tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21228140258432461602024-03-13T03:12:08.198-05:00Down Our Country Road❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.comBlogger129125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-75358872574261736182013-12-24T10:50:00.001-06:002013-12-24T10:50:42.322-06:00~Merry Christmas!~<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=kK7rWgqnimr6OM&tbnid=CMjlce5agqKAQM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbishoysblog.com%2F2010%2F12%2F21%2Forigin-of-nativity-scenes%2F&ei=Yrq5UpyUKabK2AWE3IHQBQ&bvm=bv.58187178,d.b2I&psig=AFQjCNHBtPSh0JwQcnxWoRUfui5OhiwfbA&ust=1387989950729703" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img class="irc_mut" height="393" id="irc_mi" src="http://stnoufer.files.wordpress.com/2010/12/nativity_scene.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="600" /></a><br />
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As we celebrate the birth of our Lord, may we share with others the love He came to bring.</div>
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Wishing you a warm, blessed and very Merry Christmas! I pray that God's richest blessings are bestowed upon you and your loved ones during this beloved holiday!<br />
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With love and hugs~<br />
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-86441956647143224102013-10-16T11:45:00.002-05:002013-10-17T16:10:57.220-05:00~A Fall Apple-Themed Tablescape Party Idea~Last weekend, we were in Omaha visiting my son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter, Monkey. On Sunday, Jane (d-i-l) wanted to take us to an apple orchard for some good ol' apple pickin' before we started the trip home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUzPLW51KIT8PCktj_4Z_0Mss2KGQTgbatQgB1fqC-CWbFFgDa6rwPKqa0_uh8EP1ZUVxbihFXKgPSXBiAwFQchDtNy67khSzwRDXvymaIdGNNpOxSTxbY9K2_30ysRMWIw1tQlHTzjRwQ/s1600/apples1a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUzPLW51KIT8PCktj_4Z_0Mss2KGQTgbatQgB1fqC-CWbFFgDa6rwPKqa0_uh8EP1ZUVxbihFXKgPSXBiAwFQchDtNy67khSzwRDXvymaIdGNNpOxSTxbY9K2_30ysRMWIw1tQlHTzjRwQ/s640/apples1a.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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About an hour south of Omaha is a lovely town called Nebraska City where the Kimmel Orchard is located. The farm was started in the 1850s but the orchard and vineyard was established in 1925 and, over the years, has developed into a huge and impressive place.</div>
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There are acres and acres of vegetables and fruits...</div>
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enormous vineyards used to produce a variety of wines...</div>
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and fun things for the kids to do (there is also a huge pumpkin patch but I failed to take a picture of it).</div>
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But, since we were limited on time, we came to do this...pick apples!! You're probably wondering...what in the world does an orchard have to do with a fall tablescape?? Well, hold your ponies. While going up and down the many rows of apple trees, we came across this....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1XkiTR3cuqwxyBi6o7v-aN0R0ETEA7SymA3o6z4IEHhmzGLzeNWhr-rwzxWsWZPVT4ep1_kmmsSpn_sICrh5FMTpEpOO25M-qkz7Fmwa05-5OzxaHmRDhyphenhyphenQjfYMsSzqFNd3XtfDxD91QQ/s1600/apples2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1XkiTR3cuqwxyBi6o7v-aN0R0ETEA7SymA3o6z4IEHhmzGLzeNWhr-rwzxWsWZPVT4ep1_kmmsSpn_sICrh5FMTpEpOO25M-qkz7Fmwa05-5OzxaHmRDhyphenhyphenQjfYMsSzqFNd3XtfDxD91QQ/s640/apples2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The most adorable apple-themed tablescape for, of all people, 2nd-graders!! There was a woman standing nearby who had set it up and was waiting for her guests to arrive. I didn't want to be rude by drooling and aahing over what she had created so I just snapped a few pictures.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PR6IkGQ3THDfysoklfHNuP2V_HYb5XWWOaIHUFagIinh-uhSejS55xVL_k87WUNWHEHTWsGiZh8jx36VMe7yPloksoZt631qIIMLUxEUfhgtIRFjoqspRhHeasSfuFgubISRQv-qnnZY/s1600/apples3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PR6IkGQ3THDfysoklfHNuP2V_HYb5XWWOaIHUFagIinh-uhSejS55xVL_k87WUNWHEHTWsGiZh8jx36VMe7yPloksoZt631qIIMLUxEUfhgtIRFjoqspRhHeasSfuFgubISRQv-qnnZY/s640/apples3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Carafes full of apple juice waiting to refill the canning jars that were topped with lids and straws, caramel apples and caramel corn served in painted berry baskets....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizcI2VMvQ_2RZWIfCoTZdV25Yr2YHSTfEqvJQGLCnTNgLXE3xcUmRvUlMbGF2PCuQrOFvweM3jguqFXhmYmn5t0V4uIa0JDkDHA_3ElP0v8knVvfa4ymFZhB4TfS0EOPL0j-oQnRAHPpop/s1600/apples4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizcI2VMvQ_2RZWIfCoTZdV25Yr2YHSTfEqvJQGLCnTNgLXE3xcUmRvUlMbGF2PCuQrOFvweM3jguqFXhmYmn5t0V4uIa0JDkDHA_3ElP0v8knVvfa4ymFZhB4TfS0EOPL0j-oQnRAHPpop/s640/apples4.JPG" width="438" /></a></div>
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and sitting atop wooden crates were plates and plates of apple donuts. Talk about sugar overload but who cares when you're being served these wonderful delights!! All of these sweet treats were being sold in the apple barn, by the way, and I'm sure this is where she got all of her edibles.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_6NUhOH7aL6CMwQah5eZI56QOAJVPXPrXcj_cD6vINy-tan-0kZo1IPZK_OQO4-tG4Ds65hCHRhOvsb7VGoNxxX-Bn-zld2d50Wb7AGdHQlkI16-mUT5rTVy2g8CgqNJWbcL6e94hwD43/s1600/apples5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_6NUhOH7aL6CMwQah5eZI56QOAJVPXPrXcj_cD6vINy-tan-0kZo1IPZK_OQO4-tG4Ds65hCHRhOvsb7VGoNxxX-Bn-zld2d50Wb7AGdHQlkI16-mUT5rTVy2g8CgqNJWbcL6e94hwD43/s640/apples5.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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The centerpiece was a lovely fall floral bouquet and there were smaller bouquets placed here and there down the long tables. You can also see apples being displayed in small wooden baskets and gallon jars.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibvQr55rnCwywv8q2s82PnZAEAuSFULElU3onNLq1q9k6jxkf5Bng4gGqFMb00IWT52jvlbuiFC-yefQdo90aRSLF4WAzcCPHColcL3rf9IMRsxJMC_PUFCscCMwgx-mUKVdsYgngmhC_g/s1600/apples6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibvQr55rnCwywv8q2s82PnZAEAuSFULElU3onNLq1q9k6jxkf5Bng4gGqFMb00IWT52jvlbuiFC-yefQdo90aRSLF4WAzcCPHColcL3rf9IMRsxJMC_PUFCscCMwgx-mUKVdsYgngmhC_g/s640/apples6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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No fall party would be complete without apples for dunking! Very thoughtful idea to hang towels on the handles of the galvanized tub for drying those dripping wet faces.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJJ0XKJupHmMqYE77BRpdPFWFwh8rTu0mdCpDhipYY8kIJmYnr-apPf-INVyWwlcSDAB-7bU10Kri8FjaWbXgVsOrpqvltLXI8-IUbKh0469ekT2IWBOSpSKsJWFFSnNSedY4POxULI7rr/s1600/apples7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJJ0XKJupHmMqYE77BRpdPFWFwh8rTu0mdCpDhipYY8kIJmYnr-apPf-INVyWwlcSDAB-7bU10Kri8FjaWbXgVsOrpqvltLXI8-IUbKh0469ekT2IWBOSpSKsJWFFSnNSedY4POxULI7rr/s640/apples7.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The 'entrance' to their little party was a banner made of colorful hankies.</div>
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At the other end was a pennant banner. I didn't look closely to see how they were made nor the theme of that banner. Now the children might not appreciate how adorable the theme and setup is for this party but I think this is a very creative idea for an adult party, fall tea or luncheon. This is right up my decorating style and something simple to create. Don't you agree?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirSoMhFRCJi6IcfPFYohb4eMBDB-IEn3YUvxBmHQAVevQ6hRPWiPxpYmiPx4YSV5x-TCijCS43RQxg8nnWMlGb2JI2ZwekPO8CeU2Yys4DA-c_y9OUcqgxXwo5u2C980md7RibYwLK22vj/s1600/apples1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirSoMhFRCJi6IcfPFYohb4eMBDB-IEn3YUvxBmHQAVevQ6hRPWiPxpYmiPx4YSV5x-TCijCS43RQxg8nnWMlGb2JI2ZwekPO8CeU2Yys4DA-c_y9OUcqgxXwo5u2C980md7RibYwLK22vj/s640/apples1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I would have loved to stay longer but we had to hit the road for the long 7-hour drive home. Between the three of us, we were able to gather about two bushels of apples. We had to sample a few while picking and they were so, SO good! Thankfully, Monkey wanted to bring her wagon along! Yes, the sun was bright but it was a most beautiful day for gathering apples. </div>
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Until next time ~</div>
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p.s. I betcha you're wondering what I'm going to do with my bounty, huh? First of all, I'm going to make some <a href="http://downourcountryroad.blogspot.com/2011/10/crock-pot-apple-butter.html" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: #f4cccc;">crockpot apple butter</span></a> and then I'll probably do some canning for future apple pies and cobblers. I also came across a recipe for apple-ring pancakes that I can't wait to try. If they taste as good as they look, I'll share the recipe with you. ;)<br />
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You'll find me partying here...<br />
<a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/2013/10/tutorials-tips-and-tidbits-69.html" target="_blank">Stone Gable's Tutorials, Tips and Tidbits</a></div>
❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-77637297731564973252013-10-09T07:00:00.000-05:002013-10-09T10:52:41.377-05:00~Beautiful Fall Colors Found in Fabrics~If I could decorate my house in Fall colors and with Fall decorations all year long, I would. I've always been drawn to the warm and earthy colors of brick reds, rusts, eggplant purples, goldish yellows, bark-colored browns, burnt oranges ...you get the idea. No bright, primary colors for me...no sirree.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOdwfyVzZKVq2pS2HDvwkJoPFVlbHtEcl6b1UnqybhF9Hrv7NLXncpZGzm0Zf7Bumlf5q-TrmYu4EkOTHobjUKvYb9wtL0VBoBw28CWGI-0XfzMciKFSuHN1hFwnLzfIMD2S9nNso0_muF/s400/il_570xN.350648723%5B1%5D.jpg" width="400" /></td></tr>
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Several months ago, I purchased a pack of 5" square fabrics from Moda called <a href="http://www.unitednotions.com/fcc_harvest_moon.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: #93c47d;">Harvest Moon</span></a>. I was in love! I knew that I could AND would do something with it sometime in the Fall. Now that Fall is here, the creative light bulb finally came on and I have several things in mind that I want to make. But this little pack of fabric just wasn't going to go very far so it was time to start the hunt. Then I hit the mother lode!! Oh my....the collection I had was designed by <span style="background-color: #93c47d;"><a href="http://www.ktquilts.com/" target="_blank">Kansas Troubles Quilters</a></span> and, come to find out, they had designed more lovely fabrics that coordinated beautifully with what I had and was looking for.</div>
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<img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP73ahyEV2YuglsxrYKPQDc0g0eNXAxiVevtxxiIgDt6xvv3T3PBY2WDK8G5NUdf8mVIGCKBXK5EALYALDBo37JJ2okdOGtz6_7UHyvJs-cJhKJPcIPUPG1io4j-A28iczFtfA_0it5txk/s640/fall1.JPG" width="640" /></div>
This is, by no means, the entire selection of Kansas Troubles fabrics, but I've got a pretty good start on my collection.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs5Gl730aRbaES_T8JyYc2w-AVB3mjIl3wZGMc_CGVWNufWVF82WQgCagLwS09zwLUGE6XWlKu5AmC7dh39FHLC_XwGksN9vZECX-7sgljc54kAe8Vju89ulhtOpxPjLBNxIeSem7X0e9C/s1600/fall2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs5Gl730aRbaES_T8JyYc2w-AVB3mjIl3wZGMc_CGVWNufWVF82WQgCagLwS09zwLUGE6XWlKu5AmC7dh39FHLC_XwGksN9vZECX-7sgljc54kAe8Vju89ulhtOpxPjLBNxIeSem7X0e9C/s640/fall2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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You may be thinking I've lost my mind when I say that this makes my heart go pitter-patter. You're thinking that, right? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuUczaJFucxaMvi9tQ_3qFZFMfZonFP_RiGiVFUZ9JpDjDSHy5gjiVVOV3guegum4otQxxsXpYnlfxm8ZWhzilIo0oS6IRrFx9UIqCUTdvAN-1ZwCrValIbHRGB12hMjX7NnplVyKSDmyU/s1600/fall3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuUczaJFucxaMvi9tQ_3qFZFMfZonFP_RiGiVFUZ9JpDjDSHy5gjiVVOV3guegum4otQxxsXpYnlfxm8ZWhzilIo0oS6IRrFx9UIqCUTdvAN-1ZwCrValIbHRGB12hMjX7NnplVyKSDmyU/s640/fall3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Beautiful tans with touches of green, red, brown, blue....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDXWYpwi-CWcCWulG-Npf3A-u-KMonbqboZ364rtz8bpzOMVl_rP1IMWQACsF_FD5hpnm3A27ozAR62Bb8PTX2m7MWzT-TS5K4qb-5qVUEFEBEH7g4aPodnAj4UvtRmSesno6W_cFRnvoh/s1600/fall4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDXWYpwi-CWcCWulG-Npf3A-u-KMonbqboZ364rtz8bpzOMVl_rP1IMWQACsF_FD5hpnm3A27ozAR62Bb8PTX2m7MWzT-TS5K4qb-5qVUEFEBEH7g4aPodnAj4UvtRmSesno6W_cFRnvoh/s640/fall4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Deep emerald greens and bark-colored browns....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn9qgPAUvxkhcrMRDR0l-xTO3lIG8yV5lJHUvqyz7FljBJPB0NftPyOOanPGO1IscJ_RU4nab4GZcp_zjCn02iM-3MTvuc2YTAlsYMzFilitr-dGZCgIawaNv9COe0l6fNrHO3W4q1Jjfz/s1600/fall6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn9qgPAUvxkhcrMRDR0l-xTO3lIG8yV5lJHUvqyz7FljBJPB0NftPyOOanPGO1IscJ_RU4nab4GZcp_zjCn02iM-3MTvuc2YTAlsYMzFilitr-dGZCgIawaNv9COe0l6fNrHO3W4q1Jjfz/s640/fall6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Dark brick-colored reds....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVG8nJ-tT3vLiACEt_wnPZvUXmRffRICiIYCbAARpInE6adYuE0YivsH99jJ_hn8L98key0Fxa08GDyjNFi1H_Q5BTZLJXPFg1FRSwjVnsufGQBhkkHoglgRpX389OTuHpkVVc7LXB-Wj-/s1600/fall5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVG8nJ-tT3vLiACEt_wnPZvUXmRffRICiIYCbAARpInE6adYuE0YivsH99jJ_hn8L98key0Fxa08GDyjNFi1H_Q5BTZLJXPFg1FRSwjVnsufGQBhkkHoglgRpX389OTuHpkVVc7LXB-Wj-/s640/fall5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Rich blues....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2fFRlpiJfUTwJ83aYEuUZuV9AkVP2nj6T1hrjrp0wz8xGJgxMCN05pvlxgIgaF6CmFv1e8aE5ugUu_fnD5PoCoGUzzJWxuOteuQsNt3iRoJKBjWFsOIY7HemD2e9kv3Fsfj6FjLfyBXG/s1600/fall7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2fFRlpiJfUTwJ83aYEuUZuV9AkVP2nj6T1hrjrp0wz8xGJgxMCN05pvlxgIgaF6CmFv1e8aE5ugUu_fnD5PoCoGUzzJWxuOteuQsNt3iRoJKBjWFsOIY7HemD2e9kv3Fsfj6FjLfyBXG/s640/fall7.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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and some other fabrics that I already had on hand....in various shades of browns, golds, oranges and rust..</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiDMUofd0TjDVXnJbfsk-5J5f3V3hpV0WRn_Hu6mk1lIUD_Xb5pXzxHVxfd5LG6e-Domm6GNbqfCUK74eUClxqRVmOWazDFInhTfXVDx8ZHqV1A55oSM92AM7Z-ReMLX4C0jLyexQKDXdt/s1600/fall8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiDMUofd0TjDVXnJbfsk-5J5f3V3hpV0WRn_Hu6mk1lIUD_Xb5pXzxHVxfd5LG6e-Domm6GNbqfCUK74eUClxqRVmOWazDFInhTfXVDx8ZHqV1A55oSM92AM7Z-ReMLX4C0jLyexQKDXdt/s640/fall8.JPG" width="524" /></a></div>
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All shades that coincide with the rich, deep, warm, earthy and comfortable colors of Fall!! I'm not finished collecting but I think this is a good start, don't you? And, with the projects I have in mind, it won't take long to use them up. :/</div>
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I'm so smitten with these fabrics that I've been thinking....the home I currently live in is already decorated with some warm, earthy type colors but on a lighter scale. I'm drawn to the idea of decorating our new home (all year 'round) with the same color scheme found in these fabrics. I think that with the right balance of neutrals, I can pull it off. What do you think?</div>
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I'm getting way ahead of myself here! I've got to get back to work on the projects that are on my sewing table...a few tablerunners, wall hangings and pot holders that I've got to get done and in my Etsy store before the Fall season totally gets away from me. It's never too late to start or to continue decorating for Fall, is it? I hope to be sharing those with you by the end of next week.</div>
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Until next time.......</div>
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p.s. By the way, Moda Fabrics and Kansas Troubles Quilters do not know me from Adam. I am not being compensated in any way for sharing this fabric collection with you.<br />
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-35968233685060057992013-10-03T11:55:00.001-05:002013-10-03T12:01:30.440-05:00~A Little Orange and Black~Orange and black. You're suspecting that this has something to do with Halloween or Fall, right? Well, I'm sorry to disappoint you. It has nothing to do with either but rather something much more important and fun...school colors and school pride!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEbRMRUWyPeTrYUFK_uKkxZIMtps4Qnb4TMRYRXLSAOpdB55y2azFPw_BEg-XT9vQFwZKQ5HaVQxPy_gj1RetAqGL2CGI-IvcllFpgVNDRn9CkHhv-TuxN8Q9KJ3cp0OkrwvSA5CbXzXnX/s1600/orangea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEbRMRUWyPeTrYUFK_uKkxZIMtps4Qnb4TMRYRXLSAOpdB55y2azFPw_BEg-XT9vQFwZKQ5HaVQxPy_gj1RetAqGL2CGI-IvcllFpgVNDRn9CkHhv-TuxN8Q9KJ3cp0OkrwvSA5CbXzXnX/s640/orangea.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is my granddaughter, Monkey, with her Mama and other grandma, JuJu. They live in Nebraska and are big Cornhusker fans...I mean really BIG!! Monkey got to celebrate her 7th birthday by going to her first college football game. But they are also Oklahoma State Cowboy fans because her daddy and his side of the family (that's us!) are diehard, bleed orange and black Cowboy fans. And, to top it off, her Poppa (Mr. Bill) played some college football there! Anyway, her Mama asked me to make her something orange and black (school colors) so that she could show off her Cowboy pride.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaC3NPfuzIu5mykms3k38sCLp4T_na33-vrVmoOnUjwRHQ2Sj6M89SZLdDHaQvBb6kLfxQNa2S5zq_FDZxJXoe8jj2k06IMMZ5pW_R-5WN8P9sCluXKJNptdW7yYIQp9Lsu2lXuoibcK-u/s1600/orange1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaC3NPfuzIu5mykms3k38sCLp4T_na33-vrVmoOnUjwRHQ2Sj6M89SZLdDHaQvBb6kLfxQNa2S5zq_FDZxJXoe8jj2k06IMMZ5pW_R-5WN8P9sCluXKJNptdW7yYIQp9Lsu2lXuoibcK-u/s640/orange1.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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She showed me an outfit from a retail place and asked if I could make something like it. Do you know there are no peasant type dress patterns for little girls? Seriously. I thought they were "in" this year. Anyway, I had to combine two patterns to come up with this dress.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasRpmUgxEu5IK3Ga-eaor9t8MINDr4B7PbmqwMqD9NTcKbAgfJzSZNm850mZfp0pcB_iCxjBKH8a0bxwDEbmTwyFtIMBh9GVDlrdXiOL445yO5slxNPblkT5sSBBrQAT9z-ny2H9FsQoC/s1600/orange2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasRpmUgxEu5IK3Ga-eaor9t8MINDr4B7PbmqwMqD9NTcKbAgfJzSZNm850mZfp0pcB_iCxjBKH8a0bxwDEbmTwyFtIMBh9GVDlrdXiOL445yO5slxNPblkT5sSBBrQAT9z-ny2H9FsQoC/s640/orange2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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A nice wide, black and white polka dot sash really stands out against the orange chevron print.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA8S5tVfNzcOAdY0f5YPMIDn7Vopu1fR7moxKTQXHyq79tPqp-WRRPPP-KdeuXHgXXTbnCZaNxtdjnfz7Uvq8rWKMhOwutIH1A0MujPrb9ri7_O8jC46sL0hgK5bUg9ILI-0zJUOjlMKiZ/s1600/orange3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA8S5tVfNzcOAdY0f5YPMIDn7Vopu1fR7moxKTQXHyq79tPqp-WRRPPP-KdeuXHgXXTbnCZaNxtdjnfz7Uvq8rWKMhOwutIH1A0MujPrb9ri7_O8jC46sL0hgK5bUg9ILI-0zJUOjlMKiZ/s640/orange3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I finsished the edges of the sash and ruffle trim with my serger. I think the two rows of ruffles are so cute. Adds a bit of flounce, don't you think?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_NbPhiauEPUb8r4TPgRpePDrfUQ3va4mqbUfeLGKo5Er4nkPOOerc2UoM1o3DUzO7HnAfhxtzoONuJpsRIDtqFk0jLNJtwb0uZ7qPUHO3otBYj19J3GKzF6GizOh695heCziBwrMCShHT/s1600/orange4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_NbPhiauEPUb8r4TPgRpePDrfUQ3va4mqbUfeLGKo5Er4nkPOOerc2UoM1o3DUzO7HnAfhxtzoONuJpsRIDtqFk0jLNJtwb0uZ7qPUHO3otBYj19J3GKzF6GizOh695heCziBwrMCShHT/s640/orange4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Jane, Monkey's mama, also asked if I would make a hairbow. This is my first attempt. I've never made big girl hairbows before. Can you believe it? I've got three granddaughters!! Anyway, I layered together two pieces of the chevron fabric with interfacing to give it some stiffness, cut into several strips and trimmed the edges with my pinking shears.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0uSbdzSoHUoveg6O_-Bz3jaRCnypuHULymvPil3LGJwAElo-KeDFFgpQTkKzIcug4s0PC2A4MmmE8Mjxk2pSi5A7pEnX3oY5Piqhb38ZGVh03ZRnHYqcuvIhLlCtQ77BtmxOeIcbFeKxq/s1600/orange5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0uSbdzSoHUoveg6O_-Bz3jaRCnypuHULymvPil3LGJwAElo-KeDFFgpQTkKzIcug4s0PC2A4MmmE8Mjxk2pSi5A7pEnX3oY5Piqhb38ZGVh03ZRnHYqcuvIhLlCtQ77BtmxOeIcbFeKxq/s640/orange5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A covered button made with OSU logo fabric finishes it off. It was fun to make but I have to admit that it was rather hard on my hands. I suffer from arthritis in my thumb joints :/ Bummer!</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfk30gqS3GkgtFnDwpMQZlcc06Jzq-0Qa_rtg18r_QnB4cshLXeHdbtntyWTJwBwlz45ZCIq1rmbjM4Vt3bgLEmTGMEX_uhZqbfCarSXf-vJD70PXhxNJYIZ-Y_LOCcXkvB6teIR-9t1F6/s640/orange6.JPG" width="380" /></div>
