tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23702811209412463142024-03-05T01:57:06.830-06:00JenTasticA blog dedicated to things that I love, create, and use. It has to be JenFabulous. It has to be JenCrafty. It has to be JENTASTIC!Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-39693143117609915882010-04-19T20:47:00.002-05:002010-04-19T20:54:11.392-05:00Crafty Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Ok, I am the most sporadic craft blogger ever... but life is busy! Here is a little photo collection of my latest craft endeavors:<br />
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Two of my 3 (maybe 4) Teacher's Gift Quilts<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And For Jeremy's - </div><br />
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Ryan's Teacher's Quilt is on tomorrows to do list.<br />
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The wall hanging I made for St Pats Day:<br />
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An afghan for my recently married brother in law, that I need to get shipped.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLuA7Yi6YQpc5S8YrPjn1xy_wCE7WsyeozmSP0rRO66qgkvnBmiCGH7-G_E4zRh71gOCrtz1ddZR9KlkOCBzbNE1O33Fl6FhgYHvi0MIN1txqQDsiAF9sZMvnqj2GQhQ-6f0UXr3LYzgY/s1600/100_1059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLuA7Yi6YQpc5S8YrPjn1xy_wCE7WsyeozmSP0rRO66qgkvnBmiCGH7-G_E4zRh71gOCrtz1ddZR9KlkOCBzbNE1O33Fl6FhgYHvi0MIN1txqQDsiAF9sZMvnqj2GQhQ-6f0UXr3LYzgY/s320/100_1059.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1MlThddqGqbjzotuPzfQejTAyEfBgSjZPhOcWjapla-o4HSkczrwJ2v4GoZUTD9phHLjKgqKwzWJSpyUtypMbVwYSCIk2ir6pf3MtV3U1wKkoVsHn8LfuC5pDI__l_32UysadVi5ZRho/s1600/100_1061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1MlThddqGqbjzotuPzfQejTAyEfBgSjZPhOcWjapla-o4HSkczrwJ2v4GoZUTD9phHLjKgqKwzWJSpyUtypMbVwYSCIk2ir6pf3MtV3U1wKkoVsHn8LfuC5pDI__l_32UysadVi5ZRho/s320/100_1061.JPG" /></a></div>ok, lame i know, but for now that is all the time i have! I have 2 more quilt tops to do, all of them to quilt and bind, packages to ship, car tags to renew, military ids to renew, a house to prep for moving, and that doesn't even begin to list it all...did i mention i am crocheting ALL of my kitchen dish rags for the new house? and embroidering ALL of the dish towels? I am crafty-crazy!<br />
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oh I almost forgot, I made some pj pants to go on the kids i already made! (lol...)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcriBGjIz6MgvW7TR2LNjzwpXwmtZkOkYcWgn5Ja7NSgtXSBc6k7aJXJpnJgkDdt8yKRgHOk81HijGTTy86HEpEgQPYsOooZ4T2f1i8KzFqSaZnSWWw085a6EBVJ4LVnR7EYrlbyNW_Us/s1600/100_1131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcriBGjIz6MgvW7TR2LNjzwpXwmtZkOkYcWgn5Ja7NSgtXSBc6k7aJXJpnJgkDdt8yKRgHOk81HijGTTy86HEpEgQPYsOooZ4T2f1i8KzFqSaZnSWWw085a6EBVJ4LVnR7EYrlbyNW_Us/s320/100_1131.JPG" /></a></div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-69482138118408810672010-02-21T11:08:00.000-06:002010-02-21T11:08:02.499-06:00Shiny New Toy!I know I have been very remiss in my posting. Please forgive. The husband is home on R&R and so blogging has been replaced by family activities! Lots of fun, and many memories. I do have some projects to post, but until I get to that, I want too introduce my fabulous new tool/toy.<div><br />
</div><div>As many of you know, my beloved <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: yellow; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">iPod</span> touch has apparently turned State's Evidence against me (my crime = filling it with terribly bad 80s music against it's will). It is now in the Witness Protection Program under deep cover. Or it could be in the bowels of my couch, a random crate of stuff, a cupboard, the trash...any number of places. Suffice it to say, it is so lost that I have nearly abandoned hope. Perhaps moving in a few months will unearth it. I find that moves often reunite me with lost items, <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: yellow; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">sliverware</span>, cat toys, used q-tips, the plastic circles from milk jugs and bug carcasses (in this case, those damn <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: yellow; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">japanese</span> beetles that look like harmless lady bugs).</div><div><br />
</div><div>Anyway, I needed (?) something to get me by until that is all resolved. Something to listen to my <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: yellow; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">itunes</span>, check the email, blog, etc while on the go! My laptop is fully functioning but getting pretty beat up. I don't want to push it over the edge, since it is the main <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: yellow; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">pc</span> for banking, home organization and info storage. I don't want to have to expensively replace it any time soon. I also didn't want to get a new <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: yellow; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">iPod</span>, because if the other one shows up, I don't need two. The kids already have small ones, and Rick has no interest. Weirdo.</div><div><br />
</div><div>So, my low (relatively) budget compromise? This little cutie:</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://base0.googlehosted.com/base_media?q=http://images.jr.com/productimages/HP2101095NR.PNG%3FWID%3D150%26CVT%3DJPEG&size=18&dhm=3fc729f6&hl=en" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://base0.googlehosted.com/base_media?q=http://images.jr.com/productimages/HP2101095NR.PNG%3FWID%3D150%26CVT%3DJPEG&size=18&dhm=3fc729f6&hl=en" /></a> isn't it adorable????</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">He doesn't have a name yet. The only thing that would have made it better is if it were blue, but hey, that isn't really important. Especially for someone as crafty as me! I feel an idea brewing!</div><div><br />
</div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-74996772240401839212010-02-09T18:58:00.001-06:002010-02-09T19:00:36.392-06:00Finished Projects!It's a happy quilting day! I finished my purple quilt for Lisa. This is the first quilt I have done independently start to finish. All things considered, it came out pretty well:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJOynVkXP6MLsBqAkaQqpzBguaO5-cHSjT4DhBZyqFR7ijVja3njYdQnFjyTuncKTaLId1oRZiXFfA01mUodA9ex6az_F6pns4scYeMKvvVPkkdd4OngNefW_UG5vGowFnwQljkfgOW0/s1600-h/100_1044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoJOynVkXP6MLsBqAkaQqpzBguaO5-cHSjT4DhBZyqFR7ijVja3njYdQnFjyTuncKTaLId1oRZiXFfA01mUodA9ex6az_F6pns4scYeMKvvVPkkdd4OngNefW_UG5vGowFnwQljkfgOW0/s320/100_1044.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>A closer look:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmd0VKlyN2_Cu_qixhGU37lxFHdoVIspnJ4C7DxIhw_x88IH2-MAzi3HS8W-3t0LlTuT5edU35YFagKNFnjdJ5_1xU5gu_kzNPcGHHj16Kzm3r4FKcMBUU6D9sFyUtdVl-PVxbW4ZH2Y/s1600-h/100_1045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRmd0VKlyN2_Cu_qixhGU37lxFHdoVIspnJ4C7DxIhw_x88IH2-MAzi3HS8W-3t0LlTuT5edU35YFagKNFnjdJ5_1xU5gu_kzNPcGHHj16Kzm3r4FKcMBUU6D9sFyUtdVl-PVxbW4ZH2Y/s320/100_1045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Today I made this wall hanging for Valentines Day. It is from a charm pack I grabbed on a quilt store recon last week. I saw a version of this hanging in same store, and just recreated it at home, simplified. The hearts are appliqued (using the term very loosely) with raw edges.<br />
