tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56569062413142763482024-03-13T07:37:48.229-07:00Quirky Urban GirlMusings of a southwestern girl eating clean and living a sustainable life in urban Phoenix, Arizona.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-56464379278236830882016-10-09T06:43:00.000-07:002016-10-09T06:43:53.422-07:00WTH is a MKAL?<div style="text-align: center;">
What the heck is a MKAL? </div>
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That is a great question and I trust that all of you want to know.</div>
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Wait for it...</div>
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It is a Mystery Knit Along. Okay so that may not have answered your question. </div>
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There is this wonderful online knitting community called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/" target="_blank">Ravelry </a>. If you are a knitter or crocheter or a fiber artist of any kind you should click on that link. You can find friends, learn new things, find free patterns, purchase patterns, and just have lots of fun! There are groups that you can join that have folks on them that like the same things that you do. </div>
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One of those groups is called <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/periscoping-sisters" target="_blank">Periscoping Sisters</a> they also host a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqEVvDf1cW8yUWXD53sMj5w" target="_blank">podcast</a> on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqEVvDf1cW8yUWXD53sMj5w" target="_blank">YouTube</a>. </div>
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They hosted the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/3-pips-3-peas-in-a-pod" target="_blank">3 Peas in a Pod MKAL </a></div>
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Every week they beginning September 9 they would send a clue to the pattern. They also sent out a project page so you would know exactly what you needed to cast on.</div>
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This is a truly fun way to knit because, I know for me, when I look at a pattern I think there is no way that I can do that. When you get a clue you just follow the words and bam! you have a shawl. </div>
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Now how does all this work?</div>
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First up pick your yarn.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-slPYRU2Fo6w/V-aKx9P6g1I/AAAAAAAAWSk/5pdzcSTyw9MIszi8A0ksMwzLoPmcjGF-wCLcB/s1600/14072948_1029034090545836_678549971_n_medium2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-slPYRU2Fo6w/V-aKx9P6g1I/AAAAAAAAWSk/5pdzcSTyw9MIszi8A0ksMwzLoPmcjGF-wCLcB/s320/14072948_1029034090545836_678549971_n_medium2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I chose yarn from my stash. The exact yarn as well as notes are on my <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/quirkyurbangirl/3-pips-3-peas-in-a-pod" target="_blank">project page</a> (you may need to be a member to view my page) </div>
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Then the wait. I had to wait for the first clue.... And then the day came!<br />
I began the MKAL<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sQtxVLNKf8A/V_pGRmM2dNI/AAAAAAAAWj4/bKL5S57cJa8YzGbuabbdnr6VT6brQYXjQCKgB/s1600/20160902_161152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sQtxVLNKf8A/V_pGRmM2dNI/AAAAAAAAWj4/bKL5S57cJa8YzGbuabbdnr6VT6brQYXjQCKgB/s320/20160902_161152.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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I finished the clue almost in time for the next. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i72B1tYvlj0/V_pGiTx6LWI/AAAAAAAAWj8/2nYICEU-iBwbYNrOZBLAnZ4naiLLxNB6wCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160907_053238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i72B1tYvlj0/V_pGiTx6LWI/AAAAAAAAWj8/2nYICEU-iBwbYNrOZBLAnZ4naiLLxNB6wCKgB/s320/IMG_20160907_053238.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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and then the final clue. It was so fun and quite a motivation to be a monogamous knitter.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7sXyyDmEPCg/V_pGxSDNUxI/AAAAAAAAWkA/TOVo5aNlNBwp_ZO1JmW_V4ORYSlxlY3_gCKgB/s1600/20160918_125711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7sXyyDmEPCg/V_pGxSDNUxI/AAAAAAAAWkA/TOVo5aNlNBwp_ZO1JmW_V4ORYSlxlY3_gCKgB/s320/20160918_125711.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I added the blue stripes because I wanted a bit more contrast.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ssHW5pBO1us/V_pHUareugI/AAAAAAAAWkM/K2IwxB0VUQkO7bO2mVxxUdRqneCNV6EuQCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160921_130125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ssHW5pBO1us/V_pHUareugI/AAAAAAAAWkM/K2IwxB0VUQkO7bO2mVxxUdRqneCNV6EuQCKgB/s320/IMG_20160921_130125.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Added the lace section</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ypiAKX7sL28/V_pHd4wvEsI/AAAAAAAAWkQ/GkMIsQw8LB4vNHg0bUKQW7oVKA_OJ3-ggCKgB/s1600/20160924_061824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ypiAKX7sL28/V_pHd4wvEsI/AAAAAAAAWkQ/GkMIsQw8LB4vNHg0bUKQW7oVKA_OJ3-ggCKgB/s320/20160924_061824.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And Done! Well almost had to do a picot bind off!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dvBQ-aVrpVY/V_pHpOW2UHI/AAAAAAAAWkY/efxhRlEF2KkedVVxaM2BPZu5yqtUPDaGQCKgB/s1600/20160924_081430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dvBQ-aVrpVY/V_pHpOW2UHI/AAAAAAAAWkY/efxhRlEF2KkedVVxaM2BPZu5yqtUPDaGQCKgB/s320/20160924_081430.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I finished it in the park. So happy for cooler Phoenix weather.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ZF1mKkh2iQ/V_pH3EixMCI/AAAAAAAAWkc/X3_s_2K9WuMYbFuwg3AjE1AX_hJNKGP9wCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160924_095053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ZF1mKkh2iQ/V_pH3EixMCI/AAAAAAAAWkc/X3_s_2K9WuMYbFuwg3AjE1AX_hJNKGP9wCKgB/s320/IMG_20160924_095053.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-imqBUkKnN8A/V_pH3DM_oVI/AAAAAAAAWkc/lmOXmPAPh4Qjck9ePVxCrmZvgJJSGn_OQCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160924_094617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-imqBUkKnN8A/V_pH3DM_oVI/AAAAAAAAWkc/lmOXmPAPh4Qjck9ePVxCrmZvgJJSGn_OQCKgB/s320/IMG_20160924_094617.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now it was time for blocking, with a little feline help of course!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7sSwVeRLlpg/V_pIG86fKXI/AAAAAAAAWkk/sRqcHkicDMkK-uXF8R9e-_pyHTiB_nUMwCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160924_174455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7sSwVeRLlpg/V_pIG86fKXI/AAAAAAAAWkk/sRqcHkicDMkK-uXF8R9e-_pyHTiB_nUMwCKgB/s320/IMG_20160924_174455.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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I am so in love with the finished product. </div>
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My favorite part of a mystery KAL is the fact that I have no idea what I am going to be knitting. I cannot look at the pattern and say "Oh I can't do that yet. I don't have the skill." I just knit and follow the directions. No preconceived idea that "I can't do it"</div>
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It is a great way to challenge your skill and teach yourself!</div>
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Again a big shout out to the Periscoping Sisters for hosting this KAL and for creating this beautiful pattern. </div>
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Give it a try!</div>
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As always,</div>
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Stay Quirky my Friends</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VUdTSMXcLrA/V_pJLNnaxyI/AAAAAAAAWkw/hivCRRJfYdE3oZb3BS5inM8WLdBS2r8RACKgB/s1600/IMG_20160925_113509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VUdTSMXcLrA/V_pJLNnaxyI/AAAAAAAAWkw/hivCRRJfYdE3oZb3BS5inM8WLdBS2r8RACKgB/s320/IMG_20160925_113509.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-71903070777203167502016-05-30T06:58:00.000-07:002016-05-30T06:58:19.215-07:00Casting off and Casting on along with dating woes <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5liPCyrmGm4/V0w1HB93H2I/AAAAAAAATS0/jLOn2B5GZ6MnU_7hV9rIgD9H-CVjano3ACKgB/s1600/IMG_20160529_085630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5liPCyrmGm4/V0w1HB93H2I/AAAAAAAATS0/jLOn2B5GZ6MnU_7hV9rIgD9H-CVjano3ACKgB/s400/IMG_20160529_085630.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Hello and Welcome!</b></div>
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I am so excited to show you my latest FO. It is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/quirkyurbangirl/ballerina" target="_blank">Ballerina Shawl by Ela Torrente</a></div>
