10.08.2012

Reusable Snack Bags

 I'm a big believer in reducing waste and carrying snacks in reusable containers whenever possible.  Yet somehow, we've never found a fabric snack sack that really worked for us.
Enter this great tutorial for a reusable snack sack from Roselee at Jane of All Trades.  Very easy and the bias tape is such a nice touch. 
 I made a few changes to the original tutorial to suit our needs.  I only used 1 layer of fabric and made them narrower and shorter.  My finished dimensions are 6 inches by 4 inches.

I also cut a piece of hook and loop tape in half lengthwise and hid it under the bias tape.
  So quick, easy,pretty....
and functional!

As a side note, I've been doing some reading about food safe fabrics and feeling a bit discouraged.  This fabric IS 100% cotton, but the care instructions say "dry clean only".  I spoke with the ladies at Joann's who said that duck cloth shrinks with every wash and that's why they recommend dry cleaning, has something to do with the way it's woven (??).  For these I purposely didn't use PUL or nylon because from what i read, I wasn't convinced that it should be anywhere near food.  In any case, if anybody has any thoughts on fabric and food safety, I'd love to hear about it. 
 I'll admit, I'm a little hyper-sensitive when it comes to this kind of stuff given that my other life is in Endocrine Disrupter research. 

10.06.2012

Show Me A Story: Book Review and GIVEAWAY-RESULTS

And the winner is.....

Lise, who said


I'm not a great storyteller, but my daughter constantly asks me to "tell me a story about when you were a little girl." She's even started giving me prompts, like "did you ever need your parents' help when you were outside?" I don't know where they come from, but they sure help me think of stories to tell her! Would love a chance to win the book--thanks!
Thanks for all the great comments.  It was really to fun to hear how what inspires the storytelling in your lives.
 
Have a great weekend!

9.28.2012

Show Me A Story: Book Review and GIVEAWAY-CLOSED

Today, I'm honored to be a part of the blog tour for Emily Neuburger's new book, Show Me a Story.  
Not only is this book amazing and Miss Emily super talented, but she's one of the most genuine and kind people you'll ever meet.  I am fortunate to be able to call her a friend. 
This book inspires the storyteller in us all.  The projects are simple in design, but the possibilities boundless.  The 4 year old story teller in my house, couldn't keep his hands off of it.
Since the weather has been so nice, we decided to go out for a Storytelling walk.  The idea is to "mentally" collect items to later create a story with.  For my little boy, physically collecting items to tell stories with is part of the fun as well. 
We took along a bag, and some friends, and collected.
There were stories of troll homes along the way,
and at home, we drew and retold stories from the day.
This book truly inspired me to look at the world around me and even if for but a few moments, get lost in an imaginary world.  I have fond memories of creating these worlds as a child and look forward to sharing that experience with my own kids.  This will be the guidebook to help lead us there. 

To enter to win your own copy of this fabulous book:
  • Leave a comment (with your email address) here telling me what inspires the storyteller in you (US residents only, sorry!)
  • You can also enter a second chance giveaway on the Storey Publishing Blog: HERE
  • Giveaway closes on Friday, October 7 at midnight
Happy Weekend.