tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67517559282121385252023-11-16T05:35:09.906-06:00Journey of a Vintage Girl...tag along as we peek at yesterday and find joy in today!Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.comBlogger90125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-50904192280682650592016-06-14T19:24:00.001-05:002016-06-14T19:24:26.130-05:00A Treasured Gift<span style="font-size: large;">Today is Flag Day... and my birthday. But today instead of showing you stirring pictures of flags blowing in the breeze, I want to share one of my favorite things. I'm thinking of my Mom today, and looking at the things she gave to me.</span> <span style="font-size: large;">Of course there are all the intangible things, but she also gifted me with several items that had a special meaning to her, and now they are very special to me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But this figurine is my very favorite, perhaps because there is a story that goes with it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was born in Chicago and we lived there the first several years of my life. She told me how she and I took the streetcar to a shop that she liked. This girl reading a book figurine had caught her eye on an earlier visit, and on this day she had the $5 to purchase it. As I was too young to have an actual memory of this, I love visualizing this trip and how thrilled she must have been to be able to buy something pretty for herself. As a book lover, it has additional meaning to me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">She has graced many different places in our home, but you will always find her reading her book in one nook or another.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><span style="font-size: large;">But don't despair, I haven't abandoned the flag totally. Happy Flag Day!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Journey on,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-88266555478478124422016-04-29T14:30:00.002-05:002016-04-29T14:30:57.804-05:00Losing a Loved One to Dementia<span style="font-size: large;">A year ago on a Thursday afternoon my lovely mother passed away. This week I've been remembering her final days with a certain sadness. But, in actuality, we had been losing her for many years. Little by little and piece by piece she slipped away. It was such a gradual thing that there is no one day that I can point to and say, "this is when she left us." I remember how her memory loss frightened her so. In the early stages she was well aware of what was happening to her, and that made it even more painful to watch.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">To those of you who are living in this difficult situation right now, I just want to give you a ((hug))! It is so difficult, frightening, and painfully sad to be the caregiver for someone with dementia - especially when it is someone you love. Feelings of frustration, inadequacy and guilt are a constant companion. I wish that I had some wise words to share with those of you who are dealing with this, but I don't think there are any pat answers for how to cope. All I know as I reflect back is how important it is to just love them, and do whatever it is that will give them some momentary pleasure or peace (even though it will be forgotten minutes later). I found this poem a while back, and wish to share it here. I'm sorry it's a little fuzzy - or maybe that's because of the tears in my eyes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Journey on,</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-10149276537991548472016-04-21T10:45:00.000-05:002016-04-21T10:45:57.916-05:00Spring Please!I have always said that Fall is my favorite season, but I'm realizing that Spring is a very close second. I have been anxiously awaiting green trees, flowering bushes and plants bursting through the soil gifting us with their beautiful blooms! The only problem is that I am not a gardener. I have no flowering bushes, nor do I have perennials or bulbs planted. So, thankfully, others around me do, and viewing and enjoying is free to all.<br />
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For many years I've celebrated the coming of Spring with a visit to a greenhouse or two to see and smell the beauty of the season. These are two pages I made for my scrapbook last year when my friend, Linda, and I visited the Canton Greenhouse and Landscape Garden Center in Sioux Falls. <br />
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I was trying out the camera on my new iPhone 6, and was very pleased with the results.<br />
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So, thank you to all of you wonderful gardeners out there who make our world a more beautiful place!</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Journey on,</div>
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Gail</div>
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<br />Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-38023690218151257582016-03-10T12:48:00.000-06:002016-03-10T12:48:02.347-06:00Easter Tables<span style="font-size: large;">I found some tables set for Easter that were so pretty I need to share. I was fortunate to be in Minneapolis this week, and it's always fun to visit the stores that we don't have access to here. This is one of the tables in Williams & Sonoma. The plates featured chicks or bunnies.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Their second table had a bunny as well, and they chose a soft blue napkin to blend with the background of the plate. I was tempted by the bunny centerpiece with the basket front and back, but left him there for someone else.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I then walked down the hallway to Pottery Barn to see what they had done. Bunnies seem to be the way to go as both of their tables featured them as well. Notice that the flatware used in this first setting is a mixture of patterns. It's hard to tell in the picture, but the napkin ring also has a bunny standing tall on it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And this last one was my favorite. I felt that the pretty flowers around it gave it more of a springy feel rather than just Easter, although I guess any of them could be used throughout the Spring.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Wouldn't it be fun to have special dishes for each season and/or event? I would have trouble investing in such specific patterns, and I certainly don't have room to store them, but really enjoy seeing the pretty table settings! Hope you've enjoyed coming along on my shopping trip, and have been inspired to set a pretty table for your Easter gathering.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Journey on,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-7071189980228960382016-02-19T12:06:00.002-06:002016-02-19T12:06:18.075-06:00On Becoming "That" GenerationOne of my mother's dear friends passed away this week. I'm sure she is the guest of honor at the coffee party that Mom is graciously hosting in her honor. Pour the coffee and cut the pie - just a sliver please.<br />
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So very many of "that" generation, my parent's generation, are gone now. And as each one slips away we all edge up a little bit on the ladder. I'm really not sure how I feel about being "old." I used to jokingly say I was on the edge of old. Now, instead of just dipping my toes in the water, I think perhaps I'm wading in the shallow end. I actually don't feel old, however I sense that I am perceived as old. It's mirrored back to me in the eyes of the carry-out boy at the grocery store, and in the extra effort made to hold doors open for me... and then there's all the "ma'am" references.<br />
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Through the years I've always pretty much ignored what age I am. But as those numbers get bigger this body I live in doesn't let me ignore it as easily. So, the question becomes how to be the best older person I can be, and I have been thinking about this very subject a lot lately.<br />
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As in all phases of life there is no instruction manual other than the observations we have made of those who have travelled this road before us. So I have compiled my own manual...<br />
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*maintain friendships with younger women who provide a different perspective on life<br />
*stay abreast of current affairs to give me a better understanding of the world around me<br />
*work to understand and use new technology in order to stay relevant<br />
*find new interests and learn new skills so that my days will be full and interesting<br />
*be open to new experiences and friendships for there's no telling what might await<br />
*treasure old friends with whom I share a common history as those connections are precious<br />
*exercise my brain with games and puzzles using the many apps available on my iPad<br />
*spend time with children as their curiosity and enthusiasm is contagious<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNKoSkL7mxsS-C07mK0dpQCYT6M2aFtbqN8bo394r70NMRAW6i-MgkiQ8A_qCKqRH89C0NmdqKzjCAYfvkenO-zMZCpOlrX06G-gbp1_MCHFAHxFtFYHv5saO5qhYpmE1PfthXZa33Ciw/s1600/2015-02-13+08.54.04.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNKoSkL7mxsS-C07mK0dpQCYT6M2aFtbqN8bo394r70NMRAW6i-MgkiQ8A_qCKqRH89C0NmdqKzjCAYfvkenO-zMZCpOlrX06G-gbp1_MCHFAHxFtFYHv5saO5qhYpmE1PfthXZa33Ciw/s400/2015-02-13+08.54.04.jpg.jpg" width="330" /></a></div>
