tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38515954646916860132024-02-21T01:22:08.514-05:00Turtles and TailsDIY. Travel. Decorating. Food. Dogs. Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.comBlogger406125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-50249837526927511682019-09-17T13:21:00.003-04:002023-11-24T22:16:39.330-05:00On To New Things...<br />
Hi All. You've probably noticed that there haven't been any new posts since Christmas. I'm still here of course, but...I think I've lost my love for DIY blogging. I still LOVE to renovate rooms, refinish furniture, even crafts are
still fun, but the process of filming, editing, and writing the blog
posts to describe in detail what we did has become a chore instead of an enjoyable hobby. With Tom & I both working full time we've always only been able to work on the house on weekends, so projects take a very long time to complete, and then I was never posting on a regular basis. I didn't want to post filler just for the sake of posting.<br />
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And as much as I do like DIY (I really do!), I want to spend more time with our dogs and working on their development, as well as spending more time outside our house - field trips, festivals - just discovering the beauty in our community, province, and country. Tom and I took a week off this summer and went somewhere new each day - sometimes with the dogs, sometimes without - and it was one of the best vacations we've ever had.<br />
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Thank you all for giving me a place to flex my creative muscle these eight (!) years - I
appreciate each and every view, comment, and email I've received. And
don't worry - this blog will stay active so that all of my past
projects are accessible. I will continue to respond to questions -
just click one of the icons at the top of the page to email me or go to
my Instagram page (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/rottsandpots/?hl=en" target="_blank">@rottsandpots</a>). <br />
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<br />Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-23083175561864419612018-12-25T12:00:00.000-05:002018-12-26T16:06:07.511-05:00Merry Christmas!Merry Christmas from all of us at Turtles and Tails!<br />
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Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-55549036828115254042018-12-22T15:30:00.000-05:002018-12-24T08:34:28.231-05:00Chocolate Crinkle Cookies (with a twist!)One more recipe before Christmas. These Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are like a brownie, with just the right amount of sweetness (and a little surprise kick!)<br />
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Ingredients<br />
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1 cup flour<br />
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder<br />
1 teaspoon baking powder<br />
1/4 teaspoon salt<br />
3/4 cup sugar<br />
1/4 cup vegetable oil<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)<br />
pinch of cayenne powder (optional)<br />
1 cup icing sugar, for coating the cookies<br />
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In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. For a Mexican twist, add the cinnamon and cayenne powder. Set mixture aside.<br />
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In a large bowl beat the sugar and oil until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and vanilla. Gradually add in the flour mixture and mix until just combined.<br />
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Form the dough into a large ball and wrap it in plastic wrap so that it is sealed tightly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.<br />
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. Fill a small bowl with the powdered sugar.<br />
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Form 1-inch round dough balls by hand or with a cookie scoop. Dip each dough ball in the powdered sugar until it is completely covered on all sides, and then place them on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.<br />
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Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until nicely puffed up and crinkled. Remove from the oven, and let cool completely on the cookie sheet or a wire rack.<br />
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Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-82472237150416921012018-12-17T18:00:00.000-05:002018-12-18T14:15:38.647-05:00Christmas Decor - Inside and Out<br />
As in previous years, I took a walk out to the woods at the back of our property last weekend to gather branches to make a decorative planter for the front door.<br />
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I was lucky this year to find four different types of evergreen trees, along with dogwood, birch, and pine cones. I dragged my haul back to the house and laid it out in the basement to dry for a day.<br />
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The planter I use is already 3/4 full of soil as there are live plants in it during the rest of the year. I put scrap 1x6 pieces over the dirt to get a level surface and then added 3 florist foam bricks on top to anchor the branches.<br />
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My method is to start with birch along the back, then pine branches fanned out in front of them. I position cedar along the front edge as it drapes down nicely. I then randomly fill in the open space using all four of the different types. Finally I add in the decorations. This year I chose baubles and faux iced berries that I purchased during a Christmas open house at <a href="http://www.bradfordgreenhouses.com/retail/" target="_blank">Bradford Greenhouses</a>. I also added in dogwood branches for colour (love how it turns bright red in the winter!) and white poinsettia flowers.<br />
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On the door, instead of a wreath, I hung a rustic window frame that I also purchased at the open house. It has a metal wreath and stylized reindeer in the center. I added a big red bow to make it pop.<br />
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Inside, we have several areas of the house with vignettes. Our stocking wall is getting very full - with <a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2018/05/welcome-to-family-dadli-dogs.html" target="_blank">two new dogs</a> this year we now have 6 stockings! Above the stockings is the <a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2018/11/merry-christmas-stenciled-wall-sign.html" target="_blank">Merry Christmas sign</a> I made with my <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01I51ME1S/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01I51ME1S&linkId=2c7a7039c62cfc7a0a2be77f32e9935f" target="_blank">Silhouette cutter</a> and scrap wood.<br />
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I would love to show off our tree, but it's been through an ordeal this year. The little dogs won't leave it alone so it's been stripped of ornaments along the bottom, and has been relegated to the dining room where it's safer. Maybe next year...<br />
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<a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2018/12/4x4-wooden-candle-holders.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="4x4 wooden candle holders" border="0" data-original-height="624" data-original-width="800" height="498" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4864/46371220591_a42914b225_b.jpg" title="4x4 wooden candle holders" width="640" /></a></div>
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<script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script>Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-33266703603244601562018-12-14T19:00:00.000-05:002019-05-15T11:53:27.080-04:00Caramel HeavenliesI discovered a new recipe this week - Caramel Heavenlies. I can't take credit for inventing them, but I think they might become my go-to for parties and potlucks from now on. They have lots of good stuff in them - marshmallows, almonds, coconut, and brown sugar.<br />
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Ingredients<br />
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1 pkg graham crackers<br />
2 cups mini marshmallows<br />
3/4 cup butter<br />
3/4 cup brown sugar<br />
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon<br />
1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br />
1 cup sliced almonds<br />
1 cup shredded coconut<br />
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Preheat oven to 350°.<br />
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Line a rectangular baking pan with foil, letting foil extend over sides by an inch. Lightly coat foil with cooking spray. Arrange graham crackers in rows, completely covering the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle graham crackers with marshmallows.<br />
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In a small saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir over medium heat until butter is melted and sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat; add in vanilla.<br />
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Spoon the sugar/butter mixture over the marshmallows. Sprinkle with the almonds and coconut. Bake for 14-16 minutes or until the topping has browned.<br />
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Cool completely in the pan. Using the foil, lift cookies out of pan. Cut into triangles and discard foil.<br />
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<script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script>Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-39165839057784999082018-12-10T19:00:00.001-05:002020-12-10T16:53:22.186-05:00Christmas Snowball Cookies (Egg Free)I'm determined to make a wide variety of cookies this year, even if it means cutting back on sleep. Raise your hand if you've made shortbread dough at 5 in the morning! Sometimes you do what you have to do.<br />
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First up: Christmas Snowball Cookies. These have a texture like shortbread and melt in your mouth. And they don't need eggs or baking soda/baking powder, so if you find yourself running short, they're the perfect solution.<br />
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Ingredients<br />
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1 cup of butter, softened slightly<br />1/3 cup of sugar<br />
2 teaspoons vanilla extract<br />
¼ teaspoon salt<br />
2 cups of flour<br />
2 cups of finely chopped walnuts or pecans<br />
1½ cups of icing sugar (i.e. powdered sugar or confectioner's sugar) for dusting cookies<br />
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Cream together butter and sugar. Add in the vanilla and salt. Gradually add flour, mixing well. Stir in the nuts until evenly distributed. Wrap the dough in plastic food wrap and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes.<br />
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Preheat oven to 350ºF. Scoop out dough balls using a small cookie scoop or teaspoon. Roll the dough between your palms to make a round ball.<br />