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It's done and they went in the mail yesterday. I just hope it fits! Though I used the recommended measurement on the pattern, I have a feeling the neck opening may be a bit too large. Thankfully, we are going up there for a visit in about ten days so I can make some adjustments, if necessary, when I'm up there. Can't wait to see her display her Cowboy pride! I had so much fun making this outfit and hairbow that I've got one in the makes for Tater Tot, the 5-year-old granddaughter.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8ZhrleY1B_UE_Tgzt16GN3QGKYuPpNAtWaeVlUiAXaojoq2slYqNzc7Xnl8T9tmJo6chPV-vm7qiRpYWVFR1cmeUG_3DgTp5PiKDI4fx8bRMR2M-8eF2fD8bV6TyxgTTGu5S84A0y_nX/s1600/285px-Pistol_Pete.svg%5B1%5D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8ZhrleY1B_UE_Tgzt16GN3QGKYuPpNAtWaeVlUiAXaojoq2slYqNzc7Xnl8T9tmJo6chPV-vm7qiRpYWVFR1cmeUG_3DgTp5PiKDI4fx8bRMR2M-8eF2fD8bV6TyxgTTGu5S84A0y_nX/s400/285px-Pistol_Pete.svg%5B1%5D.png" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
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GO POKES!!</div>
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p.s. Referring to the arthritic pain in my thumbs....I wear Handeze arthritic gloves (if I remember to put them on!) when sewing, use BioFreeze around the joints and have my hands worked on by the chiropractor and massage therapist when necessary but the ol' thumbs still give me issues. If you suffer from this affliction, what do you do to help overcome the problem?</div>
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-55935042581331949072013-09-23T10:58:00.004-05:002013-09-27T12:47:20.270-05:00~Crafting Lap Tray Makeover~I do alot of hand work...sewing, crocheting, etc, while sitting in my comfy recliner as I watch TV. Multitasking, you know ;) But I don't know how many times that I have dropped my scissors, thread, crochet needle and such and then they slip down the side of the cushion and down into the bottom of the recliner!! Which means I have to get up, turn the recliner over and try to dig out my lost items. Not fun.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubn8-9-dlEDahKoQkM15B052hWJk9EcNTOc1t3jK7hSLZf8IknmQlmhhwkPv9UpyxfEgf0xtE8mvHw5WqDYR5NlzO03KEeB_qmCz3FnIWjKuvgx53hJiDmmrmVp_aemz_yPeWf2pRmzMl/s1600/tray1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubn8-9-dlEDahKoQkM15B052hWJk9EcNTOc1t3jK7hSLZf8IknmQlmhhwkPv9UpyxfEgf0xtE8mvHw5WqDYR5NlzO03KEeB_qmCz3FnIWjKuvgx53hJiDmmrmVp_aemz_yPeWf2pRmzMl/s640/tray1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I thought a lap tray would work but everything would still roll or slip off the tray. I came across some crafting trays at the fabric store but the designs they had in stock just didn't appeal to me. Everything was for either children or teeny boppers. Bummer. Finally, it dawned on me. Get one and give it a makeover!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq7NwiEBkXiib75AAK70ogV9UirSuX0BMFcruQa3tgFkLElvmFEtGRzJ2mNj9CgGmDhCnltSVcxOdiliNMZnIPg0KZz03V9nal3Bzfm08EGYnsaMz7VzGcraVK7doax1IblfBNHWEH8FjS/s1600/tray2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq7NwiEBkXiib75AAK70ogV9UirSuX0BMFcruQa3tgFkLElvmFEtGRzJ2mNj9CgGmDhCnltSVcxOdiliNMZnIPg0KZz03V9nal3Bzfm08EGYnsaMz7VzGcraVK7doax1IblfBNHWEH8FjS/s640/tray2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I found this one at HL. Truth be told, there is absolutely nothing about the design that I find appealing. It's just not my style. The only good thing it had going were the cup and pencil holders. Perfect for holding those little items that slip out of my hands and fall down into the cushions!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAVTzvLY8F6U250TrY1WCqzq6rMa6eUEV2cl9GWBHfjBqHkZNSGQKLo4zgdG7RhGq0yPwkgHanyxLv2OwSXCBbkxUvD94MXatRCAtqLIbS_3vfcUp4TRHwqeIv-ObpbLIvO2K7aDMkqbI/s1600/tray3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAVTzvLY8F6U250TrY1WCqzq6rMa6eUEV2cl9GWBHfjBqHkZNSGQKLo4zgdG7RhGq0yPwkgHanyxLv2OwSXCBbkxUvD94MXatRCAtqLIbS_3vfcUp4TRHwqeIv-ObpbLIvO2K7aDMkqbI/s640/tray3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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But I had to do something about these colors...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0nJOtxm_PoOAxhdjs14Qy5UAxnIhDBgB1ntN09sU1ejtSutv5dHOchJsXeN8nPY7wX8Jid5bFTBI6vji2Iw4koybyaos8Nr71z8f1Do5ADgwfPAFAdDb5Mlv4yhgq2Xd6GLM5DgYf-UuL/s1600/tray4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0nJOtxm_PoOAxhdjs14Qy5UAxnIhDBgB1ntN09sU1ejtSutv5dHOchJsXeN8nPY7wX8Jid5bFTBI6vji2Iw4koybyaos8Nr71z8f1Do5ADgwfPAFAdDb5Mlv4yhgq2Xd6GLM5DgYf-UuL/s640/tray4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And definitely this backing! A velour type fabric means only one thing...it will attract threads and bits of fabric like nobody's business. Not good. There is a carrying handle and a zippered opening for replacing or adding more of those little styrofoam beads if one was so inclined but those aren't on my 'must-have' list.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfIKjTLoKDNEpMzcAac7itRZSU_WtEutja_at7JKJGKJdiQi4LFQg0QsnZbJQkX2oRsZsPNs-ydGI0d-S_7Q3HabEeZxTvRJJKiJIkkJkQZvx0MnZBRUqMepIt69wnD_-iGbbBPNq6N6YZ/s1600/tray3c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfIKjTLoKDNEpMzcAac7itRZSU_WtEutja_at7JKJGKJdiQi4LFQg0QsnZbJQkX2oRsZsPNs-ydGI0d-S_7Q3HabEeZxTvRJJKiJIkkJkQZvx0MnZBRUqMepIt69wnD_-iGbbBPNq6N6YZ/s640/tray3c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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First thing to do was repaint the cup and pen holders. I used my craft paint but it wasn't sticking very well and scratched off very easily. So I scraped it off and mixed the paint with some Mod Podge glue. That seemed to do the trick.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqO8Ig1p9DYSPOQSfVDmwSTisYF_0BfKNGoMSR2NWSaVJ8Hzu6F4h8078x04HDVDaAfbccFH59cCqYNWuvemIFTnOfSi-yeE34NibRaGiXp7cywgvsf4M9Dmx2tiM0K5bl0MV98swQi-8H/s1600/tray4a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqO8Ig1p9DYSPOQSfVDmwSTisYF_0BfKNGoMSR2NWSaVJ8Hzu6F4h8078x04HDVDaAfbccFH59cCqYNWuvemIFTnOfSi-yeE34NibRaGiXp7cywgvsf4M9Dmx2tiM0K5bl0MV98swQi-8H/s640/tray4a.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I dug through my stash of scrapbook paper and found some that looked rather feminine. Using the Mod Podge glue again, I adhered it to the top of the tray but it created too many bubbles so off it came. Next attempt was with spray adhesive. Much better. The hard part was piecing the paper sheets together and cutting around the holders. I let it dry overnight and used an exacto knife for trimming but still did a rather sloppy job of it. What does any smart crafter do? You cover it up!! Before applying the mini pompom trim, I sealed the scrapbook paper with a layer of Mod Podge as I was afraid the paper would tear easily. I started freaking out when it started bubbling again but was able to work them out once it started drying. Whew!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKtYvoZPJRlkKxq4f73qyGDm5XpGTI7qI8AS7krX1f16usld2BdQVZqGlXwoJ9a6pjAnPRfrjQQPSeEfzXzokW4OHWpZEHJU3KYtSo2HXmWHdpPzlKp0DCbvAvv294hlARbWRPfvTgnviY/s1600/tray10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKtYvoZPJRlkKxq4f73qyGDm5XpGTI7qI8AS7krX1f16usld2BdQVZqGlXwoJ9a6pjAnPRfrjQQPSeEfzXzokW4OHWpZEHJU3KYtSo2HXmWHdpPzlKp0DCbvAvv294hlARbWRPfvTgnviY/s640/tray10.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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For the back, I purchased this quilted fabric in an ivory color. I turned the tray upside down, laid the fabric over it and just did some freehand cutting. I saw no need to take off the black velour. Using my hot glue gun, I worked my way around the tray adhering the fabric along the edges leaving the rounded corners for last. Then I just scrunched up a little bit at a time and glued some more. It wasn't too tricky and didn't have to be perfect because of the soft bottom.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2AZwoPmCYQvyPagmXd87_KA6Wx1OS_TCE_OxxDvFU3IXTtUiwQGYBj-Tb5WqR4sfjEP6oVBVIl3GR3hDxg2vzx_IqXzjspxiQDGupqC2RjyH-N1viB0WdLfEldtpF-s2au0EylWMJQAP5/s1600/tray5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2AZwoPmCYQvyPagmXd87_KA6Wx1OS_TCE_OxxDvFU3IXTtUiwQGYBj-Tb5WqR4sfjEP6oVBVIl3GR3hDxg2vzx_IqXzjspxiQDGupqC2RjyH-N1viB0WdLfEldtpF-s2au0EylWMJQAP5/s640/tray5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I used some more of the pompom trim to cover up the raw edges of the fabric. I started at the bottom middle (area closest to me) and just overlapped it a bit so that it didn't show too much. All of the trim was applied using the hot glue gun.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ7UMUfW5FZrdVEUKZ3RUJt6jZdfmJAW6OSPA1DSL3I0AT8QpjVD-LsIEDMLZqtqrRlByIOXNjTi2DMd8OI6Aes98QuycLGpwAh4bWz96fVpOxW9bLOKLbTmSYyks6m4Hx6qxQ-lZUDwi-/s1600/tray7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ7UMUfW5FZrdVEUKZ3RUJt6jZdfmJAW6OSPA1DSL3I0AT8QpjVD-LsIEDMLZqtqrRlByIOXNjTi2DMd8OI6Aes98QuycLGpwAh4bWz96fVpOxW9bLOKLbTmSYyks6m4Hx6qxQ-lZUDwi-/s640/tray7.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Don't look too closely at the sloppy job I did with the glue gun. :/ </div>
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So there you have it! My not so appealing crafting lap tray is now something pretty to use while I'm working. Much better, don't you think?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkT9nSAsfycXUPx9yEiI7Fn_YBXWRCJqHLrSLXhLAQxUpILxTTOUKv7Qd9B9H1SF32c27gl6YeVikDVdR1QorSqVmV6i4flIHUo1ycp4rYB16qrxiAFghnxdJ8SGpysie1EqOt9sy3XRXg/s1600/tray11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkT9nSAsfycXUPx9yEiI7Fn_YBXWRCJqHLrSLXhLAQxUpILxTTOUKv7Qd9B9H1SF32c27gl6YeVikDVdR1QorSqVmV6i4flIHUo1ycp4rYB16qrxiAFghnxdJ8SGpysie1EqOt9sy3XRXg/s640/tray11.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now it's time to get to work on some projects...maybe this one?</div>
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-61893079056373762812013-09-19T11:44:00.001-05:002013-09-19T11:44:24.484-05:00~Like A Bee In A Flower Garden~Have you ever wondered what a bumblebee is thinking whenever it comes across a beautiful flower garden?<br />
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Can you imagine what it (he..she...) is thinking with all those beautiful colors and scents? "Oooh...look at that beautiful yellow! Oooh....oh, I like the smell of this pink one over here. Ooooh...that red one is calling my name!" That's why they flit from here to there constantly not knowing where to land first and how long to stay there!!<br />
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Well, that's the way I'm feeling these days. Like a bumblebee in a flower garden. Well, not with flowers but much more important things! I spent a gosh awful amount of time cleaning and packing and purging over the last year, which ended up being really good exercise in disguise. My energy level has picked up somewhat and the desire to move onto bigger and better things has kicked in. So guess what?? My creative mojo is coming back! Well, I've made things for the grandbabies but that doesn't really count. I'm finally getting back in the mood to start sewing and being creative for myself. It's been awhile. But the problem is.....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbUJnzcX8OErtTHazL7upOZZLv3w7GkrhbY0ujGolERzK_rXR50Lx17dUHDpF0LCaFMC9mRxdsZIqre7jwduGXxzWaXtPro37KSXGg4OBcjjZYdDWcXsLX-MOjots7PCLeeI7kXBRQcVqC/s1600/bee8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbUJnzcX8OErtTHazL7upOZZLv3w7GkrhbY0ujGolERzK_rXR50Lx17dUHDpF0LCaFMC9mRxdsZIqre7jwduGXxzWaXtPro37KSXGg4OBcjjZYdDWcXsLX-MOjots7PCLeeI7kXBRQcVqC/s640/bee8.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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where to start! Well, actually, where to land and stay awhile. :/ I've already started on a few of these projects. Yeah, did you catch that? "Started on a few of these projects". Like this one. I love to crochet but hadn't done it in awhile until I came across these patterns earlier in the summer. I bought alot of soft, pima cotton yarn (mostly from the UK) and I love how it feels. The one on the far left is called African Flower...coasters and placemats maybe? The one in the middle is a heart...wouldn't this make an adorable banner? And then the medallions are from an 1893 pattern....more coasters!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsY0jGsqnL_USonAnFu3v7-Qa-BaRbPc1eF7O43B3s-uBx-ogpoHHyOyldsBWS-08nURp3p4ka2I0cN86tEdVbvVF6aqmh_1N_q6w-E9ciGf_2ldTIlbuPcYFfxv4vL2Qo2j6VLTxNteh/s1600/beec.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTsY0jGsqnL_USonAnFu3v7-Qa-BaRbPc1eF7O43B3s-uBx-ogpoHHyOyldsBWS-08nURp3p4ka2I0cN86tEdVbvVF6aqmh_1N_q6w-E9ciGf_2ldTIlbuPcYFfxv4vL2Qo2j6VLTxNteh/s640/beec.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I've been coveting some sling bag purses that Dawn from <a href="http://the-feathered-nest.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Feathered Nest</a> has made and decided to make one for myself. There couldn't be a more beautiful combination....canvas muslin, ticking fabric, vintage laces and trims. Well, I had so much fun making it that I decided to make some more to put in my Etsy store. They're almost done!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJSkElRRQmS20I7xjC3BL90zDc3ui86Yv9-9v8Z7jfDNY4SUkoFrNHMm2xExoPIRUbydsshj1DfpNf5MoaQ3BipAXS6qlvUq0KQ-DOEOVSmOkBrFKZqNXLWIlGivGYeFz5fSJ0MueEra83/s1600/bee3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJSkElRRQmS20I7xjC3BL90zDc3ui86Yv9-9v8Z7jfDNY4SUkoFrNHMm2xExoPIRUbydsshj1DfpNf5MoaQ3BipAXS6qlvUq0KQ-DOEOVSmOkBrFKZqNXLWIlGivGYeFz5fSJ0MueEra83/s640/bee3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And then there's this. I am over the moon in love with this Pam Kitty Morning fabric!! While watching TV in the evenings, I am working on some cute little things that are going in my Etsy store soon. But more about those later. ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsV6uOWvUhC8CJqUieH9LEsee7ZGHbLpb7Aw-rktUrS5kINV8fXhl9_5Esfowh4q4nCkhjYFAHDDSYAmObX3D8ajCV9E0mFeWA3_eaPNowMkKOr3UM9qbG3DFKn4xSK6lwm3Wm9o7Ibh7J/s1600/bee5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsV6uOWvUhC8CJqUieH9LEsee7ZGHbLpb7Aw-rktUrS5kINV8fXhl9_5Esfowh4q4nCkhjYFAHDDSYAmObX3D8ajCV9E0mFeWA3_eaPNowMkKOr3UM9qbG3DFKn4xSK6lwm3Wm9o7Ibh7J/s640/bee5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love the colors of Fall and have some fabric pieces that I want to use. Maybe a table runner? I've got this book that I've been getting some ideas from but not quite sure yet on what to make.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPvc6W_wEjMW7Fd1ZDZUBVthPQyxehYYb1fk1_6BeAu2CTuKAHQ31GtxxKiV5Kde4VU1pPlMmm7D3RTUAWdZnjbi6H_2exqSu3IPKdwsv9VCtUY68cyfL-az1diypfIF1OxrrKcKNi-mYl/s1600/bee2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPvc6W_wEjMW7Fd1ZDZUBVthPQyxehYYb1fk1_6BeAu2CTuKAHQ31GtxxKiV5Kde4VU1pPlMmm7D3RTUAWdZnjbi6H_2exqSu3IPKdwsv9VCtUY68cyfL-az1diypfIF1OxrrKcKNi-mYl/s640/bee2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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With all the hand sewing I do from my comfy recliner, I wanted a small, portable storage box for thread, needles, scissors, etc. So I need to cover this little gift box in some fabric and pretty trims. Can't decide exactly how to finish it though but, once it's completed, I'll show you. What should be at the top of my sewing "to-do" list are these projects....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAec2Ag7Mc3ND4O885ig42BEIA7jgXLPIvMLi7pi8G1k5WuBNQIsNFJXWiWDYaMQwBmBhYbxkifZceRQTREJQw4krOV6ZZ8JbOZ1A_fPfAgIF82QtLszTxFhI_2E0RfGPakZBCqEfmi8va/s1600/bee4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAec2Ag7Mc3ND4O885ig42BEIA7jgXLPIvMLi7pi8G1k5WuBNQIsNFJXWiWDYaMQwBmBhYbxkifZceRQTREJQw4krOV6ZZ8JbOZ1A_fPfAgIF82QtLszTxFhI_2E0RfGPakZBCqEfmi8va/s640/bee4.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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I started this quilt project way back when my youngest daughter was about 18 years of age. That was over...ahem...ten years ago!! With moving out here several years back, health issues and such, well, I had forgotten aobut it. Until I came across it in the top of my closet last winter. Yeah, pathetic huh? The squares are a bit tricky (for me anyway) to put together and I've been dragging my feet about getting it done but I promised her I would have it finished this winter.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Agdtb2PMHIhmyYBQeTKdkdxRdVnxvMzPo5rBNIyBOD64FP8Xx-oHbaXCax5T1onTlRpVZ3dHtwJpFfgrombFB-mOVVmju3i3jh_QtwYSeKfRixreO3IuzAOVY4T9etB43xfWuD7LVtgM/s1600/bee9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Agdtb2PMHIhmyYBQeTKdkdxRdVnxvMzPo5rBNIyBOD64FP8Xx-oHbaXCax5T1onTlRpVZ3dHtwJpFfgrombFB-mOVVmju3i3jh_QtwYSeKfRixreO3IuzAOVY4T9etB43xfWuD7LVtgM/s640/bee9.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And last, but not least by any means, is this felt stocking kit for Little Bubba. I started a tradition of making each of my grandchildren a Christmas stocking, which stay at my house for little goodies that Santa brings for them. Yeah, Santa still comes to my house. Next year, I have to make one for Peaches. She's too little right now to know any better so I've got some time to get one purchased and made for her. I'm so glad that I started this as the children anticipate them being hung on the stair railing and love looking at the intricate details on their special stockings.</div>
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See? I feel like a bee in a flower garden! Sigh...I am so thankful that God blessed me with the ability and desire to be creative but sometimes it can be a curse. LOL So many things I want to make!! I haven't even shown you what I made Monkey for her birthday and I've got one more thing to get finsihed and in the mail. Busy, busy, busy!!</div>
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Until next time.....</div>
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p.s. I told you that several of these projects will end up in my Etsy store so if there's anything you would be interested in purchasing, let me know. I'll give you more details and put it at the top of my list!