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There are certainly other, more personal goals on my list, and no doubt your manual would read differently. I am a constant work in progress when it comes to the following traits which I feel are important: be kind - listen well - speak gently.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkx_HEgO3z2Jbo1ye3XldmZaVbFlp_aypR6eEm73v5pnpY078aMc8W8udvLL2oKuuTX2yFTDDx-cgJIDD-90Bs0uThV6qW8QTZaQjCGew4HAd-8LNs7U0i4ApATVueDbUzfcCDTD-Eaqc/s1600/2014-09-08+10.12.34.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkx_HEgO3z2Jbo1ye3XldmZaVbFlp_aypR6eEm73v5pnpY078aMc8W8udvLL2oKuuTX2yFTDDx-cgJIDD-90Bs0uThV6qW8QTZaQjCGew4HAd-8LNs7U0i4ApATVueDbUzfcCDTD-Eaqc/s400/2014-09-08+10.12.34.jpg.jpg" width="335" /></a></div>
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I don't know where you are on your journey. If you are still young, watch and learn from the older women in your life that you admire. And if, like me, you are entering or are in your older, mature years keep in mind that they're watching!.</div>
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Until next time...<br />
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Journey on,<br />
Gail<br />
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<br />Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-72635994639041449122016-02-14T10:54:00.000-06:002016-02-14T10:54:00.462-06:00A Valentine Remembrance<span style="font-size: large;">I'm going to take a few minutes this morning to re-tell a Valentine story. Years ago we had two drug stores in our community. The Corner Drug Store was owned by Swede Thorson, and Bruehler Drug was owned by George and Charlie Bruehler. The weeks before Valentine's Day a very aggressive campaign between the two stores took place, each trying to outsell the other. They were peddling beautifully decorated boxes of Valentine candy... all sizes and colors, with flowers and lace and ribbons. They were lovely to behold. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie4kAjaWQ7nl4DWRYjahanhTOMUrulzG-_LqoUdbCZLxQ38alMFWE3EyckJGO05FruGmxipe2zSGGP5VqKmPriQaTEyZBr1hh28oKJXpR6RGyuZY5Hb8ibgXLCCLA74yOamVal75x9dyg/s1600/2016-02-14+10.03.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie4kAjaWQ7nl4DWRYjahanhTOMUrulzG-_LqoUdbCZLxQ38alMFWE3EyckJGO05FruGmxipe2zSGGP5VqKmPriQaTEyZBr1hh28oKJXpR6RGyuZY5Hb8ibgXLCCLA74yOamVal75x9dyg/s400/2016-02-14+10.03.57.jpg" width="330" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">No man was safe walking down the street or even getting out of their car in front of either store. They would surely be approached (attacked) by Swede and/or Charlie to buy a box for their sweetheart. Perhaps a little guilt was involved to get them to buy the biggest, most elaborate box. There was many a lady in our community/area who benefited from this friendly competition! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think of these gentlemen each year as this day rolls around. It's a sweet memory of days gone by.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-72245930624700245972016-02-09T10:47:00.001-06:002016-02-09T10:47:48.218-06:00Almost Gives Me Whiplash!This weekend was spent mingling with the future as we were surrounded by some of our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Most of the activity centered around the six little people, who had a marvelous time being together.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQ72mt-JUJdnMGTFFIge-8KBWihTZmlSXlEROxKLmxurSMx5aMoiK2dlDWgayZzYEaX0LfFSyDuRkDls6YaZ6flGtJ8GsXpLTYNrxxHsvkgfKPgDs0-M3xGZ_Gq6FIies4xae06eBzWU/s1600/2016-02-08+16.17.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQ72mt-JUJdnMGTFFIge-8KBWihTZmlSXlEROxKLmxurSMx5aMoiK2dlDWgayZzYEaX0LfFSyDuRkDls6YaZ6flGtJ8GsXpLTYNrxxHsvkgfKPgDs0-M3xGZ_Gq6FIies4xae06eBzWU/s400/2016-02-08+16.17.26.jpg" width="302" /></a></div>
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There was a lot of swimming, plenty of food was eaten and I'm told there was a card game that went into the wee hours.<br />
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And most exciting... we learned that the great-grandchild that will be joining us in June is going to be another Little Miss!<br />
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Looking at these beautiful little people, one can't help but feel great excitement about who they will become and what amazing things they will accomplish. The future is bright!<br />
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But we no sooner returned home and I received a nudge to turn around and delve into the past. I love putting together the old pictures and stories in a way that those who come after us will find interesting and informative. And so, I will renew my work on my family history, and I look forward to having someone else to work with on this project. We both have different information and talents to bring to our collaboration.<br />
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The future - the past - all while trying to make the most of the present... it's enough to give a girl whiplash! <br />
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Till next time...<br />
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Blessings,<br />
GailGailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-60725297179318567272016-02-02T09:22:00.002-06:002016-02-02T09:22:38.198-06:00New to Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Right in the middle of Sioux Falls, tucked in the Park Ridge Shopping Mall, is a treasure that I was totally unaware of. Don't you just love it when you discover new things?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix8faXVvZlw5xRfMS1nUF22OS3oac6s151NZWSGrxyQ7A8QuZJ3r3w1sZiCHGNdYN4kfI2z4IRYwqGe9WX9DGrB42-HgJkeU0FMIVQrRHYvN7R41ab0ALAJk9MhqABqYt9ZmCN-AF4MFM/s1600/2016-01-29+13.10.19.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix8faXVvZlw5xRfMS1nUF22OS3oac6s151NZWSGrxyQ7A8QuZJ3r3w1sZiCHGNdYN4kfI2z4IRYwqGe9WX9DGrB42-HgJkeU0FMIVQrRHYvN7R41ab0ALAJk9MhqABqYt9ZmCN-AF4MFM/s400/2016-01-29+13.10.19.jpg.jpg" width="372" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This little shop is filled with used books and vintage treasures. And if you don't see what you're looking for right away, there is more downstairs.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrgwpADcryCah5b18s42EwrcOKCAMmzy3x71IbrpRHF3u-WXbJ23YtGn7LtVKhTdc_p7zZlZp1EvAIiho531WKsnm2ttIJhw-faiv9utkpFBEuA8qO7uvf6W9-ftcXIySS9RBcC8bCAJA/s1600/2016-01-29+13.00.45.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrgwpADcryCah5b18s42EwrcOKCAMmzy3x71IbrpRHF3u-WXbJ23YtGn7LtVKhTdc_p7zZlZp1EvAIiho531WKsnm2ttIJhw-faiv9utkpFBEuA8qO7uvf6W9-ftcXIySS9RBcC8bCAJA/s400/2016-01-29+13.00.45.jpg.jpg" width="276" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you are in the area, I would encourage you to stop in. I found it to be a very cozy and charming atmosphere. What a fun place to just browse through all the different categories.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05vr7LXNzFSc10B4CWoPhH8bYWCUBCLVGLFwE6_bJrHoyAWz-_HwP6AbRMHGfICRJJtBv-gztfEclBpU7zhwh5T_22XyhlfG1zbIt5d1R32OCHC0VLwt6hXM74hl17HzcTdkYZfyCfm0/s1600/2016-01-29+13.06.33.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05vr7LXNzFSc10B4CWoPhH8bYWCUBCLVGLFwE6_bJrHoyAWz-_HwP6AbRMHGfICRJJtBv-gztfEclBpU7zhwh5T_22XyhlfG1zbIt5d1R32OCHC0VLwt6hXM74hl17HzcTdkYZfyCfm0/s400/2016-01-29+13.06.33.jpg.jpg" width="287" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was intrigued by these Lennon Sisters paper dolls that were in perfect condition. The dolls were a heavy cardboard, and the clothes were waiting for someone to cut them out. So tempted! But who would I find to play paper dolls with me?</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPsLfzRa_fMEPdJkOcV3RyMXL0o8jTk-yRmdb3JlLI40DeaSFWYfl674WQQxCNwKFlNK3fj3yyqSI74AisGNn7QwNudhoUIUptvJ99R9miSXWwKrRW2ZsksUN0RKl_tkIFmAXjuTWIxk/s1600/2016-01-29+13.06.12.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPsLfzRa_fMEPdJkOcV3RyMXL0o8jTk-yRmdb3JlLI40DeaSFWYfl674WQQxCNwKFlNK3fj3yyqSI74AisGNn7QwNudhoUIUptvJ99R9miSXWwKrRW2ZsksUN0RKl_tkIFmAXjuTWIxk/s400/2016-01-29+13.06.12.jpg.jpg" width="243" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The second stop that was 'new to me' was the Queen City Bakery in downtown Sioux Falls. My friend and I decided we needed a treat before heading home, and this was a wonderful stop.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenhcMylbrhCNDRJiJXpwWebNG5AJZi-b0WOHyduHeVosaMvkSixYL5s-WAqYHekpchCCQePARgb5N8TFhA0VPdpbvX4reyexjVHjaMab80FLqBrch09ufEEILfA7t9rWHpg-WDfytfXs/s1600/2016-01-29+15.26.46.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenhcMylbrhCNDRJiJXpwWebNG5AJZi-b0WOHyduHeVosaMvkSixYL5s-WAqYHekpchCCQePARgb5N8TFhA0VPdpbvX4reyexjVHjaMab80FLqBrch09ufEEILfA7t9rWHpg-WDfytfXs/s400/2016-01-29+15.26.46.jpg.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I chose a lemon lime bar that was perfect - a little bit tart and not too sweet. And they made me an amaretto latte to go with it. So good!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVo1pq-ei74EsH6g87hp0JVvamkhOFzpqu_2-PRl4OcjR9S9mXZ7jdy-YIFnvSzdUrys3Bh4dRWhwyCoYsh-1c75qcD1S58VFPYELEN1gAZsKNp7ElJvMZn3ZydQ-vma-Nsb8sRlKkYA/s1600/2016-01-29+15.05.43.jpg.jpg+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVo1pq-ei74EsH6g87hp0JVvamkhOFzpqu_2-PRl4OcjR9S9mXZ7jdy-YIFnvSzdUrys3Bh4dRWhwyCoYsh-1c75qcD1S58VFPYELEN1gAZsKNp7ElJvMZn3ZydQ-vma-Nsb8sRlKkYA/s400/2016-01-29+15.05.43.jpg.jpg+%25281%2529.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But if that doesn't appeal to you, there are lots of both sweet and savory choices and hot and cold beverages. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'll definitely be going back! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
