tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49090514706101421212024-03-13T11:02:54.944-04:00WAIT A Little While to Welcome What You're AfterUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger174125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-47514807980013371192013-07-18T22:09:00.002-04:002013-07-18T22:10:01.937-04:00A Memorial Quilt Honoring A Memorable Man<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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One of the first family members I met while dating my future husband was his brother-in-law, Craig. I felt welcome from the start, thanks in part to his kindness. He was at my wedding. He loved his wife, my husband's sister. He helped thousands of people during his short life. He loved always. He supported our family in numerous ways through difficult challenges. He loved my children. Craig was a tease, a prankster, and a spiritual giant. He was a pill. I adored him.<br />
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Last July, almost exactly a year ago, cancer took him away from us. He fought a hard fight with his wife and 3 kids by his side continually, not to mention with the support of countless friends, church members, and extended family. He is missed every day. <br />
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While staying in his home with his wife and daughter after the funeral, a wild idea popped in my head. I wanted to make a Memorial Quilt for his wife, Janet. I wasn't sure how to approach it, but I just did. I asked her how she'd feel about giving me most of his shirts so that I could make her a quilt. She was immediately for it. So, away we went, purging closets and drawers. Her requests were that 1), it be red, 2), that the University of Utah shirts be at the bottom, and 3), that a BYU shirt be in the middle since SHE was a BYU fan, and she was the one left behind. (The rivalry between those two colleges lived strong in their household). I came home with a suitcase full of shirts and with hope to make something wonderful.<br />
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I'm not going to lie - this quilt was a challenge. I had made a<a href="http://waitalittlewhile.blogspot.com/2011/01/tshirts-memories-and-quilting.html"> t-shirt quilt before</a>, but that one didn't have the weight of sadness with it. Sometimes I just couldn't think about it. Also, I had more cotton shirts than t-shirts for Craig's quilt, and I wasn't sure how to use them well. I pondered, researched online, asked my friend Carrie for help, played with it, put it away, played with it again. Sigh. As the months went on, all three of Craig's children got engaged! I decided that before the third one got married, I would finish the quilt. So, the last few weeks have been busy!!<br />
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I faced many fears with this project. It had to be beautiful and nearly perfect for my dear sister-in-law. This quilt had to be strong for years to come, for children and grandchildren. No pressure, huh? I am mathematically challenged sometimes, so when I design a quilt, (which I rarely do), I have to think it through a long time and check and re-check my calculations. And, I knew that I had to do some free-motion quilting on the t-shirts, which scared me to death. What if I messed up??? Ugh. Lots of pressure. I do this to myself frequently. <br />
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I marched forward - I finished it 2 days before flying to Utah for the third child's wedding! It would now be my wedding present to Janet, for marrying off all three of her dear children.<br />
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The moment of giving the quilt to Janet will forever be in my mind and heart. She loved it. She will cherish it, I know. I hope during those moments when she misses Craig, that she can wrap up in it and feel his large, strong arms around her and feel some comfort while she waits for the eternities. <br />
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I love you, Janet.<br />
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Now, here are the photos:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>On the Long-Arm, quilting away</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Up close</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>C and J in the blue 4-patches, which were made out of his button-down shirts</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>A Stacked- Coin row of strips from his shirts, and the row below it <br />is a row of his pockets from the same shirts</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>This is his company logo - notice the right side from top to bottom.... see the cars?</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>All done and waiting for the Binding!</b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">My dear sister</span></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>C and J Forever </b></span></td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-18647481145866348552013-07-18T20:44:00.003-04:002013-07-18T20:44:39.598-04:00Christmas Quilt of 20-Something<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Remember when I used to blog? Yea, me too. Today I shall blog about quilts. <br />
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I made this quilt for a Christmas present last year, but it was for Christmas the year BEFORE. Follow that? Haha.... It was for my brother-in-law and his family. It was made from a kit I purchased at a quilt show. <br />
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Well, here it is:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Up close, you can see the pattern used on the Long-Arm Machine </b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>The Kitties didn't want to give it up, but..... they did. </b></span></td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-30433768246188419552013-01-10T20:16:00.000-05:002013-01-10T20:18:07.286-05:00I Remember.... Sigh.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I remember back when my goal while grocery shopping was to not pay more for cereal than $1.99, and that was a good-sized box. I remember when green onions were about 29 cents. I remember milk being a little over $2.50 or so. I remember going to the store for a few things, and it costing way less than $50. <br />
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Was all this back in the "old days", you ask? Like maybe when you were a kid, you wonder?<br />
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No. That was in 2007. <br />
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I remember when I would wake up in the morning and America made sense. I remember when I didn't worry about politics. I remember when I didn't fear for the future of my children and their children.<br />
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When will I again not have these concerns?<br />
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Well, I think we will have to WAIT a very long time for that....</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-91936371145633219052013-01-01T22:31:00.001-05:002013-01-01T22:31:15.805-05:00Happy 2013! Yes, Happy!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have had many thoughts over the past few days about this new year. I am sure you have as well. Sorry my last post was a downer - just call me Debbie - the Downer, that is. I am working on that! <br />
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2012 was a year of growth and challenges, of joy and fun. The best things about 2012 would be:<br />
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~We were blessed with a wonderful vacation with all five of us to Emerald Isle, North Carolina. We stayed in a nice home right next to the beach. We love love loved it. I'd go back in a heartbeat.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dang- a few of us are getting chubby.... gotta work on that!</td></tr>
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~ I was able to serve the wonderful women of the Columbia Stake in many ways. One of the most favorite would be planning our Women's Conference held in April. WOW - what work that was! Many sisters enjoyed it, and that is the point.<br />
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~ I went to "Time out For Women" with my good friends Carrie and Diane. Tons of fun there, I tell ya!<br />
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~I visited Arizona and helped my niece recover from surgery by helping to take care of her little adorable baby girl. She recovered quickly and we had lots of play time! I loved being with my nieces and nephews and their families. They are such a joy. <br />
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~Hubby and I went on a <a href="http://waitalittlewhile.blogspot.com/2012/06/number-28-and-knight-in-new-york.html">28th Wedding Anniversary trip</a> to a lovely place in Virginia. It was a pleasant get-away together. L and I went to a family homestead in New York. See that same blog post for information.<br />
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~I finished a couple of quilts. I should have finished more - I will do that THIS year!<br />
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~We spent Thanksgiving with family in Tennessee. YAY! <br />
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~I supported Hubby through two minor surgeries. He is becoming quite a good patient!<br />
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~We worked on a lot of home improvements! We are almost done with the necessaries. <br />
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~I have gotten to play in the Nursery at church on Sundays now for a couple of months. THAT is pure fun with those little angels - well, except when a few are crying, but they are learning and getting over it and that is a blessing! They are so dear!<br />
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~I discovered The Pioneer Woman. I shall blog about her soon. I love her. I think I mentioned that.<br />
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~My teeny small business runs well and grows without me trying to grow it. That is cool.<br />
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~I spent lots of wonderful time with my daughter sewing, laughing, and working on projects. We gained a love for the TV shows Castle and Dr. Who. In spite of her health problems, she is still a joy to me in so many ways. <br />
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~I discovered SongPop! Oh my....do you know that game? It's too much fun. <br />
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~Christmas was fantastic. B and B were home with us. I got spoiled. Hubby does that. I love him.<br />
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So, there are some blessings! Wow - I feel so much better. I should count the joy more often. Yes, I think I shall.<br />
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But you'll have have to WAIT a little while for more of that!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-65008373124897892732012-12-28T20:32:00.000-05:002012-12-28T20:32:53.238-05:00A Little Catching-Up - Just a Little<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The end of the year is here, and I realize I haven't blogged for 6 months. Don't doubt - I have had PLENTY to say, and yet, a variety of things have held me back. I ponder what to do with this blog -do I continue, do I end it? I've talked about that before. I'm not too great at being consistent. I find that flows into many areas of my life, that lack-of-consistency thing. But as the 31st of 2012 approaches, I ponder and ponder and evaluate and plan to move on ahead.<br />
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Here are a few random thoughts about where I am now.<br />
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~I have been in a bit of a funk for several months. I was released from my calling in my church, where I was serving as a leader of women in about 7 congregations. That was a tough release - and I have questioned the reasons why. Yet, it happens, I understand that, but I miss it. Because of that calling, I chose my words carefully here on this blog because I never know who reads what I write. I stayed away from controversial issues. I'm not sure I will do that now. <br />
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~About the same time as my release, we had our national presidential election. I am very politically passionate. Now, I am still in mourning about the results. Some days I can hardly breathe. I have chosen for now to ban all TV news from my home or at least when I am in the room. I don't listen to talk radio anymore for now. I am trying to live my life in my little home and am being involved in my church and with my family and friends I trust. That's the only way I can cope with it right now.<br />
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~We've done several home improvements. I will try to catch up on some of that. Maybe it will help someone else before they paint their kitchen cabinets WHITE!! <br />
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~My daughter L continues with health problems - it's been 15 months now. She will be 21 next month, and has hardly any college credits nor has she been able to work. I work with her daily on health issues, drive her to doctors' appointments, watch TV with her, and do all I can to keep her moving and feeling positive. I honestly don't always feel positive about her challenges, but we keep going. <br />
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~I've become obsessed with the Pioneer Woman. I adore her. More on her later!<br />
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These past six months since I last blogged I have endured disappointments, felt certain prayers are going unanswered, certain righteous desires go ignored, fought with people about politics and their views about certain Mormon Women's issues that I do not understand (ok, well, I didn't literally FIGHT with them, but there were a few discussions that I'd call more than a casual chat). I have also been blessed daily to have a husband who loves me and supports me always and forever, and two dear friends who keep me moving and who listen to my whining. I have lots of blessings, truly.<br />
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I think I'm ready for a new beginning and a new year.<br />
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I suppose I will have to WAIT a few more days.....<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-53541466793929038242012-06-28T21:20:00.002-04:002012-06-28T21:46:11.542-04:00Dining Room Re-do and China Hutch Transformation<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: white;">I've been DIYing again.... scary, I know. There are usually casualties and lots of brain cells that nearly explode each time I attempt it. In all honesty, there are sometimes some tears, too. I must say that this time, so far, it has gone pretty well.</span><br />
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I jokingly put on Facebook the other day that I wanted to re-do my entire home in blues, aqua, and greens. I know those colors are very popular. They have always been my favorites. I got approval of such an attempt from several of my decorator friends. Fabulous! My teen-aged bedroom was decorated in those colors - wayyyyy back in the 70s. I speak truth.<br />
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My living room, kitchen, and dining room are quite neutral. I plan to continue to decorate with a lot of neutrals, because I think it is a classic look. However, these rooms have too many browns, and the walls are a very light buttery color. The dining room has a wall that is way too gold for me. I eventually want to paint them all in a grays - since gray is the new cream. Haha..... <br />
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For the record, my living room has had turquoise/aqua in it for YEARS. I was way ahead of the trend. Yes, I was. Proof:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HtfTRl6DURU/T-z6YeyhDdI/AAAAAAAAC60/Bxi7fIvHINg/s1600/home+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HtfTRl6DURU/T-z6YeyhDdI/AAAAAAAAC60/Bxi7fIvHINg/s640/home+030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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My great-grandmother crocheted this beautiful doily in the late 1910s, and my grandmother framed it like this in the 1960s. I never wanted to change it because I LOVED her bold style with that color, and I knew that some day I would have a room that matched it. It has hung on my wall for years, even when it didn't match the decor because I'm bold that way. Or, just lazy. Or, sentimental? Your guess. <br />
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I have had this hutch in my dining room since 1996, which I purchased at Salvation Army, with every intention of painting it, and every possible reason why I would mess it up. So, I never tried, until Pinterest inspired me- yep! Again!
