tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80458790847327924212024-03-15T21:09:42.837-04:00Polka Dots are LoveCharliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.comBlogger674125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-66841565458564460002014-05-20T14:50:00.000-04:002014-05-20T14:50:00.798-04:00Oh Creativity...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBaZsOAo7BehDOwSOvFS7wMlQmJvfS6NFyHguchrkZ4XORPOW6eeIikP_WEYMn4y5aXa9wAIFkL4jR8o7eFpD8xVv7DnibXRoDZzITrLk9bOJvozyrPHJLLoCwY5cu7RxeF6FpZt2img/s1600/org+project+life.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBaZsOAo7BehDOwSOvFS7wMlQmJvfS6NFyHguchrkZ4XORPOW6eeIikP_WEYMn4y5aXa9wAIFkL4jR8o7eFpD8xVv7DnibXRoDZzITrLk9bOJvozyrPHJLLoCwY5cu7RxeF6FpZt2img/s1600/org+project+life.png" /></a></div>
you are a very fickle thing. The weather has been so rainy and dreamy, breeding the perfect situation for reading ALL day and I have! Hope you love the book posts because between reading and gardening I haven't spent too much time creating. Today I am organizing all of my <a href="http://www.studiocalico.com/welcome?ref=e4e3342b">monthly kits</a> for project life in hopes that a clean work table will inspire me to make things... a clean room usually does the trick!<br />
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CharlieCharliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-18844648627238177332014-05-13T15:19:00.000-04:002014-05-13T15:19:18.794-04:00Currently<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIriqvrJamFqoWsWmM7FGDN1UDnsLLZQnd4iOl5QBSY9JXKTLfHzB4cjO56MjlyiMWBOt2kfBrlMxc9U2oKNNa6SVR36TeUJcWw1G7_tGzXcEj_duROo9hlY6vhVAzWKkrsNSiSBuNIg/s1600/tulip+time+2014.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIriqvrJamFqoWsWmM7FGDN1UDnsLLZQnd4iOl5QBSY9JXKTLfHzB4cjO56MjlyiMWBOt2kfBrlMxc9U2oKNNa6SVR36TeUJcWw1G7_tGzXcEj_duROo9hlY6vhVAzWKkrsNSiSBuNIg/s1600/tulip+time+2014.png" /></a></div>
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I am...</div>
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wishing I was back on vacation staring at those beauties up there.</div>
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muddling through a creative rut.</div>
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wanting to organize and clean everything (to avoid the aforementioned creative rut).</div>
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slowly making new pillows for the couch.</div>
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catching up on Bates Motel.</div>
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reading too many books at once because I can't make up my mind.</div>
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sleepy and just want to take all the naps!</div>
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What are you up to currently?</div>
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Charlie</div>
<br />Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-33017890526117662182014-05-06T08:25:00.003-04:002014-05-06T08:25:46.606-04:00Make Your Own Felt Tulips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is a quick, instant gratification kind of DIY. All you need is felt colors of your choice (at least 2), scissors, floral wire, a ruler and a hot glue gun. Now go gather your supplies so we can get started! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir0931Qgo0TifE7rLlQymjQ788bJP43tj28kkFFGu4Kpw6cdCWzsgCCygmLiC5QDhKOyTKN6vidmSUa4rAjhBaFPSBsFQmr4RQUqJHKHCji84U8wOLpavLSrWIQwkfbISjvlzc-zEo1A/s1600/felt+tulip+DIY+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir0931Qgo0TifE7rLlQymjQ788bJP43tj28kkFFGu4Kpw6cdCWzsgCCygmLiC5QDhKOyTKN6vidmSUa4rAjhBaFPSBsFQmr4RQUqJHKHCji84U8wOLpavLSrWIQwkfbISjvlzc-zEo1A/s1600/felt+tulip+DIY+1.png" /></a></div>
1. Cut a 1/2" by 8" strip of felt. Roll it and glue to keep in place.<br />
2. Cut 6 petals. Just free hand them... you can do it!<br />
3. Glue the first 3, slightly overlapping. Then, glue the next 3 where the others overlapped.<br />
4. Cut a squiggly center in your second color to cover the rolled base. Then, add a three petal piece at the center.<br />
5. Fold your floral wire in half and hot glue it to the back and you've finished your first flower! Keep repeating the process until you can fill your favorite base.<br />
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CharlieCharliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-37902463388460145702014-05-01T14:30:00.000-04:002014-05-01T14:30:32.707-04:0050 in 2014: 13-15<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhRXrFclqcO3lcPNScuXZGgjA9naLUI6OUO6hdpHiH6RHpIlhDI1Lc-3NJSCBZZ76m8W6maFazX1JoYu_EauyG00QrS_5rGNKAoljmvj6OPfIC5C_T7jbYiErPbWnTnTUDXbK63bfBA/s1600/invisibility+book+may.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhRXrFclqcO3lcPNScuXZGgjA9naLUI6OUO6hdpHiH6RHpIlhDI1Lc-3NJSCBZZ76m8W6maFazX1JoYu_EauyG00QrS_5rGNKAoljmvj6OPfIC5C_T7jbYiErPbWnTnTUDXbK63bfBA/s1600/invisibility+book+may.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/470693.Chasing_the_Dead">*</a>/<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11147422-invisibility">*</a>/<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10447839-double-dexter">*</a></div>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/470693.Chasing_the_Dead">Chasing the Dead</a> - There is only one word for this book: INTENSE. It wasn't my cup of tea, but the plot was good enough to keep the pages turning. I had to know the ending and those types of books always hold a special place in my heart.<br />
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Across the loneliest back roads of Massachusetts, in the black expanse of a New England winter, Sue is forced to confront her most awful fears as she is met at each step by ever increasing horrors created by a monster who is surely something less than human. In the hope of saving her daughter from a kidnapper whose origin seems darker than anything she could ever have imagined, Sue will discover just how much trauma and fright the human body is capable of absorbing. (excerpt from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/470693.Chasing_the_Dead">goodreads</a>)</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11147422-invisibility">Invisibility</a> - I had high hopes for this book because I have enjoyed his others. This book started out so strong and held so much promise, but somewhere just past the middle it began to fall apart. It never really came all the way back together for me.<br />
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Stephen has been invisible for practically his whole life — because of a curse his grandfather, a powerful cursecaster, bestowed on Stephen’s mother before Stephen was born. So when Elizabeth moves to Stephen’s NYC apartment building from Minnesota, no one is more surprised than he is that she can see him. A budding romance ensues, and when Stephen confides in Elizabeth about his predicament, the two of them decide to dive headfirst into the secret world of cursecasters and spellseekers to figure out a way to break the curse. But things don’t go as planned, especially when Stephen’s grandfather arrives in town, taking his anger out on everyone he sees. In the end, Elizabeth and Stephen must decide how big of a sacrifice they’re willing to make for Stephen to become visible — because the answer could mean the difference between life and death. At least for Elizabeth. (excerpt from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11147422-invisibility">goodreads</a>)</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10447839-double-dexter">Double Dexter</a> - This may be where I depart from the series. The early books in the series were so well done and now I just don't know if I can hold hope for that style to return. There are too many books to read in the world to keep being let down.<br />
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A witness. Such a simple concept - and yet for Dexter Morgan, the perfectly well-disguised monster, the possibility of a witness is unthinkable. But when Dexter is on a very private, very satisfying excursion one evening with a wretchedly deserving playmate, the unthinkable happens: someone sees him. (excerpt from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10447839-double-dexter">goodreads</a>)</blockquote>
