tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1363671535119140882024-03-19T23:39:14.502-05:00Seven Lovely ThingsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.comBlogger246125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-58591773604304410182016-05-31T00:00:00.000-05:002016-05-31T07:22:54.391-05:00Symphony Appreciation Weekend in San AntonioDid you know that this upcoming weekend, June 3-5 will be the last concerts of the San Antonio Symphony's 2015-2016 season? To honor the Symphony for a great year, there are great opportunities to hear them this weekend at the Symphony Appreciation Weekend. Check it out!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6oWKaVtuPn4/V0zycuV5R6I/AAAAAAAAH4g/DiiLOTxLjLkUnyEF3p955_8lVuusFGKnwCLcB/s1600/Simulcast%2BPhoto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6oWKaVtuPn4/V0zycuV5R6I/AAAAAAAAH4g/DiiLOTxLjLkUnyEF3p955_8lVuusFGKnwCLcB/s400/Simulcast%2BPhoto.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My top pick is the FREE Simulcast and Paint to Music Contest!</div>
<b>Here's the official info: </b><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><br /><i>Enjoy
a free simulcast at the Tobin Center Riverwalk Plaza of the San Antonio
Symphony’s performance of the Beethoven Violin Concerto followed by
Mahler’s monumental “Titan” Symphony at the Tobin Center for the
Performing Arts on <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_535867963" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Friday, June 3, 2016</span></span>.<br /><br />During the simulcast, there will be a public Paint to Beethoven contest to be enjoyed by all ages!!<br />Top prize winners will be awarded a family 4-pack to a 2016-2017 season San Antonio Symphony concert.<br /></i></span></span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i>Evening event schedule is as follows:</i></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_535867964" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">7:00pm</span></span>:
Art contest registration and check-in. Pre-concert activities including
door prizes for San Antonio Symphony tickets and merchandise and
children’s activities. </i></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_535867965" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">8:00</span></span>:
Simulcast of the San Antonio Symphony performance of Beethoven’s Violin
Concerto and creation of art works by art contest participants</i></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_535867966" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">8:50pm</span></span> Intermission: judging of art contest and awards to top winners </i></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_535867967" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">9:10pm</span></span>: Simulcast of the closing half of the San Antonio Symphony performance of Mahler’s “Titan” Symphony</i></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_535867968" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">10:00pm</span></span>: Event conclusion</i></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i>The evening will also feature:</i></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i>—Drawings of San Antonio Symphony door prizes throughout the event</i></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i>—An Art Auction of student art pieces from the 2016 Paint to Music Contest hosted by the San Antonio Symphony League</i></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://sasymphony.org/donations-support/special-events&source=gmail&ust=1464746091327000&usg=AFQjCNFPT_1quCDNJVvH00_xuaR7XCE56A" href="http://sasymphony.org/donations-support/special-events" target="_blank">http://sasymphony.org/<wbr></wbr>donations-support/special-<wbr></wbr>events</a>/</i></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i>The FREE simulcast is sponsored by our friends at H-E-B. </i></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i>Entry to the Plaza will begin at <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_535867969" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">7:00 p.m.</span></span></i></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i>Please, no outside food, drinks, or pets.</i></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;">This looks like a great, fun evening! If you are interested in being indoors, there's an opportunity below for you too!</span></span></span></span><br />
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And the concert!<br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><b>Beethoven Violin Concerto & Mahler's "Titan" Symphony</b><br /><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_535867960" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">June 3 & 4, 2016</span></span>, <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_535867961" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">8:00 p.m.</span></span> | <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_535867962" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">June 5, 2016, 2:00 p.m.</span></span><br />H-E-B Performance Hall at The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts<br />Sebastian Lang-Lessing, conductor<br />Augustin Hadelich, violin<br />Beethoven Violin Concerto<br />Mahler Symphony No. 1, “Titan”<br />2016
Grammy winner, German-born, American-trained violinist Augustin
Hadelich brings both “fast-fingered virtuosity” and “musicality and
free-wheeling fantasy that cannot be taught” (The New Yorker) to the
immortal Beethoven Violin Concerto. The season’s closing program also
features Music Director Sebastian Lang-Lessing, summoning expanded
forces of the San Antonio Symphony in one of his signature works, Gustav
Mahler’s elemental Symphony No. 1, “Titan,” which Mahler called “music
in search of a victory!”</span></span></span></span></i></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;">Families
can receive up to 50 percent off using promo code: BEETHOVEN <a href="https://goo.gl/RyhcKR" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></i></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></i></span></span></span></span>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;">Want to take a chance and try to WIN FREE tickets for the Sunday, June 5th at 2pm concert ? Check out my giveaway below!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></b></i></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt;"><i> </i></span></span></span></span><a class="rcptr" data-raflid="530bd43a3" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/530bd43a3/" id="rcwidget_ues7osff" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-1825436951467064052016-05-05T22:22:00.000-05:002016-05-05T22:22:07.317-05:00Battle For Texas: A New San Antonio Alamo Adventure!<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">Spoiler alert: I cried at the end.</span></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">Last week I was invited to preview the new <a href="http://battlefortexas.com/" target="_blank"><b>Battle For Texas: The Experience</b></a> with my children. In exchange for this blog post, I will be given one admission ticket. Below is my <b>opinion </b>of this new exhibit.</span></span></i></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hTJNHhg8UyE/VywMJ4pVjfI/AAAAAAAAH3c/7gB4vbgY5ZQEeR8jWRw54IM7yej0oOjVgCKgB/s1600/image1%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hTJNHhg8UyE/VywMJ4pVjfI/AAAAAAAAH3c/7gB4vbgY5ZQEeR8jWRw54IM7yej0oOjVgCKgB/s400/image1%25282%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">As you might know fr<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">om my <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">Instagram @sevenlovelythings</span></span>, my family is an exhibit/museum/adventure loving family. When we were invited to preview the new Battle For Texas exhibit in Rivercenter mall, I was naturally excited. I did dread parking downtown, but then I realized I would be parking in a garage! It was a nice afternoon trip, we grabbed lunch, did a little shopping, then visited the exhibit.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Ex9kK9YCyY/VywMcB6C7TI/AAAAAAAAH3k/rlVTY_cAnC4TKM9D--hfKxp0eUuI1GApgCKgB/s1600/image2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Ex9kK9YCyY/VywMcB6C7TI/AAAAAAAAH3k/rlVTY_cAnC4TKM9D--hfKxp0eUuI1GApgCKgB/s640/image2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">Walking into the exhibit, you immediately forget that you are actually inside a mall and you find yourself on a journey to Texas. <i>Ahh yes, the promised land that is Texas.</i> Cheap land, tax free. Nicely laid out, you follow <span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">a </span></span>path around the exhibit,<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"> and <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">you feel like you are on a journey like the early Texas settler<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">s.</span></span></span> An earl<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">y Texas ma<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">p on display</span></span> really puts into perspective all the <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">huge hope </span>and promise this land had. But as you move about the exhibit, you feel a darker tension lurking. Together with audio throughout the exhibit, many (some never seen before!) artifacts and well placed lighting, you start feeling emotional about the whole thing (well I did). My kids loved the audio and the vivid colors throughout. As I read about and felt the history, they enjoyed the "make your own flag" digital <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">intera<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">ctive part</span></span>. I loved the layout, which was great for keeping small children in sight. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5BFRlWdrRYg/VywMcq-JHZI/AAAAAAAAH3o/n3WKw-eyC9094kjdE6UlltV_bNzcr71uACKgB/s1600/image3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5BFRlWdrRYg/VywMcq-JHZI/AAAAAAAAH3o/n3WKw-eyC9094kjdE6UlltV_bNzcr71uACKgB/s640/image3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">The most memorable part of the exhibit was when you "walk" into the Alamo. At the Exhibit, there is a huge gate to enter (seriously, we were in awe), immediately you feel like its night, and you see the heroes of the Alamo as they would have been in their places<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">, predawn, on <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">Mar<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">ch 6. </span></span></span>The weight of the battle surrounded us, and my kids were a little nervous! A large cannon is in the middle of this section, and it has a rope you can pull, and you really get the sense of just how hard it was to be a defender.