tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60263980505474486252024-03-13T16:28:45.600-07:00Release Me CreationsRandom crafty mutterings from a silly little procrastinatorMaureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.comBlogger267125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-10743073534486954922014-03-14T06:39:00.002-07:002014-03-14T21:03:52.401-07:00500 Business Card Giveaway from PringKEG and ReleaseMeCreate!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Hellooooooo!!<br />
My goodness, it has been a very long time since the last post. Over the past year, life got a little crazy and the poor blog was selected as the thing I needed to set aside for awhile so I could focus my attentions on the other parts of my world aka designing jewelry for a growing Release Me Creations!<br />
But I am back and ready to jump back into regular blogging! I have lots of DIY projects in the pipeline, some things to reflect upon from this past year, but today I have an AMAZING giveaway from <a href="http://www.printkeg.com/" target="_blank">PRINT KEG</a>! <br />
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<a href="http://www.printkeg.com/wp-content/themes/memex/images/home/new-mrkeg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.printkeg.com/wp-content/themes/memex/images/home/new-mrkeg.png" height="293" width="320" /></a></div>
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Three lucky readers will be receiving 500 business cards from PrintKEG, an online printing company. Yes, you read correctly, THREE lucky winners will win <b>500 </b>fully customizable business cards! <br />
As a small business owner, I carry my business cards with me everywhere I go. Whenever people ask what I do, they always end up asking if I have a card. It's a great way to drive traffic to your website, and to lock in more sales. And all of my packages are sent out with business cards included, sometimes multiples so that they customer can give them to friends should they so choose. So anyone out in the world wanting to represent you, or your business or trade, this giveaway is a perfect fit.<br />
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So now the important part... how to enter!<br />
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3e54181/" id="rc-3e54181" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38px" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-60226064594955065882013-01-30T11:55:00.000-08:002013-01-30T11:55:07.376-08:00Bathroom Renovation Reveal and New Wood Floors in Kitchen!<div style="text-align: center;">
Bathroom Renovation Reveal and New Wood Floors in Kitchen!</div>
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Oh my goodness, it has been ages since I have last blogged. I have been a busy busy girl since returning from Pennsylvania. I needed to get the bathroom finished. Here you can see the Textures Wallpaper up above the chair rail, and the beadboard wallpaper below.</div>
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Here's the ugly cement floor. Yuck. </div>
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I snapped a chalk line, and then also used a string taped to the wall to help me keep my tiles straight.</div>
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You can see the string here. It helped because once that thinset goes on your chalk lines disappear.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RhjhShxFlto/UQlqxNEWa4I/AAAAAAAABYw/FdRXjST_Qyg/s1600/2012-11-04%2B11.33.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RhjhShxFlto/UQlqxNEWa4I/AAAAAAAABYw/FdRXjST_Qyg/s400/2012-11-04%2B11.33.43.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E0MXakQm2Sw/UQlqxkh2jdI/AAAAAAAABY8/6OYduBsnzok/s1600/2012-11-04%2B11.34.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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And then the tile went down. Here's a pic of it up close, all grouted and lovely. I used 12x12 Porcelain Tiles, and then grouted with Natural Gray Grout.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4BaK0vKllAA/UQltIL0-IlI/AAAAAAAABZY/8orue9B23RQ/s1600/20130130_124440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4BaK0vKllAA/UQltIL0-IlI/AAAAAAAABZY/8orue9B23RQ/s400/20130130_124440.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And so after I finished the tiling I stepped back to assess what I had completed so far, and my perfectionist ADD popped up when looking at the Beadboard Wallpaper. Due to the walls being completely destroyed from trying to remove three layers of wallpaper that were applied directly to the drywall wihtout any prep I had to go with the textured wallpaper. The paper above the chair rail worked perfectly...very textured and thick. But the Beadboard Wallpaper was not doing the trick. It was showing the imperfections in the wall, thus showing that it was not true beadboard. So, I then went ahead and replaced it with actual beadboard.</div>
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After that it was time for my mirror! Originally there was a giant mirror in the bathroom and it was just a slab of glass. No border, no anything. So I had to spruce it up, and I decided to do it using Mosaic Wall tiles. I used one sheet of 1x1" tiles, and then one sheet of these hexagonal white tiles for accents on the corner and sides. I used the Epoxy Resin Glue from home depot for max hold.</div>
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Here is is being worked on:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ALBYTiTQUvU/UQlzt6WL-AI/AAAAAAAABZw/LrVUAkvvHas/s1600/MOsaic+Mirror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ALBYTiTQUvU/UQlzt6WL-AI/AAAAAAAABZw/LrVUAkvvHas/s320/MOsaic+Mirror.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I hung the mirror, had my hubby help me install the new sink and toilet. Put up a shelf and decorated it, complete with a little DIY Toilet Message (you'll see in the picture) and I WAS DONE!!! YAY!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-30jvQ_8crTY/UQl0UkApdMI/AAAAAAAABZ4/Pr4YwenivVg/s1600/2013-01-27+22.02.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-30jvQ_8crTY/UQl0UkApdMI/AAAAAAAABZ4/Pr4YwenivVg/s640/2013-01-27+22.02.48.jpg" width="472" /></a></div>
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Yes, it says "Keep Calm and Poop On"Tee hee<img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mBmFDty7u0E/UQl3NxsndJI/AAAAAAAABac/Pkswxj0Svik/s640/20130130_133117.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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So, onto my next project which was waiting in the wings. </div>
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Putting in the wood floors in the kitchen</div>
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dun dun dunnnnnnnh!</div>
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I ordered the Handscraped Hardwood Click Install for ease of installation. And it was fairly easy once things got rolling. Having to measure for some intricate cuts was a bit tricky, especially around door frames, but all-in-all things went very well.</div>
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I'm actually excited to get it installed in the Living Room and Bedrooms next because I love how it looks in the kitchen!</div>
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Here it is going in. You can see the blue <u>Vapor Barrier </u>underneath, and then my essential tools of the rubber block and mallet, plus shims and a measuring tape.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HLYVQdn6IQs/UQl4Sj4ViSI/AAAAAAAABa0/ZNkQrO8j4EQ/s1600/2013-01-26+15.53.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HLYVQdn6IQs/UQl4Sj4ViSI/AAAAAAAABa0/ZNkQrO8j4EQ/s320/2013-01-26+15.53.06.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here is a nighttime picture with the lights on it.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wFUN2OEHXeY/UQl4RdaCMDI/AAAAAAAABas/InjPGre-iD8/s1600/2013-01-27+21.58.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wFUN2OEHXeY/UQl4RdaCMDI/AAAAAAAABas/InjPGre-iD8/s640/2013-01-27+21.58.39.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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And here is a daytime picture:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iw5XkriXmvk/UQl4Tgac-qI/AAAAAAAABa8/FuISR7f5VYY/s1600/2013-01-28+13.15.25.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Iw5XkriXmvk/UQl4Tgac-qI/AAAAAAAABa8/FuISR7f5VYY/s640/2013-01-28+13.15.25.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com79tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-38977451697989169022012-12-11T14:14:00.002-08:002012-12-11T14:14:35.591-08:00Family PainWell, I have been clearly absent in my blogging lately. And I have been hesitant to really say anything regarding the 'why.' Just after Halloween I received a phone call from my Mom. I had missed her call, but I could tell from her message that something was wrong. I called her back immediately and she told me that the doctors had discovered a mass in her Pancreas, and that it was Cancerous. My entire world stopped. I booked a flight home, and have been with her ever since. We have since found out that the Cancer has spread into her Liver and that at this point all we can do is hope to buy some precious time with Chemo.<br />
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It has been a shock to me, and our entire family. Losing my Dad almost exactly 3years ago to Cancer broke me inside. But what really helped to get me through it was my Mom. She was the epitome of strength. And now we are having to face this all over again with her. It is beyond words the sadness we all feel. She is, as always, being very strong. Her faith is never-faltering and the only thing she really worries about is her children being okay. I'm trying my best to just keep a smile on for her, and to keep her comfortable and pain-free. Chemo just began, and we are hopeful that we can have at least some months more with her, who knows maybe more.<br />
