tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-194733222024-03-13T11:28:53.495-05:00Echoes of Stars' Designs, LLCJuliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.comBlogger389125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-4532479455197907022014-05-08T22:39:00.002-05:002014-05-08T22:39:40.987-05:00THIS BLOG IS MOVING!Hello All,<br />
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This will be my last post on this blog. Please check out my new blog <i><a href="http://www.everydaysundry.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Everyday Sundry</a>.</i> It is already up and running, so please join me there for more fun!<br />
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<br />Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-38427851317106258882013-07-28T15:23:00.001-05:002013-07-28T15:36:03.555-05:00Stuff for Sale - Bid now on Ebay!<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm downsizing a bit! Come check out these gently used (and NEW) products on ebay!</div>
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<a href="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/ERGO-BABY-ORGANIC-CARRIER-Denim-Jean-/00/s/MTYwMFgxMDY2/z/z2gAAOxyYSJR9GC9/$%28KGrHqZ,%21qQFHqBe7P53BR9GC9lk8%21%7E%7E60_57.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/ERGO-BABY-ORGANIC-CARRIER-Denim-Jean-/00/s/MTYwMFgxMDY2/z/z2gAAOxyYSJR9GC9/$%28KGrHqZ,%21qQFHqBe7P53BR9GC9lk8%21%7E%7E60_57.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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Ergo Organic Baby Carrier in Denim Jean</div>
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Starting bid - CRAZY LOW - $0.99!</div>
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<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/290952493964?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649" target="_blank">Bid HERE!</a></div>
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<a href="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/YAMAHA-Portatone-PSR-18-Electric-Keyboard-Piano-100-Voice-Bank-EUC-/00/s/MTIwMFgxNjAw/z/tiAAAMXQb29R4HQb/$T2eC16F,!)UE9s3wBne2BR4HQbjnu!~~60_57.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/YAMAHA-Portatone-PSR-18-Electric-Keyboard-Piano-100-Voice-Bank-EUC-/00/s/MTIwMFgxNjAw/z/tiAAAMXQb29R4HQb/$T2eC16F,!)UE9s3wBne2BR4HQbjnu!~~60_57.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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YAMAHA Portatone PSR-18 Electric Keyboard Piano 100 Voice Bank </div>
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Starting bid $39.99</div>
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<a href="http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=290950520680" target="_blank">Bid now!</a></div>
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<a href="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/Fisher-Price-Loving-Family-Red-Table-Pink-Couch-and-Twin-High-Chair-/00/s/MTIyN1gxNjAw/z/DoQAAMXQBlJR9GV~/$(KGrHqR,!r!FHmp6C5PoBR9GV+gmEQ~~60_57.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/Fisher-Price-Loving-Family-Red-Table-Pink-Couch-and-Twin-High-Chair-/00/s/MTIyN1gxNjAw/z/DoQAAMXQBlJR9GV~/$(KGrHqR,!r!FHmp6C5PoBR9GV+gmEQ~~60_57.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Fisher Price Loving Family Red Table, Pink Couch, and Twin High Chair</div>
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Starting bid $0.99</div>
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<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/290952498534?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649" target="_blank">Bid now! </a></div>
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<a href="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/SKIP-HOP-DASH-DENIM-Messenger-Style-Diaper-Stroller-Bag-/00/s/MTMwN1gxNjAw/z/Lj8AAMXQwwlR9G~Y/$(KGrHqN,!n0FHdQY2RglBR9G+(79Fw~~60_57.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/SKIP-HOP-DASH-DENIM-Messenger-Style-Diaper-Stroller-Bag-/00/s/MTMwN1gxNjAw/z/Lj8AAMXQwwlR9G~Y/$(KGrHqN,!n0FHdQY2RglBR9G+(79Fw~~60_57.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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SKIP HOP DASH DENIM Messenger-Style Diaper/Stroller Bag</div>
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Starting bid $9.99</div>
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<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/290952510250?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649" target="_blank">Bid now! </a></div>
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<a href="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/120-Rose-Place-Cards-NIP-/00/s/MTMxNlgxNjAw/z/7VkAAOxy9tpR9IyZ/$(KGrHqV,!qsFHMOSlT8GBR9IyYq!b!~~60_57.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/120-Rose-Place-Cards-NIP-/00/s/MTMxNlgxNjAw/z/7VkAAOxy9tpR9IyZ/$(KGrHqV,!qsFHMOSlT8GBR9IyYq!b!~~60_57.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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120 Rose Place Cards</div>
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Starting bid $0.99</div>
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<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/290952546171?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649" target="_blank">Bid here! </a></div>
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<a href="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/JoAnn-Scrap-Essentials-12x12-Scrapbook-and-Jolee-Dove-Embellishments-20-Value-/00/s/MTYwMFgxNjAw/z/mk4AAOxyI8lR9XiD/$T2eC16JHJHEFFmJEpvC7BR9(iDQULg~~60_57.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/JoAnn-Scrap-Essentials-12x12-Scrapbook-and-Jolee-Dove-Embellishments-20-Value-/00/s/MTYwMFgxNjAw/z/mk4AAOxyI8lR9XiD/$T2eC16JHJHEFFmJEpvC7BR9(iDQULg~~60_57.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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JoAnn Scrap Essentials 12x12 Scrapbook and Jolee Dove Embellishments Over $20 Value!</div>
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Starting bid - CRAZY LOW - $0.99</div>
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<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/290952940906?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649" target="_blank">Bid now! </a></div>
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Come bid on this stuff before it's gone! All of these auctions will end on or before August 3rd!!</div>
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Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-73264733071879800672013-06-25T22:10:00.003-05:002013-06-25T22:12:40.241-05:00 Hope Gear Pendant<div style="text-align: center;">
