All These Things

vintage cross stitch patterns

2010-06-04T11:56:00.000-04:00

Love to cross stitch? I do too BUT had way too many patterns I knew I'd never do up... especially now that my eyes are getting older! So I put lots of the better conditioned vintage ones in my shop... HERE...

Ecclesiastes 3:7 A time to tear, And a time to sew;

some "where've you been?" bullet points and BGB music video

2010-04-27T09:43:00.002-04:00

Not crafting right now because of so many other things needing attention ... but soon, hopefully very soon... I'm missing it terribly.

We're coming to the end of 2 of our 3 high school years. Not sure how we're going to celebrate it yet and not sure if they'll be exactly "on time" with their public school peers, they may be a few weeks off. Both are planning to continue at the local state college.

The garden is growing well and we've had some radishes already. Lucy (our mini-daschund) watched Rod pull some up one evening and she's been a little radish stealer since... you'd think she was a rabbit, except she doesn't eat them. Just loves to pull one up and run around with it, especially if you're inclined to chase her.

I was diagnosed pre-diabetic which means things have to change. I've started a walking routine (Ann comes with me and it's been great walking with her), changing my eating habits, testing my blood sugar (not sure how long I have to keep that up but hopefully not forever... ouch!), and trying to learn/study more about healthy food and what's good for what.

I've mentioned my son's band before, BGB, they're still going to it. There's Sam and Jake (guitar and bass guitar), their friends Nate (singer) and Zach (drummer). An upcoming highlight for them is playing at Wet and Wild Waves of Glory. One evening after a gig, Jake talked the guys into finally letting him get some video ... they finally cooperated.

2 Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ.

how does our garden grow?

2010-03-30T11:32:00.001-04:00

Last year we did some talking about it... this year Rod got busy, even while I was sickly, and built the beds...

dug them in...

filled them up and planted (with supervision of course).

He also did the cutting back that was so needed on our cold hit Florida plants and transplanted others to better flower bed spots (he was really feeling his inner gardener... I'd never seen him like this!)

The radishes popped up right away with the green beans following quickly...

and almost seemed to grow and stretch as we were watching.

Today all the plants are up and growing... the radishes, marigolds, green beans, onions, jalapeno peppers, corn, and okra. The tomatoes are slow so far but we haven't had a lot of heat at this point. We plan on adding a few more plants to these two beds and are already talking one more raised bed, possibly two.

Rod planted a couple watermelon hills in the flower bed and they're coming up too. I'm not quite sure what Lucy's expression is about.

Ever notice how even weeds are pretty in spring?

No sign of life up in what's left of the pink/peach bougainvilla branches yet BUT there's life coming up from the roots!

John 19:41 Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid.

recent front page action

2010-03-26T10:23:00.001-04:00

Fellow SHEteam member, Elegant Rose Boutique, had a treasury featured on Etys's front page recently and one of my coaster sets was a part of it..... always a fun thing!

Elegant Rose Boutique has a shop full of wonderful pampering and natural products. She also has a facebook Fanpage to keep her customers updated on any sales and such.

Here's another recent front page treasury in which one of my brooches had the pleasure of being part. This gal's treasuries are always fun and beautiful... thanks, Rebecca!

Rebecca has a very cool vintage shop called LOOKs and an adorable vintage shop for children called dearFreckle. She is quite the thrifter and shares her expertise on her vintage blog ... one of these days I want to tag along with her since we live in the same town! Vintage style is dear to her but her heart is her wonderfully busy family life.

To browse items in Etsy's treasury lists or search to see if one of your shop items have been on the front page, check out CraftCult's "the vault" page.

Matthew 27:6 But the chief priests took the silver pieces and said, “It is not lawful to put them into the treasury, because they are the price of blood.”

new camera fun

2010-03-22T19:23:00.002-04:00

Jake recently bought himself a really fancy new camera, a Canon 7d with video capability. Nice camera... I've played with it only a couple of times so far. Jake is a senior and finishing up his school this year. It's hard for him to focus on actual schoolwork because he is very distracted with this "hobby" of his... we've somewhat allowed him his freedom within reason and it has been something to see his progress over the past couple of years with his videography, editing, graphics, and such... he's self-taught and loves all aspects. The local state college has a video program he plans on signing on with so he'll be staying local for school at this point. We aren't sure which direction he's going but he's already working on his own ideas, working on video projects with others, and working with various local commercial studio groups when he can. As long as he's keeping it clean, we're behind him and so far he seems to keep a good head on his shoulders, which is good... because he's meeting and working with people we don't have a clue about. Oh, he tells us who, where, and what the projects are (there are a lot of music video shoots and such that people are putting together)... but this is the tough part of "letting go" that comes with parenting this age.

One of his recent projects is working with a young man at church who wrote a book about a young man who is fighting hard with his family history of alcohol and abuse. I read the book and it's very good. Joe, the author, wanted to do a book trailer (seems to be the new thing) and asked Jake to help him out. It turned out they pretty much shot the whole book, enlisting the aid of friends as actors, (Joe is playing his main character) etc... not sure where they are going from here with all that footage but I thought the trailer turned out pretty good. What do you think... does it increase your interest in reading the book? (It's only about a minute and 1/2.) I think this whole book trailer thing is pretty interesting.

Contemplation Trailer from Jake Whitney on Vimeo.

Here's another recent video Jake shot off the cuff...
Their band (BGB) was in Melbourne for a show when he saw this building and had a few moments to get some video shots and came up with an idea to make an anology of getting caught up in sin...

it's called The Captive. (about 2 minutes)

Matthew 16:26 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

needing some work

2010-03-19T10:23:00.001-04:00

So I had this whole kidney/uti infection going on when I thought it was my back that was giving me grief... it was my back but I thought it was still my back when it wasn't... it was more and it finally made itself obvious. So I go to the doc's, get meds, and then get allergic to the meds. Not. Pretty. Was miserably (as in, can't-do-anything-for-myself) sick all last week and I'm so glad that is over and things are on the mend.

We still haven't done any serious cutting back in the yard since the cold snap so I don't have a clue what plants I still have left... have to get busy with it though. Hopefully there's still life in that bougainvillea but I may have to cut it back rather drastically.

Matthew 14:35 And when the men of that place recognized Him, they sent out into all that surrounding region, brought to Him all who were sick,

an easy light box

2010-02-27T07:25:00.001-05:00

I needed a light box and found nice directions on-line but they were too much for my simple needs. Jake helped me come up with this set-up... it's easy to put up and take down, easily stored, simple, and inexpensive! This is just basic instructions...

Needed:

roll of white butcher paper

display board - size depends on what you're usually photographing

a true or day type light/lamp fixture (I'm using one I had already and talk about here. Try different lamps you have on hand before going to any major expense but do go to the expense of a good daylight bulb.)

scissors; box cutter or other cutting blade; clear packing tape

I used a tri-fold display board, slicing it in half in height and then slicing the right and left sides from the middle of one of the halves. Then tape those side pieces onto the remaining half at the sides. Tape them on the back side, leaving ease enough to be able to fold it into itself. You'll have a middle piece remaining unattached. (So easy to store when it's folded up!)

Okay... next comes the butcher paper. You'll want 3 pieces cut from the roll... one for each side and one to drape in the middle. Lay the remaining cardboard piece from the display board down, white side up, in the middle area. Do the sides first... cut two pieces of a length that will give you a hanger to fold over the upper edge and a drape at the bottom but they don't have to meet in the middle in any particular way or match perfectly, and an overlap past the end of the board is fine. (I hope that isn't too confusing for perfectionists!)

The 3rd piece from the butcher paper will be for the back... cut a piece to include enough to fold over the back edge, like the sides, then hang down in a creaseless drape, long enough to reach to the ends of the side pieces. (Use either an empty paper roll or the same butcher paper roll to roll the paper back up on when finished.)

Jake tells me the important thing is to keep that back curve smooth. When you photograph your items, watch camera placement to keep the rough edges out of the view unless you plan to photoshop them out later. Place light where as much brightness as possible falls into the boxed area. More extensive boxes include an enclosed box with one missing side for the camera and holes cut out on the top and sides for day light lamps. The idea is lots of light with lots of reflecting light bouncing off the white ... this is a very simplified version and could definitely be improved upon. I may eventually try some silky or satin-y fabric but paper is fine in the meantime. The best thing about this set up is I can photograph the items I make for my etsy shop anytime... I like using natural sunlight best but sometimes I just can't get it done during those times.

The head? ... it was actually from a fun Christmas party white elephant gift exchange at a friend's house! We came home with such funny but useful gifts. The glass head and a small dog life jacket... yep, a young lady no longer needed it and thought it would be funny to bring. It was one of the last packages under the tree and I had one of the last numbers. Everyone laughed when I unwrapped it but I couldn't help but think it was meant to be... Lucy has been going kayaking with Rod and the boys and jumping off the kayak. We were thinking about getting her one anyway!

James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.

x3 chicken

2010-02-25T07:45:00.001-05:00

This could be considered killing 3 birds with one stone... (and that could be considered tasteless I guess)... but considering all the talk about meat these days, this could be considered moot! But I'll go ahead and share anyway...

With our family here and there at different times and trying to save time and money, cooking is a challenge these days! Well... it kinda always has been, I'm not a natural in the kitchen even if I do favor the Barefoot Contessa. Mom and I remember things differently... I remember her not being patient with me in the kitchen and she remembers me running from the kitchen at the first sign of trouble. I think she's probably right because I still do that. This doesn't mean I don't like to cook... it just means I'd rather go out!

But since this was something I could tackle in the now and it also helped in the later on (which means less thinking for me to do then)... even I couldn't go wrong!

