HUNGRYHIPPIE

A Monthly Make 2012 ~ February

2012-02-16T14:41:00.001Z

A Monthly Make 2012 ~ February, a group on Flickr.

Check out these and more lovely makes for February on Flickr.

We are moving house tomorrow-so I might be out of the loop for a bit. :(

Happy Creating!

2CELLOS - With or Without You (Live at iTunes Festival 2011)

2012-02-16T13:37:00.000Z

Lemon Cookies the easy way

2012-02-15T12:01:00.002Z

I love lemon...anything.

When I found this recipe via Pinterest, I had to try it out.

Here is the original blog post: Lemon Burst Cake Mix Cookies

I added a bunch of lemon zest to the cookie recipe.....cuz I like it lemon-y sour baby, yeah.

Rollin', rollin', rollin'....

They didn't last long between my youngins' --and..well...myself.

♥

2012-02-14T11:00:00.003Z

Rag Quilt table runner I made on a whim. I love the texture.

(Part of my efforts for February Makes-check it out HERE ) There are some super creations posted there. I love discovering people and their creative energy. Sew cool.

More UJ buntings.

.... and hearts

heart mugs

Source: scrumptions.tumblr.com via Scrumptions on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Jess on Pinterest

the Cure baby...'nuf said.

Happy Valentine's Day, lovelies ♥

We are moving in a few days, so if it's quiet here please bare with me-I'll be back. (Like Arnold.)

xoxoxo

2012-02-10T05:21:00.000Z

I made these with felt from The Felt Fairy - the felt is so much nicer than acrylic store bought felt. I will never go back. Really. (Thanks Annie!)

Mollie's t shirt quilt. This was her first try at a quilt-(she's 16!!)

It is AMAZING. This picture doesn't do it justice.

I secretly plan to steal it....hahahaha.

These are adorable.

Tea Light Cozies

Ruffled Apron by From Pixels to Patchwork

I would wear this apron daily-with my normal outfit!

It is so girly and pretty. ♥

There are so many lovely items in the Feb Makes group, check it out for inspiration. Leave a comment for your fellow hand made artists.

The link is here.

What will you make for February?

Sneak peek at my current project:

(If you don't see your item featured it is because I can't copy your photos, so leave me an email with attachments or send me a blog address. Thank you my lovelies.)

2012-02-06T18:49:00.000Z

I love all those retro mustaches hanging around...so here one is featured on one of my passport holders.

You can make this, just applique a felt mustache onto the front before sewing together. My tutorial is HERE .

Made another bunting from my old jeans and felt:

We were busy yesterday frolicking in the snow.

A few Feb Makes from the group...

2012-02-05T21:49:00.000Z

Ice Art by Scented Sweat Peas

Celtic Thistle

JellyJamDorset

There are so many creations to see on the Flickr site here ...

If you don't see your item featured here it means I was unable to copy your picture-so leave me an email with a blog address or send me a pic to load up.

Great job, I can't wait to see more!

♥

A Monthly Make 2012 ~ February

2012-02-03T22:41:00.001Z

A Monthly Make 2012 ~ February, a group on Flickr.

Click over to see the latest Feb Makes!

February Makes with The Felt Fairy

2012-02-01T08:00:00.002Z

These two cuties are part of my "February Makes" group.

A fun and inspirational group hosted by

The Felt Fairy.

Join us and post your makes in the FLICKR pool.

It's a no pressure way to showcase what you do in your crafty endeavours, as well as find & discover other kindred spirits out there in the world.

C'mon, we'd love to meet you!

This project took literally minutes, but I have so much satisfaction from it. I love bunting and hearts, they make me happy. I cut out these felt shapes and sewed them on the fabric-the heart is stitched on my hand with embroidery floss whilst the bunting is sewed on by machine. I then cut an additional fabric circle for the back, after tucking in the edges, and hot glued it in--so it's clean on back as well.

A nice gift for a Valentine perhaps? Or maybe I'll keep them! heehee

I'll be featuring projects posted to the February Makes Flickr Pool here at Hungry Hippie.

Go on, you have a few minutes to sew/craft/bake.... It feeds the spirit.

Do it for you. Do it for your family. Do it for sanity in a hectic world. ♥

Anything goes: crafting,sewing, or baking... get makin' friends.

Stencil Project with Cricut & Paint : the result

2012-01-31T09:12:00.000Z

This is my resulting bunting from the

Cricut & freezer paper stencil project ....

I did manage to add some felt hearts and felt letters to it, to add both texture and color, as I only had black paint at the time.

double fold bias tape for the hang-y bit

burlap and cotton duck cloth for the triangles

red wool felt from The Felt Fairy

black paint from craft shop-nothing special

I will be loading more instructional photos once the sun appears ( a rarity in English winters). I hope to detail every step of the way-as this is a fun project that kids can help out with as well.

See my first tutorial-ish post here .

It was SUPER cold, so that's all I have for photos right now, darlings. ♥

2012-01-29T13:59:00.000Z

simple valentine decor

paper heart doilies+thread+tape = eye candy

♥

stenciling with freezer paper & Cricut

2012-01-20T11:04:00.000Z

I'm still working on this project. Better pics soon I hope.

