tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39001939576702797532024-03-14T05:04:34.810-05:00Megan BrightwoodMegan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-15076286805704549262019-02-12T10:00:00.000-06:002019-02-12T10:00:03.536-06:005 Current Favorites<div dir="ltr">
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Hello! It's been a while since I've posted here, and I although I <i>want</i> to get back into blogging (and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOPcKC-0y-slyWXSHHJgRLQ">vlogging</a>) on a regular basis, I'm out of practice, so please bear with me for a little while here! Today, I wanted to share five of my current favorite products with you, so if you happen to be looking for some new things to try, I've got you covered. Most of these items are makeup/beauty related, but I also have a beverage recommendation, as well as a book that I <i>highly</i> suggest reading. It has seriously changed my view on how I want to run things online! So without further ado, here we go:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ6nvSX-zJTZA-2rOWge3OkJ3UuzOsnWGXP09rREcqwsfh0tSt3HmgZRnfefhxpDiA26uov8gWt3Rn9cJXk3XaA33mrzs7U9NAyLs3BEOVmQx3BJmWnnLiyY4SMyBjiLmBxs6_96v8uQM/s1600/DSC_0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ6nvSX-zJTZA-2rOWge3OkJ3UuzOsnWGXP09rREcqwsfh0tSt3HmgZRnfefhxpDiA26uov8gWt3Rn9cJXk3XaA33mrzs7U9NAyLs3BEOVmQx3BJmWnnLiyY4SMyBjiLmBxs6_96v8uQM/s640/DSC_0017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Ella + Mila Nail Polish in Lover's Suite</b><br />
I first found out about Ella + Mila nail polish when I was pregnant with my daughter, Evelyn. At the time, I was a big nail polish junkie, and although I didn't want to use as many harsh chemicals, I still wanted to keep color on my nails. So, the search began, and I found out that this particular polish is made without Formaldehyde, Toluene, Dibutyl Phthalate, Formaldehyde Resin, Camphor, THPH, or Xylene, so it's safer than a lot of nail polishes out there! I have a few different colors that I really like, but this pretty pale pink called <b>Lover's Suite </b>has been my favorite lately. Oh, and bonus: you can now get it at <a href="https://www.target.com/p/ella-mila-nail-polish-collection-0-45-fl-oz/-/A-53733010?preselect=53589438#lnk=sametab">Target</a>!<br />
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<b>EyeLure Magnetic Opulent Corner Lashes</b><br />
I love the look of fake lashes, but I could never get them to look right on me. I've also had negative reactions to all the different lash glues that I've tried. So, when I stumbled upon these magnetic lashes from Eyelure (also at <a href="https://www.target.com/p/eylure-magnetic-lashes-opulent-corner/-/A-53588324">Target</a> - I have a problem!), I figured they were at least worth a try. I first wore them when we went to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i35Nt6rWYL8">Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween</a> last year, and they've been a staple ever since. They're incredibly easy to put on, comfortable, and you can wear them up to <i>fifteen</i> times!<br />
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<b>Farmacy New Day Gentle Exfoliating Grains</b></div>
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I've used this product for quite a while, though I don't know that I've ever talked about it, so I figured it was about time! It's an exfoliating powder, so what I've found works best is to first run my hands under water, and then add some of the powder to the palm of my hand, and work it into a paste. I can then exfoliate my face, and it provides such a gentle exfoliation for sensitive skin! Plus, it smells like oatmeal, and I have to say, I really like that!<br />
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<b>Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis</b></div>
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I think I read <b>Girl, Wash Your Face</b> in about 2 days, which is crazy for the mom of a toddler, right?? I loved how empowering it was, and I honestly think that Rachel's words are really going to change the way that I approach life - not that I want to copy hers, but I want to be more authentic in my own, and create content that I'm excited about without fear of what others think. I highly recommend this book, particularly to young moms out there!</div>
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<b>London Fog Lattes</b></div>
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Maybe it's the cold, dreary, weather, but I have been <i>craving</i> London Fog Lattes recently. If you've never had one, it's made with some Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, almond extract, and if you really want to get fancy, a bit of lavender, as well! I'm currently working on perfecting my own recipe, so once I feel like it's <i>just right</i>, I'll share it with you!<br />
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So, now that you've seen what my current favorites are, it's your turn! Let me know what you've been loving recently so that I can try it, too!</div>
Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-22581858596282088042018-07-13T12:52:00.000-05:002018-07-13T12:52:10.058-05:00Geranium Dress by Made by Rae<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By now, I'm sure that everyone has heard of the <a href="https://shop.made-by-rae.com/products/geranium-dress">Geranium Dress by Made by Rae</a>. I know I've been eyeing it for quite a while, and with our busy wedding schedule this summer, decided it was finally time to go ahead and make one for Evelyn. It's made out of <a href="https://www.fabric.com/buy/0476436/kaufman-essex-yarn-dyed-linen-blend-metallic-water">Kaufman Linen Blend Metallic fabric</a> in a light blue shade that I picked up from <a href="http://fabric.com/">fabric.com</a>.</div>
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There are so many different combinations you can make with this pattern, but for this particular dress, I tried to keep it pretty simple. It has a scoop neck, flutter sleeves, and a gathered waistline. The pattern does call for a lining, but I decided to skip that step, since the dress was already a fairly heavy, and my little girl runs warm! It took a little more finagling to do it that way, but I think the result still looks nice, and I don't have to worry about her overheating.</div>
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It was an incredibly quick project to work up, and I was able to complete it in one evening after Evelyn had gone to bed. Really, the most time consuming part of this project was probably sewing on the snap closures at the end!</div>
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I love how it turned out, and I'm so excited to make more versions of this pattern. I've already made a top that she wore for the Fourth of July and doctored it up in order to make her a pair of pajamas - let me know if you would be interested in blogposts for either of those! As for right now, we're getting ready to head to another wedding, and I think she'll be wearing this dress again!Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-10868536244226184822018-06-12T12:12:00.000-05:002018-06-12T12:12:43.659-05:00Waterfall Raglan Top by Chalk and NotchWhen I picked up this <a href="https://www.fabric.com/buy/0518603/art-gallery-little-town-jersey-knit-starbright-frost">Art Gallery Little Town Starbright Frost</a> fabric, I had plans to be selfish and make myself a t-shirt. I was going to make a short-sleeved shirt from the New Look 6323 pattern I've had in my stash for quite a while, but, when I went to pull the pattern pieces out, I noticed that several were missing! So, I started looking for a different top to make, and stumbled across the <a href="https://www.chalkandnotch.com/shop/womens-waterfall-raglan/">Waterfall Raglan Top</a> by <a href="https://www.chalkandnotch.com/">Chalk and Notch</a>. Soon after, I found out that Chalk and Notch also has a <i>mini</i> version of the Waterfall Top for 12M-12 years!<br />
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Evelyn and I have had several coordinating outfits, but we've never really truly matched, so when I found this pattern, I knew I had to do one up for both of us! It took a little bit of creative cutting to get all the pieces for both tops from 2 yards of fabric, particularly since I later noticed that I'd forgotten a ruffle piece for both tops, but I managed! I think an experienced sewist could easily get both tops out of 2 yards (sizes 8 and 2T), but as a beginner, I like to have a little wiggle room, just in case, and I didn't have much wiggle room with these.</div>
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Once I got past cutting out the pieces, the rest of the pattern was a breeze. The Chalk and Notch patterns are so easy to follow, there wasn't a single moment where I had to stop and think about what I was supposed to do. The neckband was a little tricky, and you can see Evelyn's doesn't lay flat, but overall, I think they turned out really well!<br />
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They're going to get so much use over the summer, I can already tell! I love this tunic style, and the fabric is nice and lightweight, so we should be able to manage another summer without air conditioning! Fun fact: I don't think Joe and I have lived in an air conditioned house since we've been together. <br />
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Other Details:</div>
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My Leggings: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/6323-Misses-Leggings-Pullover-Tunics/dp/B00OLFQSV0">New Look 6323</a></div>
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Evelyn's Leggings: <a href="https://toddah.net/little-leggings-tutorial-with-free-pattern/">Toddah</a></div>
Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-55868379471179203542018-06-11T14:13:00.000-05:002018-06-11T14:13:15.030-05:00Thereafter Cardigan by Alicia Plummer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWbUBdEvgVmzUEqLKlvYaceKGSMDIWdQDef1B_LNOCSoJHSRYIkbAC4HzWBIRX1d9bTQWpsR0lgZCjpT9Hmo90VEVkSen7Lcdrgur5pAZhwZRC2BZaOiMbFY72ipwliodkLUpXzjfIcLI/s1600/DSC_0159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWbUBdEvgVmzUEqLKlvYaceKGSMDIWdQDef1B_LNOCSoJHSRYIkbAC4HzWBIRX1d9bTQWpsR0lgZCjpT9Hmo90VEVkSen7Lcdrgur5pAZhwZRC2BZaOiMbFY72ipwliodkLUpXzjfIcLI/s640/DSC_0159.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I've been on quite the cardigan kick recently. I won't go into too much detail, but so far this year, I've finished two (this one and the <a href="https://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2018/04/dandelion-cardigan-and-simplicity-2461.html">Dandelion Cardigan by Along Avec Anna</a>), have two on the needles, and plans for one more. They're just perfect for the summer months, since they're easy to slip on and off during the day, depending on what the weather is like. This particular cardigan is the <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/thereafter">Thereafter Cardigan by Alicia Plummer</a>, and is made out of Plymouth Yarn's Bamtastic yarn in the colorway Aquatic. This was my first time using one of Alicia Plummer's patterns, and I fully intend to do more of them! It was so brilliantly designed, my husband is probably sick of me talking about it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2WoyKOz-eqWYE9NG1HEexcz4kLX4C2SSPUaH62pdG6s2VnIFegljgMplScT8OHsYcg4yvDjsxkuTcf8j5DJ7OHOCcY4dWTsLCP-uDbHdMoPmRrPn6Z0MbHUClR-HfCJMEeIkXJcrPxRU/s1600/DSC_0151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2WoyKOz-eqWYE9NG1HEexcz4kLX4C2SSPUaH62pdG6s2VnIFegljgMplScT8OHsYcg4yvDjsxkuTcf8j5DJ7OHOCcY4dWTsLCP-uDbHdMoPmRrPn6Z0MbHUClR-HfCJMEeIkXJcrPxRU/s640/DSC_0151.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
