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The Liebster Award

posted in Uncategorized by Sara on
Hello friends. I mentioned on Friday that I would be flying to Utah over the weekend to spend a fun-filled week with my sister Hanna. Well, after a slight emergency, a surgery, and several phone calls, we have pushed our trip back a couple of weeks. Hanna was in Florida over the weekend with her husband and ended up having appendicitis, which required that her appendix be removed. Since having surgery, she is not allowed to travel for a few days. She spent several nights in the hospital, but is now resting and recovering at their beach side hotel (complimentary from her husband’s work). Our mother is watching her girls, and Hanna is already starting to gain much of her health back.
Needless to say, things have been a bit crazy in our neck of the woods. However, in the mist of all the craziness we also had a lovely surprise—our little blog has been nominated for the Liebster Award! I know, we thought it too— “What on earth is a Liebster Award?”
The Liebster Award is basically a “pay-it-forward” award given by other bloggers to recognize/award up and coming bloggers. It’s a great way to find new blogs and meet new friends. Stripes and Polka Dots was graciously nominated by Katelyn over at Learning, Creating, Living. The rules are: mention the person who nominated you with a link to their blog. Answer the eleven questions given to you. Nominate 11 other up and coming bloggers (that have under 500 followers). Make up a new set of 11 questions for your nominees. Here are the 11 questions Katelyn asked us:



Why did you start blogging?
Hanna and I are twin sisters and best friends that currently live 830 miles apart. Blogging allows us to continue doing the things we love to do together even though we no longer live near each other.
What is your favorite thing to do when you are not busy?
I think it can be said for the both of us that when a free moment presents itself (which is usually rare), we love to catch-up on a much loved TV show or relax and read a good book. 
What is your favorite movie and why?
Surprisingly both of our favorite movies are from the 80’s– Dirty Dancing and Can’t Buy Me Love. But in all honesty, we love any good chick-flick as much as the next girl.

How would you describe yourselves in three words?
Quite, caring, perfectionists!

Where is your favorite place to shop and why?
Hands down, we’d both agree on Target. Their products are cute, stylish, and inexpensive– a win, win for everyone!

What is your favorite blog post you’ve ever done and why?
We are both fairly new to blogging and therefore don’t have much to pull from, but one of my favorite posts was my New Years post. It was kind of an “awe-ha” moment for me that has changed my perspective on life. Hanna says that her favorite post was her DIY Numbers Poof because she has never had a project go so smoothly and turn out so good at the same time.

What is your favorite outfit to wear?
We like to keep it simple with a pair of skinny jeans, a basic top, a jacket/cardigan, a great statement necklace/scarf and a pair of flats. This is pretty much our everyday look– stylish, comfortable, and functional. 

What is your favorite place you’ve ever been and why?
Hanna says, probably Germany because it was the first bit trip she’d ever been on with her husband to a place he’d come to love after living there for two years. Plus they saw some pretty amazing sights! And me, I’m going to have to go with Mt. Wheeler peak; the second highest peak in Nevada with an elevation of 13,065 feet. I’m a sucker for breath-taking views, plus I just loved the feel of being on top of the world. 
If you could do one thing you’ve always wanted to do at this very moment, what would it be?
Go to the Mood fabric store in New York and have enough money to buy anything my heart desired. 

What is your favorite thing about blogging?
One of our main purposes in starting a blog was to be try and create a sense of community and support among our readers and foster new friendships. Being a stay-at-home mom, or just a mom in general, can be isolating at times. We absolutely love the opportunity that we have through blogging to meet, inspired, and be inspired by other women. 

How’d you come up with your blog name?
We both happen to really like stripes and polka dots in all its forms. They are timeless patterns that never goes out of style just as we hope will not our blog either. 
We love and nominate the following blogs:
Erin and Emily @ Elizabeth Joan Designs
Jennifer @ Brave New Home
Allison @ Freshly Completed
Janelle @ Janelle in Real Life
Daniela @ Put a Bird On It
Kelly @ The Little Things
Stephany @ The Bee’s Knees
Sarah @ This Sarah Loves
Amy @ Homey Oh My

Questions for my nominees are:
1. Who is your hero?
2. What is your biggest fear?
3. What is your favorite food?
4. What is your favorite book?
5. What do you enjoy most about blogging?
6. How did you come up with your blog name?
7. What blog/website are you most obsessed about?
8. What is your favorite aspect of yourself/body?
9. What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
10. What is one of your New Year’s resolutions for this year?
11. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

Friday Finds #4 and GIVEAWAY!