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We are all just taking things day by day, and are cherishing every second, every hug, and every smile and laugh. I wish I could just stop time and just hold her forever. She is the most beautiful, amazing, loving and wonderful Mom.<br />
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Please keep her in your prayers, that she can ease through this time with the least amount of pain possible, and that when the time comes she won't have to suffer very badly. <br />
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I love her so much. <br />
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<div><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-27538937822313107112012-11-22T13:56:00.000-08:002012-11-22T13:56:56.153-08:00Black Friday Release Me Creations SUPER SALE<div style="text-align: center;">
Announcing the Black Friday Super Sale for Release Me Creations!<br />
Starting after Midnight tonight! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xpI1Zid30Gk/UK0ahcQ2RnI/AAAAAAAABV0/0qBnVamETmA/s1600/Black+Friday+Coupon+2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xpI1Zid30Gk/UK0ahcQ2RnI/AAAAAAAABV0/0qBnVamETmA/s1600/Black+Friday+Coupon+2012.jpg" /></a></div>
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Not only do you get 40% off of your entire purchase, but you will also receive FREE SHIPPING (United States only for the free shipping offer)</div>
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P.S. I apologize for the lack of blogging lately. I have had some medical family health issues that came about suddenly that my family and I have been tending to. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers.</div>
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-65368022695901176222012-10-31T13:35:00.000-07:002012-10-31T13:35:05.053-07:00Raw Natural Born Artist Dallas Accessory Designer Finalist<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm so very excited about next Wednesday's RAWards Show in Dallas.</div>
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I have to extend my deepest heartfelt thank you to all of my friends, family and supporters who nominated and voted for Release Me Creations for this amazing opportunity.</div>
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I actually had no idea that this was happening behind the scenes as I chose not to promote for the awards, which is why this is even more special to me as an artist and designer. You are the people who I create for, and to have you reflect your support back to me, it is just amazing!</div>
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If you're in Texas next Wednesday, be sure to stop in at the show at the Texas Theatre. It starts at 7pm.</div>
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You can purchase a ticket from my <a href="http://www.rawartists.org/releasemecreations" target="_blank">artist profile page</a>, or at the door!</div>
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If I win I will go on to the finals where I'll be going up against the winners from the other states.</div>
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<strong>ABOUT RAW Natural Born Artists Organization:</strong></div>
In 2003, a small-town girl graduated high school and moved to the big city of Los Angeles, CA. Her only wish was to pursue her life-long dream of becoming a fashion designer. Not wasting any time, she started her own clothing line. She soon realized that she was just one small fish in a very big pond. She sold her pieces at swap meets onthe weekends while going to school full-time, working part-time and interning in the fashion distrcit.<br />
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After a while she thought... "there's got to be a better way to get my work out there."<br />
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Surrounded by new friends and talented people in art, music, performance and film that were facing the same plights, she decided to take matters into her own hands.<br />
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RAW:natural born artists is an independent arts organization, for artists, by artists.<br />
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We're a community made up of creative individuals across the nation.<br />
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Our mission is to provide independent artists within the first 10 years of their career with the tools, resources and exposure needed to inspire and cultivate creativity.<br />
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We welcome all genres of art including independent film, fashion, music, visual art, performing art, hairstylists, makeup artists and more.<br />
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we encourage the creative success of the many visionaries and storytellers of our generation.<br />
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RAW currently operates in 54 cities across the United States & Australia and counting...<br />
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<strong>ABOUT the Annual Indie RAWards Show:</strong></div>
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At the end of the season in October we host our annual RAWards Show. During a two-month process, we ask the community, a panel of judges, and the nation-at-large to vote for their top five favorite artists of the year in film, fashion, music, art, photography, performing art, accessories, hair and makeup. RAW takes that popular vote and narrows down nominees in each city location. The winners from each city then go on to be judged for the final awards. The winners will receive big career-boosting prizes like distribution, store placement, studio time, gallery placement and consultations with industry executives and professionals. It's truly an awesome event with performances and highlights from the RAW season.<br />
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="border: 0pt currentColor !important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-60900820626128763042012-10-21T10:07:00.001-07:002012-10-21T14:42:09.712-07:00Kitchen Renovation<div style="text-align: center;">
As I am sure some readers have noticed, my blog has been neglected recently and there is a very VERY big reason.</div>
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I started the demolition/renovation on the kitchen!</div>
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Last week I pulled up 220sq feet of glued down hardwood. I loved those floors, but after two leaks ruined them we had to say bye bye.</div>
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Here I am starting to pull up in the kitchen. We are putting handscraped hardwood down here. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mWywJHSPk2k/UIQmM-krxbI/AAAAAAAABTA/mVWerLwlXgc/s1600/20121011_112210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mWywJHSPk2k/UIQmM-krxbI/AAAAAAAABTA/mVWerLwlXgc/s400/20121011_112210.jpg" width="300" /> </a></div>
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I did it all with a hammer and a screwdriver. Sounds crazy...it was, but it was also the way that worked best for me. Here's a little demonstration of how I did it board by board. I used my phone propped up, many apologies for the narrow screen.<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/qkaFgXhrTqY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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This about sums up my experience in pulling up 220sq feet of glued down hardwood: </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iOrVi5a1HZg/UIQmzr_hw9I/AAAAAAAABTM/pFWmS2iWtvc/s1600/20121011_114257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iOrVi5a1HZg/UIQmzr_hw9I/AAAAAAAABTM/pFWmS2iWtvc/s400/20121011_114257.jpg" width="300" /> </a></div>
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Mango saying her goodbyes to the last little bit: </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HVyEpajkWlY/UIQnnFBJDLI/AAAAAAAABTY/KvQgzQfQWyo/s1600/20121012_114421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HVyEpajkWlY/UIQnnFBJDLI/AAAAAAAABTY/KvQgzQfQWyo/s400/20121012_114421.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Helping Mama:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t-gVYu7aORA/UIQoA058YKI/AAAAAAAABTk/4WEOYtimxzo/s1600/20121012_114703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t-gVYu7aORA/UIQoA058YKI/AAAAAAAABTk/4WEOYtimxzo/s400/20121012_114703.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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About to be tiled!</div>
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First cut with the wet tile saw...this was fun until I had to do about 20 more...</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W_JI2_3F5og/UIQoYQNlWoI/AAAAAAAABT8/ySo_OmdLPe0/s1600/20121014_125456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W_JI2_3F5og/UIQoYQNlWoI/AAAAAAAABT8/ySo_OmdLPe0/s400/20121014_125456.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Getting there:</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WcF6ZCt_oms/UIQp7VKW0RI/AAAAAAAABUI/8V2NaRWgiNk/s1600/20121017_135155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WcF6ZCt_oms/UIQp7VKW0RI/AAAAAAAABUI/8V2NaRWgiNk/s400/20121017_135155.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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Back buttering the very last tile! YAYAYAYAYAY! </div>
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And in she goes!</div>
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Now time for grouting...ugh</div>
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Stay tuned!</div>
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-60808698635530077382012-10-17T15:22:00.001-07:002012-10-17T16:13:23.445-07:00RAWards Dallas Accessories Finalist<div style="text-align: center;">