Another new pendant this week!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1c13Pu8OMJw/UcpbEBNXeUI/AAAAAAAAA1A/EYAo2c6GLIg/s1600/IMG_2886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1c13Pu8OMJw/UcpbEBNXeUI/AAAAAAAAA1A/EYAo2c6GLIg/s320/IMG_2886.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Introducing the Hope Gear Pendant.</div>
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<span class="description-content">This ooak (one of a kind) decoupaged
pendant consists of a gear with an the word "hope" painted inside. The
collage is assembled on a smooth wooden pendant. The back of the pendant
is painted black, and the entire pendant is sealed with a coat of
water-resistant glaze.<br /><br />The pendant is about 1.5 inches in
diameter and comes with an 18 inch faux leather cord. The cord has a
silver tone clasp to match the pendant's bail.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-see8RgJMVJQ/Ucpb_As5HcI/AAAAAAAAA1M/JT0-W4ISURU/s1600/brownbag+box+shot+grunge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-see8RgJMVJQ/Ucpb_As5HcI/AAAAAAAAA1M/JT0-W4ISURU/s320/brownbag+box+shot+grunge.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="description-content">All of my jewelry comes with a complimentary gift box made from post-consumer recycled paper - perfect for gift-giving! </span></div>
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<span class="description-content">Buy it <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/155057233/hope-gear-pendant" target="_blank">here. </a></span></div>
Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-12905090508453491242013-06-24T09:00:00.000-05:002013-06-24T09:00:01.237-05:00The Key to Life Bottle Cap Necklace<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="description-content">This one-of-a-kind (ooak) art necklace
consists of a three-dimensional blue rose set against a collage of
text, prominently displaying the word "affection." A separate key
dangles next to the bottle cap pendant. The key has the word "LIFE"
inscribed on it. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3rSLv1-6TPk/UcapaVBejpI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/VNoKtPP8bYs/s1600/IMG_2871.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3rSLv1-6TPk/UcapaVBejpI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/VNoKtPP8bYs/s320/IMG_2871.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="description-content">The pendant is sealed with epoxy, so
it is waterproof. The back of the pendant also has some vintage flair,
so you could wear it with either side facing out. It's like getting two
pendants for the price of one!</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FvUryanCww4/UcapojTDSyI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/Xi_WsXNzpTs/s1600/IMG_2873.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FvUryanCww4/UcapojTDSyI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/Xi_WsXNzpTs/s320/IMG_2873.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="description-content">The pendant dangles from a standard
18-inch ball chain, unless you specify another length when you check
out. It will arrive tucked neatly inside a post-consumer recycled gift
box, perfect for gift-giving!
</span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/154747626/double-sided-happy-industrial-bottle-cap?ref=shop_home_active"></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eqj23QBkA_Q/Ucap2g5gNYI/AAAAAAAAA0g/WY8D_QWmiFg/s1600/brownbag+box+shot+grunge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eqj23QBkA_Q/Ucap2g5gNYI/AAAAAAAAA0g/WY8D_QWmiFg/s320/brownbag+box+shot+grunge.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Like it? Want it? <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/154778050/the-key-to-life-bottle-cap-necklace?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">Buy it here.</a><span id="goog_305262659"></span><span id="goog_305262660"></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6LvnWllT5d0/UcaqJfDmu9I/AAAAAAAAA0s/3tjSsOzoZOE/s1600/IMG_2877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6LvnWllT5d0/UcaqJfDmu9I/AAAAAAAAA0s/3tjSsOzoZOE/s320/IMG_2877.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>
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<br />Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-47506929247861324872013-06-22T12:35:00.002-05:002013-06-22T12:39:27.459-05:00Yamaha PSR-18 Keyboard for Sale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ytKxT1ctEsk/UcXhRaw0TyI/AAAAAAAAAzg/ncsCr5V8xmk/s1600/IMG_2796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ytKxT1ctEsk/UcXhRaw0TyI/AAAAAAAAAzg/ncsCr5V8xmk/s320/IMG_2796.JPG" /></a></div>I'm selling my Yamaha PSR-18 keyboard. Asking $50. View it <a href="http://milwaukee.craigslist.org/msg/3887914177.html">here</a> on Craigslist.<br />
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Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-32643613681442022182013-06-22T00:31:00.003-05:002013-06-22T00:32:17.268-05:00Introducing Bottle Cap Pendants!I know that I haven't posted anything on this in a very loooooong time, so if anyone actually reads this, I will be surprised! After much debating about whether or not I should close my Echoes of Stars Etsy store, I have finally decided to take it in a couple of new directions instead. The first of which is: introducing bottle cap pendants! Check out my first listing <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/154692956/double-sided-grunge-industrial-bottlecap?ref=shop_home_active">here.</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9o7Tl7a1qnw/UcU1zdTSDCI/AAAAAAAAAyk/eh_Iu6UEu9M/s1600/IMG_2822+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9o7Tl7a1qnw/UcU1zdTSDCI/AAAAAAAAAyk/eh_Iu6UEu9M/s320/IMG_2822+copy.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eZgJwkedcGg/UcU133MDb8I/AAAAAAAAAys/oD5ptUvPteI/s1600/IMG_2831+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eZgJwkedcGg/UcU133MDb8I/AAAAAAAAAys/oD5ptUvPteI/s320/IMG_2831+copy.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cgi1YeVbXNc/UcU15_jL-ZI/AAAAAAAAAy8/3kesa3yBeNU/s1600/IMG_2845+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cgi1YeVbXNc/UcU15_jL-ZI/AAAAAAAAAy8/3kesa3yBeNU/s320/IMG_2845+copy.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CQPdUlwnvaA/UcU14bXmrkI/AAAAAAAAAyw/vAiCraTQzVo/s1600/IMG_2846+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CQPdUlwnvaA/UcU14bXmrkI/AAAAAAAAAyw/vAiCraTQzVo/s320/IMG_2846+copy.jpg" /></a></div><br />
This one-of-a-kind (ooak) necklace consists of a metal gear set against a subdued colorful background, nestled within a vintage bottle cap. The pendant is sealed with epoxy, so it is waterproof. The back of the pendant also has vintage flair, so you could wear it with either side facing out. It's like getting two pendants for the price of one!<br />