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The back, using some scraps:<br />
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A close up of my first attempt at free motion quilting. In some areas it is falling apart. It is uneven and messy, but this was a learning project. As long as no one looks closely or touches it, it'll be fine :)<br />
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<div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden" /><!--Session data--><input id="jsProxy" onclick="jsCall();" type="hidden" /><div id="refHTML"></div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-30996392391019407022010-01-25T08:13:00.001-06:002010-01-25T08:15:40.082-06:00What the Craft?Here are the promised pics of some of my craftiness for the holidays. I did a few things that aren't on here - monogrammed hankies, holiday and floral embroidered towels, millions more scarves. Little stuffed birds that adorned gifts and could be used as ornaments.<br />
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</div>Scarves!<br />
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</div>a felted handbag!<br />
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</div>quilted heart potholders!<br />
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</div>new school bag for the Ryan.<br />
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More to come soon...including a new quilt project.<br />
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<div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden" /><!--Session data--><input id="jsProxy" onclick="jsCall();" type="hidden" /><div id="refHTML"></div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-91642490273593894402010-01-24T13:51:00.000-06:002010-01-24T13:51:06.628-06:00Should I be concerned?I have recently started watching Dexter via Netflix. I LOVE it. I like crime thriller police procedural serial killer type books, tv and movies. And Dexter is definitely all that and then some. But I really don't want to get into that. What I want to share is this:<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">These giant rolls of plastic wrap are sitting outside my front door. Either I put them there, and am unaware of it, or my intentions with them, OR someone else did and plans to use it... hoping it isn't Dexter. I swear, I haven't done anything to deserve it!!! <br />
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<input id="gwProxy" type="hidden" /><!--Session data--><input id="jsProxy" onclick="jsCall();" type="hidden" /><div id="refHTML"></div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-81896137150070955302010-01-21T22:21:00.002-06:002010-01-21T22:23:19.697-06:00A JenTastic Start to 2010Hi blogosphere. Or blogiverse. Or whatever the world of bloginess is called. It's 2010, which is kinda weird to type and say. But here we are. I have been slow in kicking off the new year of blogging because I have been so busy gathering my thoughts and plans for the year. But now I think I am ready to unveil the deep musings of my crafty little mind.<br />
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First off, I apologize for not posting much in the pre-Christmas timeframe. I realized that nearly everything I was crafting was soon to be given as gifts, and many to readers of my blog. So in order to keep some element of surprise in the holiday cheer, I refrained from posting pictures or chat about my holiday crafting.<br />
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But now, the year begins, and new craft endeavors abound. So I hereby promise to post some pics of my handiwork soon. I have been crocheting, sewing, and generally crafting up a storm.<br />
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My other life tasks for the year 2010 will include house hunting and relocating mid year, which, as orderly and organized as I am (and lets be honest, slightly compulsive) is a huge undertaking. So my time will also be spent on that big project, but hopefully not to the detriment of my hobbies.<br />
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I try each year, since turning 30, to learn one new thing. I have learned to knit, quilt (a skill I am still defining, learning and finding my style at), began guitar lessons, and...this year...facing a major life fear - SWIM! I have a wonderful instructor at out on post pool who hasn't let me drown, and is so encouraging. I am not quite competent or confident, but I am at least not terrified. I actually like how I feel after lessons - my body feels great, my mind is calm, and my spirit is exhilarated. It is so deeply gratifying to (PTP) "dive in" and face fears and overcome them. I hope to become a life long swimmer.<br />
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I have been under the sewing tutelage of my friend, the Tia, who has unlocked new worlds of fabric, style and creativity to me. I am going to ask her permission to link her blog/shop on this site so I can share her brilliance with you. She is amazing in every crafty way, her quilts, her bags...she is just fabulous. I will show you some of the things I have attempted under her wise sewing guidance in upcoming posts.<br />
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I am trying to crochet an afghan a month this year. I have started on one that will be a wedding gift this spring.<br />
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I want to read 100 books this year. Now, to be fair, as my list shows already, these will be from all genres. I read craft books, kids books, cookbooks, book club books, thriller series', poetry collections, and they ALL get to count in the list! I have recently been accused of book snobbery, so I am looking to broaden my horizons. Many of my Facebook friendsd have suggested title out of my element, and they are all listed now on my GoodReads list. I am branching out!<br />
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It's not like me to write a ton without pics or anything exciting to share, so I will close for now. Suffice it to say, I miss writing and may become a bit more philosophical in my blogging this year. Consider yourself warned. Once my fingers get moving, there is no telling what inner ramblings may escape. After all, my mind is a playground for the absurd!<br />
