tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34053032169493938082024-03-07T01:54:15.776-05:00Farmgirl In My HeartRuthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.comBlogger252125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-81526737195710027882013-08-14T00:05:00.003-04:002013-08-14T00:05:51.751-04:00A Hiatus, a Plethora of Crochet, and an Amazing Class<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have been on a blogging hiatus simply because life has been demanding and required all of my attention and energy. At these times I want so much to blog, to share what's on my heart, and to connect with all the fabulous people in blog land but life throws a monkey wrench in my plans. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These months have not been quiet and serene but have challenged me and caused me to grow. They have been a learning experience and I wait on my Heavenly Father to make a way where there seems to be no way. With Him nothing is impossible so I lean on his everlasting love and comfort.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have missed sharing all my latest projects with you. Crocheting is my go to favorite to relax me and get my mind focused on something productive. Below is a sampling of my latest projects. I hope to share more about them very soon.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMJlUyIjiWA0CXYsAFsilgW4vMEPuuBz0SpM32PWptFrg903YqiYPSglGJJFNGHp2b9IiSvRArhTmbSvBTNlCfUisR_76Y-EwxBTtl8TjIS2_BIypa_ZRDYAHHin2195bVR_Ws_N82XUJz/s1600/Crochetwork2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMJlUyIjiWA0CXYsAFsilgW4vMEPuuBz0SpM32PWptFrg903YqiYPSglGJJFNGHp2b9IiSvRArhTmbSvBTNlCfUisR_76Y-EwxBTtl8TjIS2_BIypa_ZRDYAHHin2195bVR_Ws_N82XUJz/s320/Crochetwork2.jpg" width="252" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What I really want to share with you today is this most amazing e-course that will be held in October hosted by Jeanne Oliver as part of her Creatively Made Home series called, Home for the Holidays. You can find out all of the details to this fabulous class at<a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/2013/08/creatively-made-home-home-for-the-holidays/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> Life In Grace blog</span></a>. Edie will be one of the many fabulous ladies sharing their insight and decor wisdom with us, but most importantly their stories and hearts for hospitality. I hope you hop on over and sign up for this incredible e-course. I am looking forward to it already. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Linking up<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> here</span></a>.</div>
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-11043499007005030962013-05-15T18:36:00.000-04:002013-05-15T18:57:35.846-04:00Better Than NewFor Mother's Day my mom wanted a new bureau for her bedroom. But by new she meant an old bureau, so off we went in search of a previously loved bureau that would fit her space. We found the perfect piece at the third shop we visited. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This bureau was in fairly good condition. The drawers were in good shape and it was sturdy. It was the perfect size for her space.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00746_zps5862de95.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00746_zps5862de95.jpg" border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00746_zps5862de95.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This before is missing some drawers and all the hardware. I had already begun work on it before I remembered to take a good before picture. I had a time limit, since this was sitting in her dining room while I worked on it and she would have a house full of company for Mother's Day.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I took off all the hardware and gave the piece a good cleaning with TSP. Then I used a sander deglosser liquid before I began painting. The only part of the bureau that I needed to sand was the top. I planned to stain that instead of painting it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00745_zps8450b40a.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00745_zps8450b40a.jpg" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00745_zps8450b40a.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The bureau had some great accents and molding.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00747_zps8d57273e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00747_zps8d57273e.jpg" border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00747_zps8d57273e.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was just in need of some TLC.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00748_zps5ca1f2e3.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00748_zps5ca1f2e3.jpg" border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00748_zps5ca1f2e3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here is the after:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00749_zps5631e942.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00749_zps5631e942.jpg" border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00749_zps5631e942.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I used Valspar paint in off white to paint the bureau and Minwax stain for the top. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00750_zpsdd2d2f4e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00750_zpsdd2d2f4e.jpg" border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00750_zpsdd2d2f4e.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I gave the hardware a good cleaning and spray painted them with Krylon in black.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00751_zps0149ec2e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00751_zps0149ec2e.jpg" border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00751_zps0149ec2e.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I used Minwax clear furniture wax to seal the whole piece.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00752_zps8553e2a0.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00752_zps8553e2a0.jpg" border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00752_zps8553e2a0.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My mom was very happy with the final product and I was too.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00753_zps7fc7028b.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00753_zps7fc7028b.jpg" border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00753_zps7fc7028b.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It looks better than new.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00754_zps7c03f414.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00754_zps7c03f414.jpg" border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00754_zps7c03f414.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It is now sitting in her bedroom and she is so happy with it. I was glad to find the perfect piece and have it completed in time for her on Mother's Day.<br />
<br />
I will be linking up at these great<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> Linky Parties</span></a>.Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-12317952161387512322013-05-08T20:55:00.000-04:002013-05-08T20:55:08.179-04:00Sweet Friend's Baby<div style="text-align: center;">
This blog has been completely neglected this past month. Life has a way of taking over and I planned and planned on blogging but could not find the time. Although I haven't been here I do still try to read many of my favorite blogs. I have also kept busy crocheting. It is my favorite way to pass time. Whenever I have down time or have to wait for anything I take my crochet along. This project was mostly completed late at night to relax or during my son's basketball games.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My garden plans are underway and I have seeds started indoors. It is only getting warm enough to plant outdoors now. Everything is in bloom and I am blessed to look out the window and see our peach tree in full bloom, and the two trees in the front in full bloom. I am refinishing and painting a bureau for my mom and as I looked out the window I was thinking that I really needed to take some pictures of those beautiful blooms. This afternoon a horrible wind came through and nearly took all of the blooms off the trees. Next time, I will get my camera as soon as the thought comes to me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A sweet friend of mine is expecting her first baby girl. That made me immediately run through my baby crochet patterns. Crocheting for babies is my favorite. Baby things are so sweet and you fill them with love and hope for this precious new blessing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I found this sweet pattern of small cross over cables. At first, I misread the pattern and all of my rows were slanting but after taking it apart twice I finally figures out my mistake.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00739_zpsbdd27132.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00739_zpsbdd27132.jpg" border="0" height="640" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00739_zpsbdd27132.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is a simple pattern but looks precious. The scallop edge is very feminine and the perfect touch.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00741_zps5c26b386.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00741_zps5c26b386.jpg" border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00741_zps5c26b386.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have it ready to send to my friend. I can remember the excitement of getting everything ready for baby. My babies are now almost 20 and almost 16. Where does the time go?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00742_zps66c284ba.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00742_zps66c284ba.jpg" border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00742_zps66c284ba.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I made the precious bonnet when I made<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> <a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/2013/03/for-sweet-emmaline.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">the one for my niece</span></a></span>. I love thread crochet. This is a vintage pattern and it was fun to give it a try. Of course, there were mistakes along the way but that is all part of learning.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00744_zpsacca5cdf.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00744_zpsacca5cdf.jpg" border="0" height="640" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00744_zpsacca5cdf.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A close up of the blanket with the scallop edge</div>
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/user/momof2_04/media/DSC00743_zps172bc678.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DSC00743_zps172bc678.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00743_zps172bc678.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I will be linking up<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> here</span></a>.<br />
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-35640974233243583192013-04-05T09:48:00.002-04:002013-04-05T09:53:53.410-04:00Garden Planning with Pinterest<br />
The month of March was a blur. It came and went without much fanfare here. I did celebrate another birthday and this year will be filled with many changes. I do not know what the future holds but I am embracing all the plans that God has for me. It is only through Him that I can travel this road with its twists and turns, and blind curves. I look forward to seeing His work in my life and in our family's life.<br />
<br />
Spring has arrived, at least on the calendar it has. Are you all planning your gardens. Time for the green thumbs to come out and shine. We have had below normal temps and very few sunny days. Although I am longing for the warm sunshine of spring, I am believing that April showers will bring us many May flowers. While I spend my days indoors waiting for the illusive warm sunshine of spring days, I have spent some time planning our garden. I am very interested in <a href="http://www.foodnotlawns.com/">Growing Food not Lawns</a>. This site contains a wealth of information that at times makes my head spin. I am not completely averse to lawns but find that the space can be better used to grow food that is far healthier for you. Also the upkeep and maintenance of a lawn with all it's fertilizers and mowing seems quite wasteful and unhealthy.<br />
<br />
Our greatest challenge here is space and our three dogs. So I have spent some quality time perusing Pinterest for ideas.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is one of my favorites. It is functional and pleasing to the eye.</div>
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/211317407487523045/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="500" src="http://media-cache-ec1.pinterest.com/550x/27/e2/0f/27e20f39d408b33cc68fecdda71796bd.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Source: <a href="http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/load/vertical/msg0622582022244.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">forums.gardenweb.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/ruthemond/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ruth</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Vertical gardening saves so much space and you can grow a wide variety of veggies this way, even tomatoes. Who knew? Okay, many of you probably knew but this girl had missed out on this. Can't wait to try this.</div>
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/211317407487362842/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="450" src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/550x/b7/67/2a/b7672a440dc8760646401a4583983b07.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://www.gardeningwithkids.org/13-4120.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">gardeningwithkids.org</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/ruthemond/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ruth</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Containers are also a fabulous way to grow things. It will keep the dogs from trampling all over the plants and allow us to grow things in places where we wouldn't normally think of growing things.</div>
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/211317407488095517/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/550x/ef/44/db/ef44db7d37371790a3e3c1082a1a421e.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://organicgardensnetwork.blogspot.com/2010/12/66-things-you-can-grow-in-containers.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">organicgardensnetwork.blogspot.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/ruthemond/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ruth</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is definitely on the must try list. As the summer gets hotter, our lettuces always suffer but not they can be protected from the hot summer sun by their cucumber or squash friends. I would like to try this with beans, too.</div>
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/211317407487784979/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/550x/f3/bf/a7/f3bfa75b0f8a131bc4171d96bfb2c34a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://www.gardeners.com/Cucumber-Trellis/NewVegetableGardening_Cat,36-558,default,cp.html?SC=" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">gardeners.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/ruthemond/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ruth</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is similar to the one above. I would put it right over the soil with lettuces or spinach growing underneath.</div>
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/211317407487950205/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/550x/78/37/40/78374069eb475110021687915ca39bd2.jpg" width="206" /></a>. These raised beds are perfect for small spaces.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://www.veggiegardener.com/grow-up-with-vertical-gardening/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">veggiegardener.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/ruthemond/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ruth</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a><br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