From now on, when I buy chicken in quantity and need to separate it (ugh!), I'll go ahead and fix it for following meals. I had a big family size package of boneless skinless breasts and was just wanting to make some quick wraps and dreaded packing away the rest of the chicken just to have to redo the whole process later. So I went ahead and prepared the rest of the chicken for what I had it in mind for... the less tastier bits are now ready for soup and the larger pieces for chicken/rice casserole or just baked chicken and salad. It only took part of the present cooking time to do, leaving plenty of time to prepare the rest of the present meal and having the worse of those 2 meals already done... ahhh. I'm sure this is not an original idea but it came to mind, is easy enough and, even better, less to deal with later!

1 Kings 18:34 Then he said, “Do it a second time,” and they did it a second time; and he said, “Do it a third time,” and they did it a third time.

Feeling BLUE?

2010-02-23T07:06:00.001-05:00

I always wondered why blue was the color used to describe feelings of being down or depressed.... and especially after seeing the blog Ode to Blue! My funky blue coasters were put into one of her archive posts along with other blue circle-y items from etsy sellers. Fun! as is the whole blog... dedicated to blue! Check it out (especially if you love blue!)

Exodus 26:4 And you shall make loops of blue yarn on the edge of the curtain on the selvedge of one set, and likewise you shall do on the outer edge of the other curtain of the second set.

fanpages

2010-02-19T08:26:00.000-05:00

Facebook seriously doesn't need my endorsement or censure but that's not what this is about... you either facebook or you don't. BUT there are some really neat fanpages on facebook. We have one for TLC Newborn so I'm trying to learn more about actually utilizing their potential. (Any suggestions welcome.)

Here's a few I personally find very helpful/useful/fun. I'll try to post more once in awhile as I find them... leave me your finds and favs too! I really do like getting the fanpage updates after the friends updates... but not the games, so don't bother with those. If they're your thing, go for it, but you can't guilt me into playing... sorry! Ask my sister ;-) Some I share may be a local thing but there's still good info on them!

Calvary Chapel Vero Beach - not a fanpage but friend request them to get Sunday morn and Thur night (sometimes) real time and archived Bibles studies.

fanpage for Dollar Store crafts - fun crafty links!

fanpage for The Old Schoolhouse Magazine - yes... I still check things out even though we're in our final years... I'm still a homeschool Mom at heart!!

fanpage for Lake Family Magazine - wonderful area family magazine run by a good friend... she always has interesting discussions going on!

Proverbs 17:9 He who covers a transgression seeks love, But he who repeats a matter separates friends.

since Christmas bullet points...

2010-02-17T20:32:00.003-05:00

1. The boys turned 18 and all's well with that.

2. My mother, sister, and nephew visited right after Christmas and spent the week into New Year's with us. It was rainy but we spent New Year's Day at the beach and it was beautiful... I simply don't get there near often enough. It was a splendid visit and I'm ready for another!

3. My job hours increased. I don't mind... I have a very nice job, one where I get to encourage Moms (of all people) and families and I work with some wonderful people! But since nothing else is going away, it makes this and my etsy-ing more difficult to accomplish but, Lord willing, I'll eventually get it worked out. Times change... and good and bad things disappear into those times and changes.

4. I only made a couple of resolutions since I'm still working on all prior years. They're all running into each other so I'll just say I'll continue to keep working on them.

5. I have a lot of outside work to do but don't want to start cutting anything back until we're fairly safe from more cold snaps.

6. Two of our three are graduating this year... that's just weird.

7. I am so in the mood to "play" with all our old photos and get them into digital format... if I start with just a section a week, it could be done eventually!

WoW... I got a post done!

Ecclesiastes 10:4 If the spirit of the ruler rises against you, Do not leave your post; For conciliation pacifies great offenses.

Happy Birthday!

2009-12-23T07:37:00.004-05:00

Wishing a very Happy Birthday to our sons Jake and Sam... I can hardly believe today is 18 years in which they've blessed our lives. There's just too much to say to put it here but they know how much they are loved and cherished by us and even more important than that, have an inkling of how much they are loved and cherished by our Lord.

They had a rocky start...

But began recovering quickly...

Their birthday always just flows along with Christmas happenings ...
1 year (Sam never really thought much of Santa... )

But they have never complained about that to us. God has truly blessed us.... teaching them, teaching us. I love these guys...

Isaiah 54:13 All your children shall be taught by the LORD, And great shall be the peace of your children.

Sheng Dan Kuai Le

2009-12-11T14:08:00.002-05:00

(in Chinese)

cute video about toy packages...

Matthew 2:11 And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Frohe Weihnacht !

2009-12-07T09:45:00.006-05:00

(German... I hope!)

Nice project! I think I'll even try this with my 3 and 4 yo Sunday School class!

"O Tannenbaum, o tannenbaum..."

Isaiah 11:10 “ And in that day there shall be a Root of Jesse,
Who shall stand as a banner to the people;
For the Gentiles shall seek Him,
And His resting place shall be glorious.”

Prettige Kerstfeest !!

2009-12-05T22:05:00.004-05:00

(Merry Christmas in Dutch)

Micah 5:2 “ But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting.”

Colo sana wintom tiebeen !

2009-12-04T07:35:00.004-05:00

(Hope that's right... it's suppose to be Merry Christmas in Egyptian.)

Matthew 2:13 Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, “Arise, take the young Child and His mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I bring you word; for Herod will seek the young Child to destroy Him.”
14 When he arose, he took the young Child and His mother by night and departed for Egypt, 15 and was there until the death of Herod, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, “Out of Egypt I called My Son.”

Merry Christmas #1 !!

2009-12-02T09:15:00.005-05:00

I'm not yet ready for all the doings Christmas seems to bring (ah!) but will choose to be Merry (as opposed to stressed!) because Jesus truly is the reason for this beautiful season!

Matthew 1:1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.”

here a purse, there a purse

2009-11-28T10:03:00.005-05:00

I've been playing with handbag patterns and making purses since I started sewing. I remember one pattern in particular that was in a lady's magazine, Amy Carter was in the issue too (that'll date me). Mom and I both made bags and Dad even the wooden handles for us. We both loved it and I still have that pattern in my head even if I can't remember what I'm suppose to get at the grocery store once I get there to discover I forgot my list too.

I don't tire of looking at, analyzing, or making bags... regularly on the search for the perfect purse or pattern. Years ago I would buy a purse without a thought (inexpensive ones). I found myself changing purses all the time and still couldn't justify how many I had. So I purged but the collection began growing again. So I began buying and returning if it didn't satisfy. That got crazy and the kids were older so I said, "I'm not buying another purse... if I want a new one, I'll make it." My poor kids... they were taught patience by waiting while their crazy mama would nonchalantly (so I hope) follow some poor lady around until I got a good look at what appeared to be something different about her purse. I still do it once in a while... it's a wonder I'm not arrested.

So what's your favorite style of purse... or as Anita Renfroe says, your purse-onality (see app. 11:45)? I think I'm schizophrenic.

Revelation 2:25 But hold fast what you have till I come.

2009-11-26T07:06:00.001-05:00

Heavenly Father, on Thanksgiving Day
We bow our hearts to You and pray.
We give You thanks for all You've done
Especially for the gift of Jesus, Your Son.

For beauty in nature, Your glory we see
For joy and health, friends and family,
For daily provision, Your mercy and care
These are the blessings You graciously share.
So today we offer this response of praise
With a promise to follow You all of our days.

--Mary Fairchild

Colossians 4:2 Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving;

lonely no more

2009-11-25T06:44:00.001-05:00

I'm sure everyone has a lonely tool that gets ignored... there's quite a few that came with this "new" (older model) sewing machine. Wanting to be quick and precise, I thought I'd try the seam guide while sewing something round. I can't believe I've never used it before... it will be lonely no more!

Psalm 31:3 For You are my rock and my fortress; Therefore, for Your name’s sake, Lead me and guide me.

a moment on the soapbox

2009-11-23T16:18:00.000-05:00

The week is over, the classes were great. Research and science reveals that man-made is nowhere near how God designed us mothers to feed our babies! The NICU nurses were wonderful when the boys were born and had to go into ICU and if it wasn't for them (almost 18 years ago), I may not have even attempted breastfeeding. They were so encouraging and we tackled those incredible early challenges but once I went home, I was on my own. I lasted till a big (double) growth spurt kicked in... then I was lost because I just didn't understand and quit. With my daugher it was easy to begin but I sure didn't know what to do to keep going when she began growing quickly and there were TWO toddlers to keep up with! If you've grown up so that this post is odd to you because breastfeeding is so normal in your life ... feel blessed!! There are many of us who didn't have a clue. Compare it to homeschooling... it is so strange when I hear a parent speak of not being able to homeschool because it would drive them crazy to be with their children all day or they couldn't possibly teach their child correctly... huh?! What does that mean exactly? I know there are people much smarter than I am and there were times I felt completely crazy but we have 3 great kids close to finishing high school who are eager to go on learning in life... we were able and it was a part of what we considered to be our parenting responsibilites. I hear a lot of new moms say they aren't able to breastfeed... huh? Because, quite frankly, there are very few women who are truly unable to breastfeed... it's the way we are made. There are many of us who may need help understanding and everyone needs encouragement... but aren't able? A lot has been left behind in our advanced country when it comes to this God-given blessing (just think for a moment... our LORD was breastfed). I'm excited that things are happening to change the strange phenomenon that has happened in our country the past few generations and the thought that breastfeeding is the oddity is reversing. I know there are times when bottles and formula are necessary... this isn't about eliminating them.