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<div id="refHTML"></div><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden" /><!--Session data--><input id="jsProxy" onclick="jsCall();" type="hidden" /><div id="refHTML"></div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-6628341280330682702009-12-04T17:10:00.000-06:002009-12-04T17:21:37.644-06:00Reminders of my GrandparentsThis was a banner Jen junk finding day. But first, a find from a while ago that I held off on posting until the holiday season. I found this beauty for 10 bucks without a nick or chip on it!!! My Grandma Laffrey had one, I believe it was green, but regardless, this reminds me of her:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO5_PBn0-WXwOomOhuaOYcbJyjY9_guC9CiSpm2EUUSVGDg1CUIcvGxCnIGJHwBgLH8Sc5k7QYiE3eFJEOmyR5rQLbElUb2Qps2TjP_oR_ArDGxa20MfqIUoVCI-kUQAKn5QC_krRRQiI/s1600-h/100_0935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO5_PBn0-WXwOomOhuaOYcbJyjY9_guC9CiSpm2EUUSVGDg1CUIcvGxCnIGJHwBgLH8Sc5k7QYiE3eFJEOmyR5rQLbElUb2Qps2TjP_oR_ArDGxa20MfqIUoVCI-kUQAKn5QC_krRRQiI/s320/100_0935.JPG" width="240" border="0" height="320" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And now today's find. This is a hanging version of a a table lamp my Granny Richardson had when I was growing up. I adored this lamp, and now I can watch my very own "raining" lamp.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5AFy1QjGt9-Ld0n0_0oASgLlZQRrJR0_vT4o7lCNauvCPz6h1MCgv_gdiLF97OBdLnX4FsCTXGQ3OhO_8CzqgvlrLP6J1l3QUYtKEH-ezOoLbXcjXmz74RDzEyi7SoHL1RiUvD3TOFKU/s1600-h/100_0933.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5AFy1QjGt9-Ld0n0_0oASgLlZQRrJR0_vT4o7lCNauvCPz6h1MCgv_gdiLF97OBdLnX4FsCTXGQ3OhO_8CzqgvlrLP6J1l3QUYtKEH-ezOoLbXcjXmz74RDzEyi7SoHL1RiUvD3TOFKU/s320/100_0933.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411524787963814322" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-40614611149393946972009-11-29T18:44:00.000-06:002009-11-29T18:46:17.636-06:00My Much Older Man!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Today I hung out with a very special man in my life. He is the happiest, jolliest, most loving man in all the world. Though he is much older than I, we have a lot in common and always have a lot of fun together. I wish I could see him more often, but his work keeps him far away most of the year. Did I mention he is adorably handsome? When I was cuddling up next to him, he was soft, and warm, and made me feel full of happiness. Here is a picture of the two of us together!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEyXzS58rmYuyIgjvRNvU1BHmyr4IOKXrsvqW9rRVPvK6AsBdSy6NGsEoG_KfrZiWfpMR2j4TFPoLeBp3-n0-M1hxY6t2WNn8iTlZdiVx6zFC10_e8quKi5Wg0LYob920kMVmoMwoUKko/s1600/100_0924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img style="width: 368px; height: 276px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEyXzS58rmYuyIgjvRNvU1BHmyr4IOKXrsvqW9rRVPvK6AsBdSy6NGsEoG_KfrZiWfpMR2j4TFPoLeBp3-n0-M1hxY6t2WNn8iTlZdiVx6zFC10_e8quKi5Wg0LYob920kMVmoMwoUKko/s640/100_0924.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-79295816741083832372009-09-23T14:46:00.000-05:002009-09-23T14:46:17.055-05:00Happy Autumn!Fall is here! And I love the rich colors and bricks evenings of this season. Here are some of my fall decor ideas. All very simple.<br />
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</div>First, my favorite one: <br />
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</div>Next some fall adorned candle displays. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And finally my tree:<br />
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</div>When it is dark in the room, the lights bounce off the leaves and make a lovely orange glow. <br />
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Beeeeeyuoooootifulllllll!Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-54230614332311408512009-09-10T08:03:00.000-05:002009-09-10T08:03:08.101-05:00Great Book - The Time Traveler's Wife<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgS5mWUFAVRdawBC41a0gIogZkTx_sHh6m_ApnGS79nXv5nOSsv5e_HXnQ4AjmOCJX6CCSgdtDk4lqid6-SNphG3uWW702lcjgYdnkXOfmJcAUJMVx8YdRiWniSvljkB45HnseUhrZvQY/s1600-h/the-time-travelers-wife.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgS5mWUFAVRdawBC41a0gIogZkTx_sHh6m_ApnGS79nXv5nOSsv5e_HXnQ4AjmOCJX6CCSgdtDk4lqid6-SNphG3uWW702lcjgYdnkXOfmJcAUJMVx8YdRiWniSvljkB45HnseUhrZvQY/s200/the-time-travelers-wife.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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So I gave in to the pressure and finally read <u>The Time Traveler's Wife</u> . My book club chose it this month, on my recommendation, and I finished it last night. Well, I loved it. It was beautifully written. I was afraid that the time travel would pose a "premise problem" for me. But it was not an issue at all. I was afraid it would be too sappy, but it wan not. The characters were flawed enough to be real. I highly recommend this book to all readers, but as one reader, the Erin, said - -it is a good Army Wife read, all the waiting, wondering and worrying made the plot relative.<br />
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On another note, the author is very anti-Kindle, so you have to actually buy or borrow this book. No download. Bummer. Also, I have heard the movie makes some changes that can frustrate readers. Haven't seen it yet. Don't know if I will.<br />
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And one more note - interestingly, this book takes place in Michigan and Chicago - two of my favorite places. The street references and the sights made the book a mini vacay to the Windy City for me. They even Eat at Ed's!<br />
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Enjoy - I did.Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-88286831660430741232009-08-31T18:24:00.000-05:002009-08-31T18:24:36.513-05:00Blue-tiful NEW BabyBehold, the bluest, beautifullest guitar:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYWWzutvre1DLuf_Xbqq4FeGaE_uo6cAonB4HzIsxR50tjKjWbqs26QxGDVa20IpSJgy_U4WZueawBpnqDVCXkn485kA7_8hWoyo3544du1o_kAW9iPrP985YJ-vglfO0XR9nvDizmZG8/s1600-h/100_0798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYWWzutvre1DLuf_Xbqq4FeGaE_uo6cAonB4HzIsxR50tjKjWbqs26QxGDVa20IpSJgy_U4WZueawBpnqDVCXkn485kA7_8hWoyo3544du1o_kAW9iPrP985YJ-vglfO0XR9nvDizmZG8/s400/100_0798.JPG" /></a></div>Isn't it gorgeous?!?!?!?! My teacher, the Lisa, collects all sorts of guitars, and has a friend who fixes them up. This is one she has in her collection but she is willing to trade me up from my beloved first guitar. I feel sad letting go of the guitar that got it all going, but then I look at the beautiful blue baby and I just melt. There was a boy in grade school (who I am so not naming) that had eyes this blue, inspiring a poem that I wrote and still remember. Kind of like the blue eyes of my TV boyfriend, Eddie Cahill:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ImgSy_iukP9YbCXjT3Y-MrNaZDTvl0JIFFse8MWzWh2JG8aOlIJcHbXOJ0vV24tF3ZdITVZdjYOld9eKdkwUf54OVnYIyySUY9ULqiny9qbyrpsXgYabs5FtJbSu8fdVhmZcTHp39z0/s1600-h/eddie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ImgSy_iukP9YbCXjT3Y-MrNaZDTvl0JIFFse8MWzWh2JG8aOlIJcHbXOJ0vV24tF3ZdITVZdjYOld9eKdkwUf54OVnYIyySUY9ULqiny9qbyrpsXgYabs5FtJbSu8fdVhmZcTHp39z0/s320/eddie.jpg" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Maybe I should name my new blue baby Eddie? Here is a close up look:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBkwc4dK5VZ7TK0o-ldWpXo0EbCm0F1jf-WUaRegKGjqyvNmMgOLWmOgCZZygj2ItDttdj5Kj07ZdwGYjT7rJ5Mq2qOw0qiYGi9sglh6rtZqVE6Tt4-s9gzsNij1aP9y0L3vLQvSgFB4M/s1600-h/100_0799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBkwc4dK5VZ7TK0o-ldWpXo0EbCm0F1jf-WUaRegKGjqyvNmMgOLWmOgCZZygj2ItDttdj5Kj07ZdwGYjT7rJ5Mq2qOw0qiYGi9sglh6rtZqVE6Tt4-s9gzsNij1aP9y0L3vLQvSgFB4M/s400/100_0799.JPG" /></a></div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-61121137421533339052009-08-27T16:06:00.000-05:002009-08-27T16:09:49.706-05:00Recycling - Jen StyleFor those of you here in Infantry Barracks, Ft Leavenworth, you know that recycling is a hot topic. No one can say why some areas of post have curbside pickup and others do not. It's an ongoing mystery. I'll be honest. If it were curbside, I'd completely comply with recycling. But if I have to put my nasty trash in my car and drive it somewhere, well... not quite so motivated. So I reduce as much as possible - no bottled water, no newspaper subscription, reusable grocery bags. But I do have a collection of plastic bags, nonetheless. Some I reuse - as trash can liners, packing material, cat litter duty and such. But still, they seem to multiply. So I got crafty on those bad, non biodegradable, landfill prone monsters!