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It's worked from the top down, which is my favorite way to knit seamless sweaters (less finishing), and has the coolest shoulder shaping I've seen so far. Increases are worked to create a "shoulder seam" before any stitches are added to the sleeves which ends up creating a mock set-in sleeve. It also utilizes short rows to create a dropped back, and I did make a modification here. I love the dropped back, but this pattern used wrap & turn shaping, which I just can't get to look right. However, earlier this year I was introduced to German short rows, so I just used those, instead. </div>
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I also loved the texture on the cuffs and bottom hem. It looks nice in pictures, but oh my goodness, it looks amazing in person! One final little geek out is that the math on this pattern was spot on. I finished a cable repeat right before I started the bottom hem, the sleeve decreases were absolutely perfect - everything was so well thought out. I was incredibly impressed by this pattern, and can't wait to start working on another Alicia Plummer design! I suppose I should finish my other cardigans first, though.</div>
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Other Outfit Details:</div>
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<a href="https://shop.deer-and-doe.fr/en/sewing-patterns/20-plantain-t-shirt-pattern.html">Plantain Top by Deer & Doe</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/6323-Misses-Leggings-Pullover-Tunics/dp/B00OLFQSV0">New Look 6323 Leggings</a></div>
Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-53426020096824640942018-06-09T14:01:00.000-05:002018-06-09T14:01:52.621-05:00Simplicity 2461 Dress Revisited<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0bFAsAlERI6TLAHoawBFR5sQQUazvSufkhqD4dk179NZb7Cgze8FsgTUKjrLquhrQ0WFquDmADSYZOY20hkMp4_lnnRl57Dt0G30l8O8lmOZI7OtQQiGss7MFCoIe2uNZDAnovRapMUQ/s1600/DSC_0224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0bFAsAlERI6TLAHoawBFR5sQQUazvSufkhqD4dk179NZb7Cgze8FsgTUKjrLquhrQ0WFquDmADSYZOY20hkMp4_lnnRl57Dt0G30l8O8lmOZI7OtQQiGss7MFCoIe2uNZDAnovRapMUQ/s640/DSC_0224.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It really wasn't very long ago that I first made Evelyn a dress using the Simplicity 2461 pattern, and shared it on this blog (you can see that <a href="http://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2018/04/dandelion-cardigan-and-simplicity-2461.html">here</a>). I love that dress on her so much, but even though I mentioned in that first post that I was planning on making her another, I didn't think it was going to be this soon! Then, I saw this Swan All Over fabric on sale at Hobby Lobby - I think it's since been discontinued - and knew I had to do it again.</div>
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I did a few things differently this time around, like putting in an invisible zipper, using fusible interfacing for the collar instead of tear-away, and I know I attached the collar a bit differently than the first time. I'm just not entirely sure how I did it. Regardless, the little details are much better than the first time, and it looks much more polished than the first dress.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4qIQ4jI4SZxq5DTezuQ0z9-pel8kE9o8JOjh87hoZkhQFiALsnkxAXNv7yhOX0YvSHQahBSEzCDttnHsoAeVPkxo1EubFWsg-uR1v-V_CSS-mspmNnm7rG9Ml7lpzQj8AYS5DB1a5v0/s1600/DSC_0217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4qIQ4jI4SZxq5DTezuQ0z9-pel8kE9o8JOjh87hoZkhQFiALsnkxAXNv7yhOX0YvSHQahBSEzCDttnHsoAeVPkxo1EubFWsg-uR1v-V_CSS-mspmNnm7rG9Ml7lpzQj8AYS5DB1a5v0/s640/DSC_0217.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I do think that one of the main reasons this second dress looks so much more polished than the first is simply due to fabric choice, as well. While most people wouldn't notice those small imperfections, it's clear the the first dress is made of a much more playful fabric, and this one is more soft and gentle. It's almost hard to believe they were made out of the exact same pattern - same version, and everything!</div>
Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-5242718327742258292018-06-04T10:10:00.000-05:002018-06-04T10:10:18.129-05:00Sawyer Pullover by Julie Hoover<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFCfeKPE0Y5A0oQyvP_w5p_7BQdB-w2BTjYzZaFysazXHICHTnebs3voo4CK8FAeLHoy-D6o2TVwf4igD2YZZY5bpQwAEK_WiucP4T-yBdkhJE_GzP8O3s5_N5EJrMqhHyq8D9Y6Ci_9w/s1600/DSC_0249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFCfeKPE0Y5A0oQyvP_w5p_7BQdB-w2BTjYzZaFysazXHICHTnebs3voo4CK8FAeLHoy-D6o2TVwf4igD2YZZY5bpQwAEK_WiucP4T-yBdkhJE_GzP8O3s5_N5EJrMqhHyq8D9Y6Ci_9w/s640/DSC_0249.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
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Isn't my model for today handsome??? This is my husband, Joe, and although he's typically pretty shy around the camera, he's actually allowing me to use a photo of his face for today's post! The little girl he's holding in most of these pictures is, of course, our daughter, Evelyn. She <i>loves </i>cameras, and is a daddy's girl, so I was only able to get one picture without her in it! But, I digress. That's not what we're here for today. Instead, I'm going to talk about a sweater I recently made Joe, the <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sawyer">Sawyer Pullover</a> by <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/designers/julie-hoover">Julie Hoover</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqN93BkGUaGDCqBVhcLQHAB6ZLENSuRl5ht8N1MqbRUtNc3539lfLna7fuPRRZByihDhj24VlNrcEGasqrkE2gMxy8XdBQekJh7HCb8_usd8N7NO_SMFD5WeyZagu_Q9EvKErOfAtNLZk/s1600/DSC_0246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqN93BkGUaGDCqBVhcLQHAB6ZLENSuRl5ht8N1MqbRUtNc3539lfLna7fuPRRZByihDhj24VlNrcEGasqrkE2gMxy8XdBQekJh7HCb8_usd8N7NO_SMFD5WeyZagu_Q9EvKErOfAtNLZk/s640/DSC_0246.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now, I've made quite a few sweaters for Joe in the almost 7 years we've been together, but I think this is my favorite so far. It's made from Cascade Yarns Lana D'Oro in the colorway Charcoal, and has a beautiful thermal texture all over that was much easier than I thought it was going to be. It's worked in pieces, so the front, back, sleeves, and button bands are all worked separately, then sewn together at the end. This means there was a lot of finishing work, but I have to admit: although I prefer making seamless pieces, I <i>love</i> the look of seamed garments.</div>
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It worked up really quickly, and I love that it has a rugged manliness to it. Men's sweaters can be difficult, because some of the fun knitting details can look a little feminine if done incorrectly. Really, the only thing I found tricky was the sizing, and that's because Joe's sizing is tricky. He's quite tall and thin, so what I ended up doing was mixing different sizes together. I used the smallest size widthwise and largest size lengthwise, and it turned out perfectly! I love this sweater so much, and Julie Hoover's designs are amazing. This is the second or third design I've made of hers, and I have a few more on my to do list!</div>
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Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-2090976878735840742018-06-02T12:11:00.000-05:002018-06-02T12:11:29.294-05:00McCall's M7717 Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh my goodness. This dress is probably my favorite handmade clothing item right now, mostly because I'm so proud of the fact that I finished it! So, let me tell you a little backstory about this beauty. Joe and I have a pretty packed wedding schedule this year, and I decided that I wanted to make my dress for all of them. This past weekend was our first one, and it was a beautiful outdoor wedding in Lutsen, Minnesota, right on Lake Superior. It was absolutely gorgeous! Well, I finished this dress the night before we had to leave. </div>
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For the experienced sewist, that probably wouldn't be a big deal, but I'm definitely a novice, and took my time when I was working on it. I did also have to chat with my grandma at one point to figure out how to attach the lining to the zipper, but once she explained it to me, it was pretty quick and easy. I just wish I hadn't procrastinated on it for so long. The dress is made from the <a href="https://mccallpattern.mccall.com/m7717">McCall's M7717</a> pattern, and it's version C. I made it out of Telio Sirina Pebble Crepe Floral Ecru Fabric, and love how it turned out! As I said earlier, I'm a beginner, so the seams don't exactly match up, I do have some weird pattern repeating on the midsection, but no one realized that I made it myself until I told them!<br />
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So, I suppose you're wondering if I'll actually go through with making the dresses for the other weddings we have this summer. Well, that I'm not sure of. part of me would really like to, but the other part of me is worried that I'll be staying up late the night before, again, putting on the finishing touches. I guess we'll just have to wait and see. As for right now, I know this particular dress is going to be getting quite a bit of use!</div>
Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-68819966371635397272018-05-31T10:50:00.000-05:002018-07-13T12:53:47.562-05:00Handmade Summer Capsule Wardrobe Plans<div>
I think it's about time that I get intentional about my handmade capsule wardrobe, don't you? I've been talking about it for who knows how long, and I do have quite a bit of handmade clothing, but this summer, I wanted to sit down and come up with some cohesive wardrobes, not just for myself, but for my entire family. So, this is it. This is my tentative list of clothing that I hope to make my family for these summer months, along with their statuses. I'll try to update this list throughout the summer, and we'll see how I did sometime in late August! Are you excited to come along on this journey with me? I'm excited! Oh, and if you have any suggestions for other projects I should do, please let me know in the comment section! I need a few more ideas for Joe...</div>
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<b>Me</b></div>
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Mazzy Cardigan by Elizabeth Smith - in progress</div>
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<a href="https://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2018/06/thereafter-cardigan-by-alicia-plummer.html">Thereafter Cardigan by Alicia Plummer - complete</a></div>
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<a href="https://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2018/06/waterfall-raglan-top-by-chalk-and-notch.html">Waterfall Raglan Top by Chalk and Notch - complete</a><br />
<a href="http://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2018/06/mccalls-m7717-dress.html">McCall's M7717 Dress (C) - complete</a></div>
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Jamie Jeans by Named Clothing - not started</div>