I am beside myself right now. I just found out that Release Me Creations is a finalist in the Accessories Category for the RAWards Dallas ! <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oHvWUVI4VYw/UH8t8fAiiLI/AAAAAAAABSk/BiO7n1A3Zbo/s1600/IAMNOMINATED-BADGE_ACCESSORIES_DALLAS+,+TX.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" nea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oHvWUVI4VYw/UH8t8fAiiLI/AAAAAAAABSk/BiO7n1A3Zbo/s1600/IAMNOMINATED-BADGE_ACCESSORIES_DALLAS+,+TX.jpg" /></a></div>
This came as a total shock and surprise. I knew that they were doing these awards for the different artists, and that you could promote for people to nominate and vote for you, but I have such a hard time campaigning for things like this so I just left it alone. But then today I got an e-mail stating that I was a finalist! OH MY GOSH!!<br />
Not only did someone nominate Release Me Creations, but others followed up and voted. I am so honored and excited.<br />
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="border: 0pt currentColor;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-66953250304763119562012-10-10T11:07:00.000-07:002012-10-10T11:37:54.381-07:00RAW Natural Born Artists Holiday RAWk and a Free Necklace from Release Me Creations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.rawartists.org/releasemecreations" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="174" src="http://www.rawartists.org/images/showcases/holidayrawk2012/holidayrawk2012_citybanner.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jTbLzL8FXvI/UHWZDtxGZoI/AAAAAAAABRo/RUUFHCBnqos/s1600/Raw+Flier.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jTbLzL8FXvI/UHWZDtxGZoI/AAAAAAAABRo/RUUFHCBnqos/s640/Raw+Flier.png" width="582" /></a></div>
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<b>This is going to be an AMAZING event filled with uber-talented fashion designers, music artists, painters, sculptors, film makers, jewelry artists, and more! Come out to see the incredible talent, and support your indie arts community. </b></div>
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<b>WHERE</b>: The Texas Theatre</div>
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231 West Jefferson Blvd</div>
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Dallas, TX 75208</div>
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<b>WHEN</b>: Thursday, December 6th</div>
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8pm-Midnight</div>
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<b>HOW</b>: To purchase your ticket, <a href="http://www.rawartists.org/releasemecreations" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> </div>
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In order to receive your free necklace you must purchase your ticket through my <a href="http://www.rawartists.org/releasemecreations" target="_blank">RAW ARTIST PAGE</a>. I will receive a list of all names for all tickets purchased in support of Release Me Creations. You can either pick up your necklace of choice at the event, or I can ship it to you totally free! Thank you again for all of your support!</div>
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<i><b>Here are just a few of the possible designs you can choose from. </b></i></div>
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<i><b>You can see the rest on the <a href="http://www.releasemecreations.com/collections/typography-whimsy" target="_blank">Release Me Creations Website</a>.</b></i></div>
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<a href="http://www.releasemecreations.com/collections/typography-whimsy" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="492" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FNsn5RuQlOw/UHWk-6ldcxI/AAAAAAAABSM/uKpwPXdyRFA/s640/Silhouettes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-50375713328265589722012-09-08T12:01:00.000-07:002012-09-08T12:01:24.336-07:00Top 10 Future DIY Home Improvement Project List<center>
I love lists. They make me feel more in control of my life. There is something comforting to me to see the list of things I want to do, and will hopefully do.<br />
So today I'm making my Top 10 Future DIY Home Improvement Project List. These things might not get done this year, or next year, or the next five years. But I've got time :)<br />
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1) Purchase Hardwood Flooring for Kitchen, Living Room, Master Bedroom and Master Closet (putting this money up is a task in itself)<br />
I love this Handscraped look...we might go a bit darker than this, but with a Great Dane, this will definitely be handscraped/distressed:<br />
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<a href="http://www.builddirect.com/images/addinfoimages/lamton-12mm/red-maple-angle-1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.builddirect.com/images/addinfoimages/lamton-12mm/red-maple-angle-1000.jpg" width="320" /></a></center>
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<a href="http://blog.builddirect.com/what-is-handscraped-wood-flooring/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image Credit</span></a><br />
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2) Install Hardwood Flooring myself...this includes pulling up the hardwood (now ruined) old glued down wood in the kitchen<br />
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3) Finish Half Bath (includes installing Pedestal Sink) I LOVE this one!</center>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WWgEhdMRvp4/UEuNedsMfwI/AAAAAAAABP4/jda4eNl_i80/s1600/sink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WWgEhdMRvp4/UEuNedsMfwI/AAAAAAAABP4/jda4eNl_i80/s320/sink.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.surplus-warehouse.com/" target="_blank">Image Credit</a></span></div>
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4) Make Cushion Covers for Dining Room Chairs, and the Breakfast Nook Cushion</center>
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I'm currently digging these colors & designs. I might add a pop of yellow, or just leave it gray and white:</center>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zW4LnPXnfx4/TPUBXq9H6JI/AAAAAAAADrY/i-tLID_pYa4/s1600/dwell-studio-bella-porte.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zW4LnPXnfx4/TPUBXq9H6JI/AAAAAAAADrY/i-tLID_pYa4/s320/dwell-studio-bella-porte.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.aestheticoiseau.com/2010/11/yellow-chinoiserie-fabric.html" target="_blank">Image Credit</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/spoonflower/public/design_thumbnails/0117/2285/gray_yellow-01_preview.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/spoonflower/public/design_thumbnails/0117/2285/gray_yellow-01_preview.png" width="256" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/1172285" target="_blank">Image Credit</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/spoonflower/public/design_thumbnails/0124/0210/lattice-yellow_shop_preview.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/spoonflower/public/design_thumbnails/0124/0210/lattice-yellow_shop_preview.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.spoonflower.com/fabric/1240210" target="_blank">Image Credit</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ymPSrnEGZI4/T7_IvzZtg0I/AAAAAAAAF9c/wYywtREO_U8/s1600/IpadQuatrefoilGrayWhite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ymPSrnEGZI4/T7_IvzZtg0I/AAAAAAAAF9c/wYywtREO_U8/s320/IpadQuatrefoilGrayWhite.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://makeitcreate.blogspot.com/2012/05/quatrefoillight-gray-with-yellow-aqua.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image Credit</span></a></div>
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5) Decorate Guest Bedrooms...perhaps add some paint and wall art</center>
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6) Re-do Guest Bath...perhaps some faux granite on the countertop?</center>
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7) Re-Do Laundry Room (make it a happy place, with stencilled walls and tile floor)</center>
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Here are a few inspirations:</center>
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<a href="http://www.prettyhandygirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/promo_shot_laundry_rm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.prettyhandygirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/promo_shot_laundry_rm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.prettyhandygirl.com/2012/03/laundry-room-reveal-and-flow-wall-giveaway.html" target="_blank">from Pretty Handy Girl Blog</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MKtL1ZytYQI/UD-BJRkA8OI/AAAAAAAADIc/tEUuLRoUE00/s640/long+striped+wall+laundry+room.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MKtL1ZytYQI/UD-BJRkA8OI/AAAAAAAADIc/tEUuLRoUE00/s320/long+striped+wall+laundry+room.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://sophiasdecor.blogspot.com/2012/08/laundry-room-reveal.html" target="_blank">from Sophia's Blog</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_1IwJSFYdX2s/S1omiIr4GPI/AAAAAAAATek/kh-GPYv00-o/s400/Laundry+room+and+mags+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_1IwJSFYdX2s/S1omiIr4GPI/AAAAAAAATek/kh-GPYv00-o/s320/Laundry+room+and+mags+013.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span id="goog_1741759896"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/">from The House of Smiths Blog<span id="goog_1741759897"></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://media-cache-ec7.pinterest.com/upload/53409945550634121_G90peO3c_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://media-cache-ec7.pinterest.com/upload/53409945550634121_G90peO3c_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/53409945550634088_GhP4uOCb_c.jpg" target="_blank">from Atta Girl Says Blog</a></div>
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8) Add accent wall to bedroom...I think I want to use a textured wallpaper like these from <a href="http://www.grahamandbrown.com/" target="_blank">Graham and Brown</a>:</div>