After all, Christmas is just around the corner. Can you believe it?<br />
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-66143743964955363772013-09-13T12:12:00.000-05:002013-09-13T12:12:18.734-05:00~Pink, White and Soft Lace~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First of all, I have to apologize for the quality of most of these pictures. They were taken over several days and, wouldn't you know it? It was cloudy on all those days. Plus, I made the mistake of letting my 10-year-old grandson take pictures with my camera and I think he messed with the settings. He took the first picture shown below ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0J_xcoRshk7bC2gmO1HolZm7X6guSECg_bIjbaDhNVocvxUF1sMzJMIbr6kG_gfmk1EgNwAyLoLYjaci19NTgUHCjDbNKuTMFVtckc27CxkYw0LtMP-ljOtRaz8EoqqRSwyqlVfaS3jKM/s1600/pinka.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0J_xcoRshk7bC2gmO1HolZm7X6guSECg_bIjbaDhNVocvxUF1sMzJMIbr6kG_gfmk1EgNwAyLoLYjaci19NTgUHCjDbNKuTMFVtckc27CxkYw0LtMP-ljOtRaz8EoqqRSwyqlVfaS3jKM/s640/pinka.JPG" width="516" /></a></div>
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This is Tater Tot, grandchild number four. She had a birthday earlier this summer and turned five years of age. Five!?!?! Goodness. Anyway, she was in desperate need of some new bedding for her sage, pink and white bedroom. Not too frilly, nothing bold. Very simple. Much like the Pottery Barn style of bedding.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirjUcSamIJSUyl9JO3RigZpin8boVHgX8HoVNV-X3m6-ApyrKBYu-WwGrEDVyZp7p0gFSgO065ZkLJg8iFpOQKyUa_8y7l8Z7HmP0vjVRSzwNdxvAkabUycGCVET92cZc39-KeK1x6YNHa/s1600/pink2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirjUcSamIJSUyl9JO3RigZpin8boVHgX8HoVNV-X3m6-ApyrKBYu-WwGrEDVyZp7p0gFSgO065ZkLJg8iFpOQKyUa_8y7l8Z7HmP0vjVRSzwNdxvAkabUycGCVET92cZc39-KeK1x6YNHa/s640/pink2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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While fabric searching, I came across this most adorable fabric at JoAnn's and just couldn't pass it up. It was just so darned cute and I knew that it would make an adorable pillow. But, there was just one itsy, bitsy little problem. See all those pink and white flowers? They are very flimsily attached to that ribbon tape and flap wildly in the breeze. Plus, the fabric backing is a very sheer fabric. I could just see Tater Tot (or ornery little brothers!) trying to pull those babies off. So I backed the fabric with some white cotton and secured each and every flower with some fabric glue. Yes, each and every one!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEkG5tw4kNVK1RkinjzyP1Y_F4SnKnX9Ufu6HIOEhPQPI3Wp84Ok-ilvUGO4sOAzoOIAXsS52Gah-N24lqpaJVqB2oAAZjZfQ3BRUC4upwh66oaGNlN7FW-GNei34M5Es_3IM5GL1HBbeR/s1600/pink3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEkG5tw4kNVK1RkinjzyP1Y_F4SnKnX9Ufu6HIOEhPQPI3Wp84Ok-ilvUGO4sOAzoOIAXsS52Gah-N24lqpaJVqB2oAAZjZfQ3BRUC4upwh66oaGNlN7FW-GNei34M5Es_3IM5GL1HBbeR/s640/pink3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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After that, I made this little pillow for her. I think it turned out so cute! Next, it was time to for the quilt cover. I was going to do some simple quilting but Mama wanted a duvet and it had to be white. Tater Tot's current bedspread is white and she took very good care of it but the thing just wasn't made very well and was falling apart.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmdFdKbBfLry5EsmfClBOQvKNRnAp2GWr3KV4W8rgMwmx314XB8l3GPEVH5fT4FVsY8e1jrDRWmxtgIreY3uJmnYZndYdGQOG69eeBEnOTQSiSMcvlhsom1F0Qejyq0PVzBWj-IIYrbIAl/s1600/pink20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmdFdKbBfLry5EsmfClBOQvKNRnAp2GWr3KV4W8rgMwmx314XB8l3GPEVH5fT4FVsY8e1jrDRWmxtgIreY3uJmnYZndYdGQOG69eeBEnOTQSiSMcvlhsom1F0Qejyq0PVzBWj-IIYrbIAl/s1600/pink20.JPG" /></a></div>
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I came across this white, quilted-look white fabric that looks very shabby chic. Perfect!! And then this pink and white cotton fabric in a simple floral pattern to use for the backing. The flowers are shaped almost exactly like the flowers in the pillow. Scored again!! Of course, every little girl needs some frill and I found a simple eyelet lace to dress up the bedding some. Forgot to include it in this picture though :/</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVL0QpkfU6eRtTPuX_1xKOYo3TfDraRCgJMmidNgE9kQRSCyXbs4q3Eaz0TKaasnG_-iB1niVCPuobZ0zITA5P9dbIED41mi_cI3QztcrjV-OQ5_fi91bVJyadhgPNACAPBl1kTCxbOT0I/s1600/pink4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVL0QpkfU6eRtTPuX_1xKOYo3TfDraRCgJMmidNgE9kQRSCyXbs4q3Eaz0TKaasnG_-iB1niVCPuobZ0zITA5P9dbIED41mi_cI3QztcrjV-OQ5_fi91bVJyadhgPNACAPBl1kTCxbOT0I/s640/pink4.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sZHRxGHq93KkhUCZQv5AD9HfC6QZ6I7zbuIdhkFxKvwb3V3oViReE14Peqq72Z1i_B0JrBwIrqYIt6WfVb1kroZRaAlYsNPPWBmtLwQkQw5wofnzehIKFmz3kK83-stzwfv3QOj4_Bad/s1600/pink5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2sZHRxGHq93KkhUCZQv5AD9HfC6QZ6I7zbuIdhkFxKvwb3V3oViReE14Peqq72Z1i_B0JrBwIrqYIt6WfVb1kroZRaAlYsNPPWBmtLwQkQw5wofnzehIKFmz3kK83-stzwfv3QOj4_Bad/s640/pink5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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First, I made the pillow using the pink floral for the front and back. I created an envelope opening on the front but it's hidden underneath the lace. I also added some Velcro under the lace trim for a way to keep the pillow closed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixeCkyqPlvQXm3Mso9N6qtD_3CnsOnjzmc8nC-3LZQlRhzkhylUlaNBliZ9bPKvCnM5C3OkJW8EqOejuMMqqYDZ-eKgqDyIcZvtzBISXtSMK6IEk-riEBWNrkNKy6R1DmrdVDHGU5Ttt62/s1600/pink6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixeCkyqPlvQXm3Mso9N6qtD_3CnsOnjzmc8nC-3LZQlRhzkhylUlaNBliZ9bPKvCnM5C3OkJW8EqOejuMMqqYDZ-eKgqDyIcZvtzBISXtSMK6IEk-riEBWNrkNKy6R1DmrdVDHGU5Ttt62/s640/pink6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The white fabric used for the duvet was tricky. The fabric was only 54" wide, so I had to piece together one large middle panel with a narrow panel on either side but it was extremely difficult to get it lined up straight because the pattern design wasn't even!! I think I had to take it apart three times before I was finally satisfied wtih it. Grrr....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3oVBMv6BZbUPBLYTRjmaGdRJ7SoCtm7JvVx9DkMJRmXIedAu1hfttfyRtYFf6I_Ci0cZmPs1hbndGMGqVB8X9f8vrRu7lomHvZNrSZAq9hrP9nPnL_ICoEiQqVgzb72Q3-V2H6eqtwA6r/s1600/pink6a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3oVBMv6BZbUPBLYTRjmaGdRJ7SoCtm7JvVx9DkMJRmXIedAu1hfttfyRtYFf6I_Ci0cZmPs1hbndGMGqVB8X9f8vrRu7lomHvZNrSZAq9hrP9nPnL_ICoEiQqVgzb72Q3-V2H6eqtwA6r/s640/pink6a.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Look closely. It almost looks like a mini chenille pattern, doesn't it? This fabric was more lightweight than I would have liked, so I lined it with some cotton fabric for more durability. And then did some straight line machine quilting lengthwise about four inches apart. The front of the duvet just looked too drab so I created a flap with the floral cotton that I used for the back. I attached a Velcro strip all the way across the top and added a variety of pink buttons since I didn't have enough of one particular design. (did the same thing on the pillow).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_OJizz5rZokC4JickdqAX1uITMN-CunCTdmiSZSS-V0lGszMuj5VgmQhaMOWcaDl0zmOagmxE7kblaRDqbvDmW8fyIZaV5aeRAi6N3SbQv-V_rpGuv5onVvPwLWUU6u4dI4YYU1xb1vft/s1600/pink7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_OJizz5rZokC4JickdqAX1uITMN-CunCTdmiSZSS-V0lGszMuj5VgmQhaMOWcaDl0zmOagmxE7kblaRDqbvDmW8fyIZaV5aeRAi6N3SbQv-V_rpGuv5onVvPwLWUU6u4dI4YYU1xb1vft/s640/pink7.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwZj7jypBL81zx5PJa5fWDr31Pqi_G-aaD-RlyhMoGOO_PHQ-QSoadjYNQsispsrPv983tRcZyLpVoMfkb_3n032h34hCqKFLtLRQB-Ss41TUhcAZNI3mpy-2HjTT0mHm5xq-TXUwHl83_/s1600/pink9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwZj7jypBL81zx5PJa5fWDr31Pqi_G-aaD-RlyhMoGOO_PHQ-QSoadjYNQsispsrPv983tRcZyLpVoMfkb_3n032h34hCqKFLtLRQB-Ss41TUhcAZNI3mpy-2HjTT0mHm5xq-TXUwHl83_/s640/pink9.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Oh, before attaching the backing, I added the embroidered lace around three sides. I found some large pink flower-shaped buttons on Etsy to use around the duvet. Looking back, I should have ordered more to use across the top of the duvet and for the pillow but I like the way it turned out.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrie2KifkuV9yEwH-9jE93huXHJ1n8M_qB1ERCNEUKSXmDMcQx3gulPo31wihPmX3kZLMuclbwA7-WSZ-KtYLOjnALFCaibas9v5XUN9Uffd_yJqbyYZugpJFCAzoU0uKBFlHc57AMiYJY/s1600/pink8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrie2KifkuV9yEwH-9jE93huXHJ1n8M_qB1ERCNEUKSXmDMcQx3gulPo31wihPmX3kZLMuclbwA7-WSZ-KtYLOjnALFCaibas9v5XUN9Uffd_yJqbyYZugpJFCAzoU0uKBFlHc57AMiYJY/s640/pink8.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvGhF3l9p9o4fvBDAtqTqOYk50_9RohBbU3j0gzh-7Lw9trdmkvalipU0K_NXRH6tohgmG_AFCNwg8C8GdgeIJECfA0aAdvtFDXCOW1qLM5sM4pAMh9omU8ivxayowW9ElwCmvKiVQBMOu/s1600/pink10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvGhF3l9p9o4fvBDAtqTqOYk50_9RohBbU3j0gzh-7Lw9trdmkvalipU0K_NXRH6tohgmG_AFCNwg8C8GdgeIJECfA0aAdvtFDXCOW1qLM5sM4pAMh9omU8ivxayowW9ElwCmvKiVQBMOu/s640/pink10.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Tater Tot knew I was making this for her but she didn't know when it was gong to be completed. Truth told, it was about six weeks after the big "5" celebration. She was at her other grandma's house when I took it over and we put it on the bed as a surprise. You can kind of see the pink checked curtains on the window. I made those for her when she was born. :) Her bedroom walls are a pretty sage green. Mama was supposed to take a picture of Tater Tot on her new bedding but I got tired of waiting for her. LOL</div>
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Tater Tot told me she loves her new bedding.</div>
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-5828479790665651552013-09-10T07:00:00.000-05:002013-09-10T11:37:08.408-05:00~Living Minimally...For A While Anyway~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At the beginning of summer, we had a huge auction selling off all of our cattle, equipment, tools, household items and much of the furniture in our house in preparation for putting our place on the selling market. We knew that many people would be coming in and out of the house, so to keep down the confusion as to what was for sale and what wasn't, we opted to just go ahead and box up all the remaining household items to get them out of the way. Plus, best case scenario was that our place would sell really quickly (we weren't holding our breath on that on!) and most of the work would already be done. Fast forward, three months and this is how we are living these days..... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKG2X8OTTEMl9-8er2SVACGQOx-x0fwCEl8RHX0N0VRJHblPSMJMz_GT9j22mI50zh-oAp96r6ZZy0gGKY5EZ4k7sAkvYhC35XSVSasCIxXQgZn-MpoIzVqsVnP3uLujfZdomiVcMZx1S/s1600/minimal1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoKG2X8OTTEMl9-8er2SVACGQOx-x0fwCEl8RHX0N0VRJHblPSMJMz_GT9j22mI50zh-oAp96r6ZZy0gGKY5EZ4k7sAkvYhC35XSVSasCIxXQgZn-MpoIzVqsVnP3uLujfZdomiVcMZx1S/s640/minimal1.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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As you walk into the front door, we have a long hallway that leads to the living room. You can't see it from this photo, but our bedroom is on the right as well as the staircase leading up to the other bedrooms and baths. Normally, I used the long wall on the left to showcase our family photos but they are all packed away for now.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgNPmUd63h5iCT0ktJEit9riKyuMx61i06iG9OXpcKK8KbmtTg_UWLkI1DXUsKEGc2SohY_mNBrcdmwcQ0gyYnu29wecZ94YJRVVU-u7BxaWM3vhnvOR1Ucgx8CkwajO_J1FNL76YeEZD6/s1600/minimal2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgNPmUd63h5iCT0ktJEit9riKyuMx61i06iG9OXpcKK8KbmtTg_UWLkI1DXUsKEGc2SohY_mNBrcdmwcQ0gyYnu29wecZ94YJRVVU-u7BxaWM3vhnvOR1Ucgx8CkwajO_J1FNL76YeEZD6/s640/minimal2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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On the left side of our entry is the dining room. This photo was taken several years ago to use on the website when we ran the B&B. Sold the farm table as it was just too big and not quite what I was wanting but bought in a pinch for the B&B guests. Most of the chairs sold as well as the mirrored bureau and painting on the back wall. The cupboard hanging on the left is where I house my ironstone collection (you can read about <a href="http://downourcountryroad.blogspot.com/2011/07/my-collection-of-ironstone.html" target="_blank">here</a>) and that is in storage as well as the china hutch my dad gave to me a few years ago.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeTp5d1gY8Gs-Ny4IISwxS2KLzhL40_bkG-0Zt8uupYZ8Io-SRqmHDGtVApqSmTDWzOPah32-X3UrUjoH4VJMxcg591kAkqlt-O8gak8LZArwwRRWcVbgU0dgJ9WCWCRuv1i221cztI5RM/s1600/minimal3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeTp5d1gY8Gs-Ny4IISwxS2KLzhL40_bkG-0Zt8uupYZ8Io-SRqmHDGtVApqSmTDWzOPah32-X3UrUjoH4VJMxcg591kAkqlt-O8gak8LZArwwRRWcVbgU0dgJ9WCWCRuv1i221cztI5RM/s640/minimal3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is what the dining room looks like now. Extra dining chairs sitting all alone. Don't they look pathetic? I'll be searching for another farm table soon, preferably one that has extensions. To the right of the dining chairs, you go into the kitchen.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn8iVTXgaEabgyQXtn3ZHqoj8sh0h-8IVSZn3F6F_wC-mFIG3t5iC1SdLMRSTiQgylgwTlZcMFrasWpHRcg8Zf9Ghl9MltNbSaQir5raRRdE36Dv7KNIQqv0Wr5uMJAMEZCEkZcibbJg6p/s1600/minimal5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn8iVTXgaEabgyQXtn3ZHqoj8sh0h-8IVSZn3F6F_wC-mFIG3t5iC1SdLMRSTiQgylgwTlZcMFrasWpHRcg8Zf9Ghl9MltNbSaQir5raRRdE36Dv7KNIQqv0Wr5uMJAMEZCEkZcibbJg6p/s640/minimal5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is our breakfast area. Yes, we are eating on a card table. LOL. The table I had in there wasn't needed and so it was sold in the auction. In that little nook area, I had a hanging cupboard in the most beautiful chippy shade of yellow where I housed vintage kitchen gadgets and cookbooks (you can read about that <a href="http://downourcountryroad.blogspot.com/2011/09/farmhouse-cupboard-vignette-part-one.html" target="_blank">here</a>). I also hung alot of the vintage gadgets above the screened doors, which is where the pantry is. To the left of the pantry is where you enter into the dining room.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGea_-nnHmdAA9nxmh9dHKo0UEyZpX6fVRUtdU3ec-fZJeCoxUT1r40vLKEKc8tngZh_cJJDkYm2YqE8EtstmEVhdhuPRmpltcvI5z351Fpr_lrf_jYxackWEIYbNfq2Qk1igb_smJKDuQ/s1600/minimal4b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGea_-nnHmdAA9nxmh9dHKo0UEyZpX6fVRUtdU3ec-fZJeCoxUT1r40vLKEKc8tngZh_cJJDkYm2YqE8EtstmEVhdhuPRmpltcvI5z351Fpr_lrf_jYxackWEIYbNfq2Qk1igb_smJKDuQ/s640/minimal4b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Not very good photos, but this is what our living room looked like during one Autumn season. You can't see it very well in this photo, but there is an antique sewing machine cabinet (with machine!) behind the leather recliner. I sold it in the auction as I have another one in a bedroom upstairs. I couldn't see keeping two of them. The glass-door pie cabinet is in storage as well as all the pretties in this room.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HSUR8erin3TapC5Si8itb7g3V7j4rNX0OpbIPicRG0OLm05ohyTYR2aAWeKj_t_DK9XzpkQFDozFT6uJ9zi11pBtA6zYixssZTV4Y4Lm93OUAAmzUxnugebWGOA-tr0VVh-GHmYeksJw/s1600/minimal4a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HSUR8erin3TapC5Si8itb7g3V7j4rNX0OpbIPicRG0OLm05ohyTYR2aAWeKj_t_DK9XzpkQFDozFT6uJ9zi11pBtA6zYixssZTV4Y4Lm93OUAAmzUxnugebWGOA-tr0VVh-GHmYeksJw/s640/minimal4a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We almost put the living room furniture in the sale but then realized...what would we sit on if the place didn't sell quickly?? So, we are using them for the time being and will probably give them to Goodwill. We plan on getting new furniture more suitable for the living room of our new home. Yep, pretty bare without pictures and such.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1cL_AEV9pX4-UA6lFA5bF9TsEJhyMepa9MJ77krRk_u0eHKcnFRKQRFj7VeCDM-Q-Mj0nVZFyRElVdnjhfW-79rZ0ogi85cxHOg9tgNo3m7RO7IbPpgTEhlXURZW8YruZ-AsP82KzvSvZ/s1600/minimal6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1cL_AEV9pX4-UA6lFA5bF9TsEJhyMepa9MJ77krRk_u0eHKcnFRKQRFj7VeCDM-Q-Mj0nVZFyRElVdnjhfW-79rZ0ogi85cxHOg9tgNo3m7RO7IbPpgTEhlXURZW8YruZ-AsP82KzvSvZ/s640/minimal6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is our bedroom as you see it when first entering the room. I've never taken any 'before' photos so there's nothing to compare with so you'll have to use your imagination. ;) We sold the queen size bed frame and mattress in the sale. For many months now, this recliner has been my bed. Seriously! I had major back surgery several years ago and our bed was becoming increasingly more uncomfortable and sleeping in the recliner best suited me. Mr. Bill has been sleeping in the bed upstairs since the sale. Our bureaus are in storage and clothing is in boxes in the closet. Our bed used to be against the wall where the boxes are now. Bedding and some busy books/toys are in the boxes. Our bathroom is just to the left of where the recliner is sitting. The door next to the boxes leads to our huge walk-in closet. The open door is the entry into our room and leads back out into the front foyer.</div>
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NOTE: Since taking these photos, we have purchased new beds. Yes, I said "beds". I'll tell you more about that...and why...soon. It's not bad, I promise. ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElvyzXTnSpdEHnktV7_uSJo2qJchGgc8OXR-Z_JPbuV2nySy5dclRT9PEDigtpq6ZqEWrA1kE33Cvw35PWVaI6oqS3e4K-FbVRFefSMjoR5-lYlRjzyrJV6DpYTS1vAkUlhx71IjQoGuF/s1600/minimal14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjElvyzXTnSpdEHnktV7_uSJo2qJchGgc8OXR-Z_JPbuV2nySy5dclRT9PEDigtpq6ZqEWrA1kE33Cvw35PWVaI6oqS3e4K-FbVRFefSMjoR5-lYlRjzyrJV6DpYTS1vAkUlhx71IjQoGuF/s640/minimal14.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is one of the bedrooms upstairs used for B&B guests. I had it decorated with vintage children's items and toys and called it The Playroom. I kept the old school desk (you can see it somewhat on the far left) as well as the lidded desk, the old screen door and cabinet that is now being used in the sewing room. There was a huge, antique armoire on the other side of the old school desk that was used for closet space. I sold that at the auction, as well as the bed frame. By the way, there is a full-size bathroom just to the left.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir_FRsPVzxXsHzzq1VAzFtTSjRjjgMoALapwi21ZX-g01U9F6PFfBn9p_cQduVWUsfBBAHdjyhCD3qtlw-0hK7IuFu_hmE1e9lflSI_7dRCVsAQCow7VecD8ex5JM4d0psgnfp1DNy36wK/s1600/minimal16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir_FRsPVzxXsHzzq1VAzFtTSjRjjgMoALapwi21ZX-g01U9F6PFfBn9p_cQduVWUsfBBAHdjyhCD3qtlw-0hK7IuFu_hmE1e9lflSI_7dRCVsAQCow7VecD8ex5JM4d0psgnfp1DNy36wK/s640/minimal16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now this is just the guest room. This four-poster bed was given to us by Mr. Bill's parents when we were first married almost 41 years ago. They had it for awhile before giving it to us (as well as the bureaus in storage) so I have no idea how old the furniture is but they are staying in the family! You can see the sewing machine cabinet, that I am keeping, on the far right. There was a huge TV sitting on top of it but it sold at the sale.</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXpbAoDwqEvutp-hsPhnNp_SE7RdxPWOb8w1aHy2k0v8puFDDbYeNDLROFnvWAQh186mcN1QtFWdb9v0EUEFxNom1A7E_RoL6qTnRHUFx_E_gxJPLvre49DxJwwRcrwu4TjZVadUmuX6i_/s640/minimal8a.jpg" width="640" /> </div>
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This bedroom is on the north side of the house and was decorated with vintage items that your grandma and grandpa might have worn or used. I've got such things as a pair of old silk stockings, a vintage netted hat and hat stand, a man's derby hat, shaving razor and soap mug sitting on the shelf above the TV. This room was called The Keepsake Room. I sold the sleigh bed and old school desk with cast iron legs at the auction. See the pink and white quilt hanging above the bed in the first photo? I was looking for an old quilt to hang in this room and I purchased this one at an auctions several years ago. It was made by a local woman some 50 to 60 years ago (at least). The colors went well with the sage and pink that dominate the room.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOFCaGgJp7JniaCo-VjPa3sv-zSee7hjGgO1OFrp9_5OEqWVPHzZnQjnSk28DqVnzzBlUMJ2ut1cuzhPiV01lj4sZmLcYcBLfOsackLEHhSBa6J78FrcHtei6Bkqot6pN04MHrbSGcDQe7/s1600/minimal9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOFCaGgJp7JniaCo-VjPa3sv-zSee7hjGgO1OFrp9_5OEqWVPHzZnQjnSk28DqVnzzBlUMJ2ut1cuzhPiV01lj4sZmLcYcBLfOsackLEHhSBa6J78FrcHtei6Bkqot6pN04MHrbSGcDQe7/s640/minimal9.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The room has been converted to my sewing/craft room. The playpen is used for the grandbaby. The rest of the space is mine. All mine!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4J642kGJ-DNFXydxdYtwdY4GMUtK5kR1PjUejnbAu9UqPnkISZb75ei00WKpjkcGfNpxeIXhQOD3AZ57F4LM0a4FoROS_78Ymb25le8V68Aq19oiknZHPLmakBsDN2M2nvniB3QzOOlao/s1600/minimal10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4J642kGJ-DNFXydxdYtwdY4GMUtK5kR1PjUejnbAu9UqPnkISZb75ei00WKpjkcGfNpxeIXhQOD3AZ57F4LM0a4FoROS_78Ymb25le8V68Aq19oiknZHPLmakBsDN2M2nvniB3QzOOlao/s640/minimal10.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is the cabinet that was in the other room. It has lots of baskets in it for storage. I plan to paint this once we get into our new home. Though the screen is somewhat small, I can watch TV while working at the sewing/cutting table. The door on the very far left leads into our walk-in attic area. The door on the right leads to a full-size bathroom.</div>
