tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60244343528192669192024-03-04T22:47:01.006-08:00Pumpkin PetuniaPUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.comBlogger311125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-76428602569539021532013-02-13T12:48:00.001-08:002013-02-13T12:48:50.930-08:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-5Wfn9T0bNEW8Jo_jK8VwReaw7-Hgiw9f5imzFhBfM_Yy7g-KtgMyJjIcMBfg-FXwEwXdFmBjPxtl6si5r0eFdYcqL_FNiNm2rNJP5i3FBB766ibNNXE5ot5QazvDlLqjTbo3m1fta2H1/s1600-h/Valentine+Fortune+Teller.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301931804210183362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-5Wfn9T0bNEW8Jo_jK8VwReaw7-Hgiw9f5imzFhBfM_Yy7g-KtgMyJjIcMBfg-FXwEwXdFmBjPxtl6si5r0eFdYcqL_FNiNm2rNJP5i3FBB766ibNNXE5ot5QazvDlLqjTbo3m1fta2H1/s400/Valentine+Fortune+Teller.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 391px;" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">I
know I said no more Valentines, but I couldn't resist. I was asked to
make a fortune teller (a/k/a cootie catcher. I never know what to call
these. I always referred to them as fortune teller, but it seems cootie
catcher is the more common term) template for a little girl's
Valentine's Day Birthday, and it turned out so cute that I just had to
modify it for a Valentine. Just click on the image to enlarge and drag
to your desktop. Once it's printed, trim to a 7X7 square and </span></span><a href="http://www.daringbookforgirls.com/about-the-book/cootie-catchers"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">fold</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">.</span></span><br />
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">For more printable, last-minute Valentines, check out these great freebies:</span></span></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/owl-valentine.pdf"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">Owl Valentines</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';"> from Living Locurto.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<a href="http://secret-agent-josephine.com/blog/2009/02/06/free-valentines-for-you/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">Fun and Colorful Valentines</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';"> from Secret Agent Josephine</span></span></div>
<div>
<a href="http://triciarennea.blogspot.com/2009/01/lollipop-holder-valentines.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">Lollipop Holder Valentines</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';"> from Tricia Rennea</span></span></div>
<div>
<a href="http://zakkalife.blogspot.com/2009/01/clip-art-craft-valentine-card.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">Snail Valentines</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';"> from Zakka Life</span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">My </span></span><a href="http://pumpkinpetunia.blogspot.com/2009/02/matchbook-notebook-valentines-free.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">Matchbook Notebook Valentines</span></span></a></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">and </span></span></div>
<div>
<a href="http://theblackapple.typepad.com/inside_a_black_apple/2008/02/be-mine.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">Beautiful Je T'aime Valentines</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';"> from none other than The Black Apple</span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms';">All ready to print so noone will ever know that you were a last-minute Suzy. So go ahead, spread the love!</span></span></div>
PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-45928573679866546702012-04-17T14:26:00.002-07:002012-04-17T14:29:19.929-07:00FIRST COMMUNION USING A PRETTY SILHOUETTE<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtu1Si9MQmWqzPqpA2Sqr_34bOOCoC03fQdlqoVQpzBGlbFEp9Z9nSVPgqGsR-O-Iw_2SRJGhY8O8PKTl3PEzWjqvltY84RMZIjCzwHw50UyoyNElTgvf1fzYjKXW4ny6D2Abjszb9-W2f/s1600-h/Emma+Full.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 281px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtu1Si9MQmWqzPqpA2Sqr_34bOOCoC03fQdlqoVQpzBGlbFEp9Z9nSVPgqGsR-O-Iw_2SRJGhY8O8PKTl3PEzWjqvltY84RMZIjCzwHw50UyoyNElTgvf1fzYjKXW4ny6D2Abjszb9-W2f/s400/Emma+Full.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329750722597803826" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">With all the First Communion photos that I'm starting to see posting to Facebook, I'm getting a little nostalgic for my beautiful Petunia's First Communion (and looking forward to Peanut's which is still a couple of years away) so I thought I'd repost the pretty little silhouette theme that we did for her, in purple, per her request!<br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5UbPhr1jB8QCFkpzM5ln4Yj-iAxLPTyMeZ1Lo140GPucpp66rGUilRc33LMS0UoZ9jtxkEqoFT4DHGXp1B5XXFFSQFOInFYze5MiJUIlbIMYUwQ-jwToolzjENUzH8SVkECVHO3Fh2an/s400/Invite.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329750726697413602" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 277px; height: 400px;" border="0" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This was a big day for her, so she was sure to be very specific about what she wanted for her party. It was requested that I do a silhouette of her with her hair in a bun (yes, she was that specific) and she would also wear her hair in a bun on the day of the communion. Oh, and the color scheme had to be purple. </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSP3ARToBNPGBHOQxmYEuNdai9vnfAETQTvQGFwK_gtepZ-VrOZ8FR-6QNFfAhL8-B1jUC8mx6PGol1SpaXqcMnKLHgNqwlpQzcMC3wfrDHwoFOo-djE9rFQ9j8mYk2jJYO3zeSVB7GdT/s1600-h/DSC_0134.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSP3ARToBNPGBHOQxmYEuNdai9vnfAETQTvQGFwK_gtepZ-VrOZ8FR-6QNFfAhL8-B1jUC8mx6PGol1SpaXqcMnKLHgNqwlpQzcMC3wfrDHwoFOo-djE9rFQ9j8mYk2jJYO3zeSVB7GdT/s400/DSC_0134.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329754373551570946" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" border="0" /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We carried the use of silhouette into the party decor and added doilies to the banners to give them that extra girly touch.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxLo0-iIPFPQ2HDzhUp0i2pHZbWDHFfu4Ni20NNNbYOkYZYiKATMMzmzRDuekh56f-BUupwAJfww_xFRdeSlYff33EcfUmWjfwO69frS5iBzWmS2WN658_0eTv0SZRsieHVoPTnQ8javEF/s400/DSC_0129.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329750150386763650" border="0" /><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1S8VAZnfCHLoD5KLpRMfJtPuijd5Z9RfCy5p6um0DsN13fRuvGgV8rCqKhC8rEzVrroBJ1hztuCvdHAasd8o6BiFctdwg8ST1r3a6GajygR_YwIsX0tgckaVIiNKuAxwq2VFiJO0ScTVs/s400/DSC_0125.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329750155612860146" border="0" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And a party wouldn't be a party around here without a few tissue poms!<br /></span></span></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWA-51J0RXw0TECn0X44x0A4tVvPwUFuGqyeYuptng4PKy3Thxav-RNJSiAW4BpHN9F4fCQxSTi3P9ebBWnnXt9fcPzK_VvztDFqPJYLrtjc9VsS7F_nVxHbf7a0XvhsCMvqPaGevYzr-V/s1600-h/cake.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWA-51J0RXw0TECn0X44x0A4tVvPwUFuGqyeYuptng4PKy3Thxav-RNJSiAW4BpHN9F4fCQxSTi3P9ebBWnnXt9fcPzK_VvztDFqPJYLrtjc9VsS7F_nVxHbf7a0XvhsCMvqPaGevYzr-V/s400/cake.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329756476900988962" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 382px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Unfortunately, I did not get a good shot of the cake, but it featured the same silhouette done in fondant (shown above), placed on the cake cameo style. I cut the silhouette out of the fondant myself and delivered it to the bakery for them to place on the cake. I had a premonition that if I brought in a template of the silhouette and asked them to create it for me, I would be promptly escorted from the premises and banned for life. I didn't want to risk it. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3LHbfWvRewGPvpegjAjQ-zD9S63fUtXv7EfS9d5GOpN5mXiTwuiZpdY4t1pEvyvTQVj-XOTc5qGFHzt3pH41UCpZewzpt2oY8USfAVL_8rp671v57dI76Soar0v5W9s33s_FZZFiDWuLB/s400/DSC_0228.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329750159884394498" border="0" /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><div><br /></div>The highlight of the party turned out to be the candy bar that we set up for do-it-yourself party favors. I made up little bags for each guest to fill to their heart's content and everyone loved it - adults and children alike.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I had intended to fill the candy bar with all purple and white candy; however, when the time came, it just didn't make sense to spend the extra money on candy that perfectly matched the theme. Even now, it's hard for me to say that, but purple and white candy would have cost 10 times as much as the pastel display shown above. Yes, you read that correctly - 10X!! To be honest, as I was filling the jars I was a bit disappointed that I hadn't spent the extra money, but once I added the ribbons and labels to the jars I was really happy with how it looked. And of course, none of the guests even noticed. So my little budget lesson for the day: purple candy was absolutely </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">not worth the cost</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> for a small family party like this. Now, if it were a wedding or shower...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Speaking of showers, the classic style of the silhouette used for this party would be perfect for a bridal shower, birthday party (I'm thinking Sweet 16!) or graduation. Just change the color palette to match the style and sophistication of your event; the base decor is all very simple, classic and easily adaptable to suit whatever type of party you are planning.</span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapL97F-SQGEj3KeaF-4P2gwcA2uAds6CN0ndoirt6ATdm3yC8rQQlb3qSuWeXF4ayrPPWDlppXO7rVEQL031xtwsLPkORaC4XuRjcf5nlFni7tqolDdnfZucFHUuYx3SM-tYX15DpVHcE/s1600-h/Emma+Close+up+copy.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapL97F-SQGEj3KeaF-4P2gwcA2uAds6CN0ndoirt6ATdm3yC8rQQlb3qSuWeXF4ayrPPWDlppXO7rVEQL031xtwsLPkORaC4XuRjcf5nlFni7tqolDdnfZucFHUuYx3SM-tYX15DpVHcE/s400/Emma+Close+up+copy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329760912867938738" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 313px;" border="0" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">For us, it was a First Communion and there's no denying that the girl of honor was thrilled with how it all turned out.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Edited to add: Photo Thank You Note</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEUqj7oxFvAJ56tZFkcKvM1bLmtqQUMhyphenhyphenG9S4n8OTsNmN7MuaB_wBUiUTT_9lk4V-1qcpvIQeAqX4rzD6nQvVEwvrJKblVd-o-aVA_25JVYdrAz-gFBP1dQLKQ1I09CrI7MqntrzyfzzQz/s1600-h/EMMATY+.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEUqj7oxFvAJ56tZFkcKvM1bLmtqQUMhyphenhyphenG9S4n8OTsNmN7MuaB_wBUiUTT_9lk4V-1qcpvIQeAqX4rzD6nQvVEwvrJKblVd-o-aVA_25JVYdrAz-gFBP1dQLKQ1I09CrI7MqntrzyfzzQz/s400/EMMATY+.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343469605163715458" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 286px;" border="0" /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-69370150063197084482012-04-05T05:15:00.005-07:002012-04-05T05:29:02.908-07:00PRETTY IS AS PRETTY DOES - STYLISH SUPPORT FOR AUTISM SPEAKS!PSST...THERE'S A GIVEAWAY AT THE END.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWCIkpgvdi3s3rvTwilKH-NNbPK1fWoo9-udA64fWC-QXOQcTNeH0g_imKVLoCgmZnOjHW69a3SvTBMQgepassE5o4ra93hk52JicfX0z1tHnVl6uM_9UN9iEtSMJNN7a_biJ18s1aB0g/s1600/AutismAwareness_US-3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 309px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWCIkpgvdi3s3rvTwilKH-NNbPK1fWoo9-udA64fWC-QXOQcTNeH0g_imKVLoCgmZnOjHW69a3SvTBMQgepassE5o4ra93hk52JicfX0z1tHnVl6uM_9UN9iEtSMJNN7a_biJ18s1aB0g/s400/AutismAwareness_US-3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5727889590310121314" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Did you know that children on the autism spectrum experience color more intensely than we do?