tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83462936279901255912024-03-05T22:39:23.438-08:00Kai Rai CreationsUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-51401865921327256192013-02-03T14:30:00.003-08:002013-02-03T14:34:39.781-08:00Shoutout Sunday || Gussy Sews What's one thing I'm more addicted to than fabric? BAGS! I'll admit, while I can totally appreciate a cute Coach, D&B, Prada or Louis Vuitton bag there's something about a handmade bag made from really cute fabric that is simply irresistible. And my favorite handmade bag designer is by far <a href="http://www.gussysews.com/" target="_blank">Gussy Sews</a>. *Yeow!!*<br />
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<a href="http://www.shopgussy.com/category/totes-other-bags" target="_blank"><img alt="Image of The Cora tote/diaper bag" src="http://cache0.bigcartel.com/product_images/82343109/DSC02617_copyB.JPG" /></a><br />
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Is this not a mothers dream? Diapers, wallet, wipes, checkbook (yes, I still carry one of those!), tablet, small toys, snacks, day planner, ect, ect, ect! You can fit EVERYTHING in one bag. And I love the funky mix of colors and patterns.<br />
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<a href="http://www.shopgussy.com/category/zipped-pouches" target="_blank"><img alt="gussy-sews-zip-pouch" src="http://www.gussysews.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/DSC027571-600x350.jpg" /></a><br />
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And if large and in charge isn't quite your speed how about these little zipped pouches? Same funky prints downsized to fit all of your smaller items.<br />
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<a href="http://www.shopgussy.com/category/accessories" target="_blank"><img alt="Image of November Blue, crocheted infinity cowl" src="http://cache0.bigcartel.com/product_images/74829551/300.JPG" /></a> <a href="http://www.shopgussy.com/category/accessories" target="_blank"><img alt="Image of Grape, crocheted infinity cowl" src="http://cache0.bigcartel.com/product_images/74829585/300.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://www.shopgussy.com/category/accessories" target="_blank"><img alt="Image of Oatmeal, crocheted infinity cowl" src="http://cache0.bigcartel.com/product_images/74829607/300.JPG" /></a> <a href="http://www.shopgussy.com/category/accessories" target="_blank"><img alt="Image of Pumpkin Spice, crocheted infinity cowl" src="http://cache1.bigcartel.com/product_images/74829639/300.JPG" /></a><br />
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Chunky cowl anyone? These look so cozy!<br />
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But outside of all of the crazy amazing things that she makes I also love all of the crazy amazing things that she does.<br />
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Back in October she published a great series on her blog "<a href="http://www.gussysews.com/2012/11/handmade-business-in-31-days-series-recap/" target="_blank">Grow Your Handmade Business in 31 Days</a>". If you own your own handmade business this series is a must read. I've revisited many of these posts over and over again because she offers such great ideas and suggestions. There are tons of other great posts on her blog for handmade business owners and blog owners alike.<br />
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Gussy is also amazing for her commitment to an organization called Compassion and her work with children in Tanzania.<br />
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<a href="http://www.gussysews.com/2012/05/lessons-learned-from-my-friends-in-tanzania/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gussysews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/a33618f8991b11e1b10e123138105d6b_71-600x600.jpg" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.gussysews.com/2012/05/inspiration-workshop-shoes/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.gussysews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/e-DSC_8936-600x399.jpg" /></a><br />
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To read more about her work in Africa you can read about it <a href="http://www.gussysews.com/category/tanzania-compassion/" target="_blank">here</a><br />
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|| <a href="http://www.shopgussy.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #660000;">Shop</span></a> || <a href="http://www.gussysews.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">Blog</span></a> || <a href="http://www.facebook.com/GussySews" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Facebook</span></a> || <a href="http://instagram.com/gussysews" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666;">Instagram</span></a> || <a href="http://pinterest.com/gussysews/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ea9999;">Pinterest</span></a> ||<br />
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Go check her out now! And tell her Kai Rai Creations sent you!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-3077105961975617412013-02-02T11:46:00.000-08:002013-02-02T11:49:01.233-08:00Stay Pinchless This March!!!<br />
Looking for some St Patties Day Green to keep the pinchers away from your little one? (Ok, probably won't work against those cheek pinching grandmas, but you catch my drift). Check out these items from the shop to keep your little one pinch proof.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/120911136/green-and-blue-leaves-gift-set-of-2-burp?ga_search_query=green" target="_blank"><img alt="Green and Blue Leaves -- Gift Set of 2 Burp Cloths" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/013/0/6797282/il_570xN.417521048_gsue.jpg" /></a><br />