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New Look 6323 Leggings - complete</div>
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<b>Joe</b></div>
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<a href="http://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2018/06/sawyer-pullover-by-julie-hoover.html">Sawyer Pullover by Julie Hoover - complete</a></div>
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Timberline Cardigan by Jared Flood - not started</div>
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McCall's M6044 (C) - not started</div>
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<b>Evelyn</b></div>
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<a href="https://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2018/04/dandelion-cardigan-and-simplicity-2461.html">Dandelion Cardigan by Along Avec Anna - complete</a></div>
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Anna's Summer Cardigan by PetiteKnit - in progress<br />
<a href="https://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2018/06/waterfall-raglan-top-by-chalk-and-notch.html">Waterfall Raglan Top by Chalk and Notch - complete</a></div>
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<a href="https://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2018/07/geranium-dress-by-made-by-rae.html">Geranium Dress by Made by Rae - complete</a></div>
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<a href="https://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2018/04/dandelion-cardigan-and-simplicity-2461.html">Simplicity 2461 Dress - complete</a><br />
Leggings by ToddAh - complete<br />
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Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-48331588094119240162018-05-29T15:31:00.000-05:002018-05-30T12:08:05.328-05:00Cantelow Socks by All Knit Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOGYIomtwXYIm9GHANAp2Gy7WBtq5kNvWTC-61GvvfSwCGrNrIBDqWc6QLSuzuSVJHldqlPFha-h_2lh5ni6F9tPBjvc9IRf4eRMLUWwUL4tYN7jo9RoaCvUgEgg0-_HQDKZ22WnQd29g/s1600/sock1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOGYIomtwXYIm9GHANAp2Gy7WBtq5kNvWTC-61GvvfSwCGrNrIBDqWc6QLSuzuSVJHldqlPFha-h_2lh5ni6F9tPBjvc9IRf4eRMLUWwUL4tYN7jo9RoaCvUgEgg0-_HQDKZ22WnQd29g/s640/sock1.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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This has been the year of the sock for me. In fact, I think I'm on track to where I could participate in a Box of Socks KAL this year, especially now that I'm receiving a <a href="https://www.knitcrate.com/products/sock-crate-membership-monthly-plan">SockCrate</a> by<a href="https://www.knitcrate.com/"> KnitCrate</a> each month! Each SockCrate comes with a hank of fingering weight yarn and a pattern that goes along with a particular theme, so you never really know what you're going to get. For example, this month, the theme was 'Contemporary', and it featured cool tones, with a minimalistic style, while last month's was 'Golden Hour', with the tones being much warmer and inspired by nature (check out my socks from last month <a href="https://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2018/05/the-hills-are-alive-socks-by-joanna.html">here</a>)</div>
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These particular socks are the <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cantelow">Cantelow Socks</a> by <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/designers/all-knit-up">All Knit Up</a>, and they're made out of the Audine Wools Luxury Sock in the colorway Weekend. I loved working with this yarn. It's 75% Merino, 15% Nylon, and 10% Cashmere, so it's super soft, and I love how the dark flecks of red and blue against a pale blue base gives an almost worn-in denim look. Honestly, all of the KnitCrate boxes this month have had an amazing balance of casual style with a bit of luxury thrown in. I recently finished my<a href="https://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2018/05/daxis-wrap-by-pariser-landluft.html"> Daxis Wrap by Pariser Landluft</a> from my main KnitCrate, and it's the same way.</div>
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I did make a couple of changes to the sock pattern, two that were intentional, and one that was not. You may be able to see the purl row that is just at the top of the heel flap of my sock, and that isn't supposed to be there. I misread the pattern, and for some strange reason added it in. I don't really mind it, but if I were to do this pattern again, I would not put it in. I also added a selvage edge to the heel flap to make it easier to pick up stitches for the gusset, and added two extra rows to my heel flap solely because that's what I always do. Overall, this was my favorite KnitCrate theme, and I can't to see what I'm going to get next month!</div>
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What do you think of these socks? If you're interested in signing up for your own<a href="https://www.knitcrate.com/products/sock-crate-membership-monthly-plan"> SockCrate Membership</a>, make sure to use my code: PEARLS20 for 20% off! </div>
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Did you miss my May KnitCrate Unboxing? Check it out here:</div>
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Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-19699302996350766352018-05-25T10:14:00.000-05:002018-05-30T12:08:21.807-05:00Daxis Wrap by Pariser Landluft<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So far this year, I'd have to say that this <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/daxis">Daxis Wrap</a> by <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/designers/pariser-landluft">Pariser Landluft</a> has been my favorite project from my <a href="https://www.knitcrate.com/">KnitCrate</a> subscription. It's such a nice, minimalistic design, and I love the checkerboard texture on the majority of the shawl. The pattern was very simple and easy to follow, which makes it perfect for a beginner, though I have to admit, as a knitter of well over ten years, I did get a bit bored towards the end. However, even if you are an advanced knitter, the finished project is still worth it.</div>
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Knit out of La Brebis Marled Sock in the colorway Grey Twist, it's so soft and lightweight that it reminds me of a well loved, worn-in t-shirt. I love it so much that, although I just finished this project the other day, I'm already planning to add it to my handmade capsule wardrobe (Which is definitely happening this year - more on that later!).</div>
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As you can see, it does have an asymmetrical shape, which was a little tricky to style at first. My favorite way to wear it so far is to arrange the "center" point and long tail to the front, and tuck the shorter tail beneath the shawl, similar to the second picture in this post. As with all shawls and wraps, though, there is an infinite number of ways to wear them!</div>
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What do you think of this wrap? If you're interested in signing up for your own<a href="https://www.knitcrate.com/products/knitcrate-monthly-plan"> KnitCrate Membership</a>, make sure to use my code: PEARLS20 for 20% off!<br />
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Did you miss my May KnitCrate Unboxing? Check it out here:</div>
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Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-83037696513381859542018-05-04T11:59:00.000-05:002018-05-04T11:59:29.050-05:00The Hills Are Alive Socks by Joanna Booth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This past month, I got to try out the <a href="https://www.knitcrate.com/products/sock-crate-membership-monthly-plan">SockCrate Membership</a> box by <a href="https://www.knitcrate.com/">KnitCrate</a>, and I'm in LOVE! Each SockCrate contains a hank of fingering weight yarn and a sock pattern pertaining to that month's theme. This past month, the theme was Golden Hour, so everything had a really pretty, earthy feel to it. The pattern is <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-hills-are-alive-2">The Hills Are Alive</a> by <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/designers/joanna-booth">Joanna Booth</a>, and the yarn is Vidalana Shimmer Sock in the colorway Garnet.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQF1UsDcmDKJ2FcghiEW6R7G95BhKiSI_SaGMa6b1FYAJSOc-2KqIalay2hC9X2D7OJQEhJW57Q8DqMXqgbQYx8yZsWeZahZ2coaCRhoxy6kIz-DbYf0RNauMnh_duSjTNznEOyUapDRo/s1600/DSC_2195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQF1UsDcmDKJ2FcghiEW6R7G95BhKiSI_SaGMa6b1FYAJSOc-2KqIalay2hC9X2D7OJQEhJW57Q8DqMXqgbQYx8yZsWeZahZ2coaCRhoxy6kIz-DbYf0RNauMnh_duSjTNznEOyUapDRo/s640/DSC_2195.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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They're gorgeous, aren't they? I can't even explain how much I love the way they turned out. In the pattern, Joanna explains that she was really inspired by mountains under the twinkling stars, and I can definitely see that. There's a very subtle mountain range going down the sock that you almost don't notice until you look at it sideways, and because of the Stellina in the yarn, the stars are always twinkling.</div>
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These were really quick and easy to knit up, though I did make a few changes. For the heel flap, I worked one row of sl1, k1 on the right side then sl1, p to end on the wrong side, which is what I typically do for socks. I don't think it did much to the overall look of the sock, but I think it will hold up a bit better than the instructions that were given. There also weren't any instructions for mirroring the design on the other sock, which is something I really wanted to do, so I just reversed the instructions for the first sock, and I think it turned out perfectly!</div>
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What do you think of these socks? If you're interested in signing up for your own<a href="https://www.knitcrate.com/products/sock-crate-membership-monthly-plan"> SockCrate Membership</a>, make sure to use my code: PEARLS20 for 20% off! </div>
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Did you miss my April SockCrate Unboxing? Check it out here:</div>
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Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-32545130731173127342018-04-25T17:58:00.000-05:002018-04-25T18:10:13.528-05:00Dandelion Cardigan and Simplicity 2461 Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've had the goal of making myself a completely handmade capsule wardrobe for a while now, but ever since Evelyn was born, I've noticed I have a stronger desire to make clothing for her, instead. In fact, for our last day of <span id="goog_300449373"></span><a href="http://www.mops.org/">MOPS</a>, I decided that she should have a brand new, handmade outfit. I was so proud of how it turned out, that I decided I needed to come back to my blog, and tell you about it!</div>