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_nRurZhjd08/T-z5-6f7oEI/AAAAAAAAC6s/ajr7_OiGJCY/s1600/hutch1btest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_nRurZhjd08/T-z5-6f7oEI/AAAAAAAAC6s/ajr7_OiGJCY/s640/hutch1btest.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I found information and inspiration from <a href="http://lollyjane.com/hutch-transformation/">this blog</a>, Lolly Jane:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e9hnwl3KsPI/TwE1Tt2LJnI/AAAAAAAAGhI/yPexD3n3Izo/s1600/Lolly+Jane+turquoise+hutch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e9hnwl3KsPI/TwE1Tt2LJnI/AAAAAAAAGhI/yPexD3n3Izo/s640/Lolly+Jane+turquoise+hutch.jpg" width="497" /></a></div>
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I also found help on <a href="http://asoftplace.net/2011/04/how-to-paint-a-cabinet-the-right-way/">this one</a>. I really like Kimba's blog, "A Soft Place to Land" - I read it all the time! Thanks, Kimba! Here is one of her finished products:<br />
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<a href="http://asoftplace.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/finished-cabinet-300x451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://asoftplace.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/finished-cabinet-300x451.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">She had </span><span style="background-color: white;">a great tutorial on painting furniture. I read many others as well. Here is how I approached it:</span><br />
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I do not sand. I bought Zinsser water-based Primer/Sealer. I don't do oil-based paint, either. I'm a wimp.<br />
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<a href="http://www.thatpainterlady.com/wp-content/uploads/123-Zinsser-Primer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.thatpainterlady.com/wp-content/uploads/123-Zinsser-Primer.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I did two coats. I really wanted it to be primed to death. It took forevvvver. I tried to tape off the many windows - didn't do great with that. I had to do a lot of scraping afterwards. Lesson learned. Next time I think I'll just cut in. I can often do that pretty well, but the tape I used kind of made it more frustrating. I did not sand in-between primers. Isn't that the point of using NO SANDING Primer? Hmm.....<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NnBKpIOsvuc/T-z73vY5hHI/AAAAAAAAC7c/-9gULE7Gy0I/s1600/hutch2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NnBKpIOsvuc/T-z73vY5hHI/AAAAAAAAC7c/-9gULE7Gy0I/s640/hutch2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Sorry, some photos are a bit blurred from my Iphone.<br />
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I then used Valspar Crystal Aqua in their Signature line from Lowe's. The paint lady at the store told me it would cover wonderfully. It did ok.... I had to go over it in some areas where it didn't easily cover the primer. In hindsight, I perhaps should have tried some of the Cabinet paint from Home depot or TruValue. Apparently Lowe's doesn't have that type of line.<br />
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Here is the finished product:<br />
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The hardware is original all except the four round ones. The knobs and pulls all match pretty well, I think. Since I am NOT a very good photographer, the light doesn't really show very well what the color is. Here is a picture from my phone which shows the color a little better:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ckXGUZHgzTM/T-z9xvKVuOI/AAAAAAAAC78/0gLjzaeQJ9E/s1600/hutch3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ckXGUZHgzTM/T-z9xvKVuOI/AAAAAAAAC78/0gLjzaeQJ9E/s640/hutch3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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So, there you have it. I love it very much! I only spent 16 years hating it. Great.<br />
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I also redid the tablescape on my antique buffet. I have had this for about 25 years - it's at least 100, I think. A woman gave it to me for $100 when it was worth WAY more. She was moving to an RV and wanted it gone! So, it went - straight to my house. I love it.<br />
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Now it looks like this:<br />
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I dislike the wall color, but as I said it will eventually be painted. I have been playing with these items to get the best look for them together. I have been trading other things on and off the buffet to see what will work for now. Got any suggestions? I'm not sure sure if it works yet. I may get a table runner, too. What I really want it to look like is this, but I can't find the big vases/candleholders anywhere. I went to about 5 stores. Sigh.<br />
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<img alt="Dollar store pillars in glass hurricanes!" height="480" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/186477240791248306_GEYzgjmj_f.jpg" width="640" />
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Do you love this? I love this window. My friend, Kaylene, gave it to me a while back and I have been waiting for the right spot and right time to use it. I love this:<br />
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So, there you have it. I"m trying! <br />
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I am pleased with the progress. I want the walls painted now. They won't be, <span style="background-color: white;">so.... </span><br />
I'll have to WAIT a little while.....<br />
<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-42106108882256159772012-06-23T21:52:00.000-04:002012-06-23T22:03:33.103-04:00The latest on Vestibular Migraine - oh, Wait - is That IT?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My dearest daughter L continues to have health issues. To refresh your memory,<a href="http://waitalittlewhile.blogspot.com/search/label/Vestibular%20Migraines"> read here. </a> This all started last Fall, you know. Well, it continues. <br />
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A few months ago, L started feeling better finally - almost back to her normal self, but not quite. She was trying to do more things, like read, do more chores, sew, thinking about taking classes again, etc. She has been SO VERY SICK of being SICK, that she tried to overcome it the best that she could. After a week or so of that, she spiraled down again into barely being able to get off of the couch. Sigh. Here we go again, we all thought.<br />
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She has spent months doing all the things her Neurologist prescribed for her, including living on a very strict diet to heal her Migraines. She has gone off of it a few times, but not too horribly. Medications haven't helped very much. She is so ultra-sensitive to any medications, that she is given very small doses of anything she is taking. Yet still, she had a nose dive. <br />
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She had an appointment with her Neurologist just in time. He is very determined and cares for her a great deal, but she causes his puzzler to puzzle. During this visit, he determined that she has low blood pressure and that this is adding to her dizziness, nausea, etc. Now, let's see.... how many times in how many doctors' offices have they taken her blood pressure during the months and months of appointments? Hmmm? A MILLION??? Yes. No one thought about her low blood pressure possibly adding to her issues. Seriously. She's had lower blood pressure for years.<br />
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That appointment with Dr. F. was on a Friday. Naturally, Hubby started doing research about this. We discovered that medications she had been on over the years have added greatly to her low blood pressure. We remembered many times she she has been faint and nearly passed out in certain circumstances.<br />
Many of her current symptoms matched those of low blood pressure. What? Yes.<br />
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Then, a few days later, she had an appointment with her other neurologist - well, he is a neuropsychologist. He was going to chew her out for seemingly not being as cooperative with her neurofeedback (did I tell you about that yet? THAT is amazing stuff). Well, he then realized why she wasn't so "in" to it. She has LOW BLOOD PRESSURE!! Yes, his tech was taking L's blood pressure twice a week. Duh. Come on, people! We discussed with him everything that has been going on with her, and everything we researched. <br />
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What we said mattered. We are now on a new path to see what is causing the low blood pressure. For now, she has to take salt tablets, drink lots of water, and exercise. Apparently old-lady support hose are supposed to help as well. Good times! <br />
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<b style="background-color: white;"><i>This is a reminder to every parent that ever reads this that even when you have world-famous doctors who appear on Dr. Oz that parents are the ones who OFTEN lead the doctor to the right place. DO NOT underestimate the power you have and that the knowledge and instincts you have aid in finding a correct diagnosis. Do not give up.</i></b><br />
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So, my 20 year old still has no life. We don't know when she will be well enough to get more than the 3 college credits she has. She is home....with me (except for when I work, or shop, or go to lunch).... all the time. She has handled the emotion of all this frustration amazingly well. I am so proud of her for that. I have a new appreciation for those with chronic illnesses. I hope I will have the foresight to support those who can't do anything but survive due to health problems, and support those who take care of them a little bit better. It's a lonely spot sometimes. <br />
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I have days when I wonder if this well end, of this will be her life. Right now, I really don't know.<br />
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I'll just have to WAIT a little while.....and so will she.<br />
<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-64048170944973388612012-06-04T20:39:00.002-04:002012-06-05T07:44:47.889-04:00Number 28 and A Knight In New York<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Not that anyone has noticed, but I haven't blogged since Mid-March. I am in a continual quandary as to what this blog should be about, and who actually might read it. For posterity's sake, I shall blog today about two important events over the past 10 days. So, Posterity, Pay attention!!<br />
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<b><i>Event # 1: </i></b> Last weekend, on the 25th, Hubby and I celebrated our 28th wedding anniversary. I know - That. Is. Old. (Has anyone seen "The Kid"? Classic line from that great movie). I digress. <br />
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Hubby planned a weekend getaway to Winchester, Virginia. We stayed in a lovely hotel and enjoyed lots of walking and window shopping, talking, visiting some historic museums, and reconnecting. <br />
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We visited the <a href="http://www.shenandoahmuseum.org/index.php">Museum of the Shenandoah Valley</a> which was actually a really well-done museum and was very interesting! The main house was closed due to restoration work, but the gardens were absolutely beautiful to walk in. <br />
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We also went to the Family Drive-in Theatre! What a hoot! I haven't been to one of those since I was a kid. This is a wonderful place, and seriously is almost worth the drive as a family just to experience it. The family who owns it has done a wonderful job preserving the heritage of a drive-in, and keeping it (generally) family friendly. Since it was Memorial Day weekend, my favorite part was the Patriotic pre-show. They played memorable America-loving songs and showed scenes on the big screens about our wonderful country, saluting those who have died in serving our country. I loved it. Thank you,<a href="http://www.thefamilydriveintheatre.com/index.html"> Family Drive In!!</a><br />
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Oh, and we did watch a fun movie - Men in Black 3. <br />
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L stayed home and enjoyed 2 1/2 days of alone-time bliss. <br />
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">Event #2: </i>Hubby had to fly far away out of town this past Friday, so L and I took a little road trip to upstate New York to reconnect with our roots and a little church history. You see, I am a descendant of Joseph Knight, through his son Newel Knight, who are prominent people in the beginnings of my church. They were by the side of <a href="http://mormon.org/joseph-smith/">Joseph Smith </a>during the early days of the restoration. They are both mentioned in the <a href="http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?locale=0&sourceId=a0ff0bbce1d98010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&vgnextoid=bbd508f54922d010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD">Doctrine and Covenants</a>, one of our books of scripture. <br />
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Well, about 3 weeks ago, I found out that the Knight Farm was being restored by some wonderful people, and they were dedicating a statue at this farm and opening up the home for all to see. They were hoping to have some descendants to come and attend, in addition to local church members. I never even knew that the house still stood. Most Knight descendants reside on the west side of the country - a few of us are transplanted back here in the East! I stewed and pondered, and finally decided that I would probably kick myself if I didn't go on this little adventure with L and drive up there. So, we did. <br />
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The farm is located in Nineveh, New York. The first congregation of the church was established here by Joseph Smith and called the <a href="http://josephsmithpapers.org/place/colesville-township-new-york">Colesville Branch</a>. Hyrum Smith, brother of Joseph, was the first leader of this congregation. Newel Knight, my great-great-times-a-bunch grandfather was the second. Many of the very first baptisms, including Joseph's wife, Emma, took place in the Susquehanna River just beyond the house and across a field. This is sacred ground to members of my church. <br />