I guess this was a streak of less then awesome books... but it happens! Anyone out there fall in love with any of these? I would love to hear your take!<br />
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CharlieCharliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-14971494277177630022014-04-29T14:36:00.000-04:002014-04-29T14:36:18.961-04:00Faux Leather Madewell Inspired Tote<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht84arNpOoNYepWFfoCrTM59qNES-rn0cMJhP_fo85e0lTR6dgCT9ATQmvbsXXcyDIs4tRQfKB6OaYYouPZtcelzPDGdWR658HC0qkm-DJdefwnKuiyAyMtKwoAyfPcVV9epqg4zFpaA/s1600/faux+leather+tote+diy+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht84arNpOoNYepWFfoCrTM59qNES-rn0cMJhP_fo85e0lTR6dgCT9ATQmvbsXXcyDIs4tRQfKB6OaYYouPZtcelzPDGdWR658HC0qkm-DJdefwnKuiyAyMtKwoAyfPcVV9epqg4zFpaA/s1600/faux+leather+tote+diy+1.png" /></a></div>
Here are the results of <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.blogspot.com/2014/04/a-diy-to-try-sewbons-leather-tote.html">Sewbon's leather tote DIY</a>. I opted to use a leather-like vinyl instead of leather which makes this tote even more affordable! This bag comes together really easily, and it is the perfect size! Having the DIY version of the beautiful Madewell Transport Tote makes buying <a href="https://www.madewell.com/madewell_category/BAGS/totes/PRDOVR~53228/53228.jsp?color_name=english-saddle">the original</a> very appealing because I see how lovely the style is.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFD7pSGvHVXA8jl2up73RtH10rMulK63tQSgfZ88A3edpU46ulFc4JXYpZ_mYEwDUq6vqXd6Rj0TkClQViWhmBkvLCgc_9tzKECKeO-2SiZGXFdL-bSfmCtzf-aEWDOul6TFEWEKc6fQ/s1600/faux+leather+tote+diy+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFD7pSGvHVXA8jl2up73RtH10rMulK63tQSgfZ88A3edpU46ulFc4JXYpZ_mYEwDUq6vqXd6Rj0TkClQViWhmBkvLCgc_9tzKECKeO-2SiZGXFdL-bSfmCtzf-aEWDOul6TFEWEKc6fQ/s1600/faux+leather+tote+diy+2.png" /></a></div>
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If you didn't already gather up supplies to make this bag, you definitely should! Who doesn't need another purse?</div>
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Charlie</div>
<br />Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-27425083635810641712014-04-25T10:59:00.000-04:002014-04-25T10:59:10.669-04:00A DIY to Try: Sewbon's Leather Tote<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKQC9gqltIyYhLvvzO-BD88Zhy0Xz8WYElwCbjSrX1Od68IZeYnZsESOc5BtHhItVLdFCFuJJiiU65Fb_ht50s_MxxaTXhtA9iFvOTv_wph2gx9z_E9sj5eZGwt-oSTMa8BwLTa7bwA/s1600/leather+tote+bag+DIY+a.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKQC9gqltIyYhLvvzO-BD88Zhy0Xz8WYElwCbjSrX1Od68IZeYnZsESOc5BtHhItVLdFCFuJJiiU65Fb_ht50s_MxxaTXhtA9iFvOTv_wph2gx9z_E9sj5eZGwt-oSTMa8BwLTa7bwA/s1600/leather+tote+bag+DIY+a.png" /></a></div>
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This weekend I will be giving this leather tote tutorial by <a href="http://sewbon.com/2014/02/27/buy-or-diy-leather-tote-bag/">Erin at Sewbon</a> a whirl! If it interests you, you should give it a try too... I will share my results next week! Do you have any crafty plans for this weekend?</div>
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Charlie</div>
<br />Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-2429440204585000192014-04-24T14:27:00.003-04:002014-04-24T14:27:26.968-04:00Dainty Felt Coaster DIY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRYCY4NWvmWMZ4-tDqa4ArUMbgMuBd27xdpTex9b-0c1-2WzjPrGHIjyBbPLGRNrtnkAlzkM4wLndtNSiXosD4rtJabeD22mUW7FblH8Z72q_tvbc6rRG15UT9dEDy3Eqsul7EVpXcw/s1600/Dainty+felt+Coaster+DIY+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDRYCY4NWvmWMZ4-tDqa4ArUMbgMuBd27xdpTex9b-0c1-2WzjPrGHIjyBbPLGRNrtnkAlzkM4wLndtNSiXosD4rtJabeD22mUW7FblH8Z72q_tvbc6rRG15UT9dEDy3Eqsul7EVpXcw/s1600/Dainty+felt+Coaster+DIY+3.png" /></a></div>
I never used to be a coaster lover until I did <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.blogspot.com/2013/11/easy-fabric-coasters.html">this</a> DIY. Then, I discovered how easily they add character to a room. They also save on trying to get ring stains off of your coffee table!<br />
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What you need:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx663B1gNE8aBkZGofMtHJODWho0pz5Fi2eQgaKByolZWrBCu1HCG4YBqBypPLUj4lvnbC3VbnS5pdjXnmvIQf4CvF9taXoqEunz0XJJcNMuin2RAYSln27SUnl61IQZfDO4kLd4u4fA/s1600/felt+coaster+diy+needs.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx663B1gNE8aBkZGofMtHJODWho0pz5Fi2eQgaKByolZWrBCu1HCG4YBqBypPLUj4lvnbC3VbnS5pdjXnmvIQf4CvF9taXoqEunz0XJJcNMuin2RAYSln27SUnl61IQZfDO4kLd4u4fA/s1600/felt+coaster+diy+needs.png" /></a></div>
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Multiple colors of felt</div>
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Scissors</div>
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Leather punch</div>
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Glue gun</div>
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<a href="http://polkadotsarelove.com/templates/coaster_template.pdf">Template</a></div>
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Now that you have gathered your supplies, the coasters will come together with ease. To make one coaster:</div>
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1. Print and cut out the <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.com/templates/coaster_template.pdf">template</a>.</div>
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2. Using the <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.com/templates/coaster_template.pdf">template</a>, cut three scalloped circles.</div>
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3. Lay them together so all the edges line up. </div>
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4. Place a spot of glue only in the center, gluing all three pieces together.</div>
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5. Punch a hole in the middle of each scallop with your leather punch all the way around.</div>
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6. Now, finish gluing the piece together. </div>
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7. Repeat these steps until you have a set! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNBy-vMpuZO94dDAIl4f4yHMT6GZUf2eF2aJj36Drmfb7POvGDRcQQdc4mHjnAk4Qme46qzG0x1Iq27ws9c_mCqihH6z8UPd3Rss68-Meqk6cRjemNGu00WGvGyVcI69cV8JmoRMDWvw/s1600/dainty+felt+coaster+diy+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNBy-vMpuZO94dDAIl4f4yHMT6GZUf2eF2aJj36Drmfb7POvGDRcQQdc4mHjnAk4Qme46qzG0x1Iq27ws9c_mCqihH6z8UPd3Rss68-Meqk6cRjemNGu00WGvGyVcI69cV8JmoRMDWvw/s1600/dainty+felt+coaster+diy+2.png" /></a></div>
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This is not the end of my coaster love. I have a few more ideas up my sleeve, so I hope some of you love coasters as much as I do! I have a feeling that some of them may even end up in the shop... an addiction has started. If you make these, nothing would make my day brighter then seeing what you come up with! </div>
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Charlie</div>
Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-56887471218621406912014-04-22T13:18:00.002-04:002014-04-22T13:18:48.573-04:00My Summer Reading List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz4sbCRnv-cN6gB3SExql_KHVHmEKYtDZ2hAjVFEuNUUTu9iIGzB7qpX-GTBwp6XqhYeypbxIvoznjfOa0hRUDaaPtalKZI-4z4bAnSdC1IfnhBhc1-ugJc5v2mx2bSgjK3lHFn9_KcA/s1600/summer+reading+list.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz4sbCRnv-cN6gB3SExql_KHVHmEKYtDZ2hAjVFEuNUUTu9iIGzB7qpX-GTBwp6XqhYeypbxIvoznjfOa0hRUDaaPtalKZI-4z4bAnSdC1IfnhBhc1-ugJc5v2mx2bSgjK3lHFn9_KcA/s1600/summer+reading+list.png" width="600px" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">All photos and excerpts are from </span><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">goodreads</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13526165-where-d-you-go-bernadette">Where'd You Go Bernadette</a><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Bernadette Fox is notorious. To her Microsoft-guru husband, she's a fearlessly opinionated partner; to fellow private-school mothers in Seattle, she's a disgrace; to design mavens, she's a revolutionary architect, and to 15-year-old Bee, she is a best friend and, simply, Mom.<br />