An amazing use of space<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/211317407487784939/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="500" src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/550x/fa/32/03/fa32034056cf004076ebafeb7887896b.jpg" width="332" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://loonyville.wordpress.com/2011/04/17/the-first-garden-beds-are-in/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">loonyville.wordpress.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/ruthemond/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ruth</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have also found such wonderful tips for gardens on Pinterest. This watering tip is so easy and a fantastic idea. It also saves water.</div>
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/211317407486860436/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/550x/3d/62/56/3d6256c31e4ffafd32ef9856b6c657b9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://www.providentliving.org.nz/gardening/bottle-drip-irrigation/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">providentliving.org.nz</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/ruthemond/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ruth</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fabulous idea for containers.</div>
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/211317407488088990/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/550x/80/7e/91/807e91fd1a6f0bc8a3c1063b1f8190db.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,20513767_20994203,00.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">thisoldhouse.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/ruthemond/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ruth</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
You could spend a week on this site dreaming gardening dreams and planning to grow enough to feed an army. Love all the tips shared here.</div>
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/211317407486211704/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/550x/0b/12/13/0b1213b6aeb21130472e738f9d6e3b24.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://www.veggiegardener.com/veggies/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">veggiegardener.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/ruthemond/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ruth</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
<br />
There are so many more ideas on Pinterest but this is where I am starting. Can't wait to dig in the dirt and grow something good.<br />
<br />
Linking to<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">these great parties</span>.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-14945907458645256142013-03-21T10:38:00.002-04:002013-03-21T12:51:58.824-04:00For Sweet Emmaline<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My sweet little niece Emmaline will be having her church dedication very soon. She will be wearing my sister's gown but I wanted to make some special things just for little Emmaline.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I found a sweet bonnet pattern and made it for her special day. This is actually the second one I made because she had a growth spurt and the first one was too small.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00627_zps2891aea8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00627_zps2891aea8.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I crocheted this with size 10 cotton thread</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00626_zpsdcf8ab6e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00626_zpsdcf8ab6e.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I would prefer to have pictures with the sweet baby girl but she decided she needed her beauty sleep.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hopefully, later I will be able to take some sweet pictures. She is such a sweet, happy, and pleasant baby.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The detailing on the edge of the bonnet is so precious.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00625_zpsd97f7707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00625_zpsd97f7707.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the full bonnet</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00624_zps762b2dcb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00624_zps762b2dcb.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the first one I made. The patterns are very similar but the front of the bonnet does not have the same detailing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00623_zps0ede163b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00623_zps0ede163b.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This little bonnet will go to a dear friend who is soon to have a baby girl of her own.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00622_zps98c38718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00622_zps98c38718.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Side close up of pattern</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00621_zpsf2a0f576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00621_zpsf2a0f576.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Top band </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00620_zps5da52f60.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00620_zps5da52f60.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
shaped back</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00619_zps91fbd282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00619_zps91fbd282.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hoping this bonnet will be perfect my friend's sweet angel.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00618_zps69a0ae7b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00618_zps69a0ae7b.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For sweet Emmaline, I made these little shoes for her special day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00613_zpsa08ebfcd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00613_zpsa08ebfcd.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I used a Mary Jane pattern I had and modified it to fit what I needed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00614_zps9f6fc46f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00614_zps9f6fc46f.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To dress up the toe of the shoe I added satin ribbon and a jewelry embellishment.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00615_zps006dffbd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00615_zps006dffbd.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I sewed through the side holes that originally are used for a bracelet or necklace.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They fit perfectly and look so incredibly beautiful on these sweet baby shoes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00616_zps12923d1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00616_zps12923d1a.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Can not wait to have these sweet shoes on her sweet little baby feet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00617_zpsbbf3c054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00617_zpsbbf3c054.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sweet Emmaline has woken up but is not feeling her best today. We attempted this little photo shoot anyway. She is too sweet.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00642_zps6b33d50f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00642_zps6b33d50f.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She's saying, "I love you Auntie, but I don't feel like smiling for the camera."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sweet little angel foot.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00635_zps0cf9bf08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00635_zps0cf9bf08.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00633_zps56ea2922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00633_zps56ea2922.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Serious look with her bonnet. She is not used to wearing it and did not really want us to tie it on and fix it all pretty.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00646_zps246b2fce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00646_zps246b2fce.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here she is almost cracking a smile but anytime we tried to adjust the bonnet, she did not appreciate it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00647_zps6323ade6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00647_zps6323ade6.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are still a few weeks so the bonnet will fit better than. She will fill it in better then. I love her sweet cheeks. At 10 weeks she is all smiles and so alert. A sweet little princess who brightens my days.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I will be linking up at these fabulous<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> link parties</span></a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-18263453201234801092013-02-28T14:21:00.000-05:002013-03-01T16:14:30.739-05:00Recycled Storage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My dear neighbors gave me these boxes because they thought I could use them for storage. I decided they would be perfect for stamps and ink pad storage.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2107_zps3e006237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2107_zps3e006237.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The little blur on the top left corner is this little guy. My sidekick and helper extraordinaire. Isn't he cute.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2112_zpse8531a41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2112_zpse8531a41.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Back to work~the boxes needed a little dressing up before I could put them to good use.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2108_zps64756738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2108_zps64756738.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I decided to start with a coat of white paint just to cover up the dark colors.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2114_zps8f337cc0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2114_zps8f337cc0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I found a scrap paper at Joanns that had quotes and I knew it would be perfect to cover </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
the boxes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00597_zps7898861b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00597_zps7898861b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I got to work with a little Mod Podge </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00598_zpsb9657de1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00598_zpsb9657de1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and soon enough they were looking much better</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00600_zps5d60af45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00600_zps5d60af45.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00602_zps8c586b4f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00602_zps8c586b4f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I distressed the edges with an ink pad and a little sanding</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00604_zps95378071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00604_zps95378071.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
No need to be perfect </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
just perfectly imperfect</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00605_zpsff263baf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00605_zpsff263baf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A little ink along each edge went a long way</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00606_zpsa9eec832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00606_zpsa9eec832.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I used this handy tool to add<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhesdtkmI7sHRKRitA4L7dE0sbn_62u98dxVlKpaPr7uES_NoGufm2edJL3ymH9bm-JJRFP4n64itM4eQ6VyJMzZ-jyP-S5iuTYVq2YidhziMaq1JUS7WDAuunmFxv9pkno9JE-jz7QcYrm/s1600/DSC00609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhesdtkmI7sHRKRitA4L7dE0sbn_62u98dxVlKpaPr7uES_NoGufm2edJL3ymH9bm-JJRFP4n64itM4eQ6VyJMzZ-jyP-S5iuTYVq2YidhziMaq1JUS7WDAuunmFxv9pkno9JE-jz7QcYrm/s320/DSC00609.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
label pulls to the box.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii2HvWH87xvza2rXWa_hCbI5TEF-I8Mm8Nb_fAe7E0-nDXWHN4yyirW2u9_BLhyoBlot3kc2ocjlVjjZ7KlOnJfY4EB_udRgUK_RtRkc3idJCDQnBQXBZzIrXcRXWMmBFFNMoLtSUKaWz8/s1600/DSC00610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii2HvWH87xvza2rXWa_hCbI5TEF-I8Mm8Nb_fAe7E0-nDXWHN4yyirW2u9_BLhyoBlot3kc2ocjlVjjZ7KlOnJfY4EB_udRgUK_RtRkc3idJCDQnBQXBZzIrXcRXWMmBFFNMoLtSUKaWz8/s320/DSC00610.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Here are two of the boxes completed and put to use.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvc4zwbWzEaLwXl0JX0GM7NHYUJgosTX0hF-TQIMRB2-_lnFlWz0_6NA2-sL5A3qYy9Qihwih2_6TlJMvUictXWUovJ8rwZbmolpKb-wqglMRiIYd08OPtLtb4HwwSDvFOnrR25ydv6MK/s1600/DSC00611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvc4zwbWzEaLwXl0JX0GM7NHYUJgosTX0hF-TQIMRB2-_lnFlWz0_6NA2-sL5A3qYy9Qihwih2_6TlJMvUictXWUovJ8rwZbmolpKb-wqglMRiIYd08OPtLtb4HwwSDvFOnrR25ydv6MK/s320/DSC00611.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I found the inspiration for these from Country Living February issue where Thea Beasley covered boxes in French paper and maps. I did not have French newspapers but I thought this paper would work quite well for the look.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4jgzjfzwkLbWFV0QcyNDXkRgS61lt5qzuwbwV-64an59LwHrqfhhXS_LZEL1PdGN4T_fQtZaWAfnYCB0y7_s7mscYtDYrn-SJfhJZDklre8tMTf-rT672Tj70QhWbJOElr1IhBjiYtSU/s1600/DSC00612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4jgzjfzwkLbWFV0QcyNDXkRgS61lt5qzuwbwV-64an59LwHrqfhhXS_LZEL1PdGN4T_fQtZaWAfnYCB0y7_s7mscYtDYrn-SJfhJZDklre8tMTf-rT672Tj70QhWbJOElr1IhBjiYtSU/s320/DSC00612.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