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Her cardigan is the <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/dandelion-cardigan-3">Dandelion Cardigan</a> by <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/sources/along-avec-annas-ravelry-store">Along avec Anna</a> in size 2T, and it's made out of <a href="http://www.malabrigoyarn.com/sock-28#.WuD_-bpFxPY">Malabrigo Sock</a> in the colorway Ivy. It's a 100% superwash merino, and I have to say, I really love this yarn. I've used it in several different projects already, including a sweater for myself, and I keep coming back to it. The cardigan pattern was pretty easy to follow. You start by making the sleeves in stockinette, and work the cardigan from the bottom up until you reach the underarm. Then, the sleeves are added, and the raglan shaping begins. The dandelion design running throughout the body of the cardigan may look difficult, but once you get the hang of it, it works up incredibly quickly, and I'm a little obsessed with it (check out <b>my</b> <a href="https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/mabel-15">Mabel and Mini Mabel socks</a>).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTQ4fkH_td_416pUf8Fzdmy-ubWkNOYPHAphDOcZQaA1Ppl5t915fdyrGu6VbhNR9TB8AyAxC8pJg_zLQPLGhjtVV7q4QFtLxRw-bUeUNIRvB1l5zjw9hklK-erQGBcJWUo-HSTdAMWkA/s1600/DSC_2171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTQ4fkH_td_416pUf8Fzdmy-ubWkNOYPHAphDOcZQaA1Ppl5t915fdyrGu6VbhNR9TB8AyAxC8pJg_zLQPLGhjtVV7q4QFtLxRw-bUeUNIRvB1l5zjw9hklK-erQGBcJWUo-HSTdAMWkA/s640/DSC_2171.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then, there's her dress! Now, I'm very much a novice when it comes to sewing, so there are a <i>lot</i> of mistakes in this dress, but there's only one way to learn, right? The pattern is <a href="https://www.simplicity.com/simplicity-pattern-2461-toddlers-dresses/2461.html">Simplicity 2461</a> in size 1, and was made out of <a href="https://www.fabric.com/buy/0539825/cotton-steel-lawn-lawnquilt-wildflower-cream">Cotton + Steel Lawn Lawnquilt Wildflower Cream Fabric</a>. It's not very stretchy, which makes lining things up easier, and it's pretty lightweight. The general construction was fairly simple, though there are a couple things I'll change when I do this again - yes, I am definitely making another of these dresses for her! The back zipper was definitely the most difficult thing for me, and I have no problem admitting that I had no idea what I was doing when it came to that part. I've since talked to my mom about it, and I <i>think</i> maybe I get it now. Maybe. The collar calls for fusible interfacing, which would have likely been easier than what I ended up doing, which was using tear away interfacing, and sewing it directly into the collar. However, I do like the sturdiness that it gives, so I might do that again.</div>
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Although there are plenty of little things that I would do differently, I am so happy with how her outfit turned out, and if you like these kinds of "here's what I made" posts, let me know, and I can do more! They won't <i>all</i> be clothes for Evelyn. :)</div>
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Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-58199552146517342302017-07-01T19:06:00.005-05:002017-07-01T19:06:59.946-05:00Evelyn's Hooded Cardigan<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5K-Eztc7y0tAVnRGKgzpaCqcsTTF6ummwZJWcytkKghFMuPDT94JV9gj7WphLs34pdOt8kJMP04DhEO2NhBdthrJqCJQhFE5IGGidEJZm6tEArytKDun9GkRnZ7RZ4uPtuWOUySLpgRo2/s1600/cardigan1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1473" data-original-width="1472" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5K-Eztc7y0tAVnRGKgzpaCqcsTTF6ummwZJWcytkKghFMuPDT94JV9gj7WphLs34pdOt8kJMP04DhEO2NhBdthrJqCJQhFE5IGGidEJZm6tEArytKDun9GkRnZ7RZ4uPtuWOUySLpgRo2/s400/cardigan1.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<b>SIZES</b></div>
<div>
0-3 (3-6:6-12) months</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>FINISHED MEASUREMENTS</b></div>
<div>
Chest circumference (buttoned): 19 1/2 (21:22)" [49.5 (53.5:56) cm]</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>YARN</b></div>
<div>
<a href="http://mbsy.co/gLbbW">knitologie by KnitCrate</a> Airy Singles [60% merino wool, 20% nylon, 20% alpaca; 440 yards (402 meters) / 100 grams]</div>
<div>
2 hanks Fresh Start</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>NEEDLES</b></div>
<div>
US 6 (4 mm) x 24" (60 cm) circular</div>
<div>
Change needle size if necessary to obtain correct guage</div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>NOTIONS</b></div>
<div>
8 stitch markers; spare yarn; stitch holder; tapestry needle; three 1/2" (1.5 cm) buttons; sewing needle</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>GUAGE</b></div>
<div>
24 sts and 34 rows = 4" (10 cm) in St st using size US 6 (4mm) needles</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<b>CARDIGAN</b><br />
<div>
<i>(begin at neck)</i></div>
<div>
CO 27 sts.</div>
<div>
<b>Row 1: (WS) </b>Purl.</div>
<div>
Work in St st, beg with a knit row as foll:</div>
<div>
CO 4 sts at beg of next 4 rows - 43 sts.</div>
<div>
CO 8 sts at beg of next row - 51 sts.</div>
<div>
<b>Next row:</b> CO 8 sts purlwise, p9 (including CO sts), pm, p1, pm, p7, pm, p1, pm, p23, pm, p1, pm, p7, pm, p1, pm, p9 - 59 sts.</div>
<div>
<b>**Inc row:</b> [Knit to marker, m1, sm, k1, sm, m1] 4 times, knit to end - 67 sts.</div>
<div>
<b>Next row:</b> Purl.**</div>
<div>
Rep from ** to ** 14 (16:17) times more - 179 (195:203) sts.</div>
<div>
Work 4 (2:2) rows straight in St st.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Divide for Sleeves and Body:</b></div>
<div>
<b>Next row (RS):</b> K24 (26:27), *rm, k1, rm, place 37 (41:43) sts between markers on spare yarn for sleeve, rm, turn, CO 4 (4:5) sts purlwise, turn, k1, rm, * k53 (57:59); rep from * to * once, k24 (26:27) - 113 (121:127) sts.</div>
<div>
Cont straight in St st until piece measures 4 1/2 (5:5)" [11.5 (12.5:12.5) cm] or desired length from underarm, ending with a WS row.</div>
<div>
<b>Dec row:</b> K7 (8:9), *[k2tog] 5 times, k29 (32:34), [k2tog] 5 times, * k1; rep from * to * once, k7 (8:9) - 93 (101:107) sts.</div>
<div>
Beg seed st patt as foll:</div>
<div>
<b>Row 1: </b>*k1, p1; rep from * to last st, k1.</div>
<div>
Rep Row 1 a further 6 times.</div>
<div>
BO in patt.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>SLEEVE</b> (make 2)</div>
<div>
Transfer 37 (41:43) Sleeve sts onto circular needle. Using magic loop method, with RS facing, pick up and knit 4 (4:6) sts along underarm, placing a marker after 2nd (2nd:3rd) st for beg of rnd - 41 (45:49) sts.</div>
<div>
Slip marker on every rnd.</div>
<div>
Work straight in St st until Sleeve measures 3 1/4 (3 1/2:4)" [8.5 (9:10) cm] from underarm (or desired length).</div>
<div>
<b>Dec rnd:</b> K13 (15:17), [k2tog] 8 times, k12 (14:16) - 33 (37:41) sts.</div>
<div>
Work in seed st patt as foll:</div>
<div>
<b>Rnd 1:</b> *K1, p1; rep from * to last st, k1.</div>
<div>
<b>Rnd 2:</b> *P1, k1; rep from * to last st, p1.</div>
<div>
Rep Rnds 1 & 2 twice more.</div>
<div>
BO in patt.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>LEFT FRONT PLACKET</b></div>
<div>
With RS facing, pick up and knit 59, (65:71) sts along left edge of cardigan.</div>
<div>
Work in seed patt as foll:</div>
<div>
<b>Row 1:</b> *K1, p1; rep from * to last st, k1.</div>
<div>
Rep Row 1 a further 6 times.</div>
<div>
BO in patt.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>RIGHT FRONT PLACKET</b></div>
<div>
With RS facing, pick up and knit 59 (65:<b>7</b>1) sts along right edge of cardigan.</div>
<div>
<b>Rows 1-2:</b> *K1, p1; rep from * to last st, k1.</div>
<div>
<b>Row 3: </b>*[K1, p1] 8 (9:10) times, yo, p2tog; rep from * 2 more times, [k1, p1] 2 times, k1.</div>
<div>
<b>Row 4: </b>[K1, p1] 3 times, * ktbl, [p1, k1] 8 (9:10) times, p1] rep from * 1 more time, ktbl, [p1, k1] 8 (9:10) times.</div>
<div>
Rep Rows 1 & 2 once more.</div>
<div>
BO in patt.<br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAr9TPvycfr1zU88EayVaRJDdcHe-P1bTLBoDSkAygnNpugiIXcE0CwemRicMfUcC1bc_9a2VIQMrTCoIozyZC5Z_UtYMN4IX1O2ZYMppUguvrWKVl1MBUT3IXaslAmySbigTeFQ5RjjDm/s1600/cardigan3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAr9TPvycfr1zU88EayVaRJDdcHe-P1bTLBoDSkAygnNpugiIXcE0CwemRicMfUcC1bc_9a2VIQMrTCoIozyZC5Z_UtYMN4IX1O2ZYMppUguvrWKVl1MBUT3IXaslAmySbigTeFQ5RjjDm/s400/cardigan3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>HOOD</b><br />
<div>
CO 36 (42:42) sts.</div>
<div>
<b>Row 1:</b> K8 (10:10), pm, k1, pm, k9 (10: 10), pm, k9 (10:10), pm, k1, pm, knit to end.</div>
<div>
<b>Row 2: </b>Purl.</div>
<div>
<b>Row 3: </b>Knit to marker, m1, sm, k1, sm, m1, knit to 1 st before marker, m1, k1, sm, k1, m1, knit to marker, m1, sm, k1, sm, m1, knit to end - 42 (48:48) sts.</div>
<div>
<b>Row 4:</b> Purl.</div>
<div>
<b>Row 5: </b>Knit to marker, m1, sm, k1, sm, m1, knit to marker, sm, knit to marker, m1, sm, k1, sm, m1, knit to end - 46 (52:52) sts.</div>
<div>
<b>Row 6: </b>Purl.</div>
<div>
<b>Rows 7-10:</b> Rep Rows 3-6, removing all except center marker on last row - 56 (62:62) sts.</div>
<div>
<b>Row 11:</b> Knit to 1 st before marker, m1, k1, sm, k1, m1, knit to end - 58 (64:64) sts.</div>
<div>
Work 3 rows St st.</div>
<div>
<b>Row 15:</b> Rep Row 11 - 60 (66:66) sts.</div>
<div>
Work in St st until piece measures 8 (9:9)" [20.5 (23:23) cm], ending with a WS row.</div>
<div>
Break of yarn, leaving a tail twice the width of the hood. Fold work in half, placing 30 (33:33) sts at each end of needle. Thread tapestry needle with yarn tail and graft sts from both ends of needle together on RS using Kitchener Stitch.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Hood Edging:</b></div>
<div>
With RS facing, pick up and knit 73 (81:81) sts along face edge of Hood.</div>
<div>
Work in seed patt as foll:</div>
<div>
<div>
<b>Row 1:</b> *K1, p1; rep from * to last st, k1.</div>
<div>
Rep Row 1 a further 6 times.</div>
<div>
BO in patt.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>FINISHING</b></div>
<div>
Using tapestry needle, sew Hood to neck edge of cardigan, being careful not to sew Hood to Right or Left Plackets. Weave in ends on WS. Using sewing needle, sew buttons to Left Front Placket to correspond with buttonholes.<br />
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-71963570411974456772017-05-23T09:50:00.001-05:002017-05-23T09:50:50.529-05:00Evelyn's 4 Month Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQinYLPq4MX3-aP-U3_MBMBK9Z6CAuCPHb9W08XU3f9E1KQ4PwJrWH6la1q5UXHk-sr-h79jky3OZ7YFqZIEK7L7ErxX4EWqdQEJCspuhdd3s9pRru5ci7KEplLcExRe1ikWDZf7kSN301/s1600/evelyn4month.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQinYLPq4MX3-aP-U3_MBMBK9Z6CAuCPHb9W08XU3f9E1KQ4PwJrWH6la1q5UXHk-sr-h79jky3OZ7YFqZIEK7L7ErxX4EWqdQEJCspuhdd3s9pRru5ci7KEplLcExRe1ikWDZf7kSN301/s320/evelyn4month.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
We had a little photoshoot the other day because Miss Evelyn just turned 4 months old! Before she was born, I was told that the time just flies by, but oh my goodness! I didn't realize how fast it really goes! It's as if the moment we brought her home, someone pressed fast forward on my life. She's really been blossoming into her own little person this month: a beautiful, curious, high energy little girl that <i>loves</i> music and is not a big fan of naptime!<i> </i>She's figured out how to roll from her back to her front this month, and has been rolling from her front to her back for quite some time. She's been working on scooting around a bit, and has been trying to sit up on her own, though she'll still need a bit of practice before she masters those skills!<br />
