tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-159390212024-03-13T11:57:53.398-04:00CRAFTY DAD ::life in the craft lane::Husband. Father of two. Attempting to balance a career, family and some craft time. Who said this was going to be easy?Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger358125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-35251058378617008902011-11-19T16:48:00.001-05:002011-11-19T16:52:08.266-05:00Projects. Projects. Projects.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2o1igP9ozyM/TsgkicNkrRI/AAAAAAAAB8A/SBfy38yDagw/s1600/DCP_2431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2o1igP9ozyM/TsgkicNkrRI/AAAAAAAAB8A/SBfy38yDagw/s320/DCP_2431.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Matt (a few years back) as Harry Potter.</div>
<br />
Saturday.<br />
<br />
A day filled with projects. House projects. Setting-up-the-new-PC projects. Science fair projects.<br />
<br />
Yes...a busy (yet fun) day.<br />
<br />
Now...it's off to <a href="http://www.gccwired.com/">church</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=15939021" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-72817497462312786602011-05-01T13:30:00.000-04:002011-05-01T13:30:38.123-04:00I've Moved! Yes...the Crafty Dad Blog Has Moved!The blog is over <a href="http://www.craftydad.com/">here</a> now.<br />
<br />
Please come over and see what's going on.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-1335987456129006222011-04-24T08:54:00.001-04:002011-04-24T08:59:14.683-04:00More Easter Photos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eANkP4cCdJw/TbQcg8UEiFI/AAAAAAAAB7s/9vRhoaAE9Ko/s320/easter+eggs+04.23.2011.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Colors!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15939021&postID=133598745612900622"><br />
</a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8W7Ze6ppglk/TbQc04x14MI/AAAAAAAAB7w/YTFXt4EOwqU/s1600/DSC_0465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8W7Ze6ppglk/TbQc04x14MI/AAAAAAAAB7w/YTFXt4EOwqU/s320/DSC_0465.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crafty, huh?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dn2_qtt_sXQ/TbQc62sZjGI/AAAAAAAAB70/JFcUT1qt1cE/s1600/DSC_0481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dn2_qtt_sXQ/TbQc62sZjGI/AAAAAAAAB70/JFcUT1qt1cE/s320/DSC_0481.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Messy? A little bit. Fun? Oh yeah!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VLViAUlAQBM/TbQeG8Z8oUI/AAAAAAAAB74/1YHvYgmYwZQ/s1600/DSC_0436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VLViAUlAQBM/TbQeG8Z8oUI/AAAAAAAAB74/1YHvYgmYwZQ/s320/DSC_0436.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wife and the boys after church on Saturday.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-21634705399175294342011-04-23T09:53:00.003-04:002011-04-23T10:07:51.103-04:00Happy Easter!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N_R8nKAzaUg/TbLZaQmSiUI/AAAAAAAAB7o/3E8kqOQI-Do/s1600/Easter+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N_R8nKAzaUg/TbLZaQmSiUI/AAAAAAAAB7o/3E8kqOQI-Do/s320/Easter+cookies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Like Peter Cottontail, just wanted to hop in to say Happy Easter!<br />
<br />
We've been busy making cookies [eggs, bunnies, tulips, crosses], pickled eggs and beets [a family tradition] and other Easter goodies.<br />
<br />
And we've been cleaning house too. All the family members are pitching in to make this chore quick and easy.<br />
<br />
What do you have planned for Easter? Leave a comment, won't you?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-74746574111440590242011-03-22T05:00:00.000-04:002011-03-22T05:00:13.007-04:00Tissue Holder in Japanese Fabric - Linen and Cotton<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-VcSwkrWW5U4/TYcY1WDJWeI/AAAAAAAAB7k/DHntlp5jlJM/s1600/DSCF5036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-VcSwkrWW5U4/TYcY1WDJWeI/AAAAAAAAB7k/DHntlp5jlJM/s320/DSCF5036.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Japanese fabric is the best. I love working with cotton and linen. A hot iron pressed against this stuff brings out such an organic smell. It's wonderful. Can you relate?