I'm happy with how my little knock off turned out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I will be joining<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> these great link parties</span></a>.</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-614176107564296332013-02-21T13:55:00.000-05:002013-02-21T14:05:29.207-05:00Artwork Bragging...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This post has been in my drafts for quite some time. My son is such a talented young artist. He never ceases to amaze me with his artwork. He works diligently on each piece and is his own worst critic. I am always in awe of what he produces. He is legally blind in his right eye. He was diagnosed with amblyopia at eight years old. By that time he was too old for the traditional treatments. The late diagnosis was from lack of symptoms, his eye did not fall into the corner as most do, and he had excellent depth perception. His eye doctor is amazed at his lack of symptoms and what he can create.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He works on a variety of different art projects.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I know I am biased because he is my son but I think his artwork is amazing. Although he has taken some art classes, he is mostly self taught, which amazes me even more.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is a portrait of Shia Labeouf</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I believe he did this a year ago</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00276_zps4af07b4d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00276_zps4af07b4d.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He completed this rose recently</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The shading in the petals makes it appear so realistic</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2115_zpsec8d4af8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2115_zpsec8d4af8.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is one of his largest pieces. It is a comic book character</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He is farther along in this now and it is wonderfully rich in color and texture. I look forward to sharing the finished piece.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00588_zps66f7d2ab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00588_zps66f7d2ab.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is Cair Paravel done a couple of years ago</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_1625_zps7a09fcf0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_1625_zps7a09fcf0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Portrait done this summer if Noah Wyle from the show Falling Skies</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00328_zps4acb5787.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00328_zps4acb5787.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The caricatures below are quick sketches of DC Comic characters.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All of the following pieces are for sale, $7 each, if you are interested.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2060_zps8ae5ddc8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2060_zps8ae5ddc8.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2061_zps005fbdd3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2061_zps005fbdd3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2062_zpsc069fc5a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2062_zpsc069fc5a.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2063_zpsdbf101f7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2063_zpsdbf101f7.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2116_zps7aebfb77.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2116_zps7aebfb77.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2117_zps8b2e86e9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2117_zps8b2e86e9.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2118_zps21ff9b7f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2118_zps21ff9b7f.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We appreciate any feedback and support. I would love to share your comments and encouragement with him. Thank you for letting me brag on about my son's awesome talent. It does this mama's heart some good to share his talent with you.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I'm linking to <a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">these fabulous parties</span></a>.</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-62105443667923164822013-02-14T14:25:00.002-05:002013-02-14T14:25:43.268-05:00Surviving the Blizzard & Valentines<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We survived the recent blizzard here with no problems. We are so thankful to not have lost power during this storm. Reminders of no power for eight days with Irene were no fun. My heart went out to all those who lost power and were without heat. Temps were down to single digits the night after the storm.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The snow can be such an inconvenience with travel and shoveling but it makes everything beautiful.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The blanket of white on our branches</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2091_zpsb67d38a8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2091_zpsb67d38a8.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
from my window</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2090_zpsa783e2c2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2090_zpsa783e2c2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
so much snow</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2089_zpsab36561e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2089_zpsab36561e.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I did not venture out</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2088_zpsd79bfb29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2088_zpsd79bfb29.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
picturesque</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2086_zpsca237d87.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2086_zpsca237d87.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our poor bush over loaded with the weight of this snow~not the light and fluffy kind</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2083_zps3a4242f6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2083_zps3a4242f6.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
dense and heavy</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2082_zpsf44d70bd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2082_zpsf44d70bd.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now my Valentine surprise for my love</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2105_zps676d8ac9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2105_zps676d8ac9.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have seen this cute "gum ball" machines on Pinterest and around blog land.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Since hubby loves candy I knew I wanted to try one.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They are so simple.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I painted a 4 inch pot black, inside and out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And because I do not have a vinyl cutting machine I used a font as a guide and </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
wrote the message with a paint pen.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2093_zps0ab4898a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2093_zps0ab4898a.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The cover consists of a 4 inch saucer, a 2 inch saucer, and a wooden ball</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The smaller saucer keeps the bigger one from sliding off the glass jar.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2092_zps48792bbb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2092_zps48792bbb.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My E6000 glue dried up so I had to use good old super glue.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2098_zps95ea4c6b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2098_zps95ea4c6b.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I glued the inverted smaller saucer inside the larger saucer</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2102_zps08847fa7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2102_zps08847fa7.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
then glued the wooden knob on top</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2103_zps05fde2fd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2103_zps05fde2fd.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The glass jar is from Dollar Tree</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I glued it to the inverted pot.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
TADA</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2105_zps676d8ac9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2105_zps676d8ac9.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Such a fun idea.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am joining these<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">great parties</span></a>.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-86373508595290497332013-02-08T11:02:00.002-05:002013-02-08T11:02:50.712-05:00Burlap Votives<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We are prepping here for Snowmaggedon here. There is a blizzard watch for our area until 6 p.m. tomorrow. We have plenty of food and water, wood for the wood stove to last us a bit, and we're charging up everything we can. Praying for the best and preparing for the worst case scenario. We have been teased with snow all winter. Minor accumulations one day, six inches a week later, several dustings and a few accumulations of less than three inches but this storm is going to be the big one, the mother of all storms. Rivaling the Blizzard of 1978, whose thirty-five year anniversary was February 6. We may be snow in for quite some time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the midst of all this storm prep I decided I needed to work on something fun. I made this a couple of years ago, it's wintry cuteness made me smile, but I am done with this winter and really wanted a change, so..</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkPqycR6aLeehNvk10C4ypMQmxRx31XH2I2q7CSay07LQO9oJRaP3tasGD6kSjSkzlcM4zgDpd2yNXIr3HCH6a4R-F_0kDYPpv21-X77pJBvRbPW-HuWpsy8nBQNaffrgLvOcv4dI1xRhj/s1600/IMG_3389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkPqycR6aLeehNvk10C4ypMQmxRx31XH2I2q7CSay07LQO9oJRaP3tasGD6kSjSkzlcM4zgDpd2yNXIr3HCH6a4R-F_0kDYPpv21-X77pJBvRbPW-HuWpsy8nBQNaffrgLvOcv4dI1xRhj/s320/IMG_3389.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are about 100 of these candle jars in my stash. I can't help it. Glade candles are great, I buy them on sale and with coupons, and they are such a great deal. When they've burned out I simply clean out the jars and save them. This is why I have so many.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2065_zps7b98c189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2065_zps7b98c189.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I always have some burlap on hand </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2066_zpsdaaa912c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2066_zpsdaaa912c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I cut it into strips that will fit around the glass jars, it does not need to be perfect, simply make sure they will overlap in the back</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2067_zpsf8e918f8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2067_zpsf8e918f8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then using some Mod Podge</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2069_zps4da290d1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2069_zps4da290d1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and a foam brush</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I covered the jars </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2068_zpsceb57a99.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2068_zpsceb57a99.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
then wrapped the burlap pieces around them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2072_zps032fb4d3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2072_zps032fb4d3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I let them dry for a couple of hours. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't usually wait very patiently but I had to take my son to basketball.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once they were dry I used a good old fashioned stencil and paint pen because</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I do not own a Cricut or Silhouette. Not that I wouldn't loooooovvee one but it's</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
not in the budget for now. I digress, back to the project </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2073_zpsfc537b56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2073_zpsfc537b56.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I stenciled the numbers onto the burlap</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/de44e6c6-b047-44a5-88eb-0a466756a4f8_zps9bf4d016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/de44e6c6-b047-44a5-88eb-0a466756a4f8_zps9bf4d016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Loving the simlicity</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2075_zps5aba9c58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2075_zps5aba9c58.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
the ease</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2077_zpsafea2dc7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2077_zpsafea2dc7.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and fun that this little change made</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2078_zps3b9c3ace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2078_zps3b9c3ace.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
an easy upcycle</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here they are all together on our table. The lovely doily was made by my mom, who is so talented.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2074_zps95f70abf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2074_zps95f70abf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Isn't it beautiful???? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Disregard the hideously ugly heating unit in the background. It has been waiting for a cover since the kitchen remodel. I am going to have to bite the bullet and do it myself.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Their is so much work that goes into creating a beautiful doily/tablecloth like this.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2079_zpsa5deede0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2079_zpsa5deede0.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The details~it was made with a pattern from Portugal that a friend recently brought back for my mom.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2080_zpsc18a4d6e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2080_zpsc18a4d6e.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The completed set</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2081_zpsd38c2446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2081_zpsd38c2446.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: cyan; font-size: large;"><b>Happy weekend!!</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am linking up to<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> these great parties</span></a>.</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-46050169351174199222013-02-05T15:43:00.001-05:002013-02-05T15:44:54.305-05:00God's Inexplicable LoveFebruary is love month. In this month of love the greatest love that we can celebrate is the love God has shows to each of His children. Though we are unworthy of His love he loves us unfailingly. <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: cyan;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: cyan;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>"Greater love has no one than this, </b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: cyan;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>that someone lay down his life for his friends." </b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: cyan;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>John 15:13</b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: cyan;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">From the foundation of the world, God has had a plan of redemption for us. He formed us from dust and breathed life into us and knows that we are like the grass that withers away. In His infinite love he claimed us as his own beloved children. He looked past our flaws, our stumblings, past the darkness of our fleshly hearts to the cross where His precious Son hung to pay the price. And through the grace of the cross we have liberty. We are redeemed. When God looks at us he sees Christ in us. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: cyan; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>"In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."