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Place the cookies on parchment lined baking sheets. Bake until they are just beginning to brown, approximately 12 to 14 minutes. The underside of the cookies should be only lightly browned.<br />
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Cool cookies on baking sheets for about 2 minutes - they should still be warm to the touch. Gently roll the cookies in a bowl of icing sugar.<br />
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Place the sugar-coated cookies on wire racks or back on the pans to cool completely. Once cool, roll the cookies in icing sugar one more time.<br />
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Makes about 6 dozen cookies.<br />
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<script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script>Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-7647984981478755852018-12-07T20:00:00.001-05:002023-11-24T22:33:37.336-05:004x4 Wooden Candle HoldersI still had some 4x4 posts left over after making the <a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2018/12/4x4-wooden-snowmen.html" target="_blank">wooden snowmen</a>, so I kept on going. You can never have too many candles, am I right? These wooden candle holders let you switch out between tea lights and LED flameless lights any time you want.<br />
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<br />Start with pieces of 4x4 post - any length you like. You can go small, medium, and large, or all the same height - the sky's the limit. I just eyeballed the post and cut it into three approximately equal lengths. One piece is slightly longer than the other two, which I think looks better than all exactly the same.<br />
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I stained all four sides and the top of each with <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N9ITT1J/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01N9ITT1J&linkId=f177e2d09e67da06f6548b9a2ffe442e" target="_blank">Minwax stain in Jacobean</a>, and then wiped flat white paint right over the stain using a clean cloth. The paint was applied unevenly - intentionally - so that it looks aged and a bit like old barn wood. In some places the stain even shows through.<br />
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To drill the insert for the light, I had Tom use his hole saw set. The hole saw only cuts around the outside of the circle, so this method involves using a series of progressively smaller hole saw bits and then finishing with a spade bit. The other option is using a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000AV74D/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0000AV74D&linkId=02fb82b3488c0e411d77387d73f6c08d" target="_blank">Forstner bit</a>, which I don’t have (but I’d like to!) This bit has several angled blades and drills out the entire hole at once. The hole saw is slower, but it is easier to control.<br />
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Once the hole was drilled, I rubbed the interior with stain and paint like the sides. I then wrapped jute twine around the candle holder three times and tied it in a bow. Over the bow I glued a slice of tree branch and a bit of potpourri.<div><br /></div><div>Pretty little things, aren’t they?<br />
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</div>Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-41941225305184704032018-12-03T22:17:00.000-05:002019-05-15T09:08:47.365-04:004x4 Wooden Snowmen<br />
The town resurfaced our road this summer and that extra layer of asphalt they put on was enough such that our mailbox was now too low by postal standards. We had to replace the 4x4 post, so the old one went into the scrap wood bin until I could make these adorable 4x4 fence post snowmen.<br />
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To make one you will need:<br />
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3' of 4x4 fence post<br />
white, black, & orange paint<br />
scrap fabric<br />
yarn<br />
buttons<br />
miter saw<br />
hot glue gun<br />
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Cut your post into three pieces. It's up to you if you want your snowmen to be all the same or different heights. I randomly cut the post lengths without measuring, and ended up with pieces that were 9-1/2", 11-1/2", and 13-1/2" long.<br />
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I wanted a flat paint finish for the snowmen bodies, so I chose white ceiling paint, and rubbed it on with a cloth to give it just a light washed look.<br />
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Once the white paint was dry, I used poster paint to add the eyes, nose, mouth, and buttons. I used a fairly wide artist's brush which gave the features a more rustic, cartoonish look instead of being sharply defined.<br />
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You can use any type of fabric you want for the hat and scarf. I used scraps of flannel left over from the <a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2013/04/babies-basements.html" target="_blank">receiving blankets</a> and <a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2013/11/whale-of-stuffed-toy.html" target="_blank">stuffed animal</a> I made for my cousin's baby.<br />
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Cut a fabric rectangle measuring 10"x15". Fold the fabric over twice - about an inch - on the long side to create the brim of the hat, and wrap it around the top of the post, just above the eyes. Glue one end of the rolled edge of the hat to the post at the back, then fold over the other end and glue it to the first edge.<br />
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Gather the top of the hat together and tie it off with yarn. Floof the top of the hat like a pompom.<br />
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Take another scrap of fabric, 17" long and about 1" wide, and wrap it around the post at the neck. I picked fabric for the scarves that didn't quite match the hats because, when we go out to play in the snow we don't worry about matching, we just make sure we're warm. Crisscross the scarf fabric and secure in place with a dot of hot glue. Glue a button where the two ends cross.<br />
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And you're done!<br />
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<script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script>Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-90521494893710340822018-11-30T07:27:00.000-05:002018-11-30T07:27:14.681-05:00Handmade OrnamentsI'm guessing that you'll be putting up your Christmas tree soon, if you haven't already. I'm about 90% there - I'm hoping to finish it this weekend. My favourite ornaments are the ones that I've made over the years. They give me a glimpse of what was going on at that time in my life. Here are a few that I hang year after year. Click on a picture to go to the original post.<br />
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Pinecone Map Ornament<br />
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This ornament is made from paper leaves cut from a map of Honolulu. We went to Hawaii for our honeymoon and fell in love with the islands. I wanted an ornament to remember it by, just in case we didn't get a chance to see it again. (Spoiler: we've been back twice!)<br />
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<a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2011/11/pinecone-map-ornament.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="776" data-original-width="800" height="620" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4825/31176088797_7cdfbaeccf_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Scrap Wood Tree Ornament<br />
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This one was made from scraps left over from the porch that Tom built for his parents. He always laughs at me when I scurry around collecting the end cuts before he can throw them out.<br />
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Musical Ornament<br />
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I call this the "Jingle Bell" Ornament. It's made of strips of sheet music mod podged onto a Styrofoam ball. I bought a book of sheet music from a used book store so that I would have plenty to work with (and the paper is thicker than printer paper).<br />
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Vacation Memory Ornament<br />
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Because there were more trips to Hawaii, I needed another way to commemorate them. I bought clear bulb ornaments, filled them with sand from a favourite beach (each ornament is different), plus a few shells, and a scrap of paper with the trip details. These ones are fun, but a bit heavy!<br />
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<br />Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-80590993395441114692018-11-26T19:00:00.002-05:002023-11-24T22:36:31.534-05:00Under-bed Shoe Storage DrawersI have a lot of running shoes. Maybe too many. I should probably throw some of them out, but it's so hard, you know?<br />
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I was tired of looking at them piled up on a shelf in our closet, so I had Tom whip up some under-bed sliding drawers for me, to get them out of sight.<br />
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I wanted to use as much of the space as possible, but I didn't want the drawer to be too big to move, so we went with two drawers, one 3 feet wide and the other 3-1/2 feet wide. They're both 15 inches deep and made of 1/2" veneered plywood.<br />
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The edges are 3-1/2 inches high - high enough to hide the shoes from sight, but still low enough to give your fingers clearance to pull the drawers out.<br />
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The inside corners are reinforced with 2x2s cut on a diagonal. Since the front edge is what gets pulled on all the time, you don't want the board pulling right off.<br />
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<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4859/46074267281_a91eb90d8c_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Under-bed Shoe Drawers" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="599" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4859/46074267281_a91eb90d8c_b.jpg" title="Under-bed Shoe Drawers" width="478" /></a></div>
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I stained the visible sides (front of drawers and side edge at the foot of the bed) a dark <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N9ITT1J/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01N9ITT1J&linkId=f84eb5ac7be380059aa4fbd4619a9904" target="_blank">Jacobean brown</a> to blend with the bed frame and then added <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FQ6BE0I/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00FQ6BE0I&linkId=bd46f4c0097c37c65eef9351d1f8ddc4" target="_blank">2" furniture sliders</a> to the bottom corners so that the drawers don't get caught on the carpet.<br />