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It is absolutely beautiful. I must admit though I did not follow the pattern exactly. The cable section was just too much for my brain. It included cabling across over 300 stitches and I am just not ready for that yet. I need to sharpen my skills. I wanted to add a leaf border but the pattern that I had made huge leaves and I decided it would look weird. It could have worked if I would have left maybe the short row section off. Nevertheless I am so happy with my shawl it will be so nice to use this summer in restaurants and other places that decide to over AC. I don't know if they do this in other parts of the country but here in Phoenix I think I get more use of jackets and such in the summer because of AC than I ever do in the winter. I used <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=738979&u=1307676&m=59159&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3EBrava%20Worsted%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Brava Worsted</a> from <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=726901&u=1307676&m=59159&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3EKnit%20Picks%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Knit Picks</a> in the Current Colorway</div>
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Here is a photo of the wingspan</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R7aF-TFiDXw/V0w3Fi4Dy5I/AAAAAAAATTA/vSxD9vhssskWur6t5zwHKJJekSGwdIa-ACKgB/s1600/IMG_20160529_085819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R7aF-TFiDXw/V0w3Fi4Dy5I/AAAAAAAATTA/vSxD9vhssskWur6t5zwHKJJekSGwdIa-ACKgB/s320/IMG_20160529_085819.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Isn't it beautiful. Simple but lovely!</div>
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Again I will say that I am so happy with it.</div>
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Okay so now onto my WIPs</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g7YSpxcXtN0/V0w3ntBUFNI/AAAAAAAATTE/RQRf7sZuOkMTxPiwLhC9IM50PjVid-P2wCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160527_054018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g7YSpxcXtN0/V0w3ntBUFNI/AAAAAAAATTE/RQRf7sZuOkMTxPiwLhC9IM50PjVid-P2wCKgB/s400/IMG_20160527_054018.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Still working on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/hermiones-everyday-socks" target="_blank">Hermione's Everyday Socks</a></div>
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I really love the fun texture of the pattern and it breaks up the potato chipness of the stockinette stitch leg nicely.</div>
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I am a bit sad though because I wanted to change out my DPNs and go onto two circulars. I had one and I ordered the other from Knit Picks and whoever put the needle into the bag was not paying attention and put a size US3 into a US2 bag so I have the wrong needle. No big deal, mistakes happen. However, it's a Holiday weekend and I cannot address this issue with them until Tuesday. HUMPH! I really wanted to see if the two circulars would speed up my sock knitting and get these babies off the needles and onto my feet!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7FGryQywWBw/V0w7fOAyoLI/AAAAAAAATTw/Pq13vOyomfc1bKQlCr_ZRUsFrdNfpJKSACKgB/s1600/20160530_060211-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7FGryQywWBw/V0w7fOAyoLI/AAAAAAAATTw/Pq13vOyomfc1bKQlCr_ZRUsFrdNfpJKSACKgB/s400/20160530_060211-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>This week's Cast Ons</b></div>
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I casted on the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/sockhead-slouch-hat" target="_blank">Sockhead Slouch Hat by Kelly McClure </a></div>
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I needed a take-along project for my lunch break at work and for other times when I am stuck waiting someplace and need something to do besides hang out on my phone. I am using some Patton's yarn that I had sitting in my stash and I must say I am enjoying the striping. It is living in my Sugar Skull Bag by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/249802680/project-bag-9-knitting-crochet" target="_blank">SpinnersEndStudio</a>. This one is sold out but she has some really fun ones at her shop. She will also do some custom orders. The stitch marker I am using for this and for my next cast on is from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/262641428/cobalt-blue-and-antiqued-silver?ref=shop_home_active_4" target="_blank">Little Bit Fae Hand-Dyed Yarns </a> they are beautiful cobalt blue and are perfect for a small needle beginning of round marker and for a progress marker when knitting tons of garter stitch! </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Sf5Jfd46BU/V0xAAKXxR-I/AAAAAAAATUM/E-Tgsw1b5dIdnsI4uOXLP45T9CBpZtTZACKgB/s1600/20160530_060350-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Sf5Jfd46BU/V0xAAKXxR-I/AAAAAAAATUM/E-Tgsw1b5dIdnsI4uOXLP45T9CBpZtTZACKgB/s320/20160530_060350-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I also cast on <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/marelle" target="_blank">Marelle by Melanie Berg</a>. This pattern was a gift from my friend Shannon when I was in the hospital. So thoughtful. And way longer lasting than flowers!!!</div>
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For this pattern I am using the suggested <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=726901&u=1307676&m=59159&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3EKnit%20Picks%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Knit Picks</a> yarn <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=738953&u=1307676&m=59159&urllink=&afftrack=%22%3EPalette%3C/a%3E" target="_blank">Palette</a> in the Oyster Heather and Midnight Heather colorways. </div>
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This shawl is beautiful and has an Art Deco feel to it. I am using this one as a sort of training for <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/rockefeller-2" target="_blank">Stephen West's Rockefeller</a> that truly reflects the Art Deco Style.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm9.static.flickr.com/8444/7894579292_270ff33095_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://farm9.static.flickr.com/8444/7894579292_270ff33095_z.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rockefeller by Stephen West</td></tr>
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<b>Now onto Dating Woes</b></div>
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I have decided that perhaps the spinster cat lady thing is working about as well as the knitting recluse is. From this decision I have chosen to give, once again, the online dating thing a try.</div>
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<b>YIKES!</b></div>
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It has not been successful thus far! At all, in no way. Well, Maybe not entirely, there is the laugh factor.</div>
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Case in point</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9GLsSfbus-E/V0xEIAt4vXI/AAAAAAAATUY/gN82S9PKi4k41rcDkY9GwpiKtPzbsGxiACLcB/s1600/Screenshot%2B2016-05-28%2Bat%2B7.47.11%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9GLsSfbus-E/V0xEIAt4vXI/AAAAAAAATUY/gN82S9PKi4k41rcDkY9GwpiKtPzbsGxiACLcB/s400/Screenshot%2B2016-05-28%2Bat%2B7.47.11%2BPM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Oh my! The Speedo, but mostly, the pose! What on earth gave this guy the idea that any of this would attract a woman? I have seen many crazy things on these dating sites and so far this one is the winner of "Most Cheeky Pose".</div>
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Do you see what I have to deal with here? Someone please save me! Perhaps I should just accept my lot as Crazy Spinster Cat Lady.</div>
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Anyway, that is all for now!</div>
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Enjoy your day and as always,</div>
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Stay Quirky my Friend</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FvJPh45ZOCY/V0xFJ_ok9PI/AAAAAAAATUk/bbYe1AUWp5wbHXjkvnJakY0aPgxZkaLXQCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160528_162824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FvJPh45ZOCY/V0xFJ_ok9PI/AAAAAAAATUk/bbYe1AUWp5wbHXjkvnJakY0aPgxZkaLXQCKgB/s320/IMG_20160528_162824.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-9367996856476607712016-05-24T20:04:00.000-07:002016-05-25T17:25:13.144-07:00Bad Guts, But Knitting Makes it Better<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N32HRGouGdA/V0UNCmTQfGI/AAAAAAAATKk/SeQipt2V4OQX7EEz1TLSVlKul-X_pqb5ACKgB/s1600/20160419_174417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N32HRGouGdA/V0UNCmTQfGI/AAAAAAAATKk/SeQipt2V4OQX7EEz1TLSVlKul-X_pqb5ACKgB/s400/20160419_174417.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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Many of you know that I have Crohn's disease. What is it? </div>