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u6u6oZDCcI0/VywMdFq4ZmI/AAAAAAAAH3s/xhvJUimSCV0IR8miV_dJe7ebzwY6UGBhQCLcB/s1600/image4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u6u6oZDCcI0/VywMdFq4ZmI/AAAAAAAAH3s/xhvJUimSCV0IR8miV_dJe7ebzwY6UGBhQCLcB/s320/image4.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DCw93M-GWOA/VywMbX1sYgI/AAAAAAAAH3g/bAEEn16ev8gaUpzT5jY-nI0bwIZZxtWEQCKgB/s1600/image1_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DCw93M-GWOA/VywMbX1sYgI/AAAAAAAAH3g/bAEEn16ev8gaUpzT5jY-nI0bwIZZxtWEQCKgB/s400/image1_1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">Truth be told, we had to skip the part of the Exhibit that was the finale, because my kids got pretty nervous at the sounds (They are all 6 and under). Luckily, there are <i>two </i>exits...one to follow the battle, and one to go into a room filled with televisions showing some of Texas' most iconic images. There is even a part where you can take your picture and get "added" to the Texas flag, the kids really thought that was fun.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">I couldn't help but get teary eyed at the end. When you think about this battle, the losses, and how others fought for our great state, it is emotionally staggering. <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">Native <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">Texan or Tourist, you will de<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">finitely learn <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">about the Alamo <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">in a personal way l</span>ike you haven't before!</span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"> Details:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">Admission is $19.50 for adults and $15.50 for children 3-12. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"> </span></span>HOURS<br />
Monday – Saturday: 10 AM - 9 PM<br />
Sunday: 12 PM - 6 PM<br />
<i style="font-size: 0.8em;">Final Entry is 1 hour prior to closing</i></div>
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<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">Battle for Texas: The Experience website:
<a href="http://battlefortexas.com/" target="_blank">http://battlefortexas.com/</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">Facebook Page:
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/BattleForTexas/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/<wbr></wbr>BattleForTexas/</a>
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<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">Twitter Page:
<a href="https://twitter.com/BattleForTexas" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/<wbr></wbr>BattleForTexas</a>
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<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">Instagram Page:
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/battlefortexas/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/<wbr></wbr>battlefortexas/</a></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-76109144269270643812016-02-29T13:46:00.001-06:002016-02-29T17:27:29.882-06:00Different Versions, Same Story?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QXbGmN75Ovc/VtSfaNfA9AI/AAAAAAAAHwo/b-L-yZYiQz4/s1600/image1%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QXbGmN75Ovc/VtSfaNfA9AI/AAAAAAAAHwo/b-L-yZYiQz4/s320/image1%25281%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am the kind of person who likes to
know the “right” way to do something. I am also the kind of
person who likes to know what the original version of a book or movie
was.</div>
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Two times this month, I found myself
reading versions of books to my children that were not the original
stories. This is not a bad thing, but we were missing out because of
this!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
First, I ordered a copy of Eric Carle's "Pancakes, Pancakes" from Amazon. Because I was in a hurry and picked
the cheapest option, I ended up with the “Ready to Read” version
of the story. The book arrived and I found this printed on the cover:
<i>This book was previously published with slightly different
text.</i><span style="font-style: normal;">“Oh well” I thought,
“what could possibly be missing?” </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-style: normal;">I
stumbled upon a large picture book format of the same title at a
garage sale and realized we had been missing out on a lot! The
beautiful illustrations on the inside covers, the line, “So Jack
went down to the cool cellar and pulled a jar of strawberry jam from
one of the shelves,” among other things. In the ready to read
version, we have no pretty inside cover and the jam part reads “So
Jack got some strawberry jam.” I get it, I mean this is a version
for kids to be able to gain confidence reading. But read aloud, this
version doesn't sound as great as it should. </span></div>
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<span style="font-style: normal;"> </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-style: normal;">Should
we compromise a story for the sake of making it into an easy reader?
Or should we stick with stories like Syd Hoff's 'Sammy the Seal'
and “Thunderhoof” or Dr. Seuss titles? Do we need to reduce,
sometimes even “dumb” down wonderful things to make them
digestible?</span></span></i></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-style: normal;">My
second incident this month started when I ran across Inga Moore's
version of The Reluctant Dragon at the library. I realized once I got
the book home that it was an adapted version, but we did greatly
enjoy the illustrations and this version of the story. I did a little
bit of research and found this article <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2004/10/17/books/review/abridging-the-reluctant-dragon.html?_r=0" target="_blank">Abridging 'The Reluctant Dragon</a>.' Now I can't wait to get the
version illustrated by Ernest Shephard, especially because of the
opening line. What's interesting is that my library system only has
two copies of this version from what I understand. I want to read
what Kenneth Grahame wrote! I find Moore's retelling very accessible
and charming while not talking down to children, and I imagine many
retellings available are of good quality. However, these two events have me on alert
to make sure what I am reading to my children is quality, especially
when it comes to abridged versions.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-style: normal;">If I
did not do an extra search and find the correct version and did not
have access to used books, how would I know/find/be able to read what
the authors originally intended?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-style: normal;">What
do you think about different versions of books?</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-style: normal;">I'm linking up with <a href="http://www.foreverjoyful.net/" target="_blank">Literacy Musing Mondays over at Forever Joyful</a>. Please check out all the wonderful links there!</span><br />
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-59027967787057557132016-02-23T07:00:00.000-06:002016-02-23T09:36:01.035-06:00Museums With Kids: My Top 5 Tips for Taking Small Children<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZaGncvSVvu8/Vsvj50DeqvI/AAAAAAAAHv4/fUrB2ZNDyi4/s1600/IMG_5529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZaGncvSVvu8/Vsvj50DeqvI/AAAAAAAAHv4/fUrB2ZNDyi4/s320/IMG_5529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Contemplating at the McNay</td></tr>
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This is the first post in my new series, "Museums With Kids". We are so grateful to be in a museum filled city and located close to the <a href="https://www.samuseum.org/" target="_blank">San Antonio Museum of Art</a>, the <a href="http://www.briscoemuseum.org/" target="_blank">Briscoe Western Art Museum</a>, and our favorite, the <a href="http://www.mcnayart.org/exhibitions/current/" target="_blank">McNay Art Museum</a>. (Note: At all 3 of these museums, admission for children 12 and under is FREE. The McNay is now offering FREE admission for Teens!) We frequent these museums as much as possible, visiting at least one on a weekly basis. The San Antonio Museum of Art and the Briscoe Western Art Museum offer free admission every Tuesday from 4-9 pm and we try to take advantage of this as much as possible. I find that at 4pm, the museums and parking are very manageable, especially with three small children.<br />
Our museum outings can be brief, "Hey lets go look at Marcus Aurelius" (a sculpture at the SA Museum of Art), etc. or we can explore our favorite works and then maybe a new to us section of a museum. It all depends on the time of day, the mood of my little audience, and what we want to do.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
There are a 5 Top ways I manage three small children inside a museum.</div>
1) Have a snack on the way<br />
2) Have behavior expectations. My children have been going to museums and are usually well behaved. Note that this did not happen overnight, they had to be taught what level to speak at and that we absolutely cannot touch the artwork. Fortunately for me, they were so shocked at the loud alarm in the Greek Sculpture Gallery at the San Antonio Museum of Art (set of by an adult, not my kids, actually) that they don't dare get too close! I walk extremely near to my children in these settings, as our voices are lower and I can better contain wandering hands.<br />
3) Everyone gets a sticker! <br />
4) Know the Rules. Some museums allow babies to be in back carriers, others allow front baby carriers only. No sippy cups hanging out of diaper bags, etc. Just be mindful, and if you do happen to do something not allowed, usually a nice docent will let you know. But just in case, ask! Also, its nice to lock your bags and hats up in a locker (the McNay has small lockers).<br />
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5) Enjoy! Museum visits don't have to be completely serious and dry. Make up a story about a work of art! Talk about colors and shapes! Let the child pick what work to look at next.<br />
<br />
Going to a museum for free is a great way to get kids used to going, and if you have to leave more quickly than you would like, its ok! Consider it training for the next visit.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0jjvJ6lZCvQ/Vsvj802z4YI/AAAAAAAAHwM/IYKYEEojfi4/s1600/IMG_5696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0jjvJ6lZCvQ/Vsvj802z4YI/AAAAAAAAHwM/IYKYEEojfi4/s400/IMG_5696.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