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The print fabric was purchased online at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> directly from Japan. [I can't remember the exact buyer's name, but if you really want to know, send me an e-mail and I'll dig through my records to find the information for you.] The lining (100% linen) was something I picked up at a <a href="http://www.yoderdepartmentstore.com/fabric.aspx%20">Yoder's Department Store</a> in Shipshewana, IN. They have the best staff. And a TON of fabric to choose from. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The tissue holder is on its way to my Etsy <a href="http://www.craftydad.etsy.com/">shop</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-54659472757519019002011-03-21T05:21:00.001-04:002011-03-21T05:21:45.815-04:00Special Order for Julie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jWPXZvAy7UY/TYcXkB2zFGI/AAAAAAAAB7c/ajKRnRGwrMQ/s1600/DSCF5039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jWPXZvAy7UY/TYcXkB2zFGI/AAAAAAAAB7c/ajKRnRGwrMQ/s320/DSCF5039.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
A friend of mine recently added a grandson to the family. She wanted a 'boy' bib and asked if I had anything I could whip up. That's all I needed. I was sure I had a fabric to fit the bill.<br />
<br />
Here is a 'boy' bib with spaceships on a blue background. I also made a burp cloth to go with it. I hope she likes them.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DXbgWlFki7k/TYcYDwOLMsI/AAAAAAAAB7g/CX8UCqW_-mM/s1600/DSCF5042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DXbgWlFki7k/TYcYDwOLMsI/AAAAAAAAB7g/CX8UCqW_-mM/s320/DSCF5042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-89386051929706744322011-03-19T23:45:00.002-04:002011-03-20T15:01:36.616-04:00Something "Spring-y" For My Etsy ShopYes! I was able to be creative before the end of the day!<br />
<br />
Here's the proof. And...it's on the way to my Etsy shop. Wow...and only fifteen minutes to spare before the midnight hour. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-4qY9GGPc3y8/TYV4AcDxTVI/AAAAAAAAB7U/KicKEBn880k/s1600/Dragonfly+Tissue+Holder+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-4qY9GGPc3y8/TYV4AcDxTVI/AAAAAAAAB7U/KicKEBn880k/s320/Dragonfly+Tissue+Holder+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-81012102651556987392011-03-19T11:03:00.001-04:002011-03-19T11:05:15.467-04:00We ♥ Fleece Throws<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-uvgTeA0J0E0/TYTE7eUn0rI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/q_wamkznIV0/s1600/DSCF5007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-uvgTeA0J0E0/TYTE7eUn0rI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/q_wamkznIV0/s320/DSCF5007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Yes, we love our fleece throws. All of them: camping theme, Christmas theme, plain ones, fancy ones. We use them almost every day.<br />
<br />
Sit on the sofa, oops - forgot my throw, get back up, grab one and sit back down. They are so snuggly and make TV-watching so much nicer, don't you think?<br />
<br />
Riley likes them too. He tends to use them as chew-toys. Yeah...not good.<br />
<br />
By the way, today is 'clean-the-basement' day. Lots of de-cluttering going on. And a ton of dead bugs and cobwebs are going bye-bye too. It feels good to be doing something productive. And something that's almost craft-related. That'll be next. And I can't tell you how excited I am to be going in that direction.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-52501824959889147112011-03-17T17:56:00.000-04:002011-03-17T17:56:08.902-04:00My Heart-felt Thoughts and Prayers...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZnfT1uWjAps/TYKDO7eAbPI/AAAAAAAAB7M/N5h5S1sSHtk/s1600/japan+flag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-ZnfT1uWjAps/TYKDO7eAbPI/AAAAAAAAB7M/N5h5S1sSHtk/s1600/japan+flag.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Go to the people of Japan.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-80894576712553739282011-03-17T06:56:00.000-04:002011-03-17T06:56:20.894-04:00Spring Cleaning and Creative-Space Envy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9e8-jjjhiVg/TYHTl2ho5ZI/AAAAAAAAB7I/BS3m0Swcdzg/s1600/Sunroom+at+Essenhaus+Inn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9e8-jjjhiVg/TYHTl2ho5ZI/AAAAAAAAB7I/BS3m0Swcdzg/s320/Sunroom+at+Essenhaus+Inn.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The photo? Not my space. Wish it was. That's the sun room / enclosed porch at the Essenhaus Country Inn in Shipshewana, IN. We spent a long weekend there a couple years ago. I love the space: lots of windows for natural light, white bead-board, wooden floors. Wow. THAT would be a great workspace,wouldn't it?<br />
