My First Sewing Injury

So, I don't have any pictures that really fit this story other than this one from over a year ago. Last night I obtained my first sewing injury. I was working on a baby quilt and sewed right into my finger. The needle broke the middle of my finger nail and slid through my nail and edge of my finger. I ended up with a finger nail sliced in half and a cut from the middle of my nail down to the end of my finger. Luckily, I didn't have to go to the hospital and have a needle removed. Turns out  my thread didn't even snap.

A Beautiful Wedding

On Saturday my oldest cousin Courtney got married to the love of her life! What a beautiful couple. It was such a magical day and I only cried once. I was in charge of keeping her on a schedule and getting her everywhere on time. I don't know if any of you have driven a bride and her gown on the day of her wedding but, its a lot of pressure.

Here is our little wedding party. She was married at a ski resort and we were lucky enough to be able to have the wedding outside. We woke up to a thunder storm at 6 am and were so thankful for the sunshine at 3 pm.

Of course we had to have a funny photo.

Alec and I got a snapshot with the bride before leaving. Notice the handful and candy boxes Alec took home.

We were impatient before the ceremony and had some time to flex our muscles...

I couldn't help but see the similarities between the Cowardly Lion and I while I was getting my hair done. Overall, it was a beautiful day and my cousin is finally married! She is the first of many weddings to come in my immediate family. 

Hope all is well!

35. Bring Baked Goods to My Neighbor

I completed my first task on my list of 40 Things To Do Before I Turn 20. I whipped up these little beauties (instead of going to church) and brought them to a new Bed and Breakfast up the road. They were so sweet and I have been waiting months to visit the new neighbors. The house is absolutely beautiful and the wife quilts! Now I have a new quilting friend to talk stitches with. I need to start donating my baked goods more often because far too many cupcakes go to the chickens.

Summer Scarf

On Wednesday, I crocheted almost my entire day. This adds up to about 6.5 hours of crocheting. I was determined to finish this lovely little scarf. I started with white fabric and realized I was about to run out so, I added on the pink. Then, I realized I was going to run out of pink. So, on goes the green. Luckily, I ended up having just enough yarn to finish. Literally. I couldn't even do one more row if I wanted to.

I really do love it. I think I might add on some green tassels and sell it. It might become a part of my personal scarf collection, though. I'll have to sleep on it.

Here is how to make your own:

You'll Need:

3 colors of worsted weight yarn (A, B, C)

a crochet hook 

ch- chain

sc- single crochet

dc- double crochet

st- stich

Rnd(s)- Round

How to:

Rnd 1: Using color A, ch 20, ch 1 and turn ( counts as first sc)

Rnd 2: sc in each st, ch 3 (counts as first dc) and turn.

Rnd 3-4: dc in each stitch, ch 3 and turn. Repeat for Rnd 4.

Rnd 5-6: Switch to color B. dc in each stitch, ch 3 and turn. Repeat for Rnd 6.

Rnd 7: Switch to color A. sc in each stitch, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc).

Rnd 8-10: Sc in each st using only the back loop of each stitch to create ribbing, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc) repeat for rounds 9 and 10. Do not chain one and turn on round 10.

Rnd 11: sc in each stitch, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc).

Rnd 12-14: Switch to color B. Chain 3 and turn, dc in each st. chain 3 turn (counts as first dc). Repeat for Rnd 10 and 13.

Rnd 15-19: Switch to color A. Chain 3 and turn, dc in each st. chain 3 turn (counts as first dc). Repeat for Rnds 16-19.

Rnd 20-21: Switch to color C.Chain 3 and turn, dc in each st. chain 3 turn (counts as first dc). Repeat for Rnd 21.

Rnd 22-26: Switch to color A. Chain 3 and turn, dc in each st. chain 3 turn (counts as first dc). Repeat for Rnd 23-26.

Rnd 27-29: sc in each stitch, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc).

Rnd 30: Sc in each st using only the back loop of each stitch to create ribbing, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc).

Rnd 31: sc in each stitch, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc). 

Rnd 32: Sc in each st using only the back loop of each stitch to create ribbing, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc).

Rnd 33-35: sc in each stitch, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc).

Rnd 36-46: Chain 3 and turn, dc in each st. chain 3 turn (counts as first dc). Repeat for Rnd 36-46.

Rnd 47-77: Switch to color C. Chain 3 and turn, dc in each st. chain 3 turn (counts as first dc). Repeat for Rnds 48-77. 

Rnd 78-88: Chain 3 and turn, dc in each st. chain 3 turn (counts as first dc). Repeat for Rnd 79-88.

 Rnd 89-91: sc in each stitch, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc).

Rnd 92 : Sc in each st using only the back loop of each stitch to create ribbing, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc).

Rnd 93 : sc in each stitch, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc). 