Also, some museums have items to keep kids engaged! The Briscoe has awesome "<a href="http://www.briscoemuseum.org/programs-events/lil-partners" target="_blank">Buckaroo Bags</a>" with different themes such as "Campfire", "Grub", etc. My kids love the campfire one and enjoy setting it up in different parts of the museum! The San Antonio Museum of Art has "<a href="https://www.samuseum.org/learn/for-children-and-families/self-guided-gallery-activities" target="_blank">Activity Backpacks</a>" for ages 6 and up available for checkout.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ie-_35S22lY/Vsvj9m-iYpI/AAAAAAAAHwQ/1JEGTGUM6UA/s1600/IMG_5700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ie-_35S22lY/Vsvj9m-iYpI/AAAAAAAAHwQ/1JEGTGUM6UA/s400/IMG_5700.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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What is your favorite museum? Let me know in the comments. Have a great next visit at your favorite museum!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-71560123785174408762015-12-02T08:30:00.000-06:002015-12-02T08:30:01.957-06:00Thrifted Fairy Tale Christmas OrnamentsNow that December is here, (like, actually, really here, meaning that the Christmas holiday countdown is going FAST), its time for me to buckle down and tackle some gift giving!<br />
I am going to be giving a lot of handmade gifts this year, and this easy DIY Ornament/Gift Tag project really puts the icing on the <strike>cake </strike>presents.<br />
Goodwill here in San Antonio is a great resource to find items to upcycle for handmade gifts. From fabric (clothing) to silverware to party items, they really have it all.<br />
I stumbled across a 30 pack of favor tins recently and they were only $3.99. (If you buy these at retail they will cost about $20).<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LbirXfijxKw/VliQi1FGp7I/AAAAAAAAHa8/w6UuQXJw434/s1600/P1000123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LbirXfijxKw/VliQi1FGp7I/AAAAAAAAHa8/w6UuQXJw434/s400/P1000123.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I had a children's fable book from a project a while back, and for $1.99 I have gotten a ton of use out of it. Perhaps you could find a Dr. Seuss book (they typically run around 99 cents), or other similar children's book if you want to do a craft like this.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u7RK3hLmTLc/VliQpqxukcI/AAAAAAAAHbU/e3P5tnmPPkY/s1600/P1000129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u7RK3hLmTLc/VliQpqxukcI/AAAAAAAAHbU/e3P5tnmPPkY/s400/P1000129.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I had Martha Stewart glitter paint in my craft closet, and of course, a hot glue gun is sooo handy.<br />
I popped the plastic parts out of the tins, and quickly painted the glitter on the visible edge...I wanted just a little, but if you want more coverage, do a second coat.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZC_g5fQb3yo/VliQt22S23I/AAAAAAAAHbk/9AvLDpoOhss/s1600/P1000134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZC_g5fQb3yo/VliQt22S23I/AAAAAAAAHbk/9AvLDpoOhss/s320/P1000134.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oeBI01Pxxxw/VliYuuTnD0I/AAAAAAAAHb8/lAQG_hvZExo/s1600/P1000140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oeBI01Pxxxw/VliYuuTnD0I/AAAAAAAAHb8/lAQG_hvZExo/s320/P1000140.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
After the tops dried, I used the bottoms as a template and cut selected pictures out of the book with an exacto knife (careful here!) To ensure the pictures don't pop out, I added a tiny bit of Elmer's glue to the backs of the pictures.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PF-BXOcfo8w/VliQlFN3LII/AAAAAAAAHbE/9gGfd2zGwI4/s1600/P1000125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PF-BXOcfo8w/VliQlFN3LII/AAAAAAAAHbE/9gGfd2zGwI4/s400/P1000125.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the magnified effect from the plastic top!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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For added personalization, I made gift tags by using a paper punch, some shipping labels (to stick on the names) and hot glued the tags and ribbon loop on top. All done!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ffsNx8P_mw/VliQrGRHjMI/AAAAAAAAHbc/L68eivPN1tM/s1600/P1000130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ffsNx8P_mw/VliQrGRHjMI/AAAAAAAAHbc/L68eivPN1tM/s320/P1000130.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rgj4ZSIMb90/VliYwWB5r_I/AAAAAAAAHcE/rPyQ2E1uspQ/s1600/P1000138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rgj4ZSIMb90/VliYwWB5r_I/AAAAAAAAHcE/rPyQ2E1uspQ/s400/P1000138.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The ornaments came together quickly, and I had everything on hand. The fun thing about crafting with thrifted items is that it challenges me to be creative! I love to use what is already produced and purchased, especially because I don't want to squander all the money I saved at Goodwill.<br />
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Happy Holiday Crafting!<br />
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<br />Disclosure: This post was made possible by Goodwill San Antonio. I received a gift card in exchange for this post.<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-91798464582916511232015-10-27T16:52:00.001-05:002015-10-27T16:59:26.443-05:00Weekly Reading Basket October 28 #kidlitIt's been a bit since I have shared weekly book favorites here on the blog, but if you follow me on Instagram, you might have seen some recent recommendations. Follow me @SevenLovelyThings to stay updated, if you like.<div>Today I am actually blogging! About books! Yay!</div><div>Three books we read in the past week really stood out, and here they are! </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yFPTQdOGRMI/Vi_yOf7SU1I/AAAAAAAAG2Y/uWUTV9O7L1s/s640/blogger-image--1368112585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yFPTQdOGRMI/Vi_yOf7SU1I/AAAAAAAAG2Y/uWUTV9O7L1s/s640/blogger-image--1368112585.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">1. Charley Harper's Count the Birds by Zoe Burke</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I purchased this at the McNay museum shop here in San Antonio. I love their selection of both books and everything else. Whoever the buyer is does a great job of keeping things fresh.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This is a board book with bright, captivating colors- the illustrations are amazing...this is art, after all. Birds are something my toddler is obsessed with (probably because "bird" is part of her vocabulary). The book also features birds that are new to me and have fun to pronounce names. The counting makes the book last past the toddler stage and the rhymes are quick, upbeat and just wonderful.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">2. Drive: A Look at Roadside Opposites by Kellen Hatanaka is a bright, fun book. Keep in mind this is an opposite book so think "in/out" on each page rather than a long story. This is more than 20 pages and my son loved the map at the back and the "hidden" dinosaur bones on a page pair. A stunning book, in my opinion. Great for a wide age range. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">3. The Fierce Yellow Pumpkin by Margaret Wise Brown</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This book perfect for this time of year. It was a little bit almost scary but not with my six-year-old enjoyed. A fun story about a fierce little pumpkin. This would be nice to own and bring out around Halloween.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Happy Reading!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-36168781379165627802015-10-22T17:31:00.001-05:002015-10-22T17:31:42.050-05:00Planning a Party? Go to Goodwill FIRST<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">With Halloween, Fall Parties, Thanksgiving and Christmas all right around the corner, we can all use great hostess tips NOW! I will share my big party planning secret with you today. </span> <div>There is something I do before <i>every</i> party or special event I host. </div><div><br></div><div>I go to the thrift store.</div><div><br></div><div>Sounds easy right? Well. It is the easiest, best way for a host/hostess to save money. And who doesn't want to save money? Even millionaires want to save money! (At least I think so...)</div><div>Here are the top items you can find for cheap at Goodwill here in San Antonio:</div><div><br></div><div><b>Drinking glasses</b>. I recently added 3 very nice iittalia brand glasses to my cabinet for only 49 cents each!! Quality glassware at an amazing price. There are always great, heavier weight glasses at the thrift store. Almost every drinking glass I own cost me less than $1. Thanks Goodwill. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8-hyh_-1cV8/ViljzAc7eyI/AAAAAAAAGts/tYHfuHVRdko/s640/blogger-image-798195383.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8-hyh_-1cV8/ViljzAc7eyI/AAAAAAAAGts/tYHfuHVRdko/s640/blogger-image-798195383.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Serving trays </b>are a big score at Goodwill, from metal to ceramic to glass, there are always great serving pieces. I like to scout out white or clear glass since they will match anything.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Candlesticks</b>! These run, on average around $2.99, and<i> my my</i> what a can of spray paint can do. It's like magic! Check out the candlesticks I used in a centerpiece below. Makeover city! <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cc0z8VR0wNc/ViljuDC9NwI/AAAAAAAAGtU/OK_B5NBhiN4/s640/blogger-image-1654828366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cc0z8VR0wNc/ViljuDC9NwI/AAAAAAAAGtU/OK_B5NBhiN4/s640/blogger-image-1654828366.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bPonHGVDqz8/ViljxVNR_cI/AAAAAAAAGtk/zt4m4j63wTs/s640/blogger-image--427365613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bPonHGVDqz8/ViljxVNR_cI/AAAAAAAAGtk/zt4m4j63wTs/s640/blogger-image--427365613.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Cloth napkins and table linens.</b> I always look out for these, as it's such a nice touch to use cloth rather than paper goods...and for almost the same price. I usually pay around 99 cents for cloth napkins. Cost per use is amazing and they really look special at any party. Once mine are ironed and neatly folded, they are party perfect! I often find them in new condition, as I think people are intimidated or think they are old fashioned. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-irb9d2LdwDo/Viljvx9-RFI/AAAAAAAAGtc/G3Hwjur0bm8/s640/blogger-image--2045899202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-irb9d2LdwDo/Viljvx9-RFI/AAAAAAAAGtc/G3Hwjur0bm8/s640/blogger-image--2045899202.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Those are just a few of the many treasures that await holiday hostesses at Goodwill. What do you look for? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">*Disclosure: I was given a Goodwill gift card in exchange for this post. All opinions are my own* </div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-28654487368039356622015-10-19T19:06:00.001-05:002015-10-19T21:32:29.796-05:00Symphony + Rock: Live Music of Led Zeppelin in San Antonio<div><br></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Do you have a favorite band? There are just certain artists and songs that take you to another place, or time, or feeling.</span></div><div>Led Zeppelin has been a favorite of mine since college, when I was introduced to the music via a vintage vinyl record. I will never forget the feeling. My choice of a child's name just might have been influenced by Led Zeppelin. </div><div>Have you heard that the music of Led Zeppelin will be performed LIVE at the Majestic theater this Saturday, October 24 at 8 PM. That sounds great, right? Well, it gets even better. The San Antonio Symphony and a live rock band will be performing the wonderful music of Led Zeppelin. San Antonians are so fortunate to have an amazing symphony, and I can't wait to hear this performance. </div><div><br></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7lCjThEl0hc/ViWnvBqykzI/AAAAAAAAGPc/C5rbhITEN-0/s640/blogger-image-935921957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7lCjThEl0hc/ViWnvBqykzI/AAAAAAAAGPc/C5rbhITEN-0/s640/blogger-image-935921957.jpg"></a></div></span></div><div><br></div><div>Here are the official details</div><div><span style="font-weight: bold; text-align: center; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">San Antonio Symphony Brings Music Concert Series to the Majestic Theatre</span></div><p class="s4" style="text-align: start; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span class="s16" style="font-style: italic; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">70s Rock Legends Bring Audiences Electrifying Live Performances</span></p><p class="s4" style="text-align: start; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span class="s15" style="font-weight: bold; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="s13" style="font-weight: bold;">SAN ANTONIO</span><span class="s5">-- The San Antonio Symphony announces its POPs rock concert series with Windborne’s </span><span class="s17" style="font-style: italic;">The Music of Queen</span><span class="s5"> on October 23 and </span><span class="s17" style="font-style: italic;">The Music of Led Zeppelin</span><span class="s5"> on October 24, 2015. Amplified by a full rock band and accompanied by two outstanding singers for each program, creator and arranger Brent Havens guest conducts the ensemble as they capture Led Zeppelin’s “sheer blast and power and the legendary sound and music of Queen.” Both performances will bring innovative interpretations across art mediums to San Antonio. </span></span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span class="s5" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span class="s5" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">“We are focusing on a time period of incredible artistic output in the world of rock–n-roll, and are excited about continuing our relationship with the Majestic Theatre to bring these fantastic performances to San Antonio,” said David Gross, San Antonio Symphony President. “These live performances from your San Antonio Symphony will bring a new appreciation for the artistry of these rock bands and their wonderful compositions.” </span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span class="s18" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span class="s5" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">According to Mike Rilley, Majestic & Empire Theatres General Manager, these internationally touring concerts enable music lovers the opportunity to experience a live performance with incredible local talent. “The Majestic is a wonderful venue for these programs, as it provides concertgoers with an acoustic sensory experience unlike any other. We are thrilled to host the Symphony again to bring San Antonio the best in live concert music.” </span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span class="s18" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span class="s19" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">“The Music of Queen”</span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span class="s5" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Bridging the gulf between rock n’ roll and classical music, conductor/arranger Brent Havens takes the podium on October 23, 2015 at 8 p.m., as he channels the music of Freddy Mercury and Queen into a symphonic experience unlike any other. According to Havens, “The band is reproducing what Queen did live, as closely as possible within the constraints of personnel, and then having an orchestra behind the band gives the music richness, a whole new feel, a whole different sense of color but still preserving the wonderful music that they originally produced.” Familiar songs will entice rock fans to the Symphony for a new appreciation of Queen’s arrangements and Mercury’s vocal style. </span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span class="s18" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="s19" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">“The Music of Led Zeppelin”</span><span class="s5"></span></span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="s5">Havens’ magic continues on October 24, 2015 at 8 p.m., to present The Music of Led Zeppelin, a program he scored to extend the listening experience of Led Zeppelin’s timeless tunes. Performed by the San Antonio Symphony and amplified with a full rock band and screaming vocals, Havens and his ensemble capture Led Zeppelin’s “sheer blast and power” riff for riff in classics such as </span><span class="s17" style="font-style: italic;">Stairway to Heaven, Heartbreaker, Black Dog and Immigrant Song. </span><span class="s5">It’s a night not to miss for Led Zeppelin fans and aficionados of complex compositions.</span></span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span class="s18" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span class="s19" style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Tickets On Sale</span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="s20">Tickets start from $25. You</span><span class="s20"> can purchase tickets online at </span><span class="s21"><a href="http://ticketmaster.com/%20/t%20_blank">ticketmaster.com</a> (use code ROCK for a 20% web discount ) or </span><span class="s20">by calling </span><a href="tel:%28800%29%20745-3000 /t _blank"><span class="s9">(800) 745-3000</span></a><span class="s20">, or by visiting the Majestic Theatre Box Office. </span></span></p><p class="s2" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br></p><div><span class="s20" style="line-height: 14px; font-size: 12px; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; background-color: rgb(253, 253, 253);">Disclosure: I will receive 2 tickets to a performance in exchange for this post, and all opinions are my own. </span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-44139055582876911292015-10-12T08:40:00.000-05:002015-10-12T08:57:00.537-05:00Works in Progress<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">In case you wondered what happened to this blog, I have had the biggest writer's block, combined with my computer not working yet again. (Writing this on the iPad)</span><div>
<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">But I wanted to show yall what I am working on, and some sewing goodies.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">I finished the top of my first Jellyroll quilt! (I can't find a picture of it al, together, just use your imagination)</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S3Nnx0wFHa0/Vhu768m6g_I/AAAAAAAAGO0/M-zSCEqRZ-s/s640/blogger-image-928292717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S3Nnx0wFHa0/Vhu768m6g_I/AAAAAAAAGO0/M-zSCEqRZ-s/s640/blogger-image-928292717.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">But I decided to wait to quilt it after I finish some more seasonally appropriate projects, like this Cat City quilt.</span></div><div><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cM5NRfCNC7A/Vhu78gYDPfI/AAAAAAAAGO8/7rrnyQyw3vk/s640/blogger-image-683906933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cM5NRfCNC7A/Vhu78gYDPfI/AAAAAAAAGO8/7rrnyQyw3vk/s640/blogger-image-683906933.jpg"></a></div><br></div></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">I am almost done with the top, but need to pop into Mesquite Bean (the fabric store where I bought everything in this post, actually), they are super helpful and can help me troubleshoot. My kids are excited to see my progress on this project. If I finish this week, I want to buy some fun fall fabric and make the girls (and I) matching skirts! Wouldn't that be fun? </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">I am finding the process of making a quilt a learning curve for me. I am used to quick little projects that require minimal patience. A quilt is a different animal! But it is oh so very happiness inducing. It's just sewing straight lines, really. I thought I could never "be" a quilter because my math skills are a bit slow, but if I take my time and pay attention, I can definitely be a quilter. Paying attention is perhaps the biggest lesson for me here. And all the fabrics that don't look like they would come together well, they just DO. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">I bought what I needed for hand quilting my cats, but I think I want to machine quilt this one. I don't know, I keep changing my mind. </span></div>
<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-80jUlCQpEoc/Vhu75LjsMRI/AAAAAAAAGOs/0NViz-d6cKQ/s640/blogger-image--1471767159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-80jUlCQpEoc/Vhu75LjsMRI/AAAAAAAAGOs/0NViz-d6cKQ/s640/blogger-image--1471767159.jpg"></a></div><br></div>
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<span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">Oh, and I got my hands on the amazing Tula Pink coloring book. Omygosh! I can't wait to share this with my daughter, the Coloring Queen. </span></div><div><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">Have a great day!</span></div>
<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y2q70zHBH2w/Vhu73I3fBUI/AAAAAAAAGOk/etId1JvN0lU/s640/blogger-image-2019257815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-y2q70zHBH2w/Vhu73I3fBUI/AAAAAAAAGOk/etId1JvN0lU/s640/blogger-image-2019257815.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-14232497908905163192015-09-09T09:33:00.004-05:002015-09-09T09:33:31.939-05:00Sweet Baby SewingI finished another project! Yeah! I am on a roll. Something my husband told me really made an impression. I was pretty much hyperventilating because there is SO MUCH I want to do but not enough time, so I try to do all the things and it just <i>aint </i>pretty. So he suggested I do one thing, have a goal, and then move to the next thing. Well, I certainly wasn't thinking THAT when I bought fabric and supplies for one million projects.... Ha! But his practical advice helped. I was trying to finish this little baby dress in time for the Sew and Show Linkup! (the button is on the right hand side of the page here)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Being a model is so tiring</td></tr>