Then Bernadette disappears. It began when Bee aced her report card and claimed her promised reward: a family trip to Antarctica. But Bernadette's intensifying allergy to Seattle—and people in general—has made her so agoraphobic that a virtual assistant in India now runs her most basic errands. A trip to the end of the earth is problematic.</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18209454-the-thousand-dollar-tan-line">Veronica Mars - The Thousand Dollar Tan Line</a><br />
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From Rob Thomas, the creator of the television series and movie phenomenon Veronica Mars, comes the first book in a thrilling mystery series that picks up where the feature film left off.<br />
Ten years after graduating from high school in Neptune, California, Veronica Mars is back in the land of sun, sand, crime, and corruption. She’s traded in her law degree for her old private investigating license, struggling to keep Mars Investigations afloat on the scant cash earned by catching cheating spouses until she can score her first big case.<br />
Now it’s spring break, and college students descend on Neptune, transforming the beaches and boardwalks into a frenzied, week-long rave. When a girl disappears from a party, Veronica is called in to investigate. But this is no simple missing person’s case; the house the girl vanished from belongs to a man with serious criminal ties, and soon Veronica is plunged into a dangerous underworld of drugs and organized crime. And when a major break in the investigation has a shocking connection to Veronica’s past, the case hits closer to home than she ever imagined.</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16081272-the-edge-of-never">The Edge of Never</a> (#1)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Twenty-year-old Camryn Bennett had always been one to think out-of-the-box, who knew she wanted something more in life than following the same repetitive patterns and growing old with the same repetitive life story. And she thought that her life was going in the right direction until everything fell apart.<br />
Determined not to dwell on the negative and push forward, Camryn is set to move in with her best friend and plans to start a new job. But after an unexpected night at the hottest club in downtown North Carolina, she makes the ultimate decision to leave the only life she’s ever known, far behind.</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8909152-attachments">Attachments</a><br />
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"Hi, I'm the guy who reads your e-mail, and also, I love you . . . "<br />
Beth Fremont and Jennifer Scribner-Snyder know that somebody is monitoring their work e-mail. (Everybody in the newsroom knows. It's company policy.) But they can't quite bring themselves to take it seriously. They go on sending each other endless and endlessly hilarious e-mails, discussing every aspect of their personal lives.<br />
Meanwhile, Lincoln O'Neill can't believe this is his job now- reading other people's e-mail. When he applied to be "internet security officer," he pictured himself building firewalls and crushing hackers- not writing up a report every time a sports reporter forwards a dirty joke.</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18126822-notes-from-a-blue-bike">Notes From a Blue Bike</a><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Part memoir, part travelogue, part practical guide, "Notes from a Blue Bike "takes you from a hillside in Kosovo to a Turkish high-rise to the congested city of Austin to a small town in Oregon. It chronicles schooling quandaries and dinnertime dilemmas, as well as entrepreneurial adventures and family excursions via plane, train, automobile, and blue cruiser bike.<br />
Entertaining and compelling--but never shrill or dogmatic--"Notes from a Blue Bike "invites you to climb on your own bike, pay attention to who you are and what your family needs, and make some important choices. It's a risky ride, but it's worth it--living your life according to who you "really" are simply takes a little intention. It's never too late.</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12875258-tell-the-wolves-i-m-home?ac=1">Tell the Wolves I'm Home</a><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
1987. There’s only one person who has ever truly understood fourteen-year-old June Elbus, and that’s her uncle, the renowned painter Finn Weiss. Shy at school and distant from her older sister, June can only be herself in Finn’s company; he is her godfather, confidant, and best friend. So when he dies, far too young, of a mysterious illness her mother can barely speak about, June’s world is turned upside down. But Finn’s death brings a surprise acquaintance into June’s life—someone who will help her to heal, and to question what she thinks she knows about Finn, her family, and even her own heart.<br />
At Finn’s funeral, June notices a strange man lingering just beyond the crowd. A few days later, she receives a package in the mail. Inside is a beautiful teapot she recognizes from Finn’s apartment, and a note from Toby, the stranger, asking for an opportunity to meet. As the two begin to spend time together, June realizes she’s not the only one who misses Finn, and if she can bring herself to trust this unexpected friend, he just might be the one she needs the most.</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12396528-hollow-city?ac=1">Hollow City</a><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The extraordinary journey that began in Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children continues as Jacob Portman and his newfound friends journey to London the peculiar capital of the world. But in this war-torn city, hideous surprises lurk around every corner. Like its predecessor, this second novel in the Peculiar Children series blends thrilling fantasy with never-before-published vintage photography to create a one-of-a-kind reacting experience.</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2170979.The_Third_Angel?ac=1">The Third Angel</a><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Now, in The Third Angel, Hoffman weaves a magical and stunningly original story that charts the lives of three women in love with the wrong men: Headstrong Madeleine Heller finds herself hopelessly attracted to her sister’s fiancé. Frieda Lewis, a doctor’s daughter and a runaway, becomes the muse of an ill-fated rock star. And beautiful Bryn Evans is set to marry an Englishman while secretly obsessed with her ex-husband. At the heart of the novel is Lucy Green, who blames herself for a tragic accident she witnessed at the age of twelve, and who spends four decades searching for the Third Angel–the angel on earth who will renew her faith.</blockquote>
What is on your summer reading list?<br />
<br />
CharlieCharliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-46605982710257176192014-04-18T10:58:00.002-04:002014-04-18T10:58:35.418-04:00Easter Egg Garland DIY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just in case anyone else is last minute like me, I thought an Easter DIY was fitting! I usually don't decorate too much for Easter (because I often just start decorating for spring), but this garland works perfectly around spring decor, and on the plus side is easy to make! Go gather your craft supplies, string and fun felt colors and lets get started. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7VewlkoG55qriBS8sLqDvVrJM9wKr1IPq3RAS5tOQcfvkmIOLibNYyJr7N0WShe-Fr388tDwJoftQZzaytfxdSJVFO9s8Ku1op_S4IPcE7JgDbR5FKPFOA29N0V-Y1ioE26Ovwm0p4w/s1600/easter+egg+garland.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7VewlkoG55qriBS8sLqDvVrJM9wKr1IPq3RAS5tOQcfvkmIOLibNYyJr7N0WShe-Fr388tDwJoftQZzaytfxdSJVFO9s8Ku1op_S4IPcE7JgDbR5FKPFOA29N0V-Y1ioE26Ovwm0p4w/s1600/easter+egg+garland.png" /></a></div>