<br /><br />Here is my new back door welcome mat:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PXhp9Q10StJiuGP4tI2RMdTr34NdvnyuyVg_eo8zIM0CeVVMi0VgWxIz4y-MKyceaJL3rxeU1mSGILQw5hF5sXUaqf2L4umWmlzduh5aVSG2WpiW5kvI-lriXS0z9uKhwGctbUICiwQ/s1600-h/100_0794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PXhp9Q10StJiuGP4tI2RMdTr34NdvnyuyVg_eo8zIM0CeVVMi0VgWxIz4y-MKyceaJL3rxeU1mSGILQw5hF5sXUaqf2L4umWmlzduh5aVSG2WpiW5kvI-lriXS0z9uKhwGctbUICiwQ/s320/100_0794.JPG" border="0" /></a></div>Like that? It even has a stripe!!!!<br /><br />Up close you can see that it is crocheted from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Plarn</span> - plastic yarn - formerly my stash of shopping bags.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4r8RetododosyXFOZiZVFcv0i21prjkbsOkIHAtMhOo5IzxfLQ1ZDZtCgASpUwIRAjnKPbmD3g61zzRC6i5m60w3ieItohfN80Aru6u5yn_pzMM7W1uTS01Qc-mvHdfjq5GIGEQxM7g4/s1600-h/100_0795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4r8RetododosyXFOZiZVFcv0i21prjkbsOkIHAtMhOo5IzxfLQ1ZDZtCgASpUwIRAjnKPbmD3g61zzRC6i5m60w3ieItohfN80Aru6u5yn_pzMM7W1uTS01Qc-mvHdfjq5GIGEQxM7g4/s320/100_0795.JPG" border="0" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You have to use a big <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ol</span> hook, like the red one below.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGG1hsCCmrI9SwdxN1VYkk3UA33vxJLUZfNHPlWeVLAJR4T6wQe2RZnlcUa04lA1HDY76AdmvAi1teAW_MhIkl-2fOq62C5SWECi7losaY_cBig3YzAAZKn542P9k8nimNvfAT3EEPLg/s1600-h/100_0797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnGG1hsCCmrI9SwdxN1VYkk3UA33vxJLUZfNHPlWeVLAJR4T6wQe2RZnlcUa04lA1HDY76AdmvAi1teAW_MhIkl-2fOq62C5SWECi7losaY_cBig3YzAAZKn542P9k8nimNvfAT3EEPLg/s320/100_0797.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Here it is in its actual location. Now I know it looks silly but let me explain. You come up my fire escape, I mean terrace, to face the door from the left. But the door will open toward you. So you have to step to the right to enter. The rug is in the exact spot you must stand so as not to whack yourself with the door. Sometimes we need a reminder, or else we might send ourselves or careening backward down the steep stairs of doom.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibc6Ksjf-sjKzvyV1Fq6cYB42sspgDzj36swxnpG9vP-zGyBONyWj8L1mjYndL014mkBnVogIlVefO6Q0vPLBUUnwFwzttFEy4sk3JLFKihfpXYYdpU8HSY8XzWz-CBYsj5brgEWMAqJ0/s1600-h/100_0796.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibc6Ksjf-sjKzvyV1Fq6cYB42sspgDzj36swxnpG9vP-zGyBONyWj8L1mjYndL014mkBnVogIlVefO6Q0vPLBUUnwFwzttFEy4sk3JLFKihfpXYYdpU8HSY8XzWz-CBYsj5brgEWMAqJ0/s320/100_0796.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374753537301039394" border="0" /></a><br />So what have you recycled in an interesting way? Not <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">repurposed</span>, actually recycled - turned it into something new entirely??? Consider yourself challenged!Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-1841942719823890212009-08-20T07:56:00.000-05:002009-08-20T07:56:31.850-05:00My GuitarThis is my guitar:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMdjrAUB0eFBa_2b2_J8IhGMDlzPFrl8x2xvB-UZ7wgLFiRvjBzGb0qK8oK8uS7iSoQix9ohneMqoInpF930TKw-xM9sV325fxGfRsdIumRxVnfl9xn2Vx_l1Y7U4G8q8f2VO7KHnCWY/s1600-h/100_0790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTMdjrAUB0eFBa_2b2_J8IhGMDlzPFrl8x2xvB-UZ7wgLFiRvjBzGb0qK8oK8uS7iSoQix9ohneMqoInpF930TKw-xM9sV325fxGfRsdIumRxVnfl9xn2Vx_l1Y7U4G8q8f2VO7KHnCWY/s320/100_0790.JPG" /></a></div>I love my guitar. I didn't always. For a long time, I resented my guitar. Let me tell you why. I bought this guitar way back at Fort Hood. That is 10 years ago. I had some birthday money, and I went to the local pawn shop/musical instrument distributor and scooped up the best thing I could afford. For months, held it, strummed it, caressed it. Then I put it back in its box. Not case, box. It lived there for some time. It moved to new and exciting posts. One year, it even got a nice new case - the multiple moves had done much damage to its box. Every time I dared to dig into my closet I would see my guitar and think...ugh! one more thing I own that I don't use. But I couldn't let it go.<br />
<br />
So, finally, this year I have started lessons. My teacher, the Lisa, is fabulous. Every Monday morning, I go to my lesson and leave feeling like I have taken on the world!! I love to practice. Amazing how Twinkle Twinkle Little Star just never gets old. And scales... love 'em. Chords...let's not talk about those just yet. I am praying for my left hand to be flexible and less wimpy! <br />
<br />
So, am I a Rock Star yet? Maybe not. But give me some time...Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-28330026801300442622009-08-11T08:04:00.000-05:002009-08-11T08:04:22.178-05:00Back to School Bouquet - and CONTEST!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_v0RxvdeEOGJBoWIkHUKFaGN0JAo9n292xOdD7yla-p5jI42AsHh2tfc2Hx6Cqr3XSRej7lO1PpOgEy_DEmnQv2RqLlROt8ausiHS0FwI4ue_QkkXRp41SbibiyadODD50gHW5dvB-c/s1600-h/100_0759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_v0RxvdeEOGJBoWIkHUKFaGN0JAo9n292xOdD7yla-p5jI42AsHh2tfc2Hx6Cqr3XSRej7lO1PpOgEy_DEmnQv2RqLlROt8ausiHS0FwI4ue_QkkXRp41SbibiyadODD50gHW5dvB-c/s320/100_0759.JPG" /></a></div>Here is my back to School gift for the teachers. Simply a bouquet of freshly sharpened pencils! (Hey that's from a movie... want a prize? Identify the movie!!! First comment with correct answer wins a back to school themed prize!) I used a picture frame cube and some ribbon from the stash. To bulk up the inside I put a cube of that green foamy stuff you find in the floral department. I just squished the shredded paper all around it. <br />
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I am enjoying the first day of school. Hope you do too!!Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-72981120041880493122009-08-09T16:58:00.000-05:002009-08-09T16:58:31.109-05:00Food Network @ the Dembowski HowskiEvery Sunday, my delightful friends the Tom & Debi, have my family over supper. They cook delicious entrees and desserts, usually experiments from Tom's online and tv recipe hunting. Yum! While we eat, we have been watching The Next Food Network Star. I was inspired to try the 4 Step Chicken that Melissa D'Arabian says will adapt to hundreds of different chickeny combinations! I also made her Potato Gratin. Check out the recipes <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/flexible-4-step-chicken-for-family-and-company--rustic-lemon-onion-chicken-recipe/index.html">HERE </a> and <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/5-minute-individual-potato-gratins-recipe/index.html">THERE</a> .<br />
<br />
