tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9896950432538249702024-03-13T06:32:35.717-04:00Designed for Life...a blog about life and design, the way we design our lives, and the way our lives have been designed.Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-27550496402984626372012-11-01T16:22:00.000-04:002012-11-01T20:31:33.981-04:00Austin's surgery went well!<br />
I'm so very excited to say that we are home and he is resting comfortable on the sofa wearing his red ninjago jammies and holding his favorite bear!<br />
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He will be recuperating for the next 7-14 days, but hopefully his bouts with strep will come to and end..or at least we won't have 9 counts in 12 months.<br />
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Thanks to everyone for their prayers and support!<br />
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Remember to check out my new blog at </div>
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<a href="http://www.graceandbliss.blogspot.com/">www.graceandbliss.blogspot.com</a></div>
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There's a giveaway going on!</div>
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Drawing has been extended until November 8th due to AJ's surgery!</div>
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You still have time to enter!</div>
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Here are the prizes, and the rules...</div>
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Join me... follow along!</div>
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Prize Packages</h3>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #525252; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;">I'm hoping to reach a goal of 50 followers by November 8. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #525252; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Therefore, I'm offering two prize packages in order to help reach that goal.</span><br />
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<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;">Grand Prize package contains:</span></b></div>
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<i>Always Anna Crocodile Note Cards</i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hDQflHJpOOE/UF0T6DiOQjI/AAAAAAAAAG0/RQzD1LztEU8/s1600/grand+prize+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #909090; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hDQflHJpOOE/UF0T6DiOQjI/AAAAAAAAAG0/RQzD1LztEU8/s320/grand+prize+2.jpeg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; background-color: #cccccc; border: 1px solid rgb(153, 153, 153); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>These note cards are white with pink envelopes and black with green envelopes,</i></div>
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<i> embossed to resemble crocodile hide. Very Cute!</i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MZ5E98tQRz0/UF0T45JcRbI/AAAAAAAAAGk/MlUFNsnxnfs/s1600/grand+prize+.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #909090; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MZ5E98tQRz0/UF0T45JcRbI/AAAAAAAAAGk/MlUFNsnxnfs/s320/grand+prize+.jpeg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; background-color: #cccccc; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid rgb(153, 153, 153); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Pumpkin Spice candle. Smells so much like fall, you won't believe it! </i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s6KWlt6DYso/UF0T61SqdII/AAAAAAAAAG8/hOAmEaxUa38/s1600/grand+prize+4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #909090; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s6KWlt6DYso/UF0T61SqdII/AAAAAAAAAG8/hOAmEaxUa38/s320/grand+prize+4.jpeg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; background-color: #cccccc; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid rgb(153, 153, 153); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>A sample size of Basic H cleaner and a bottle to mix it in. </i></div>
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<i>You won't believe this product! A-mazing!</i></div>
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<i>Two Chocolate Cinch Shakes! Yummy!</i></div>
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<i>Two Cinch decadence bars...one chocolate, one peanut butter crunch.. </i></div>
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<i>perfect for a quick breakfast</i></div>
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<i>All packaged in a sweet little fall bread basket...perfect for your Thanksgiving table!</i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rswb3QF9yRs/UF0UE77YjwI/AAAAAAAAAH8/ibPe-xtvgvk/s1600/prize+8.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #909090; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rswb3QF9yRs/UF0UE77YjwI/AAAAAAAAAH8/ibPe-xtvgvk/s320/prize+8.jpeg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; background-color: #cccccc; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid rgb(153, 153, 153); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="239" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;">Second Prize package contains:</span></b></div>