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The pendant dangles from a standard 18-inch ball chain, unless you specify another length when you order. It will arrive tucked neatly inside a post-consumer recycled gift box, perfect for gift-giving! Find it at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Echoesofstars?ref=si_shop">my Etsy shop</a>.Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-17375071024524361832012-10-20T14:39:00.001-05:002012-10-20T14:40:12.798-05:00HUGE Clearance Sale Happening NOW!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HRvpZGcpJQU/UIL9y4bPzKI/AAAAAAAAAx8/8zayz0Ppll8/s1600/sale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="257" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HRvpZGcpJQU/UIL9y4bPzKI/AAAAAAAAAx8/8zayz0Ppll8/s320/sale.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I have decided to have a mega clearance sale to make room for new inventory. Please come check out <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Echoesofstars?section_id=12392423">the sale section of My Etsy Shop</a> for <b>50% off selected items</b>! Don't miss it - they will go fast!<br />
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Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-86815047084440770782012-09-21T16:19:00.001-05:002012-09-21T16:19:25.124-05:00Apple Harvest Time!Hey Everyone! Do you have plans for this Saturday? No? Then you should come to Retzer Nature Center in Waukesha for the Apple Harvest Festival! I will be there selling my soaps, lotions, art pendants, and bath and body products. There is LO<br />
TS of yummy food and LOTS of fun for the whole family: caramel apples and apple pie, a scarecrow lane, silent auction, craft fair, guided nature hikes, children's craft activities, horse-drawn wagon rides, a planetarium show, and much much more! Stop by my booth Simple Stuff Skin Care and say "hi!" <a href="http://http://www.friendsofretzer.org/pdf/AHFflyer12.pdf">Click here for directions and more info.</a>Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-76022965523713630982012-08-03T06:00:00.000-05:002012-08-03T06:00:08.649-05:00The Plan for Next WeekI have a pretty busy weekend scheduled, so don't get your hopes up, but here's the plan:<br />
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Monday 8/6/12 Shop Talk: Two new pendants<br />
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Tuesday 8/7 DYI FYI: Air plant hanging jars<br />
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Wednesday 8/8 Geekery: Drivemocion EX Series LED Car Sign<br />
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Thursday 8/9 Rants and Raves: Striiv PedometerJuliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-92024182735747690852012-08-02T06:00:00.000-05:002012-08-02T06:00:09.453-05:00P is for Pink PrincessGosh, blogging every day is... hard.<br />
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But hey, better late than never, right? Eh. Maybe someday I will be more on top of things. At any rate, you will have to wait until next week to hear about my Striiv pedometer. In the meantime, please consider this rant - Children's Toys and the Lack of Creativity.<br />
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It seems that whenever I want to purchase an interesting toy for my daughter, I have to go on ebay or browse rummage sales to find toys that she will actually enjoy playing with. Her latest obsession has been with these Fisher Price dinosaurs, which are no longer manufactured by the company.<br />
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They're adorable and fun, and even though she's a girl, she enjoys playing with them (albeit differently than most boys do - she plays "family" with them - mommy, daddy, and baby dinos). <br />
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Why don't they make gender-neutral toys like this anymore? You know, the ones that really spark kids' imaginations?<br />
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I think there is just a lack of creativity in kids' toys nowadays. For example, you can tell when you are coming to the "girl" isle in the toys department of our local Target. Everything is Pink. And Princess. Or Dress-Up and Play House. No exceptions. If it's not Pink and doesn't have something to do with Dress-Up, Princesses, or Play House, it simply does not belong in the girl isle in the toy department.<br />
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Likewise is the "boy" isle. Their toys involve war, cars, sports, or variations thereof. At least there are more options with the color choices in the boys' section.<br />
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Which leads me to wonder, where are the open-ended toys kept? You know, the ones where the kids could choose to play "house" with (mommy, daddy, and baby dinos, for example) or race with or war with, depending on the kid's imagination and not on his or her gender? What if a little boy wanted to develop his nurturing side? What if a little girl was interested in cars? <i>Or what if a little girl detested the color pink???</i> Oh, the horror!<br />
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I have to imagine that if I were a scientist from another culture studying our societal roles based on the toy choices we give to our children, I would come to the following conclusions:<br />
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1. Girls only like the color pink.<br />
2. Girls are expected to fill one of two roles: A. be catered to by the rest of society (princess) or B. be some sort of a servant (play house).<br />
3. No matter if you are a princess or a servant, a girl must pay attention to her appearance and try to be pretty (dress up).<br />
3. Boys are only interested in these topics: war, cars, sports. That's it. Therefore, boys are not nurturing, nor are they interested in homemaking.<br />
4. Neither gender is interested in topics such as math or science.<br />
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Now I know these are broad generalizations, and yes, there are many good open-ended and creative toys out there, but it just seems like there are less of them now than there were even ten years ago. At least they have become harder to find in my neck of the woods. <br />
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What are your thoughts on this subject? Let me know in the comments section! :)<br />
<br />Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-75961160397780481082012-07-24T06:00:00.000-05:002012-07-24T06:00:15.316-05:00Tricked Out TricycleWell, I may be slow, but I eventually follow through. As promised, here is the saga of the "Tricked Out Tricycle..."<br />