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Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-36235744539567195782016-01-26T12:03:00.000-06:002016-01-26T12:03:29.313-06:00A Simple Soup Supper<span style="font-size: large;">We are lovers of soups - all kinds. And Winter and soup just seem to go together. They warm and nourish us when the temperatures outside are frigid.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For the most part, it isn't necessary to follow a recipe to make a delicious soup. For this one, I started with some ham that was in the freezer from Christmas and used half a box each of chicken broth and vegetable broth. Then just added frozen peas, green beans, corn and carrots and chopped some fresh cabbage. It all depends what I happen to have on hand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I added a biscuit, and called it supper! Schwan's has wonderful biscuits, and the best part is that, because they are frozen, you can simply bake the number you need. I have always made my own, but end up with too many, so this is the perfect solution.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I like to have a seasonal vignette on the corner of our table - it keeps it from getting piled with 'stuff,' and it's pleasant to look at. This season after Christmas is always hard. I decided on putting together some blue and white dishes, and added a touch of yellow to remind us that Spring comes next!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
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<br />Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-20373204693712462512016-01-20T09:40:00.000-06:002016-01-20T09:40:04.618-06:00Mystery at the Ranch... And It's Done!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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it was Spring of 2014 when I signed up to participate in a Mystery Quilt sponsored by Always Your Design quilt shop in Dell Rapids and The Dutch Rose of Sioux Falls. This is a quilt that is sewn not knowing what the final product will look like. I thought it sounded like fun. We were given guidelines about choosing fabrics to use and told how much was needed. So I made my choices with a certain recipient in mind and I was ready to make this quilt that was called Mystery at The Ranch.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOacs49hw5aVXuFXhJheakuP0J3YbDFLx2y6Mu4C5Jct2O_6f9f5_17jW5kWkCdDunfOvgZ6ykiXBjft731sQndxxmc_mDxr6uyLmsR0_nNjKrJzUlZ7SXzDTLjP9TVPM5SJP1w7fFiEM/s1600/2015-04-02+23.46.03+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOacs49hw5aVXuFXhJheakuP0J3YbDFLx2y6Mu4C5Jct2O_6f9f5_17jW5kWkCdDunfOvgZ6ykiXBjft731sQndxxmc_mDxr6uyLmsR0_nNjKrJzUlZ7SXzDTLjP9TVPM5SJP1w7fFiEM/s400/2015-04-02+23.46.03+-+Copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Each week brought directions for another step in the construction process. It was in the first week when all the cutting took place that I became a bit concerned. There were going to be a lot of triangles to deal with - 392, but who's counting! If you've done any quilting you know that means one side is on the bias, which can stretch, and each triangle has three points that are supposed to meet up perfectly at the seams. In other words triangles can be tricky and should be sewn precisely. Oh boy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM9RDiNmMNosNHr_8sMpKYOURfEnhQgxlEbauvD5sd2MGC3AYZsG_IW6mGzldLjTHZrT8miZr3KiuHtz2bEDSxVUJmES9j-daVtb0Zz1FPklgCLpXhhyphenhyphen8RT2vQZ5f9Q2ZDE5E8juNubbM/s1600/2014-04-09+13.38.23.jpg+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM9RDiNmMNosNHr_8sMpKYOURfEnhQgxlEbauvD5sd2MGC3AYZsG_IW6mGzldLjTHZrT8miZr3KiuHtz2bEDSxVUJmES9j-daVtb0Zz1FPklgCLpXhhyphenhyphen8RT2vQZ5f9Q2ZDE5E8juNubbM/s400/2014-04-09+13.38.23.jpg+-+Copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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So I tackled it. I cut strips, sewed strips together and cut again. Slowly the pieces combined to become an interesting combination of colors and patterns. <br />
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And then it came to a halt. I received the final directions, saw the final outcome, was tired of dealing with triangle points, and lost interest. So it was tucked away until last summer when I decided I wanted to finish it, I needed to finish it.<br />
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I made the decision not to worry about a point getting lost in a seam, and just enjoyed sewing away, joining the blocks with sashing strips and adding the borders. I chose a plain flannel for the backing and had it quilted with a flower pattern using a variegated thread on the back, so the back is quite interesting as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8OBw6x8VvkoTAVZUBmgPTGE3-anJNZdzoGy4ji0IB3Mm59kw6Oqpsfn5LFAwhZJwr5yhHorOoPtlHmSrgYWXUMqiJjuFExs_yK_SmsSLGsm2_82hCfkfWY3tUhFqFhkRTWBdAfIVKvj8/s1600/2016-01-06+09.10.43+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8OBw6x8VvkoTAVZUBmgPTGE3-anJNZdzoGy4ji0IB3Mm59kw6Oqpsfn5LFAwhZJwr5yhHorOoPtlHmSrgYWXUMqiJjuFExs_yK_SmsSLGsm2_82hCfkfWY3tUhFqFhkRTWBdAfIVKvj8/s400/2016-01-06+09.10.43+-+Copy.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
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I'm pleased with the final outcome and my Granddaughter loved it - a quilt that was promised to her long ago. Now I'm about finished with her brother's, which he has been waiting for even longer! Then I have fabric for a couple other projects just for me.<br />
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Till next time...<br />
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Blessings,<br />
Gail<br />
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PS: Did I mention there were 392 triangles? Never again!<br />
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<br />Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-91199478775002023772016-01-12T11:45:00.003-06:002016-01-12T11:45:36.052-06:00What now?Packing away the Christmas decorations always leaves a rather bare feeling to the rooms. The lights have been unplugged and the sparkle has been tucked away. What now? I brought back all my 'regular stuff,' but also left out a few things that will carry me through this winter season.<br />
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My chenille snowmen and snowman garland are favorites of mine and have been with me for many years. I remember buying them at a little bath shop in the Park Ridge Mall in Sioux Falls while shopping with Mom and my Aunt June. I think I might remember it so clearly because purchasing them was really a splurge at the time. So they will bring a smile to my face through these cold days.<br />
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Pine cones and a faux evergreen stem tucked in a treadle sewing machine cabinet drawer are certainly appropriate for winter. I find so many used for these drawers, and this one is so pretty!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbTeoDO0oBv9wTDHZlTlpg0QEuWWU6CurndOj-JwFSIZSPjYgvBILoRp7iiz0kmtOAcDxcsPDRVb5CqOFBJsIVhKEW4VQvkp7s6nt9x_3PMl9_twKo5eGIM95UxLhV571urmrw19otQE/s1600/2016-01-10+11.14.53.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbTeoDO0oBv9wTDHZlTlpg0QEuWWU6CurndOj-JwFSIZSPjYgvBILoRp7iiz0kmtOAcDxcsPDRVb5CqOFBJsIVhKEW4VQvkp7s6nt9x_3PMl9_twKo5eGIM95UxLhV571urmrw19otQE/s400/2016-01-10+11.14.53.jpg.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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These two silver deer are holding their heads high in our hutch for now. They have a little glimmer to them. They came home with me from The Cottage a few years ago.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTE9uKI3lWitTDmN9SmSY2_7yzo5AnyhPADWhI8J9i0nIyYExORR5zXzWqYcf9rCfsxRrqK1ZXcQSwuy6DTj5iD1WYUvoxN4fz-oXetPz9OfryMBcE7yL1EVc8o-Ii8vXLlPIPQJX1RT4/s1600/2016-01-12+10.05.34.jpg+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTE9uKI3lWitTDmN9SmSY2_7yzo5AnyhPADWhI8J9i0nIyYExORR5zXzWqYcf9rCfsxRrqK1ZXcQSwuy6DTj5iD1WYUvoxN4fz-oXetPz9OfryMBcE7yL1EVc8o-Ii8vXLlPIPQJX1RT4/s400/2016-01-12+10.05.34.jpg+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And finally, a single pine cone sits atop a new decorating book and a new-to-me stool. I have long wanted to put a pine bench in front of our couch to serve as a coffee table. But no matter how many times I found one and planned how to decorate it, the truth is I simply don't have room for a coffee table. So, I've found the next best thing - this cute little stool. It is tucked in front of the couch, but if we need more seating, it can easily be moved aside. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJL_Pzmbfb96AkjCbRihLcruKidIT5nbeuTzK_JEWb_ri-n7ywfaqGe0E3WV5tT7AZDTqxJ1SzS-G5j8bnAlurGOnjVwcZN_8Nym8nTjIVUNQ0A6tJgqt71DAgUSi5pZ_9MkZEMlbb47o/s1600/2016-01-12+10.04.56.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJL_Pzmbfb96AkjCbRihLcruKidIT5nbeuTzK_JEWb_ri-n7ywfaqGe0E3WV5tT7AZDTqxJ1SzS-G5j8bnAlurGOnjVwcZN_8Nym8nTjIVUNQ0A6tJgqt71DAgUSi5pZ_9MkZEMlbb47o/s400/2016-01-12+10.04.56.jpg.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
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It seems that new seasons bring with them the desire to change things up - at' least that's how I feel. So for now, this is my winter look. I think I might just make a cup of hot chocolate and browse through that book.<br />
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Till next time....<br />
Blessings,<br />
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Gail<br />
