tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50678218870229296232024-01-16T23:11:44.913-08:00We Can Make AnythingA DIY blog about a couple of gals trying to make anything and everything.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger366125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-82496371441010561342018-12-21T06:55:00.004-08:002018-12-21T11:15:42.624-08:004am brainstorms and holiday cheer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="Merry Everything banner over bed" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-snAHirx50Ec/XBz3otEIvsI/AAAAAAAAKYg/9lBIc0jV_JUeD0eoe5uBdFd_gFlQiieawCLcBGAs/s1600/snapshots-of-the-season-1.jpg" title="4 am thoughts and holiday inspiration" /></div>
Yesterday I woke up at 4:00 in the morning with my mind racing. My thoughts were flying so fast that there was no way I was going back to sleep, so I opened a note in my phone and started writing stuff down. These weren't stressful thoughts at all - it was ideas that were bombarding my sleep. They were the kind of ideas I used to get all the time when I first started blogging. Random, exciting, weird, questionable... all at once, in the dark while I was trying not to wake my sleeping wife beside me.<br />
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Not all the ideas were as good in the light of day as they has initially seemed to be at dark o'clock. But, that random burst of inspiration got me thinking. It made me realize how much I miss making things for myself and for those of you who've read my blog in the past. Those thoughts reminded me of how nurturing this corner of the internet is for me.<br />
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This is a transitional time in my life (more on that in a later post), so I find myself with a bit more free time. I'm taking this as an opportunity to get back to making and crafting. For me, and for my people.<br />
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In the meantime as I figure out what in the heck kind of direction I'm going in on this platform, here's a look at what I've been up to lately in a different area of the internet.<br />
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<img alt="Round up of DIY projects" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N8CBAjKbJeA/XBz8jqfDTZI/AAAAAAAAKY8/sJ59ZujSIX8EWbUO1VuPopb2ANk2pu3aQCEwYBhgL/s1600/widn.jpg" title="Featured Projects on Curbly" /></div>
Starting from the top right:<br />
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<li>Check out how I made <a href="https://www.curbly.com/holiday-ice-cubes">festive ice cubes using cookie cutters</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.curbly.com/holiday-wallpapers-iphone-cases">Downloadable Christmas wallpapers for phone and desktop</a></li>
<li>I literally pulled this <a href="https://www.curbly.com/painting-metal-chairs">chair from the trash and gave it a glamorous makeover</a></li>
<li>How to make a <a href="https://www.curbly.com/palo-santo-holder">clay holder for burning palo santo</a></li>
</ul>
Happiest of holidays to you all. More to come soon.<br />
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xoxo,<br />
- m.e.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-87706699498384915292018-03-20T19:13:00.004-07:002018-03-20T19:13:57.901-07:00tomboy tailoring | how to fit your hips into a men's shirt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img alt="How to fit your femme hips into a men's shirt" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rK-Js82SXcM/WrB0nk4H8YI/AAAAAAAAKSg/Al9sUOzVl2ALW2ujqtR5iArvCmdHYaJbwCLcBGAs/s1600/flannel-shirt-fix-5.jpg" title="How to fit your femme hips into a men's shirt" /></div>
Hello, and welcome to a new segment on the blog! I'm thinking of calling <i>Tomboy Tailoring...</i> I was initially going to name it <i>Dyke Tailoring, </i>but then I realized that that's kind of exclusive, because not all tomboys are dykes, and not all dykes are tomboys! Basically, these types of posts are going to cover a topic that I've discussed in the past (I'll link to a few previous examples at the end of this one), which is tailoring men's clothing to fit a woman's body. Because let's face it - a lot of men's clothing is just better than women's. Better materials, better construction, longer lifespan... but! Ill-fitting for a curvy, cisgendered female frame. Which is why learning to alter your own clothes is amazing and will completely expand your wardrobe options.<br />
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<img alt="Create extra hip-room in a men's shirt with this quick tailoring edit" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sQ2BDcl6rTM/WrB2y_9XbdI/AAAAAAAAKSs/4tM2e1Y7I74pQH7-cPA9y_KA8biDRyb-gCLcBGAs/s1600/before-after.jpg" title="Create extra hip-room in a men's shirt with this quick tailoring edit" /></div>
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<a name='more'></a>Today's edition of <i>Tomboy Tailoring</i> is going to cover an issue I've commonly run into: button-down shirts not fitting in the waist. It makes sense. Men's shirts are built for people without hips. I definitely have hips, so my shirts always pucker around the bottom. If you've run into this problem, it's an easy fix.<br />
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What you'll need:</h3>
<ul>
<li>A seam ripper</li>
<li>Matching thread</li>
<li>A sewing machine</li>
<li>Pins</li>
</ul>
To fix your button-down, you'll have to open up the side seams and create more room in the hips. In order to do so, we have to have a little introduction:<br />
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<img alt="How to use a gusset to create more room in your shirt" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUIRDJsupro/WrGn3PICiiI/AAAAAAAAKTg/Jdiz02l86RIovip3R0mUcRE5ZcKLbLuTgCLcBGAs/s1600/flannel-shirt-fix-16.jpg" title="How to use a gusset to create more room in your shirt" /></div>
Everyone, meet the gusset. It's a little triangle of fabric that normally reinforces the side seams of your shirt, but for us, is going to be the extra material we need to create more room for our child-bearing hips (or not-so-child-bearing hips). If your shirt doesn't have a gusset, you can use a piece of matching scrap fabric instead!<br />
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<img alt="Step 1: Remove the gusset" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J2TruVJFDxY/WrGsIcKEDQI/AAAAAAAAKUA/vYHq3mVWk1ohRTSYrrEE5iQE26cR9749wCLcBGAs/s1600/gusset.jpg" title="Step 1: Remove the gusset" /></div>
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Step 1 | Remove the gusset</h3>
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Get out your seam ripper, and remove this little triangle of fabric. You might luck out and see that it's actually folded in half, meaning it's double the size. Now have even more fabric to work with! </div>
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If there isn't a gusset in your shirt, cut a small triangle of fabric that matches with your shirt. </div>
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Step 2 | Open the side seams</h3>
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Put your shirt on, and button it up all the way. Stand in front of a mirror and determine where on your body the shirt starts to get tight. For me, it was around the last button. Use your seam ripper, and open the side seams up to that point of tightness. Stitch straight across the end of the seam where the opening starts to keep the sides from unraveling further.</div>
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<img alt="Step 3: Reattach the gusset" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qoBkAmonZQU/WrGtxCVwSkI/AAAAAAAAKUU/Wdf-rBcVnrEzhXHUOVnlYMIEhFG8ZJemACEwYBhgL/s1600/flannel-shirt-fix-14.jpg" title="Step 3: Reattach the gusset" /></div>
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Step 3 | Reattach the gusset</h3>
Pin the triangle of fabric (whether it's the gusset, the open gusset, or scrap fabric) under the open seam. Stitch it in place. If you're using scrap fabric, you'll need to hem the bottom of the triangle, too. Done! Enjoy your extra wiggle room.<br />
<img alt="How to create extra room in your shirt!" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S8bZf7didH8/WrB3JHmoDEI/AAAAAAAAKSw/8h1Mtc6ow3EFGTAKW0VWihaR9nfVawlzwCLcBGAs/s1600/flannel-shirt-fix-7.jpg" title="How to create extra room in your shirt!" /><br />
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<img alt="Tomboy tailoring tips" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5QPLNblLujU/WrB3LqDMx_I/AAAAAAAAKS0/Ih6bYYv9EzUEBK_ZUnG9cbdC_clQ5J8jACLcBGAs/s1600/flannel-shirt-fix-15.jpg" title="Tomboy tailoring tips" /></div>
If you're looking for more way to alter men's clothing to the femme frame, read <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2015/03/how-to-alter-cuff-length-button-down.html">how to shorten a cuff length</a> and <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2014/11/how-to-tailor-sleeve-blazer-edition.html">how to tailor a blazer sleeve</a>.<br />
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Thanks for reading, gang!<br />
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xoxo,<br />
- m.e.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-66915188642053324472018-03-11T14:02:00.001-07:002018-03-11T16:47:37.232-07:00this is the first day of my life | our tiny minneapolis elopement<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;"><img alt="Our wedding day | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FbqFrHhn9Bc/WqShq4Gtf8I/AAAAAAAAKR4/gex5bzXRzHAIFeWcRrrxKZdQ8_7XL7jcgCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Our wedding day | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All photography by <a href="http://jessicaholleque.com/" target="_blank">Jessica Holleque</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It's been exactly three weeks since I married my best friend (two of those three were spent in total luxury on the North Shore of Lake Superior - more of that to come), and I'm finally sharing the photos! It took a long time to whittle down what snapshots I wanted to share here (our amazing photographer took almost 400 of them!), because they're all special to me. Our photographer, <a href="http://jessicaholleque.com/" target="_blank">Jessica</a>, was amazing to work with, and it was such a pleasure having her share the day with us. We felt totally natural and comfortable around her, which was fortunate, because for most of the day it was just the three of us! Okay... let's get to the pictures.</div>
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Our day started with bundled nerves and quadruple-checking of our packing list, but after we finally piled everything into the car, we met Jessica for coffee. We had initially planned on visiting this cafe by the river, but they ended up being closed for training. A quick change of plans took us to downtown Minneapolis and <a href="http://www.pennyscoffee.com/" target="_blank">Penny's Coffee</a> - a favorite spot of mine and Heather's (they are also one of the few places in the city that offers an oat milk latte, which is my favorite drink of 2018).<br />
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<img alt="A pre-wedding coffee date at Penny's in MPLS | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jMgCB0F4WZ8/WqSdHbEBIlI/AAAAAAAAKPg/TMjgYQMAS1QfhHdQe3-4HXGnjdKeTXZSQCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-1.jpg" title="A pre-wedding coffee date at Penny's in MPLS | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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After half-eaten muffins were discarded in the trash (too nervous to eat!), Heather and I stole away to a corner of the building's lobby to spend a little time to ourselves. The day before our wedding, we had written love letters to each other. It was Jessica's idea (the woman's a pro), and it was one of my favorite parts of the day. While I had been a bundle of nervous energy before - good, but still jittery energy - reading all the sweet things Heather wrote brought everything into focus. I'm going to hold onto that letter for the rest of my life. It makes me ugly-cry rereading it now.</div>
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<img alt="Exchanging letters the morning of our wedding | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iDMW2BxsCDg/WqSk2KREXCI/AAAAAAAAKSE/rAt99R8qhF4Qa1VdoKlSsA8IjC1Fzu5ugCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding.jpg" title="Exchanging letters the morning of our wedding | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Reading love letters before our ceremony | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WTpKnhw6QEQ/WqSdLQ7JWqI/AAAAAAAAKQM/BSUKmszNziEDawRW-Fo0_Fm6wfOU2Z-EQCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-2.jpg" title="Reading love letters before our ceremony | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Before the wedding | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pAA8Cm8O3kI/WqSdQ5DoG4I/AAAAAAAAKQ4/4TK-rkZ_JQYDvhn-7--_DXa2KXjeRjuOgCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-3.jpg" title="Before the wedding | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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Thoroughly teary-eyed, we piled into our cars and headed across the Mississippi River to our ceremony site. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/machineshopmpls/" target="_blank">The Machine Shop</a> is a historic, industrial building usually reserved for large parties and events (re: <a href="http://mspmag.com/arts-and-culture/super-bowl-parties/" target="_blank">Jamie Foxx's Super Bowl party</a> last month). Once a flour factory, it's now wedding-central, and the folks there (shoutout to Stephanie!) were sweet enough to let us steal a few moments inside to say our "I dos."</div>
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<img alt="The site of our wedding! The Machine Shop in Minneapolis, MN | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UvrAGSEkAS0/WqSdq4UlWTI/AAAAAAAAKRc/yv9Q92NkL5Y727klevAyVPQd-qhMQ0r-ACLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-32.jpg" title="The site of our wedding! The Machine Shop in Minneapolis, MN | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Petals on the floor | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K1Eq23wee7s/WqSdSS9GPBI/AAAAAAAAKRE/oGxbuIvM1rMSYaQzQ6Jb_o4ykq-bsxkCwCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-4.jpg" title="Petals on the floor | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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Because it was just us, we kept the decor simple. Rose petals on the floor. Seven dozen, for the seven years Heather and I have spent together.</div>
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<img alt="Handmade bouquet | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qeWAWcZjgzY/WqSdS1uoHKI/AAAAAAAAKRI/rtUTF33Z6JIacG-7qVX8Akq7Rbfbyct_wCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-5.jpg" title="Handmade bouquet | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
We made my bouquet and the boutonnieres the night before. Grocery store flowers and a bit of floral tape (side note: boutonnieres are v easy to make, and <a href="https://youtu.be/nsZkBjCz1Pg" target="_blank">you should always do them yourself</a>).<br />
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<img alt="Getting ready! | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEYl1H1UtnA/WqSdTYahEFI/AAAAAAAAKRM/NqpNrzy3L_kusf7zIubzmFJIPhRrGLOmgCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-6.jpg" title="Getting ready! | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
We were very lucky to have Heather's friend and coworker Emily marry us off. It was her first (!) time officiating a wedding, and she went above and beyond - she even showed up early to help Heather put on her bow tie. Finding an officiant was one of the things I was more nervous about (i.e. finding someone non-religious who was also okay marrying two women), and I feel very fortunate that Emily stepped in. It was so special having her there.<br />
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<img alt="Cufflinks featuring the pets | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bP4FWq2rqb0/WqSdT24jFjI/AAAAAAAAKRQ/4oqYTqtjunoP_IdFv3DvI2RHLcT9IDh9wCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-7.jpg" title="Cufflinks featuring the pets | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
Heather wanted to involve <i>everyone</i> in our little family into our wedding day, so she had <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/563076420/custom-photo-cufflinks-custom-logo" target="_blank">these cufflinks</a> made up with pictures of our dog Doria and our cat Donut on them. I thought it might be cheesy, but they're too cute. These cufflinks got me in a heart-eyes emoji kind of way.<br />
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<img alt="Beautiful bride | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UVC2JE5W4DI/WqSdUUnUxLI/AAAAAAAAKRU/LdAfNy6O4vIJGNLe5doqXtqkzzhCeMbYACLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-8.jpg" title="Beautiful bride | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="First look | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kl4zkMSB9l0/WqSdU091TQI/AAAAAAAAKRY/fllbBGuGgKswBEm-mHNbPXRLl5dyGhRKACLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-9.jpg" title="First look | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