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1. Cut an oval shape from your felt colors. </div>
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2. Decorate your eggs how ever you like. </div>
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3. Attach circles to the back of your egg by gluing only the top and bottom. </div>
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4. String all of your eggs together and hang! You're done!!</div>
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Tips: I like to use my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/1057028-CMP-3-Rotary-Circle-Cutter/dp/B001CEAMCY" target="_blank">Olfa circle cutter</a> with felt. You can also sew all your eggs together on your sewing machine if you like. </div>
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What are your favorite Easter crafts?</div>
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Charlie</div>
Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-39289990730692725062014-04-16T15:46:00.003-04:002014-04-16T15:46:46.252-04:00DIY Wall Art - Take 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFxaJZ7dq8wFtvm1H124Nnc2fszA-f-UYxR6zqRANrAkNr7_VF_-z4MA0UiBTyGdjhOw1kLnrwDQk-1xQoIkPdEeTJCTz__qotfwvg8EOVireULIJmK8-yDRcvHXDm8OSisgjn6c_FQ/s1600/DIY+word+banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFxaJZ7dq8wFtvm1H124Nnc2fszA-f-UYxR6zqRANrAkNr7_VF_-z4MA0UiBTyGdjhOw1kLnrwDQk-1xQoIkPdEeTJCTz__qotfwvg8EOVireULIJmK8-yDRcvHXDm8OSisgjn6c_FQ/s1600/DIY+word+banner.png" /></a></div>
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Continuing this mini <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.blogspot.com/2014/03/diy-wall-art-part-1.html" target="_blank">series</a> where I attempt to cover some empty walls using only a little monies, I bring you idea number two... making a banner! I am doing my best to cover our bedroom, and the phrases continue... our bedroom wall may just end up being some kind of affirmation wall!</div>
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You will need:</div>
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Felt in 3 colors</div>
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Mini wooden rod</div>
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String</div>
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Scissors</div>
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Ruler</div>
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Favorite adhesive</div>
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Sewing machine (optional)</div>
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A print out of your saying in a font you like. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtlWGrRwBHR9otsi7NKtlqv1FzEt__zFyBQ-CkzKtLRnGdzAZjNLtRAoB9tydIaWy5MotyjCm9qkTRXj9iPu4Nt56TnYW5PgyHyPXo4i1zgAFqDJ70jNnk61LCZGDzDMJ8MQxGe0Wfg/s1600/Banner+steps+DIY.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtlWGrRwBHR9otsi7NKtlqv1FzEt__zFyBQ-CkzKtLRnGdzAZjNLtRAoB9tydIaWy5MotyjCm9qkTRXj9iPu4Nt56TnYW5PgyHyPXo4i1zgAFqDJ70jNnk61LCZGDzDMJ8MQxGe0Wfg/s1600/Banner+steps+DIY.png" /></a></div>
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1. Cut a piece of felt 10"x6". </div>
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2. Fold it in half.</div>
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3. Mark an angle of your choice and cut.</div>
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4. It should look something like this!</div>
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5. Fold down an inch and sew or glue.</div>
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6. Slide the rod through and attach the string to both ends with a double knot. </div>
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7. Now, decorate with your phrase. To create the letters, simply print our your phrase in a bold font that you like, cut out the letters, pin them to your felt and then cut again. Attach the letters using your favorite adhesive.</div>
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Now you have a cute banner to hang on your wall. I think I am going to make one for the door that says "Happy Easter". They're so simple to make and mine came together in under 30 minutes, so go gather your felt and make something fun for you walls!</div>
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If you missed the first part of this series <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.blogspot.com/2014/03/diy-wall-art-part-1.html" target="_blank">click here</a>.</div>
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Charlie</div>
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<br />Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-81532045586041969652014-04-15T17:05:00.000-04:002014-04-15T17:05:10.868-04:00Felt PansiesIn an attempt to bring spring inside (without really bringing it inside... allergy queen) on this snowy day, I made some felt pansies.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggehG9GFD9w3B73apwG__hrE7Qorc3wG4v70Jd1Khnz63vTj3P4iS65kAr9nBf4TzaIj7cZgnrMt3DQXE5yp-VFRCkWuPP9pKbq73-0WDXSX_tWAzzCwY1MtCmmaDxgPK1dGzwAjvicQ/s1600/felt+pansy+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggehG9GFD9w3B73apwG__hrE7Qorc3wG4v70Jd1Khnz63vTj3P4iS65kAr9nBf4TzaIj7cZgnrMt3DQXE5yp-VFRCkWuPP9pKbq73-0WDXSX_tWAzzCwY1MtCmmaDxgPK1dGzwAjvicQ/s1600/felt+pansy+1.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj87eolD4nsGGBmo6pkrxVU_T0-b5xZ2IuyaLEs_mWF1RO79kTRdxXzkttTdI7BwHN1Jd1vOlrHnevxZbSQjzVnIHkLJlOkDV1NXhtulLRmoCGjLoCEYCPhwLRkpjk5pREgBFaR1D1frw/s1600/felt+pansy+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj87eolD4nsGGBmo6pkrxVU_T0-b5xZ2IuyaLEs_mWF1RO79kTRdxXzkttTdI7BwHN1Jd1vOlrHnevxZbSQjzVnIHkLJlOkDV1NXhtulLRmoCGjLoCEYCPhwLRkpjk5pREgBFaR1D1frw/s1600/felt+pansy+2.png" /></a></div>
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I fell in love with these little pots at the craft store. Something about mini versions of big things makes me smile! Add some floral foam, felt and wire and then poof! You have a tiny, fake potted plant perfect for your coffee table.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdAhmvErFdhpIII562dMw7OpYrIXxna2kPyQgQ7EgQRHsej8Hlqkd-KUMopLWGZsz6YrfVo1TSuC3HLGqdeb3zVLmaTDyfQCSft_thxOUxAzk4mZEQcpo8ulqN_pbBGS0vqbVertCTXg/s1600/felt+pansy+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdAhmvErFdhpIII562dMw7OpYrIXxna2kPyQgQ7EgQRHsej8Hlqkd-KUMopLWGZsz6YrfVo1TSuC3HLGqdeb3zVLmaTDyfQCSft_thxOUxAzk4mZEQcpo8ulqN_pbBGS0vqbVertCTXg/s1600/felt+pansy+3.png" /></a></div>
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I also placed extra flowers and leaves on the wreath for the front door. Pansies are the perfect spring flower because they can stand up to the freezing temps that always happen during spring in Michigan!</div>
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Charlie</div>
Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-38292735124150110092014-04-11T14:31:00.001-04:002014-04-11T14:31:18.585-04:00Be Fearless<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNy7YyaXAz-l_VfxW-Or_zGxvVZ8Jqch-paiXL32_jbd_7M5olvjz1aimWILpzfKNeWAN3BPsiV71dgEBVK8bw2kQSJsd_e6-BHgebz1YG-NxZHmbm_xYTqdWb_ZExlCPFwEmIxgqZrQ/s1600/today-i-will-do-absolutely-nothing-inspiration-quote-lazy-sunday-motivation-cool-typography-quote-art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNy7YyaXAz-l_VfxW-Or_zGxvVZ8Jqch-paiXL32_jbd_7M5olvjz1aimWILpzfKNeWAN3BPsiV71dgEBVK8bw2kQSJsd_e6-BHgebz1YG-NxZHmbm_xYTqdWb_ZExlCPFwEmIxgqZrQ/s1600/today-i-will-do-absolutely-nothing-inspiration-quote-lazy-sunday-motivation-cool-typography-quote-art.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">found <a href="http://visualponderland.wordpress.com/2013/10/20/today/" target="_blank">here</a></span></div>
Anyone else find it really hard to allow yourself to do nothing? I find it nearly impossible. I know I can't do nothing today, but I am definitely going to try to do nothing soon!<br />
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Happy Weekend!<br />
<br />
CharlieCharliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-40108714235739113112014-04-10T14:49:00.003-04:002014-04-10T16:50:00.727-04:00Mini Scalloped Envelope DIY with Template<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvh89FrcVIKSg9YXoeYTHkQL6lcvrYJLTnzIKozfUQum-_lcxrOvWgIKOujUIEAjHVx5BVacfLlQXMCZpG_PpmdMF0tzY1z200Bd4hOiFSLodmutvxn3I4jW2TuT6L9zXbl5jkVWuRHQ/s1600/Mini+envelope+DIY.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvh89FrcVIKSg9YXoeYTHkQL6lcvrYJLTnzIKozfUQum-_lcxrOvWgIKOujUIEAjHVx5BVacfLlQXMCZpG_PpmdMF0tzY1z200Bd4hOiFSLodmutvxn3I4jW2TuT6L9zXbl5jkVWuRHQ/s1600/Mini+envelope+DIY.png" /></a></div>
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I love when things come in mini sizes (2.5"x3.5")... especially envelopes, they're just so cute! I often use them to send thank you notes with orders, though they would make a cute edition to the <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.blogspot.com/2014/04/simple-fabric-gift-bag-diy.html" target="_blank">gift bag DIY</a> from earlier this week, or to leave little words of encouragement around for people to find! I guess the possibilities are kind of endless because they would be great for Project Life and art journaling too.</div>
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You will need: </div>
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cute scrapbooking paper (you can get 3 out of a 12x12 sheet)</div>
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<a href="http://polkadotsarelove.com/templates/scalloped_envelope_template.pdf" target="_blank">template</a></div>
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scissors </div>
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instant bond adhesive (tape runner, two sided tape, etc)</div>
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bone folder</div>
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1. Print your template and cut it out.</div>
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2. Trace the <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.com/templates/scalloped_envelope_template.pdf" target="_blank">template</a> onto the back of scrapbooking paper.</div>
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3. Cut it out.</div>
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4. Fold on the fold lines, sides first and then the bottom. Crease them with the bone folder.</div>
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5. Add adhesive where the bottom flap overlaps the sides. Be careful not to glue the envelope shut!</div>
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6. Fold down the flap and you're done!</div>
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Now, go gather your things and make lots of envelopes. I promise they're super simple and lots of fun. Don't forget to grab the <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.com/templates/scalloped_envelope_template.pdf" target="_blank">template</a>!</div>
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Charlie</div>
Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-23739002321863258572014-04-09T12:37:00.001-04:002014-04-09T12:37:22.747-04:0050 in 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHH1GtB002TBctr0ZwVFgZdgzJO7b9rCaqQP2yp_caVAy8VZi9KGwRTpgynrK_1IqV7wTuBp9HOvpdxRToU-OHqmbCwApwUeLEX8KYZBofo19zpSr85F3QodAuvX7zBHFIE_gH3aAtTw/s1600/dexter+is+delicious.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHH1GtB002TBctr0ZwVFgZdgzJO7b9rCaqQP2yp_caVAy8VZi9KGwRTpgynrK_1IqV7wTuBp9HOvpdxRToU-OHqmbCwApwUeLEX8KYZBofo19zpSr85F3QodAuvX7zBHFIE_gH3aAtTw/s1600/dexter+is+delicious.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7469133-dexter-is-delicious" target="_blank">*</a>/<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14999813-the-whole-stupid-way-we-are" target="_blank">*</a>/<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6068551-shiver" target="_blank">*</a></div>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7469133-dexter-is-delicious" target="_blank">Dexter is Delicious</a> - I am not sure why I am continuing to read this series. I guess it is just because I hope that it could be good again. This book was ok... but just ok. If I wasn't listening to it while I sew, I wouldn't be able to finish it.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;">Dexter Morgan's happy homicidal life is undergoing some major changes. He's always live by a single golden rule - </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;">he kills only people who deserve it</em><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;">. But the Miami blood-spatter analyst has recently become a daddy - to an eight-pound curiosity named Lily Anne - and strangely, Dex's dark urges seem to have left him. Is he ready to become an overprotective father? To pick up soft teddy bears instead of his trusty knife, duct tape, and fishing wire? What's a serial killer to do? (excerpt from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7469133-dexter-is-delicious" target="_blank">goodreads</a>)</span></blockquote>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14999813-the-whole-stupid-way-we-are" target="_blank">The Whole Stupid Way We Are</a> - This book... THIS BOOK... It stays with you. When I finished it, I was so mad about the lack of information that I felt like I wasted my time getting to know these characters. Then, for the next week or so, they just stuck with me. I would wander off in thought thinking about Skint. Bravo N. Griffin, I love books that linger! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;">It’s Maine. It’s winter. And it’s FREEZING STINKIN’ COLD! Dinah is wildly worried about her best friend, Skint. He won’t wear a coat. Refuses to wear a coat. It’s twelve degrees out, and he won’t wear a coat. So Dinah’s going to figure out how to help. That’s what Dinah does—she helps. But she’s too busy trying to help to notice that sometimes, she’s doing more harm than good. Seeing the trees instead of the forest? That’s Dinah. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;">And Skint isn’t going to be the one to tell her. He’s got his own problems. He’s worried about a little boy whose dad won’t let him visit his mom. He’s worried about an elderly couple in a too-cold house down the street.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;">But the wedge between what drives Dinah and what concerns Skint is wide enough for a big old slab of ice. Because Skint’s own father is in trouble. Because Skint’s mother refuses to ask for help even though she’s at her breaking point. And because Dinah might just decide to…help. She thinks she’s cracking through a sheet of ice, but what’s actually there is an entire iceberg. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;">(excerpt from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14999813-the-whole-stupid-way-we-are" target="_blank">goodreads</a>)</span></blockquote>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6068551-shiver" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;" target="_blank">Shiver</a><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;"> - This book has been on my to-read list for some time. I was nervous to read another book about wolves, which was a stupid concern. Maggie Stiefvater did a beautiful job coming up with her own version of a wolf and did an even better job weaving in a love story. It is beautiful, and not like <i>Twilight</i> in my opinion. I loved it, and I can't wait to read the next two!</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;">Now, Grace meets a yellow-eyed boy whose familiarity takes her breath away. It's her wolf. It has to be. But as winter nears, Sam must fight to stay human—or risk losing himself, and Grace, forever. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.31999969482422px;">(excerpt from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6068551-shiver" target="_blank">goodreads</a>)</span></blockquote>
Have you read any of these? Do you plan to? What are you reading? I love book recommendations!<br />
<br />
CharlieCharliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-91453924828441023102014-04-08T14:43:00.003-04:002014-04-10T16:50:35.352-04:00Simple Fabric Gift Bag DIY <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDADBivGgKKE4jGnWf64h_Vdf8Z_xJBPLskuu95j2N4e2SrOSJ8sqAHnQv8RRc2_EvjNEa7YHWwPmwaoTU94hegWYUQ_JKLUad0R6nLJ1FfLIBkNhCEXmNTxdyOWlB-WD2wIXgCsm6Q/s1600/fabric+gift+bag+diy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFDADBivGgKKE4jGnWf64h_Vdf8Z_xJBPLskuu95j2N4e2SrOSJ8sqAHnQv8RRc2_EvjNEa7YHWwPmwaoTU94hegWYUQ_JKLUad0R6nLJ1FfLIBkNhCEXmNTxdyOWlB-WD2wIXgCsm6Q/s1600/fabric+gift+bag+diy.png" /></a></div>
This bag is super easy to make and it gives your gift an extra little boost. Plus, this bag can be reused for lots of different things. You could even make one just to carry your groceries!<br />
<br />
What you need:<br />
<a href="http://www.joann.com/utility-fabric--bag-fabric-gray-dot/13029871.html#prefn1=isProject&prefv1=false&start=26" target="_blank">Utility fabric</a> - bag fabric<br />
Thread<br />
Scissors<br />
Ruler<br />
Sewing machine<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFIHdNbZsuxZbwluj6zFF5k7O3IkoOxY_mTOo-Ohyphenhyphen5AY1FtfQVUeH7LFAUolUnQvk5pyC_mrpIl7_VqYNjZqSbYQaC2Rna8rLDCgoO1nRKnmT2QyGI_6fb6AbwJpwhuTRquTZeSEDGEQ/s1600/gift+bag+diy+steps.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFIHdNbZsuxZbwluj6zFF5k7O3IkoOxY_mTOo-Ohyphenhyphen5AY1FtfQVUeH7LFAUolUnQvk5pyC_mrpIl7_VqYNjZqSbYQaC2Rna8rLDCgoO1nRKnmT2QyGI_6fb6AbwJpwhuTRquTZeSEDGEQ/s1600/gift+bag+diy+steps.png" /></a></div>
1. Fold the strap piece in half, wrong sides together, and sew. Do this for both.<br />
2. Fold down one inch and sew on both pieces.<br />
3. Attach handles on the wrong side on the fabric.<br />
4. Pin fabric right sides together and sew around.<br />
5. Sew to square corners (I did 4").Then cut off the excess.<br />
6. Turn inside right and you're done!<br />
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You can change the size to fit the size of your gift. I just so happened to be making something for a bigger gift! If you have any questions, please let me know... and if you make one I'd love to share it here, send me pictures!<br />
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CharlieCharliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-75636307532943878462014-04-02T13:58:00.000-04:002014-04-02T13:58:26.594-04:00Currently <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8a9_1UH_gpjXvTnZcgPoGPgHkIj49JVooTMcyLdRQBoN-tu98x_T3xyz-URSqF3qFBoV7Jlky_SsGoBkUF_VgNmzai2bwh8KvePsXnCW9iQCg_l3YqTO7Oh7PalpoL7A5hJ4Tqv0l7g/s1600/april+2014+a.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8a9_1UH_gpjXvTnZcgPoGPgHkIj49JVooTMcyLdRQBoN-tu98x_T3xyz-URSqF3qFBoV7Jlky_SsGoBkUF_VgNmzai2bwh8KvePsXnCW9iQCg_l3YqTO7Oh7PalpoL7A5hJ4Tqv0l7g/s1600/april+2014+a.png" /></a></div>
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I am...<br />
<br />
beyond happy that March is over!<br />
making a new spring wreath.<br />
reading <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17623975-just-one-day" target="_blank"><i>Just One Day</i></a>.<br />
catching up on <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.blogspot.com/search/label/project%20life" target="_blank">Project Life</a>.<br />
wishing I was on a warm, sunny beach.<br />
listing new earrings in the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/polkadotsarelove?ref=si_shop" target="_blank">shop</a>.<br />
trying to figure out a plan to make April the best month yet!<br />
<br />
What are you up to?<br />
<br />
CharlieCharliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-35786781439414701732014-03-26T12:06:00.001-04:002014-03-26T12:06:24.665-04:00Project Life - February <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitOWaKgSLKyr_lJkQPHdKqN-lYfePe1eevvltlzCoE0xMvEMPrYJRf_hCrRmJ9j68xcCHoQ1k3-BCxwUDwhyNUfpFVyZNubagGBsAbRshzPyGnvYPl_rxaC2MOTtg391zckNoW6scV-Q/s1600/project+life+feb+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitOWaKgSLKyr_lJkQPHdKqN-lYfePe1eevvltlzCoE0xMvEMPrYJRf_hCrRmJ9j68xcCHoQ1k3-BCxwUDwhyNUfpFVyZNubagGBsAbRshzPyGnvYPl_rxaC2MOTtg391zckNoW6scV-Q/s1600/project+life+feb+1.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqKTXVte_dkD71FsedXq9yNH6SxNT2lFfM9mwMeHQJ-zCUhyphenhyphenugSFfvf8ys880_zD0LGhar2yhtMWAimBD8aqAyk5beKgQar2HAp83RVz6mdSY0FcC-QG2-q2rbHa2swgnjAXdb5fuOjA/s1600/project+life+feb+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqKTXVte_dkD71FsedXq9yNH6SxNT2lFfM9mwMeHQJ-zCUhyphenhyphenugSFfvf8ys880_zD0LGhar2yhtMWAimBD8aqAyk5beKgQar2HAp83RVz6mdSY0FcC-QG2-q2rbHa2swgnjAXdb5fuOjA/s1600/project+life+feb+2.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJAWIiqYd2EFV9edCUb9gkY94725zDsKo8XaP-nx8SCyYIz1nPttsWNys_Yf23ih6w8x0QIL5H_IRJX_BINHuWH4wEmF1SkWGo1C6AUNGfiVUqNkC2QAgd1GqkLB7eq2AHA449Fek2w/s1600/project+life+feb+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkJAWIiqYd2EFV9edCUb9gkY94725zDsKo8XaP-nx8SCyYIz1nPttsWNys_Yf23ih6w8x0QIL5H_IRJX_BINHuWH4wEmF1SkWGo1C6AUNGfiVUqNkC2QAgd1GqkLB7eq2AHA449Fek2w/s1600/project+life+feb+3.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Captured above: New York, Valentine's, and a workout challenge. </span></div>
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I'm still enjoying this process and I love how low pressure you can make it! </div>
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Charlie</div>
<br />Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-51496200172824160912014-03-25T14:27:00.004-04:002014-03-25T14:51:18.190-04:00DIY Wall Art - Take 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Anyone else have a lot of wall space and a small budget to fill it? <a href="http://smileandwave.typepad.com/blog/2014/02/easy-alpha-sticker-art-a-handmade-baby-space.html" target="_blank">Smile and Wave's Alpha Sticker DIY</a> is a great way to start filling up some of that blank space! </div>
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I am horribly indecisive when it comes to committing to things on walls, but I am finally going to hang some things in our bedroom (only 4 years later). I would have never thought of making simple prints using scrapbooking stickers. It is pretty genius!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiugi92WSqDkWue8WKvMxTnIIMaIt8X_7IsSsTciRXg4m736TnyNRLvI3sZ-s3JmoDbHyJLGHQZGYinRyc9hK0WMrOmz8m2gzJCvDO4d9jlpJAgdpCVfi1BB4C2yA79b8Hp3PjEA0oEjA/s1600/wall+art+diy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiugi92WSqDkWue8WKvMxTnIIMaIt8X_7IsSsTciRXg4m736TnyNRLvI3sZ-s3JmoDbHyJLGHQZGYinRyc9hK0WMrOmz8m2gzJCvDO4d9jlpJAgdpCVfi1BB4C2yA79b8Hp3PjEA0oEjA/s1600/wall+art+diy.png" /></a></div>
Following <a href="http://smileandwave.typepad.com/blog/2014/02/easy-alpha-sticker-art-a-handmade-baby-space.html" target="_blank">Rachel's tutorial</a> was super easy, though I did decide to use a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/EK-tools-Centering-Craft-16-Inch/dp/B00DNHAVFQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1395769422&sr=8-1&keywords=ek+tools+sticker+ruler" target="_blank">centering ruler</a> to try and help with spacing. It is not needed, but really made quick work of laying out the letters. This is a simple and cost effective way to fill up some of your bare walls. The hardest part of the whole process was trying to pick a phrase/word.<br />
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What would you choose?</div>
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Charlie</div>
Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-80689106305543003762014-03-19T15:37:00.000-04:002014-03-19T15:37:04.184-04:00Be Fearless<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLh9sg0mPgn8HkN84FP4RLLUfOkW3CVjfNGfd31ognR6LOV8F8Rboey-YjpFGQeJn3de3Tlp5y9rlCSRJqGnxN9VvjCtXKWD6i_GMUnkcTu2JB1hfQDQAxvV8DRC0ghokUS1R3d2xWeA/s1600/keep+moving+forward.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLh9sg0mPgn8HkN84FP4RLLUfOkW3CVjfNGfd31ognR6LOV8F8Rboey-YjpFGQeJn3de3Tlp5y9rlCSRJqGnxN9VvjCtXKWD6i_GMUnkcTu2JB1hfQDQAxvV8DRC0ghokUS1R3d2xWeA/s1600/keep+moving+forward.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(<a href="http://thefinestword.tumblr.com/post/71443413472" target="_blank">found here</a>)</span></div>