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<br />Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-62197569331629378472016-01-05T12:51:00.000-06:002016-01-05T12:51:01.223-06:00Christmas Dolls<span style="font-size: large;">Remember as a kid when we returned to school after Christmas, and the question on everybody's lips was "What did you get for Christmas?" Even though I only have one picture to attest to it, for most years as a little girl I think my answer was that I had received a doll.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYlutTEytQOnyqQ4ow1ikBHGYrlFAvIf3OFoEvo1ThuJuRi9Zfu8zvZzXZD-pZyS8glG3YsN6ZjvsQZgdWhAyFKadmr59nNf6CgT8pehykavPUj-kq6mr6KgM1pNi5XAEVX7L223934sg/s1600/Gail.Doll.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYlutTEytQOnyqQ4ow1ikBHGYrlFAvIf3OFoEvo1ThuJuRi9Zfu8zvZzXZD-pZyS8glG3YsN6ZjvsQZgdWhAyFKadmr59nNf6CgT8pehykavPUj-kq6mr6KgM1pNi5XAEVX7L223934sg/s400/Gail.Doll.jpg.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I still have the doll in that picture, and she is still wearing her peach dress and bonnet, although it is a little droopy.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxl8o2Tlr0UJcTc5Z3jpq_xOiPrui0vRHVndvJ6qApBlmUT2Xoo99xGizWt7V1cnAI9fA-y2GeA-AXGWwxxTm1U-Kn1MtYptzdcjHg5fsHGSKAPuffS_nBeZCWD0X9EkjocgWNtXV5fXs/s1600/2016-01-05+08.08.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxl8o2Tlr0UJcTc5Z3jpq_xOiPrui0vRHVndvJ6qApBlmUT2Xoo99xGizWt7V1cnAI9fA-y2GeA-AXGWwxxTm1U-Kn1MtYptzdcjHg5fsHGSKAPuffS_nBeZCWD0X9EkjocgWNtXV5fXs/s400/2016-01-05+08.08.26.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The second doll that I still have is bit fancier. She is wearing a dress that my mom made for her. I have her original pinafore dress, but it is so faded that she prefers not to wear it. Both of these ladies have 'had some work done.'</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UNH_NXM4d2qQjiWEShfwph9dfxukXBeWxJLJGKkhtaJXHySn3UY0zYLUtNTGYMSlMvy6jLo7K2wYEYpyzMgATEwuljeLns8Jw58hW76lfU3zddZR780-d716JDzMkJ_B09olg0U-XT4/s1600/2016-01-05+08.06.58.jpg+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UNH_NXM4d2qQjiWEShfwph9dfxukXBeWxJLJGKkhtaJXHySn3UY0zYLUtNTGYMSlMvy6jLo7K2wYEYpyzMgATEwuljeLns8Jw58hW76lfU3zddZR780-d716JDzMkJ_B09olg0U-XT4/s320/2016-01-05+08.06.58.jpg+-+Copy.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A third doll was given to me when I was a little older, not necessarily to play with. She came with fabric and patterns so that I could learn to sew for her. Some of those early attempts are tucked away - not really photo worthy, but they were the beginning of a lot of garment sewing that would follow. This little lady will walk with you if you hold her arm and move her just right. She is wearing her original dress.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEityDmQDE9Sys_4rEPgeXDXE3qPdFhF5N2wUO4RUpI5_g7l5V3p5tqdNajFhcafhqDrzm3EGNb9viyEv87NEs7pFDrQea-4FU_NMtC7lz9_K3thvL_gZo9hnEMzgJcUONumEZCDsmes6vY/s1600/2016-01-05+08.07.29.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEityDmQDE9Sys_4rEPgeXDXE3qPdFhF5N2wUO4RUpI5_g7l5V3p5tqdNajFhcafhqDrzm3EGNb9viyEv87NEs7pFDrQea-4FU_NMtC7lz9_K3thvL_gZo9hnEMzgJcUONumEZCDsmes6vY/s400/2016-01-05+08.07.29.jpg.jpg" width="261" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And this shelf holds my two storybook dolls and china doll heads, but that's a story for another day.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8E4aQDqwZgL52YkXXjDw1X78qhGnSVEzZ5wKsOz2Zvboe52vJvHqlSSAjVo5V05AKdGFOI7CCaDJejrOncZxgrpz3jS5nhRCrkxgija2u1fz7TCoOw0zf-DpOz5IciV0Cd0hWqfmgYUA/s1600/2016-01-05+08.08.14.jpg+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8E4aQDqwZgL52YkXXjDw1X78qhGnSVEzZ5wKsOz2Zvboe52vJvHqlSSAjVo5V05AKdGFOI7CCaDJejrOncZxgrpz3jS5nhRCrkxgija2u1fz7TCoOw0zf-DpOz5IciV0Cd0hWqfmgYUA/s400/2016-01-05+08.08.14.jpg+-+Copy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And what did you get for Christmas as a child?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-63261492285229956692015-12-24T10:32:00.000-06:002015-12-24T10:32:01.254-06:00For Unto Us<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImT_7QBW-VtH8G4YpXaivpvQyc01CrkHpxB2OxOyr-6wWS5kJPqLjm0XLOYAj_ZJMBS-bfL5OenvGJ-SDhSYPf1jCxe5vQhndVpkT7dVvy3IWXQb9VvVZitGI0GxPCy_qNeVYtwXq9Xg/s1600/baby+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiImT_7QBW-VtH8G4YpXaivpvQyc01CrkHpxB2OxOyr-6wWS5kJPqLjm0XLOYAj_ZJMBS-bfL5OenvGJ-SDhSYPf1jCxe5vQhndVpkT7dVvy3IWXQb9VvVZitGI0GxPCy_qNeVYtwXq9Xg/s400/baby+3.jpg" width="273" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A gift that I made for my mother long ago has returned to me as a quiet reminder of the reason for our Christmas celebrations.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bNTJretuKjEezCj_YUx2oaUxwfgfeYE_F3beHdoUjbXnoc_XEtKCAhh7Uwup_wpkjfm8VmxhrRa7cBVTMavBSuYvggmx8KeVwlUDqdcDHROwOBNGV_rLourBg682SeB-mq8bwe3NHBY/s1600/baby+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5bNTJretuKjEezCj_YUx2oaUxwfgfeYE_F3beHdoUjbXnoc_XEtKCAhh7Uwup_wpkjfm8VmxhrRa7cBVTMavBSuYvggmx8KeVwlUDqdcDHROwOBNGV_rLourBg682SeB-mq8bwe3NHBY/s400/baby+2.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For unto us a child is born,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To us a son is given;</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">and the government shall be upon his shoulder,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">and his name shall be called</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Isaiah 9:6</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Christmas peace,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-67257091566015167632015-12-18T16:50:00.001-06:002015-12-18T16:50:45.436-06:00Santa, Santa Everywhere<span style="font-size: large;">Over the years it seems that quite a number of Santa's have gathered at our house. Typically I have grouped them all together on a shelf over my kitchen sink, but this year they are somewhat scattered about.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPXOSK_odUYZL8HdLUiq-mtuIUI-jR-ubJLHXOgP3PyVUkvMKG5Rmzfy4_YnkmD9MJ_rnnHDQKJKTDf9SsOuqUnRB7w5tkfMe6Smad5JlbLvZ8yyDZDLFb8ZUE8FpDsu2tLF9c1FLeBR8/s1600/2015-12-13+10.28.50.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPXOSK_odUYZL8HdLUiq-mtuIUI-jR-ubJLHXOgP3PyVUkvMKG5Rmzfy4_YnkmD9MJ_rnnHDQKJKTDf9SsOuqUnRB7w5tkfMe6Smad5JlbLvZ8yyDZDLFb8ZUE8FpDsu2tLF9c1FLeBR8/s400/2015-12-13+10.28.50.jpg.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This fella is the only one left there along with a tray I found at World Market this year (sorry for the shadow caused by the cupboard above). And right below hangs a Santa mitten that I found in Omaha at the railway station many years ago. I see he is missing a few buttons on his beard. I had better do a little repair. I love anything that has buttons on it!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz1b-zAZZnXf4xXn0Egmp5HZZIQ3J4FGxYCleYeOlfGp5biTjXxs7ucTHfbmHihD76ayIuBjEkIIxyUQ2MqC8hTkAsDpSITt2elYLWFoM6n0jYoslryvjISbuu1eAK4pUqGp_H-coFfbY/s1600/2015-12-13+10.28.54.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz1b-zAZZnXf4xXn0Egmp5HZZIQ3J4FGxYCleYeOlfGp5biTjXxs7ucTHfbmHihD76ayIuBjEkIIxyUQ2MqC8hTkAsDpSITt2elYLWFoM6n0jYoslryvjISbuu1eAK4pUqGp_H-coFfbY/s400/2015-12-13+10.28.54.jpg.jpg" width="271" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My Santa on the polar bear was a sample that was given out at a showroom when I used to go to Market for The Cottage, and the little egg shaped Santa was one I found at a craft fair along with...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC8i3J8q-0-6QNRVWo96qXzq6wflbcOSWZv939krlkZXlImOtq3j1HSOwocup3iiq2p5GTh-1fVMWLDz7Pw0u7ben0RAAOpSRBp5tmQ1RNzhdq_nVvkaYfOo0sKiX5iH76Z-HMB2-uN5Q/s1600/2015-12-13+10.34.32.jpg+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC8i3J8q-0-6QNRVWo96qXzq6wflbcOSWZv939krlkZXlImOtq3j1HSOwocup3iiq2p5GTh-1fVMWLDz7Pw0u7ben0RAAOpSRBp5tmQ1RNzhdq_nVvkaYfOo0sKiX5iH76Z-HMB2-uN5Q/s400/2015-12-13+10.34.32.jpg+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">several of these. Tall Santa was a gift with purchase at JC Penney's one year, and the cute little fellow with his feet dangling over the edge came tied on a package.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvD_b2IuWdoeX1ElOa1bup_3aLDIfQzz3bz1HRZJMlLDYi8HzTU9N5Xv39rvlSoLlf9IfLxg8pQqJek5FcUurwdBMIqtnpvlGFGcWWCEWfJ1IO631L-qu_D0zAEWUVGysK1vjqjDJamp4/s1600/2015-12-18+15.22.25.jpg.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvD_b2IuWdoeX1ElOa1bup_3aLDIfQzz3bz1HRZJMlLDYi8HzTU9N5Xv39rvlSoLlf9IfLxg8pQqJek5FcUurwdBMIqtnpvlGFGcWWCEWfJ1IO631L-qu_D0zAEWUVGysK1vjqjDJamp4/s400/2015-12-18+15.22.25.jpg.jpg.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Who would ever think of making a wreath out of Santa? He's been with me quite a number of years, ever since I spotted him at Landscape Garden Center.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin52aPnZmJhJb5TlScWh_v-VJnb6-1BYSUAF80j2NxYMZuq-SIWISv26vv1Iyxfyn4COXoKqrQj9WtIiCVCfyQ3ptkQy6ny8sg7GwZNojzm2g0LBJOEdyp1b04MzSabffa-wEg0Y_hhw4/s1600/2015-12-18+15.22.12.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin52aPnZmJhJb5TlScWh_v-VJnb6-1BYSUAF80j2NxYMZuq-SIWISv26vv1Iyxfyn4COXoKqrQj9WtIiCVCfyQ3ptkQy6ny8sg7GwZNojzm2g0LBJOEdyp1b04MzSabffa-wEg0Y_hhw4/s400/2015-12-18+15.22.12.jpg.jpg" width="396" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">These stacking Santa's have been a favorite of many children throughout the years.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukh9YmNvus37NyChGlwpdWVn00Z7k7BTIU03YHazekksOD8QNGm8knF8_lhW4eBqi6sbXkYulytKZMpagm0ecu80urqFc0HU2PG5y9kw-nEB2PxWMOTy19p_8nV38pPAOra53KBLhgik/s1600/2015-12-18+15.22.32.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukh9YmNvus37NyChGlwpdWVn00Z7k7BTIU03YHazekksOD8QNGm8knF8_lhW4eBqi6sbXkYulytKZMpagm0ecu80urqFc0HU2PG5y9kw-nEB2PxWMOTy19p_8nV38pPAOra53KBLhgik/s400/2015-12-18+15.22.32.jpg.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And Santa in the Mason jar is new to me this year. For many years he was a part of my mom's Christmas decorations. You can't see the base because I've tucked him in the jar, but it says 1919, which was the year Mom was born, so she thought he was pretty special.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirOGUZ23BySpESzTSo3V5e96WKCX_kHxZaYYEgY4ikFbydEFY0TmF0B9lkqea1sLsvRnocZCiyqxgD900CaKEon-Nk5R5lpghTtw7XARPnMgeEl6GR5FjKUq9rm9GKAJcso9jOhzN8lmw/s1600/2015-12-18+15.22.06.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirOGUZ23BySpESzTSo3V5e96WKCX_kHxZaYYEgY4ikFbydEFY0TmF0B9lkqea1sLsvRnocZCiyqxgD900CaKEon-Nk5R5lpghTtw7XARPnMgeEl6GR5FjKUq9rm9GKAJcso9jOhzN8lmw/s400/2015-12-18+15.22.06.jpg.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And finally we come to the Santa mug. He seems to be taking his job very seriously.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNMPKCxq7Kj24DiH5ccEJAMVQdGnilHPiV0kXDa5X2uKW6YEJYJSmZ8KTZZjlUHdlpRfT8fUg-Y40MfPNqmzyAxOhyHZibszlC8LoNODeIWZRGmCm7idWf1MGwtr0uy7jmFRYPUAArClc/s1600/2015-12-13+10.34.45.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNMPKCxq7Kj24DiH5ccEJAMVQdGnilHPiV0kXDa5X2uKW6YEJYJSmZ8KTZZjlUHdlpRfT8fUg-Y40MfPNqmzyAxOhyHZibszlC8LoNODeIWZRGmCm7idWf1MGwtr0uy7jmFRYPUAArClc/s320/2015-12-13+10.34.45.jpg.jpg" width="262" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To me, although he is a mythical character, Santa is a reminder of so many of the good things within us. He is a symbol of the generous, giving spirit that lives in each of us - especially at Christmas!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