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Watch this. It is a great video about the disease.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Keqzt83KMVA/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Keqzt83KMVA?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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There now that you understand a bit about my disease I will let you know just a little bit of how I am on a daily basis.</div>
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I wake up and don't feel well. If I decided to get out of bed on my first feeling when I wake up I never would get out of bed. That doesn't work well if you want to have a life so I get up. Drink some coffee and reassess. Most days I go to work and live. Some days after work it's all I can do to drive home and plop on the couch. </div>
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I spend most days in the bathroom at least 10 times. Makes for a fun work day when you depend on someone coming to give you a potty break. I usually have a fever by the time 2PM rolls around. </div>
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Once in awhile I have pain so bad that a trip to the ER is in order. Usually followed by many tests and the diagnosis is bowel blockage. In goes the NG tube. (pictured up top) and the "is it going to fix itself" game starts. If all goes well I go home in a few days. If not, it could become a month long stay in the hospital. </div>
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The disease impacts me daily. Many don't understand and that's okay as long as I don't hear the words "but you don't look sick". When I hear that I want to shove my colonoscopy result photos in their face. </div>
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My usual self is pretty upbeat. I try not to be one of those folks that goes on and on about having a disease and how much their life sucks. I know many others that have it much worse than I do. I try and keep it into perspective. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e7aikbjFX8I/V0UQS6aJhmI/AAAAAAAATKw/JEht40Ss6s4Xfh3erTTuX324paefHM-NgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160518_165809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e7aikbjFX8I/V0UQS6aJhmI/AAAAAAAATKw/JEht40Ss6s4Xfh3erTTuX324paefHM-NgCKgB/s400/IMG_20160518_165809.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My latest addition to my stash<br />
Oopsy Emu Egg by Expressions Fiber Arts<br />
So beautiful!!! </td></tr>
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Yarn saved my life!</div>
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Or at least my sanity!</div>
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I started out using a knitting loom and within a week I was on needles. I fell in love. I can knit and for that moment I am not a girl with Crohn's. I am an fiber artist! I love it and I truly believe that it heals me like no medication can. </div>
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I can sit and knit when I am in the hospital, at doctors appointments, when I am home sick or (my favorite) in hangouts with friends from around the world. There have not been many days where I have not been able to knit because I was too sick. </div>
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Not only has knitting given me a way to relax and destress but also because of online communities I have found new friends around the Globe to knit with. </div>
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For that I have <a href="https://plus.google.com/communities/112260687631793896685" target="_blank">Christina Blount and the Knitting Lodge Google+ Community </a>to thank for. </div>
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The Knitting Lodge is a wonderful place where people come to share there projects, ask questions, share ideas and have virtual knit nights using Google Hangouts. Because of this community I have met new friends that I trust will be lifelong! This community truly makes the world smaller and we all have one thing in common. YARN!</div>
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The encouragement and friendships I found within this community get me through some truly tough times and have opened my world up to so much. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MJerw3iJPrQ/V0UTgWiL-WI/AAAAAAAATK8/RNk6DSTuSag84JsreWjEHe415zFUBZZAwCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160522_104034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MJerw3iJPrQ/V0UTgWiL-WI/AAAAAAAATK8/RNk6DSTuSag84JsreWjEHe415zFUBZZAwCKgB/s320/IMG_20160522_104034.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Socks!</td></tr>
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I cannot express how much community and knitting have helped in healing. Perhaps not the disease itself but in the production of beautiful fiber art and friendships that, for a moment, make my world not so "sick". </div>
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If you have a chronic illness or just want to make some new friends I suggest that you find a Google Community that you can connect with . The World will not seem so large when you begin to have Global friendships.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TORq7OgVk04/V0UUrschpJI/AAAAAAAATLI/dqHw9tWVKJ854Mz5JydxbmNvOXFJUxS8gCKgB/s1600/20160522_082821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TORq7OgVk04/V0UUrschpJI/AAAAAAAATLI/dqHw9tWVKJ854Mz5JydxbmNvOXFJUxS8gCKgB/s320/20160522_082821.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Stay Quirky my Friends</div>
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Until next time. </div>
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Blessings</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-37684369518921699852016-05-16T05:55:00.001-07:002016-05-16T05:55:38.866-07:00Knit All the Things<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hISWxpegEiI/Vzm5oy66RVI/AAAAAAAAS64/nSv8iLHudwgIBHU81RdnHfMXWbMyDq3yQCLcB/s1600/3780662.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hISWxpegEiI/Vzm5oy66RVI/AAAAAAAAS64/nSv8iLHudwgIBHU81RdnHfMXWbMyDq3yQCLcB/s320/3780662.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have been busy finishing up lots of things! </div>
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So I have some fun FOs to show you.</div>
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Let's get started shall we?</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hvgg3aaaI50/Vzm58VDBUYI/AAAAAAAAS68/OUMocWTW_isBIoITeZDLKsgjUNjR45yVQCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160514_205127_000911.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hvgg3aaaI50/Vzm58VDBUYI/AAAAAAAAS68/OUMocWTW_isBIoITeZDLKsgjUNjR45yVQCKgB/s320/IMG_20160514_205127_000911.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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First I finished <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/quirkyurbangirl/an-authors-friend" target="_blank">"An Author's Friend"</a> </div>
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This was a project for the <a href="http://www.littlebitfae.com/posts/category/podcast/" target="_blank">"Little Bit Fae Knits Podcast"</a> KAL </div>
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This was a fun and relaxing knit.</div>
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As you can see it's orange. Yeah not my color...</div>
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Or is it?</div>
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I really like the way that it turned out. </div>
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I used Brava Worsted from Knit Picks</div>
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I am also using it for the <a href="http://yarnderwoman.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">"YarnderWoman Podcast"</a> Opposites KAL</div>
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This KAL is super fun. The rules are it has to be opposite of how you knit, colors, kind of project, it is really up to your creativity.</div>
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Mine qualifies because first it's orange, NOT a color that I would ever use. Second it is pretty much summer here in Arizona and this is clearly not a summer garment. </div>
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Next up</div>