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This baby top was sewn from a pattern in the book Boutique Casual for Boys and Girls by Sue Kim. While I thought the book was beautiful, I kept having to flip between 3 different patterns to get the instructions for this top. I wasn't too clear on a few of the instructions, so I winged it. This was the first time in recent memory that I used bias strips to finish the neck and arm edges. I used french seams throughout, but it is quite bulky on the front and back where the gathers are.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oKqM7TdmE-Y/VfBBD1Dj2rI/AAAAAAAAClQ/Xm_26_5NwWQ/s1600/IMG_2250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oKqM7TdmE-Y/VfBBD1Dj2rI/AAAAAAAAClQ/Xm_26_5NwWQ/s400/IMG_2250.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
The fabric has been in my stash for a while now, I previously made the bloomers from Anna Maria Horner's free <a href="http://www.annamariahorner.com/knick.knack.knickers.AMH.pdf" target="_blank">Knick Knack Knickers baby pattern</a>.<br />
What do you think?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of my construction is a bit wonky. And I lost my buttons, so that part will have to wait. </td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-77502263247777161612015-09-02T08:29:00.000-05:002015-09-02T08:29:02.254-05:00Upcycled: Bed Sheet to Apron<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I found this toddler sized bed sheet at a thrift store for less than $1</td></tr>
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If I were to describe my fabric/textile collection, I would say that I'm very prepared. Other people might say "hoarder." I am just someone who will be extremely prepared in the event that fabric ceases to exist and is needed to save the world. I have also been a bit preoccupied with thinking about the many lives that an item can have before its actually useless. The bedsheet I used in this project has been in my arsenal for a few months, and I was originally going to make something babyish with it. But then I saw Maker Mama's gorgeous <a href="http://www.makermama.com/2015/08/thrift-store-collector-vintage-aprons.html" target="_blank">apron post</a>, and I was inspired to make an apron for my daughter.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UGfuHEnsp_s/Veb2Ww9wmVI/AAAAAAAACkE/QDzSz28Ak34/s1600/IMG_2223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UGfuHEnsp_s/Veb2Ww9wmVI/AAAAAAAACkE/QDzSz28Ak34/s400/IMG_2223.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
We have two aprons for my girl, one came with a kid's kitchen set (she never wears it for some reason) and another was found at a garage sale, is vintage and has tiny elephants on it. She ends up wearing the elephant one quite a bit. Half aprons are a favorite in our house. I had a couple of hours to myself and decided to go for it, even though I didn't have a pattern, and even though everything wasn't perfect in my house. Sometimes I block myself from creating because there is just so much to do around the house. But I pushed through, because I really, really needed to make something.<br />
And here it is. A new apron for my girl.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was careful to cut the fabric so I didn't cut any animals in half.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was sure to make an extra big pocket, and it came in handy right away</td></tr>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6xt_wd_3NwQ/Veb5FG-jgBI/AAAAAAAACkg/DOgAM1J7pTU/s1600/IMG_2230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6xt_wd_3NwQ/Veb5FG-jgBI/AAAAAAAACkg/DOgAM1J7pTU/s640/IMG_2230.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-be69W0RB3wk/Veb5FCGcJKI/AAAAAAAACkk/KRQtD-oGoYk/s1600/IMG_2231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-be69W0RB3wk/Veb5FCGcJKI/AAAAAAAACkk/KRQtD-oGoYk/s320/IMG_2231.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We love pockets</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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I can't wait to share my plans for fall sewing with you next week (hopefully).<br />
Happy stitching!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-84897487668384508362015-08-10T23:15:00.002-05:002015-08-10T23:15:33.471-05:00Thrifted Men's Shirt to Baby Bib Under $5! Aren't bibs irresistible? There is something precious about all those perfect bibs on the shelves at the BIG box stores. The price tags make me cringe though, because the product will be used for the messiest eaters (but the cutest).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E0JP8ilRWQY/Vclz2NmVpBI/AAAAAAAACiA/cIh3LtmcfvE/s1600/IMG_2183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E0JP8ilRWQY/Vclz2NmVpBI/AAAAAAAACiA/cIh3LtmcfvE/s640/IMG_2183.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Needed supplies: Huge shirt, towel of some sort, velcro, and a sewing machine</td></tr>
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I finally found the solution to not only make a cheap bib, but a cute one too! I thrifted this men's shirt when its tag color was half off at Goodwill San Antonio, the regular price of $3.99 is a total steal anyway, but half off was even better! (THRIFT PRO TIP:<i> If you are looking for items to upcycle, shop ONLY for the Goodwill San Antonio Color of the Week, as these items are HALF OFF the already amazing prices - they update weekly colors on their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GoodwillSanAntonio?fref=ts" target="_blank">Goodwill San Antonio Facebook page</a>, so give them a Like to stay in the know</i>). I also scored this washcloth for .49 cents at the Goodwill on Bitters and 281.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-toVU4E-rm4I/Vcl0LrLR4aI/AAAAAAAACiI/E1oGb5wg7dA/s1600/IMG_2184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-toVU4E-rm4I/Vcl0LrLR4aI/AAAAAAAACiI/E1oGb5wg7dA/s400/IMG_2184.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I used a bib I already had as a pattern and started cutting. Remember I told you this shirt was large? So much awesome fabric! The bigger the better.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-usqqyCpyAGU/Vcl0L8bDNRI/AAAAAAAACiM/X0oN1_apNlo/s1600/IMG_2187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-usqqyCpyAGU/Vcl0L8bDNRI/AAAAAAAACiM/X0oN1_apNlo/s400/IMG_2187.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Pin and sew the 2 pieces together.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0sf01rUrIBA/Vcl0MgsQ8hI/AAAAAAAACig/U9tsPJYcMOc/s1600/IMG_2189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0sf01rUrIBA/Vcl0MgsQ8hI/AAAAAAAACig/U9tsPJYcMOc/s400/IMG_2189.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Don't forget to leave an opening to flip right side out. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PzHqzqCGh9I/Vcl0NcTbJfI/AAAAAAAACis/FykpXpJB0y4/s1600/IMG_2192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PzHqzqCGh9I/Vcl0NcTbJfI/AAAAAAAACis/FykpXpJB0y4/s400/IMG_2192.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Cut small squares of velcro and sew on opposite sides.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TmaFuqMicKA/Vcl0OAB205I/AAAAAAAACi4/PDWkH3K_ZOE/s1600/IMG_2204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TmaFuqMicKA/Vcl0OAB205I/AAAAAAAACi4/PDWkH3K_ZOE/s640/IMG_2204.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Now you have the cutest, cheapest, easiest to make reversible bib!!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mrBznLHzNnE/Vcl0TtofY7I/AAAAAAAACjI/mo-AUs40--k/s1600/IMG_2194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mrBznLHzNnE/Vcl0TtofY7I/AAAAAAAACjI/mo-AUs40--k/s320/IMG_2194.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Project cost:<br />
Shirt 1.99<br />
Washcloth .49<br />
Velcro - I already had<br />
So for around $2.50 I made a bib and have TONS of extra shirting fabric left.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Shop at your nearest Goodwill <a href="http://www.goodwillsa.org/shop/store-finder" target="_blank">San Antonio store today</a>, you never know what might inspire you! *This sponsored post made possible by Goodwill San Antonio. Shop local!*</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-12484904559064800472015-07-07T22:59:00.001-05:002015-07-08T09:54:03.069-05:00Vintage Dishes for Tea Time<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e9wvje4IQlk/VZyfKMl-28I/AAAAAAAACg4/Exl11mIYvsM/s1600/tea%2Btime%2Bparty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e9wvje4IQlk/VZyfKMl-28I/AAAAAAAACg4/Exl11mIYvsM/s320/tea%2Btime%2Bparty.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I try to stay away from breakable decor but china is a category I can rarely resist. If you saw my previous post about a <a href="http://sevenlovelythings.blogspot.com/2014/01/a-very-thrifty-tea-party.html" target="_blank">thrifty tea party</a>, consider this is continuation. We have tea time frequently here, either by ourselves or with our sweet neighbor. I am always adding to the dish collection, and I recently found the prettiest little teacups ever at Goodwill here in San Antonio. My latest acquisitions were 49 cents each, and are all vintage. FORTY NINE CENTS! I do not buy any tea cups that are over this price anymore. I also found the most amazing cloth napkins for FORTY NINE CENTS each as well. Amazing! I spent $4.40 total on the linens. I swear its more expensive to buy tea and cookies.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G7q7wNHKZeI/VZyc17-BQwI/AAAAAAAACf4/Taeu_S4WeLo/s1600/IMG_2165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G7q7wNHKZeI/VZyc17-BQwI/AAAAAAAACf4/Taeu_S4WeLo/s320/IMG_2165.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
All items pictured were 49 cents each except for the Limoges butterfly pattern egg on the far right ($2.99)<br />
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They feel as gorgeous as they look!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ka2vfFTqerA/VZyc3vBJHOI/AAAAAAAACgc/tlmAKWp0edQ/s1600/IMG_2180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ka2vfFTqerA/VZyc3vBJHOI/AAAAAAAACgc/tlmAKWp0edQ/s400/IMG_2180.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I found a copy of the wonderful poetry collection, <u>Animals, Animals</u> by Eric Carle at Goodwill for 99 cents. Poetry teatime anyone? </div>
