tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144020332024-03-07T19:59:18.535-08:00Eve's Mama's RamblingJennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comBlogger161125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-63360553543945690922009-02-02T10:58:00.000-08:002009-02-02T11:13:19.195-08:00Hello February!wow, so...almost as soon as I let it be known that I wanted to blog more regularly, I stopped almost entirely! <br /><br />Oh well. We've had lots going on, but not that much worth reporting.<br /><br />However, I did co-write the current story-line on Tom's comic. And trust me, anything over the top is probably not my stuff. <br /><br />anyway, if you are so inclined, you can read the first comic in the story by clicking <a href="http://boysoffloyd.com/2009/01/26/the-recognition/">here</a>.<br /><br />or just go visit <a href="http://boysoffloyd.com/">The Legendary Boys Of Floyd</a> and read today's comic.Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-87886650349884048232009-01-06T07:56:00.000-08:002009-01-06T08:18:07.471-08:00Let's try Gratituesday...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://heavenlyhomemakers.com/blog/gratituesday"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 165px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXGlMs-XChhK6lChOFKRv4JZeva1QwFjKnJXOoCjdJd2hF1SC2V7rCCWm3q28wAmQ4MKbHCwP1KMtPxedObFPH2xHSN1NiCwNsyBwXjpP_V-wNaWB1M6PbtHZBsG3R7BRQCuHsA/s320/gratituesday4whitewhite4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288211370062097170" /></a><br />Okay, so I'll be honest, Gratituesday--the word--kinda makes me giggle, it's so silly. But, I made a secret plan to start blogging more regularly this month, and maybe this year (surprise!!) we'll see how it goes. and Gratituesday as an idea is appealing to me. <br /><br />Gratituesday is hosted by <a href="http://www.heavenlyhomemakers.com/blog">Heavenlyhomemakers</a>, where you can find not only Laura's post on what she's grateful for, but a whole list of other grateful bloggers too! And not just today, but *every* Tuesday. <br /><br />This Tuesday, I'm grateful for relative good health. I know, that sounds tepid. Quite honestly, between Tom's injury and my food issues, I can't say we're in perfect health. However, we have no acute illnesses, and after Eve's bout with the tummy flu over a week ago, that's really saying something!<br /><br />God's been good to us in keeping us all from back to back illness, and so far this season, our ailments have been mild, few, and far between. This enabled many more blessings to be grateful for, since we haven't had to miss many gatherings of good friends or family, and I haven't had to miss work.<br /><br />What are you grateful for today? If you decide to join in on Gratituesday over at <a href="http://www.heavenlyhomemakers.com/blog">Heavenly Homemakers</a> let me know by leaving a comment here. I'd love to hear how you're experiencing God's goodness today!Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-67379501288811507332009-01-05T14:48:00.001-08:002009-01-05T15:17:09.907-08:00New Years Resolutions?Do you make New Years Resolutions? Do you keep them?<br /><br />For some time now I've eschewed resolving in January. Not so much because I don't like the idea of committing to make positive changes in my life, but more because I don't like to set myself up for failure. And January 1st always comes too early.<br /><br />Here are my hopeful plans, to begin sometime this Winter:<br /><br />1. Go back on my allergy diet. As much as I didn't love it, it really did make me much more healthy. I felt a lot better. Plus, eventually I have to stay on it long enough and faithfully enough to maybe pinpoint exactly which things I'm allergic to, instead of simply 10 things I'm not. <br /><br />2. Enjoy my kids more. I don't know how much more there is to say. I find myself feeling resentful that my kids horn in on my "me" time: time to spend with my husband, time to spend on the Internet, time to read, write, craft, etc. I put them off a lot to keep house and cook too. But Eve's only going to be 4 for 10 more months, and Israel is growing and changing and becoming someone new every day. I don't want to miss this. It's precious and fleeting. It's a gift I don't want to squander on selfish pursuits. Not long from now, my little girl is not going to think I'm the coolest person ever, I won't be the center of her little world. For the time that I am, I want to enjoy it.<br /><br />to make #1 and #2 work together, I may have to learn new strategies for food prep. I can't be spending all my time cooking the way I was this Summer and early Autumn. But quick things like quesadillas and spaghetti are definitely not in line with the sort of diet I need to be on.<br /><br />3. I say this every year, and in fact, renew my intentions frequently throughout each year, but I'll repeat it, because it really is important, the MOST important, in fact. I want my life to be subject to God's will for me. This means spending more time praying, more time studying the bible, more time contemplating spiritual matters, more love and compassion for others, more grace and mercy, more service, more giving, less selfishness and self-absorption, a great deal less anger (especially toward my kids and husband), more God-glorifying and a lot less self-aggrandizement. Always challenging, always worth it.<br /><br />4. Get more sleep and help the rest of my family get more sleep too. I'm not really sure how to accomplish this yet.<br /><br />5. Finally, I intend to begin my handmade Christmas gifts for next year long before November, because I'd really like to relax a bit more during Advent, and not make my kids watch quite so much TV in December. Plus, last year I sacrificed crafting for my husband and kids in favor of crafting for friends, this year I mostly sacrificed crafting for friends in favor of crafting for my family. I'd like to manage to craft for both groups next time around.Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-28576387315616175252009-01-05T07:22:00.000-08:002009-01-05T07:22:01.055-08:00EmbroideryI finished a few embroidery pieces before I really had to dive into Christmas gifts. The first 2 items are <a href="http://www.sublimestitching.com/">Sublime Stitching</a> designs from the <a href="http://www.sublimestitching.com/sublimestitch_book">Sublime Stitching the book</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153082684/" title="Crystal's Kitchen Towel by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3102/3153082684_991f9132e1.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Crystal's Kitchen Towel" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152247169/" title="limes on a towel by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3238/3152247169_8d6980c0b5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="limes on a towel" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153082920/" title="Aiden's space onesie by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3091/3153082920_a53aa1c1c5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Aiden's space onesie" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152247391/" title="rear onesie detail by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3251/3152247391_8f9be100ec.