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/quirkyurbangirl/little-felted-bag" target="_blank">Little Felted Bag</a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-89wIc2L80v4/Vzm8mW3wp6I/AAAAAAAAS7M/FugROX8a9UoepdgfR4DuoGzHHS9_Ikc9gCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160515_072901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-89wIc2L80v4/Vzm8mW3wp6I/AAAAAAAAS7M/FugROX8a9UoepdgfR4DuoGzHHS9_Ikc9gCKgB/s320/IMG_20160515_072901.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JG5oTdZYi74/Vzm8mavhT2I/AAAAAAAAS7M/4oOq-8Rym60RW7_lMvVGDHm_JNTQ8vRYgCKgB/s1600/20160515_092011-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JG5oTdZYi74/Vzm8mavhT2I/AAAAAAAAS7M/4oOq-8Rym60RW7_lMvVGDHm_JNTQ8vRYgCKgB/s320/20160515_092011-1.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fl-NwosFsVk/Vzm-JP_DZYI/AAAAAAAAS7g/XrqRgCcT7QMJYtHe_x44gnoFmMyxXp_gACKgB/s1600/20160515_144531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fl-NwosFsVk/Vzm-JP_DZYI/AAAAAAAAS7g/XrqRgCcT7QMJYtHe_x44gnoFmMyxXp_gACKgB/s320/20160515_144531.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before felting (Hopper doesn't even care)</td></tr>
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This is my 3rd felted project and I am truly pleased with how it turned out.</div>
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I went with my friend to Michael's to find some buttons and I found this cute Paton's yarn that is perfect for felting. It is a super fast project. I cannot find the blog where I got the pattern and I cannot find the pattern on Ravelry. If you do please comment.</div>
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It was a fun, fast knit and the best part is I finished it in a day. Don't you just love instant gratification knitting? </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bGObfL_OMK0/Vzm9rGsQVjI/AAAAAAAAS7Y/3vf65YwYB5QeWlGQvQk_fTs1WXFzBFMkwCKgB/s1600/20160515_155042-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bGObfL_OMK0/Vzm9rGsQVjI/AAAAAAAAS7Y/3vf65YwYB5QeWlGQvQk_fTs1WXFzBFMkwCKgB/s320/20160515_155042-1.jpg" width="262" /></a></div>
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Let's move on to WIPs shall we?</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yz9x5NWfhR4/Vzm-tqSdt3I/AAAAAAAAS7o/DD5GPoGTZeQMS-hZsFj8Q8humcO6uZj6wCKgB/s1600/20160425_053611-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yz9x5NWfhR4/Vzm-tqSdt3I/AAAAAAAAS7o/DD5GPoGTZeQMS-hZsFj8Q8humcO6uZj6wCKgB/s320/20160425_053611-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am still working on the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/quirkyurbangirl/ballerina" target="_blank">Ballerina</a> by Ella Torrente.</div>
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I have decided to modify the pattern because there are over 300 stitches on the needles and I needed to cable all of them and well, just NO! </div>
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I did 15 rows of 2x2 ribbing and now I am on the short rows and then I am going to add a leaf edging to bind it off. My brain just could not handle all those cables.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tu8syJwJeW8/Vzm_k9FleUI/AAAAAAAAS74/TTTH3bn21gQ8RkQTdNAy8wTpffuPrR8jACKgB/s1600/1462932217023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tu8syJwJeW8/Vzm_k9FleUI/AAAAAAAAS74/TTTH3bn21gQ8RkQTdNAy8wTpffuPrR8jACKgB/s320/1462932217023.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/rose-city-rollers" target="_blank">Rose City Rollers</a> will forever be a HO because I played the yarn chicken and lost!</div>
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I may cast on another pair. They are fun to knit. </div>
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Whew! That's a lot! My fingers have been busy. </div>
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Please let me know if there is any trouble with any of the links.</div>
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Now onto what's for dinner!</div>
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I am still on a quest for tasty healthy food. Wow! did I find something. </div>
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I believe I heard about this recipe on the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/rose-city-rollers" target="_blank">ACTuallyKnitting</a> podcast. Infact yes, I just checked show notes and that is it. I didn't take a picture of this but all I can say is WOW! Sooooooo delicious!</div>
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What is it? Okay here ya go!</div>
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<a href="http://fitfoodiefinds.com/2015/09/5-ingredient-honey-sriracha-crock-pot-chicken/" target="_blank">Crock-Pot 5 ingredient Honey Sriracha Chicken</a></div>
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Trust me it's amazing.</div>
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The only modification I made was I put the sauce in with the chicken while I was cooking it.</div>
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It came out so good. I steamed some rice and broccoli to go with it.</div>
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Happy eating & Knitting. Until next time,</div>
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As always,</div>
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Stay Quirky my Friends! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-43401644601372651842016-05-10T05:53:00.000-07:002016-05-10T05:53:27.063-07:00Knit one Purl two<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RuTPyduq_rI/VzHVDkidprI/AAAAAAAASwU/pWzGKGVpqOEnH_D9WfdiCJGjB9pU6NTFgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160424_123304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RuTPyduq_rI/VzHVDkidprI/AAAAAAAASwU/pWzGKGVpqOEnH_D9WfdiCJGjB9pU6NTFgCKgB/s400/IMG_20160424_123304.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">felted bag</td></tr>
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So much knitting. </div>
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I digress. First thank you, thank you for reading when I have been the biggest non blogger ever! Lots of "life" has been happening and blogging has not been part of that. </div>
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No more! I will, no, I am blogging again. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8bfLGeG8ITE/VzHVo7M3-NI/AAAAAAAASwg/4R0yiSmQmeALNw4rpaMUmKXd7XvP1MhbgCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160408_212609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8bfLGeG8ITE/VzHVo7M3-NI/AAAAAAAASwg/4R0yiSmQmeALNw4rpaMUmKXd7XvP1MhbgCKgB/s400/IMG_20160408_212609.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">seedling hat</td></tr>
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My goal of this post is to catch you up on my obsession.</div>
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KNITTING</div>
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I kint if I am not working, hiking or camping, Confession, If I could combine work, camping and hiking with knitting I would. Perhaps I have.</div>
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I have another confession. Knitting is a passion but you cannot knit without yarn right? </div>
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My name is Becky and I am a Yarn-aholic! I just cannot stop!</div>
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Again I digress. </div>
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Now onto the purpose. Finished objects, or FOs as us knitters like to call them. </div>
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I love the process that produces a beautiful product.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CLUg8eFhfy0/VzHXCgaQCSI/AAAAAAAASww/a0jTgjDHi3cLkHhN6BcA1rQ8ayIDsTvnACKgB/s1600/IMG_20160418_163137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CLUg8eFhfy0/VzHXCgaQCSI/AAAAAAAASww/a0jTgjDHi3cLkHhN6BcA1rQ8ayIDsTvnACKgB/s400/IMG_20160418_163137.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">spliced hat</td></tr>
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This fun cable/colorwork hat took second place at the Maricopa County Fair.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my first sock</td></tr>
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So I had a great fear of socks. Kind of a silly fear. This was my first sock. It's a little big. I am still perfecting it but I did it and I will knit more!!!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lkKHeC8lEW0/VzHYGgjofNI/AAAAAAAASxA/j69Y_oloiE8GeAJ8IrR_JaV5g15TGuF0wCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160221_152126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lkKHeC8lEW0/VzHYGgjofNI/AAAAAAAASxA/j69Y_oloiE8GeAJ8IrR_JaV5g15TGuF0wCKgB/s400/IMG_20160221_152126.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my first sweater</td></tr>
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I did it. I made a sweater. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hpQpdwvyAa4/VzHYGg3mMzI/AAAAAAAASxA/8BvwD8bA9j42zVKXTOxKBgTREFWW3RlwQCKgB/s1600/20160210_132313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hpQpdwvyAa4/VzHYGg3mMzI/AAAAAAAASxA/8BvwD8bA9j42zVKXTOxKBgTREFWW3RlwQCKgB/s400/20160210_132313.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">appletini MKL</td></tr>