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Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-79089307651267216142015-12-09T09:55:00.000-06:002015-12-09T09:55:24.562-06:00A Simple Little Christmas Tree<span style="font-size: large;">This year I wanted a simple little Christmas tree to sit in the blank space next to the TV. After looking at Hobby Lobby and Target, I decided on a 3-foot "real" tree from Lowe's. Our last "real" tree was probably back in the 80's. We had listened to needles fall on the packages every time we walked through the room Afraid the whole thing was going to burst into flames at any moment, we quickly carried it out and planted it in a snowbank on Christmas Day evening.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaIVSYTvFwJLi9Y6aJjrKEnXDDssLWj4ZdDSH2QuD84Zy_9AYKfGUmqk0ygESIQDhEPAb0KI0-mSrwOavzhEhyphenhyphenI7NREb6aRVZ7wwiU5md_PnHuyaK-Ew-D0CwrhSlQXz_rIpT-hFBvB9o/s1600/tree+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaIVSYTvFwJLi9Y6aJjrKEnXDDssLWj4ZdDSH2QuD84Zy_9AYKfGUmqk0ygESIQDhEPAb0KI0-mSrwOavzhEhyphenhyphenI7NREb6aRVZ7wwiU5md_PnHuyaK-Ew-D0CwrhSlQXz_rIpT-hFBvB9o/s400/tree+1.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I situated the tree and put a piece of fabric around the base to serve as a tree skirt. It looked good - maybe I should just leave it naked.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">No, it needed just a few lights. That's my favorite thing about Christmas trees...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHfk-IwaxC-ZRd1HUPbE6HHX_qdMN8Iv4Ddu-etC2_aXn9Kh3ea5y83v3RAiJKFKdCZ-fX_LeK1VmuvPAb6t4JVgD72fxUNoCai3eJRFRZR-x1azzTZRqavAu1XzdGRPtlx2-1WCUTEjY/s1600/tree+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHfk-IwaxC-ZRd1HUPbE6HHX_qdMN8Iv4Ddu-etC2_aXn9Kh3ea5y83v3RAiJKFKdCZ-fX_LeK1VmuvPAb6t4JVgD72fxUNoCai3eJRFRZR-x1azzTZRqavAu1XzdGRPtlx2-1WCUTEjY/s400/tree+2.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Lights by themselves are rather stark, how about red and white ribbon for a bow on top and small bows here and there...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6O6xQBfa_9MzGKgHQNGdpNURsnIT8cpQoUtcuMrX6g1c_IfyeraUcFPvkfrKO5ZmNw5m2MjVZrfOuz5WI1_kxfmvisCPKOL5jsOUYfESNwdKBTDFpzL3H3jMt4Z27PF2UVpnUWKt4z9o/s1600/tree+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6O6xQBfa_9MzGKgHQNGdpNURsnIT8cpQoUtcuMrX6g1c_IfyeraUcFPvkfrKO5ZmNw5m2MjVZrfOuz5WI1_kxfmvisCPKOL5jsOUYfESNwdKBTDFpzL3H3jMt4Z27PF2UVpnUWKt4z9o/s400/tree+3.jpg" width="372" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Some of my Snowbabies ornaments would add a little whimsy...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXIlo6MBhciG0QV7of50pkIT_ch6Smi6THcfpYscw9DF90OtQr1XNOH2hPNaJglK4kodgLcyUn3hUY3ib4LT29aJokQvUvkK4LSFbqA9cGcnpcZ22ncoZoE1kWHCYE3ge4IOzpMxFP5o/s1600/tree+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXIlo6MBhciG0QV7of50pkIT_ch6Smi6THcfpYscw9DF90OtQr1XNOH2hPNaJglK4kodgLcyUn3hUY3ib4LT29aJokQvUvkK4LSFbqA9cGcnpcZ22ncoZoE1kWHCYE3ge4IOzpMxFP5o/s400/tree+6.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Then there's that red bead garland that I bought for another project and didn't use...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewcHOYhTRw-LoOrOH3sji2IYNG8dYAyBb8TZPUk7yDyGMI2aUiAFG4nZueQKz4gsocfn4rYWN1ofXTH7hgaHrU46T6Ma_lBcGxIgFGERsKiNzGZP7dwvFUEn7IXqa8cimoGgwuCV_rak/s1600/tree+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewcHOYhTRw-LoOrOH3sji2IYNG8dYAyBb8TZPUk7yDyGMI2aUiAFG4nZueQKz4gsocfn4rYWN1ofXTH7hgaHrU46T6Ma_lBcGxIgFGERsKiNzGZP7dwvFUEn7IXqa8cimoGgwuCV_rak/s400/tree+1.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There, now I'm done. I think. My simple little Christmas tree!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Christmas Blessings,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
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Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-28001887289419770492015-12-01T08:34:00.001-06:002015-12-01T08:34:23.287-06:00Something Old & Something New<span style="font-size: large;">I pulled the storage tote out from under the bed, took it out and gave it a shake</span>.<span style="font-size: large;"> The red and white 'Tree of Life" quilt was a wedding gift to my mother-in-law and father-in-law in 1941, and even though I've had it for quite some time I'm sad to say that I have never used it before. It is the perfect Christmas quilt!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdNAstUX9LDHeHbm8u9OznWC7gR6I-2npAwG5ry_yPEmTyWzSXA2dx5wSKYGlMpZxO9nnWrvd7ldW1vfg8JXrdiOgKn62P3LQdSy6l0biFZqPUrMtlhNzRScIT7_PIG5A9jXoaHFsTbhc/s1600/aquilt+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdNAstUX9LDHeHbm8u9OznWC7gR6I-2npAwG5ry_yPEmTyWzSXA2dx5wSKYGlMpZxO9nnWrvd7ldW1vfg8JXrdiOgKn62P3LQdSy6l0biFZqPUrMtlhNzRScIT7_PIG5A9jXoaHFsTbhc/s400/aquilt+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For so many years I used red very sparingly in my Christmas decorating because the other colors in our home really didn't play nice with red. You will see as I share our Christmas home over the next few weeks, red plays a dominate roll. And I love it.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHM3uGDHoOdNp7-qqkjyiL1i7jp5HtYOnjvRxv4YEfNw17wRZ5gtXU39YMpG2QB1kRAk6AOdFTQ_fmJqTUZThNTo9uZX_Dtium4egl5gdoGCXGbiWj0jN9G2viIqGQKAp2gb3-vwksQ_A/s1600/aquilt+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHM3uGDHoOdNp7-qqkjyiL1i7jp5HtYOnjvRxv4YEfNw17wRZ5gtXU39YMpG2QB1kRAk6AOdFTQ_fmJqTUZThNTo9uZX_Dtium4egl5gdoGCXGbiWj0jN9G2viIqGQKAp2gb3-vwksQ_A/s400/aquilt+3.jpg" width="338" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And here is my something "new" for this year. I thought this little red Volkswagen with the tree on top was so cute. I ordered it online from society6.com They have quite a few pillow covers at reasonable prices..</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSOJSYkZuZbVLoknEv9tW_jeCan38gQial_yeEfjj2pyHCpZUBf6WYYqwDTLSQpTqbkB47hWSZRFY8IrEbwYKSu5tWgtLxuDtvZYORFje8cgOomKdmfYWZBDMVAp2nlgm99cf4eySLqtA/s1600/aquilt+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSOJSYkZuZbVLoknEv9tW_jeCan38gQial_yeEfjj2pyHCpZUBf6WYYqwDTLSQpTqbkB47hWSZRFY8IrEbwYKSu5tWgtLxuDtvZYORFje8cgOomKdmfYWZBDMVAp2nlgm99cf4eySLqtA/s400/aquilt+4.jpg" width="363" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Because I enjoy looking at other homes and gleaning ideas from them, I am taking you on a 'walk' through our home this Christmas season. There is no intention of boastfulness or attitude of "look what I did." I simply hope that you will enjoy, and perhaps it will spark an idea or two. It's always fun to share ideas - I would love to 'walk' through your home too!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBHJId6YmBq1Ap9HWIYCH9Hd5nCZWDZOSiU3bd1B5c70KGv_dJ-uKYsE-sLi1IepmrJhpZDX75CSus8Zl2j19YkiVeZ6dC2WOtWteM9UTfAqsx4b0yvPz9gFHsiYzdFgmTWKm5to2UObE/s1600/aquilt+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBHJId6YmBq1Ap9HWIYCH9Hd5nCZWDZOSiU3bd1B5c70KGv_dJ-uKYsE-sLi1IepmrJhpZDX75CSus8Zl2j19YkiVeZ6dC2WOtWteM9UTfAqsx4b0yvPz9gFHsiYzdFgmTWKm5to2UObE/s400/aquilt+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Christmas decorating!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
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Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-68224939672123765682015-11-18T11:08:00.000-06:002015-11-18T11:08:23.876-06:00Turkey for Two<span style="font-size: large;"> Because we don't have the space to accommodate all of our family, we no longer host Thanksgiving dinner. But I still thought it would be fun to set a mini Thanksgiving table.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But here's my problem...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I really enjoy setting a pretty table,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">but since I don't enjoy cooking,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">we very seldom have company at our table!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, I'll just enjoy sharing them with you!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