This is about the thought behind the behavior and acceptance in regards to breastfeeding. Did you know in many places a breastfeeding Mom out at market will be given the choicest food at the best prices?? Talk about couponing! And in our country?... in many places even a discreetly breastfeeding Mom "at market" would get nothing but unsupporting looks while magazine covers and another woman in the next aisle are showing more breast than she is! Makes me absolutely crazy! Of course there's going to be notice, just as a person's hair and skin color is obvious and registered by our brain... a Mom publicly breastfeeding may be noticed. Many aren't because they've become so adept but the point is if you catch sight of something while Mom is breastfeeding and she's trying to be discreet... grant some grace and be supportive for goodness sake!!

It shouldn't be a shocker that baby is being fed at Mom's breast, it should be NORMAL. Now, that said... there may be a breastfeeding Mom who may actually enjoy provoking shock... and you can do just as you would to say... a walking tackle box... ignore them as best you can. BUT, even if the Mom is one who is going for shock instead of simply trying to feed her baby... it still shouldn't elicit the same kind of shock. When a young baby needs to be fed, the breastaurant needs to open.

Psalm 22:9 But You are He who took Me out of the womb; You made Me trust while on My mother’s breasts.

will there be a test?

2009-11-13T08:43:00.002-05:00

Ann gets my firsts when I sew up something new. I plan on putting some of these in my etsy shop eventually but this one is hers. I have a group of things I'm working on and plan on listing some vintage patterns I have and won't be using. I'm finding time again to etsy (yes, it seems to be a verb sometimes) and loving it... but the sewing, picture taking, etc. takes time. I'll be gone all next week so here's another week without doing anything etsy... but I've already gone these past months. Not complaining, just enjoying the recent gumption. It's just me going with a couple of other ladies for job purposes... an intense week for lactation consultant certification (officially). It's been a long time since I've had to "do school" and not sure my brain is up for testing! and I've never been away from the family for a week... yikes!

Psalm 86:11 Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name.

double duty

2009-11-12T07:08:00.000-05:00

Don't get lost in the colored circles.... look closely .... see the scored circle in the fabric? I recently heard of a Hera marker and when I looked it up I thought to make do with something already around the house... can you tell what I found? It's one of those cleaning tools that come with Pampered Chef stoneware. It worked rather nicely. I had this one set aside with my scrapbook papers for scoring and such and, yep... it certainly came in handy with fabric too. I'm sure it'll get more use with my sewing tools than it has with my scrapbooking tools. It could take the place of "finger pressing" too. I may buy the real thing eventually because of the handle but this is great for now!

Psalm 130:3 If You, LORD, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand?

a new Etsy shop

2009-11-10T07:44:00.002-05:00

Please allow me to introduce a new Etsy shop... Tulips Trunk !!

The owner is Triana... wife of one of our military men (a newly commissioned officer in the US Navy), mother of an adorable little boy, and .... my niece! Go show her some love, heart her shop if you etsy and even if you don't, you'll enjoy checking out her wonderful handmade items!

Proverbs 31:13 She seeks wool and flax, And willingly works with her hands.

Lazy Girl but so nice!

2009-11-07T07:09:00.001-05:00

I probably bought this "Wonder Wallet" pattern from Lazy Girl Designs a year ago or more and have just recently tried it. I don't even remember where ... JoAnn's? on-line? I had a gift card for a good friend's birthday and didn't just want to hand it to her so I thought to give the pattern a go and see how fast it worked up, I only had a couple of hours to work on it before meeting her. Turns out I didn't need a few hours. If you have sewing skills and a working machine, this pattern can be made with little time. A bit of fabric, button, and velcro (I prefer fusible) is all that's needed with a threaded machine and iron. The instructions come with a pattern you can copy and cut out or use the rotary cutting directions if you prefer. I've done it both ways and prefer rotary, it's quicker. The instructions are clear and easy to follow. You can use one fabric or up to 5 different fabrics if you're so inclined. To give you an idea of amount, you can make two wallets from one fat quarter (app 18" by 22" for non-quilters) so obviously not much fabric is needed! If you want to make a group of them, you can really have fun playing with fabric combinations and then matching a button. (I won't be selling these in my etsy store because of copyright laws but once I get some cute ones made up, want to have a give-away with a couple of these as a prize... idea brewing.)

My daughter picked out the pretty flower and red prints from my stash. The blue I chose just to use up the stash while "practicing" the pattern. ** Note... if you make more than one of these at a time, rotary cut them out, and then group by thread color for faster sewing.

Here's something else to keep in mind. The red ones turned out very pretty, no problem... the blue ones aren't bad but notice anything? The outside of the wallet is one piece that folds over from back to a front cover so a directional print is not suggested (the directions told me that but I thought I could work around it and I wanted to use up these fabrics for practice so I didn't listen. But now I can share my mistake!) When the lighthouse is upright on the back side, the ship is upside down on the cover... the same with the eagle. More info: 1. light quilting cottons are best, I can't see how you could use denim or upholstery fabrics with this pattern and it isn't suggested, just too thick. 2. use a fine point heavy duty needle (upholstery type) to tack on the button through the velcro fused onto the cover flap.

This is a fast, fun, and functional project to sew for yourself or to give as a little extra with those gift cards. It requires little time and expense but is quite satisfying to make. You can make up a batch to have on hand. My friend seemed to really like hers (I used a fun tropical print) and didn't even notice the Starbucks card inside at first. This is going to be a well used pattern around here!

Exodus 25:40 And see to it that you make them according to the pattern which was shown you on the mountain.

I'll take the stairs

2009-11-06T06:59:00.000-05:00

Luke 15:25 “Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing.

I can see!

2009-11-04T08:14:00.000-05:00

Our house has lighting issues and considering my eyesight is getting older too, there have been times I put off doing things simply because I couldn't see well enough. Have you seen these tru-color lamps and their claims in stores and magazines? whew... so expensive! Well, my mother-in-law got one and I had the chance to see for myself and you know what? It was great! a nice easy light and you really could see colors more "true" than in regular inside light. So I watched for sales and coupons and bought this particular one from OttLite at Michaels. I could use the clamp but I like the base since I move it around with me even though it takes up more space on my work table than the clamp would. I can see stitches and that tiny coupon print now! It's great! There are many sizes and styles to choose from... small ones, table, even floor sizes.

This picture was taken at my work table with overhead and sewing machine lights on (digital p/s camera shutter set at 1/100) about 9am just recently.

This one was taken just a moment later, same lighting and camera setting but with the OttLite turned on. The light doesn't make my work area hotter though the bulb does put out a little heat. The neck is very flexible and can be turned, lowered, highered, and twisted all kinds of ways.

I don't use the lamp if I'm just on the computer. It doesn't make a big difference to me in that type situation and I try to remember not to waste the bulb time because they are quite expensive on their own. But when sewing, looking at fabric colors, photos, couponing, reading, studying, or any type of hand and craft work, using it makes a HUGE difference and so much easier on my eyes. We're going to buy another sometime for living room reading.

Matthew 6:22 “The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light.

is your shoebox full yet?

2009-11-03T07:52:00.002-05:00

It's that time of year again!! I can't believe it's November already but we sure don't tire of this project. This past Sunday I was helping the gal setting up our church OCC display when someone from the regional headquarters came up to talk with her after service. A very sweet young lady was with her and as we were introduced, I was told she had spent 10 years in a Romanian orphanage, from 2 to 12 (she's now about 19 and has been adopted by an American family). She goes around speaking about how she met Jesus through receiving a shoebox. Though she wasn't there to speak about her experience, I was so blessed by just meeting her. If you're packing a box this year, don't forget the most important part... pray for that child! If you've never heard of the project, there are links below to find out more...

Samaritan's Purse

Operation Christmas Child

2 Corinthians 4:5 For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake.

no apology necessary

2009-11-02T08:52:00.000-05:00

At one point in my life I had thought to become a lawyer and even started working in that direction by obtaining a 4 year paralegal degree. But as often happens, life changes directions and I'm not even working as a paralegal. But studying for it encompassed many things I enjoy... research, writing, reading, law, etc.

When I started back to church and opened up my Bible again, it became important to study and learn things I hadn't while growing up in church... things I had questioned without receiving answers. I learned Bible stories but not lessons. Now, I know some questions just have no answers (from us) and I know some people won't even "receive" answers that are obvious. But there were some basic questions that had plagued me since childhood and was detrimental to my youthful walk with the Lord. But now I was in my 30's and it was the 90's... information was readily available and I was past feeling guilty for having questions.

Charlie Campbell is the director of the Always Be Ready Apologetics Ministry. I've had the opportunity to hear a couple of his talks, the last time just a few weeks ago at church while our pastor was teaching in Africa. Both times we came away built up and are still talking about the points he made. He just has a way of encouraging even the most faint hearted believer by simply reasoning through questions. There's a blog too.... Always Be Ready. This isn't a plug though there are resources on those sites to purchase.

This is simply a great place to begin some research if there are questions rattling around in your brain too.... there's no question too big for God.

John 8:32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

it's a facebook thing

2009-10-31T06:13:00.001-04:00

I spent some time recently on facebook. I've had the account for a year or more but didn't utilize it. The family started watching Lost on Netflix Play Now and since I have a hard time just sitting and watching, I needed something else to do. The show actually grabbed my attention so etsy and blogging was too much to focus on at the same time and I didn't have any hand stitching ready, so organizing digital photos sounded productive and figuring out facebook. Boy it really can draw you in! Touching base with family, seeing everyone's photos, the light jokes and conversation with local friends, people met blogging, and even people I haven't talked to since graduating high school 30 years ago... what's not to like? (Don't expect me to farm, war, or any of those type of games though... just not my thing.)