</b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: cyan; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>John 4:10-11</b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: cyan; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">God loves us! We have become accustomed to hearing this and it has become common to us. It no longer penetrates our hearts. John Piper in his message <i>Who Shall Separate Us from the Love of Christ</i> says, "</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #231f20; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">We must be wonderstruck that the love of Christ holds us. That he holds us firmly in the grip of his love. The profound wonder—that Christ, the Son of God loves us—must grip us and hold us and fill our minds." He goes on to say that we should remind ourselves of His love throughout the day, as we begin the day, mid- morning, noon, mid-afternoon, supper time, and then again at bedtime. We should never let this leave our minds. It keeps us in right perspective of our place in Christ. The work He has done so we may have access to the throne of God, to be wonderstruck with his love. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #231f20; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #231f20;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">Christ sacrificed his life for us, when we did not deserve it, and we can enjoy the benefits of it. He did this from the depth of his love for us. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #231f20;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: cyan; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>"No one takes my life from me; I lay it down of my own accord" (<a class="lbsBibleRef" data-reference="John 10.18" data-version="esv" href="http://biblia.com/bible/esv/John%2010.18" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">John 10:18</span></a>).</b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #231f20; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">This is the greatest love we will ever experience. It is through His love that we can then love others. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #231f20; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #231f20; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">This February as we celebrate love I will be doing a small series on love. Hope you can make it back for part 2.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #231f20;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">Next: Loving Christ</span></span></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-34277002618449862492013-01-30T10:25:00.001-05:002013-01-30T10:30:41.266-05:00Taking the TimeCan we truly find the time to do it all? What exactly does "all" include? What are my priorities?<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My word for the year is<b style="color: red;"> Intention</b>. I posted about it<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/2013/01/although-we-are-well-into-this-new-year.html"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">here</span></a>. What will this mean for me?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>I need to start my day right. My day should begin with a devotional time. First, I need to feed my soul, set my mind and heart on Christ, and then move forward with the rest of the day. This is key for establishing a right heart attitude that I can carry through the rest of my day. If my eyes and heart are set on Christ, I can handle whatever may come my way that day.</li>
<li>Set a plan for the day. I want to start each day with a guideline of what I would like to accomplish. I just need to remind myself that it is only a guideline, not set in stone, and allow for changes if needed throughout the day. I don't want to pass out on an opportunity to grow or nurture someone who may need me because of a schedule. I want to find time to create, to garden, to drink in the small moments that are meaningful and so often passed over.</li>
<li>No matter what my plans I have to accept that they will not always go the way I want them to. There are times when I have everything played out in my head ahead of time. I know exactly how things should go, down to the last detail. But there always tends to be a curveball in there somewhere and my best laid out plans will go awry. I want to accept this and make the most of whatever opportunity I am faced with. Not letting wrong emotions take over. This is certainly a struggle for me.</li>
<li>Not compare myself to others. I often feel like a failure because I can't do something like so and so blogger, and I don't have a perfect home like so and so. I can actually sit at my computer at times and sink deeper and deeper into despair because of my inadequacies. I need to be true to who I am in Christ. Finding myself in him and not by comparing myself with others constantly. I can never be anyone else, I cannot walk in their shoes, or understand their struggles, and no matter how beautiful things may look on their blogs, they are real people, with real everyday struggles and challenges. I can no longer believe the lie that anyone does it all. None of us can and if we try we will surely end up miserable and making those around us unhappy.</li>
</ol>
<div>
<a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/2013/01/time-on-purpose-a-link-up/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Edie</span></a> is hosting a link party:<b> Life. On Purpose</b>. Don't miss it. So many wonderful bloggers sharing their ideas.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5MUCzqau-6oHEtqQZl-994IEjA795i_Oh0OBiTkKPLLme5JyU1g8vx4X0Wnsx9-uYmRTWEEHZVyCfu5hzr3HW4QP_W-NxBb7Jwf76A5UIq0UaziRYuyGGr6_l-Y92QHj8N-Z_6DvmTs8/s1600/Life+In+Grace+button.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn5MUCzqau-6oHEtqQZl-994IEjA795i_Oh0OBiTkKPLLme5JyU1g8vx4X0Wnsx9-uYmRTWEEHZVyCfu5hzr3HW4QP_W-NxBb7Jwf76A5UIq0UaziRYuyGGr6_l-Y92QHj8N-Z_6DvmTs8/s320/Life+In+Grace+button.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I realize that I won't be able to:</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Have a perfect house, everyday, but I want to be thankful for the home God has blessed us with.</li>
<li>I won't cook every meal from scratch but I will try to prepare healthier meals for my family.</li>
<li>I can't sew all our window treatments. I bought the fabric longer ago than I care to remember. I've washed it with plans to get started and it's been sitting in the laundry basket ever since.</li>
<li>Thrift shop and refinish all of our furniture. I have a secretary I purchased almost two years ago waiting to be refinished.</li>
<li>Use every book I've ever seen and loved for homeschooling. After all there are only 2 1/2 years left homeschooling our son and he's off to college. He is interested in art, mainly comic book/graphic novel art. I need to focus on what he needs for acceptance into a great art school and not what I want at this time. By the way, any tips on this? It is so out of my league.</li>
<li>Bake my own bread from scratch. Of course in my eyes, this would mean grinding my own wheat, which means I would have to purchase a grain mill and a new mixer because mine just isn't powerful enough. And it goes the way of "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie." I do bake my own bread occasionally, with store bought flour, and sometimes it's even white flour. GASP! But I'm keeping it real.</li>
<li>Create amazing art everyday,in one form or another. I want to incorporate this more into my days. My craft studio is busting at the seams with all the supplies. Now to be intentional in setting aside the time to put this into action.</li>
<li>Read Classical books. I love reading, the printed word, stories from other times, becoming involved in the lives of the characters as you journey with them through joys and sorrows. But I won't enjoy all the classics. Some will challenge me and cause me to put them down and never want to return to them. </li>
</ul>
<div>
Time will always be a challenge. We never seem to have enough. I want to take each day as a gift from God, embrace all He has for me. Know that I will fail. There will be things left undone and even dreams I may not achieve but He is gracious and will redeem our messes, heal our broken hearts, and place new dreams within us. And in Him all things are possible.</div>
</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-80084431362585611372013-01-29T16:35:00.000-05:002013-01-29T16:35:12.248-05:00Menu Planning & Time ManagementJanuary is the month for hunkering down and getting things in order. It's the start of a new year and with it hopes and dreams. A clean slate, a time to focus on our dreams and hopes for this upcoming year.<br />
<br />
This is the month for organizing, planning, and laying out our plans. <br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">Commit to the Lord whatever you do, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">and he will establish your plans. Proverbs 16:3</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span>
This year I want to focus on time management and one of the biggest time thieves is not having a plan. I can plan almost anything but my nemesis has always been meal planning. This year I want to be more <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">intentional </span>about meal planning.<br />
<br />
Edie, who is a rock star and a mentor to so many of us in blog land, has given us one of the<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> <a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/2013/01/long-range-meal-planning-conclusion/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">best meal planning</span></a></span> tools ever. The best part is that it is so easy once you get started. This has been available to us all along. Google calendars will be your favorite tool in implementing a meal plan. Edie has posted a tutorial on her blog. <br />
<br />
You'll find that you love it once you get started. My favorite piece is the fact that you can add the recipe to the calendar. Everything in one place makes it easier when supper time comes around.<br />
<br />
Second favorite~you can repeat the meals. Once you input your meal you can edit and choose how frequently you would like the recipe to repeat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8JX2ld9WV1uGclZp4bKEAaOI4fPdPlO8kVKJ-rXTUF13-wtGsudsFAJVtbT2oEahxo8ifaFZxb6-zzVYpPoRMsME2RiTO6uKDD-JnwTb1758PKzfCFv0-kK6EMtPXvwDx2G_zr4tE8HB/s1600/Meal+plan.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8JX2ld9WV1uGclZp4bKEAaOI4fPdPlO8kVKJ-rXTUF13-wtGsudsFAJVtbT2oEahxo8ifaFZxb6-zzVYpPoRMsME2RiTO6uKDD-JnwTb1758PKzfCFv0-kK6EMtPXvwDx2G_zr4tE8HB/s320/Meal+plan.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I have started on my menu and it is far from being complete but it is a start. I have never had a menu plan that I stayed with. I would start it but, usually within a month, I would stop. The beauty of this is that once you have your favorite recipes in and you choose how often to repeat them, soon enough you will have a year's worth of meal plans. <br />
<br />
While I was working on my menu plan I decided to go through my many recipe pins and bookmarks. I spaced these new recipes through out the month. Once I've tried them if they are keeper I will go back and edit it to repeat. I will adjust the frequency according to how much we liked it.<br />
<br />
Having a plan in place is such a help. No more wondering what's for dinner at the last minute. Rushing to thaw something and being disappointed in yourself.<br />
<br />
Thank you sweet Edie for sharing this nugget of wisdom with those of us who have failed miserably with menu planning.<br />
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-30569932170906513172013-01-24T13:51:00.000-05:002013-01-24T14:02:17.091-05:00Upcycled Frame Tray & a Giveaway<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/2013/01/edies-book-is-here.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Yesterday</span></a> I posted about<a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Edie's</span></a> fabulous e-book, <a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/31-days/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">31 Days to a Heart of Hospitality</span></a>. Well, sweet Edie has offered one of her e-books for a giveaway. If you would like a chance to win a copy of her book, go on over to her blog and read through some of her posts. Then come back here and leave a comment telling me your favorite post. The contest will be open until Tuesday, January 29. Don't blame me if you can't tear yourself away from her spectacular blog. It will draw you in and keep you there.<br />
<br />
Now onto my latest project. While moving things from the basement to my<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/2013/01/craft-studio-organization.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> new craft studio</span></a> </span>I found this frame that I purchased at Salvation Army a long time ago.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2006.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The price was right and I loved the shape.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2008.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I decided it was long overdue for a new life. I started by peeling off the backing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2009.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was glued on pretty well but it came off without too much trouble.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2011.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then I proceeded to remove the picture and cardboard backing. I wanted to save the cardboard for what I was going to do. I had to removed these staples carefully so as not to rip it to shreds.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2013.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It needed a good cleaning. It sat in the basement for far too long and it was dirty. I washed it down with TSP. I removed the glass and gave that a good washing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2017.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once it was dry I gave it a couple of coats of paint and primer in one. I used Behr in Swiss Coffee (I think that's the correct color). I had it on hand from my<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/2011/03/hutch-transformation.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> hutch redo</span></a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2042.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I watered the paint down a bit so it wouldn't give a full coverage. I like the original color showing through in spots.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2043.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2045.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had this burlap left over from my<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/2012/02/burlap-mailbox.html" style="color: red;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">mailbox project</span></a>. I had purchased two yards originally because I loved it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2046.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I cut a piece of the burlap to fit and wrapped it around the original cardboard insert.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2047.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I inserted it in the frame and pulled it tight. Then glued down the edges.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2049.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To cover up the messy back I cut a piece of brown craft paper to the size of the frame</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2050.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and hot glued it all around.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2052.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here it is all finished. I am using it as a try. I think I may add some handles to it. Not sure. What do you think? Handles or no handles?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2054.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think I will head to Hobby Lobby because they have so many gorgeous handles, and see if there is anything that catches my eye.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2055.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This transformation is perfect and I am loving it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2056.