Another Giveaway

I want to remember this giveaway because I may just ask for one of these for my birthday or Christmas. I would get one of the charms with Nathaniel's name on it and add on for other babes. Check out the giveaway at Tater Tots and Jello!

DownEast Giveaway!

I love DownEast Outfitters. I actually went shopping there this weekend with Kari and bought two really cute skirts. And now, they're having a GIVEAWAY on Tatertots and Jello (check out the side bar for the link). Go check it out! I'd love to win!

Roman Blinds

I finally got E's roman shade up! It turned out very cute (as long as you don't notice that it is not sitting quite straight). I used a tutorial in an old Sunset drapery book my mom has. You can tell the book was made in the 70's! I didn't want to type up all the directions (there are a lot) so I am linking to a lady who already did.

http://jenduncan.typepad.com/whats_new/2008/11/roman-blind-tutorial-in-20-pictures-or-less.html

A few things:

Her blinds are pretty small so she only use 2 columns of rings. I suggest 3-4 columns.

I did not use brass rings. If you are only making one shade, individual rings are way cheaper and look more professional. If you are making many shades, get the ring tape. It's worth the money when you don't want to spend literally HOURS sewing on each individual ring.

I didn't use a metal rod. I used a dowel. So much cheaper.

Her directions are a little different. Mine has some crazy hems going on. I think mine look better but hers look loads easier. Plus, no one sees the back (usually)!

I am no seamstress (although I am a lot better than I was last week) and mine turned out pretty good. Don't be intimidated! BUT, do be prepared to spend more than you think. For all my shades (I did one in E's room and I am doing 4 for the living room/kitchen area) it would have been cheaper to buy them. Not as cute, but cheaper. And that is why I did it. Oh well. At least they are snazzy.


So without further ado, I give you my first roman shade! (And first REAL sewing all by myself, with only 1 use of the seam ripper):

(sorry about the picture quality)

Teacher-Approved Playdough

This is the playdough recipe I use for my kindergartners. I made it this morning for Elinor and she loves it.


2 cups flour
1 cup salt
2 TBSP vegetable oil
4 tsp cream of tarter
2 cups water
Food coloring of choice

Place all ingredients in medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and forms a ball (this only takes a minute or two).


Remove from pan and cool on counter.


When cool (I don't let it completely cool, but mostly), knead for 1 minute. Store in air tight container.