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="rear onesie detail" /></a><br /><br />This last onesie is embroidered with a free design from <a href="http://www.needlecrafter.com/">Needlecrafter</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153082788/" title="Jacob's jack-in-the-box onesie by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3130/3153082788_bc8d3932ee.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Jacob's jack-in-the-box onesie" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153082874/" title="rear onesie detail by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3086/3153082874_02c7e9137f.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="rear onesie detail" /></a><br /> <br />We're running out of Christmas days! Happy 11th day of Christmas!Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-65701875935647091162009-01-04T09:17:00.000-08:002009-01-04T09:17:00.672-08:00T-shirt bagsThese were simple and fun to make. I dove into my giant stash of old t-shirts and whipped these out fairly quick. The idea is from the book<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tease-Inspired-T-shirt-Transformations-Superstars/dp/0399532161">Tease</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153084908/" title="Lucky t-shirt tote by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3128/3153084908_9c05afaa15.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Lucky t-shirt tote" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152249349/" title="Trixi's t-shirt tote by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3197/3152249349_46f74c14af.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Trixi's t-shirt tote" /></a>Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-39215491267645079782009-01-03T12:00:00.000-08:002009-01-03T12:00:00.748-08:00A few quick sewn gifts for friendsIn trying to come up with some sewn gifts for men and older boys, I hit upon the idea of luggage tags. Of course, they only work for the traveling types, but they were so quick and easy, I made one for thee two gals in the family as well. They don't allow for any info, but they'll make finding your bag at the airport pretty simple. Just made up my own pattern. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152251609/" title="to flickr 08 - 69 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3183/3152251609_f7edcd6c84.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 69" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152251691/" title="to flickr 08 - 70 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3208/3152251691_581a3d0d56.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 70" /></a><br /><br />These ornaments were just the thing for families I was also giving sweet treats to. They looked great tied atop a tin of goodies, and they incorporated buttons and felted sweater scraps from my stash. I deviated from the great pattern provided by <a href="http://disdressed.blogspot.com/2006/12/at-last-mitten-ornament-pattern.html">Disdressed</a> by not using regular felt, which would have resulted in a cleaner finish, but then what would I do with my sweater scraps?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152249865/" title="to flickr 08 - 43 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3267/3152249865_862e0d772c.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="to flickr 08 - 43" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152251505/" title="to flickr 08 - 68 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3264/3152251505_a545f003be.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 68" /></a><br /><br />Happy 10th day of Christmas!Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-85754836515990487752009-01-02T18:19:00.000-08:002009-01-02T18:24:10.831-08:00Mobile bloggingI'm trying something new. Blogging on Tom's iPhone. I usually get a good 20 minutes while putting Israel to bed. There are limitations, but you might see more blogging from me this way.Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-59294932884751424802009-01-02T07:44:00.000-08:002009-01-02T14:25:16.204-08:00Kid GiftsHere are all the gifts I made for the kids this Christmas.<br /><br />First, the scarf I knit for Eve...last Christmas. I didn't have a crochet hook, so I couldn't put the fringe on. I finally borrowed one this year...I think I still have it. Anyway, it's done, but Eve says it's too scratchy.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153086592/" title="My first FO by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3219/3153086592_fcf03f0bc8.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="My first FO" /></a><br /><br />Here's Eve's tutu shirt, I embroidered an 'E' on the front and then attached a wide gathered length of organza ribbon to the bottom of a long sleeved t-shirt from Target. I sewed a thin ribbon over the raw seam. She loves it and wore it Christmas day. It didn't wash as well as I'd hoped, I thought a ribbon wouldn't fray, but it wasn't really intended for this purpose, so I think a nice colorful zigzag stitch will do.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152250903/" title="Eve's Tutu shirt by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3196/3152250903_e78a1332e5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Eve's Tutu shirt" /></a><br /><br />When I pulled all the Christmas decorations out, Israel fell in love with a square pillow I have. He walked around for days hugging it enthusiastically. He needed his own pillow. I picked up a small decorative pillow at goodwill and covered it in fleece. I machine appliqued a star and an 'I'. I did it quick, and you can tell. He loves it anyway.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152251051/" title="to flickr 08 - 61 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3120/3152251051_c08b5a4f26.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 61" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153086716/" title="to flickr 08 - 62 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3085/3153086716_811442bcce.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 62" /></a><br /><br />I made a stuffed monkey for my one year old niece, 'melia from this adorable pattern by <a href="http://mmmcrafts.blogspot.com/2008/07/drum-roll-pleasemolly-monkey-pattern.html">MmmCrafts</a>. It was fun to make. It was hard, but not so hard that I didn't make another...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152249929/" title="'Melia's Molly Monkey, AKA, Monkey number 1 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3238/3152249929_9181feb737.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="'Melia's Molly Monkey, AKA, Monkey number 1"/></a><br /><br />For eve! The differences are subtle, one less type of fabric for the skirt, and slightly more sophisticated shoes, since I wasn't as short on time, and eve is over 3. She's a hit, although she still is unnamed. She was a bit overshadowed because Santa left a new webkinz...sigh.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153086992/" title="Molly by the window by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3251/3153086992_ef6a7c4d83.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Molly by the window" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152251283/" title="Eve's Molly Monkey by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/3152251283_ac8b389bd9.