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The main purpose of this Open House was to dedicate a statue of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. A little meeting which included history, singing, and tears began the event. I met a few distant relatives and enjoyed visiting with members of the church who live in the area and are so proud to be a part of this history now. I was called "a Knight", which I have never been called in my lifetime. But, I suppose I am and what an overwhelming thought that is! To me, it is a legacy to live up to, and to cherish. I am grateful for it and I am blessed. It adds to my testimony of the restoration of the gospel and of the church. <br />
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I could write a great deal more about the history of this place, and all the wonderful things my ancestors did to support Joseph Smith in his mission to perform a most important work. I won't - but if you want more information, I can recommend some great books!<br />
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Instead of writing, I will share a few photos of our experience in Colesville, New York:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pqFb-Izf8Y0/T81O_sQXC8I/AAAAAAAAC38/bgsQn5KZV4o/s1600/DSC_0290.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pqFb-Izf8Y0/T81O_sQXC8I/AAAAAAAAC38/bgsQn5KZV4o/s400/DSC_0290.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the street</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tuUzT5THcSw/T81PJ7TGP1I/AAAAAAAAC4E/KUOsEReSKCs/s1600/Knightfarm6.12+(21).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tuUzT5THcSw/T81PJ7TGP1I/AAAAAAAAC4E/KUOsEReSKCs/s400/Knightfarm6.12+(21).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Porch</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UQJj_7S3dmw/T81QmXP8kUI/AAAAAAAAC5k/zRLXEdSt4Ho/s1600/SignOnHouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UQJj_7S3dmw/T81QmXP8kUI/AAAAAAAAC5k/zRLXEdSt4Ho/s400/SignOnHouse.jpg" width="275" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little history</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n0arSq0z9Xw/T81PQVA-gYI/AAAAAAAAC4U/Ca-nZsozB_A/s1600/Knightfarm6.12+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n0arSq0z9Xw/T81PQVA-gYI/AAAAAAAAC4U/Ca-nZsozB_A/s400/Knightfarm6.12+(2).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Testimony of Newel Knight, hanging right in the front door</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WYlWV5Px-FM/T81PPwKCwSI/AAAAAAAAC4M/ThRG9z5gLLI/s1600/Knightfarm6.12+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WYlWV5Px-FM/T81PPwKCwSI/AAAAAAAAC4M/ThRG9z5gLLI/s400/Knightfarm6.12+(1).JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fireplace</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Pt2T3mgzWA/T81PrMf_GmI/AAAAAAAAC5M/xJguievOpT4/s1600/Knightfarm6.12+%252814%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Pt2T3mgzWA/T81PrMf_GmI/AAAAAAAAC5M/xJguievOpT4/s400/Knightfarm6.12+%252814%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A room upstairs being renovated - original floors</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IXhhjDt9jHA/T81PtDUr0oI/AAAAAAAAC5U/XXjKJ4D4ps8/s1600/Knightfarm6.12+%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IXhhjDt9jHA/T81PtDUr0oI/AAAAAAAAC5U/XXjKJ4D4ps8/s400/Knightfarm6.12+%252815%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More original floors - imagine whose feet walked here</td></tr>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bmFRWtU5zCU/T81PcouEEoI/AAAAAAAAC40/d1z2Zdob8bI/s1600/Knightfarm6.12+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bmFRWtU5zCU/T81PcouEEoI/AAAAAAAAC40/d1z2Zdob8bI/s400/Knightfarm6.12+%252812%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UOeDqPz8L-0/T81PifYywyI/AAAAAAAAC48/9O5klz0q_Lo/s1600/Knightfarm6.12+%252817%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UOeDqPz8L-0/T81PifYywyI/AAAAAAAAC48/9O5klz0q_Lo/s400/Knightfarm6.12+%252817%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W3lOarofptw/T81PSr5ijLI/AAAAAAAAC4c/4yT9EeRwbhE/s1600/Knightfarm6.12+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W3lOarofptw/T81PSr5ijLI/AAAAAAAAC4c/4yT9EeRwbhE/s400/Knightfarm6.12+%25283%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the back yard</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O-r_zZWh8Ow/T81PU3efUII/AAAAAAAAC4k/walbud3r5AQ/s1600/Knightfarm6.12+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O-r_zZWh8Ow/T81PU3efUII/AAAAAAAAC4k/walbud3r5AQ/s400/Knightfarm6.12+%25284%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The part of this well below ground is the original well, built by Joseph Smith and Joseph Knight (or at least that is my understanding)</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TEVyRpvNzoI/T81Pb1oKhwI/AAAAAAAAC4s/WKjGDVCu2Hk/s1600/Knightfarm6.12+%252811%2529b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TEVyRpvNzoI/T81Pb1oKhwI/AAAAAAAAC4s/WKjGDVCu2Hk/s400/Knightfarm6.12+%252811%2529b.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Us - beyond the line of trees is the part of the river where baptisms had taken place</td></tr>
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It was a wonderful couple of weekends. I am blessed. I wonder when I'll get another trip this summer?<br />
<br />
Well, a great one is coming up in August, but I'll just have to WAIT a little while.....</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-71607685486725285992012-03-17T16:25:00.000-04:002012-03-17T16:25:41.399-04:00A DIY Casualty<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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So, after my painstaking DIY lamps, one of my naughty kitties knocked this over and broke it:</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AO7XSatH0rc/T2TyBFtoxdI/AAAAAAAAC0I/8-0kBnwg1ks/s1600/2012-03-17+15.33.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AO7XSatH0rc/T2TyBFtoxdI/AAAAAAAAC0I/8-0kBnwg1ks/s320/2012-03-17+15.33.32.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Drat. I actually saw some lamps I liked at Target the other day for just a few bucks more than I had spent on these puppies. Sometimes I wonder about all this DIYstuff, ya know?</div>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-56429344010790718672012-03-06T19:17:00.001-05:002012-03-06T19:20:08.298-05:00Master Bedroom A-comin' Along<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
So, my little sewing/office/craft room is doing ok. I try to keep it clean. I love to sit in it and work, and I love to sit in it and not work. That's the truth.<br />
<br />
I have been going back and forth about the bedroom side of this project. I couldn't decide what colors to use other than the wall color. I bought a duvet cover and shams that I love, but what else was I going to do? I've searched and Pinned and pondered. <br />
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Then, last Monday, I found a new designer that clicked for me! She is an LDS mom and I found her... on Pinterest. True story. You must look at Sita Montgomery's <a href="http://pinterest.com/asmj07/">boards</a> and <a href="http://thefamilyroomdesign.blogspot.co.nz/">blog</a>. I saw her own kitchen posted and was immediately searching for more information about her work. <br />
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She did a design for a client, and posted the design board. Then, I fell in love.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XyRa5L4xMUE/T1akhCL9QTI/AAAAAAAACyM/0dqdEpMmqRw/s1600/Master+Bedroom+-Sita+M.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XyRa5L4xMUE/T1akhCL9QTI/AAAAAAAACyM/0dqdEpMmqRw/s400/Master+Bedroom+-Sita+M.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;">Design by Sita Montgomery</span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">I already had the right wall color,
and browns and white in the bedding I had purchased. This is what took me
to painting my new<a href="http://waitalittlewhile.blogspot.com/2012/03/master-bedroom-lamp-love-or-like.html"> Goodwill lamp</a>s the color aqua.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">And THEN, I got a really wild idea.
I have two very old nightstands. One is from Goodwill and purchased
years ago. I always intended to paint it, but I didn't because I am a
chicken. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jjG-bIT-WYw/T1alMka5j-I/AAAAAAAACyU/D-pjvrhXpBU/s1600/home+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jjG-bIT-WYw/T1alMka5j-I/AAAAAAAACyU/D-pjvrhXpBU/s320/home+004.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt; text-align: left;">The other one was my parents'.
I love it. It is sturdy and it reminds me of them. I have
never done anything to it.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Opudj16lwo/T1allPY5NaI/AAAAAAAACyc/zisunuCChqI/s1600/home+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Opudj16lwo/T1allPY5NaI/AAAAAAAACyc/zisunuCChqI/s400/home+003.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">I decided to paint the Goodwill one
a lovely blue - kind of a royal blue. I NEVER decide to do something
in the morning and then complete it by that night. NEVER
- I usually have to stew and second-guess my decorating abilities over and
over. With the encouragement of my friend Traci, I decided to go for it.
Hubby was out of town, and coming home the next day! I had to get it done
- I wanted to surprise him! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">First, I cleaned his stuff out of
it. Holy moly - what IS all that stuff??<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">I primed it with some oil-based
primer from Lowe's (ew, so I used an old brush so I could just throw it out).
And then..... I went for it!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sbvcn4ZQLPc/T1amHISPOLI/AAAAAAAACys/AsMDK54tpYs/s1600/home+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sbvcn4ZQLPc/T1amHISPOLI/AAAAAAAACys/AsMDK54tpYs/s400/home+006.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7mrNk9L422Q/T1amH8-5IqI/AAAAAAAACy0/xg52vy2--4k/s1600/home+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7mrNk9L422Q/T1amH8-5IqI/AAAAAAAACy0/xg52vy2--4k/s400/home+007.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">And what, you ask, is that little
hole in there? We must have cut it out for an electrical cord at some
point. </span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">And, here it is in its proper
location:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TMbmw4ccz5Y/T1ambT8LT0I/AAAAAAAACy8/hmpG_w8iWbA/s1600/home+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TMbmw4ccz5Y/T1ambT8LT0I/AAAAAAAACy8/hmpG_w8iWbA/s400/home+017.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The little handle is... a ... paper
clip. Yes, I still need to spray paint the hardware. I will, I
promise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">You can see from the pictures that I
have no bed skirt. I am doing this a little at a time, ya'll. But, I did
get the perfect accent pillow after buying and returning about 5 different
ones. That is the truth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">So, here is the room thus far:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;">I know, I may need to move stuff around, but I LOVE
these colors and the flowers!</span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FarlyJiHMpk/T1anSdQsfNI/AAAAAAAACzk/0mf7BZR8g2g/s1600/home+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FarlyJiHMpk/T1anSdQsfNI/AAAAAAAACzk/0mf7BZR8g2g/s400/home+012.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8KqGrvz5u04/T1aUqUK4ShI/AAAAAAAACx0/-2RCuQ0mMnQ/s1600/home+012.JPG" imageanchor="1"><span style="text-decoration: none;"></span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;">The "shrine", updated....</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vigxk9AesTw/T1anamir7uI/AAAAAAAACzs/CxdHjUpIgeM/s1600/home+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vigxk9AesTw/T1anamir7uI/AAAAAAAACzs/CxdHjUpIgeM/s400/home+013.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;">There's that perfect accent pillow...</span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">The bed will hopefully soon look
more like this:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hpFPM7txknI/T1anuK9b9OI/AAAAAAAACz0/a7w7gSGbg3s/s1600/perfect+bed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hpFPM7txknI/T1anuK9b9OI/AAAAAAAACz0/a7w7gSGbg3s/s400/perfect+bed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HxCAxw6ztfw/T1aWBwZPUKI/AAAAAAAACyE/hsxgFq5O-6E/s1600/perfect+bed.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="text-decoration: none;"></span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">This is found at<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.theyellowcapecod.com/2011/12/recipe-for-perfect-bed.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+CozyCapeInTheBurbs+%28cozy+cape+in+the+burbs%29">The
Yellow Cape Cod,</a><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>another
great blogger/designer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Here's what I have left to do (since I'm sure you are all so very fascinated and curious):<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">~Paint the other night stand<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">~get a new bed skirt, or sew one<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">~get new sheets and a coverlet<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">~get new blinds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">~sew some simple valances or
curtains - I have a lot of muslin left over from the wedding events, so I may
use that<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">~get a new pillow -dang, my neck has
been hurting!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">~find places for the redistributed
files that were moved out of the new office area... dang, I don't know what to
do with them!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">~wall art - I have mostly none.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">I want it done NOW!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">But, as you know, I'll have to WAIT
a little while.....<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-67308156213561497632012-03-06T17:09:00.001-05:002012-03-06T17:09:56.178-05:00Master Bedroom Lamp Love - Or, Like.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I have become a DIY crazy woman lately. Pinterest is a blessing and a curse - maybe I mentioned that before? I have only spray painted things a few times, but while redecorating my bedroom, I decided that I really didn't want to spend a lot on lamps for my nightstands right now. So, Pinterest helped with my plan.</div>
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I took a little trip to Goodwill. I found the ugliest colored lamps possible that would have matched my home in 1985. True story. I have photos to prove it. </div>