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<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4898/32203053518_bb78b3727b_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Under-bed Shoe Drawers" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="516" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4898/32203053518_bb78b3727b_b.jpg" title="Under-bed Shoe Drawers" width="412" /></a></div>
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Tom liked them so much that he built some for his side of the bed too. I think he's hoping I forget about them and he won't ever have to wear dress shoes. I'm just glad I don't have to look at his big ol' sweaty sandals anymore. :-)<br />
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<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4841/46074266751_e4573c86d5_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Under-bed Shoe Drawers" border="0" data-original-height="484" data-original-width="800" height="386" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4841/46074266751_e4573c86d5_b.jpg" title="Under-bed Shoe Drawers" width="640" /></a></div>
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<script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script>Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-49179339457518020012018-11-23T20:00:00.000-05:002018-11-24T12:46:57.532-05:00Merry Christmas Stenciled Wall Sign (Silhouette/Cricut)<br />
More holiday decorations today. After slacking off the last couple of years, I vowed that this year I would complete all of the crafty projects I have saved up.<br />
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<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4868/46029501831_5e27018f8c_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="stenciled Christmas sign (Silhouette/Cricut)" border="0" data-original-height="396" data-original-width="800" height="316" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4868/46029501831_5e27018f8c_b.jpg" title="stenciled Christmas sign (Silhouette/Cricut)" width="640" /></a></div>
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I made this sign for my house back in October and I've been waiting so impatiently to share it with you! The build is pretty easy - the most time-intensive part is placing the stencil.<br />
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You will need:<br />
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1 - 1x12 board - 42" long<br />
2 - 1-1/4 x 3/8 trim pieces - cut at 45 degrees - 42.75" longest point to longest point<br />
2 - 1-1/4 x 3/8 trim pieces - cut at 45 degrees - 12.75" longest point to longest point<br />
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Also:<br />
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Merry Christmas stencil (cut with Silhouette/Cricut/by hand)<br />
Paint/stain<br />
Brad nailer and brad nails or driver and screws<br />
Miter saw<br />
French cleat for hanging (optional)<br />
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Cut your sign board and sand it smooth on the face and edges. Cut your trim strips for the border at a 45 degree angle.<br />
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Paint one side of the board in your chosen colour. I mixed <a href="https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-ca/colour-overview/find-your-colour/colour/HC-173/edgecomb-gray?color=HC-173" target="_blank">BM Edgecomb Gray</a> with plain white paint to lighten it up. Stain your trim pieces in a contrasting colour. I chose <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N9ITT1J/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01N9ITT1J&linkId=52e379599b8fda68f30ccf2d0c11daa1" target="_blank">Minwax Jacobean</a>.<br />
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I used my <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005Y1CPSU/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B005Y1CPSU&linkId=c26d4328839a9e41f2f8383bc2dbce59" target="_blank">Silhouette Cameo cutter</a> to cut the words from vinyl. The font type is called Harrington. My vinyl is only 12" wide so I had to cut the words out in pieces, a few letters at a time.<br />
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Once you have your stencil cut, arrange it on your sign board so that the spacing is even. My vinyl is peel and stick, so the letters stay securely in place.<br />
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A trick to keep your letters sharp is to paint along the inside edges of the letters in your background colour first. This forms a seal to keep your top colour from bleeding around the edges.<br />
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I painted the letters with dark brown poster paint - several thin coats, letting it dry completely between coats.</div>
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Once your letters are completely dry, peel off your stencil and do any touchups necessary. Nail your trim pieces onto the edges of the board, keeping them flush with the back and with a slight overhang at the front. Squeeze or clamp them tightly together when you nail the corners.<br />
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I hung the sign in the living room above our stockings. It perfectly frames the opening to the kitchen and it's the first thing you see when you come in the house. It's hung with a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003WE9XU4/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B003WE9XU4&linkId=345acb15a8fc3e0034ced154615db1c9" target="_blank">French cleat</a> - very secure and the weight is evenly distributed.<br />
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<script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script>Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-43856405991286273502018-11-19T21:15:00.000-05:002018-11-19T21:25:23.672-05:00Holiday WreathsA cheery front door just sets the tone for the rest of the house. Today I'd like to share with you a roundup of holiday wreath ideas. Some are my own and some are beautiful creations I've found around the internet. Click on any photo to go to the original post.<br />
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This simple wreath is made entirely of items you can find at the dollar store. The cinnamon pine cones ensure that a lovely scent greets you right from the start. I made this wreath several years ago and still bring it out year after year.<br />
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<a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2011/12/boughs-and-bows.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1258" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qXgYXvJVohk/TtwzZmPN3VI/AAAAAAAAA9I/b4YIqrjOjcM/s640/four.jpg" width="502" /></a></div>
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This wreath has a deceptive simplicity. The more you look at it, the more details you discover. There are at least six different types of greenery, and the white stems and red berries tie it all together.</div>
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<a href="https://cottonstem.com/simple-quick-farmhouse-christmas-wreath-diy-tutorial/" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: #0066cc; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-left: 16px; margin-right: 16px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="641" height="640" src="https://cottonstem.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/IMG_0414-820x1024.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="512" /></a><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
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<a href="https://cottonstem.com/simple-quick-farmhouse-christmas-wreath-diy-tutorial/" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: #0066cc; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" target="_blank">via Cotton Stem</a><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
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This wreath started out with just greenery and pinecones. I gave it a boost by weaving in strips of burlap and bunches of green berries.</div>
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<a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2011/12/boughs-and-bows.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="318" data-original-width="400" height="508" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KwfWPmeBjyo/TuD7DgKqifI/AAAAAAAABBg/k5mKxCb8q8Y/s640/three.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Your wreath doesn't always have to be on the front door. This pinecone-heavy wreath gets lightened up with the addition of snowball ornaments plus gold and burlap ribbons. The window frame turns it into a holiday vignette. This was my absolute favourite wreath display and I miss having a fireplace to decorate.</div>
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<a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2014/12/holiday-house-tour.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="800" height="476" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7474/15450715934_5f74488fbb_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This wreath goes heavy on the greenery and has a lovely country farmhouse feel. If you're lucky enough to have a wooded area nearby, you can collect your own branches and pinecones.</div>
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<a href="https://www.cleanandscentsible.com/diy-fresh-christmas-wreath/" imageanchor="1" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: #0066cc; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-left: 16px; margin-right: 16px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="640" src="https://www.cleanandscentsible.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/DIY-Christmas-Wreath.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="426" /></a><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
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<a href="https://www.cleanandscentsible.com/diy-fresh-christmas-wreath/" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: #0066cc; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: underline; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" target="_blank">via Clean & Scentsible</a><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
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Sometimes a wreath goes through many adjustments before its final incarnation. This one started out as a pool noodle. I loosely wrapped burlap around it like a sock and used it for an autumn wreath. For Christmas, I attached soft garland, pinecones, and ribbon. The final touch was a set of sleigh bells.</div>
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<a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2013/12/decorating-with-green-and-gold.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3740/11180357765_c89141c539_o.jpg" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="740" height="640" width="592" /></a></div>
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One last wreath. I adore this bright and shiny ornament wreath. Buy inexpensive plastic balls so that you don't have to worry about it getting bumped and breaking. Use ornaments with different sheens and textures to give a natural look.</div>