I altered things a bit, with what I had in the pantry, but the basic flavors were there and the technique was followed exactly. Here is my result:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzztPIaHrB4pKuv-gCl-ecSSWeD8yldJroctFuxrw6i9W4NkZDiFXjcqRvTHIJ-OOCN69lP07Dh9HqfBBwuUM5eAH46uGAdsbIdQ_CHQl65yZFoCSw-DPb6P1D-7MP6KtvrTySk_xi3j4/s1600-h/100_0756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzztPIaHrB4pKuv-gCl-ecSSWeD8yldJroctFuxrw6i9W4NkZDiFXjcqRvTHIJ-OOCN69lP07Dh9HqfBBwuUM5eAH46uGAdsbIdQ_CHQl65yZFoCSw-DPb6P1D-7MP6KtvrTySk_xi3j4/s320/100_0756.JPG" /></a></div>In the pan and <br />
on the plate<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbd2Bnhwef0egtqtTH0ZgfHXtb56wPjZl_9IP8QIKXjy2LpFYzPkxhoVP2uc530oUjK76Tfs4sZ0J6bv4dNPdVqy6qJMJdKEQQwuYI_5FmeQT10li2V8U2Pb_3LssMllADKbarG1ABefA/s1600-h/100_0758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbd2Bnhwef0egtqtTH0ZgfHXtb56wPjZl_9IP8QIKXjy2LpFYzPkxhoVP2uc530oUjK76Tfs4sZ0J6bv4dNPdVqy6qJMJdKEQQwuYI_5FmeQT10li2V8U2Pb_3LssMllADKbarG1ABefA/s320/100_0758.JPG" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> My review - The chicken was fast, easy and tasty. You really could adapt it to many flavors to fit almost any menu. I will definitely make it again, using the same technique. Because you make it quick and with a sauce, it is very moist. The potatoes were good, but the 5 minutes is the prep time, they take a while to cook. If you have a mandolin slicer, it is fairly simple to prep. They were good, but you have to plan ahead for the cook time. Overall - a realistic, usable recipe that everyone enjoyed! </div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-7477782390551994032009-07-27T18:27:00.001-05:002009-07-27T18:55:35.169-05:00Cool Finds at the Antique MallAlthough this day started out kinda in upheaval after a long night with a coughing Ryan, it became one f those days where at the end, it was totally awesome. Let me explain. No, it is too much, let me sum up. (another movie quote...<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">lol</span>)<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Ok</span>, I awoke to a call from the Debi. She was coming by in mere mom<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmZsIeheBuF1Qiq5_AJd_yOdPOvt7oOazyWWTIVZS2QZX2fc5LvjjUTh_VWsDx3D_8BEQhyphenhyphenj1-fm9x3a-2KtWDhldlbCsYuNqbKpFLtmOeQCTmTqv6qE0-QESM2opdJ6XqK63Lts6Q54/s1600-h/pantmall.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 190px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmZsIeheBuF1Qiq5_AJd_yOdPOvt7oOazyWWTIVZS2QZX2fc5LvjjUTh_VWsDx3D_8BEQhyphenhyphenj1-fm9x3a-2KtWDhldlbCsYuNqbKpFLtmOeQCTmTqv6qE0-QESM2opdJ6XqK63Lts6Q54/s320/pantmall.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363287557270999922" border="0" /></a><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ents</span> to scoop up my big kids. Seems that Jeremy DID get into theater camp after all, despite the wait list. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Whoo</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Hoo</span>. Katey did too, but let's just say, she declined. But she was going to hang out with the Debi and Sarah leaving my with just the slightly ill Ryan. So what to do? I tried a few errands and from trains to not having items I wanted, to being closed early...things just were not going my way. But then, like a ray of sunshine, ahead of me was the always curious <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Parkville</span> Antique Mall. A place I had oft seen but never investigated.<br /><br />Now for my finds! First a couple mugs for my collection of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">speckly</span> blue stuff. I don't know the official name for this stuff, I just like it, especially the darker blue in the pic. They are metal dishes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAyPlPeA1M6L6rJfe3zUPuxAFIUzzM0U2lCugfftBOfn4HF5k85vJ8CPZNPMjionxu_O80B8Ovb79zjPDYvSzYZH4gDESC5RLHeFs0SLQzabgZEh1KlSfh399tg0sVfjIFBo7_pN9Ui0I/s1600-h/100_0728.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAyPlPeA1M6L6rJfe3zUPuxAFIUzzM0U2lCugfftBOfn4HF5k85vJ8CPZNPMjionxu_O80B8Ovb79zjPDYvSzYZH4gDESC5RLHeFs0SLQzabgZEh1KlSfh399tg0sVfjIFBo7_pN9Ui0I/s200/100_0728.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363288546302401138" border="0" /></a><br />Next some wrought iron candlesticks. They are really heavy and cleanly shaped. I have wrought iron details in my living room. So the fit right in. And they fit all kinds of candles, so they are very versatile.<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>Pay no attention to that little cutie and his <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Legos</span> on the couch. This is a NO KIDS blog area!!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWdEO0Cqr3LpvLGT8bC8JNQLlrO39ITNECM_VkVTbkKdWhUTMTIfYg8VXr3M8B2vpGhpVf53wHZQDFlN4yQo2WO8ORnRJgICLjFXZtmB5wuB5XaTAkfAoNpOUGi8m3hyiJAO7LlXfgjRE/s1600-h/100_0730.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWdEO0Cqr3LpvLGT8bC8JNQLlrO39ITNECM_VkVTbkKdWhUTMTIfYg8VXr3M8B2vpGhpVf53wHZQDFlN4yQo2WO8ORnRJgICLjFXZtmB5wuB5XaTAkfAoNpOUGi8m3hyiJAO7LlXfgjRE/s200/100_0730.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363288556555979314" border="0" /></a><br />Next is a really cool thing that appealed to the crafty Jen, the mom of prolific artist Jen, the teacher Jen and the gadget lover Jen. Check it out:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT55KlBG9zYATxrPc50waf9fL2rKBV0uLlKsSJ2Nv6-nF7E5B9Y8wFxoo8gcinGx9qAti_XVfYD6y3WXTsn4nWASfmZVW53jRwWtOS-qkrhgGf9KDK6tIh4Sd2YWvlUEvMm804xNvjr68/s1600-h/100_0729.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT55KlBG9zYATxrPc50waf9fL2rKBV0uLlKsSJ2Nv6-nF7E5B9Y8wFxoo8gcinGx9qAti_XVfYD6y3WXTsn4nWASfmZVW53jRwWtOS-qkrhgGf9KDK6tIh4Sd2YWvlUEvMm804xNvjr68/s200/100_0729.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363288563717964482" border="0" /></a>Oh yeah, baby, that is an old school (literally) book binder. With lots of plastic coils. No more stapled together "comic books", or "stories" for my kids. Calendars, recipes, Oh, the possibilities. Even those darn stapled handbooks you get from organizations, or their directories...not in my house! It is bound for the ages with plastic <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">coily</span> thing!<br /><br />And finally, the pinnacle of my scavenger hunting success. Two antique school desks. Hey would sit in a classroom one behind the other, making the seat for one facing the desk of the next. But for my purposes, they are together in my entryway as a bench. Now, I know I need some decor on the desk part, and a new rug. But these desks are just adorable. And in future houses, I see great potential for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">use</span> in the living room since they have the wrought iron as well. Maybe a divider behind a couch, making that much needed "wall" between the Army's favorite housing feature: living room/dining room combo!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllJvpqRWCsd4dl5MapzAHn1ZCBUbP576pO2mwUKLVtLDNi10WVyh8WywRY_smKs0_tWBmOhHG-dyJUXARNAeDiDAC8f2pYqzdS-36GK4JeIvfKG9eDnWpAufeuNcIhPfg-KpRwOd2e3U/s1600-h/100_0731.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgllJvpqRWCsd4dl5MapzAHn1ZCBUbP576pO2mwUKLVtLDNi10WVyh8WywRY_smKs0_tWBmOhHG-dyJUXARNAeDiDAC8f2pYqzdS-36GK4JeIvfKG9eDnWpAufeuNcIhPfg-KpRwOd2e3U/s200/100_0731.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363291371269017234" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix9Yivi5cbtSzZbwMNAo14yjrdMIi-nRXXV-UwEbvm0MbRpHOhPwNBVMPWtbdoMekc-e66hwrhLZysMXG7eoh_vC5Iz_4BMKCCUbdRppUF1mkj4_9LDfWwj4Wzfb3ajKkVKwzSEa9YFaU/s1600-h/100_0732.