jeq55OI/AAAAAAAAAy0/n21nGvMvAsg/s320/me+and+sarah.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4DORAp-Up9o/TZt3vxqt3JI/AAAAAAAAAzA/6nKPIu6sN-w/s1600/girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4DORAp-Up9o/TZt3vxqt3JI/AAAAAAAAAzA/6nKPIu6sN-w/s320/girls.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b> I'm sure you can think of a few things to be thankful for, so please share!</b></div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-431147457545897683.post-52430981466072766762011-04-04T14:15:00.001-04:002011-04-04T14:16:17.315-04:00Winner of the BLOOM necklace!<div style="text-align: center;">Congratulations Darcy, you won the Bloom necklace! Please contact me at emily@magpiedesignz.com to claim your prize.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">More giveaways coming soon, so stay tuned!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I had my baby shower yesterday, it was beautiful and perfect. More details and pictures to come soon! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Sneak peak....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oxeKlwrgaeY/TZoKyPschRI/AAAAAAAAAww/xEpOdVvP938/s1600/photo%252825%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oxeKlwrgaeY/TZoKyPschRI/AAAAAAAAAww/xEpOdVvP938/s320/photo%252825%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Magpie Designzhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11890130243660529635noreply@blogger.com3