We got ready separately, which I would totally recommend, even for an elopement ceremony like ours. It meant a bit of deep breathing and power poses in the dressing room, which helped me stay in the moment. Even though I'd seen Heather in her suit before, and she'd seen me in my dress through a dozen alterations, it was an absolutely different feeling when she came around the corner. Took all those deep breaths away.<br />
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<img alt="First look | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zUEXYIY5CeI/WqSdHRXiP0I/AAAAAAAAKPk/LUi8uzYek7outR2NLqJ6uHOJjpsp1Po9QCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-10.jpg" title="First look | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Walking to meet our celebrant | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QM-zUuL0quE/WqSdHeCHHuI/AAAAAAAAKPo/kfSA-nHA3xYQeZHdEv1PFU7NGr4EbDDZACLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-11.jpg" title="Walking to meet our celebrant | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Ceremony details at the Machine Shop in Minneapolis, MN | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QL8VCdEUqsw/WqSdHycJzbI/AAAAAAAAKPs/HErLZl41nQ0XSaGHjNQJctczjC3U4rl8gCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-12.jpg" title="Ceremony details at the Machine Shop in Minneapolis, MN | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Saying our vows | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lmB3bG8KRSA/WqSdIRp0YKI/AAAAAAAAKPw/xggdXP9-I3At4GZQYrCnfQFZ2tFAPSgpQCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-13.jpg" title="Saying our vows | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Saying our vows | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xRcPV8IrSU4/WqSdI9ZOu7I/AAAAAAAAKP0/e78gERvN3to4g0yz3BwRTR5TqA2sABL9wCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-14.jpg" title="Saying our vows | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Happy tears | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ycM6NxVc_Bw/WqSdJVzPI4I/AAAAAAAAKP8/8esQV5-4MaYSUpP0SVrOeXUhxLeCQPb2wCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-15.jpg" title="Happy tears | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Making lifelong promises | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wCuwQCT_Lq8/WqSdJ2_7TWI/AAAAAAAAKP4/D4dLRQm1NjsNl8i-FtvDjb1mPKm8pL67wCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-16.jpg" title="Making lifelong promises | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Exchanging rings | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MXU-f7JyWQg/WqSdKbbvKdI/AAAAAAAAKQA/wVYfgqjNxYYa-EmObeqp_5mBV8-MlSlDACLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-17.jpg" title="Exchanging rings | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="It's official! | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j7rfLap6P0c/WqSdKUP8R3I/AAAAAAAAKQE/5Ke_LuQfoBkxCSy1dOv92nIy0peGJJkiQCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-18.jpg" title="It's official! | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="This is the first day of our lives | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T4UBe5nNKMQ/WqSdK1AcZSI/AAAAAAAAKQI/k9Ya3Q4hs5A4lHEFBjQqZAk1KOWWx0PJACLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-19.jpg" title="This is the first day of our lives | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Our tiny Minneapolis elopement | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FfS7agpiOgM/WqSdLzQfwDI/AAAAAAAAKQQ/1QFgdIj9WDMnL_1mxbxdQbbpln_66z30gCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-20.jpg" title="Our tiny Minneapolis elopement | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Poppin' bottles! | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rbqFwE1WDwk/WqSdMRGT0UI/AAAAAAAAKQU/3tsmNXcJ0KMv7TpM-FHom_MYjxRzgZBtwCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-21.jpg" title="Poppin' bottles! | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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Emily did an <i>amazing</i> job, and was sweet enough to bring us a celebratory bottle to pop after the ceremony.</div>
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<img alt="Cheers to being married! | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mHOcpahFd8o/WqSdMzHwacI/AAAAAAAAKQY/1eDgUld6Y9MwNNLeCCToyjY4zXfAQWi_wCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-22.jpg" title="Cheers to being married! | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Signing the papers | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G8F-q-sGUnQ/WqSdNehfjNI/AAAAAAAAKQc/wN9v34bEmegcFhZPUlIseiIcHhwHP_QXgCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-23.jpg" title="Signing the papers | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Feeling officially married | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tZMHltHEpds/WqSdN0KQ4VI/AAAAAAAAKQg/_gAqRBKNUTQL6Rdbiw7X-b_7zs-efMgJACLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-24.jpg" title="Feeling officially married | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Dapper bride | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j2rXHr6z10c/WqSdOVXNZQI/AAAAAAAAKQk/IZZdNFusQicXtsMcCdsN2NaM3_4NyF-9ACLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-25.jpg" title="Dapper bride | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Our tiny elopement ceremony | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--WnqTSmRw6M/WqSdRYcWy8I/AAAAAAAAKRg/l9h6OA135pYVjyRKhEBtkKRZzg6sg8rlgCEwYBhgL/s1600/gray-wedding-30.jpg" title="Our tiny elopement ceremony | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Rings and roses | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w5dpbn0dtrw/WqSdO_Q3ooI/AAAAAAAAKQo/ac7ZEjz707470Iz5aLF1OX9qu14fIsvtwCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-26.jpg" title="Rings and roses | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Just married | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LP7fv60-9OY/WqSdP93SstI/AAAAAAAAKQw/Elarq6IC840etwdzfdrw896dsIhmG6cGgCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-28.jpg" title="Just married | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Our elopement in the Machine Shop in Minneapolis, MN | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sb8gw7g3Ffs/WqSdQbbBCGI/AAAAAAAAKQ0/GT4cFqYlxa8WdC-Wg7i60WpEofZ_7HkDgCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-29.jpg" title="Our elopement in the Machine Shop in Minneapolis, MN | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Our tiny elopement in the Machine Shop in Minneapolis, MN | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5fhrQ03mqso/WqSdR73_ybI/AAAAAAAAKRA/ziME2hXk4Oo6xIUrecps4unaLiE7oPcDQCLcBGAs/s1600/gray-wedding-31.jpg" title="Our tiny elopement in the Machine Shop in Minneapolis, MN | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Our tiny elopement in the Machine Shop in Minneapolis, MN | Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UIjvrTfdhdU/WqSdPQpj1cI/AAAAAAAAKRs/h4GKbE2tIoU0gDcvPYWZJ6RNUKfzIIC3QCEwYBhgL/s1600/gray-wedding-27.jpg" title="Our tiny elopement in the Machine Shop in Minneapolis, MN | Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
After the ceremony, we left the Machine Shop and took a million other photos both inside the city and in nature - but I'll save those for another day. We said our goodbyes to Jessica, then it was a quick drive home to let the dog know we didn't forget about her. We then grabbed an Uber to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/spoonandstable/" target="_blank">our favorite restaurant</a> in the North Loop. A glass of champagne, and dinner for two by candlelight.<br />
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The perfect day.<br />
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xoxo,<br />
-m.e.<br />
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<i>P.S. <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2017/10/why-im-thankful-we-did-engagement-shoot.html">Photos from our engagement shoot</a> if you just can't get enough of our smiling faces.</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-83096745877209186792018-03-03T12:36:00.003-08:002018-03-03T12:36:39.006-08:00on making my wedding dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table 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;"><img alt="Why I chose to make my own wedding dress" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yfC3PoaXaL8/Wpq5zQ2FGfI/AAAAAAAAKOI/Srxpjm19qgYwEJUBUoafNxuPPobbrl70ACLcBGAs/s1600/diy-wedding-dress-2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Why I chose to make my own wedding dress" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All photography by <a href="http://jessicaholleque.com/" target="_blank">Jessica Holleque</a></td></tr>
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When I first told people I was making my own wedding dress, everyone was polite about it. I received applause for my ambitions, but behind encouraging words, I could sense there was an inner dialogue. No one outwardly said what I'm sure they were thinking. <i>Yikes. That dress is going to look tacky. Is she going to get it done in time? Will it fall apart? Why bother??</i> My friends and family are supportive, and luckily for my ego, courteous. Who wants to disagree with a bride-to-be, right? In the end, those thoughts of doubt (that I myself had many times during the dressmaking process) totally came true. My dress was a little tacky, in places. Specifically, the balloon-ish hemline and the uneven way the dress zipped up in the back. It was completed on time, but not by much. And yes, the dress did fall apart. Throughout the course of the day, my toes repeatedly snagged on the hemline, pulling out threads and making the skirt almost too long to walk in. In spite of all of that (or because of all of that), I love this dress. And I love that I got to make the dress I said my vows in.<br />
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<img alt="Thoughts on sewing your own wedding dress" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-grrQ-z2uzlA/Wpq8Gvt5s7I/AAAAAAAAKOc/xjg34-gVHV0ejcYbgn0e3rmbdJEh7fFAQCLcBGAs/s1600/diy-wedding-dress-4.jpg" title="Thoughts on sewing your own wedding dress" /></div>
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I want to write about our actual wedding day and share the photos our <a href="http://jessicaholleque.com/" target="_blank">amazing photographer</a> took, but I'll get to that in a later post. I feel so emotional about our wedding day, just tabbing through the photos makes me well up with tears! For now I'm going to focus on closing the book on this DIY wedding dress. </div>
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My wife (eee!) and I got married elopement-style, which meant we had a stripped-down ceremony. We always knew our ceremony would be just the two of us, but we still pushed the "I Do" date almost two years away from our engagement. And it was all because of this dress. That and saving up money and vacation days for a bougie two-week honeymoon (10/10 would recommend).</div>
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Truthfully, this dress could've been completed in 2-3 dedicated weeks. It's a simple a-line design, and there's no excessive trim work or details. Instead, I opted for leisurely taking my time. I talked before about a longer timeline <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2018/02/the-dress-chapter-five-final-chapter.html" target="_blank">helped keep stress levels low</a>, but the extra time kept me mindful as well. In between bouts of sewing, the dress hung on a form in our spare room. It's presence served as a reminder that I was lucky to find someone to share my life with. Every day that I chose to stitch a little, iron a bit, or make a decision about the design was a mini expression of love. Every time I walked into our spare room and saw it hanging there, I would get more and more excited about what my future held for me.</div>
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<img alt="Why making your bridal gown means mindfulness" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LO0uCK9nAfE/Wpq73oHd2qI/AAAAAAAAKOY/MNL5KauvOtwJ7uGp9gy8PBvwIuX3LHnHwCLcBGAs/s1600/diy-wedding-dress-3.jpg" title="Why making your bridal gown means mindfulness" /></div>
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In the end, the dress is more symbolic than it is spectacular. I know it's plain, but that fits my style and makes me happy. It does, however, hold a lot emotional value. The dress represents care and mindfulness. It represents the attention and planning that went into not only our marriage, but the entire relationship I've shared with my partner. It symbolizes the dedication we have for each other (more so the dedication my wife has, seeing as how she was willing to wait almost two years for me to complete this project!). It symbolizes a growing love, a continually developing affection. It reminds me that good things don't just exist. Like my marriage, like my dress. Good things have to be built. </div>
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<img alt="Mindfulness in sewing: Making a DIY wedding dress" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YZXQ-SjMJAU/WprJw2SUuEI/AAAAAAAAKO0/pDcs1Jbgwt0Vl82OnbXrq45-ab5BVBkegCLcBGAs/s1600/diy-wedding-dress-5.jpg" title="Mindfulness in sewing: Making a DIY wedding dress" /></div>
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<img alt="Details from our DIY wedding day" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-up1w7LJfOZ0/WprJwxD3fgI/AAAAAAAAKOw/F8xtpWIltfYsSKL3NEGZfh5-vLcLm7l8ACLcBGAs/s1600/diy-wedding-dress-6.jpg" title="Details from our DIY wedding day" /></div>
If you were curious about my shoe choice, I ended up going with some navy booties. They were hella comfortable, and I am able to wear them in my everyday life, too.<br />
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I promise, promise to write about the whole wedding day soon. It was a magical whirlwind of every emotion imaginable, and definitely the shortest, longest, best day of my life. I can't wait to share all the details from that day.<br />
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<img alt="Intentional sewing | Why I'm grateful I made my own wedding dress" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aFKgBecGDoM/WprJxCbIJpI/AAAAAAAAKO4/Vh5SqLhTij8IRuDHd0ntxHpZYp8bWr2ewCLcBGAs/s1600/diy-wedding-dress-7.jpg" title="Intentional sewing | Why I'm grateful I made my own wedding dress" /></div>
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Thank you for following along in my adventure into dressmaking. It's been so fun to share challenges and decision-making with you all, and I am so appreciative of your words of support and encouragement. It feels strange to no longer have to tend to a project that's been a part of my life for such a long time, but I can't help to feel a little proud, too. I made my wedding dress!</div>
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Side note: The best part about making your own wedding dress is you can do with it as you please, and no one can say boo. I ended up cutting off about a foot (!) from the bottom of the skirt before we made it to dinner. The skirt was getting muddy from walking around in the melting snow, I kept tripping on the hemline, and by that point in the day the dress had served its purpose. So, bonus - it ended up being a convertible dress too - haha! I got to share a lovely first meal with my wife in a cute little tea length dress. Happy endings all around.</div>
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xoxo,</div>
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-m.e.</div>
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<i>P.S. To look back at the entire DIY wedding dress journey, start from <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/06/the-dress-chapter-one.html">Chapter One</a>.</i></div>
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 4527px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 42px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 4527px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-33653217864618537952018-02-01T16:57:00.001-08:002018-02-01T16:57:04.920-08:00the dress | chapter five (final chapter)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="I made my own wedding dress, and I'm really glad I did" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LaxRywB2q8Q/WnOri38MnxI/AAAAAAAAKNQ/_ndZ7RyBzmAAk2_HifyI2ftFLYh69z6tACLcBGAs/s1600/diy-wedding-dress-1.jpg" title="I made my own wedding dress, and I'm really glad I did" /></div>
It's done. My wedding dress is done. I set out to make my own gown, and I did it. And you know what? It turned out really nice. It's nothing flashy, nothing fancy. It's simple. And that's all I wanted.<br />
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Looking back at <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/06/the-dress-chapter-one.html" target="_blank">where I started with my original idea</a>, I pretty much stuck to the plan. I did skip a belt in the middle, and added some extra trim around the neckline that I hadn't initially planned for, but other than that - that initial sketch has materialized into something real. Finishing this dress was such a relief - and with time to spare! It feels really good.<br />