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I added some hydrangeas and a candle to the tray</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBIyxN6ZAscbEIWwrAPF_qSLMoZJ1UQVnKxUCyBRCoNLrJf_00XvGbf77PU_O9BL61iaWPSCpywR6U9GaNdh1F-qdlqEiVFCwfYsaAYi8QLWJ9KIQ_nhfplfC2k-UUm4py0cprYXqaG9mU/s1600/IMG_2058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBIyxN6ZAscbEIWwrAPF_qSLMoZJ1UQVnKxUCyBRCoNLrJf_00XvGbf77PU_O9BL61iaWPSCpywR6U9GaNdh1F-qdlqEiVFCwfYsaAYi8QLWJ9KIQ_nhfplfC2k-UUm4py0cprYXqaG9mU/s320/IMG_2058.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and it sits on my hope chest. This hope chest came from Portugal and belonged to my grandmother. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2059.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am thinking of painting it. I am a bit torn about it but think it would look fabulous with a new color. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Should I do it? If so, what color?????</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Help me figure this out!!! I am a bit torn about painting an heirloom but not happy with the current finish.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Don't forget to spread the word about the giveaway above.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm linking to <a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">these great parties</span></a>. Come on over and join us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-26111227112672512732013-01-23T16:17:00.001-05:002013-01-25T10:12:38.117-05:00Edie's Book is HereI think that just about every blogger in this blogosphere knows<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> <a href="http://lifeingraceblog.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">Edie from Life in Grace</span></a></span>. If you don't~then don't delay~ You must hop over to her blog and check it out. Just don't plan to do anything else for the next 6 hours because you will not be able to leave. Through her amazing blog Edie's genuine heart shines through. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You will not be able to tear yourself away.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Edie bakes her own bread, decorates with flair, cooks the most amazing recipes from scratch, homeschools her daughters, reads classical literature that will make you grit your teeth, and she shares her heart. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/31-days/"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0J_dUCngZA-z1rfC3RqjISIJpdhE83Qx2i-tV9BzIJ-eKIUl6yDC1YngQcSRI_7aaDrHqgNvtAEQiiEHcryILgeRGd6Wr5_Cus_3CQqUSHECXoet5kzKT382wNHl3FBlrdEYOQ9alKqAz/s640/hospitalityebookcover1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">click on the above picture to buy Edie's book</span><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
I stumbled on Edie's blog in early 2009. I just couldn't get enough. I spent hours reading and rereading her posts. She had me hook, line, and sinker from the very start.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Her southern hospitality and grace shine through in her writing. She's witty, funny, beautiful, intelligent.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
She painted a striped bathroom, chase chickens, and pluck weeds all while wearing True Religion jeans and sporting a Mac smokey eye. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But above all this, she genuinely has a heart that reflects the love of Christ. She shares her struggles, and her days are not perfect. This is what draws me in more and more.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A couple of years ago, Edie lost her house in a house fire. She lost everything except her dear family. Through her blog we all journeyed through the rebuilding project with Edie. She was not only rebuilding a house but a home for her family and in this difficult time God brought beauty from ashes in their lives.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
She has now written an ebook to share with us tips on how to love our dear ones more, how to make time in our lives for what truly matters, and how to open our hearts and homes to those who need God's love here in this fallen world. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope you take the time to go meet Edie if you are not familiar with her yet. You will not be disappointed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-86911934127241479492013-01-22T15:53:00.000-05:002013-01-24T13:54:35.183-05:00Valentine Wreath<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once I saw the marvelous yarn wreath from Anthropologie at Christmas I knew I wanted to give it a try. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Although many bloggers gave this a try at Christmas time I had already made my<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/2012/12/winter-tulle-wreath-gift.html"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">tulle wreath</span></a> and had so many other projects to complete at that time. But this wreath was always in the back of my mind and I couldn't wait to make one.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I started by making a bagful of pompoms. These were made with yarn that my mom had given me so there wasn't any cost here.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_1998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_1998.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I purchased a wreath at the Dollar Tree. Once the pompoms were completed I began hot glueing them around the wreath.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2002.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The completed wreath. I decided to make the bottom a bit fuller than the top. Not sure if I really like it this way. I may change it but for now this is how it turned out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2019.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The great thing about this wreath is the versatility. I embellish it in many different ways for the seasons. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here I added a snowflake I bought on clearance after Christmas for fifty cents.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This would look great hanging with a silver ribbon.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2020.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Or you can add a star. I already had this in my stash. Again it would be perfect paired with a silver ribbon.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2021.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I decided to go with a Valentine theme for now since it is right around the corner. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This chalkboard heart was in my stash. I painted the edges red and use a paint pen to write Happy Valentine.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2018.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was small in scale compared to the wreath so I decided to add crepe paper around the edge.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2022.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I simply gathered it and hot glued it to the back of the heart.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2023.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To give a bit more pop I glittered the edge of the crepe paper.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2030.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Can't go wrong with a little glitter.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2035.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2036.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A red sheer ribbon from my<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/2013/01/craft-studio-organization.html"> ribbon stash</a> </span>was added.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2024.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To make the wreath even easier to change for different seasons or holidays, I simply looped the heart through the ribbon before I tied it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/IMG_2038.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Decided the bow looked better near the wreath instead of the wreath hanger.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here it is hanging on our door.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3DMnWQOgHCmGA7K25oia98DIq3Jc4FAlQZPScu8iibOK7rqZTx1lM47a4w2TppjAh67nGs1CQA9pTYdTyBjsI8FCKPDA2tuxZEXg0JRhJtldgOEMH_7tkIaGEha3aXhgts8IuMAUnBrU/s1600/IMG_2040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3DMnWQOgHCmGA7K25oia98DIq3Jc4FAlQZPScu8iibOK7rqZTx1lM47a4w2TppjAh67nGs1CQA9pTYdTyBjsI8FCKPDA2tuxZEXg0JRhJtldgOEMH_7tkIaGEha3aXhgts8IuMAUnBrU/s400/IMG_2040.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The wreath is so simple and fun. The ribbon and embellishment can easily be changed for any season. For Spring or Easter you could add a bunny or egg to embellish with a springy ribbon. A shamrock for St. Patrick's Day. I hope you try making one. I would love to know if you do. I had most of the supplies. I only purchased the wreath form and snowflake. The total cost was $1.50. The only thing better would be free.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'll be linking up to<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> <a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">these great parties</span></a>.</span></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-11856665241520256862013-01-16T14:53:00.001-05:002013-01-22T16:01:46.074-05:00Word for the Year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Although we are well into this new year and the month of January, I wanted to share with you my word for the year. I am a bit behind due to the flu but quickly catching up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjAFE5slon6xBB2r8EW132_VYwm0_rV_JZqPc4jtX3643AEeiL2jvafYooe2fTazAhXVNjePNUAi58TLfUvA1DA7RptIlN8FUWF_W2cnVrx56rELvKokf8HUSj67ONT9wsQ7p0XipH8GA7/s1600/Intention+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjAFE5slon6xBB2r8EW132_VYwm0_rV_JZqPc4jtX3643AEeiL2jvafYooe2fTazAhXVNjePNUAi58TLfUvA1DA7RptIlN8FUWF_W2cnVrx56rELvKokf8HUSj67ONT9wsQ7p0XipH8GA7/s640/Intention+.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
My goal and purpose for this year is to live my life day by day intentionally. Too often I pass my days away just doing but not being intentional about what I am doing. Imagine the difference I can make in our home if i do even the most mundane tasks with a purpose, with honorable intentions. <br />
<br />
I love these definitions from Webster's 1828 dictionary:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;">INTEN'TION, n. [L. intentio. See Intend.]</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;">1. Primarily, a stretching or bending of the mind towards an object; hence, uncommon exertion of the intellectual faculties; closeness of application; fixedness of attention; earnestness. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><b style="color: red; font-style: italic;">Intention is when the mind, with great earnestness and of choice, fixes its view on any idea, considers it on every side, and will not be called off by the ordinary solicitation of other ideas.</b> (emphasis mine)</span><br />
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></span>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;">This says it all. I will fix my view on being a blessing to others, finding joy in the moment, doing the daily tasks of housework with a heart of joy and thanksgiving for the blessings that God has given me. Keeping my attention fixed on what is important.</span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="22" cellspacing="0" class="mainbk" style="background-color: #b9e3ff; color: #001320; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr valign="top"><td class="bluebk3" style="background-color: #fffefd; background-repeat: no-repeat repeat;" width="98%"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="btext" colspan="2" height="20" style="color: #001320; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none;">Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;">2. Design; purpose; the fixed direction of the mind to a particular object, or a determination to act in a particular manner.</span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;">A determination to act in a particular manner~what could this mean in day to day living? That no matter what happens, little or big things, stresses and unwanted surprises, I will determine to act in a manner that is pleasing to God. I will allow the leading of the Holy Spirit in me to guide my every action, thought, and words. </span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;">I am praying that this year is a year of restoration and blessing for our family. A year of God's promises being fulfilled. </span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;">I will be linking up<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"> here</a>.</span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 10px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 10px; font-family: trebuchet, helvetica, impact, sans-serif; line-height: 24px;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-14038167720058825162013-01-14T14:38:00.000-05:002013-01-14T14:38:03.936-05:00Craft Studio Organization<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This room was originally our daughter's room but since she has moved onto the real world and college we decided it would become my craft studio.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihicWlyThP76m55bLl1qWfJ_x3vXQmVKC72zkepUmHZ30F8nvKjo4GqiVFJw7zIJwr6Nk0T53XUsChkGri4wtBGxioF3pWIdb78DjfcPBQei3fI1PoZ0IzNAUakWjNXMPZjXNQWR6Hj3dY/s1600/new%252Bcurtains.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihicWlyThP76m55bLl1qWfJ_x3vXQmVKC72zkepUmHZ30F8nvKjo4GqiVFJw7zIJwr6Nk0T53XUsChkGri4wtBGxioF3pWIdb78DjfcPBQei3fI1PoZ0IzNAUakWjNXMPZjXNQWR6Hj3dY/s400/new%252Bcurtains.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was the space before in these pictures.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_K41L46avdWdDZafP95ULFpAh48Esbf9ocs-ocodTgOh7vOOHQrvx9H6oaxmfJ_MFp8DpGjNR6Y08-9DK8TNdsCYT-enEA9HvC30bfkWkrFJQfjf-5hMN0T4faOeofUmkeq5uBSqV6LH6/s1600/new%252Bdesk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_K41L46avdWdDZafP95ULFpAh48Esbf9ocs-ocodTgOh7vOOHQrvx9H6oaxmfJ_MFp8DpGjNR6Y08-9DK8TNdsCYT-enEA9HvC30bfkWkrFJQfjf-5hMN0T4faOeofUmkeq5uBSqV6LH6/s400/new%252Bdesk.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I moved all of my craft supplies from the basement into this room. I started this in December and it is still a work in progress but it is getting there. I have so many inspiration photos on my Pinterest boards.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Before:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is my ribbon drawer. I have wrapped most of my ribbon around cardboard pieces to eliminate the bulky spools they are on. Now this drawer needed to be neatened and organized. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/ribbons1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/ribbons1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the after:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I still have some very fine ribbons on their original spools under the cardboard. This method saves quite a bit of space. Much better.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/ribbons2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/ribbons2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is a little cabinet that is a bit beat up but still loved. I use it to store my yarn and papers. I use many different containers on top to hold more supplies.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/yarncabinet-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/yarncabinet-1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These sweet little porcelain buckets were on clearance a while back at Christmas Tree Shops for fifty cents. Now they hold my brushes, pens, paint pens and markers on my desk.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/desk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/desk.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This container was from a Bath & Body Works gift set. It has an interesting shape and I like the pattern on it. I use it to hold bits and pieces of this and that while I work on a project. This keeps the desk surface clear. The small draw organizers are great to store paper punches, stickers, and many forms of ephemera.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/desk2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/desk2.jpg" width="532" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This cabinet was in the basement but I brought it up to this room because it is a great storage piece. It is a bit on the plain and uninteresting side so I want to pretty it up somehow. I am currently looking for inspiration and ideas. Please share any you have.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/cabinet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/cabinet.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I used the small closet space to hold fabrics. I hung them on the rod with skirt/pant hangers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Underneath it is a three drawer cabinet to hold more supplies.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/fabric.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/fabric.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This room is far from being finished. I will continue to work on organizing but I also want to use the time to create pretty things. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am linking to the<a href="http://www.craftyscrappyhappy.net/"> Dog Days of Winter "Organize It" Party.</a> Hope you can join.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-7435562839040241192013-01-11T13:58:00.003-05:002013-01-11T14:22:04.089-05:00Neglected Spaces<div style="text-align: center;">
