tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68021567778444267992024-03-05T09:36:35.856-08:00so four - communityenjoy everydayAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.comBlogger235125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-73355000183238956122014-01-22T18:34:00.000-08:002014-01-22T18:34:02.580-08:00my house is trashed - sorry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I find myself apologizing a lot when people come over the house lately. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Maybe it's the giant cardboard Charlie Brown house spilling open with My Little Ponies that greets you in the foyer. Or perhaps it is the front room sewing room that is a piled mess of fabric, thread, and ribbons. Then there is the perilous journey from the front door to the family room jumping over the Thomas the Train tracks. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I'm sorry that you might need help moving mountains before you can sit on the sofa. It is often littered with football cards, legos and such. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Looking for clean clothes, dishes or such - I might say sorry there too.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It's not that the house is filthy, It is just not Better Homes and Gardens perfect. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But what it is is life. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A good life.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A real life. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"> A recognition that the kids won't remember how many loads of laundry that were put up but rather homemade meals around the table together.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">They won't look back on childhood thankful that we had a pristine dining room that never housed a fancy meal but rather a room full of imagination and laughter. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This house is real, and the door is always opened. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It doesn't matter that the floors are polished and that the toys are picked up. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">What matters is that you know you are welcomed. No matter the time, you are welcomed. And we are thankful that you came. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This is real life, this is a good life - a life meant to be shared. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So when I say sorry I'm not. I'm not sorry that we are enjoying life. I'm not sorry that I choose time with my children over folding laundry. I'm sorry, I'm not sorry. </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-53272869951414342662014-01-21T16:56:00.000-08:002014-01-21T16:56:00.340-08:00Riding the Elevator<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Part of a business series I am writing for those of you (especially mamas) thinking of starting a handmade business. Hopefully we can connect soon! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The Elevator Speech. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Ah the 30 seconds, at best that you give it your all. You sell yourself in less time then it takes to spell your name out loud. The elevator speech is so so very important as you market your business outside the internets. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The elevator speech really doesn't need to take place in an elevator but it does have certain components to every time you say it. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">How to recognize the time for the elevator speech opportunity.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">1. you are with total strangers</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">2. you are with people who know you but don't know what you do</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">3. you have 20 - 30- seconds to answer the question, "what do you do."</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">4. there is no one to speak "above."</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Nuts and Bolts of the Speech</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">1. who are you?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">2. what do you do?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">3. how do you do it?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">4. when do you do it?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">5. why do you do it? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The basics we learned in 2nd grade. This is where you are. You have 20-30 seconds to let someone know how passionate you are about what you create. Why you spend sleepless nights doing what you do. And how they can buy your goods (uber importante!).</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am constantly changing my elevator speech. Every week I evaluate what my speech looks like. It keeps in me in touch with my business, it affords opportunity for me to dream, and maybe it will show in a sale. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Right now, #sofour's elevator speech often looks something like this.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hi I'm Heather. I sell and blog about my art filled sewn pieces of everyday items that promote a positive message in a bright and colorful way. You can find my pieces on Etsy, Facebook and by using the hashtag #sofour. (then the traditional handing of the business card). </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It's not perfect, but right now it is me. My elevator speech keeps in line with tag line. It holds true to my branding ideals. This elevator speech can be changed based on my audience - a very important details. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I have used my elevator speech at the kid's schools, at a recent craft show, at the local cafe - the possibilities of telling people about what you do are infinite. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">As much as the elevator speech is a very important part of your package, what it more important is that your audience leaves interested and inspired. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The #sofour community would love to hear your speech - share it! That is the best practice! </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/129900770472829710/">link</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-13202216880522375112014-01-17T17:43:00.000-08:002014-01-17T17:43:44.433-08:00I really wanted to rip his throat out......<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The other night my husband had the coconuts to say, "landing pad." Just hearing those words made me unglue. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Are you serious? Another temporary situation? Can we find somewhere to make memories? Can't we have enough time to change the paint color? A landing pad just isn't in my vocabulary. What the heck was he thinking? I send him to a landing pad - on his rear end. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But there is truth in finding a "landing pad". We need a place to land. A place to find refuge. Somewhere to experience safety. Somewhere to rest. Some time to find out what and who we really are. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But parking on a landing pad is near impossible. You can't stay - not for long - you have to keep moving in threat of getting run over. A landing pad is the place to gather strength for the next take off - and you always need to be ready to go! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Your landing pad might be in your significant other's arms. It might be in a phone call with your dad. Landing pads can be large and small. There can be crashing waves and white sand in your landing pad. Children will find laughter at your landing pad. Life will continue to grow while resting on the landing pad. Real friends will be found and lost when you find your landing pad. Faith will be tested. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">In the last three years, Michael and I have had a ton of take offs and landings. We found a landing pad in a small group of loyal faithful friends. Landing in a new church has given us the chance to find a place of rest and refuge as we find out how much faith we really have. Our community has stepped up to act as a family in a time when ours turned their backs. Simple times have lead to a landing pad for our marriage to discover something new about our commitment. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So as our family begins to take off again I'm praying that we recognize the landing pad that God has stepped ahead and prepared for us.</span> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-71976862658702624302014-01-14T17:24:00.000-08:002014-01-14T17:24:29.848-08:00Business as Usual<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Now that the kids are back in school and chaos of everyday life ensues, I find that my creative muscles flex in a more productive way. I know, I know - that sounds nuts. But I was the college student who could knock out 40 page papers the night before they were due and sneak away with an A. There is always a plan behind the madness, but the execution might be last minute. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It looks extrememely romantic from the sidelines but running a handmade business is hustle. Behind the scenes of whimsy and wonder are many components you never do see (for real). </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- There are the countless sleepless nights finishing orders, producing product, writing, publishing, and just thinking</span><br />