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix9Yivi5cbtSzZbwMNAo14yjrdMIi-nRXXV-UwEbvm0MbRpHOhPwNBVMPWtbdoMekc-e66hwrhLZysMXG7eoh_vC5Iz_4BMKCCUbdRppUF1mkj4_9LDfWwj4Wzfb3ajKkVKwzSEa9YFaU/s200/100_0732.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363291642806657266" border="0" /></a><br />Left, seats up. <br /><br /> Right, seat down.<br /><br />I am thinking some seasonal craftiness on the desk parts. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Hmm</span>.<br /><br /><br /><br />All this was very reasonable and in great shape. Plus, if you are in the area, the store is clean, easy to navigate and staffed with helpful people. They even called the owner of the desks so I could work a bargain! Thanks for reading!!Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-88392640832185110832009-07-26T07:32:00.000-05:002009-07-26T07:33:59.248-05:00And we have a winner!!!Congrats to Emily Happell. We went to grade school together, can you believe that! And high school. The movie is So I Married an Axemurderer.Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-92311111842525452009-07-25T17:26:00.000-05:002009-07-25T17:30:10.757-05:00A Book Collection via EBAYAt last, I have achieved my dream of owning certain series' of books, all in hardcover, to both keep forever and look cool on my shelves! I have 3 series' that I plan to keep and reread or pass to the kids. Let me show you!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSfphvu5JRpGAj74J6bpimU8B_AFpHX6SlzmJW4HoG5iQ5AQD0sqqenv9j_cWrhFjl3aPIXUB3F2uJoAS5hh_FYKcb9j2M1E3tG3l93KZUwGmAOqdEkw1QsfpfMImxJ746ooMUalEH80E/s1600-h/100_0727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSfphvu5JRpGAj74J6bpimU8B_AFpHX6SlzmJW4HoG5iQ5AQD0sqqenv9j_cWrhFjl3aPIXUB3F2uJoAS5hh_FYKcb9j2M1E3tG3l93KZUwGmAOqdEkw1QsfpfMImxJ746ooMUalEH80E/s200/100_0727.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><br /><br />Here are my Twilight books. Yes, I admit it, I have been bitten by the Vampire Saga. The thing is, they are actually really good. And clean, so I have no qualms passing them to Katey one day. I had the first 3 in paperback, but the 4th was only available in hardcover when I had to have it. After a while, with coupons and through frugalreader.com (which I also used to trade my old softcovers) I assembled the set!<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtpSci2hpztkEJ2ADR2zcpvGcpPSzepvvgKMgduyfNuLcAANBz3SWyj6x2yT03VymQsaZH_-XjJSL-H7-A6EdD7gofulDMvcKlJDTdwDsrC_tluEFlRUOMVYB2OcsnUKh3LaWeh-NFYe4/s1600-h/100_0726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtpSci2hpztkEJ2ADR2zcpvGcpPSzepvvgKMgduyfNuLcAANBz3SWyj6x2yT03VymQsaZH_-XjJSL-H7-A6EdD7gofulDMvcKlJDTdwDsrC_tluEFlRUOMVYB2OcsnUKh3LaWeh-NFYe4/s320/100_0726.JPG" border="0" /></a></div>Next up are my Harry Potters. Aren't they colorful!! <br />These I have had for a while. I quickly realized there was something to the HP phenomena and started buying them in hardcover as soon as I read the first book. Again, good, clean reads that I will share with the kids. And as a public policy announcement (you are the public, mine is the policy) - I am aware that many of my friends, brothers and sisters in Christ, do not favor these books. I have given this much thought and prayer and I respect that stance. Here is my view: As a Christian, I find the whimsical content far removed from any objectionable or real evil. As an educator, I am encouraged that any series of books can inspire the amount of reading this series has among kids who might have never picked up a book willingly, let alone an 800 page novel! And as a parent, I think there is much to learn and share with my kids about friendship, loyalty, choices and more through these books, when read in the context of our Christian worldview home. This officially ends my public policy announcement.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC8xeODkNCxK4yIFZKtaZKH3gq3pTvoJOLJ4WcBQ-gh57lu0cfbnrlMkZxnAMsJRaMi2DUy50NnZMafu4JHewZp51deGJ6MLbj6jZ9Kt_XVkvLVp9hyTSm6wygIMncrjT9aTRFFqDBJ4/s1600-h/100_0725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC8xeODkNCxK4yIFZKtaZKH3gq3pTvoJOLJ4WcBQ-gh57lu0cfbnrlMkZxnAMsJRaMi2DUy50NnZMafu4JHewZp51deGJ6MLbj6jZ9Kt_XVkvLVp9hyTSm6wygIMncrjT9aTRFFqDBJ4/s320/100_0725.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><br />Finally, my beloved Outlander books. This is the collection that brings me the most joy at assembling, because it was hard fought for on EBAY. Bidding wars, messed up mailing addresses, paypal confusion, but in the end, the satisfaction of having gotten a whole collection, used and reasonably priced (I LOVE used books, btw). This series, which I would have never read unless given to me by my friend Chris, has become a sentimental yearly reread (of the first book, Outlander). It was even the first novel I downloaded on my Kindle. It defies my longstanding "Premise" issue - that being, if in the first few pages/moments for movies the premise is so ridiculous so as to annoy me for the entire story (think While You Were Sleeping - just tell them who you are!!!!) I can not and will not like the book/movie. Or even finish it for that matter. Despite the time travel premise of the Outlander series, I dug in and let myself fall through the stones into a great tale of historical fiction. Also there is mushy romance of which I am not a fan. But I think the fascination with all things Scottish (if it's not Scottish it's CRAP!) made the romance somehow more romantical.<br /><br />Oh, for those of you who made it to the end of this post -be the first to correctly identify the movie from whence came the CRAP! quote hails and I'll personally send you a softcover copy of whichever of the first novel in these series you would like!! Hey - that's like a contest for free stuff...one of my favorite things!Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-64701053460036609432009-07-18T08:55:00.000-05:002009-07-18T08:56:38.583-05:00Two Great Books<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_TpkufHB3oDLO50U4BtChaHYvL01QVAtt9dp28BMc-ymVQOlMRrNC7pBFe0hvk8CcCc6isM7Bz_M1KgpjljBU0KDPHg6DHfADvwlyebUhRKvFrY-VljzxacZFgJDdO2cIJ7M_gxEIy8/s1600-h/book-thief.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_TpkufHB3oDLO50U4BtChaHYvL01QVAtt9dp28BMc-ymVQOlMRrNC7pBFe0hvk8CcCc6isM7Bz_M1KgpjljBU0KDPHg6DHfADvwlyebUhRKvFrY-VljzxacZFgJDdO2cIJ7M_gxEIy8/s200/book-thief.jpg" border="0" /></a></div>Happy Saturday! Today I am going to review two books I have read from my summer reading list. The first is a young adult novel, <i>The Book Thief</i> by Markus Zusak. It was one of the best books I have read, in...well, ever. Don't be put off by the category of young adult novel. It is perfect for a book club, too. You can look up the reviews and summaries online, but let me tell you what I loved about it. The book dealt with one of the most horrific periods of history and human shame - Hitler's WWII Germany. But the story told against this backdrop is one of childhood reality, friendship, love, hope and even adventure. A story that endears while also breaking your heart with its sudden bursts of foreshadowed reality. I recommend it to anyone!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGwKOgcJTZOfFZ5aofgJKTOrisWfQ6ZkYsFFnH37eO36plt1PDgvSaXoLwObtZIe6mFKUOGYNiE-0vt78NmN2mdz7lRB2B47YC4sdiVFXNB4_2eqtvBYlcpc7wd_h51PCLiQLnNwQCzk/s1600-h/19th-wife.