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<a href="http://media.grahambrown.com/assets/329x405/grahambrown/3d6da6b2-8396-44a5-982d-4cbc62e36683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://media.grahambrown.com/assets/329x405/grahambrown/3d6da6b2-8396-44a5-982d-4cbc62e36683.jpg" width="259" /></a></div>
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9) Install Wood Blinds (purchase first...that's another expensive venture)</div>
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10) New Entryway door (not attempting to install this one on my own...this will be left to a professional)<br />
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WHEW!<br />
I have a lot of projects. But like I said, there's comfort in seeing them listed and knowing that there's no rush to get these done. I'm almost kind of excited about it.<br />
So stay tuned to see as these all unfold (slowly) :)</div>
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="border: 0pt currentColor !important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com56tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-82331117456025220732012-09-06T12:41:00.000-07:002012-09-06T12:50:24.380-07:00Pretty Little Liars Jewelry<center>
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Take a look at the jewelry that is on its way to the stylist of the show Pretty Little Liars!<br />
I chose the darker, more glamorous necklace. I thought that it might fit the mood, and some of the characters better. I hope the stylist agrees! If they love it, you might see one of the characters wearing this necklace on an upcoming episode.</center>
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I am calling it</center>
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"Darkness Falls"<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8H-8O8Z3DHA/UEj6P3GFKAI/AAAAAAAABPI/yTq_HL2kYfU/s1600/Pretty%2BLittle%2BLiars%2BStylist%2BGift%2BBag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8H-8O8Z3DHA/UEj6P3GFKAI/AAAAAAAABPI/yTq_HL2kYfU/s400/Pretty%2BLittle%2BLiars%2BStylist%2BGift%2BBag.jpg" width="272" /></a></div>
<i>The stone is a faceted Black Titanium Druzy Agate. </i></center>
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<i>I braided the chain using silver, gunmetal, and rhinestone chains of varying sizes and shapes to create a dramatic effect. The extension chain has a single faceted Swarovski Comet Argent Light Crystal dangling from it.</i></center>
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<i>Here are a few more views:</i><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K6IfTJWFJ4s/UEj7LzFHjCI/AAAAAAAABPQ/pQNRQdb4OLQ/s1600/00D76E48-F845-11E1-8160-A80D2687441F.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K6IfTJWFJ4s/UEj7LzFHjCI/AAAAAAAABPQ/pQNRQdb4OLQ/s1600/00D76E48-F845-11E1-8160-A80D2687441F.jpg" width="640" /></a></center>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Fnx0qGw_tA/UEj7NJ9AM-I/AAAAAAAABPg/1fAq5jsEB_A/s1600/97379FD2-F847-11E1-BF5E-A80D2687441F.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Fnx0qGw_tA/UEj7NJ9AM-I/AAAAAAAABPg/1fAq5jsEB_A/s1600/97379FD2-F847-11E1-BF5E-A80D2687441F.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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What do you all think? I was definitely torn between this one and the green and gold necklace. I guess I'll find out if it was the right decision.</div>
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Can you see a character wearing this?<br />
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And once again, I owe my gratitude and appreciate for The Artisan Group for affording me these incredible opportunities for Release Me Creations. </div>
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-81643544939227205702012-08-30T09:35:00.000-07:002012-08-30T09:35:42.312-07:00Pretty Little Liars Jewelry Options<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I need your help and opinions!<br />
I have narrowed down the jewelry that I will be sending to the stylist of the hit show Pretty Little Liars. If they love it, you will see my jewelry being worn by one of the gorgeous characters on the show!<br />
<a href="http://cdn02.cdn.justjaredjr.com/wp-content/uploads/headlines/2010/06/pll-premiere-ratings.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn02.cdn.justjaredjr.com/wp-content/uploads/headlines/2010/06/pll-premiere-ratings.jpg" /></a><br />
So, I have narrowed it down to two styles:<br />
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The first is darker, with some drama and glam. The pendant is a
faceted black brown Titanium Druzy Gemstone, and it hangs from a braided
mixture of chains, including tiny square rhinestones, gunmetal curb, and a delicate silver cable chain.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nJ98rXbc35g/UD-DRIdwNdI/AAAAAAAABNY/MQu3B5Lswyo/s1600/PrettyLittleLiarsDRUZYOption.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nJ98rXbc35g/UD-DRIdwNdI/AAAAAAAABNY/MQu3B5Lswyo/s640/PrettyLittleLiarsDRUZYOption.jpg" width="640" /></a> Here's a few close-ups:</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0a-0bq_ipFg/UD-JWU1pEuI/AAAAAAAABNs/ZjI9z4kvA1o/s1600/DSCN7602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="559" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0a-0bq_ipFg/UD-JWU1pEuI/AAAAAAAABNs/ZjI9z4kvA1o/s640/DSCN7602.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N3WAOmoHoo4/UD-JdBYQVZI/AAAAAAAABN0/Z8KhXSZOnTo/s1600/DSCN7603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N3WAOmoHoo4/UD-JdBYQVZI/AAAAAAAABN0/Z8KhXSZOnTo/s400/DSCN7603.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k-FmaBfjO0M/UD-Jh1J9AII/AAAAAAAABN8/TCW6CHSJEj0/s1600/DSCN7605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k-FmaBfjO0M/UD-Jh1J9AII/AAAAAAAABN8/TCW6CHSJEj0/s400/DSCN7605.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The second is a more bohemian necklace. It's a seafoam green geometric glass
pendant contrasting against a light gold chain that hangs in the rosary
fashion. I'm thinking of adding some sort of gold connector at the point where they meet, but right now I'm just in the deciding stages of if this is what I want.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sLWPOX4_gS8/UD-DQyc9FQI/AAAAAAAABNM/8As7Qsj2anA/s1600/PrettyLittleLiarsBLUESEAGLASSOption2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sLWPOX4_gS8/UD-DQyc9FQI/AAAAAAAABNM/8As7Qsj2anA/s640/PrettyLittleLiarsBLUESEAGLASSOption2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jRgB6jpDEtM/UD-RHoOZwJI/AAAAAAAABOs/RgVRRloVYl8/s1600/DSCN7593.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jRgB6jpDEtM/UD-RHoOZwJI/AAAAAAAABOs/RgVRRloVYl8/s320/DSCN7593.JPG" width="320" /></a></center>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hDZHf1lwrkY/UD-Q-MHC2rI/AAAAAAAABOc/DLXWSDX7T7o/s1600/DSCN7591.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hDZHf1lwrkY/UD-Q-MHC2rI/AAAAAAAABOc/DLXWSDX7T7o/s320/DSCN7591.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
I love them both, but am leaning toward the darker more dramatic necklace. My one concern is how the stone will look on camera. My hope is that the lights will dance off of the facets, as well as the crystals that revealed within the stone, so that it doesn't just look like a black blob. I know the blue and gold necklace will really pop with the light gold, and the contrasting blue. I just cannot decide which one!<br />
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What are your thoughts?<br />
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-63233895374299825212012-08-22T14:37:00.001-07:002012-09-07T08:17:26.461-07:00Kitchen Wainscoting, Plus Some New Paint and Curtains<center>The kitchen is on its way to being finished! YIPPEE!<br />
I finished the Wainscoting on the breakfast bar, and then also added a new coat of white paint completing my white kitchen. </center><center><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7556.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7556.jpg" width="300" /></a> </center><center>Then I added some new curtains to the breakfast nook and a new shelf. It's transforming before my eyes!<br />
All I have left is a chair rail and some Beadboard Wallpaper around the entire kitchen, new tile floors, and maybe a new cushion cover for my DIY Breakfast Nook cushions.<br />
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Okay, first things first. Kitchen Breakfast Bar Wainscoting:</center><center>What I used:</center><center>Level</center><center>Hammer</center><center>Tape Measure</center><center>Pencil</center><center>Square Ruler</center><center>1"x1/8" trim molding</center><center>8'x4' fiberboard panels</center><center>Liquid Nails</center><center>Finishing Nails<br />
</center><center>awl</center><center>Paintable Caulk</center><center>Latex Paint & Primer in One</center><br />
Here is is in progress-<br />
<center class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></center><center class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7543.jpg" width="640" /></a></center>The first thing I had to do was measure the entire length and height of the area I was covering. I had to make sure that my boxes were evenly spaced across as well as vertically. This was a bit of a trial and error ON PAPER. I was happy I didn't just slap it up, because even with all of my measuring I found that I had more space on the right then the left when finished.<br />
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After coming up with my measurements, I went with 12" square boxes with 3" inbetween, I put up the fiberboard. I had to do cuts with that as well, and I just used a large handsaw. Put the Liquid Nails on the back, and then slapped it up. I used finishing nails in each corner and a few elsewhere on the board where it felt like it wasn't laying flat.<br />