<br /><br />With 1 in every 88 children today diagnosed with Autism, I am sure that all of us have been TOUCHED and INSPIRED by a child on the Autism spectrum. I am thrilled and honored to </span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="font-size:130%;">be able to help Autism Speaks with the gorgeous, limited edition Shine Bracelet ( <a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="http://bit.ly/shineforautismspeaks" target="_blank" rel="nofollow nofollow"><span>http://bit.ly/</span><wbr>shineforautismspeaks</a>). Who knew supporting a great cause could be so pretty?! Stella & Dot has designed the Shine Bracelet to reflect the vibrant rainbow of colors that make up an autistic child's world. (oh my gosh, the symbolism of that is enough to bring anyone to tears!)<br /><br />Pleas help shine the light on Autism by supporting Autism Research & Awareness, 20% of the proceeds from the sale of the Shine bracelet. Additionally, to be sure that we are able to make as great of a contribution possible, 20% of the proceeds of the Sole, Revival and Toujours bracelets will be donated as well! I am sure you know plenty of people who would just love one of these gorgeous bracelets for their birthday, mother's day or just because they are so cute and supporting an incredibly worthy cause. Each bracelet arrives in less than a week and is beautifully packaged and ready to give. Just add a bow to the gorgeous box and you're done!<br /><br />In October, together we raised $140,000 for the BCRF. I have no doubt that we can outSHINE those numbers for Autism Speaks.<br /><br />My personal goal is to sell 100 bracelets. Please message me or go directly to <a onmousedown="'UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this)," href="http://bit.ly/shineforautismspeaks" target="_blank" rel="nofollow nofollow"><span>http://bit.ly/</span><wbr>shineforautismspeaks</a> if you would like to make this the perfect gift for someone - or you!!<br /><br />Want to make an even greater impact and score some FREE jewels?!<br /><br />* Order (or collect orders for) 5 or more bracelets and you'll be gifted a piece from Stella & Dot's new summer capsule collection!<br /><br />* Order (or collect orders for) 10 or more bracelets and go on a $75 Stella & Dot shopping spree on us! </span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br />Here's the giveaway:<br />For every bracelet you order, you will be entered to win a piece from Stella & Dot's gorgeous new Summer capsule collection to be debut on April 10th. Can't show you yet, but trust me, it's gorgeous!! Share this post on your FB page, twitter or blog and you'll receive additional entries for each.<br /><br />Let's get together and show our support for this wonderful cause - and look great doing it!!!</span>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-22963593226731498442012-04-02T06:14:00.000-07:002012-04-02T06:15:17.544-07:00EASTER/SPRING PRINTABLES - FREE DOWNLOAD!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizirgSvTl07DvEGGROgUlwY3cgFBe3EOG0BQNBD0lIhMgir0dWN-zIBLhVhbW1PUCAqEN1oO7L97BazawjDwyHBbs-8rYMwUzm2G_fj5i1o63GWhnYdsmuKfF9siHmhhvaUE-cxgt4EMP/s1600-h/Bunny+Template.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizirgSvTl07DvEGGROgUlwY3cgFBe3EOG0BQNBD0lIhMgir0dWN-zIBLhVhbW1PUCAqEN1oO7L97BazawjDwyHBbs-8rYMwUzm2G_fj5i1o63GWhnYdsmuKfF9siHmhhvaUE-cxgt4EMP/s400/Bunny+Template.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319778696985811730" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">As promised, I am back with a free template download for Easter! I love offering templates here, mostly because of the incredible response that I get from all of you. I cannot thank you enough for your kind comments, emails and notes of thanks each time I post a template.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 309px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxBIuLRy2zx417Ivqmd-1fWTOKKHzgbz_IjrEcExhYFQB9O_EcxYRiIfqFPbxeZTTJ0IfWd-wPxdFVRsD-UISNhElci0WaXOVNd5pMx4LESMyopinqhl-2BVM2qBgcszV5e0FK8WgbIGZp/s400/BUNNY+FULL+TEMPLATE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319780086209889826" border="0" /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">So as an extra little thanks, I have made this Easter template multi-purposed! These fun little Easter-themed punch outs can be used as little favor or gift tags, cupcake picks or labels. I have done them in three colors for a bit of fun and to match all of your Easter needs. Simply </span></span><a href="http://documents.scribd.com/docs/2l4jwrvtqpc34yq1l5aw.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">download the template here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> and print! The template is designed for use with a 2.5 inch circle punch for perfect circles every time. And do you know the little trick when using punches? I'm sure you do, but just in case: flip your circle punch over and use it upside down. That way, you can line the circle up perfectly with the design before you punch. (see photo below)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><img style="text-decoration: underline; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOd0Yp07iq-uWY0UQvB7ElyNh8MLD76JUrQmJQLXBgzm92_0HWE9yjrMmg6cFkWIqk9SFuHUlLiJgKFMqhpZQ5xr9Wg2eV9MtEvQtkFV-QuguZfkLxjgYjgz4-SNDfRzRHsYinVoL4Hmwc/s400/bunny+punch+out.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319777850487084018" border="0" /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Print the template on </span></span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/DENNISON-100-LABELS-8-5X11-LABELS-LASERS/dp/B001DPRIQK/ref=sr_1_31?ie=UTF8&s=miscellaneous&qid=1238609266&sr=8-31" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">label sheets</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> to make stickers for favors or gifts...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJjJSCktXaOWbzQ2ClmlfJwnClNU0e8yQVE8On5XdVQfGDG8R-lxDtgOH-kdZLsFWbYLBWcClGF-WEOeygMIQZDGIbBpWiobJGeYcArzi6KaKgaZfFMZQxaPK8qIQavHROTV3LxcWmOQF/s400/easter+label.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319777858483430018" border="0" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">or on cardstock for tags and cupcakes picks...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjttoIMBJuCu8RWRleg8g6RGs8VRcBNflkB4lIMrxVfWf4gzDi7DDS-4rbb2iiMpEH16xtsbvveaXJeJ20gsEK0HKgs_cTDHcRHLDps7RjpYeYPplzHbFPYBGOxPEnhUNUbxVecCy0DOXrk/s400/CUPCAKE+PICKS.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319777859917172418" border="0" /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Note: I did not photograph the actual Bunny Cupcake pick because I did not have a cupcake handy today. The photo above is very similar, but saved me the embarrassment of buying and eating a cupcake just for the photo. (not that I didn't consider it, believe me!)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">If you have trouble with the download, please feel free to <a href="mailto:pjcoe@verizon.net?subject=Easter"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">email me here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">. I'd love to hear how you're using the template, so drop me a line and let me know. Enjoy!</span></span></span></span></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-44018075572200215952012-03-05T08:18:00.000-08:002012-03-05T08:19:36.298-08:00ST. PATRICK'S DAY LUCKY PENNY FREE PRINTABLE!<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMrSbEBXPAKkMhlNS9dyJ_cZan_jB_NIN1VCiqc1ovUqGa5HOFq4dxRPOla0R0bK942JxfmDXJkLnuBJiV8rAj288jtqJsK_8sgBDmAoScmxKOD45AvYyMpDgdKsYM9JMGOXb4DYc6DMc/s1600-h/pennies.jpg"><img style="text-align: left; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMrSbEBXPAKkMhlNS9dyJ_cZan_jB_NIN1VCiqc1ovUqGa5HOFq4dxRPOla0R0bK942JxfmDXJkLnuBJiV8rAj288jtqJsK_8sgBDmAoScmxKOD45AvYyMpDgdKsYM9JMGOXb4DYc6DMc/s400/pennies.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311993316569391058" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Living in the Boston area, St. Patrick's Day is a pretty big deal, so we always like to do a little something special to celebrate the day. An all-time favorite of ours since the preschool years (keep in mind that Pumpkin is now ten!) has been to hand out lucky pennies! This is honestly the simplest classroom handout you will </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">ever</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> do, but the kids get so excited that you would think you just handed them a nugget of gold.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> The first step is to go to the bank and get some shiny new pennies. Over the years, my luck with the banks in my area have been mixed. Some years it's no problem at all, other years I have been told that they do not have any new pennies. No new pennies?!?!! How is this possible? I'm not sure, but if this happens to you as well, you can take the alternate route of cleaning some pennies yourself (</span></span><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Pennies" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">go here for penny cleaning formula</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">). If you clean them yourself, they will not be as shiny as if they were new, but the kids do not notice at all, so not to worry.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="text-align: left; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMPE5474tBeinRKyJ1ersfgP869Cd7GNLmW80PAx2hBQE-d1NozgDXQB4NnpepMtY_mHiWPgIVSwPLmjMcJvkSb-L3gLV_foEzI-G59ZVlw4qjjhtj_ZF8IxbRiNQOjzbmsTRb8lWh0kRG/s400/LUCKY+PENNY+TEMPLATE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311998297727508418" border="0" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Once you have the pennies, you have already completed the most time-consuming part of this project! Simply download the design template </span></span><a href="http://documents.scribd.com/docs/xrj1i2jiyuxswy6izz5.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">, print on the cardstock of your choice and cut as indicated. (Hint: the cards are 3X3 squares) Then attach the pennies to the cards using glue or double-sided tape and you're done! We usually put the cards in small glassine or cellophane envelopes to hand them out, but only because I tend to have those types of supplies on hand. The cards are perfectly fine to hand out as is.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Everyone can use a little extra luck now and again, so have fun with this quick and easy project and maybe as you're spreading some cheer, you'll find yourself a bit o' gold at the end of the rainbow this St. Patrick's Day.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Oh, and </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">no shenanigans! </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">OK, maybe a little...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://documents.scribd.com/docs/xrj1i2jiyuxswy6izz5.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">St. Patrick's Day Lucky Penny Download</span></span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">.</span></span></span></span></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-8516314550424225752011-08-11T05:26:00.000-07:002011-08-11T05:50:03.789-07:00ART CAMP 2011 - DAY TWO SYMMETRY<span style="font-size:130%;">
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMl3CWRh65e_-X24hv663VWhLqPlpCO_Egbp5voGFfOuDKM0DUt7jNNjrREOAWynWpJGeImfP9I4BA8ZkotqOXSBpaitgAgTqea5pz3EhPJRJp838Md8UOGSNC3SCw8qJfSipb49cCc6l7/s1600/DSC_0340.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMl3CWRh65e_-X24hv663VWhLqPlpCO_Egbp5voGFfOuDKM0DUt7jNNjrREOAWynWpJGeImfP9I4BA8ZkotqOXSBpaitgAgTqea5pz3EhPJRJp838Md8UOGSNC3SCw8qJfSipb49cCc6l7/s400/DSC_0340.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639574030412703394" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br />After a very busy Day One with the printing press project, I decided to go with a more laid back approach for day two. As Petunia reminded me - "Not everyone is used to your pace!" Ha! Out of the mouths of babes. So I decided to use some less ambitious "filler" projects I had in mind, link them with a common theme and enjoy a slower-paced day with the girls.