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Eve's Molly Monkey" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153086856/" title="Molly's shoes, and Argyle socks by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3217/3153086856_3c7c86164c.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Molly's shoes, and Argyle socks" /></a><br /><br />This was israel's big homemade gift, a way cool rocket from the pattern at <a href="http://thelongthread.com/?p=308">The Long Thread</a> he really likes it, and I kinda like that the little Israel in the window looks like an old little people figure.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153086790/" title="Israel's rocket ship by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3229/3153086790_b09309010d.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Israel's rocket ship" /></a><br /><br />And finally, I used Israel as the model to make this adorable dress for 'Melia. I used a wonderful tutorial from <a href="http://www.kukyideas.com/journal/2007/04/shirred-dress-tutorial.html">Kuky Ideas</a>, and a very accomplished seamstress friend wound the elastic thread bobbin for me.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152249421/" title="'Melia's dress by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3233/3152249421_13e32c3e9d.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="'Melia's dress" /></a><br /><br />Hope you're enjoying 2009 so far!Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-56350359571683284962009-01-01T11:03:00.000-08:002009-01-01T19:12:59.269-08:00Depression ApronsHey, happy first day of 2009!<br /><br />These were gifts for some wonderful ladies in my life. The pattern is the "Vintage Apron" pattern from a totally awesome book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bend-Rules-Sewing-Essential-Guide/dp/0307347214/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1230836775&sr=8-1">Bend the Rules Sewing</a>.<br /><br />I call them depression aprons, because I didn't buy any fabric, it was all reclaimed fabric from thrifted items: A big reversible Ikea duvet cover, a coordinating Ikea pillow sham, and a bit of an Old Navy Men's dress shirt. I *almost* didn't buy buttons, but I found one that was so perfect, and I did buy trim. However, the one with gingham trim required no trips to the store whatsoever. <br /><br />During the Great Depression, there were many little sayings to remind people of the way things were, One of them, "Make do or do without" has run through my head most of the last year. But then, I can run out and pick up trims and buttons...the way things are, maybe I should just change the name to recession aprons!<br /><br />This first one has a very old fashioned Embroidery technique on the gingham pocket called <a href="http://www.needlenthread.com/2007/06/chicken-scratch-embroidery-on-gingham.html">Chicken Scratch</a>. It must be done on gingham, and a few very simple stitches result in a lovely lace pattern. I made a "large heart" from the pattern I found <a href="http://www.pegasusor.com/chicinst.htm">here</a>. The embroidery went fast, but this apron definitely took the most time, due to the Chicken Scratch. Hand sewing always increases the time any project takes. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152247557/" title="chicken scratch heart by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3100/3152247557_0e4b87e2b9.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="chicken scratch heart" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152247469/" title=""Vintage" "Depression" Apron by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3212/3152247469_2bbab192ff.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt=""Vintage" "Depression" Apron" /></a><br /><br />check out more Chicken Scratch photos in this <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/chickenscratch/pool/">Flickr Pool</a><br /><br />The rest are variations of the same, all with the Ikea fabrics, vintage buttons and retro-kitch trim, like ball fringe, cut felt leaves, and ric-rac.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153084856/" title=""Vintage" "Depression" Apron by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3255/3153084856_b3178707a6.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt=""Vintage" "Depression" Apron" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152249141/" title="Apron pocket detail by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3077/3152249141_7fe0e3e1d3.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Apron pocket detail" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152251845/" title=""Vintage" "Depression" Apron by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3255/3152251845_c544d95ff1.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt=""Vintage" "Depression" Apron" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153087460/" title="Apron pocket detail by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3268/3153087460_9e18f5808b.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Apron pocket detail" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153085678/" title=""Vintage" "Depression" Apron by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3209/3153085678_c49fac746f.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt=""Vintage" "Depression" Apron" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153085622/" title="Apron pocket detail by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3134/3153085622_58e22b40ae.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Apron pocket detail" /></a>Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-16179055027581697742008-12-31T16:05:00.000-08:002008-12-31T16:22:37.750-08:00A pictoral goodbye to 2008that's not to say that I won't be posting more about 2008 in January...but here are some pics which require little commentary, and a far past-due for posting.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153083198/" title="to flickr 08 - 09 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3250/3153083198_827d2f16e8.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="to flickr 08 - 09" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152247655/" title="to flickr 08 - 10 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3285/3152247655_4f3e004bfb.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 10" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152247779/" title="to flickr 08 - 11 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3243/3152247779_cab79ff869.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 11" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152247859/" title="to flickr 08 - 12 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3223/3152247859_95d517b370.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 12" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152247925/" title="to flickr 08 - 13 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3255/3152247925_f4c7467ac3.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 13" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153083548/" title="to flickr 08 - 15 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3253/3153083548_d1bd5674b8.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 15" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153083670/" title="to flickr 08 - 16 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3079/3153083670_e58720dfe8.