<br />
<a href="">With the revival of my crafty spirit, I've found it necessary to re-evaluate my craft space. It's not really a 'studio' per se (although that sure sounds nicer and more professional than 'space'). But it IS a dedicated area to me and all my craftiness.</a><br />
<br />
Right now, it's an absolute mess. Located in a corner of my basement, it's been left untouched for several months. Spiders, bugs and cobwebs have taken over. I've piled things on top of piles thinking I'd be back to put them away. Sometimes that happens. <br />
<br />
So...it's time to get serious and get things put away and cleaned up so I have room to work. Clutter is not good for the creative spirit. <br />
<br />
Speaking of new studios and workspaces, <a href="http://rosylittlethings.typepad.com/posie_gets_cozy/2010/08/my-new-room.html">Alicia</a> has a new office/studio and <a href="http://annamariahorner.blogspot.com/2011/02/attic-studio-day-7.html">Anna Maria</a> is converting her attic into a new creative space. Jealous. That's what I am. Jealous. But I'm happy for them. Can't wait to see Mrs. Horner's space once it's finished.<br />
<br />
Okay...I'm off to work. Have a great day...and make something!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-21226342006391763162011-03-15T19:31:00.004-04:002011-03-16T06:05:26.982-04:00Fruit Anyone?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-T14ZeIVksrM/TX_1FYFJe5I/AAAAAAAAB68/0OQKwofw6NY/s1600/citrus+blend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span id="goog_432210569"></span><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-T14ZeIVksrM/TX_1FYFJe5I/AAAAAAAAB68/0OQKwofw6NY/s320/citrus+blend.jpg" width="213" /><span id="goog_432210570"></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Does this look like something you'd eat? I sure would! Probably a better choice than the Chinese food that I ate for lunch. Wow...way too many carbs. OMG!! But it was certainly tasty! Each Tuesday, a bunch of us get in the car at 11:00AM and head for the Garden Wok in South Bend, IN. That place has THE BEST Chinese food. I'm tellin' ya. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My favorites are chicken and broccoli and black-bean chicken. I always get 1/2 lo-mein and 1/2 mei fun. Mei fun is rice noodle. Much like angel hair pasta...but made with rice flour. Yum-my!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, yeah I'm in the process of setting up my new blog. My buddy from Sweden is helping me get all the files figured out. I'm a geek, but <i>not</i> a geeky-geek, okay?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'll miss the Blogger platform...but I'm in love with WordPress and all the way-cool things you can do with it. I'll keep you posted...but should be ready to roll sometime early next week. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hey! Leave a comment to let me know that you're still with me, okay? I'd love to hear from you!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-63277622289611989562011-03-14T21:37:00.001-04:002011-03-14T21:38:44.566-04:00Wow...it's been a long, long time!Yes...it HAS been a long time since I've posted here. <br />
<br />
Since taking a long hiatus, it only seems natural that I'd return. And so I am. Sort of. I am working on a new blog site. It won't be here at Blogger. I'm opting for a self-hosted blog using WordPress and a Woo Theme. I think you'll like it.<br />
<br />
So...buckle your seat belts: it promises to be a bumpy (yet fun) ride!<br />
<br />
Stay tuned!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-43005600436393741142010-08-13T05:50:00.004-04:002010-08-13T10:58:06.581-04:00Friday the 13thReally, there's nothing scary about Friday the 13th. It means nothing that one of my staff members is out, getting ready to take his daughter to college. And another staff member is out because she found out last night that she has jury duty today. And another staff member is out because she broke her toe last night. And another staff member is out on a camping trip.<br />