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<br />The first project we took on was a butterfly suncatcher. I did not get a great shot of these but you can see the girls holding them in the pic above. We had talked a bit the day before about how nothing in nature is perfect (as the girls stressed about free-handing their sea creatures), so I took the opportunity to link that discussion to the butterflies. While nothing in nature is perfect, some things are symmetrical! The girls were encouraged to paint their suncatchers in a symmetrical pattern although, it was not mandatory as I did not want to stifle anyone's creativity. It is summer, after all!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkFkXbtLP34aJlPCGzURisYlGg6eTLIsFy5htcQ7NHM_e_gY_02wOOU305lsHVIQxhPdzAbEwbGdO7KGRfHZj_lh3G9Bz8MZhlpVUXXIQoqP77-iZ1mwuFuK-IgJF_k1rCEpd7UmrNNY94/s1600/DSC_0347.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 272px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkFkXbtLP34aJlPCGzURisYlGg6eTLIsFy5htcQ7NHM_e_gY_02wOOU305lsHVIQxhPdzAbEwbGdO7KGRfHZj_lh3G9Bz8MZhlpVUXXIQoqP77-iZ1mwuFuK-IgJF_k1rCEpd7UmrNNY94/s400/DSC_0347.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639574028493097906" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br />We then used the same gel paint with it's beautiful iridescent quality to paint one-half of a butterfly free-hand. We folded a large paper in half, using the middle seam as the middle of the butterfly body and the girls painted the butterfly however they wished. I realized that children must not do a lot of free-hand drawing and painting in school because they were very intimidated to just put paint brush to paper. I was happy to encourage them to just go for it because the results were magnificent! Once they completed half the butterfly, they unfolded the paper and folded it over again to make an impression of the paint on the other side. The girls were thrilled when they pulled back the paper and saw the results!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAfZj1w0LloLD9tHUq4E23lPNsGX7Yis3wRrmmt0WR-fD_aSKye7erIvE1YAu4fxHMLwkN5y3HXMkhryVjZWNBYyVr_POfS15qeQWA1Qyi5eWvpLKrciyB7Zm3VEosrosuJp1S0a_U1Etq/s1600/DSC_0304.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAfZj1w0LloLD9tHUq4E23lPNsGX7Yis3wRrmmt0WR-fD_aSKye7erIvE1YAu4fxHMLwkN5y3HXMkhryVjZWNBYyVr_POfS15qeQWA1Qyi5eWvpLKrciyB7Zm3VEosrosuJp1S0a_U1Etq/s400/DSC_0304.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639574022926063634" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">These two projects brought us right to lunch time so after lunch, I thought we'd have a little fun! I brought out a huge bucket of chalk, had the girls line up down the driveway and team up to trace each other. The idea was that the silhouettes of themselves loosely followed the symmetry theme (remember, this was a laid back fun day!) and I really wanted to encourage more drawing as the girls seemed so intimidated by it. Chalk is not permanent so I thought they'd be more free with their creations.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx1d74NS1yOyRZ00z1sxdg0e7DIqGNVyQF7DHMT3qWiPMBlhOHIRl8WnfqMCckZqFn2XYE8bP_WMsEwCLAqCFEZjEKa77ACoBD47DXhOwzKqxkY36cR87BwlMr-iN3QxUoDrHy36q6H-wl/s1600/DSC_0306.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx1d74NS1yOyRZ00z1sxdg0e7DIqGNVyQF7DHMT3qWiPMBlhOHIRl8WnfqMCckZqFn2XYE8bP_WMsEwCLAqCFEZjEKa77ACoBD47DXhOwzKqxkY36cR87BwlMr-iN3QxUoDrHy36q6H-wl/s400/DSC_0306.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639574017135604066" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br />The girls really had a lot of fun with this and planned out exactly how they wanted to be traced to create the drawing that they had in mind. We had everything from mermaids...
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5jvVdVFp8nGSbF_CKJ2ASfJMex_JdRf9deVMxW0orcwzDBjbGbjPGRKwQcH-FEberjxaESob9nb_PgbMt3sjcZLnAbtFI6w68zZaijZMO6TB6FFbKSbfLWPEwHdVAkKWvsuBSEvIp1At/s1600/DSC_0318.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK5jvVdVFp8nGSbF_CKJ2ASfJMex_JdRf9deVMxW0orcwzDBjbGbjPGRKwQcH-FEberjxaESob9nb_PgbMt3sjcZLnAbtFI6w68zZaijZMO6TB6FFbKSbfLWPEwHdVAkKWvsuBSEvIp1At/s400/DSC_0318.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639574007123727522" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br />to models walking the runway...and just about everything in between. We then had a quick minute to get started on a project that will be completed on day four. So you'll have to wait until then to see it.
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<br />Tomorrow, break's over! We're back at it with some beautiful nature printing and bookbinding!!
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<br /></span>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-15846062175064114402011-08-10T06:26:00.001-07:002011-08-10T06:53:58.304-07:00ART CAMP 2011 - DAY ONE PRINTMAKING<span style="font-size:130%;">
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFL38XaqxesY1glsGak5YkZrhkSPVfLBEuHGHIsbXF8eJA9Wa2BROX42H_-ZOPY_1PCy6Lz8GXBccfUqvsxobBU5DIHaEUhMc8EWewSZ85ac4MIZAM4o_vJJY-74ybWvcuz9-d3BFQP4k/s1600/DSCF0369.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFL38XaqxesY1glsGak5YkZrhkSPVfLBEuHGHIsbXF8eJA9Wa2BROX42H_-ZOPY_1PCy6Lz8GXBccfUqvsxobBU5DIHaEUhMc8EWewSZ85ac4MIZAM4o_vJJY-74ybWvcuz9-d3BFQP4k/s400/DSCF0369.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639218641310978610" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br />Another summer means another year of Art Camp, one of my favorite weeks of the year!!! This year we went all out with a larger group and some awesome projects that we have never done before!
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<br />Because we had more girls, I had much less time to take pictures so you'll have to fill in some gaps with your imagination. The theme for Day One was Printmaking and I absolutely adored this project. We started the day by covering some artist canvas with sand. The sanded canvases would be the base to display our prints. While we were at it, we covered some little treasure boxes with sand as well just for an extra little bonus. We were making a mess with sand anyway, why not?
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<br />Then each girl was given a rectangle of fun foam and told to free hand a drawing of any sea creature and cut it out. The details of the creature did not matter, it was the shape itself that we were going for. We had whales, dolphins, star fish, squid, the variety that the girls came up with was tremendous!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-S9miufdrtikBupli3fDSJiEOpw_80mTxuRX1GC2DqUjBKi1t-JIE_8iidyq_EzRW5Ldgl1w14Gpj6VL8Bi4mUtbu2ZOPrtI9CvhxQuDllQ9fVayF5uZP9nK7Cjk0nQI98K73u1ct-sq/s1600/DSCF0372.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV-S9miufdrtikBupli3fDSJiEOpw_80mTxuRX1GC2DqUjBKi1t-JIE_8iidyq_EzRW5Ldgl1w14Gpj6VL8Bi4mUtbu2ZOPrtI9CvhxQuDllQ9fVayF5uZP9nK7Cjk0nQI98K73u1ct-sq/s400/DSCF0372.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639218636941292562" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br />After each girl cut out her sea creature, I attached each one to a mailing cylinder that I had on hand with hot glue making our own, homemade printing press! So cool, right?! We then rolled out long sheets of paper down the driveway, "inked" up the press with paint and rolled the press along the paper, stopping to re-ink as needed. This created a beautiful repeating pattern of all of the sea creatures. I have to admit that the girls thought this was a lot of trouble to go through to get a print when they could have just inked up their one creature and printed it on to paper but once they saw the beautiful result, I think they were on board. After all, anyone can use a stamp - we made a printing press!!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWx8LkGcZvNTvwUpePRPatZbrGBCEfF2ibvcXGRYqzlbYUQm2dLsKsxCN4KNTqTkJ2iKkTzTZkS-oVgUBRqhMDKZCGWMgs_2otnXL4M6vXHwpHHm1sW1Gi9-ZBag90tpCQepo3M7VGTjiN/s1600/DSCF0376.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWx8LkGcZvNTvwUpePRPatZbrGBCEfF2ibvcXGRYqzlbYUQm2dLsKsxCN4KNTqTkJ2iKkTzTZkS-oVgUBRqhMDKZCGWMgs_2otnXL4M6vXHwpHHm1sW1Gi9-ZBag90tpCQepo3M7VGTjiN/s400/DSCF0376.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639218634248374818" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br />After the was dry, we studied the prints that were made and each girl chose a section of the print that included the sea creature that they had created. We then mounted the print to the sanded canvas and embellished with shells! The results were really beautiful. While we were at it, we also embellished the little treasure boxes with shells for an additional little keepsake.
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzjq-5h50B9Iy-IFOkNzcjzz3fM7whSjKE93hLjRgAWZwcf4qY_s18X55TpxhLYct2D1u69y8jZyAHAvh_1RbuDeZPbQIQVulMF3QE_s5jUFLoDwVjVY12IyrdjiWbHxD_NR5K_LP1iEnw/s1600/DSCF0377.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzjq-5h50B9Iy-IFOkNzcjzz3fM7whSjKE93hLjRgAWZwcf4qY_s18X55TpxhLYct2D1u69y8jZyAHAvh_1RbuDeZPbQIQVulMF3QE_s5jUFLoDwVjVY12IyrdjiWbHxD_NR5K_LP1iEnw/s400/DSCF0377.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5639218632301778610" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br />So that was it, Art Camp day one! Here is a shot of the printing press after we had used it and little Peanut with her completed project. She's so proud to keep up with the big girls!
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<br />Come back tomorrow to find out what we did on Day Two! (I'll give you a hint, the topic was symmetry).