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 16" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152248231/" title="to flickr 08 - 17 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3129/3152248231_818f789aed.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 17" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152248289/" title="My little sweets begging sweets by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3219/3152248289_36cb9c3a82.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="My little sweets begging sweets" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152248403/" title="to flickr 08 - 20 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3111/3152248403_71eb97d36a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 20" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152248505/" title="to flickr 08 - 22 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3111/3152248505_c54f849a7f.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 22" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153084140/" title="to flickr 08 - 23 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3208/3153084140_30ca1bdd81.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 23" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152248725/" title="to flickr 08 - 24 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3202/3152248725_968917c2a5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 24" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153084366/" title="to flickr 08 - 25 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3209/3153084366_1386bc399c.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 25" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153084432/" title="to flickr 08 - 26 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3207/3153084432_1eaf58211b.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 26" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153084582/" title="to flickr 08 - 27 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3126/3153084582_0d3350d075.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 27" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3153084738/" title="to flickr 08 - 29 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/3153084738_b69cc5ae60.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 29" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/3152249303/" title="to flickr 08 - 33 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3200/3152249303_0659f54d70.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="to flickr 08 - 33" /></a><br /><br />There you go, knocked out all of October and November with one post! Whee!<br /><br /><br />Happy New Year!Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-21946599662945493362008-12-29T11:05:00.000-08:002008-12-29T11:39:54.564-08:0012 days of Christmaswell, yesterday was another flurry of last minute Christmas crafting. and I have managed to take photos of all but one of the gifts I made this year...<br /><br />But that's not what this post is about. <br /><br />we're trying to keep up with the momentum of Christ-focusing we did during Advent, and so are celebrating the 12 days of Christmas. We've been reading about the <a href="http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=Mat&c=2&v=1&t=nlt">magi</a>, <a href="http://goitaly.about.com/od/festivalsandevents/a/epiphany.htm">La Bafana</a>/<a href="http://www.whychristmas.com/cultures/russia.shtml">Babushka</a>, and continuing to listen to Christmas music.<br /><br />One of my new-favorite Christmas songs is by a band I've never heard of before...<a href="http://www.downhere.com/home">Downhere</a><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/3iSivQmzJ_w&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/3iSivQmzJ_w&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />I love their sound! I want their whole album now. They have a Queen sound, as well as maybe the Killers...yay! What fun!<br /><br />The song is just so full of the true meaning of Christmas. It's awesome.<br /><br />Happy 4th or 5th day of Christmas to you!Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-65877604497454628752008-12-23T12:46:00.000-08:002008-12-23T12:58:42.923-08:00Merry Christmas!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiPVBupcLjBjKd6X3yOeU6gwbv61LlP0vWhWJCHoePS3O8KA0a7MpO8qpr9M0Xi2U5XqE7YJOwts4anYQ4P3LZsBDdflNvB67JlYR2rEus_9ZEjSNaR1h_rpDfW62XraiW1wuYlQ/s1600-h/snow.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiPVBupcLjBjKd6X3yOeU6gwbv61LlP0vWhWJCHoePS3O8KA0a7MpO8qpr9M0Xi2U5XqE7YJOwts4anYQ4P3LZsBDdflNvB67JlYR2rEus_9ZEjSNaR1h_rpDfW62XraiW1wuYlQ/s320/snow.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283092514156359138" /></a><br />We've had an incredible winter wonderland going for the past few days. I love snow! I hate driving in it, but it's fun to be stuck at home.<br /><br />My brother and his wife are staying with us to avoid being stuck at their cold little place, so it's like an extended holiday. <br /><br />Maybe on Christmas I'll have time to post some crafty goodness and some Otters in the snow pics as well. We'll see. <br /><br />I hope you all have a joyous Christmas, remembering what Christmas is really all about. God loves us so much!Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-65496584971971360732008-12-19T11:24:00.000-08:002008-12-19T11:31:11.836-08:00Happy Birthday to my wonderful Husband!Hi all,<br /><br />I really have a ton to share, but, as usual, no time--no time to upload or edit pictures, and certainly no time to blog. Expect lots of Christmas stuff during the 12 days of Christmas, when things slow down a bit. <br /><br />In the mean time, Tom, my dear and wonderful husband, is doing a great job (along with his brother) at keeping new content coming on their <a href="http://boysoffloyd.com/">webcomic</a>. So, go check out <a href="http://boysoffloyd.com/">The Legendary Boys Of Floyd</a>, and wish Tom a happy birthday--and vote too!Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-42749908078157204322008-12-05T10:28:00.000-08:002008-12-05T10:47:19.824-08:00Craft Addict Give-Away<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://confessionsofacraftaddict.com/2008/12/have-a-craft-addict-christmas/"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvZlMESf-40GdlOs0D_xSpsB1iVxzwD5kTgdmn167WgM2NCqNk1-8DkOEexmTCqZyic7_L9I-ErShR3CiyTaScgGNgq3hTu2o0cFydi0OudbNP1d3VTRb8qMmD2FHkg6raydq-Ag/s320/craftaddictgiveaway.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276379032689649026" /></a><br />I am usually too lazy to blog about other bloggers. (Although, please check out my ever-expanding blog roll, to the left and down, lots--and I mean <span style="font-weight:bold;">lots</span>--of great blogs on there)<br /><br />Despite my laziness though, I thought this <a href="http://confessionsofacraftaddict.com/2008/12/have-a-craft-addict-christmas/">Craft Addict Give-away</a> was such a <a href="http://confessionsofacraftaddict.com/2008/12/have-a-craft-addict-christmas/">great give-away</a>, I had to share it. Not so much because of the stuff, although that's cool, but because the requirement for entering is to comment there about our <a href="http://www.eeo.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=39&Itemid=417">favorite charity</a>.<br /><br />In addition to <a href="http://www.eeo.