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Here are the ones I picked out:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3WNFag6SBCc/T1aEPxopGfI/AAAAAAAACwA/Aur6Z4MPKZQ/s1600/2012-02-28+16.30.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3WNFag6SBCc/T1aEPxopGfI/AAAAAAAACwA/Aur6Z4MPKZQ/s400/2012-02-28+16.30.12.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3 buckeroos!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MJfOHGv9r2M/T1aENmXUy0I/AAAAAAAACv4/HFYDVUSy1Zw/s1600/2012-02-28+16.30.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MJfOHGv9r2M/T1aENmXUy0I/AAAAAAAACv4/HFYDVUSy1Zw/s400/2012-02-28+16.30.03.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aren't they so lovely? </td></tr>
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I wasn't even sure yet what color to paint them. Sad, but so very true. Low and behold, I found my new favorite blogger/designer, which I will spill about in my next post. I chose aqua. Oh, how I love aqua. I primed them and then sprayed away with this lovely blue.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rzaVIAhKugM/T1aESxjGD3I/AAAAAAAACwI/djllFXhMlUo/s1600/2012-03-01+13.42.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rzaVIAhKugM/T1aESxjGD3I/AAAAAAAACwI/djllFXhMlUo/s400/2012-03-01+13.42.36.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And, after going to three stores,I found lampshades that don't fit very well, but they will have to do for now:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GVcqDEsjTRo/T1aEUKaBXYI/AAAAAAAACwQ/MYuBLLQs28g/s1600/2012-03-01+16.21.07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GVcqDEsjTRo/T1aEUKaBXYI/AAAAAAAACwQ/MYuBLLQs28g/s400/2012-03-01+16.21.07.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I<strike> love them</strike> like them enough for now. <strike> </strike> Each lamp cost me about $13. <br />
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What else have I done?<br />
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You'll have to just WAIT a little while.....</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-66709619111080142552012-02-16T06:52:00.000-05:002012-02-20T08:56:34.889-05:00More Than You Or I Want to Know about Vestibular Migraines<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My sweet daughter L has been suffering since the beginning of October from dizziness, light headedness, nausea, and blurred vision, which I have blogged about a little before. Yesterday we met with her neurologist (as seen on TV! - yes, he is famous) and we feel like we finally have a plan of action. He still believes her symptoms are consistent with the diagnosis of Vestibular Migraines.<br />
<br />
For those of you who are interested, the plan involves several different parts. <br />
<br />
1. She will take teeny doses of Topamax, for the migraines, which will take a few weeks to see if it works. She can increase the dosage as needed. She will also take Clonazepam in teeny doses for the dizziness. We really hope that actually helps, because nothing else has so far. <br />
2. L can sleep okay, but she does not have restful sleep - she has pretty active dreams (battles with swords are often fought and won) most nights so she doesn't get a lot of rest, really. He told her to take Benadryl at night to help with that. Apparently migraine sufferers have worse symptoms from lack of sleep, but you probably already knew that.<br />
3. Apparently there are several types of foods that can trigger migraines. She has had very few foods over these past months that she can even stomach to eat, due to constant nausea. We will have to eliminate things here and there, but several of us, including the doctor, suspect that foods with gluten in them are a trigger. So, guess who gets to learn about cooking gluten-free? Yes, that would be us. Ugh. We will experiment with other foods that are triggers as well.<br />
4. L's fitness level was also tested several weeks ago. Due to the dizziness for 5 months, etc., her fitness level is very low for a young woman her age. He really read her the riot act about that - I am happy I didn't have to, because I have suspected for a while that this was causing some of her problems. He explained to her how she needs to get blood moving in her brain to help its functionality. She seems much more motivated now to try. Of course being dizzy and light-headed every day makes it pretty tough to want to exercise! So, hopefully some of these medications, etc. will help quickly so that she can start a work-out routine. <br />
5. He told us to read the book, "Heal Your Headache", which I purchased on Amazon last night. It is quite a strict program to help with headaches. After all she has been through, I think L is pretty willing to do what is needed. At least, she is willing right NOW.....<br />
6. Last month, L participated in some neurocognitive testing, which this doctor ordered, but we haven't gotten the results yet from the doctor who performed them. We will meet with her, and then find out if L is eligible also for some neurofeedback treatment. Apparently, this can also be quite a help to some people on the autism spectrum. That would be a wonderful thing if it would help eliminate or improve some of her Aspergers challenges. I don't really know that much about this, so we shall see. <br />
7. This doctor is a memory expert, and he was very curious about L's brain and her memory. She has an amazing memory for certain things, but her executive functioning has always been wavering due to ADD symptoms as well as the Aspergers. In December, he had her answer a series of questions, and do some tasks in a computer program he designed for memory testing. He told her that she was "off the charts" with her results, and that he could see from the test results how highly intelligent she is. He was very pleased, and his reaction to this gave her a much needed boost of confidence. <br />
<br />
So, there you have it. My prayer is that this plan of action actually works for her. I know many migraine sufferers who do many of these things, but have little improvement when their migraines hit. While L doesn't have a lot of headache pain, these vertigo symptoms have been completely debilitating and she has not been able to really get going with college credits, or jobs, etc. She had to miss this semester again. Hopefully she can start feeling well enough soon to get back to learning to drive, and perhaps get a job. We have high hopes that her quality of life will improve very soon.<br />
<br />
We just may have to WAIT a little while to find out. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-51218046196654481242012-02-11T08:55:00.001-05:002012-02-11T08:55:08.771-05:00That C Word - Challenges<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Let me tell you about some people on my mind lately. The four of them have some important things in common. They are warriors. They have cancer. They are all members of my church. Two are family members.<br />
<br />
Cynthia - Cynthia is my cousin, and a couple years old than I am. She lives in Arizona, and we spent some time together as children and teenagers. I have not seen her nor chatted with her for many years, other than a quick wave and glance at family funerals. She was diagnosed with breast cancer last Fall. She is undergoing treatments and has a very beautiful, loving supportive family. She and her sister give me updates every now and then about how she is doing.<br />
<br />
Craig - Craig is my brother-in-law, married to hubby's older sister. They live in Utah. I've known him almost as long as I've known hubby. He is being treated at the Huntsman Cancer Center. He has been battling tumors for many months. He is quiet about it, and wears the challenge with dignity and dislikes greatly talking about himself. He is hilarious, a big tease, and loves his family deeply and with great dedication. I often wish I lived nearby so that I could support him and his wife as they walk through this together.<br />
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Spencer - I knew Spencer as a little boy, and remember him playing in my basement one day when his mother came to visit me. He has big beautiful eyes, and loves basketball about as much as my son B used to breathe it when growing up. His family moved to Virginia when he was very little, and all I know about him now is through his mother's blog and through Christmas cards. His parents are righteous, valiant souls who love God and are dedicated to raising righteous children. A month ago they learned that, at age 16, Spencer has leukemia. He will undergo a bone marrow transplant very soon. His dear and dedicated mother has decided to blog about the experience<a href="http://wawasmusings.blogspot.com/"> here</a>.<br />
<br />
Lisa - Fabulous Lisa and her great husband and adorable kiddos lived near us and attended church with us during dental school, and now live in Utah with their four children. They used to sit behind us during Sacrament Meeting and we loved to hear the sweet angel voices of their little ones as they quietly chatted with each other and with their parents. We smiled as the parents taught them how to behave and how to love their Heavenly Father. She is a runner, a crafter, a clogger, a sewer, and a blogger. She reads this blog - (Hi, Lisa - don't be mad that I'm talking about you :-) ). Lately I have seen what an amazing fighter she is. If anyone can kick the tumor that plagues her brain, it will be her. <br />
<br />
Our family has a list of missionaries that we pray for together each night. We have done that since our children were little ones. We now have our cancer list. These dear loved ones are mentioned by name every night as we pray for Heavenly Father to bless them with strength and power to overcome the obstacles they face. They are all on my mind every day. How does one explain what they are having to endure? A young grandmother, a father of great young adults, a 16 year old athlete, and a beautiful young mother.<br />
<br />
This of course is proof that Heavenly Father is in control. We endure these challenges better when we work our way to accept that, and put the outcome in His hands. These situations turn us to Him. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f9f6ed; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #2f393a; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/matt/11.28">
<span class="verse" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 1px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;">Matthew 11:28-29 </span></span></div>
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f9f6ed; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/matt/11.28">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="verse" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #2f393a; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 1px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span>Come unto me, all <span class="clarityWord" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-style: italic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">ye</span> that<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1471533832"> </a><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none;">labour</span> and are heavy laden, and I will give you <span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none;">rest</span>.</span></div>
<div class="highlight" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f9f6ed; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; margin-bottom: 20px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/matt/11.29">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial;"> </span><span class="verse" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 1px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">29 </span>Take my <span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none;">yoke</span> upon you, and <span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none;">learn</span> of me; for I am <span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none;">meek</span> and</span><span style="line-height: 10px;"> </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial; line-height: 18px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none;">lowly</span><span style="line-height: 18px;"> in </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial; line-height: 18px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none;">heart</span><span style="line-height: 18px;">: and ye shall find </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial; line-height: 18px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none;">rest</span><span style="line-height: 18px;"> unto your souls.</span></span></div>
<div class="" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f9f6ed; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font: normal normal normal 16px/22px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto; vertical-align: baseline;" uri="/scriptures/nt/matt/11.30">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial;"> </span><span class="verse" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 1px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">30 </span>For my yoke <span class="clarityWord" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; font-style: italic; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">is</span> <span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-style: initial; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none;">easy</span>, and my burden is light.</span></div>
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This passage of scriptures was what I have held onto during the most difficult times in my life in recent years. I would literally picture in my head letting go, and tossing my burdens upon the Lord. What a blessing that image is to me. It allowed me to continue walking through the mud and trudge to the other side. I know the Lord loves me. He loves you, too. He will watch over these four loved ones and their families. I know it.<br />
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Hopefully they will only have to WAIT a little while to feel it, if they don't already.<br />
<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-71886195493948730172012-02-02T16:39:00.001-05:002012-02-05T19:24:10.903-05:00Sewing Room, Office, and Craft Room - SOC room?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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My Sewing, Office, Craft room is just about finished! I am very happy with it. Here is the main wall:</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zyGIBlbaLK8/TyrtdmgFUTI/AAAAAAAACtE/Iq24qB4WZco/s1600/Deon+sewingroom+(8).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zyGIBlbaLK8/TyrtdmgFUTI/AAAAAAAACtE/Iq24qB4WZco/s640/Deon+sewingroom+(8).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here is the <a href="http://waitalittlewhile.blogspot.com/2012/01/were-getting-there.html">sort-of-before post.</a> If you follow me on<a href="http://pinterest.com/computaiter/"> Pinterest,</a> you may have seen my "sewing/craft room" board. I have implemented several ideas I collected there. However, I must say that this spot is MY spot and most of the things in it represent something sentimental in my own life. I doubt anyone else would love it as much as I do.<br />
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I'm okay with that.