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I needed this reminder today, so I thought I would share it with you! Sorry for my silence, life has happened and I have no time to create. I will return very soon! On a positive note, not being able to create has left me with a list of ideas... get ready!</div>
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Charlie</div>
<br />Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-7357336661581467172014-03-12T16:57:00.000-04:002014-03-12T16:57:27.727-04:0050 in 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzc-XyKdjH5ir4W5l6_biFYmMhcT-MKhr7IeSKaBT_nN7ukAj3jSTO4Tj6KTxqm5ML56c5b89k_9Cbm0GLj-4TZ1yG8Kw-ysGlmLXl5kwQJa4c7svlho_AUiu2y0kkR2hq411dPk5F_g/s1600/Fangirl+.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzc-XyKdjH5ir4W5l6_biFYmMhcT-MKhr7IeSKaBT_nN7ukAj3jSTO4Tj6KTxqm5ML56c5b89k_9Cbm0GLj-4TZ1yG8Kw-ysGlmLXl5kwQJa4c7svlho_AUiu2y0kkR2hq411dPk5F_g/s1600/Fangirl+.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5422795-die-for-you" target="_blank">*</a>/<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16068905-fangirl" target="_blank">*</a>/<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5802140-the-story-sisters" target="_blank">*</a></div>
<u>Die For You</u> - How well do you think you know the person you married? This book will truly make you think about it. I wish I could keep it together half as well as Isabel when faced with so much turmoil. This is my second book by Lisa Unger and I am really warming up to her writing style. She pulls you through the story with vivid descriptions and emotion.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Isabel Raine thought she had everything–a successful career, a supportive family, and a happy marriage to the man she loved. Then one ordinary morning, her husband, Marcus, picks up his briefcase, kisses her good-bye, and simply vanishes. (excerpt from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5422795-die-for-you" target="_blank">goodreads</a>)</blockquote>
<u>Fangirl</u> - I was so nervous to read Fangirl. I feared it wouldn't live up to <i>Eleanor and Park, </i>but IT DID! The relationships you make when you first start college are those unknowing moments where you learn a lot about who you are, and Rainbow Rowell writes them so perfectly. Plus, I am sucker for any story that includes a first love.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Now that they’re going to college, Wren has told Cath she doesn’t want to be roommates. Cath is on her own, completely outside of her comfort zone. She’s got a surly roommate with a charming, always-around boyfriend, a fiction-writing professor who thinks fan fiction is the end of the civilized world, a handsome classmate who only wants to talk about words . . . And she can’t stop worrying about her dad, who’s loving and fragile and has never really been alone. (excerpt from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16068905-fangirl" target="_blank">goodreads</a>)</blockquote>
<u>The Story Sisters</u> - I love Alice Hoffman books. She does erie and enchanting so well! She wastes no time sucking you in... instantly you are one of the sisters, speaking a made-up language and living in imaginary world, all the while trying to escape the pained realities of what has happened. The ending to this book is so realistically beautiful that it makes all the pain in the book worth it.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The Story Sisters, charts the lives of three sisters–Elv, Claire, and Meg. Each has a fate she must meet alone: one on a country road, one in the streets of Paris, and one in the corridors of her own imagination. Inhabiting their world are a charismatic man who cannot tell the truth, a neighbor who is not who he appears to be, a clumsy boy in Paris who falls in love and stays there, a detective who finds his heart’s desire, and a demon who will not let go. (excerpt from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5802140-the-story-sisters" target="_blank">goodreads</a>)</blockquote>
This leaves me at 9/50 books so far.if want to see the other six <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.blogspot.com/search/label/books" target="_blank">click here</a>! Are you going any challenges this year?<br />
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CharlieCharliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-71078350450248728652014-03-11T16:05:00.000-04:002014-03-11T16:05:10.108-04:00Learning Brush Script<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A few weeks ago I enrolled in <a href="http://www.studiocalico.com/welcome?ref=e4e3342b" target="_blank">Studio Calico's</a> online brush script class. I have always loved the way it looked and jumped at the chance to learn <a href="http://lovelife.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Kal Barteski's</a> methods. As with anything you have to walk before you can run, but learning the foundation is kind of my favorite thing! I was the nerd in school who loved doing gradient scales just to see what each medium could do.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1xARgJ_HfdeiP2OI9PZyNRJEevoTfoBufoyBCSuFc9NXx-oYruCjrxxdwcyNV77IfnXWO5POw_1R53C7wDOC-C06dvMagppNtU39OZlU-Czi1rgh8DpT0wm5e0U_zwNi6N4E3fgsxQ/s1600/brush+script+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1xARgJ_HfdeiP2OI9PZyNRJEevoTfoBufoyBCSuFc9NXx-oYruCjrxxdwcyNV77IfnXWO5POw_1R53C7wDOC-C06dvMagppNtU39OZlU-Czi1rgh8DpT0wm5e0U_zwNi6N4E3fgsxQ/s1600/brush+script+1.png" /></a></div>
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Here is a peek at my first steps in learning brush script. I felt it was important to share the dirty work part of learning with you. Too often we only share our polished pieces with the world and no one gets to see the hard work that went into learning how to do it. This is my first experience with gouache and I think it's love! Now onto learning letters... oh repetition, you are the best teacher!</div>
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What mediums are you working with lately?</div>
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Charlie</div>
Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-86663696527459793092014-03-06T13:55:00.000-05:002014-03-06T13:55:42.923-05:00Project Life - January<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwELVgG3-HGs3DuWT62v4lh2Evn2d25K4WrLO8xsscu8ocIhypmwVllAupb_fzxdThDED-r_RcgllMN1gI5PDS1jLEzmpyCq52Zca6NBWjoyErT-JFkChkvvySbVAxewH6RUsP922-mA/s1600/project+life+Jan+14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwELVgG3-HGs3DuWT62v4lh2Evn2d25K4WrLO8xsscu8ocIhypmwVllAupb_fzxdThDED-r_RcgllMN1gI5PDS1jLEzmpyCq52Zca6NBWjoyErT-JFkChkvvySbVAxewH6RUsP922-mA/s1600/project+life+Jan+14.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Captured above: New Years, a big snow storm, kitty snuggles, and our 4th anniversary.</span></div>
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Here is my first month! As you can tell, I am doing it monthly instead of weekly. I feel like my life isn't interesting enough to do it every week. I am excited to look back and see how my style changes as I learn more and more about Project Life... the possibilities are endless!</div>
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Charlie</div>
Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-17872317324901871622014-03-04T15:47:00.001-05:002014-03-04T15:47:29.035-05:005 Things I Do To Break Creative Ruts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSdAqeb67L7Ijpb2szf9byFFusG0GUCVZNT7-W3noYeUr8spN7RJvOH5UBz-xCU-vL6NV8lcmEZLpWFqxY99DKsJDGk2lji0UeXXoKGyGiFy-bPDFiZ2Rp2CebIi2TTQzevJmJW5mDdQ/s1600/5+tips+for+creative+ruts.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSdAqeb67L7Ijpb2szf9byFFusG0GUCVZNT7-W3noYeUr8spN7RJvOH5UBz-xCU-vL6NV8lcmEZLpWFqxY99DKsJDGk2lji0UeXXoKGyGiFy-bPDFiZ2Rp2CebIi2TTQzevJmJW5mDdQ/s1600/5+tips+for+creative+ruts.png" /></a></div>
Creative ruts... sometimes it seems they can last forever! Here are a few things I do to help spark some creativity.<br />
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1. Watch movies - For me, watching <i>Because I Said So, Perks of Being a Wallflower</i>, or<i> Julie and Julia</i> leaves me with a renewed urge to take on the world.<br />