We finished the available LOST episodes, I didn't get all my photo organizing done and I didn't stop facebooking but instead, found myself looking first thing in the morning, as soon as I got home from work, before bed... it's SO time consuming for me because, wanting to catch the latest, I'll read all the way back in the newsfeed until I recognize the info. I realized I was doing the same thing with blogs... scrolling the reader back and back until I see familiar posts. No wonder I run out of time to post anything and worse... get any sewing done! I did work on photos (proof in 2005 pic of my kids above) but I was socializing more than organizing! Sounds like what happens when kids work on chores together! But it was fun!

Proverbs 27:19 As in water face reflects face, So a man’s heart reveals the man.

details, details

2009-10-30T05:56:00.001-04:00

How is it I can spend hours... hours!... seeing a pattern idea through and when it doesn't work out I start thinking on a new idea right away! I take a small notepad and pencil just about everywhere in case something comes to mind. It's tricky finding time here and there between this and that working the pattern out in fabric. It takes days to see it through only to find it's not what I wanted it to be. I don't know if I'm persistant or crazy and totally wasting my time. Maybe I should weed the garden instead.

Luke 18:1 Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart,

oh, here it goes again

2009-10-28T08:08:00.002-04:00

I know... I'm here, I'm gone... oop, there she is again... but briefly! Sorry! My etsy shop has suffered badly too... so much so I'm not even going to link up! But I'm slowly getting some time/groove back. (time groove? y'all know what I mean.) I think most everyone I'm blogly connected to has some kind of time issues. I'm really working on regular time with my etsy shop. I have yet to give it a good solid go. But it had to take a rear seat for a while. It almost got trunked!

Anyone know of good sites for blog tweaking? I'm not up for extensive research right now (free info please) but I want to change and spruce things up a bit so any suggestions are welcome, and thank you. I'm pretty sure I want to stay with 3 columns but I'd love things to look more updated.

Still couponing... I really do like it and it's helping not only in the pocketbook but also in the planning department. I'm shopping smarter athough I'm actually spending more than I need to because I'm coming under budget and my shelves are getting stocked well. Granted... it does require more time than I've ever spent in this domain area but it's blessing my family so I'll keep tweaking it too!

Psalm 47:5 God has gone up with a shout, The LORD with the sound of a trumpet.

drive careful!

2009-10-27T10:56:00.004-04:00

I can't help it, I'll still say it, but this is funny...

Mark 9:34 But they kept silent, for on the road they had disputed among themselves who would be the greatest.

see Jane coupon

2009-09-21T09:33:00.001-04:00

I'm just beginning but pretty much hooked. I love seeing how cheap I can be with grocery money these days. Yes, it's time consuming.... it can even be frustrating when I'm not careful to read the fine print ... but there's so much satisfaction in doing it. I'm in the learning curve right now so I hope to get quicker and better. I even sidelined some things to get it going but I think it's going to be worth it.

It all started when my daughter was visiting friends and during the time she was there they had some lessons from Coupon Queeny teaching, you guessed it... couponing. My 16 year old daughter came back excited and wanted to start right away. I've clipped coupons for years, saving a couple dollars here and there... but this was really kicking it up a notch! We made up a zippered notebook (I picked out a happy blue tropical flower one spotted at Walmart $10) with baseball card holders (about $15 worth) and separators (what homeschooler doesn't have these already!) to keep the coupons organized and easy to see. Started buying the Sunday (sometimes 2) and Wednesday papers to clip and study the sales, which fit neatly into the zippered notebook. It was initially time consuming, potentially another time eating project to keep up, and I wondered just how crazy was I?

So since I keep all our receipts and didn't have enough time put into this already, I brought out past grocery receipts and began to tally things up deciding to lump food, toiletries, and cleaning into the total. (This month I've decided to start adding in take out when it's done to replace a meal instead of family time recreation.) I had one very high month of app. $1300 with a low of app. $760 this year. August was my first full month couponing and my total was $530.91. I'm above that so far this month which only makes me want to try harder and slow down but I did get my freezer stocked a little which isn't so risky since hurricane season is winding down.

And there's my answer... I was initially overwhelmed when I started incooperating Fly Lady routines years ago but eventually found my workability level which has undergone adjustments over the years but I know it helped and still does. It'll be the same with this. I'll continue to learn tricks and time saving techniques that work for us. Soon I'll add some helpful coupon links to my sidebar, I've already signed up for some email and am "following" some couponing blogs which help in locating deals and on-line coupons but take time to go through.... balance!

It's already a plus for the budget. I find myself staying out of Sams and WalMart where my big spending tends to occur. I use coupons and sales to buy items in places I use to rarely go. Ann does this with me which is good learning for her. There are more stops to make but I fit them into the week on my home from work, I would be stopping for something anyway! I do plan my menus now based on what meat was on sale last week but I don't have a problem with that. And I don't have a problem with getting two tubes of toothpaste for 27 cents or a bottle of good shampoo for 25 cents either.

Deuteronomy 14:25 then you shall exchange it for money, take the money in your hand, and go to the place which the LORD your God chooses.

time out!

2009-09-18T07:15:00.001-04:00

I'm still around. What started out as a recess became a suspension... self-imposed but needed. I've accomplished a few things and reorganized some things with more to go. We'll see how etsy and blogging will fit in now. It's a real enjoyment personally but since it isn't a family priority it's up to me to find the right (as in correct) time to do it.

My job hours have increased but nothing lifted out of my home schedule... there goes more time... with a possibility of even more work hours. This is not a bad thing... I have a fulfilling job and I'm not complaining. But I know it means watching my time wasting even more if I want to continue with all these things.

We have 2 in their last high school/homeschool year and one just a year behind but she could actually finish sooner... time so flies!! They have full schedules themselves, with their lessons, church, and jobs. The youngest now has a job too, so the days of "clean up, clean up, everybody everywhere" in our home are basically over. I get happy when we get our meals together. They do their part, of course, but they have time crunches too. I just wish someone would tell the laundry and bathrooms to take a time out. As I'm running out the door I usually give a "hey, don't forget to... " directive and I'll pick up the slack later when they're at work. We don't hire out for house or yard or even bug killing... so the buck stops with us and our time. So when you see my dirty car... please give me a break ... at least for now ;)

There's just this need in my life right now to streamline... organize.... prioritize.... realize.... methodize... and not just for myself. My dear husband once told me when the kids were little and I was ready to pull my hair out because of all the things needing attention that he considered I had had a successful day when he got home from work and everyone was still intact. That was kidding, of course, but it helped. Our kids are close in age, we were far from family and friends. If we didn't do it, it didn't get done and that was just the way it was. Through those years I learned to do a lot without thinking much. These days are just as busy as those days but with less noise and little kid energy to keep up with so I can actually hear myself think. It's one thing to just get through busy days the best you can and it's another to get through them with purpose. I'm at a point where I can actualy choose ... we'll see.

Psalm 39:4 “LORD, make me to know my end, And what is the measure of my days, That I may know how frail I am.

Lucy says "Yummy!"

2009-08-19T21:25:00.007-04:00

Lucy's 1st birthday was last month and we got her a special treat from

Happy Tailz Treats

(notice Lucy's name on it). She has loved it and only has a little bit left! (and let me tell you... it smells good!)

Look at the sweet bow on her collar... her hair is too short for her to actually wear it but it's great on her collar.

James 3:18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

sweet home North Carolina

2009-08-18T11:11:00.023-04:00

I'm not giving up... but I'll never be as organized as I'd like to be. Even if I were completely on my own without living in a house full of other not so organized people (don't be mistaken... this is not even close to a wish of mine... I'm just saying) I wouldn't be as organized as I'd like. A bit closer after this past month of working hard at it but then, after just a week of being away... well, let's just say my temperment is such that I could really give in to chocolate decadence if I had any in the house right now. Being that I don't, I'll indulge in posting a few pictures of our wonderful NC family visit.... and then start "doing" again!

Mom's backporch

One of the sweet garden areas she has. (You can tell she likes peaceful sitting areas.)

Mom grew up and lives again in Duplin County, NC which is getting serious about their wine industry.

Mom loves her hummingbirds and they love her hospitality.

Grandmother's grandchildren all together.

We visited my mom's sister and her husband where they're building their

new home in Sneads Ferry... beautiful.

My mom and sister sharing a funny story. We do love to laugh.
That stretch of inlet behind Ann goes directly out to the Atlantic. **lucky**

We weren't sure if he was hurt or just learning to fly.

Yes, 17 and will still capture a snake just because they can. Don't worry, the baby bird had been taken back to where we think the nest was.

(More pictures here.)

Okay now... forward ho! (I am so still wanting that chocolate!)

Jude 1:21 keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.

Happy Birthday!

2009-08-15T22:10:00.007-04:00

To my sister... my friend!

I love you! mwah!!

Proverbs 7:4 Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call understanding your nearest kin,

I Did and Still Do!

2009-07-26T07:26:00.007-04:00

(Love, honor, and cherish)

Today is our 29th anniversary!

1 Corinthians 7:3 Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband.

speaking of birthdays...

2009-07-03T09:02:00.019-04:00

Check these out from SHEteam:

God's Glory Photography

Cards & Moore by Terri

Harvest Moon by Hand

4 lil monkeys!

Oh Bananas

These were found in etsy shops that hearted my shop in June:

Dr. Felt Good

Happy Trailz Treats

Sew Love Fabrics

Benzie Bee's Place

(found by searching "sheteam birthday" and "birthday" in etsy store)

Proverbs 16:20 He who heeds the word wisely will find good, And whoever trusts in the LORD, happy is he.