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<center class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7544.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7544.jpg" width="480" /></a></center><center>I penciled in the outline of the molding before glueing them up, measuring and remeasuring and checking for level over and over.</center><center>I ran into an issue, one I think that is pretty common in all houses, in that the breakfast bar is not completely level, nor is it square to the wall and the floor. I had to make a decision to measure and have the boxes exactly evenly spaced and not in line with one another, or not. I chose to have them all on the same line. What I then had to do was adjust the measurements on the bottom pieces. They actually progressively became a little bit larger across the breakfast bar. But in the end, it's not noticeable at all.</center><center> </center><center>Here's the first coat of paint-<br />
</center><center class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7550.jpg" width="480" /></a></center><center class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7549.jpg" width="640" /></a></center><center> </center><center><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>AND FINISHED!</b></span><br />
</center><center class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7554.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7554.jpg" width="640" /></a></center><center class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7556.jpg" width="600" /></a></center><center class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7555.jpg" width="480" /></a></center><center><br />
Here's the new shelf...thank you Hobby Lobby 50% off! It's covering up two old outlets, a telephone jack and a cable jack. <br />
</center><center class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7557.jpg" width="640" /></a></center><center><br />
Then I added a sheer curtain over the sink:<br />
</center><center class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7558.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7558.jpg" width="480" /></a></center><center><br />
And new Crushed Ombre curtains in the breakfast nook:<br />
</center><center class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7560.jpg" width="640" /></a></center><center><br />
</center><center class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7559.jpg" width="640" /></a></center><center><br />
And here's the new textured border, unfinished. I just added a white wash coat to it to make the design pop and to lighten up the gray a little bit. I'll have finished pics soon :)</center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7553.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7552.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><center><br />
Next on the agenda: Add a chair rail and some beadborad wallpaper, finish the half bath, then either tiling the kitchen floor, or install wood floors! Whohoo!</center><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="border: 0pt currentColor !important;" /></div><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-51736881992517262242012-08-22T14:03:00.000-07:002012-08-22T14:03:02.678-07:00Blue Gold Ocean Bracelet and Earrings for Mariska Hargitay<div style="text-align: center;">
So I finally finished the jewelry that is going to be given to actress Mariska Hargitay! <br />
I designed her a bracelet and earrings that I thought would compliment her gorgeous skin tone. <br />
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<a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/MariskaCollage1a.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/MariskaCollage1a.png" /></a></div>
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The beads are faceted blue and green Dragon Agate rondelles, with petite round faceted Pyrite stones set inbetween. I named the set Blue Gold Ocean, and hope she absolutely loves them! <br />
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They are officially on their way, and will hopefully be in her hands within the next few weeks. <br />
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I'm so very excited for her to receive her bracelet and earrings. She is not only a beautiful and talented woman, but she also supports some amazing causes. Beautiful on the inside as well as the outside...it doesn't get much better than that. I'm so honored to have this opportunity from The Artisan Group to be able to gift her jewelry from Release Me Creations!<br />
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="border: 0pt currentColor !important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-88500239027526419512012-08-21T07:53:00.000-07:002012-08-21T08:02:28.866-07:00Dining Room Redo <center>
I have been a busy little DIY bee recently. I blame this fact for my entire lack of blogging lately. As I finish up these projects I promise to get back into some more regular blogging posts. </center>
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My second project, after <a href="http://releasemecreate.blogspot.com/2012/08/diy-board-and-batten-wainscoting-project.html" target="_blank">Board and Batten Wall 1</a>, and <a href="http://releasemecreate.blogspot.com/2012/08/diy-board-and-batten-wall-2.html" target="_blank">Board and Batten Wall 2</a>, was to redo our dining room. The color in there was absolutely horrific. The previous owners I think had some leftover paint and just slopped it up in the dining room. It was a disgusting reddish almost pinkish brown color that they did under the chair rail. On top was a light beige (which is what our entire first floor consisted of before I got my hands on it)</center>
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Anyway, I decided I wanted to go with a classic gray and white palette. Here are a few befores. Sorry I had already started into the project before I thought about PICTURES!<br />
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AND HERE IS THE AFTER! It looks like a completely different room, with just a few coats of paint and some rearranging of furniture.<br />
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Stay tuned to see my Wainscoting in the Kitchen project. Also on my list is to redo those hideous dining room chairs seen in the pictures above.<br />
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="border: 0pt currentColor !important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-58462827389297954602012-08-09T10:03:00.000-07:002012-08-09T10:03:09.836-07:00DIY Board and Batten Wall #2<center>Yippee! Wall #2 of my Board and Batten Project is complete!<br />
After I finished the wall in the Living Room, I decided that it would make everything look more complete if I also did the entryway wall. You can see the original project <a href="http://releasemecreate.blogspot.com/2012/08/diy-board-and-batten-wainscoting-project.html">HERE</a>. I actually still have one wall to do, but we are going to be re-hanging a door so I'm going to wait until that is finished so that my hard work isn't damaged in the process.<br />
So here's the Entryway #2 Wall BEFORE:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7509.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Here it is going up:<br />
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I had thought this wall would be a piece of cake, due to the fact that I had already done the first one. Unfortunately that was not the case. I had a lot more intricate measurements and cutouts to make due to my decision to wrap it into the windows. This also posed for some nightmares when I was trying to make sure the battens were going on level and in line with the others. <br />
This is how I made sure everything stayed put when I was nailing it:<br />
After I made my measurements, and drew my lines I added brad nails so the batten wouldn't slip...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7519.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Paint going on:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7530.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7535.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7531.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7537.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>You can see the one tiny wall I have left, leading into the Master Bedroom, but it will have to wait until that door is replaced.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7534.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Here's a Sneak Peak at my next project:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/DSCN7538.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>This old, outdated light fixture is OUT! I'll be hanging a new chandelier myself! And I'm going to be doing some creative wiring so that I don't have to climb to the top of the Cathedral Ceiling to replace it. This one could get dicey!<br />
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Then to the kitchen: I'm adding a texture border and painting the kitchen white. After that it's time to replace our kitchen wood floor with tile (RIP WOOD FLOORS) Awhile back we had a break in a pipe which resulted in two giant holes being ripped out of our wood floors. WAH. But I'm excited about the tile.<br />
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Then the living room & bedroom: We'll be looking to replace the carpeting in our living room and bedroom with **HOPEFULLY** hardwood. WHEW! We're on a renovation roll!!</center><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-2062804204443334162012-08-02T09:15:00.002-07:002012-08-02T09:15:34.952-07:00DIY Board and Batten Wainscoting Project<center>
I'm back! Whew, I know it has been a LONG time since posting, and I sincerely apologize. But, as promised I am ready to post my DIY Board and Batten Wainscoting Project!<br />
So, our living room wall has been bugging me for awhile. It was just so bla. And our entire first floor is one color. So I have been trying to figure out a way to update it and make it amazing. <br />
My answer was DIY Board and Batten!<br />