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGwKOgcJTZOfFZ5aofgJKTOrisWfQ6ZkYsFFnH37eO36plt1PDgvSaXoLwObtZIe6mFKUOGYNiE-0vt78NmN2mdz7lRB2B47YC4sdiVFXNB4_2eqtvBYlcpc7wd_h51PCLiQLnNwQCzk/s200/19th-wife.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The second book is <i>The 19th Wife</i> by David Ebershoff. Completely different tone, but still an historical fiction that is truly absorbing. This novel combines the true tale (though fictionalized) of Brigham Young's 19th wife and her apostasy and crusade against polygamy with a modern day murder mystery about a 19th wife of a fundamentalist sect not unlike those in recent headlines. The stories are both fascinating because they reveal a life so different from my own. Read it!!Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-55828996603003504182009-07-12T10:51:00.001-05:002009-07-12T11:31:16.043-05:00RepurposingNext to Organizing, my favorite household task is Repurposing. Basically this is taking stuff (or junk, or whatever...) that is not working for you in its current state and turning it into something fabulous and useful.<br /><br />For example, my old entertainment center. It has been used in the TV room (original use), entryway, dining room, and probably a few other places holding various items along the way. but, it is old, huge and doesn't match anything else. But it was FREE, we have had it forever, and its SOLID WOOD. So it is staying around. Some day I might get brave enough to paint it...<br /><br />Since I got my dream shelves and put them in my dining room, the need to repurpose the entertainment center took on new urgency. Here are the new shelves:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUnoDrPfcuIdiABY52HtlXfWAAShIBArpfFDT5Ta_JxU1aXTQGN_0XzHsjYI76spjQ3Of0ou5uJ5q-JfAJlKD_lvyDif3BFarWO-ga6U_FxO-xM-2usaV4qEMqJsWLdRO8n_uiZ5h3Cc0/s1600-h/100_0703.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUnoDrPfcuIdiABY52HtlXfWAAShIBArpfFDT5Ta_JxU1aXTQGN_0XzHsjYI76spjQ3Of0ou5uJ5q-JfAJlKD_lvyDif3BFarWO-ga6U_FxO-xM-2usaV4qEMqJsWLdRO8n_uiZ5h3Cc0/s320/100_0703.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357604362780909714" border="0" /></a><br />I LOVE them. Plus they were half off and free delivery!<br /><br />So the old entertainment center pieces moved to the craft room. Which desperately needed an overhaul and some closed storage. Open storage is pretty and convenient, for like, the first day.<br /><br />Then, in my house at least, it is messy and annoying. So here is the new and improved craft space.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmRG05Bq8x70MMxRa4gaXEnvqJSphsIRHiqU8PaaJALYOnsm617ELJNk2WS3BGS6l53JVLfwvILlf7uasg8UqTsWYQB907KQBOf0vXFNMlG6dSUTgBe51CybKBU1hWtTeifbLjMfXarP4/s1600-h/100_0704.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 337px; height: 252px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmRG05Bq8x70MMxRa4gaXEnvqJSphsIRHiqU8PaaJALYOnsm617ELJNk2WS3BGS6l53JVLfwvILlf7uasg8UqTsWYQB907KQBOf0vXFNMlG6dSUTgBe51CybKBU1hWtTeifbLjMfXarP4/s320/100_0704.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357605730515734722" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGg2WV7vxGvsJJnf0Opd2dVFfakdGVKNEoVOuLyb7C7Lem1qWaXX31ditz2qX-a3zw3kg-rhm_QeIBeySYEC4h6RQFkI_tH3sks6opKUF0u5fhdd-0WxIznQb3kcCmuoJNIilB6SKNFZs/s1600-h/100_0705.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 312px; height: 284px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGg2WV7vxGvsJJnf0Opd2dVFfakdGVKNEoVOuLyb7C7Lem1qWaXX31ditz2qX-a3zw3kg-rhm_QeIBeySYEC4h6RQFkI_tH3sks6opKUF0u5fhdd-0WxIznQb3kcCmuoJNIilB6SKNFZs/s320/100_0705.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357607748583796370" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Luckily the old entertainment center is 2 separate pieces which makes it easier to move and use. See that tall table by the window? That is an old kitchen table that is on bed risers for cutting fabric. But with some old stools I have, i can usee it for anything and see out the window! Yay! Natural light, an eye on the kids, and repurposed (i.e. FREE) craft space! Happy Jen!</div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-55102874058298419382009-07-06T20:36:00.000-05:002009-07-06T20:43:43.776-05:00Wall Art<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9SXqoX5vsq55PrTQ4-4Yp03vXvDBa-x7BSNXH1xiIo2VbulgCzo5GuVtAr8RmTnizpv8HwaN1jO4CowodbTV4fUn8OXRVuJMLkmMqerGBqG2LJlixkKWluCZcnx9JErJ_pGw6o_j0Ujk/s1600-h/100_0699.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9SXqoX5vsq55PrTQ4-4Yp03vXvDBa-x7BSNXH1xiIo2VbulgCzo5GuVtAr8RmTnizpv8HwaN1jO4CowodbTV4fUn8OXRVuJMLkmMqerGBqG2LJlixkKWluCZcnx9JErJ_pGw6o_j0Ujk/s200/100_0699.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355527185288755426" border="0" /></a><br />Once upon a time saw a cool catalog with a wall art idea in it that I really liked. Just simple squares of color or designs grouped together. Well I had no idea how to craft this until I saw this website:<br /><br /><a href="http://http//thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2009/05/using-ballard-designs-as-inspiration.html">http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2009/05/using-ballard-designs-as-inspiration.html</a><br /><br />With new found craft talent, I proceeded to create my own. Since I had a big wall to deal with I deviated from the 9 square, to a longer different shape. I used a bunch of scrapbook paper I already had, some spray adhesive, some sanding blocks, some ink and paint for the edges and Voila! Easy art. I am thinking about using some kid print papers for kids rooms, hanging theme with coordinating ribbon. I'll keep ya posted!<br /><br /><br /><img src="file:///C:/Users/Jendem19/AppData/Local/Temp/moz-screenshot.jpg" alt="" />Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-85177603868038143032009-07-04T14:16:00.000-05:002009-07-04T14:17:16.683-05:00A Magic PillowcaseRecently I found some interesting instructions for a Magic Pillowcase. The magic is basically that with one sewn line, you get a three piece pillowcase with all inside finshed edges that you then can sew right up. It is super fast and easy.<br />
<br />
So, today I decided, in honor of the Rick for Independence Day, to make one myself to send to him. Here it is:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPBt8HsTn3mYbYT2jGRuErUQEXW5BGv5B_qctVXSJF3DnnDjGSMFyh4RN_L4dpttAC9zn8CDOx-znr9FN9WDBir4-uRCI6L1Y9cAi9rb0tYY5G4xU5HoCVXxn8t38cHoq6szJ0WH6hic/s1600-h/100_0697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLPBt8HsTn3mYbYT2jGRuErUQEXW5BGv5B_qctVXSJF3DnnDjGSMFyh4RN_L4dpttAC9zn8CDOx-znr9FN9WDBir4-uRCI6L1Y9cAi9rb0tYY5G4xU5HoCVXxn8t38cHoq6szJ0WH6hic/s320/100_0697.JPG" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pretty cool! Might have to incorporate some embroidery on one of these...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy Independence Day! If you know a Soldier, or Soldier's family, say Thank You! If you are a Soldier, or a fellow Military Family - Thank You, and God Bless!</div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-446359634489914812009-06-28T16:48:00.000-05:002009-06-28T16:51:31.115-05:00Sunday Craftiness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4en0a4RE2buy7hd78sxhgui7x_W_0mub-x6HPLrIPT0KVHqvOvTCdEqFSnKsFKu5alYhSJ-QIlCosNbmlJU0Cnusr3-TL-4KOUZwSMEuKCVD1vplBNV4vJjuxrSNOJshABp7_MmRaCR4/s1600-h/100_0650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4en0a4RE2buy7hd78sxhgui7x_W_0mub-x6HPLrIPT0KVHqvOvTCdEqFSnKsFKu5alYhSJ-QIlCosNbmlJU0Cnusr3-TL-4KOUZwSMEuKCVD1vplBNV4vJjuxrSNOJshABp7_MmRaCR4/s200/100_0650.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPjF7W-HmIINOiRHUVmAaQzGG4fm3mhGnMLdhz1TpUhf5DVbUDuUEtm13W_qtWo_7KLJHBGQbxwQBQuIAsjXeXZNrPHDPJ0C4mlrnPm2PPOsIwHn6ib_ktKt23GbgSGN6y85COWv8YHRc/s1600-h/100_0651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPjF7W-HmIINOiRHUVmAaQzGG4fm3mhGnMLdhz1TpUhf5DVbUDuUEtm13W_qtWo_7KLJHBGQbxwQBQuIAsjXeXZNrPHDPJ0C4mlrnPm2PPOsIwHn6ib_ktKt23GbgSGN6y85COWv8YHRc/s200/100_0651.JPG" /></a></div>Here are some Independence Day crafts I have been up to this Sunday. First up is a tablerunner from some patriotic and coordinating fabrics. I think I am going to make a bag from the 2 printed fabrics later on. The tan one has tiny flag-like images and the other is a muted blue with stars.<br />