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This was my first Mystery Knit Along. Each week you get a clue to knit and as you knit the beautiful pattern reveals itself.</div>
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As you can see these fingers have been busy knitting away. More to come</div>
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Until then,</div>
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Stay Quirky My Friend</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--UtXLVKywQA/VzHY8D8WCnI/AAAAAAAASxI/mdPBfev7jrEYEDgf7QeEnreD-O_har8_wCKgB/s1600/IMG_20160510_053035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--UtXLVKywQA/VzHY8D8WCnI/AAAAAAAASxI/mdPBfev7jrEYEDgf7QeEnreD-O_har8_wCKgB/s400/IMG_20160510_053035.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-23713769643566658332016-04-02T06:52:00.000-07:002018-11-06T16:42:53.193-08:00Quirky Urban Yarn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VDKKODdPVfqSP3TNsScthL_Hm9Amk_vamW_SbJMNjexMs464XZ7yj8iWUDudV8FaP1SP9dwhm53A1lnn9NDYVEOyN-c2L2u4HuWl89hDlYAyN2VeiSQf1R8UL2gA3gLJxD6sP247nQpcFy_MR_fDTbmWRb_4LkQ8E59ZzNZojDw7KT2znTB9TygwGFvv3_1y_wTBwmvplnSsla5FZuQDCtIwU9rD5COO2xiMX6mamgrsKSmmKp_Vd6xC3BH6OhveJuROK05gNJuCqf0MwGI_FYCF8REeAXEosQIUaB3IDoglimkeLzpY2ldUzSsPBYY7eEcwUXiYUEwKVCk6pyrpZ67bWMUXldPLRqwg3naiB9o9GRVU9pTbYjss7vEhJzg2NMBErQCH3DzlGwA5M5H6Y06uGiqstJHJ4UMOgEgcpCuE1tQFarOylnDWLj78PYCFpfmM2ai6paq95xprMMLcNg7Do2VD50N6vevY4SW9yV1HS-iRKH601_rxBnGX_ftLnCL2qSqY51nY8S0ALhdZpkYXfVR3cMxyyjMM2LJNEzvpC-ZmnsAOpPUtxau0zl03dPNfVA=w712-h401-no" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aria-label="Photo - Landscape - Mar 31, 2016" border="0" class="SzDcob" height="225" jsname="uLHQEd" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VDKKODdPVfqSP3TNsScthL_Hm9Amk_vamW_SbJMNjexMs464XZ7yj8iWUDudV8FaP1SP9dwhm53A1lnn9NDYVEOyN-c2L2u4HuWl89hDlYAyN2VeiSQf1R8UL2gA3gLJxD6sP247nQpcFy_MR_fDTbmWRb_4LkQ8E59ZzNZojDw7KT2znTB9TygwGFvv3_1y_wTBwmvplnSsla5FZuQDCtIwU9rD5COO2xiMX6mamgrsKSmmKp_Vd6xC3BH6OhveJuROK05gNJuCqf0MwGI_FYCF8REeAXEosQIUaB3IDoglimkeLzpY2ldUzSsPBYY7eEcwUXiYUEwKVCk6pyrpZ67bWMUXldPLRqwg3naiB9o9GRVU9pTbYjss7vEhJzg2NMBErQCH3DzlGwA5M5H6Y06uGiqstJHJ4UMOgEgcpCuE1tQFarOylnDWLj78PYCFpfmM2ai6paq95xprMMLcNg7Do2VD50N6vevY4SW9yV1HS-iRKH601_rxBnGX_ftLnCL2qSqY51nY8S0ALhdZpkYXfVR3cMxyyjMM2LJNEzvpC-ZmnsAOpPUtxau0zl03dPNfVA=w712-h401-no" style="transform: translate3d(0px, 0px, 0px) rotate(0deg);" width="400" /></a></div>
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I love yarn! I have become obsessed and I just cannot get enough. It is beautiful, dreamy, soft and amazing. It can keep you warm, provide comfort and beauty in you life. It is a source of my creativity and it has foster a new skill in my life. I am now able to take a ball of yarn and turn it into a sweater! Now that's a super power!!!</div>
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<a href="https://photos.google.com/photo/AF1QipP0tpKhj_fQDXjilMYFJ8DWNBJo2quwhjQuLaj6"></a><a href="https://photos.google.com/photo/AF1QipP0tpKhj_fQDXjilMYFJ8DWNBJo2quwhjQuLaj6"></a><a href="https://photos.google.com/photo/AF1QipP0tpKhj_fQDXjilMYFJ8DWNBJo2quwhjQuLaj6"></a><a href="https://photos.google.com/photo/AF1QipPIMjF9ZAVW59EIQLZc-RFddhy94w_r3dfpmv8Y"></a><a href="https://photos.google.com/photo/AF1QipPIMjF9ZAVW59EIQLZc-RFddhy94w_r3dfpmv8Y"></a><a href="https://photos.google.com/photo/AF1QipMzn9HIaLGH74ckBRhlr-D2i9TmM2X6_SaT8-0B"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://photos.google.com/photo/AF1QipPIMjF9ZAVW59EIQLZc-RFddhy94w_r3dfpmv8Y"></a><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-32768663358908385712015-09-28T06:01:00.001-07:002018-11-06T16:42:53.233-08:00Quirky Urban Girl DatesAh the world of internet dating, or just dating in general. I think it is safe to say that it is not an easy world to navigate even for a person who is not socially awkward.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-50929190634808962362015-07-30T07:25:00.000-07:002015-07-30T07:25:45.332-07:00Quirky Urban Girl Knits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3XwBg7iuNJw/VXPO6_vZqLI/AAAAAAAAIBM/Rd6VNragVBo/s1600/gplus1339722841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3XwBg7iuNJw/VXPO6_vZqLI/AAAAAAAAIBM/Rd6VNragVBo/s400/gplus1339722841.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
So it's been a while... a long long long long long while, since I have put together a blog post. I guess I have been busy. (not really) The truth is I have been lazy. Too lazy to think about blogging about anything. I have been busy doing nothing! But have I been doing nothing?<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ifgHXRd3ZFg/VboxMreJJRI/AAAAAAAAJGA/POwQfq9MVIY/s1600/20150609_075145-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ifgHXRd3ZFg/VboxMreJJRI/AAAAAAAAJGA/POwQfq9MVIY/s320/20150609_075145-1.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>
I have been busy, really I have! I have a new obsession, Knitting. What is more Quirky than an urban girl in her late 40s knitting? I am obsessed! It is my first hobby that I spend money on almost every week! It is useful and great for gifts... that's what I keep telling myself at least.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seed Stitch Hat</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite hat pattern </td></tr>
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It's fun, it's practical and well, Quirky. There is a whole knitting culture that I had no idea even existed. It's so fun.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b9pdYZ8k3rU/VbozTEM3kBI/AAAAAAAAJGo/8HHGK9TRkuY/s1600/20150712_123454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b9pdYZ8k3rU/VbozTEM3kBI/AAAAAAAAJGo/8HHGK9TRkuY/s320/20150712_123454.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ailen Illusion Scarf</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-13rRKipeSFU/VbozK8iKK5I/AAAAAAAAJGg/vNVAq8PXr3Q/s1600/20150713_203215-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-13rRKipeSFU/VbozK8iKK5I/AAAAAAAAJGg/vNVAq8PXr3Q/s320/20150713_203215-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Be prepared for more fun posts my knew little hobby! Consider this little post a preview!<br />
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Stay Quirky My FriendsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-67339200011946552612014-05-11T05:34:00.000-07:002014-05-11T05:34:47.318-07:00Quirky Urban Bread Geek<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Bread, the staple in cultures around the World. It has a bad reputation at the moment. There is a campaign that is out to crush bread. Everyone should cut wheat out of their diet. It's bad for you, causes wheat gut, leaky gut syndrome and other things that I have never heard of. There are some who have a true allergy to wheat or a disease that will not allow them to eat gluten but the whole Country? Now that thought has to make you scratch your head. "They", once again, are out to convince us that we need gluten free products. The question I would like to ask you today is why are we letting the media tell us what we need or don't need. We allow them do it with drugs, food and well, pretty much everything. The media is not our friend. They just want our money!!!!<br />
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Okay I'll get off my soapbox and get on with the bread making. So bread is kind of a mystery to some. You put something alive in bread. Yeast. It It bubbles as it feeds on gluten. It rises and then is popped into an oven and then comes the smell. The smell that fills your home with feelings of love and warmth. The moment that it happens you cannot help but feeling the love that went into those loaves. The recipe is simple. Flour, water, yeast. Yup that's it all you need to create a simple loaf is that. Nothing more. Why the heck "they" put yoga mat in it is beyond my comprehension. True, that simple formula is for a simple loaf but even the most complex ones don't require much more. Perhaps some salt, oil, potatoes water, spices. Maybe some eggs for that fluffy Challah. Simple as that!<br />
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But is it? I have been on my quest for the perfect loaf for years. I have tried, failed and tried again. It has become an obsession and a passion for me. To create that perfect loaf. Crisp golden brown crust and soft fluffy crumb on the inside or the tunnels and bubbles of the perfect sourdough, that is the goal. <br />
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For my next few blog posts I am going to do a series on how to make the perfect loaf. From instant yeast to sourdough you will learn what this quirky urbanite has learned. I hope that you find it helpful.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-63806809635938592452014-04-07T07:09:00.001-07:002014-04-07T07:09:23.727-07:00Media deception: You don't need 99% of the stuff "they" try to sell you!!!Have you noticed how the media makes you think that you need stuff. All kinds of stuff. Some of it is useful but some of it is just silly!<br />