1.Place freezer paper shiny side down on the Cricut mat, and pick designs to cut out.

(I used size 3 and pressure 2, speed 3).

2.Peel the design off the Cricut mat slowly and carefully.

3. Iron the freezer paper onto fabric, shiny side down--so it will stick to the fabric.

4.Select paint, paint it on carefully with a paint brush and stay within the lines of the stencil.

5.Let it dry, then peel off the freezer paper.

Voila!

Here I'm ironing the freezer paper onto my fabric:

Painting the stencil:

Drying:

When I finish this I will post pictures.

I don't have pics of the Cricut part, so I will try to add that as well.

Cheers.

I'm seeing red.

2012-01-17T13:20:00.000Z

Goodies in the sewing room....

2012-01-12T11:18:00.000Z

These cozies are made from my tutorial found HERE .

My go at a specs case:

Super busy here! Stay tuned....Lots ot tutorials in the works.

♥♥♥♥♥

Union Jack Bunting

2012-01-10T21:42:00.001Z

I made this bunting by hand today.
I'm working on several other styles, including triangles and monochromatic colour palletes. (This bunting is all recycled materials, from denim jeans to scraps from previous projects.)

The Diamond Jubilee is this summer.
Historical note-the only other Diamond Jubilee held was Queen Victoria's. SNAP!

Union Jack doo dads

2012-01-04T14:11:00.002Z

Various Puffy Hearts I'm making right now.

Side one of my French Press reversible coozie:

Side two:

These would be cute as ornaments for a Valentine Tree.

I'd like one anytime of year.

Made this bookmark for a friend:

Cheerio.

Shine up your Jewels in minutes

2012-01-02T18:59:00.000Z

I cannot believe it took me this long to figure out this jewelry secret: shine your duds with toothpaste.

A quick (gentle) scrub with an old toothbrush does it.

If that doesn't do the trick, dip the duds into a solution of lemon juice and baking soda

(sodium bicarbonate for UK peeps) and rinse.

UNREAL! It works. Quick, easy, painless.

No expensive solutions or machines to buy.

I wiped by chains off with a cloth napkin--see the dirt tracks?

Gross.

The Santini necklace before shot:

After:

Toothpaste was just normal Colgate, nothing special.

The solution for chains:

1/4 cup lemon juice

3 tbsp baking soda

mix well and dunk away

(Rinse with water and lay flat to dry.)

I wiped my box chains with the napkin because they had years of dirt crusted onto them. eeeeewwwwwwweeee

Sewing Tutorial: make a door stop with a zipper

2011-12-26T10:59:00.000Z

Why make a door stop with a zipper? So you can wash it of course!

My door stops have become a darker shade of white than when I first bought them, but unfortunately I can't wash them. So, after many wipe downs, I must let them go.

I will reuse the insides and make myself a newer, prettier set.

Here's the tutorial:

Gather materials-

1. Iron fusible interfacing onto the wrong side of the two fabric squares. Set aside.

Take the handle piece and fold it wrong sides together towards the middle and press.

Stick the interfacing piece inside in the middle and press.

Now fold it over itself, so the edges are tucked inside and you have a double thickness handle. Top stitch down both sides so it's polished looking.

(Press well before sewing.)

The handle is finished, set it aside.

Take the fabric piece that measures 10x10 and fold down the top about 1/2 inch. Press. Do this for both pieces.

Pin the folded edge to the zipper tape. Sew in place carefully. If you have a zipper foot it does help, (I don't so again- I wing it.)

Do this for both pieces. Then open the zipper at least half way.

Pin the sides and bottom together and sew around the sides and bottom. I use at least 1/2 seam for strength. Slow slowly over the zipper teeth.

Sew around the edge again if you're planning on making this a heavy door stop, for extra strength.

Mark the corners in 1 inch squares

(2.5cm)

Cut these corners out.

Put the seams together and sew across the edge, about 1/2 inch in. This is difficult to explain, I will try and show with pictures. If you've ever sewn a boxed pouch/purse/bag, that is what this is.

Sew across the seams about 1/2 inch in. I always sew 3 times back and forth to be sure this seam is strong. Try to line the two seams up as best you can, so that when it's done they are lined up on the outside. It takes practice.

I still goof it up quite often.

This is what you come out with, once it's turned right side out again. I didn't get it perfectly lined up, but you get the idea.

Trim off the excess zipper.

Pin the handle onto one side, right sides together. (You will flip it later.) Sew on, passing over it several times.

I use a double stitch for extra measure.

Flip it up and sew it down again to hide the raw end.

Repeat on the other end of the handle, to the opposide side.

Make sure the handle is not twisted.

Now it's time to fill it. I used a combo of cat litter and polyfill . The polyfill makes it nice and full looking, while the cat litter weighs it down nicely (and cheaply).

Beans work as well, but are more expensive.

Impromptu gifts.

They are sorta skinny-ish, so if you prefer to use them as a wall guard (between the wall and door) to prevent slamming against the wall, then it works.

Hope you like.

Peace out.