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<a href="https://www.sarahcatherinedesign.com/blog/2012/12/03/christmas-ornament-wreath-tutorial" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="535" data-original-width="800" height="428" src="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/546ad722e4b07001c0401893/5490ba69e4b038f72bc4d574/5490bd0de4b038f72bc51d4e/1418772884062/DSC_0214-800x535.jpg?format=1000w" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.sarahcatherinedesign.com/blog/2012/12/03/christmas-ornament-wreath-tutorial" target="_blank">via Sarah Catherine Design</a></div>
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Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-26537384403236107382018-11-16T20:00:00.000-05:002018-11-17T10:17:55.955-05:00DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf<br />
I want to share a Christmas woodworking project with you today - this adorable tree-shaped wall shelf!<br />
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<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4806/45010886135_4f013ab327_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf" border="0" data-original-height="677" data-original-width="800" height="540" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4806/45010886135_4f013ab327_b.jpg" title="DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf" width="640" /></a></div>
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My inspiration comes from <a href="https://jaimecostiglio.com/" target="_blank">Jaime Costiglio</a>, and <i>her </i>inspiration came from Pottery Barn Kids - apparently you could buy something similar a few years ago for $79! Mine cost a whopping $7 for the hooks because I used discarded pallet wood plus stain that I already had in my stash.<br />
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The plans can be found on <a href="http://www.ana-white.com/2015/11/free_plans/tree-wall-shelf" target="_blank">Ana White's site</a> - she has excellent drawings that show more than my photos can.<br />
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Here is the cut list, directly from her site:<br />
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TRUNK<br />
1 - 1x4 @ 16-1/4" </div>
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2 - 1x4 @ 3-1/2" </div>
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MAIN TREE</div>
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1 - 1x4 @ 18-3/4" longest point to longest point both ends cut at 25 degrees off square</div>
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6 - 1x4 @ 7-1/2" long point to short point, both ends cut at 25 degrees off square</div>
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1 - 1x4 @ 15-1/8" longest point to longest point both ends cut at 25 degrees off square</div>
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1 - 1x4 @ 11-3/8" longest point to longest point both ends cut at 25 degrees off square</div>
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TREETOP</div>
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1 - 1x4 @ 7-3/4" long point to long point, both ends cut at 30 degrees off square</div>
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1 - 1x4 @ 8-5/8" long point to long point, both ends cut at 30 degrees off square</div>
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1 - 1x4 @ 9-1/2" long point to long point, both ends cut at 30 degrees off square</div>
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Scrap 1/2" plywood for filling in second shelf approximately 6" x 15"</div>
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You will also need:<br />
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1-1/4" brad nails and nailer (air nailer), or screws and a drill/driver<br />
3 hooks<br />
wood stain or paint<br />
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I usually cut and assemble as I go, just to make sure it fits together. But this time I made all my cuts first, and these measurements were spot on.<br />
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Start your assembly from the bottom, attaching the two side supports of the "trunk" to the back. The supports attach to the outside edges of the back piece, not to the front of it (A mistake I made the first time. Because of this I had to cut down the supports as they stuck out the front.)<br />
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You then build upwards, starting with the longest board for the main tree. Nail or screw it directly on top of the three-sided trunk you've built already. Follow this with two angled side boards, attached to the long board on the outer edges.<br />
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<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4888/32045048758_93d8f6589e_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf" border="0" data-original-height="373" data-original-width="800" height="298" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4888/32045048758_93d8f6589e_b.jpg" title="DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then the middle board, two sides, the top board, and two more sides.<br />
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The treetop fits together kind of like a puzzle. I'm going to refer you to Ana's drawing again.<br />
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<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4819/30984039537_5108bc23a4_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf" border="0" data-original-height="724" data-original-width="800" height="577" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4819/30984039537_5108bc23a4_b.jpg" title="DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf" width="640" /></a></div>
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The final step before hanging is to attach a thinner piece of wood to the back to give you a place to mount it to the wall. I took a thin strip of scrap wood - about the size of a paint stirrer, put it across the back of the tree, traced the angles, and cut it to size. I then attached it to the tree with brad nails.<br />
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<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4803/30977407587_77a4673f37_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="800" height="384" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4803/30977407587_77a4673f37_b.jpg" title="DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf" width="640" /></a></div>
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I stained the tree shelf with <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HGK1FZ0/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01HGK1FZ0&linkId=28e97ed831dd295a76a6a7b7356f94d1" target="_blank">Minwax's Provincial</a> stain and a soft cloth. I might also wax it but I haven't decided yet.<br />
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<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4860/45915939941_a11b01bdfa_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="483" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4860/45915939941_a11b01bdfa_b.jpg" title="DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf" width="386" /></a></div>
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And there's your tree! Attach your hooks along the face of the trunk with 1/2" screws.<br />
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<a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4902/30984209657_f780e92674_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf" border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="360" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4902/30984209657_f780e92674_b.jpg" title="DIY Holiday Tree Wall Shelf" width="640" /></a></div>
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The decorations I used were scrounged from the ornament boxes. The two little trees were made from scraps from another project. I <a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2014/12/holiday-house-tour.html" target="_blank">made them</a> back when I was afraid of the power tools and just put them together with hot glue! The pine cones are from our property - the top one has glitter on it and is from <a href="https://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/search?q=glitter" target="_blank">this mantel project</a>.<br />
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I can't decide if I'm going to hang our stockings from this shelf. But with six of us and only three hooks, there might have to be some sharing going on. Maybe I should build another shelf!<br />
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<script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script>Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-9739629936891476172018-11-12T15:55:00.002-05:002018-11-12T19:03:21.237-05:00Holiday Gift GuideAs hard as we try to fight it, the holiday season is upon us. Here in Canada, since Thanksgiving is near the beginning of October, once Halloween is over it's full steam ahead to Christmas.<br />
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With that in mind I've put together some of my favourite gift ideas in the three categories I talk about most here on the blog - home décor, workshop tools, and pets. Some are items I already own and love, others are items that are on <i>my </i>wish list this year.<br />
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<b>For the Decor Enthusiast</b></div>
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1. This rustic <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MJ4THTA/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00MJ4THTA&linkId=3a62c5211741e663b81e3da4ba6c3835" target="_blank">butler's serving tray</a> is perfectly oversized and has a mirrored center.</div>
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2. Take your love of wine to the next level with a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NCWL8N3/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01NCWL8N3&linkId=c64a70cb1d9633d6ca1391cb7adc96dc" target="_blank">wine barrel stave candleholder</a>.</div>
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3. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071CQJRL8/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B071CQJRL8&linkId=54cbcc1100d179d016f7c739ecce9e30" target="_blank">Woven seagrass baskets</a> of all sizes - to keep your belongings contained and beautiful.</div>
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4. For music indoors and out, this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MSJHCED/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01MSJHCED&linkId=61fc2f3f0bafa6674cb9c725643e54f7" target="_blank">wireless bluetooth speaker</a> is powerful and stylish.</div>
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5. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SYBUDW2/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00SYBUDW2&linkId=edcd1390c2dcf279cd9c304b6d30fedc" target="_blank">Faux cashmere throws</a> are just as cozy as the real thing. And getting dog hair on them won't make you cry.</div>