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These disposable hand towels are a perfect example of stuff that you don't need. People have been using terrycloth towels in their bathrooms for decades and I have never heard of anyone becoming sick or dying from a disease contracted from a towel! I don't even want to start with the environmental repercussions of this. Not just the waste but also the carbon footprint from the factory. I change my hand towel daily depending on use. It adds about 5 to 7 small towels to my laundry that I am already washing anyway. UGGGGH! Just use a towel people don't buy into this unnecessary product.</div>
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I don't use paper towels in the kitchen either. I think they are wasteful and again unnecessary. I went on a quest for a inexpensive green alternative and was a bit disappointed because cloth napkins can be very expensive. I was at the $.99 only store and came across packages of mens hankies. They came 6 in a package and I bought 6 packages. I put them into a half gallon mason jar and use them as napkins and for small messes in the kitchen. If I have a big mess I use a dish cloth. I toss them into a small basket under the sink and throw them into the wash. They don't take up any more room or add any extra work except for cramming them into the jar once they are clean. Works like a charm. I do keep some paper towels on hand for biological animal happenings but that's all I use them for. Oh and as far as my dish cloth being filled with germs as the media warns us about, I just use one per day let it dry out and toss it into the under the sink basket. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dc2NXfJTCd8/U0KuAZanbXI/AAAAAAAABrE/EKB7feQA5JQ/s1600/uncrustables.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dc2NXfJTCd8/U0KuAZanbXI/AAAAAAAABrE/EKB7feQA5JQ/s1600/uncrustables.jpg" height="143" width="400" /></a></div>
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These suckers are a HUGE pet peeve of mine! Frozen PB&J are you kidding me? I am sorry but you have to be a special kind of lazy if you can't get out a loaf of bread, peanut butter and jelly and make a sandwich for your kid. Seriously? UGH! Things make me so mad. Not to mention the ingredients. Subway's yoga mat bread, yup it's in there along with high fructose corn syrup and a myriad of other chemicals. This is lazy America at it's finest!!! If you want cute shapes head over to your favorite big box store, they sell cute sandwich cutters and you can make your own!!! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wduHD2Qhe1c/U0Kr3J5XfQI/AAAAAAAABq4/g_VhdIvP4Ec/s1600/20140407_063242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wduHD2Qhe1c/U0Kr3J5XfQI/AAAAAAAABq4/g_VhdIvP4Ec/s1600/20140407_063242.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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As far as what I use to clean my sink and stove? I use baking soda and soap. My grandmother did it. It left our stovetop spotless when I was growing up and it does the same for my sink and stove today. I found the little shaker at the dollar store. You can use a parmesan cheese container too but the one I have is paper and the lid did not screw off so I just picked up the one at the store. Sprinkle a little in you sink or on your stove and put a little dish soap on your sponge and clean away!!! No harsh chemicals is a bonus!!!</div>
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The media is just doing it's job. The ad companies are just trying to make a buck. You don't have to put money into their pockets. Stop buying stuff that you don't need! Save your money, the environment and keep chemicals out of your house and out of your body! I read on a blog the other day, "Think before you buy, do I really need this?" </div>
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Give it a try. I am sure you have baking soda in you kitchen right now! </div>
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What useless products do you avoid? What is your "green" alternative? Please share in the comments.</div>
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Remember: Stay Quirky my friend</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-48232885125153091842014-04-05T19:21:00.001-07:002014-04-05T19:21:56.530-07:00The Day I Stopped Using ToothpasteYup, I Becky, AKA the Quirky Urban Girl, no longer uses toothpaste! After reading about all the harmful chemicals in toothpaste I decided to get into my way back machine and make my own. <br />
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Very simple ingredients<br />
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1/2 cup baking soda<br />
1/4 cup coconut oil<br />
peppermint extract to taste<br />
stevia to taste.<br />
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Mix it all up and put it in a jar. scoop a little bit onto your toothbrush and that's it.<br />
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I will admit that it took some getting use to. It has a very bitter taste and does not bubble up at all. I am not sure that I will use it forever but I am giving it a shot for now. It's easy enough to make and I know what all the ingredients are.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-62116790060378424692014-04-01T13:25:00.000-07:002014-04-01T13:32:19.748-07:00Quirky Urban PizzaI love pizza! It is my favorite. After reading <a href="http://foodbabe.com/2014/03/23/if-youve-ever-eaten-pizza-before-this-will-blow-your-mind/" target="_blank">this</a> blog post from <a href="http://foodbabe.com/2014/03/23/if-youve-ever-eaten-pizza-before-this-will-blow-your-mind/" target="_blank">Food Babe</a> it only confirmed my suspicions, pizza, potentially healthy meal, is not healthy because of what's in it. Oh and I am not talking about the cheese and meats. It's the hidden non-food chemicals like MSG hidden is ways such as <span style="background-color: white; color: #141414; font-family: Actor; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">Autolyzed Yeast Extract & </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141414; font-family: Actor; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">Natural Flavors. Not to mention the unhealthy oil factor.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #141414; font-family: Actor; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px;">But I love those savory pies so much!!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">For years now I have been making my own pizza crust using this recipe from <a href="http://www.breadtopia.com/" target="_blank">Breadtopia</a>. I make both the instant yeast and the sourdough pizza crusts. It is super easy and you are in control of the ingredients. Here they are folks. Instant yeast, Organic Flour (either unbleached or whole wheat), Olive Oil, (I use organic coconut oil) Sea Salt and water. That's it, no more! </span></span><br />
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This recipe produces a tasty crust with basic ingredients that I'll bet you already have!</div>
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Top it with fresh veggies and nitrate free meats, organic cheese and you are good to go!!!</div>
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<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">For today's pie I chose to make a vegan version.</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BYGWaG-0Rhc/Uzsetz3F0UI/AAAAAAAABpE/XW20mxrYzlk/s1600/2014-04-01+12.16.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BYGWaG-0Rhc/Uzsetz3F0UI/AAAAAAAABpE/XW20mxrYzlk/s1600/2014-04-01+12.16.43.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;">1 recipe <a href="http://www.breadtopia.com/pizza-dough-recipe/" target="_blank">Breadtopia's basic pizza crust</a></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">1/4 C. prepared hummus</span><br />
<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">1/2 organic tomato, sliced thin</span><br />
<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">1/2 bunch organic asparagus, chopped</span><br />
<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">1 handful olives (your choice) chopped</span><br />
<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">1 handful artichoke hearts packed in water. chopped</span><br />
<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">1/2 organic red bell pepper</span><br />
<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">1 handful organic baby spinach</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D_ptBeiy44Q/UzseqgaX5EI/AAAAAAAABpA/jkTqqg16bz8/s1600/2014-04-01+12.16.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D_ptBeiy44Q/UzseqgaX5EI/AAAAAAAABpA/jkTqqg16bz8/s1600/2014-04-01+12.16.49.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">Prepare crust as directed and cut in half. (freeze second half for later use)</span><br />