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Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-27849635299469096692015-11-10T08:41:00.000-06:002015-11-10T08:41:21.238-06:00<span style="font-size: large;">Remember me?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's been a while since you've heard from me via this blog. I set it aside for a while, and have been doing some mental gymnastics recently trying to decide if I should pick it up again. Anyway here I am, and hopefully I have things to share that will have meaning or be of interest to you.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I want to start it off by telling you about a hobby that I have come to enjoy very much, and that is photo scrapbooking - but not in the traditional sense. Years back I did traditional scrapbooking with all the trappings, and it was a lot of work! What I am enjoying so much is pulling my photos all together with journaling using the Project Life app. And I do it all on my iPad. It's fast and it's fun! I order the finished pages right from the app, and they come in the mail a few days later as a 12 x 12 sheet that I just slip into a page protector and add to my album.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After I did a bit of catching up with some special events, I have been tracking our family happenings on a monthly basis and having them printed as soon as the month ends. I close each month with a composite page of random family photos that I have saved from Facebook posts or messages I have received.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are two other special projects that I'm putting together using this amazing app. The first is a photo/story history going back several generations. This one is a very slow process, and I need to get back at it soon. This takes a little longer since I need to organize and scan the photos. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The second is a fun little project of putting together photos and stories or quotes from two of our younger grandchildren. Their mother is very good to relay their funny antics, so I am simply putting it all together and printing them as 8 x 8 pages for photo books that will probably be high school graduation gifts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you would like a quick way to get some of your photos put together in an album, I would recommend you check out the Project Life app. It is available for your Apple products now, and will be available for Android users around the first of the year. Along with the app you will find inspiration by following the App Scrappers - Project Life group on Facebook. I am glad to answer any questions you might have or help you get started. It's easy! It's fun! And it's so great to get those pictures in albums for your family to enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<strong><u>Coming up this week</u></strong>: There are two special events here in Beresford that I will be attending. My friend and former business neighbor is having the annual HoliDazzle open house at her business, Blooms 'n Lattes Thirsday, Friday & Saturday. And sweet Erin of the Irish Soap Company is having the Grand Opening of her cute shop on Saturday. Fun opportunity to support these two local small businesses!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-42820189941440790802014-05-10T10:47:00.001-05:002014-05-10T10:47:16.435-05:00Motherhood<span style="font-size: large;">I have often spoken of my mother here. There is so much about her that permeates my being. As a young person I had no idea how influential she was in my life, but today memories of her in times gone by sneak into my thoughts on a daily basis.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Although Mom is still with us, so much of what made up who she was is gone now. The hands that braided my hair, that made me custard when I was sad or fresh-squeezed orange juice when I had a cold, that patiently showed me how to sew, that created beautiful treasures with her handwork, that set the table and served the food to all who walked through her door, that held the books to read to her grandchildren - those hands now lay idle in her lap. Her mind has betrayed her, and no longer brings forth the memories that she longs for. But I carry those memories forward to share anew with her and with my family as best I can.</span> <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Mom and I had a good visit yesterday. We talked about family, past and present, and shared a laugh or two. It was timely that the show "Ellen" was on the television, and I commented that it appeared the audience consisted of young women that were expecting a baby. Her response was "I feel sorry for them." So, Happy Mothers Day, Mom! My prayer for her this Mother's Day and every day is that she feels contentment, comfort and peace.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I've watched my two daughters travel through the seasons of motherhood, I am reminded of how all-consuming it can be when the children are young and dependent, and how difficult it can be to then transition to watching them go it on their own. I'm proud of these two young women and how they have handled their most important role - that of a Mother.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Reflecting on what it means to be a mother, these are the things I know for sure:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">being a mother is a life-long commitment</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">being a mother brings the most joyous joy and the most painful pain</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">being a mother is doing the best you know to do each day</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">being a mother is feeling you should have done better each night</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We all do it differently, and we all do our best to be the person that our children need. So, Happy Mother's Day to all of you who are mothers or have taken on the role of a mother.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until next time...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span>Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-13330981577604983042014-04-29T15:15:00.000-05:002014-04-29T15:15:09.704-05:00A Graduation Letter<span style="font-size: large;">We are nearing graduation time, and we have received several invitations to graduation parties. They brought to mind a letter that I had stuck away with old photos and such...</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In May of 1937 when my mother graduated from high school she received a letter from her maternal uncle, Amasa (Am' zee) White Webber of Galena, Kansas. I am sharing it because I find his use of language so interesting and unusual - especially in this day, but probably for that time as well. Amasa worked in the office for the railroad, and it is typed on their letterhead.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The letter must have had a lot of meaning to my mother, as she kept it all these years. Because of distance and financial restraints, I would guess that they wouldn't have seen each other but a few times. Communication was dependent upon letters that travelled slowly and perhaps a phone call in an emergency. It is hard to imagine in our day of instant communication with one another. I hope you enjoy reading this letter from long ago.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfp8nxIiH3lt2Fp4MLFG66GFMhLPL8Jo4WALZYSAlTrPvTYggatEmJ22BmkeHMK52ChpIqKOVbsp47FvFVlO46r5Cqq1qSBvjUTX_HSgkL9GR6rcG7yG2w467tBpqFZt4df9o-Dvvhf7E/s1600/Amasa.letter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfp8nxIiH3lt2Fp4MLFG66GFMhLPL8Jo4WALZYSAlTrPvTYggatEmJ22BmkeHMK52ChpIqKOVbsp47FvFVlO46r5Cqq1qSBvjUTX_HSgkL9GR6rcG7yG2w467tBpqFZt4df9o-Dvvhf7E/s1600/Amasa.letter.jpg" height="387" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em>My dear Katherine:</em></div>
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<em>With the passing of winter months we welcome the birds and flowers and sunshine, and yet, the exultancy of this year's springtime seems but trifling when compared to the thrill that came in receiving the announcement of your graduation, and the very fine photograph that accompanied it.</em></div>
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<em>While passing years have left disintegrating marks all round about us, yet, seemingly, time has only tended to make more beautiful the little curly headed girl of our past remembrance,- whose picture now portrays a young woman of sterling qualities, and who, no doubt, is doubly mindful of the many sacrifices made by faithful parents, in order that she might share in the good things of life.</em></div>
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<em>In return for all of this, we do not believe you will prove a disappointment, neither do we feel you are going to be a failure, since by your earnestness, determination and perseverance you are now enabled to close an epoch in life's career that will open for you the doorway to bigger and better things.</em></div>
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<em>It has been said that "America is on wheels." Folks today are going places, and doing things in a big way, and the ranks of tomorrow will be filled with young men and women who are prepared to meet emergencies.</em></div>
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<em>Our best wishes attend your every effort, and may continued good health, happiness and success, in unstinted measure, be yours to enjoy. No doubt, there will come occasional clouds to mar life's sunshine; perhaps the night at times will show unusually dark; it may require some crushing to bring forth fragrance,- and maybe added fire to brighten the gold already in your life,- yet remember, that "He who is able to keep you from falling, and present you faultless at the throne of His Majesty," can also sanctify for you the hard, rough, dark places in such a way that your life will tell forth in multiplied blessings to home and friends and mankind because of such experiences.</em></div>
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<em>We are mailing you today, under separate cover, a little graduation token of love and remembrance, and although words fail us, and we find that even the giving of gifts are inadequate expressions of our innermost feelings, yet in the words of that Worthy of old, our hearty wish for you is that,- "The Lord bless thee and keep thee, The Lord make His face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee and give thee peace."</em></div>
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<em>Most sincerely yours,</em></div>