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As you might be able to tell from these photos, she is a little redhead right now, with a fiery personality! She's figured out that she can communicate with us in ways other than crying, though, which is a welcome development! Her favorite way to tell us she's annoyed with something is that she essentially makes a motorboat noise, and furrows her brow. I think she likes doing it so much that even if we've rectified the situation, she still has to make it!<br />
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One thing that has been a little tougher this month is that I did go back to work on May 2nd. I didn't technically take "maternity leave" with Evelyn, because I have a position where I only work May through September, and we were fortunate that she was born right in the middle of my break. So, we had quite a bit of time where it was just the two of us, but it was still incredibly hard to drop her off at my parents (who are providing daycare for us) the first week or so. I'm not afraid to admit that I cried on my way to work the first few days, and I'm still begging my parents for pictures of her while I'm at work. We are still breastfeeding, which has been a little bit of a hurdle, since that means that I have to fit in pumping sessions in addition to the other work that I need to get done. So far, everything's been going well, though, and we haven't needed to supplement, yet.<br />
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Evelyn has also been teething, and has been for a while. We think she'll be getting her upper teeth first, but we'll see which one ends up popping through. Because of this, she's not exactly sleeping through the night like she used to. Once we can get her asleep, she's still a pretty good sleeper, and only wakes up once (around 4:00am) to eat. I can certainly live with that! She's been such a good baby, and even though she's a lot of work, I wouldn't have it any other way. Joe and I love her so much, and can't wait to see what she'll do next!<br />
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Bow is from the <a href="https://littlepoppyco.com/refer/Megan-LJNGGQHB">Little Poppy Co.</a>Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-17161320252445983872017-05-08T10:06:00.001-05:002017-05-08T10:06:14.432-05:00Beverly Hat from April KnitCrateI love knitting hats! They're quick and easy to knit up, and you can do a <i>lot</i> of different things with them. So, I was really excited when I unboxed my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSqqcXPJhaI">April KnitCrate</a>, and found that the patterns included were for two brightly colored hats! Before I get too far, if you haven't heard of <a href="http://mbsy.co/gLbbW">KnitCrate</a>, it's a subscription box specifically for knitters that includes two patterns (one beginner, one intermediate/advanced), yarn to make the project, and a fun extra! So far, I've been really impressed with this service, and have had so much fun making all of the projects. It's really helped me get out of my comfort zone of creams, greys, and blacks (are those even considered colors?!?) and also introduced me to new techniques!<br />
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This month, I got to play
around with a color scheme that I would have probably been too afraid of if I'd been left to my own devices - a bright aqua with a pop of mango! The yarn is Deliciate, which is a 100% Superwash Merino Wool, from <a href="http://www.vocabularyyarn.com/">Vocabulary Yarn</a> in Hawaiian Ice and Cara Cara Orange. As usual, there were two patterns in this box, and I chose to do the intermediate pattern, the Beverly Hat, which uses the blue as a main color accented with a fun, orange pattern that just screams tropical to me. It was knit in the round which means there is almost no finishing.<br />
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Personally, I like to wear this hat with the brim unfolded and a little slouchy, not only because I just like that style, but because I have a small head, so most hats tend to run a little big on me and end up being slouchy anyway! But, it can definitely be worn beanie style if you fold the brim up a little. It was a little chilly outside when I took these photos, so you can see I'm wearing a white long sleeve shirt, but I think I'd rather pair this hat with a black or white V-neck t-shirt, a pair of jean shorts, and some nice sandals for a nice relaxed, beachy vibe.<br />
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I've really loved this hat so far, and it <i>may</i> convince me to get a little more color into my wardrobe! As for now, I think I'm going to turn my attention to my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZWYgvK73FE">May KnitCrate</a>! I just opened it yesterday, and the unboxing video can be found over on my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/meganandpearls">YouTube channel</a>. I hope you like it as much as I do!<br />
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*This box is sent to me for review. All opinions are my own.Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-36662454149859098032017-04-11T08:00:00.000-05:002018-07-15T21:29:45.662-05:00Old Shale Shawl from March KnitCrateI have been having so much fun with my <a href="http://mbsy.co/gLbbW">KnitCrate</a> subscription! If you haven't heard of <a href="http://mbsy.co/gLbbW">KnitCrate</a> before, it's essentially a knitter's dream. Each box contains two knitting patterns (one beginner and one intermediate/advanced), yarn to make the project, and a surprise extra. I've now unboxed three different KnitCrate boxes over on my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/meganandpearls">YouTube channel</a>, but today I wanted to specifically talk about the project from my March box! So, this month I got to make this beautiful Old Shale Shawl from Knit One Crochet Too.<br />
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In all my years of knitting, can you believe I've never made a shawl before? I guess I just never thought I'd use one, but this one turned out so well, and it's so pretty, that I think this summer I'll be looking for any excuse to wear it! It's knit with <a href="http://www.knitonecrochettoo.com/crockodye.htm">Knit One Crochet Too's Crock-o-Dye yarn</a>, and I don't remember the specific colors, but I <i>think</i> I used Merlot and Deep Plum. If you've been around a while, you've probably figured out that these two colors are staples in my wardrobe, and it might surprise you to know that it was completely random that I ended up with them!<br />
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This pattern was the intermediate/advanced pattern from my KnitCrate, and I really wouldn't recommend it for someone just getting into knitting. As I'm sure you can see, there's a lot of lacework involved, and you definitely want to know how to read a chart before diving in. That said, it was still really fun to work up, and kept my mind engaged the entire time!<br />
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Like I said earlier, though, this box does also include a beginner's pattern, so if you're looking into this box, but intimidated by a project like this, don't worry! There are also a couple other options, including a <a href="http://www.knitcrate.com/products/crochet-crate-monthly-plan">CrochetCrate</a> and a <a href="http://www.knitcrate.com/collections/knitcrate-socks">KnitCrate Socks</a>! I was able to try out the KnitCrate Socks box back in February, and I have to say, I was very impressed! I may have to get a subscription to that box as well at some point. For now, though, I'm going to turn my attention to my April KnitCrate! You'll want to head over to my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/meganandpearls">YouTube channel</a> later today to see what I got in that box!<br />
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*This box is sent to me for review. However, all opinions are my own.Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-83536448309843501332017-04-04T08:00:00.000-05:002018-07-15T21:16:03.673-05:00Prepping Evelyn for Walt Disney WorldI know I'm planning a little far ahead, but I've mentioned before that next January my mom's entire family is going to be going down to Walt Disney World. If you haven't heard me talk about this, then you may be wondering why on earth we would be bringing our daughter, who will be turning one at the time, all the way from Minnesota to Florida when she's not going to remember any of it. Well, to be completely honest, it's not for her so much as it is for the rest of us. We're going down for the 25th Anniversary Marathon Weekend, and I'm so excited to say that I will be running the marathon! <br />
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Completing the Disney Marathon has been a dream of mine for such a long time, and the fact that I will be there for the 25th Anniversary makes it even more special! Of course, since I've started training and preparing to fulfill this longtime goal, I've also started prepping Evelyn's closet for the occasion with a few items from the babyGap. I doubt that these items will still be available by the time we go, so I thought I'd share them, now.<br />
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The first piece I picked up was this little <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=625979002">Dumbo dress</a> that I'd been eyeing long before we knew we were having a girl. In fact, I told myself that if we <i>did</i> have a girl, I would allow myself to get it for her. The morning after Evelyn was born, I was on my phone in the hospital looking at it again, but it actually took me a few more weeks to purchase it. I love this dress so much, and not only for how pretty it is. When Joe and I were trying to get pregnant, I had thrown around the idea of doing a Dumbo themed nursery, mostly because I love the song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCjhm-qLERQ">Baby Mine</a> and elephants. I ended up deciding on a minimalistic woodland theme, but you can still see elephants in her nursery, and I love singing Baby Mine to comfort her.<br />
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Fitting more with Evelyn's woodland nursery, I also picked up this <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=385212012">sweater</a> with Thumper from Bambi on it. I honestly wish this sweater came in my size, and maybe sometime I can figure out how to knit one, but in the meantime, I'll just love it on her. I think you could pair this sweater with just about any color leggings, though I'll likely go for a pair of classic black ones. I really hope she's toddling around by the time she fits into it, but she's also in the 85th to 95th percentiles for her height and weight, so we'll see!<br />
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I also had to get her a couple of princess items. Since the live action Beauty and the Beast came out this year, and the animated version has been my favorite Disney movie since it came out in 1991, I had to pick up this adorable<a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=578061002"> little dress</a> with a cream and navy striped bodice and navy tulle skirt. It features a gold silhouette of Belle in her ball gown, with just a pop of hot pink for the rose in her hand. I love the little "French" details incorporated in this dress. For example, I always think of Parisian fashion when I see stripes like these, and the bodice is made of a French Terry - though, I don't know that French Terry is actually French. <br />