Rnd 94 : Sc in each st using only the back loop of each stitch to create ribbing, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc).

Rnd 95-97: sc in each stitch, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc).

Rnd 98-102: Switch to color A. Chain 3 and turn, dc in each st. chain 3 turn (counts as first dc). Repeat.

Rnd 103-104: Switch to color C.Chain 3 and turn, dc in each st. chain 3 turn (counts as first dc). Repeat.

Rnd 105-109: Switch to color A. Chain 3 and turn, dc in each st. chain 3 turn (counts as first dc). Repeat.

Rnd 110-113 : Switch to color B. Chain 3 and turn, dc in each st. chain 3 turn (counts as first dc). Repeat. 

Rnd 114-116: Sc in each st using only the back loop of each stitch to create ribbing, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc) repeat for rounds 9 and 10. Do not chain one and turn on round 116.

Rnd 117: sc in each stitch, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc).

Rnd 118: Switch to color A. sc in each stitch, ch 1 and turn. (counts as first sc).

Rnd 119-120: Switch to color B. dc in each stitch, ch 3 and turn. Repeat for Rnd 6.

Rnd 121-122: sc in each st, ch 3 (counts as first dc) and turn.

Cookies and Milk, Anyone?

Alright, people. This is it. (Drum roll please) The moment you have all been waiting for....THE worlds best chocolate chip cookie recipe is finally here! The test kitchen has been busy for weeks perfecting this recipe (not exactly but it sounds nice). Without further adieu, I present to you *trumpet sounds* THE Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe.

I scanned this page from my recipe book. I'm trying to figure out the best way to get this recipe book idea out to you guys. Here is how I started it and now it is almost full. I'm thinking of making some blank ones to sell or maybe even just doing an online class. 

Would anyone be interested in either idea?

The dough is delicious.

I dropped them by rounded tablespoonfuls into heavenly, little mounds.

Once they are done, throw some on a plate and surprise a loved one.

Then, pack them up and share!

I'm going to make ice cream cookie sandwiches with these and vanilla bean ice cream tomorrow. They are to die for when frozen.

Let me know if you try it and what you think of the recipe. Also, should I do a recipe book online class or just sell ones that are already started?

Fusion Blanket Part II

Remember this little fusion blanket I've been working on? Well, it is time for the next step.

I left off with these plain blocks in my first post. The next step is to do a blanket stitch around the edge of each block. Don't know how to do a blanket stitch? No problem. 

DIY American Flag Shorts

You know those amazing little American Flag shorts that have been popping up at various stores? Well, I'm going to teach you how to make them for under $5. I've wanted to make these for a while and am so excited that I have finally made them. 

You'll need:

acrylic paint

paintbrushes

thrifted jeans or shorts

paper or a star stencil

string (optional)

tape (optional)

Readers Make My Day

Whenever I get a response to one of my comments, or a comment on a post it goes right to my email. This email then rings like a  text message on my phone. I get little comments throughout the day that come to me like text messages and just make me feel great. Two days ago I was getting encouragement on eating healthy and last night I was selected for "The Versatile Blogger" award by Dawn. Thanks a lot guys, you really make my day.

Dawn picked me as a Versatile Blogger after getting nominated herself. She blogs over at Twenty 63. If you read my blog you probably are interested in either recipes, D.I.Y, sewing, or just enjoy following along for the chance to walk in somebody else's shoes. I mean, isn't that why we all blog. Good news for you, readers, Dawn does D.I.Y. projects, is an organized list maker (just like me!) and (drum roll please) likes to bake! 

Here is her D.I.Y. under the sink organization project. Click here to see how it turned out.

How about banana bread? I know I have some sweet tooths floating around here. Go check out her recipe and show her your support, wonderful readers.

My best friend and I celebrating her 20th birthday last Thursday.

Now the rules are I have to tell you 7 things about myself in this award post. So, here goes:

1. I wanted to be a Doctor but I couldn't decide what specialty and I definitely could not see myself working 80 hours a week with no time to bake or sew. Or going to school for 8 years before even starting my residency. So, I got scared. I was afraid my life would slip right out of my hands and I would be buried in textbooks for years before being able to peak my head out and exhale. Therefore, I'm going for nursing. This way, I can switch what field I'm working in if I get bored after a few years and I only have to go to school for 4 years. Plus, I can help people and learn more about the human body every day!

2. I really want to own my own business. I want to do so many things. Some of which are: own a bakery/cafe, fitness center, Christmas tree farm/ pumpkin patch/ strawberry picking. I'm a dreamer, I know.

3. My brother and I are sometimes mistaken for twins.

4. I love painting my nails but, they chip the day I paint them every time.

5. I took 3 months of belly dancing classes and I loved it. I want to teach belly dancing now.

6. I am a pug enthusiast. I have wanted a pug dog for as long as I can remember. So. Badly. I love everything about them.