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<i>30 dinner-sized fall-themed paper plates. Great for snacks for those fall gatherings.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zyAY1xCy630/UF0UF-aEqbI/AAAAAAAAAIE/FYL-7LkCdlQ/s1600/prize+9.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #909090; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zyAY1xCy630/UF0UF-aEqbI/AAAAAAAAAIE/FYL-7LkCdlQ/s320/prize+9.jpeg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; background-color: #cccccc; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid rgb(153, 153, 153); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>30 dessert / snack sized- fall themed paper plates. </i></div>
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<i>Yummy autumnal desserts would be so festive served on these!</i></div>
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<i><br /></i><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AEgpNdVLJxc/UF0UB_FqZRI/AAAAAAAAAHc/Sio6WOrvRDQ/s1600/prize+10.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #909090; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AEgpNdVLJxc/UF0UB_FqZRI/AAAAAAAAAHc/Sio6WOrvRDQ/s320/prize+10.jpeg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; background-color: #cccccc; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid rgb(153, 153, 153); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>Two chocolate cinch shakes, 2 cinch energy teas and one lemon-cranberry cinch bar.</i></div>
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<i>Great for breakfasts, a quick lunch on the go, or whenever you need a quick energy boost. </i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKAp8iVnUDk/UF0UClmdHHI/AAAAAAAAAHk/lmQOFd_fEEs/s1600/prize+11.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #909090; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKAp8iVnUDk/UF0UClmdHHI/AAAAAAAAAHk/lmQOFd_fEEs/s320/prize+11.jpeg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; background-color: #cccccc; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid rgb(153, 153, 153); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>This prize also contains a sample size of Basic H cleaner and a spray bottle for mixing!</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MeK3bJWskCY/UF0UDXicniI/AAAAAAAAAHs/fZ6gyVPKz9A/s1600/prize+12.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #909090; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MeK3bJWskCY/UF0UDXicniI/AAAAAAAAAHs/fZ6gyVPKz9A/s320/prize+12.jpeg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; background-color: #cccccc; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid rgb(153, 153, 153); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>All packaged in this sweet green-lined bread basket - perfect for fall gatherings, </i></div>
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<i>or your </i><i>Thanksgiving table.</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fpl3TiMgw7k/UF0UEHgm5hI/AAAAAAAAAH0/vKFU4Kt6Flo/s1600/prize+13.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="color: #909090; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-decoration: none;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fpl3TiMgw7k/UF0UEHgm5hI/AAAAAAAAAH0/vKFU4Kt6Flo/s320/prize+13.jpeg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; background-color: #cccccc; border: 1px solid rgb(153, 153, 153); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0976563) 1px 1px 5px; padding: 5px; position: relative;" width="239" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: medium;">There are three ways to enter to either of these </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: medium;">fun prize packages.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79;">1) become a follower of my <a href="http://graceandbliss.blogspot.com/">Life of Grace and Bliss</a> blog. </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Just use the "follow" link in the right side bar ON THAT PAGE. (one entry)</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79;">2) leave a comment letting me know you've followed the <a href="http://graceandbliss.blogspot.com/">Life of Grace and Bliss </a>blog - </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79;">either by "following" or by email notifications. (another entry)</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79;">3) if you blog, place a link back to this give-away on your blog, and leave a comment </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79;">letting me know you've done so. (another entry)</span></b></div>
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<b style="color: #525252; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4;"><span style="color: #a64d79;">4) If you're on </span></b><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Facebook, encourage your friends to check out <a href="http://www.graceandbliss.blogspot.com/">www.graceandbliss.blogspot.com</a></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Let me know - and you'll get another entry into the drawing!</b></span></span></div>
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<b style="color: #525252; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 1.4;"><span style="color: #a64d79;">4) If you're on </span></b><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Facebook, encourage your friends to check out <a href="http://www.graceandbliss.blogspot.com/">www.graceandbliss.blogspot.com</a></b></span></span></div>
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<div style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; line-height: normal;">