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I found this lovely little Craigslist special a few weeks ago. For $25, I thought it was a good deal. It was the perfect size trike for my little girl and even came with a sun canopy! There was a lot of sun fading and some pretty ugly peeling Disney princess stickers, but I figured that I could update it with a paint job to make it like new...<br />
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Little did I realize all the steps that go into properly painting a bike! Taking it apart, taping the non-paintable parts, sanding, priming, painting...ugh. There had to be an easier way.<br />
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That's when I started surfing the interwebs for some ideas, and then it came to me! DUCT TAPE.<br />
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I bought some butterfly duct tape on Ebay, took the trike apart, thoroughly washed everything, and wrapped the frame in the butterfly tape. This is the result:<br />
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Nifty, hey? I mean... LOOK AT IT. Except for the tires it looks new!<br />
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The canopy had some very faded "Disney Princess" decals. Butterfly duct tape is definitely better! (I can't stand Disney princesses...)<br />
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The old white handlebar grips were severely chewed-upon and gross. Oddly enough, the purple foot rests were in respectable condition. I pried both the gross handlebar grips and the foot rests off the bike. I threw away the handlebar grips and replaced them with the newly cleaned foot rests instead. I purchased some new handlebar ribbons and a new bicycle basket on ebay (I love ebay). Some super glue now holds the handlebar ribbons in place. I covered the foot rests with generous layers of butterfly duct tape.<br />
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A cute butterfly bell and some reflective stickers on the wheels top it all off. So there you have it - an original, one-of-a-kind tricycle that's new to us for under $40 total!<br />Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-61562704742791691112012-07-23T06:00:00.000-05:002012-07-23T06:00:16.796-05:00Shop Talk - Nerdy KnittingI promised you a cowl, and you shall have said cowl... but FIRST may I present to you my new "Yarn Nerd" project bag?!<br />
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Isn't it fabulous?!? I've made a few, so I have 3 of these lovelies <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/105037648/yarn-nerd-project-bag">for sale</a> in my Etsy shop, <a href="http://www.echoesofstars.etsy.com">Echoes of Stars Designs, LLC</a>.<br />
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I have *HAND PAINTED* a lovely "Yarn Nerd" decal on the front. An Echoes of Stars' Designs EXCLUSIVE! (The painted decal has been heat-set.)<br />
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This medium tote is perfect as a project bag. In the pictures, it is carrying three skeins of super bulky weight yarn and a pair of 15 US knitting needles. The bag is 13.5 inches wide by 13.5 inches long by 4 inches deep and is made of 100% cotton.<br />
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Okay, okay. Now for the cowl...<br />
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Gorgeous, right? The cowl is large - 14 inches long by 16 inches in diameter - so it can easily be pulled up and over your head to protect your hair from falling snow.<br />
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Check out the detailing - the delicate lace and cables!<br />
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The yarn that this cowl is knitted from is unbelievably soft! It is crafted from Eco Duo yarn by Cascade. Reviewers have called this yarn "creamy," "dreamy," and "heavenly soft." Imagine how wonderful this cowl will feel next to your skin!<br />
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Fiber contents: 70% Undyed Baby Alpaca / 30% Undyed Merino Wool<br />
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Like it? Want it? Buy it <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/105050425/snowy-day-cowl">here.</a><br />
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<br />Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-52186559636592091622012-07-20T06:00:00.000-05:002012-08-02T02:22:57.167-05:00Upcoming Blog Topics for 7/23-7/27/12Ha. I'm finally getting my act together and writing posts <b>ahead of time</b>. Can you believe it? So here's the schedule for the upcoming week. <br />
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Monday 7/23/12 Shop Talk: The softest cowl you will ever wear.<br />
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Tuesday 7/24 DYI FYI: Rummage Sale Rehab - A Tricycle Gets a Make-Over with Duct Tape! (For REALZ this time!)<br />
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Wednesday 7/25 The Geekery: Striiv Pedometer<br />
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Thursday 7/26 Rants and Raves: Kids' Toys and Creativity (or lack thereof)<br />
<br />Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-85160381291205902732012-07-19T06:00:00.000-05:002012-07-19T06:00:00.776-05:00Kiddie Wagon Upgrade!So I sold my old Step 2 wagon and trailer because Little Love is rapidly outgrowing it. <br />
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My old Step 2 wagon and trailer<br />
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To replace it, I bought this one for just $7 more than what I received from the sale of my my old wagon/trailer. (I sold my Step 2 wagon on Craigslist and bought this Little Tikes "Ride and Relax Wagon" on sale online at KMart.com):<br />
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Here's what I think of it:<br />
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I definitely would <b>not</b> pay full price for this wagon. However, I managed to snag it for just $72, which was worth it to me. The wagon comes with an even more expensive model that has an additional folding umbrella and cooler attached. I definitely would <b>not</b> buy that model since I already own a cooler and a clip-on umbrella.<br />
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The Little Tikes Ride and Relax Wagon is definitely larger than my old Step 2 wagon, which makes it more difficult to fit in the back of my car. (If you don't have a SUV or minivan, you may want to stick to a Step 2 wagon.) However, it's much nicer for my growing girl. The seats can fold down flat so that she can stretch out and lie down, which is a plus for me. <br />