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*Disclosure: I received a Goodwill gift card to purchase the items featured in this post*</i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-26771933520037481742015-07-02T07:42:00.004-05:002015-07-02T07:42:27.315-05:00Fabric First: My Jellyroll and a New Fabric Store!When I first moved to San Antonio, there was a locally owned fabric store going out of business nearby. It was an exciting/disappointing time, as I loved the sale prices but was so sad to see a shop close its doors. Fast forward to NOW, and what popped up right before my eyes, in almost the same location...a fabric shop!! As much as I can, I avoid large chains, as sometimes they can be not so
efficient, plus they don't carry fabrics from Michael Miller, Moda, etc.<br />
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Whooohoo! I was so excited. The same day I saw the shop, I stopped inside...and said "oops!"<br />
The shop was so new it was not actually open for business yet! But the owners were super kind and let me look around, which was awesome but painful because I knew I couldn't buy any of the goodies I saw. So I went back in two days, after they had officially opened and bought some things I had previously scoped out.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cfvaupJ_iF8/VZUxXAZWEeI/AAAAAAAACfA/WI989AdgTIc/s1600/IMG_2126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cfvaupJ_iF8/VZUxXAZWEeI/AAAAAAAACfA/WI989AdgTIc/s640/IMG_2126.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I was pleasantly surprised with the assortment at Mesquite Bean Fabrics (and no, this is not a sponsored post, I'm just a really excited fabric shopper), the space is great, and the customer service is excellent. The care with how they cut and fold the fabric is apparent (and appreciated). I felt like my purchase was special to them.<br />
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Keep in mind that I am not (yet) a quilter, but was totally ready to jump in on the<a href="http://www.rowbyrowexperience.com/" target="_blank"> Row by Row </a>quilt after they explained what it was.<br />
I got the sweetest fabrics, a couple of which are going to be made into pillowcases for Conkerr San Antonio, the rest apparel for my little people.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O9n45dzFPcE/VZUxX7ybf8I/AAAAAAAACfM/Ch3yJft786U/s1600/IMG_2128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O9n45dzFPcE/VZUxX7ybf8I/AAAAAAAACfM/Ch3yJft786U/s400/IMG_2128.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Also, I bought a jellyroll. Did I mention I am not a quilter? But the way the sweet lady at Mesquite Bean explained it, and showed me the books about working with jelly rolls, if I can sew I can make a jelly roll quilt. The fabrics are "30's Playtime Favorites" by moda. I am sooo excited to get stitching. Oh, and the jelly roll got unrolled by one of my "helpers".<br />
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<a href="https://www.mesquitebeanfabrics.com/" target="_blank">Mesquite Bean Fabrics </a><br />
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6708 N New Braunfels Ave<br />
San Antonio, Texas 78209<br />
210-281-1256
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<td><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Monday-Friday </span></td>
<td><span style="font-size: 10pt;">9:30 am to 5:30 pm</span></td>
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<td><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Thursday</span></td>
<td><span style="font-size: 10pt;">9:30 am to 8:00 pm</span></td>
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<td><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Saturday</span></td>
<td><span style="font-size: 10pt;">9:30 am to 3:30 pm</span></td>
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<td><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Sunday</span></td>
<td><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Closed</span></td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-50932280157685111912015-06-17T07:00:00.000-05:002015-06-17T07:00:07.695-05:00Favorite Poetry Books For Children<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUy9oQheklM/VYDH7nMNTnI/AAAAAAAACeI/GHdZP0kebwQ/s1600/poetry%2Bchildren.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SUy9oQheklM/VYDH7nMNTnI/AAAAAAAACeI/GHdZP0kebwQ/s640/poetry%2Bchildren.jpg" width="640" /></a>It's been a little over a year that I have made a conscious effort to increase the amount of poetry read aloud in our home. It's going well, although we could always read more. Having books of poems easily accessible really helps with our goal. I was fortunate to buy a few poetry books used, but others will be purchased new. One book at a time, one poem at a time, we will come together and laugh, sigh or jump for joy. Poetry does not have to be too serious, stuffy or painful. Instead, it can be easy, fun, and very accessible for both caregiver and child.<br />
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Tied for first place in my home, these first two books both have amazing illustrations, as well as a wide variety of poems to fit various themes.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ty5w164tTiw/VYDJJ8eP45I/AAAAAAAACeU/35-v3T0-sPY/s1600/IMG_2118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ty5w164tTiw/VYDJJ8eP45I/AAAAAAAACeU/35-v3T0-sPY/s400/IMG_2118.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0394850106/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0394850106&linkCode=as2&tag=sevlovthi03-20&linkId=Z3QN4TAWZSKJOAVM">The Random House Book of Poetry for Children</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=sevlovthi03-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0394850106" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> has a wide selection, is divided by subject, selected by Jack Prelutsky and is illustrated by Arnold Lobel. And who doesn't love Mr. Lobel's illustrations? <br />
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Stunning watercolor illustrations throughout, and produced by indie children's book publisher Barefoot Books, The Barefoot Book of Poems is a must have for any home library. This book captivates not only children, but has such a well rounded selection of poems, that I recommend it for anyone, regardless of age.<br />
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My next picks are the poetry books by A.A Milne. These dear, sweet, slim volumes have been requested to be read on repeat in my house. There is a set that includes all three titles, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0525444513/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0525444513&linkCode=as2&tag=sevlovthi03-20&linkId=DWB4UDO4W24IPCJL">Pooh's Library: Winnie-The-Pooh, The House At Pooh Corner, When We Were Very Young, Now We Are Six (Pooh Original Edition)</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=sevlovthi03-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0525444513" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />.<br />
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Third is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0898707161/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0898707161&linkCode=as2&tag=sevlovthi03-20&linkId=FECI6KZE2N3ICBVG">The Harp and Laurel Wreath: Poetry and Dictation for the Classical Curriculum</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=sevlovthi03-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0898707161" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />, a wonderful book even if you aren't homeschooling classically. Definitely a book that will grow with you and your children.<br />
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We love the Shel Silverstein Books, as well as the newly discovered and ordered <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0698118553/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0698118553&linkCode=as2&tag=sevlovthi03-20&linkId=WQH24RHNBQWND2IV">Eric Carle's Animals Animals</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=sevlovthi03-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0698118553" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />, a collection of poems about, well, animals.<br />
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Do you have any favorite poetry books in your home? Have you read them aloud? I would love to hear your favorites! <br />
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Disclosure: I may be an affiliate for certain products that I recommend. If you
purchase those items through my links I will earn a commission. You
will not pay more when buying a product through my link. Thank you for your support.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-89724770721769251422015-06-08T20:37:00.000-05:002015-06-10T08:13:37.922-05:00Digging Deep For a Great Deal: How ToHave you ever shopped at an outlet? Yeah, me too. It's always a little crazy. But great deals are worth a bit of legwork right?<br />
If you want the ultimate bargain, the ultimate BEST DEAL ever chance, the ultimate adventure in thrifting, go to the Goodwill Clearance Store! I decided to brave traffic and take a little trip to 4861 W Commerce Street.<br />
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At the outlet, HUGE boxes that are as big as my closet are dumped into HUGE tables. All merchandise is assorted, so wear gloves! Books are mixed with dishes, electronics, etc, etc. Most of the clothing is separate, but you never know when another customer might place a glass vase in the clothing tables...under 50 items of clothing. <i>The seasoned treasure hunters had gloves, and even sticks to help poke around the tables.</i><br />
Grab a cart, and get ready. At the Goodwill Outlet here in San Antonio, different parts of the store are prepared (and thus blocked off) while other parts are open. Customers line up behind a barrier and try to preview potential treasures. When it's time to GO, an employee gives a warning...No pushing! And more. I couldn't hear everything because I was a bit far away from her. Then the barriers are removed and you need to get in there! Get moving. Dig! I didn't take gloves and had a stroller with me, so things were a bit tricky.<br />
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<b><i>But I did find some lovely items: a framed print of St. Paul's Cathedral, vintage linens and books, all for a grand total of $4.16!! </i></b> </div>
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All of this embroidery is hand done! </div>
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I will definitely go back, you never know what you might find and it is always an adventure! And the prices are AMAZING!<br />
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<i>*I was given a $25 Goodwill gift card for this post. All opinions are my own*</i><br />