Make a gift bag from old maps or newspapers

2011-12-18T20:54:00.000Z

I borrowed this idea from an old craft book from umm...the 1970's. I think Martha Stewart has done it too, but I tweaked it a bit by useing old maps and newspapers.

Use what 'ya got!

Cut a piece of newspaper or map paper (double thickness at least)

to 40cm (about 15.5 in) by 21cm (8.25 in)

Mark it at the bottom starting from the left 10cm (4.5 in)

--then 7.5cm (3in) and repeat.

Make 1.5 cm (1/2in) mark from the right side.

Fold/crease these markings,

then fold the top down and the bottom up like so:

Top fold down 2cm (3/4in)

Fold bottom upwards 5cm (2 in)

Wee ones can help too:

Fold over that 1.5cm bit on the right side to connect with the left side. Tape/glue together. Now you'll have something like this:

Take the bottom end and fold it in like you would a present, triangles toward the middle.

How could I word this more clearly?

Tape/glue it together and add a piece of cardboard or heavy weight paper to the bottom for measure.

To reinforce the top edge tape around it on the inside.

Gather supplies for adding eyelets.

Follow instructions for the tool itself. I lost mine, so I wing it.

Put the eyelet onto the knobbed end, position it where you want the eyelet to go and press hard.

Making sure your eyelet is on the side you want -mine show on the outside.

mark and position:

Gather cord/ribbon/twine or whatever material you prefer for the handles.

Tie a double knot after threading it through to the inside.

See pictures.

There ya go!

Hang it in the tree, put it in a stocking, or hide it in the car as I quick "I love you" gift.

Great for sweets, as Mia demonstrates.

and the winner is...

2011-12-17T09:36:00.001Z

(via random.org)

TARA who said:

"I have been eyeing the 1st fabric for months! Love it!
My daughter (3) has a new obsession with Star Wars. She has been running around singing the "Star Wars" song from Saturday Night Live. Pretty darn cute!"

(BTW Can someone clue me in on how to post that random.org picture? It won't save as picture or anything, what am I doing wrong? Help Blogging friends, clueless lady here!)

THANK YOU for all your comments.

If I didn't answer you personally, it means life got in the way....but I read every single comment.

I'll be posting some of my faves later this weekend,
if all goes as planned.

Thank you to my new followers as well.

I'll be posting several new tutorials this week, hopefully you'll like what you see. :o)

Blessings to you, and have a very wonderful Holiday Season!

♥♥♥♥♥

How to make it easy for replying...

2011-12-14T22:28:00.000Z

HI folks. Let's chat a sec about how to make it easier on yourself concerning commenting and replies.

I will show you how to turn off "no reply" on Blogger so that in the future people can reply to your lovely comments directly, via email. It's so easy. Literally it will take you 2 minutes.

If you do this, I bet you would see an increase in replies from commenting on blogs the world over.
My friend JoAnna over yonder in Canada showed me this, so I'm stealing it from her, for the sake of all Bloggers, of course.

I'm sure she's down with that......♥

Here we go:

1. From your profile, go to your Dashboard.
2. Go to Edit Profile
3. Click 'Share my profile'
4. Click 'Show my e-mail address'
5. Enter in your e-mail address.

DONE.

Now I can reply to your e-mails and questions.

Fabulosity in motion.

Holiday Spirit

2011-12-13T18:56:00.000Z

Snow Candle Tutorial

Snow flakes

Keeping the chilly winds at bay with window draft stoppers,

AKA huge puffy "sand bags".

(Filled with some cat litter and polyfill.)

Out of focus wreaths: (nice Nat.)

I finished the fuzzy lined drapes and curtains throughout the house. Finally.

This ol' house is DRAAAAAAFFFFFFTYYYY.

Still posting guard. Good job men.

Lots of tartan stuffed hearts hanging about.

Our Slimfast tree.

Dec 8, 2010 picture here...This day was so gorgeous. The freeze happened really fast, so this crystal whiteness was everywhere. Amazing.

So, are you in the Holiday spirit yet?

What do you partake in to "get into it"?

tell me tell me tell me tell me

♥

Sew Mama Sew give away day

2011-12-12T22:10:00.000Z

FABRIC GIVE AWAY

(whoooop!)

Oh dear, isn't this the cutest fabric you've ever seen?

This one is "November Books"

Welt schone Lander

(sorry don't know how to make those German dots above the o and a)

by KOKKA

made in Japan

Allow me to introduce you to these cutie pie kittens and Matroyshkas by KOKKA (made in Japan).

♥

....And if that's not doing it for you, I have these lovely Shabby Chic style fabrics as well, made by Michael Miller (dots) and Lecien.

Michael Miller dumb dot in cafe auilet, and Princess Rose Floral Collection in butter.

Rose is made in Japan.

One fat quarter of each fabric will be given away. (That's 2 yards total of high dollar fabric.)

How do you win these gorgeous fabrics?

Leave a comment either telling me a joke, a good quote, or a funny life experience you've had.

If you're a follower or become a new one let me know and that's a 2nd entry.

I hope your blog is connected to your email so I can respond to you quickly. If you are unsure if yours is, my friend JoAnna has an awsome tute showing you how to do this.