<br />
I'm sure it has NOTHING to do with the fact that it's the 13th day of the month...and it's also a Friday.<br />
<br />
<br />
So...that leaves me and two other co-workers to tackle all the crazy things that come up. It helped that one of my peeps brought in a <a href="http://www.tastefullysimple.com/">Tastefully Simple</a> Almond Pound Cake to share with us. Wow...it's really good. She's having a party and surprised us with a tasty sample today. Thanks Kerry!<br />
<br />
<br />
Here's what's left of the cake:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/TGVYFHST6PI/AAAAAAAAB58/WlKyA-dvDH8/s1600/Tastefully+Simple+Almond+Poud+Cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/TGVYFHST6PI/AAAAAAAAB58/WlKyA-dvDH8/s320/Tastefully+Simple+Almond+Poud+Cake.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almond Pound Cake from Tastefully Simple</td></tr>
</tbody></table><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15939021&postID=4300560043639374114"> </a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15939021&postID=4300560043639374114"> </a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15939021&postID=4300560043639374114"><br />
</a><br />
<br />
Enjoy your weekend bloggers!<br />
<br />
P.S. Here's an almond pound cake <a href="http://www.duncanhines.com/recipes/cakes/dh/almond-pound-cake">recipe</a> I found online. I'm going to try it this weekend.<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15939021&postID=4300560043639374114"> </a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15939021&postID=4300560043639374114"> </a><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15939021&postID=4300560043639374114"><br />
</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15939021&postID=4300560043639374114"><br />
</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-81081373238317412442010-08-06T05:00:00.002-04:002010-08-06T15:40:26.060-04:00Happy Friday!Hey bloggers! Another week has flown by.<br />
<br />
Still haven't made anything, but I did make a trip to the thrift shop today and found a great deal on some good-looking fabric. A big bag of it for just $2.19. Some of it looks VERY promising. I'm seeing tissue covers, key fobs and lanyards in my future. Stay tuned. (But please don't hold your breath, okay?)<br />
<br />
While you're waiting (ahem) I thought I'd share four of my summer time favorites.<br />
<br />
My two favorite kids and my two favorite veggies. My youngest son looks like he's being attacked by the Killer Tomato plants....honestly, they have gone crazy with all the rain and humidity we've had. Typical weather here in Indiana...what can I say? Now...if all those hundreds of little gems would ripen, we'd have a heyday (and a tummy ache too).<br />
<br />
Enjoy your weekend!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/TFxjA0NyUrI/AAAAAAAAB5M/NwOai49rE-Y/s1600/Summer+Favorites.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/TFxjA0NyUrI/AAAAAAAAB5M/NwOai49rE-Y/s320/Summer+Favorites.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-73471110180451543132010-07-30T05:30:00.002-04:002010-07-30T15:49:39.383-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/TFLk9bIEjnI/AAAAAAAAB5E/TDbS0hrbHMo/s1600/Park+Model+-+Summer+of+2006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/TFLk9bIEjnI/AAAAAAAAB5E/TDbS0hrbHMo/s320/Park+Model+-+Summer+of+2006.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
Although I don't always have time to make something, I seem to have time to surf the web to <i>find</i> things to make. Anyone else have that <strike>problem</strike> pleasure? One of my favorite places to shop is <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a>. You're no doubt familiar with it. I have a (almost empty) shop on Etsy. [Note to self: MAKE SOME THINGS TO SELL!!]<br />
<br />
I came across this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/pomadour24">shop</a> and have ordered a few things. They have a great selection of Japanese fabric and pattern books. Yes, the books are written in Japanese, but if you know anything about sewing, you can pretty much figure out how to make the items in the book. Just use some common sense and a ruler that has centimeters on it. :-) The books that I have are loaded with great illustrations which really come in handy. And the photography is first class. <br />