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Here are my towels: <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPmGI0VQd9h-JK4x1nW7Y3DcRzy7pAnS7yiIu7s2Imnrl-2mpCUT5PE0iJpC8-h5HlWqbgsViOz41xloNs1t93NJhWelNsykZR4mPJyWL0u2qYCmOzY9D9Tqyqec7Hq_gZJ9ZhtW5jaI/s1600-h/100_0655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPmGI0VQd9h-JK4x1nW7Y3DcRzy7pAnS7yiIu7s2Imnrl-2mpCUT5PE0iJpC8-h5HlWqbgsViOz41xloNs1t93NJhWelNsykZR4mPJyWL0u2qYCmOzY9D9Tqyqec7Hq_gZJ9ZhtW5jaI/s200/100_0655.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDhG0jJ5zLHQ7E71nK5donv1-5Op8lgnYDBrNA90FaByEpmdB1UoG-hcQkY0MgAUcEfUGZ70pGV6IS5gU126UlCl5tufrv1kwLr-d-zAsfYOCqHhpZ95F6MsK6atudv8HVd-2a4b7Cy4/s1600-h/100_0654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDhG0jJ5zLHQ7E71nK5donv1-5Op8lgnYDBrNA90FaByEpmdB1UoG-hcQkY0MgAUcEfUGZ70pGV6IS5gU126UlCl5tufrv1kwLr-d-zAsfYOCqHhpZ95F6MsK6atudv8HVd-2a4b7Cy4/s200/100_0654.JPG" /></a></div>I like the fire cracker one a lot. It looks great because it has lots of stitches and is well defined. <br />
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Here are some items the kids helped on, the holiday tree - which we keep up all year and decorate it seasonally, and they each made a star wreath, but some are still drying. The tree still needs more stars, and it does have red, white and blue lights but they just don't show up in daylight! We are working on a star garland, but it involved glitter (always a mistake), and may never be dry enough to actually hang up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcTs7rKgq9kpcuY0p7NcmgIlY7LQ_OXa1H0e1QIbj6TW6Vys01wbm4T_22ptyGVFIPl52z-7i_X8EMlHq5Q425qi1VAk-z8YuIRkf-UjhU2Vb2GTNRyWj4AHfskzBcCVFyrbdWgEPB0yo/s1600-h/100_0652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcTs7rKgq9kpcuY0p7NcmgIlY7LQ_OXa1H0e1QIbj6TW6Vys01wbm4T_22ptyGVFIPl52z-7i_X8EMlHq5Q425qi1VAk-z8YuIRkf-UjhU2Vb2GTNRyWj4AHfskzBcCVFyrbdWgEPB0yo/s320/100_0652.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil25LnSRa0GOi6DUW7sFQ6z81gCPkLtTaAciPXAN0KepVHAqVu3IV-SriYnn_hVZVoLzvTkby5qWMMXPVamAxb6Upj0ZtxczhSVVBpw1c60obrkSNLSnAXmlw4gMzcLYekjZSnCtmbhtk/s1600-h/100_0653.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil25LnSRa0GOi6DUW7sFQ6z81gCPkLtTaAciPXAN0KepVHAqVu3IV-SriYnn_hVZVoLzvTkby5qWMMXPVamAxb6Upj0ZtxczhSVVBpw1c60obrkSNLSnAXmlw4gMzcLYekjZSnCtmbhtk/s320/100_0653.JPG" /></a></div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2370281120941246314.post-5611353432800908702009-06-28T08:12:00.000-05:002009-06-28T08:14:26.874-05:00More Rick and Jen in NYCSince today is my 12th anniversary, I think I will show some more pics from our NYC no kids mini vacay!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsxCKnleN6BKdUUUKRISy7oPIAJuacLJW3LaA-82M3atdI3du_q5FHFTm-OLrksY2SAFRMU7TwwE7FA1_9WXxcLjsQUoezbaKNPtgNvQpL_ANOeoliYDxCLS7L1y8Ye2Ew16flDTvWTdw/s1600-h/PICT0039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsxCKnleN6BKdUUUKRISy7oPIAJuacLJW3LaA-82M3atdI3du_q5FHFTm-OLrksY2SAFRMU7TwwE7FA1_9WXxcLjsQUoezbaKNPtgNvQpL_ANOeoliYDxCLS7L1y8Ye2Ew16flDTvWTdw/s320/PICT0039.JPG" border="0" /></a></div>Here we have Rick pointing out the bust of his ancestors, I guess.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoR1c8zPnDJgTJmtZ8hzSqQWSi2ECYXzIDjv0xjP-WZOAgQQAcPPxP1ar2U_TLO592AK10UovsEhu5XemnPLDLyV6RsacTljNT4aqYiaaoJN8jY74aoXiCb_4WzNeLXFuTKaaHNWcHYB0/s1600-h/PICT0064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoR1c8zPnDJgTJmtZ8hzSqQWSi2ECYXzIDjv0xjP-WZOAgQQAcPPxP1ar2U_TLO592AK10UovsEhu5XemnPLDLyV6RsacTljNT4aqYiaaoJN8jY74aoXiCb_4WzNeLXFuTKaaHNWcHYB0/s200/PICT0064.JPG" border="0" /></a></div>We saw Chicago together. Rick isn't too into musical theater, but he humors me on occasion. It was a great show. I also saw God of Carnage with James Gandolfini, Marcia Gay Harden and Jeff Daniels. It was hilarious.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">I wanted to take pictures everywhere, and here is one outside the</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0zF74oJ4u-rXGnDIeJwyDpQPfs3ehtW7gKvSovdq3YEibW0NbaHRo5H_RlnCrghWxMO4b0eJ1Hh-BPUtyXJRixRnsw1gw6lKW5OkhYY_OJ0VUpPLbEvYJiqcK1zpoB2olbNn2OFJyDsA/s1600-h/PICT0074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0zF74oJ4u-rXGnDIeJwyDpQPfs3ehtW7gKvSovdq3YEibW0NbaHRo5H_RlnCrghWxMO4b0eJ1Hh-BPUtyXJRixRnsw1gw6lKW5OkhYY_OJ0VUpPLbEvYJiqcK1zpoB2olbNn2OFJyDsA/s200/PICT0074.JPG" border="0" /></a> little PD right in Times Square. There are NYPD everywhere </div><div style="text-align: left;">in the city, and they are very helpful!</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPdUCudeyRtUK7r8tRdWEMCV6Xz0KLkFPRozHbsuvkwTswfgCpTaa-jYNKx1tJkwXz2b0jiKybLRH9xOWHnjMwfotT-pggQ8o1klbD-GVgROe7Mo_iNPhHVZG8f8gSzTNJpnJhpFWqqsY/s1600-h/PICT0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPdUCudeyRtUK7r8tRdWEMCV6Xz0KLkFPRozHbsuvkwTswfgCpTaa-jYNKx1tJkwXz2b0jiKybLRH9xOWHnjMwfotT-pggQ8o1klbD-GVgROe7Mo_iNPhHVZG8f8gSzTNJpnJhpFWqqsY/s200/PICT0017.JPG" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">We spent lots of time at Ellis Island which was very interesting. I learned a lot. I especially enjoyed the walk through rooms where you could trace the path of immigrants from arrival to approval. I recommend getting the headphones for the self tour if you ever go. I didn't, and regret it. Its too hard to listen on the little phones with lots of other people wanting to listen as well.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbC_UmNxHHNrk-Dq3IVGRTLw_1B-wfP9eANj5BgdJf93d8JpClwCAEyUD4HfRG7aTtgN_T3Dna05QjqflHFsgpmzqh3YFTrIhLfiMNydEExOrVq7euYUfaaN15VwE81O4Z0D3zE0NdMXA/s1600-h/PICT0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbC_UmNxHHNrk-Dq3IVGRTLw_1B-wfP9eANj5BgdJf93d8JpClwCAEyUD4HfRG7aTtgN_T3Dna05QjqflHFsgpmzqh3YFTrIhLfiMNydEExOrVq7euYUfaaN15VwE81O4Z0D3zE0NdMXA/s200/PICT0022.JPG" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx2g8tRm-VM43cnxr4QBOc-tWIW4tT0w5IQOPmvkPrkMi-PyV1-zeVlv5JLHhpMHMoL23SaGDPFDHRQ8TnHyBK_3yD8UF3JEVy4UsPeMRqa4x8CvNnLlpuXtG9NmYMJDvRKEIM9lIDlgo/s1600-h/PICT0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx2g8tRm-VM43cnxr4QBOc-tWIW4tT0w5IQOPmvkPrkMi-PyV1-zeVlv5JLHhpMHMoL23SaGDPFDHRQ8TnHyBK_3yD8UF3JEVy4UsPeMRqa4x8CvNnLlpuXtG9NmYMJDvRKEIM9lIDlgo/s200/PICT0021.JPG" border="0" /></a> The immigrants brought all sorts of things with them, but my favorites, of course, were handmade crafts and heirlooms. These are examples of needlework, both artistic and for daily use. Amazing, to think, it was all done, stitch by stitch, by hand.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08168868099447997633noreply@blogger.com1