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Finally, I got her this light blue <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=577595012">Cinderella t-shirt</a>. There's not much of a story behind this one - I just thought it was pretty, and it's made out of a nice cotton and polyester blend that <i>should</i> keep Evelyn from overheating on a particularly nice day. There are similar shirts featuring Ariel, Elsa, or Anna, but Cinderella was the first Disney movie I watched when we brought her home, and it's a classic.<br />
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I'll probably still get her a few more things here and there, since she'll definitely be wearing these dresses and tops quite a bit even once we get home. However, I haven't fully decided if I want to save them for our trip. Everything is in size 12-18 months, so theoretically, Evelyn should just be growing into them, but as I mentioned before, she's big for her age. We'll just have to play it by ear.Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-38318653698483822062017-04-01T08:00:00.000-05:002018-07-15T21:24:03.442-05:00Our Life Forever ChangedOn January 23, 2017, at 11:23pm, we were blessed with the most beautiful baby girl. We named her Evelyn Ann, and I may be biased, but I think she's absolutely perfect. I don't want to go into detail concerning her birth, but if you're interested, you can check out <a href="https://www.youtube.com/edit?o=U&video_id=BwC7le_Vlio">My Labor and Delivery Story</a> on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/meganandpearls">YouTube</a>. Instead, I want to talk about how much has changed since she's come into our world.<br />
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Obviously having a baby turns everything upside-down. All of a sudden, I've gone from having all the freedom in the world to being a servant to this two-foot-tall human being. It can be incredibly draining, but I have to admit - I love it! Our house is an absolute mess with dishes piled in the sink, soiled baby clothes thrown in the corner of our living room, and I'm lucky if I can get through the day without throw up in my hair. But, those little fingers and toes, her cuddles, and that sweet little smile she gives me every time I walk into the room makes everything completely worth it.<br />
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I think Joe and I have adjusted pretty well to being parents, but one of the hardest things we've had to do is continue to make our marriage a priority. We're both absolutely in love with Evelyn, but it can sometimes be difficult to remember that we need to put each other first - especially when we're both running on fumes. I know the idea of putting your spouse above your child can be polarizing, but the way I see it is that to provide Evelyn with a stable environment where she knows exactly what is and isn't acceptable, Joe and I need to be a united front. <br />
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Continuing to go out on dates has really helped us keep this mindset, though I have to admit, leaving for our dates isn't as much fun as it used to be. I've gotten so used to being with Evelyn all the time that even the idea of leaving her for a couple of hours is really difficult. Luckily, I have quite a few friends and family around that remind me how necessary these nights are, and are always willing to babysit for us! Besides, once we're out, we always have a good time!<br />
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My favorite part of parenting by far is watching her learn new things! I still remember showing Joe when she learned she could track people with her head. She was in her car seat, and I walked from one side to the other. It was as if she knew she was showing off a new trick, and had the biggest smile on her face! Then, all of a sudden she's two months old, and has learned even more new things like how to grasp things with her hands, and how to roll from her stomach to her back!<br />
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She's smiling more and more each day, and although she has moments where she definitely likes to be by herself, she seems to want to spend more time with me. I know I'm her source of food, but it's to the point where she's almost manipulative. For example, I've put her down in her crib for a nap, and she'll start crying as though something is wrong. Then, as soon as she sees me, she gives me the most adorable smile, and will refuse to fall asleep unless I lie down next to her. We're still working on getting her into her crib, but she's only little once, so I'm okay taking it slow!<br />
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She's really been an absolute doll, and every day I thank God for her. I'm so excited to see her continue to learn about the world around her, and see what kind of person she grows up to be. She already has such a sweet and slightly mischievous personality emerging, and while I know every stage will have its challenges, I already know this path we're on is going to be worth it! I have been trying to vlog a little bit of our new life, and if you're interested in seeing our little family grow up, certainly head over to my second channel, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/behindthelacecurtain">Brightwood Chateau</a>! These days are so precious to me, and I'm glad I'll have at least some days recorded to look back on.</div>
Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-65412338314131578102016-12-19T09:00:00.000-06:002018-07-15T21:24:42.552-05:00How to Knit: Basic Mittens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A week or two ago, I put up a <a href="http://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2016/12/how-to-knit-cabled-mittens_10.html">Cabled Mitten Pattern</a>, and said that I would be putting up a basic mitten pattern soon. Well, here it is! I love this pattern, because even though it does look like a basic mitten, it also incorporates some more advanced techniques, as well. It's also a versatile pattern, in that it can be worn on its own, layered together for added warmth, or used as a lining for other mittens. Personally, because I live in North Central Minnesota, I would highly recommend at least doubling them up for the added warmth and wind resistance, but it's entirely up to you!<br />
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Although I don't do this with all of my patterns, I did also decide to film a video talking through each of the steps of this pattern, so if you get confused, or aren't sure about a particular abbreviation, you can see how it's done <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQ-LGsNil1g">here</a>:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jQ-LGsNil1g" width="560"></iframe>
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<b>Materials</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 Skein Baby Bee yarn in Naked</li>
<li>Size 7 Needles (or size needed to obtain guage)</li>
<li>Yarn Needle</li>
</ul>
<b>Guage</b><br />
20sts and 24 rows = 4"/10cm over St st.<br />
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<b>Mitten (Make 2)</b><br />
Cast on 48sts.<br />
<b>Rows 1-10:</b> (k2, p2) across.<br />
<b>Row 11 (RS):</b> (k14, k2tog) 3 times - 45sts.<br />
<b>Riw 12 (and all WS rows):</b> purl.<br />
Work St st until piece measures 3.5"/8.5cm from beg, ending on a WS row.<br />
<i>Thumb Gusset</i><br />
<b>Row 1:</b> k21, kfb, kfb, k22 - 47sts.<br />
<b>Row 2 (and all WS rows):</b> purl.<br />
<b>Row 3:</b> k21, kfb, k2, kfb, k22 - 49sts.<br />
<b>Row 5:</b> k21, kfb, k4, kfb, k22 - 51sts.<br />
<b>Row 7:</b> k21, kfb, k6, kfb, k22 - 53sts.<br />
<b>Row 9:</b> k21, kfb, k8, kfb, k22 - 55sts.<br />
<b>Row 11:</b> k21, kfb, k10, kfb, k22 - 57sts.<br />
<i>Thumb</i><br />
<b>Row 1:</b> k21, kfb k12, kfb, turn.<br />
<b>Row 2:</b> p15, turn.<br />
<b>Row 3:</b> k15, turn.<br />
Repeat Rows 2-3 4 times more.<br />
<b>Row 4:</b> p2tog 7 times, p1, turn.<br />
<b>Row 5:</b> k2tog 4 times.<br />
Break yarn, and thread tail through rem sts. Pull tight.<br />
<i>Hand</i><br />
Join yarn and k far 22sts. Beg with purl row, work St st until piece measures 8"/20cm from beg, ending on a WS row.<itop i="" mitten="" of=""><br />
<b>Row 1:</b> (ssk, k18, k2tog) twice - 40sts.<br />
<b>Row 2 (and all WS rows):</b> purl.<br />
<b>Row 3:</b> (ssk, k16, k2tog) twice - 36sts.<br />
<b>Row 5:</b> (ssk, k14, k2tog) twice - 32sts.<br />
<b>Row 7:</b> (ssk, k12, k2tog) twice - 28sts.<br />
<b>Row 9:</b> (ssk, k10, k2tog) twice - 24sts.<br />
<b>Row 10:</b> purl.<br />
Bind off rem 24 sts using Kitchener St. Seam side of thumb and hand, weaving in all loose ends.<br />
</itop><br />
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Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-40435662568252288402016-12-13T09:00:00.000-06:002018-07-15T21:15:46.222-05:00Christmas Terrarium<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love the look of the classic terrarium packed with succulents, but I'm such a terrible gardener, that I can kill even the heartiest of plants. So, although I've looked through several tutorials on how to put them together, I've never actually tried it myself. Now that it's winter, though, I've noticed a new trend popping up all over <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/meganbreitweser/">Pinterest</a> - a Christmas terrarium! These snowglobe-like scenes require very little work to put together, and absolutely no upkeep, which is perfect for my scatterbrained mind.<br />
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All you really need is a glass jar with a lid, some artificial snowflakes, a few decorations - I used a tree from Department 56 and a little red model car - and if you really want to make it look elegant, a candle pedestal.<br />
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Fill the bottom of the jar with the artificial snowflakes.
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Arrange your Christmas scene.
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Then add the lid to the glass jar and place on candle pedestal, if desired.
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That's all there is to it. I love how minimalistic and elegant this particular terrarium is, but as I'm sure you've guessed, you can make it as extravagant or casual as you'd like, and it's easy to fit to your décor! This would be particularly easy if you already have a Christmas village in your home - you can use a terrarium to showcase one or two of your favorite pieces! I think they're so pretty, and I would love to look at even more. If you've created a Christmas terrarium in your home, please share a picture with me via <a href="https://twitter.com/MeganAndPearls">Twitter</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/meganandpearls/">Instagram</a>! I'd love to see it!Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-63946301609186059452016-12-10T09:00:00.000-06:002018-07-15T21:24:52.254-05:00How to Knit: Cabled Mittens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1abcA854HpNT9I607OtWqK8miy3B7zMk1VhzQ9AegMLBqu8v0bCO1k4CBeJXyVuCDmBCGCCyg7fGRZv_UcmhAO3eUpStOYTNWOlK8gyGn1-K9onv5RgPosxbUa5HTlPoNq0I_-78mVQ/s1600/cabledmitten.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW1abcA854HpNT9I607OtWqK8miy3B7zMk1VhzQ9AegMLBqu8v0bCO1k4CBeJXyVuCDmBCGCCyg7fGRZv_UcmhAO3eUpStOYTNWOlK8gyGn1-K9onv5RgPosxbUa5HTlPoNq0I_-78mVQ/s640/cabledmitten.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