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-<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"> A army of journals follow me wherever I go. There is one in the car (you never know what strikes you at a red light). I carry a 2 journals in my bag. One for business ideas, the other is a gratitude journal where I often write sermon notes or other things to think about. A legal size notepad hangs on a clipboard in my sewing area. And at the kitchen family desk area, yet another journal.</span></div>
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-<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"> Research. Seriously I am still doing research - just not writing the papers to go with it. I spend a bit of everyday seeing what other artists are doing. Reading helpful articles on Etsy. Sometimes I can be found digging into the trenches of social media to get a pulse on trends. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbizaSf3zOHbunxWM0IUSBeotWEes_vrqIXLmVFrQXL7sjvJ4Lz5OEMWcilzKfamft_bhLiUad40uScLfTFOgSQhSU3yG6DJ0ttiYeBFg3itlE6RK4W9iPBzXUG0TkwFIii1caAJfFN0/s1600/IMG_5904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbizaSf3zOHbunxWM0IUSBeotWEes_vrqIXLmVFrQXL7sjvJ4Lz5OEMWcilzKfamft_bhLiUad40uScLfTFOgSQhSU3yG6DJ0ttiYeBFg3itlE6RK4W9iPBzXUG0TkwFIii1caAJfFN0/s400/IMG_5904.jpg" width="298" /></a><br />
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- <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Then there is my love hate relationship with marketing. I love to brainstorm about it, scared as hell to implement it. See when you make something and ask people to buy it, you are being judged. Really, you are asking people to judge you. Scary. Extremely vunerable. But at the same time so fun. I mean who doesn't like business card design, connecting with people, blogging. The list goes on and on. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There are so many exciting converstaions I have with dreamers that want to jump into a handmade business. I love these convos -- they keep me going. But in all honesty, you have to love what you do to do this on your own. It is a ton of hardwork. A bit of a marriage if you will. You must love it. I do. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-76318526163782211622014-01-02T20:22:00.001-08:002014-01-02T20:22:26.245-08:00FInding Inspiration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">How do you find inspiration? Do you seek it? Pray for it? Yearn for it? </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Or does inspiration find you? When you are driving, does it pop in front of the car? Does inspiration come from someone's words? </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Inspiration seems to find me as much as I venture to find it. It is a fortunate, and sometimes, overwhelming gift to accept.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYwh5ZPLSQCoda72RLcbmAoCdvXjWzmFiHDq6ztdFOVLif8bpGZ3fTxGqj4BtOcGRKeJ_trQHlwLkW7qm3Ze8-BF3qh-JCWGcdPuLgT06huR2Ee91a-zHXBLuQ_hmhla4k1Gu3EnXlls/s1600/IMG_7386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYwh5ZPLSQCoda72RLcbmAoCdvXjWzmFiHDq6ztdFOVLif8bpGZ3fTxGqj4BtOcGRKeJ_trQHlwLkW7qm3Ze8-BF3qh-JCWGcdPuLgT06huR2Ee91a-zHXBLuQ_hmhla4k1Gu3EnXlls/s400/IMG_7386.jpg" width="298" /></a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Saturday mornings are my "meeting with myself" days. I quietly stow away in the early hours, leaving my hipster hubby to manage the minions.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am fortunate enough to live near a beautiful town square. You know the kind with a three tier fountain, flower lined central park, and tons of local stores.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Right off one of the brick paved side streets is the littlest blue door to the best hippie coffee shop around. It has the worn wooden floors. The staff looks like they just jumped off the plane from Portland. The clientele is a mix of 50 something yuppie want a Be's to classic southern women. It is an interesting meld that automatically opens your senses.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thru the backyard of the coffee shop is the most broken up brick courtyard you will ever see. It a mess of old tree roots and historic bricks. It is always cool (even in the Atlanta sun). The metal chairs and tables cast a shadow that seems to dance in the morning sun. I love it there and wish that "progress" wasn't planning on ripping up it's imperfection soon.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It is there that I pen on old fashion legal pads. I dream. It is an amazing gift. Words flow, pictures develop, plans get tagged. These are road maps for life. Good stuff.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw2P9FNC5plbf9cESSzKawSRQ61r0_vzW5DpYXuqgrzQEkk-ViBB4Z3L31LvQbL7FWFK7roaOYgSBlwTWQ_kppVE7zyHBkBqshYPsTaF_HA0qdjdCorNiWQEJMuHHuvGVRSAN3-yH38Bk/s1600/IMG_7394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw2P9FNC5plbf9cESSzKawSRQ61r0_vzW5DpYXuqgrzQEkk-ViBB4Z3L31LvQbL7FWFK7roaOYgSBlwTWQ_kppVE7zyHBkBqshYPsTaF_HA0qdjdCorNiWQEJMuHHuvGVRSAN3-yH38Bk/s400/IMG_7394.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This is just one of the ways I debrief from the busyness of life. There are a few others that I will share soon. In the meantime, I encourage you to find an inspiration place. The place where you feel so alone, yet so not alone. The place to dream. The place to plan. </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-78614945299157641182014-01-02T05:09:00.000-08:002014-01-02T05:11:37.224-08:002014 Goals<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Resolutions, everyone does resolutions. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">They all say, "I'm going to eat healthy, lose 20 lbs, run a marathon, organize my home, and spend more time with my family." but not until a crystal ball drops and the motivation switch suddenly turns on.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">That crystal ball time line worked well for Cinderella, and I am pretty sure that she is the only one that it worked for. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A resolution is a proclamation for change. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Fine and dandy but how are you going to get to that change? I can shout to the world, "I'm going to Hawaii!" Do I just start walking and I will figure out a way or does that trip require a road map of sorts? Resolutions have the great opportunity to turn into empty promises with no, result.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So goals, goals work better for me. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A goal is actually the end result. Goals are the umbrellas to a series of intentions. Intentions are your road maps leading to your goals. Kind of like building a house -- you wouldn't start at the roof would you? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My goals can be broken into two sections of the world - business & personal. My </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">intentions will follow in another blog post. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/134615476335963724/">here</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">Personal goals for 2014 </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><u>Seeking God</u> - Jesus. I don't know if he is on the back burner in my little world, but I certainly know that he isn't the lead. This goal is the scariest in ways because he is calling this family to take a crazy leap of faith and I'm still holding on with bloody knuckles. This needs fixing - now.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><u>Intentional Self Care</u> - This includes getting back to working out, eating healthy, and crazy to think sleep!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><u>Relationships</u> - there are few (very few) that are healthy. Time to evaluate. This is not limited to adults, as my children get older, I need to evaluate where our relationships are as well. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><u>Stewardship</u>- this word is thrown out a lot in church. Usually it involves money, and that is important. But we are stewards of every gift from above - time, love, money, our bodies the list is endless. I want to be a good steward of all.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">Business Goals for 2014</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><u>Money</u> - to take better care of it and grow. (it is a business)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><u>Giving</u> - if it is growing, we are giving more. Intentionally, meaty giving. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><u>Involvement</u> - the message of #sofour is (so) important. It is about people. It is vitally important that people are involved in what we are doing. Win, win for everyone. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><u>Growth</u> - If the prior three are healthy, this will be organic (my favorite word)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Then there are things that I would just like to do. They might work, they might not. I do not have a list of intentions to back them up right now but I need to keep my eyes open for opportunity to say - "yes! I did that! It was awesome"</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">1- sing in public. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">2- speak to a large crowd</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">3- run a marathon (I'm shaped like a weeble wooble)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">4- travel with purpose</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So, what are your GOALS for 2014? How are you going to execute those goals? Ready to hustle? I am - let's GO! </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-65363448114079733592013-11-16T17:47:00.000-08:002013-11-16T17:47:45.003-08:00Business - what's in a name<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">What to name a business. It can back fire or set you into jet fuel propelling. It is something people agonize over as if they are giving birth to a baby all over again. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I have been"professionally" sewing for 10+ years. In that time there have been three business names. I think each reflects a period of where and why the art was focused. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">First there was "Cotton Kisses". Cotton Kisses was named after the sweetest yellow lab ever. She always knew how to love people. She took care of us. And I knew as I sewed tote bags to bring home our Russian daughter that she would be the dog to watch over our new baby. Cotton's Kisses lasted for a few years. That business raised 10's of thousands of dollars to get the artist home. It was an opportunity to learn.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Then "Nina Bina" was born. She was again a result of prayer - a cry for provision for a family and the need to be a Proverbs 31 woman. Nina Bina was always a happy business. It was focused on monogram and applique in a time that was perfect. I loved, loved, loved being a part of special moments in life. But there was an artist part of me that wasn't being fed. Thankful, just not fed.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">September 2013, an idea that had been on my heart for a long time starting to come to fruition. It was great thanks to a dynamic group of people and once again, prayer. It has all been a lot of hard work but fun work. And once again - this Proverbs 31 woman is encouraged. "So Four" means exactly what it says, so four. So, I am the mom of four now - that basically means the sky is the limit. God has pretty much given me some crazy superhero powers. I am thankful. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My four are so encouraging.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My four are so loving.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My four are a tight tribe.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My four are a blessing from above.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My four are a gift.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A gift of joy that I hope encourages you in your daily life.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So, when picking a name for a business you might be dreaming of. Keep it simple. Keep it close to your heart. Because after all there can be a million people that do what you do but only one you who will be you. </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-44514946367826907382013-10-03T06:44:00.001-07:002013-10-03T06:44:33.455-07:00Hard Times and Art Therapy<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It has royally stunk around here. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Seriously smelly - Literally. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The sewer line to the house exploded last week leaving a brown fountain in my guest bath. I spent the evening getting very intimate with my wet dry vac. We then spent the next five days waiting on help. Only to be able to flush "when needed". I spent five days without being able to do laundry ((insert reminder of 4 children)). The dishes won the battle within the first 12 hours.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Then the tenants called. They have been having "issues" in the house for a few months and are moving out. Seriously, the called within 24 hours of the toilet fountain happening. The "issues" they were having warranted a phone call 2 months ago but they just didn't seem to do that. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I went over to see the house and all I saw was dollar signs. It was overwhelming. I was sad. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Right now - this all seems impossible. With a tight budget, a husband who travels all week and four very busy kids - there is a little voice inside my head screaming THIS seems impossible. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But that little voice is remaining just a whisper. Because in the midst of the most stress I have had in years, I feel stronger than I ever have. It is like God has given me a super cape to fly through these problems. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My cape consists of a daily quiet time. There are a few close confidants that he has placed in my life to bounce ideas off of. My husband has exercised a great deal of empathy when dealing with me and that is amazing. My children even understand the need to bound together and fight thru. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Then there is the art. I am almost nervous about calling it that. I always thought of artists as people who could paint or sculpt. That is not me. But according to Webster this is art - </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">: something that is created with imagination and skill and that is beautiful or that expresses important ideas or feelings</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My art has been a gift of therapy lately. It transcends around happiness, joy, faith, and enjoying all that life has to offer - the good and the bad. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am incredibly grateful that God gave me the gift to do what I do. I pray that everyone who receives one of my pieces knows that life is wonderful - if we choose. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-72523435345743124992013-10-01T17:47:00.000-07:002013-10-01T17:47:16.777-07:00Fall Mantel Reminder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I love to decorate - just don't have the time. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUnKwE19KrDao2J1hF9Cxbxd269EoTlMhFS0TEYd83ivTDtSwe4aUtsuKR9o6Tvh_Wvib0icZR94dtZyrL2QwMmmiICTE42zzfW8oKPAtn1Pd-UWGDWnhbLitxmORhbhwaLNtUq2bxRos/s1600/IMG_7050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUnKwE19KrDao2J1hF9Cxbxd269EoTlMhFS0TEYd83ivTDtSwe4aUtsuKR9o6Tvh_Wvib0icZR94dtZyrL2QwMmmiICTE42zzfW8oKPAtn1Pd-UWGDWnhbLitxmORhbhwaLNtUq2bxRos/s400/IMG_7050.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Maybe because it is in the most used room of the house? Maybe it is just always screaming to be loved?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This fall I decided to keep it really simple and really budget friendly. The window was an old yard sale find for 5.00. The glass vases I have had forever. Inside the vases are some drift wood pieces that I snagged at the lake - free! The & sign came from Michaels for 3.00 and has a nice coat of chalkboard paint. The little white pumpkins came from the grocery store for a 1.00 a piece. But the most important piece of the mantel is that banner.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrbbo7p0ZhIGs3y3FQws2jA8fou8gi7ndjemNZwRfZ0ifbg0H5hhnWB9iBiRMkQWzHnbPDtdEvKyUpZx77V434850B_aKoiM0Nanucvr3myUqDJ__hADNu1L6Ux9IF5vBB_M1C2PQSFg/s1600/IMG_7053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrbbo7p0ZhIGs3y3FQws2jA8fou8gi7ndjemNZwRfZ0ifbg0H5hhnWB9iBiRMkQWzHnbPDtdEvKyUpZx77V434850B_aKoiM0Nanucvr3myUqDJ__hADNu1L6Ux9IF5vBB_M1C2PQSFg/s400/IMG_7053.jpg" width="298" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The banner says simply - in everything give thanks. Soon after I made that banner a lot of really big things started to fall apart around here. The rental house imploded, our house imploded, nothing is going right. That all happened after I hung this banner. And everyday as I stress about it all, I have no choice to but to see this natural canvas reminder and bring myself back to earth.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It is such a sweet reminder that trials are not in vain, they produce an end.