<br />
Nate finished his first week of Band Camp and we're ready for a weekend at the lake. It was really hot this week. And we are behind on so many things. Getting ready to go on vacation is a major deal. And getting back from vacation is tough too. We are very thankful for neighbors who kept the flowers watered and the grass cut.<br />
<br />
School starts in just a few weeks. The boys go back on August 17th. I hate it. Summers are just to short and it makes me sad to look at then calendar and see that July is pretty much over. Seems like when I was a kid, the summer lasted forever. I guess it's true: the older you get, the faster time goes. Okay, enough of the sadness. It's Friday and I'm going to make the most of it.<br />
<br />
Hope you have a great weekend.<br />
<br />
P.S. Sorry for the rambling....Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-33192815793273685132010-07-29T05:00:00.001-04:002010-07-29T21:09:04.835-04:00Time to Freshen Up a BitIf I'm going to get back to blogging (which is my intention) then I <strike>need</strike> want to freshen things up a bit. I've already changed the layout quite a bit thanks to some built in Blogger tools (thanks Blogger!). I'm also going to get some help from <a href="http://www.vkdesigncompany.com/">Veronica</a>. She's a really great person to work with and I'm looking forward to getting my blog space spruced up. According to her website, the waiting list is eighteen months. But...I'm going to stand in line until it's my turn.<br />
<br />
I have some vacation photos that I'll share with you soon. And...if I get off my lazy butt, perhaps I'll actually sit down and MAKE something in the near future. There are literally cobwebs and spider webs in my craft space. That's how long it's been since I've been in the creative mood. Creepy, huh? <br />
<br />
Stay tuned.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-57000910595159516452010-07-28T15:36:00.008-04:002010-07-28T16:29:31.310-04:00Away for Too Long<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/TFCPghYmx7I/AAAAAAAAB40/GIwSr9QCAq4/s1600/MPj04393290000%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/TFCPghYmx7I/AAAAAAAAB40/GIwSr9QCAq4/s320/MPj04393290000%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
So....this is pretty sad. I've been away for <b>months</b>. I won't use the 'I've been busy' line. Because we're all busy, right?<br />
<br />
I guess I've not been in the blogging mood. That's lame too!<br />
<br />
Summer is going by WAY too quickly...in just a few weeks, the boys will be back in school. Seems like they just got out. What is wrong with this picture?<br />
<br />
Last week were in Carolina Beach, NC on vacation. It was heavenly. We stayed at the same condo as last year. The weather was HOT (just like everywhere else in the US). It only rained one evening...and that was a true blessing. We had a great time just doing nothing. Sat under beach umbrellas and listened to waves crash against the shore and let the breeze put us into 'relaxation mode'. It was wonderful.<br />
<br />
Oh, by the way, Riley has grown up quite nicely. He celebrated his first birthday last month. Here are a few photos.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/TFCRBdcFFPI/AAAAAAAAB48/ZGBsOdhfi0o/s1600/Riley%27s+First+Birthday+-+May+14,+2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/TFCRBdcFFPI/AAAAAAAAB48/ZGBsOdhfi0o/s320/Riley%27s+First+Birthday+-+May+14,+2010.jpg" /></a></div>He is still a puppy in many ways. He is a sweetheart and a big baby. We felt really bad leaving him at the kennel while we were on vacation. He did okay....and we called to check on him a few times during our week away.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-35202455754946538512010-04-12T19:22:00.002-04:002010-07-29T21:21:48.133-04:00I made this for my DadLittle Guy was itching to do something creative (bless his heart!) so I put him to work editing a photo using Picnik (my favorite photo editor). Here's what he came up with:<br />
<br />