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<span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px;"><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Let me know - and you'll get another entry into the drawing!</b></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Together we can reach this goal!</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Tell your friends today!</span></b></div>
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Stay tuned. Christmas decor starts going up this weekend!</div>
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Only By His Grace,</div>
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Billie</div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79;"><br /></span></b></div>
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Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-2963004500151580492012-10-31T08:29:00.002-04:002012-10-31T08:29:59.155-04:00Quick Update...A year ago I stopped blogging at this location.<br />
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I am happy to see that I still have a lot of viewers who check back regularly. That's encouraging.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I want to invite you to come visit me at my new location:</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://graceandbliss.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">graceandbliss.blogspot.com</span></a></div>
<br />
It's a little of the old, a lot of new, and a few surprises mixed in from time to time!<br />
<br />
Hope you'll come visit me there...<br />
<br />
Until I see you there - I continue to blog<br />
<br />
Only By His Grace<br />
<br />
BillieBillie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-64969056174290271382011-10-12T15:56:00.000-04:002011-10-12T15:56:34.592-04:00All Good Things...Dear Friends,<br />
<br />
I have been sadly lax at updating my blog as of late. Honestly, I doubt if anyone is still hanging in there with me, after all this time.<br />
<br />
I feel as if I owe you (the short version) of an explanation.<br />
<br />
A few months ago we took our kiddos on a week's vacation. We stayed at a fantastic resort hotel with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen and 2 baths. It was just under 1200 square feet. It was fully furnished with dishes, bedding, towels, cookware, etc. Suddenly it occurred to me that I simply have too much.<br />
<br />
We live in a home that is nearly 4,000 square feet. I had four full sets of dishes and multiple sets of drinking glasses. In fact, I have so much stuff that I have a 500 square feet storage area, that (most of the time) we can't walk through without causing an avalanche.<br />
<br />
Now, a few months ago I wrote a blurb about "why I blog." I felt so consumed with keeping up with the decorating and rearranging and creating and shopping. I just felt so.... so..... shallow. Please don't be offended at that last statement. Many of you love what you do - and I'm sincerely happy about that. But it wasn't for me. I found myself cleaning my house to take photos for my blog...not out of love for my family. I found myself shopping for superfluous "stuff" - not for the things I truly needed. I think that's where I started to feel shallow.<br />
<br />
So, if you've kept up - thank you, bye the way -- but I haven't updated since July.<br />
<br />
Here it is October... and November is right around the corner. I had high hopes for blogging through Christmas... See, I have collected enough Christmas decor through the last 20 years of marriage that I could decorate the White House... I put a Christmas tree is every room. Last year the total was 15 trees, 12 wreaths, 9 Santas and 11 Nativity scenes. There isn't a single inch of our house I don't decorate. In fact, I start November 1. Decor stays up through New Year and it takes me nearly a month to get it all put away. That's three full months of Christmas at our house.<br />
<br />
However, all good things must come to an end. Which is where this blog post leads me. I will be shutting down my blog. I will still follow all of you wonderful ladies...you're such an inspiration. I just can't keep up with something that makes me so crazy over unimportant things.<br />
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I thank each of you for your sweet comments over these past few months. I may decide later to start a new blog focussing on a different topic. But for now, I'm looking forward to doing things for my family.... because I love them... not because I have to blog about it. As for all of you, keep up the good work. I look forward to seeing your creativity.<br />
<br />
Blessings to you all. Thanks for visiting my blog.<br />
<br />
Only By His Grace,<br />
<br />
BillieBillie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-15802163761969882472011-07-03T07:48:00.000-04:002011-07-03T07:48:13.486-04:00Happy 4th of July...Hope everyone has a wonderful time with family and friends celebrating our freedoms. <br />
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Thank you to all those who have fought and are still fighting to maintain those freedoms.<br />