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimCBMWd0dAflArVIHTJLpeuPV5X4JV8iqF_s0CEZWxIpQNUGtIWC90EuIrrUF0yDLnXVb4nwbuGKxO2VvSQRsJ8DYUdRxnK0dAtuqcOv63fxQBlBZJ-uWNAjowxIgTKpi-a99tMkPpEi4/s1600/IMG_7058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimCBMWd0dAflArVIHTJLpeuPV5X4JV8iqF_s0CEZWxIpQNUGtIWC90EuIrrUF0yDLnXVb4nwbuGKxO2VvSQRsJ8DYUdRxnK0dAtuqcOv63fxQBlBZJ-uWNAjowxIgTKpi-a99tMkPpEi4/s400/IMG_7058.jpg" width="298" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhfGDMJavFOC6nzccluiv1kGHxtnWGLIm3bWOZ8f5fMcPhj_JSCtZvBJDTBc68b1aQQHmoE5MtpIcI9Fy6G7D4Auiq6jsksM9DHR2u1T6dRkbVFqgbv7cHfSVIa1lkhassSbRpm2SqgSc/s1600/IMG_7052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhfGDMJavFOC6nzccluiv1kGHxtnWGLIm3bWOZ8f5fMcPhj_JSCtZvBJDTBc68b1aQQHmoE5MtpIcI9Fy6G7D4Auiq6jsksM9DHR2u1T6dRkbVFqgbv7cHfSVIa1lkhassSbRpm2SqgSc/s400/IMG_7052.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I hope if you are climbing a mountain that seems impossible to summit that you will look behind you and realize how many steps you have already take to get to the point you are at. You can finish! </span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-35615678119700507072013-09-30T06:00:00.000-07:002013-09-30T06:00:09.503-07:00Redirecting Focus<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I have been blogging and sewing for a couple of years now. Every minute of it has been incredibly enjoyable. But there was something, something missing. I couldn't quite put my finger on it until recently. </span><div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The message I had in my heart was not getting out. There was a general disconnect between my work, my art and my writing. It wasn't bad - but it wasn't all it could be. I have been a bit dismayed by the whole thing.</span><div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Until recently, when I discovered that disappointment was part of the process of getting me where I am right now. I wouldn't say that I am sitting onto of the mountain of success, but for one of the few times in my life I am content in what I am doing, what direction this little business adventure is taking. And the biggest joy out of the whole thing is that it has absolutely nothing to do with me -- it is all about you!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So Four is in a position to change someone's day. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Do I seriously think a dish towel will change your life - no. But I hope that the message my art and this blog bring, remind you to hold onto the little pleasures of life. I hope it reminds you no matter how small those may seem - they can grow with a little bit of nurturing. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHXeT8whmtSAV6BeULhyphenhyphenYNeQquYzBmCMf9v4GeIPxI_qpaI-rDv2wwMJXXW6Y_Mm5so4DMc5jWVEAa-3uHDZzcnkFT8EYSzla2Ktzsig53vGVklRu6e-vLlsLaKgWgeXy3ZWAjHNUXoQ/s1600/IMG_5766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRHXeT8whmtSAV6BeULhyphenhyphenYNeQquYzBmCMf9v4GeIPxI_qpaI-rDv2wwMJXXW6Y_Mm5so4DMc5jWVEAa-3uHDZzcnkFT8EYSzla2Ktzsig53vGVklRu6e-vLlsLaKgWgeXy3ZWAjHNUXoQ/s400/IMG_5766.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">In the next few weeks, I plan on sharing how So FoUr "enjoys everyday". I am excited to intentionally shift this family's focus by taking the chaotic mess life pulls us down to and changing it into creatively meaningful moments. For the mama's who dream on having a Proverbs 31 business, I hope to share with you a story of successfully living out that verse. For the times where it seems to be too much, I hope that you can find a place for a little rest. This blog and my shop will be honest, intentional, nurturing, empathetic, giving, and focused on making reality a prettier place. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I can't wait to share the real stories and hope that you all are ready to share some of yours as well. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">This life is meant to be enjoyed! Let's do that together! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">xo </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Heather</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-78372147092976857482013-08-20T19:17:00.002-07:002013-08-20T19:36:00.566-07:00What I know about Middle School<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My first middle school orientation as a parent. Being that I was by far the youngest parent there (jab, jab) I had a lot to learn on my first trip to the big house.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So for the newbies who have yet to dive into the waters of puberty piranas I offer my observations. For the parents who have been there done that gotten the shirt I offer perspective. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- Home room is the biggest room in the 6th grade hall. I don't know why, but it feels like trumpets players are announcing your arrival and it should be that way.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- Classes don't necessarily need textbooks — that is old school. You know, the whole reading from paper thing kind of left the world in the ice ages.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- some teachers were born the year I graduated high school (might be stretching a bit)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- Other teachers are obviously struggling with "personal summers". Hence the 5,000,000 fans in a 10 x 10 room. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- Certain people don't always know why they teach, and they really can't hide it.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- 3 minutes between "classes" certainly doesn't give one enough time to socialize. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- Finding the bathroom is really the first item on your list everyday. That is after you locate the cafeteria.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- Boys and girls obviously don't sit near each other in class, because most parents do not know who each other are. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- Reading 6+ teachers blogs everyday really interferes with my design blog reading and I am not sure how I feel about it.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- The orchestra teacher will beginning playing ,randomly.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- and my favorite from the evening - social studies! How fun is that lady. She has traveled around the world and "experienced" a lot of different things. It totally shows! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">School is going to be great this year! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Perfect no, because both N and I are still learning. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">When you are done learning — then you can call it perfect. Just never strive to be perfect - that means you aren't learning. </span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-81950751525122950762013-08-20T10:39:00.003-07:002013-08-20T10:39:52.721-07:00Tips from the Perfect Parent<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My second grader came bouncing out of his Sunday school class this week over the moon happy. In his right hand he held a tattered relic of a book. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">"I finally got one!" he says. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">"My teacher gave me my very first bible."</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There is was, pages missing, cover torn, but it was his to keep.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My fail - to just realize that at almost 8, the child never owned his own bible. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But it is in the ten steps I take back that I realize it wasn't a fail.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-0bTRwUJWtHLZC21UVeh-fd9EF890KkzvMHkc2YNwDYUx9ampGQ7WdXbeV_WUFThJO713VA6FlEn5RTETtApn6pa90-QQs5UW333sQ8cbwuO7QEKgi95cqdl6Z4Cshgmf1y8bzsDdFk/s1600/IMG_7063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil-0bTRwUJWtHLZC21UVeh-fd9EF890KkzvMHkc2YNwDYUx9ampGQ7WdXbeV_WUFThJO713VA6FlEn5RTETtApn6pa90-QQs5UW333sQ8cbwuO7QEKgi95cqdl6Z4Cshgmf1y8bzsDdFk/s400/IMG_7063.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am not a perfect parent. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I don't want to be. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">God equipts me to care for my children in the way they need. And while I strive for all tens - it isn't always going to happen. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">That is where HE steps in -- providing "gap holders in times of need.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I'm not saying that it is society's responsibility to raise my children - it is mine. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But in all truth, I can't be everything, everywhere, all the time. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">That is why God throws us into community. A community of trusted people who are there to stand in the gaps, because honestly - there will be gaps. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">As much as I strive for perfection, there is only one perfect person to walk this earth.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thankfully he has provided people to help this mom along. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeWh45vE_wYyGwUVUxcC6CBI8ojvZ59p78WptH5Xt0I_JwCAbWKZFt9uDUUTPVi9X3oLEDfLVCjImSOXU_0QZvy__f082vsKPctGF4vb8Z5TxmJBvrCS4xTdp7lfmD3q9dx47EKOEhTtA/s1600/IMG_6318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeWh45vE_wYyGwUVUxcC6CBI8ojvZ59p78WptH5Xt0I_JwCAbWKZFt9uDUUTPVi9X3oLEDfLVCjImSOXU_0QZvy__f082vsKPctGF4vb8Z5TxmJBvrCS4xTdp7lfmD3q9dx47EKOEhTtA/s400/IMG_6318.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I can only help but picture in my mind, the families that will gather their children to </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">"not look" when the Cloudt family runs the halls of church this week. That really doesn't bother me. Because I can be honest and transparent that I am not the perfect parent. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">What I am, is the parent that God wants me to be - bible forgetting, sandwich for dinner 2x a week,t-shirt wearing to church kind of mom. He knows my weaknesses and knows my strengths. That fact, doesn't give me an excuse --it gives me strength.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">We are a mess, a beautiful mess - just dive right in and join my club. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-57994722975660063232013-08-11T18:43:00.001-07:002013-08-11T18:43:28.167-07:00School's In<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The little league schedule tipped my scale.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Who ever knew that u8 ball would throw this ninja mom into tears.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It started a few weeks ago.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The first day of school was announced.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The supply lists were sent.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The church schedules were set.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The dance academy registrations took place.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Consignment sales were beginning.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My husband's insane commute singed its face.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Middle school instrument fairs began.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Work.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Three open houses scheduled.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Preschool registration.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Choi Kwang Do once a week. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Then little league. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Little league sucked whatever there was left dry. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I begin to cringe at what life looked like it would become.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A life of missed family meals.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A life of countless hours in the car.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A life that is beginning to blur.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My heart began to harden. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Then I remember to be thankful. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thankful that my little boy is healthy and can play.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thankful that my big girl has a dance teacher who not only trains her to dance.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thankful that my boys have a Choi Kwang Do instructor who allows me to join the class and connect with so many wonderful children.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thankful for our sweet little school and that my children have the opportunity to learn.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thankful for my husband's new career.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thankful that my big girl wants explore art. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thankful that God provides the opportunity to provide for my family as a Proverbs 31 woman.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thankful that I can be present for everything.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Thankful that I am aware ahead of the schedule that it can take over our family's life and thankful that I have the full power not to let it.</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-61154894828810614592013-08-06T19:14:00.000-07:002013-08-06T19:14:22.705-07:00The start of middle school<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Middle school starts tomorrow.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My first born is on her way to 6th grade.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">For months, I have been told to be scared, only scared.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">When describing middle school the words hell, fear, crazy, died, never again were the only words I heard. My seasoned friends repeatedly let me know what a living fear they had of middle school.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Wonderful, just wonderful I thought.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Wonderful is just the right word! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It might be a bumpy road but it will be wonderful.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The lessons my gal will learn will equip her and challenge her - both she is ready for?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">How do I know she is ready?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Because her father and I have had an opportunity to equip her to be.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">She has <u>God.</u></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">She has faith.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">She has compassion.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">She has empathy.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">She has will.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">She has a brain.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">She has a heart.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">She has a healthy body.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">She has support.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">She has a family praying for her.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">She has it all. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">All the tools she needs to take on the middle school world.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">No cell phone</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">No designer clothes</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">No fancy new backpack</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But yet I have full faith that my daughter will endure the bumpy road of middle school and come out a shining star. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Middle school happens. No matter how you package it - public school, home school, or private institution it happens. It happens to every child, every family. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So before you spend money equipping your children with all the newest and greatest - the quickly fading fads. Get your children ready to make it thru middle school with tools that will last a lifetime. Because after all, a Iphone 5 won't fix a broken heart, heal a hurting friendship or create an A on a test. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-63710573370058736302013-07-10T17:51:00.000-07:002013-07-10T17:51:47.257-07:00Marriage Vacation<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">We have 1, 2, 3, 4 kids. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It is a gang basically. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A fun gang. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A gang who finds sleeping a boring past time.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A gang who eats without remorse of supply.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">They are a ruling power (just don't tell them).</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There are few times to breathe. But a few times a year, my saint of a MIL takes the gang for a few days. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">One such time, was this past week. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Folks, it couldn't have come at a better time — this duo needed a break. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But this break was a bit different. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There were no projects that we completed.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I didn't clean any closets.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The toys sat on the floor in the except spot where they were left. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">We enjoyed the break, we embraced the break.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My hubby and I ate where we wanted. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">We stopped to listen to pick up blue grass music. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">We took time at different stops to dream. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">We watched tons of West Wing re runs and talked for hours about politics (super geeks).</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It was awesome! And when they came home - it was even better! </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-66587036589427367532013-07-08T17:16:00.003-07:002013-07-08T17:16:38.368-07:00I accept the challenge<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So July 8th. Not really that important of a day. Unless, it's your birthday? Maybe an anniversary? Kuddos to you who celebrate July 8th! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I am going to celebrate July 8th because I'm STARTING a few things. Honestly, I'm scared to death. Can't tell you why I fear a list of new projects. Maybe the fear lies in holding myself accountable to those projects? I don't know. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So here I go, I am letting you know my weaknesses, my fears, and my dreams. Come along as I slap that fear down, and reach even higher for those dreams. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">STARTING today.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- quiet time. I need it. God wants me to need it. There we have found the solution for that hole. This incorporates getting up before the kids - sign me up I'm ready to chat and (of course) listen God.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- eating. Simple enough. I am really good at it. So what's the problem? Seems the past three months, I have turned to a stress induced diet of cupcakes and caffeine. Neither good for my waist line, my kidneys, or my emotions. So VEGAN it is. Yup, crazy - isn't wonderful?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- creating. Very few have seen it. My stacks of notebooks with never ending ideas. I am at the point of a creative process where I understand why artists can go nuts. Hell, I might be nuts. It is really nuts to take some designs that you hold dear and put them out there. Like I said, "fear slapper." With that, I will be putting those designs out there. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- 13.1 version 2.0. I am going to beat myself this time and do it with style! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">- writing. Transparent. Authentic. Encouraging. Useful. Because it wasn't about me to begin with. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So follow me on the next 24 days as I become a lab rat in a giant fear slapping experiment. Want to join me? Drop a comment. Let me know what fear you would like to slap as you work towards a goal. I promise to pray for you. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">We only have one opportunity on this little world - make it count. </span> </div>
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-Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-5779273156480533632013-06-25T20:19:00.002-07:002013-06-25T20:19:11.437-07:00Summer Porch<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I wasn't really planning on decorating the porch. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It is small.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My budget is small.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My time is nonexistent. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But, my husband is wise. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">For my birthday he bought me this great wicker settee and cushion. He recognized that I had a need to find some place quiet and this was it. To his credit he tried this same idea last year. I ruined it. After had just moving, sad we had to and tight on money - I returned the previous love seat. To tell you the truth, I appreciate it so much more now.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So we begin with a beautiful brown resin wicker love seat and adorable cushion.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I found a small children's table in the basement that a friend had given me = free end table! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Then, I discovered a stash of red dot oil cloth in my craft room. Instead success for a table cloth. = free table covering!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The planter was a gift for Mother's day. The metal candle stick from my hubbies grandmother's house.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The pendant garland I made out of scraps of fabric. I sell a few on Etsy at times (as scraps become available). Probably cost = my time.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The white chair (about ten years old). Needs to be painted but hey, I'll take it for now. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The rug - 3.19.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The pillows, a vintage tablecloth sewn into squares = 8.00 for two pillows.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So a total of 11.00 for out of pocket expenses. (not including my husband's gifts). I love the porch. It is a great place to read. I really need to finish it and get that chair painted. So, come on over for sweet tea and let's dream about creating an idea of your own. </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-2711643479626909692013-06-25T09:42:00.005-07:002013-06-25T09:42:55.252-07:004th of July Burlap Door Decoration<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Ok, I love tutorials - the kind with more pictures than words. I guess I am a visual learner? Yup. So here you go! Just had to share. It isn't rocket science but hopefully it will inspire. </span></div>
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S<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">upplies - burlap, dot painting brushes, pins, paint, scissors, and wrapping paper or brown kraft pape</span>r</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Cut a shape out of wrapping paper. I have a problem with straight lines so my star is a bit wonky. That is ok, I am too.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp4ZIqj97VjnhV9hpxct-BR3LpuxIda0bMgvsmFx9oGOwPPOJ1St5EiDZPP9-6QjlP4qW530XYlja4VpHAGESqruFGE-Z81332pSQRG74og6GIvkXiY_cazsUSWThz8fplgbIfqoD8B34/s1600/IMG_5583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp4ZIqj97VjnhV9hpxct-BR3LpuxIda0bMgvsmFx9oGOwPPOJ1St5EiDZPP9-6QjlP4qW530XYlja4VpHAGESqruFGE-Z81332pSQRG74og6GIvkXiY_cazsUSWThz8fplgbIfqoD8B34/s400/IMG_5583.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Using template, cut two of the burlap shapes. I pin burlap together and cut. Then pin burlap shapes onto a plastic surface (so paint won't bleed through).</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Let dry - duh?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">And the rest I forgot pictures! Hot glue two sides together. Leave a small gap in the middle to insert "stuffing. I use Publix sacks. Not to much. Just enough to hold shape. Glue shut.Glue on bow etc. etc. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Ta-da! Done! I used a cheap plastic hanger hot glued to the back. Holds the star shape perfect. And it is free! _ yippppeeeeeee</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Total cost - 3.25 and 30 minutes time. </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-84035160826768053332013-06-03T19:30:00.001-07:002013-06-03T19:30:32.546-07:00Summer signals new Starts<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I love summer! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It is all fresh and new! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Sunshine and roses! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Summer brings birthdays (mine and the acrtictects)! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It has been a killer few months. It has many weeks of treading water. I am so tired of everyday stress. It is now that I stress less and celebrate more! Everyday is a gift and this summer will be no different! Come join the fun! </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-59348456036480564582013-03-27T17:48:00.001-07:002013-03-27T17:48:41.234-07:00Gotcha Day and Standing in the Gap<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Ten years ago today, a Russian judge signed the paper that declared what was always in our hearts - she was ours!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">That simple judicial signature granted our family years of snuggles, times of kisses, laughter, crying, fears, happiness, joy, questions, and answers. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There have been good days. There have been bad days. But in the end they are our days and I wouldn't give them up for anything in the world.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But our story of adoption didn't end ten years ago. Everyday, I thank God for her birth mother -- for her selfless decision. I thank God for her birth father. I pray for her extended birth family. I pray for her nannies and baby's house family. I ask God to bless Russia and her people. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">In the ten years, we have had Nina, God has reminded me to stand in the gap for the people who made our family possible.