posted in Friday Finds, giveaway, inspiration by Hanna on
Feew, it’s finally Friday! I don’t know about you, but I felt like this week would never end. Maybe it is because I’ve been so excited about my upcoming trip. Me and the baby are flying to Utah tomorrow to hang out with Hanna (my twin sister/blog partner) and her cute girls for a whole week! You can be sure that there will be lots of fun, yummy food, blogging, crafting, and chic flicks! But first, lets talk about Target. We love Target and we know you do too, so we’re helping to host a $100 Target Gift Card Giveaway! In light of this wonderful treat, we decided to feature some of our most loved Target products for today’s Friday Finds.
Once you’ve finished clicking through our favorite Target finds and inspiration, continue down to find out more about the giveaway and how to enter!
2.  Carlisle Metal Bar Stools |  inspiration from Emily McCall
3.  Round Metal Side Table | inspiration from House Made Home
7. Decorative Plastic Plates | inspiration from The Better Half

$100 target gift card giveaway from Pretty Providence & team!

Here is a little bit about each blog behind the giveaway; if you’re not already following these amazing women make sure you check them out!

Pretty ProvidenceMade to be a MommaThe Little ThingsNo Diets AllowedFrom Me, With LoveMy Life As MayaOur Thrifty IdeasStripes and Polka DotsTastes Better From ScratchRad Mom Cool Kid

Want a chance to win a $100 Target Gift Card? Enter below! Giveaway ends February 7th.

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Creating a Learning Environment at Home for your Kids

posted in inspiration, kids, motherhood, parenting by Hanna on

Since having my girls and getting the privilege of watching them grow I’ve started realizing how eager they are to learn and experience everything they can in life. It’s so inspiring to me how free-spirited and willing kids are to jump in and learn and try something new. I also noticed how children learn better in the safe environment of their home from people they love and trust. Seeing these things have made me want to create more opportunities for my girls to learn and experience new things at home in these younger years, especially for my 2 ½ year old daughter, Mia.

Learning through participating in the day-to-day things:

One simple solution I found is slowing down and taking the time to involve her more in the day-to-day things; like chores around the house, getting groceries at the store, or cooking something. I’ve never seen anyone more excited to learn how to set a table than Mia was the other night when I would hand her each dish and she would have to figure out where it should go.

I also often take the opportunity to let her help me with the cooking and measuring out ingredients. In fact one of our favorite things to make together are those healthy, chocolate chunk banana muffins from last week’s post.

All this things take extra time and effort, which is why I often have to remind myself that I’m doing it to help my girls, especially Mia. Not to mention, Mia simple loves the opportunities to do something new!

Learning through music:
Another great way I found to create learning opportunities is switching out my music for “kid-friendly” music or what I like to call the toddler station on Pandora. We also have the CD If You’re Happy & You Know It by Fisher Price in our car that we listen to when the girls are along the ride. Mia loves all the songs on it and after several months of listening to it I’ve noticed a lot of the words from the songs have become a part of Mia’s regular vocabulary. Needless to say, music has a huge presence in our home and it has been a big factor in helping Mia learn. Plus there is nothing cuter than hearing your kids sing!

Creative learning:

Finally, I’ve put my so-called “craftiness” to use to encourage Mia’s creative side but also use it as an opportunity to have Mia experience creating with different kinds of things. Sometimes I use different occasions and holidays to do projects. For example, last year for Valentines I had Mia stamp hearts on card stock and we made cards to send out to the Grandparents; or for Halloween Mia glued cotton balls on some paper ghosts I cut out. On a regular week I’ve done play dough, let her cut paper with scissors, paint, helped her build a snowman or whatever random thing I can come up with.

Even with my perfectionist side, I’ve learned nothing has to be super grand and planned out for Mia to learn something new and love doing it at the same time. She just wants the experience and the quality time spent with her mama!

Since the move and the holidays I haven’t been as good about some of these things as I should be. Mia is crazier than ever, getting into everything she can and is just down right bored! This post is a reminder to myself (and hopefully an inspiration to some of you others mom out there) to slow down, take some time away from all the things that need to be done and spend some time with the kiddos to create opportunities to help them to learn and experience new things.