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dWQCDcSm184/ThBTbp4b6yI/AAAAAAAAAvA/gk5-Vqg_CY8/s1600/2011-06-13+at+18-19-56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dWQCDcSm184/ThBTbp4b6yI/AAAAAAAAAvA/gk5-Vqg_CY8/s640/2011-06-13+at+18-19-56.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2p0R4sVuMqg/ThBTkUloYZI/AAAAAAAAAvE/HRyTkTlXp-0/s1600/2011-06-17+at+11-40-33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2p0R4sVuMqg/ThBTkUloYZI/AAAAAAAAAvE/HRyTkTlXp-0/s640/2011-06-17+at+11-40-33.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MrT9BqzREqo/ThBTrCKqI0I/AAAAAAAAAvI/76w-Wv-CCBA/s1600/2011-06-17+at+11-44-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MrT9BqzREqo/ThBTrCKqI0I/AAAAAAAAAvI/76w-Wv-CCBA/s640/2011-06-17+at+11-44-26.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mN3vKzFPoek/ThBTuelrX7I/AAAAAAAAAvM/-Bwzq1GzOew/s1600/2011-06-17+at+11-45-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mN3vKzFPoek/ThBTuelrX7I/AAAAAAAAAvM/-Bwzq1GzOew/s640/2011-06-17+at+11-45-15.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1bJV4YDw_U/ThBTvg-de8I/AAAAAAAAAvQ/_gqw8oeKi6s/s1600/2011-06-17+at+11-46-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1bJV4YDw_U/ThBTvg-de8I/AAAAAAAAAvQ/_gqw8oeKi6s/s640/2011-06-17+at+11-46-16.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G1oBQyrfXTI/ThBTxfVAhAI/AAAAAAAAAvU/IHQfrbIqqZo/s1600/2011-06-17+at+11-46-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G1oBQyrfXTI/ThBTxfVAhAI/AAAAAAAAAvU/IHQfrbIqqZo/s640/2011-06-17+at+11-46-24.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HMYOduQPAp0/ThBU4u2WG7I/AAAAAAAAAvc/8YTVy2tAJ34/s1600/screen-capture-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="525" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HMYOduQPAp0/ThBU4u2WG7I/AAAAAAAAAvc/8YTVy2tAJ34/s640/screen-capture-2.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9LvrGChIlMw/ThBWX-yc4KI/AAAAAAAAAvg/iYYW4i3jgDM/s1600/screen-capture-6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9LvrGChIlMw/ThBWX-yc4KI/AAAAAAAAAvg/iYYW4i3jgDM/s640/screen-capture-6.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4QH5pqtZoGQ/ThBWYYMLKJI/AAAAAAAAAvk/EOyzInabRIE/s1600/screen-capture-7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="532" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4QH5pqtZoGQ/ThBWYYMLKJI/AAAAAAAAAvk/EOyzInabRIE/s640/screen-capture-7.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dFSyOR-h7H0/ThBWZ89JOVI/AAAAAAAAAvo/fCsi-X8QnBg/s1600/screen-capture-8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dFSyOR-h7H0/ThBWZ89JOVI/AAAAAAAAAvo/fCsi-X8QnBg/s640/screen-capture-8.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">We are forever grateful!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Only By His Grace,</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Billie</div>Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-75925410866834140452011-06-29T15:47:00.000-04:002011-06-29T15:47:45.435-04:00Back Door Bulletin Board...Good Afternoon, Blog-friends!<br />
<br />
Today's post isn't about decorating or cooking or walking or field trips. Today's post is about a happy little accident. You might find it interesting -- or you might find it tacky. Either way... here it is.<br />
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Like so many families we know, we pull into the garage and enter our home through the back door. <br />
Everywhere we go -- we enter and exit through this door.<br />
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Last year, I hung our family dry-erase board on the back door. Now it's easy as pie to check for important events as we leave the house. <br />
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Oh... by the way... sorry for the fuzzy pictures... :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6yptb20Cob0/Tgt6Mqx3gzI/AAAAAAAAAus/_8lrNxF8aNA/s1600/doorcalendar" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6yptb20Cob0/Tgt6Mqx3gzI/AAAAAAAAAus/_8lrNxF8aNA/s320/doorcalendar" width="239" /></a></div><br />
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Now, here's the happy accident part... I just <s>learned </s>realized that our back door is metal. Know what that means? <br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #ffd966;">It's Magnetic!</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><br />
</span></b><br />
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So that means the whole back door is one big memo board. Anything I need to keep up with - school calendars, chore calendars, summer reading programs, rewards charts, extra summer freebie tickets, etc.<br />
<br />
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Here's what it looks like now. It's a little hectic, but isn't life hectic?<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lesYQqeP1uY/Tgt6QB_EWgI/AAAAAAAAAu0/vhruasfFizo/s1600/chorecalendar" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lesYQqeP1uY/Tgt6QB_EWgI/AAAAAAAAAu0/vhruasfFizo/s320/chorecalendar" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The kiddos chore charts. Tip: If you print your child's chore charts on regular paper </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">and insert them into a plastic binder page sleeve, it becomes dry-erase(able).</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mofnYQDSIq0/Tgt6TQ1-39I/AAAAAAAAAu4/HAXYYdB4jIo/s1600/summerreadingchart" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mofnYQDSIq0/Tgt6TQ1-39I/AAAAAAAAAu4/HAXYYdB4jIo/s320/summerreadingchart" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Summer Reading programs and Chuck E Cheese reward sheets.