"Cool! let's go!" (WW almost)

2009-07-01T07:33:00.007-04:00

Acts 27:15 So when the ship was caught, and could not head into the wind, we let her drive.

w wed (almost) pics

2009-06-17T07:55:00.000-04:00

Ephesians 4:16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.

new listing

2009-06-12T07:21:00.002-04:00

SHEteam had a fun challenge this month (patriotic) that got me moving to get this bag completed for my shop. We have these challenges every month, this is the first one I've participated in but hopefully not the last!

Proverbs 16:11 Honest weights and scales are the LORD’s; All the weights in the bag are His work.

forward ho

2009-06-08T19:52:00.006-04:00

Anyone else feel like some days are like a maze or puzzle as you go about

trying to sort out everything that needs to be done and maintain perspective?

2 Samuel 22:37 You enlarged my path under me; So my feet did not slip.

it's a Hoopla!!!

2009-06-06T19:49:00.009-04:00

A friend is having a very cool sale in her etsy shops
to celebrate her etsy-versary.
The sale goes from Monday/ 6-8 to Friday/ 6-12.

Check out the details on her blog....

Get Ready Set GO

AND

her shops...

Get Ready Set GO

Get Ready Set Clutch

Hope you have a Jim Dandy of a etsy-versary week, Rach!!

Psalm 86:5 For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, And abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You.

so cute!

2009-06-04T06:32:00.000-04:00

A SHEteam mate from down under...

check out Earthslings!

Psalm 8:2 Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have ordained strength,

(almost W Wed)

2009-06-03T06:13:00.000-04:00

Job 38:27 To satisfy the desolate waste, And cause to spring forth the growth of tender grass?

2009-06-02T19:53:00.000-04:00

I've been so remote from working with my etsy and blog and such that seeing my broach in a front page treasury was very encouraging!

Thank-you Jess James Jake!!

Job 38:22 “Have you entered the treasury of snow, Or have you seen the treasury of hail,

we aren't still at St. Augustine...

2009-05-25T22:09:00.009-04:00

in fact, Mom is back home over a week now. The visit was wonderful and St. Augustine was beautiful. Her trip almost seems timed before all the rainy days we've had the past week here in Florida.

Then we had a busy week with school and work schedules picking back up plus some catching up thrown in. Had some sewing to do for a wedding this past week-end... both bride and groom are friends, Kristen and Whit... and may God give them as beautiful a life together as their wedding was beautiful. I had fun making the flower girl basket for the wedding. Ann wanted a dress for the occasion so why not... we made that too. I didn't have anything so I took an old style shift dress, cut it in half and made a skirt and shirt... it worked. So I had a week full of sewing... fun! though the deadline was a bit stressfull... not fun! Now I have to concentrate on everyone's school deadlines and credit acceptance. Then I want to sew some more!

Some nieces and nephews (on Rod's side) visited over the week-end with their spouses and children. Oh my goodness... we are great-uncle and great-aunt x 10 now (my best count)!! Rod has 3 older brothers and sisters and they have 8 children... there are 7 years between the last of those children before our three came along. There are just a couple who haven't started having their own families other than ours... who aren't even close.

Great-Grandma and great-grandchild....

Psalm 102:12 But You, O LORD, shall endure forever, And the remembrance of Your name to all generations.

guess where we are? (W Wed)

2009-05-13T07:56:00.002-04:00

Matthew 13:2 And great multitudes were gathered together to Him, so that He got into a boat and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore.

laying low

2009-05-07T22:06:00.007-04:00

Not really a lot going on but busy with the everyday while Mom is here. It's been great just visiting and catching up so far. I've taken very little time for posting, checking blogs, and etsy this week. One thing we have been doing is trying to get all my older 8mm tapes onto DVD so Mom can take my sister's old recorder back with her. I have lots of footage of the kids when they were little. Not so much the past few years!

Here's Lucy with Mom in front of the house. Mom loves walks and is taking Lucy on them... Lucy isn't running the other way... yet. She's use to hopping and bopping about the backyard but not leash walking very much... she comes back and just flops down on the cool tiles for quite a while.

This is one of our tomatoes just getting started...

I sure hope it makes it all the way to the table!

Job 8:19 “ Behold, this is the joy of His way, And out of the earth others will grow.

oofta!

2009-05-01T07:28:00.008-04:00

Have just gone through a busy period of time with no visible accomplishments! I know this happens to everyone, so you know how frustrating that can be... I'm hoping to start changing that today.

Mom is coming to spend some time with us and I'm excited... flying in Monday and staying for almost 2 weeks! She's just hanging out with us as we go about things. It's gonna be unusual in that Rod has time off work but the kids and I don't! (Though I am hoping to take her and Ann to St. Augustine for a day... shh!)

I've been hankering to browse etsy and do another "story" but I haven't even had time to catch treasuries lately so I'll just quickly post a pretty treasury that features Ann's and my shops :-)

Thanks Shady Side Farm!

Revelation 22: 2 In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.

Florida's dry- let's be careful! (W Wed-almost)

2009-04-29T08:38:00.004-04:00

1 Kings 19:12 and after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice.

ninja cat

2009-04-24T07:38:00.001-04:00

Job 5:13 He catches the wise in their own craftiness, And the counsel of the cunning comes quickly upon them.

(WWed) just trying to help

2009-04-22T07:16:00.003-04:00

Ecclesiastes 4: 9 Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor.

want some bubbly?

2009-04-20T17:06:00.002-04:00

SOAP, that is! Fellow SHE-team member Lynn from MapleHillFarm.etsy.com has a sale happening on her "oops" soaps. She'll explain the "oops" right here. These are finest ingredient handmade natural soaps for 1/2 the price!

(They look good enough to eat!)

Job 9:30 If I wash myself with snow water, And cleanse my hands with soap,

random etsy search #2

2009-04-16T23:30:00.000-04:00

A random shades of green search through the etsy shops who've hearted my shop...

Vintage Sundress ($23.99) from MsMod.etsy.com

Mother's Day Special ($15) from decoratethediva.etsy.com

Vintage Tote Bag ($59.95) from GetReadySetGO.etsy.com

Teal Green Orchid Pin ($35) from lisaburkin.etsy.com

Green summer bag with suitable cosmetic pouch ($25) from LadyLina.etsy.com

Job 39:8 The range of the mountains is his pasture, And he searches after every green thing.

(W Wed)

2009-04-15T00:52:00.001-04:00

Song of Solomon 2:1 I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys.

new links

2009-04-14T06:40:00.004-04:00

Just taking a moment to point out a few new sidebar links I've added lately...

to the right is the "How to Buy on Etsy" link, that's pretty straight forward...

it connects to the official how-to on etsy so there's no mistakes.

A little further down on the right are a couple of new links for the etsy team I recently joined called "Schooling at Home Etsians"... SHE-team. I'm blessed with quite a few local friends who etsy, are incredibly supportive, and we go to the same church. I didn't really see myself joining a team but this one fit :) and it's nice getting to know them.

On the left I recently added a new link under ministry called Spacious Living. Even though I like to post a lot of pretty and fun things connected to etsy, this is about spacious living in the eternal prospective... much more lasting...great study!

Further down on the left (if you're still with me at this point) are some new links that will connect to some things my kids are doing. Other than a few highlights, I know I don't go into a lot of detail about them. We homeschool, all three are active with family, church, school, jobs, and their pursuits. My sons are 17 and my daughter is almost 16... old enough to tell it themselves if they want but young enough I still like to show my Mom card once in a while! Anyway, my daughter has her own etsy shop and blog. Both boys are active in a band and one son is learning film and graphic arts. The links are to their sites should you be interested.

Isaiah 54:13 All your children shall be taught by the LORD, And great shall be the peace of your children.

custom made swimwear

2009-04-13T08:45:00.000-04:00

Here's a busy SHE team member who has taken the frustration out of swimwear shopping! and you know what I mean. These are suits meant to endure real water activities while looking great and not worrying about where those seams are disappearing to.

racer style from Sew Necessary

Her etsy shop, sewnecessary.etsy.com will show all the different styles, fabrics, and her ordering policies. "Convo" (that would be converse, question, communicate) her with any additional questions concerning her great swimsuits.

customize your swimsuit from Sew Necessary

FYI: There are contact links in each etsy shop that allows contact with the owner, a general contact link on the main page of each shop to the left under "info," and on each item's individual page is a contact link to the owner that will highlight that particular item.

John 4:14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”

He didn't stay here...He is risen!

2009-04-10T06:10:00.003-04:00

A cross motion graphic that Jake created from a picture taken at Riverside Park last year.

Calvary Chapel Vero Beach is having our Easter in the Park again this year. So if you're near Vero Beach, please come join us at Riverside Park at 10:00 am April 12th for this awesome celebration!

John 11:25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.

vacation dreamin'

2009-04-09T11:24:00.007-04:00

hand painted pouch from Yoursewsweet.etsy.com

I think I would love Hawaii, not positive because I've not been there, but it looks beautiful and I would, at least, love to visit one day! I've put up pictures of my plumerias and I've made coasters in Hawaiian prints. I even have two longboards hanging in my bedroom because we only have so much space and everyone (but me) has their own surfboard or two... or more.

gift pouch from Yoursewsweet.etsy.com

So it just stands to reason that when Shana hearted my shop and I visited her shop, Yoursewsweet.etsy.com,

it instantly became a hit with me! I can't resist showing some pictures of her items made with these gorgeous Hawaiian prints! And the flowers in her photos... happy, happy!

personals pouch from Yoursewsweet.etsy.com

book thong from Yoursewsweet.etsy.com

Aloha Shana!