For more pictures of my trip to the outlet, check out my Instagram @sevenlovelythingsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-9046855044022471752015-05-27T14:20:00.002-05:002015-05-27T17:40:10.686-05:00Baby Bloomers on a WednesdayI believe I truly embody everything anybody ever meant when they coined the phrase "slow sewing". Literally. S L O W sewing here. Finally, months after I started them, these knick-knack Knickers by Anna Maria Horner (free pattern here)are done! It is a super easy pattern, the only thing I get stuck on is the casings, I almost always sew them closed (ahem, rushed sewing problems).<br />
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I previously stitched up another pair with piggy fabric, you can find those on my Instagram @SevenLovelyThings
I used Dena Rutter's "Roots and Wings" fabric from Fabricworm (<a href="http://www.fabricworm.com/derurowigaco.html">direct link here</a>, this is NOT an affiliate link)<br />
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The handmade tag is from a freebie I got long ago with an issue of Mollie Makes magazine<br />
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I try to sew insides as pretty as outsides, so I used French seams. I can't wait to get these on my squishy baby!<br />
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Now, I'm off to supervise block building and read alouds!<br />
Also linking up with Straight Grain today! <a href="http://www.straight-grain.com/blog" target="_blank">www.straight-grain.com/blog</a> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-34442988655830164842015-05-07T23:32:00.005-05:002015-05-25T18:10:27.307-05:00Mini Upcycled DollhouseMy daughter and I are fascinated with dollhouses. I wanted to make something really special for her but miniatures are expensive. Inspired by the miniature dollhouse furniture in a book I found at Goodwill, I kept my eyes out for little things that were affordable to go in a dollhouse.<br />
bde64c4b26fe8d3b5e97cbb81fa1e06875ae9b6b7baf88cde1
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<i>Recipe for one upcycled, homemade with love dollhouse (or mouse house...we are actually working on a lil mouse to go in these rooms): find bits and pieces and put together any way you like. </i><br />
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From Goodwill, I found a huge bag of wooden pieces for $2.99, the stacking block set for $3.99 (some were torn), tons of glues and a couple of glitters for $3.99, and the inspirational Play with Paper book for 99 cents. </div>
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Other bits and pieces were the eggs (I didn't end up using) for 99 cents, the napkins for .49, and the metal pieces for $1.99.<br />
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the top floor, I sewed the pillowcase and bedskirt from scraps, and
stuck fabric on the walls. The light fixture is a button, and the wall
art is a Monet art sticker. The handpainted tiny dollhouse was in the
wooden pieces bag from Goodwill. What a treasure!<br />
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The middle floor, the powder room has a silver basin (from the thrift bag) with a foil "mirror" on the gold glitter painted wall. The "wooden" floor is cut from a shopping bag and the curtain is sewn from scraps and hung on wire...and can be moved along the wire. The cabinet in back is a tiny gift box I found in a random bits and pieces bag at Goodwill a while back.<br />
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The bottom floor features flooring made from the paper napkins, as well as wall art from the napkins. The metal table sits on wire legs (and holds button plates), not to mention the mini Central Market shopping bag resting on the left. Isn't the table just so sweet?<br />
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I was given a Goodwill gift card for the items used in this post. I'm already scouting supplies for the next project...a cozy home library. What will you thrift today?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-51357926538664255192015-05-04T05:00:00.000-05:002015-05-04T05:00:01.311-05:00Shopping Local: Bambinos Giveaway!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Supporting locally owned and stellar businesses is something that I make a point to do. From indie bookstores to clothing stores, I make sure to patronize these businesses as much as I am able. If you feel that shopping local is important, then this is for you!<br />
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Waaaay back in 2002, I went to Bambinos children's boutique (when it was on Broadway) and purchased a charm bracelet...remember the kind with the slide on rhinestone charms? It might have been odd for a college student to shop at a children's store, and at the time I remember walking in and noticing now beautiful everything was.<br />
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Fast forward to today, and Bambinos is not only still around (21 years in business), they have a great new location and space. <br />
The merchandise assortment was expertly curated, displayed meticulously (every item had been pressed or steamed before hung out for sale), and the customer service was great. Bambinos has a beautiful selection of christening and formal wear (they can even special order sizes and colors for you), and has beautiful layette from kissy kissy, Petunia Pickle Bottom, Zutano and more. I was especially excited about the baby moccasins and the Piggy Paint that are so hard to find locally. Their assortment changes daily, there will be new goods regularly (huge for me as a shopper!) and the lines they carry are wonderful quality. The christening section was a bigger size than most other stores have and the items were stunning. <br />
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Gift wrap is FREE, they offer gift registry, room design and more. The customer service is so great that I can call them up, "One silver baby rattle please" pay, and then they will even bring it out to my car for me (sometimes taking 3 kids into a store to pick up one thing is a <i>little </i>daunting for me). Their new location in Lincoln Heights (in the HEB parking lot, hello, what could be more convenient?!) is super accessible, not only from the surrounding neighborhoods but from the highways as well.<br />
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Highlights:<br />
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Rabbit Moon<br />
Zutano<br />
Saltwater sandals<br />
Formal Wear Colletion (sizes and quality usually hard to find- but not here!)<br />
Kantik bedding...block printed by hand, this high quality cotton bedding is perfect for a nursery or a teen's room. This line is designed by Karen, the owner!<br />
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Baby Moccasins<br />
Hape Wooden Toys <br />
Exceptional service<br />
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<i>*I was not compensated for writing this post. I was given a $25 gift card to give to you! I was given the time of the owners to talk about their store and given their patience with my fussy 3 year old =)*</i><br />
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Bambinos has given me a $25 gift card to give away to one lucky reader!! See the rafflecopter widget below. Good luck!<br />
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<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="530bd43a2" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/530bd43a2/" id="rcwidget_tfjftp56" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-43283435817887617902015-04-30T08:17:00.001-05:002015-04-30T08:17:14.939-05:00Join Conkerr Cancer San Antonio THIS SaturdayIn case you missed it, I recently wrote a post about a wonderful organization I am now a part of. <a href="http://sevenlovelythings.blogspot.com/2015/02/conkerr-cancer-san-antonio.html" target="_blank">Read it here.</a> I wanted to put a reminder to my readers out there that our monthly meeting is this Saturday, May 2. Even if you don't sew, you can help!<br />
This weekend we will be measuring and cutting fabric...no sewing necessary. Please consider joining us, and/or helping get the word out.<br />
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I will be taking my trusty fabric scissors, some awesome boy print fabrics, and myself. Join us for one hour, or two.<br />
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See you there!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-18184040522859007102015-04-29T08:46:00.002-05:002015-04-29T08:46:17.275-05:00Thrifty Finds of the WeekOn display are my finds from last week and this week (so far, because a week is never over on a Wednesday when it comes to thrifting. Just getting started.) I went to two thrift stores (Goodwill and Texas Thrift) and a local children's consignment sale. Oh and a garage sale, but I will post those finds separately next week.<br />
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Fave of the week right here! A pencil sharpener. The sweet donor even attached the screws with tape onto the unit. I love this sharpener. (I am a bit office/school supply obsessed). I think this was $4.99.<br />
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Castle blocks and a clock. Any wooden blocks are a hit in our house ($3.99). I'm probably going to regret buying 100 blocks later....<br />
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This clock is perfect for my son. It's sturdy and he can play with changing the time. $3.99 <br />
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Left is a perfect summer top for my daughter $2, the right is a VERY HARD TO FIND at a reasonable price Janie and Jack dress that came with the matching sweater and bloomer for $10 from the consignment sale. <br />
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I thought this gallon bag filled with glue was a bit pricey at $3.99 but glue goes like water in our house and it would cost more at a regular store so I went for it. Plus there is a container of glitter in there. The Small Collectors Cabinet has a cross stitch pattern on the back, not really sure what this is really for but I might have a plan for it ;)<br />
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What have you found this week?<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-81397211436046577492015-04-28T08:57:00.002-05:002015-04-28T08:57:16.128-05:00Shocked at the Library, Y'all: Be a FriendDid you know that a huge portion of the library's budget goes to buildings and staff salaries? I never actually realized this, but maintaining these wonderful, air conditioned oases of book paradise comes at a cost. We know that maintenance and paying personnel are crucial...if there are no buildings or staff, how could our library system work? It couldn't.<br />
With that said, did you know that the Friends of the San Antonio Public Library groups have a HUGE impact on the programming, displays and more that you see in your library EVERY DAY? I didn't know this before I heard about a Friends board meeting from a librarian. The libraries and the Friends group are encouraging new memberships.<br />