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Burp Cloth Set<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/112509453/swaddle-blanket-in-lime-green-cotton?ga_search_query=green" target="_blank"><img alt="Swaddle Blanket in Lime Green Cotton Gauze" src="https://img2.etsystatic.com/008/0/6797282/il_570xN.386192494_4pwm.jpg" /></a><br />
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Lime Swaddle Blanket<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/115419699/green-and-brown-print-minky-blanket?ga_search_query=green" target="_blank"><img alt="Green and Brown Print Minky Blanket- Extra Large" src="https://img3.etsystatic.com/005/0/6797282/il_570xN.396858223_s4p9.jpg" /></a><br />
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Green and Brown Minky Blanket<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/102939467/tie-of-the-month-sale-green-swirl-baby?ga_search_query=green" target="_blank"><img alt="Tie of the Month// Sale// Green Swirl Baby Boy / Toddler Boy Tie Onsie Bodysuit" src="https://img3.etsystatic.com/000/0/6797282/il_570xN.351088723.jpg" /></a><br />
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Green Swirl Tie Bodysuit<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/107332414/hand-dyed-cotton-gauze-swaddle-blanket?ga_search_query=green" target="_blank"><img alt="Hand Dyed Cotton Gauze Swaddle Blanket in Kelly Green" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/001/0/6797282/il_570xN.367374144_8hid.jpg" /></a><br />
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Kelly Green Swaddle Blanket<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/110279600/burp-cloth-set-dots-in-dots" target="_blank"><img alt="Burp Cloth Set Dots In Dots" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/003/1/6797282/il_570xN.378141948_tmcj.jpg" /></a><br />
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Dots Burp Cloth Set<br />
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|| Use code PINCHLESS during the month of February for 20% off! ||<br />
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And how about some pinch-less jewelry.<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/109315410/crochet-wrap-bracelet-green-with-wooden" target="_blank"><img alt="Crochet Wrap Bracelet Green with Wooden Leaf Button" src="https://img3.etsystatic.com/004/0/6636795/il_570xN.374701703_2bpo.jpg" /></a><br />
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Crochet Wrap Bracelet<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/96843714/neon-spring-set-of-four-fabric-covered" target="_blank"><img alt="Neon Spring -- Set of Four Fabric Covered Button Earrings (Neon Pink, Neon Orange, and Neon Green)" src="https://img2.etsystatic.com/000/0/6636795/il_570xN.326190894.jpg" /></a> <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/96843714/neon-spring-set-of-four-fabric-covered" target="_blank"><img alt="Neon Spring -- Set of Four Fabric Covered Button Earrings (Neon Pink, Neon Orange, and Neon Green)" border="0" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/000/0/6636795/il_570xN.326190928.jpg" /></a><br />
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Fabric Covered Earrings From Neon Spring Set<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/119781506/glass-seed-bead-bar-bracelet-on-gold" target="_blank"><img alt="Glass Seed Bead Bar Bracelet on Gold Cable Chain" src="https://img1.etsystatic.com/015/0/6636795/il_570xN.413391485_axx6.jpg" /></a><br />
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Green Seed Bead Bracelet on Gold Chain<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/89920379/resin-flower-earrings-rose" target="_blank"><img alt="Resin Flower Earrings- Rose" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/000/0/6636795/il_570xN.307711436.jpg" /></a><br />
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Green Flower Earrings<br />
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And the same applies here:<br />
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|| Use code PINCHLESS during the month of February for 20% off! ||Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-81311379948260473172013-01-30T09:00:00.000-08:002013-01-30T09:00:09.088-08:00Wordless Wednesday /// A Day in the Mountains<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Mountain High Resort, Angeles National Forest, 24510 Highway 2, Wrightwood, CA 92397, USA34.3768823 -117.691550234.3703323 -117.7016352 34.383432299999996 -117.68146519999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-86781271310324782802013-01-29T09:47:00.000-08:002013-01-29T09:47:39.864-08:00Pinspired // Baking Soda and Colored Vinegar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am always looking around (mostly on Pinterest) for fun new art projects for the kids. I'm normally the "Let's go outside and make mudpies" kind of mom, but with it being so cold out we sometimes need to get a bit creative. I ran across this pin the other day and though it would be a perfect cold weather project. Unfortunately I pinned this and later realized that it didn't track back to anything... just a lonely old error message announcing that the blog has been removed. Boooo! So if this is from your blog, or your sweet darling boy let me know so I can give you some credit!. Ok, let's get started!</div>
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Since the blog did not link back I didn't have any directions but I figured, "Hey, how hard can it be?" And the answer was a resounding--- "Not that hard". But I figured I would give you a bit of instruction just.in.case. </div>