It's fast, do it!

People can comment back to you so much faster this way.

Winner will be drawn randomly December 16th

No later than 5pm PST

If I'm asleep at that hour, (London time darlings..) I will announce it on my blog Dec 17th bright and early!

I'm happy to mail anywhere in the

UK, USA, EU or Canada.

I love all my followers,

thanks for keeping me going.

♥♥♥

link:

SEWMAMASEW

Twig Votive DIY

2011-12-09T15:33:00.000Z

To make this I collected twigs from the garden.

I broke them into pieces that roughly fit my container.

Hot glued them on, filling in the open bits with smaller pieces.

Tied some _____ around it--what is this called?

Twine would be lovely as well.

"Baby it's cold outside...."

DIY Xmas Decor: Make Snow Candles

2011-12-05T14:54:00.000Z

All you need is Epsom Salt, Mod Podge, and a candle or two.

See the naked candle on the left, and the two snow candles on the right?

Pour some epsom salt onto a large work space, like a poster board. Pour equal amount of Mod Podge into a blob, roll the candle in it and then roll it immediately into the salt.

Set it somewhere to dry. Done.

My two and three year olds helped me.

Feel free to "snow" some old toys as well:

I'll be posting my Xmas Decor soon.

Final crafty show is tonight....thank goodness.

I need a Hot Toddy!

(I don't know any man named Todd except my BFF's step dad, so don't get any ideas! LOL)

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Scraps Wreath

2011-12-01T14:29:00.000Z

I made this wreath after a friend told me about a ribbon wreath....I thought maybe I could do it with my manic pile of fabric scraps. I think it's sorta cool looking.

What I did: tore strips of fabrics into roughly 2x6 inch pieces
I wanted to frayed look, so hence why I tore them.

Tied them in a double knot onto my wire coat hanger that I bent into a circle.

Done. Filled it as I watched a movie. :o)
Sweetness!

Making Primitive Tags (DIY)

2011-11-24T13:38:00.000Z

I needed some "prim art" tags for price display ...and normal stickers just didn't cut it. I decided to use some shipping tags and "oldy" them up a bit.

This is what I did:

1. Cold coffee + bowl + tags= soak for 30 min or so.

2. Sprinkle Cinnamon over the tags and mash it in with your finger a bit. Focus around the edges.

3. Bake in oven at 200 degrees F for about 10 minutes.

They come out smelling great, a bit bendy-but that is taken care of once artwork is applied with Mod Podge. OR put them in a book and let them sit over night to straighten out. Done.

Embellish as desired. ♥
I Mod Podged photos and bits from around my craft room, and stamped too. These are still wet, but MP dries clear.

Preparing for Winter

2011-11-22T00:49:00.000Z

I'm busy recycling old jeans into draft stoppers...

Making new drapes with a fuzzy liner / double sided / out of this lovely material:

(osnaburg)

...and also working on several quilt throws in shabby neutrals...

Made with scraps, jeans, old shirts, and sheets. Backed with Moda Muslin.

With earlier darkness and colder temps, I'm finding myself pulled to the computer for virtual shopping rather than actual shopping. Could be a good thing?

I'm CRUSHIN' on:

UGG slippers via Amazon

Over the knee socks & stockings

crochet slippers

knit wrist warmers

Majorly Choco Cookies

Gerard as Phantom

♥ oh dear!

Faire Isle Cardi

over the knee boots

Big Phat Chunky Knits via Zappos.com

♥ Did I mention Gerard? ♥

That shirt is amazing...lol!

I could watch this film 100 times and still just die. Of course the musical was amazing as well, but I was--10 when we went to see it? I think...? Didn't appreciate it as much as I do now.

Obsessions on my iPod

(especially when in the sauna....sighhhhhhh)

Caruso

Benedictus

Ave Maria

Stay Warm friends! x

DIY Simple Luxuries Lavender Eye Pillow

2011-11-16T14:20:00.000Z

I saw these gorgeous wheat warmers on Pinterest and decided to make my own Lavender Pillows. Here is the inspiration for this project:

Source: aspoonfulofsugardesigns.com via Natalie on Pinterest

Mine are filled with rice and lavender. Pop them in the microwave for 45 seconds and then hold them against your tummy, your forehead, over your eyes, on a sore shoulder, etc.....

Here we go:

Gather some soft cotton material. Measure up 9x5 inches. Fold the fabric so there are two layers of this measurement, and then cut. (This way you only need to sew three sides instead of four.)

(The fold is at the top, see it?)

Pin right sides together and sew around the edges leaving at least two inches for turning right side out again. I usually put a double pin where I need to stop sewing:

Clip Corners

Turn right side out.

Gather a funnel, rice, & lavender.

Put about 1 cup of rice into the bag with the funnel.

Sprinkle a few pieces of lavender in with the rice.

Fold in the opening and sew it closed.