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In my last post, I shared with you some of the vintage sewing items I recently purchased. You can see them at the far end of the table. Normally, I have several wood crates stacked up for shelving but they are packed away along with all the other pretties.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggiKhbkQohT16yfpE9gjjVom87jSEPY_U-UsXJ7GbW8nq_gLn23rumrMMWYATl5Yqip9DweLQDbJa5aO9DEndAMQ5XuEahfZ-4eixuvPi1pUU-AfMeyJmqGNDNC1VLoKRu5mavWC9HIJ4q/s1600/minimal12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggiKhbkQohT16yfpE9gjjVom87jSEPY_U-UsXJ7GbW8nq_gLn23rumrMMWYATl5Yqip9DweLQDbJa5aO9DEndAMQ5XuEahfZ-4eixuvPi1pUU-AfMeyJmqGNDNC1VLoKRu5mavWC9HIJ4q/s640/minimal12.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Under the tables, there are lots and lots of boxes. These boxes hold yards and yards of fabric, thread, lace, supplies, etc. Most of these things will be going up for sale soon as I desperately need to thin them out. I am changing directions as to what I want to do in my Etsy store and no longer have a need for all these supplies.</div>
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Under this table are more boxes of fabric, as well as lots of scrapbooking supplies. I've got more scrapbooking supplies than I will ever be able to use so these will be going up for sale soon, too. In case you are interested, I hope to start the listings in the next week or so. I'll post them here on the blog first before putting them on Etsy.</div>
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So, there you have it! I'm not a minimalist by any means, but we're keeping it this way until the place sells. I really dislike living this way. To me, it's so boring. And dismal. But I can do anything for a while. After all, it's for a good cause, right? I'll dig out some of the Autumn decorations soon. It's just too darn hot right now to be digging around in our POD storage unit (sitting out in the driveway) to find what I want. And then, there's Christmas to think about. But other than that, nothing is coming out unless absolutely necessary!</div>
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Until next time ~</div>
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-22632315159766636412013-08-22T07:00:00.000-05:002013-08-22T07:00:00.327-05:00~Vintage Sewing Accessories~I have been sewing since I was about 12 or 13 years of age and I love it! It's a passion I think I will always have. Sewing is something that I can do for hours on end. Well, at least, I used to anyway. Now I can sit and sew for about 2 to 3 hours at a time and it's still just as therapeutic. I don't know why but it wasn't until just a couple of years ago that I became intrigued with vintage sewing notions and accessories. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYRvO2dvEDYyZEAqbf-lehiWlwsmr2T3GQCrfyxtRa2dRX-uM18trYNDfekHCCU46c7vvugl3mU3YawbJeIomS5X77tf5HY3Zb6N9aTTYyOShtPZFpQy-YiVO_mvwuVtOq__3R3sF-vd-/s1600/sewing1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYRvO2dvEDYyZEAqbf-lehiWlwsmr2T3GQCrfyxtRa2dRX-uM18trYNDfekHCCU46c7vvugl3mU3YawbJeIomS5X77tf5HY3Zb6N9aTTYyOShtPZFpQy-YiVO_mvwuVtOq__3R3sF-vd-/s640/sewing1.JPG" width="640" /></a>In my sewing/craft room, at the end of my cutting/work table, I had stacked several old wooden crates to create some shelving and display space for some pretty things, the few vintage sewing notions I have collected so far and for some things I need when working on projects. Most of the crates are in storage now and all the pretties and vintage pieces are packed in boxes to help simplify and stage our home for selling. If you haven't read about that decision, you can find that post <a href="http://downourcountryroad.blogspot.com/2013/07/changes-in-wind.html" target="_blank">here</a>. It was looking pretty bare. I couldn't stand it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuo2aD1QSS3Q3dACUc9VC6d0Ozc6S9qmuZOWVJKp2KcqxD2A-S7IqvfYSCocl7lAODSak8LBWHp8KDlKERjFNobZoG9gVeF2WK0pXbK-1iKgKhqXEACuqw2qbRs9KoCbZfFrIsiUN85AXN/s1600/sewing2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuo2aD1QSS3Q3dACUc9VC6d0Ozc6S9qmuZOWVJKp2KcqxD2A-S7IqvfYSCocl7lAODSak8LBWHp8KDlKERjFNobZoG9gVeF2WK0pXbK-1iKgKhqXEACuqw2qbRs9KoCbZfFrIsiUN85AXN/s640/sewing2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A couple of months ago, Mr. Bill and I were out browsing around at an antique store in his hometown and I came across some salesmen-size, mini handcrank sewing machines and some mini handcrank ones for children, some really old and some what we now call "vintage". I love that word! haha I never even knew they existed until now. Where have I been all these years?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHme-2Y_ndTK3LFRemLq-nsKp7FKqipFqvqYC83DE9xJ21pK_bttzjmLkXr0GG1Vp3_D-FKpcmCEopm76RDB3m7hyphenhyphenYY0w9heama6lVJi_XBZMdmQWyZ2jIW9QxWNnl16XdUXiby_R5JL5P/s1600/sewing4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHme-2Y_ndTK3LFRemLq-nsKp7FKqipFqvqYC83DE9xJ21pK_bttzjmLkXr0GG1Vp3_D-FKpcmCEopm76RDB3m7hyphenhyphenYY0w9heama6lVJi_XBZMdmQWyZ2jIW9QxWNnl16XdUXiby_R5JL5P/s640/sewing4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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All I ever knew were the little electric ones and they don't hold a candle to these, which are so stinkin' cute. I was smitten. I wanted one! But those babies were expensive. Next step? Look on eBay! Found out they're even expensive on eBay but I was finally able to snag one at a pretty reasonable price. Woohoo! This one is a child's sewing machine, cast iron and made somewhere in the 40's or 50's. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBzbt5Z0p-S6YnaqMPJWEce6HtD1rcTmzOQBbt9YgH6Dz1GShr2W1c7v_nyLaEqn6-8dw8-PmuDR5QRpyES8XkPiQlrcrouwh4UHFcPGyXOOOOWmUjNzZ0akijzhtQ4MBtrINlObwJdLYg/s1600/sewing3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBzbt5Z0p-S6YnaqMPJWEce6HtD1rcTmzOQBbt9YgH6Dz1GShr2W1c7v_nyLaEqn6-8dw8-PmuDR5QRpyES8XkPiQlrcrouwh4UHFcPGyXOOOOWmUjNzZ0akijzhtQ4MBtrINlObwJdLYg/s640/sewing3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And what makes it even better is that it is a pretty shade of green (even though it looks blue in the pics) that goes really well with the pinks and greens in my sewing room! Isn't this little thing adorable? Can you imagine a little girl's excitement as she's crankin' away at this thing learning how to sew and make things? Was she making doll clothes? Or maybe a little blanket for her baby? I think I like these much better than those little electric ones that are most likely made of plastic anyway. What do you think?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmdeBpeG_Slfom3xlwVhQrqKBKFPW3QklLavfXEhC8ShCHEg7y2vBedK5vMPXCmXd-DlywZTuaFyeJdI3QT9pR4nsYirnLXTsDXsWWLDHliAda4xSTZ0zP6eYvsbxhvPBagwPxJhkEMk1/s1600/sewing5a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmdeBpeG_Slfom3xlwVhQrqKBKFPW3QklLavfXEhC8ShCHEg7y2vBedK5vMPXCmXd-DlywZTuaFyeJdI3QT9pR4nsYirnLXTsDXsWWLDHliAda4xSTZ0zP6eYvsbxhvPBagwPxJhkEMk1/s640/sewing5a.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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See that little maroon-colored box? It's a little jewelry box probably about 6 to 7 inches wide. Petite and sweet. I'm thinking about repainting it and adding some bling to it. I'm not sure yet.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmLKdd9qj9W0Ni4bR-vxlbHm2YPXiv26RYq1dYbzv3eO15CPlRF0i4XXc8bwhoJzRdZzrzwYg2Z11AV5kXmw7vgOwQQnCbUOOY65H2jSbEL2XP_Ds-rCV3-E4znQ4CfjZ4sCr9NlY4FQS/s1600/sewing5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmLKdd9qj9W0Ni4bR-vxlbHm2YPXiv26RYq1dYbzv3eO15CPlRF0i4XXc8bwhoJzRdZzrzwYg2Z11AV5kXmw7vgOwQQnCbUOOY65H2jSbEL2XP_Ds-rCV3-E4znQ4CfjZ4sCr9NlY4FQS/s640/sewing5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm using it to store bits and pieces of crochet trim, doilies and such to use on upcoming projects. Or maybe down the road projects. Depends on how many other things I let get in the way first. ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVRj0Anb7mC9zPllzJxLtBrueJJykw1hbHk_L5cXGOwGtMqDEGuKHBvlwjiDzZyab6WPwBawziwOk2VGeUQMJJH_N7z_pC8bVR9KKPijTUyVh5-4EbCZdxnIgDyV5nV9Ay_nZWS7Bvqo5X/s1600/sewing6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVRj0Anb7mC9zPllzJxLtBrueJJykw1hbHk_L5cXGOwGtMqDEGuKHBvlwjiDzZyab6WPwBawziwOk2VGeUQMJJH_N7z_pC8bVR9KKPijTUyVh5-4EbCZdxnIgDyV5nV9Ay_nZWS7Bvqo5X/s640/sewing6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm wanting to start a collection of antique or vintage pin cushions and found this Victorian style one. I had never seen one like it before. The seller labeled it as an Art Noveau Spelter Metal Footed Pin Cushion. I have no idea about such things. But I thought it was beautiful and unusual.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcslocX0VvvI-risS2Sb38lVr0bTSr-bqw6IzMBjpZAhE8QO0FGiioU9IxmgmjpxoHoJ7iW4R7Ozw_p9C0mQhuqyy6XizF1Qa_GrI0u2Udb80gO3en6OVq3b_Ht69tQwKSaq8tqkoFKLD/s1600/sewing7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcslocX0VvvI-risS2Sb38lVr0bTSr-bqw6IzMBjpZAhE8QO0FGiioU9IxmgmjpxoHoJ7iW4R7Ozw_p9C0mQhuqyy6XizF1Qa_GrI0u2Udb80gO3en6OVq3b_Ht69tQwKSaq8tqkoFKLD/s640/sewing7.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Look at those sweet little birds! I thought it was silver when bidding on it but it ended up being more gold. A beautiful gold patina. Of course, it's missing the "pin cushion" part but that's okay. I'm gonna fix that!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyz7cp4aBppsNVQTtSYfxFr9czx5c74l1evAQnUhETL0Dmp8b2TTLl1HBlBSm8heeb-P16PWIzEeKeBo-vx1_J4SErjlqIYU2Om-_mQESK5RB8b2EPq1jzrrYekbY7VDG934stLTwOtqWF/s1600/sewing8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyz7cp4aBppsNVQTtSYfxFr9czx5c74l1evAQnUhETL0Dmp8b2TTLl1HBlBSm8heeb-P16PWIzEeKeBo-vx1_J4SErjlqIYU2Om-_mQESK5RB8b2EPq1jzrrYekbY7VDG934stLTwOtqWF/s640/sewing8.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I wanted to use some old velvet fabric but I didn't have any in my stash. I did have some dark red woolen flannel, which I thought would work okay. I filled the pin cushion with crushed walnut shells. Did you know that it's the best stuffing to use for pin cushions? The sharp edges of the shells act as an emery board to help sharpen the pins and needles while the oil from the shells keep them from rusting! That's my little tidbit of info for the day. ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQjkPhgR1BTyBYlClxWoWi4zZBPJiAtONoTKvWPxO5KF9ZX1627ETOag48a0xLCbhb_4FFNvZSn2XXPSxQzVEvl9CAbozSOUmoJ0ouKGPPVjyiv_Xrn6RxCmBYTOfwOMCROG89CXiQ7P0A/s1600/sewing9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQjkPhgR1BTyBYlClxWoWi4zZBPJiAtONoTKvWPxO5KF9ZX1627ETOag48a0xLCbhb_4FFNvZSn2XXPSxQzVEvl9CAbozSOUmoJ0ouKGPPVjyiv_Xrn6RxCmBYTOfwOMCROG89CXiQ7P0A/s640/sewing9.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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My newest find didn't come from eBay but from a local thrift store. Now, it's not a sewing accessory but it was a necessary item in every household a generation or two ago. This old, rusty, REALLY heavy iron. For only four dollars!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTM-QQ4iBfn_2BbJVy0TvsKg6ESVBunUIjk6dhi0L49a3SNejVZmr1Cij3hNMm5uxme5QRCXPrYE5mDSO9WMqMbBBY90Lbg4NyorRyJXD_7u40ssmvBtznlCmFmy5fCOK8hJaRUe__Wral/s1600/sewing11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTM-QQ4iBfn_2BbJVy0TvsKg6ESVBunUIjk6dhi0L49a3SNejVZmr1Cij3hNMm5uxme5QRCXPrYE5mDSO9WMqMbBBY90Lbg4NyorRyJXD_7u40ssmvBtznlCmFmy5fCOK8hJaRUe__Wral/s640/sewing11.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I mean this baby is REALLY heavy! I feel sorry for the women who had to use such irons. Talk about a workout!! Goodness, and no wonder what they had lasted for as long as they did. I love the rusticness (is that even a word?) of it all, especially the stand part.</div>
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And look....here's where the plug (two prong) was attached. Unfortunately, the cord is long gone. Don't think I'd use it anyway, do you?</div>
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I think I'll always be on the lookout for more vintage sewing (and household) accessories. They have such charm and I truly enjoy having them in my sewing/craft room. And could they be what is helpng me get my "mojo" back? The creativity bug has really bitten me!!</div>
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Until next time~</div>
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-26540929650643526222013-08-13T12:58:00.003-05:002013-08-17T09:32:48.345-05:00~And Baby Makes Seven~I'm way overdue sharing this with you but I've had a hard time finding the pics I wanted and couldn't get my computer to recognize the external hard drive I use to store them. :/ Anyway, you wanna hear a story? You do? Great!<br />
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Once upon a time, there was a young lady (my middle child, Melissa)....<br />
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She fell in love and got married. Not only did she gain a husband (Jim), but she gained this...</div>
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a new son! This is J.W. at about the age of three. And the family gained their first grandchild!!</div>
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The grandmother (me) always called this little guy her "Sunshine boy" because he brightened her day every time she saw him. After a few years, momma and daddy decided that this little guy needed a sibling.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVbmrImajsEj0FP6gyt4acIjTJ1m3KCPI1-bEftpWQ6ptpVOjAaKIplv5jC1oUBO1mGoamTPuCHQoOzK3hyVq46oY4TzGrz5_-gs66P3M7Q0X3jdCjSXboW5sxy4IvEgM-WrPGy6ZQl1i/s1600/20100228_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVbmrImajsEj0FP6gyt4acIjTJ1m3KCPI1-bEftpWQ6ptpVOjAaKIplv5jC1oUBO1mGoamTPuCHQoOzK3hyVq46oY4TzGrz5_-gs66P3M7Q0X3jdCjSXboW5sxy4IvEgM-WrPGy6ZQl1i/s640/20100228_300.jpg" width="588" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRb447Vc2XQUNeu201rB-1DUWEhD5V8tNG_alfN39EuhcNmq7fhqcHetxRGvWnVpulKljjytQDdPqKF3DBTM4KsH3nOQ3jvEeqS0RAKEHX6bJHsCzUHQ9afUXyeBwEUKtNhcks3feVg3A7/s1600/20100228_126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> And J.W. got a new little brother. He is nicknamed "Rascal" here on the blog.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRb447Vc2XQUNeu201rB-1DUWEhD5V8tNG_alfN39EuhcNmq7fhqcHetxRGvWnVpulKljjytQDdPqKF3DBTM4KsH3nOQ3jvEeqS0RAKEHX6bJHsCzUHQ9afUXyeBwEUKtNhcks3feVg3A7/s640/20100228_126.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Aunt "Bee", who is my youngest daughter, Brittney</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsGQNWyxgkODTB2JeB42h351TgsPFDQ10tFXoXGzfJyb3FXXLVXLMPXnriJtFn5D4Exem8N4NtXFbfo-b6ZW5IOIwmUi044ND7nbj26cRanCxKwJEyxg0ij4vXr1FI1nANABnPMX_knjoT/s1600/20100228_262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsGQNWyxgkODTB2JeB42h351TgsPFDQ10tFXoXGzfJyb3FXXLVXLMPXnriJtFn5D4Exem8N4NtXFbfo-b6ZW5IOIwmUi044ND7nbj26cRanCxKwJEyxg0ij4vXr1FI1nANABnPMX_knjoT/s640/20100228_262.jpg" width="432" /></a></div>
And life has been good for this family though the boys are as different as night and day in their personalities and have been quite a handful for their momma in that they both are quite hyperactive. She is more the reserved quiet type.<br />
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And, because of that, momma said that there would be no more little babies in their household.</div>
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Unless she knew that God could give her a little girl and and one who was quiet in nature like herself.</div>
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Even so, it would take a miracle, she said (can you see where I'm going with my story?) And she was content with what God had given her.</div>
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Fast forward nine years after the birth of little Rascal and J.W. is now 14. Things began to happen to this little momma that made her wonder. Is she pregnant? Surely not! The signs were there but surely it was a mistake. In shock and disbelief, she told no one (except hubby of course) of what was soon to be the inevitable.<br />
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<img border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJmvttoA8_oxua4AbtjuQiMECImDv8RLcvC44GfKqqrGAG5-i_nOP4mNPFAqJ7zDY26kQZZws38ijIYplwPKkpAPWcg2Yyrwq1BrBZuTsKgaUYndfAhG0lJiQ59BlFffDxvBQ32IhgFZh9/s640/20100228_41.jpg" width="640" /></div>
And so she waited until her first ultrasound. She finally saw what she said would have to happen. God had placed a miracle within her body. She could no longer be in denial. It was time to share the news with the rest of the family.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyP7DoMSvBKkXZWLcZ19gVAr9-aWl2GuJ_w5BEV5srN50zcqm3uLswSeeqnaHC_hiJPDZ5FwERcW4E5Q8_co54UW1UJC5SfnDx2XkJbpFTaarTJYwnmOkYKCP371Z7CEmwOgq6IvNSHBui/s1600/IMG_1167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyP7DoMSvBKkXZWLcZ19gVAr9-aWl2GuJ_w5BEV5srN50zcqm3uLswSeeqnaHC_hiJPDZ5FwERcW4E5Q8_co54UW1UJC5SfnDx2XkJbpFTaarTJYwnmOkYKCP371Z7CEmwOgq6IvNSHBui/s640/IMG_1167.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rascal loves tractors and big equipment, dogs and playing with his cousins.</td></tr>
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It was right after the holidays. She opted to give her parents the news over the phone since her mom had been battling the flu. They were speechless but extremely elated! And then the news spread to the rest of the family.</div>
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Needless to say, everyone was praying that she would have a little girl. She needed a little girl! Maybe someone who was more quiet and reserved like her momma. Time passed and further ultrasounds revealed that at least one prayer had been answered. Another granddaughter (number three) was being added to the brood.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaanxq3CAWIatgYM20n0ih1goCWzrEH9g0w1WkYumhH_vj3wDg98SAVlV27fTMdOx6YnmNObPMCluUAJp-hMNV4eLWsT-mIWNROb7tnYulDvo94MfWRm6DKUbj1JzaX3POURXXngwYdvas/s1600/IMG_5111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaanxq3CAWIatgYM20n0ih1goCWzrEH9g0w1WkYumhH_vj3wDg98SAVlV27fTMdOx6YnmNObPMCluUAJp-hMNV4eLWsT-mIWNROb7tnYulDvo94MfWRm6DKUbj1JzaX3POURXXngwYdvas/s640/IMG_5111.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">J.W. loves being creative, sports and fishing.</td></tr>
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Rascal was glad because Momma needed a little girl on her side. He couldn't wait to be a big brother and set a good example for her. J.W., on the other hand, was on the fence about the whole thing. After all, he was a teenager now and knowing that his parents would do that thing that made new babies was just a bit too disgusting for him.<br />
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As time passed, momma wrestled with the joys and tribulations of new motherhood and pregnancy and the family anxiously awaited the arrival of the new baby. Nursery colors were chosen and names were tossed around and discussed but nothing definite was decided.</div>
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Finally, the big day came! God was good. Labor and delivery went extremely well. The new little princess arrived on July 22nd.</div>
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Rascal is about to explode with the joy and anticipation of helping momma take care of this new little bundle.</div>
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As much as he tried to hide it, it's easy to see that J.W. is also happy with his new little sister.</div>
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A name was finally chosen for the new baby though not the one that Rascal wanted.</div>
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But, here on the blog, we will use the name he chose (why he chose it no one knows!)</div>
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She will be called Peaches.</div>
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Welcome to our family, Peaches!</div>
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Momma says she is a good baby and only time will tell as to whether or not she has a personality more like herself. But God is good. I think that the family's prayers have been answered. :)</div>
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The end.</div>
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P.S. THIS is the big news that I've been wanting to share with you guys!! It was so hard to keep it a secret but I wanted to wait until her arrival. We are truly blessed. Seven grandchildren ranging from almost 15 to 23 days of age, four boys and three girls.</div>