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<img alt="Thought on making my wedding dress" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DgX_9FL-1qA/WnOq2fuiYZI/AAAAAAAAKM4/niC0jp8OUy4maI3o6U_pkJljWTYeKWNywCLcBGAs/s1600/diy-wedding-dress-2.jpg" title="Thought on making my wedding dress" /></div>
So... what's it like to make a wedding dress? While this isn't the first gown I've ever made (shoutout to my prom dress which I am totally NOT going to share pictures of), it's certainly the most notable. That's what stuck with me while I was sewing. I kept thinking, <i>This is an important dress. I have to be mindful while I'm working on this dress. </i>Normally, when I'm sewing for myself, I don't fret over the details. I don't care if the thread matches exactly, or if the hemlines are a little crooked. But not with this project. And I think it's that mindfulness that makes me love the dress now that it's finished. I took my time (um, basically a whole year), and I think that helped. I never sat down at my sewing machine for too long, because I never wanted to get frustrated with or tired of my dress. I wanted to love this dress, always.<br />
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Here are a few quick things I learned along my dress-making journey:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Test your stitches on scrap fabric first. Figure out the tension while you're testing, and write it down for future reference. Time saver!</li>
<li>Use ALL THE PINS when sewing a zipper in. Don't let it budge a bit.</li>
<li>Boning (the support pieces that hold the bodice of a dress up) will straighten out nicely if you keep your dress on a dress form. </li>
<li>Speaking of dress forms - get a dress form! You can see what your dress will look like IRL without having to try it on over and over. The hemline is really easy to set on a form. And you can add trim with ease. 10/10 would recommend. <a href="http://amzn.to/2DTpvMm" target="_blank">This is the dress form I have, if you're interested</a>.</li>
<li>Get your hands on a steamer. Even though you iron pieces of fabric as you sew, it's inevitable that the dress will get wrinkly while you're working on it. A steamer will fix all your wrinkly woes. </li>
<li>And finally, buy your shoes before you pick the length of your dress. It's the easiest way to get the length right.</li>
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My favorite part about this dress are <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2017/02/the-dress-chapter-three-aka-its-got.html" target="_blank">the pockets</a>, and I can already tell how handy they'll be the day of our wedding. I'll be carrying everything in them. Chapstick, tissues (because I know I'll be tearing up), a copy of my vows... it makes me wonder, how do brides manage without pockets??<br />
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<img alt="Are those wedding bells I hear? Thought on my DIY wedding dress" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ua0qiz-L7MU/WnOq2zIQ57I/AAAAAAAAKNA/Mo03JVHhLAUuGCfzBf1oqa9NgmZpsh6EgCLcBGAs/s1600/diy-wedding-dress-4.jpg" title="Are those wedding bells I hear? Thought on my DIY wedding dress" /></div>
The last little details of our tiny wedding are coming together. We pieced together a ceremony, my soon-to-be-wife has her suit pressed and ready, and the day before our marriage we'll go pick up a bouquet or two of flowers. I absolutely cannot wait.<br />
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I don't want to give away what the final dress looks like yet - I'll wait until our much more qualified wedding photographer can snap some pictures of it. Until then, it's just a matter of counting down the days until I'm a Mrs.!<br />
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xoxo,<br />
- m.e.<br />
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<i>P.S. <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2017/11/the-dress-chapter-45-these-boots-were.html">Take a look at the previous chapter in this DIY wedding dress journey</a>.</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-49144940655121342942018-01-15T07:12:00.004-08:002018-01-15T09:21:59.166-08:00life | links (mlk day)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img alt="Life, Links: The beautiful aftermath of a day of snowfall" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wvee2sFgoD0/Wly-salyK0I/AAAAAAAAKMM/xlv5BCntU3kxWjABFCoAGtb_Fc79jhRtgCLcBGAs/s1600/pine-in-the-snow.jpg" title="Life, Links: The beautiful aftermath of a day of snowfall" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "futura"; font-size: small;">THOUGHTS</span></div>
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Happy Monday from the icebox that is Minneapolis. It's emergency-level cold today, but yesterday it was warm enough for snowfall. A couple lazy inches took all day to fall yesterday, blanketing everything in the process. It was the best kind of snow, too. The kind that muffles every errant sound and forces the city to go into slo-mo. The kind that actually sparkles like glitter. The kind that crunches under your feet.<br />
I have a lot to blog about (i.e. wedding dresses), but my head feels to scattered to do that today. Instead, here are some interesting reads. Today is MLK day, which means it's sort of still the weekend. For some, anyway. Which is why I don't feel weird sharing this type of post today, where I'd normally just save it for Friday. But running late seems appropriate in this weather. Here are some fun things I found around the internet this week:<br />
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<span style="font-family: "futura"; font-size: small;">LINKS</span></div>
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<li>Life is precious, and <a href="http://darlingmagazine.org/true-story-brain-surgery/#" target="_blank">this article about unexpected brain surgery is beautiful</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.vogue.com/article/families-changing-the-world-vogue-february-2018-issue" target="_blank">Five families that are changing the world</a>, including our girl Ilhan Omar (first Somali-American Muslim to hold a position in U.S. public office)</li>
<li>Speaking of our girl Ilhan (I say "our girl" because she holds office in the Minnesota House of Representatives), <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bd1K9Pfgd9o/" target="_blank">read what she thinks about #45 calling her country a shithole</a></li>
<li>As I get older, my anxiety gets worse (anyone else?), so I'm <a href="https://www.thriveglobal.com/stories/5771-7-lifestyle-changes-that-helped-ease-my-anxiety?utm_medium=PRSUIT&utm_source=Email&utm_campaign=PRSUIT" target="_blank">considering making some of these changes to see if it helps</a></li>
<li>Even though I'm aging, my skin still thinks it's 13 - <a href="http://theeverygirl.com/how-to-take-care-of-oily-skin/" target="_blank">these tips for oily skin care are helpful AF</a></li>
<li>Everyone's posting selfies of themselves and their painted doppelganger. If you want in, <a href="https://www.recode.net/2018/1/14/16890826/google-arts-and-culture-selfie" target="_blank">here's the app you need</a></li>
<li>I can't stop <a href="https://youtu.be/PUvVjWR3zTQ" target="_blank">listening to this song about Tonya Harding</a> (it's strangely captivating)</li>
<li>And my favorite article of the week (in like a sad way): <a href="http://www.everywhereist.com/i-made-the-pizza-cinnamon-rolls-from-mario-batalis-sexual-misconduct-apology-letter/" target="_blank">Making the cinnamon bun recipe from Mario Batali's sexual misconduct letter of apology</a></li>
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<img alt="Life and links | A red car in a Minnesota snowstorm" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zu_vgM3Fg-Y/Wly-sW8Zr9I/AAAAAAAAKMI/9C917_ou2L8xYGQTNmV9UqU-iC30PoezgCLcBGAs/s1600/red-car-in-the-snow.jpg" title="Life and links | A red car in a Minnesota snowstorm" /></div>
Martin Luther King, Jr. did not have an easy life. He did not have an easy death. Somehow, he left in this world a multitude of inspiring thoughts and quotes. Look some of them up today, because they apply now more than ever. Here's my favorite one: "<i>I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear."</i><br />
<br />
xoxo,<br />
- m.e.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-16180289150720123552017-12-06T16:55:00.002-08:002017-12-06T16:56:34.071-08:00how to make a security pillow (a.k.a. topponcino) for baby<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="How to make a security blanket (a.k.a. topponcino)" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0snB8R5eVXk/WhIRrvJ7egI/AAAAAAAAKJE/dttflDD_cV4B4NK9WeTjNlOZBvr9Ra2pQCLcBGAs/s1600/topponcino-diy-1.jpg" title="How to make a security blanket (a.k.a. topponcino)" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Before you get any wild thoughts - no, I don't have a baby. Nor am I expecting! <span style="font-size: x-small;">Nor am I ever going to have kids, but that is an entirely different blog post.</span> My brother and sister-in-law, however, just brought a beautiful baby boy into the world. He's amazing. He's cute, and has chubby lil' legs, and even though I haven't met him in person (yet!), I can tell the world is a little better of a place with him in it. I sewed this topponcino for him just a few weeks before he arrived, along with some washable covers. I'll be honest, though - I still don't totally have a grasp on what a topponcino is.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Topponcino pattern" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VHsUiJqf0JQ/WhIRt7DiDSI/AAAAAAAAKJI/FuDsMd2WPLIfwk3uJUwh-mwni-WKvfdJQCLcBGAs/s1600/topponcino-diy-2.jpg" title="Topponcino pattern" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">Topponcino - </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">it sounds like a drink you'd get at Starbucks, right? If anything, this might be the opposite of a latte. It's to make baby feel secure as they are passed from one adult to another. They're supposed to sleep in it always, so that is smells of them, thus creating a safe space. And there's definitely no caffeine. The topponcino is used in the </span><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/features/bringing-up-baby-the-montessori-way-7912539.html" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Montessori Method of child-rearing</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> (which is basically a no-frills/more adventures method of raising kids). You can buy them off of Etsy, but they're so easy to make at home. I did some research before I started this project (</span><a href="https://montessorimoms.wordpress.com/2013/11/05/topponcino/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and </span><a href="http://rideswithchrist.blogspot.com/2012/03/topponcino-diy.html" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">), and here's the method I took:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="What you'll need to make a montessori topponcino" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-acgkc9SIJP4/WhIOhgi6IHI/AAAAAAAAKIQ/MMvMPIWQZ2UbwrIaDCl0l5Ljv7w35pTOgCLcBGAs/s1600/topponcino-1.jpg" title="What you'll need to make a montessori topponcino" /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Materials:</span></h3>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Unbleached muslin fabric - 1 yard</li>
<li>Organic cotton batting - 1 yard</li>
<li>Cotton fabric (for cover) - 1/2 yard</li>
<li>Trim (optional; for cover) - 1 yard</li>
<li>Embroidery thread and needle</li>
<li>Sewing machine and notions</li>
</ul>
<b>Let's start with the pillow:</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="DIY topponcino | Step 1" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2gYc4i2ZX8o/WhIPS7Y7h6I/AAAAAAAAKIc/BfUkKmLlBMsvBPaGg2ASu3Bt4KUpBKBaQCLcBGAs/s1600/topponcino-2.jpg" title="DIY topponcino | Step 1" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">First, I cut a pattern from a large piece of paper. The pattern was a 25" by 16" rectangle, with the corners rounded. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">From this pattern, I traced and cut <b>five</b> shapes from the muslin fabric, and <b>six</b> shapes from the cotton batting. I then cut two additional <b>two </b>from the muslin, which I set aside for the cover. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="DIY topponcino | Step 2" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jjHpooleHcI/WhIPTPwRA0I/AAAAAAAAKIg/g7TgpTYkykcROmpNhhgwcHM5ky2UeAVxgCLcBGAs/s1600/topponcino-3.jpg" title="DIY topponcino | Step 2" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Next, I aligned all the pieces on top of one another, starting with batting, and alternating between muslin and batting, ending in batting. I pinned these layers in place.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="DIY topponcino | Step 3" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CGwFdIF2gY4/WhIPS_LFCKI/AAAAAAAAKIY/KPZD3Tkwny46Ut3MFL-5eZSa7Y9qH5wbQCLcBGAs/s1600/topponcino-4.jpg" title="DIY topponcino | Step 3" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">By hand, I stitched along the edges of the pillow insert, using a hemming stitch. I didn't necessarily stitch through every layer for each stitch, but rather just the edges of the top and bottom layers, bundling them all together in the process. </span><br />
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Next, take the remaining two shapes cut from muslin fabric, and lay them on top of one another. Pin, and stitch along the sides, leaving a gap on one end. Turn inside out. Roll up the pillow insert, then through the gap, insert the pillow into the cover. Hand-stitch the pillowcase closed. I totally forgot to photograph this part, so hopefully this all makes sense1<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="DIY topponcino | Step 4" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oL0Wglo6LmY/WhIPTzjWZeI/AAAAAAAAKIk/215oS4RKSqcxM3cC3cgvYYK4UyejtTsPQCLcBGAs/s1600/topponcino-5.jpg" title="DIY topponcino | Step 4" /></span></div>
To keep the insert from shifting in the pillowcase, use embroidery floss to hand-stitch at give or six points in the pillow. I threaded my needle, tied the ends of the floss, then stitched through the pillow from the front to the back. I then tied the threads on the other side, and cut the threads after the knot.<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="DIY topponcino cover | Step 1" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7gAwfbMChMY/WhIPUB4wUDI/AAAAAAAAKIo/L1u1MK-VDd4pH2EQ9-fdNZ5170VyKLxdwCLcBGAs/s1600/topponcino-6.jpg" title="DIY topponcino cover | Step 1" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Now to the cover:</b></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Using the same paper pattern as before, cut one shape from a soft cotton fabric. Next, cut the paper pattern down, slicing a quarter off one of the short ends. Cut two shapes from the now altered paper pattern. The picture above shows what you should end up with. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="DIY topponcino cover | Step 2" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8J6xPS2iY0Y/WhIPUbDSBxI/AAAAAAAAKIs/6-oDn-a-350kuGJPwxj1YfcSQl7hSRWrQCLcBGAs/s1600/topponcino-7.jpg" title="DIY topponcino cover | Step 2" /></span></div>
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Pin the pieces together as follows: Largest piece laying face up, smaller pieces laying face down. Sew along all edges, then turn right-side out. This is an envelope-style pillow cover, so you will insert the pillow in through the back, with the smaller pieces overlapping. Add trim along the top if desired. </div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Keep baby happy in this Montessori-style topponcino" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-332PvKOKLx4/WhIRzex7-ZI/AAAAAAAAKJM/qJpkm7UMbKkxUy8Nxsc3K2WHTAybiccQgCLcBGAs/s1600/topponcino-diy-3.jpg" title="Keep baby happy in this Montessori-style topponcino" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="How I made a topponcino for my new baby nephew" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iq6vZdBYNDw/WhIRzkKASJI/AAAAAAAAKJQ/qTRm2rbjE3wzJMYUSlVK_LYqSCwoaZ0VQCLcBGAs/s1600/topponcino-diy-4.jpg" title="How I made a topponcino for my new baby nephew" /></span></div>
I am <i>dying</i> to meet my nephew. I won't be able to see him until the spring, so until that time arrives, I plan on spoiling him from afar.<br />
<br />
xoxo,<br />
- m.e.<br />
<br />
<i>P.S. <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2014/05/we-can-make-crochet-babys-blanket.html">A pattern for a sweet crocheted blanket to keep baby warm.</a></i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-15162953804695580642017-11-24T11:00:00.000-08:002017-12-06T15:56:23.293-08:00diy felt xmas banner | make the yuletide very, very gay<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img alt="DIY This: Make the Yuletide Gay Felt Banner" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IZiAQ0kTcj0/WhIJ_bNYTYI/AAAAAAAAKHg/cj3QuOFh8145iOYJ1Ynnc85we6LmmfFaACLcBGAs/s1600/queer-christmas-1.jpg" title="DIY This: Make the Yuletide Gay Felt Banner" /></div>