Give some as gifts this Xmas-perhaps with a basket of goodies like bath soaps, bubbles, plushy socks...mmmmmmmm

Roasted Butternut Squash Ravioli

2011-11-13T12:23:00.000Z

Butternut Squash Rav

Ingredients:

Cheese Ravioli (I use frozen packs)

red onion

olive oil (I prefer EVOO)

1 medium butternut squash diced into small bits

garlic 2 cloves

salt/pepper/herbs

fresh cilantro sprinkled across the top

fresh Parmesean

After peeling and cutting up the butternut squash (a REAL chore)-put it in the pan to soften it up.

I say "roast it" but I know that's not the right term. I did that with 1 tbsp EVOO and the garlic and onion for about 15 minutes over med-high heat.

I then let it cool and mingle a bit while I set the ravioli to boil.

In about 3 minutes the Rav is ready, so I combine these two and sprinkle fresh cilantro and Parm over it. Seriously yum, seriously healthy, and kid friendly. (At least mine liked it....)

We call the ravioli fluffy pockets here. I find when I rename things for my kids, they find them more interesting. To each his own I guess.

♥

DIY Chalk Cloth table Cover

2011-11-11T14:00:00.000Z

Place chalk cloth over table and cut around or mark the edges.

I just cut it, because I can't be bothered to do things twice.

Tuck the corners and pin. I did it wrong the first go, see my picture below for better understanding.

Grab the two sides of the corner that meet, pin so the tuck is OUT away from the chalk cloth. (This will be trimmed off later.)

Sew right sides together. Trim. Done.

Turn right side out and slide over the table.

Go a step further and sew binding around the edge for a classy look. (Again, I can't be bothered.)

See the corner tuck:

Make a Knit Fabric headband in minutes

2011-11-09T16:39:00.002Z

Use old Tshirts, scraps, hosery,.... Think any kind of fabric that has softness and stretch. Reuse/Recycle. It's classy.

Wear one alone, layer them up, stack 'em....your choice.

These are so easy to make you'll wear one every day.

It's DARK here in England, so hence very fuzzy pictures today, sorry. Someday I'll get a room full of lights and proper camera equipment....someday.

Let's make some stretchy, feel GOOD on your skull headbands. (I can't stand tight headbands! They make me crazy. )

These are made with underwear (knicker) elastic, the very softest and stretchiest of elastics.

Gather supplies: (I put regular elastic on the left so you can see the difference. The knicker elastic is piled up there, see how soft it is?)

Three pieces of knit type fabric to braid:

I measured on my head: The knit strips went from one ear -over the head-to the other ear. The elastic wrapped (stretched taught but not toooooo much) from one underside of the ear -back around under my head-- to the underside of the other ear. )

Make a braid of the knit strips.

Sew down each end to secure the braid.

Sandwich the elastic inside the layers of fabric so it's a bit hidden. Then sew this down several times back and forth.

Trim

That's it. I was done in literally 5 minutes.

♥

Hoot Hoot! Owls, short hair, and coffee cozies oh my.

2011-11-07T11:53:00.000Z

I've been rather busy making my Owl Door stops, this time of year is always maddness for me.

In spare moments I made myself a French Press Cozie out of this awsome skully print.

I promise I have loads of makes and tutorials in the works.....just need to figure out a way to not sleep so I can load it all up onto the blog. Priorities. Sick children. Chores. Duties. It's alright, eventually it will calm down.

I think I'll go make a cup of tea now. :)

And by the way, I wacked more hair off the other day!! I think I'm addicted to hair cuts now. Uh oh.

If you're on the fence about having short hair, let me just say it is absolutely liberating.

I wake up, shake my head a bit and go. (I wash every 2 days or so at night and let it air dry.) I feel fresh and confident, when in reality I was super scared of looking too boy-ish.

(A bit of smokey cat eye will fix that anyways, right?!!)

See you soon friends.

♥

Roasting Pumpkin Seeds

2011-10-31T16:15:00.000Z

Wash seeds off:

Spread on pan and coat with oil and coarse salt.

Pull off squashy bits as best you can.

Roast in oven at 275 degrees F for about 15 minutes. (That's 140 C my Euro friends.)

Enjoy! A fat-free salty snack.

2011-10-27T08:30:00.000+01:00

Trying to carve a 30 lb pumpkin is no joke.

Carving requires lots of refueling.

Gnome hat by Salena at Baca Creations

Out for a walk in the woods.

One more weekend at the Pumpkin Patch. Oh how I'll miss you my pumpkin friends...

2011-10-20T14:01:00.000+01:00

A handmade interpretation of Dia de los Muertos.

This was during the process, all hand stitched btw.

This is what happens to my house during times of creativity:

Times are busy with all the Holiday craft shops in full swing. I'm still here, just so ya know. :o)

Undley Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-13T13:20:00.000+01:00

Undley Pumpkin Patch

I discovered Gavin & Debbie's freshly made donuts....oh dear! Bigger trousers might be in order soon.

The donut truck will be at the Patch every weekend in October. Great for recharging your batteries whilst you roam the pumpkins and get lost in the Maize maze.

(like that Kat? -whilst! Just for you.)

I'm out at the Pumpkin Patch every weekend in October! Come on out and have some fun-pick a pumpkin, ride a pony, and shop the craft stalls. Good fun for all.

More pics coming soon. Blogger is giving me a hard time today.