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At one local branch Friends meeting, I found out that the Friends had paid for the following at this particular location:<br />
automatic entry doors<br />
landscaping and maintenance of their nice landscaping (seriously..go compare library landscapes...the libraries with active and involved Friends look a lot nicer)<br />
E-readers for the branch<br />
I could go on and on. I was shocked! I just assumed that the costs of all these items was just automatically provided by the city.<br />
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Fund Requests Included:<br />
Supplies for baby time<br />
Book stands<br />
Fixtures for CD's to be housed in the library (the ones they have are not efficient and need to be upgraded badly)<br />
Summer performances for children's programming! (I had NO idea the Friends helped with this)<br />
There were other items too, but these give you an idea.<br />
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Keep in mind that everything has to be proposed and VOTED ON by the Friends! I WAS THE ONLY MOM OF SMALL CHILDREN THERE, VOTING. The<i> Do you really want me and a HANDFUL of other people you don't know deciding where the Friend's budget goes? Really? </i><br />
re was one other mom, who had older children, but was not a Friend (officially) and could not vote (don't worry she signed up after the meeting).<br />
Well, you need to get involved! <b>For only $15 per year, you can become a Friend of the library for a year and VOTE in these meetings</b>. The time commitment is MINIMAL. I will also say, the group of Friends is aging, and they will tell you this themselves. They have been in the Friends groups for decades, and they would love to see the groups grow.<br />
I would not be suggesting this if it was not important to the vitality and growth of the programming for our children.<br />
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How you can help:<br />
<a href="http://www.friendsofsapl.org/" target="_blank">Become a FRIEND. </a><br />
Donate to the Friends.<br />
Shop at the Book Cart (at some branches there is a cart where you can buy books) <br />
Sign up to volunteer at the library<br />
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And if you become a Friend, you can help and shop first at your branch's book sale! Wink Wink.<br />
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Resources for YOU!<br />
<a href="http://www.sat.lib.tx.us/shared_docs/ent/0100-_Director%27s%20Reports/2015-02.pdf" target="_blank">Monthly Library Director's Reports</a>. These are very interesting and you might find out about a branch, program or general library news. Also includes circulation numbers, which I personally find fascinating. <br />
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<a href="http://www.sanantonio.gov/Portals/0/Files/budget/FY2015/FY%202015%20Library%20Presentation%20Final.pdf" target="_blank">Fiscal Year 2015 Library Budget Proposal</a><br />
<a href="http://www.friendsofsapl.org/" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.friendsofsapl.org/" target="_blank">Friends of the San Antonio Public Library</a> (also check out the treasurers reports!)<br />
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<a href="http://www.awacommunications.com/fosapl/15may-jun.pdf" target="_blank">SAPLINGS the Bi-monthly Friends newsletter</a>, I actually really learned a lot about current events at the libraries. <br />
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If you enjoy the library and its programming, and are able, you would enjoy being part of the Friends group at your branch. It's up to US to change, support and help the library. We can show older and younger generations that late twenty and thirty-somethings care and can make a difference.<br />
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*In no way is this post meant to be negative* This is a great way for those who can to support our city, our librarians, and other members of our community and I wanted to share it with you. =)<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-8956543311405837272015-04-03T06:30:00.000-05:002015-04-03T06:30:01.810-05:00April Goodwill Haul...so far. April is shaping up to be a great thrifting month, I think spring cleaning must be happening in a lot of homes because the Goodwill stores here in San Antonio are packed once again like they were in January. I was given a $25 gift card to Goodwill for the items used in this post.<br />
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Here is what I found:<br />
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Vintage baby shirt for $1.99, Brand new Peter Rabbit photo album, 99 cents <br />
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Crazy 8 Seersucker dress for $1.99, Baby jeans (seriously, what is cuter than jeans for babies?!), $1.99 <br />
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Check out this awesome coffee grinder I got for $6.99! And it works! <br />
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Banana Republic sweater, big splurge here for $3.99. I absolutely love the print but would not have been brave enough to spend more than $10 on something so bold in a regular store. <br />
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My number one tip for getting the best deals at Goodwill? Shop the color of the week! Certain color tags are HALF OFF, the color changes each Sunday and you can get amazing deals. Not only do you get a great price, but if you are short on time, just look for that color tag and don't worry about any other colors.<br />
Happy Thrifting. Now I'm off to Goodwill to buy some Easter baskets! Better late than never.<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-43203698128179140382015-04-01T06:30:00.000-05:002015-04-01T10:10:45.983-05:00Thrifty San Antonio: Book FestivalI love a great deal. And books.<br />
The upcoming <a href="http://www.saplf.org/festival/" target="_blank">San Antonio Book Festival</a> on Saturday, April 11 is FREE!! The event will take place ALL day Saturday downtown by the Central Library. <br />
There are so many awesome readings, discussions, kid's performances, amazing writers will be in town...ahh I can't wait. What better way to show my kids that literacy is alive, vibrant, and theirs to enjoy?<br />
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<b>Here are my Book Festival Top 5 Must Do's!</b></div>
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1) Download the App. The app is also FREE and is a great way to plan your day. Warning: You might be overwhelmed with how many things you want to do at the festival.<br />
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2) Food! At 10 am, Kate Payne will demo recipes from her new cookbook. This will be in the Central Market Cooking Tent. (Excuse me while I get all crazy fangirl here. Kate has an awesome blog. AND I will be there with bells on for anything that Central Market is involved in. I worked at CM in college and LOVED it. Tidbit: I even guided a dog parade while working there through UIW. Fun times, but sooo off topic)<br />
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3) Magik Theater! At 11:10, there will be a performance by the theater in the Children's Reading tent. (The tent is located in the Library Plaza, outside on the library grounds). If you have not seen a Magik performance before, prepare to be impressed. The performers (in amazing costumes) are sure to captivate and entertain in the most energetic, wonderful way.<br />
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4) DID I MENTION THIS IS ALL FREE TO ATTEND?!<br />
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5) I can't wait to see Xavier Garza, a San Antonio author/illustrator who has a book that sounds awesome, <i>The Great and Mighty Nikko</i>.<br />
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"Nikko loves bedtime. That's because his bed turns into a magical
wrestling ring for the masked luchadores that he loves. They bounce up
and down like crazy. His mom, of course, doesn't believe Nikko. She
accuses him of jumping on his bed. But that's just not true at all. She
just can't see what Nikko sees..." </div>
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I have a little person who loves comics and would really enjoy this story as well as the amazing illustrations. </div>
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Can you tell I am a LITTLE excited about the festival. Its a whole day of BOOKS AND STORIES and its FREE. Ahhh...now I'm off to go play with the app on my phone. See you at the festival!</div>
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p.s If you want to get even more super excited, go <a href="http://www.saplf.org/festival/festival-authors/category/2015-authors/" target="_blank">HERE </a>and see the list of authors who will be attending this year. You're welcome. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136367153511914088.post-11476872064701858222015-03-02T08:19:00.003-06:002015-03-05T08:44:28.556-06:00Classic Styles for Spring: Stripes and BlueStripes and blues for the whole family. What could be more classic than stripes in shades of blue and white? To balance out the stripes, I have solid blues, but have dreams of pairing these stripes with painterly florals that are so in for Spring 2015.<br />
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Where did I find this great assortment?<br />
Goodwill here in San Antonio <i>(Goodwill generously gave me a gift card in exchange for this post)</i><br />
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What brands did I find?<br />
JCrew, Topshop, Petit Ami, Longchamp and more.<br />
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How much did it all cost?<br />
You might need to sit down...and take a look at the pics. Prepare to be inspired to visit your local thrift store ASAP.<br />
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Top: Jcrew outlet for hubby, $3.99, Lands End kid's skirt $1.99, Petit Ami baby dress, $1.99<br />
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Merona chambray tunic top, $3.99, Longchamp canvas tote bag, $3.99, Topshop Skirt, $3.99<br />
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Here is a closeup of the skirt. Look at the pocket detail! This is a pencil skirt and is super versatile. <br />
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And who doesn't love a sturdy Longchamp bag?<br />
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Have you found any great closet staples at the thrift store lately? Let me know in the comments!<br />
Linked up with <a href="http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2015/03/05/thrifty-thursday-week-99/?inf_contact_key=7afa6267b89e3b281eb6c5529be10d2c7d69d4710c602bdf1cf4b8486d98f2f9" target="_blank">Living Well, Spending Less: Thrifty Thursday</a>! <br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06750562573020485910noreply@blogger.com0