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I have been, to some capacity, ready for Christmas since November 1st. On an entirely different level, I suppose I am always ready for Christmas. Anyways, this will be my first year <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/12/out-about-where-have-i-been.html" target="_blank">working the entire holiday season at Curbly</a>, and with needing to stay ahead on content, it's been all-Christmas-all-the-time for more than a month now. At home, the transition is slower. Not too slow, though. I made this felt banner a little while ago, and have really excited to hang it. Keep reading to make your own!</div>
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<img alt="Materials needed to make this felt banner" border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3lKDV8K3EAg/WhIAryZBp8I/AAAAAAAAKG0/IcdX24AXtCwpQmZCoWOOSL6DMGzRow6DACLcBGAs/s1600/xmas-banner-1.jpg" title="Materials needed to make this felt banner" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
To make this banner, you'll need:</div>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li style="text-align: left;">Felt in various colors</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">"Make the Yuletide Gay" printable template (<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sYMhVVnF61_oDz6rp0gJi9nGIIZoqUYq/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">page 1</a>; <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iNomMH4OMsFpF5_DH_KaQ3tOipH_udUo/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">page 2</a>)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A pencil and pen</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Fabric glue or hot glue (truth be told, I was too impatient for fabric glue and ended up hot glueing everything)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Scissors</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A dowel or long stick</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Baker's twine</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
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<img alt="Queer Christmas Felt Banner | Step 1" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kWDpGI1i_18/WhIAr7QHSRI/AAAAAAAAKG8/wHsXImsQ3Z01-SIfDNAd6NDoBFpdlnxSACLcBGAs/s1600/xmas-banner-2.jpg" title="Queer Christmas Felt Banner | Step 1" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Print out the template (<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sYMhVVnF61_oDz6rp0gJi9nGIIZoqUYq/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">page one here</a>, <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iNomMH4OMsFpF5_DH_KaQ3tOipH_udUo/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">page two here</a>), and cut out each letter and shape. With the letters facing right-side down, trace their shape on the felt. For lighter-colored felt, use a pencil. For darker felt, use a pen. Cut out each letter.</div>
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<img alt="Queer Christmas Felt Banner | Step 2" border="0" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bCcrsq8hm5E/WhIG1S4Ql2I/AAAAAAAAKHU/2BEqT-9Mp-UdhF9M0HxaG8PNUILSgfh-ACLcBGAs/s1600/gay-xmas-banner-3.jpg" title="Queer Christmas Felt Banner | Step 2" /></div>
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Align the lettering on a large piece of felt. Glue each letter and shape in place. </div>
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<img alt="Queer Christmas Felt Banner | Step 3" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KQLryQY-IjE/WhIAsmhrQNI/AAAAAAAAKHA/B0idX4lAmiYTMxMe-1Tm4fvjzqiPE0DxQCLcBGAs/s1600/xmas-banner-4.jpg" title="Queer Christmas Felt Banner | Step 3" /></div>
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On the back of the banner, fold the top down over the dowel, and glue down. Tie a piece of baker's twine to each edge of the dowel. Hang, and get merry.</div>
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<img alt="Make the Yuletide extra gay by making this DIY banner" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NCGgkwgdSck/WhIKlS9ABAI/AAAAAAAAKHo/k0e8x8oQOzcUgJPBqySGgGGHkjn1yMW-ACLcBGAs/s1600/queer-christmas-3.jpg" title="Make the Yuletide extra gay by making this DIY banner" /></div>
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<img alt="Details from this queer craft" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D-cTmrK1rfg/WhIKs_am_AI/AAAAAAAAKHs/zP0zGe9OVjo_bo6s1lkXVTASmwOJulkXgCLcBGAs/s1600/queer-christmas-4.jpg" title="Details from this queer craft" /></div>
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<img alt="Queers + crafts + Christmas = This" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nb1tsPjju8E/WhIKzUnrIfI/AAAAAAAAKHw/XPBBtiRMVdoA8ogzsxDXNULBy2w-NquLACLcBGAs/s1600/queer-christmas-2.jpg" title="Queers + crafts + Christmas = This" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I'm pretty happy with how this banner turned out. If you've been around for a while, you know I appreciate a good play on words (seen <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2015/06/diy-pride-t-shirt.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2015/06/homo-sweet-homo-sampler-free-template.html" target="_blank">here</a>). Who doesn't? Happy holidays, gang.<br />
<br />
xoxo,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
-m.e.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>P.S. <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2015/12/holiday-iphone-wallpapers.html" target="_blank">Check out these Christmas iPhone wallpapers!</a></i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-32915389473707512552017-11-22T16:32:00.002-08:002017-12-06T15:27:20.195-08:00a little thanksgiving dinner for two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img alt="A little Thanksgiving dinner for two " border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HIFrp55NfeQ/WhYDSGPW9QI/AAAAAAAAKJ4/t9bTL52Ik_4Lu0vvlSYkRYLf68nz-sHJACLcBGAs/s1600/happy-thanksgiving-1.jpg" title="A little Thanksgiving dinner for two " /></div>
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Happy Thanksgiving, all! This may be the most prepared I've ever been for a Thanksgiving dinner. Arguably over prepared, if you ask the slowly softening beets in the bottom drawer of my fridge. My fiancée and I figured out our menu over two weeks ago, we finished up most of the shopping that following weekend, and I spent some time this weekend in the kitchen! Honestly, I might be a little bit bored tomorrow since there is so little cooking to do. I'm thinking I'll use my free time to hunt down a streaming of the National Dog Show online. </div>
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We're munching on some new recipes, and some old classics. Here's what we're cooking:</div>
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<ul>
<li><a href="https://moosewoodcooks.com/2011/07/creamy-squash-soup/" target="_blank">Butternut squash soup from Moosewood</a> | I haven't made this recipe before, but Moosewood is always a win in my vegetarian household</li>
<li><a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/15925/creamy-au-gratin-potatoes/" target="_blank">Potatoes gratin</a> | This is my favorite scalloped potato recipe, and not just because it's stupid easy</li>
<li><a href="https://acleanbake.com/simple-roasted-beets/" target="_blank">Roasted beets from A Clean Bake</a> | Fun fact: I've never roasted beets before. I've never cooked them at all! Which is a shame, because I have always loved a good beet. It's what I'm most excited about cooking tomorrow.</li>
<li>Vegetarian roast | No major cooking here, we're just popping a <a href="http://fieldroast.com/product/celebration-roast/" target="_blank">Field Roast</a> in the oven with some cut root vegetables. Btw, if you are a vegetarian who's been burned by the blandness of Tofurkey, Field Roast makes a proper roast you can actually get excited about.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2014/11/mini-pumpkin-cheesecakes.html" target="_blank">Pumpkin cheesecake</a> | This will be at my table every year forever and ever and I'm SO PUMPED about eating way too much of it tomorrow.</li>
</ul>
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<img alt="Chopped veggies for a vegetarian feast" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DjQ5bjHalNc/WhYC25KxoII/AAAAAAAAKJw/uebKQIGUjVYKRMnlV0b9ulgSwLBPbJ2IQCLcBGAs/s1600/happy-thanksgiving-2.jpg" title="Chopped veggies for a vegetarian feast" /></div>
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<img alt="Prepping squash for butternut soup" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yd1ymz3jzaA/WhYC3NW5EYI/AAAAAAAAKJ0/BI490G9CUKE07ZCqYtwkkuGEVHBW84sHgCLcBGAs/s1600/happy-thanksgiving-4.jpg" title="Prepping squash for butternut soup" /></div>
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<img alt="Roasted butternut squash" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sSJPFaNrL28/WhYDXF8xssI/AAAAAAAAKKA/lSVx8pugiakZW3Jl1cWXDDvfcWvzWlEawCLcBGAs/s1600/happy-thanksgiving-3.jpg" title="Roasted butternut squash" /></div>
Don't forget to take some time tomorrow to think of a few things you're grateful for. I'm most thankful for flannel sheets, hot coffee, animals that appreciate cuddling, our health, creative outlets, and a partner who is patient with me. Happy Thanksgiving!<br />
<br />
xoxo,<br />
-m.e.<br />
<br />
<i>P.S. <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/11/embroidered-thanksgiving-napkins-free.html">You still have time to stitch a few "Get Stuffed" napkins before tomorrow</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-13133737307563465022017-11-19T13:17:00.002-08:002017-12-06T15:27:47.857-08:00simple dog jacket | take two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img alt="Stylish dog jacket tutorial" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S1EhZtSe02E/WhGz767i8GI/AAAAAAAAKF4/QPcJ4SHqXSEx2qzDT85EOz8c-CUVL25QACLcBGAs/s1600/dog-jacket-diy-1.jpg" title="Stylish dog jacket tutorial" /></div>
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Winter kind of bullied itself into our lives this year. After a thick and quick dumping of snow the weekend after Halloween, all the beautiful autumn leaves withered and browned, leaving the city bare and wintry. We packed up what little summer clothing we had out, and replaced the space in our drawers with knits, parkas, hats, and gloves. As I was pulling out the fleece coat that belongs to Doria (our dog), I got to thinking about how handy it would be to have more than one coat for her to wear. Two years ago I made her <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/01/simple-dog-jacket.html" target="_blank">a simple coat from fleece fabric</a>, and it's been awesome. It's easy to put on, it keeps her snug, and she looks super cute in it. When it rains, though, or is muddy out, there's no back-up coat for her to sport while the first one gets laundered. I spotted this double-layer poly material at the fabric store, and duplicated her first coat (with a couple minor adjustments!).</div>
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<img alt="How to make a simple dog coat" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n3xa561--dE/WhG1sWoSbiI/AAAAAAAAKGQ/2I6HdITQssUChwFzx5XaO6DM_9-_wB4oQCLcBGAs/s1600/dog-jacket-diy-4.jpg" title="How to make a simple dog coat" /></div>
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Last time I made her a coat, I used fleece. This time, I'm using a polyester quilted fabric, which comes double-sided. I got mine at Jo-Ann Fabrics. It doesn't look like the kind I purchased is available online, but it was in the apparel section of the fabric department. Here's <a href="http://www.joann.com/varsity-club-quilted-knit-fabric-55in-navy-gold-foil/15488083.html" target="_blank">a comparable one from Jo-Ann's</a>, and <a href="http://amzn.to/2zRO8JV" target="_blank">another option from Amazon</a>. Basically, the fabric is double-sided, so I didn't double up on the fabric like I did with the first coat. </div>
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<img alt="Doria looking stylish in her DIY dog jacket" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0MZXbPcNPyY/WhG0WOVMUBI/AAAAAAAAKF8/EEiExQQUsb0aLBQLs5dmH9EP6AjzUjwYACLcBGAs/s1600/dog-jacket-diy-2.jpg" title="Doria looking stylish in her DIY dog jacket" /></div>
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<h3>
<b><a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/01/simple-dog-jacket.html" target="_blank">To see the original tutorial, click here.</a></b></h3>
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<b>Modifications: </b>The biggest different with this coat versus the last is that I eliminated the neck cuff by simply cutting the body of the jacket in a "T" shape (you can check that out below). After that, all I had to do was attach the belly straps, hem all sides (with double-sided fabric, this meant turning the edges in and sewing in place), and sew the neck cuff together. Note: While I cut the neck cuff at a right angle, I ended up sewing them together in more of a "V" formation so it would fit snugly against the dog's chest.</div>
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I also used <a href="http://amzn.to/2z1PFd2" target="_blank">sticky-backed Velcro</a> this time, too. Pro tip: Turns out it's way easier to sew across adhesive Velcro than to try to pin and sew the non-adhesive type. I'm very excited to have found this out.</div>
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<img alt="How to make a dog coat" border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BSZT_KorY6g/WhG03ihGJ4I/AAAAAAAAKGI/Ac2fyDBI-xkdV-zdRn7FICNxnlzreNP5ACLcBGAs/s1600/dog-jacket-diy-3.jpg" title="How to make a dog coat" /></div>
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I want to show you how well the jacket fits, but Doria was unwilling to pose while standing. So here's an unflattering angle I captured while she wasn't paying attention.</div>
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<img alt="DIY dog coat from the side" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nRLckmKwaIo/WhG2IHRm2lI/AAAAAAAAKGU/t7c-VMqOxI4tVxbSuEFcByA7ZgXVP5dkACLcBGAs/s1600/dog-jacket-diy-5.jpg" title="DIY dog coat from the side" /></div>
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Looking back at <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/01/simple-dog-jacket.html" target="_blank">the pictures from the first tutorial</a>, it blows my mind how many gray hairs have sprouted on her over the past two years. She's eleven years old, and has fully embraced her senior-status. After we went on this photoshoot walk, she promptly curled up on the couch for a winter's nap.</div>
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<img alt="Letting this sleeping dog lie" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y189zuNzD58/WhG3LwPcgrI/AAAAAAAAKGk/vQZSkrejSysEtAMaaO7n2WhGwNYPuj6JwCLcBGAs/s1600/dog-on-couch.jpg" title="Letting this sleeping dog lie" /></div>
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xoxo,</div>
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-m.e.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>P.S. Not a dog person? <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2017/01/diy-cat-bed-curbly.html" target="_blank">Learn how to make a stylish cat bed instead</a>.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>This post contains affiliate links.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-89391124913285711422017-11-02T19:20:00.004-07:002018-03-03T08:27:16.595-08:00the dress | chapter 4.5 (these boots were made for weddin')<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Six boots for the winter bride" border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SNit3mtnw-I/WfvOmnqL-4I/AAAAAAAAKFc/o2j0y5f6P-AEHAKsO6LhYNzJlARF5Ib2wCLcBGAs/s1600/wedding-dress-shoe-guide.jpg" title="Six boots for the winter bride" /></div>
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Okay, folks. My DIY wedding dress is almost done, save for picking the length and hemming the bottom. Before I literally cut the bottom of my dress off (I'd be nervous about doing so, but there isn't really time), I need to know what shoes I'm wearing. </div>
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What sort of shoes does one wear to a winter wedding?</div>
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I immediately gravitate towards boots, because of three factors:</div>
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1. It'll be wintertime, and I don't want to get pneumonia</div>
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2. I'm looking for a shoe with little to no heel so I'm not towering over my fiancée</div>
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3. I'm a casual kind of woman, and boots are comfortable</div>
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Other than setting my sights on some cute lil' booties, that's all the decision making I've done. Color, style, material, laces v no laces... that's all still up for discussion. So I'm putting it out there in the <strike>internet</strike> universe, hoping I'll get something back. Here are some ankle-lengths I'm currently eyeing:</div>