2011-10-09T10:06:00.000+01:00

Recently I discovered FEIST.

What an awsome sound...sort of folksy but yet tough....how to describe?

What are your faveorite bands? I could be on iTunes genius all night, I swear. SO addicting.

Leslie Feist

Have a listen to a short intro:

metals by Feist

What I'm listening to now: (these are links)

Short Hair is a GO

2011-10-07T12:00:00.015+01:00

Well....here is my haircut. I feel freedom.

Doing something weird with my mouth here....ewwwwe gross. LOL

Major cheese.

The stylist went off this one with some modification:

We did discuss going platinum. TOO much work! lol

But I think it's a hot look for sure.

Technical aspects: the stylist said I have fine hair, but a lot of it...so it's super "soft" looking...hence I have to buy some wax pomade tomorrow to make it choppier looking. Just in case you wonder what kind of hair I have, if you feel the urge to cut yours off too.

I do my own coloring. I have highlights put in once every 12 weeks or so by a professional. This is LB01 by L'Oreal. It's a little too golden, but will lighten in a few days, as I just colored yesterday.

I'm gonna play with it tomorrow and see what it'll do. Perhaps choppy curls a la Meg Ryan? Maybe straight and stacked channeling New York. Maybe clipped back on one side? I can still put the back in a clip too if the need arises. A hippie headband might look hobo rock.

We shall see.

Note: I really feel awkward posting pictures of myself like this---ugh.

Will I ever be comfortable with my face? Does it happen at a certain age? Insecurity is a real bitch.

Love to you all and your lovely comments.

You brighten my day.

♥

2011-10-06T08:32:00.000+01:00

♥

"Your time is limited so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma, which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary."

~ Steve Jobs

words of wisdom

Cake & a Makeover

2011-10-05T17:29:00.000+01:00

Sometimes life calls for eating cake at breakfast.
I feel no guilt what so ever about this.

While in this frame of mind, I made a decision on my "mom makeover" tomorrow.
I'm cuttin' it all off friends.

All this pony-tail-tiredness is coming to an immediate halt. Time for modern, edgy, short cuteness.

I just hope I can pull it off.....(anxiety sets in....)

My most recent photo-- I call it my "paparazzi shot"....LOL

(Date night)

See that tired hair in the clip? That's every.single.day. Yuck.

My inspiration pictures:

While I realize I don't have the face of Sienna Miller or Jessica Simpson, I think short hair lends a certain statement.

Mainly........

Don't f**k with me, because I'm fierce.

I can be down with that.

Who needs rules anyways?

Won't you join me, eat some cake for breakfast.

(Or share with me your makeover, I'd love to know what you did.)

(Homemade frosting: Crisco, icing sugar, vanilla, and almond extract. That's it. A minor miracle.)

If all else fails, at least I'll still have sugar.

See you Friday, hopefully without a bag over my head. (!!!)

♥

I ♥ Baca Creations (crochet brilliance)

2011-10-03T16:56:00.002+01:00

I have a very talented friend, Salena of Baca Creations.....

She made some beautiful hats for me. Here are some pictures.

Much cuter model:

Here's to Salena.

More pics of the other hats coming soon---

I'm going to take some at the Pumpkin Patch this weekend. FUN!

Here are some pics from her webshop :

I love this picture! She looks like a riot. :o)

Adorable stuff right? Now go get your shop on HERE and tell her hungry hippie sent ya'!

Peace out.

Stonehenge ROCKS!

2011-09-28T22:08:00.000+01:00

....borrowed that title from my lovely friend. She is just SO clever.

Thank you Anna.

;)

We've been traveling like mad lately, so here are a few pics of Stonehenge. I never thought I'd get here, it was on my bucket list and I'm happy to say it was really spectacular. Some people argue that it's just "a bunch of rocks" blah blah.....whatever. To each his own. For me, it was magical.

I could barely pull away to leave. Something is still happening here.

Time for an ice cream break.

DIY Halloween Mummy Doll

2011-09-20T20:59:00.000+01:00

I'm a big fan of "use what you've got".......so I applied it to make a bendy mummy without the Martha Stewart supplies cart 'en hand'.

Make this mummy doll with a clothespin, 20g jewelry wire, a bouncy ball, and muslin. Yesterday I tea-dyed the muslin, which sounds fancy but it's not. Just soak lots of muslin (a.k.a. cheesecloth?) in brewed tea and let it sit overnight.

After drying it in the sun, I sprayed it with spray adhesive and threw ground cloves and ground cinnamon at it.

Wrap with twine to secure muslin.

Cut out a felt heart if you fancy. Hot glue on.

Feeling a need for a change.......

2011-09-18T18:01:00.000+01:00

Need a new hairstyle. Love the pixie cuts, but I can't pull it off. Maybe the bob with side swept fringe?

What about color? How maintenance friendly can I get it and still look alright?

Ahhhhhh sometimes being a girl can be such a hassle.

Here's a rundown of what I've sported in the last few years:

Pink wig (ha)

Asymmetrical cut with blondish streaks

My purple and pink "do" which was very short on one side, longer on the other.