Shortly after Christmas I came down with the flu. I had not had the flu for about 14 years and completely forgot how horrible it really is. It took me out of commission for quite a few days, and even when you start to feel better it leaves you feeling so weak. It had taken some time to completely recuperate and start back with a schooling schedule. Things are returning back to normal pretty much and I have missed blogging. There were posts I want to complete for the New Year but they were completely forgotten about. My only goal was to not feel so weak.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This post is about some slightly neglected areas of our home that finally received a dose of tlc. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The first is in our bedroom. I do have further plans for this room but that will be in a future post.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For now, I replaced my awful, on sale Target nightstand with a sweet little find.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well hubby and I were on a date at this<a href="http://wickfordvillage.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> little village</span></a> not far from us we found this little treasure. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I need to get some baskets for the shelf to better organize it. It is on the to do list.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/nightstand.jpg" width="245" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We picked it right up. I love the shape and finish on this piece. The distressing is perfect and the price was almost too fabulous to believe.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=nightstand2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="277" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/nightstand2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=nightstand3.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="236" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/nightstand3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love the shape of the legs. The shelf is already full of books on my must read list.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=nightstand4.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/nightstand4.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This area at the top of our steps was the second neglected spot. It is the second floor landing of our home. Not sure what happened to the picture. The armoire does not have that color distortion in real life.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Hallway1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Hallway1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There was only one lonely chair there and I knew it needed something else.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Hallway2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Hallway2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My mom found and picked up this sweet little table at Home Goods. I love it and how much better this space looks now.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Hallway3.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Hallway3.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am much happier with this space. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=hallway5.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/hallway5.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I need to add some art work to the bare walls and then it will be perfect. The yellow is hubby's color choice. I would have loved something a little more neutral but he likes it. The picture below is the true color. Up top is a bit too bright. Not sure what happened with these pictures.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=hallway6.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/hallway6.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Next post will be my 2013 goals for our home. Better late than never.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I will be linking up to these <a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">great parties</span></a>.</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-89043587070188236272012-12-22T14:03:00.001-05:002012-12-22T14:06:32.813-05:00Last Minute Projects & a ChristmasTourIt's been busy, busy here and no matter how often I have wanted to post I've always run out of time. But I am finally here with a few last minute touches and projects.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I started my first project with a wooden stocking shape my hubby had cut out.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00545.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00545.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I have a book of vintage sheet music that is falling apart.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00544.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00544.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So I removed some pages and Mod Podged them onto the stocking.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00547.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00547.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then I embellished it with some lace, chip board letters, and a book page rosette.<br />
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00573.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00573.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I also embellished some wooden snowflakes to add to packages for hubby's coworkers.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00560.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00560.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00559.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00559.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00562.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="DSC00562" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00562.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
Now for the Christmas house tour.<br />
<br />
Our tree</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAKcoj5nyJ4okzUuNc9LNmQI_ERgYgbiOqnq2XDV6nIRSF7nsU3kjDAIbGMFTAvPEMloWDGs7xfk_I_R0uj0ENxHT47caHxinyzb8MhAeOFO7MJnAM22wO43oqHXhHOdqak009tAdMCW7/s1600/DSC00514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAKcoj5nyJ4okzUuNc9LNmQI_ERgYgbiOqnq2XDV6nIRSF7nsU3kjDAIbGMFTAvPEMloWDGs7xfk_I_R0uj0ENxHT47caHxinyzb8MhAeOFO7MJnAM22wO43oqHXhHOdqak009tAdMCW7/s400/DSC00514.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
On the coffee table</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=coffeetable.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/coffeetable.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
A swag I embellished</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=shelf.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="209" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/shelf.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our hutch</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00572.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00572.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A little Christmas cheer in the kitchen</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00574.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00574.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My mini tree with vintage ornaments in our little sitting area at the top of our stairs.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00571.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00571.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I hope you enjoyed the tour. Wishing all of you and your families a very Merry Christmas filled with peace, love and joy!!<br />
<br />
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-51470238536160219092012-12-13T14:13:00.001-05:002012-12-14T10:10:06.780-05:00Better Than New Stockings<br />
For the last couple of years I have wanted new stockings. Our old ones were almost twenty years old, grungy, and I was tired of looking at them. I have looked for stockings before and after Christmas while they were on sale but there weren't many I liked, or we just didn't agree on what we wanted. So we kept using what we had. I had thought of sewing burlap stockings but then I wasn't sure of sewing burlap. I was afraid the fuzz would clog by machine. I did contemplate glue but our wood stove is always running and i was afraid they would come apart with the weight of the goodies that would fill them. Besides, hubby is not a big fan of burlap. So I kept thinking and waiting and wondering what I should do. I found some stockings I liked but they were almost $30 each and I knew I would never spend that. <br />
Well, while looking through Pinterest I found<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/211317407487235773/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> these</span></a>, from<a href="http://cottageinstincts.blogspot.com/2010/11/glitterfied-christmas-mantel.html"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">this great blog</span></a>. They are burlap but I thought I could use a different fabric I already had in my stash. They only trouble was there wasn't a pattern or tutorial for them. I would have to try this all on my own. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here is the mantel before with the old stockings. Once again, instead of artwork or a lovely mirror a giant tv sits a top my mantel. But I try to make the best of it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Fireplacebefore.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Fireplacebefore.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Using the old stockings as templates I cut out shapes from <a href="http://www.joann.com/unbleached-osnaburg-45-wide-25-yards-natural/prd15046/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">osnaburg</span></a> fabric which I purchased on clearance when Walmart was clearing out all of their fabric (which I can't understand because they brought it all back). I also cut some muslin for the top of the stockings. Then I went to the sewing machine and sewed them together. They are far from perfect and there are a few changes I would make if I tried it again but I am happy with them.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Fireplaceafter1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="376" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Fireplaceafter1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To me this small change has made a dramatic difference in the look of the fireplace. It makes me happy each time I walk by. For the boys' stockings I sewed a straight ribbon around the bottom of the muslin and for the girls I ruffled it just a little.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Fireplaceafter2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Fireplaceafter2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then dear hubby found these initials at Walmart. I was thrilled that they had them all. We almost couldn't find a V, but he finally found one. I simply attached them to the loops of the stocking with the hooks in their packages.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Fireplaceafter3.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Fireplaceafter3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not bad for someone who has never sewn anything without a pattern. Now just don't peek inside my raw edges are a bit scary and the seams may not even be straight but they look pretty. I don't think my family will care what my raw edges look like once I fill them with goodies.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00542.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00542.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
So glad I finally just did it. The difference is amazing. In keeping with my stash busting, the only thing I purchased were the initials. Everything else I already had here. I am quite thrilled to create something so beautiful without spending much. Thrilled to have found that fabric on clearance and swooping it up for less then 50% of the original price. <br />
<br />
Linking to<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"> these great parties</a>.Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-68549449860998393232012-12-06T11:37:00.004-05:002012-12-06T11:38:20.014-05:00Winter Tulle Wreath & a Gift<div style="text-align: center;">
My craft stash is quite large and currently I am trying to clean out, organize, and use of as many supplies as I can before buying more. This is never easy. There are so many great supplies calling my name. To help with this, I have not been to Joann's, Michaels, or Hobby Lobby in weeks. But I did want a new wreath for our door. I wanted one that could stay up through the winter. Searching through my stash I found tons of white, sheer ribbon and tulle. I did not have a wreath form so I improvised with cardboard. Using a plate and bowl I cut out two circles of cardboard and the inside circles. Then I glued them together for stability. Then I cut all the tulle and ribbon to fairly even lengths. Then I began wrapping them around the form and tying them all around. I wanted the wreath to be very full and fluffy so I pushed each piece tightly together.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here is the form filled with the tulle and ribbon. Now the embellishment possibilities are endless. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=WinterWreath1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/WinterWreath1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Because I was working with what I already had, I was limited in my embellishments. These snowflakes were already in my stash so I hot glued them around the center of the wreath. I really wish I had more blue to add to the wreath. For now they are glued lightly and I can alter it whenever I find something I like more.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=WinterWreath2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/WinterWreath2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here is the wreath on our door. I am quite pleased with it. The best part was that everything was on hand. The ribbon and tulle had been in my stash for a veeerrrryyy lllooonnnggg time and it makes me happy to see it put to good use.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=WinterWreath3.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/WinterWreath3.jpg" width="323" /></a></div>