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I have my sewing on the left and office and computer on the right. These things can easily be moved if the work space was needed for something else like scrapbooking or for doing other crafts.<br />
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Here are the details, from left to right:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UU0DL_G-MMs/TyrycpGIeDI/AAAAAAAACts/7KFKnQrRSn4/s1600/Deon+sewingroom+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UU0DL_G-MMs/TyrycpGIeDI/AAAAAAAACts/7KFKnQrRSn4/s640/Deon+sewingroom+(5).JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
The floral pink piece of art was painted by my Grandmother, Dee Dee. More about her later. She was very creative and talented. It seemed only appropriate to have something of hers in here. A photo of her is also on the desk. <br />
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The wall decor under <b><i>SewCute</i></b> (purchased at Joann's) is made of 6 art canvases purchased at Michael's, and I just wrapped and pinned some of my favorite fabrics on them. The peg boards below were also purchased at Michael's (a box of 3, on sale!). I don't really know what to do with them yet-you know, since I have all those fabulous DRAWERS now! I will definitely hang more thread on the spool holder. I also hung a little ribbon with mini clothes pins to hold photos of those for whom I've made quilts! Fun! I hope that the number of photos grows and grows.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MZOfkf6ALzo/TyrthvkQLDI/AAAAAAAACtc/hmI4De5OdRI/s1600/Deon+sewingroom+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MZOfkf6ALzo/TyrthvkQLDI/AAAAAAAACtc/hmI4De5OdRI/s640/Deon+sewingroom+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The things on this shelf just make me smile. (Oops, I see a photo falling sideways!). Almost every item has meaning to me. I won't bore you about each and every item, but will give a few highlights. The top shelf has a hand-sketched Christmas card from the 50s made by Dee Dee. The little wooden doll was given to me by my dear mother, and it says, "You Are my Sunshine". She used to sign every card and letter to me with that phrase. Sigh...<br />
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The wooden vase is hand -carved and purchased in the Dominican Republic when I was there as an LDS missionary. The little framed cross- stitch piece is of the Seoul, South Korea LDS temple, made for me when we lived there in the early 90s by a lovely sister missionary. I have a few wonderful Willow Tree statues given to me by people I love. My children's senior pictures are here, and a sign from B that says, "If at first you don't succeed, do it like your mother told you". I wonder how his new wife would feel about that? Hahaa... I cross-stitched the I Heart U sign for hubby many years ago. I stole it back.<br />
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I of course included <a href="http://www.lds.org/church/leader/dieter-f-uchtdorf?lang=eng">Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf'</a>s statement, printed from a printable on Pinterest, about creativity from a<a href="http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2008/10/happiness-your-heritage?lang=eng&query=create+(name%3a%22Dieter+F.+Uchtdorf%22)"> talk in October 2008</a>,<i> </i><br />
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<i>"The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul"</i>. <br />
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Bless <a href="http://allorahandmade.com/2012/01/create/">this young woman</a> who created this beautiful way to depict that important statement. I look forward to lots of creating going on in this room.<br />
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Can you see the little teeny high-heeled pump on the bottom left shelf?<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CdUQ9NMnZvQ/Tyr_j0_fV-I/AAAAAAAACt0/4RFH1n9crJY/s1600/Deon+sewingroom+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CdUQ9NMnZvQ/Tyr_j0_fV-I/AAAAAAAACt0/4RFH1n9crJY/s400/Deon+sewingroom+%25289%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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That was my mother's. It's a pin cushion. I have always loved it. It still has a few of her pins in it. She always wore high heels - how appropriate. <br />
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Here's the wall on the right. Nothing too exciting for you, but it speaks volumes to my heart and spirit.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YynfhThNitU/TyrtiP_aY6I/AAAAAAAACtk/LMXfRmBV1x4/s1600/Deon+sewingroom+%252813%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YynfhThNitU/TyrtiP_aY6I/AAAAAAAACtk/LMXfRmBV1x4/s640/Deon+sewingroom+%252813%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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The desks are from Ikea and were super easy to set up. Hubby put the drawers (all those WONDERFUL drawers!) together for me. Love.<br />
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Ok, on to more spots in the room:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gpMclqJRMkQ/TyrthW6K6UI/AAAAAAAACtU/UCvS7MGBVfg/s1600/Deon+sewingroom+%252811%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gpMclqJRMkQ/TyrthW6K6UI/AAAAAAAACtU/UCvS7MGBVfg/s640/Deon+sewingroom+%252811%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is the main piece that was inspired from Pinterest and from <a href="http://modkidboutique.blogspot.com/search/label/IKEA">this blogger</a>. She designs fabric - how cool is THAT?? Wow. Anyway, we did ours slightly differently. I had wanted a longer cutting table than she had. We took two of the Expidit Ikea bookshelves and laid them on their side, and then bought one smaller one for the end unit. At first we were going to have a big piece of wood-something cut to make a longer board than the one she has in her photo that would have covered the entire top area of these bookcases. But, after I put my big white cutting mat on this, I liked it as it was. We didn't push the two long bookcases up flush to each other, but there is a slight gap in between to make the mat fit better. It is not secured - we will see if I regret that later. If I do, we will try something different.<br />
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The end book shelf is empty for now - I am looking for hanging-folder baskets to fit right in there. I have lots of files to go in them! I am having trouble finding them.... sigh. The basket on top has things in it that I love - little photo albums, Shel Sliverstein books (the best EVER!!), my Wicked program - just things to pick up, browse through, and feel a little joy. It's my JOY basket, I suppose.<br />
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These shelves in a little cubby next to a closet are nothing fancy, and I want to replace a few of the boxes. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wF1_0L4bMis/TyrtbEu5G5I/AAAAAAAACs8/lPKAU4XuXCk/s1600/Deon+sewingroom+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wF1_0L4bMis/TyrtbEu5G5I/AAAAAAAACs8/lPKAU4XuXCk/s400/Deon+sewingroom+%25284%2529.JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
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The white box on the bottom sits on a two-drawer file cabinet. Pretty boring, but necessary. <br />
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Can you tell I have a label maker? YES, I do. I love it.<br />
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The master-bedroom part of this makeover is not finished yet. You'll have to wait for that. Dang.<br />
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While I worked to prepare this room, I found myself thinking of my grandmother (Mom's mom), Ida Mae, who we grew up calling Dee Dee. Dee Dee walked to the beat of a different drummer during her time. She was very creative and loved beautiful things, floral things, shiny things. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--aQtubSXqvc/TysAfSuYi7I/AAAAAAAACt8/HOdNm0uhlUI/s1600/Deon+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--aQtubSXqvc/TysAfSuYi7I/AAAAAAAACt8/HOdNm0uhlUI/s640/Deon+001.jpg" width="462" /></a></div>
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I also thought a lot about my own dear mother, who patiently began teaching me to sew when I was ten. Bless her dear heart. What a gift they both gave me to desire to create, and to have some skills to do so. I think they would both be pleased with this space, and would have loved to sit in it and create with me.<br />
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I guess I'll have to WAIT a little while to find out....</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-74923264786649499402012-02-01T19:46:00.000-05:002012-02-01T19:46:45.383-05:00Babble About Baby Quilts: the Great-Nieces<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Two great-nieces were born within 5 months of each other! More "hugs" had to be created for them as well.<br />
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Here is Abby's, born in May of last year:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Q5j8P1Nf_I/TynTeRisqtI/AAAAAAAACrE/3lpNa6koyBA/s1600/Deon+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Q5j8P1Nf_I/TynTeRisqtI/AAAAAAAACrE/3lpNa6koyBA/s640/Deon+001.JPG" width="516" /></a></div>
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The pattern was a free one at Moda Bake Shop called,<a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/2011/03/sugar-baby-quilt.html"> "Sugar Baby"</a>. Abby's momma didn't want pink. So, this quilt is mostly yellow, green and red. I added the huge ric-rac because it seemed unfinished. I do hope that the ric rac doesn't take away from its cuteness if it folds up funny after washing. Still, it seemed unfinished to me.... maybe it's the fabric I chose for the sashing. At least that is what my teacher and dear friend Carrie said. I do love the binding. Happy colors!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iS2O9O8-A2A/TynTfeZFUGI/AAAAAAAACrM/t798gjAsgLE/s1600/Deon+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iS2O9O8-A2A/TynTfeZFUGI/AAAAAAAACrM/t798gjAsgLE/s640/Deon+003.JPG" width="456" /></a></div>
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Yes, I learned to make the back a LOT simpler! Girly on the back, too - I love it. And, here is sweet Abby getting hugged in it:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X2IBzcqXGBE/TynWQR90-jI/AAAAAAAACrc/jM43yx5pZnU/s1600/Abbyquilt1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X2IBzcqXGBE/TynWQR90-jI/AAAAAAAACrc/jM43yx5pZnU/s640/Abbyquilt1.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't she beautiful?!!</td></tr>
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Abby had a cousin born on Sept 9 - the day before B and B's wedding! I didn't start Ayla's quilt until a few weeks after all the hustle and bustle. Her mom wanted it very girlie and PINK. So, pink it was! I got the pattern out of a book. I also learned to photograph it better since I knew I wanted to blog about my quilts. Yes, she CAN be taught!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BBTmNIjP3Fw/Tynau8ofEcI/AAAAAAAACrk/7l2lf59aXRI/s1600/2011-11-21+14.54.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BBTmNIjP3Fw/Tynau8ofEcI/AAAAAAAACrk/7l2lf59aXRI/s640/2011-11-21+14.54.03.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm blessed to have a friend with a long-arm who is willing to teach me how to use it, and willing to help me!</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1jMeGi8BpE4/Tynav2mS_yI/AAAAAAAACrs/2_kiDPbOXBo/s1600/2011-11-21+15.50.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1jMeGi8BpE4/Tynav2mS_yI/AAAAAAAACrs/2_kiDPbOXBo/s640/2011-11-21+15.50.51.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdXV3mRS9_w/TynbAX8J6iI/AAAAAAAACr8/c7U2sKCiegc/s1600/Deon+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdXV3mRS9_w/TynbAX8J6iI/AAAAAAAACr8/c7U2sKCiegc/s640/Deon+002.JPG" width="440" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the pattern of the quilted swirly flowers. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s0F2m1GCw1Q/TynbCvFcA6I/AAAAAAAACsE/4zNTMC7W5k4/s1600/Deon+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s0F2m1GCw1Q/TynbCvFcA6I/AAAAAAAACsE/4zNTMC7W5k4/s640/Deon+004.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This quilt makes me so HAPPY! I almost didn't give it up!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BZD58181zTc/TynayYoQazI/AAAAAAAACr0/Op9IIY2uoSk/s1600/Ayla+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BZD58181zTc/TynayYoQazI/AAAAAAAACr0/Op9IIY2uoSk/s640/Ayla+quilt.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">But, I did. Isn't she cute!</td></tr>
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I loved making these quilts. It brought me great joy to send some love and warmth to these precious babies. I adore their mothers with all my heart - as I do all my nieces and nephews, and their spouses, AND the ones on hubby's side as well. We are blessed. I hope to make lots of quilts!</div>
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I started my 6th one which is a Christmas quilt that will be late....</div>
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They will just have to WAIT a little while!</div>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-76526671952114285542012-02-01T18:59:00.000-05:002012-02-01T19:22:50.299-05:00Babble about Baby Quilts - for the great-nephew<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Within the past year, I had 1 great-nephew and 2 great-nieces join our family, sent straight from Heaven! Oh, how I wish I lived near them! Since I don't, I had to make some "hugs" for them. Here is the first one I made, which was for baby Ridge and delivered last May (Here's his <a href="http://maxsonfam.blogspot.com/">momma's</a> blog) :<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CV9hki_FfQc/TynO57e9ZvI/AAAAAAAACqs/uKw366zK8Fc/s1600/Deon's+trip+west+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CV9hki_FfQc/TynO57e9ZvI/AAAAAAAACqs/uKw366zK8Fc/s640/Deon's+trip+west+014.JPG" width="456" /></a></div>
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I chose a coin stack pattern for an "I Spy" type quilt. I found the pattern at <a href="http://www.modabakeshop.com/2009/02/stacked-coins-baby-quilt.html">Moda Bake Shop</a>. It is very busy and very boyish. I forgot to get some good photos before I delivered it (ok, well, that's because I was still stitching the binding up until a day or so before I presented it. I was on a long vacation and took it along with me to finish!). The photos here don't show how bright it really is. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KMT3cE9lZSo/TynO6hGRroI/AAAAAAAACq0/vNJWbZWYJAE/s1600/Deon's+trip+west+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KMT3cE9lZSo/TynO6hGRroI/AAAAAAAACq0/vNJWbZWYJAE/s640/Deon's+trip+west+015.JPG" width="456" /></a></div>