Long layers in blond:

Very short dark brown bob--very business/librarian I think.

short bob-ish cut in black-I think this cut makes my face look super wide...eeewww

Longest I ever had it-not sure about what color this is?

red hair:

Never mind the no make up look...it was 100 degrees, Texas heat. Yuck.

What do you think? Need advice.

♥

Make a T Shirt Pillow

2011-09-13T12:06:00.017+01:00

These pillow tutes are all over the web, so by no means is mine detailed or unique....

Just thought I'd share how to use up some of those nostolgic (but perhaps fashion faux pas) tshirts.

Pick a tee:

These make great travel pillows- small and scrunchy, they can be smooshed into anything....and if you "forget" to bring it home--no big deal.

Cut it into a square form:

(both layers)

Pin right sides together and sew it up, leaving an opening for turning right side out again, and stuffing.

Turn right side out, stuff, and sew opening shut.

(Slipstitch if you're good like that,

I'm not.)

Ruby wonders-- "Should I like this?"

Lest We Forget

2011-09-11T10:00:00.001+01:00

10 Years.

It still hurts like hell.

images found on pinterest a while ago

image found here

See up to date construction on the new

World Trade Center HERE

2011-09-09T12:00:00.001+01:00

Spray paint the chosen pots with chalk paint, then decorate as desired. Simplicity.

Paint at least two coats---see here my chalk writing went through a bit.

Then I re-read the directions and saw one coat isn't enough. Duh.

Yes...cilantro....I do love you.

♥

DIY Picture Wall

2011-09-07T15:00:00.000+01:00

Project of the day:

We hung picture wire across the wall super taught, looped through an eyelet hook at each end.

I wanted it sort-of "gallery style" so there is no slack at all in the wire.

Here I used clothes pegs to hang up the pictures.

I kept them all (well, almost) black and white to make it easier on the eyes, since there is a lot to look at.

This is our life at a glance over the last three years.

It's nice to be reminded of all the sublime experiences we've had. Even if it was only a pile of rose petals, a quaint Deli, or a smile.

It's.....life. ♥

2011-09-05T10:00:00.000+01:00

So...I just had a "British" keyboard installed on my computer......
What. the. hell? Why are these keys in different spots? What's going on here, is this a conspiracy against the English speaking people of the world? We just aren't good enough for you Brits? Gotta make things tough on us eh? :o)

It's not enough that words and spellings are different?
Color. Colour. Faveorite. Favourite. Tire. Tyre. Good Heavens. It makes me head spin.

If you know me at all, you know I'm teasing. I've nearly been fully "Anglo-fied" by my friends.

I'm rather chuffed at picking up some slang as well, darlings. ("daaaaa-lings")

Ahhh......x

£££££££ heehee. I can make pound signs now. ££££££££ hee hee.

2011-09-04T10:52:00.000+01:00

Things I ♥

Found in Norfolk, England.

Used book shops.

I adore old books.

They've lived.

Bicycles with baskets. So romantic and sweet.

Blue doors. Blue windows. I can barely look away.

Lavender

We visited a Lavender Farm in Norfolk, it was lovely.

Willow Trees. My absolute faveorite.

Boats

I wanted this painting sooooo bad.

The beach, especially rocky ones. Yessssss.

Heacham Beach

What about you? What calls your name?

♥

DIY Laundry Soap: 1 penny/load

2011-09-03T12:00:00.001+01:00

Yes. I made my own laundry soap after much investigation. I wanted to see how difficult it was, and if the effort is worth it. Turns out that's a yes. A big yes. It's super easy to make, kinda fun actually. And the bonus is I have the cost down to 1 penny per load of laundry.
Oh heck yeah-more money for fashion! (Which ironically creates more laundry.)

The recipe comes from this lovely blog: Why Not Sew

1 bar of soap

1 cup Borax

1 cup super washing soda

2 gallons jugs ( I use two Liter jugs since that's all I can find.)

I decorated mine cuz I'm silly. Peace signs of course.

Grab a funnel and a grater also. I use these only for artsy/hazardous stuff, just to be sure I'm not going to give anyone a stomach ache.

Step 1: Grate the bar of soap.

While you are busy doing this put a gallon of water into a large pot and begin to boil. Add the soap and "cook it" until dissolved.

Step 2: Add 1 cup borax and 1 cup washing soda. Let it boil for a minutes or two. Turn off the heat.

Step 3: Add another gallon of cold water now, and let it sit a while. It thickens up --so try to get it into the gallon jugs before it gets too thick. I used a funnel and had no issues.

Done. Easy.

Now add 1/4 cup vinegar to the rinse cycle for the softener, if you're a true Hippie. No, the clothes don't come out smelling of vinegar. (PEEEE-UUUzis.)

OR soak a half a sponge in Downy and squeeze it out really hard into the softener tray for the rinse cycle. I line dry whenever possible, but if it's rainy out, I throw half a sponge that was pre- soaked in Downy (and squeezed out) into the dryer. It makes SUCH a difference in how much softener I buy, but no difference in the clothing softness.

I keep my materials in a bin out of reach of children:

*These ingredients can be found at grocers or general stores like Walfart/ASDA, Target, etc.... If you have trouble finding it, try Amazon.