My next project was another Pinterest favorite. It is originally found<a href="http://ashleyannphotography.com/blog/2009/11/21/diy-doily-canvas-bag/"> here</a>. When I tried this, I could not find the original pin and I was in a bit of a hurry so I winged it. I had the basic idea in my head from seeing it previously. First, I started with the paper doily and followed her directions for that part. The next part is what I tried on my own. I printed up a large E and cut it out. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then using a fine point Sharpie marker</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=bag2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/bag2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I traced the letter</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=bag1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/bag1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here it is missing a few lines but that's ok.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=bag3.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/bag3.jpg" width="331" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then I filled it in with paint and ironed the bag to make it washer safe (at least I hope so). I sent this off as a gift to a friend and I hope she loves it. She loves monograms and I do believe I saw this her on to do list one day. I hope I beat her to it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=bag4.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="314" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/bag4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There are so many projects started and others still swirling around my head. Hopefully, I can finish them and post them soon.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfC1l06MzrrHfLhxtqC2_MYT722xsgIxsLPungteMEdIOqNX6FleAKmmjPe5FoHpEgC56Y9LcT9wNX3VmjE136lrDWWKPJs06hSnqRgvKqv5Yp7j_8FrZlHXSQrK4mCmScQxG1nH7Tv2P/s1600/Project+Collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfC1l06MzrrHfLhxtqC2_MYT722xsgIxsLPungteMEdIOqNX6FleAKmmjPe5FoHpEgC56Y9LcT9wNX3VmjE136lrDWWKPJs06hSnqRgvKqv5Yp7j_8FrZlHXSQrK4mCmScQxG1nH7Tv2P/s400/Project+Collage2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I will be linking up to the fabulous parties<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"> here</a>.</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-29971038583345501312012-11-29T14:08:00.001-05:002012-11-29T14:08:16.390-05:00Simple Felt Ruffle Tree Skirt<br />
It is hard to believe that Thanksgiving has already past and we are now well into this Christmas season. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and a lot of great food. I was so busy that I did not even take one picture. What kind of blogger am I?? My son did snap a quick picture right before we sat down to eat. I loved how pretty everything looked and really wished I had remembered to snap one. I hope everyone had as wonderful a day as we did.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaLjxN2nelaKbGtjY12ydXzPiWwc_YeYUQB39yjOXD7jiIFueB14BBf6CiAZWATUH-kFI2ABag_AjHvPDQ3IhnLT9BuCMi1JrNht4cTh_KGquVlVr_n4TPbTwBg5J2sQn-m-2dwxREUfcJ/s1600/Thanksgiving+Table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaLjxN2nelaKbGtjY12ydXzPiWwc_YeYUQB39yjOXD7jiIFueB14BBf6CiAZWATUH-kFI2ABag_AjHvPDQ3IhnLT9BuCMi1JrNht4cTh_KGquVlVr_n4TPbTwBg5J2sQn-m-2dwxREUfcJ/s640/Thanksgiving+Table.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
Right before Thanksgiving I began working on a tree skirt. Ours had seen better days. I saw many I liked but the prices were high. So I decided to give it a try. I had all the supplies here at home.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I started with a yard of felt. Folded it in fourths and then following <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/269566/felt-tree-skirt">Martha Stewart's tutorial </a>I cut the skirt out.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00499.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00499.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Once the skirt was cut out I cut 4 inch strips from the felt to add as a ruffle around the cut edge.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00501.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00501.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I gathered and hot glue all the way around.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00502.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00502.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
For a little added something I hot glued a silver ribbon over the ruffle.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00503.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00503.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Be warned~when working with hot glue and felt this is what your fingers will look like, making it very difficult to take pictures.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00504.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00504.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Once that was completed I cut out multiple leaf pattern from gray felt, then glued them at the inside edge of the silver ribbon and ruffle.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00505.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00505.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then I chose some silver glitter paint and </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00523.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00523.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
a snowflake stencil</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00522.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00522.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
and added some sparkly snowflakes to the tree skirt.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00521.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00521.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am so happy with how it turned out. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=treeskirt2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="270" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/treeskirt2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Although a bit time consuming it is quite an easy tree skirt. I love the felt, so easy to work with and it created a soft backdrop for the glittery snowflakes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=treeskirt3.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="300" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/treeskirt3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The completed skirt</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4KXsneKZSl3PJTmwgkojv3keTsc3iJyDqd0Zfuy1GHWQtx9cTIvxUmny2Cfwx_u7_v8W7t6Zb3H7QjP1HsiV2xJh5xGXro4PwCNe3vA4SixWTqtY6GLLDPNmWfykNhk4TytSCsjLEBka/s1600/tree+skirt+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4KXsneKZSl3PJTmwgkojv3keTsc3iJyDqd0Zfuy1GHWQtx9cTIvxUmny2Cfwx_u7_v8W7t6Zb3H7QjP1HsiV2xJh5xGXro4PwCNe3vA4SixWTqtY6GLLDPNmWfykNhk4TytSCsjLEBka/s400/tree+skirt+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
and under the tree.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=treeskirt4.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="400" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/treeskirt4.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
There are so many projects I want to do before Christmas. I think I may not sleep from now until then. <br />
<br />
Linking to<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"> these great parties</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-10328891295463874072012-11-16T13:17:00.002-05:002012-11-16T13:37:14.951-05:00Inspired Organization<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Inspired by <a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/2012/09/31-days-to-a-heart-of-hospitality-what-is-hospitality/">Edie's 31 Days to a Heart of Hospitality</a>, I decided it was time to make the best use of my kitchen space. We have a small, galley style kitchen and space is limited. Once I saw these posts from Edie <a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/2012/10/31-days-to-hospitalityday-18-the-well-stocked-pantry/">here</a>, <a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/2012/10/31-days-to-hospitalityday-19-the-beverage-bar/">here</a>, and<a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/2012/10/31-days-to-hospitalityday-22-how-to-set-up-a-baking-center/"> here</a>. Our kitchen has no where near the space of Edie's but I knew I needed to make better use of the space we have.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzb_J9DErUhWvgHS34sHFoqu8MSEIl7Aja2vmxxEY3N8XBHO8d_3AHXdA4J-EBptxN-hJWaYskH2YjUGiYciO0WCWBK1dqcUYp4kbVd9xauWMJej0hQ_7ytavYyKnTYUVr0dzAc5Y2USAJ/s1600/Oct-Dec+078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzb_J9DErUhWvgHS34sHFoqu8MSEIl7Aja2vmxxEY3N8XBHO8d_3AHXdA4J-EBptxN-hJWaYskH2YjUGiYciO0WCWBK1dqcUYp4kbVd9xauWMJej0hQ_7ytavYyKnTYUVr0dzAc5Y2USAJ/s640/Oct-Dec+078.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is the top part of our slide out pantry. These two shelves are very deep and do not pull out. Because they are up so high they tend to become very messy. I have wanted to reorganize them for a long time and finally was inspired to.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Baking-before.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="640" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Baking-before.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
From big mess to:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Baking-before2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="640" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Baking-before2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
order. I used some small baskets and glass jars to hold pasta, cupcake liners, decorative sugars, and extracts. Unfortunately, you can't see all the way into the cabinet but it is all contained and organized. Now I just need a few more glass jars to put things in, then there won't be that awful bag of brown sugar sticking up in the back. I did use a lot of glass jars I already had. They mostly hold all the varieties of pasta.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Baking-after.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="640" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Baking-after.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This cabinet is above our coffee pot. It was a combo of so many things and in desperate need of help.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Drinks-before.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="640" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Drinks-before.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now this has become of beverage center. It is located above the coffee pot so it makes perfect sense. Too bad it took me so long to realize this.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=BeverageCenter.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="640" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/BeverageCenter.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The top shelf contains a basket that holds assorted cooking tools I don't use as often, it also houses all of our medicines. The next shelf contains our mugs, and the last one is for different beverages. The enamel canisters hold a variety of teas and the basket holds different ciders.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Beveragecabinet.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="640" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Beveragecabinet.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This cabinet is to the right of the beverage cabinet. It was so disorganized and made it difficult to find what I needed.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Seasoningsbefore.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="640" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Seasoningsbefore.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
Now it contains all of my cooking sauces, seasonings and spices. Directly below are my canisters which hold sugar, flour, and rice. Next is labels.<br />
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Cookingcabinet.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="640" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Cookingcabinet.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Seasoningsbefore.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><br /></a>These changes may not seem significant but have definitely been an improvement the chaotic disorganization in my cabinets before. I am thrilled with them.<br />
I am thankful for the new layout of my kitchen and the additional cabinets since we remodeled. This change has long been overdue and now I am making the best of use of the new space.<br />
This organization comes at the perfect time. I am hosting Thanksgiving and there will be a lot of holiday baking from now until the new year. <br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Linking to the great parties listed <a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-80240309329017694302012-11-09T12:29:00.000-05:002012-11-09T12:29:26.895-05:00Crochet Flower Embellishments<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Today I am guest posting at<a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/"> Life in Grace</a> for the <a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/2012/10/12-days-of-handmade-christmas-tutorials-2012/">12 Days of Christmas series</a>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I posted a tutorial for a basic crochet ear warmer/headband. The fun part about these is the embellishments. Most patterns suggest sewing the embellishment onto your ear warmer but I think pinning it on is better. There are so many possibilities, and you can change them out to fit your outfit or mood.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am sharing this easy pattern I found originally on<a href="http://www.favecrafts.com/"> Favecrafts</a> site.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<strong>Flower</strong><br />With smaller hook, ch 5; join with a slip st to form ring.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00416.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="640" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00416.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00419.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="334" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00419.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong>Round 1:</strong> Ch 5 (counts as dc and ch-2), [dc, ch 2] 5 times in ring; join to 3rd ch.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
Here I made two additional [dc, ch 2], because I wanted my flower a little larger.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00421.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="459" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00421.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00422.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="479" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00422.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<strong>Round 2:</strong> Ch 1, (sc, hdc, dc, tr, dc, hdc, sc) in each ch-2 space around – 6 petals.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These stitches are to create the petals of the flower. You begin and end with the smaller stitches. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00427.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="479" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00427.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once you have completed the petals (I have 7 petals because of my earlier increase) you will join them with a slip stitch to the first sc stitch.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00428.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="560" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00428.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<strong>Round 3:</strong> Holding Round 2 forward, * sc in dc from Round 1, ch 3; repeat from * around; join.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
This part is a bit tricky~You will be crocheting behind the first row of stitches you made. This will give the flower its depth.</div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