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Until next time ~</div>
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-62668630774726011802013-07-16T07:00:00.000-05:002013-07-16T07:00:12.185-05:00~Going Once, Going Twice...~<br />
Hello friends! Last time I posted, I shared with you our decision to downsize our home and farming operation. Part of that process involves purging, packing and selling alot of "stuff" that we will no longer be needing or have room for. It is amazing how much "stuff" we have accumulated in the seven years that we have lived here!<br />
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With everything that we were letting go, we decided it was best to have an auction and, hopefully, we would reap fair dollar value for everything. After about six months of preparing, the big day finally came on the first of June. We were concerned about the attendance as it had rained all week (over five inches!!) leading up to sale day. We live out in the country....on a dirt road! But knowing that God was in control, come rain or shine the sale would be all that He wanted it to be so fretting was definitely a waste of time and energy. Sale day came with clear skies and cool breezes. :)<br />
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All of the goods were laid out for everyone to see. Tools and equipment of all sorts...<br />
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Dishware, pictures, lamps, books, pots and pans, you name it! Oh, I forgot to take a picture of all the furniture that was in the house before the sale started. :/ Darn.<br />
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Our son brought down all of his carpentry and remodeling tools as he was closing his construction business.....<br />
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Mr. Bill and the kids were no longer riding the horses so, other than a few sentimental pieces, there was no need to keep all the horse tack...<br />
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Big equipment such as the stock trailer, spray tanks, flatbed trailer, grain feeder....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH83JYEA2dowiwf5Koie3hoI0rxc8NJSZ68TQDWczAeGrFxC_W0v_Twg_x9Z4FTxD6ToN6_395GSCCRUlDShBgNybshJ-llVtAehLQ_aUuXTK_pCyTF529IbMXdzSiQhxQOUYCBAkUckkp/s1600/auctionf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH83JYEA2dowiwf5Koie3hoI0rxc8NJSZ68TQDWczAeGrFxC_W0v_Twg_x9Z4FTxD6ToN6_395GSCCRUlDShBgNybshJ-llVtAehLQ_aUuXTK_pCyTF529IbMXdzSiQhxQOUYCBAkUckkp/s640/auctionf.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
And, finally, Mr. Bill's beloved cattle. See that big brown bull in that sea of black? His name is "Quirt". All of our bulls were named after John Wayne characters. This one came from an old, old black and white movie. LOL<br />
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Advertise and they will come. We were shocked at the people who came and were willing to walk a long ways, on a muddy road, to see what kind of goods they might take home with them.<br />
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The cars were parked down the road and around the corner, which is one-quarter mile away from our driveway. Look. You can see the deep ruts that someone created when trying to park along the driveway.<br />
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Looking the other way, there are more cars for as far as you can see. We figured at least another quarter of mile. Plus people were parked along both sides of our long driveway as well as out in the area in the pasture for designated parking.<br />
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The sale began with all the goodies out in the yard but I was so busy in the house I didn't get a chance to take a picture of the <strike>chaos </strike>success going on out there. Here the crowd is watching and bidding on several pieces displayed on the porch.<br />
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Some of the wicker furniture that I bought at auction (same company doing ours) several years ago. What goes around, comes around, huh?<br />
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John, owner of the auction company, trying to get top dollar for my beloved antiques.<br />
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I think these guys were mainly onlookers or they were waiting for the guys to make it around to this area of the house.<br />
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Shannon's tools sold well over all. He didn't have to take anything back to Omaha!<br />
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Justin, son of the auction owner and one of Shannon's best friends (oh, the joy of living in a small community!). His bird's eye view from the trash dumpster.<br />
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Tools and equipment always sell REALLY well in a farming community. There were definitely alot of interested folks.<br />
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And, finally, the cows sell. We were thankful that one guy bought most of our cattle. It takes a while for cattle to settle into a new environment and having most of the 'family' going together makes the transition smoother. It really does.<br />
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So, there you have it! It was a long, hectic and tiring day. I had a bucket load, or two, of dirt to sweep up from all the people who went in and out of the house. They tried really hard to wipe their shoes clean before coming in but, with all that mud, it was almost impossible. Thankfully, we have wood floors and it wasn't too hard to clean up.<br />
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A few household things didn't sell but everything else did and, overall, we were realy pleased with the final results. It took several days for everything to be picked up and taken to their new homes. It was somewhat emotional for us but we know it was for good. The place is already up for sale but we are still putting on some necessary finishing touche to make it more sale worthy. Since there is no time or job constraint, we're not worried about whether or not the place sells right away, although it would be nice to go ahead and move on to the next chapeter of our lives. But it will all happen in God's great timing, won't it?<br />
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Until next time ~<br />
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-4835635021236540732013-07-01T07:00:00.000-05:002013-07-01T07:00:07.847-05:00~Changes In The Wind~We all have dreams, big and small, that we label as "needing to win the lottery" in order to come true, don't we? Most of our married life, Mr. Bill and I have shared such a dream but, since we don't play the lottery, we knew that it would take divine intervention in order for it to come to fruition. Our dream was to have a big place out in the country to enjoy the solitude and beauty (and burdens) of country living, fulfilling my desire to have a custom-built home and where Mr. Bill could raise the cattle that he wanted to enjoy in his retirement. It came quite by accident really. A friend of ours, who lived in another state, was interested in investing in country real estate in our area and so I started doing his homework for him. Lo and behold, only ten miles north of the little town we called home, there was a parcel of 160 acres up for sale! The asking price was too good to pass up but our friend's wife put her foot down on his idea and so we jumped at the possibility.<br />
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It was, indeed, Divine Intervention that allowed us to purchase this beautiful parcel of property. All the financial pieces fell into place and the home we were living in sold in only two weeks!!<br />
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This is the house on the property. It was rather run down and the floor's foundation was termite ridden. Since we were planning to build a new home, we knew we could live in it temporarily. That "temporary" turned into 18 months!! LOL<br />
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A few months later, we were able to get financing to start Mr. Bill's cattle herd. These mamas were the start of our growing operation, which was to raise mama/calf pairs. Meaning....keep the mamas for breeding and sell the calves after they had been weaned.<br />
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There's just something so peaceful about watching cattle grazing and resting on the hillsides but seeing the baby calves romping and playing was always a joy. By the way, the red arrow in the upper photo shows the NW corner of our property, which is 1/4 mile from our driveway. Our 160 acres covers one-half mile north to south and one-half mile east to west...just to help you get your bearings ;)<br />
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We have four ponds but this one is closest to our house, probably 50 to 60 yards away, and gives us a beautiful picture come sunshine or even the occasional ground fog.<br />
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Our new home was built about 30 yards south of our temporary home that I showed you earlier. It's in a spot that used to be a cattle pen. We witness the most beautiful skies from our front porch!</div>
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<img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz5dFSUUkjGRjlxt5NBTJ7ZhK7AJfHAFHcx8KMMCjcQsgZJ15sRQY8hlcomXOtruGxGK5ZsCGl3QGnhfSVFczcuXy7OkB-x-sYBpY5d042wbBg05uDIDjpS1ThCJBOkCg0FvCv5ijw9jYv/s640/changes_09.JPG" width="640" />This is our "hay" barn but we don't keep hay in it. This is where we stall and feed our horses, as well as storing the tractor and some equipment.</div>
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Our hay meadow provides much needed hay for the cattle until the grass starts growing again. That's our house and outbuildings you see in the distance.<br />
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Even during a rare heavy snow, the scenery is beautiful. Luckily, Mr. Bill has a cab tractor to keep him out of the harsh elements when putting out hay for the animals. I especially enjoy it when I don't have to get out in it. LOL<br />
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The view from the other side of the pond, which is a favorite spot for some fishing or stone throwing with the grandkids.</div>
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This is my most favorite view of the beautiful home that God has allowed us to build. Now you're probably wondering...what does this have to do with changes in the wind?? Well, when we bought this place, our motto was that "God willing, this is where we would live for the rest of our lives". That was 9 years ago. I have shared with you some quick glimpses of what it has been like living the dreams that God has so abundantly blessed us with over those years.<br />
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But little did we know that health issues would develop that became a problem for both of us, which made living our dream more of an uphill battle. Our joy was waning but it wasn't until a happenstance conversation that we realized that we were both feeling the same thing. After much prayer and many conversations, last fall we made the decision to downsize. Sell the property, cattle and equipment and to make our lives and lifestyle somewhat less of a burden. Was it an easy decision? No. It was heartbreaking. Was it the right decision? Yes. Coming to the realization that this is not where God intended us to live for the rest of our lives but rather a place where we could look back and be thankful for God giving us the opportunity, albeit shorter than what we had anticipated.<br />
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Over the last 6 to 8 months, we've been slowly sorting, purging and packing our belongings. That's why you haven't seen me around since the first of the year!! We have our property up for sale and, several weeks ago, we had a big auction. I'll share those details with you next time. If you've never participated in an auction, just think garage sale.....1,000 times over!! ;)<br />
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Now that the worst of it is over, I have time to breathe and slow down a bit. Best of all, I'm able to start blogging and participating again! ;)<br />
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We are in the beginning stages of a new chapter in our lives and I look forward to sharing those with you. In fact, we've already made the decision about what to do from here...but more about that later.<br />
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Until next time~<br />
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-48817324763886291372013-05-03T17:03:00.000-05:002013-05-03T17:03:10.107-05:00~Spring Cleaning~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been away for a while, haven't I? Although I haven't been posting for the last several months, I have taken time to read several of my favorite blogs from time to time. The other day I realized that I hadn't updated the layout of my blog and figured I had better clean it up just a bit and make it look like somebody lived here. LOL.<br />
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There's alot going on around this ol' place and it's been keeping me rather busy. Too busy! Since I was sprucing up my blog a bit, I thought I had better pop in to say "hey!" and to let you know that I'm still alive and kicking. Once the dust settles in a few weeks, I promise to let you know what I've been up to around here and share with you what's been keeping me so busy. Plus, I have some exciting news to share ;)<br />
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Have a blessed weekend, my friends! ~<br />
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-86361878311554014542013-01-12T10:31:00.002-06:002013-01-12T10:31:53.372-06:00~Blogger Issues and Under the Weather~I have been trying all week to put together a post but haven't been able to upload pictures!! Apparently, it's a problem that lots of bloggers are dealing with. I don't use Picasa to upload pictures and have read that I must use Google Chrome or Firefox. I don't like either one. Anyone else having these issues and what have you done to overcome them?<br />
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Plus, I started getting sick (again) the other night and have come down with a nasty respiratory virus. So, I'm feeling rather puny right now.<br />
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Just wanted to let you know that I haven't disappeared and hope to be back to blogging next week...in case you missed me. ;)<br />
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Stay warm!!<br />
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-9591894199096198012012-12-10T09:02:00.000-06:002012-12-13T22:17:59.349-06:00~Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In between trying to decorate the house for Christmas and trying to get a little shopping done (and I mean a little!), I've been making some new ornaments for our tree. I came up with this muslin star that I absolutely love and thought I'd share a little tutorial with you. In case, you wanted to make some yourself.<br />
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Supplies I used:<br />
<strong>fusible fleece...</strong>I love this stuff!<br />
<strong>pre-washed muslin fabric</strong>.... give it a tea stain if you'd like.<br />
<strong>scrap quilt batting or some type of polyfil </strong>...this is to make your little stars plump.<br />
<strong>rubber stamp </strong>...this stamp is about 4 x 5" in size.<br />
<strong>star template</strong> ...I found a paper mache one to use as a pattern, which is 4.5". I'm not good at making perfect stars.<br />
<strong>ink stamping pad</strong> ...the color I used is walnut.<br />
<strong>dark red seam binding</strong> ...if the color isn't exactly the shade you want, give it a wash with watered down acrylic craft paint, scrunch and let dry overnight.<br />
<strong>Twine</strong>....to create a hanging loop<br />
<strong>Thread and needle</strong>...any ol' sewing thread (I used matching) and a small quilting needle works best for maneuvering.<br />
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1 ~ Using your template, cut two fabric and two fleece pieces for each star but cut the latter on the inside of your drawing line (about 1/8 to 1/4 inch). **The fleece helps to keep the star smooth when you start adding filler.<br />
2 ~ Center the fleece star on your fabric star and iron to adhere.<br />
3 ~ Stamp your design onto the fabric. I'm a novice when it comes to rubber stamping but I think I read somewhere that ironing the ink onto the fabric prevents it from bleeding. **Cover your fabric with a piece of paper before ironing so that the ink doesn't transfer to the iron. For those of you who have more experience in this area...am I right or no?<br />
4 ~ If you want your stars to be a bit more rustic, run your finger or the edge of your scissors back and forth across the cut edge to fray the fabric.<br />
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1 ~ Cut a length of twine for looping and secure it on the inside of one tip of your star with several stitches making sure to pull the thread snugly.<br />
2 ~ Put your second star piece on top and start sewing the two pieces together with a basting stitch around the edge. Now this is the tricky part.. You are going to sew and stuff as you go...<br />
3 ~ As you go around each point, stuff it with some filler. I have lots of scrap pieces of quilt batting and have found that it works best for small pieces like this as it's not near as messy as polyfil. **To make your stuffing process easier, cut batting into small pieces and use a small tool, such as a crochet hook or the point on a small pair of scissors, to stuff. <br />
4 ~ Work your way around the star, sewing and stuffing,. Secure your basting with a couple of stitches in between the fabric layers to hide the knot.<br />
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Create a bow with your seam binding with as many loops as you would like. I used four. With thread and needle, run a stitch through the layers and then wrap around a couple of times to secure your bow and then stitch it to your star.</div>
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I thought my little stars looked a a bit "blah" and decided to add some jingle bells. I saw some at HL in colors of green, red and gold (not too shiny) that I loved. They were so cute!! But I couldn't find any small enough. So what is one to do? You find some regular ones in the size that works (about 1/2 inch) and paint them! It really was a royal pain and they turned out okay, but if I find any that are the size I am wanting, these babies are going to be replaced.<br />
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Secure a jingle bell, or two, and you're done! Now to hang them on the tree.<br />
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I love how these turned out. I think they fit in perfectly with all the other ornaments that are handmade or rustic in style. I plan to make some more using green seam binding. I hope you enjoyed my little tutorial. If I didn't explain it well enough, don't hesitate to ask.<br />
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I've got a couple of more ornament ideas that I'm planning to share this week, so stay tuned!<br />
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You'll find me at these blog parties this week...<br />
<a href="http://betweennapsontheporch.net/" target="_blank">Metamorphosis Monday @ Between Naps on the Porch</a><br />
<a href="http://sunnysimplelife.blogspot.com/2012/12/sunny-simple-sunday_8.html" target="_blank">Sunny Simple Sunday @ Sunny Simple Life</a><br />
<a href="http://www.stonegableblog.com/" target="_blank">Tutorials, Tips and Tidbits @ Stone Gable</a><br />
<a href="http://thededicatedhouse.blogspot.com/2012/12/make-it-pretty-monday-week-27.html" target="_blank">Make It Pretty Monday @ The Dedicated House</a><br />
<a href="http://www.commonground-do.com/" target="_blank">Vintage Inspiration @ Common Ground</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thevintagefarmhouse.com/" target="_blank">Creative Things Thursday @ The Vintage Farmhouse</a><br />
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-9019904983395517572012-11-30T12:51:00.000-06:002012-11-30T12:51:02.088-06:00~Look What Came in the Mail~Hi there! I don't know about you, but it took me several days to recoup from all the acitivities leading up to and into the Thanksgiving holiday. I had alot of other things going on besides getting ready for our family get-together and it truly was a blessing to have most of my family here We had a wonderful time. I could've done without all the other distractions as I was wiped out once the weekend came. And then I hit the floor running again this week...doctor's appointment in the big city that takes about half my day. And then I had to go to the hair salon twice. Yes, twice!! I wanted to add some more blondish highlights (to camouflage all my gray) and it came out really, REALLY blonde. Couldn't even tell they were highlights. :/ So, I had to go back yesterday for another two-hour session to tone down the blonde and bring back some of the dark brown. I ended up with some color streaks that weren't supposed to happen...like cherry coke type coloring! I don't do cherry coke!! lol I can't decide whether or not I like it but I'll live with it for a while. I'll have to show you a before and after picture to see what you think. On top of that, I haven't even started Christmas shopping and am only about halfway done with the decorating. I want my merry-go-round to slow down a bit.<br />