I'm not sure what it is, but each winter I find myself in need of new mittens. It's not that I get sick of my old ones - somehow they just disappear between when I store them away for the summer, and when I go to look for them again when it gets cold. Of course, I can't complain too much, because that simply means that I get to knit a new pair, and see what kind of design I can come up with for the year.<br />
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These particular mittens are based off the <a href="http://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2015/12/how-to-knit-fingerless-mitts.html">Fingerless Mitts</a> pattern from last year, but are a bit more complex, given that not only is there quite a bit of cabling, there's also a bit of shaping involved with the thumb. On their own they're not the warmest, but next week I'll be posting a basic mitten pattern that I like to use as a lining. The added layer makes them much warmer, and I would highly recommend doing that. I think they've turned out beautifully, though, and I hope you agree!<br />
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<b>Materials</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 Skein Baby Bee Sweet Delight in Naked</li>
<li>Size 7 knitting needles</li>
<li>Yarn needle</li>
<li>Cable needle</li>
</ul>
<b>Stitch Glossary</b><br />
CB4: sl 2 sts to cn and hold to back, k2, then k2 from cn.<br />
CF4: sl 2 sts to cn and hold to front, k2, then k2 from cn.<br />
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<b>Right Mitten</b><br />
Cast on 48 sts.<br />
<b>Rows 1-10:</b> (k2, p2) across.<br />
<b>Row 11 (RS):</b> knit.<br />
<b>Row 12 (and all WS rows):</b> purl.<br />
<b>Row 13:</b> k1, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, k23.<br />
<b>Row 15:</b> k3, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k25.<br />
<b>Row 17: </b>k5, C4B, k8, C4F, k27.<br />
<b>Row 19: </b>k3, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k25.<br />
<b>Row 21:</b> k1, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, k23.<br />
<i>Thumb Gusset</i><br />
<b>Row 1: </b>k1, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, kfb, kfb, k21.<br />
<b>Row 3:</b> k3, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k2, kfb, k2, kfb, k21.<br />
<b>Row 5: </b>k5, C4F, k8, C4B, k4, kfb, k4, kfb, k21.<br />
<b>Row 7:</b> k3, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k2, kfb, k6, kfb, k21.<br />
<b>Row 9:</b> k1, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, kfb, k8, kfb, k21.<br />
<b>Row 11:</b> k1, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, kfb, k10, kfb, k21.<br />
<i>Thumb</i><br />
<b>Row 1:</b> k3, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k2, kfb, k12, kfb, turn.<br />
<b>Row 2:</b> p15, turn.<br />
<b>Row 3:</b> k15, turn.<br />
<b></b>Repeat Rows 2-3 4 times.<br />
<b>Row 4:</b> p2tog 7 times, k1, turn.<br />
<b>Row 5: </b>k2tog 4 times.<br />
Break yarn, thread tail through remaining sts and pull tight.<br />
<i>Hand</i><br />
<b>Row 1:</b> k remaining 21 sts on palm of hand.<br />
<b>Row 2:</b> p21, m1, p26.<br />
<b>Row 3:</b> k5, C4B, k8, C4F, k27.<br />
<b>Row 4 (and all WS rows):</b> purl.<br />
<b>Row 5:</b> k3, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k25.<br />
<b>Row 7:</b> k1, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, k23.<br />
<b>Row 9: </b>k1, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, k23.<br />
<b>Row 11:</b> k3, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k25.<br />
<b>Row 13:</b> k5, C4F, k8, C4B, k27.<br />
<b>Row 15: </b>k3, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k25.<br />
<b>Row 17: </b>k1, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, k23.<br />
<i>Top of Mitten</i><br />
<b>Row 1: </b>ssk, k7, C4B, C4F, k7, k2tog, k22.<br />
<b>Row 3: </b>ssk, k4, C4B, k4, C4F, k4, k2tog, k22.<br />
<b>Row 5:</b> ssk, k1, C4B, k8, C4F, k1, k2tog, ssk, k18, k2tog.<br />
<b>Row 7: </b>ssk, k2, C4F, k4, C4B, k2, k2tog, ssk, k16, k2tog.<br />
<b>Row 9:</b> ssk, k3, C4F, C4B, k3, k2tog, ssk, k14, k2tog.<br />
<b>Row 11:</b> ssk, k2, C4B, C4F, k2, k2tog, ssk, k12, k2tog.<br />
<b>Row 13: </b>ssk, k10, k2tog, ssk, k10, k2tog.<br />
Bind off remaining 24 sts using Kitchener st.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfyUENXkC5b_fVM34wWYZtU2iQtMK03pixg1nbBblwMmYXxaAAfM07usCVt4hN0Wk7ObfmWOaFkuwisoYmggs9MXUZjwhLtsLbkJb9XubpbpaN636K83TkXtSbuPMCIAJ4TCP-VvcENgs/s1600/leftmitten.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfyUENXkC5b_fVM34wWYZtU2iQtMK03pixg1nbBblwMmYXxaAAfM07usCVt4hN0Wk7ObfmWOaFkuwisoYmggs9MXUZjwhLtsLbkJb9XubpbpaN636K83TkXtSbuPMCIAJ4TCP-VvcENgs/s640/leftmitten.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
<b>Left Mitten</b><b><br /></b>
Cast on 48 sts.<br />
<b>Rows 1-10:</b> (k2, p2) across.<br />
<b>Row 11 (RS):</b> knit.<br />
<b>Row 12 (and all WS rows):</b> purl.<br />
<b>Row 13:</b> k23, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, k1.<br />
<b>Row 15:</b> k25, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k3.<br />
<b>Row 17: </b>k27, C4B, k8, C4F, k5.<br />
<b>Row 19: </b>k25, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k3.<br />
<b>Row 21:</b> k23, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, k1.<br />
<i><span style="color: black;">Thumb Gusset</span></i><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 1: </span></b><span style="color: black;">k21, kfb, kfb, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, k1.</span><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 3:</span></b><span style="color: black;"> k21, kfb, k2, kfb, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k2, k3.</span><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 5: </span></b><span style="color: black;">k21, kfb, k4, kfb, C4F, k8, C4B, k4, k5.</span><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 7:</span></b><span style="color: black;"> k21, kfb, k6, kfb, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k2, k3.</span><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 9:</span></b><span style="color: black;"> k21, kfb, k8, kfb, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, k1.</span><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 11:</span></b><span style="color: black;"> k21, kfb, k10, kfb, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, k1.</span><br />
<i><span style="color: black;">Thumb</span></i><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 1:</span></b><span style="color: black;"> k21, kfb, k12, kfb, turn.</span><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 2:</span></b><span style="color: black;"> p15, turn.</span><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 3:</span></b><span style="color: black;"> k15, turn.</span><br />
<b></b><span style="color: black;">Repeat Rows 2-3 4 times.</span><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 4:</span></b><span style="color: black;"> p2tog 7 times, k1, turn.</span><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 5: </span></b><span style="color: black;">k2tog 4 times.</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">Break yarn, thread tail through remaining sts and pull tight.</span><br />
<i><span style="color: black;">Hand</span></i><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 1:</span></b><span style="color: black;"> k3, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k3 remaining sts.</span><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 2:</span></b><span style="color: black;"> p26, m1, p21.</span><br />
<b><span style="color: black;">Row 3:</span></b><span style="color: black;"> k27, C4B, k8, C4F, k5.</span><br />
<b>Row 4 (and all WS rows):</b> purl.<br />
<b>Row 5:</b> k25, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k3.<br />
<b>Row 7:</b> k23, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, k1.<br />
<b>Row 9: </b>k23, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, k1.<br />
<b>Row 11:</b> k25, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k3.<br />
<b>Row 13:</b> k27, C4F, k8, C4B, k5.<br />
<b>Row 15: </b>k25, C4B, C4F, k4, C4B, C4F, k3.<br />
<b>Row 17: </b>k23, C4B, k4, C4F, C4B, k4, C4F, k1.<br />
<i>Top of Mitten</i><br />
<b>Row 1: </b>k22, ssk, k7, C4B, C4F, k7, k2tog.<br />
<b>Row 3: </b>k22, ssk, k4, C4B, k4, C4F, k4, k2tog.<br />
<b>Row 5:</b> ssk, k18, k2tog, ssk, k1, C4B, k8, C4F, k1, k2tog.<br />
<b>Row 7: </b>ssk, k16, k2tog, ssk, k2, C4F, k4, C4B, k2, k2tog.<br />
<b>Row 9:</b> ssk, k14, k2tog, ssk, k3, C4F, C4B, k3, k2tog.<br />
<b>Row 11:</b> ssk, k12, k2tog, ssk, k2, C4B, C4F, k2, k2tog.<br />
<b>Row 13: </b>ssk, k10, k2tog, ssk, k10, k2tog.<br />
Bind off remaining 24 sts using Kitchener st.<br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />
<b>Finishing</b><br />
Seam side of mitten and thumb. Weave in remaining ends.Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-76231934146703132992016-12-08T07:00:00.000-06:002018-07-15T21:23:43.931-05:00Purpose Jewelry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ddwQ-UgRU9MpyfiTQvOS_sNaVrTs5YuaGkIbYgi0UsIlbQO7GNtrKdE9y_ARQyIo0mki-Q3erzulY44Jms0ORaur7b1rNVgB6UCIzRu_7Ifq6sdK7wD0T7FCdGypBiNzRsvn3VfVMm8/s1600/NecklaceRevised.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ddwQ-UgRU9MpyfiTQvOS_sNaVrTs5YuaGkIbYgi0UsIlbQO7GNtrKdE9y_ARQyIo0mki-Q3erzulY44Jms0ORaur7b1rNVgB6UCIzRu_7Ifq6sdK7wD0T7FCdGypBiNzRsvn3VfVMm8/s640/NecklaceRevised.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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There's an account on Instagram that I've been following for quite some time, called <a href="http://www.purposejewelry.org/">Purpose Jewelry</a>. I love it. The pieces are beautiful, the photos are<b><i> gorgeous</i></b>, and even better: they have an amazing mission. Purpose Jewelry is a brand that works with <a href="http://www.isanctuary.org/">International Sanctuary</a> to provide professional opportunities to young women that have been rescued from sex trafficking. Each piece of jewelry is handcrafted by one of these women, providing them with a means of supporting themselves, along with job training and experience.</div>
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I love the fact that there's such an emphasis on providing these women with a way to regain their independence, as I believe that's an important part of the healing process. I remember the first time I was exposed to this notion while studying abroad in Oslo, Norway. We had taken a tour of a facility in which women who had been rescued from sex trafficking were taught how to give manicures, pedicures, and other spa treatments right alongside women who had not been involved in this industry. This not only provided the rescued women with job training and opportunities, but also helped reintegrate them into society. </div>
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As I mentioned earlier, the pieces themselves are also stunning. The necklace featured in today's post is my first piece from <a href="http://www.purposejewelry.org/">Purpose Jewelry</a>, the <a href="http://www.purposejewelry.org/collections/necklaces/products/lunette-necklace">Lunette Necklace</a> in silver. It's such a unique piece of jewelry that, while minimalistic in design, is also a bit of a statement. Based off a traditional bar necklace, the curved elements create a beautiful crescent moon shape. Although I hadn't realized when I picked it out, this lunar silhouette is a wonderful daily reminder to think of others in this world that may not be as fortunate as I have been, considering the moon is something everyone around the world can see. This time of year, it can be easy to be charitable. There are opportunities everywhere. But, people don't just need help around Christmas. There are people in need around the world all the time.</div>