From behind you will insert the hook in the first dc stitch you made.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00430.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="622" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00430.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00431.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="571" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00431.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ch 3 and sc around the next dc from row 1. I tried to show this in the picture below. I am holding the petals of row 2 down and crocheting the stitches around the dcs from row 1. You will do this all around the flower and then join the last ch 3 to the first sc with a slip stitch.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00434.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="461" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00434.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong>Round 4:</strong> Ch 1, (sc, hdc, dc, 3 tr, dc, hdc, sc) in each ch-3 space around – 6 petals.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">In this row you will begin to crochet the new petals of the flower. You will crochet these stitches on the ch 3 stitches you just finished.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00436.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="410" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00436.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;"><strong>Round 5: </strong>Holding Round 4 forward, * sc in sc from Round 3, ch 4; repeat from * around; join. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">This row is completed in the same way that we did row 3.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00438.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="501" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00438.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00440.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="479" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00440.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00441.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="479" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00441.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00443.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="444" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00443.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 1.2em; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<strong>Round 6:</strong> Ch 1, (sc, hdc, dc, 5 tr, dc, hdc, sc) in each ch-4 space around – 6 petals. Fasten off.</div>
<div>
Complete this row in the same way we did row 4.</div>
<div>
This is the completed flower.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00444.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="525" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00444.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can see the different layers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=DSC00446.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="443" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/DSC00446.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When adding embellishments there are so many patterns, styles and colors you can choose from.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This flower pattern is from this<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Crochet-Bouquet-Designs-Dozens-Flowers/dp/1600591248/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1352481364&sr=8-3&keywords=crochet+flowers"> great book.</a> In a bright patterned pink yarn.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6fa2Quc0XMUkyuaGvB-HaqzdgSbxqddAIB8h41HjI5wQmpr7cq1O5JGOBsiTuVO6LWWb61Xg2Cau_9M2nxq0G0spQRlIudWBQp_4aHhiyewUfDgwKJE2rJHqz-LD67aZpIRCK5gEnxzS/s1600/IMG_0729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6fa2Quc0XMUkyuaGvB-HaqzdgSbxqddAIB8h41HjI5wQmpr7cq1O5JGOBsiTuVO6LWWb61Xg2Cau_9M2nxq0G0spQRlIudWBQp_4aHhiyewUfDgwKJE2rJHqz-LD67aZpIRCK5gEnxzS/s640/IMG_0729.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This rose is a very full rose created in one long strip and then gathered. I found this pattern on the Red Heart site when I crocheted the<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/2011/10/ruffle-profusion.html"> ruffle skirt</a> and<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/2011/11/rosette-headband.html"> rosette headband</a> for my niece.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5sPQv8Xr9HUu86N7MQlSdupiIRMF_LtCU6DuE6sI0j2WwJDfzjMFaAmm_5AGfc4D2_VQlqXbzxNwsMzMIamajsok5-P3uPgifSW7N66ESXf9eQUE_1L5I1Zzsx3Nj2OVDstOobx23lk4Q/s1600/IMG_0796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5sPQv8Xr9HUu86N7MQlSdupiIRMF_LtCU6DuE6sI0j2WwJDfzjMFaAmm_5AGfc4D2_VQlqXbzxNwsMzMIamajsok5-P3uPgifSW7N66ESXf9eQUE_1L5I1Zzsx3Nj2OVDstOobx23lk4Q/s640/IMG_0796.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This flower is from the same pattern as the pink one. I used a thinner yarn and less layers. This is on the <a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/2012/10/baby-on-way.html">baby hat </a>I made for my sister.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR97dw2t6ZLmWlCLncEK_SkrtIOm-NlWkMyBCt3EeNOrawkF8wUFpGbSrNr77-3mvlWupyw49Qt7De8UF8Zk6YTeTQLmg8vIc16J9zTDETZ36_rNLBC2_qhKYEZ6LoiGcTk5mmAYuIPHj7/s1600/IMG_1927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR97dw2t6ZLmWlCLncEK_SkrtIOm-NlWkMyBCt3EeNOrawkF8wUFpGbSrNr77-3mvlWupyw49Qt7De8UF8Zk6YTeTQLmg8vIc16J9zTDETZ36_rNLBC2_qhKYEZ6LoiGcTk5mmAYuIPHj7/s640/IMG_1927.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Another full rose. I shared the link on the<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/2012/10/baby-on-way.html"> baby gifts</a> post.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBiFX_Lw8eQ6ltw8adsKdIKNzvScHbG0IbRScGGXJ_rSCNDlQWfkGqZWagbay-h2NKuP8OGswOwBxab7Cxxmjr3f7H5TUOhIXjhJIzk1llCBmtqeGUS_ps3GQV722y5brJcg-OIXMz5P0l/s1600/IMG_1939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBiFX_Lw8eQ6ltw8adsKdIKNzvScHbG0IbRScGGXJ_rSCNDlQWfkGqZWagbay-h2NKuP8OGswOwBxab7Cxxmjr3f7H5TUOhIXjhJIzk1llCBmtqeGUS_ps3GQV722y5brJcg-OIXMz5P0l/s640/IMG_1939.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here is the ear warmer with flower added. The pink and white flowers would both look fabulous with it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnz-YZOB1a-gOpq5ovQbWJNxvnTNH4zKkvXoRMaUwl-6Cf6XJag7LjtUx_tZHxW4UTZdh0z86RR7u3qVIZxdrW8o8l-aO2zfwNrYuhOZCebwY9ln7dMl3DidIAxjzXHI_nVGrcH-iLpy4C/s1600/DSC00454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnz-YZOB1a-gOpq5ovQbWJNxvnTNH4zKkvXoRMaUwl-6Cf6XJag7LjtUx_tZHxW4UTZdh0z86RR7u3qVIZxdrW8o8l-aO2zfwNrYuhOZCebwY9ln7dMl3DidIAxjzXHI_nVGrcH-iLpy4C/s640/DSC00454.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
These ear warmers with the embellishments will make great gifts. There are many wonderful possibilities.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Soon I will be posting a tutorial for creating a bow to add to your headband.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNAbNYpMZI1ugLV0GWpaRy0vSijwVKLBrZ8K1IfGhPZuLg8JlMGsLHgHfxnezj8exAl0l2QOOW3yompQl06_v_q5zAMGjyh8Hr2RW6b4Pfq8AlI2EaOOUifQyWIgY5agmHvsi9ywSlAKVU/s1600/DSC00455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNAbNYpMZI1ugLV0GWpaRy0vSijwVKLBrZ8K1IfGhPZuLg8JlMGsLHgHfxnezj8exAl0l2QOOW3yompQl06_v_q5zAMGjyh8Hr2RW6b4Pfq8AlI2EaOOUifQyWIgY5agmHvsi9ywSlAKVU/s640/DSC00455.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Don't forget to visit again.</div>
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3405303216949393808.post-11681209428644186712012-11-07T13:31:00.001-05:002012-11-09T12:51:37.177-05:00Hospitality Begins at Home<div style="text-align: center;">
Edie at Life in Grace posted 31 Days to a Heart of Hospitality. You can read all her posts <a href="http://www.lifeingraceblog.com/2012/09/31-days-to-a-heart-of-hospitality-what-is-hospitality/">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
One of the thoughts she shared is hospitality should begin at home. We should serve our families first. <br />
One of my favorite ways to serve my family is baking for them. Of course, desserts are always a favorite here. Lately, hubby had been dropping some hints for these delicious peanut blossoms. So I promptly got to<br />
baking. I follow the recipe from the<a href="http://m.landolakes.com/recipe/2579/peanut-blossom-cookies"> Land o Lakes site</a> because I prefer to make the cookies with real butter instead of shortening.<br />
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=peanutblossoms.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="486" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/peanutblossoms.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #555555; font-family: Arapey-Regular, Times, serif; font-size: 16px;"></span><br />
<div class="ingredients wZag" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://m.landolakes.com/assets/mobile/images/white_zag.png); background-origin: initial; background-position: 50% 100%; background-repeat: repeat no-repeat; background-size: 64px 7px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 20px; padding-left: 40px; padding-right: 40px; padding-top: 20px; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline; z-index: 10;">
<div class="ingredientGroup" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<h3 class="ingredientGroup header" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 22px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: italic normal normal 22px/normal Arapey-Italic; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 20px; max-width: 620px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; overflow-x: hidden; overflow-y: hidden; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline; width: auto;">
Ingredients</h3>
<ul style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 240px;">
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: 18px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: normal normal normal 18px/18px LeagueGothic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">
1/2 CUP</h4>
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">sugar</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: 18px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: normal normal normal 18px/18px LeagueGothic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">
1/2 CUP</h4>
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">firmly packed brown sugar</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: 18px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: normal normal normal 18px/18px LeagueGothic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">
1/2 CUP</h4>
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://m.landolakes.com/Products/Butter/" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #d14e14; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Land O Lakes® Butter</a>, softened</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: 18px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: normal normal normal 18px/18px LeagueGothic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">
1/2 CUP</h4>
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">peanut butter</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: 18px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: normal normal normal 18px/18px LeagueGothic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">
1</h4>
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a href="http://m.landolakes.com/Products/Eggs/" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #d14e14; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Land O Lakes® All-Natural Egg</a></span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: 18px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: normal normal normal 18px/18px LeagueGothic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">
1 TEASPOON</h4>
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">vanilla extract</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: 18px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: normal normal normal 18px/18px LeagueGothic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">
1/4 TEASPOON</h4>
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">salt</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: 18px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: normal normal normal 18px/18px LeagueGothic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">
1 3/4 CUPS</h4>
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">all-purpose flour</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: 18px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: normal normal normal 18px/18px LeagueGothic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">
1 TEASPOON</h4>
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">baking soda</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: 18px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: normal normal normal 18px/18px LeagueGothic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">
1/4 CUP</h4>
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">sugar</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: 18px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; font: normal normal normal 18px/18px LeagueGothic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">
48</h4>
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">milk chocolate candy kisses, unwrapped</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div class="MsoNormal">
DIRECTIONS<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Heat oven to 375°F. Combine 1/2 cup sugar, brown sugar,
butter and peanut butter in large bowl. Beat at medium speed until light and
fluffy. Add egg, vanilla and salt; continue beating until well mixed. Add flour
and baking soda. Continue beating, scraping bowl often, until well mixed. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shape dough into 1-inch balls. (If dough is too soft,
refrigerate 30 to 60 minutes.) Roll balls in 1/4 cup sugar. Place 2 inches
apart onto ungreased cookie sheets.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until very lightly golden brown.
Immediately press 1 chocolate kiss in center of each cookie. Remove from cookie
sheets; cool completely on wire racks.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Eve</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">ryone loves Pinterest and I am no exception. I probably spend way too much time on there. But some good does come of it. Especially when I actually prepare one of the many recipes I've pinned.</span></div>
</span></li>
<li style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This is one of the easiest and tastiest recipes I've pinned. You can find it at the</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.southernplate.com/2009/01/melt-in-your-mouth-doughnuts-made-at-home-foolproof-and-great-for-beginners.html"> Southern Plate</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. Obviously, southerners know what they're doing when it comes to deliciousness. This has quickly become one of our favorites. I have made them a couple of times. These fabulous donuts are made from biscuits. Needless to say, anything fried then dipped in butter and sugar is going to quickly become a number one pick. I followed the recipe except I only use sugar to coat mine instead of cinnamon sugar, and dip them in butter instead of margarine. They taste like fried doughboys that are so very popular in our area. </span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/?action=view&current=Donuts.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" height="545" src="http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o139/momof2_04/Donuts.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They are a mouth watering treat that takes nearly no time at all to make. Everyone needs to try this at least one. You will want to make them all the time. They are perfect for these cool fall mornings with a hot latte.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You must let me know if you try these.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Linking to<a href="http://farmgirlinmyheart.blogspot.com/p/archives.html"> these parties</a>.</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17211297812600845018noreply@blogger.com0