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Being a new quilter (this was my third), I forgot the importance of making the quilt back a very simple one. Well, this one was REALLY cool.... but became a little lopsided when it was put on the long-arm, which was my fault. Another lesson learned the hard way. I LOVE the black background fabric - it's my favorite one.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HrSsF4WXOvM/TynO5fPrWrI/AAAAAAAACqk/V5t7pmL4jw0/s1600/Deon's+trip+west+013b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HrSsF4WXOvM/TynO5fPrWrI/AAAAAAAACqk/V5t7pmL4jw0/s640/Deon's+trip+west+013b.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All wrapped up together!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-86eGkUomTi4/TynO7FZlQUI/AAAAAAAACq8/3-s-S3fnvJY/s1600/Deon's+trip+west+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-86eGkUomTi4/TynO7FZlQUI/AAAAAAAACq8/3-s-S3fnvJY/s640/Deon's+trip+west+016.JPG" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big brother stole it! I guess I need to make him one, too!</td></tr>
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I wish I had been a quilter when each of my little great-nieces and great-nephews were born. I have several that I have sent little things to, but I would love to make them a fun scrappy quilt, too. I just might do that.<br />
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They'll just have to WAIT a little while.....</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-4294512976112401372012-01-24T21:13:00.000-05:002012-01-31T16:29:12.784-05:00Twenty about the Twenty Year Old<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C_A_8_X6ZYc/Tx9jIf5yUYI/AAAAAAAACpY/AA4rdgk3CsQ/s1600/2012-01-24+19+35+58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C_A_8_X6ZYc/Tx9jIf5yUYI/AAAAAAAACpY/AA4rdgk3CsQ/s640/2012-01-24+19+35+58.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Today, L turned 20. We are passed the teen years. That makes me feel a bit old, and yet, pretty dang excited! I've thought a lot today about my/our journey with her, and thought I would list some of them. <br />
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My top 20 thoughts today about her, and for her, are these:<br />
<br />
1. What would I do without your laugh? It is infectious.<br />
2. You were the most beautiful baby girl - all eyelashes and eyebrows. <br />
3. You have had to endure way more than most people have to endure in a lifetime. Some day we'll understand why. It has made us all stronger and more compassionate. Wow - well, maybe that's why?<br />
4. I am grateful that we have found things to bond over - various TV shows, Disneyworld, politics, chocolate, singing in the car, kitties, sewing, and rolling our eyes at Dad.<br />
5. I am confident that you will get over your current health problems (for curious readers, see<b> </b><a href="http://waitalittlewhile.blogspot.com/2011/12/tait-times-of-2011-part-two-yes-this.html"><b>this pos</b>t</a>, page down to December) and will be able to move on in your life.<br />
6. Heavenly Father loves you and DOES watch over you. He waits for you to reach back to Him.<br />
7. You have become amazingly skilled at calming yourself down during frustrating conversations and situations. Few 20 year-olds can do that. I can't even always do that.<br />
8. I don't get the <b><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anime">Anime thing</a></b> - sorry. Don't hate me.<br />
9. Your grandmother, Mayma, would be so very thrilled that you love to sew and to create costumes. Can we throw in a church skirt or something? Please?<br />
10. Your father loves you more than you will ever realize. Please use that power for good.<br />
11. Your memory for details truly amazes me. <br />
12. I am so very happy that you embrace being <b><a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/aspergers-syndrome/DS00551">different than most</a></b>. It is endearing. It is admirable. I still don't get the anime thing, though. <br />
13. You have the coolest room in the house for your bedroom. You're welcome. <br />
14. Real life, while much more difficult that the role-play activities that you love, is harder, but better most of the time and worth the hard work to "get it".<br />
15. My top birthday celebrations for you during your life were Disneyworld, the dress up party when you were 4, and today. Why today, you ask? Because you're here and I love you.<br />
16. Routine is your friend. <br />
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17. Don't ever forget Princess Bride, and the Muppets, and Even Stevens, and Hook, and The Bee Movie. And there are more - but I'm forgetting. <br />
18. Wear your Aspergirl Cape with pride and use it to right the wrongs towards Aspies everywhere.<br />
19. Miracles brought you to us. Miracles have kept you with us. Miracles will take you along your life's path if you let them.<br />
20. The gospel of Jesus Christ is true. It has blessed our family many times. You are one of those blessings. I love you so very, very much.<br />
Mom</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-34083803913865035392012-01-22T22:25:00.002-05:002012-02-01T17:42:14.780-05:00Fix that Blog<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I'm trying to update things here, and wanted to do an easy new header (dear Erin, thanks for the last one - I decided to change it up). I found <a href="http://www.athriftymrs.com/2011/08/how-to-create-free-blog-header.html">this website</a> with a little tutorial using Piknik - who knew? I did not.<br />
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Thanks, Thrifty Mrs!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-78946458398243602052012-01-18T19:45:00.002-05:002012-01-22T23:14:08.462-05:00We're Getting There....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>My last post was to give a little hint about us working on some redecorating! We have a master bedroom attached to what would have been a fourth bedroom, but the previous home owners had it attached to the master as a "sitting room". While the thought of having a lovely, relaxing library-type room attached to our bedroom with comfy, overstuffed chairs and sofas sounds lovely, that is never what we've done with it. Since we moved here 16 years ago, it has been a computer room, sewing room, scrapbook room, and general work room - and a BIG catch-all. It has never functioned well with any of those activities simultaneously. It became time to improve that situation, especially since I have become much more interested in sewing again, as has my daughter.<br />
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Also, the last time we painted our master bedroom and bought new linens was..... well, I think in the late 90's. It was a lovely 90's shade of sage green, with fabrics of gold, green, and rosy-mauvy-something. Of COURSE it was time for a re-do there as well!<br />
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So, "Before":<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mJdVxUZKWt4/TxdkF7O-M1I/AAAAAAAACnU/_1nAvDHzLYQ/s1600/Deon+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mJdVxUZKWt4/TxdkF7O-M1I/AAAAAAAACnU/_1nAvDHzLYQ/s640/Deon+001.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have no idea why the bottom of this picture looks so weird... but here is the messy, dated room - and my kitty, Charlotte.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_DOpRpBV5dM/TxdkIuvgKyI/AAAAAAAACnc/igc66t-rCro/s1600/Deon+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_DOpRpBV5dM/TxdkIuvgKyI/AAAAAAAACnc/igc66t-rCro/s640/Deon+005.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hubby called this "a shrine". Well, minus the plastic soap dishes (???) I do like this spot. <br />
You can see to the left where the sitting room is. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oyr6nGsZHQQ/TxdkJP6CvTI/AAAAAAAACnk/_G0nOKMDzJw/s1600/Deon+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oyr6nGsZHQQ/TxdkJP6CvTI/AAAAAAAACnk/_G0nOKMDzJw/s640/Deon+006.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely, green. Ew. So tired of it. Why, oh why, did I paint those doors and trim dark green??<br />
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<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>And, here are some "during" pictures (the "after" photos are NOT ready because the rooms are NOT ready! Patience...<br />
Ok, so the "during" photos are only of the "sitting room" in the process of becoming a wonderful office/sewing/crafting room. I don't know what to call it yet!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IYwJcgn9dik/TxdlP0jL9yI/AAAAAAAACn0/lIa6DJIXIfY/s1600/Deon+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IYwJcgn9dik/TxdlP0jL9yI/AAAAAAAACn0/lIa6DJIXIfY/s640/Deon+008.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The right table is the computer desk, and the left one will be my sewing table!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4-hgkHX0Gr8/TxdlQc5-wqI/AAAAAAAACn8/EtUA8Tf82zE/s1600/Deon+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4-hgkHX0Gr8/TxdlQc5-wqI/AAAAAAAACn8/EtUA8Tf82zE/s640/Deon+009.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This wonderful structure is on its way to becoming storage below and a cutting board area on top - <br />
kitty Georgie is on guard, of course.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-USLod9bQMro/TxdlQ8xN4dI/AAAAAAAACoE/LKyN8q2Ghbk/s1600/Deon+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-USLod9bQMro/TxdlQ8xN4dI/AAAAAAAACoE/LKyN8q2Ghbk/s640/Deon+010.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, a bit of a mess, but look at all those DRAWERS! I don't even know what to do with them - I have never in my life had enough drawers. EVER. NEVER.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_-6xra0EGc/TxdmZxXzm5I/AAAAAAAACoM/N79gEfzzcDc/s1600/Deon+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I_-6xra0EGc/TxdmZxXzm5I/AAAAAAAACoM/N79gEfzzcDc/s640/Deon+007.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweet, dear hubby, putting together all the furniture!</td></tr>
</tbody></table> The walls are now my very favorite color - blue. Well, they are actually more gray than blue, but I love them. <br />
I wish I had more time to get it all together, but it is taking a long time. I am very picky, and it takes me a long time to find accessories, fabrics, etc. when I re-decorate. That is one of the reasons I don't do it very often. I understand why my mother's and grandmother's homes didn't change much - it takes too dang much work!<br />
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I am so excited, though, to have these new spaces to create and to relax.<br />
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You'll just have to WAIT a little while to see how they turn out!<br />
<br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-87106370169124502012012-01-07T15:53:00.000-05:002012-01-07T15:53:12.649-05:00Changes, they are a comin'.....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">OH, Ikea - there are times when I love and adore you! <3</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LfUsmj0QyTo/TwivsDuAWNI/AAAAAAAACms/t-VPLLTANSc/s1600/2012-01-07+13.53.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LfUsmj0QyTo/TwivsDuAWNI/AAAAAAAACms/t-VPLLTANSc/s400/2012-01-07+13.53.55.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BeB7Ele69_s/TwivtPHM9lI/AAAAAAAACm0/n3fILVg85lE/s1600/2012-01-07+13.54.10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BeB7Ele69_s/TwivtPHM9lI/AAAAAAAACm0/n3fILVg85lE/s400/2012-01-07+13.54.10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
What am I doing with these big fun boxes, you ask?<br />
<br />
You'll just have to WAIT a little while..... but, for a little hint, check<a href="http://modkidboutique.blogspot.com/search/label/IKEA"> this </a>out....</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-59232619844299081752011-12-31T23:00:00.004-05:002012-01-23T08:09:32.638-05:00Finally, my thoughts and photos of THE Wedding Happenings<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I am not sure why I've delayed this so long. I guess I needed a little time to process the events, the challenges, and the unmeasured joy!<br />
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<b>Groom's Dinner: </b> We had a lot of family traveling to Utah to support us in this glorious day. So, we decided to have a Groom's Dinner the night before the wedding. It was held in downtown Salt Lake City at Brigham Apartments.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8B43snSsGok/TwDLSx--BRI/AAAAAAAACaM/yQWsevQeAVI/s1600/DSC_7890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8B43snSsGok/TwDLSx--BRI/AAAAAAAACaM/yQWsevQeAVI/s400/DSC_7890.JPG" width="265" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tiXC78ebcwA/TwDh_uTYQ2I/AAAAAAAACgw/2Y9U5XlFVOs/s1600/DSC_7897.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tiXC78ebcwA/TwDh_uTYQ2I/AAAAAAAACgw/2Y9U5XlFVOs/s400/DSC_7897.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tAP6Oe47k6A/TwDLVfyqdYI/AAAAAAAACaU/41uyzbAmH7E/s1600/DSC_7896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tAP6Oe47k6A/TwDLVfyqdYI/AAAAAAAACaU/41uyzbAmH7E/s400/DSC_7896.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The M.C.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Telling their Luvvvv story</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Britt's parents and little sis</td></tr>
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I could not have pulled any of this off without my young friend, Andrea, who did so much of the foot work for us. My sister in law, Janet, also was an amazing support and help. My brother in law, Bill, prepared a wonderful wedding slide show full of carefully selected photos and music. Members of our family traveled from Tennessee, Texas, Idaho, Nevada, and Arizona. I know Brittney's family did a lot of traveling as well. It was a wonderful evening.. and for us, full of wonderful memories. I may post more photos of this later.<br />
<br />
<b>Wedding Day!</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
In spite of a few snags which always accompany a wedding day, the ceremony was absolutely fantastic and full of the spirit. The bride and groom confidently went about the day they had anticipated for many weeks and months (and for years, really, if you think about it!). Brittney was a most beautiful bride. Brian was a very handsome groom. All the wedding party glowed in their carefully chosen attire. Parents wept tears of great joy. In spite of rain, we got some lovely photos:<br />
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We have hundreds of photos. I haven't posted hardly any of extended family and friends. I hope to do so soon. <br />
<br />
The photographer at the temple was Ashley Carter. Her website is <a href="http://www.paramount-photo.com/">http://www.paramount-photo.com/</a><br />