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So we started with a set of ingredients found right in our kitchen. I filled each of the round (I want to call them pie tins but they aren't tin...hummm, dished for lack of a better, more technical word) dished with about 1 cup of baking soda (not pictured). You can eyeball it, just make sure the baking soda covers the bottom of the dish. You also need: *Food Coloring * Vinegar * Medicine Droppers * Small Cups * </div>
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When we do art I like to get all of the supplies out and allow the girls to watch me put everything together. They took turns smelling the vinegar and Baylie insisted on calling it stinky water. For kids this age it can be difficult to disassociate something that they come into contact with multiple times a day with a specific set of properties and qualities and make a new association to something else with the exact same properties and very similar qualities. So, for the remainder of the project we called it stinky water. But my wheels were already turning trying to think of a science project to compare the qualities of water and vinegar (it's in the works..I'll share soon.) Anywhoo, I digress.<br />
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I let the girls choose what color they wanted and stirred the food coloring into the vinegar. These are droppers we got from CVS once when we were picking up meds for one of the girls. We just asked for two extra and the pharmacy tech threw some in. I bet your pharmacy would hook you up too, just ask!<br />
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*****I do not recommend reusing these droppers for medication after this project. I have no scientific reasoning for this, it just seems like a bad idea...maybe I'm paranoid. We just threw ours in the art box to keep them separate from the ones for medication. *********<br />
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Ok, now the fun part! I think Frankie about passed out from excitement when she saw the baking soda fizz. Who am I kidding? *I* was excited! They both caught on right away and it was giggling and screaming from that point on.<br />
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Baylie had a bit of trouble with the dropper. She kept wanting to grab it rather than pinch it which made it difficult to apply the pressure needed for good suction. This is a great activity for teaching toddlers how to pinch and it's great for their fine motor development (the same muscles used later when they need to properly grasp a pencil when learning how to write). She eventually got it, but we'll be doing this activity again to reinforce the grasp.<br />
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Any yes, they are clothes-less. I keep meaning to make them some art smocks, but I keep forgetting until I actually need them. So for now we strip them down to their skivvys. Food coloring + clothes + ME doing laundry = BIG no no<br />
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And there you have it. This kept them occupied for a good 45 minutes+. Eventually they figured out that they could suck up the baking soda and put it in their vinegar. Talk about messy! But they enjoyed it and overall it was a success. So why don't you give it a try with your little ones and let me know how it goes! Until next time!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-51948861749911494612013-01-20T17:57:00.000-08:002013-01-20T17:57:57.906-08:00Fabulous Children's Fashion on a BudgetI love children's fashion. I mean I REALLY love children's fashion. There's something about those absolutely adorable outfit that as a parent just sends your heart swooning. But even more importantly, there are certain outfits or items of clothing that our children adore.<br />
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For Frankie Kai she has gone through stages of loving one of my crochet scarves, there was a point in time when she would not leave the house without a hat, and most recently it has been a pair of ugly Crocs. Ok guys...don't burn me at the stake here. We got them for her 2 or 3 Christmases ago when Amazon had them on sale for $7 with Prime shipping (We LOVE Amazon Prime). I figured, "why not? They'll be great this summer for walking to the pool or water play". But for reasons I don't fully understand she loves those shoes. And it would seem that her feet never grow because they STILL fit. In fact, she's wearing them right now as she builds with blocks.<br />
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Here is a classic stage she went through that we still to the day call the "Betty White Era"<br />
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She was obsessed with those blue plastic sunglasses from a birthday party gift bag and she had just started to want to pick out her own clothes. (Even if the sweatshirt was super cheesy and way to small!)<br />
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<b><i><span style="font-size: 14px;">Not </span><a class="mainquote" href="http://www.searchquotes.com/quotation/Not_all_girls_dress_up_nicely_to_impress_others%2C_sometimes_they_do_it_for_themselves%2C_for_confidence/395534/" style="background-color: white; color: #232323; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: initial;" title="Not all girls dress up nicely to impress others, sometimes they do it for themselves, for confidence.">all girls dress up nicely to impress others, sometimes they do it for themselves, for confidence.</a> -- Anonymous </i></b></blockquote>
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Baylie Rai on the other hand? She could care less about what she's wearing as long as it's comfortable. Go figure. But she does get excited about anything that she gets to wear that she was able to help me make, as well as anything that twirls. She's so much fun to shop and sew for.<br />