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1. <a href="https://www.everlane.com/products/womens-ankle-boot-cognac" target="_blank">everlane ankle boot</a> | 2. <a href="http://amzn.to/2AdA0IU" target="_blank">white mountain auburn bootie</a> | 3. <a href="https://www.dsw.com/en/us/product/indigo-rd.-annaa-bootie/392618?activeColor=024" target="_blank">indigo rd. annas bootie</a> | 4. <a href="http://goto.target.com/c/232312/81938/2092?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fwomen-s-dv-amalia-laceless-oxfords%2F-%2FA-52204886%23lnk%3Dsametab%26preselect%3D52160370" target="_blank">laceless oxfords (target)</a> | 5. <a href="https://www.everlane.com/products/womens-modern-chelsea-boot-black" target="_blank">everlane chelsea</a> | 6. <a href="http://amzn.to/2zs8wlJ" target="_blank">franco sarto hancock bootie</a></div>
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<br />
HELP.<br />
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xoxo,</div>
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- m.e.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>P.S. <b><a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2018/02/the-dress-chapter-five-final-chapter.html">The final chapter in this DIY wedding dress series is up ahead!</a></b></i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Affiliate links are used in this post!</i></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-17315659247012670952017-10-08T16:56:00.002-07:002017-12-06T15:28:18.878-08:00why i'm thankful we did an engagement shoot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Engagement shoot at sunrise - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1pSfD3mmLxo/WdmMzDCtjRI/AAAAAAAAKDY/as98_RKswqMBD6wYx6MvieAujZfEVlZ_wCEwYBhgL/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-3.jpg" title="Engagement shoot at sunrise - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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Well, hello!</div>
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It's been a minute since I've visited this corner of the internet. I miss being able to write via this outlet as often as I used to, and it feels comforting to be back. What initially spurred this post was getting engagement pictures done with my fiancée, Heather. There ended up being so many photos that I loved, and I didn't want to bombard social media with a bunch of gushy pictures. Then I remembered, "Oh yeah! I have a blog! No one can stop me from being cheesy there." So here I am.</div>
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So why am I glad the engagement shoot happened? Before I get into that, let me clarify that I am pro-engagement shoot when the photographer is<i> also</i> going to shoot your wedding. Such is the case with our amazing photographer, Jessica Holleque (if you're in the Minnesota area, you can <a href="http://jessicaholleque.com/" target="_blank">look & book at her website here</a>, and SHE IS AWESOME). We didn't know Jessica personally before we asked her to shoot our wedding. She is one smart lady, and always asks to do an engagement shoot before the big day. Clever reasoning to follow.</div>
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I was hesitant at first - after all, my fiancée is a photographer and we could just get the camera on a tripod and do the photos ourselves. BZZZZZT (that's the sound of a buzzer, btw)! This was foolish thinking on my part. Having someone do couples photos for you and your boo allows the two of you to get wrapped up in the moment. It allows you both to think less about posing and more about enjoying each other. And that definitely shows in the photos.</div>
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Aside from being more present, doing this shoot with Jessica was the perfect way for us to get comfortable around her (and her camera) before our actual wedding day. We chatted with her during and between pictures, learned how she worked and what she needed out of us, and she got to discover first hand how generally awkward my fiancée and I are. All things that I probably couldn't emotionally handle on our big day. </div>
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And finally, who doesn't want a bunch of romantic AF photos of you and your other half? It'll be nice to have some professional photos of us that don't involve wedding dresses, flowers, and tears.</div>
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For this shoot, Heather, Jessica, and I visited one of our favorite Minnesota lakes, walked through tall grasses as the sun rose, and cooked a bit of breakfast outdoors. It was perfect.</div>
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<img alt="Sunrise at Cedar Lake, MPLS - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nYoE7MLkfBo/WdmMxxMglWI/AAAAAAAAKCs/DtnYBKrTdaI6ZIIehEhwGstf8PCSi6KZQCLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-1.jpg" title="Sunrise at Cedar Lake, MPLS - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Sunrise photoshoot - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qY7XagmX5xE/WdmMzNWM39I/AAAAAAAAKDc/jNyd9j9VR048sf22pb45gR4yv3Lnyep9gCLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-4.jpg" title="Sunrise photoshoot - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Cuddling in the grasses - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_6iX65gWQVM/WdmMzd6uviI/AAAAAAAAKDg/DIQUDiyMd34afWh3LI300JujYRFzu4nbQCLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-5.jpg" title="Cuddling in the grasses - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="God, she is adorable - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FlLSMm3otIc/WdmMzX65CVI/AAAAAAAAKDk/-nd9XjncxEQr3nOr1F3AyyfiVo96A2gVwCLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-6.jpg" title="God, she is adorable - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="You are my sunshine - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yeZGgwokbDA/WdmOzqnvolI/AAAAAAAAKEI/ozB5UrXKaeUelpjNNnHbM6I3D3X8sk1sACLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-19.jpg" title="You are my sunshine - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Engagement photo shoot - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PE506Kzm7wU/WdmMzqbjVNI/AAAAAAAAKDo/i_8x2GiJ4FQESUTVkkOxNPtwlJLAFkmvQCLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-7.jpg" title="Engagement photo shoot - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Cedar Lake, Minneapolis - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wCEMOxxzZQQ/WdmMz47zV9I/AAAAAAAAKDw/GV75_BIvLI8WJttutwIRoaQ1tcTDv7OgACLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-8.jpg" title="Cedar Lake, Minneapolis - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Me and my better half - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qux8OSCoI0A/WdmMzqbzZ8I/AAAAAAAAKDs/2rGhB9wSnoQ3YuOTP_Fm_Rm8TIVCjv3fACLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-9.jpg" title="Me and my better half - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="She keeps me smiling - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hv8lm85s72Q/WdmMyJ__cKI/AAAAAAAAKC4/APw0EiNe9kYifnbQFDjkmFeBMtmSntmVgCLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-10.jpg" title="She keeps me smiling - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Picnic breakfast - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H_bSGE2Y6pc/WdmMyUWiLsI/AAAAAAAAKC8/M4m-KRaPLYs22ngZYOlQOSVfdC5DaaKTACLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-13.jpg" title="Picnic breakfast - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Breakfast in the park - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6cvnYyKBncs/WdmMysXas1I/AAAAAAAAKDE/LG_mVR8vofYVt8do1FsLW5FJg1KFtEIeACLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-15.jpg" title="Breakfast in the park - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Grilled breakfast - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6hZ8wjP5zMg/WdmMyxSe0mI/AAAAAAAAKDI/GueQpxs7bqAkMEQBpM2dCCsGnV0IwbjSwCLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-16.jpg" title="Grilled breakfast - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Eggs and potatoes on the grill - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pZtgKM2RbJY/WdmMy8-rLXI/AAAAAAAAKDM/mOcuZmRTdTshddsNonD9ldwcITTYdf8NgCLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-17.jpg" title="Eggs and potatoes on the grill - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
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<img alt="Breakfast in the woods - Photography by Jessica Holleque" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I6kzpY-eGaQ/WdmOKE9m6SI/AAAAAAAAKEA/btKgBX1Pll4tOT9nBKN_F4brR00wc6J5QCLcBGAs/s1600/same-love-engagement-shoot-18.jpg" title="Breakfast in the woods - Photography by Jessica Holleque" /></div>
Looking through these photos makes me re-remember how lucky I am<br />
<br />
All of these photos were taken by the wonderful Jessica Holleque, and you can see the rest of her work by <a href="http://jessicaholleque.com/" target="_blank">visiting her website</a>.<br />
xoxo,<br />
- m.e.<br />
<br />
<i>P.S. <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/04/out-about-weekend-in-tofte.html">Snapshots from the magical weekend she said "yes."</a></i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-52295646131108895232017-08-26T09:08:00.002-07:002017-11-27T08:36:38.213-08:00how to pot succulents<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img alt="How to properly pot succulents" border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hkolyQiC2u0/WaGSSpClMUI/AAAAAAAAKAk/-X2eMdhrc88XhnSBE-GUpCdghp-RyuSMACLcBGAs/s1600/how-to-plant-succulents-2.jpg" title="How to properly pot succulents" /></div>
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<img alt="Windowsill buddies. How to plant and care for succulents." border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L2ERrQtUfOc/WaGSfNB7uUI/AAAAAAAAKAo/vSzJ58hkmXkPwxTWVrz5SJ-KdlVOwzNewCLcBGAs/s1600/how-to-plant-succulents-1.jpg" title="Windowsill buddies. How to plant and care for succulents." /></div>
Whichever color is between brown and green (green-brown?), that is the color of my thumbs. I still have lots to learn about the plants I've brought into my home, but I've mastered some. Most of the tropical-type plants in my house are suffering my ignorance the hardest. I just love them so much and want to water them <i>all the time! </i>This, as it turns out, is the opposite of love. Of all the indoor greenery, I have the firmest grasp on succulents, and feel confident that I can share how to properly care for and pot succulents.<br />
If you're a long-time reader, you know I figured out <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/09/how-to-propagate-succulents.html" target="_blank">how to propagate succulents a while back</a>. Since discovering this trick, I have propagated the same plant 2-3 times. I've also ended up with a few random succulents, plus my fiancée Heather's aloe plant that made the trek with us from Florida to Minneapolis. Essentially, there were a lot of random pots with random plants hanging in all the windows. I recently gathered them all up in a simple window box, and here's how I set them up in their new home.<br />
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<img alt="What you need to properly pot succulents" border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YOXGDehdwf4/WaGWBgNFBoI/AAAAAAAAKBA/JznN1G7PIUIs2cA-0CskfMZFK4u1iCqDACLcBGAs/s1600/how-to-plant-succulents-4.jpg" title="What you need to properly pot succulents" /></div>
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<b>You'll need: </b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Some succulents and/or cacti</li>
<li>A low pot (<a href="https://www.target.com/p/succulent-planter-rectangular-western-clear-oil-finish---red-cedar---gronomics/-/A-51813505" target="_blank">I found this wooden window box at Target</a>)</li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/2xBOOPc" target="_blank">Quick-draining potting soil</a></li>
<li><a href="http://amzn.to/2gecEgO" target="_blank">Small pebbles</a> (can be known as river rocks)</li>
<li>A spray bottle filled with filled with filtered water</li>
</ul>
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<img alt="Step 1: Fill with rocks" border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E-mxNuUPjok/WaGWcaplN8I/AAAAAAAAKBE/nXAG2b0AP2sPdrUepzM5REsVNHACoSJgQCLcBGAs/s1600/how-to-plant-succulents-5.jpg" title="Step 1: Fill with rocks" /></div>
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When choosing a planter to pot succulents in, pick a low container, preferably with draining holes. Succulents hate sitting in water, so it's important that moisture can move through the soil and away from the roots of the plants. In the bottom of your planter, lay down a layer of pebbles. This will aid in proper drainage. </div>
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<img alt="Step 2: Fill with quick-draining soil" border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o5YVAwapNI0/WaGXMyAXStI/AAAAAAAAKBM/h9deHsk5kLQCSOKBeAj_7I_dIeOAcARGQCLcBGAs/s1600/how-to-plant-succulents-6.jpg" title="Step 2: Fill with quick-draining soil" /></div>
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Next, fill the planter 3/4 of the way full with potting soil. I like using <a href="http://amzn.to/2xBOOPc" target="_blank">the quick-draining variety</a> for added protection against root rot. </div>
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Take your plants and shake any loose dirt from the roots. Arrange them inside the planter. Don't squish them down into the dirt, just lightly set them in place. You don't want to cause the dirt to be compacted, nor do you want to tussle the roots too much. </div>
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<img alt="Step 3: Fill with a variety of succulents" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Ra2mchBeKo/WaGX5kV7kBI/AAAAAAAAKBU/N1QUHA1BMpQ9N1bIelF2g_uGWnCFfFYgACLcBGAs/s1600/how-to-plant-succulents-7.jpg" title="Step 3: Fill with a variety of succulents" /></div>
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Fill in any empty space in the container with more potting soil. I added a handful of river rocks on the topsoil too, just because I thought they looked cute.</div>
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Grab the spray bottle full of filtered water, and mist your plants. I recommend using filtered water only, and here's why: tap water is full of fluoride, which is great for humans (it protects our teeth and makes them stronger), but bad for plants. I have made the switch to watering my plants entirely with filtered water, and the difference has been significant. Fluoride is harsh on plants, and if you've noticed the edges of your plants leaves turning yellow or brown, I would recommend making the switch*. I also recommend using a spray bottle, as it cuts down on the tendency to just completely soak plants. </div>
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*When using filtered water, make sure the water is room-temperature before you spray your plants. Don't shock them with cold, Brita water from the fridge!</div>
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<img alt="Happy plant gang." border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CPslpjmdLLQ/WaGZef-iXBI/AAAAAAAAKBg/9ZODTnFWHYg02eEqvoEabNZT7J2CtZHHQCLcBGAs/s1600/how-to-plant-succulents-12.jpg" title="Happy plant gang." /></div>
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<img alt="How to fill a windowsill box with succulents" border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rq12RgzlVqg/WaGTjcrxuyI/AAAAAAAAKA4/3LKV6kMBdvkr3xf5suCA-QOwrMU9fKMsQCEwYBhgL/s1600/how-to-plant-succulents-3.jpg" title="How to fill a windowsill box with succulents" /></div>
<div>
Succulents love bright light, so a windowsill it the optimal place for them. Make sure to water them frequently - I like to mist them 2-3 times per week, less in the winter. </div>
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<img alt="How to fill a windowsill box with succulents" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5qeB60aO_O8/WaGZzHGhxVI/AAAAAAAAKBk/Xgc7Dwl94gA5_L0j2OFdUJjq39ZUkDFdwCLcBGAs/s1600/how-to-plant-succulents-11.jpg" title="How to fill a windowsill box with succulents" /></div>
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<img alt="Aww." border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Xd8zQHML6I/WaGZ0ko3b2I/AAAAAAAAKBo/uEXQomyYjvQ86IvYd__c1Ca01zNTfvM0ACLcBGAs/s1600/how-to-plant-succulents-8.jpg" title="Aww." /></div>
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<img alt="My plant-loving home." border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w8H4x_hHPJc/WaGZ1oHimuI/AAAAAAAAKBs/e4qwSpDmDywTIJYCIFgL46g-mqQBpp-2wCLcBGAs/s1600/how-to-plant-succulents-10.jpg" title="My plant-loving home." /></div>
<div>
I keep finding ways to bring plants into the kitchen, and I think that's because it's my least favorite room in the apartment. These succulents are definitely cheering it up, though.<br />
<br />
xoxo,</div>
<div>
-m.e.</div>
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<div>