7. I am a Grey's Anatomy junkie. I have watched every episode, in order, from season 1. I only have two episodes left of season 7 to watch and season 8 isn't out yet. I love love Grey's Anatomy.

Now, I have to nominate 15 people who I think deserve this award! Go check out all of their blogs please because they all have amazing, inspiring, beautiful blogs.

I Just Might Explode

Mady By Rae

A Lovely Little World

Scathingly Brilliant

Smile and Wave

Cooking in Stilettos

A Molly of All Trades

Life A Colorful Life

Lollyquiltz

My Latest Obsession

Shade Of Whim

Find Your Sparkle

Elizabeth Haley

Indie Jane Photography

Maiedae

Rules if you get nominated:

1. Thank the blogger who nominated you.

2. Include a link to there site.

3. Include the Versatile Blogger Award image in your post.

4. Give 7 random facts about yourself. 

5. Nominate 15 other bloggers for this award. 

6. When nominating, include a link to their site.

7. Let the other bloggers know you nominated them!

Thank You again to all of my readers!

Fusion Blanket Part I

I've practically been working on this fusion blanket from the moment I saw it online. Crochet and sewing! Genius. Anyway, here is how to make your own. This is such a great blanket for so many reasons. First of all, it is reversible. The front and back of each square can be different. Secondly, it is so easy to sew when you get a free minute. I cut some blocks, sewed them together, stitch the border when I have a few minutes before bed or work, and crochet them anywhere! Plus, I can work on them at work without my sewing machine. 

I am making mine 4 blocks by 5 blocks, so I need 20 blocks overall. You can make as many as you'd like, though. So, what are you waiting for? Lets get going.

1. Make sure your cat is incredibly comfortable at your work station.

2. Really, really comfortable.

3. Alright, lets actually get started here. Gather your fabric. I'm using this "Cotton Rainbow Library II" sample book that somebody gave me. The colors are "palm, sage, and artichoke" . This is perfect for the fusion quilt because each square is made of different fabric! You can use any fabric you want though. 

4. Trim all the blocks to 6x6. Once again, you can make them whatever size you want, or just use pre-cut ones.

5. Pair two blocks together. I am doing one side of my quilt with pinks and the other side with greens.

6. Arrange them right sides facing in.

 

7. Sew around the outside, as if you were sewing a pillow, leaving 2 inches to open it right side out.

8. Turn your block right sides out. Iron flat and iron the hole as if it were sewn shut.

Here is a view of the other side.

Gather all of your matching blocks.

9. Next, sew a border on the outside close to the edge. I did this instead of hand stitching each opening closed. Trim up the threads.

10. Iron and repeat!

This is just how to get your blocks ready. I'll give everyone a chance to get started and then I'll post how to crochet the outside. I just want to say that I am absolutely in love with this blanket so far.

Turning Over a New Leaf

According to Pinterest I pinned this very photo 12 weeks ago. 12 weeks ago I was going to the gym 5 days a week at school and recording everything I ate on The Daily Plate. I was a few pounds away from reaching my goal weight and ready to transition from school to summer. This photo couldn't be more wrong.

I got home, stopped working out, and stopped heating healthy. This happens every time I get close to my goal weight. Why in the world do I give up at the last minute every time? This fall I gained some weight once I got to school then spent the next 3 months trying to lose it. Once I lost 10 lbs I came home for winter break and gained it all back again. Only to spend the rest of the school year trying to lose it again. And there I go, gaining it all back once I came home for the summer. This makes me wonder how people used to stay in shape back in the "olden days". 

Its so hard, though. I am always hungry. Some people crave sweets, but I can bake my little heart out and only have a bite to make sure the flavor is right. I crave foods with lots of bread and cheese.  For example, pizza and bacon egg and cheese bagels. Pizza is a huge enemy of mine, but i love it so so much. See where this is going? Its not just a little boredom thing where I eat when I have nothing to do. I get seriously hungry for a meal about every 2 hours. Why me?!

I apologize for the rant people. This is just a reoccurring problem that really frustrates me. It is difficult to have to argue with myself every two hours on if I should eat or not. On a more positive note, I went for a 2 mile run this morning! I set my alarm yesterday for 7:30 am to go for run and of course I hit snooze. So, when I woke up at 5:30 today to make Alec's lunch and breakfast for him before he goes to work I didn't go to bed after. Instead, I went for my first run in months. I hate running. It is very difficult for me. Going at 6:30 makes it easy for me to fit it in my schedule and doesn't give me a chance to make excuses. The sun was rising and it was great to be doing something good for my body for once. I did have to walk quite a bit though. If you read this far, thank you. I know I don't usually do rants like this but, I'm only human and I struggle with weight issues just like everyone else. 

Do you have any of these same problems? How do you deal with juggling eating healthy and eating what you want, and forcing yourself to exercise?