<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">Heat oven and pizza stone to 475</span><br />
<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">Roll out dough and place on parchment</span><br />
<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">Spread Hummus evenly around dough and layer vegetables. You can add as many or as little veggies as you like. So if you want more or less of something go for it.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fjynn8XKQQg/UzseJESVdpI/AAAAAAAABo4/hjdiRB9FMkc/s1600/2014-04-01+12.24.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fjynn8XKQQg/UzseJESVdpI/AAAAAAAABo4/hjdiRB9FMkc/s1600/2014-04-01+12.24.38.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">Transfer pizza to the stone with the parchment paper. (yes, leave the parchment paper under the pie, If you have a pizza peel you don't need the parchment. I use a non-rimmed cookie sheet. I place the parchment onto the cookie sheet, prepare the pizza, and then slide it onto the stone in the oven.) Bake 10-12 minutes until crust is brown.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C5MbLJ5Fx68/UzsaOnoHSQI/AAAAAAAABos/BxW2GlwYL4M/s1600/2014-04-01+12.42.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C5MbLJ5Fx68/UzsaOnoHSQI/AAAAAAAABos/BxW2GlwYL4M/s1600/2014-04-01+12.42.31.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;"> Cut and enjoy</span><br />
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<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">*Notes: I used 1 1/4 wholewheat flour & 1 cup unbleached flour.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #141414; font-family: Actor;">Thanks for stopping by and remember, stay Quirky! </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-79148441249897045542014-03-16T15:54:00.000-07:002014-03-16T15:54:52.982-07:00Roadrunners & Rattlesnakes <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mEQEIuTXmZg/UyYokiMTqII/AAAAAAAABnk/x-W9dlJvra8/s1600/2014-03-16+13.20.34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mEQEIuTXmZg/UyYokiMTqII/AAAAAAAABnk/x-W9dlJvra8/s1600/2014-03-16+13.20.34.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
It was a balmy 79 here in the Sonoran Desert so off I set out on a little hike in my backyard AKA Dreamy Draw Park. I love living here! I am close to a huge mountain preserve called The Phoenix Mountains. Two parks are attached to it Piestewa peak & Dreamy Draw. Urban hiking at it's finest. We are lucky like there here in Phoenix. I didn't see any Roadrunners or Rattlers today. I have seen both before on my hikes. I think it was just too warm for them.<br />
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So many trails, so little time.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KTWR9uje42w/UyYjOb0GQ-I/AAAAAAAABmk/5G41Z9FQt94/s1600/2014-03-16+13.16.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KTWR9uje42w/UyYjOb0GQ-I/AAAAAAAABmk/5G41Z9FQt94/s1600/2014-03-16+13.16.30.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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First flowers of the season</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nkhlNWKbq1o/UyYmTnyD82I/AAAAAAAABm0/SyAxwlVUYCI/s1600/2014-03-16+12.56.44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nkhlNWKbq1o/UyYmTnyD82I/AAAAAAAABm0/SyAxwlVUYCI/s1600/2014-03-16+12.56.44.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zCbRDLQQEWQ/UyYnAVmb02I/AAAAAAAABnM/D9KHR2A9gTg/s1600/2014-03-16+13.07.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zCbRDLQQEWQ/UyYnAVmb02I/AAAAAAAABnM/D9KHR2A9gTg/s1600/2014-03-16+13.07.48.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I was hoping for more flowers. I was either too early or we just didn't get enough rain. I did see a few and lots of plants with buds so there is hope.</div>
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Today's trail choice.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E1UlDmzWukg/UyYndgSUKvI/AAAAAAAABnU/n_sUMV1aRvc/s1600/2014-03-16+13.23.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E1UlDmzWukg/UyYndgSUKvI/AAAAAAAABnU/n_sUMV1aRvc/s1600/2014-03-16+13.23.18.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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The trailhead is just a block away from my house. When I am hiking by myself I choose to walk an extra .5 miles to a trailhead that goes directly under the 51 freeway.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Going under the freeway</td></tr>
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Even with the disappointment of no roadrunner or rattlesnakes and the minimal amount of flowers it was a beautiful hike. If you are ever in Phoenix you have to look up Dreamy Draw Park and give it a try!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selfless Selfie<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-81633947979046347112014-03-13T07:46:00.000-07:002014-03-13T07:51:50.870-07:00Citrus Cleaner & Ant Begone! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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About 2.5 weeks ago I came across <a href="http://www.kitchenstewardship.com/2013/02/05/how-to-make-homemade-orange-power-cleaner/" target="_blank">this</a> blog post from <a href="http://www.kitchenstewardship.com/2013/02/05/how-to-make-homemade-orange-power-cleaner/" target="_blank">Kitchen Stewardship</a> and decided to give it a try. I am really shying away from chemical cleaners in my home since I had an allergic reaction to homemade laundry soap. I am amazed how well this stuff worked!!! Not only did it clean my microwave, stove and counter tops but also I had an issue with tiny ants and they are gone too! I used about a ratio of about 5:1 vinegar to water. If you want it to disinfect add about 10-12 drops of tea tree oil. I am truly amazed at the results. <br />
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Here's how to do it.<br />
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Fill a jar with orange, lemon, or grapefruit peels<br />
Cover with distilled white vinegar<br />
Set it on the counter for about 2 weeks<br />
Shake when you think about it.<br />
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Add some to a spray bottle, top it off with water and spray. <br />
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It smells clean and fresh like oranges and even took off the grime under my stove vent! <br />
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Go ahead and give it a try. It is so much more cost effective than those store bought natural cleaners and it works! I would love to hear your results in the comments.<br />
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Thanks for stopping by,<br />
Quirky Urban Girl Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-9755402299614104002014-03-11T20:56:00.000-07:002014-03-13T07:52:24.778-07:00SproutsSo I received an Easy Sprout back in August for my birthday and for whatever reason I was resistant on using it. I finally decided to dust it off and give it a try. I had forgotten the instructions that my friend had given me so I went on a YouTube adventure and this is what I found.<br />
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It does a great job explaining how the process of sprouting works. After watching it I thought okay I can do this. So here goes nothing.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tmeRHjwzLNU/Ux_TD7o--BI/AAAAAAAABk8/fO7YImEwlrM/s1600/2014-02-23+07.08.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tmeRHjwzLNU/Ux_TD7o--BI/AAAAAAAABk8/fO7YImEwlrM/s1600/2014-02-23+07.08.39.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Day 1 3 Tablespoons spicy broccoli mix</div>
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Time to soak</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wMa8yj7oHC4/Ux_TsAW4JzI/AAAAAAAABlM/4eGs9gcQMqI/s1600/2014-02-23+20.06.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wMa8yj7oHC4/Ux_TsAW4JzI/AAAAAAAABlM/4eGs9gcQMqI/s1600/2014-02-23+20.06.33.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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After soaking I did the human salad spinner thing that he showed on the video twice a day or "12 hours later" just like the video </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cM6EwfpilbY/Ux_TliGm8AI/AAAAAAAABlE/lfl4wLg3K1o/s1600/2014-02-24+18.35.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cM6EwfpilbY/Ux_TliGm8AI/AAAAAAAABlE/lfl4wLg3K1o/s1600/2014-02-24+18.35.16.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Day 3 and again with the spin </div>
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Day 4</div>
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Day 5</div>
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Day 6. </div>
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Time to eat these bad boys. I tasted them and they were peppery tasting they did have radish and arugula in them but I really did not think about that when I tossed them into my Ninja for my morning smoothie. Um, yeah let's just say that radish and arugula sprouts are NOT tasty in a smoothie AT ALL just don't do it. Yuck! I choked it down anyway because of the protein powder but NEVER again!!!</div>