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So, what do you do when your child finally outgrows their Betty White stage and you want to dress them on a budget?? There's a lot of places you can go to get cute children's fashion without the huge prices. I've been asked lots of times, "so do you even buy clothes for your girls anymore, or do you just make everything?" And the answer to that is NO! I like the idea of a strictly handmade wardrobe, but we are not there yet. Many of the girls clothes are actually my clothes that I have cut down to fit them. This dress for example:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6jDpX9Mxi4RrDYezZGV7YOfKAK_wf955Cr1_ffnFBBSWI9Q3y5n9Z_v1fjz8dXxSQ2Z1JRqA2ycGflT3hTE5CwAp_EiujeZc2wb59lROEEn844rXmDT6dcFJM3bBVWT-T3Fjdcr488f7/s1600/bay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6jDpX9Mxi4RrDYezZGV7YOfKAK_wf955Cr1_ffnFBBSWI9Q3y5n9Z_v1fjz8dXxSQ2Z1JRqA2ycGflT3hTE5CwAp_EiujeZc2wb59lROEEn844rXmDT6dcFJM3bBVWT-T3Fjdcr488f7/s640/bay.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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This dress used to be an adult tube top that I wore waaaaaayyyyy before I had kids. I have a hard time throwing things away and came across it last spring. I just cut it open, sewed a new stitch, and fashioned some straps out of the scraps. I'd say 10% of their wardrobes are handmade by me, 15% is up cycled by me, 60% has been handed down from friends and family, and 15% is store bought by me. <br />
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This week I want to focus on where you can find great kids clothes that are fashionable but wont break the bank. So stop by often this week to check out my shopping tips.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-28919823562501310122013-01-13T12:29:00.002-08:002013-01-13T12:36:43.913-08:00Linen and BellsThis month I have been hard at work creating a simple and stylish spring/summer outfit for girls. So here it is!<br />
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This outfit consists of a headband, open back top, and denim bells. Want a closer look at the headband?<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/120331101/cream-linen-ruffled-headband-with-pearl" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LcfurMcA250/UPMU5e8ZELI/AAAAAAAAAG4/MKKNgna75Ug/s640/Linen+and+Bells1+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This headband is ruffled linen topped with five faux pearls on an ivory skinny headband. Frankie Kai loved wearing this headband. She said it made her look "boo-t-ful" (not modest, is she!)<br />
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And the top:<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/120328259/linen-swing-top-with-open-back-toddlers" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jfqvIMMv4OI/UPMVvO1q2EI/AAAAAAAAAHA/CorFiTdOTOI/s400/Linen+and+Bells3+copy.jpg" width="266" /></a> <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/120328259/linen-swing-top-with-open-back-toddlers" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5XjIwyZHSVE/UPMVvj9_8iI/AAAAAAAAAHE/i9CiQCIMygg/s400/New003+copy.jpg" width="263" /></a> </div>
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***Brrr! It's cold mama!***<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">Does this top not scream "summertime"!?!?? This shirt is made of linen and very lightweight. It has a gathered skirt and open back. The edges are top-stitched and the back of this shirt features a faux button closure topped with a beautiful oversize shell button. Because of the square topped bodice it slides over the top of her head easily. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">And the pants:</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/120326879/bell-bottom-jeans-toddler-and-girl-bell" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="304" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M1fhzvk_5Y8/UPMW6w08sNI/AAAAAAAAAHU/zb95JIbyK3I/s320/Linen+and+Bells2+copy.jpg" width="320" /></a> <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/120326879/bell-bottom-jeans-toddler-and-girl-bell" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kxPMeDgx7x0/UPMW7Ov4esI/AAAAAAAAAHY/AkubuCB0K0g/s320/Linen+and+Bells5+copy.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/120326879/bell-bottom-jeans-toddler-and-girl-bell" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMvJDLeE7OTlJzCf_IpQ672yABmeCxr46r_Hykd3gh2Bsrm8IFYi4AfJTHew1tpE3ZbQ5Fr7X3Lygqb51jGpc7rsPa5BY-L7Gg0KYeJwpdIx519gHsiPuGrJfJpSJqejFj9PpuZqdX06Zh/s320/New002+copy.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
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These were SOOO much fun to make. They are wide leg bells with adorable functioning back pockets and ric rack trim. *SWOON** </div>
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So that's what I've been up to this week. Now to get a new outfit ready for February! So many cute designs so little time!! I'll also add more floor pillows featuring some really fun fabrics. </div>