I made this for my Dad on Picnik.com. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/S8OqiQkaaBI/AAAAAAAAB4E/S0xRoFUeGXo/s1600/Owl+family+by+matt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/S8OqiQkaaBI/AAAAAAAAB4E/S0xRoFUeGXo/s320/Owl+family+by+matt.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Great job Matt!<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
DadUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-84733205849713391802010-04-12T05:15:00.000-04:002010-04-12T15:47:38.004-04:00Sometimes....we just get too tired to put our things away.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/S8N4mwygE_I/AAAAAAAAB38/wLIGiHcEyHs/s1600/little+guy+asleep+with+bible+and+more.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/S8N4mwygE_I/AAAAAAAAB38/wLIGiHcEyHs/s320/little+guy+asleep+with+bible+and+more.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
A picture is worth 1,000 words.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href=""><img src="http://sites.google.com/site/michaelhawkinsimages/images/MichaelSignature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-38237299786610962702010-04-12T05:00:00.000-04:002010-04-12T13:00:44.801-04:00Damn Spam!Hey Bloggers!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/S8NRX8V_mLI/AAAAAAAAB3E/IVl5aZvd0DA/s1600/no+spam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/S8NRX8V_mLI/AAAAAAAAB3E/IVl5aZvd0DA/s320/no+spam.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Welcome to the beginning of new week. I'm looking forward to a pleasant, peaceful, relaxing time. How about you? Ha! I'm kidding of course. Who has time for any of that, right? Always too much to do and not enough time to get it done. Now, <b>THAT's</b> what I'm talking about.<br />
<br />
Hey...just wanted to give you a heads up. After receiving a TON of spam comments (GRRRR!) I've decided to turn on comment moderation here on the blog.<br />
<br />
So....be patient. I'll get your comments approved a.s.a.p. <br />
<br />
Thanks for understanding!<br />
<br />
And have a good (crazy) week, okay? Okay!<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href=""><img src="http://sites.google.com/site/michaelhawkinsimages/images/MichaelSignature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-82583075850897013492010-04-07T05:00:00.001-04:002010-04-07T15:58:31.387-04:00Yep: Still Here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/S7zjdfwqYmI/AAAAAAAAB2U/ikmrQDVw7zk/s1600/1068420_P_Closeup-of-pencil-on-calendar.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/S7zjdfwqYmI/AAAAAAAAB2U/ikmrQDVw7zk/s320/1068420_P_Closeup-of-pencil-on-calendar.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Time Flies When You're Having Fun!</div><br />
Yes, I'm still here. Lame blogger-man. The un-CraftyDad. Oh well, I digress. Or do I? Confused yet? Welcome to <i>my</i> world.<br />
<br />
Hey there. Hope you had a great Easter. The weather was good for us and and we did the traditional Easter egg hunt with the boys (now 9 and 14). Shazam! They grow up quickly. Don't fool yourself. We had a very low-key dinner with my dad. Simple: ham, cheesy-potatoes, green bean casserole, Hawaiian dinner rolls, pickled eggs and beets (VERY traditional recipe from my grandma).<br />
<br />
After dinner (lunch, mid-day meal, whatever you want to call it) we donned our old clothes and headed outside for the annual spring cleanup in the yard. I love oak trees, but I really wish they'd lose their leaves in the fall like all the other deciduous trees. It would be so nice to rake leaves just one time. But...that's Mother Nature for you. We raked and raked and tore out old, spindly marigold stems from last fall. Oh, (and please don't spread this around) but we still had strands of tiny Christmas lights on two of our conical evergreen trees that flank the front door. THAT is lame. Geesh!<br />
<br />
It has been such a crazy, busy time around our house. As a tax accountant, my wife has spent oodles of hours at work. And there have been several new projects launched at my workplace that have caused a few spikes in blood pressure and some four-letter words to be spouted off. Not good. I pray that we're turning a corner and I will have some time to do a few of things on my "I WANT To-Do" list. (Not holding my breath on that one, okay?)<br />
<br />
So...leave a comment to let me know that you're still out there. Just a quick 'hello' will be appreciated.<br />