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<em>Uncle Amasa and Aunt Lou</em></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Wow! That was a lot of words (and a lot of commas) to say simply "We wish you the very best."</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0vL0rk-11yGuEEV2zgazlbGVbsQthBIqoWan6EQCpZhGsLhrBPTcFxwrBK1Y3qXsLhE6O0gdEnPqdV-_C7XoqS78Ko3QjTY_-5A8SE6Gq47s_BHfyHqSmPcosJ08B3WVF_ohWCrv8tYc/s1600/Katherine0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0vL0rk-11yGuEEV2zgazlbGVbsQthBIqoWan6EQCpZhGsLhrBPTcFxwrBK1Y3qXsLhE6O0gdEnPqdV-_C7XoqS78Ko3QjTY_-5A8SE6Gq47s_BHfyHqSmPcosJ08B3WVF_ohWCrv8tYc/s1600/Katherine0001.jpg" height="400" width="288" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This picture would have been taken sometime after graduation. I have not included Mom's graduation picture as she disliked it so much. Isn't she pretty?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-79592090651398196522014-04-18T13:56:00.001-05:002014-04-18T13:56:40.640-05:00In Your Easter Bonnet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">In your Easter bonnet, with all the frills upon it,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You'll be the grandest lady in the Easter Parade.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'll be all in clover and when they look you over,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'll be the proudest fellow in the Easter Parade.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVE9X3orlAi8qR3gluMNTXmSi9EYDolQcJA57xaYrFkTB4nAjx5_MbLAJJ72ru-51oudsBzENTSBPU9mNNM0CMH05CvvZLwqydu22fJLBxVDYEXhyphenhyphenaaPBz3nD0cT8OKOPBp9env6kpDXc/s1600/easter+bonnet+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVE9X3orlAi8qR3gluMNTXmSi9EYDolQcJA57xaYrFkTB4nAjx5_MbLAJJ72ru-51oudsBzENTSBPU9mNNM0CMH05CvvZLwqydu22fJLBxVDYEXhyphenhyphenaaPBz3nD0cT8OKOPBp9env6kpDXc/s1600/easter+bonnet+1.jpg" height="400" width="273" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">On the avenue, Fifth Avenue, the photographers will snap us,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And you'll find that you're in the rotogravure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Oh, I could write a sonnet about your Easter bonnet,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And of the girl I'm taking to the Easter Parade.</span></div>
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(Lyrics by Irving Berlin)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rPUtY6s-EiPLMUmiuWZpmRXNQHWDOyZ7ElCvMhBYtmIP9AXhlYaAixWyUlzkwSaivCp4NW3YMi2-pTzNGQoVydluObl53_BrJTh6MMYJJlhl3xIyQ2aXP1AGg-9j9C93NBQxoZ-M7s4/s1600/easter+bonnet+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rPUtY6s-EiPLMUmiuWZpmRXNQHWDOyZ7ElCvMhBYtmIP9AXhlYaAixWyUlzkwSaivCp4NW3YMi2-pTzNGQoVydluObl53_BrJTh6MMYJJlhl3xIyQ2aXP1AGg-9j9C93NBQxoZ-M7s4/s1600/easter+bonnet+2.jpg" height="400" width="275" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Easter Sunday... I'm guessing these two pictures were taken in about 1950 and 1956.</span> <span style="font-size: large;">I think I probably always had a new outfit for Easter. We didn't have as many clothes as the kids of today, and so this would have been the one dressy outfit for the season. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Easter was always the gateway to Spring and Summer as far as fashion went. It was now permissible to wear white shoes and gloves!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope my brother doesn't mind showing up on my blog! And what on earth is a rotogravure? I had to Google it as even I'm not that old! It was an etching or engraving - perhaps part of the photo developing process.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings on this Blessed Easter Weekend,</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnxLDdgPV7NjEpKON80qIBC0i4J3Ld9nBwkuQSWUEbFTWSPK8cuCNnUYhz0dpYX2PX2QB4tPb1lBbfxmNERemgBKBr6qHCYiRv5NDqtBPFpPjxtTpKiVJaq5Ahnkg9NJrbbO_Eubz7EI/s1600/gail.sq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnxLDdgPV7NjEpKON80qIBC0i4J3Ld9nBwkuQSWUEbFTWSPK8cuCNnUYhz0dpYX2PX2QB4tPb1lBbfxmNERemgBKBr6qHCYiRv5NDqtBPFpPjxtTpKiVJaq5Ahnkg9NJrbbO_Eubz7EI/s1600/gail.sq.jpg" height="200" width="183" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
<br />Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-16333095127134221882014-04-07T12:48:00.001-05:002014-04-07T12:48:48.394-05:00Springy Vignette<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The corner of our dining table typically has a seasonal vignette - a gathering of items that reflect whatever season we are in or holiday we are celebrating. The last few weeks it has been rather barren as I wasn't sure what season we were in. I didn't want to acknowledge Winter any longer, but I couldn't fool myself into thinking Spring was coming anytime soon.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But Sunday we had both sunshine and warmer temps, so I gathered a few items to put together - some old, some new. I would have liked to put this grouping in a shallow basket, but didn't have one that worked, so I just used a printed napkin to anchor it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This bunny is ready to celebrate the warmer days right along with me!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">You've seen this little grouping before - when I talked about using books in different ways throughout your home. These are two of my favorite teacups. Notice the pretty flowers on the inside of the top cup - love it! The plate is a serving piece, probably a cake plate, of vintage Haviland china. I have other pieces of this beautiful white china hanging in an arrangement on my wall.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is one of my purchases this year. I'm calling it a topiary even though I know topiaries usually have a tall stem</span>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinuf2oWKkKlO4DUVmCE1GLAQJKBqiqBW7Cal-YsBSkRbYvcGRIJnWRAZrNu1mgY-Qupk55KENNdN5g9CyuDRV7ZIaefieMGZg-JhdnKC6K6h8RbU80V7xQJxJhZOOyJx_j8-voGZnpeuA/s1600/spring+topiary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinuf2oWKkKlO4DUVmCE1GLAQJKBqiqBW7Cal-YsBSkRbYvcGRIJnWRAZrNu1mgY-Qupk55KENNdN5g9CyuDRV7ZIaefieMGZg-JhdnKC6K6h8RbU80V7xQJxJhZOOyJx_j8-voGZnpeuA/s1600/spring+topiary.jpg" height="320" width="238" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I found both the topiary and the little pedestal piece at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Vintage-Market-Beresford/550000418394412" target="_blank">The Vintage Market</a> in Beresford this week. I'm loving the tiny saucer on a candlestick, but as I look at the picture I'm thinking it needs something more added - maybe some colored glass around the votive cup or some raffia tied in a bow around the candlestick. I'm sure I'll be adding a touch of something! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The saucer could hold any number of things. I chose to use a votive cup that I decorated with a bit of washi tape (decorative paper tape), but it would look darling with a small figurine or vase with flowers. I did also purchase a second one that I am using on my vanity to hold rings, etc.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0SQAjkzU3NrLACAUAzyjUROZTrRKXEJ-RAuGaKLxQ7nF6NNC7SAYXK3ad0ZBN19F8HdpsCOlXYSAfHg_9-gWhiksFudD4usE1IPUc-BKTm-495vBFA9JCtGUl1RlyyMqnF6KpRYc4rdk/s1600/spring+pedestal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0SQAjkzU3NrLACAUAzyjUROZTrRKXEJ-RAuGaKLxQ7nF6NNC7SAYXK3ad0ZBN19F8HdpsCOlXYSAfHg_9-gWhiksFudD4usE1IPUc-BKTm-495vBFA9JCtGUl1RlyyMqnF6KpRYc4rdk/s1600/spring+pedestal.jpg" height="320" width="216" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, that's what's happening in my little corner of the world today!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnxLDdgPV7NjEpKON80qIBC0i4J3Ld9nBwkuQSWUEbFTWSPK8cuCNnUYhz0dpYX2PX2QB4tPb1lBbfxmNERemgBKBr6qHCYiRv5NDqtBPFpPjxtTpKiVJaq5Ahnkg9NJrbbO_Eubz7EI/s1600/gail.sq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnxLDdgPV7NjEpKON80qIBC0i4J3Ld9nBwkuQSWUEbFTWSPK8cuCNnUYhz0dpYX2PX2QB4tPb1lBbfxmNERemgBKBr6qHCYiRv5NDqtBPFpPjxtTpKiVJaq5Ahnkg9NJrbbO_Eubz7EI/s1600/gail.sq.jpg" height="200" width="183" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Strangely enough when I think back to that time what I remember most clearly </span><span style="font-size: large;">is sitting in that unfamiliar little church beside my mother singing the somber hymns associated with Lent. I can visualize the beautiful white altar and communion rail at the front, and the unique fiberboard on the walls that wrapped around us. It was cozy and comforting to that little girl sitting beside her mother.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRSchlkUBz-n234NmnYjFaQpjLsBE5E8TgXgdSfqdQuiGN2SWCkDzx-3AB8Jfbh8jhhJuGgSbjH-QzbqlHjY_6UWgaGhyQCqhEFKOIVI6PUzJGjL5YIgLZzlbgd6AsQshGrz9gzPzwNIc/s1600/lent+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRSchlkUBz-n234NmnYjFaQpjLsBE5E8TgXgdSfqdQuiGN2SWCkDzx-3AB8Jfbh8jhhJuGgSbjH-QzbqlHjY_6UWgaGhyQCqhEFKOIVI6PUzJGjL5YIgLZzlbgd6AsQshGrz9gzPzwNIc/s1600/lent+2.jpg" height="297" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And then following "The Old Rugged Cross"...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Comes the trumpet fanfare and "Christ the Lord is Risen Today!"</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_5mse84kzdKOLRsMsZMXlh07CI6MBBzk5ar9E4wkQQ7iXL6Klsl7apb9B3B43R0ZHtcg53o0t6RN9i4vcSDHUoIU6ItQ4wUedIoAuCPeKYcqUnTPxC4sdePeesExhhT7_fQWvEoRtkX0/s1600/lent+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_5mse84kzdKOLRsMsZMXlh07CI6MBBzk5ar9E4wkQQ7iXL6Klsl7apb9B3B43R0ZHtcg53o0t6RN9i4vcSDHUoIU6ItQ4wUedIoAuCPeKYcqUnTPxC4sdePeesExhhT7_fQWvEoRtkX0/s1600/lent+Collage.