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">As we celebrate ten years of Nina, I can not help but remember the people who stood in the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #a64d79;">gap</span> for us. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">-The people who prayed that God would provide us the child of our dreams (he did). </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">-The people who sacrificed dinners out, new clothes, and coffee just to be able to give at our multiple fundraising events. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">-Our pastor friend who was a continual support of wise council. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">-The friends who cleaned my house so we could come home and play family. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">-The people who anonymously gave money so we could finish the journey.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Twelve years ago, our family was called to adopt. Our orphan is an orphan no more. That was made possible because someone stood in the gap. We had nothing to do with it. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So I ask of you on our 10th Gotcha Day - can we depend on you to stand in the gap for the orphans left behind? Can our family call you to pray for these children yearning to be loved? Perhaps, right now, you can stop and lift up a woman making the hardest decision of her life? Will you forgo your weekly cup of coffee and send 5.00 to a family in the midst of adoption? Could you volunteer at an adoption fundraiser? Would you donate items out of your garage to help? There are countless ways you can stand in the gap for these precious ones. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Your family may not be called to open your home to one in need but there is no doubt in my mind that God WANTS you to stand in the gap for orphans. Start today. In honor of Nina, seek an opportunity today to take care of those so deserving. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">In the next few weeks, I am planning on writing a weekly adoption special. We will be covering fundraising, good days, bad days, questions as children</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"> get older, our story, and our lives now. I would love to hear your story. Please share your stories about standing in the gap for orphans too - they are just as important.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-88471591675464695462013-03-25T13:19:00.000-07:002013-03-25T13:19:06.835-07:00Hello Monday - Catching up after sick kids<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Hello Monday.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Hello to a week hopefully not written with sick children again.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"> Hello to sewing like crazy! Got to love these Chevron Jersey Scarfs on the soforetsy Facebook page. They are selling so fast I can not get them on Etsy!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"> Hello to celebrating 15 years with this guy! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Hello to creating something new and hoping to create something more! So excited about this new line and need to find the time to get it up and running!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Hello to making some big decisions this week! I would love your prayers for our family as we dive into slowing down and simplifying. For some it seems terrifying at the moment. </span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-27959751285729153922013-03-10T14:13:00.001-07:002013-03-10T14:13:16.823-07:00Entering SewVivor Challenge 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0aozavTNA8anR-zT7_sqMee2rmYFrHyQ8luT_Ds-sibD6E6pzT7RMHdTcfGmVr4b_9b1ZZNwMHMR7iob3GMRztjtyvarL3dKF9i3CIvrzb_rUUdXGYWuOdETYVBXTGhHeP_YkwXeEHQY8/s1600/IMG_3696.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0aozavTNA8anR-zT7_sqMee2rmYFrHyQ8luT_Ds-sibD6E6pzT7RMHdTcfGmVr4b_9b1ZZNwMHMR7iob3GMRztjtyvarL3dKF9i3CIvrzb_rUUdXGYWuOdETYVBXTGhHeP_YkwXeEHQY8/s320/IMG_3696.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So I have made a bunch of different things. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Some I would be proud of.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Some complete mistakes.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I have used Pinterest for inpiration.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Sometimes I even find a paper pattern to work with.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Most of the time I am on my own.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I find joy in the fustration, time, and gumption it takes to make something from start to finish alone. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Weird. But when you are the mom of 4, (one borrowed) being alone is a gift. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So here is my contribution. Hope you all like it! </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-45047706122292874952013-03-07T11:07:00.000-08:002013-03-07T11:07:25.019-08:00Our exchange program<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Look around your house. Tons of things come from China. This computer that I am typing on - made in China. The phone I just finished using - China. My clothes - China (and Israel too). Things, things are the only connection I had with China. Well, that was until a couple of months ago. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The beginning of the year, China moved in. Literally moved in. China in a 6'3" loud spikey hair boy. He is a typical teenager -- something I had to get used too. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But in the last many weeks I have found a place for China in my heart. He belongs here. There is no doubt in my mind that he does. My children have accepted him as one of them. The dog and cat love him. He is a joy to have and we are blessed in more ways than one that God choose our house to place him. </span><br />
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Source: <a href="http://powerinthename.tumblr.com/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">powerinthename.tumblr.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/emmaleighe/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Emma</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">What I just didn't know that when we prayed and welcomed an exchange student into our house what we would really have to exchange to have him. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">For months, I have heard.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">"Are you crazy?"</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">"Are you really willing to put your kids in danger?"</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">"Do you really think you need another child there? You are already have four!"</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">"Is there going to be an end to this.?"</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">And my favorite yet, " good for you, <span style="color: purple;"><b>I'm just not as international as you are</b></span>."</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I really don't agree with any of these comments. God made it clear that this boy was suppose to come. There are details that will blow your mind. The Lord has his finger on every pulse of our little Chinese project. I listened, and accepted - our family is different. That just doesn't make us wrong (or in turn does it make yours). </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">For one, before Michael and I even got married we knew we were to have four children. No crazy there - it was planted very clearly. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Secondly, we watch our children very closely - God watches them even closer. Certainly there are precautions that you take when a teen who you don't know moves in but I would never intentionally put my (or anyone's children) in danger. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">And because I have God on my side I can do it thru him. There will be days to cry. Times I just want to sleep. But there will be time for that when I am dead. Seriously, the work to be done is now and sign me up to do it. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The end? When are we suppose to stop loving people? Loving people for who they are. When is the world going to throw perimeters out the door? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">And as far as being international. Seriously? I'm a first generation American. I have a child adopted from another country? My niece is waiting in China right now for my sister and brother in law to come get her. And besides, what do you think heaven will look like? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So as the weeks went by and our little Chinese project developed life became a bit lonely. The phone doesn't ring as much, dinner dates have stopped, people have even used another door at church to avoid having to talk with our family. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #134f5c; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">In exchange for China - our worldly lives.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There are days where it makes me angry but then I remember - my journey is not theirs and I can not expect them to understand.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There are days when I hurt. I hurt because I have been guilty of judging people just our family has been judged. To know that someone has felt this way because of my actions (or in actions) breaks my heart. It hurts to know that I will probably do it again too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There are days I morn. Loss in any form is not an easy thing. The past few months I have lost relationships, trust, and at times a bit of faith in the world.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">There are days that I rejoice. I see progress in his life! I have friendships that were just that in passing become amazing relationships. My family has been chosen for an opportunity! We are blessed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Do I think it has been easy to have China move in- certainly not? Would I do it again? Absolutely!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I knew I would write a blog post on an adventure that God was taking us on, I just never thought it would look like this. I find comfort in knowing that HE did and he will provide. But our exchange program turned out to have really nothing to do with another country - it turned out to be an exchange of things we hold close to our hearts. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Where is your heart today? Are you willing to let God move into it? </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-85620995191636672292013-03-05T18:38:00.003-08:002013-03-05T18:38:46.147-08:00Overachiever - life of a mom - epic fail for the fairy<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">I met the toothfairy once. He (yes he) lived in downtown Miami near the old Miami Heat stadium. We met while I was parking my car super excited to see my first Billy Joel concert. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The tooth fairy was a really nice guy. We talked about how hard the times were, how health insurance was hard to come by in his industry. He was just trying to make an honest living. And honestly, teeth don't pay in - they pay out.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Perhaps hardships are why the Tooth Fairy decided to get a second job when he opened a little enterpenoural endeavor with Captain Crunch. Yup, the Tooth Fairy and Captain Crunch were business together, on the streets, in downtown ghettoville Miami. Might I say they were making a tax free killing at it too.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">For 2.5 hours, and 20 dollars, the dynamic duo of vivid imaginations would park their green and white striped webbing lawn chairs right by your car parked on the street. They promised that it, and your hub caps, were still there when you got back. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The Tooth Fairy of downtown Miami may have been a man in tights, but he was a man of his word. Two and a half hours later my car, and its hubcabs, were still there. The Tooth Fairy was not. I bet that he left to give all the toothless little boys and girls of Miami their treats.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Fast forward 20 years. The Tooth Fairy who services my house is not as reliable as Captain Crunch's sidekick. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It was established early on that our Tooth Fairy does not work on Sunday nights. Why? I have no clue. The fairy just hasn't been able to produce on Sunday nights. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The first three times a Sunday night tooth loss rolled around, the tooth fairy's deliquency left for some really upset children on Monday morning. It was thought that our Tooth Fairy probably under union contract. The contract probably stipulates that there will be no fairy work on Sunday nights. At that point, the kids seem to be OK with fact that they would have to wait until Tuesday. </span></div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/45176802481586670/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://media-cache-ec7.pinterest.com/550x/1a/13/f0/1a13f0d077b593a665c76bbf69f8765f.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/page/41/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">awkwardfamilyphotos.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/felanh/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Felan</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Then there was the episode that the Tooth Fairy was a no show on a Thursday. At that point, we seriously thought we had a looser on our hands. Perhaps it was that the fairy had a cold and just couldn't get out of the fairy house? Or could it be that the fairy had eaten too many fairy Girl Scout cookies and couldn't fit thru the fairy portal. Who knows? That time it took the fairy three days to show up. Slacker fairy.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">But could the fairy seriously forget for an entire week? </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">It seems that it is true. The fairy kept forgetting for an entire week! What kind of fairy do we have at our house? Obviously this character is not from the same mold that took care of my car 20 years ago. Does this fairy realize that every time he forgets -- it ends up costing him 5.00 instead of the standard 1.00? Our fairy must be an idiot - we are in a recession for Pete Sake! </span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6802156777844426799.post-41905952963318472002013-03-04T18:44:00.001-08:002013-03-04T18:44:25.987-08:00Hello Monday and a Giveaway<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Hello Monday! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Hello to something I have been wanting to do for awhile!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Hello to giving!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">A great neutral set I put together just in time for Easter. Features a chevron trimmed burlap runner, a mini silver tray chalkboard, pretty petals cupcake liners and an egg tray turned jewel holder. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhSCZyM5yiz83l4MwN1KqcftAktZxKS-djeT3-hdv7dox_OreLu-MXiWVfZPMsTpxCcekfsfG0BTPg0tY7KLqAnM0_GAHTpEjR43SdW6yhGP1zM5eZc8byPd-HY97GyBYpPhTlVRMpgy_/s1600/IMG_6694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhSCZyM5yiz83l4MwN1KqcftAktZxKS-djeT3-hdv7dox_OreLu-MXiWVfZPMsTpxCcekfsfG0BTPg0tY7KLqAnM0_GAHTpEjR43SdW6yhGP1zM5eZc8byPd-HY97GyBYpPhTlVRMpgy_/s400/IMG_6694.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Hello to making something for someone who I am sure is very special!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmXR_dka-6DqOqPX6YBqGIdvebeGSEWYoXUBOq27gXN43qlgLSeeqyQ7RqlFwROT6B8rke4hhjdroXzdi48h36jDKJuxGWfb4J_KJOxQSC7FkaWONR23bcpnQVwgQ5fW0YgpDUM2Yy7LJJ/s1600/IMG_6688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmXR_dka-6DqOqPX6YBqGIdvebeGSEWYoXUBOq27gXN43qlgLSeeqyQ7RqlFwROT6B8rke4hhjdroXzdi48h36jDKJuxGWfb4J_KJOxQSC7FkaWONR23bcpnQVwgQ5fW0YgpDUM2Yy7LJJ/s400/IMG_6688.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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(a 18 inch by 70 inch table runner in ivory burlap and chevron gray)</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Hello to using something beautiful to store beautiful things.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5uCbnSr-hK8NMc3vTcI5r6uRIprE5PHjZWuvtnCXsIKB3rXd2w5Zt-CeMH5dZbGhptoc_Y9hcm34UQSvMf6AT-KSK9hYLAHs2DM-6dvW6O4coorHOu1im8rpRh-vzb4IVaNkkcM96XY3a/s1600/IMG_6697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5uCbnSr-hK8NMc3vTcI5r6uRIprE5PHjZWuvtnCXsIKB3rXd2w5Zt-CeMH5dZbGhptoc_Y9hcm34UQSvMf6AT-KSK9hYLAHs2DM-6dvW6O4coorHOu1im8rpRh-vzb4IVaNkkcM96XY3a/s400/IMG_6697.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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(a decorative egg tray - my favorite thing to store everyday jewels)</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Hello to gathering around and loving each other!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHWkAWb7bRgwwYQthoeWEJZCwDLANtsGTN25PxHlz0Rd-DGwNf9OfJGAcDQmX2MYvyo5AbkB14L7OWpzthufcz2QR1rdSCm1hx_kIz-YWlUiBsbbUpLB0ocvKFEYSacx5h9olSgSQ2BzeY/s1600/IMG_6691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHWkAWb7bRgwwYQthoeWEJZCwDLANtsGTN25PxHlz0Rd-DGwNf9OfJGAcDQmX2MYvyo5AbkB14L7OWpzthufcz2QR1rdSCm1hx_kIz-YWlUiBsbbUpLB0ocvKFEYSacx5h9olSgSQ2BzeY/s400/IMG_6691.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>
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(mini silver tray chalkboard - perfect for doors and such)</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Hello to So For's first giveaway! Can't wait to have you visit.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">The raffle is open until 3/8/13 and pretty easy to enter. </span><br />
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/2c0d1a0/" id="rc-2c0d1a0" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01508155351321235936noreply@blogger.com0