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<br /></span>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-37834504930470536062011-06-23T12:04:00.000-07:002011-06-23T12:09:09.725-07:00JULY 4TH BIKE HANDLE STREAMERS<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMScdpy0hkEeqCSaphCShqwhJBo9ff37RKWZtYxHKzOylFnf3_3n4tUMrNHOla593DGTJL2FCbR2wW7AVN4kUBK6ajSeIG1xmuB5nDc-weCr211jEgikM4iOTSRP53iGlUEI-PNBiJu5vF/s1600/5859181223_955f913813.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMScdpy0hkEeqCSaphCShqwhJBo9ff37RKWZtYxHKzOylFnf3_3n4tUMrNHOla593DGTJL2FCbR2wW7AVN4kUBK6ajSeIG1xmuB5nDc-weCr211jEgikM4iOTSRP53iGlUEI-PNBiJu5vF/s400/5859181223_955f913813.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621493581083426178" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Check out these bike handle streamers from <a href="http://alphamom.com/family-fun/holidays/4th-of-july-craft-parade-streamers-for-bicycles-and-scooters/" target="blank">Alpha Mom</a>! They look fun and easy to make and would be the perfect decor for your <a href="http://pumpkinpetunia.blogspot.com/2011/06/july-4th-bike-parade.html" target="blank">bike parade</a>!<br /></span>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-80170739673224243632011-06-15T05:47:00.001-07:002011-06-15T05:55:18.488-07:00SUMMER STYLE - SKIRTS<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwUznU8RVwDMH1_8aCGVuaf_vPpsMSR-K7PyLPYm67elrIpCJEOfBSXDlBUEg8zVt_-sXZ6rmmuFDZYjBRKZRoAwtVKKgW6u8Euo1VRinNOJ8q78dkK66HztUn3Wr7DFif56yuDbOzQZRh/s1600/on862662-02qlv01.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 270px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwUznU8RVwDMH1_8aCGVuaf_vPpsMSR-K7PyLPYm67elrIpCJEOfBSXDlBUEg8zVt_-sXZ6rmmuFDZYjBRKZRoAwtVKKgW6u8Euo1VRinNOJ8q78dkK66HztUn3Wr7DFif56yuDbOzQZRh/s400/on862662-02qlv01.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618427466653264530" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">If you buy one skirt this summer, I think it should be this one. I adore this chevron stripe skirt from <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/category.do?cid=55402" target="blank">Old Navy</a>. So much so that I stalked a woman wearing it at my daughter's dance recital all day on Sunday. We were always in a crowd so I never did get the chance to ask where she got it but imagine my surprise when I walked into Old Navy yesterday and there it was! (P.S. I never dreamed it was ON, definitely thought it was a much more expensive brand. It's </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >that</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> nice.) Super soft cotton, breezy and cool - add a tank and a jean jacket and you're good to go!<br /><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >For other Summer Style finds, go <a href="http://pumpkinpetunia.blogspot.com/search/label/summer%20style">here</a>.</span>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-32839107671279749932011-06-07T04:07:00.000-07:002011-06-07T04:11:39.188-07:00JULY 4TH BIKE PARADE!<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Many thanks to <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/fun-activities-to-try-this-summer#slide_3" target="blank">Martha Stewart</a> for placing my July 4th Bike Parade as #3 on her list of the top 21 Things to do this Summer!</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">(psst...check back tomorrow for a free printable version of the invite)</span><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMW1Zxgz-QNSxbgW8ge_SxC0X6clo0-XNUKi5xX6MnFZ6racopqyNt_h8bhlyJSPEmpFGdbtxCjeBAQHdEHe8KTEbu8znfXxYOO7NwqrfgHlRWKtErbIdxSn4vf0JmHRzU_zJh0LvK9C1/s1600-h/DSC_0034.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMW1Zxgz-QNSxbgW8ge_SxC0X6clo0-XNUKi5xX6MnFZ6racopqyNt_h8bhlyJSPEmpFGdbtxCjeBAQHdEHe8KTEbu8znfXxYOO7NwqrfgHlRWKtErbIdxSn4vf0JmHRzU_zJh0LvK9C1/s400/DSC_0034.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342890599750999826" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">One of our favorite party traditions is our annual bike parade to celebrate Independence Day. This tradition started one year when Pumpkin was in preschool. He was so distraught that we had to miss our town's celebration that we decided to plan our own. It was such a success that we held this event each year until Pumpkin and Petunia thought that they were too "old" to play. The good news is that Peanut will be riding a bike soon, so we can pick up our annual bike parades right where we left off. I am </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">SO</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> excited. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The photos used here are from our 2005 Bike Parade just because the kids are so little and cute and I love seeing photos of them as preschoolers. Of course, I was just snapping photos for memory's sake at the time so the party isn't documented perfectly, but I think you'll get a good sense of the spirit of the occasion and I'll get a chance to walk down memory lane.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RynRNurABtIU0oEu1f0F6fEgTJ7WNXm8PaBndFJuuKK16j4T-VqjCinCb0FYT-1kSPNEi_lA0sQfh5AuoqC-bJ7W1UUO7tVEL2UfwZwbgIiyGUmPjCwsaeVTntYoizDr2RlVEQIM5Kax/s1600-h/BIKE+PARADE+INVITE.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RynRNurABtIU0oEu1f0F6fEgTJ7WNXm8PaBndFJuuKK16j4T-VqjCinCb0FYT-1kSPNEi_lA0sQfh5AuoqC-bJ7W1UUO7tVEL2UfwZwbgIiyGUmPjCwsaeVTntYoizDr2RlVEQIM5Kax/s400/BIKE+PARADE+INVITE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342892907566490642" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 309px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The <a href="http://pumpkinpetunia.bigcartel.com/product/july-4th-party-invitations" target="_blank">invitation</a> for the bike parade really sets the tone for the event. We live on a small, quiet street, so we always hold the parade right at home, but a local park would be the perfect location for this celebration. I like to note on the invite that we will provide streamers and balloons and such to decorate the bikes but parents usually arrive with decorations of their own to share as well. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8KGRfwzCP95vkUQyfXPZHflgL3VfF_wtNqqS0nUVUR5B5sWHXD23ANBwgwtPGaDPDTV4MEfw_Q0TRpsfXjo0Uwl0SfCUL9x6FkcpYYFu3lqkpe1J_4CU58yN1Mpiw5OjQUjGQJcQbh9Z8/s1600-h/bike+parade+003_2.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8KGRfwzCP95vkUQyfXPZHflgL3VfF_wtNqqS0nUVUR5B5sWHXD23ANBwgwtPGaDPDTV4MEfw_Q0TRpsfXjo0Uwl0SfCUL9x6FkcpYYFu3lqkpe1J_4CU58yN1Mpiw5OjQUjGQJcQbh9Z8/s400/bike+parade+003_2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342890610462630098" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 256px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">This particular year, one parent brought crown templates that she cut out of card stock large enough to fit around the children's helmets! I absolutely loved this idea and we used it every year after.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTR2VQxPBHbNI59w79owCq4EQMWX8KH3rJSDPP1JPn_8Ck9piwkXWAOWw3W_1p6bnLFwYF3QHlhUuZGrWc0CZAC56GnILvtinh3htaNceubPM4zHuKcHe4_YWFpSpdCd5PvCUlNFOYaOJ/s1600-h/bike+parade+005.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTR2VQxPBHbNI59w79owCq4EQMWX8KH3rJSDPP1JPn_8Ck9piwkXWAOWw3W_1p6bnLFwYF3QHlhUuZGrWc0CZAC56GnILvtinh3htaNceubPM4zHuKcHe4_YWFpSpdCd5PvCUlNFOYaOJ/s400/bike+parade+005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342890616324661010" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Once all the children arrive, we get right to embellishing the bikes in preparation for the big parade. As you can see, the moms enjoy this part just as much as the kids! Supplies to have on hand are red, white and blue streamers and ribbons, foam letters and stars to attach to card stock license plates, mini flags, balloons, shiny star garlands and some tape. Just take care to insure that the streamers and ribbons are attached firmly to the bike and do not hang down to interfere with pedals and wheel spokes and such.<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRg0Pe5y48RPrxobRg8o7uccDdUnnbEFIQChteQyx10EMcMUbPHxPbIG7tmfS72V3omU_-xzemucvnE0vJvDRweQx3qMOzyLmBDb8BDdMFTq6fHenhEyphMHfE1t6QaD4JdTW0l3U4IWAS/s1600-h/bike+parade+009.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRg0Pe5y48RPrxobRg8o7uccDdUnnbEFIQChteQyx10EMcMUbPHxPbIG7tmfS72V3omU_-xzemucvnE0vJvDRweQx3qMOzyLmBDb8BDdMFTq6fHenhEyphMHfE1t6QaD4JdTW0l3U4IWAS/s400/bike+parade+009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342891560607572226" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Once the bikes are all decked out, it's time for lunch! We just spread out a few tablecloths on the lawn and have one big picnic.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggxlvJ5wEhhh6I2d8gvy4xvBC4h_6TXQT6qQTMLIrLMzcZG5_xQzqcR9c9gNgfNIJl-Yd-7Xe6xwkwWQb79di6qUULoOLo2aKFKzWkYarrKvKjJwyF0B0C641NnKwMSgA7CPCvmoehKvtz/s1600-h/DSC_0015.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggxlvJ5wEhhh6I2d8gvy4xvBC4h_6TXQT6qQTMLIrLMzcZG5_xQzqcR9c9gNgfNIJl-Yd-7Xe6xwkwWQb79di6qUULoOLo2aKFKzWkYarrKvKjJwyF0B0C641NnKwMSgA7CPCvmoehKvtz/s400/DSC_0015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342890606797900002" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Food for this event is beyond easy. I provide an assortment of star-shaped sandwiches and skewers of red, white and blue fruit kabobs (strawberries, apples, bananas and blueberries are perfect) and the other moms usually bring a few snacks to share as well.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">After lunch, it's time for the main event. The bike parade!<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5OYGofOgUmtHIqFATQcinh1PxzpFdlpg79JAiOGyY_9zScPnxrg0Gdq6lkl7MH4Md4Je6riZjTgbTSIrZQaMtQ7_xZ-bgjaxPW5TjyPVqi6iER6DFKE7DLCZrWiFIxKNgj2KqteQvN6UU/s1600-h/bike+parade+021.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5OYGofOgUmtHIqFATQcinh1PxzpFdlpg79JAiOGyY_9zScPnxrg0Gdq6lkl7MH4Md4Je6riZjTgbTSIrZQaMtQ7_xZ-bgjaxPW5TjyPVqi6iER6DFKE7DLCZrWiFIxKNgj2KqteQvN6UU/s400/bike+parade+021.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342891575627506466" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The children put on their decked out helmets...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNsLxQkgvMTumEbr8fJOvb27eRNykknxDM62S81qXGrDCIupJ5xpUWzwJYnpJI4P96uasUYn8Xg22XAktS0pSZszLqphGLjOTcrh_Fj6txIjGB1J_ZULJNBJOBOER5rFnfvJrl5H__m-kh/s1600-h/bike+parade+013.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNsLxQkgvMTumEbr8fJOvb27eRNykknxDM62S81qXGrDCIupJ5xpUWzwJYnpJI4P96uasUYn8Xg22XAktS0pSZszLqphGLjOTcrh_Fj6txIjGB1J_ZULJNBJOBOER5rFnfvJrl5H__m-kh/s400/bike+parade+013.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342891570079754466" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Jump on their patriotically adorned bikes...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivxhddQBbBz9zd_cV5KyK5TLirDXKlB2vkKNowN_ku_ot74Qqh9Kd2gJQEM6p-WqCtIVe5Wg9m3Ib-LQ2in7LQNvl3PSe95I_y9PZNimYjEOgSc9V71sLbJfD5lyzEwSkKSyEOdfAziCuZ/s1600-h/bike+parade+022.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivxhddQBbBz9zd_cV5KyK5TLirDXKlB2vkKNowN_ku_ot74Qqh9Kd2gJQEM6p-WqCtIVe5Wg9m3Ib-LQ2in7LQNvl3PSe95I_y9PZNimYjEOgSc9V71sLbJfD5lyzEwSkKSyEOdfAziCuZ/s400/bike+parade+022.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342891588403486210" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And hit the road!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">But I haven't told you the best part yet.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">What would a parade be without music? And not just any music. That's right, we break out the bagpipes for this event!<br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1aVDnjo3glk0Y5QyYD5rSIacQZWhfEwN8LIlsV-LLb81XFxxeqnrfuG29S5xrXRNX33-SuK0POnRr-h6n0otlQRD0RzMGTYc-76CcLPesNTK8vvidudEcB-15Od7AwcJtX8bdz98BmziF/s1600-h/bike+parade+027.