Song of Solomon 1:14 My beloved is to me a cluster of henna blooms In the vineyards of En Gedi.

Wordless Wednesday (almost)

2009-04-08T06:12:00.002-04:00

Mark 15:17 ....and they twisted a crown of thorns, put it on His head,

good clean fun!

2009-04-07T10:45:00.001-04:00

What do these two pictures have in common? The makings of a fun etsy site! Yes, I know I said "clean" in the post title and the picture from Mary Poppins shows some seriously not clean fun but... Rebecca, from thevintagecloset.etsy.com, hit upon a standout idea to add some special character to her etsy shop.

She's taken her great vintage items and paired them with lyrics and movies from the past to make shopping a blast at her place. See if you can figure out the movie from the listing names before seeing the movie pictures added in the individual listings... it's "truly" fun.

And for our listening pleasure, she's added music from these delightful movies to her blog.

So... which is your favorite?

Luke 15:25 “Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing.

don't you love a spacious place?

2009-04-06T20:44:00.006-04:00

I happen to like down to earth Bible studies, the kind that dives deep into the Word but keeps things straight forward and laced with humor, recognizing there isn't one of us who is "there" yet... and bolding sharing that Someone has taken care of that for us.

You too? I know of just a study being shared by Lori from Tree Climbing Adventures called

Spacious Living.

In her own words, "I believe the key to boundless living lies in an intimate relationship with the Lord; a relationship that is built on a knowledge of Him as revealed through Holy Scripture."

Check it out... (the link will also be kept in my left sidebar under ministry)

Psalm 18:19 He also brought me out into a broad place; He delivered me because He delighted in me.

frontpage 4-4-09

2009-04-06T07:14:00.001-04:00

woo-hoo!

for a closet look at this brooch, see here.

(sidenote: I need new glasses... closet??)

Matthew 14:18 He said, “Bring them here to Me.”

don't miss it!

2009-04-04T23:11:00.006-04:00

Lily Vintage Inspired Earrings from Vintage Inspired Jewelry

I don't remember if I saw these earrings on Kathi's blog first, in a treasury, or in her etsy shop but aren't they incredibly romantic? And wait till you see all the different colors she makes them in (and her other jewelry pieces too). And guess what... she's having a SPECIAL!!

Until April 16th (or after) she's having a buy 3 get 1 free sale! There's also an upcoming giveaway April 9th, so watch her blog for more details about that AND she has a giveaway coming up with one of the top 100 bridal blogs on April 13th. Woo-hoo Kathi!

Revelation 21:2 Then I, John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

more button lovin'

2009-04-02T09:36:00.005-04:00

These were a present from a beautiful friend, she knows how much I love buttons and what not. She's visiting with her lovely daughter down south right now.

Hope you guys are having a blessed visit!!

I won! (I didn't do anything but make a comment but) I won some buttons from LittleRedCottage.etsy.com! Thank you Michelle! (and yes, Jane Austen is wonderful... I was just at a P & P party for the 5 hour movie though I didn't get to stay for the whole viewing. But I have the DVD set myself and watch it as often as I can but it was great to watch some of it with friends.)

Philippians 3:14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

get those stains out!

2009-03-31T07:50:00.002-04:00

Matthew 5:46 For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?

many treasuries

2009-03-30T07:33:00.005-04:00

Surfs Up button bracelet at littleMissBeady.etsy.com

It's rarely bare but sometimes my "current treasuries" (look right, scroll up a bit) section is a long list, like now! Go check them out! There are hundreds, sometimes close to a thousand current treasury lists on etsy from both the main treasury list and the treasury west list.

So how do I pick the ones on my particular current list?

I enjoy looking through the treasury lists, it's like looking through favorite catalogs, but could just keep adding and adding to my section. That would be repetitive...so what goes into my section are treasuries in which an item from my shop or Ann's shop (that sounds selfish but it is my blog!)

is being featured

if it's a treasury curated by Ann, myself, or a close friend (both in heart and proximity) who are etsians (shops are all listed in the sidebar) and this is my shout out to them!

Things have certainly been easier since I was told about Craftopolis. Just put in the name of a shop and the site does the searching for you... that's a lot of minutes saved! Not that we're in that many treasuries but it's two searches as opposed to clicking page after page of the treasury lists to not miss a gold or silver star signed in under two different names...whew!

Another helpful search is the Heart-o-matic though I don't know as I quite understand it all yet ;)

Job 38:22 “Have you entered the treasury of snow, Or have you seen the treasury of hail,

saving face

2009-03-27T07:02:00.001-04:00

face scrubbies from MyissaG.etsycom

Ann wanted some face scrubbies she could call her own. These are soft, sweet, and came packaged with a nice cloth keeper. A great purchase and something to consider for the teen girl in your life or yourself.

Genesis 32:30 So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, "It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared."

new listings

2009-03-26T07:33:00.000-04:00

though I still haven't listed the new brooch on my etsy yet, I will,

along with new coasters sets... eventually.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven:

tennis anyone?

2009-03-25T17:32:00.002-04:00

sometimes I look through the shops that heart my etsy shop and find some of the cutest things!

found at jessjamesjake.etsy.com

Genesis 1:25 God made the wild animals according to their kinds,

etsy purchase

2009-03-25T08:28:00.001-04:00

so I was in the mood for some new buttons and purchased them through a shop I ran across on etsy of course. LittleRedCottage.etsy.com sent my purchase packaged up very well, thank you! and with a little extra (the ribbon, thank you again!) I went ahead and purchased two button packs to save on shipping and I knew I'd be back anyway ;) They came in a nice little bag and were all wrapped up to travel nicely. I spread them out to show what a goodly amount comes in a bag. That's two orders there, Breakwater Button Pack (blues) and Surfboard Button Pack (blues and orange)... and yes, the names jumped out at me I must admit! Don't you just love buttons! There's one that has an "a" (from center, down towards the right) so I'll have to figure out something cute for Ann.

Job 28:15 It cannot be purchased for gold, Nor can silver be weighed for its price.

a penguin's story

2009-03-22T23:57:00.001-04:00

Pendleton the Penguin (from HomespunChic.etsy.com) began a walkabout one early spring day. The sun had just began to shine bright again and he wanted to stretch his legs. Since it was still cold, he needed something warm to wear so he donned a pair of

bright red longies (from gerongirls.etsy.com) which were just right and looked quite smart with his pretty black and white colors. Pendleton had a hot cup of coffee with him and wanted to keep it warm so he put it in his

handy dandy drink cozy (from recycledjeans.etsy.com). That was just the ticket! He walked quickly and was quite a distance from home when he realized he was in a place he had never been before. He almost turned around and started back when he heard some pretty singing and upon investigation saw

pretty Miss Brenna (from Dragonflyshollow.etsy.com) enjoying the beautiful day too. She didn't see him at first and he decided to make himself known. He hu-humped a couple of times before she noticed him. They smiled, then he introduced himself. He thought to share his coffee with her but she declined and said she was on her way home with a birthday present for her mother. "What did you get her," Pendleton asked and she showed him a

pretty dangly bracelet (from littleMissBeady.etsy.com) that looked so fun to wear! Miss Brenna asked Pendleton if he would like to walk home with her and have a piece of birthday cake but he noticed it was getting late and said he should be heading back home. They said goodbye and as he left, she began singing her song again. When he was too far away to hear her voice any longer, he realized he still remembered her song so he started singing it too. It made him feel closer to his new friend and he somehow knew they definitely would meet again one day.

(Story made possible by SHE-team etsy members.)

1 Corinthians 16:14 Do everything in love.

spring has sprung!

2009-03-20T08:45:00.012-04:00

Let's do some "window" shopping!

(gathered from some fav'ed shops)

pillow from KreatedbyKelly.etsy.com

cuff bracelet from Waterrose.etsy.com

vintage dress from theVINTAGEdress.etsy.com

pendant from creativelytangled.etsy.com

vintage table topper from simplysuzula.etsy.com

Proverbs 4:23 Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.

sweet doings

2009-03-19T08:19:00.004-04:00

Rebecca from theVintagecloset.etsy.com put together this sweeeet treasury for Ann in honor of her second sale at littlemissbeady.etsy.com this week! woo-hoo! (I need to discover her secret ;) I also need to figure out how to take a good screen shot... mine seem to never be quite right.) After helping her the first time with the process of sending the packages and all, Ann was busy on this one before I hardly knew she had another sale! That daughter of mine is quite independent (in the bestests ways)!

Psalm 104:34 May my meditation be sweet to Him; I will be glad in the LORD.

what a morning!

2009-03-16T07:51:00.007-04:00

There was a strong push the past weeks to get the building ready for our planned first Sunday. There were so many people who put in HOURS of time with great joy! I know everyone was excited. The weather was great and things went into place but what I really loved was a sense of home... not because of the place but because of the people. It is wonderful having a single place that looks great but the sense of belonging was being with that part of the body of Christ that you regularly worship with in that new building. I heard so many parents telling their children we were at the same "church" just in a different place... that was great. Some of the little ones were wary with the new diggs but even little ones will see the benefits eventually! I heard the first service was packed and Rod said the parking areas overflowed. I didn't even get into the first service to take pictures but I'm sure someone did. Rod and I stayed for second service but we were enjoying the worship and I didn't think to take pics during.

I did take some early ....

Final sweep of the courtyard before the expected crowd. Pastor Jim announced that the courtyard and Agape House will be open anytime someone is present at the church for quiet time or Bible study with Bibles, teachings, worship music, and coffee available.