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2. Take a class - I love learning, and taking online classes makes it so easy to learn a new skill or further another. If you have never taken an online class, take a look at <a href="http://skl.sh/1bq6uOa" target="_blank">Skillshare</a>... they have a great variety of classes! Learning to create something new with tools you use everyday is a great way to help see the things around you in a new light!<br />
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3. Organize my work area - I don't know about you, but often my rut hits after I have made a craft explosion all over my work area and I have no idea what I have or where to begin. If I just take the time to give everything a place, I feel like anything is possible. I thrive on organization!<br />
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4. Change my view - Whether it is taking a walk outside or changing the way my desk faces, it helps. Not sure why, it just makes things look new!<br />
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5. Look back - I always keep notebooks, scraps of paper, and post-its with ideas, quotes and songs scrawled all over them. Looking back over these things leads to growing on old ideas or giving new life to ones I had given up on.<br />
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What do you do to break your creative ruts?<br />
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CharlieCharliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-73344933828881865202014-02-28T15:24:00.004-05:002014-02-28T15:24:40.453-05:00Project Life Chaos - Part 2I told you I would be back with a way to organize the other stuff that goes into Project Life. If you missed <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.blogspot.com/2014/02/project-life-chaos-part-1.html" target="_blank">Part 1, go see</a> how I organized all of my cards. Instead of figuring out a way for me to have ALL the little things with me when I move about the house, I decided to just make the basics available.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGki6F2Xe97xGHdUkxtBtIWFN58gIrcwt1v1r3U7bPlEegI19V2LodDZxModJMNkeBze05C8p14KmbU96ub-yjCo7ZhH5sn-MLjkAnpU3oU8SbmDhtGTuJoX4NY0zf-3GQyXiz-Kk-A/s1600/project+life+org+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGki6F2Xe97xGHdUkxtBtIWFN58gIrcwt1v1r3U7bPlEegI19V2LodDZxModJMNkeBze05C8p14KmbU96ub-yjCo7ZhH5sn-MLjkAnpU3oU8SbmDhtGTuJoX4NY0zf-3GQyXiz-Kk-A/s1600/project+life+org+3.png" /></a></div>
To me, these are the basics... scissors, tape, glue, stickers, pens, date stamp and ink. Using things I already had (sheet protectors, pocketed dividers, pencil pouches, binder rings, paper clips) I was able to creatively contain everything in a one inch binder.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFRGFLgJQsN9h0RIH4Ev4wz7uvEMr_t3oscbcFRw85qN97MQKBCAaH0It71shGsnOtn29ASw8nb7y9EoINI_CyDcGd-DqPT_wCXzXbXw5eO4uAgofWRLpBphBIsFm5VhAvVU8eMR7ssg/s1600/project+life+org+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFRGFLgJQsN9h0RIH4Ev4wz7uvEMr_t3oscbcFRw85qN97MQKBCAaH0It71shGsnOtn29ASw8nb7y9EoINI_CyDcGd-DqPT_wCXzXbXw5eO4uAgofWRLpBphBIsFm5VhAvVU8eMR7ssg/s1600/project+life+org+5.png" /></a></div>
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So, there you have it... a simple way to keep some of the little things contained. Gathering all these things led to me also totally reorganizing my craft room because a lot of the little things I use for Project Life, I use for other things too. Now, I have made it all much more accessible. Thank you Project life for making me hyper-organize all my other supplies too!!</div>
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Charlie</div>
<br />Charliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8045879084732792421.post-60447668380178413872014-02-25T17:12:00.002-05:002014-02-25T17:12:33.631-05:0050 in 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO_OIaWOPpfzvLWnT_EYxcBl-xU_fKumzJKD-EQKAVMqauan6axyv04UTv3dNwAjAqFBgJAxTN-vgtnRn6c4lGcVLlOBuJ9rMSRMqofvFGqc88LHtbbxmefNF5XVtj45qjc6BYeAXyTA/s1600/50+in+2014+test.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO_OIaWOPpfzvLWnT_EYxcBl-xU_fKumzJKD-EQKAVMqauan6axyv04UTv3dNwAjAqFBgJAxTN-vgtnRn6c4lGcVLlOBuJ9rMSRMqofvFGqc88LHtbbxmefNF5XVtj45qjc6BYeAXyTA/s1600/50+in+2014+test.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2999282-dexter-by-design" target="_blank">*</a>/<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12982393-dare-me" target="_blank">*</a>/<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13262783-every-day" target="_blank">*</a></div>
The <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/user_challenges/1151779" target="_blank">challenge</a> continues! If you missed my first 3 books, check <a href="http://polkadotsarelove.blogspot.com/2014/01/50-in-2014.html" target="_blank">here</a>. With the continued bitter cold I have used it as an opportunity to read as many books as I can before it warms up. I know when summer gets here I will be distracted by the sun!<br />
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<u>Dexter by Design</u> (#4) - Even though this book did not live up to the previous ones (in my opinion of course), the tourist attraction angle kept me giggling... so cliche and so true! I think I am beginning to see why at a certain point the TV show decided to stray from the books. I am trying to forget the Dexter on TV and learn to like the Dexter in the books and so I hope 5 grabs my attention a bit more!<br />
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After his surprisingly glorious honeymoon in Paris, life is almost normal for Dexter Morgan. Married life seems to agree with him: he’s devoted to his bride, his stomach is full, and his homicidal hobbies are nicely under control. But old habits die hard--and Dexter’s work as a blood spatter analyst never fails to offer new temptations that appeal to his offbeat sense of justice...and his Dark Passenger still waits to hunt with him in the moonlight. (excerpt from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2999282-dexter-by-design?from_choice=false&from_home_module=false" target="_blank">goodreads</a>)</blockquote>
<u>Dare Me </u>- Who knew there where such an ugly side to high school cheerleaders?! I know teen girls can be mean and full of angst, but this book took it to a whole different level. It left me with the "what the cuss did I just read" feeling. I will warn you that the dialogue in this book is at times a bit profane, because you know high school girls.<br />
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Addy Hanlon has always been Beth Cassidy's best friend and trusted lieutenant. Beth calls the shots and Addy carries them out, a long-established order of things that has brought them to the pinnacle of their high-school careers. Now they're seniors who rule the intensely competitive cheer squad, feared and followed by the other girls -- until the young new coach arrives. (excerpt from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12982393-dare-me" target="_blank">goodreads</a>)</blockquote>
<u>Every Day</u> - I liked this book, but I by no means loved it. At times it felt long winded, but it did still leave me questioning a lot of things. I guess maybe the best thing to say is that it was frustrating and reminded me of the TV show Quantum Leap. I did enjoy the love story that is wrapped in there and the narrator's struggle with attempting to do the right thing. I guess I am still a bit undecided, because even though I didn't love it, it has stuck with me.<br />
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There’s never any warning about where it will be or who it will be. A has made peace with that, even established guidelines by which to live: Never get too attached. Avoid being noticed. Do not interfere. (excerpt from <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13262783-every-day" target="_blank">goodreads</a>)</blockquote>
What have you been reading?<br />
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CharlieCharliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578129323863306168noreply@blogger.com0