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{{{{{{To take a closer look at any of these pieces just click on the photo. It will take you straight to the shop}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}</div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;"><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-17263796076505666332013-01-05T09:43:00.000-08:002013-01-05T09:45:32.408-08:00New Blog, Free Ad Space!<span style="font-size: large;">Every new blog has to start somewhere, right? So as an introductory offer I have ad space available for FREE! Yup, you heard that right! I will be giving away FREE ad space.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />You just have to do two things. First, be a fan of my Facebook page. To do that just click on the gray "F" button on the left under "Get Connected" and like my page if you haven't already. Second, you have 3 options. You can follow me via Pinterest (the Pinterest button is directly beneath the Facebook button), Follow By E-Mail (right above Get Connected on the left), or join my site via the Google friend connect button (above the "Follow By E-Mail"). When you have done those two things just leave a comment with an e-mail address or whatever contact information you would like me to contact you with and I will send you a code for a FREE standard ad!!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Ads will show up on the right hand side of the page and if you would like more information about our ads you can check out the sponsor info button in the menu at the top of the page.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />So what are you waiting for?? Start marketing your website right here, right now, and for FREE!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-17878974148870305682013-01-03T12:08:00.000-08:002013-01-03T12:08:14.713-08:001.3.2013 Thursday Roundup<b>It's time for this weeks Thursday Roundup</b> featuring products and ideas I am loving. Lets get started!!<br />
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First up we have these adorable peg dolls. And who <i>doesn't</i> love peg dolls?!?! What I really love about these dolls is that while I'm sure little girls will love them, little boys will to! These are made by a company called<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/bubbasbasics" target="_blank"> Bubba's Basics</a> and they specialize in making cool handmade items just for boys because- let's be honest- handmade stuff for girls is everywhere. Which set is your favorite?<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/117031817/toy-story-inspired-peg-doll-3pc-set" target="_blank"><img alt="Toy Story Inspired Peg doll 3pc SET" border="0" height="192" src="http://img2.etsystatic.com/008/0/7404356/il_570xN.403288138_5sw7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Toy Story</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/112382080/ninja-peg-doll" target="_blank"><img alt="Ninja peg doll" border="0" height="256" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/006/0/7404356/il_570xN.385724659_k1iw.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ninjas</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/112381717/star-wars-peg-doll" target="_blank"><img alt="Star wars peg doll" border="0" height="157" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/008/0/7404356/il_570xN.385723343_ceop.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Star Wars</div>
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How cute are these dino/gragon tails? These come from Jessica at <a href="http://www.running-w-scissors.com/" target="_blank">Running With Scissors</a>. She even includes a tutorial for creating your own. </div>
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<a href="http://www.running-w-scissors.com/2011/03/dinosaur-tails.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuBuvhQEYZIMMeJFh8ibfNX5D1H7uRTRGtBq7X2DAOarZRZwa4-3Ly-iiM-SSSyklpb-CGCG7n36_Uo7A1teDhGbOu1WHvTwtJZEols2dnsewHVS_7ckj4XO0r8NhdxcbOnNJpBu5XFDwo/s640/dinotails6.jpg" /></a></div>
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Ever been at a loss for cool wall are for your little one? <a href="http://imperialcabana.com/" target="_blank">Imperial Cabana</a> has you covered. These prints come delivered on high quality card stock ready for framing and hanging. So what's your style? </div>
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<a href="http://www.storenvy.com/stores/37659-imperial-cabana" target="_blank"><img alt="Luke_original" height="200" src="http://d310a9hpolx59w.cloudfront.net/product_photos/1902222/Luke_original.png" width="153" /></a> <a href="http://www.storenvy.com/stores/37659-imperial-cabana" target="_blank"><img alt="Princessleia_original" height="200" src="http://dlp2gfjvaz867.cloudfront.net/product_photos/1902253/princessleia_original.png" width="154" /></a><a href="http://www.storenvy.com/stores/37659-imperial-cabana" target="_blank"><img alt="Han_original" border="0" height="200" src="http://d111vui60acwyt.cloudfront.net/product_photos/1902227/han_original.png" width="154" /></a></div>
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Luke Leia Han</div>
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Vader Chewbacca Yoda</div>
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<a href="http://www.storenvy.com/products/443326-fright-freddy-krueger" target="_blank"><img alt="Img_2359_original" height="200" src="http://d111vui60acwyt.cloudfront.net/product_photos/966310/IMG_2359_original.png" width="156" /></a><a href="http://www.storenvy.com/products/443309-fright-jason-voorhees" target="_blank"><img alt="Img_2356_original" height="200" src="http://d2a2wjuuf1c30f.cloudfront.net/product_photos/966276/IMG_2356_original.png" width="155" /></a><a href="http://www.storenvy.com/products/443319-fright-pinhead" target="_blank"><img alt="Img_2361_original" height="200" src="http://dzasv7x7a867v.cloudfront.net/product_photos/966293/IMG_2361_original.png" width="157" /></a><a href="http://www.storenvy.com/products/443321-fright-chucky" target="_blank"><img alt="Img_2354_original" height="200" src="http://dlp2gfjvaz867.cloudfront.net/product_photos/966299/IMG_2354_original.png" width="157" /></a></div>
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Freddy Jason Pinhead Chucky</div>
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Fright Night</div>