<br />
<b>The Reception</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
The Reception was held at <a href="http://www.gardnervillage.com/index.php?ID=52">The Gathering Place</a> at Gardner Village just outside of Salt Lake. It was a lovely venue. We had so many friends come from around the area - we were so grateful! I don't have many photos, but here are a few:<br />
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I need to add more of these later, too.<br />
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<b>The Open House!</b><br />
The open house was a huge undertaking, and I could never have pulled it off without my friends, as I said before. We had it at our ward building. I debated and debated that and thought about trying to find an affordable place to rent. However, Brian grew up playing basketball in that gym, and having boy scout courts of honor, and so on. It seemed only appropriate to have one more of the most important events of his life there as well. I think it turned out beautifully! We even chose to "embrace" the basketball hoops instead of hide them. If you know, Brian, you'll know why.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f9m802gity4/TwD0kDkwvkI/AAAAAAAAClE/4FccMG6hKdQ/s1600/BB+Open+House+%2528110%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f9m802gity4/TwD0kDkwvkI/AAAAAAAAClE/4FccMG6hKdQ/s400/BB+Open+House+%2528110%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-swGDhYkpGd4/TwD0lnzN2fI/AAAAAAAAClM/GlELceQN9HQ/s1600/BB+Open+House+%2528127%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-swGDhYkpGd4/TwD0lnzN2fI/AAAAAAAAClM/GlELceQN9HQ/s400/BB+Open+House+%2528127%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qFllyn56c-Y/TwD0uOefU-I/AAAAAAAAClU/7CFs41L61EA/s1600/BB+Open+House+%2528134%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qFllyn56c-Y/TwD0uOefU-I/AAAAAAAAClU/7CFs41L61EA/s400/BB+Open+House+%2528134%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Open House photography by Jennifer Rowbury.<br />
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Again, I have so many photos and need to post more.<br />
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We are blessed by so many friends and family who support us in so many things. If you are someone who attended a wedding event, or sent a gift, or a letter, or made a salad, or cookies, or traveled, or anything at all - we thank you. If you are someone who just love these two wonderful young people, we thank you. And if you don't know them at all but are looking at this blog - welcome, and thank you, too.<br />
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"<span style="background-color: #f9f6ed; color: #2f393a; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Marriage is the foundry for social order, the fountain of virtue, and the foundation for eternal exaltation. Marriage has been divinely designated as an eternal and everlasting covenant.</span><sup class="noteMarker" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f9f6ed; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #2f393a; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </sup><span style="background-color: #f9f6ed; color: #2f393a; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Marriage is sanctified when it is cherished and honored in holiness. That union is not merely between husband and wife; it embraces a partnership with God.</span><sup class="noteMarker" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f9f6ed; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #2f393a; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </sup><span style="background-color: #f9f6ed; color: #2f393a; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">“Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other.”</span><sup class="noteMarker" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f9f6ed; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #2f393a; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </sup><span style="background-color: #f9f6ed; color: #2f393a; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Children born of that marital union are “an heritage of the Lord.”</span><sup class="noteMarker" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f9f6ed; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #2f393a; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> </sup><span style="background-color: #f9f6ed; color: #2f393a; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Marriage is but the beginning bud of family life; parenthood is its flower. And that bouquet becomes even more beautiful when graced with grandchildren. Families may become as eternal as the kingdom of God itself.</span><sup class="noteMarker" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: #f9f6ed; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #2f393a; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> "</sup><br />
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #2f393a; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="line-height: 10px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><span style="color: #2f393a; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 10px;">~Russell M. Nelson</span></span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-34074187180332959172011-12-31T22:00:00.002-05:002012-02-16T06:55:21.404-05:00Tait Times of 2011 - Part Two (yes, this one includes a link to all the wedding stuff!)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
MORE fun just for you... hahaaaa.....but, in reality, it's probably only for me.<br />
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<b>July: </b> Our dear friends, the Davies, moved to Texas several years ago. They are a family who likes to do birthdays up BIG. For her 50th birthday, he wanted to fly us out for her big party as a surprise. He invited several of her "old best friends" from over the years. It was so very wonderful! We had a great time. I even went on a helicopter ride! Shocking, truly. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v82XxyAPOx0/TwDCTqHE-GI/AAAAAAAACZA/2e9UQqCwadQ/s1600/2011-07-10+14.59.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v82XxyAPOx0/TwDCTqHE-GI/AAAAAAAACZA/2e9UQqCwadQ/s400/2011-07-10+14.59.13.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pjzH6IKIYXg/TwDCTHL0-jI/AAAAAAAACY4/1lQLVHkklFQ/s1600/2011-07-10+14.51.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pjzH6IKIYXg/TwDCTHL0-jI/AAAAAAAACY4/1lQLVHkklFQ/s400/2011-07-10+14.51.24.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The next few months of details have blurred lines. From July through September I was overwhelmed with wedding plans. "But you were<u> just</u> the mother of the groom - what was the big deal?" you say? Silly you. It was decided that the wedding would be in the <a href="http://www.ldschurchtemples.com/saltlake/">Salt Lake LDS temple.</a> We were hoping family would travel to it from all over the U.S. We were blessed that they did. So, I needed to plan what we called a "Groom's Dinner" for the families of the bride and groom. We also decided to have an Open House here in Maryland, which would be pretty much like a reception. I was also helping with many of the reception plans. So, I think I didn't breathe again until September 18, the day after the Open House. <br />
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Engagement photos were taken by Britt's mom. Here is <a href="http://proliferator.blogspot.com/">her blog</a> - she really does a great job!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-krfnKvuhxOQ/TwDBWF2CiZI/AAAAAAAACYU/rTf_jH8Jr7A/s1600/185480_256142604410068_100000429907397_998434_5870402_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-krfnKvuhxOQ/TwDBWF2CiZI/AAAAAAAACYU/rTf_jH8Jr7A/s400/185480_256142604410068_100000429907397_998434_5870402_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LFzEFXffs50/TwDBZUSsXVI/AAAAAAAACYk/et7H-wNG53g/s1600/Brian+and+Brittney%2527s+Engagement+120E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LFzEFXffs50/TwDBZUSsXVI/AAAAAAAACYk/et7H-wNG53g/s400/Brian+and+Brittney%2527s+Engagement+120E.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wGeV3nyyeJg/TwDBaLyjd1I/AAAAAAAACYs/tWHqpflrJ7E/s1600/Brian+and+Brittney%2527s+Engagement+371E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wGeV3nyyeJg/TwDBaLyjd1I/AAAAAAAACYs/tWHqpflrJ7E/s400/Brian+and+Brittney%2527s+Engagement+371E.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
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The kids both flew back here after school was out (BYU Idaho has a summer semester ending mid-July, in case you didn't know). We looked forward to some time with Britt before they got hitched -we needed to test her to be sure she'd fit in, right? Well, she did of course.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YSrTjITsj18/TwDDeFAvU8I/AAAAAAAACZM/jLtXa7eK_-4/s1600/2011-07-26+16.11.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YSrTjITsj18/TwDDeFAvU8I/AAAAAAAACZM/jLtXa7eK_-4/s400/2011-07-26+16.11.24.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J85lftjfYgc/TwDEG-AZuTI/AAAAAAAACZ0/tQ8p_nRUvFg/s1600/RichardTaitfam.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="218" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J85lftjfYgc/TwDEG-AZuTI/AAAAAAAACZ0/tQ8p_nRUvFg/s400/RichardTaitfam.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlCdlyXePDc/TwDFB8NcSvI/AAAAAAAACaA/biaDl2O7Tcg/s1600/Richard+Tait+fam+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlCdlyXePDc/TwDFB8NcSvI/AAAAAAAACaA/biaDl2O7Tcg/s400/Richard+Tait+fam+001.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She EVEN attended a Karaoke competition that Rich did with his work - singing ELVIS! Now, that's love!</td></tr>
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We were sad to see her go....<br />
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<b>August</b> - We celebrated<a href="http://waitalittlewhile.blogspot.com/2011/09/last-bits-of-family-birthday-fun.html"> Brian's birthday.</a> Fun! Continued wedding frenzy consumed me. I messed up the name of their blog for RSVPing on the little paper that went out with the wedding<a href="http://waitalittlewhile.blogspot.com/2011/08/its-b-l-o-g-s-p-o-t-again-its-b-l-o-g-s.html"> invitations</a>. D'oh! Holy moly. I think I had a birthday in there somewhere as well. My friend Amanda was queen of the Open House here, and we met and talked on the phone probably a million times. <br />
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<b>September</b> - OH, September! I will spare you all the minute details. I flew to Utah several days before the big event to prepare and to help out in any way possible. There was much to do! <br />
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<b><u><a href="http://waitalittlewhile.blogspot.com/2011/12/finally-my-thoughts-and-photos-of.html">The wedding stuff is in a separate post here.</a></u></b><br />
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During all of the wedding festivities, I was also involved in planning another Stake Relief Society event. Thankfully other members of the presidency and committee members took that one over since I was in wedding mode for so many weeks! <br />
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Leslie also started her first full semester. She started out great until.....<br />
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<b>October</b> - the beginning of October changed our lives once again. We thought it would be just for a few weeks, but has turned into an on-going challenge. Les began feeling dizzy and nauseated in class. We gave it a few days, then started going to doctors. Then we went to more doctors. And more doctors. Stay tuned for November and December....<br />
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Halloween, oh Halloween. This is Les's favorite time of the year (next to Christmas, of course). She planned for months to turn our front yard into one of the video games from the Legend of Zelda series. She worked for weeks to paint and create her scene. She sewed her own costume, which she has worn to many anime conventions.<br />
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Very cool, I must say.<br />
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I quilted in October - yet again. Pictures on that to come.<br />
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<b>November</b> - more doctors. Leslie had to withdraw from all of her classes. She could do only a little bit more than "veg" on the couch, rest, listen to audio books, etc. She was dizzy and light-headed nearly all the time. Her appetite was horrible due to the nausea. It has been a very frustrating process.<br />
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A very boring and uneventful Thanksgiving came and went.<br />
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<b>December </b>- well, in addition to CHRISTMAS, we finally got a diagnosis for Leslie. We went to a doctor affiliated with Johns Hopkins and he says she has <a href="http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/neurology_neurosurgery/specialty_areas/vestibular/conditions/vestibular_migraine.html">Vestibular Migraine.</a> He is unsure of the cause, but he and we are pretty sure it is from a medication change that happened the beginning of October when this all began. It's like something in her brain snapped and won't snap back. There is no quick solution, although he assures us she will see an end in sight. At this point, we don't know if she will be able to go to school in January. More tests will be run soon. Say a a prayer or two for this dear young woman, if you would. <br />
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We decided to fly to Arizona for Christmas this year. We haven't been there to celebrate this holiday in many, many years. Since B and B were there working and taking a semester off, it seemed like a great plan. We had a lot of fun - except for Christmas Day when all 5 of us were sick in the hotel room with the stomach flu. UGHHHH..... <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Suns! Not a great game, but we were THERE!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My brother with two of his grandbabies</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our dear friend, Sis. <a href="http://sistergstephens.blogspot.com/">Gina Stephens, </a>serves in Mesa. We sneaked in a little visit! </td></tr>
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I also was able to attend a get-together with some high school friends. I didn't get photos of all of us together, but here are a few:<br />
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These women blessed my life in high school and college, as well as today. <br />
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What an amazing year! Lots of travel, lots of planning, lots of visiting with family and friends from past years, and lots of blessings. I know Heavenly Father's hand has been with us every step. <br />