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=39&Itemid=417">Easter European Outreach</a>, my other favorites include <a href="http://www.mobilityproject.org/">The Mobility Project</a>, Alpha Counseling--a local christian counselor that saved my marriage, but has no website--and, just this year, <a href="http://www.adventconspiracy.org/">Advent Conspiracy</a>.<br /><br />Click on the give-away links above to enter, or even on the title of this post, or, on the graphic, kindly provided by Craft Addict herself (I'm a new reader of the blog, so it's an assumption that Craft Addict is a gal, I hope I'm not wrong! ha ha)<br /><br />Happy St. Nicholas day-eve! (which we *are* celebrating--maybe over-kill since we'll still have Christmas day present-opening as well. *shrug*)Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-89513918233946866992008-12-01T11:23:00.000-08:002008-12-01T11:51:10.681-08:00Christmas PrepWell, I'm actually aching over not taking advantage of cyber-monday free-shipping deals. It hurts. BUT, I don't really need to buy stuff. I don't. <br /><br />Plus, I don't have my own credit card anymore, so I couldn't even hide it from Tom until the bills arrived. He'd know, and then it wouldn't be a surprise, not to mention us not having the money for that sort of thing.<br /><br />So. There you go.<br /><br />Yesterday, Eve was bored while I painstakingly crafted an advent chain for her. I look forward to the days when she can wield the scissors safely and effectively. But, she really really LOVES the advent stuff. <br /><br />So, we made green paper hand prints and "built" (aka taped to the window) a hand print tree. On this will "hang" (with tape) the little coloring project <a href="http://www.cresourcei.org/jesse.html">jesse tree</a> ornaments<br /><br />We made a no-staples, no glue*, <a href="http://worldpreschoolmom.blogspot.com/2008/07/stapleless-paper-chains.html">paper advent chain</a>. Half of one anyway. I ran out of time, and needed to pay bills after the kids went to bed, so the rest will have to happen tonight or tomorrow or whenever--hopefully before we run out of the chain as it currently stands.<br /><br />*The chain itself uses no glue, however, for Advent, I glued the devotionals to the inside of the links. Now you see why I ran out of time before I ran out of crafting duties.<br /><br />Our first day was yesterday. She colored a small picture of a stump with a shoot coming from it, while I read a bit from <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=isaiah%2011&version=31">Isaiah (11</a>:1-2). <a href="http://www.rca.org/Page.aspx?&pid=1628&srcid=1602">The devotional</a> was about David and how God has a plan for us. <br /><br />She wanted to read the "story" (the devotional) again, right away. Instead, I read to her about David from her <a href="http://www.zondervan.com/Cultures/en-US/Product/ProductDetail.htm?ProdID=com.zondervan.9780310926108&QueryStringSite=Zondervan">beginners bible</a>.<br /><br />I'm really looking forward to Advent. <br /><br />Now I have to decide--really quick--if we're going to do St. Nickolas day.Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-20955212444280508782008-11-21T13:41:00.000-08:002008-11-21T14:36:06.595-08:00I'm strangeAs I was deciding on a title for this post, I also toyed with the idea of "Obligatory I'm-sorry-it's-been-so-long-since-my-last-post." When I settled on "I'm strange" it occurred to me that the content of this post is certainly not the only strange thing about me. It's possible "I'm strange" will become a common posting subject.<br /><br />I think this particular oddity about me probably has it's roots in psychosis of some sort. <br /><br />I am a collector. Interestingly, I don't collect anything that can be proudly displayed. I'm not into knickknacks or even all that obsessed about shoes. Once upon a time I tried being a stamp collector, then a collector of carousel horse music boxes, and lastly a barbie collector. I still have the dolls, and someday, Eve can have them. I never managed to maintain my ardor for any of those things, and I can't say I've ever bought myself anything to add to my previous collections. I wasn't that in to it.<br /><br />My collections are more utilitarian in nature. <br /><br />fabric, vintage textiles (to use as fabric), vintage buttons...<br /><br />Boxes, salvageable Christmas and birthday wrapping, including tissue paper, gift bags, and ribbon.<br /><br />Boxes? Okay, maybe that's not strange. You wanna know what is?<br /><br />I can't use all this. No, I don't mean I have no use for them, I mean...I can't use them because then I would no longer <span style="font-style:italic;">have</span> them. <br /><br />Need to mail a package? Maybe there's a recent box in the garage, because the ones in my collection are very unique and I might need those dimensions some day, and the thing I'm sending can very well fit in any old box.<br /><br />Need to wrap a gift? I can't just go out and get all this pretty wrapping I've saved--it's, at this point, 10 years old! It's precious. Irreplaceable. Where's that new roll of paper from the dollar store?<br /><br />If I don't have to cut the salvaged ribbon or wrapping paper and the recipient of the gift will be opening the gift in my home...then <span style="font-style:italic;">maybe</span> I can use it. After all, if they're careful, I can get the ribbon and paper and box right back--ostensibly to dispose of it for them. Yeah, right.<br /><br />Fabric? Well, that I'll use if there's plenty of it. But once I get down to the last half-yard, I can't very well use it on <span style="font-style:italic;">this</span> project, after all, the recipient of this sewn gift wouldn't possibly value this lovely fabric as it should be valued. I'll save it for someone who would, if such a paragon exists. <br /><br />And Fabric fat-quarters? Those lovely squares of fabric sold pre-cut to be used by quilters? They just happen to also be the perfect size for little bags, head bands, etc. But I might as well not even buy these--and lie to myself that I'll use them--because if you only start with a quarter of a yard, you can't use it for anything and expect to have any left over. Come on!<br /><br />Buttons? Oh dear, these are worse than boxes. No chance of getting them back if I incorporate them in a gift. So, although this green Bakelite button is the perfect shade and size for this project, I'll have to find something a little more common, because, as usual, the recipient couldn't possibly know how special a little green button is, right? Right.<br /><br />Ribbon? Perish the thought! This stuff doesn't grow on trees you know. How often to you get a gift wrapped with a fabric ribbon? And do you have any idea where one could buy such ribbon to replace this scant yard of lovely chocolate raspberry top-stitched grosgrain? No? Well then, don't expect to see it leave my trim box.<br /><br />Sigh. What is <span style="font-style:italic;">wrong</span> with me?!