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Anyways, that's not what this post is about, is it? A few weeks ago, Heather from <a href="http://postroadvintage.com/blog" target="_blank">Post Road Vintage</a>, had a very generous giveway...$100 to spend in her online store!! Generous, right? Well, of course, I threw my name in the hat and guess what? I won!! My choices came in the mail over the weekend. Wanna see what I picked?<br />
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These are the items that I chose. Quite a loot, huh?.<br />
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This lovely handmade coat rack made with a very wide piece of decorative wood molding. I've got it leaning against my old singer sewing machine so you can see that it's quite large. Look at those hooks! I love the detailing. Yes, those are fish.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim7VjJ2yRxVZSvpcq9ImhNMA9mQf60MiOgHjfEHSuo0JoexkbLrsjY6TBVdVX0NT9-iwu2bHUtCNvJWGZzz_XmWojiYDqWUs2k3Iq15D9P7e5q89zdRfzrBcXm2XBBSVol1h7rx_p_l_To/s1600/mail2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim7VjJ2yRxVZSvpcq9ImhNMA9mQf60MiOgHjfEHSuo0JoexkbLrsjY6TBVdVX0NT9-iwu2bHUtCNvJWGZzz_XmWojiYDqWUs2k3Iq15D9P7e5q89zdRfzrBcXm2XBBSVol1h7rx_p_l_To/s640/mail2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Those little thingamabobs sitting on top of the coat rack are soap dispenser lids that Heather creates using reproduction zinc style mason jar lids. I chose a couple of the soap foaming designs. She also sells the lids with the blue mason jars but I've already got some and wanted to use them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDNfdC-PEaQnU7yNqLvXX9o-rgKNeRIMMXpj0C3PonVZT88nvUlQKx3dwvU2qeCI5MshvgfqvxTcWZpEvgvBf71pu0qO9BZ_JNKnZ5dKbq67axuc2DLp56jp2CDHYz0XT1yFZEWOckKV66/s1600/mail3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDNfdC-PEaQnU7yNqLvXX9o-rgKNeRIMMXpj0C3PonVZT88nvUlQKx3dwvU2qeCI5MshvgfqvxTcWZpEvgvBf71pu0qO9BZ_JNKnZ5dKbq67axuc2DLp56jp2CDHYz0XT1yFZEWOckKV66/s640/mail3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Recently, Heather started making her own soaps....Lavender Milk. She had this little bar wrapped in old paper and tied with twine. Goodness, the fragrance that came off the soap was absolutely lovely. I've never used handmade soaps (though I've been wanting to try them) so I'm anxious to give it a whirl.<br />
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<img alt="Publication preview" src="http://s3.amazonaws.com/storage2.magcloud.com/image/fa1a78963858d941b2733eab9ea09ff9.jpg" /></div>
On top of having a blog and creating items for her online store, Heather publishes a lovely magazine (available as an e-zine or in hard copy) called Homebound. It is filled with farmhouse living decorating, crafting ideas and tips from herself as well as other bloggers who contribute to make this possible. And the photography is really gorgeous She was gracious enough to include a copy of the magazine and, I must say, it is very nice. I love it! <br />
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I received some really nice items, didn't I? How this girl can do all this absolutely amazes me. She has five children (the newest being born just a few months ago), lives on a farm with a few animals and strives to live the country way of life. If you are not familiar with her blog, <a href="http://postroadvintage.com/blog" target="_blank">Post Road Vintage</a>, I encourage you to pay her a visit. Don't forget to check out her online store and magazine. You'll be glad you did.<br />
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Well, the weekend is here and I've got to finish decorating the house and making the handmade ornaments that I've been working on inbetween all the busyness that's been happening around here lately. I look forward to showing you those next week.<br />
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Have a lovely weekend~<br />
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-19709043162108090092012-11-21T10:12:00.000-06:002012-11-24T12:18:15.194-06:00~Happy Thanksgiving!~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsxLwwDT-64RdzQZsSCT-P30saK9BdtXg9hnHG9_pNj-BS1JsdMBc3U4jeRc-DjwV72WTMENeZOqnZD92KyqUSxV-8hxddw0orc98gdFBJTAK6kectMsnFiQsS_XzVQ2jQYIPdTskXEGK/s1600/tgiving+blessing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsxLwwDT-64RdzQZsSCT-P30saK9BdtXg9hnHG9_pNj-BS1JsdMBc3U4jeRc-DjwV72WTMENeZOqnZD92KyqUSxV-8hxddw0orc98gdFBJTAK6kectMsnFiQsS_XzVQ2jQYIPdTskXEGK/s640/tgiving+blessing.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;">~Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus ~ I Thessalonians 5:16-18</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">"In Thanksgiving, Let Us Praise Him"</span></div>
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From the first bright light of morning to the last warm glow of dusk;</div>
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Every breath we take is sacred, For it is God's gift to us.</div>
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In the season of our plenty, in the season of our need;</div>
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We will find His grace sufficient, we will find His love complete.</div>
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Safe within His hand that guides us, Hidden in His healing wings;</div>
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Day by day His love provides us every good and perfect thing.</div>
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In thanksgiving, let us praise Him; In thanksgiving, let us sing</div>
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Songs of praise and adoration to our gracious Lord and King.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">~Austrian hymn~</span></div>
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-87006669657356551832012-11-17T11:38:00.000-06:002012-11-17T11:40:38.686-06:00~Strawberry French Toast and A Cookbook Winner~I'm sharing another one of my cookbook recipes with you today. I started making Strawberry French Toast for our B&B guests after it became an instant hit with my family. It's one of those dishes that you prepare the night before and then all you have to do is stick it in the oven in the morning! Those types of dishes work really well for me as I'm not really a morning person. What? Yeah, hard to believe, huh? A non-morning person getting up at the crack of dawn to prepare a gourmet breakfast for B&B guests. It was definitely God working in me to be able to do that and, I must say, it brought me great joy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHupCLQSpsOjPJtQzwPFm-q_k4QAsLUj9Lhhx36kCYBn-uHnnUpkOwIkTrZtQS2FZbceVybApjotwscIAKTPONd25bf9XGieHnEFVCEdmj0vk8WjugHz_bHhcTCAHTwTOPCdZiWwfpdQNy/s1600/recipe3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHupCLQSpsOjPJtQzwPFm-q_k4QAsLUj9Lhhx36kCYBn-uHnnUpkOwIkTrZtQS2FZbceVybApjotwscIAKTPONd25bf9XGieHnEFVCEdmj0vk8WjugHz_bHhcTCAHTwTOPCdZiWwfpdQNy/s640/recipe3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
This is one easy-peasy recipe but it is so yummy! It's pretty self-explanatory so I won't bore you with more details. Though I haven't tried it, I'm sure any type of berry could be used. And the recipe could easily be cut in half if necessary....but who would want to? lol<br />
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And I have a really scientific method for choosing the winner of my Breakfast & Brunch Cookbook. You'll be impressed ;) I haven't figured out how to number my comments (someone help me?) and I don't have that random generator thingy downloaded either, so I just had my hubby, Mr. Bill, choose a number and I had him verify his choice...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZN1kkiOnlS3l9KZNd2Nrp9UNzJiUDFMZatUSOm4bV0q3v50UJQcxmjdLUNfrXPapSSlLOx4jJKIsrCYM-c7M0NO7RXk0p7EdqDdTZXs_jCxkme-oNLkrWVNd47bOg062vUECqogOUi451/s1600/recipe2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZN1kkiOnlS3l9KZNd2Nrp9UNzJiUDFMZatUSOm4bV0q3v50UJQcxmjdLUNfrXPapSSlLOx4jJKIsrCYM-c7M0NO7RXk0p7EdqDdTZXs_jCxkme-oNLkrWVNd47bOg062vUECqogOUi451/s640/recipe2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Impressive, huh? Thank goodness there weren't a hundred jillion comments and I only had to count down to #11. I found that it belongs to Kerin, one of my dear blogging friends, from <a href="http://alwaysfixinneversittin.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Always Fixin', Never Sittin'.</a> Kerin said..."I'd have to say, I'm both a baker and a cook. I love to do both, and do both on a regular basis. Nothing like a home cooked meal!"<br />Congratulations, Kerin! I'll send you an email so that I can get your mailing address.<br />. </div>
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Thank you for all of those who entered. If, by chance, you would like to purchase one of my cookbooks, you can do so at the <a href="http://downourcountryroad.blogspot.com/p/my-etsy.html" target="_blank">My Store</a> page on this blog.</div>
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It's a beautiful day today. I pray that you are able to find a little beauty in your day as well~</div>
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-41528517055061803872012-11-14T12:59:00.000-06:002012-11-28T10:37:05.493-06:00~DIY Detergent Recipes~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Have you started making your own soap detergents and cleaners yet? My youngest started on the bandwagon about a year or so ago searching for safer ways to keep her family and home clean. She is the one who brought to my attention how UNsafe many of the ingredients are in products that I have used for years. So, I've been changing the way that I clean.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQBtEpMVS5q9b9VBi-4A17uTvQr7zJY3h92pa3qky-3RoyxfUXt46kJgNPIpWQfhiQMrRNTeVlsiM7QMDCaMSo2dzL8mG6f9QoYfLOIuFvggMLXkkAfhdWhuJKAX0rW3CPAcxkCaU2TPLx/s1600/soap1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="576" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQBtEpMVS5q9b9VBi-4A17uTvQr7zJY3h92pa3qky-3RoyxfUXt46kJgNPIpWQfhiQMrRNTeVlsiM7QMDCaMSo2dzL8mG6f9QoYfLOIuFvggMLXkkAfhdWhuJKAX0rW3CPAcxkCaU2TPLx/s640/soap1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<strong>Laundry Detergent</strong>. There are lots of recipes out there, for both dry and liquid concoctions, with slight variations here and there. So you may want to do a bit of Google searching to see which one would work for you. This is the recipe that I found some time back and have been using it for several months now. Ingredients needed:<br />
<strong>4 lb. 12 oz. box of Borax</strong><br />
<strong>4 lb. box of Baking Soda</strong><br />
<strong>3 lb. 7 oz. box of Super Washing Soda</strong><br />
<strong>4 bars of Ivory soap (or any natural soap such as Fels Naptha, Castile or Zote), grated</strong><br />
<strong>3 lb. container of OxyClean**</strong><br />
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**Our clothes weren't quite as bright as I would have liked, so I ended up adding OxyClean. An ingredient seen in many of the soap recipes I've found. Much better!!<br />
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Note: I have a front-loading washing machine and this is perfectly safe to use. I use about 2 to 3 Tbsp. (little less than 1/4 cup) per load. I haven't found anything that says to use more for top-loading machines.<br />
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I had a couple of bars of the Castile soap and decided to use it along with the Ivory. Some soaps are easy to grate and some are not. Ivory is a softer bar and grated very easily while the Castile bar is harder and took a little bit more effort to grate. I found that using a regular ol' cheese grater was actually faster and easier than using my mini food processor. Could have been my machine, I don't know.<br />
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<strong>Fabric Softener</strong>. We use well water out here in the country and it is a very hard water with lots of mineral content. To a large bottle of regular ol' vinegar, I add at least 30 to 40 drops of lavender oil (for fragrance). Add about one-half cup to the rinse section of your washing machine.<br />
You could use any essential oil but I use the lavender because of its calming effect. This particular oil is not overpowering and I could probably add more oil if I wanted a stronger fragrance. I just order mine on Amazon. The vinegar is not only great at softening our clothes but to clean the gunk out of the washing machine! I need to do a post about all the different uses for vinegar.<br />
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<strong>Dishwasher Detergent</strong>. I've finally used up my stash of over-the-counter dishwasher pods and am able to use this recipe that I found on Pinterest; first posted on <a href="http://www.lizmarieblog.com/2012/08/diy-dish-detergent/" target="_blank">Liz Marie's</a> blog. Needed ingredients:<br />
<strong>4 lb. 12 oz. box of Borax</strong><br />
<strong>3 lb. 7 oz. box of Super Washing Soda</strong><br />
<strong>Large container of Lemi-Shine (citric acid or Fruit Fresh has also been recommended)</strong><br />
<strong>1 cup of regular or Kosher Salt (works as a softening agent)</strong><br />
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Pour all your ingredients into a large trash bag. Close the top of the bag with one hand and use your other to, basically, knead the ingredients together mixing and breaking down any clumps. This also helps keep 'dust' particles from floating around in the air that you don't want to be breathing. You don't want to be digging your hands into the mixture as it can be a little hard on the skin.<br />
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Hold the bag over the large container that you'll be using for storage and cut a slit close to the bottom of the bag. Much easier than trying to pour it from the top! ;)<br />
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I am using one of my cherished enamel pots to store my soap, which is about 8 inches tall so you can see that it makes quite a large amount.<br />
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Now all I need to do is create a cute little label to put on the front!<br />
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My dishes went from this (can you see the cloudiness on the glass?)....</div>
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...to this! Look at that shine!!</div>
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I didn't figure up the cost of what I spent on ingredients for my soap recipes but I can guarantee you that it's a whole lot cheaper than the name brands...and much safer to use, too. Plus, a little goes a long ways! I'm a believer.<br />
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How about you? If you've jumped on the bandwagon, I'd love to know about your recipes. If not, I encourage you to at least make a small batch to see what you think.<br />
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Oh, don't forget! The giveaway for my Breakfast and Brunch Cookbook ends tomorrow, November 15th. If you haven't entered yet, you've still got time. Go <a href="http://downourcountryroad.blogspot.com/2012/11/breakfast-at-suppertime-and-cookbook.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">here</span></a> to get your name in the drawing.<br />
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Have a sparkling, sunshine-y day today!!<br />
Blessings~<br />
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-23855853846863355982012-11-08T16:11:00.001-06:002012-11-28T10:38:14.917-06:00~A Breakfast and Brunch Cookbook~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In my post earlier this week, I shared with a <a href="http://downourcountryroad.blogspot.com/2012/11/breakfast-at-suppertime-and-cookbook.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">recipe</span></a> from this Breakfast and Brunch Cookbook that I created for guests who stayed in our home when we had a Bed and Breakfast.<br />
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I am having a giveaway for one of my cookbooks (more about that in a bit) but I still have several left from my Bed and Breakfast days and am offering them up for sale. But, first, I want to show you some of the features and photos of some of the recipes. Please note that there are NO pictures included in this cookbook!! Years ago, when saving recipes from various magazines I would also clip the photos. I have no idea where those recipes came from so I can't give credit where it is due. Most of the recipes are from my personal collection with many being family favorites and others are from various family members who helped make this cookbook possible.<br />
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So, let's take a look shall we?<br />
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Six categories with about 245 different recipes...quick and easy to yummy and gooey. <br />
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<strong>Banana Brunch Punch</strong>. I served this beverage concoction at a shower several years ago and it was a big hit. It serves 16 to 20 but can be frozen in smaller batches.<br />
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<strong>Blueberry Sour Cream Pancakes</strong>. I have served this dish MANY times for either breakfast or supper. So, so good!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimxhvjrj9-ND2smWuxCIhMaDbC4Wl08MDFiyKv3FP5ysMt8zlQl-IeXZCfZQBpDx41PBWVVScyHPQDyqLRTOyTTJTDRxV5GtDH2xOOcij6sr2H_MgSTi6nEcUhrD0EzLN45KVZYLE2Wel9/s1600/breakfast3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimxhvjrj9-ND2smWuxCIhMaDbC4Wl08MDFiyKv3FP5ysMt8zlQl-IeXZCfZQBpDx41PBWVVScyHPQDyqLRTOyTTJTDRxV5GtDH2xOOcij6sr2H_MgSTi6nEcUhrD0EzLN45KVZYLE2Wel9/s640/breakfast3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<strong>Sausage Brunch Casserole</strong>. I shared this <a href="http://downourcountryroad.blogspot.com/2012/11/breakfast-at-suppertime-and-cookbook.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">recipe</span> </a>with you the other day. Another one of our family favorites. All it needs is some fruit and maybe a quick bread...there are many to choose from in my cookbook! ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RnaompE7vbQ34eL7cxxSqPvJSHeTg1Gd4Kv3_iIw6tYYAKchNADhAvl47zTK0klhmtebWyAVHogsBM3kbj-ns3DvIW9F0igpgrLkbuDQfLkGZM9T0CrdoYniIcB6qE0nrBJiSgByEZ4Y/s1600/cookbook4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RnaompE7vbQ34eL7cxxSqPvJSHeTg1Gd4Kv3_iIw6tYYAKchNADhAvl47zTK0klhmtebWyAVHogsBM3kbj-ns3DvIW9F0igpgrLkbuDQfLkGZM9T0CrdoYniIcB6qE0nrBJiSgByEZ4Y/s640/cookbook4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<strong>Russian Krendl</strong>. Many years ago, this yeast bread became a family tradition on Christmas morning. I would prepare the bread the night before, store in the fridge and then pop it in the oven to bake while all the presents were being opened! A bit of extra work but SO well worth it. My husband is half Russian, which made this dish all the more special.<br />
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There you go! A peek at some of the many recipes (minus photos). Just in time for the holidays and for gift giving. The cost is only $10.00. Shipping is included in the price for U.S. citizens only. <span style="color: #134f5c;">UPDATE</span>: <strike> If you would like to purchase one, please let me know and I will send you a PayPal invoice.</strike> I have just added the cookbook to the <a href="http://downourcountryroad.blogspot.com/p/my-etsy.html" target="_blank">My Store</a> page where you can just click and make your purchase through PayPal. If you have any problems, please let me know so that I can get it corrected.<br />
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Don't forget. I'm giving one of these cookbooks away. If you would like a chance to win one, enter the <a href="http://downourcountryroad.blogspot.com/2012/11/breakfast-at-suppertime-and-cookbook.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">giveaway</span></a> here...it ends on November 15th!!<br />
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Thank you so much.<br />
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Happy cooking and baking~<br />
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Sharing at these blog parties:<br />
<a href="http://etsycottagestyle.blogspot.com/2012/11/its-time-for-some-shopping.html" target="_blank">Etsy Cottage Style</a><br />