<i>P.S. If you have a busy houseplant schedule to keep track of, <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2017/04/plant-notes-printable.html">use this free printable to-do template</a>.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-21087237493512069122017-08-09T06:59:00.001-07:002018-03-03T08:26:32.856-08:00the dress | chapter four (a.k.a. decision-making time)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pu1Bf8OgOdQ/WYsOxC62h9I/AAAAAAAAJ_M/FfSj-ze_nY8719VU4vMbqXZfdSZpQrprgCLcBGAs/s1600/the-dress-chapter-for-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Wedding Dress, Chapter 4" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pu1Bf8OgOdQ/WYsOxC62h9I/AAAAAAAAJ_M/FfSj-ze_nY8719VU4vMbqXZfdSZpQrprgCLcBGAs/s1600/the-dress-chapter-for-1.jpg" title="DIY Wedding Dress, Chapter 4" /></a></div>
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In all honesty, I have not been a diligent bride-to-be. I've been procrastinating with the work I need to do on my <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/10/the-dress-chapter-two.html" target="_blank">handmade wedding dress</a>. I'm at this crucial stage where all the steps remaining are definitive and seemingly irreversible, and it's daunting. The due date is coming up <i>fast</i>, so in spite of my insecurities and fears, I need to bite the bullet. The last thing I want is to be sewing buttons the day before my wedding. Hence the quote on my letter board. </div>
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Here's what I have left to do. I need to:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Put in a zipper (definitively determining waist size!!)</li>
<li>Cut the skirt to the proper length and hem</li>
<li>Add detailing and buttons</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zHvXSJy4bE4/WYsPNerpbCI/AAAAAAAAJ_Q/X1rHxTyuyEw34NMGMi8nVwR_TpnQjjRyACLcBGAs/s1600/the-dress-chapter-four-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY wedding dress to-do list" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zHvXSJy4bE4/WYsPNerpbCI/AAAAAAAAJ_Q/X1rHxTyuyEw34NMGMi8nVwR_TpnQjjRyACLcBGAs/s1600/the-dress-chapter-four-2.jpg" title="DIY wedding dress to-do list" /></a></div>
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Even though I'm terrified of making these final moves on my dress, it's simultaneously exciting. I temporarily pinned the zipper in place (which, after I did, made me realize my zipper is way too long), and put the dress on. Oh baby, this thing is awesome. It's like a real dress! And I'm still in love with the pockets. It feels pretty damn good to be this far along. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oJBhTPXsoqc/WYsP0rWvPLI/AAAAAAAAJ_g/wIBeu7Bk6ZMqs0rmcFcK0519dP9kUR5QgCLcBGAs/s1600/the-dress-chapter-four-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Details on my handmade wedding dress" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oJBhTPXsoqc/WYsP0rWvPLI/AAAAAAAAJ_g/wIBeu7Bk6ZMqs0rmcFcK0519dP9kUR5QgCLcBGAs/s1600/the-dress-chapter-four-5.jpg" title="Details on my handmade wedding dress" /></a></div>
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As far as tackling my to-do list, I'm feeling more positively about some things versus others. The zipper I feel pretty good about, I just need to pull the trigger and stitch it in. </div>
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The details are what I'm most excited for. I'm absolutely swooning over the sheer top I picked for this gown, but after hemming it, I'm realizing I need some sort of trim around the neckline and the arm holes. Nothing crazy, just something to hide the hemline. I also need a small, rounded button for the neck hole, plus an additional button for the top of the zipper. A shopping list is forming in my head...</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yg_wLGK3iDQ/WYsP0kw2cII/AAAAAAAAJ_c/PqgoY6eAQ7ETUituxZ9T4_36EMjfDcpLQCLcBGAs/s1600/the-dress-chapter-four-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Details on my handmade wedding dress" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yg_wLGK3iDQ/WYsP0kw2cII/AAAAAAAAJ_c/PqgoY6eAQ7ETUituxZ9T4_36EMjfDcpLQCLcBGAs/s1600/the-dress-chapter-four-3.jpg" title="Details on my handmade wedding dress" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lskA-j9ppLc/WYsP0q9fHbI/AAAAAAAAJ_k/u9y7lhkkjsA5T9Yh1EyFIab_CDjFF81cwCLcBGAs/s1600/the-dress-chapter-four-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Details on my handmade wedding dress" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lskA-j9ppLc/WYsP0q9fHbI/AAAAAAAAJ_k/u9y7lhkkjsA5T9Yh1EyFIab_CDjFF81cwCLcBGAs/s1600/the-dress-chapter-four-6.jpg" title="Details on my handmade wedding dress" /></a></div>
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Regarding the length of the gown, I'm totally stumped. How do you determine how long to make a dress when you haven't even decided what shoes you'll be wearing?? I'm getting married in the middle of the winter, which means some of the time I'll be wearing flats (for the sake of my fiancée who is shorter than me and feels a little self-conscious about it), but other times I'll probably be wearing boots in the snow! I still have some research to do, but any input would be seriously appreciated. Do I buy the shoes now? Do I make the length reversible in case something changes? Help!</div>
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Aside from finishing the gown, I still need to gather accessories, like shoes, earrings, and some sort of wrap (because, winter wedding = brr). I also need to figure out what in the world I'm doing with my hair, and whether or not I can pull off lipstick. Stay tuned!</div>
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xoxo,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
-m.e.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>P.S. <b><a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2017/11/the-dress-chapter-45-these-boots-were.html">There's a mini-chapter of the dressmaking adventure ahead</a></b>, plus <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2017/02/the-dress-chapter-three-aka-its-got.html">see the previous chapter</a> in this DIY wedding dress series where I share the wonder of pockets. </i></div>
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<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;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rKaqEXJ9jFI/WXzmOPmnEzI/AAAAAAAAJ-c/Ia1BcU9F9qM_9oU9E0NmWgROwoBBtrrzwCLcBGAs/s1600/plants-in-sink.jpg" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small; text-align: left;">Instagram @</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wecanmakeanything/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">wecanmakeanything</a><span style="text-align: center;"> | Twitter @</span><a href="https://twitter.com/wcmanything" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">wcmanything</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "futura"; font-size: small;">HAPPY THOUGHTS</span></div>
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Well, hello there! How is everyone's summer going? Around here, the time has been full but rewarding, with as many moments being spent outside as possible. Heather has reignited her love of the open water (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BWodJgHA8VQ/?taken-by=hbomb.mpls" target="_blank">as seen here</a>). The lakes make her nostalgic for her high school rowing days, so we're the kind of people who kayak now. It makes my arms and back ache but my head and heart happy. My bike is getting lots of fresh air, too, as we're discovering all sorts of trails and paths that we hadn't visited before. I'm trying to say "yes" more. I'm trying to spend my time effectively, productively, and wisely. I'm also drinking a lot of Lacroix, which is making me feel exceptionally basic but hydrated.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "futura"; font-size: small;">HAPPY LINKS</span></div>
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<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li style="text-align: left;">Favorite DIY of the week: <a href="https://projectnursery.com/2015/11/diy-sew-bandana-bib/" target="_blank">These baby bibs that look like little bandanas</a> - they have me dead</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Speaking of babies, I'm going to be an aunt soon!!! I'm very excited, and I've already made the little babe <a href="http://www.curbly.com/gender-neutral-baby-blanket" target="_blank">a crocheted blanket which you can check out on Curbly.com</a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://canopy.co/" target="_blank">There's a curated version of Amazon</a> and it's simply convenient</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/rommydebommy" target="_blank">These purses/broaches/bowties on Etsy</a> are all making me extremely hungry</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Speaking of fashion, I am in serious need of <a href="https://www.makkedesign.com/shop/dont-be-cringy-cringe-dad-hat/" target="_blank">this hat that reads <i>don't be cringy</i></a> and I will wear it EVERY DAY because apparently <strike>people</strike> men in my neighborhood haven't figured that out yet (shoutout to my Instagram friend <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mulberrymelissa/" target="_blank">@mulberrymelissa</a> who owns this hat because she is awesome) <span id="goog_509607610"></span><span id="goog_509607611"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;">One of my summer goals is to learn how to take care of myself better, and I found <a href="http://newdarlings.com/2017/07/christinas-current-skincare-routine/#more-9623" target="_blank">this skincare routine from <i>New Darlings</i> to be extremely helpful</a> (and inspiringly transparent about struggles with acne)</li>
</ul>
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<img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OtjCimhHz7A/WXzmlekdpuI/AAAAAAAAJ-g/9FEaKRBDCT4ibuulbsPVHNBDaAgAO-KZQCLcBGAs/s1600/plants-in-sink-2.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I usually put this kind of post out on Friday, but let's be honest, it's crazy that I'm writing anything AT ALL because I've kind of let <i>We Can Make Anything</i> fall to the wayside as my life changes and evolves. But this site is my first love, my cozy spot, my home, so I'm not letting go of her entirely. Have a sweet weekend, I'm off to buy a snake plant.<br />
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xoxo,</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
-m.e.</div>
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<i>P.S. I keep track of the watering and lighting needs for all my plants <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2017/04/plant-notes-printable.html">by using this handy printable</a>.</i></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-72630346265068488312017-07-16T19:09:00.002-07:002018-03-20T19:01:35.248-07:00diy minimal fashion | how i cloned a tank top<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img alt="DIY minimal fashion - how to clone your wardrobe" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TxyWSA5z9Ik/WWvG1mXeP5I/AAAAAAAAJ9U/rinyGpG8huUfidON7SRKCWI15MQcXlfbgCLcBGAs/s1600/minimal-tank-top-1.jpg" title="DIY minimal fashion - how to clone your wardrobe" /></div>
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<img alt="How to sew a minimal tank top" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JMxX8rDPAIc/WWvHKxOnv6I/AAAAAAAAJ9Y/ZnMh3XGA3fUZzRIgi4L0nz5sYI-NTM5QQCLcBGAs/s1600/minimal-tank-top-2.jpg" title="How to sew a minimal tank top" /></div>
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Happy summer!</div>
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I've been scratching a recent itch to work on more sewing projects. I'm worried it has to do with how I'm procrastinating on <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2017/02/the-dress-chapter-three-aka-its-got.html" target="_blank">my wedding dress</a>, but I'm trying not to think about that (since I definitely <i>am</i> procrastinating on that project). This tank top is the most recent addition to my wardrobe. It's simple, minimal, comfy - much like its predecessor. I used an existing shirt to create this new one, which is by far the easiest way I've found to sew one's own clothing (also there is no room for judgement when you see how worn this shirt is - it's incredibly comfy). A while ago I shared <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2015/09/do-it-yourself-tee-shirt.html" target="_blank">how I made my own t-shirt</a>, and this method is essentially the same. </div>
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<img alt="Materials needed for this project" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--vZ702PPIKw/WWvE5LA7LLI/AAAAAAAAJ84/-lB3yiAFJP0fgS6YgTVAfVI-iazquY3jwCLcBGAs/s1600/clone%2Byour%2Bclothes%2B1.jpg" title="Materials needed for this project" /></div>
<h4>
To make this top, I used:</h4>
<ul style="list-style-type: circle;">
<li>Knit, stretchy fabric</li>
<li>Matching thread</li>
<li>Sewing machine and notions</li>
<li>Marking pencil</li>
<li>Existing tank top to replicate </li>
</ul>
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<img alt="How to clone your wardrobe" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TS9weTAKmvk/WWvFKDW2UKI/AAAAAAAAJ9E/HUqs2bj1mBocX3KRFkinTt2i5oc5cXmKgCLcBGAs/s1600/clone%2Byour%2Bclothes%2B4.jpg" title="How to clone your wardrobe" /></div>
<b>Step 1. | </b>To begin, I laid my knit material down with the stretch of the fabric moving from right to left, just as my original garment moves. I laid the shirt on the fabric, then traced about 1/2 inch around the garment. I only traced one half of the garment, then folded the fabric in half along the middle. Next I cut along the outline while the fabric was still folded, cutting through both layers of fabric.<br />
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<img alt="How to clone your wardrobe" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GHOIETwHzPs/WWvFKoZ0qxI/AAAAAAAAJ9I/dcxivHJIQP86aIXZj_vui-obJ0W51NS-ACEwYBhgL/s1600/clone%2Byour%2Bclothes%2B6.jpg" title="How to clone your wardrobe" /></div>
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<b>Step 2. |</b> With my first piece cut, I traced its shape onto the fabric, and cut out an identical piece. To differentiate between the pieces, I cut one with a deeper neckline for the front, and one with narrower straps for the back. </div>
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<img alt="Make a minimal tank" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F23pqBFLeY4/WWvFMWfTkcI/AAAAAAAAJ9M/QoS0IOFHwI03d1qXsJnldj9CjPHN2W7DwCEwYBhgL/s1600/clone%2Byour%2Bclothes%2B5.jpg" title="Make a minimal tank" /></div>
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<b>Step 3. | </b>I pinned the pieces together, right-sides in. I then sewed along the sides and at the top where the straps meet, using a zig-zag stitch. It's important to use a zig-zag stitch when sewing stretchy materials. This way the seam moves with the stretching of the fabric. </div>
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<img alt="How to sew a muscle tee" border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aJV57k0F4ic/WWvFKCAqfyI/AAAAAAAAJ88/lXVSjmfxwZQOQaliYKcuNmxDJo6KAX-6wCEwYBhgL/s1600/clone%2Byour%2Bclothes%2B2.jpg" title="How to sew a muscle tee" /></div>
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<b>Step 4. | </b>With the seams in place, all I had left to do was hem any raw edges. I did this with a zig-zag stitch as well. </div>
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<img alt="Summer is here and I'm going sleeveless by cloning my favorite muscle tee" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--swoCq0dQ7c/WWvH2tZqq7I/AAAAAAAAJ9c/FAT1YBxLqPwM1B4gbPOsKG5yqtdsKvufwCLcBGAs/s1600/minimal-tank-top-3.jpg" title="Summer is here and I'm going sleeveless by cloning my favorite muscle tee" /></div>
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<img alt="Details from this DIY minimal fashion project" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-igLOJMSgivo/WWvVGg2F9TI/AAAAAAAAJ9w/T2lpwtQM924uRD4T7z78je9OAa4fLx7TQCLcBGAs/s1600/minimal-tank-top-5.jpg" title="Details from this DIY minimal fashion project" /></div>
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This fabric is so incredibly comfortable, and the length and fit of this top is just right. I'm all about DIY minimal fashion, and am so ready to sew up a whole batch of these tanks. </div>
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<img alt="How to sew a muscle tee" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f_YcH_w9y78/WWvIWqrXe_I/AAAAAAAAJ9g/-dWVG5iyDbsheEGrRDBcIRbYrhEXeWRHQCLcBGAs/s1600/minimal-tank-top-4.jpg" title="How to sew a muscle tee" /></div>
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<img alt="Sew your own tank top" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Va8MQRGRqxc/WWvX_2lkk4I/AAAAAAAAJ94/1FlGnR3etLYDsLZ_DjoVSDxBR634Y-wcwCLcBGAs/s1600/minimal-tank-top-8.jpg" title="Sew your own tank top" /></div>
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Side note: I'm getting older, and caring a <i>lot less</i>. Like, I don't care that people tell me I need more diversity in my wardrobe, and I don't care that black and denim are the only colors I ever want to wear. So I'm resigning to just doing what I want, and wearing what I want. It feels good, and I'm ending up with a lot less clothes in my closet that I don't actually like. </div>
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xoxo,</div>