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mn_IHYJawTY/Tgt68qhI4GI/AAAAAAAAAu8/haYMRfIFiIs/s1600/summertickets" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mn_IHYJawTY/Tgt68qhI4GI/AAAAAAAAAu8/haYMRfIFiIs/s320/summertickets" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's a great place to store those summer fun freebie tickets, too. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">You can grab 'em as you're heading out the door.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TBIfpcI9Pdo/Tgt6O0K0cpI/AAAAAAAAAuw/X8baqphplsM/s1600/Backdoorbullitenboard" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TBIfpcI9Pdo/Tgt6O0K0cpI/AAAAAAAAAuw/X8baqphplsM/s320/Backdoorbullitenboard" width="239" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And the whole thing looks like this.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's been so helpful to have everything together right there on the back door. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm really looking forward to the school year starting... I plan to purchase a couple of the wall file boxes. I'll magnet them to the door. One for each child. No more lost permission slips. No more last-minute "last day to order" school photo orders...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Wow... maybe I need a bigger back door?!?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">How do you keep your family organized?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Only By His Grace,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Billie</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</span>Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-2418849500944151172011-06-18T09:46:00.000-04:002011-06-18T09:46:38.407-04:00Getting Back to Basics...Yesterday the kiddos and I had a bit of an outing...or two. There are two really great haunts within a couple of miles of our house. The first is the Corporate Headquarters of Papa John's Pizza. Yes, you read that correctly. Papa John's: Better Ingredients. Better Pizza. <br />
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When they built their corporate headquarters, they also installed a massive pond, walking trail and water fall, with benches and picnic tables scattered every so often. Why? For the good of their employees, of course. Who wouldn't want to come to work here when you could have lunch or a walk in such a relaxing place? Best part? It's completely open to the public. Plenty of parking. Lot's of ducks! And a great place to bring the kiddos when they're bored stiff. <br />
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Oh...and because I don't like to be wasteful, I save all our old bread, crackers, corn bread, muffins, pancakes, etc and every couple of weeks, we come and feed the ducks. Can you say FREE entertainment?<br />
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Here's just a glimpse. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The second cool place near our house is Veteran's Park. It's a playground, walking trail, and Veteran's Memorial all in one. The kids love it because they can play, we can picnic, we can "hike" and there is really cool stuff to look at, too. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WV9JI2ujXUg/TfypgfVCfAI/AAAAAAAAAtI/RrgGEB0WwII/s1600/2011-06-17+at+11-03-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WV9JI2ujXUg/TfypgfVCfAI/AAAAAAAAAtI/RrgGEB0WwII/s400/2011-06-17+at+11-03-13.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WurfJ2LoYvw/TfyqNy3r49I/AAAAAAAAAuI/J9TCKt1ChuY/s1600/2011-06-17+at+11-31-56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WurfJ2LoYvw/TfyqNy3r49I/AAAAAAAAAuI/J9TCKt1ChuY/s400/2011-06-17+at+11-31-56.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LIMGtqEXSD0/Tfyqe4tRU5I/AAAAAAAAAuc/OmlBiK3N-IE/s1600/2011-06-17+at+11-44-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LIMGtqEXSD0/Tfyqe4tRU5I/AAAAAAAAAuc/OmlBiK3N-IE/s400/2011-06-17+at+11-44-26.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V3qmZIisV2Y/TfyqiF5UneI/AAAAAAAAAug/9k1-QUIoHIE/s1600/2011-06-17+at+11-45-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V3qmZIisV2Y/TfyqiF5UneI/AAAAAAAAAug/9k1-QUIoHIE/s400/2011-06-17+at+11-45-15.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D24CDjkD9js/Tfyqjx3l4-I/AAAAAAAAAuk/Hz40a2122TY/s1600/2011-06-17+at+11-46-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D24CDjkD9js/Tfyqjx3l4-I/AAAAAAAAAuk/Hz40a2122TY/s400/2011-06-17+at+11-46-16.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bNS_dTH7dZg/Tfyqllgvr6I/AAAAAAAAAuo/JEjQx_lTUuE/s1600/2011-06-17+at+11-46-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bNS_dTH7dZg/Tfyqllgvr6I/AAAAAAAAAuo/JEjQx_lTUuE/s640/2011-06-17+at+11-46-24.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">There you have it, folks. Two field trips to two gorgeous venues -- all in one day. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Only By His Grace,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Billie</div>Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-82064033876876490422011-06-17T09:51:00.001-04:002011-06-29T15:56:42.057-04:00Summer in the 'Hood...It's been two months since I posted anything new. If you're still out there, leave me a comment. I'd love to hear from you.<br />
<br />