<br /><br />There have been a few instances in which I've used my beloved boxes, buttons and ribbons. Because, I know it's not healthy to constantly collect and never use any of it. And then I must bite my tongue to keep from gushing rather inappropriately about this or that. <br /><br />As a smile, my heart says, "I'm very glad you like it. I did spend a bit of time making it. It's made from my favorite ever wool coat...I wish the coat was still wearable. I've had it forever! There's not enough left to make anything else. Isn't it the best fabric ever? Just look at that color!! And did you see that cute little button there? I've had it for 6 years. Found it at Goodwill, can you believe someone just gave that away?! I know!! And um, that box. Did you notice it actually has a magnet in the lid to close it? and the board is so substantial! Not to mention I didn't have to wrap it, since it's covered in silver paper and there's even a bow on top! I had not trouble wrapping your gift in it because I actually have another at home! I can have my cake and eat it too. Please don't throw it away. If you might, perhaps you should just give it to me. It's really a great box. Even if you won't throw it away, unless you really love it, maybe you ought to just give it to me anyway. You don't need that thing lying around your house, right?"<br /><br />Talk about obnoxious. And insane.<br /><br />Are you strange? Share in the comments (or link to your own blog) so I can feel slightly better about this. And laugh at you. ;)Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-6359561721832297582008-10-13T13:50:00.000-07:002008-10-13T14:39:30.560-07:00EmbroideryA few baby onesies, and even a few gifts for some grown-up friends. I really enjoy grown-up gifts, as I'm usually stitching on woven fabric rather than knitted t-shirt material...fun, fun.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2939646832/" title="My creation by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3068/2939646832_776cba92b6_m.jpg" width="240" height="120" alt="My creation" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2939643516/" title="My creation by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3228/2939643516_24e0320ab1_m.jpg" width="240" height="120" alt="My creation" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2939622518/" title="My creation by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3206/2939622518_b197702296_m.jpg" width="240" height="192" alt="My creation" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2939607988/" title="My creation by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3003/2939607988_5ba4a5567e.jpg" width="500" height="167" alt="My creation" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2939004436/" title="couragebanner1 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2406/2939004436_1492fde36d_m.jpg" width="180" height="240" alt="couragebanner1" /></a>Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-14873240228413926662008-10-13T11:04:00.000-07:002008-10-13T11:06:47.411-07:00Child LaborThe darker side of why my house is always spotless...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2938153911/" title="cleaning1 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3269/2938153911_94376abe55.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="cleaning1" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2939004802/" title="cleaning2 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3163/2939004802_0e5271ace5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="cleaning2" /></a>Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-14279080920568749572008-10-06T13:00:00.000-07:002008-10-06T13:00:00.770-07:00The Swallow days<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PkAP9EHOq3RJoKLsc5MLhpd-udy2FT2D4pFWrd47oEIghBVWtej2pNY5yajSswO2Sn6XxP4__PEYskV7B-AcOJ2N8BGgP4vbmsZqHspi2lX3UIwhlFk_9ZIkiu7h7q81mIKz0Q/s1600-h/birds3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PkAP9EHOq3RJoKLsc5MLhpd-udy2FT2D4pFWrd47oEIghBVWtej2pNY5yajSswO2Sn6XxP4__PEYskV7B-AcOJ2N8BGgP4vbmsZqHspi2lX3UIwhlFk_9ZIkiu7h7q81mIKz0Q/s400/birds3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254121496503307986" /></a><br /><br />The Swallow days occur for a short period of time--usually 3 days--here at our little lake in late August or early September, when the Swallows, en masse, begin to head South. They take a small holiday from their journey right here, literally at our very house. They snack on bugs and fly around in such large groups as to look like swarms of bugs themselves. <br /><br />I took some photos of them which don't do their beauty, agility, or sheer numbers justice, but serve to give you a small taste of those things. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3toU4RRDLUS5MrWwk6l-x1lIMpg3RVMCrF8bwZ8gin9iY3fy5qVvNejFVAL7DF_mv_hT04WCSRx4YmNwwcB8iha37-namy48dzt2urJDbQW71wMaYkPqdmZ241-h9ZjOIfExEUA/s1600-h/birds4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3toU4RRDLUS5MrWwk6l-x1lIMpg3RVMCrF8bwZ8gin9iY3fy5qVvNejFVAL7DF_mv_hT04WCSRx4YmNwwcB8iha37-namy48dzt2urJDbQW71wMaYkPqdmZ241-h9ZjOIfExEUA/s400/birds4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254121847251781890" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdix4Wrpy2H-lphZsoJy0zPEoj3LTTnPQ9EoW0Wd1oUnbrl9nwGpCFE6dWr44ZgcEgLiQ2X-UTPp7VLQ3DulQM_rVGGlMnneeCiYaivHrQ5H-YwlxsMLFAY1H6dxNwa7WpVjMng/s1600-h/birds2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdix4Wrpy2H-lphZsoJy0zPEoj3LTTnPQ9EoW0Wd1oUnbrl9nwGpCFE6dWr44ZgcEgLiQ2X-UTPp7VLQ3DulQM_rVGGlMnneeCiYaivHrQ5H-YwlxsMLFAY1H6dxNwa7WpVjMng/s400/birds2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254121739499840450" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYom7uaVw6b0jwoqQjU3X7zjdX4RSmECGWOnMWbHL8pVMSTwV-TnLGE8wDM5GQNa8tSyehz8vxXTj6ZJGoxIfxycvYFgli7BfV_K8ObHIVMC0bEJh_agMeDxh75eCv6BK35lPu-g/s1600-h/birds1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYom7uaVw6b0jwoqQjU3X7zjdX4RSmECGWOnMWbHL8pVMSTwV-TnLGE8wDM5GQNa8tSyehz8vxXTj6ZJGoxIfxycvYFgli7BfV_K8ObHIVMC0bEJh_agMeDxh75eCv6BK35lPu-g/s400/birds1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254121655735981298" /></a><br /><br />In addition to Swallows, this is one of the few times each year we get to see a Falcon close up. This one was, no doubt, waiting for the right opportunity to thin the flock. No better time, certainly.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsUSJbQvRoWo6qwKU1VoNWHgAl4VyPRGGIjSXxjEonx2SxVYUce1z5l4WJJclBWiRcra-fTQcNBY3emdPzSe2-RjNfyL_bGFX8Dqwt-VmE5r4T3-XFtNElSG7vW9Z0YxWmnenh0Q/s1600-h/lookinforlunch2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsUSJbQvRoWo6qwKU1VoNWHgAl4VyPRGGIjSXxjEonx2SxVYUce1z5l4WJJclBWiRcra-fTQcNBY3emdPzSe2-RjNfyL_bGFX8Dqwt-VmE5r4T3-XFtNElSG7vW9Z0YxWmnenh0Q/s400/lookinforlunch2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254122007901935810" /></a><br /><br />I can't help but be happy and energetic on these days, as the life and activity of these creatures fills me with joy. I feel so blessed that my home is right in their path. <br /><br />They serve to remind me, as so much of my life these days, that God is the great provider, and that I ought not be anxious for anything. These birds aren't concerned about tomorrow, they simply take what is given today, and let tomorrow worry over itself.<br /><br />Eve and I, and even Israel, spent a lot of time gazing out our windows, leaving chores undone in order to enjoy the spectacle of such natural entertainment.<br /><br />Thank you, Lord, for such pleasures!Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-12770552593250914952008-10-06T12:36:00.000-07:002008-10-06T12:45:48.154-07:00Confessions of an Elimination Diet DropoutWell, not really a dropout. Let's just say "We're on a break" the Elimination Diet and I. She is a cruel mistress.