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6. Everyone needs a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LJVGM28/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01LJVGM28&linkId=61cd0b37de8bf8df7504e55a73038602" target="_blank">16" felt gnome</a> in their life, don't they? I know I do.</div>
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<b>For the Handyperson</b></div>
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1. Know the precise measurement and keep your work level with this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y2L42M8/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B06Y2L42M8&linkId=444b40b69fc3b61bb5f9f337ce3096a4" target="_blank">digital measuring tape</a> with laser level.<br />
2. A <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GIPG2C/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001GIPG2C&linkId=e66640e661b265e4bef66a985f5a8b78" target="_blank">reciprocating saw</a> makes cutting drywall, framework, or even metal pipe a breeze.<br />
3. I just learned of this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VSSG3O/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000VSSG3O&linkId=b1b9b09062186c47c7ac6a763971c184" target="_blank">utility bar</a> recently. It's a crowbar, board bender, wrench, and hammer all in one.<br />
4. When I told Tom that I was adding this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BYEJ02/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000BYEJ02&linkId=68c67cdd1c857678ce3a76019cdd4a5f" target="_blank">right angle drill attachment</a> to the gift guide, his response? "I use mine all the time." 'Nuff said.<br />
5. For fine cutting, grinding, and sanding, the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010T0G8HO/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B010T0G8HO&linkId=56d5c683560c217d6e0000a8ae644fc8" target="_blank">Dremel MultiMax</a> is the leader.<br />
6. You can never have too many <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078R2R7RB/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B078R2R7RB&linkId=c99a71a4d4697f68bf29c99f287fcac8" target="_blank">bar clamps</a>. It's a fact. </div>
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<b>For the Dog Lover</b></div>
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1. Try this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07D1VQ8HB/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07D1VQ8HB&linkId=f9919fc032efed60a6fc3138f138bcb2" target="_blank">travel container</a> that holds both water and treats on your next walk.</div>
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2. This <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073NT2GTV/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B073NT2GTV&linkId=a7a2ef06f17333c8f0532e86d09f69b6" target="_blank">leash</a> comes with a high-high speed frog connector and an adjustable length for more control.</div>
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3. For the extreme dog lover who's never met a dog they didn't want to pet - this <a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_1395944838"></span>t-shirt<span id="goog_1395944839"></span></a> says it all.</div>
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4. Your dog deserves to be cozy too. This <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007WAK63M/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B007WAK63M&linkId=29a5cd98cacf8e35007474dfd0702b71" target="_blank">boyfriend sweater</a> is <i>stylin</i>'.</div>
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5. I will praise the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014G6CI5I/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B014G6CI5I&linkId=712b36154eac9ae00fc615b6c0b753c6" target="_blank">Jive Ball</a> all.day.long. They last for years and the company guarantees them.</div>
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6. A <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KHN6CYM/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01KHN6CYM&linkId=a73560157879567ab2861cd6cf159e25" target="_blank">bolster bed</a> gives your dog a place to rest their chin as they watch the <strike>world</strike> crazy humans around them. </div>
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Hopefully I've given you some ideas to start (or finish) your shopping.</div>
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Happy Holidays!</div>
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<br />Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-37935191076453345192018-11-09T20:00:00.000-05:002018-11-10T17:27:30.020-05:00DIY Wood and Metal Plant StandHave you ever seen an item in a store, fell in love, put it in your cart, and then realized you could make it yourself for a fraction of the price? That happened to me this week when I was at Walmart. I saw an adorable <a href="https://www.walmart.ca/en/ip/hometrends-planter/6000198584821?rrid=richrelevance" target="_blank">plant stand</a> and had it halfway to my basket when it hit me - this is just a cookie tin with dowel legs. I can do that!<br />
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And so we have my latest creation:<br />
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I bought the largest cookie tin I could find at the dollar store, and an 8-foot 1-1/4" dowel at the big box store. Total price - $10.50. And that's with 4 feet of dowel left over for another project. I used scrap wood for the cross pieces that go between the dowels - the same partially-rounded boards that I used on the <a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2018/10/ironing-board-holder-diy.html" target="_blank">ironing board holder</a>.<br />
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<br />
For this project you will need:<br />
<br />
1 - 8.5" cookie tin<br />
4 - 12" dowels (1-1/4" diameter) - cut them a little longer to account for the angle<br />
1 - 1-1/4" x 3/4" crosspiece with angles at both ends (see drawing for lengths)<br />
2 - 1-1/4" x 3/4" crosspieces with angles at one end (see drawing for lengths)<br />
screws, brad nails<br />
spray paint<br />
<br />
Tools I used:<br />
miter saw<br />
drill with countersink bit<br />
air nailer<br />
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First I spray painted the cookie tin inside and out. It doesn't have the fancy scalloping pattern that the original has, but I can live with a plain stand. I could even stencil something on at a later date.<br />
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I wanted the legs to be about 12 inches long when finished, so I cut them to 13 inches, just to give myself some wiggle room for the angles. Through a little trial and error, I settled on a 7 degree angle. That gives the stand some stability without the legs sticking out too far to the sides. The cross pieces are also cut at a 7 degree angle so that they fit snugly against the legs.<br />
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One of the shorter crosspieces was attached to the longer one with a countersunk screw. The other short crosspiece was then attached with two brad nails, one through each side. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FA0BMC/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000FA0BMC&linkId=6fe9aced1fb1fe1df902638d032e62d4" target="_blank">Clamping</a> them together makes is easier to keep them lined up while nailing.<br />
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Once the crosspieces were secured, the legs needed to be attached. I flipped the tin over, put the crosspiece in the center, and held two of the legs in place while Tom nailed them to the crosspiece with two brad nails each. Then I held the other two legs in place and he nailed them in place as well.<br />
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The base can now stand on its own.<br />
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The tin went back up on the legs and I marked the position of each leg on the inside bottom of the tin. Using a small drill bit, I drilled a pilot hole in each spot.<br />
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The last step was to attach the tin to the base with 4 white pan head screws.<br />
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I puttied the nail holes on the legs, sanded all of the wood, and did a bit of paint touch-up around the screw heads. I also added felt feet to the bottom of the legs to keep them from scratching the floor.<br />
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I decided to leave the wood unfinished instead of staining it. I like the Scandinavian feel of the pale poplar and white together. However I did add a gold painted band around the top.<br />
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<br />Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-39448460504499325652018-11-06T16:25:00.000-05:002018-11-06T16:25:12.363-05:00Squash and Carrot Soup<br />
I didn't get any projects done this weekend as I had some vegetables to get used up, so cooking was on the agenda. (I also went to a Christmas open house at a local greenhouse, but I know no one is ready to talk about the dreaded "C" word yet.)<br />
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Our neighbour had given us some acorn squash and butternut squash from his garden, while <i>another </i>neighbour had given us a huge box of carrots as a thank you for pulling his truck out of the ditch last winter. Day after day these vegetables were mocking me every time I walked into the kitchen, so I thought it was time to put them to good use.<br />
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I'm not a fan of squash soup, but Tom loves it so this one is for him.<br />
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<u>Ingredients</u><br />
1 medium acorn squash<br />
1 small butternut squash<br />
2 cups carrots<br />
1 cup fresh or frozen kale<br />
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, corn), optional<br />
1 medium onion<br />
2 tbs diced garlic<br />
4 cups broth<br />
2 cups milk or cream<br />
2 tbs maple syrup<br />
spices to taste<br />
sour cream and kale for garnish<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br />
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Cut each squash in half lengthwise and discard the seeds and pulp. Brush the insides of each half with oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place on a baking sheet and bake until the flesh is soft enough to pierce easy with a fork (about 60-75 minutes, depending on your oven).<br />
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Once your squash has cooled enough to touch, scoop out the flesh and place it in your blender. Cook your carrots, mixed vegetables, and kale, then add them to the blender as well. Pour in a cup of broth or water and puree the mixture. Add more liquid as needed.<br />
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In a pot, sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add the vegetable puree to the onion and garlic. Add the milk and remaining broth and stir. You may need to add more broth, milk, or water to reach the desired consistency. Simmer on medium for 15 minutes.<br />