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<a href="http://www.storenvy.com/products/424859-girl-power-wonder-woman" target="_blank"><img alt="Img_1322_original" height="200" src="http://d2a2wjuuf1c30f.cloudfront.net/product_photos/932100/IMG_1322_original.png" width="156" /></a><a href="http://www.storenvy.com/products/424874-girl-power-batgirl" target="_blank"><img alt="Img_1325_original" height="200" src="http://d111vui60acwyt.cloudfront.net/product_photos/932107/IMG_1325_original.png" width="159" /></a><a href="http://www.storenvy.com/products/424863-girl-power-super-girl" target="_blank"><img alt="Img_1320_original" height="200" src="http://dlp2gfjvaz867.cloudfront.net/product_photos/932104/IMG_1320_original.png" width="156" /></a></div>
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Wonder Woman Batgirl Super Girl</div>
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Girl Power</div>
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And finally....these boots! *SWOON* I saw them on the <a href="http://www1.macys.com/index.ognc?cm_sp=navigation-_-top_nav-_-macys_icon" target="_blank">Macy's</a> website a few weeks ago and couldn't get them out of my mind. I may (<strike>or may not</strike>) have ordered a pair earlier this week and anxiously await the mailman's arrival. One of my goals for 2013 is to bring the wardrobe of a certain work at home mom into the 21st century instead of stuck in 2004. And I think this is my first step. They are on sale through Saturday, so go grab a pair! </div>
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<a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/white-mountain-shoes-latigo-boots?ID=719217#" target="_blank"><img alt="White Mountain Shoes, Latigo Boots - Shoes - Macy's" border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/upload/213428469812829367_QeHAqGoN_c.jpg" /></a></div>
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Ok. well, that's it until next week! See you then!<br />
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***If you would like to have your product listed on the Thursday roundup just shoot me an e-mail @ kairaishops@gmail.com and we'll see what we can do! *******Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-29213579133214326392012-12-31T12:00:00.000-08:002012-12-31T12:00:03.892-08:00Mealtime Monday<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Getting your toddler or child to eat healthy foods can sometimes be tough. While some children are great eaters and their parents may not ever encounter mealtime troubles, others of us are not so lucky. I've discovered with my own children that if I make them one breakfast meal in the morning they will eat some of it, say they are finished, and an hour later they are starving. I'll admit, I'm far from old school when it comes to meals. I don't make the kids sit at the table until they have cleaned their plates. There are times when I don't clean my plate. There are times when I'm just not hungry. If that is true for me than I know it must be true for my children, too. I'm sure that as they get older my mealtime rules will change and probably get more rigid, but for now, we graze. The girls get a glass of milk first thing in the morning and then I wait for them to let me know when they are ready to eat. I then give them three choices for breakfast. Something like scrambled eggs, oatmeal, or a waffle. I keep the portions small and when they're done, they're done. About an hour later we have what I call "second breakfast". And I let them choose. It's typically something like yogurt and granola, a banana, or cereal. After that they are typically good until lunch. I know this won't work for everyone, especially those who have to take your children to daycare or school, but it works for us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Another idea for picky eaters would be to "beautify" the dining experience. I discovered <a href="http://bentomama.net/" target="_blank">Bento Mama</a> a few years back and adore all of her meals. If you've never heard of Bento before this is how she explains it: </span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: small;">ben·to</span></i> </blockquote>
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<i><span style="font-size: small;"></span></i><i>[ben-toh; Japn. ben-taw]</i> </blockquote>
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<i></i><i>noun, plural -tos; Japanese -to. Japanese Cookery .</i> </blockquote>
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<i></i><i>a meal, usually served in a lacquered or elaborately decorated box that is divided into sections for holding individual portions of food.</i><i>Basically a meal that is delivered in a very divided box and is visually pleasing. Bento lunches for kids is gaining popularity fast. Partly because the school lunches, well, how do I put this nicely? Stink. My kids eat healthy and I want to be in control of what they put into their tiny bodies, what nourishes them and helps them grow. I don’t want them to eat sugar loaded peaches from a can marinating in a sugar syrup! Plus I’ve found that my kids are more willing to eat things they normally wouldn’t if it’s prepared and presented in a way that fun!</i></blockquote>