Hover your mouse over the image below to see the before magically change to the after!<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/TARGET%20URL%20GOES%20HERE"><img height="371" onmouseout="this.src='http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/BEFORE1.jpg'" onmouseover="this.src='http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/AFTER1.jpg'" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/BEFORE1.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
And the side view:<br />
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We like to call it our "Wedding Wall" as it's all pictures from our St. Lucia wedding. Which, funny enough, yesterday was our 4th Wedding Anniversary! Perfect timing for a finished project.<br />
Anyway, I researched and tried to make this the cheapest yet most striking renovation possible. My total for everything was <b>only $150!!! </b> But it looks so much more expensive. I love it!<br />
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<b>Here's what I used:</b><br />
4x6 Paneling (Fiberboard $8.56/panel)<br />
MDF Bender Boards (1.98 each...come in 8ft lengths<br />
Liquid Nails <br />
Brad Nails <br />
Molding (Crown and Cove)<br />
Paint + Primer (Glidden)<br />
Nail Setter <br />
Nail Hole Filler <br />
Caulk<br />
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First I put up the paneling using Liquid Nails and Brad Nails for reinforcement. I WAS NOT lucky enough to own a nail gun so those puppies went in nail by nail with good ole' elbow grease. I also used this fabulous tool called a "Nail Setter" which recessed the nails without me having to hammer onto the paneling causing further dents and marks.<br />
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I had to do cutouts for our Security System, Thermostat, and outlets. Here's what my measurements for those looked like:<br />
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After the paneling went up it was time to add the MDF Bender Boards. I did the horizontal boards first, lining the bottom and top. Here is halfway through:<br />
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Then I did the vertical. I decided to cover the cracks instead of having to cover those with spackle. So my measurements were based on that. The very last board at the far left was a bit smaller due to this, but I didn't really care too much as the curtains cover it. The smaller horizontal boards went in last:<br />
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Next up, shelf time. I used a 1x2 Pine Board as the base with Cove Molding attached to the front of that to help support the Crown Molding piece. I attached all with Liquid Nails, and then Brad nails as support. The Crown Molding pieces then rested nicely on top creating the shelf. Then just some Liquid Nails and a few Brad nails to ensure it would stay put.<br />
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I also decided to wrap the Board and Batten all the way around into the hallway leading to our bedroom. I thought it made it look more complete.<br />
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And here is one half of the Peanut Gallery. She was super enthused:<br />
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And three coats of paint later...our finished Wedding Wall:<br />
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Here you can see the small shelf. I didn't want it to stick out too much, so this was perfect for me:<br />
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So after the success of this, and my extreme love for how it looks, I will also be doing this on the entryway wall, so it will continue the entire length of this part of our house. I'll also continue it into the bedroom hallway to complete the entire look. OOOOH, I'm so excited! Here's the wall that's getting it next. Stay tuned to see it unveiled hopefully next week.<br />
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OH! And one more thing. As this project finished up, I was on a roll and decided to do the dining room. I'll be unveiling that project tomorrow. Not Board and Batten, but a pretty dramatic transformation nonetheless.</center>
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<b>Here's my list of planned projects:</b></center>
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1) Extend Board and Batten Wall to Entryway</center>
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2) Add Chair Rail and Beadboard Wallpaper to Master Bath</center>
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3) Paint Kitchen White to match my cabinets</center>
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4) Paint Living Room Ceiling Fan (it's gold and brown....ick)</center>
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Stay tuned to see how I complete all of these on a budget! </center>
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-35381850680626488412012-07-20T22:47:00.001-07:002012-07-20T22:47:52.901-07:00Get Creative With Color and Contests from Astrobrights!
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<p>This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of <a rel='nofollow' href='http://app.socialspark.com/disclosure_clicks?oid=8214083'>Astrobrights Papers by Neenah Paper</a>. All opinions are 100% mine.</p>
<p style='text-align: center;'> So it's almost that time of year again!</p>
<p style='text-align: center;'> <strong> BACK TO SCHOOL!!!</strong></p>
<p style='text-align: center;'> I cannot believe that the summer is flying by so quickly. As you all have noticed, I have been MIA lately due to the business of Summer. And now here it is almost over! I always pay attention to the back to school countdowns, I cannot help it. After teaching for five years I still get that excited feeling when the school year is right around the corner even though I'm not in the public schools anymore.</p>
<p style='text-align: center;'> Today I have something else for you to be excited about, two things actually. They both come from <a rel='nofollow' href='http://app.socialspark.com/clicks?lid=22953&oid=8214083'>AstroBrights papers</a>.</p>
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<p style='text-align: center;'> And how about this for a fun color palette! And look at those names, how fun!</p>
<p style='text-align: center;'> </p>
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<p style='text-align: center;'> And how fun are these note pads?</p>
<p style='text-align: center;'> <img style='width: 417px; height: 479px;' src='http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/upload/73746512618539559_AyOrMhp2_f.jpg' alt=''/></p>
<p style='text-align: center;'> Okay, back to the Sweepstakes. The Give a Brighter Year Sweepstakes from Astrobrights is a chance to win $30,000 in supplies for the school your children attend, or a school of your choice (for you non-Mommies out there). </p>
<p style='text-align: center;'> All you need to do is head to their Facebook Page <a href='https://www.facebook.com/Astrobrights/app_484200854928184'>HERE</a>. Be sure to LIKE them first, and then enter your information for your chance to win!</p>
<p style='text-align: center;'> BUT, there is a <strong>SECOND CONTEST! </strong></p>
<p style='text-align: center;'> They are also sponsoring the Make Something Contest, where you can win a Visa Gift Cards! YES PLEASE!! All you have to do is find something that could be made better <a href='http://www.neenahpaper.com/Home/FinePaper/WausauPapers/RetailConsumer/ASTROBRIGHTSPapers/BrightColoredPaper'>Astrobrights Papers</a>. FUN! This is perfect for the Pinterest addicts out there. Get the whole family involved, turn it into a treasure hunt. Once you find something you simply submit the link. HOW EASY IS THAT? Head <a href='https://www.facebook.com/Astrobrights/app_295271840570116'>HERE </a>to read more and submit your link. Be sure to click LIKE if you are not already a fan.</p>
<p style='text-align: center;'> And be sure to share your finds with the Astrobrights community on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/Astrobrights'>FB</a>, <a href='https://twitter.com/Astrobrightsfun'>Twitter</a>, and Pinterest. You can use the HASHTAG #goastrobrights</p>
<p style='text-align: center;'> <a rel='nofollow' href='http://app.socialspark.com/clicks?lid=22953&oid=8214083'>AstroBrights papers</a></p>
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Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-21795417323342433692012-07-20T11:38:00.000-07:002012-07-20T11:38:14.509-07:00MIA again...BUT New Upcoming DIY Project Looming<div style="text-align: center;">
Okay, I have the same excuse as always, so I will spare you the bla bla bla I'm busy speech.</div>
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BUT I will let you in on a little DIY Project, okay a BIG DIY PROJECT I have looming. </div>
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Right now I am figuring out measurments and budget but I am super excited to get started!</div>
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I'm going to give you some visual hints, that have also served as my inspiration. Without further ado...</div>
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<a href="http://c497280.r80.cf2.rackcdn.com/2011/06/hello-newmans-board-and-batten_thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="http://c497280.r80.cf2.rackcdn.com/2011/06/hello-newmans-board-and-batten_thumb.jpg" width="558" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2011/06/page/3/">Image Credit</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_zsE10Cz3Pu0/TTiG94dD0iI/AAAAAAAACFk/18pBRlFnZrs/IMG_1894_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_zsE10Cz3Pu0/TTiG94dD0iI/AAAAAAAACFk/18pBRlFnZrs/IMG_1894_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="531" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://mygreenbraecottage.blogspot.com/p/family-room-board-and-batten.html">Image Credit</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_02191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://tatertotsandjello.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/img_02191.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://tatertotsandjello.com/2010/11/guest-project-build-diy-steel-and.html">Image Credit</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-HE0U8pN2BJ4/TWqA_n5geiI/AAAAAAAADts/0r6ZzitUaG8/s640/2011+February+board+and+batten+cathedral+end4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-HE0U8pN2BJ4/TWqA_n5geiI/AAAAAAAADts/0r6ZzitUaG8/s640/2011+February+board+and+batten+cathedral+end4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://blueclearskies.blogspot.com/2011/02/kitchen-board-and-batten-continues.html">Image Credit</a></span></div>