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-m.e.</div>
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<i>P.S. If you're into basic wardrobe pieces, <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/10/everyday-shoulder-bag.html">learn how to make this everyday bag.</a></i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-4197999425609534912017-04-23T18:52:00.002-07:002017-04-23T19:04:04.180-07:00plant notes printable<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img alt="Keep track of your greens with this printable plant notes sheet" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--JIpRCfGsxQ/WP1PfRL2lLI/AAAAAAAAJ7s/tdUEmmtQDHIco2SNrfYh278ggvHB8q0_QCLcB/s1600/plant-notes-4.jpg" title="Keep track of your greens with this printable plant notes sheet" /></div>
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<img alt="Plant Notes Printable" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E8o8SJqQFsQ/WP1PfDhVPUI/AAAAAAAAJ7g/DM997geVslQSD1WafrTUpKh2k31jpjwdQCEw/s1600/plant-notes-1.jpg" title="Plant Notes Printable" /></div>
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Maybe the next post I write won't be about plants... okay maybe it will. I'm dealing with a plant crush right now. I boosted my indoor botanical gang recently (and <a href="http://www.curbly.com/pet-friendly-plants" target="_blank">wrote about it for Curbly</a>), and now I have so many that I'm having difficulty keeping track of them all. Some houseplants need water once a week, some every other day. I really don't want to kill any of them, so I'm keeping a plant journal. I've made this plant notes sheet available to print - <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B03WGh6szOvBb3VjRGRZNG1VWTg/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">just click here to download</a>.</div>
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<img alt="Watering, sunlight, etc. - keep track of how to care for your plants with this printable" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NcLWMmDp0cg/WP1PfCJvq-I/AAAAAAAAJ7o/QLIuBhrzAEQyH9CMvfAQ_pGqgHewslsAgCLcB/s1600/plant-notes-2.jpg" title="Watering, sunlight, etc. - keep track of how to care for your plants with this printable" /></div>
I love having all these plants in our home. They're so bright and happy, and make the place seem cozier. I don't have a super green thumb, but I'm SO DETERMINED not to kill any of these houseplants!<br />
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xoxo,<br />
-m.e.<br />
<br />
<i>P.S. Are you a list-maker? <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2015/08/market-shopping-list-free-printable.html">I've got another printable for you then</a>!</i>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-91304246842794758232017-03-19T08:13:00.001-07:002017-12-06T15:28:56.792-08:00diy hanging planter | round two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img alt="DIY Hanging Planter" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sBsyEvIFE_o/WM23CeFFBlI/AAAAAAAAJ6A/h6yAJ67M_MApy89ZggzkALyWdBKv_E-UgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4316-diy-hanging-plant-1.jpg" title="DIY Hanging Planter" /></div>
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<img alt="DIY Hanging Planter" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2lv0iEAQF7w/WM23ZFWo0sI/AAAAAAAAJ6E/NlIgmqPe9CEM1ZVNrkUQ8FRgyHnO816xQCLcB/s1600/IMG_4309-diy-hanging-planter-2.jpg" title="DIY Hanging Planter" /></div>
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I will be the first to say that I love winter. I love the snow, I love the cold. I thrive in it. I embrace it wholeheartedly. HOWEVER. It's now March and still freezing outside, and I'll admit - I'm getting a bit antsy for spring. <i>Just a bit. </i>Which might be the reason behind my current desire to absolutely fill our apartment with plants. I want them all, in my home, pronto. While I may not be great at interior design, even I know that plants liven a space up in a snap.</div>
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I'm still working on getting all the spider plants off the ground and away from the cat (<a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2017/01/simple-diy-hanging-planter.html" target="_blank">see part one of my plant-hanging adventures for the reason why</a>). There's at least one more that I need to move, plus the first plant (Grant) is sprouting off-shoots already. Thinking of putting a sign on the door that just says "Spider House." Here's a different way I made a DIY hanging planter. </div>
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<img alt="What you need to make this simple DIY hanging planter" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jrw7Rg4rCRo/WM01gJHze_I/AAAAAAAAJ5Q/4f52E_yRINo7X1N3_vp7TRATTvxWVRfWACLcB/s1600/IMG_4294-diy-hanging-planter-materials.jpg" title="What you need to make this simple DIY hanging planter" /></div>
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What I used to hang my plant this time around was: </div>
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<li><a href="http://www.target.com/p/round-self-watering-planter-room-essentials/-/A-51439231" target="_blank">A plastic planter</a> (this time I bought a self-watering one because I'm a genius)</li>
<li>Clothesline rope (found at my local hardware store)</li>
<li>A drill </li>
<li>A drill bit that's slightly larger in diameter than the rope</li>
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<img alt="Drill holes in a plastic planter to hang plants" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LdMcFaLdyIc/WM02RVRhAdI/AAAAAAAAJ5Y/qGya2NBaUycwrotP9n2QKNNX3nlXnKYHACLcB/s1600/IMG_4295-diy-hanging-planter-step-1.jpg" title="Drill holes in a plastic planter to hang plants" /></div>
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Around the top lip of the plastic planter, I drilled four holes. If the planter were a clock, I drilled at 3, 6, 9, and 12 o'clock (basically all equidistant from each other). In order to create a clean, smooth hole, I never switched my drill in reverse. I drilled through the plastic, and kept the drill rotation the same as I pulled the drill bit back up and out of the plastic. This cleans up the drill hole as you remove the bit.</div>
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<img alt="Using rope and a drill, I was able to turn this regular planter into a hanging one!" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GuH6_CtG2OU/WM02vk2QE4I/AAAAAAAAJ5c/540pYJGRSJQ-Qt93xsexB9CKyCwqfYSHQCLcB/s1600/IMG_4290-diy-hanging-planter-step-2.jpg" title="Using rope and a drill, I was able to turn this regular planter into a hanging one!" /></div>
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I cut two equal pieces of clothesline rope. Each piece was twice as long as I needed space to hang from hook to planter, plus the length it would take to go around the planter. Next, I fed one of the ropes through the back of one hole, down around the bottom of the planter, and through the front of the hole on the opposite side.</div>
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<img alt="DIY Hanging Planter" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8eOj3LTKoBc/WM029iSNTmI/AAAAAAAAJ5k/qAoacwBlEUMkXV8XUl7SfFtYEqqGqKYrwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4296-diy-hanging-planter-step-3.jpg" title="DIY Hanging Planter" /></div>
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I repeated the same process for the second rope, but on my way around the bottom I criss-crossed the ropes, going over-and-under the first rope with the second.</div>
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<img alt="How to make a very simple hanging planter" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H0k1zfozyp0/WM03c_oah-I/AAAAAAAAJ5s/rYYkaSjbw7Aoxy6wv7CHcCKCtsUWdHD0ACLcB/s1600/IMG_4293-diy-hanging-planter-step-4.jpg" title="How to make a very simple hanging planter" /></div>
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Finally I gathered the ends of both ropes together, tied a knot about 2.5 feet up, and then tied a second knot about 5 inches above that. </div>
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<img alt="DIY Hanging Planter" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YY9bF8RQW6M/WM24ZlccTgI/AAAAAAAAJ6U/IhYScdV-tXI835p1JIkWCHq6CyanSLLLACLcB/s1600/IMG_4313-diy-hanging-planter-4.jpg" title="DIY Hanging Planter" /></div>
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I had to use a hot mess of <a href="http://www.target.com/p/3m-command-hook-small-6pk/-/A-14790631" target="_blank">Command hooks</a> to hold this sucker up. Normally I'd just use a hook screw, but since this is a rental, I didn't want to damage the shelving that was here when we moved in.</div>
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<img alt="DIY Hanging Planter" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xz3RM6t-Xw4/WM24ZiimQeI/AAAAAAAAJ6Q/kgRVQwqXFUcpYJFi_CcPgeO8bo9pR5wLwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4310-diy-hanging-planter-5.jpg" title="DIY Hanging Planter" /></div>
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As you can see this little guy is still a baby. I'm hoping it'll grow into the space I've given it. </div>
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<img alt="DIY Hanging Planter" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wbkWiuU_etk/WM24FMNA12I/AAAAAAAAJ6M/1ntCdFgkEMEhZnswQvUuo-jJgbraNYw-gCLcB/s1600/IMG_4314-diy-hanging-planter-3.jpg" title="DIY Hanging Planter" /></div>
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xoxo,</div>
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-m.e.</div>
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<i>P.S. Learn how to make the <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/07/pot-painting-with-rubber-bands.html">painted terra cotta pots</a> seen in my kitchen window.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-34235867865226109012017-02-19T13:45:00.002-08:002018-03-03T08:25:46.339-08:00the dress | chapter three (a.k.a. it's got pockets)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img alt="How to add pockets to a wedding dress" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CYUmMkbHYIU/WKoFQ_QPTII/AAAAAAAAJ3o/nxL40XPWvDEZYJnFccyiOHHYc6WI-7gZwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4065edit-wedding-dress-diy-make-it-handmade.jpg" title="How to add pockets to a wedding dress" /></div>
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<img alt="How I'm making my wedding dress" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kk8l2RUdt4E/WKoJzMJNJ8I/AAAAAAAAJ4E/NhtrNHPd2zgRpB3QmRScPT5NEgmTPC82QCLcB/s1600/IMG_4076-wedding-wed-bridal-bride.jpg" title="How I'm making my wedding dress" /></div>
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Alright gang. I'm making some pretty heavy headway on my <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/10/the-dress-chapter-two.html" target="_blank">handmade wedding dress</a>. To recap, I picked a pattern to roughly follow, then made a test dress from muslin fabric to make sure I liked the shape. Now I've started to work on the bodice, and the skirt is basically done. Today I worked on what has to be my favorite aspect of this beauty: <i>pockets</i>. Having pockets in this thing is an absolute must. My fiancée and I are getting married in the middle of the winter, and while this year we are experiencing what must be a record-breaking heat spell, I want to be prepared for the harsher temperatures that the midwest can produce. So, in short, I need pockets. A place to hide hand-warmers and tissues and stuff. And, success! I love love love that this worked out and that I have a place to put my hands when I'm feeling awkward during photo-times. </div>
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While I'm making my dress entirely myself, I imagine adding pockets to an existing dress wouldn't be that difficult. Before putting pockets in an already completed dress, you would need to break and remove the seam from the sides of the skirt - both the liner and the outer fabric. </div>
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<img alt="DIY pockets for a dress" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WUgq4ClGWwE/WKoFbruVYfI/AAAAAAAAJ3s/7O6bCUymSG0JIVdMoAIq1j_dWlbXvKh5wCLcB/s1600/IMG_4070-pockets-dress-sewing-sew-project-wedding.jpg" title="DIY pockets for a dress" /></div>
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Here is what the shape of my pockets looked like before I stitched them into my dress. They are each made of two pieces of liner and two pieces of outer fabric, stitched together with the top edge left open. I also left about 1/2 inch of room at the ends of the stitch to fold the top down when hemming. When lining the pieces up, it went: liner, outer fabric (right side up), outer fabric (right side down), liner. The outer fabric is the part that is touched when you put your hand in the pocket. </div>
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<img alt="How to: Add pockets to a dress, without a pattern!" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yKC-D2Td510/WKoJhF2KYMI/AAAAAAAAJ34/1tlfaqa1k34vrjVuSmLbyBNQsBYFk9REwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4077-bridal-satin-silk-white.jpg" title="How to: Add pockets to a dress, without a pattern!" /></div>
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My brain hurt while I was trying to figure this part out, and my one piece of advice when putting pockets in a dress is to pin everything in place, turn the dress right-side out and check that you did you pin-work correctly. With the dress inside out, place one pocket between the outer fabric layers. </div>
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<img alt="Who wouldn't want to put pockets in a skirt?" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X7vTaZ-sm5U/WKoJh9HSc2I/AAAAAAAAJ38/DePwKbhirwoyGwAMTxbGxkvmoM0QfkSewCLcB/s1600/IMG_4075-stitch-instructions-how-to-make-it.jpg" title="Who wouldn't want to put pockets in a skirt?" /></div>
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There will be two "sandwiches" to be pinned in place. Starting from the top, the first "sandwich" will be: the front liner, the front outer fabric, and the top piece of the pocket (both liner and outer fabric). The second "sandwich" will go in reverse: the bottom piece of the pocket (both liner and outer fabric), the back outer fabric piece, and the back liner piece. Pin these two "sandwiches" together, flip the whole thing right-side out and check to see it was done properly. Flip it back inside-out, and stitch the two "sandwiches" separately, along the pins. </div>
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<img alt="Who needs a purse when you can put pockets in a dress!" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qO_CpGoC4aA/WKoJi-wJCPI/AAAAAAAAJ4A/tPrTTmdjsTY93E6VN9QMosrrkZWhuDDIwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4067-stitch-straight-pin-needle.jpg" title="Who needs a purse when you can put pockets in a dress!" /></div>
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Now it's just a matter of stitching the sides of the dress together. Sew along the lines as shown above, stitching the dress together but skipping the pocket. I took these seams about 1/4 inch into the pocket as well, just to ensure none of the inside of the dress could poke out.</div>
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<img alt="The Dress gets pockets" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aPsmVrGF1bI/WKoKF2iVzsI/AAAAAAAAJ4I/ozkgiB2I9qwR96dTRSuTFeD5ZtzonRd2wCLcB/s1600/IMG_4066-pockets-comfy-wedding-dress.JPG" title="The Dress gets pockets" /></div>
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Pockets, you guys! This feels like a major accomplishment in my dress-making journey, and while I'm far from done, it's nice to get little details out of the way. I know the teeny specifics are what will draw out the time it takes to finish this project. But seriously, how functional is this beast? Side thought - why don't all wedding dresses just come with pockets? Where are you supposed to put all your stuff?</div>
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<img alt="DIY This: Putting pockets in a wedding dress" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CPzb7jAHGU4/WKoKgqd5DrI/AAAAAAAAJ4M/dBW-ly-YCtUSYNs7xAOd_GZc9jKClvjaACLcB/s1600/IMG_4068-red-roses-floral-bouquet.jpg" title="DIY This: Putting pockets in a wedding dress" /></div>
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More updates to come - I have pieced together much of the bodice, but am reluctantly avoiding putting in the zipper because that is like my greatest sewing fear. But, the boning was successfully put in, and it's starting to look like a real article of clothing. Stay tuned!<br />
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xoxo,</div>
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-m.e.</div>
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<i>P.S. <b><a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2017/08/the-dress-chapter-four.html">Chapter four of the dressmaking adventure is here!</a></b></i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-35227518264210887032017-01-25T17:47:00.003-08:002017-12-06T15:29:57.304-08:00simple diy hanging planter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img alt="Simple DIY Hanging Planter" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-akyIsYDwuTw/WIVDRCuWyKI/AAAAAAAAJ2I/KV7QYrcUlqIbWLQanRnAEMqUGg3pwKKGQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3849.jpg" title="Simple DIY Hanging Planter" /></div>