<br />
Until next time, do something crafty. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15939021&postID=8258307585089701349"><img src="http://sites.google.com/site/michaelhawkinsimages/images/MichaelSignature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-48858763093769641162010-01-23T22:06:00.003-05:002010-01-23T22:20:45.359-05:00Great Online Video ResourceHey Bloggers....if you have a blog and you include video (or you're thinking of including video) on your blog, they I HIGHLY recommend you grab a copy of Steve Garfield's book <i>Get Seen -- Online Video Secrets to Building Your Business.<iframe align="left" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=crdalicrmyjo-20&o=1&p=8&l=bpl&asins=0470525460&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 245px; padding-right: 10px; padding-top: 5px; width: 131px;"></iframe></i>. It is chock-full of great tips and resources. <br />
<br />
The book, published in 2010, is 323 pages and comes in hardback. You really owe it to yourself to check this out. I got my copy in the mail today and have been <strike>reading</strike> devouring it all evening.<br />
<br />
Garfield talks about several different types of cameras (you don't have to have a fancy-schmancy to create videos, by the way). He also gives great tips on accessories you might want to add to your video arsenal: tripods, lighting, microphones, etc.<br />
<br />
There are tons of interesting interviews and photos and screen captures to make this book a page-turner. It's certainly going to be a book I pull off the shelf time and time again to refer to. Lots of good stuff.<br />
<br />
Use the link to go see for yourself. It's a great resource! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15939021&postID=4885876309376964116"><img src="http://sites.google.com/site/michaelhawkinsimages/images/MichaelSignature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-60753553139291830302010-01-23T05:00:00.001-05:002010-01-23T05:00:00.546-05:00Mexican Potato SaladOk...so here's another vegetarian recipe for you to try. I love potato salad. And I love salsa. This is certainly a new twist and one that I think you'll really enjoy!<br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />2 lbs. red potatoes, cut into chunks<br />1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed<br />1 large tomato, chopped<br />1 bunch scallions, chopped<br />1/2 cup salsa<br />2 T. fresh lime juice<br />2 T. chopped fresh cilantro or 1 T. dried<br />Freshly ground pepper<br /><br />Directions:<br /><br /><ol><li>Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. </li><li>Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and cook 30 minutes, or until just tender. </li><li>Remove from the heat, drain, and place in large bowl. </li><li>Add the corn, tomato, and scallions. </li><li>Combine the salsa and lime juice. </li><li>Pour over the salad and mix well. </li><li>Add the cilantro and a few twists of pepper. </li><li>Mix gently and serve at once or chill over night. </li></ol><br />Yum-O!<br /><a><img src="http://sites.google.com/site/michaelhawkinsimages/images/MichaelSignature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-31151103087822616482010-01-21T05:00:00.004-05:002010-01-21T20:25:35.022-05:00New Recipe for You -- Herb Roasted VeggiesWhile I'm not a vegetarian, I think I <i>could</i> become one. But it might take me some time to sort out all the pros and cons (I'd love to hear from you if you're a vegetarian or vegan).<br />
<br />
In the meantime, here's a recipe that I'm going to try. Thought I'd share it with you:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Herb Roasted Vegetables</span><br />
</div><br />
<br />
Prep Time: approx. 5 Minutes<br />
Cook Time: approx. 10 Minutes <br />
<br />
" This recipe works best when baked in a convection oven,<br />
it allows the herbs to fully flavor the dish. "<br />
<br />
<br />
<u>Ingredients</u>:<br />
1 1/2 pounds new potatoes, quartered<br />
1/2 cup baby carrots<br />
1 small onion, cut into wedges<br />
1/4 cup olive oil<br />
3 tablespoons lemon juice<br />
3 cloves garlic, minced<br />
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary<br />
1 tablespoon dried oregano<br />
salt and pepper to taste<br />
1/2 small eggplant, quartered and cut into 1/2-inch st<br />