-HANNA

Linked To:
http://www.trueaimeducation.com/2014/01/6-favorites-and-moms-library-80.html
http://sodapopave.com/soda-pop-ave/2014/1/27/what-we-love-wednesdays-24
http://www.familyhomeandlife.com/2014/01/wow-us-wednesday-link-party_28.html
http://www.keepingitsimplecrafts.com/2014/01/motivate-me-monday-210-block-party.html
http://www.carolynshomework.com/2014/01/the-inspiration-board-creative-party-139.html

Comfy Color Block Top

posted in inspiration Monday, sewing, women's fashion by Sara on
It has become of dream of mine to design and construct my own fashion collection someday. Nothing too crazy, just stylish and comfy clothes made for real women. Almost all of my sewing has been self-taught through reading books, articles, and online tutorials– and of course through lots and lots of practice. It’s a skill that I’m continually striving to learn about and develop, but for now I enjoy simply experimenting and creating. This comfy color block top is my latest creation. 
I’ve had this green cotton blend fabric for while now, which I actually pulled from my mom’s fabric stash. I’ve looked at it many times but just haven’t been all that inspired about what to do with it. Finally, I saw a top posted on Pinterest and all of the sudden the wheels started turning. I wanted something that would give me the comfort of a sweatshirt but look stylish at the same time. Comfortable, yet put-together is what every woman/mother strives for isn’t it? Well, I think this chic combination of green and grey managed to do the trick (at least for me anyway)! I’m telling you guys, this is probably my new favorite top!
Comfy Color Block Top // by Stripes and Polka Dots

Comfy Color Block Top // by Stripes and Polka Dots
Comfy Color Block Top // by Stripes and Polka Dots
Comfy Color Block Top // by Stripes and Polka Dots
Comfy Color Block Top // by Stripes and Polka Dots
color block top: Handmade (pattern to come) // jeans: JC Penny //  flats: Target // necklace: Charlotte Russe // bag: JC Penny
I’m working on creating a pattern to share with all of you in the [hopefully not so distant] future. 
And in case you were wondering, I purchased the grey fabric from Girl Charlee Fabrics. This was also the fabric I used to make leggings for my daughter. You can view the full tutorial HERE.
Linked to:
http://www.thegirlcreative.com/2014/01/26/sunday-best-link-party-1.html
http://www.sewcando.com/2014/01/come-get-crafty-at-craftastic-monday.html
http://gracelangdon.blogspot.com/2014/01/making-monday-24.html
http://www.craft-o-maniac.com/2014/01/craft-o-maniac-monday-link-party-4.html
http://thewinthropchronicles.blogspot.com/2014/01/share-it-link-party-99.html

Friday Finds #3: Decorating with Numbers

posted in diy, Friday Finds, home, inspiration Monday by Hanna on
To carry on with the theme from Wednesday’s post, we’re giving some inspiration when it comes to decorating with numbers. (In case you missed the post on the DIY Numbers Pouf check it out HERE!) We just love decorating with numbers, not to mention it’s a quick and easy way to give your stuff a new look. 
This week we decided to throw a few DIY numbered projects into the round-up so feel free to click through the links so you can see how to recreate some of these hot looks yourself!
1.  Numbered Mason Jars | by The Crafted Sparrow
2.  Numbered Counter Stools | by Elizabeth Joan Designs
3. Raindrop Numbers 1 to 10 |  LittleDesignHaus on Etsy
4. Vintage No. 8 Wrapped Canvas | Native Vermont Studio on Etsy 
5. Washable Numbered Stencil Mugs | by The 36th Avenue
7. Numbered Clothes Pin Magnets | Farmhouse Wares
8. Hanging Metal Numbers  | The Land of Nod
9. Touch Tone Numbered Wall Hanger | The Land of Nod
Linked To:
http://www.delineateyourdwelling.com/2014/01/linkn-blogs-9.html


DIY Numbers Pouf: Land of Nod Knock Off

posted in crafts, diy, home, sewing, tutorial by Hanna on

I have an on and off again relationship with floor poufs…or at least the idea of them. I see them all over and honestly I love the look and functionality but then I see that not so lovely price. I can already see my husband trying to figure out some rational explanation to why I need to spend so much on a pillow. By this point I begin to think of a way to make one. Quite frankly this is as far as I usually get until last week when I decided to kick it into gear and make one.

My inspiration came from Land of Nods own numbers pouf that I have had my eye on for quite sometime.

Is anyone else in love with Land of Nod or is just me?

I basically have been using their magazines as my inspiration book for future DIY projects.

Anyway, I used this super easy-to-follow tutorial from Living with Punks. Because there already is a tutorial listed there, I’m not going to do a full one. I, however, made my pouf bigger and stitched together the sides to make 9 panels for the corresponding numbers. I’ll guide you through the different things I did so you can create your own numbers pouf.

My material list:

– 3 yards of fabric
– 2 packages of pre-made pipping
– black fabric paint
– number stencils on cardstock (numbers 1 through 9)
– 50 oz. Fiberfill

I started by cutting 9 rectangle panels for the side of the pouf that were 8.875″ x 13″. Then I sewed all of them together using a straight stitch and 1/4 inch seam. After sewing all 9 panels together, I ironed all the seams open. *If there is one things I learned about sewing it’s that ironing everything you sew will make it look MUCH nicer.