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Add maple syrup and other spices to taste. I used a few dashes of hot sauce and Trader Joe's Everyday Seasoning.<br />
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Serve with some crusty bread for dipping, or <a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2018/09/cheddar-chile-pepper-biscuits.html" target="_blank">these</a> amazing cheese biscuits.<br />
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Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-29964008911499667562018-11-02T15:59:00.001-04:002018-11-03T10:19:46.192-04:00Homemade Vanilla Glazed DoughnutsYou might think that <a href="https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-doughnut-day-november-5/" target="_blank">National Doughnut Day</a> is in June but did you know there is also a <i>second</i>, less celebrated National Doughnut Day on November 5th? And I'm happy to celebrate with doughnuts pretty much any day of the year.<br />
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I've provided the recipe I use for plain cake doughnuts with a vanilla glaze, but see below the directions for some autumnal variations - pumpkin with a maple glaze or apple cider with a vanilla glaze. Dunked in hot chocolate - my preference - they make a terrific treat when snuggling up under a blanket, or when getting together with friends and family.<br />
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<b>Ingredients</b><br />
<br />
<i>For Dough:</i><br />
1-1/4 cup of milk, warmed<br />
1/4 cup of sugar<br />
2-1/4 teaspoons dry yeast<br />
2 eggs, slightly beaten<br />
1/2 cup of butter, melted<br />
4 cups of flour<br />
1/2 teaspoon of salt<br />
Oil for frying<br />
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<br />
<i>For Glaze:</i><br />
1/4 cup of butter, melted<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
3 cups icing sugar<br />
milk to thin glaze<br />
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<br />
<u>To Make the Dough</u><br />
<br />
Warm the milk, not to boiling, but so that you can still dip your finger in it. Put in a bowl and add the sugar. Once dissolved, sprinkle the dry yeast on top, stir gently, then leave it for 5 minutes. The yeast should begin to ferment. If it doesn't, it means that either your milk was too hot or the yeast is too old. Either way, you'll have to start again unfortunately.<br />
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Add the eggs and melted butter to the bowl and stir to combine. Slowly add the flour and salt and mix until it forms a dough. Continue to stir for 5 more minutes.<br />
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Lightly oil the dough to keep it from sticking to the sides, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours if not overnight. During this time the butter will firm up and will spread evenly throughout the dough while cooking.<br />
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Take your chilled dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about a 1/2 inch thickness. Use two different sized glasses, or a doughnut cutter if you have one, to cut out the shapes. (I used a travel mug and a plastic bottle lid!)<br />
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Cover the doughnuts with a tea towel or paper towels and let them rise until they double in size - about an hour.<br />
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<u>Frying</u><br />
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Pour several inches of oil into a cast iron skillet and heat at a medium temperature to about 370 degrees or until a drop of water sizzles when added to the pan (be careful, don't splash yourself!)<br />
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Carefully add the doughnuts and doughnut holes to the oil and fry to a golden brown, turning them over after about a minute or so. They will cook much faster than you expect!<br />
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Remove the doughnuts from the oil with tongs or a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel to remove excess oil. Let them cool for a few minutes.<br />
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1964/44960600704_0a69663fe2_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="homemade glazed doughnuts" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1964/44960600704_0a69663fe2_b.jpg" title="homemade glazed doughnuts" width="480" /></a></div>
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<u>Glazing</u><br />
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Melt the butter in a small bowl, add the rest of the ingredients, and mix until smooth. Thin the glaze with milk as needed. Dip each doughnut halfway into the glaze, then set it face-up on a rack or paper towel to allow the excess to drip off.<br />
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<b>Alternate Flavours</b><br />
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<i>Pumpkin Doughnuts with Maple Glaze</i><br />
<br />
Add the following to your dough before chilling:<br />
<br />
1/2 cup pumpkin puree<br />
2-1/2 tsps ground cinnamon<br />
1.2 tsp ground nutmeg<br />
1/2 tsp all spice<br />
1/8 tsp ground cloves<br />
<br />
For glaze: add 1/2 cup of maple syrup, reduce sugar by 1 cup<br />
<br />
<i>Apple Cider Doughnuts</i><br />
<br />
Add the following to your dough before chilling:<br />
<br />
1/2 cup of apple cider<br />
2 tsps ground cinnamon<br />
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<script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script>Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-51667991664186399192018-10-29T21:59:00.000-04:002018-10-30T09:14:09.693-04:00Big Ol' Storage Shed (Progress Report)For the last few years we've been storing our patio furniture and the tractor/snowplow in an old metal garden shed plus a small shelter. Both were starting to fall apart - truthfully, the shed was barely standing anymore.<br />
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So, for the last few weekends we've been working on a new oversized storage shed. It's about 60% finished right now and looking pretty good.<br />
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We started by building a platform of 2x6s topped with plywood. Chloe stayed close by while the guys put up the 2x4 walls.<br />
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I spent a Sunday afternoon building roof trusses. By the end I was cold and my back was killing me, but I'm pretty proud of them.<br />
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The trusses at the front and the rear of the shed are different as each will have a window in the center.<br />
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Once the roof was ready to be added, Tom and a neighbor moved the shed into place at the back of our property. If only I had pictures of <i>that</i>. They wrangled it up onto a 30 foot trailer and then backed the trailer into the clearing and set the shed down in a spot that Tom had cleared and leveled with gravel.<br />
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Tom attached the trusses and covered them in plywood. He'll be adding corrugated roofing panels on top next weekend.<br />
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The siding for the shed is pressure treated spruce. It's hung in an overlapping pattern. First a row of boards was attached to the walls using a 2x4 for a spacer.<br />
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Then a second row of boards was added to fill the spaces. The boards are air nailed to the framework and to each other so that it stays tight.<br />
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Hopefully it will only take another weekend or two to finish it. Thank goodness, as we've already had our first big snowstorm!<br />
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<br />Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-54676574672080681422018-10-26T22:27:00.000-04:002018-10-26T22:27:10.347-04:00Autumn/Halloween Decor House TourRumour has it that there is another round of snow coming in this weekend, so before everything gets covered in white, I managed to get some Autumn/Halloween decorations out.<br />
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How about a tour?<br />
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1956/43756809610_3dda3e342e_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="autumn thanksgiving decor" border="0" data-original-height="510" data-original-width="800" height="408" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1956/43756809610_3dda3e342e_b.jpg" title="autumn thanksgiving decor" width="640" /></a></div>
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I like the neutrality of the papier-mache pumpkins and mini gourds, with little pops of orange and white.</div>
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My aunt made chalkboard signs for us all at Thanksgiving. It fits in perfectly with the mix and match décor.</div>
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1915/43756807980_a93e0b057b_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="autumn thanksgiving decor" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="450" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1915/43756807980_a93e0b057b_b.jpg" title="autumn thanksgiving decor" width="360" /></a></div>
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And there's one more pumpkin in the kitchen. This is one of my <a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2011/10/dryer-vent-pumpkins.html" target="_blank">dryer vent pumpkins</a>, recovered with an old sweater, then decorated with twine and vines.</div>
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1976/45574194481_941bc487ee_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="autumn thanksgiving decor" border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1976/45574194481_941bc487ee_b.jpg" title="autumn thanksgiving decor" width="640" /></a></div>
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In December I hang a wreath on the main bathroom door. Tom christened it "The Christmas Pooper" the first time he saw it. I guess with this wall hanging it'll be "The Halloween Pooper".<br />
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The front door is decorated with an autumn wreath. I usually take whichever wreath strikes my fancy at the moment (I have a few) and add a pumpkin welcome sign.<br />
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1950/43756812670_d5aa69f238_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Autumn Halloween welcome wreath" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="647" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1950/43756812670_d5aa69f238_b.jpg" title="Autumn Halloween welcome wreath" width="516" /></a></div>
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And we have a jack-o-lantern stack in the planter. I love these guys. Pay no attention to the partially-dead plants though. You can pretend it's part of the theme if you'd like.</div>
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Just a few simple things to make the house more festive.</div>