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The kiddie cup holders are located <b>inside</b> the wagon instead of on the outer edge, so she is less likely to lose her sippy cup as we go, and there are even 4 conveniently placed cup holders for the adults who are tagging along. The side of the wagon also folds over so that it can convert to a bench for us to sit on. This is especially handy at the zoo when the picnic areas are busy or along parade routes (no more hauling lawn chairs!). <br />
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I have heard that the front wheels can buckle with too much weight. I have only noticed this starting to happen once during a playdate at the zoo. I had five toddlers in the wagon, and I noticed that the front wheels were beginning to bend during turns. I took two of the toddlers out and it was just fine again. So we only ride three kids at a time now, and it works fine. The wheels can hold one adult and one toddler when being used as a bench as long as you do not try to make it move. <br />
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The seat belts are a bit of a joke - they aren't nearly long enough for older toddlers/preschoolers, and I do miss the snazzy door of the Step 2 wagon, which made entering and exiting easier for the kids. The Little Tikes wagon, being larger and heavier than the Step 2 wagon, is also a little more difficult to steer. However, I only notice this when I turn it around and push (which I like to do when at the zoo so I can better keep an eye on the kids).<br />
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You may wonder what I do for shade. Well, Radio Flyer makes <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Radio-Flyer-UA18-Umbrella-Accessory/dp/B00002MZ8A/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1342577927&sr=1-1&keywords=radio+flyer+umbrella">this</a> nifty clip-on umbrella that I used to use on my Step 2 wagon. It also fits on my Little Tikes wagon, although not as well due to the sculpted sides. I like it because it bends and can be positioned at different angles to block the sun as we go.<br />
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Overall, I do prefer the Little Tikes wagon to the Step 2 wagon - I can haul one more kid with the seats folded flat, there are cup holders for grownups, and it converts to a nice comfy bench. All pluses in my book.<br />
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<br />Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-76875374190316899862012-07-18T06:00:00.000-05:002012-07-18T06:00:14.814-05:00Suddenly Superman is CoolBecause everyone knows all the cool kids knit. :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3tIKaAyVOm8/UAYWeOLF3gI/AAAAAAAAAu8/GG2wkTX6hVU/s1600/supermanknits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="291" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3tIKaAyVOm8/UAYWeOLF3gI/AAAAAAAAAu8/GG2wkTX6hVU/s320/supermanknits.jpg" /></a></div>Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-60500788515148704292012-07-03T02:16:00.000-05:002012-07-03T02:17:06.312-05:00Babushka Toms!So I got a new pair of Toms. But they were gray. Much too boring for me.<br />
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Ever inspired by Pinterest, I wanted to decorate them. I wanted something that would reflect my faith without being to cheesy or in-your-face.<br />
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I love this verse from 1 Corinthians 13:13<br />
"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."<br />
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And I also love Babushka dolls.<br />
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So I carved some stamps... <br />
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And used these fabric markers to stamp my Toms...<br />
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But the original stamping wasn't that dark, so I used a fine paintbrush to fill in the outlines. Here are the results.<br />
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I gently ironed them to set the ink in place. Now I have the coolest Toms in the world.<br />
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Get it? The greatest of these is LOVE. :)Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-56786845792086747962012-06-12T23:43:00.000-05:002012-06-12T23:43:19.975-05:00Rock 'em Sock 'em Mitts!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ANpO8PPego0/T9gZQDTJGMI/AAAAAAAAAtg/66pwHObHCpo/s1600/Untitled-1%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="217" width="250" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ANpO8PPego0/T9gZQDTJGMI/AAAAAAAAAtg/66pwHObHCpo/s320/Untitled-1%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a><br />
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Check out these awesome "Fightin' Words" mitts by <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/cfPatterns/IDP/IDP_Pattern_List.cfm?id=K00485">Annie Watts</a>. They're definitely on my queue to knit! The pattern is available for $4.00 <a href="http://www.knitpicks.com/cfpatterns/pattern_display.cfm?ID=11703220&media=RAV&utm_source=media&utm_medium=marketing&utm_campaign=RAV">here</a>, on the Knit Picks website.Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-22088346597889322272012-06-12T18:13:00.000-05:002012-06-12T18:39:21.714-05:00Reborn Baby Doll and Candles for Sale!Check out these wonderful goods in <a href="http://www.ebay.com/sch/starsreflection/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=25&_trksid=p3686">my ebay shop</a>. As cheap as heck! :)<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jrlr-ZNS6dw/T9fOlbYq1HI/AAAAAAAAAsg/b66YO5jWJNg/s1600/thisone5a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="144" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jrlr-ZNS6dw/T9fOlbYq1HI/AAAAAAAAAsg/b66YO5jWJNg/s200/thisone5a.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/290727061210?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649">Beautiful sleeping reborn baby doll</a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HgO1U8W6yQI/T9fP3BDeWrI/AAAAAAAAAss/Ry4mjhiQ7qc/s1600/IMG_2391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="150" width="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HgO1U8W6yQI/T9fP3BDeWrI/AAAAAAAAAss/Ry4mjhiQ7qc/s200/IMG_2391.JPG" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/290722972075?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649">49 Vanilla Scented Votive Candles</a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-glsuljIheAY/T9fQ2m5VwUI/AAAAAAAAAs4/VHDsAbVKQb0/s1600/IMG_2321a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="120" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-glsuljIheAY/T9fQ2m5VwUI/AAAAAAAAAs4/VHDsAbVKQb0/s200/IMG_2321a.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/290722990401?