Early ministry crowd gathering for prayer before services begin.

Worship team practice. The santuary chairs didn't make it in time so we have to rent chairs until they're ready.

Pastor Jim

oh my... Ann and I were with the little ones, this was their worship time (2 to 5/6 yo) and to have them all in one room singing together was such a joy. Ann was brought to tears during "this little light of mine..." and the kids singing LOUD! The kids go from here back to their rooms. This area is also an overflow or common room. There's seating and a TV available for live viewing of the service so families are welcome to be here if they'd prefer to stay together or someone is in a transition stage. Another area for that is the Agape House and courtyard (weather permitting). It gives parents and children a chance to check out the happenings.

After service everyone headed to the courtyard for refreshments. There were smiles everywhere and that sense of belonging. It was so nice being in a pretty clean space. There was a sense of stability and I'm sure everyone who had a hand in getting the building ready felt some satisfaction. But I tell you... the focus wasn't about that building but on the Lord, and that's one of the many reasons I love attending CCVB.

1 Corinthians 3:9 For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building.

a little catch up

2009-03-13T07:18:00.001-04:00

Ann's (my daughter) shop made it's first sale, woo-hoo!! I'm so excited for her and it's fun to see her excitement. The sold item is actually a lanyard my sister made (I keep telling her to open her own shop!) I have been calling our etsy shops (and blogs) our "hobby" because of their place in our daily/weekly lives, but it is rewarding to actually have sales! My cousin told me to call it my "cottage industry," instead of hobby which fits BUT sometimes it's hard to find time to be "industrious" in this area of my cottage!

Times and seasons, times and seasons....

While at the new building this week I had a chance to see the courtyard going in... beautiful! These pictures are showing all the dust that comes along with this work, the dove will be cut out and bricked with a contrasting brick too. This Sunday is our first service! Last night was our last night tearing down at the school, it's all very exciting!

Calvary Chapel Vero Beach officially has a new address. Another woo-hoo!

Song of Solomon 2: 12 Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land.

one of those...

2009-03-11T09:02:00.004-04:00

... periods of time when priorities hit (it's all good) and blogging/etsy is on a back burner! I have some etsy things going on in the background though and will get some time hopefully sooner, not later!

But my mother-in-law sent an e-mail I have to recognize! I'm not sure if it's a personal experience, something sent in by a local reader, or what... and I'm not taking the time (like I usually do) to scope it because it's the sentiment that is important. Whether we homeschool, use public or private education, or somewhere in between for whatever reason, here's one to the good teachers everywhere:

In the local paper under Education:

Teacher's Job Description Reads Like A Prayer Roll

After being interviewed by the school administration, the prospective teacher said: "Let me see if I've got this right.

"You want me to go into that room with all those kids, correct their disruptive behavior, observe them for signs of abuse, monitor their dress habits, censor their t-shirt messages and instill in them a love for learning.

"You want me to check their backbacks for weapons, wage war on drugs and sexually transmitted diseases, and raise their sense of self-esteem and personal pride.

"You want me to teach them patriotism and good citizenship, sportsmenship and fair play, and how to register to vote, balance a checkbook and apply for a job.

"You want me to check their heads for lice, recognize signs of anti-social behavior, and make sure that they all pass the final exams.

"You also want me to provide them with an equal education regardless of their handicaps, and communicate regularly with their parents in English, Spanish, or other language, by letter, telephone, newsletter, and report card.

"You want me to do this with a piece of chalk, a blackboard, a bullitin board, a few books, a big smile, and a starting salary that qualifies me for foodstamps.

"You want me to do all this and then tell me.... I can't pray?"

Barbara Nitardy

Vero Beach

Now, I'm sure this was probably generally written by someone to get a point across and though it can be picked apart depending on personal experience, where a child attends school and the resources available, and the fact that no one can stop you from praying... period... it does recognize the expectations we have put on our school systems and how insane those expectations are apart from God.

Just my two cents.

Psalm 119:12 Praise be to you, O LORD; teach me your decrees.

Ghana video

2009-03-05T07:55:00.003-05:00

Jake put some audio/video together from the Ghana trip:

Isaiah 55:11 So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.

front page treasury

2009-03-04T09:05:00.006-05:00

This front page treasury was put together by fisheye who has two shops: fisheye.etsy.com where she upcycles and repurposes accessories and clothing beautifully! (I would love to eventually do some of this myself!) and fishlegs.etsy.com where she sells vintage items.

Both are great stores! Thanks for including me!

I got an excited call on Monday from Rebecca about being on the front page (and an email from Rachel... you guys are SO sweet, I would have missed it!) We worked a bit together to figure out how to get a screen shot but I'm not sure if I did it correctly for a clear picture. (Hopefully I'll figure it out sooner or later!) Here's another look at my brooch. Now if you're loving the saucer it's resting on... here are more like mine and a bowl with the pattern at LadyFran.etsy.com.

Thinking of shopping at etsy but don't because of not being sure what all is involved.. (signing up, making an account, etc)?
Here's the down-low of the procedure:
http://www.etsy.com/help_guide_checkout.php
not bad at all!
I'll put the link in my sidebar somewhere.

Matthew 7:10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?

CCVB progress report

2009-03-02T16:28:00.009-05:00

CCVB is coming long!!... went by last Saturday to take a few pictures. When we were "taking down" after services on Sunday, some things were taken over to the new building instead of into the weekly storage... wow... the official move is beginning!

this use to be the main entrance but now is actually the backside of the santuary

immediate right doors are the offices, further down to the stairway and breezeway are classrooms, etc., up and down

can't wait to see this area finished... nursery, toddlers, etc!

the courtyard in between the 3 buildings will be paving stones

kitchen area in the Agape House

towards the stage area in the santuary

the entrance area to the santuary

Agape House

santuary - from the stage area towards the entrance. The room window on the right is the nursing mom's room, which will be private. For families who prefer to be together or when babies/toddlers want to stay with a family member, there will be live audio outside in the courtyard and live audio/video in the Agape House. Very nice choices.

There was a wonderful service on Friday night before the carpet was put in. We were invited to come and write Bible verses on the concrete and such... I didn't go but here are some praise reports on some good friends blogs:

The Williams family , the blunt tribe , and Huddy and I.

It's getting exciting!

Isaiah 28:16 So this is what the Sovereign LORD says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed.

new brooch

2009-02-27T10:42:00.006-05:00

This is a fun brooch that can be worn in lots of ways, you can pin it anywhere on your clothing or accessories (belt, handbags, hats) or you can hang it on a ribbon, cord, or favorite chain and wear it as a necklace. It can even be used as a decoration on a wreath, hanging ribbon, present, etc. It's just fun to do and not hard. I was planning on working up a pattern of sorts to post here with the picture in case you wanted to make them, but it's been a crazy week and I didn't get to that ... I'll still try sometime. I have another of this design in my etsy shop already, along with a couple different other brooch designs. They all have the option of pinning or hanging.

My favorite part about this brooch? The button!.... it's vintage from my good friend Gail. If you like vintage buttons too, you can find some at LadyFran.etsy.com along with other vintage items.

Philippians 1:14Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.

real quick....

2009-02-24T08:09:00.005-05:00

... but I wanted to say thank you! (I'm organizing a few things so I get caught up and forgetful.)

Thanks!! Rebecca (the Vintage blog) for highlighting my la-la-daisy brooch and your sweet words!! It's fun to see an item from your store in a pretty group like this. (Rebecca is known for her good taste and putting together treasuries on etsy.) It has been such a blessing to have her encouragement, as an etsyprenuer ;) (love that) and even more as a friend. (She has Pixie Prints, The Vintage Dress, and the The Vintage Closet... their links are on my sidebar.)

And thank you! Nicole (lillyella, uniquely you) for adding my Blooming Tweed brooch to your group! What talent you have... your jewelry shop is incredible, your blog gorgeous! That was exciting! She has lots of neat contests y'all ... go check them out on her blog!

1 Chronicles 29:5 the gold for things of gold and the silver for things of silver, and for all kinds of work to be done by the hands of craftsmen. Who then is willing to consecrate himself this day to the LORD?”

my challenge...

2009-02-21T11:03:00.000-05:00

... should I continue to accept it... Sam brought back this one and 3 more almost as dirty. They're in their 3rd wash cycle... we'll see. I'm thinking yard shirts.

Isaiah 57:20 But the wicked are like the troubled sea, When it cannot rest, Whose waters cast up mire and dirt.

Proximidade award

2009-02-21T10:01:00.001-05:00

I don't remember how I came upon Elizabeth's blog, Agape Bridal Creations, maybe it was by way of her etsy shop, Heavenly Creations and Craft (AgapeBridal.etsy.com), but I'm sure it was because my eyes spotted "agape" which drew my attention. To see she's in the Netherlands was neat since Ann was born there. I even looked up her location to see how close she is to the town Ann was born. I enjoyed reading more about you, Elizabeth, in your post response (the noises part was hilarious, we love sound effects too). I'm honored you passed it this way.

6 (more) random things:

I haven't showered yet this morning!
that's a minus because there's a lot I should accomplish today (notice I didn't say shall) that includes being out in the public (and Publix... har-har).
I'm listening to a leaky faucet that needs my husband's attention, the parts finally came in yesterday!
the yard needs my attention. I love it once I get to it but always dread getting to it so I usually put it off! But I saw a friend's pretty garden yesterday that really put me in the mood!
I don't mind laundry any more because of a new fangled washer and dryer (though I still get behind).
that came to mind because I heard the finishing bell telling me to change a load!