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The next day I put them on a turkey burger and the result was much , much more palatable! In fact, quite tasty, I love them now! I even bought more seeds to sprout and am looking forward to eating these little protein power packed bad boys!</div>
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Sprouts are so good for you and are packed wit enzymes, fiber and protein. You should give it a try!</div>
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Click <a href="http://www.sprouthouse.com/Easy_Sprout_Sprouter_p/ezsprout.htm" target="_blank">here</a> for a great deal on 1lb of seeds and an Easy Sprout both for $12.95 + shipping. (this is where I got my seeds from.)</div>
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So go ahead and give it a try! Your body will thank you for the healthy fresh food!</div>
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(PS I do not work for or get paid by Sprout House if you choose to buy your sprouts from Sprout House. They just sell good quality organic sprout seeds and I wanted to pass that information along to you.)</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-21824059643607646632014-03-02T07:35:00.000-08:002014-03-02T07:41:42.530-08:00Soap Nuts & Dryer Balls <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Laundry! Can you think of anything more unfun? Okay, I am sure you can but still its yuck with a capital Y! So time consuming and boring. I hate it! A few weeks ago I hated it even more. I had been making my own laundry soap using 1 bar of Zote, 1 Cup Borax and 1 Cup Washing Soda and then something went wrong! I developed an allergic reaction to the soap. Not the I have a rash, my skin is red and I itch reaction but the lymph node swollen, joint pain, skin rash uncontrollable itching go to the hospital and get a bunch of IV meds kind. I figured out that it was the laundry soap because I woke up one morning and had a smoothie, became cold, put on a jacket and WHAM! out popped the welts after just a few minutes. I was relieved but frustrated because I had to buy new laundry soap and wash EVERYTHING I own. I am 99% sure that it was the Zote soap that did it. I am 100% sure that I never want to do it again so after reading several blogs and reviews I decided to give soap nuts a try.<br />
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What the heck is a soap nut you may ask? Well apparently, according to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sapindus" target="_blank">Wikipedia</a> it is the fruit of a small tree or shrub that has been used for cleaning things for cleaning things for thousands of years.<br />
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I ordered my soap nut sample on ebay <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/261058467300?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649" target="_blank">here</a>. Not because of any particular reason except that they cost $2.99 and it was free shipping. So now onto the experiment.<br />
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After reading 2 blogs <a href="http://www.kitchenstewardship.com/2009/09/30/my-favorite-non-toxic-laundry-option-soap-nuts-review/" target="_blank">Kitchen Stewardship</a> & <a href="http://becomingpeculiar.com/soap-nuts-how-well-do-they-work/" target="_blank">Becoming Peculiar</a> I learned that because I use cold water that it is best to put my little nuts in the sack and soak them in warm water before I commence laundry doing.<br />
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So after that I decided to squeeze them and see if they really do make "soap". Guess what? They do!<br />
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I tossed them into the wash and started the machine. I wasn't sure if I was supposed to remove them during the rinse cycle. I still don't know but I think I removed them twice and one load I forgot all about them.</div>
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Wash, wash, rinse, rinse! The load was finished and I took the clothes out and they looked clean and smelled like nothing. Nothing is good. I then tossed them in with my dryer balls. Yup folks I said dryer balls. They are felted wool balls that you can make yourself or buy. I got mine <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Smart-Sheep-Handmade-Eco-friendly-Softener/dp/B00GA9P5P0/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1393772993&sr=8-13&keywords=dryer+balls+laundry" target="_blank">here</a>. I use six. Just toss them in and my clothes dry so much faster and come out soft. They still have static but I am not willing to chance it and use fabric sheets after my reaction to chemicals, I also toss in some distilled white viniger to the fabric softener dispenser.</div>
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After that more washing and more drying happened. I decided to test the soap nuts for effectiveness and how you do that is see if they still bubble up and they did after two loads.</div>
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Then it was time for the true test. Stained handkerchiefs. I use them like a non quirky person would use paper towels. They have avocado and spirulina stains on them from smoothie making.</div>
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Into the washer they went and the result was...<br />
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Not perfect but not bad either. I am not worried that they are still a little green. They are my sustainable paper towels for Pete's sake. They are as clean as they ever came using my old soap. You can use an eco friendly pretreater or Oxyclean to help with stains. I didn't because, like I said with these I am not that worried.</div>
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After I was finished with laundry I took the soap nuts out of the bag and dried both. No one told me to do this I just thought it made sense.<br />
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So what do I think of soap nuts? I like them so far. I even bought some more from <a href="http://www.greenvirginproducts.com/soap-nuts-250-gram-bag-deseeded-55-lbs-aprox-83-wash-loads-includes-1-wash-bag/" target="_blank">here</a> to test them out even more. I will post an update in a few weeks and let you know how it's going. For now soap nuts get a thumbs up from this Quirky Urban Girl!<br />
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Have you used soap nuts? Please post your results in the comments.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5656906241314276348.post-75048256783655300662014-03-01T06:23:00.000-08:002014-03-01T18:31:06.726-08:00A Little Quirky in ArizonaAh, Urban life in North Central Phoenix, Arizona. Nothing like the sound of an occasional coyote, or owl along with the occasional appearance of the token javelina, quail, cottontail, or roadrunner. Hold it, let's back up a bit. Who is this quirky urbnite and why should you read this blog?<br />
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Hi, I'm Becky. Born in Ft. Dix, New Jersey, raised in Phoenix, AZ by my grandparents who happen to be from Mountain City, Tennessee. I lived in the same house and went to the same grade school and high school. I didn't move around much until the 1990's where I lived in both San Diego and Los Angeles. During that time I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. More on that later. I moved back to my childhood home in Arizona in 2000. In 2006 I moved to my cute urban condo located smack dab in the middle of a mountain preserve here in North Central Phoenix. AKA Dreamy Draw. I am an avid hiker, baker and kayaker. Oh and I just happen to teach preschool at an all natural organic preschool.<br />
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I have one small goal these days. I want to live as sustainable as possible and eat the best quality foods and rid myself of dependence on chemicals and all things processed in my diet. I know, lofty!. I have another blog that has kinda fizzled for me it was a food blog. Baking bread and cupcakes is fine but I really wanted more. So here goes. My goal is not to be a how to blog but a what happens if? blog. I will be testing other people's blog ideas for natural sustainable living and clean eating and posting my findings here. My posts will be about the most frugal way to live clean and green! <br />
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I hope that you will follow me on my journey. I am always open to ideas for posts. If you want me to try something please suggest! <br />
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Live Green<br />
Becky<br />
The Quirky Urban Girl<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17474529708112218532noreply@blogger.com6