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That being said, I do also want to point out what an amazing gift a piece from Purpose Jewelry could be for the holidays. Not only would you be giving a beautiful piece of jewelry to someone special in your life, but you would also be supporting the <a href="http://www.isanctuary.org/">International Sanctuary</a> and letting others know about this organization. I fully intend to pick up a few items for some of my friends and family, and maybe the <a href="http://www.purposejewelry.org/collections/earrings/products/lunette-earrings">Lunette Earrings</a> for myself. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV8YEX-GUpLkoJuXxs7nJ_U0TD7vbIMshta2wUkxFYXX6bVSwuiaZ6zeed5AEavt_d7SM1CbA_KYquLgU2SukDwVuGgSblLC4TH4ucOnKf6cuOcXFvaSiOg6c_vSA_ebxtNIwaZ0gUWEY/s1600/Necklace3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV8YEX-GUpLkoJuXxs7nJ_U0TD7vbIMshta2wUkxFYXX6bVSwuiaZ6zeed5AEavt_d7SM1CbA_KYquLgU2SukDwVuGgSblLC4TH4ucOnKf6cuOcXFvaSiOg6c_vSA_ebxtNIwaZ0gUWEY/s640/Necklace3.gif" width="550" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLn4h9Hkm_EM6J2YV_acsy5zhv6kysZMTUlzFFpnQo2u73Dldsl6Aka6WCbLbYA3fHy6CON_P65CafAiM6I3mdDELrIXKP4fPqwwnEWFUlyNc8bdFxWbw03EyYkKYFDW3w1wgOj5ufEXk/s1600/hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLn4h9Hkm_EM6J2YV_acsy5zhv6kysZMTUlzFFpnQo2u73Dldsl6Aka6WCbLbYA3fHy6CON_P65CafAiM6I3mdDELrIXKP4fPqwwnEWFUlyNc8bdFxWbw03EyYkKYFDW3w1wgOj5ufEXk/s640/hand.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
For more information
on Purpose Jewelry, check out their website, <a href="http://purposejewelry.org/">purposejewelry.org</a>, and also the video provided below. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowtransparency="true" class="wistia_embed" frameborder="0" height="310" name="wistia_embed" scrolling="no" src="https://fast.wistia.com/embed/iframe/fkzbfydp1h" width="550"></iframe></div>
Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-26670818239619913482016-12-06T09:00:00.000-06:002018-07-15T21:24:12.510-05:00We're Almost There!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIqoUucpW92G3a783GpIstbdswfSdWSRdcC-fWQc7oA3-LU_kt_QNWm8LhYLC3auSU1zlDMkAQIP7XtbUvLpTXo0QoA0PYq5GXijrpVQ91VK9VtIvo1bNJxmtmpsjvd07Cbm-Gd9wUiD0/s1600/Christmas+Picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIqoUucpW92G3a783GpIstbdswfSdWSRdcC-fWQc7oA3-LU_kt_QNWm8LhYLC3auSU1zlDMkAQIP7XtbUvLpTXo0QoA0PYq5GXijrpVQ91VK9VtIvo1bNJxmtmpsjvd07Cbm-Gd9wUiD0/s640/Christmas+Picture.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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I know everyone says it, but I can't believe how fast this pregnancy has gone! In just a month and a half or so, we'll be meeting Baby Brightwood, and I think I can speak for both Joe and I when I say we couldn't be more excited! </div>
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Compared to other pregnant ladies I've talked to, we've had it pretty easy. I never had any morning sickness, have yet to see any stretch marks, and Baby already seems to be able to keep up with our fairly active lifestyle! He or she is constantly moving, and this past summer we were able to complete a 5K, 10K, <b><i>and</i></b> our very first half marathon. Hopefully we'll be able to continue this trend, as I plan to start training for a full marathon once the snow melts!</div>
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Joe and I still don't know if the baby is a boy or a girl, and I'm so glad that we've been able to avoid finding out! There seem to be so few surprises left in today's world, and it's been so much fun to hear guesses from those around us - as of now, I believe the votes are tied. Speaking of surprises, we do have baby names picked out, and have told several friends and family members, but we've decided to wait until Baby is here to share it online. </div>
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That being said, I am getting a bit uncomfortable, and I don't just mean that it's harder to sleep or find a comfortable resting position - I'm also not as confident as I usually am. I'm worried that I won't be a good mom. I'm worried I'll neglect my husband who has been my biggest support through all this. I'm worried I'll make the wrong choices. I'm just worried in general. And, on a superficial note, no matter how dolled up I get, I still feel frumpy and unkempt.</div>
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Thankfully, I know that I'm not alone in this. A friend of mine, Dana, is due just a week after me with her second child, and had expressed that she wasn't feeling quite as confident as usual either. As this is her second, she doesn't have as many of the same fears I do, but told me she did during her first pregnancy. </div>
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I also have to thank her for giving me a little bit of my self-esteem back! She is the one that took all of the pictures in today's post, and I have to say, I was not feeling my best the day they were taken. I felt bloated and just kind of gross in general, but they turned out so well! We even used the top photo in our very first Christmas cards!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5WT_1VAjB2tlJ7FAkaqYuMc_7B42-2zLYdcNx0Z_YXef-uROn5Yx_eSh14SRvn4VYwe5NLoghmvxBZoQsJSokDi_JzaH38P6hRPBAtpmzIcewFNi3eu1517z8H8dV_EGQS-gqJlU-4CQ/s1600/Dana_J_Photography+%25281+of+14%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5WT_1VAjB2tlJ7FAkaqYuMc_7B42-2zLYdcNx0Z_YXef-uROn5Yx_eSh14SRvn4VYwe5NLoghmvxBZoQsJSokDi_JzaH38P6hRPBAtpmzIcewFNi3eu1517z8H8dV_EGQS-gqJlU-4CQ/s400/Dana_J_Photography+%25281+of+14%2529.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPo1KXGWAFGU5mjyGR6ctBwICew0v3XNPYRx-nMnbYc7po4a8e9zYtFKccghIIvk8Sh-8fY7RzsTVx-KTlX6OdSF4tRyHIQ3HNxBo24LF_JrKz58yk_yPum8hM7ST73EhswWZd9coCTfw/s1600/Dana_J_Photography+%25283+of+14%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPo1KXGWAFGU5mjyGR6ctBwICew0v3XNPYRx-nMnbYc7po4a8e9zYtFKccghIIvk8Sh-8fY7RzsTVx-KTlX6OdSF4tRyHIQ3HNxBo24LF_JrKz58yk_yPum8hM7ST73EhswWZd9coCTfw/s640/Dana_J_Photography+%25283+of+14%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVhizlSu35rcNVaY9IfTPuZl-Nc9z4dvRuJyypiRSnWBch2w73oIwxWA3zBTTBtgqiDvTcM4OOehCLCodu14NkG_acFoJIPd-2ijvds76vmLOXbYTsv38Bbx90T4wOjNK8YPfjfIa_uYw/s1600/Dana_J_Photography+%25288+of+14%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVhizlSu35rcNVaY9IfTPuZl-Nc9z4dvRuJyypiRSnWBch2w73oIwxWA3zBTTBtgqiDvTcM4OOehCLCodu14NkG_acFoJIPd-2ijvds76vmLOXbYTsv38Bbx90T4wOjNK8YPfjfIa_uYw/s640/Dana_J_Photography+%25288+of+14%2529.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
It's amazes me how much our lives have changed in just the past few years. We met in 2011, <a href="http://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2014/09/our-engagement-pictures.html">got engaged</a> in 2013, <a href="http://meganandpearls.blogspot.com/2015/01/our-wedding-pictures.html">married</a> in 2014, and this week we'll be packing our hospital bag to meet our first child! I can't adequately express how blessed we feel to be at this point in our lives, and while some days are and will be harder than others, we are so thankful for everything God has provided us. I hope you've enjoyed this little update, and we look forward to introducing you to our little one!<br />
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*Photos by <a href="http://danajphoto.com/">Dana Johnson</a>Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-86318433844526217112016-10-20T07:00:00.000-05:002018-07-15T21:29:52.738-05:00White Hot Chocolate Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingrYBYRprTubPMxE0QMRzSj5CWOF7jy_PUt_oncFQbtX8BNF7lDMc727lLswG4EdhUXDdwcW7ZfIgam0DpH2YQ4V8KeIvvxMS9SykHh_P7CxkOOA2tJRmK9RyZ8P1bxZeeJmydDl_mAI/s1600/DSC_0349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingrYBYRprTubPMxE0QMRzSj5CWOF7jy_PUt_oncFQbtX8BNF7lDMc727lLswG4EdhUXDdwcW7ZfIgam0DpH2YQ4V8KeIvvxMS9SykHh_P7CxkOOA2tJRmK9RyZ8P1bxZeeJmydDl_mAI/s400/DSC_0349.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
<ul>
<li>1 1/2 cups milk</li>
<li>1/4 tsp vanilla extract</li>
<li>1/4 cup white chocolate chips</li>
<li>whipped cream</li>
<li>mini marshmallows</li>
</ul>
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<b>Directions</b></div>
<div>
Stir together milk, vanilla, and white chocolate chips in a saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring until it comes to a simmer without boiling. Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream. Garnish with miniature marshmallows.</div>
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Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3900193957670279753.post-86310859549062436312016-04-19T09:00:00.000-05:002018-07-15T21:22:03.963-05:00Chicken Fried Rice Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A while back, it was requested for me to share a few more recipes with you guys, but as I've mentioned before, I'm really not much of a cook. However, the recipe that I'm sharing with you today is one that I think we've kind of mastered for the most part! It's an amazing chicken fried rice recipe that works well as a side dish or main course. You can also swap out the chicken for some beef which is also quite tasty. I hope you guys like it as much as I do!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilcfzIJZL2KRqZqI9S5GSoKDK2sG8hyphenhyphenVi55z2dw2iDTL6DXAcRZ-InhUspLC2TL6sjpGZWusmwXhjCHbXzNY3RoWTCw5E5fRqPlKFFZspCyR3w7QWgYbWFkJRCgGsoaOkXC9qXc2PvpYs/s1600/friedrice.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilcfzIJZL2KRqZqI9S5GSoKDK2sG8hyphenhyphenVi55z2dw2iDTL6DXAcRZ-InhUspLC2TL6sjpGZWusmwXhjCHbXzNY3RoWTCw5E5fRqPlKFFZspCyR3w7QWgYbWFkJRCgGsoaOkXC9qXc2PvpYs/s400/friedrice.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ingredients:</div>
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<ul>
<li>2 eggs</li>
<li>1 Tbsp water</li>
<li>1/2 Tbsp butter</li>
<li>1/4 cup peas</li>
<li>1 large carrot, finely chopped</li>
<li>1 cup cooked white rice (cold)</li>
<li>2 Tbsp soy sauce</li>
<li>1 cup cooked, chopped chicken</li>
</ul>
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Directions</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>In a small bowl, beat eggs with water. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, and add eggs. Allow to sit for 1-2 minutes before scrambling with a spatula.</li>
<li>Add the carrot and peas to the skillet, and saute until soft. Then, add the rice, soy sauce, and chicken. Fry together for a few minutes and serve hot.</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2v-_QUXrvezyR1m8PpcrOFqePfb77KfBjBYRJQWEoRfLje2rbTGUVvNZcnTRS547vRA54LW6ouCPV-6c6s0sLf6Z0tyVwDC_qmbUHMe5nBiXF5c_2VSCHKkokwJ9KZ4GSNUgf_nJtH3U/s1600/friedrice2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2v-_QUXrvezyR1m8PpcrOFqePfb77KfBjBYRJQWEoRfLje2rbTGUVvNZcnTRS547vRA54LW6ouCPV-6c6s0sLf6Z0tyVwDC_qmbUHMe5nBiXF5c_2VSCHKkokwJ9KZ4GSNUgf_nJtH3U/s400/friedrice2.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Megan Brightwoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14997212541508399651noreply@blogger.com1