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649">Set of 3 Rainbow Colored Votive Candle Holders with 3 New Biscotti Scented Candles</a><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nlYlyQBZP8U/T9fR0ExYchI/AAAAAAAAAtE/KZEzis-qptk/s1600/IMG_2327a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nlYlyQBZP8U/T9fR0ExYchI/AAAAAAAAAtE/KZEzis-qptk/s200/IMG_2327a.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/290722993037?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649">Set of 3 Decorative Candles with Gold Colored Plate</a><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uug4x5pfJH4/T9fSe5vA_hI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/MHVJnxU2EMM/s1600/IMG_2325a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uug4x5pfJH4/T9fSe5vA_hI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/MHVJnxU2EMM/s200/IMG_2325a.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/290726047653?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649">2 Glass Tea Light Candle Holders with 2 Decorative Tea Light Candles!</a>Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-3689425117380730022012-06-01T02:33:00.000-05:002012-06-01T02:33:08.562-05:00Ok, so I lied.Well, I honestly DID try.<br />
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Blogger hates me, I swear. Half the time it won't let me log in, and when it does, it won't let me upload pictures no matter what size I make them! FRUSTRATING! If I wasn't already so invested in Blogger, I would leave it in a heartbeat.<br />
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Anyway, do not fear. I am *still* working on uploading my tricycle transformation pics, but I'm guessing I'll have to do so through flickr and link them over. SIGH.<br />
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At any rate, sorry for the delay in posting, and sorry for being off-schedule. But here is a lovely new addition to my Etsy shop. Check out Gracie the Garden Gnome sporting my newest creation: a lovely hand-knit toddler hat!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dBFitibEofA/T8hry4v2bBI/AAAAAAAAAr0/-AcjUD--xgQ/s1600/IMG_2246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dBFitibEofA/T8hry4v2bBI/AAAAAAAAAr0/-AcjUD--xgQ/s320/IMG_2246.jpg" /></a></div><br />
It has this neat little star or flower detail on the top...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mPOcRQYibCo/T8htAe_NSsI/AAAAAAAAAsA/4cQ8Wl24xjQ/s1600/IMG_2240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mPOcRQYibCo/T8htAe_NSsI/AAAAAAAAAsA/4cQ8Wl24xjQ/s320/IMG_2240.jpg" /></a></div><br />
...and looks adorable with the ruffled brim.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A6yT92GhV6o/T8hv3n1UfyI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/PazKvY0t0vA/s1600/IMG_2250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A6yT92GhV6o/T8hv3n1UfyI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/PazKvY0t0vA/s320/IMG_2250.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Sized for a toddler age 1 year to 3 years. Like it? You can purchase it <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/101120279/soft-blue-toddler-ruffle-hat-photo-prop">here </a>- it's ready to ship!Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-49556863523735206742012-05-15T00:22:00.000-05:002012-05-15T00:25:31.123-05:00Shop Talk - What's New in My Shops - May 14, 2012So two of my shops got new items over the weekend: The Vintage Hedgehog and Echoes of Stars' Designs.<br />
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These lovelies were added to <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheVintageHedgehog">The Vintage Hedgehog:</a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1cCY_FEtfU/T7HhpcJ34OI/AAAAAAAAAqM/NgDg60-Ar3M/s1600/IMG_2154.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1cCY_FEtfU/T7HhpcJ34OI/AAAAAAAAAqM/NgDg60-Ar3M/s320/IMG_2154.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/99853817/shy-smurf-with-red-flowers-figurine">Shy Smurf with Red Flowers Figurine</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c8opiSVr4y4/T7HjNjyy7KI/AAAAAAAAAqY/01x5zGuj0DA/s1600/IMG_2102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c8opiSVr4y4/T7HjNjyy7KI/AAAAAAAAAqY/01x5zGuj0DA/s320/IMG_2102.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/99853094/rare-shirt-tales-digger-figurine">Shirt Tales Digger Figurine</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_uB4r5TKdyc/T7HkiLkda8I/AAAAAAAAAqk/mxt-6s2YcZA/s1600/IMG_2136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_uB4r5TKdyc/T7HkiLkda8I/AAAAAAAAAqk/mxt-6s2YcZA/s320/IMG_2136.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/99852112/crawling-butter-cookie-with-jelly-bear">Strawberry Shortcake "Butter Cookie with Jelly Bear" Figurine</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6Ign-jVr6k/T7HnX7oz4jI/AAAAAAAAAq0/en3wcQnomEI/s1600/IMG_1757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6Ign-jVr6k/T7HnX7oz4jI/AAAAAAAAAq0/en3wcQnomEI/s320/IMG_1757.JPG" /></a></div><br />
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And in Echoes of Stars' Designs, LLC:<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/99682480/large-podflower-pendant">Large Podflower Pendant</a><br />
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Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-32556784251806381462012-05-12T00:26:00.001-05:002012-05-12T00:47:07.070-05:00Coming Next Week...Preview next week's topics:<br />
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Monday 5/14/12 Shop Talk: At least one new pendant and some vintage smurfs<br />
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Tuesday 5/15 DYI FYI: Rummage Sale Rehab - A Tricycle Gets a Make-Over with Duct Tape!<br />
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Wednesday 5/16 The Geekery: Rock 'em Sock 'em Mitts<br />
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Thursday 5/17 Rants and Raves: My New Wagon<br />
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See you next week! Have a Happy Mother's Day!<br />
<br />Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-2496755297934514842012-05-10T19:41:00.002-05:002012-05-10T19:43:46.277-05:00Movie Theater Nacho Cheesy Goodness!For years I have searched for it, but it eluded me like some modern-day gooey Holy Grail.<br />
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When I was preggers, I actually went to a movie theater to order it (not even to see a movie!). Yes, the staff got a kick out of that.<br />
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But last week... I found it! <b> I found it.</b> After years of searching, here it is: Gehl's Nacho Cheese Stadium Sauce.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nationwidecandy.com/mmCANDY/Images/04150_Gehls_Nacho_Cheese_Stadium_Sauce_18_Ounce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="466" width="326" src="http://www.nationwidecandy.com/mmCANDY/Images/04150_Gehls_Nacho_Cheese_Stadium_Sauce_18_Ounce.jpg" /></a></div><br />