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Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-48155405873505750312018-10-23T20:00:00.000-04:002018-10-24T14:36:12.131-04:00Ironing Board Holder (DIY)<br />
I'm trying to be a little more organized around the house - using every possible nook and cranny for storage. A prime example: our linen closet is extremely small - I've had to pare our sheets and towels down to just the necessities - but the iron and ironing board still didn't have a dedicated space.<br />
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1914/45478321452_e39cfb073f_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ironing Board Holder (DIY)" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="479" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1914/45478321452_e39cfb073f_b.jpg" title="Ironing Board Holder (DIY)" width="382" /></a></div>
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I took this design idea from <a href="http://www.ana-white.com/" target="_blank">Ana White</a> and tailored it to our house. The great thing about it is that it cost me nothing - it was made entirely from scrap wood - but it wouldn't cost more than $20 if you had to buy the material.<br />
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We have a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001D4AJL2/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B001D4AJL2&linkId=f677813fcbbf8623eb02d58c8b6bbf80" target="_blank">compact tabletop ironing board</a> so it fits perfectly on the inside of the linen closet door. I probably should have realized earlier that I could hang it there. And the door casing is deep enough that the shelf for the iron doesn't interfere with the shelves inside.<br />
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1914/30587988197_61172ec044_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ironing Board Holder (DIY)" border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="800" height="434" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1914/30587988197_61172ec044_b.jpg" title="Ironing Board Holder (DIY)" width="640" /></a></div>
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Materials needed:<br />
3/4" plywood (mine has a birch veneer)<br />
1" x 1.5" pine board (or dowels)<br />
1" x 1/4" pine trim<br />
1-1/4" brad nails and/or screws<br />
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Tools used:<br />
Air nailer (with compressor)<br />
Drill/Driver<br />
Measuring tape<br />
Ruler<br />
Miter Saw<br />
Table Saw<br />
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Cut List:<br />
1 - 12"x 20" plywood (back)<br />
1 - 10.5"x 5" plywood (shelf bottom)<br />
2 - 7.5"x 5" plywood (shelf sides)<br />
2 - 2" pine pegs or dowels<br />
1 - 12" pine trim<br />
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1978/31656465158_b3e71ab0f7_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ironing Board Holder (DIY)" border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="800" height="430" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1978/31656465158_b3e71ab0f7_b.jpg" title="Ironing Board Holder (DIY)" width="640" /></a></div>
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To build:<br />
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Attach the sides of the shelf to the bottom with either countersunk screws or brad nails. The bottom should be sandwiched between the sides and should be flush.<br />
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1939/45478323642_a39c87ce6a_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ironing Board Holder (DIY)" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1939/45478323642_a39c87ce6a_b.jpg" title="Ironing Board Holder (DIY)" width="426" /></a></div>
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Attach the shelf pieces to the back with countersunk screws. All outside edges should be flush.<br />
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The board I found in the scrap pile for the pegs was flat on the bottom and rounded on the top. I have no idea where it came from or what it was used for, but it was ideal for this project. At first I was going to attach the pegs in a straight line like on the original plans, but due to the shape of the ironing board "leg", it made more sense to angle them. The curved edges of the tops of the pegs fit the curve of the leg perfectly.<br />
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Place the pegs or dowels in position and trace around them. Taking a very small drill bit, drill a hole through the back board in the centre of each traced area. This gives you a reference point for the screws when you attach them from the back. Glue the pegs to the board to hold them in place while you're working on them. (I used a couple of drops of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GP05VS/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000GP05VS&linkId=e560badbb244840dd180baaf5aa209ee" target="_blank">Krazy Glue</a>).<br />
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Screw the pegs to the board from the back, using the drilled hole as reference, as mentioned above. Since my pegs were going to be at an angle, I needed two anchor points for each, to keep them from twisting around. My ironing board is very light and the pegs are small, so I used two brad nails in each peg instead of screws.<br />
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Attach the trim to the front of the shelf a few inches up from the bottom using brad nails or screws. This strip of wood keeps the iron from falling off the shelf when the door is opened and closed.<br />
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My shelf was stained with Minwax stain in <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BZZ3GA/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000BZZ3GA&linkId=f21454aa7dca056328b66a6a4c462edc" target="_blank">Special Walnut</a>. Two coats and then buffed with a soft cloth.<br />
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The final step is hanging the holder. I mounted it to the inside of the linen closet door with a screw at each corner of the back board. If your iron or ironing board are heavy, you may want to use anchors behind the screws.<br />
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Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-61580232836028495592018-10-19T09:07:00.000-04:002018-10-19T09:13:22.086-04:00Autumn Projects RoundupWe had our first snowfall yesterday morning, which I think means we are cruising right past autumn and moving on to winter here. But for those of you lucky enough to still have fall-like weather, here are some seasonal crafts and recipes you may have missed. (Click on an image to go to the original post.)<br />
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<a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2011/10/fall-decor-beginners-handbook.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="800" height="546" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5637/30893575022_c33fdb98a4_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Mason Jar (Flameless) Candles</b><br />
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<a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2012/11/fall-tabletop-centerpiece-and-giveaway.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="266" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ME9SwpDMm5oHnEws2Qugw8AyFQAlv21zx8OjDXvUCUYhr3LgRzAaF4lB5Uze3XMMEvc67PSJO1bkWGrKRPLGSa8T86RqeHV-rLVcwUN_5A0q5s-loQYtpvka-RKGxVu-dcymDdFa_zU/s400/acorn+tree1.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<b>Acorn & Pinecone "Tree" Centerpiece</b><br />
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<a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2012/10/feeling-burlap-love.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="400" height="424" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fm51m-2j_yA/UH1Y2IOXfOI/AAAAAAAAFJY/MTBa9x45Zkk/s400/wreath6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Autumn Burlap Wreath</b><br />
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<a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2016/10/reversible-scarecrowsnowman-sign.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="800" height="450" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5551/30033007034_0472f34bf4_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Reversible Scarecrow/Snowman Sign</b><br />
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<a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2011/10/front-porch-fall-decor.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="267" data-original-width="400" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNm0xuNR2678bA12c5pWDSDqdOfPdmrWxliqwGJ-Gn9F-jeYZzZ9usQy2hCdsFd8TF0xkvqP1QwHOd3Lf3Z13TV-AAl7vm0hckSRW61mZeKasVf6zMTBLgNsqywAEZfR_sDYiNor1PAxc/s640/085.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Porch & Mantel Decor</b><br />
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<a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2011/11/dryer-vent-turkey.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="709" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5567/30372821983_eae7dcae76_o.jpg" width="566" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2011/10/dryer-vent-pumpkins.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="315" data-original-width="400" height="446" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c3qZUD7sC-g/Tq3TCxzzvYI/AAAAAAAAAZM/CoywmVJudC4/s400/one.jpg" width="566" /></a></div>
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<b>Dryer Vent Turkey and Pumpkin Centerpieces</b><br />
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<a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2012/10/pumpkin-cheesecake-trifle.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="533" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5339/30812419190_d97e2ae659_o.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b>Pumpkin Cheesecake Trifle</b> (No need to bake!)<br />
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<a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2011/09/soupfest.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="284" data-original-width="400" height="454" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cvG2wPCMFy8/TnFhDOdFBuI/AAAAAAAAAHw/FAevyyfHCKQ/s400/027+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Beef and Vegetable Soup</b></div>
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Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-49354658103008981902018-10-15T13:26:00.001-04:002018-10-18T13:23:24.343-04:00Adding a Wooden Fence to your PropertySo, the journey continues to add more curb appeal to our property. I've always felt that the front of our <a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2016/02/country-house-tour.html" target="_blank">house</a>, including the yard, was too plain. The plans I carry around in my head include more trees, shutters on the windows, and possibly a stone façade. And the house itself is fairly close to the road so it really needed something to provide a visual break.<br />