Proximidade is described as follows:

'This blog invests and believes in PROXIMITY -nearness in space, time and relationships. These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in prizes for self-aggrandizement! Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers!' This blog award should be sent to your favorite six bloggers and they, in turn should forward to eight of their favorites. You should include the text for Proximidade (above) in your announcement blog.

Here are the rules of this tag:

link to the person who tagged you,
post the rules on your blog,
write six random things about yourself,
tag six people at the end of your post and link to them,
let each person know they've been tagged. (I don't usually do this step ONLY because that gives them space in case they don't really want to which I understand completely!)

That said:

Ephesians 4:15 but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ—

a few Ghana trip photos...

2009-02-18T08:02:00.022-05:00

Sam is home safe and sound from Ghana and he says he'd go back. He enjoyed it... you know, he found joy in going and being there. We haven't taken a lot of time to just sit and talk... he got home Saturday night, church Sunday, started back to school and work Monday, etc... "regular" life returning. I find myself asking him questions out of the blue or he'll tell us things randomly. I've looked at some of his pictures but not all his video. God worked in ways expected and unexpected. They were blessed to witness many people turning to Jesus. A couple of the guys have been sick upon return but it seems to be the flu (yucky air travel), not anything contracted while there. They're getting better.

Sam took a lot of pictures (surprised/pleased me). The trip is a story he woud have to be the one to tell but here's some picture highlights.

heading out:

paths taken:

sharing the Gospel and ministry on those paths:

making friends along the way:

seeing sights:

being the sights seen:

the CC Bible training center in Ghana:

and returning home (layover in Frankfurt, Germany):

1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

6 x 6 x 6 tag

2009-02-14T08:17:00.008-05:00

Been busy and forgot about this post... sorry Melissa!

Full disclosure: my sixth folder didn't have a sixth photo so I went to #1 in folder 7. It was kinda boring so I did a quick heart cut-out, still corny but whatever, I got a little practice in photoshop.

It's a picture of a sewing oops... I make a few!

Melissa from MyIssaG's Crochet tagged me with this fun tag.
(I love photos! and may I add hers are very nice!)

For those who want to do this tag the steps are simple (love that too)!
post the 6th picture in your 6th photo folder and tag 6 people.

Prairie Cottage Rose
Elizabeth at Agape Bridal Creations
Rebecca at the Vintage blog
Swee Ling at Swiedebie
rkdsign88
Sherri from Matter of Fact

Matthew 22:29 Jesus answered and said to them, “You are mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God.

rub a dub-dub

2009-02-14T08:04:00.000-05:00

The name of this etsy shop alone got my attention... too funny!

Soap from Don't Be A Dirtbag Soaps. (I like that it says Florida oranges.)

**Sam gets home from Ghana today. I heard they didn't get to shower before heading back... he could probably use this ;) I don't care!! I can't wait to see him!**

Malachi 3:2 “But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He is like a refiner’s fire And like launderers’ soap.

hamburger helps

2009-02-13T07:38:00.000-05:00

All of a sudden the kids are old enough, making their own money, and they're here at the house schooling while I'm at work. They're looking for lunch and since I'm not here to physically get out the leftovers for them, they begin calling out for pizza...too much. So I begin to look for tasty alternatives.

Warm a little olive oil in a large skillet, brown one side of one of those Sam's Club family size hamburger package (which is probably about 2 to 2 1/2 lbs). Sprinkle on a bit of soy sauce while it's cooking. Once brown, stir in a can of italian style tomatoes, any brand, and about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of italian salad dressing, any brand. I've used the creamy, regular, and zesty, we prefer the zesty. That's it... easy. It never goes to waste. The kids will use it in tacos, wraps with lettuce and such, or hamburger buns (kinda like a sloppy joe), or fix themselves a taco salad. It just seems to appeal to their tastes enough they'll make the effort to fix something with it on their own. I'm gonna try it with cut-up chicken thigh or breast too. Every once in a while I'll come home and still see a Little Caesar's box where someone has driven out for a $5 pizza...

Psalm 59:15 They wander up and down for food, And howl if they are not satisfied.

front page treasury

2009-02-12T22:02:00.006-05:00

I just found out this treasury hit the front page.... woo-hoo!! Why, you ask? Why, those Hawaiian cozy coasters, that's why! The treasury was curated by Kodomo... thank-you for the exposure on the front page, Kodomo! She put this one together as a challege called "Love to a Stranger." The challenge was to put a treasury together only using sellers you had never used before. Treasuries are a lot of fun to put together and having one of the front page is a big deal as is being in a treasury hitting the front page.

(It's taken me try after try to get a screenshot of a full treasury.

I'm sure there's an easy way but I've yet to figure it out!)

Deuteronomy 10:19 Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.

heart and soul

2009-02-11T13:42:00.006-05:00

I was watching the new listings for a moment on the etsy front page and spotted

these gorgeous soaps from LoveLeeSoaps.

Now imagine relaxing in a warm tub with these soaps

while contemplating these words,

wonderfully done by Red Letter Words ...

Who needs Calgon?

Matthew 10:31 Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.

there's that personality disorder again!

2009-02-10T17:07:00.002-05:00

This is Jake up a tree when he was about 9 yrs old.

I called "what are you gonna do now?"

His response, "I don't know, I'm just having fun"... too cute.

I've been feeling a bit like that... (of course he got down fine.)

What initially got me even noticing blogs were the crafty blogs... oh, did they hook me, still do.... they are where I can really get happily lost in space. They're how I first discovered etsy, whoa... I had always wanted an outlet like this! I had a plan in my head to sew, sew, sew some more, get an etsy store going and then begin a blog about it with pictures and how-tos to help promote my etsy shop and just have fun, like the ones I'd been looking at. But the blog came first bringing wonderful blogging friendships, some time later came the etsy shop... filling ever so slowly with my sewing.

It was suggested and I've seriously considered, separating into two separate blogs - family/life and craft/etsy - I understand why but I can't... at least not for now. It's enough trying to keep up with "all these things" I'm doing on-line...not to mention the really important off-line things! I don't want to stop reading the blogs I enjoy reading and part of the fun is commenting! (Sometimes I worry I comment too much.)

Even with this eclectic personality disorder, there are some things I can only handle singularly... so one blog it stays. So consider this a heads up - posts could be anything; crafts, thoughts, finds, news, a plug for my etsy shop, pictures, recipes... who knows... and consider this an upfront apology for being all over the board, so to speak... I only hope it isn't overly boring for everyone! Of course, there is one thing that holds it all together and one thing I will continue to seek above all else...

to please God and seek His kingdom first.

2 Corinthians 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.

calling young designers

2009-02-09T07:08:00.003-05:00

Swiedebie, from the Netherlands (where Ann was born) has a cute contest going and there's still time to enter. Click the link for the details... I've been reading your blogs and KNOW everyone has wonderfully creative children out there!

Details of this cutie monster found here.

1 Corinthians 13: 1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.

an old favorite

2009-02-08T07:16:00.003-05:00

Lord of the Dance by Steven Curtis Chapman

Psalm 107:9 For He satisfies the longing soul, And fills the hungry soul with goodness.

random etsy search - Valentine's Day

2009-02-06T09:00:00.001-05:00

since there's still time... these from a "Valentine's Day" search from the etsy main page:

This from Pearl Stationery

This from That Jewelry Girl

this from Delight Design

The next items popped up in a "valentine" search on the main shop page

of teamcalvary members (see sidebar).

these from The Vintage Closet

this from Lady Fran Creations

Psalm 73:26 My flesh and my heart fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Ghana update: I actually spoke to Sam just a little while ago, the team is doing well... villagers are beginning a walk with Jesus!

bit of news

2009-02-05T08:19:00.008-05:00

News has been passed that the Ghana team has arrived and on their way hut to hut with the gospel and also showing the Jesus film. They flew into Accra (on the coast) and then up to Tamale on a smaller plane, then took off in jeeps. I hear they may be venturing out anywhere from 3 to 6 drive hours.

(image from here)

We haven't spoken to Sam but we didn't really expect to. At this point, we may not hear from anyone until they begin the trip home next week. I read a blogging friend's post this morning with such clarity. It doesn't seem that many years ago that I made my children hold onto me while we were crossing the street...it wasn't that many years ago! I still am known to put my arm in front of them if I come to a quick stop and they're in the passenger seat even though these days it's more likely the other way around. I will still place a restraining hand on their arm if we're walking in traffic but, more than likely, will get a return tug forward instead. When they were tiny, I considered it disobedience and stopped it quick... until these days, understanding it's a "come on Mom, we can make it" and we always do. As much as I care for their welfare, knowing He cares for them even more, no matter where they are, eases the stomach clenches and what-ifs of this trip like nothing else ever could.

He is their protector and defender.

Matthew 28:20 ...and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

browsing treasuries

2009-02-03T10:05:00.004-05:00

I saw these sweet little dishes from a shop called Say Your Piece found while browsing treasuries.

Aren't they adorable?

Great for Valentine's Day!

Sweet for adding to a wedding present.
Birthday or anytime type present.

They're just adorable and useful.

The first thing I check out in the etsy treasuries are familiar curator (shop owner) names because I link current treasuries from the CCVB etsy gals (or a treasury someone has put me in). Then it's the titles that catch my attention. If there's time, I'll just randomly look. That's how I clicked on this treasury and then the dish caught my eye.

Matthew 19:6 So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”

a random etsy search

2009-01-30T09:00:00.003-05:00

Can you guess what's on my mind?

(Sam leaving for Ghana on Monday.)

This neat necklace is from XO Handworks.

(this was a random pick from a random etsy search)

Romans 13:10 Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.