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1aVDnjo3glk0Y5QyYD5rSIacQZWhfEwN8LIlsV-LLb81XFxxeqnrfuG29S5xrXRNX33-SuK0POnRr-h6n0otlQRD0RzMGTYc-76CcLPesNTK8vvidudEcB-15Od7AwcJtX8bdz98BmziF/s400/bike+parade+027.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342891598534972146" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">No, not actual bagpipes played live at the parade (although, how cool would that be?). We fire up the ipod and speakers and blast the </span></span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Scotlands-Highland-Bagpipes-Various-Artists/dp/B000F6IIOO/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1243991555&sr=1-5" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">pipes</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> as the children ride in formation up and down the street, neighbors on their doorsteps clapping and cheering as the procession passes. (Oh how I wish I had video of the big ride that could be uploaded here. You just don't get the full fabulous effect with a photo!)</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH5HoMA6xNBrIDDCLPDZkGymD_3c7M_cdmzVKqx_sDc9ASEMA407mqIDSHrsuZVscmPoiEieMs6ShJ1HCwatyPjut6i9Aq_ccCb7BCdWDjERiCqxdigDrSuX7F0s4TIzCnlVHAQmBd3DyQ/s1600-h/bike+parade+034.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH5HoMA6xNBrIDDCLPDZkGymD_3c7M_cdmzVKqx_sDc9ASEMA407mqIDSHrsuZVscmPoiEieMs6ShJ1HCwatyPjut6i9Aq_ccCb7BCdWDjERiCqxdigDrSuX7F0s4TIzCnlVHAQmBd3DyQ/s400/bike+parade+034.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342892902812872850" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 382px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">After several laps up and down the street, the bikes are parked and red, white and blue </span></span><a href="http://www.centralchef.com/StoreFrontProfiles/DeluxeSFItemDetail.aspx?sfid=123094&c=106021&i=243006935" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">rocket pops</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> are enjoyed by all as they pose for one final photo in front of the flag. (The same photo in the same spot was taken year after year. I now feel the urge to display all these photos together this year as part of our July 4th decorations. I'll post back with what I come up with.)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I think I'll get Peanut on her tricycle tomorrow. Maybe we can beef up the pedals so she can reach - just in time for the 4th!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Note: The top photo is a shot of some indoor decorations that we always hang just in case party guests need to go inside. An abundance of these folded stars make a big impact and are easy as pie to make. Simple instructions found </span></span><a href="http://jas.familyfun.go.com/arts-and-crafts?page=CraftDisplay&craftid=11236" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">.</span></span></div><br /><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://tcr.tynt.com/javascripts/Tracer.js?user=dvQRXyulir3Q0mab7jrHcU&s=72"></script>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-56479244736987580352011-06-02T15:44:00.001-07:002011-06-15T05:53:16.316-07:00SUMMER STYLE<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheepunrXHcs7K2wp2MTfJlHVmgpfZu4ZFhZVWoLEr_rZE_TpWH6GrAW55_iTNnokIe831PjtPxXLlnG9q1H79M-kUjKEAemAWTVuivdLy3ccJqQ_e6U3aOxp7F_s5V8XA_p8BNnAC8x9NK/s1600/resize.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 165px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheepunrXHcs7K2wp2MTfJlHVmgpfZu4ZFhZVWoLEr_rZE_TpWH6GrAW55_iTNnokIe831PjtPxXLlnG9q1H79M-kUjKEAemAWTVuivdLy3ccJqQ_e6U3aOxp7F_s5V8XA_p8BNnAC8x9NK/s400/resize.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613757224919441330" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">How sweet are these gorgeous <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/joann/productcatalog?page=productdetail&sku=E604">earrings</a> for summer?<br />Even better, they're on sale. LOVE!</span><br /></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-27773965397702149462011-05-31T10:19:00.000-07:002011-05-31T10:28:59.773-07:00SUMMER! (FREE DOWNLOAD)<div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikdRGkhA1nty-pVa1x2_4MbDj_sLiJrmYJ3SiXE-c-mkWk2hLZRq_ECSBc0tV2ZF-KKu88k7suXgBrLD3S9DcRKFYxouWpn0dFOR0JFboxDsFVq9gDIJrIJqcSMxMoU9b1UqBtxen32Bk6/s1600-h/summer+banner.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikdRGkhA1nty-pVa1x2_4MbDj_sLiJrmYJ3SiXE-c-mkWk2hLZRq_ECSBc0tV2ZF-KKu88k7suXgBrLD3S9DcRKFYxouWpn0dFOR0JFboxDsFVq9gDIJrIJqcSMxMoU9b1UqBtxen32Bk6/s400/summer+banner.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347598956921638034" border="0" /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Thanks to a particularly harsh winter, summer does not officially launch for my crew for a couple more weeks but we have been rewarded for our patience with a glorious Memorial Day weekend and the beautiful weather appears to be sticking around all week! Woot!!!<br /><br />So in the spirit of patience and sunshine, here is a summer banner that I whipped up to help you kick off <span style="font-style: italic;">your </span>summer!<br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br />Download your copy of my Summer Beach Ball Banner below. (Just click on <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">More</span> and select <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Save</span> or <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Print</span>.)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">If you would like a birthday version of the Beach Ball Banner, <a href="mailto:pjcoe@verizon.net?subject=Summer">email me</a> and I will create one for download, as well.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><a title="View Beach Ball Banner on Scribd" href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/16445178/Beach-Ball-Banner" style="margin: 12px auto 6px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; display: block; text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Beach Ball Banner</span></span></a> <object codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,0,0" id="doc_971381909073754" name="doc_971381909073754" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" rel="media:document" resource="http://d.scribd.com/ScribdViewer.swf?document_id=16445178&access_key=key-2oodm0u1hxck4u3bc1az&page=1&version=1&viewMode=" media="http://search.yahoo.com/searchmonkey/media/" dc="http://purl.org/dc/terms/" align="middle" height="500" width="100%"> <param name="movie" value="http://d.scribd.com/ScribdViewer.swf?document_id=16445178&access_key=key-2oodm0u1hxck4u3bc1az&page=1&version=1&viewMode="> <param name="quality" value="high"> <param name="play" value="true"> <param name="loop" value="true"> <param name="scale" value="showall"> <param name="wmode" value="opaque"> <param name="devicefont" value="false"> <param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff"> <param name="menu" value="true"> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"> <param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"> <param name="salign" value=""> <embed src="http://d.scribd.com/ScribdViewer.swf?document_id=16445178&access_key=key-2oodm0u1hxck4u3bc1az&page=1&version=1&viewMode=" quality="high" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" play="true" loop="true" scale="showall" wmode="opaque" devicefont="false" bgcolor="#ffffff" name="doc_971381909073754_object" menu="true" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" salign="" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" align="middle" height="500" width="100%"></embed> <span rel="media:thumbnail" href="http://i.scribd.com/public/images/uploaded/38332842/dXvKAsakHYlBG_thumbnail.jpeg"> <span property="media:title">Beach Ball Banner</span> <span property="dc:creator">pumpkinpetunia</span> <span property="dc:type" content="Text"> </span></span></object><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> </span></span><div style="margin: 6px auto 3px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; display: block;"> <a href="http://www.scribd.com/upload" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Publish at Scribd</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> or </span></span><a href="http://www.scribd.com/browse" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">explore</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> others: </span></span><a href="http://www.scribd.com/explore/Books/Travel" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Travel</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> </span></span><a href="http://www.scribd.com/tag/literature" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">literature</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> </span></span><a href="http://www.scribd.com/tag/florida" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">florida</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> </span></span></div> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Enjoy!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">P.S. Scribd is not allowing me to link to this in my usual way so if you have problems downloading, please let me know!</span></span></div><div><br /></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-70141556644623635922011-05-23T08:07:00.000-07:002011-05-31T10:32:20.044-07:00PUMPKIN PETUNIA and STELLA & DOT - SPECIAL OFFER!<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Offer extended through May 31st at midnight!!! </span><br /><br />This weekend is not only the official beginning of summer, but it also launches party season!! With so many graduation parties, baby and bridal showers and birthday parties on the agenda, I'm here to help you all get ready <span style="font-style: italic;">in </span></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >style</span><span style="font-size:130%;">! For the very first time, I am offering a joint special and I'm super excited about it!!! I hope you love it too!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwuIil9u9a7bD0jtUbIPHgkJfAjpmk5sKhx0heAJTwO1wzX-KjxKJNH2D7syiFdgE8GuHt6uknhRncMuLR8Qn90A9C-NMrts8XuSvxDDA6cEC-nBMbw_osckcSJk_w7jk9d3zwD1_OAOD/s1600/MemorialDay-2011.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 357px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwuIil9u9a7bD0jtUbIPHgkJfAjpmk5sKhx0heAJTwO1wzX-KjxKJNH2D7syiFdgE8GuHt6uknhRncMuLR8Qn90A9C-NMrts8XuSvxDDA6cEC-nBMbw_osckcSJk_w7jk9d3zwD1_OAOD/s400/MemorialDay-2011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611119759451823122" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><span style="font-size:130%;">Here's the deal! I'm going to help you get ready for those summer parties in more ways than one. First, <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/joann" target="blank">get your style on</a> with those must-have accessories to jazz up that summer wardrobe. You don't need a complete fashion makeover, just add some <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/joann/productcatalog?page=productlisting.category&categoryId=1011" target="blank">key jewelry pieces</a> to your existing wardrobe and you're ready to go! Love that great dress from last summer but want to do something different? Accessorize it! When you do, Pumpkin Petunia will help you throw your own summer soiree - ON US!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-luzboXeRZ-UiHram9Ha6pOSFQd_o-rScU7BYeR1gEA54F8G61etY81DjsbUjtY0SjvIBCnA2lsn5JGl1doH4U_tLJwIX6Vo5IJ_q5T8VS2Kc8pssQ95uboNPxWIJT4ySsObUO-v3yHF/s1600/invite+samples+princess.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 275px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-luzboXeRZ-UiHram9Ha6pOSFQd_o-rScU7BYeR1gEA54F8G61etY81DjsbUjtY0SjvIBCnA2lsn5JGl1doH4U_tLJwIX6Vo5IJ_q5T8VS2Kc8pssQ95uboNPxWIJT4ySsObUO-v3yHF/s400/invite+samples+princess.