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-78334157595113383322012-07-09T12:49:00.001-07:002012-07-09T12:49:40.610-07:00Guess What Parks and Recreation Star is Receiving Jewelry from Release Me Creations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<center><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Release Me Creations is Sending Jewelry to Actress and Comedienne Amy Poehler</b></span>!<br />
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<a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a9/Amy_Poehler_by_David_Shankbone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a9/Amy_Poehler_by_David_Shankbone.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Amy_Poehler_by_David_Shankbone.jpg" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit </span></a></center><center>OhmanOhmanOhman!<br />
Excited is an understatement.<br />Parks and Recreation star Amy Poehler is going to be receiving and hopefully rocking all around town some of my jewelry. I'm so ecstatic to have yet another opportunity to get my jewelry into the hands of someone who is not only famous, but beautiful and funny to boot! I have The Artisan Group to thank, yet again, for this incredible opportunity. I feel so blessed!</center><center><br />
So what is she getting?<br />Well, this one was a bit of a challenge. I did a little Google Image search of her photos and realized that she is not much of a necklace wearer, but rather more of an earring girl. And her earrings tend to be a bit dangly, with a bit of bling which immediately made me thing of my petite Titanium Druzy teardrop stones. But I still wanted her to have a necklace from Release Me Creations.</center><center> </center><center>So here is the final verdict: </center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/AmyPoehlerNecklaceEarrings-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/AmyPoehlerNecklaceEarrings-1.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
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These stones are so very pretty. They are small too, each measuring approximately 1/2" x 1/4" </div>
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The earrings are post backs, and hang own about 1.5" from the ears.</div>
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The necklace has a single Titanium Druzy stone that is set upon a bright silver bail. The chain is an 18" Sterling Silver with a lobster clasp closure.</div>
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So what do you guys think? Do you think she'll love them? I sure hope so!</div>
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-42736653517806227102012-07-08T16:09:00.001-07:002012-07-08T16:09:43.707-07:00SORRY!<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh dear! I have been a very very bad blogger recently.</div>
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Ever since I came home from my Pennsylvania trip I feel like I have been running in 17 different directions. I had to finish up a Fab.com sale, which went excellently, and then had a lot of other orders to fill, which is always a fabulous problem to have.</div>
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Then I had family visiting all week this past week.</div>
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So today I will give you a little PA visit photo collage....and a promise to TRY to be a better blogger :)</div>
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<a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/PAVISIT.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="800" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/PAVISIT.png" width="560" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/PAVISIT2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j301/Moestar25/PAVISIT2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-56757820647703438922012-06-29T09:08:00.002-07:002012-06-29T09:08:46.670-07:00Fresh Fridays on Release Me Create Blog<br />
<center><i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Good Morning and welcome to another edition of Fresh Fridays on Release Me Create Blog!</b></span></i><br />
I had a lovely time this past week, visiting with friends and family back in Pennsylvania. I'm going to do a little post later with pictures of my visit.<br />
ANYHOO...<br />
Let's get started with last week's freshest...<br />
Map Printables from <a href="http://blog.organized-living-solutions.com/2012/06/forest-creatures-diy.html">Creative Chaos</a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PY5PaNCTK1c/T9B3miQ5C-I/AAAAAAAAEBY/vg-VlWgs7j8/s1600/wald2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PY5PaNCTK1c/T9B3miQ5C-I/AAAAAAAAEBY/vg-VlWgs7j8/s400/wald2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Fabric Napkin Rings from <a href="http://www.vixenmade.com/2012/06/fabric-napkin-rings.html">Vixen Made</a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NS5q1kgapKQ/T91dRRmnDVI/AAAAAAAAGDk/5WzkFHkrP6s/s640/napkin+ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NS5q1kgapKQ/T91dRRmnDVI/AAAAAAAAGDk/5WzkFHkrP6s/s400/napkin+ring.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
RE-Done Owls from <a href="http://shabbygals.blogspot.com/2012/06/upgraded-owls.html">Shabby Gals</a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qcPubd121ZI/T9_o5rGHEsI/AAAAAAAAA1I/WFCnc9nHAGo/s320/IMG_4308%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qcPubd121ZI/T9_o5rGHEsI/AAAAAAAAA1I/WFCnc9nHAGo/s400/IMG_4308%5B1%5D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Hot Saucicles from <a href="http://shakentogether.blogspot.com/2012/06/hotsauce-icles-or-hot-sauce-popsicles.html">Shaken Together</a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ccFqB01OAI/T95f7o9v80I/AAAAAAAACKA/vX8BOnUZPAM/s400/hotsaucesicles+main+BLOG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="354" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ccFqB01OAI/T95f7o9v80I/AAAAAAAACKA/vX8BOnUZPAM/s400/hotsaucesicles+main+BLOG.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
New Blue Dresser from <a href="http://acoupleofcraftaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/06/kids-dresser-redo.html">A Couple of Craft Addicts</a><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YBPJ9wy-hBI/T9_nIeqfofI/AAAAAAAAHxU/Ktj9PTaNvO8/s320/IMG_4259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YBPJ9wy-hBI/T9_nIeqfofI/AAAAAAAAHxU/Ktj9PTaNvO8/s400/IMG_4259.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
YOUR TURN!<br />
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-17936599191640423882012-06-24T13:27:00.002-07:002012-06-24T13:27:28.285-07:00Release Me Creations Fab.com Sale!<br />
<center>Release Me Creations' Fab.com sale got underway this morning at 11am EST and within 10 minutes almost all of my gemstone pieces were sold out!<br />
At this rate I'll be wanting to line up another Fab sale ASAP! I'm so excited, and super flattered at the love that has been shown so far.<br />
And there are three more days to go!<br />
Now, I still have a few Gemstone pieces, and plenty of Whimsical Pendants and Rings left, so if anyone is interested they are available at FANTASTIC PRICES!<br />
The sale will run until 2pm EST Wednesday 6/27. You cand head <a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">HERE </a>to check out the full spread.<br />
Take a peak at what is left:<br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Pyrite Necklace Pink</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160572-300x300-1340139676-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160572-300x300-1340139676-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Geometric Pyrite Cube Necklace</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160550-300x300-1340139946-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160550-300x300-1340139946-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Round Pyrite Necklace</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160551-300x300-1340139667-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160551-300x300-1340139667-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Fire Agate Necklace</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160549-300x300-1340139483-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160549-300x300-1340139483-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Petite Amethyst Necklace</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160548-300x300-1340139817-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160548-300x300-1340139817-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Dream Necklace</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160538-300x300-1340139711-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160538-300x300-1340139711-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Soar Necklace</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160539-300x300-1340141431-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160539-300x300-1340141431-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Dreamer Necklace</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160540-300x300-1340139763-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160540-300x300-1340139763-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Born This Way Necklace</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160542-300x300-1340139689-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160542-300x300-1340139689-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Past is an Anchor Necklace</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160541-300x300-1340139576-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160541-300x300-1340139576-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Dream Ring</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160543-300x300-1340139741-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160543-300x300-1340139741-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Soar Ring</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160547-300x300-1340139997-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160547-300x300-1340139997-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Just Breathe Ring</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160546-300x300-1340139726-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160546-300x300-1340139726-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Soar Ring</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160544-300x300-1340139613-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160544-300x300-1340139613-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">Born this Way Ring</a><br />