<a href="http://sunnysimplelife.blogspot.com/2012/11/sunny-simple-sunday-and-some-thoughts.html" target="_blank">Sunny Simple Sunday</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtMaUhP7wyxLB4lbWF59Z67nfq6tY586XtOi4UHU0hrbiuJR7bWOlTL3ZDlWPe2fvPu3KxDszq2KPKSQtIYAeQNqiS5MXYGPVt67clhLa126zZ9xv26dZp-sWmn_2Hx5_yzXf30nT8DnG5/s1600/Vintage-Happy-Thanksgiving-card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtMaUhP7wyxLB4lbWF59Z67nfq6tY586XtOi4UHU0hrbiuJR7bWOlTL3ZDlWPe2fvPu3KxDszq2KPKSQtIYAeQNqiS5MXYGPVt67clhLa126zZ9xv26dZp-sWmn_2Hx5_yzXf30nT8DnG5/s320/Vintage-Happy-Thanksgiving-card.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-41836196945543058062012-11-05T22:32:00.000-06:002012-11-28T10:38:31.358-06:00~Breakfast at Suppertime and a Cookbook Giveaway~When my three children were growing up, having a full-fledge breakfast at suppertime was a common occurrence. Instead of cereal, oatmeal, Eggo waffles, or scrambled eggs and toast that were <strike>boring</strike> familiar meals the kids received during the week, I could prepare more dishes that took a little more time and effort to prepare. Plus, it was a nice alternative to our normal evening fares usually found at the dining table.<br />
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I don't know why, but over the last few years, I haven't been preparing those "breakfast at suppertime" meals. Maybe because it's just the two of us now or maybe just because I've gotten lax with my meal preparations and have gotten stuck in a rut. Probably more of the latter, I think. :)<br />
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Anyway, last week, I had a hankerin' (does anyone use that phrase anymore?)...I had a hankerin' for a good ol' breakfast type meal. So, I pulled out a cookbook that is chock full of breakfast and brunch recipes.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOvjp3H1ICw26K9S36FojxTZ7RDa0PpMehqJaft4g-DrYj7muAAIIDwGPT70PRm8r4049M82NKY53hgJz53MDSwo6KMxovlOucA_ggXxQ6jdDcJTSdB2BiE6I7YKRPdvgYQgNSDDOSR4XR/s1600/breakfast4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOvjp3H1ICw26K9S36FojxTZ7RDa0PpMehqJaft4g-DrYj7muAAIIDwGPT70PRm8r4049M82NKY53hgJz53MDSwo6KMxovlOucA_ggXxQ6jdDcJTSdB2BiE6I7YKRPdvgYQgNSDDOSR4XR/s640/breakfast4.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, that's a picture of our home as you come up the drive.</td></tr>
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Oh look! Does the title look familiar..."country road"?? Yep, I put together this cookbook several years ago when I operated a bed and breakfast in our new home. More about that in a bit, but let's get to the food!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6R7Chqrf7N0BB5S8VT1KfeYt4u5Jym1Kdet07HjfS22bfyrM-9u0tFfwtbya8qOPRQTWJcNL-hGZpiiGriwxuiID3LnVBDXkrLAEIU1dSxevqVdo82cwiv9WipprNr3YyL4JrN3fmJyRl/s1600/breakfast3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6R7Chqrf7N0BB5S8VT1KfeYt4u5Jym1Kdet07HjfS22bfyrM-9u0tFfwtbya8qOPRQTWJcNL-hGZpiiGriwxuiID3LnVBDXkrLAEIU1dSxevqVdo82cwiv9WipprNr3YyL4JrN3fmJyRl/s640/breakfast3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj11Sx13Lu7LPUge-VhKBXnGbWy4lLogN9wZiQsXvW9W_LZMQQblcaUi9gGrcnAjvOEJ8t6K_jiqbDdClBZO4NxHF37Exv_5Qz-KOQASTxyYFBV-vRLItvy1IBcxPYnwrZUUO6UCg7vEtjk/s1600/breakfast3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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One recipe that I used quite often for our guests is the "Sausage Brunch Casserole". It's easy, it's filling and, more importantly, it's yummy!! I was really tired when I made this last week and forgot to take pictures!! But I did have a picture that I had clipped out of the original magazine taped next to the recipe. I'm a visual kind of person.</div>
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You will need these ingredients:</div>
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<strong>Pork sausage</strong></div>
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<strong>Green onions</strong></div>
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<strong>Mushroom stems and pieces</strong></div>
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<strong>Tomatoes</strong></div>
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<strong>Mozzarella Cheese</strong></div>
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<strong>Pancake mix (Bisquick works)</strong></div>
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<strong>Eggs</strong></div>
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<strong>Milk</strong></div>
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<strong>Dried oregano</strong></div>
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<strong>Salt </strong></div>
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<strong>Pepper</strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayXSM3_8WicdEa3MqoeBzoDN3YnxmvN2aJaLgbZtADdIvXlQm6Oa7dcqEzMCfMSaM_vAwXFd1ByYs8z6OWM7F-Ag5u2YcjnXWkBAkrggIf9qmIJmdSXvlPs89T3xr85EhafJ8T3_xPF6a/s1600/sausage+brunch+casserole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjayXSM3_8WicdEa3MqoeBzoDN3YnxmvN2aJaLgbZtADdIvXlQm6Oa7dcqEzMCfMSaM_vAwXFd1ByYs8z6OWM7F-Ag5u2YcjnXWkBAkrggIf9qmIJmdSXvlPs89T3xr85EhafJ8T3_xPF6a/s640/sausage+brunch+casserole.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
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I created this recipe for you to use and follow. This dish really is simple to put together and makes quite a large amount. I usually cut it in half and it easily serves 2 to 4 people.</div>
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I wanted a side dish of some sort but didn't want to make a quick bread or anything like that. So, I found a recipe for a quick, light and easy apple crisp that was originally designed for two little ramekin type dishes. Well, that wasn't going to be enough. Seriously!! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg6Z1AoMPuQ6GKkLPFjYH98j3QgV_lWcqbfGoP2um1qYuaGeeKK7J9XeO3ovEZEK9D5cdfnP7Wfs5S83G7C9FtNLmcS_wDFsEqGE9onDOPPtpNxFTLs3K2vUK2fXaIJmF_ugPityNccD2s/s1600/breakfast1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg6Z1AoMPuQ6GKkLPFjYH98j3QgV_lWcqbfGoP2um1qYuaGeeKK7J9XeO3ovEZEK9D5cdfnP7Wfs5S83G7C9FtNLmcS_wDFsEqGE9onDOPPtpNxFTLs3K2vUK2fXaIJmF_ugPityNccD2s/s640/breakfast1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I revamped the recipe a bit by adding a nice, juicy pear and then tripling the crumbly topping. And then I added a bit more butter and sugar. Hehe. I laugh because I'm not one to mess with recipes too much. My kids give me a hard time about it and then my daughter-in-love made a good observation. I am more of a baker rather than a cooker, which is true. I love to cook but I'd MUCH rather bake. It does require precise ingredients whereas cooking has more room to experiment. Which are you...baker or cooker?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_xi9zBq4zVJBMZe7fHOOyW2C58r_QF5ANmnP5rD8UevBTHf2apYZH1gYGEEy7PwE2vyUABXYD140B3BMDr4ZVwbZTF0sf_3Frj1KFH-rxjHyP7zaPlECb7tqOPi61299kbK756KNF6qqn/s1600/breakfast2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_xi9zBq4zVJBMZe7fHOOyW2C58r_QF5ANmnP5rD8UevBTHf2apYZH1gYGEEy7PwE2vyUABXYD140B3BMDr4ZVwbZTF0sf_3Frj1KFH-rxjHyP7zaPlECb7tqOPi61299kbK756KNF6qqn/s640/breakfast2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just enough crunch and flavor to satisfy your sweet tooth without all the added calories. I did remember to take a picture as an afterthought...before it was all gone!!</div>
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The ingredients for the Apple-Pear Crisp are:</div>
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<strong>Tart apples</strong></div>
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<strong>Pear</strong></div>
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<strong>Sugar</strong></div>
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<strong>Quick-cooking oats (I only had old-fashioned)</strong></div>
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<strong>All-purpose Flour</strong></div>
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<strong>Brown sugar</strong></div>
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<strong>Pecans (optional)</strong></div>
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<strong>Butter</strong></div>
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<strong>Vanilla extract</strong></div>
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<strong>Cinnamon</strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPuPSNrUEEjhfYnlZP6vFsEwKdiYwBunNZAWF1f6cIAspbRz8Os0ihJF94YJc9gZ9VjS-TAq0t3UmTbEusfsBqCakchkEHHUFvluZE19ic0DZWsN2DRdoQNebWzEMBOwoqoJ1DudD2JywZ/s1600/apple+pear+crisp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPuPSNrUEEjhfYnlZP6vFsEwKdiYwBunNZAWF1f6cIAspbRz8Os0ihJF94YJc9gZ9VjS-TAq0t3UmTbEusfsBqCakchkEHHUFvluZE19ic0DZWsN2DRdoQNebWzEMBOwoqoJ1DudD2JywZ/s640/apple+pear+crisp.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
Here's a printable recipe of my revamped version of the Apple Crisp I found in a different cookbook. NOTE: This recipe is NOT included in my Breakfast & Brunch cookbook. Sorry :/<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwkMECJ_5hGF6ZiqzwZH2rD2cQ5EXK7JrE4GT7dGItghWAGEO0Aoeh97NHDYvk2zrWtHxTGVpaZSz0gftp_sHLBPSusBYhwuc08bpIBA-a9-ogRAiiJej4oXYw2Nrhwo54MnrRAfexjbl/s1600/breakfast10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwkMECJ_5hGF6ZiqzwZH2rD2cQ5EXK7JrE4GT7dGItghWAGEO0Aoeh97NHDYvk2zrWtHxTGVpaZSz0gftp_sHLBPSusBYhwuc08bpIBA-a9-ogRAiiJej4oXYw2Nrhwo54MnrRAfexjbl/s640/breakfast10.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
Okay, back to the cookbook. When I started our bed and breakfast, I came across the idea to create a cookbook for our guests so that they could have a remembrance of staying here and also to have the recipes of dishes that I made for them (they always came from the cookbook).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA70qcSPPFUBYSKje0PcQJLpPtyo1x-_mvF4DncDXRjmgnljadc6YYT-0StuWN-EdbgGhBRgZHxO1g_Vs6QvMfXW7FnLpU90AD8_xuR8_mUTJ_kDVRIPiScCyxxf6QA6cWGFLZn2P0yK5j/s1600/breakfast5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA70qcSPPFUBYSKje0PcQJLpPtyo1x-_mvF4DncDXRjmgnljadc6YYT-0StuWN-EdbgGhBRgZHxO1g_Vs6QvMfXW7FnLpU90AD8_xuR8_mUTJ_kDVRIPiScCyxxf6QA6cWGFLZn2P0yK5j/s640/breakfast5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
When designing I love to collect recipes and went through hundreds of them looking, specifically, for those related to breakfast and brunch. I also asked for recipes from family members.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJ1HNxzGQsJXzqLY2HXdNtdIRQ7mSTmaLYxFs27mAo4sqFhsuKgVx17b5m18YJUAdO42IQ31AL3nN8rGNBFX_mPsfEEGQTwPxDfuqG3sbqZT9I184RVjtD8a0k4IGBiUJssgjJZ90wTAe/s1600/breakfast6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJ1HNxzGQsJXzqLY2HXdNtdIRQ7mSTmaLYxFs27mAo4sqFhsuKgVx17b5m18YJUAdO42IQ31AL3nN8rGNBFX_mPsfEEGQTwPxDfuqG3sbqZT9I184RVjtD8a0k4IGBiUJssgjJZ90wTAe/s640/breakfast6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Many of them are my favorites and family recipes that I have used throughout our marriage. The Apple Pull Apart Bread shown above is one of them. I shared that <a href="http://downourcountryroad.blogspot.com/2012/10/mountain-men-and-apple-pull-apart-bread.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #cc0000;">recipe</span></a> with you not too long ago.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6HSXM6Z6vY8tJFvxrGcS-jWpMNN_pX9WYjo4D8VTC7oE_NLdZLnWLMHOEqZ6HP0AAK9v949bvbKITKuEg6grwsBOJwO2Ci49CpD3vj3Ot3zl-tF4VsUro0H86SoqkGk-KF_Ihyphenhyphen8AZkCdf/s1600/breakfast7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6HSXM6Z6vY8tJFvxrGcS-jWpMNN_pX9WYjo4D8VTC7oE_NLdZLnWLMHOEqZ6HP0AAK9v949bvbKITKuEg6grwsBOJwO2Ci49CpD3vj3Ot3zl-tF4VsUro0H86SoqkGk-KF_Ihyphenhyphen8AZkCdf/s640/breakfast7.JPG" width="500" /></a></div>
The Sunday Brunch Casserole is another go-to recipe that I prepared for our guests.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinXboJ0tu6H5QxP5Z6XDBfH-Igh6hFDDAx_BbaZndpsnVtDREWHy_DHPRE9_utBuwkKOaRGCsnkRJHxTcLu_6EudBkePia4y67N8IsRV8JnhcXjrh-PZ4G9y-0X1HpuGUNA4tEeOvlDO7T/s1600/breakfast8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinXboJ0tu6H5QxP5Z6XDBfH-Igh6hFDDAx_BbaZndpsnVtDREWHy_DHPRE9_utBuwkKOaRGCsnkRJHxTcLu_6EudBkePia4y67N8IsRV8JnhcXjrh-PZ4G9y-0X1HpuGUNA4tEeOvlDO7T/s640/breakfast8.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I had several hundred books published and managed to sell most of them before making the decision to close our beloved bed and breakfast due to my health issues. But I still have several books that I am wanting to sell...no need to keep them all to myself. But, first, I am wanting to give one away!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1yoKbm4BASscIYolbLIXpSe-sSks03z_BCyFWKGnYcdJnJjorXn-1IKTrucgPwwCxrOPNl08nzAomTc-vEiWTMXkHnyiITs1BkIyekfev3TX9glVHoJMsTuSYc_BIPRHp7L6s0hjMTqo7/s1600/breakfast10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1yoKbm4BASscIYolbLIXpSe-sSks03z_BCyFWKGnYcdJnJjorXn-1IKTrucgPwwCxrOPNl08nzAomTc-vEiWTMXkHnyiITs1BkIyekfev3TX9glVHoJMsTuSYc_BIPRHp7L6s0hjMTqo7/s640/breakfast10.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
Yes, I am having a cookbook giveaway!! As if you didn't already know that by the title of this post...lol. All you have to do is answer the question I posted earlier...are you a baker or a cooker? Do you prefer to bake things like bread, brownies, cookies, pies and such or do you prefer to cook casseroles, soups, meats and veggies? That's it! If you're neither, then pass this giveaway on to others who would love the chance to win one of my cookbooks. The giveaway will be open through November 15th.<br />
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Please be sure that I have your email address so that I can contact you. The winner will be announced the following day and I would like to have this cookbook sent out right away. Just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday! Can you belive it's almost here? Goodness.<br />
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I pray you are having a wonderful start to your week ~<br />
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<a href="http://s1132.photobucket.com/albums/m564/vjmcomas/?action=view&current=signature.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1132.photobucket.com/albums/m564/vjmcomas/signature.jpg" /></a>
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<a href="javascript:void((function(){var%20e=document.createElement('script');e.setAttribute('type','text/javascript');e.setAttribute('charset','UTF-8');e.setAttribute('src','http://assets.pinterest.com/js/pinmarklet.js?r='+Math.random()*99999999);document.body.appendChild(e)})());"><img alt="Pin It" class="aligncenter" src="http://www.clickinmoms.com/cmprodaily/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/pinit.jpg" /></a><br />
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p.s. I'll be sharing with you in a couple of days as to how you can purchase the cookbook ;)<br />
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You'll find me at these parties:<br />
<a href="http://cedarhillranch.blogspot.com/2012/11/cowgirl-up-linky-party-40.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:" target="_blank">Cedar Hill Ranch Cowgirl Up</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTQ8orH5kpp4gGNXV5zviM3xl_PUk42G8-m8WQaOp15f34lob2ujQYZAzMBxjcmj_duZq04-ywXspPoSsWhSK6s4oAGsRGAjH_O2Uzp1CTGINGD1Fg2JecDGFt2n6f3uTSybPuzdLsGbK/s1600/258%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTQ8orH5kpp4gGNXV5zviM3xl_PUk42G8-m8WQaOp15f34lob2ujQYZAzMBxjcmj_duZq04-ywXspPoSsWhSK6s4oAGsRGAjH_O2Uzp1CTGINGD1Fg2JecDGFt2n6f3uTSybPuzdLsGbK/s320/258%5B1%5D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-90651788217614709982012-10-31T00:30:00.000-05:002012-10-31T11:16:49.514-05:00~Living Life~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A week ago Sunday, when my mums were showing off their most vibrant colors, I went out and took pictures with plans to <strike>brag</strike> share with you their glorious blooms and magnificent sizes. But then my world was unexpectedly turned upside down with the sudden death of my father. By the way, thank you so much for your sweet comments and promises of prayer.</div>
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Sometime back, I was looking through a catalog and found a picture that had the most encouraging and wisdom-filled phrases and thought I would save it for a rainy day post. Well, I think my rainy day has already come. Though my heart becomes heavy from time to time, I can smile as I think of how apprpriate it would be to share this with you today. These words speak loudly of the type of life my father lived and I can think of no greater way to honor him. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">~Living Life~</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfPi0lCbC0eoQFVGmQd0sduziHenQoxWlKnLE9GYt3I9IXEpSV2h0GU363cGXpycRO7a__HJZlunDaLEP1Sv8yzoakWZbGMQurxeI1O-sIDEhzq30bI545fqIJsNOqmp3OTg0H-v79r3P/s1600/mums-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfPi0lCbC0eoQFVGmQd0sduziHenQoxWlKnLE9GYt3I9IXEpSV2h0GU363cGXpycRO7a__HJZlunDaLEP1Sv8yzoakWZbGMQurxeI1O-sIDEhzq30bI545fqIJsNOqmp3OTg0H-v79r3P/s640/mums-1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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"Life is not a race ~ but indeed a journey.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5i9ycfFsaQq5Flw04UWxX81dhFBjgnl3Plt-cwEU2rX8r_YrPK0a4nT6ljyrT9DLVgjYzLpI8NvxYxETiiXU2YVFbaUhOtqKpt4zFtqAAt2Q_AWEEX7GRyxFUPCAwYKeMokVnT1tx0JIM/s1600/mums-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5i9ycfFsaQq5Flw04UWxX81dhFBjgnl3Plt-cwEU2rX8r_YrPK0a4nT6ljyrT9DLVgjYzLpI8NvxYxETiiXU2YVFbaUhOtqKpt4zFtqAAt2Q_AWEEX7GRyxFUPCAwYKeMokVnT1tx0JIM/s640/mums-2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Be honest. Work hard. Be choosy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj2xrNYn59LEzOOquTIH-47TI-mZqGlZMQHVRJulgXa2J6KK9YgggO9GviGNanmuCV0cgcNYGG343Yh0S2o4IqdWFs9j0eRITvqY38472vliZrfWczJAOPPUwrTenUoXXUmtAD7-B56alf/s1600/mums-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj2xrNYn59LEzOOquTIH-47TI-mZqGlZMQHVRJulgXa2J6KK9YgggO9GviGNanmuCV0cgcNYGG343Yh0S2o4IqdWFs9j0eRITvqY38472vliZrfWczJAOPPUwrTenUoXXUmtAD7-B56alf/s640/mums-3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Say 'thank you', 'I love you', and 'great job' to someone each day.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTDyKFyyfqQ8fUtnPUwcuQe4h0n68b803xS_DxmdWfbsl6fq2z6cR8Tl80yUqlhLU0evRYWvBf9SgjmVxRMlokc9X1ojCvvVjdcTKpecq-52uunP5pAtZtio3caXrG6BuR5m8_6lPR4T3C/s1600/mums-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTDyKFyyfqQ8fUtnPUwcuQe4h0n68b803xS_DxmdWfbsl6fq2z6cR8Tl80yUqlhLU0evRYWvBf9SgjmVxRMlokc9X1ojCvvVjdcTKpecq-52uunP5pAtZtio3caXrG6BuR5m8_6lPR4T3C/s640/mums-4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Go to church; take time for prayer.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnec9DY1CV1APtctljulK17ZUF6U0svLwTo33JOUpohsGSVUbiVMnKWJ6b823QVYOsSm9B2-Di38p7pqU2F3gDg938gg1kxd_yiLvW314jXIfjQTufCD-OVx_Qe3phOReCDpw8rOdcD9cz/s1600/mums-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnec9DY1CV1APtctljulK17ZUF6U0svLwTo33JOUpohsGSVUbiVMnKWJ6b823QVYOsSm9B2-Di38p7pqU2F3gDg938gg1kxd_yiLvW314jXIfjQTufCD-OVx_Qe3phOReCDpw8rOdcD9cz/s640/mums-5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmksaswKR2PCjElS-L4_N14LG1aeSTs0Tv7rO3nV9TOujf3CTyxY2AsdsQ5vyNQANztTeqtt43ibfszonbE_wAb_NdRL5xLrbcXsRCJnUXpkhcfFad6UzWL0N5AiPmT67Ga5MndXDe2Lr/s1600/mums-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmksaswKR2PCjElS-L4_N14LG1aeSTs0Tv7rO3nV9TOujf3CTyxY2AsdsQ5vyNQANztTeqtt43ibfszonbE_wAb_NdRL5xLrbcXsRCJnUXpkhcfFad6UzWL0N5AiPmT67Ga5MndXDe2Lr/s640/mums-6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Let your handshake mean more than pen and paper.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMma48nLkNA_qiHtKA9w1JKkThwzyvoWcf3SkgjO6-4okt9q9WhvQx4Bgajgnwv4nyscY-eplVLTupka39a18dUviGSy1K_2d1pRc2GA0Ldh3Ec8QFWItMWx-MhQyacR_iAksosebzVub8/s1600/mums-7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMma48nLkNA_qiHtKA9w1JKkThwzyvoWcf3SkgjO6-4okt9q9WhvQx4Bgajgnwv4nyscY-eplVLTupka39a18dUviGSy1K_2d1pRc2GA0Ldh3Ec8QFWItMWx-MhQyacR_iAksosebzVub8/s640/mums-7.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Love your life and what you've been given; it is not accidental ~</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjMGSTAgSNbjb7Vo0u0mRPKqdXc-b9LS5QuWAMr-6MJwB5CAsYiwRyUdwyJtkXfm74LOGPDYUPphoOIs6n4UD-fXcaEKQGmbxuV1luL2-88gQdHWZKRg3G8UHMx6iYex3RL-3kCeMycWhn/s1600/mums-8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjMGSTAgSNbjb7Vo0u0mRPKqdXc-b9LS5QuWAMr-6MJwB5CAsYiwRyUdwyJtkXfm74LOGPDYUPphoOIs6n4UD-fXcaEKQGmbxuV1luL2-88gQdHWZKRg3G8UHMx6iYex3RL-3kCeMycWhn/s640/mums-8.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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search for your purpose and do it as best you can.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBgS_a-ChZju3m46H-a5vaB9Tn-r1QrsCGKhG85m8mqwIF6yvnceuE6u-tjTQYldSbnysxARJkqfHSkccj0DotwvoHHCknJRSyshvzPyE8hdd7cYJX128MQ6RQ9DS7jQQClW7cwoW9wWtE/s1600/mums-9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBgS_a-ChZju3m46H-a5vaB9Tn-r1QrsCGKhG85m8mqwIF6yvnceuE6u-tjTQYldSbnysxARJkqfHSkccj0DotwvoHHCknJRSyshvzPyE8hdd7cYJX128MQ6RQ9DS7jQQClW7cwoW9wWtE/s640/mums-9.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Dreaming doesn't matter. It allows you to become that which you aspire to be.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oNOHtw6KtdbzVWhnpHnfIReUX-iHqd_4RpFJsNqJKmOBNQpTtRE4SIFDmO-0qXZZdZJDgZwVxTqkXlOHxvIC8JYKr74xjSPEFBXn0khI68T7tZxwrFoXgsrtGFXAe-C1O94FXL6A7Ud5/s1600/mums-10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oNOHtw6KtdbzVWhnpHnfIReUX-iHqd_4RpFJsNqJKmOBNQpTtRE4SIFDmO-0qXZZdZJDgZwVxTqkXlOHxvIC8JYKr74xjSPEFBXn0khI68T7tZxwrFoXgsrtGFXAe-C1O94FXL6A7Ud5/s640/mums-10.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Laugh often. Appreciate the little things in life and enjoy them. Some of the best things really are free.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGdsRfPn7flpfv1X-ZBGTHcxTdjcG5CzvDcWMeNENxABes0GINo8CeCdNYsqMszS4bzSmcr-MvWQACz1DAG3MfZ1m7pMB-BpuqEuQp3VZrFaE3DemSQp1lhyg8IEG1qENePRIWp3G08u6Y/s1600/mums-11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGdsRfPn7flpfv1X-ZBGTHcxTdjcG5CzvDcWMeNENxABes0GINo8CeCdNYsqMszS4bzSmcr-MvWQACz1DAG3MfZ1m7pMB-BpuqEuQp3VZrFaE3DemSQp1lhyg8IEG1qENePRIWp3G08u6Y/s640/mums-11.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Do not worry; less wrinkles are more becoming.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg017zI0wRKeJ317NOgmySsDtSF5EA1ghj1I2IFi5-GjGV1YY59WIYdhBH8OxV7TVFvAUkkaOJM6UOGn0Lrv3w1DXJ0_vHJA1je7o3uTdnM26Y5tYd-mbIZkAigDmKFTZeNfyChLdAoQ33e/s1600/mums-12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg017zI0wRKeJ317NOgmySsDtSF5EA1ghj1I2IFi5-GjGV1YY59WIYdhBH8OxV7TVFvAUkkaOJM6UOGn0Lrv3w1DXJ0_vHJA1je7o3uTdnM26Y5tYd-mbIZkAigDmKFTZeNfyChLdAoQ33e/s640/mums-12.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Forgive; it frees the soul.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA7pnZsF09xZUQOtBLot0S4Hc3V_CBkKZOiItR7aa3olGTFSvqpsiNkI0AHgVKqvfGqd5gInv5nd-CLXaogC-ERrTj0Nrm7E04agHpUXn426o3D3CY2Eaj0y3BzRwTHzK4DKpsytUuHhus/s1600/mums-13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA7pnZsF09xZUQOtBLot0S4Hc3V_CBkKZOiItR7aa3olGTFSvqpsiNkI0AHgVKqvfGqd5gInv5nd-CLXaogC-ERrTj0Nrm7E04agHpUXn426o3D3CY2Eaj0y3BzRwTHzK4DKpsytUuHhus/s640/mums-13.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Take time for yourself ~ plan for longevity.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMwO_wVR2sA-huR8MtssopLAvDBittIHbgsSxX-rfqEohnidohtYuB4UaNh8MLxOIpe2ry_plTERNXUiyYtVZcUo8yyMcxnAXJhyphenhyphenkciplk99YnUjnqbS4g3vbymvMJy1PGlfW5pfN2TCb/s1600/mums-14.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMwO_wVR2sA-huR8MtssopLAvDBittIHbgsSxX-rfqEohnidohtYuB4UaNh8MLxOIpe2ry_plTERNXUiyYtVZcUo8yyMcxnAXJhyphenhyphenkciplk99YnUjnqbS4g3vbymvMJy1PGlfW5pfN2TCb/s640/mums-14.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Recognize the special people you have been blessed to know.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-SHBQGDXRHaCY5BaQsMuc3abvC5MfuiubMiBSfPHx6rBON_m16R8U6w8NovzPd9qH3lmMuGkjk6C1KA4TzOEMo3NG7fo917Yd_md0uCTgwYUEVVXOphMk5k9cobKpF1GJutrpYP2L8dr/s1600/mums-15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-SHBQGDXRHaCY5BaQsMuc3abvC5MfuiubMiBSfPHx6rBON_m16R8U6w8NovzPd9qH3lmMuGkjk6C1KA4TzOEMo3NG7fo917Yd_md0uCTgwYUEVVXOphMk5k9cobKpF1GJutrpYP2L8dr/s640/mums-15.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span id="goog_2128474847"></span><span id="goog_2128474848">Live life for today; enjoy the moment."</span></div>