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It seems we have an every-other-year-that's-good. 2011 was fabulous. I am nervous about 2012. Still I have great hopes to learn new skills, to organize, to be healthier and to be closer to God.<br />
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I don't know what to do with this blog. I feel like my thoughts and words are pretty boring to most. Maybe I'll find a new twist. <br />
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Guess you'll just have to WAIT a little while and see.....</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-54364339376173997292011-12-31T15:07:00.000-05:002012-01-01T15:08:16.742-05:00Tait Times of 2011 - Part One<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I decided to do a "year in review" like I've seen so many other bloggers do. My purpose may be a little different - I've left out a lot of things on this blog this year. I am torn with what to do with it and whether or not I will continue to blog at all - I think I say that at least once a year (maybe twice!). So, until I decide, I shall continue on. Here we go with some highlights:<br />
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January - I finished my first<a href="http://waitalittlewhile.blogspot.com/2011/01/tshirts-memories-and-quilting.html"> t-shirt quilt</a>. It turned out so beautifully. My dear friend <a href="http://www.quiltedbee.com/">Carrie</a> is such a patient teacher. Les began her first semester in college. <br />
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February - I remember being very busy and overwhelmed preparing for our <a href="http://columbiastakers.blogspot.com/2011_04_01_archive.html">stake Relief Society Women's Conference.</a> In my church calling, I am the president over several congregations of LDS women. We decided to do a women's conference. At the time, my two counselors in our presidency were having lots of challenges and traveling, and so my secretary and I had to really be the ones to keep the ball rolling. I think I started to breathe again sometime in late March, a few weeks before the event. We're gearing up to prepare for one in 2012. I can already feel the heart palpitations....<br />
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March - hmm.... must have just been living day to day life.<br />
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April - The previously mentioned Womens' Conference came and went and was wonderful. We were blessed with a great committee and had what we felt was great success.<br />
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This is also the month when the beginning of the rest of the year's busy-ness began. Brian found and began dating who would become his future bride. Many texts and phone calls were exchanged an prayers said in his behalf.<br />
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I also planned, prepared for and went on my 11 day <a href="http://waitalittlewhile.blogspot.com/2011/04/mom-adventure.html">Mom adventure</a>! I never posted an update nor photos. So, here we are:<br />
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BYU Women's Conference was truly amazing. I had a great time with my high school friends. I was truly blessed and uplifted by so many wonderful talks and classes.<br />
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I spent 3 days or so with Miki and Debbie. We were also able to connect with Lisa, who I hadn't seen since I got married.<br />
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Ironically, my dearest friend from when we lived in South Korea, from Canada, HAPPENED to be in Utah! She found out I was there through....Facebook. The Irony. I got spend a quick lunch and chat with her and her wonderful family. I love you, Linda!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>After Women's conference, I drove up to Rexburg, Idaho, to see my dear son. I was so happy to see him! As soon as I arrived, her came over and brought his girlfriend, Brittney, with him. I opened my hotel room door and saw a beautiful girl holding my son's hand (I don't think they have let go yet... :-) ).As soon as I saw her, I knew she was the one for him. We went to dinner together - here is the first photo I took of them:<br />
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I was first called, "Brian's mom", and then she coined the nickname, "Momma D". I think I like it. I immediately liked her. We spent a couple of days getting to know one another. I was sad to leave.<br />
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May: After leaving Rexburg, I drove back to Salt Lake and then flew to Arizona to visit my family. My niece <a href="http://maxsonfam.blogspot.com/">Linsey</a> had had baby boy #3 and I was taking him a baby quilt! (maybe that's what I did in March....). <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-an_OiSvmbzI/TwC1veU1ETI/AAAAAAAACWY/A4wHGDsHyiA/s1600/Deon%2527s+trip+west+013b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-an_OiSvmbzI/TwC1veU1ETI/AAAAAAAACWY/A4wHGDsHyiA/s400/Deon%2527s+trip+west+013b.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and baby Ridge</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">His brother, Bo, kinda liked it, too.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I forgot to get really good pictures of the quilt beforehand, so these are the best I have.<br />
And, my other niece Evani also had had a new baby! I couldn't wait to meet sweet Abigail Mae, too. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My brother Randy and his newest granddaughter</td></tr>
</tbody></table> She got a quilt too - I'll post that later. <br />
I visited with as many family members as I could. Here are a few photos from that:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lW3UkO4o9l4/TwC465i_5EI/AAAAAAAACX0/0-LNGqD2sAA/s1600/Deon%2527s+trip+west+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lW3UkO4o9l4/TwC465i_5EI/AAAAAAAACX0/0-LNGqD2sAA/s400/Deon%2527s+trip+west+019.JPG" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linsey, Genevie and me</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S7CB7NpQbBw/TwC42QIeIWI/AAAAAAAACXk/-BkIDKwQ0SQ/s1600/Deon%2527s+trip+west+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S7CB7NpQbBw/TwC42QIeIWI/AAAAAAAACXk/-BkIDKwQ0SQ/s400/Deon%2527s+trip+west+011.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My nephew's wife, Stacey, and Krew</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1qgDFiryx24/TwC423KvAGI/AAAAAAAACXs/xurPI_nHBvs/s1600/Deon%2527s+trip+west+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1qgDFiryx24/TwC423KvAGI/AAAAAAAACXs/xurPI_nHBvs/s400/Deon%2527s+trip+west+012.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And with Navi</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-imkwBI3jcC4/TwC48ffSD8I/AAAAAAAACX8/BQKpflgi8ak/s1600/Deon%2527s+trip+west+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-imkwBI3jcC4/TwC48ffSD8I/AAAAAAAACX8/BQKpflgi8ak/s400/Deon%2527s+trip+west+021.JPG" width="283" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Travis and Krew</td></tr>
</tbody></table> Right after I returned, it was Mother's Day. I spent a great weekend with Rich and Les:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NLSih-_DsbM/TwC6Ioc2G8I/AAAAAAAACYI/pS4LdYqBK8g/s1600/2011-04-24+12.17.07-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="351" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NLSih-_DsbM/TwC6Ioc2G8I/AAAAAAAACYI/pS4LdYqBK8g/s400/2011-04-24+12.17.07-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
June: Ah, the beginning of the months of wedding-ing. Brian and Brittney were unofficially engaged for several weeks, but made it official at the end of June. The moms, however, were beginning to move in high gear even though a date hadn't been officially set.<br />
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This was also the month when we decided to have a few things done to the house that were needed. We had the above-ground pool removed, we had some new doors put in off of our family room, and had a new sidewalk poured out front. What should have taken a few weeks lasted a few months. It was a frustrating time, but we made it through. <br />
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Whew - that was a lot longer than I thought it would be! I guess you'll have to WAIT a little while for part 2 - coming right away. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-15631659044612586962011-12-11T20:56:00.000-05:002012-02-01T17:32:03.634-05:00Christmas Stockings - the mini kind.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Anyone still out there? Yes, we're still alive. I just haven't felt like saying much here. Yes, there was a wedding - some of you have seen the photos on Facebook. I will post about that at some point. I've just kind of lost my blogging desire. <br />
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BUT, this post is about my Christmas project this year. I decided to make something for my son and his new wife that would continue a Christmas tradition of ours. <br />
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I love Christmas advent - I love little gadgets and things that count down the days, and we did that a lot when my kids were little. About 14 or 15 years ago, I made these:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UQ5y_yLebjc/TuVcSHcTsUI/AAAAAAAACUo/XhC6Cr990-o/s1600/Deon+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UQ5y_yLebjc/TuVcSHcTsUI/AAAAAAAACUo/XhC6Cr990-o/s400/Deon+012.JPG" width="285" /></a></div>
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These little stockings, in a variety of fabrics, have hung down our banister every Christmas since then. They are filled with 1 little candy per person, with varying types so you never know what you'll get! Some years they were ignored, so one Christmas in the recent past I didn't put them up to see if anyone cared. They did - I put them back the next year. That'll teach 'em! It was nice to know that these treasured sewn-by-Mom stockings mattered.<br />
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Here are the ones I made for B and B:<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Gb_CYcXGWk/TuVcRpDpdMI/AAAAAAAACUg/ZnHs0hdPDnw/s1600/Deon+011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Gb_CYcXGWk/TuVcRpDpdMI/AAAAAAAACUg/ZnHs0hdPDnw/s400/Deon+011.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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The differences? My friend with a letter cutter cut the numbers for me instead of having to use a Sharpie. The fabrics are a bit more "hip and happenin'", and I was lucky enough to find Charlie Brown Christmas fabric! Love it - that is a Christmas MUST around here. <br />
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Here is what they looked like together, old and new:<br />
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B and B can choose how to hang them, and how to use them. Hopefully they will continue a much-loved tradition. I had great fun making them. Another special memory begun.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4909051470610142121.post-65862608903788013122011-09-04T14:31:00.002-04:002012-01-22T21:02:00.360-05:00Last bits of Family Birthday Fun<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">My son gets married in 6 days. That is an amazing thing to say! Wow - it is so strange how time passes without us noticing, and when we notice, the moments are gone.<br />
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However, before he left home and moved out to prepare for his wedding, we celebrated his 23rd birthday together! We had a fun day. He wanted to start the day eating breakfast at Elmo's - NOT Elmo as in <i>Sesame Street</i>, but Elmo is some old local guy with a diner. Richard has been taking the kids there for breakfasts for years. Here is a little taste of homegrown Carroll County fun:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6XyMLNqsehc/TmO5rUV6XaI/AAAAAAAACO8/YazgaVG-kmY/s1600/Brian23rdbday.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4GEK0yHHAts/TmO5uqSIRQI/AAAAAAAACPY/tuAXoTKnhc4/s1600/Brian23rdbday+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4GEK0yHHAts/TmO5uqSIRQI/AAAAAAAACPY/tuAXoTKnhc4/s400/Brian23rdbday+%25287%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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Nothing at Elmo's is fresh other than the eggs and probably the bacon, etc. -no fruit, no smoothies, no fancy coffee or hot chocolate drinks. All utensils and dinnerware are plastic and Styrofoam. It's a fun flavor of our area - and a great memory.<br />
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Other festivities included opening presents, eating CRABS and having cake. Well, Mint Brownies. Hmm.... lots of celebrating around food.... wow. Weird. Anyway....<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brittney loves Ninja Turtles. Les got him a shirt to celebrate that.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vqTZp9mLfMs/TmPCyWQ3V9I/AAAAAAAACQA/-sO9iEq4UwI/s1600/Brian23rdbday+%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vqTZp9mLfMs/TmPCyWQ3V9I/AAAAAAAACQA/-sO9iEq4UwI/s400/Brian23rdbday+%252810%2529.JPG" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of fun "gamer" stuff from his B. (Aka Brittney)</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ldytYCLjQH8/TmPCzHgDcDI/AAAAAAAACQI/UCsOafC6y0U/s1600/Brian23rdbday+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ldytYCLjQH8/TmPCzHgDcDI/AAAAAAAACQI/UCsOafC6y0U/s400/Brian23rdbday+%252812%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i8pd8zz4M-A/TmPCzdnqDpI/AAAAAAAACQM/f0DhystVUh0/s1600/Brian23rdbday+%252813%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i8pd8zz4M-A/TmPCzdnqDpI/AAAAAAAACQM/f0DhystVUh0/s400/Brian23rdbday+%252813%2529.JPG" width="285" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KrlMgECsG7o/TmPCr7clkYI/AAAAAAAACP4/tDFoF9jwyVI/s1600/Brian23rdbday+%252818%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KrlMgECsG7o/TmPCr7clkYI/AAAAAAAACP4/tDFoF9jwyVI/s400/Brian23rdbday+%252818%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-efopKlrYHJ4/TmPC3YHZanI/AAAAAAAACQc/tSVcmK501Fc/s1600/Brian+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-efopKlrYHJ4/TmPC3YHZanI/AAAAAAAACQc/tSVcmK501Fc/s400/Brian+001.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Then......</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XCJZ2m1SjxQ/TmPC294ERJI/AAAAAAAACQY/VVsK7rpM_ps/s1600/Brian23rdbday+%252821%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XCJZ2m1SjxQ/TmPC294ERJI/AAAAAAAACQY/VVsK7rpM_ps/s400/Brian23rdbday+%252821%2529.JPG" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And now..... Sigh.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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