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609929112559985618" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Purchase $75 or more at <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/joann/productcatalog?page=productlisting.category&categoryId=1011" target="blank">Stella & Dot</a> through <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/joann" target="blank">this link</a> and enter Pumpkin Petunia as your hostess (this is how we will identify that you qualify for this promotion) and receive TWO FREE SETS </span><span style="font-size:130%;">(</span><span style="font-size:130%;">that's 50 invitations!) </span><span style="font-size:130%;">of custom party invitations of your choice (</span><span style="font-size:130%;">retail value: $60). But the deal gets even better...<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87OxUE3Sq7A82hFSFEmXBF0c71rwopPz1zsDADvM5767jO1W3FL7Uo1BbiipjwuFkb-tneyv5y612gB45KYUP1iKAUXLEJnAbiusQqON7wzXcIhH1L0d7woducPTFuaS-S2ddxF2WWNLm/s1600/invite+samples+girl.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 307px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87OxUE3Sq7A82hFSFEmXBF0c71rwopPz1zsDADvM5767jO1W3FL7Uo1BbiipjwuFkb-tneyv5y612gB45KYUP1iKAUXLEJnAbiusQqON7wzXcIhH1L0d7woducPTFuaS-S2ddxF2WWNLm/s400/invite+samples+girl.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609929111593638434" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Purchase $100 or more of gorgeous jewelry from <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/joann/productcatalog?page=productlisting.category&categoryId=1011" target="blank">Stella & Dot</a> (again through <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/joann" target="blank">this link</a> and entering Pumpkin Petunia as your hostess so we can identify your eligibility) and you will receive a COMPLETE CUSTOM PARTY PACKAGE (consisting of a set of party invitations, thank you notes <span style="font-style: italic;">and</span> cupcake picks. Retail value: $90)!!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj93IQJKQOtal8m9qKZAZQjFFFrsUt-vbIqsRP19FEFwtKJ6y94-KLVAGMO8lEjxTyGoSGxtTKtQaURu4sVVi8bCXEhGrnpLG8EbbywJjKj5ZKQNHXASaxs2syPdYpAW4nXEeCFLYwN_hjD/s1600/invite+samples+boy.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 281px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj93IQJKQOtal8m9qKZAZQjFFFrsUt-vbIqsRP19FEFwtKJ6y94-KLVAGMO8lEjxTyGoSGxtTKtQaURu4sVVi8bCXEhGrnpLG8EbbywJjKj5ZKQNHXASaxs2syPdYpAW4nXEeCFLYwN_hjD/s400/invite+samples+boy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609929107814733218" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />So get some gift-shopping done (think <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/joann/productcatalog?page=productlisting.category&categoryId=4" target="blank">graduations</a>, <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/joann/productcatalog?page=productlisting.category&categoryId=1129" target="blank">birthdays</a>) or get something amazing just for you and score yourself some free party packages in the process! Pictured are just some of the designs available to choose from. We'll let you choose from absolutely any design or color scheme that we have available!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9mNv6Kl0IDeLj8-NYf23zPtlgg9aMXM2L00qV6UfQi2af2efsbx18F57WFKqx6ZU7g__kKt5aMOQDt-enX_tmlLo5qxwvyS1Jn74PXQIm05NmXElGOTG7gfriV3um983Eoa1HFpHlEWR/s1600/invite+samples+male.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 307px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9mNv6Kl0IDeLj8-NYf23zPtlgg9aMXM2L00qV6UfQi2af2efsbx18F57WFKqx6ZU7g__kKt5aMOQDt-enX_tmlLo5qxwvyS1Jn74PXQIm05NmXElGOTG7gfriV3um983Eoa1HFpHlEWR/s400/invite+samples+male.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609929103702214594" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">So go ahead and <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/joann/productcatalog?page=productlisting.category&categoryId=1011" target="blank">freshen up your wardrobe</a> for party season and then get your party on with custom party packages on us!!! But act quickly - this offer is available this week only! It expires at midnight EST on Friday, May 27, 2011.<br /><br />Fine print: All <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/joann" target="blank">Stella & Dot</a> orders are shipped immediately and arrive via priority mail in just 3-4 business days. Kindly allow three weeks for delivery of custom invites. Rush orders may be available but are not guaranteed; in short, we will do our best! Free party packages must be redeemed no later than December 31, 2011. If you wish to redeem the offer for custom Holiday cards, you will receive a credit for the value of the party package for which you qualified ($60 or $90). Holiday card orders must be placed no later than November 1st. For details on ordering your party supplies, <a href="mailto:pjcoe@verizon.net?subject=Free%21">email me here</a>.<br /><br /><br /><br /></span>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-13597406257553968972011-05-17T10:54:00.000-07:002011-05-17T10:56:45.789-07:00GRADUATION PARTY<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis4X4YHR08BgsecVq6TsyipGPFeFojNTGgCK3xhsIr-LRgrj8TntC3PJRubF0bC9K09JQkukRH8DCbyMUBEmOjPMM8Ba5Y3wN8yVEj5QZ2-HUQO68hyRfUY2jLRn0cwSLYxYvWOZeptufZ/s1600-h/PK+Sample+DBL+Caps.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis4X4YHR08BgsecVq6TsyipGPFeFojNTGgCK3xhsIr-LRgrj8TntC3PJRubF0bC9K09JQkukRH8DCbyMUBEmOjPMM8Ba5Y3wN8yVEj5QZ2-HUQO68hyRfUY2jLRn0cwSLYxYvWOZeptufZ/s400/PK+Sample+DBL+Caps.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355649378797506546" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It's almost that time again - graduations are just around the corner! Here is a recap of a party I designed for my niece and nephew a couple of years back (can't believe it - they're just home from their sophomore year of college!). You heard a bit about it </span></span><a href="http://pumpkinpetunia.blogspot.com/2009/06/extra-special.html" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">, and saw a bit of it </span></span><a href="http://pumpkinpetunia.blogspot.com/2009/07/sneak-peek.html" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">, but now is time for all the juicy details! This was a particularly fun party to put together because it was for two graduates, giving me a chance to have a bit of fun with the design. The two graduation caps on the invite are a good example of how we played off the fact that this was a party for both a boy and a girl graduate.</span></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgj0fOgXEUE8C8s4vHJzand-RMDhpH9gcotOs-Lh2iPVr5qH9m2lhyphenhyphenTP9rwSfjPXqH5474QbVuEDKRLEi-iXuZTyPpsrSQhUn1Sm2npt3mEfmrhY4-6VFT1QjbM6nrJ67HAtA6nPViQQUC/s1600-h/DSC_0003.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 92px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgj0fOgXEUE8C8s4vHJzand-RMDhpH9gcotOs-Lh2iPVr5qH9m2lhyphenhyphenTP9rwSfjPXqH5474QbVuEDKRLEi-iXuZTyPpsrSQhUn1Sm2npt3mEfmrhY4-6VFT1QjbM6nrJ67HAtA6nPViQQUC/s400/DSC_0003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355648538997754658" border="0" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></a></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The graduate silhouettes used in the banner also played off this theme. I really loved this idea of using two silhouettes and the first invite that I designed played up this motif (seen below), but that design was vetoed by one of the graduates, making the double cap design next in line for consideration. It was </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">their</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> party, after all! (don't you just hate when the honorees have an opinion?!?) Luckily, I was able to sneak the silhouettes into other aspects of the party.</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEhhHM29F18qOLyuhFD0pdc3ybLkyBAQKGYdJKhbrHkx15QiA2X91puaxklsuoTEPGYM0haVUF3ew0gs7PhtV3FvilkXKua2xxDlVWYwVrtz-KT8ZtmlZvMjkqZ2Iuire86XicV4_Gxzx5/s1600-h/PK+Sample+Silhouette.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEhhHM29F18qOLyuhFD0pdc3ybLkyBAQKGYdJKhbrHkx15QiA2X91puaxklsuoTEPGYM0haVUF3ew0gs7PhtV3FvilkXKua2xxDlVWYwVrtz-KT8ZtmlZvMjkqZ2Iuire86XicV4_Gxzx5/s400/PK+Sample+Silhouette.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355651982957420146" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 260px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">See. Cute, right?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXkPJHyXolnBQPlYWyBDW7EXZuvyndb0yi5Zr-3ULFm6eIKdI0B8uvRbJYuAFJ6HeTwyRnrmH_hvuWQCySsUC1WaNTMU7uGf3uwotweFoF5bjYwtqR2RPQiWyEgguXIq7kYkKCr4n4nxkJ/s1600-h/DSC_0009.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 270px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXkPJHyXolnBQPlYWyBDW7EXZuvyndb0yi5Zr-3ULFm6eIKdI0B8uvRbJYuAFJ6HeTwyRnrmH_hvuWQCySsUC1WaNTMU7uGf3uwotweFoF5bjYwtqR2RPQiWyEgguXIq7kYkKCr4n4nxkJ/s400/DSC_0009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355647984752475762" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">If you haven't guessed, the graduates' school colors are blue and white which became the obvious palette for the decor. The dark blue and light blue worked well with the design for both a male and female graduate. I loved how the water bottles looked all lined up in the fridge.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYOFlcgCF9ZvULe-PAIedXMJ-qIeac0iITKtaxV0jJggG8o32lTnL6mPBmb4FQLHFOFhFyRvImEqoo5_RmKthAvgG2H0jhfYw5-QUKNvHeV71qmJJcfLbHJgtomNPCLREwYL4lH1KgflJ/s1600-h/DSC_0030.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYOFlcgCF9ZvULe-PAIedXMJ-qIeac0iITKtaxV0jJggG8o32lTnL6mPBmb4FQLHFOFhFyRvImEqoo5_RmKthAvgG2H0jhfYw5-QUKNvHeV71qmJJcfLbHJgtomNPCLREwYL4lH1KgflJ/s400/DSC_0030.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355647968179709506" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Because the weather for the day was questionable, my sister decided to move the party indoors. This caused a few moments of panic as much of the decor planned for the tent would not work indoors, but a last minute banner and some other small details worked wonders to create the look we were hoping for indoors. The menu signs were very well received by the guests for their playful practicality.</span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Aj1M3lxwin_vNzmrCz9xkDZA3bAfDCSt3t0kfDr1kJfOxJLbOeIxOYU5QyjssTIqZox2iHZd8H22SBzU6ZFe5oPbLdmi4ipiBfXlJsGj7Bki63psyPpA008xEh9KjYYFqbu20CCJe22M/s1600-h/Smart+Cookie.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Aj1M3lxwin_vNzmrCz9xkDZA3bAfDCSt3t0kfDr1kJfOxJLbOeIxOYU5QyjssTIqZox2iHZd8H22SBzU6ZFe5oPbLdmi4ipiBfXlJsGj7Bki63psyPpA008xEh9KjYYFqbu20CCJe22M/s400/Smart+Cookie.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355656591843117666" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 380px;" border="0" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">For dessert, we served a cookie bar along with the cake and some fun, personalized M&M's. I just couldn't resist the idea of a sign that said 2 Smart Cookies!<br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgusfn__QN8Ce7hMqb9P04YmZsk8xNoqzVvIYQCxdcX2lLNekhI61FY8edy_4iV-Y0g3bMH0sp-3pUlVeFRUgQLx-W31norb4Ba7Ijz21nJ1v0SICvZ9YxTBIDGB6BTh3NmDcjZGDoIQUlg/s1600-h/DSC_0040.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgusfn__QN8Ce7hMqb9P04YmZsk8xNoqzVvIYQCxdcX2lLNekhI61FY8edy_4iV-Y0g3bMH0sp-3pUlVeFRUgQLx-W31norb4Ba7Ijz21nJ1v0SICvZ9YxTBIDGB6BTh3NmDcjZGDoIQUlg/s400/DSC_0040.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355656599899341842" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 241px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">The Class of 2009 whoopie pie flags were pretty darn cute too. Cellophane bags with coordinating labels were provided for the guests to take some treats home as well.