As for the bar of soap, I've used Zest, el cheapo off brands, and Dove. I think it's safe to say there is really no difference between them. I now pick up a 6 pack of soap at Tesco for a pound (about $1.65).

I use about 1/2 cup sometimes only 1/4 cup of my homemade detergent for a load of laundry. I live in a hard water area as well, and my washer is not that big. So, experiment and try it out. I search for coupons for the washing soda and borax and buy it in bulk from the military commissary.

Peace out

Try it!

:o)

DIY Lip Gloss

2011-08-31T10:39:00.000+01:00

Color inspired by:

Orchids in my kitchen.

You will need:

Petroleum Jelly

Kool Aid packet

Dish for mixing

Pots to put gloss in

Mixing spoon

Scoop some jelly out and microwave it--only 1 minute at a time to be safe.

After it's liquified, add the kool aid packet and mix well.

Pour into the pots of choice and let it cool for a few hours.

(wet)

(dry)

There you go--yummy lip gloss for you or a friend.

Growing Veg

2011-08-29T13:45:00.001+01:00

I can't believe it's taken me this long to realize I can grow my own salad.

Lettuce, arugula, tomatoes, cilantro, and carrots. I do realize people have grown their own food for the majority of human existence....but for me it was a challenge. I have no green thumb. I don't have tons of time to weed and water, (mainly because I choose to do other things)....but this has given me such pleasure, to be able to go outside my patio door and cut my own lettuce. Pick my own tomatoes. Smell my own cilantro and crush it in my palm. So simple. So gratifying.

Give it a go.

If I can do it, you surely can.

Party Time & Tim's Pimm's

2011-08-28T13:33:00.001+01:00

Champagne. In flutes. From France.

(Because we all know Champagne is only from Champagne, France. No American Californ-I-A bubbly here darlings. That's simply sparkling wine. TA! I laugh because I didn't know this two years ago. I assumed all bubbles meant champagne. But then again, I do buy wine -in-O-box.)

'Nuf said.

This is Pimm's:

A summer tradition in England.

Mix with lemonade, bitters, Cointreau, and if you're Tim-- add a splash (or two or three) of Gin.

Chop up fresh fruit and add to the mix.

Sip accordingly whilst pondering the complexities of life.

(or not)...

I was so busy pontificating I forgot to take pictures of our Pimm's and the gorgeous carafe it was served in. Ahhhhhh...I chalk it up to getting "pissed". (That's "drunk" in Amerglish.)

On another note, I mentioned never having tried Port. Being of good English stock, the hosts graciously pulled out a fine bottle of Port and served baked Camembert as well.

(Such class I tell you. It's intimidating.)

If you're unfamiliar with Port, since we don't often drink this in America, here is a tidbit from Wiki: (Yes, I'm a total dork and research everything and anything when it pops into my head.)

"Port became very popular in England after the Methuen Treaty of 1703, when merchants were permitted to import it at a low duty, while war with France deprived English wine drinkers of French wine. The long trip to England often resulted in spoiled wine; the fortification of the wine was introduced to improve the shipping and shelf-life of the wine for its journey."

We even had a rainbow.

Another must mention is the totally RAD 1980's soundtrack playing in the background. Like a typical music snob, I brought my iPod -- just in case....Much to my fancy I didn't need to pull it out. The Cure was on call, Nena, Tears for Fears (oh dear), and many more. Discussions of Molly Ringwald and John Hughes films ensued.

It couldn't have been better.
Thanks Friends. X

-natalie

For a fun glance:

Top (selling) 1980's Bands

DIY Ticket / ID or cash card Holder

2011-08-27T19:41:00.011+01:00

I ride the train a lot here in England. I find it's just easier than driving. I made this to hold my train tickets, cards for taxis, credit cards, ID, whatever...

(Project completed at night, so my pics are less than ideal. Ooooops.)

Cut two pieces of oilcloth at 8.5 x 4.5 inches

Cut two pockets of vinyl at 3 x 4.5 inches

Buy a packet of extra wide double fold bias tape (or make your own.)

Put a teflon (or non-stick) foot on your sewing machine--it will make life easier for this project. Seriously.

Cut some bias tape and sew it on one long edge of each vinyl piece. These edges will face inwards toward each other later, so make sure they match up alright...as in thread color. Don't be like me and get lazy by not matching the bobbin thread. Argh!

Pin the pockets onto the RIGHT side of one body piece.

like this:

Sew it on or baste if you prefer. We add bias next, so it's ok to baste stitch.

Nevermind my previous stiches that I had to pull out....grrrrrrr.

Now add the other body piece to the back, so that the right side is facing out. The bias gets wrapped around all layers. Check that bias before stitching....just sayin'. (!!)

Add the bias tape all around the edges mitering the corners if you can. I kinda stink at mitering....

Sew it all on.

Because I'm no good at mitered corners, I added ribbon to the front side to hide my mess. TA!

Please excuse my glue gun. It wears a wig. I know....so gross. But I just can't be bothered.

All done. Now go hop a train.

:o)

Stay tuned for a smaller version of this next week....I'm thinking skinner.