Monday, August 12, 2013

Diaper Cake

We just threw my sister-in-law a baby shower (post coming soon!) and I wanted to share the diaper cake I made! They're so easy to make and are a great present, centerpiece, etc.
What you need:
-Diapers (I used about 100)
-cardboard
-wrapping paper (optional)
-large rubber bands
-water bottles (optional)
-ribbon, embellishments, etc. 

Step 1: Cut out cardboard base and wrap with decorative paper (optional). I like to do this just in case some of the bottom ends up peeking out. To cut out a large circle, you can simply trace a household item (pots, pans, clock, etc.) or use the good old fashion pencil and string trick!


Step 2: Build up bottom layer. To save diapers, I bundled up water bottles to fill in the center. I've made diaper cakes before and added gifts as the center of each layer. You can put fun things like rolled up clothes, baby shampoo, etc. Rubber band the items together to keep them in place.
 Step 3: Build each layer up. Place a large rubber band around the core (water bottles) and tuck in diapers, slightly overlapping each diaper.
The beginning of the bottom layer.

Layers and layers of diapers!
Once you have a few layers of diapers and the the cardboard piece is covered in diapers to your liking, add an extra rubber band to the top for extra support.

Step 4: Secure a bundle of diapers, water bottles, baby items, etc. as a core for the next layer. I just used diapers. Use the same technique to overlap diapers securely under the rubber band until you've reached your desired fullness.


 Step 5: Add embellishments. I used the ribbon to cover up the rubber bands on each layer. Cute, easy, and fun to make!

Here's the end product! It turned out great. I can't wait to share the baby shower details soon!

Sunday, August 11, 2013

Reader Question & Answer



Here's my latest reader question and answer!

Hi Katie! I've been going through your blog after seeing it on Pinterest and am LOVING your outfits. Of course I've come across my usual problem with fashion blogs and figure "that will NEVER look right on me." So... Really WEIRD question. How tall are you and what's your shoe size? *blush* Let's just say with my mom's side of the family -- I got the big feet but not the height to go with them.  I fear me + skinny jeans and riding boots = will never be.
Chris


Hi Chris,
  Thanks so much for checking out my blog. To answer your question, I am 5'7'' and my shoe size varies anywhere between a 7.5-8.5, depending on the brand. Just because you and I aren't super models, doesn't mean we can't rock some great boots! I have many friends that are in your boat, a little on the shorter size. While you might be intimidated by riding boots, I assure you that boots are still something you can wear on the regular. I would suggest going for boots that are mid-calf height as opposed to super tall riding boots. Mid-calf boots will give the illusion of longer legs because more skin (jeans, leggings,tights,...whatever!) shows as opposed to tall boots where just a few inches (maybe) will be exposed. Skinny jeans can and should most definitely be worn with mid-calf and riding boots. I would suggest wearing a flowy or baggy top to offset the skinny jeans. Too much skin tight clothes in never a good thing! Here are some examples I found that will hopefully inspire you! Women of all shapes and sizes can wear fabulous mid-calf boots! Good luck Christine! Whatever you wear, just rock it with confidence and it will look amazing!
Sincerely,
Katie







Do you have a question? Contact me at allthingskatiemarie@yahoo.com and I'll respond to you ASAP!

Saturday, August 10, 2013

Katie's Closet

Whoo Hoo! Finally starting to dress the bump!

Shirt: Old Navy
Scarf: H & M
Jeans: 7 For All Mandkind
Shoes: Roxy
Watch: Michael Kors




Friday, August 9, 2013

Painting Fun Fact!

After countless gallons of paint that have gone into our house (I don't even want to attempt to count!) we've discovered a great way to preserve a little bit for touch ups. Rather than climbing up in the attic every time we need a drop of paint to cover up a little knick in the wall, we started storing small amounts in mason jars. It keeps the paint fresh and is easy to access.


Since our cutie pie puppies like to occassionally chew on our pergola, we always have this handy jar ready at all times. By labeling the jars, it makes life so much easier! 
 

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Katie's Closet

Dress: TJMaxx
Shoes: Payless
Watch: Michael Kors

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

More of What You Want!

I'm so blessed to have such wonderful fans and followers. My blog has been growing like crazy, and I never imagined anyone other than my mom would be reading my silly little blog. Well, you have proven me wrong! As always, I love your feedback!

I want to know what it is that you love about the blog? What is your favorite category to check out? What do you want more of?

-Classroom/Kids
-Decoration
-DIY
-Fashion
-Fitness
-Organization
-Party Ideas
-Pregnancy
-Products
-Q & A
-Recipes

Leave me some comments, or e-mail me, and let me know what you want to see more of! I can't wait to hear what you have to say! As always, thanks for following me and checking out my world!

Monday, August 5, 2013

Chalkboard Tracker

Halfway done! I can't believe I'm already on month 5! Time is flying!

 How far along? 20 weeks
Baby is the size of a: Banana
Total weight gain: 7 lbs...it keeps creeping up on me! Uh oh! 
Maternity clothes? Not yet...any day now!
Stretch marks? Still in the clear, for now.
Sleep: Slowly decreasing and becoming uncomfortable.
Exercise: I started biking a few miles a day, walking the dogs, and yoga.
Miss Anything: Wine with dinner.
Movement: Yep! Very exciting!
Food cravings: Cheese and crackers. My cravings seem to change every few weeks.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope! I think (hope) I'm all done with that phase.
Gender: GIRL!!!
Labor Signs: No
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy! It's been a fun month!
Looking forward to: Decorating the nursery :)