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<img alt="Spider plants up high - how to hang a plant" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QpZHpvHFsZ4/WIVDapXaGXI/AAAAAAAAJ2M/eTeFzVOL0QcIuaadQqA37A--sYQyBZU7gCLcB/s1600/IMG_3847.jpg" title="Spider plants up high - how to hang a plant" /></div>
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Everyone, meet Grant the Plant. He's the latest addition to our ever-growing collection of green. He came to our home by way of one of Heather's work buddies, and he's a spider plant. When Heather brought him home last week, I did a little internet research to determine what kind of care he needed. Fun fact: Spider plants are a hallucinogenic to cats if ingested! Also a fun fact: our cat Donut loves eating plants. With that in mind, Grant needed to be air-borne.</div>
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<img alt="Simple DIY Hanging Planter: What Materials You'll Need" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Os49dNAtbUs/WIlRNec3hsI/AAAAAAAAJ2o/rJnNMwO86Jc1spnCDag4M7VVTKH7M2r8wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3844.jpg" title="Simple DIY Hanging Planter: What Materials You'll Need" /></div>
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I made this hanging plant by using:</div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">A lightweight plastic planter</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Clothesline rope</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A ceiling hook</li>
</ul>
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<img alt="Create a hanging planter using clothesline cord and a plastic planter" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3leYMH-ePLI/WIlRbwiDIQI/AAAAAAAAJ2s/lXhK9AtScRA9Fnx16GOUBkuFngmj42lZACLcB/s1600/IMG_3845.jpg" title="Create a hanging planter using clothesline cord and a plastic planter" /></div>
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First, I tied the rope around the largest part of the pot, nice and snug. I double-knotted all the knots for this hanging project.</div>
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<img alt="How to hang a plant" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAq1_L7180M/WIlRyHe93MI/AAAAAAAAJ2w/wX5dt1hkiV4EeRmbd1MVkK7UYR6LHj5oQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3840.jpg" title="How to hang a plant" /></div>
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Next, I cut the rope coming from the first knot about four feet from the knot (the length needed for the plant to hang from the ceiling, plus a little extra for braiding and knot-tying). I cut two other lengths of rope, also four feet, and knotted them to the original circle.</div>
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<img alt="DIY Hanging Plant: Use braided clothesline to quickly get your sprouts off the ground" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gS41mUGfdZw/WIlSP3l2ljI/AAAAAAAAJ24/h2DXzHYW2noeRRfq1sTPIBccnNg14RCnwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3850.jpg" title="DIY Hanging Plant: Use braided clothesline to quickly get your sprouts off the ground" /></div>
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I then gathered the three ropes together, and knotted them together. Then I braided the three ropes together.</div>
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<img alt="Simple DIY Hanging Planter" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QyE9UdWaybY/WIlSpZp-FOI/AAAAAAAAJ28/IH2HNimSYJ0o3nN0HIK3LmAXOs5jV3zLwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3848.jpg" title="Simple DIY Hanging Planter" /></div>
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At the end of the braid, I looped one of the ropes, then knotted them all together. Done and ready to hang!</div>
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<img alt="Hanging a Plant, Simple-Style" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jt_cbZ_KuDc/WIlTGM7qRwI/AAAAAAAAJ3I/xXXg4BZ10L4cjGONB4nTbznQ2HNKQgxnwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3841.jpg" title="Hanging a Plant, Simple-Style" /></div>
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<img alt="Meet Grant the Plant" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N0jL93l0Uwc/WIlS75ceg9I/AAAAAAAAJ3E/NxCRsQTNALMzLur3RNTwrlD-69oX3U_FACLcB/s1600/IMG_3846.jpg" title="Meet Grant the Plant" /></div>
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The good thing about Grant is he doesn't need too much light, so hopefully this spot near the window will keep him happy. Plus it will keep the cat from tripping, so that's a bonus. </div>
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xoxo,</div>
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-m.e.</div>
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<i>P.S. See this trick on <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/07/pot-painting-with-rubber-bands.html">how to quickly decorate your planters</a> using rubber bands.</i></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-80208740409664568802017-01-22T08:07:00.002-08:002017-12-06T15:30:14.247-08:00women's march | don't stop marching<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0sm6aXum4w/WITVY1XH19I/AAAAAAAAJ14/EqkVEOuITAoBtEwKRK1GZku4K9sjO3C2wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3825edit-star-tribune-feminism-feminist-newspaper-news.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0sm6aXum4w/WITVY1XH19I/AAAAAAAAJ14/EqkVEOuITAoBtEwKRK1GZku4K9sjO3C2wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3825edit-star-tribune-feminism-feminist-newspaper-news.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When I went to bed Friday night I was hesitant, nervous, cautious. Today I feel on fire. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I was nervous about going to Women's March to the Capitol here in Saint Paul, Minnesota. My fiancée has the flu and sciatica, so I knew I'd be going alone. I was worried about what was going to happen at the march. Would people be angry? Would anyone show up? I'm horrible at directions - would I even be able to find the meeting spot? Saturday morning I laced up my boots and walked to the train. The moment I stepped onto the platform I felt better. Two dozen other women with signs, husbands, boyfriends, and babies in tow were waiting with me. When we boarded the train car, everyone was buzzing. Each stop the train made multiplied the number of passengers - all protesters, all full of energy. I gave up my seat and by the time we reached our destination our train was so full we had to pass by the last four stops without being able to let anybody on. That was the moment that I felt it. The power that happens when women gather. And I wasn't nervous anymore. I was smiling. Everyone was peaceful, but ready to fight. We un-sardined ourself from the train and marched to the parking lot that was designated as the meet-up location. There were so many people (<a href="http://www.startribune.com/thousands-flock-to-st-paul-for-women-s-march/411409885/" target="_blank">estimated 100,000</a> after it was all said and done). Babies in strollers, children with signs they clearly made themselves. Female firefighters in yellow suspenders. Older women, younger women. We gathered, marched, chanted, and it was all peaceful. It was beautiful, and empowering.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />And it was sad too. The frustration could be felt across the crowds. Over chants of "Hey hey, ho ho, Donald Trump has got to go," you could hear muffled conversations of anger over the current state of our government. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Young women chatting about disbelief.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Older women complaining about having come so far just to be thrown decades back. Everyone looked fed up, and fired up.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />It was raining while we marched. I was freezing (and maybe now a little sick as a result). There were almost 70,000 more people there than estimated. Reading news reports when I got home, it seemed we weren't the only ones who were over-packed. But spirits were high, in spite of delays and the rain. It was all worth it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And today I feel fire, because while yesterday was the most magnificent display of female empowerment I have ever witnessed, I know it's just the beginning. False reports from the White House about turnout numbers has me fired up. Cutting of arts programs has me fired up. The fact that there were protesters across the globe has me fired up. What happens tomorrow and the next day and the next day has me fired up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I don't know what the future has in store, but I can tell you what my plan is. I'm going to stay vigilant. I'm going to vote in the mid-terms. I'm going to keep speaking out against what I think is wrong and what I feel is an abuse of power. I'm going to do everything in my capability to keep the momentum of yesterday's march going. I'm going to stay fired up. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- m.e.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-21605077985179903642017-01-14T16:49:00.001-08:002017-12-06T15:30:35.555-08:00diy cat bed + curbly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V6RneFRJV74/WHkOY_z1TrI/AAAAAAAAJ1I/nlMrLPeZk2QeZa4tqYOxZ4pXa-zs6dabgCLcB/s1600/IMG_6594edit-cat-bed-bedding-pillow-hygge.jpg" /></div>
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So many things have been happening in my life lately. I've been working at <a href="http://curbly.com/" target="_blank">Curbly</a> for about a month now, and so far it's been a whirlwind experience. Even though my head is swimming at the end of each workday, being able to create content full time is a dream. Aside from work, I've been filling my spare moments with purging my life of stuff I don't need, drinking excessive hot cocoa, and working on <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2016/10/the-dress-chapter-two.html" target="_blank">my wedding dress</a> (an update is coming soon, detailing the disaster that is boning) (that's what she said). It's too cold to do much of anything here in Minnesota, so aside from forcing myself to walk to work every day, I'm pretty much homebody-ing it up.</div>
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I wanted to share with you guys a little project I did for Curbly the other day. So back by <strike>popular demand</strike> my mother's request for more pictures of the cat, here's Donut showcasing this quick and easy DIY cat bed. See the full tutorial on <a href="http://www.curbly.com/diy-cat-bed" target="_blank">Curbly.com</a>!</div>
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xoxo,</div>
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-m.e.</div>
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<i>P.S. In the spirit of New Years, you should check out <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2015/01/diy-weekly-planner-plus-free-template.html">this free template for a DIY weekly planner</a>.</i></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-61308990770545487502016-12-23T12:44:00.000-08:002017-11-27T08:38:01.193-08:00happy holidays<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="Merry Everything, from Donut the cat." border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6cqfxxTcpeI/WF2LDvu3TvI/AAAAAAAAJ0Y/EHGSr7m58qsG0ph-l6TlfLtKuuzWzmFpgCLcB/s1600/IMG_6339edit-donut-for-the-holidays.jpg" title="Merry Everything, from Donut the cat." /></div>
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Happy Holidays, guys. Get lots of rest this weekend, snuggle with your pets, celebrate the good times, pick up the phone & call people you love, drive safe, & eat too much food. Wherever you are in life or in the world, I wish you peace. Here's to 2017 being the best year yet.</div>
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xoxo,</div>
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-m.e.</div>
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(& Donut, pictured above, who absolutely loves destroying anything Christmas-related)</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-83739555882972519012016-12-16T06:22:00.000-08:002016-12-16T06:22:04.444-08:00out & about | where have i been?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fmhLlaVo6M4/WFG4kupiuII/AAAAAAAAJzU/DcswcDNSpmQcibKVNwcu9p77JmMPsg-fQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2930-coffee-spoon-stable-restaurant-life-blogger-style.jpg" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hey gang. Time is flying and 2016 is almost over. I've been absent, but I promise you guys it's for a good reason. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I got a new job!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Not only did I get a new job, but I'm working for a <a href="http://www.curbly.com/" target="_blank">fantastic blog called Curbly</a>. It's exciting and thrilling and totally different, in addition to being a bit scary. However I couldn't be more grateful for this opportunity. I am still in disbelief that I get to do what I do everyday. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So... what does that mean for We Can Make Anything? I'm not totally sure yet. I love We Can Make Anything. This blog is my baby. I've spent so many hours writing, so many weekends making and photographing things. What started off as a side project has transformed into something I really, <i>really</i> care about. It got me to where I am now in my career path, but I also consider this place</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> my home.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">What I foresee happening are the dynamics of this </span>site<span style="font-family: inherit;"> shifting. I may focus more on wedding-related stuff as Heather & I get closer to our nuptials. I might post more personally - thoughts and stories and stuff. I haven't figured it all out yet, but either way I wanted to check in and let you all know what I've been up to. I get the feeling that a lot of good things are to come, and I'd love it if I could continue to share them with you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">xoxo,</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">-m.e.</span></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5067821887022929623.post-21452280812456133102016-11-28T06:23:00.000-08:002016-11-28T06:23:00.571-08:00gift guide | gold gala<br />
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<img alt="Gift guide: For the gold lover" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_vJ3oRRZXjI/WDtyISKYaJI/AAAAAAAAJx4/oa6QN-kdqLw6kA7q-e25fX11QL5x-NW5ACLcB/s1600/gold-gift-guide-home-office-guys-gals-gifts-christmas.jpg" title="Gift guide: For the gold lover" /></div>
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Gold never gets old. Okay, maybe it will someday in the future, but I know I'm not tired of it yet. Here are some shinny ideas for the people in your life who are totally on board with all things gilded.<br />
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From left to right:<br />
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<b>1. </b><a href="http://amzn.to/2gvZ7f9" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">headphones</a> | <b>2. </b><a href="http://amzn.to/2gwuiH9" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">cheeseboard</a> | <b>3. </b><a href="http://goto.target.com/c/232312/81938/2092?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Flimited-edition-swingline-747-stapler-nate-berkus%2F-%2FA-15023970%3Flnk%3Drec%7Cslp%7Csearch_bought%7Cslp%7C15023970%7C3" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">stapler</a> | <b>4. </b><a href="http://goto.target.com/c/232312/81938/2092?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fmarble-gold-barware-tool-set-threshold%2F-%2FA-51092921" target="_blank">barware tool set</a><br />
<b>5. </b><a href="http://goto.target.com/c/232312/81938/2092?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.target.com%2Fp%2Fhello-lovely-decorative-pillow-gold-white-xhilaration%2F-%2FA-16880113%3Flnk%3Drec%7Cslp%7Csearch_bought%7Cslp%7C16880113%7C5" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">"hello lovely" pillow</a> | <b>6. </b><a href="http://amzn.to/2gw9Aem" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">pineapple</a> | <b>7. </b><a href="http://www.target.com/p/women-s-timex-watch-with-leather-strap-gold-tan-tw2p79500jt/-/A-17288945" target="_blank">watch</a> | <b>8. </b><a href="http://amzn.to/2gw6yDi" target="_blank">scissors</a><br />
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xoxo,<br />
-m.e.<br />
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<i>P.S. How to make <a href="http://www.wecanmakeanything.net/2014/03/we-can-make-gold-earrings.html" target="_blank">your own gold earrings</a>.</i><br />
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<i>Affiliate links are used in this post!</i></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0