It tastes just like movie theater/baseball stadium nacho cheese. It's the <b>real deal.</b> Available at Pick 'n Save (near the Cheese Whiz). Why would anyone buy Cheese Whiz when they could eat... <b>this</b>?<br />
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You're welcome.<br />
<br />Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-28092226350252023552012-05-09T09:14:00.000-05:002012-05-09T09:14:35.369-05:00Superhero Cape Socks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTvSOzT19Mae3tnZPf1-xeQknnTlagErG7cPEjn6RFWxITvZgEDug" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="217" width="232" src="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTvSOzT19Mae3tnZPf1-xeQknnTlagErG7cPEjn6RFWxITvZgEDug" /></a></div><br />
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If you're a superhero geek like me, you will really dig these socks. Available in adult sizes from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Batman-Black-Adult-Knee-High/dp/B005H3BC3O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1336572156&sr=8-1">amazon.com</a> - choose from Batman, Wonder Woman, or Superman. I mean, how cool are these!?! Now even your feet can fight crime.Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-76497367316987928752012-05-08T03:42:00.000-05:002012-05-08T03:42:48.391-05:00Blogger Makeover How-ToSorry I didn't post yesterday. The kid was a little crazy, so I didn't have time to update any of my shops. <br />
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But as promised, here's a description of how I made my blog look like the wonderful piece of bloggery it is today.<br />
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First, you need to start with a background picture that:<br />
1. Isn't too crazy, but yet interesting.<br />
2. Says something about you as an artist and/or blogger.<br />
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I chose this turquoise wood siding because I love the color and I love the vintagey texture.<br />
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I obtained the original picture from <a href="http://www.rgbstock.com/">rgbstock</a>, a nifty little website where you can download free ad-free stock photos. They require you to sign up, so make sure you use your spam email address when signing up, just in case.<br />
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Now, if you find a background photo that you like, but it needs a little TLC before it's suitable for blogging, check out <a href="http://www.picmonkey.com/">PicMonkey</a>. PicMonkey is a free photo-editing software that you can use to easily refine your photo. It also has some really swell vintage filters that can give your background an old-school feel. Fiddle around with the filters and save the final copy that you like. Just a warning - it's easy to get carried away! Don't mess with it too much - you don't want your background to take attention away from your writing on your blog.<br />
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Now here comes the part specific to people using Blogger. Yes, I still use Blogger. I've been using Blogger ever since blogging was cool, (think pre-facebook) and I'm not about to learn how to use Wordpress or tumblr or any other of the cool blogging sites. I'm loyal, by golly! *shakes fist*<br />
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Actually, I simply don't have the time or patience to learn something new at this point, especially with a toddler constantly banging on my keyboard.<br />
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So how to make your blog look all fancy-dancy like mine in Blogger:<br />
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1. Go to your blog's setup page. You will want to begin by downloading a copy of your current template just in case you mess something up royally. To do this, click on "Template" on the left hand menu and then click on "Backup/Restore" on the upper right hand corner. Click on the picture below to see a full-scale version of what I'm talking about.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RZKdD5VOyg0/T6jOJXYIGjI/AAAAAAAAApM/oEIYKZ2IUhU/s1600/blog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="75" width="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RZKdD5VOyg0/T6jOJXYIGjI/AAAAAAAAApM/oEIYKZ2IUhU/s200/blog1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
2. To make your blog navigate like mine does (with the navigation bar at the top) click on the first "Dynamic view," Which is also known as the "Classic" dynamic view. (Again, see picture above to get an idea of what I'm talking about.) Apply this template to your blog.<br />
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3. Now you will want to customize this template so that your background and fonts are the way you want them to be. Click on the orange "Customize" button to do this.<br />
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From here, we will refer to this nifty little menu (click to enlarge):<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2k9qlT2y8aU/T6jQSOomL4I/AAAAAAAAApY/Er_iFRIgaNA/s1600/Untitled-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="68" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2k9qlT2y8aU/T6jQSOomL4I/AAAAAAAAApY/Er_iFRIgaNA/s200/Untitled-3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The two sub-menus that you want to adjust are the "Background" menu and the "Advanced" menu. Don't worry - it's not that hard!<br />
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4. In the "Background" menu, click on the little arrow next to the background image (I've circled it in the picture below for you - click to enlarge.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZVsojjyusU/T6jRf5R9i4I/AAAAAAAAApk/PuQfq2b0Y8I/s1600/Untitled-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="68" width="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZVsojjyusU/T6jRf5R9i4I/AAAAAAAAApk/PuQfq2b0Y8I/s200/Untitled-3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
From there, you will either want to choose a pre-fab Blogger background (yawn) or upload the one that you made for yourself (yay!). <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pu1SwdU_bs4/T6jSYFgqUgI/AAAAAAAAApw/Y2gayQuzHhA/s1600/Untitled-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="146" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pu1SwdU_bs4/T6jSYFgqUgI/AAAAAAAAApw/Y2gayQuzHhA/s200/Untitled-4.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Click on "Upload Image" and choose the image from your computer that you want as your background. A couple of Blogger snafus with this: Blogger is VERY fussy about file size. Make sure your image is no larger than 300k and 1800 x 1600. You will want to use a photo-editing software to make your picture the correct size. I used Adobe Elements to do this, but there are other online versions that do this as well. If you use Adobe, make sure you save your jpg as a quality 5 or 6 file so that you don't wig out Blogger's uploader.<br />