<a href="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160545-300x300-1340139828-primary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/static.fab.com/product/160545-300x300-1340139828-primary.png" width="300" /></a><br />
<br />
To purchase any of these pieces you can head on over to <a href="http://fab.com/">Fab.com</a>, and find Release Me Creations.<br />
Or just click <a href="http://fab.com/sale/7354/" target="_blank">HERE </a>to go right to my page on the site!<br />
If you have any questions, please shoot me an e-mail at ReleaseMeCreations {at} hotmail {dot} com<br />
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-75193293246705664302012-06-22T06:52:00.002-07:002012-06-22T06:53:09.927-07:00Fresh Friday Link Party on Release Me Create Blog & a Winner!<br />
<br />
<center>First things first, a winner for the Print Runner 250 Business Card Giveaway...<br />
and the winner is...<br />
<br />
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/" id="rc-3e54180">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js">
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">To see the rafflecopter results just login to the widget</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b> </b></i></span></center><center><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><b>DIANE P!!</b></i></span><br />
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I will be contacting you shortly!<br />
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Now, onto the party...here's last week's best:<br />
<b> </b></center><center><b>Mini Chalk Pots from <a href="http://thediydreamer.blogspot.ca/2012/06/chalk-pots.html">The DIY Dreamer</a></b><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q9MkxZDtEDk/T9jkvSeCW4I/AAAAAAAACNQ/sjLCh5otwK4/s1600/SH105435-30.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q9MkxZDtEDk/T9jkvSeCW4I/AAAAAAAACNQ/sjLCh5otwK4/s400/SH105435-30.png" width="400" /></a><br />
<b>Marble Painting from <a href="http://acoupleofcraftaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/06/kids-craft-week-marble-painting.html">A Couple of Craft Addicts</a></b><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qgfNXwJMfMA/T9kTwcH1pcI/AAAAAAAAHvI/VllA-FFs0hc/s320/IMG_4207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qgfNXwJMfMA/T9kTwcH1pcI/AAAAAAAAHvI/VllA-FFs0hc/s320/IMG_4207.JPG" width="214" /></a><br />
<b>Upcycled Blue Bottle from <a href="http://shabbygals.blogspot.com/2012/06/old-bottles-redone.html">Shabby Gals</a></b><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lDhLiLAPT98/T9uSphMwDII/AAAAAAAAA0M/EEer2H-_ZDU/s320/chairsbookend+birdhouses+052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lDhLiLAPT98/T9uSphMwDII/AAAAAAAAA0M/EEer2H-_ZDU/s400/chairsbookend+birdhouses+052.jpg" width="217" /></a><br />
<b>Glittered Trophies from <a href="http://shabbygals.blogspot.com/2012/06/glittered-trophies.html">Shabby Gals</a></b><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_m5Sidx0tYk/T9Xl0Lk3ISI/AAAAAAAAAzE/xB72CzB-JWk/s320/IMG_4394%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_m5Sidx0tYk/T9Xl0Lk3ISI/AAAAAAAAAzE/xB72CzB-JWk/s400/IMG_4394%5B1%5D.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
YOUR TURN!<br />
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-67960111986506673172012-06-19T11:22:00.000-07:002012-06-19T11:22:50.138-07:00Red Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do<br />
<center>So today's post is a bit of a non-crafty, non-jewelry-related, non-DIY brag session.<br />
On Saturday I earned my RED BLACK BELT in Tae Kwon Do!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/282228_4121448596163_2047970529_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/282228_4121448596163_2047970529_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It is a HUGE accomplishment for me. As I have advanced in belts, each new set of curriculum and subsequently each test has become exponentially harder and more complicated (as it should). I was SO nervous for this test. And on top of it all, my instructor invited his old black belt instructors. So I had eyes on me who had no idea who I was, and had never interacted with me before, talk about PRESSURE TO PERFORM!<br />
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And, to add to my anxiety, one of the Black Belts was a girl. I was the only female advanced belt for the test, so I knew that I had a target on my back. I was so nervous to spar her. We lined up, and in my head I thought, alright time to bring it, and I definitely did. Okay, I'm about to sound really arrogant in a second, but we started sparring and she threw a round kick and I performed an "inward forearm block" which basically blocked the kick in the direction it was going so what happened was she kept going and almost fell and she let out a little bit of an "oh!" I was shocked, and then scared for the wrath. She definitely came at me after that, but I held my own! Okay, bragging done. I was just very proud of myself for bringing it and not backing down.</center><center></center><center> </center><center>Here I am breaking 3 boards with a Reverse Punch:</center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwqxLvvAHzS6CS73R37KMkINKp1T9R3ub5gXJPwJccoiYjBc3hCLKd2YtuC2ryqdqDRCTHYUIbDtoB7eyC82g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<center></center><center> </center><center> Looking back, I cannot say that I had nothing to be nervous about. I will continue to be nervous, especially as I am very close to Black now. I will have at least 3 stripe tests on Red Black before I can test for Black, but I am getting there! <br />
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
<a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BTYD2-4G5JR-41TKM" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" border="0" height="38px" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145px" /></a>Maureenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02377908952729936775noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6026398050547448625.post-88163144265247202202012-06-15T11:05:00.001-07:002012-06-15T11:05:19.438-07:00<br />
<center><b>HAPPY FRESH FRIDAY ON RELEASE ME CREATE BLOG!</b><br />
Many apologies for missing last week. It was a hectic one, full Poison Oak and lots of itching, and then I had to teach Karate Camp from 8am-9pm all week so needless to say I was exhausted and itchy.<br />
And before we get started, I'd like to ask your help in getting Fresh Fridays back on track. The entries have been waning recently (and I know it doesn't help that I missed last week) but I want to try to ramp it back up! So if you know of some great tutorials, or projects out there, don't hesitate to send them my way!</center><center> I want to keep the party going, but I also don't want you to feel like you're not getting any exposure.<br />Anyway, let's get it rolling, check out these fresh projects from two weeks ago</center><center> Thimble Garden Necklace from<a href="http://shakentogether.blogspot.com/2012/05/create-this-thimble-garden-necklace.html"> Shaken Together</a></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JQRqI92uQi0/T7lCy5ey5aI/AAAAAAAAB6g/AMYlYhXK5xQ/s640/thimble+garden+necklace+BLOG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JQRqI92uQi0/T7lCy5ey5aI/AAAAAAAAB6g/AMYlYhXK5xQ/s400/thimble+garden+necklace+BLOG.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<center><br />
Table Runner from <a href="http://avsusanne.blogspot.com/2012/05/tablerunner-with-spring-feeling.html">Av Susanne</a><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JSeIL_PuzZg/T7c0vgVOZgI/AAAAAAAABZE/_QEhl9e6-T8/s640/gr%25C3%25B8nn+duk+bak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JSeIL_PuzZg/T7c0vgVOZgI/AAAAAAAABZE/_QEhl9e6-T8/s400/gr%25C3%25B8nn+duk+bak.jpg" width="265" /></a><br />
DIY Poster from <a href="http://blog.organized-living-solutions.com/2012/05/poster-diy.html">Creative Chaos</a><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LRo-CtEs7aU/T7TqQoiS0BI/AAAAAAAADwQ/VdlBP1PFJkc/s1600/rasta3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LRo-CtEs7aU/T7TqQoiS0BI/AAAAAAAADwQ/VdlBP1PFJkc/s400/rasta3.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
Butterfly Jumper from <a href="http://www.blogger.com/acoupleofcraftaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/05/butterfly-jumper.html">A Couple of Craft Addicts</a><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zhf3m2AEcSo/T8FizLe4WAI/AAAAAAAAHn8/LQi0c33__ZE/s320/IMG_3983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zhf3m2AEcSo/T8FizLe4WAI/AAAAAAAAHn8/LQi0c33__ZE/s400/IMG_3983.JPG" width="267" /></a><br />
<b>YOUR TURN!!!</b><br />
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<img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/205/49CDC7B662F14107E0FA6A31D2D6CDB9.png" style="background: none repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; border: 0pt none ! important;" /></div>
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