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<a href="http://bentomama.net/?p=278" target="_blank"><img alt="IMG_3000" height="213" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7034/6544133037_c5528213fd_o.jpg" width="320" /></a> <a href="http://bentomama.net/?p=184" target="_blank"><img height="213" src="http://i316.photobucket.com/albums/mm359/lillybellaphotography/bento/IMG_20352.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Isn't it pretty?!?! If you visit her page there are links and recipes on how to make some of these creations as well as where to get the supplies. I'll admit, I have never done a full Bento meal. I have occasionally cut shapes into food for the girls snack, but putting together a few Bentos for the girls is one of the things on my New Years list of things "to-do". (Trying to stay away from resolutions this year) So how about you? Have you ever tried Bento before? Is it something you would like to try? Leave me a comment and let me know what you think.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-43171023415131248032012-12-30T15:44:00.002-08:002012-12-30T19:23:39.683-08:00Shoutout Sunday- Made PageI think nowadays almost everyone has a favorite blog, I know I do. I've always been an avid blog reader, but I never really followed any of the blogs. It was only when something I had seen on the web popped into my mind that I would search out a particular blog again. But one blog has always stood out in my mind and I just couldn't stay away. That blog belongs to Dana Willard of <a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/" target="_blank">Made Page</a>. Besides that fact that she has three absolutely adorable children that I have enjoyed watching grow, her blog posts are artful, informative, and just downright beautiful. See what I mean? Check out that baby love!!<br />
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<a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/2012/04/our-little-easter-egg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-evEpki0yE1k/T38E3L67x-I/AAAAAAAA3Lo/_xcHWWcyLso/s800/a1.jpg" /></a><br />
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Need a tutorial for fabric flowers:<br />
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<a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/2008/07/tutorial-no-sew-flowers.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_1eI7tS4s_Bg/S8vMMk0YtrI/AAAAAAAAWck/AHgimYfXbAo/s640/b.jpg" /></a><br />
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How about a tutorial for a sweet skirt?<br />
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<a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/2012/03/tutorial-the-layered-skirt.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLCWnIAwVQWgN0qNa10EXMnQr_drNA0gCLLu4N85_upbUQt9wnhyphenhyphenUa9UwEC0VNkauhVT5SYQMHKJYUoTHQzGaIZQcT3EnyLanzPabb1BLSEbXz_VpmHebClzTpSJEBgqOF5itsw8h0xNI/s680/a4.jpg" /></a><br />
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And these windows? *SWOON*<br />
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<a href="http://www.danamadeit.com/2012/09/travel-charlotte-to-charleston.html" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6pyesWxer2-pLTF4KLXEhPxp-OttWbSgxzyHSsxs0bHT_-rAHrQVpn5LkeounCzxY47rC81PNy0wjyWf6SV3fmb7KzdxSaGsNRN7omCBlbyoS_80pxLTkcM11jvSjr1LVZTvbb200nmw/s680/a9.jpg" /></a><br />
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And if you think those are beautiful you really must look her up on Instagram. In addition to beautiful photos she has great tutorials for all kinds of fun projects, recipes, sewing patterns...all kinds of stuff. Make sure to check her out!<br />
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So, there you have it: my blog crush! Be sure to check back soon to see what other blogs I'm loving!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-1190950556463251002012-12-17T21:06:00.002-08:002012-12-17T21:12:57.211-08:00Toddler Tuesday: What It's All AboutIn my past life, before I had children, I was a Kindergarten teacher. I loved my job. I mean, I REALLY loved my job. It was one of those jobs that, as a young single woman in her 20s and in an exciting and wonderful city full of nightlife, culture, art, and beautiful nature, would still come home on Friday night after a long week of teaching and not being able to wait for Monday to come around again. Don't get me wrong- I loved my alone time. But I adored teaching. And particularly I loved teaching kindergarten and I loved having the opportunity to teach in a progressive, child-centered charter school that truly cared for the social and emotional development of it's students. I was never pressured to teach to a test. I taught to each individual student and their needs. I connected and bonded with those students. I loved them and I still miss them all so much to this very day.<br />
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But then I had my second daughter and my love shifted. I still enjoyed teaching, but I loved spending time with my girls more. So two years ago we decided I would stay at home with my girls for a while. I still miss teaching, but for me, I know that I would miss being at home with the girls so much more.<br />
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What does that have to do with Toddler Tuesdays, you ask?? Well, Toddler Tuesdays is a series designed to highlight various games, crafts, projects, ect just for toddlers. Some of the projects are slightly more adult involved than others and ALL of these projects will require adult supervision. But at the core, none of these projects are designed for parents to complete and then write their child's name on it and frame it. I believe that children learn by doing. I've seen it. Some of these activities might require the use of tools like scissors. I will say it now- yes! My two year old uses scissors and has been since about 18 months. Many of her projects look like they've been completed by a young Edward Scissor Hands, but it's HERS. To guide you along, in each blog post in this series I will highlight for you what skill(s) are involved in the project and how it will promote readiness for more complex skills. By all means, if you feel as though your child is not ready for a particular skill or that attempting the skill will cause unnecessary stress, do it for them or skip that step. Sometimes I may pre-cut or pre-assemble part of a project. I might pre-cut a Christmas tree to have the kids decorate because I really want them to focus on the skill of tracing or gluing. You get the idea. These are just my thoughts as a former educator. Complete these projects as you see fit, but keep in mind, art doesn't always have to be pretty. Sometimes it's a hot mess but the beauty comes in knowing that your child created it and in the process they are developing new skills.<br />