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch wide strips<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<u>Directions</u><br />
<ol><li>Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).</li>
<li>Combine potatoes, carrots, and onion in an ungreased 13x9 inch baking pan.</li>
<li>Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, oregano, salt and pepper to taste in a small mixing bowl. Drizzle the mixture over the vegetables.</li>
<li>Bake for 20 minutes.</li>
<li>Remove the baking dish from the oven and add eggplant and bell pepper. Toss to combine the eggplant and bell pepper with the other vegetables. Return the pan to the oven.</li>
<li>Bake for 13 to 15 more minutes or until the vegetables are tender and brown on the edges. Serve hot.</li>
</ol><br />
<br />
Nutrition at a glance<br />
Servings Per Recipe: 7<br />
amount per serving<br />
Calories 202 <br />
Protein 3g<br />
Total Fat 8g<br />
Sodium 243mg<br />
Cholesterol -<br />
Carbohydrates 31g<br />
Fiber 4g<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://draft.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15939021&postID=3115110308782261648"><img src="http://sites.google.com/site/michaelhawkinsimages/images/MichaelSignature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15939021.post-82934784550125944512010-01-20T05:00:00.026-05:002010-01-21T21:14:04.962-05:00What's For Dinner? 470 Crock Pot Recipes to the Rescue!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
Is meal planning as popular with you as it is with the Crafty Dad house? Yeah...thought so! It's tough to come up with new ideas. And eating out is EXPENSIVE and usually not the best food you can eat. I love french-fries, but the nutritional value is not a good thing!<br />
<br />
With a new year comes new ideas. Or...old ideas made new again. Crafty Mom and I have decided to give our crock pot a workout this year. We're making our favorite dishes like stew, beef roast, vegetable soup and the like. We run out of new ideas pretty fast...so I did some web surfing and found this:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/S1eH_JcCbpI/AAAAAAAAB0I/poK93917uhs/s1600-h/crockpotbookblue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/S1eH_JcCbpI/AAAAAAAAB0I/poK93917uhs/s1600/crockpotbookblue.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<br />
Here's a great collection of recipes you might want to try. The eBook (PDF format) retails for $11.95 but I'm offering it to you for just $4.95. You get immediate delivery -- so you can start cooking up some goodness today! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/S1eIgLicpYI/AAAAAAAAB0M/YeLXIdvUZY4/s1600-h/crockpottop001.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="70" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_umOp1khV3pQ/S1eIgLicpYI/AAAAAAAAB0M/YeLXIdvUZY4/s320/crockpottop001.png" width="320" /></a><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">eBook -- Ready for Immediate Download!<br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a class="ec_ejc_thkbx" href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?c=cart&i=EB-470CPR&cl=101818&ejc=2" onclick="javascript:return EJEJC_lc(this);" target="ej_ejc"><img alt="Add to Cart" border="0" src="http://www.e-junkie.com/ej/ej_add_to_cart.gif" /></a><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a class="ec_ejc_thkbx" href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?c=cart&cl=101818&ejc=2" onclick="javascript:return EJEJC_lc(this);" target="ej_ejc"><img alt="View Cart" border="0" src="http://www.e-junkie.com/ej/ej_view_cart.gif" /></a><br />
<script language="javascript" type="text/javascript">
<!--function EJEJC_lc(th) { return false; }// -->
</script><br />
<script src="http://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/box.js" type="text/javascript">
</script><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
P.S. Be sure to let me know what your favorite recipe is, okay? <br />
P.P.S. Here's <a href="http://www.topnotchparents.com/mmo/">more info</a> about the recipe collection.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=15939021&postID=8293478455012594451"><img src="http://sites.google.com/site/michaelhawkinsimages/images/MichaelSignature.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0