<br /><br />To date, I have discovered that I am quite strongly allergic to rice, of all things. Additionally, I can say without a doubt, Soy and I are not friends. However, after that, things get fuzzy...is it tomatoes that are causing my problems, or chocolate? Or perhaps Millet, or Teff? Or could it be Cane sugar? Winter Squash? Maple Syrup? Honey?<br /><br />And so, I have to go back to a strict diet of lentils, Mung and Adzuki beans, veggies, and a few mild fruits. Then, I have to painstakingly "challenge" things as innocuous sounding a Millet and Squash. <br /><br />But Saturday night I had Pizza! And Sunday I had Candy Corn and Coke and fried chicken and Ranch dip and steak and mashed potatoes and jojos and PIE! And today, I've had a sausage breakfast sandwich, a donut, and a mocha!! Wow...so fun. On the other hand, I don't feel quite so healthy as I've been feeling. So I definitely don't want to make this kind of indulgence the norm.<br /><br />I'll begin my Lentil penance on Wednesday after I restock my pantry with Elimination Diet vittles.Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-45904977813946767712008-10-03T11:20:00.000-07:002008-10-03T11:23:28.784-07:00More on VotingWell, if you're not too upset with me for going all political on you for a moment, let me ask for you vote on behalf of my husband.<br /><br />His and his brother's Web Comic, <a href="http://boysoffloyd.com/">Legendary Boys Of Floyd</a>, is plugging along and growing in readership. <br /><br />Go check today's post and give him a vote. <br /><br />Thanks!!Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-41315417233352938352008-10-01T13:57:00.000-07:002008-10-01T14:00:10.588-07:00Interesting?I came across this video, regarding the current financial crisis in the US. I thought I'd share it with you and get your thoughts. Please keep discussion civil.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fiXwZI_YqHY&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fiXwZI_YqHY&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-5698991181686382982008-09-29T09:27:00.000-07:002008-09-29T13:45:59.085-07:00Kid PicsWell, due to the annoying situation of all my photos not being on my computer, I don't have pictures of everything I had planned to blog about. There are embroidery projects galore, and Wildlife on the Lake to share...but I don't have those pictures. Very bothersome. <br /><br />Instead, here are some summer pictures.<br /><br />green frosting fingers...or toxic waste? You decide<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892036236/" title="P8172244 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3122/2892036236_b1881ffa64.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8172244" /></a><br /><br />Peanut's first birthday cake, take 2<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2891197483/" title="P8172266 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3168/2891197483_c4195951c4.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8172266" /></a><br /><br />I gave Eve her very first pedicure (sans polish), and she was looking ever so grown up.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2891199009/" title="P9012499 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3130/2891199009_f3d8b63c83.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="P9012499" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892034220/" title="P9012502 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3267/2892034220_51cb2e96ce.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P9012502" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892032594/" title="P9012501 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3189/2892032594_8a5a8e8e90.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P9012501" /></a><br /><br />Israel, practicing his "Blue Steel" Zoolander pose. He's a kid who want to to learn to read and do other things well.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892040116/" title="P8232283 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3158/2892040116_9b6432ed75.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8232283" /></a><br /><br />Other happenings at the company picnic. Eve had a great time doing the scavenger hunt, and helping my boss verify the collected items of others. Not to mention eating stuff that made her face really messy. That's one of her favorite things. It's such a cute face though.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892040510/" title="P8232287 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3100/2892040510_ec8f3d0d49.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8232287" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2891201819/" title="P8232291 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3046/2891201819_883033c633.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8232291" /></a><br /><br />Just too cute not to capture<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892042024/" title="P8262315 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3112/2892042024_43b34943d5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8262315" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892042382/" title="P8262318 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3105/2892042382_864a6a17af.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8262318" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892061860/" title="P8262319 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3226/2892061860_ab7dbdfd8e.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8262319" /></a><br /><br />Playgroup at Abby's. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892062248/" title="P8262327 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3191/2892062248_7685546308.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8262327" /></a><br /><br />Eve, helping daddy with his <a href="http://boysoffloyd.com/">Legendary Boys of Floyd web comic</a> stickers.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2891223261/" title="P8262360 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3095/2891223261_6920db0dc4.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8262360" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892063336/" title="P8282367 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3285/2892063336_9f1434e05a.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8282367" /></a><br /><br />Playgroup at the park. All I wanted to do was get a picture of her in that outfit...it's such a good color combo on her...and all day, I was getting these <span style="font-style:italic;">looks</span>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892063690/" title="P8282374 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3074/2892063690_c09e824c08.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8282374" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892064046/" title="P8282382 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3121/2892064046_b9c00b845c.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8282382" /></a><br /><br />Blue eye shadow, glittery lipstick, and blush, applied by glamorous cousin Ann.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2891225157/" title="P8302393 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3143/2891225157_2e62d06cf9.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8302393" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892066630/" title="P8302426 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3219/2892066630_5944755d39.