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1928/43510352890_39100bd0d3_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Adding a wooden fence to your property" border="0" data-original-height="483" data-original-width="800" height="386" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1928/43510352890_39100bd0d3_b.jpg" title="Adding a wooden fence to your property" width="640" /></a></div>
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After mapping out the fence with stakes and string, we rented a mini skid-steer with an auger attachment and dug the post holes. The first few were easy, but we did hit rocks in most of them after that. It only took a couple of hours to do all fourteen holes. I can't imagine how long it would have taken if we'd had to dig them by hand.<br />
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1938/44602880184_1673b46903_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="mini skid-steer with auger" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="610" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1938/44602880184_1673b46903_b.jpg" title="mini skid-steer with auger" width="488" /></a></div>
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Once all of the holes were dug and the loose dirt cleaned out - that part was done by hand while lying on the ground, scooping, scooping, scooping - we positioned the 6x6 posts and filled the holes with <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000H0IP9G/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000H0IP9G&linkId=dcbc65cb67d16cea8cbf0014dbf28ab1" target="_blank">rapid-set concrete</a>. We started by putting some gravel down to provide drainage, then the post, which we leveled with two temporary crosspieces facing different directions. That <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000G35MPE/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000G35MPE&linkId=ca6b02dc5fb25d3720b878fec517304b" target="_blank">corner post level</a> was a God-send!<br />
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1904/45325748931_0df2d42fc1_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="installing fence posts" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="450" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1904/45325748931_0df2d42fc1_b.jpg" title="installing fence posts" width="360" /></a></div>
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We then alternated adding concrete, gravel, and water until the hole was slightly overfilled (to allow for settling). The concrete hardened fast enough that in 20 minutes we could remove the crosspieces, to be used on the next post.<br />
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1906/45325763441_65fcf35e95_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Adding a wooden fence to your property" border="0" data-original-height="461" data-original-width="800" height="368" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1906/45325763441_65fcf35e95_b.jpg" title="Adding a wooden fence to your property" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once the posts were in, we hung the 2x6 horizontal rails with <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012GWW92Q/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B012GWW92Q&linkId=43eaed74326247ffe15c1ee054f532f1" target="_blank">concealed-flange joist hangers</a> that I spray painted a glossy black. These are joist hangers that you would use when building a house or deck. We wanted the rails to be centered on the posts, but didn't want to have to drill through every post to hang them. These were perfect, and the black colour makes them look like high-end hardware.<br />
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The screws attaching the joist hangers to the posts are hidden behind the rail ends, and then <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000I1CDCY/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B000I1CDCY&linkId=66374dc90e03f1240d16eaafbe0204cf" target="_blank">low-profile cabinet screws</a> connect the hangers and rails. We built a simple jig from scrap wood to ensure that each hanger was centered on the post. The cabinet screws have a washer head that gives an upgraded look. <br />
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<a href="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1963/44413120305_a2ce7d1f89_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Adding a wooden fence to your property" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="526" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1963/44413120305_a2ce7d1f89_b.jpg" title="Adding a wooden fence to your property" width="420" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Our lot slopes to one side, so we had to eyeball the rail placement so that they </span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">look</i><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> level, even though they aren't. I spent a lot of time standing out on the road, squinting and calling out for adjustments. However, we did use a spacer between rails so that they remain the same distance apart from section to section.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span>
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The final step was to cut off the tops of the posts. We cut them a little at a time so that they didn't end up too short. I think we're going to keep the look streamlined and leave the tops squared off, but I also think I'd like them to be about an inch shorter than they are right now.<br />
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Before cutting:<br />
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After:</div>
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One thing I do know is that the fence looks <i>fantastic</i> with the trees behind, especially now that the leaves are changing colour. The natural wood fence warms up the look of the front yard and gives a solid framework to the whole property.<br />
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<script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script>Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-12427543785491032712018-09-17T08:50:00.000-04:002018-09-17T08:50:58.707-04:00Birthday MilestoneNo new projects this weekend - it was our Chloe's birthday and we spent the whole weekend celebrating <i>her</i>.<br />
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Happy 13th birthday to my beautiful girl!</div>
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<br />Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-9549376670032121872018-09-06T20:25:00.002-04:002018-09-07T13:04:13.177-04:00Cheese and Chile Pepper BiscuitsI was noodling around in the kitchen this weekend, making batches of soup and chili. Don't ask me why chili in this sweltering heat - I'd just had a mad craving for it all week. And what goes better with chili (or soup for that matter) than soft, flaky biscuits? I started out following a recipe online, but found I didn't have some of the ingredients so I had to keep making substitutions. The results were so good that I had to share the recipe.<br />
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<u>Cheese & Chile Pepper Biscuits</u><br />
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3 cups flour<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
4 tsps baking powder<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1/4 cup cold butter, cubed<br />
3 cups grated cheese<br />
1 cup yogurt (I used Greek yogurt)<br />
1/4 cup chopped pickled peperoncini peppers (aka friggitelli)<br />
1/2 cup milk (optional)<br />
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Preheat oven to 425 F.<br />
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Cut the butter into the flour until well-combined, so that it's like coarse meal. Add in the cheese, yogurt, and peppers, stirring until you have a sticky dough. If your mixture is still too dry, add milk a little at a time until you get the desired consistency.<br />
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Roll out your dough onto a floured surface and cut into circles with a cookie cutter or drinking glass. Place biscuits on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and bake until the tops are a nice golden brown.<br />
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The sweet peppers add just enough heat without being overpowering, and the yogurt makes the biscuits so perfectly moist. I stored them in a plastic container on the counter, and after 4 days they're still as soft and flaky as on the first day.<br />
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<script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script>Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3851595464691686013.post-88466167124783073552018-08-13T21:50:00.002-04:002018-09-06T20:26:59.449-04:00Stenciled Mailbox (using Silhouette Cutter)<br />
We've been in <a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2016/02/country-house-tour.html" target="_blank">our current house</a> for about 2.5 years. This past weekend I finally - <i>finally</i> - got around to putting our name on the mailbox.<br />
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I've been thinking about it for months, but week by week the time slipped away, until I eventually just got up off my butt, took down the vinyl cutter, and <i>did it.</i><br />
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I cut out the letters with my <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MSJU4BD/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=turtandtail-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B01MSJU4BD&linkId=4c1c5c898620b54dc7c44d4f7a2c4c52" target="_blank">Silhouette cutting machine</a>. I <i>love </i>the Silhouette. I'm not a "stencil all the things" kind of person, but when I do need one, this machine makes it so easy.<br />
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You design your image on the computer screen with the Silhouette software, feed in your stencil material (it works with more than just vinyl), and let the machine cut the pattern for you. Bing, bang, boom, done. **This is not sponsored, I just think it's a great machine.**<br />
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It took two tries to get the letters on as the paint I chose the first time didn't stick. The second time I changed to spray paint and also used a spray primer for extra security.</div>
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Besides our name, I also added dog paws because, well, it's no surprise how much <a href="http://turtlesandtails.blogspot.com/2018/05/welcome-to-family-dadli-dogs.html" target="_blank">we love our dogs</a>. They are family and deserve to be represented.<br />
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I'm sure that at some point it will need to be repainted as our road is heavily traveled, so dust, dirt, and gravel are constantly being thrown around. But the great thing about having the cutter is that I can whip up another copy at any time.<br />
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<script src="//z-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/onejs?MarketPlace=US"></script>Barb @ Turtles and Tailshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09090621897170390783noreply@blogger.com0