For the number stencils I just made them using “Old Standard” font and printed them out on cardstock so they were about 6 inches tall. Once those were all cut out, I used the black fabric paint and a foam brush to stencil a number on each panel.

While that was drying I cut out the top and bottom circles for the pouf, measuring 23.75 inches in diameter and sewed on the piping. I’ll admit that this was my first time working with pipping and I was a little nervous about it. Come to find out, it’s one of the easiest things to add. I ended up laughing at myself for ever thinking it would be hard.

The finish pouf came out to be about 23 1/4 inches wide and 12 1/2 inches tall.

What I love most about this numbers pouf is that it’s clean and modern while still having a “kid” element with the numbers, so it could work in any room. Since I haven’t decided on a specific place for it yet, I’m thinking our floor pouf is going to float between our very bare and empty living room, our family room where it will could be used as a foot stool, and also the playroom to give the girls something to sit on.

– HANNA

Linked To:
http://www.sewmuchado.com/2014/01/we-did-it-wednesday-188.html
http://www.thethriftyhome.com/2014/01/221st-penny-pinching-party.html
http://somedaycrafts.blogspot.com/2014/01/whatever-goes-wednesday-206.html
http://thediydreamer.com/from-dream-to-reality/101-add-your-projects/
http://myfashionforwardblog.com/things-pretty-44/
http://staceyembracingchange.com/2014/01/23/creative-inspirations-linky-party-features-30/
http://www.thepinjunkie.com/2014/01/friday-link-party-51.html
http://www.delineateyourdwelling.com/2014/01/linkn-blogs-9.html
http://thewinthropchronicles.blogspot.com/2014/01/share-it-link-party-99.html

Healthy Chocolate Chunk Banana Muffins

posted in food, health, recipe by Sara on
Healthy Chocolate Chunk Banana Muffins: Full of nutrients and goodness!
Ok, my sugar consumption has been off the wall as of late! It started during the holidays and has just spiraled out of control. All I want to do is eat, eat, and eat! Maybe it’s the public health major in me, or the fact that I am suffering from the results of too much junk food, but I came to the realization that I needed to make a change. Over the weekend I went to the grocery store and bought a slew of healthier snack options that I can eat in place of all the sweets (carrots, almonds, pretzels, etc.) My sister also sent me her recipe for these yummy chocolate chunk banana muffins. Not only are they delicious, but they’re good for you too. 

This recipe uses whole wheat flour and substitutes calorie-laden Crisco with raw honey, unsweetened applesauce, and coconut oil. There is also the addition of flaxseed which provides extra nutrients. And for all you chocolate lovers out there, you’ll definitely get your fill! I know dark chocolate isn’t for everyone, but I personally love it. Plus if you’re like me and can’t give up chocolate all together, dark chocolate is a much healthier option opposed to regular milk chocolate. 

Anyway, with a busy work schedule this week I decided to whip up a batch that I could take with me for breakfast or snacks. These muffins are also a great and nutritious snack for kids. My daughter loves them! I will say that I had a terrible time trying to find ground flaxseed at the store. I wandered the store for about 15 minutes before I finally asked someone for help. Here’s a tip: it is usually stored in the refrigerated section of the healthy/wholefoods isle. You can also just buy whole flaxseeds and grind them yourself with a food processor.

Healthy Chocolate Chunk Banana Muffins: Full of nutrients and goodness!

INGREDIENTS:

1 1/2 cups whole-wheat flour
1 1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 Tbsp cinnamon
1 Tbsp ground flaxseed meal
pinch of salt
3 ripe bananas, mashed with a fork
2 egg whites
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup raw honey
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/3 cup chopped dark chocolate (or dark chocolate chips)
1/2 cup walnuts (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.  Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda,
cinnamon, flaxseed and salt.

2.  In a large bowl, with a hand mixer, beat bananas until smooth. Add egg whites and beat until combined. Gradually mix in applesauce honey and coconut oil.

3.   Mix dry ingredients into banana mixture; stir in chocolate chunks and nuts.

4.   Spray muffin pan with cooking spray. Fill each cup to the top with batter and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until browned on top.

Makes a dozen muffins.






Linked To:
http://www.create-with-joy.com/2014/01/inspire-me-monday-week-107.html
http://www.callmepmc.com/2014/01/marvelous-mondays-link-party-1-19-13/
http://marelize-ries.blogspot.com/search/label/Linky%20Party