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(First post in this series will be up tomorrow afternoon.)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-23714997940188577742012-12-13T13:25:00.000-08:002012-12-13T11:05:08.132-08:00Thursday RoundupThis is the first post in a series of Thursday posts where I share with you all a roundup of my favorite products found around the web. Some will be handmade and some will not. There will be things for kids, moms, home decor, and maybe even something for our four legged friends from time to time. So let's get started!<br />
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This week's theme is Christmas since it's only a few weeks away. I think I'm more excited for Christmas to get here than they are!<br />
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This first Christmas item I'm loving right now is this burlap and cotton ruffled tree skirt. Isn't it just adorable? This is a handmade item by artist Louie White of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/117813600/burlap-ruffled-christmas-tree-skirt-with?ref=pr_shop" target="_blank">Shabbie Chic</a> Home out of Arizona. It's so pretty I'm not sure I would want to cover it up with presents!<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/117813600/burlap-ruffled-christmas-tree-skirt-with?ref=pr_shop" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sbRlhYMU3HA/UMjwUY-rsrI/AAAAAAAAADw/-DWT7dDxnqA/s400/Burlap+Tree+Skirt.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Next, we have some really fun Christmas Stockings. I have a slight love affair with felt (ok...maybe it's a major love affair) and these are just so Christmas-y. This is also a handmade item from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/rikrak" target="_blank">Rikrak</a> out of Canada. </div>
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Ok, these had me instantly drooling! Don't they look absolutely yummy?!? These come from <a href="http://www.berries.com/" target="_blank">Shari's Berries</a> and come in all sorts of varieties and with multiple quantities to choose from. Almonds, chocolate chips, white, dark, and milk chocolate! It's almost to much...almost. </div>
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<a href="http://products.berries.com/chocolatestrawberry/Full-Dozen-Gourmet-Dipped-Fancy-Strawberries-30005176?ref=HomeNoRef&viewpos=3&trackingpgroup=SHM" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x4MIvxIx_Nc/UMoMO7Ga5TI/AAAAAAAAAEU/G5wWUI7yvok/s400/Strawberries.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And finally, this is a product I discovered via Pinterest quite a while ago. I absolutely LOVE this idea. You take a photo your child has drawn and send it on over to <a href="http://www.childsown.com/" target="_blank">Child's Own Studio</a> where one of their amazing artist creates a plushie from your child's drawing. How cute is that! The wait list fills up fast, so be sure to subscribe to their newsletter to be among the first to know when they have availability. We have not tried this yet, but I promise you as soon as the girls are a bit older we will be sending in some artwork. </div>
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And that is it for this weeks Thursday Roundup! Be sure to check back next week! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-55385783169900224642012-12-12T12:32:00.002-08:002012-12-12T12:46:59.568-08:00Wordless Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8346293627990125591.post-37808930150223814322012-12-11T13:48:00.002-08:002012-12-11T15:24:37.442-08:00WELCOME TO KAI RAI CREATIONS!<br />
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Welcome! This blog is a loooooong time overdue. I've made a few other attempts at blogging, but they've never stuck. It's something I've always wanted to do, but the lack of a plan, a focus, and quite honestly, a bit of fear always stopped me from getting to far. Well, now I've got a plan, more focus than I know what to do with, and now that I have those two, the fear isn't quite so great. So let's get started!! </div>
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This is me. Wife, Mother, Shop Owner, Fabric Technician, Crafter. </div>
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I opened my first shop in November of 2011. I started with a line of jewelry and accessories that I really loved. Anyone who has ever opened an Etsy shop knows how intimidating and nerve racking the whole experience can be. I had only ever shopped on Etsy 2-3 times. But I dove in and by March 2012 I was ready to launch my children's line. the rest is history. I would LOVE to add more lines to my brand, but for right now I'm just enjoying the two that I have and working to make them the best possible. </div>
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The other passion of mine is my AMAZING family. I am a stay at home wife to two amazing girls. Frankie Kai and Baylie Rai (hence the Kai Rai Brand). They are both amazing and I'm sure you will read a LOT more about them as time goes on.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baylie Rai</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frankie Kai</td></tr>
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Oh, and I have an amazing (photo shy) husband that I simply adore. I might get a photo of him up on the blog one of these days! =)</div>
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So, that's that. So gran a cup of coffee or hot cocoa and get ready to enjoy the ride. I know I will! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1