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I have also found that uploading files to Blogger late at night is <b>much</b> faster than trying to do so during the day here in the States. Less traffic, maybe? Dunno. But midnight blogging seems to be the way to go.<br />
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5. Once you have your background neatly in place, you will want to adjust the fonts and color schemes of the blog to match. To do this, click on the "Advanced" button on the gray menu, mentioned above.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9condYyYu8w/T6jU1oIhTYI/AAAAAAAAAp8/fuxm27RauAo/s1600/Untitled-4%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="46" width="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9condYyYu8w/T6jU1oIhTYI/AAAAAAAAAp8/fuxm27RauAo/s200/Untitled-4%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Now comes the fun part. Use the sub-menu to play around with the colors, fonts, etc. until you find a combo that you like. Don't worry about permanently messing it up - you can always revert to the original template by clicking on "Clear advanced changes to page" (see picture above - click to enlarge).<br />
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When you are finished with playing around with the fonts and colors, <b>click the orange "Apply to Blog"</b> and then "Back to Blogger" on the upper right hand corner of your workspace.<br />
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6. Now you will be back at your Blog's control panel. We will next make "pages" for your blog. "Pages" are nifty features that allow your blog to link to other websites using your blog's navigation menu. But the cool secret is that you can use "Pages" to link to specific posts within the blog itself, allowing you to classify your posts according to topic. For someone like me, with a wide range of topics, this makes it easy for your readers to find only the posts that most interest them.<br />
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To do this, we will be using the "Pages" feature and the labels that you use in the <b>individual blog posts</b> themselves.<br />
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Before we move on, let's pretend that you blog about three topics: shoes, goats, and video games (bear with me, it's late). For each blog entry that you create, you will want to label it with a one-word label according to the topic discussed. For example, every shoe entry will be labeled with <b>shoes</b>, every goat entry will be labeled with <b>goats</b>, and every video game entry will be labeled with <b>games</b> (remember, one word). <br />
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For this to work correctly, the labels in your blog posts must be spelled correctly and used consistently. For example, if you replace "shoes" with "shoe," it will not show up in the link to your "shoes" posts. Be forewarned.<br />
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Okay, back to the "Pages" feature. You will want to create a new page that links to a web address. When asked for the web address, enter:<br />
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http://<b>your blog's url</b>/search/label/<b>the post label you want it to link to</b><br />
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But make sure you change the bits in bold to reflect your blog's url and your label.<br />
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Repeat these steps for every one-word label you use on your blog posts.<br />
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Remember, for this to work, your blog post labels have to match the web address exactly. If you post something with the label of "video games," it won't show up on the page with the web address of "games."<br />
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And that's it. Have fun making your blog more...you!<br />
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<br />Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19473322.post-22934633927082066462012-05-06T01:47:00.000-05:002012-07-17T21:34:44.127-05:00Time for Some Changes!Well, I've decided to finally give my blog a much-needed overhaul. Like the new look? In next Tuesday's post, I'll explain how I made the background, which blogger template I used, and how I managed the navigation menu at the top of this blog.<br />
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At any rate, this update is to inform all of you that I will be doing much more with this blog now. I've recently become inspired by other bloggers who Do-It-Yourself, and often my friends ask how I did such and such... so I've decided to become a more consistent blogger with how-tos and instructables. Because I'm also a geeky nerd at heart, I will pepper in some geek and science-related posts once in awhile, as I used to do in the past. And finally, this blog will still serve as an announcement board for my shop updates, but don't expect me to be giving away any secret recipes for bath and body products - a girl has to make a living somehow! <br />
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Here's my anticipated schedule:<br />
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Mondays: <br />
Etsy shop updates in <a href="http://starsreflections.blogspot.com/search/label/shop">Shop Talk</a><br />
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Tuesdays:<br />
DYI instructables in <a href="http://starsreflections.blogspot.com/search/label/DYI">DYI FYI</a><br />
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Wednesdays:<br />
Geeky finds in <a href="http://starsreflections.blogspot.com/search/label/geekery">The Geekery</a><br />
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Thursdays:<br />
My Opinions in <a href="http://starsreflections.blogspot.com/search/label/reviews">Rants and Raves</a><br />
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Fridays:<br />
Sneek Peek at Next Week's Topics<br />
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At any rate, I would love some feedback about the new look. Too girly? Is the font okay? Any navigation problems? I'm still working on redoing all the tags to make sure they fall under the correct navigation, so that may take awhile.Juliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00506697443190993137noreply@blogger.com0