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So many times in life are like Lent/Easter. There is the waiting, wanting, wishing, hoping... and finally the fulfillment - even sweeter because of the preparation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnxLDdgPV7NjEpKON80qIBC0i4J3Ld9nBwkuQSWUEbFTWSPK8cuCNnUYhz0dpYX2PX2QB4tPb1lBbfxmNERemgBKBr6qHCYiRv5NDqtBPFpPjxtTpKiVJaq5Ahnkg9NJrbbO_Eubz7EI/s1600/gail.sq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnxLDdgPV7NjEpKON80qIBC0i4J3Ld9nBwkuQSWUEbFTWSPK8cuCNnUYhz0dpYX2PX2QB4tPb1lBbfxmNERemgBKBr6qHCYiRv5NDqtBPFpPjxtTpKiVJaq5Ahnkg9NJrbbO_Eubz7EI/s1600/gail.sq.jpg" height="200" width="183" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-14750975623780821072014-03-26T11:35:00.000-05:002014-03-26T11:35:22.827-05:00Dutch Treat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">These Delft dishes, made in Holland, are just passing through our hands briefly. So, while they were in my home I wanted to make beautiful pictures with them. Enjoy...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6kiVgN2ZvjozyjNmlB5k3ig_gpVCkrRsk5Smq3-66w1shchVl8Y3AhSPAIsiEFFjWFrcO_D096_fliwGHXJgg8-E7sJ7Y0yqHkkHUoN2Wlz2QZhyphenhyphenOqjkRhyphenhyphenXHpflUtALtjitqa153_Q/s1600/dutch+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ6kiVgN2ZvjozyjNmlB5k3ig_gpVCkrRsk5Smq3-66w1shchVl8Y3AhSPAIsiEFFjWFrcO_D096_fliwGHXJgg8-E7sJ7Y0yqHkkHUoN2Wlz2QZhyphenhyphenOqjkRhyphenhyphenXHpflUtALtjitqa153_Q/s1600/dutch+1.jpg" height="310" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_mjYOpks0xUa8-71cPnKR5Qt9gge6Xyy4VS7pfRhthMijJ1l-ufPQVPKqHtBTqTTr5VSPzLp88bhAyB23ND2xa8q_IDRaThvGJrTJbBQYHcPIL9ivc9q1Aa95uDCXsItJrXfKGb-e9A0/s1600/dutch+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_mjYOpks0xUa8-71cPnKR5Qt9gge6Xyy4VS7pfRhthMijJ1l-ufPQVPKqHtBTqTTr5VSPzLp88bhAyB23ND2xa8q_IDRaThvGJrTJbBQYHcPIL9ivc9q1Aa95uDCXsItJrXfKGb-e9A0/s1600/dutch+2.jpg" height="400" width="360" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKdd7gVQmMnLgsObmI0LnzueSwE8DwFWcGgHr1Le7HwUPWrYYzXxhMzUgcFZfxBnfqZpo4AiBkGH-rWXDReoTTcUpS0EIA0Jbnq0uM-usWOdXD1t-O8oOxUljR-Re5J3ZrzIqEtP_m5ak/s1600/dutch+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKdd7gVQmMnLgsObmI0LnzueSwE8DwFWcGgHr1Le7HwUPWrYYzXxhMzUgcFZfxBnfqZpo4AiBkGH-rWXDReoTTcUpS0EIA0Jbnq0uM-usWOdXD1t-O8oOxUljR-Re5J3ZrzIqEtP_m5ak/s1600/dutch+collage.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At times we just need to look around to find beauty in our everyday lives and often it is fleeting. Whether it is an uplifting experience, a lovely flower or an inspiring person, grab hold and </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">make a beautiful picture to tuck away in your memory!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings & Beauty,</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnxLDdgPV7NjEpKON80qIBC0i4J3Ld9nBwkuQSWUEbFTWSPK8cuCNnUYhz0dpYX2PX2QB4tPb1lBbfxmNERemgBKBr6qHCYiRv5NDqtBPFpPjxtTpKiVJaq5Ahnkg9NJrbbO_Eubz7EI/s1600/gail.sq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnxLDdgPV7NjEpKON80qIBC0i4J3Ld9nBwkuQSWUEbFTWSPK8cuCNnUYhz0dpYX2PX2QB4tPb1lBbfxmNERemgBKBr6qHCYiRv5NDqtBPFpPjxtTpKiVJaq5Ahnkg9NJrbbO_Eubz7EI/s1600/gail.sq.jpg" height="200" width="183" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
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<br />Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6751755928212138525.post-55896058424470236112014-03-20T12:28:00.000-05:002014-03-20T12:28:25.472-05:00Show 'n Tell<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">My friend, Linda, and I attend a monthly Girl's Night at a quilt shop in Dell Rapids, and the main feature is a show 'n tell time. There are some amazing quilters that attend, and I really enjoy being inspired by the beautiful items they bring. Last evening I brought a quilt that I made fifteen years ago</span>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0D-dDNGkpLPQ2KPx87-WyFi3MIWcCBClxMDLsPjLj5je6z_swtLkWOZ7_eBquBWAIRT2iR2iVAma8Z0V9PFEU7rJkzkKMUKjuTEHmSF5qpUVJI5-gMjmjJ74xRr1BCpvWBVdeoX2Ec8A/s1600/quilt+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0D-dDNGkpLPQ2KPx87-WyFi3MIWcCBClxMDLsPjLj5je6z_swtLkWOZ7_eBquBWAIRT2iR2iVAma8Z0V9PFEU7rJkzkKMUKjuTEHmSF5qpUVJI5-gMjmjJ74xRr1BCpvWBVdeoX2Ec8A/s1600/quilt+1.jpg" height="400" width="347" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We were looking ahead and planning for my mom's 80th birthday later that year, and I wanted to do something with a quilt. After much thought and searching for ideas, I decided to do a crazy quilt design and include pictures. This is how it turned out, and it has been hanging on Mom's wall ever since.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpm2yWZ809x8V-57U5AnRj4vcqzMFA73NTK1C06utga4tOFR4C4MYnDJ1bK5z20cCdqQyL8DP5P46Y-4rXzFYZ4AMT2gCm2jKxvjzsbB9Fa_Hi7UCM0sZ6P6ZnjuqRJ6mtVgO_7XJnb0A/s1600/quilt+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpm2yWZ809x8V-57U5AnRj4vcqzMFA73NTK1C06utga4tOFR4C4MYnDJ1bK5z20cCdqQyL8DP5P46Y-4rXzFYZ4AMT2gCm2jKxvjzsbB9Fa_Hi7UCM0sZ6P6ZnjuqRJ6mtVgO_7XJnb0A/s1600/quilt+2.jpg" height="373" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are twelve blocks and each one has a theme: Parents, Siblings, Young Woman, Marriage, Children, Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren, Career, Hostess, Sewing/Needlework, Reading/Puzzles and the Birthday block.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpTAXsms2liXomN2JGwYTzv4olyOYX3bt9XxL3D1pFLIkPzq0zI3fBfD63n6SnOpbhKvOm0TZwVObJd01Xxseg4QGY6qMKaoYsouQBmbeydZp5D6vnK82jZo755O35RDjracKANcjuU1Y/s1600/quilt+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpTAXsms2liXomN2JGwYTzv4olyOYX3bt9XxL3D1pFLIkPzq0zI3fBfD63n6SnOpbhKvOm0TZwVObJd01Xxseg4QGY6qMKaoYsouQBmbeydZp5D6vnK82jZo755O35RDjracKANcjuU1Y/s1600/quilt+5.jpg" height="376" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I had the pictures printed on a special paper and the image could then be ironed onto a plain piece of fabric. Once that was done, those pieces were just included with other fabric in a crazy quilt design.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipd2bDqexq-DsHIig61c2EyvkO1R9iAPvPSVe9o9djeIsYC5elmPuFsR-pNbaGOnl_j3eRfrE93H5uR15VRzF9mK3PtZrtJs5freZ5VCB0zoYESU9n16zzMkNHMFxBHYeUoVFYM066E5E/s1600/quilt+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipd2bDqexq-DsHIig61c2EyvkO1R9iAPvPSVe9o9djeIsYC5elmPuFsR-pNbaGOnl_j3eRfrE93H5uR15VRzF9mK3PtZrtJs5freZ5VCB0zoYESU9n16zzMkNHMFxBHYeUoVFYM066E5E/s1600/quilt+7.jpg" height="365" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As each block was sewn together, I passed them off to my mother, who did all the hand stitching. She did a stitch along each connecting seam and then embellished as she saw fit - using lots of flowers. I treasure each of those stitches and the love that she put into this project.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWsZK61b3bezjxddCiVqr4yz4rJ7ojf22LcPJ-b27dcQB3-tm1jbyGDdltdjEEQ7Q77OktfTs6sANyPQmSOvL5ndVT-JWFE-EWum6ETzKXHnyfi6XxCOLf67s_i3r1GYW4J56c-Yyzck/s1600/quilt+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWsZK61b3bezjxddCiVqr4yz4rJ7ojf22LcPJ-b27dcQB3-tm1jbyGDdltdjEEQ7Q77OktfTs6sANyPQmSOvL5ndVT-JWFE-EWum6ETzKXHnyfi6XxCOLf67s_i3r1GYW4J56c-Yyzck/s1600/quilt+8.jpg" height="400" width="298" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We then chose other items to add to the finished quilt - buttons, bits of lace and ribbon, her 20 year pin from her job, and a treasured locket.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt9MxSPsbNuFXuOnmUbFmt_UrTujxBXVyJ31JEIXE_KDs7YrEqUcj41HbKsH441IBLMbamPld3Jf4iz4xBcNzn28q4UmMDTM1Yc89Un9-WASgidEsqKLdWFjfasssXtNGjOgl00cGmgD8/s1600/quilt+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt9MxSPsbNuFXuOnmUbFmt_UrTujxBXVyJ31JEIXE_KDs7YrEqUcj41HbKsH441IBLMbamPld3Jf4iz4xBcNzn28q4UmMDTM1Yc89Un9-WASgidEsqKLdWFjfasssXtNGjOgl00cGmgD8/s1600/quilt+6.jpg" height="400" width="386" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Because of the pictures, we were unable to quilt it in a traditional way, but there is stitching around each block to hold it secure.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo_NP7k7vxZ0KreCDEYWIeEoN65xOoMtFSYDjNDDwpwJfwRZCGEcJTLbpO4hKCas5eduW7mO60LMNNmX8vLuxQXMwQOck4HuFevg8mXRHwXtH8xmeICSoJkyvx3iSuD5uRgki15n4n_eA/s1600/quilt+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo_NP7k7vxZ0KreCDEYWIeEoN65xOoMtFSYDjNDDwpwJfwRZCGEcJTLbpO4hKCas5eduW7mO60LMNNmX8vLuxQXMwQOck4HuFevg8mXRHwXtH8xmeICSoJkyvx3iSuD5uRgki15n4n_eA/s1600/quilt+3.jpg" height="356" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And since it is not the type of quilt that will be used or washed, that works just fine.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVN7aevJJtI32l89Nts2Fik_ig-5Ez4gnhgWIdCiV0dytAcT4JrvB8iOpjhJAdhGQ-wZbgk7VwyAkbezL42KDQd69HAV2M50OgTuXXC211twZZOVEn4OjNHLIKsOY5dFOhmDKkjGREaA/s1600/quilt+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVN7aevJJtI32l89Nts2Fik_ig-5Ez4gnhgWIdCiV0dytAcT4JrvB8iOpjhJAdhGQ-wZbgk7VwyAkbezL42KDQd69HAV2M50OgTuXXC211twZZOVEn4OjNHLIKsOY5dFOhmDKkjGREaA/s1600/quilt+4.jpg" height="376" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Are you inspired to try a similar project to honor the life of someone special to you? It doesn't need to be expressed in the same way with needle and thread, but I want to assure you that you will be glad you made the effort. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Time passes, and what was possible fifteen years ago would not be possible today. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Till next time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnxLDdgPV7NjEpKON80qIBC0i4J3Ld9nBwkuQSWUEbFTWSPK8cuCNnUYhz0dpYX2PX2QB4tPb1lBbfxmNERemgBKBr6qHCYiRv5NDqtBPFpPjxtTpKiVJaq5Ahnkg9NJrbbO_Eubz7EI/s1600/gail.sq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnxLDdgPV7NjEpKON80qIBC0i4J3Ld9nBwkuQSWUEbFTWSPK8cuCNnUYhz0dpYX2PX2QB4tPb1lBbfxmNERemgBKBr6qHCYiRv5NDqtBPFpPjxtTpKiVJaq5Ahnkg9NJrbbO_Eubz7EI/s1600/gail.sq.jpg" height="200" width="183" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gail</span></div>
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Gailhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13161363770753982800noreply@blogger.com0