<br /></span></span></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4nMADT85JPCyT-6QdQAg3M_60BkqyK1Zb2NiV6UN1QPx52G-DqqSL0f64X-4ZvwPsaPlU3wmIvL4LX4bxU8PyNuTYcpibShPFSBZ-ERyVeiWGf_3tABNdtSIO_oa1-zPjPfYpCZxbmlRX/s1600-h/DVD+Image.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4nMADT85JPCyT-6QdQAg3M_60BkqyK1Zb2NiV6UN1QPx52G-DqqSL0f64X-4ZvwPsaPlU3wmIvL4LX4bxU8PyNuTYcpibShPFSBZ-ERyVeiWGf_3tABNdtSIO_oa1-zPjPfYpCZxbmlRX/s400/DVD+Image.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355657216777714674" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 289px;" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGt_GRGUUgpzKAtDmFHBmahiuK_dknYMuA8joYirfVO8eoky3J_2RsKrw5UE3vQejElOu9HBD3rEMyqkMOWjuifoNZ_h7uSeY4drN_cnd13pUYmKv1ssFwjVT4QNjotjPXKvc_DVOvOmn/s1600-h/Smart+Cookie.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">My favorite project, by far, for my niece and nephew's graduation was definitely the photo montage dvd that was created using iPhoto, iTunes and iDVD. These applications worked beautifully together to make this project really easy to do and super fun. I loved going through all of the photos of the graduates and reminiscing about their lives and all of their wonderful accomplishments. The DVD was shown over and over throughout the day for family and friends and the guests of honor even enjoyed watching it time and again and playing it for their friends. I was just happy to have chosen songs that were not considered dorky and uncool by the high school crowd! (for your reference so you can be as hip as I, the songs were "Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield and "Time of Your Life" by Just Jinger)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWOjFt_hdHt8HB1C2z6LcZZ1RhhXqeR__LfSiBfJzIF7Jfosd7snPmdsyl1VapfUS-cwm4MQymlqKLBFF9rgZ5PFOsMfWqljSSoC1GkH0_D5kGV4tvEJQnkNR5k5b-Bgja8mHDX3wTQ5er/s1600-h/DSC_0006.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWOjFt_hdHt8HB1C2z6LcZZ1RhhXqeR__LfSiBfJzIF7Jfosd7snPmdsyl1VapfUS-cwm4MQymlqKLBFF9rgZ5PFOsMfWqljSSoC1GkH0_D5kGV4tvEJQnkNR5k5b-Bgja8mHDX3wTQ5er/s400/DSC_0006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355647970293918882" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" border="0" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">For favors for the girls, Petunia and I made up cute little flip flops using a similar technique to the </span></span><a href="http://pumpkinpetunia.blogspot.com/2009/04/tissue-pom-instructions.html" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">tissue poms</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> that we love to make so much. You'll never guess what we used to make the poms to insure they would be water proof. I'll post a tutorial later in the week to fill you in on all the details of this fun project. The flip flops were displayed in my nephew's wrestling gym bag just to play down the girly factor a bit. I loved the contrast of how they looked in this old, beat up bag.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3EoeBF-5LQd1ojmTLKmnYF30fdlW_lKvQPa2dc50hhxseIwU_hTenKElYWc57OkUolL8EnJe3N8rtWcPewzHdlrbA0EONgE3QdGEo2c2XnU1Gzu-yK6BxE8v13vDCFYdwqm_nhZe_3DsH/s1600-h/Grad+Photo+Thank+You.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3EoeBF-5LQd1ojmTLKmnYF30fdlW_lKvQPa2dc50hhxseIwU_hTenKElYWc57OkUolL8EnJe3N8rtWcPewzHdlrbA0EONgE3QdGEo2c2XnU1Gzu-yK6BxE8v13vDCFYdwqm_nhZe_3DsH/s400/Grad+Photo+Thank+You.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355648715961300722" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Despite the sketchy forecast, the day turned out perfect. After a fabulous party and tons of fun, the final detail: thank you notes.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">It was an absolute pleasure helping to put this party together for my adorable niece and nephew. I am so proud of all of their wonderful accomplishments but even more so of the incredible people they have become. Congratulations Philip and Kayla! XOXO</span></span></div></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-9303420084680625602011-04-18T09:31:00.000-07:002011-04-18T09:32:47.992-07:00EASTER CUPCAKE PICKS & STICKERS - FREE DOWNLOAD!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizirgSvTl07DvEGGROgUlwY3cgFBe3EOG0BQNBD0lIhMgir0dWN-zIBLhVhbW1PUCAqEN1oO7L97BazawjDwyHBbs-8rYMwUzm2G_fj5i1o63GWhnYdsmuKfF9siHmhhvaUE-cxgt4EMP/s1600-h/Bunny+Template.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizirgSvTl07DvEGGROgUlwY3cgFBe3EOG0BQNBD0lIhMgir0dWN-zIBLhVhbW1PUCAqEN1oO7L97BazawjDwyHBbs-8rYMwUzm2G_fj5i1o63GWhnYdsmuKfF9siHmhhvaUE-cxgt4EMP/s400/Bunny+Template.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319778696985811730" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">As promised, I am back with a free template download for Easter! I love offering templates here, mostly because of the incredible response that I get from all of you. I cannot thank you enough for your kind comments, emails and notes of thanks each time I post a template.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 309px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxBIuLRy2zx417Ivqmd-1fWTOKKHzgbz_IjrEcExhYFQB9O_EcxYRiIfqFPbxeZTTJ0IfWd-wPxdFVRsD-UISNhElci0WaXOVNd5pMx4LESMyopinqhl-2BVM2qBgcszV5e0FK8WgbIGZp/s400/BUNNY+FULL+TEMPLATE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319780086209889826" border="0" /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">So as an extra little thanks, I have made this Easter template multi-purposed! These fun little Easter-themed punch outs can be used as little favor or gift tags, cupcake picks or labels. I have done them in three colors for a bit of fun and to match all of your Easter needs. Simply </span></span><a href="http://documents.scribd.com/docs/2l4jwrvtqpc34yq1l5aw.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">download the template here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> and print! The template is designed for use with a 2.5 inch circle punch for perfect circles every time. And do you know the little trick when using punches? I'm sure you do, but just in case: flip your circle punch over and use it upside down. That way, you can line the circle up perfectly with the design before you punch. (see photo below)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><img style="text-decoration: underline; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOd0Yp07iq-uWY0UQvB7ElyNh8MLD76JUrQmJQLXBgzm92_0HWE9yjrMmg6cFkWIqk9SFuHUlLiJgKFMqhpZQ5xr9Wg2eV9MtEvQtkFV-QuguZfkLxjgYjgz4-SNDfRzRHsYinVoL4Hmwc/s400/bunny+punch+out.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319777850487084018" border="0" /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Print the template on </span></span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/DENNISON-100-LABELS-8-5X11-LABELS-LASERS/dp/B001DPRIQK/ref=sr_1_31?ie=UTF8&s=miscellaneous&qid=1238609266&sr=8-31" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">label sheets</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> to make stickers for favors or gifts...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJjJSCktXaOWbzQ2ClmlfJwnClNU0e8yQVE8On5XdVQfGDG8R-lxDtgOH-kdZLsFWbYLBWcClGF-WEOeygMIQZDGIbBpWiobJGeYcArzi6KaKgaZfFMZQxaPK8qIQavHROTV3LxcWmOQF/s400/easter+label.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319777858483430018" border="0" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">or on cardstock for tags and cupcakes picks...</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjttoIMBJuCu8RWRleg8g6RGs8VRcBNflkB4lIMrxVfWf4gzDi7DDS-4rbb2iiMpEH16xtsbvveaXJeJ20gsEK0HKgs_cTDHcRHLDps7RjpYeYPplzHbFPYBGOxPEnhUNUbxVecCy0DOXrk/s400/CUPCAKE+PICKS.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319777859917172418" border="0" /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Note: I did not photograph the actual Bunny Cupcake pick because I did not have a cupcake handy today. The photo above is very similar, but saved me the embarrassment of buying and eating a cupcake just for the photo. (not that I didn't consider it, believe me!)</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">If you have trouble with the download, please feel free to <a href="mailto:pjcoe@verizon.net?subject=Easter"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">email me here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">. I'd love to hear how you're using the template, so drop me a line and let me know. Enjoy!</span></span></span></span></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-22929455434310683692011-04-01T09:07:00.000-07:002011-04-01T09:09:08.929-07:00HAPPY NEW YEAR!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_RS9s9hJcDo41mjDW1J5NvVFElBZriGgMKT766DXj9L9NScmhP-Efui7jGapfCHUiNIA_xFjlOQYCJnqtzse8j8cG1eIP-PJXGagd3XAUl7AZKqXIa8c6-q-4pdQsiYwNX6t40U2BgnK/s1600/here..jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih_RS9s9hJcDo41mjDW1J5NvVFElBZriGgMKT766DXj9L9NScmhP-Efui7jGapfCHUiNIA_xFjlOQYCJnqtzse8j8cG1eIP-PJXGagd3XAUl7AZKqXIa8c6-q-4pdQsiYwNX6t40U2BgnK/s400/here..jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456420465174370498" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Play Ball!<br /></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-29504658623835932062011-03-17T06:17:00.001-07:002011-03-17T07:12:13.443-07:00ERIN GO BRAGH!<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDHlgS_TByaSgBjBZeM52WKkAYeqql6os__KIx_tcJ5GPmcAYdzR3zHmqgGLygwI5ZFxU1OAN66gfeng2ASMBH5O1FF5EMq-fc72fbrBcIj_oyjD4Run59UHw3rUroZ9kn6ZLQWkROBSap/s1600/200525_10150124416644361_20717904360_6047736_303704_n.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 241px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDHlgS_TByaSgBjBZeM52WKkAYeqql6os__KIx_tcJ5GPmcAYdzR3zHmqgGLygwI5ZFxU1OAN66gfeng2ASMBH5O1FF5EMq-fc72fbrBcIj_oyjD4Run59UHw3rUroZ9kn6ZLQWkROBSap/s400/200525_10150124416644361_20717904360_6047736_303704_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5585037623388663042" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Illustration from <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#%21/lillypulitzer" target="blank">Lilly Pulitzer</a> (and don't you just love it?!)</span></span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Lots of shenanigans in store for today, I hope.<br />Happy St. Patrick's Day!!<br /></span><br /></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-19143174516479130882011-03-16T11:23:00.000-07:002011-03-16T11:26:41.364-07:00OBSESSION.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIarmqGhoPsloAZnC_ICFwgjUcwU7g3JwghRJEMR8v_pKqVRPnM5FZmEoqi8QKfhKVjRltwIONSUCT5fJ4miHv5OkTiCwK3t0EDrBjkNPsCm6FcSEC6c1j6OPJQb-tG94u0TRHwxYkUZM_/s1600/6a013488901827970c0148c81c4cce970c-1024wi.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIarmqGhoPsloAZnC_ICFwgjUcwU7g3JwghRJEMR8v_pKqVRPnM5FZmEoqi8QKfhKVjRltwIONSUCT5fJ4miHv5OkTiCwK3t0EDrBjkNPsCm6FcSEC6c1j6OPJQb-tG94u0TRHwxYkUZM_/s400/6a013488901827970c0148c81c4cce970c-1024wi.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584745502890941410" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Have you seen <a href="http://maryswenson.typepad.com/my-blog/" target="blank">Mary Swenson</a> lately? </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >Magic.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-55863722717906973342011-03-14T13:11:00.000-07:002011-03-14T13:17:36.593-07:00A BEAUTIFUL WAY TO HELP<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1SqDqO7jiGAPQPr4JJ0t5p45iQuPgaUpBfIzUIyn2Wt6Wjj16V1EpZYFno16DTVyTTWLsrVNr0gfXlGgF2d1ZNPk50PvlxirTnNe2NheZ2NsC73BnWheqm3iPuasKFJC2I8cGy76G2j41/s1600/Final-Tokyo-Charity-5x7-jhilldesign.