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These words have touched my heart and cause me to be more aware of how I live my life each day. I pray that they have done the same for you. Blessings~<br />
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-81546104941894936902012-10-26T11:18:00.001-05:002012-10-26T11:18:38.452-05:00~My Heart is Hurting~<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTDgXYGE9nmrrYk2rcInHxMo_bpsOvFw9rwekj4uxNpXz5F-VFt9a2hlIwQyWuNLSOYWKo9tPSlHvwzEdzUCdPsC8Q-LIBIZwOaPKT3CYT_3R_FK1S7qxlsO-IUYWKygmZR8Uol1c8w2M/s1600/05--28-07+Meeting+the+family+13.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTDgXYGE9nmrrYk2rcInHxMo_bpsOvFw9rwekj4uxNpXz5F-VFt9a2hlIwQyWuNLSOYWKo9tPSlHvwzEdzUCdPsC8Q-LIBIZwOaPKT3CYT_3R_FK1S7qxlsO-IUYWKygmZR8Uol1c8w2M/s640/05--28-07+Meeting+the+family+13.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="userContent">In 2007, I met this man named Jack Tyler. I never knew he existed until then. He is my biological father. In God's glorious timing, he brought us together. Our bonding was immediate and our relationship became closer and deeper with each passing day. He passed away suddenly this past Monday.<br /> In the short five years that I have known him, I learned that he is one of the most godly, genuine, kind-hearted, sincere, generous and loving men I have ever come to know. I am so thankful for the time that God gave us. Jack Tyler holds a special place in my heart. I love him. I will miss him but I know that, in God's glorious timing, we will be together again in heaven.</span><br />
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-49842041073026810582012-10-20T09:59:00.000-05:002012-10-20T09:59:22.573-05:00~Creating Family Heirlooms Baby Style~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1gMjTcIPbECm9LPaedJnWURMZ-qjQAAY6uG9pbK4bl_PnSUrBHCTvz78uh4eC_bmSK_kicApVsiy1gMXzXZM4pUFDOgficnhK_yI_vFKl0eJfqKIMUyJByaIiJi4xYaFgVTAXpq3GiNKS/s1600/baby-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1gMjTcIPbECm9LPaedJnWURMZ-qjQAAY6uG9pbK4bl_PnSUrBHCTvz78uh4eC_bmSK_kicApVsiy1gMXzXZM4pUFDOgficnhK_yI_vFKl0eJfqKIMUyJByaIiJi4xYaFgVTAXpq3GiNKS/s640/baby-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Awhile back, I gave you a sneak peak of some projects I was working on for our newest grandbaby who was born about a month ago. They involved some cotton fabrics, yarn, decorator fabric, corduroy and denim. With the upcoming birth of each of my youngest daughter's children, she has asked me to make curtains, bedding, diaper bags and carrier covers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTfw5PId34izkDzPXhR1selwtndlQ6N1PhaBdtn-Pxz0JCtuQz3yNXNp7oa7rUHHjrZfoXCM75TfKBnRVdI6Kre-ZSMkPeohLdYythGiPw_QlEiLRyfysZsZ0YK4QjBOWCLyxibqWV2p9A/s1600/baby-2a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTfw5PId34izkDzPXhR1selwtndlQ6N1PhaBdtn-Pxz0JCtuQz3yNXNp7oa7rUHHjrZfoXCM75TfKBnRVdI6Kre-ZSMkPeohLdYythGiPw_QlEiLRyfysZsZ0YK4QjBOWCLyxibqWV2p9A/s640/baby-2a.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I wish I had some pictures to show you the adorable things I made for big sister, Tater Tot, but I couldn't find any and her things have been stored away. But I do have pictures of what I made for Bubba.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQRERkB9ajdCpQG0Eapmt_ERR9vxsPQgNknb5QcJSLo3dEb7OrNygp7ERN1bNep_NCTnulXu612G_AFfNfAgQqT0VIocJHd4XjIbiDAk3RJaH-Bdv83Mtcqpa5NQqr5JAe7l7z8yH0j07o/s1600/baby-2c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQRERkB9ajdCpQG0Eapmt_ERR9vxsPQgNknb5QcJSLo3dEb7OrNygp7ERN1bNep_NCTnulXu612G_AFfNfAgQqT0VIocJHd4XjIbiDAk3RJaH-Bdv83Mtcqpa5NQqr5JAe7l7z8yH0j07o/s640/baby-2c.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Brittney decided to reuse the carrier cover and baby bedding that I had made. The fabric is a cowboy print from Waverly and then I used a lightweight denim, corduroy and coordinating cotton fabrics. By the way, their Daddy made the crib when Tater Tot was born. He's quite the carpenter, isn't he? I also made the bedroom curtains using the Waverly fabric but forgot to take pics of them.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigKttlOEDo2EeHkTpKYVymqghRoNcjD13exJJZTVzjkUtY70hE2kthbcvSDrhWLmo8xhQlGoOPqXxU4q8VC0uZK0H6MyWSIxDQUjDdGkd95rGCHJWFH0bVDi3B-4kJ6xeD1VR1CdkaUJdJ/s1600/baby-2b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigKttlOEDo2EeHkTpKYVymqghRoNcjD13exJJZTVzjkUtY70hE2kthbcvSDrhWLmo8xhQlGoOPqXxU4q8VC0uZK0H6MyWSIxDQUjDdGkd95rGCHJWFH0bVDi3B-4kJ6xeD1VR1CdkaUJdJ/s640/baby-2b.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is the diaper bag I made for Bubba but it is getting rather ragged. Brittney wanted Little Bubba to have some things he could call his own and asked me to make some new ones just for him. How could I resist a daughter who is so big on handmade items that may become heirlooms for her babies?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFuHLEvnIieHwgJxkKMMvXCRTvGyFMQCWvL0z-210of9DTHyE6frWIkx4t4deX5GvHqfgd3iDj1sKqxjt4ee_RIp0G5TDEyHLmS_voi6_T2CHsQJpcroI4uhLbcdl_z5oLQQ8Qyg3lj2ri/s1600/blessings-7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFuHLEvnIieHwgJxkKMMvXCRTvGyFMQCWvL0z-210of9DTHyE6frWIkx4t4deX5GvHqfgd3iDj1sKqxjt4ee_RIp0G5TDEyHLmS_voi6_T2CHsQJpcroI4uhLbcdl_z5oLQQ8Qyg3lj2ri/s640/blessings-7.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Thankfully, I had plenty of leftover fabric stored away to make a new one. It's taken me a while, with a few interruptions along the way, so I just got it finished yesterday!! I know, I know. Tsk, tsk. But I can say that I had the other items completed in time for her shower. More about those in a minute.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYYQjJRRqcIZf8F1Ru0gbNc-0dAa1pcx3bIVBjstu9q4IETTHzpjE2ojFq4PxhjScIRO3FmextpT1rnA7J2T65dfz1QwxvBFA-W7j48HElf6381yDe-bkjRd1ut0R57Ts-0C3fcrIcogC/s1600/baby-8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYYQjJRRqcIZf8F1Ru0gbNc-0dAa1pcx3bIVBjstu9q4IETTHzpjE2ojFq4PxhjScIRO3FmextpT1rnA7J2T65dfz1QwxvBFA-W7j48HElf6381yDe-bkjRd1ut0R57Ts-0C3fcrIcogC/s640/baby-8.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's the new and improved diaper bag for Little Bubba! This time I quilted the fabric for better stability and sprayed all the pieces with fabric protector with hopes to keep it cleaner. When she washed the first one...only once...it faded rather quickly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUgCa551cbPqSd70exl8XFyQCYVHAp71Qsw44FSJc8ejcegVxTg-PRHUQPwmLQOMT6Ucxh4SnHyzEz9tpAdAUKhfS-LsIqfQx9sONt6eDVSG4WZ28wUDV8sAkCiOspoh74kYpOJpdDOOt/s1600/baby-9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUgCa551cbPqSd70exl8XFyQCYVHAp71Qsw44FSJc8ejcegVxTg-PRHUQPwmLQOMT6Ucxh4SnHyzEz9tpAdAUKhfS-LsIqfQx9sONt6eDVSG4WZ28wUDV8sAkCiOspoh74kYpOJpdDOOt/s640/baby-9.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A changing pad made of the denim and cotton fabric. The back pocket of the diaper bag is made with the corduroy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid-oUpn-QegPtmQI3l10g4nS0n_LkZgs-3zUR-7cf8D3vvqBzX0ZZka13Gtz7UZpnTOnHk3jg49mZ27h1keJO0Ma2_y8kBeZ5OVradfzut_VVPmJcYph2wklWTLVCcdyFbbVw_yBruLpAh/s1600/baby-10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid-oUpn-QegPtmQI3l10g4nS0n_LkZgs-3zUR-7cf8D3vvqBzX0ZZka13Gtz7UZpnTOnHk3jg49mZ27h1keJO0Ma2_y8kBeZ5OVradfzut_VVPmJcYph2wklWTLVCcdyFbbVw_yBruLpAh/s640/baby-10.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The inside lining made with a western print fabric and you couldn't ask for sturdier pockets with the denim.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghyn5MsTXFloAdlEo1exO7e6mQvWsQefdj-pjVwd3hVWKjM8wcuGbRa296gh0XYPQIUcS8fqJzvYNk4aKwDAwKvdnstFc-Mgo8hDrx1CFCvLlm81-AnXKcci-p2HLbF8njPH8qR4f-Fjd_/s1600/baby-11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghyn5MsTXFloAdlEo1exO7e6mQvWsQefdj-pjVwd3hVWKjM8wcuGbRa296gh0XYPQIUcS8fqJzvYNk4aKwDAwKvdnstFc-Mgo8hDrx1CFCvLlm81-AnXKcci-p2HLbF8njPH8qR4f-Fjd_/s640/baby-11.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I think it turned out so cute if I do say so myself. I must say that it's a bit more of a challenge turning and sewing through several layers of the heavier decorator fabric but it is more durable. So we don't have to be so concerned about it tearing or fraying in the heavier use areas.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfD96xqhO4qqpBCLeYmUQt4u_8truzlGJKa4b5EZ_vcsqFvYV0LZj055c7u64lJ0QZpB9WPPiw-iHW_8ZMyH6irgb5ve3yH70zxhGvtbCk27Me4cW_OETj9kSKuVA1xg3w5lUeijS-BNf1/s1600/blessings-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfD96xqhO4qqpBCLeYmUQt4u_8truzlGJKa4b5EZ_vcsqFvYV0LZj055c7u64lJ0QZpB9WPPiw-iHW_8ZMyH6irgb5ve3yH70zxhGvtbCk27Me4cW_OETj9kSKuVA1xg3w5lUeijS-BNf1/s640/blessings-2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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One of the other baby projects involved this yarn in colors of denim and wheat. For each of my grandbabies, I've crocheted a baby afghan in colors that coordinated with their room colors. Wouldn't you know, I forgot to take pictures! At least I think I did. When I went to search for them to add to this post, I couldn't find any. Huh.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCEoUCNIjCyWfZuUQS6XScR1SCQBw5BYUob6Ag5yZ3UI1SW4YPUW-QAXIsyCeVMn3iEyzVv4rn37qexwF26U4QW7WR0Y8dtUYEspFvnJjNSf74e8ACDBLYjf1omHxoEbNYtcJyVrrRekau/s1600/baby-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCEoUCNIjCyWfZuUQS6XScR1SCQBw5BYUob6Ag5yZ3UI1SW4YPUW-QAXIsyCeVMn3iEyzVv4rn37qexwF26U4QW7WR0Y8dtUYEspFvnJjNSf74e8ACDBLYjf1omHxoEbNYtcJyVrrRekau/s640/baby-3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And the biggest project involved all these beautiful western prints. The Waverly print was way too heavy for a quilt and I was ecstatic when I found this dark red cowboy print that coordinated perfectly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjet1HV4zTgHrbmplSfXi4a9y-lM71p1jRxInIr4_fIuMlSTBQW0HvSDQEjHWbkX24vtOPuVg-XXVWM0dthbVkP8lPjX5bUPZal4WUSx_9E_2Eh3nF7mQMl4ON0b6-Ih_lKAdD_MC7__npI/s1600/baby-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjet1HV4zTgHrbmplSfXi4a9y-lM71p1jRxInIr4_fIuMlSTBQW0HvSDQEjHWbkX24vtOPuVg-XXVWM0dthbVkP8lPjX5bUPZal4WUSx_9E_2Eh3nF7mQMl4ON0b6-Ih_lKAdD_MC7__npI/s640/baby-4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I made lots and lots of Granny Squares while trying to make sure that no two were alike.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sQHGBvNCAtdh6ycRTjdhA4CBoCz4mNFNjg1OY-FrgkeDqDoRNxh-NCwWW6bKsHcJ5JpI0c1QkyGjSeZopQxw9acXB0gpC2818bYEQD9QzyOFK__AZNJNd8X1ag4iXOWXHKJdj6NYleBp/s1600/baby-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sQHGBvNCAtdh6ycRTjdhA4CBoCz4mNFNjg1OY-FrgkeDqDoRNxh-NCwWW6bKsHcJ5JpI0c1QkyGjSeZopQxw9acXB0gpC2818bYEQD9QzyOFK__AZNJNd8X1ag4iXOWXHKJdj6NYleBp/s640/baby-5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Isn't it amazing how the look of the pattern changes when rearranging the layout of light and dark fabrics?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ksu7C1xj_SiJhdBvx5pqE9hpWaWJsY-Nw8QJGFo6Yj4y2PZ6T7MMdE7jC8hHYHIP9TNHLp2jxVrMirs3SNbw1g5HJ2YmFkQHnZfTtGYDfxL9r3id1QuxkRZUuHYy4aupF3qEsQWwBeZU/s1600/baby-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ksu7C1xj_SiJhdBvx5pqE9hpWaWJsY-Nw8QJGFo6Yj4y2PZ6T7MMdE7jC8hHYHIP9TNHLp2jxVrMirs3SNbw1g5HJ2YmFkQHnZfTtGYDfxL9r3id1QuxkRZUuHYy4aupF3qEsQWwBeZU/s640/baby-6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Though machine quilting is so much quicker, I 've always preferred hand quilting. It adds such character and knowing that each stitch was put in by hand just adds that something special. Which do you prefer?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlhEhLpS2MNKAONh_f8R1HLT8vm-aWsJ-_WUUde6Tp8MDzkyxSrEwgRC8P_MUyYvpzHiNtg3vDcDU8kpUbvgtgmUBCEaF-n5NDxNm8VXdXhAqc5GlW16EwLrhR2tPX8XLCBBMRZjEGT-qJ/s1600/baby-6a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlhEhLpS2MNKAONh_f8R1HLT8vm-aWsJ-_WUUde6Tp8MDzkyxSrEwgRC8P_MUyYvpzHiNtg3vDcDU8kpUbvgtgmUBCEaF-n5NDxNm8VXdXhAqc5GlW16EwLrhR2tPX8XLCBBMRZjEGT-qJ/s640/baby-6a.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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There was a finished quilt on display in a fabric store not too far from where I live but, unfortunately, she didn't have any more of the backing fabric available. Lots of cowboys and bucking horses. I wanted that fabric!! I was able to find some online and ordered loads of it. If you look above, you can see that I also used it to line the diaper bag.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PtmKWp6B5SnvxCWzTb95K2G9owFD7478MCe4klddUiqeIH3HsSXTl56gBI7gHtwVBqJs-00kCO3tj2lKRli40dtELdD_xOztqFxpHlQ2YjQmaOi82bWy53c2K8P6Tu7RNsW-fXe8ZdMv/s1600/baby-7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PtmKWp6B5SnvxCWzTb95K2G9owFD7478MCe4klddUiqeIH3HsSXTl56gBI7gHtwVBqJs-00kCO3tj2lKRli40dtELdD_xOztqFxpHlQ2YjQmaOi82bWy53c2K8P6Tu7RNsW-fXe8ZdMv/s640/baby-7.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's the finished quilt. I love how it turned out. Tomorrow I'll take the fnished diaper bag to Brittney and then she'll have ALL the new family heirlooms...baby style...in hand. Though her babies may not know now of the work and love that Mammer (me) put into creating these things for them, I hope that they will cherish them when they are grown and start families of their own. They may not have alot of monetary value, but handmade family heirlooms are the most special. Don't you think?</div>
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I pray that your day is filled with all the joy, beauty and color that the Fall season brings~</div>
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2122814025843246160.post-90848590481911600132012-10-14T16:05:00.000-05:002012-10-14T16:05:12.461-05:00~Right Under My Nose~A few posts back, I shared with you my new pieces of ironstone that I recently added to my collection. As a footnote, I said that I was looking for a small soup tureen and this is why...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkt9vZiApjtO-WdboPYVzWIFwfH3vIsAqUmb4-h3DEQxqmarKhKStooM2E3Jiby7zlb3s2PFtoIDm6EawufHUGfZyh-tS3Q5CkJwcSNRni_YEJazix66Jgf_7IsBkVvR92bZlm6UZXiKmO/s1600/looking-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkt9vZiApjtO-WdboPYVzWIFwfH3vIsAqUmb4-h3DEQxqmarKhKStooM2E3Jiby7zlb3s2PFtoIDm6EawufHUGfZyh-tS3Q5CkJwcSNRni_YEJazix66Jgf_7IsBkVvR92bZlm6UZXiKmO/s640/looking-1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is the little coffee station area next to the kitchen stove. I love using my ironstone for daily use...one sugar bowl for sugar and one for sweetener, and the spoon rest for the stirring spoon. I used to have a salt/pepper shaker set here but the cork stoppers kept falling inside!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMaDDSiGVyY4mXpNSus6omlR-2O59KO1KR27TrhTs5sFZj4mHisi47iZLUfeQ__MEef4_sNF7yDDMnnTWb9hfSB_r2yyTw1FL_6cid6q9YZH3tep7aeOLuxMHL7XhTW47QNxe23X5V8EqC/s1600/looking-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMaDDSiGVyY4mXpNSus6omlR-2O59KO1KR27TrhTs5sFZj4mHisi47iZLUfeQ__MEef4_sNF7yDDMnnTWb9hfSB_r2yyTw1FL_6cid6q9YZH3tep7aeOLuxMHL7XhTW47QNxe23X5V8EqC/s640/looking-2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anyway. You see the lovely hot chocolate container in the background? Adds to the decor, doesn't it? I can't drink straight black coffee (even with cream and sugar) but rather am more of a flavored-coffee drinker and found that adding hot chocolate mix is just the fix I need. So this container sits on the counter every day. Very convenient but not very pretty.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jVnxh7irktnJQz5Cd23Orq1pLpWUd9qu-5K7cfxy45qyd7_iPMXxRkVz1z7I3jNfEs0LuqkowwNW02s8-KgD9Rf2HRm77Bs343_aqZ867sOFjhi5qAAAN_Cb8LKEJTtilvxMohg6Jn51/s1600/looking-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jVnxh7irktnJQz5Cd23Orq1pLpWUd9qu-5K7cfxy45qyd7_iPMXxRkVz1z7I3jNfEs0LuqkowwNW02s8-KgD9Rf2HRm77Bs343_aqZ867sOFjhi5qAAAN_Cb8LKEJTtilvxMohg6Jn51/s640/looking-3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Well, now look at what's in it's place! A cute little tureen. Maybe for veggies? I don't know. So petite with lovely lines and details. And guess what? I didn't have to go shopping for it. Nope. I already had it!! </div>
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Last week, I was scouting around, in the cabinet I use to house my <a href="http://downourcountryroad.blogspot.com/2011/07/my-collection-of-ironstone.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">ironstone collection</span></a>, for something to use in my fall decorating. Lo and behold, back in the corner of the top shelf I found this little beauty. I had forgotten all about it. But, apparently, the image of it was still in the recesses of my mind because this is EXACTLY what I was looking for. What a knucklehead I am! :/ If I had just looked at the pictures in the post I did about my collection, I would have seen it there!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_LyeJNOuwrL9_3XJqABfaKxKjNUZDK2WDZ363m9261dByjACkWq0_9EqQnV_a_blgDQHr7qi8VJBYZD9leKtvwb57M3fgocVDO3Lv65frWodWhAH0PPNWTdQkoAgcCdcmSZQoMnB-Ng6/s1600/looking-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii_LyeJNOuwrL9_3XJqABfaKxKjNUZDK2WDZ363m9261dByjACkWq0_9EqQnV_a_blgDQHr7qi8VJBYZD9leKtvwb57M3fgocVDO3Lv65frWodWhAH0PPNWTdQkoAgcCdcmSZQoMnB-Ng6/s640/looking-5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's been right under my nose the entire time. I couldn't believe it. I grabbed one of my beautiful, vintage soup spoons to use for scooping and now I have something lovely to store my hot chocolate mix. Even Mr. Bill noticed the change and commented on how much better the service area looks now. I agree.</div>
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Today is an absolutely beautiful day...fresh, clean, lots of sunshine and muddy. We had a torrential downpour yesterday and received four inches of much needed moisture. We haven't received this much rain, at one time, in a long, long time. So we don't mind a bit of muddiness. We are thankful. I pray that today has been a wonderful day for you as well.</div>
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Blessings~</div>
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❁Velma ~Down Our Country Road❁http://www.blogger.com/profile/00688975970842662227noreply@blogger.com5