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8302426" /></a><br /><br />Playing in cousin Levi's Shark tent<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2891225551/" title="P8302397 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3133/2891225551_072d0551a9.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8302397" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2892065688/" title="P8302404 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3260/2892065688_cac14471df.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8302404" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2891226881/" title="P8302405 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3217/2891226881_66ffc653e5.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8302405" /></a><br /><br />I do have a few pictures of a few embroidered things...up next.Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-25610349458843897752008-09-01T08:00:00.000-07:002008-09-01T08:00:01.204-07:00Pictures!!And a happy Labor Day to you!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2785550329/" title="P8041668.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3061/2785550329_515603fb5c.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8041668.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2786403202/" title="P6051469.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3196/2786403202_a0b2ddd1b9.jpg" width="500" height="384" alt="P6051469.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2785549335/" title="P6051470.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3259/2785549335_048a4bef07.jpg" width="423" height="500" alt="P6051470.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2785549661/" title="P7031536.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3224/2785549661_a90685c4ed.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P7031536.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2785549703/" title="P7031538.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2395/2785549703_885873ce0d.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P7031538.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2785549749/" title="P7031539.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3236/2785549749_43990efbfa.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P7031539.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2785550271/" title="P8041655.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3197/2785550271_11486cce63.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8041655.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2786404248/" title="P8041675.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3134/2786404248_7fa2abe000.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8041675.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2809542814/" title="P8162123 by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3068/2809542814_4b1fed0b9c.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8162123" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2786404384/" title="P8041712.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3184/2786404384_8ec0a71feb.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8041712.jpg" /></a><br /><br />There are always more pictures on my <a href="http://flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/">Flickr</a>Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14402033.post-46332878847979600382008-08-31T12:11:00.000-07:002008-08-31T12:11:00.413-07:00EmbroiderySo, I've finished a few tops, and am feverishly working on finishing a gift for an adult friend (shock!).<br /><br />I've got one other shirt done, but no pics uploaded yet. One inked-up shirt for my darling <a href="http://biddley.blogspot.com/2008/08/si-pis-new-trick.html">Si-Pi</a> (he loves me so much, and the feeling is mutual), and two (two!!) other gifts for adult friends all ready to go (that is, all ready to be embroidered). <br /><br />There actually has been a slight lull in baby-births...although I am not caught up...I've been considering being a bit more selective with who I do this for. Simply put, some people really value it, and it seems--to my great surprise--some don't. I don't want to labor and spend a ton of time lovingly creating something when it won't be appreciated. So...that might help free up my embroidery-time a bit. I can easily hand-make simpler gifts in those cases.<br /><br />Additionally, I have some gingham lying around and I really, really, really want to try <a href="http://www.feelingstitchy.com/2007/04/chicken-scratch.html">chicken scratch</a>. I'm sure I have lots of time to do that! :)<br /><br />I'm really looking forward to starting some embroidery lessons with a <a href="http://bremertonmartinclan.blogspot.com/">friend</a> (or <a href="http://westbremertonhansens.blogspot.com/">two</a>) of mine this Fall. It will be so much fun to teach these gals this very simple, easy home-craft, not to mention to have regularly scheduled visits to chat and catch up. All the while creating beautiful things for our homes or for others. Yay!<br /><br />Without further ado, here are the latest baby shirts!<br /><br />Front:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2785549579/" title="P7031529.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3122/2785549579_dd84b79600.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P7031529.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Back:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2785549633/" title="P7031533.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3138/2785549633_6c3ee0b9c7.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P7031533.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I really enjoyed this one--I don't often work on colored shirts, and I've never done (probably because I usually work on white) a mono-chromatic (one color, different shades) one like this. I really like the effect. <br /><br />The baby this was for is so feminine and lovely. And I think the color would also look darling on her, but I haven't seen it on. She's dainty enough, too, that I didn't have to worry about the shirt size. It was a 6-9 month, but it didn't seem as big as the white 6-9 month shirts I usually work on.<br /><br />Next one...<br />Front:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2785550147/" title="P8031649.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3214/2785550147_e48b82ac16.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8031649.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2786404054/" title="P8031650.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3037/2786404054_b0e05d3595.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="P8031650.jpg" /></a><br />Back:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/21638817@N00/2785550247/" title="P8031651.jpg by jenne_girle, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3232/2785550247_d2e1390325_m.jpg" width="240" height="180" alt="P8031651.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Isn't Aria an awesome name?! <br /><br />I was really excited to work on gray, but now I think I ought to have chosen a design with less colors...maybe just pink and white or black...I do love this design and the colors...but they don't *pop* quite like I want them to. <br /><br />Hopefully this shirt still fit when the gift was delivered. :)Jennehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17885254780188100205noreply@blogger.com