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1SqDqO7jiGAPQPr4JJ0t5p45iQuPgaUpBfIzUIyn2Wt6Wjj16V1EpZYFno16DTVyTTWLsrVNr0gfXlGgF2d1ZNPk50PvlxirTnNe2NheZ2NsC73BnWheqm3iPuasKFJC2I8cGy76G2j41/s400/Final-Tokyo-Charity-5x7-jhilldesign.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584031090371416178" border="0" /></a><br />Here is a beautiful way to help the people of Japan devastated by the massive earthquake and tsunami last week. Purchase this beautiful <a href="http://jhilldesign.myshopify.com/products/tokyo-city-print" target="blank">Tokyo print</a> from JHill Design's <span style="font-style: italic;">Places I've Never Been</span> series and 100% of the profits will be donated to Doctors Without Borders.<br /><br />A beautiful reminder that you cared enough to help and a lovely gift that will keep on giving.PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-42168059168347741202011-03-11T10:10:00.000-08:002011-03-11T10:16:07.282-08:00ROBOT BIRTHDAY PARTY!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1h3ozRu_up92HiDAtIzlelNLYc3_XkUN-Bv7S8gRXWnURnTIdniNevSZc-7gxzdbaECqzDBoZUjZMjRFN0s4tVv1EyCM7oE5r9daFHuxaZokygFxVrPxGasV3cheKgHRbnML_gBEBdLDu/s1600/robot_party_banner.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1h3ozRu_up92HiDAtIzlelNLYc3_XkUN-Bv7S8gRXWnURnTIdniNevSZc-7gxzdbaECqzDBoZUjZMjRFN0s4tVv1EyCM7oE5r9daFHuxaZokygFxVrPxGasV3cheKgHRbnML_gBEBdLDu/s400/robot_party_banner.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582886526873410914" border="0" /></a><br />Head on over to <a href="http://www.chickabug.com/blog/2011/03/robots-and-rockets-party-bennett-is-4.html" target="blank">chicabug</a> today to see this awesome Robot Birthday Party put on by Domenica of <a href="http://www.proudestmonkeyphotography.com/index2.php" target="blank">Proudest Monkey Photography</a>. This is the same incredible Mom and beautiful photographer who put on this <a href="http://pumpkinpetunia.blogspot.com/2010/02/girl-you-rock.html" target="blank">Rockin' Party</a>, so it's sure to be amazing!PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-76988287991781789982011-03-09T07:17:00.001-08:002011-03-09T07:26:47.879-08:00END OF THE RAINBOW: ST. PATRICK'S DAY PRINTABLE<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ylZMnjJ9XLize3EZJYjj_4Yhf4tVVg4oXgl29KT3-IKDmeyWl5DJ-4zu9NtE_R16tB9HWrydMEk-49wULd_L8iAIRcxdcJyKsfHzWsMcwc-A4y7_ltVa9C1_8QIZKjJCLFNBbTioLPh3/s1600/IMG_8651-1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ylZMnjJ9XLize3EZJYjj_4Yhf4tVVg4oXgl29KT3-IKDmeyWl5DJ-4zu9NtE_R16tB9HWrydMEk-49wULd_L8iAIRcxdcJyKsfHzWsMcwc-A4y7_ltVa9C1_8QIZKjJCLFNBbTioLPh3/s400/IMG_8651-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5582099756851613906" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Love this end of the rainbow treat bag from <a href="http://bethproudfoot.blogspot.com/2011/02/youre-my-pot-o-gold.html" target="blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">It Is What It Is</span></a> complete with printable tag.<br /></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-78615201307113024492011-02-21T08:37:00.000-08:002011-02-21T08:38:34.464-08:00THE EVER POPULAR LUCKY PENNY PRINTABLE!<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMrSbEBXPAKkMhlNS9dyJ_cZan_jB_NIN1VCiqc1ovUqGa5HOFq4dxRPOla0R0bK942JxfmDXJkLnuBJiV8rAj288jtqJsK_8sgBDmAoScmxKOD45AvYyMpDgdKsYM9JMGOXb4DYc6DMc/s1600-h/pennies.jpg"><img style="text-align: left; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMrSbEBXPAKkMhlNS9dyJ_cZan_jB_NIN1VCiqc1ovUqGa5HOFq4dxRPOla0R0bK942JxfmDXJkLnuBJiV8rAj288jtqJsK_8sgBDmAoScmxKOD45AvYyMpDgdKsYM9JMGOXb4DYc6DMc/s400/pennies.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311993316569391058" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Living in the Boston area, St. Patrick's Day is a pretty big deal, so we always like to do a little something special to celebrate the day. An all-time favorite of ours since the preschool years (keep in mind that Pumpkin is now ten!) has been to hand out lucky pennies! This is honestly the simplest classroom handout you will </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">ever</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> do, but the kids get so excited that you would think you just handed them a nugget of gold.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> The first step is to go to the bank and get some shiny new pennies. Over the years, my luck with the banks in my area have been mixed. Some years it's no problem at all, other years I have been told that they do not have any new pennies. No new pennies?!?!! How is this possible? I'm not sure, but if this happens to you as well, you can take the alternate route of cleaning some pennies yourself (</span></span><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Pennies" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">go here for penny cleaning formula</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">). If you clean them yourself, they will not be as shiny as if they were new, but the kids do not notice at all, so not to worry.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="text-align: left; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMPE5474tBeinRKyJ1ersfgP869Cd7GNLmW80PAx2hBQE-d1NozgDXQB4NnpepMtY_mHiWPgIVSwPLmjMcJvkSb-L3gLV_foEzI-G59ZVlw4qjjhtj_ZF8IxbRiNQOjzbmsTRb8lWh0kRG/s400/LUCKY+PENNY+TEMPLATE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311998297727508418" border="0" /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Once you have the pennies, you have already completed the most time-consuming part of this project! Simply download the design template </span></span><a href="http://documents.scribd.com/docs/xrj1i2jiyuxswy6izz5.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">here</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">, print on the cardstock of your choice and cut as indicated. (Hint: the cards are 3X3 squares) Then attach the pennies to the cards using glue or double-sided tape and you're done! We usually put the cards in small glassine or cellophane envelopes to hand them out, but only because I tend to have those types of supplies on hand. The cards are perfectly fine to hand out as is.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Everyone can use a little extra luck now and again, so have fun with this quick and easy project and maybe as you're spreading some cheer, you'll find yourself a bit o' gold at the end of the rainbow this St. Patrick's Day.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Oh, and </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">no shenanigans! </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">OK, maybe a little...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://documents.scribd.com/docs/xrj1i2jiyuxswy6izz5.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">St. Patrick's Day Lucky Penny Download</span></span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">.</span></span></span></span></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-50868001357817666562011-02-08T05:37:00.000-08:002011-02-08T05:42:47.570-08:00LOVE IS IN THE AIR<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOp4b4fWgSJyVJv8wvSM4wWfSvslct8uHcfPASL5XC3HF4Oks1b0HBO1bjEaOqbUS16hDpue8YBLX68rcjvOtBmxnipZ7CkUcQvYHDQ8UctUvy_OjACmfOvDG-V89tDDuJQN6bWzeD7nB6/s1600/sngbenitez_LoveisintheAir_72.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOp4b4fWgSJyVJv8wvSM4wWfSvslct8uHcfPASL5XC3HF4Oks1b0HBO1bjEaOqbUS16hDpue8YBLX68rcjvOtBmxnipZ7CkUcQvYHDQ8UctUvy_OjACmfOvDG-V89tDDuJQN6bWzeD7nB6/s400/sngbenitez_LoveisintheAir_72.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571312659475603330" border="0" /></a>Love is definitely in the air over at <a href="http://www.welovetoillustrate.com/2011/01/our-heartfelt-february-wishes-to-all-of.html" target="blank">We Love to Illustrate</a>! They have 6 adorably beautiful illustrations available for free download for personal use. Such a LOVE-ly and generous gesture!PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-25508130855074697372011-01-19T04:34:00.000-08:002011-01-19T05:30:58.807-08:00VALENTINE GUMBALL NECKLACES<span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHJp7AIPSK8NuV_3qXmq6tcp4hlbzNu01VMqIdlUrOv-6x8somPh8q2lRYqNs1o7qNoeJ9OnpM0zfvq1E2YnYP7lFzdsrWES7GjmQkRHHnkrlyvw0x8dNXB1rYBGV1csNgP7QbKWuWkmf4/s1600/gumball2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 295px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHJp7AIPSK8NuV_3qXmq6tcp4hlbzNu01VMqIdlUrOv-6x8somPh8q2lRYqNs1o7qNoeJ9OnpM0zfvq1E2YnYP7lFzdsrWES7GjmQkRHHnkrlyvw0x8dNXB1rYBGV1csNgP7QbKWuWkmf4/s400/gumball2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563874556989859282" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />How adorable are these gumball necklaces by One Charming Party? Such a perfect and special treat for Valentine's Day! They are so beautiful that I can hardly believe that they are made of gumballs. But they are - see, I'll prove it!</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-6ftoQaL-_UZx5SFWeDwMOKRvDG3j2k0tWfOXcLzcn8xAKM9G_MD3N5E2RKvEtnkggQVaVumHtByv-HQsLxuLC381pqE-p9v_s3gh1gePdpiTjzYiYHV74n7XVh7l5haGoPU5nf9Lp8I/s1600/gumballtut.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-6ftoQaL-_UZx5SFWeDwMOKRvDG3j2k0tWfOXcLzcn8xAKM9G_MD3N5E2RKvEtnkggQVaVumHtByv-HQsLxuLC381pqE-p9v_s3gh1gePdpiTjzYiYHV74n7XVh7l5haGoPU5nf9Lp8I/s400/gumballtut.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563874551174682098" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Here is a gumball being pierced with a skewer to create the necklace. Go <a href="http://onecharmingparty.com/?utm_source=One+Charming+Party&utm_campaign=243065b718-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email" target="blank">here</a> for the how-to!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8aia56IRAAnJ7xIJn6QmQzo5oKVYHChZtgGE092PonK5vcnCsswhWyrdhHlhCmS5WYnyBohEUqp6lnEBStAbzTqKgBAnr4Po2xwb7-fFJREQPFg0GQ0WqBWgZyEkMACC4-oss7fg4Li6N/s1600/littlegirlnew.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 384px; height: 287px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8aia56IRAAnJ7xIJn6QmQzo5oKVYHChZtgGE092PonK5vcnCsswhWyrdhHlhCmS5WYnyBohEUqp6lnEBStAbzTqKgBAnr4Po2xwb7-fFJREQPFg0GQ0WqBWgZyEkMACC4-oss7fg4Li6N/s400/littlegirlnew.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563885529471116258" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:130%;">For a similar look that will last a bit longer, check out these adorable designs from <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/sites/joann/productcatalog?page=productlisting.category&categoryId=1156" target="blank">Stella & Dot</a>. Each necklace arrives packaged in an adorable little tin for a lovely presentation and safe keeping. An adorable gift for a sweet little Valentine.</span>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6024434352819266919.post-83208754071319318692011-01-18T12:05:00.001-08:002011-01-18T12:08:31.400-08:00NOSTALGIC<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbygGZQuyx7XRe0XGzojLo_nKYT4x2crjM4La4eXeVh4lx7EL2E3fkyOfmljYJYIbdeVRSX_rpvjfKIw17J17LGxUb6g0SQVxzhObWHdWJHJ7XsymOsVuSUPep3XimIP7gOe6YqLcMdTH/s1600/0506_blueprint_poker_xl.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbygGZQuyx7XRe0XGzojLo_nKYT4x2crjM4La4eXeVh4lx7EL2E3fkyOfmljYJYIbdeVRSX_rpvjfKIw17J17LGxUb6g0SQVxzhObWHdWJHJ7XsymOsVuSUPep3XimIP7gOe6YqLcMdTH/s400/0506_blueprint_poker_xl.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5563619736923990530" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:130%;">This beautiful photo from <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/fresh-start-quick-easy-upgrades?lpgStart=1&currentslide=1&currentChapter=1" target="blank">Martha Stewart's website</a> makes me miss Blueprint magazine. At least some of the content lives on...</span><br /></div>PUMPKIN PETUNIAhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08683951943961382220noreply@blogger.com1