Here are some pics from a recent walk through the neighborhood.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Things that are yellow...</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1upfmZk9U34/TftYhctLIPI/AAAAAAAAAqc/0NKKORQWO18/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-26-51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1upfmZk9U34/TftYhctLIPI/AAAAAAAAAqc/0NKKORQWO18/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-26-51.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pik_ukmwlTs/TftY7jn7RVI/AAAAAAAAAqk/j4QYbT7OcJA/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-28-50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pik_ukmwlTs/TftY7jn7RVI/AAAAAAAAAqk/j4QYbT7OcJA/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-28-50.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-315qknUV_lI/TftY4lmTtaI/AAAAAAAAAqg/weQmY5JTXWU/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-25-29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-315qknUV_lI/TftY4lmTtaI/AAAAAAAAAqg/weQmY5JTXWU/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-25-29.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9wfFKGQDBaw/TftZBRVR_zI/AAAAAAAAAqs/_J3Xjefe210/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-38-50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9wfFKGQDBaw/TftZBRVR_zI/AAAAAAAAAqs/_J3Xjefe210/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-38-50.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Things that are red...</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5cSPZwuQcTM/TftZFgRqXSI/AAAAAAAAAq0/-fuco7hskyQ/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-42-31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5cSPZwuQcTM/TftZFgRqXSI/AAAAAAAAAq0/-fuco7hskyQ/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-42-31.jpg" width="323" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMl1xZNlbQ8/TftZLgDAOFI/AAAAAAAAAq8/xugqL_bA6Ec/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-46-07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMl1xZNlbQ8/TftZLgDAOFI/AAAAAAAAAq8/xugqL_bA6Ec/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-46-07.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xaaK0JX6UrE/TftZpL48E0I/AAAAAAAAAro/JSqIF-HO7xU/s1600/2011-06-13+at+18-14-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xaaK0JX6UrE/TftZpL48E0I/AAAAAAAAAro/JSqIF-HO7xU/s400/2011-06-13+at+18-14-19.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mKBf9ej05Dk/TftZsFE-__I/AAAAAAAAArs/LUUtLrIgWOM/s1600/2011-06-13+at+18-19-56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mKBf9ej05Dk/TftZsFE-__I/AAAAAAAAArs/LUUtLrIgWOM/s400/2011-06-13+at+18-19-56.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Things that are precious...</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2iArLoSmOt0/TftZSi-7V5I/AAAAAAAAArI/8lgQDzxkwl8/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-51-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2iArLoSmOt0/TftZSi-7V5I/AAAAAAAAArI/8lgQDzxkwl8/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-51-26.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jJvDyoZgRzI/TftY-PUQSZI/AAAAAAAAAqo/LacPMyF3oI8/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-36-32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jJvDyoZgRzI/TftY-PUQSZI/AAAAAAAAAqo/LacPMyF3oI8/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-36-32.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-46TSMqxasog/TftZI6_nZ3I/AAAAAAAAAq4/xKcFRqfoGdk/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-45-39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-46TSMqxasog/TftZI6_nZ3I/AAAAAAAAAq4/xKcFRqfoGdk/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-45-39.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P09FhSNa7ac/TftZNSTVRxI/AAAAAAAAArA/rR_ZZnWh5EE/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-47-27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P09FhSNa7ac/TftZNSTVRxI/AAAAAAAAArA/rR_ZZnWh5EE/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-47-27.jpg" width="338" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zegGUO5BjxM/TftZbQbZ2sI/AAAAAAAAArU/ot8UP8vrsZE/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-54-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zegGUO5BjxM/TftZbQbZ2sI/AAAAAAAAArU/ot8UP8vrsZE/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-54-26.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uFw4gi_YA-8/TftZerKfNfI/AAAAAAAAArY/nQkA2augoVU/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-55-42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uFw4gi_YA-8/TftZerKfNfI/AAAAAAAAArY/nQkA2augoVU/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-55-42.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FLDbrltCaUc/TftZf_l5SkI/AAAAAAAAArc/Jz9KrCNpZlw/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-57-09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FLDbrltCaUc/TftZf_l5SkI/AAAAAAAAArc/Jz9KrCNpZlw/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-57-09.jpg" width="243" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-je6EBFkYp74/TftZVj4PpVI/AAAAAAAAArM/jecbs7ILiZY/s1600/2011-06-13+at+17-53-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-je6EBFkYp74/TftZVj4PpVI/AAAAAAAAArM/jecbs7ILiZY/s400/2011-06-13+at+17-53-19.jpg" width="302" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H0hSgUeV3fM/TftZix6EeXI/AAAAAAAAArg/axrG21qboKs/s1600/2011-06-13+at+18-08-04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H0hSgUeV3fM/TftZix6EeXI/AAAAAAAAArg/axrG21qboKs/s400/2011-06-13+at+18-08-04.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o5XuAK19jXk/TftZmG3Bl5I/AAAAAAAAArk/rfndhY7bBUo/s1600/2011-06-13+at+18-08-47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o5XuAK19jXk/TftZmG3Bl5I/AAAAAAAAArk/rfndhY7bBUo/s400/2011-06-13+at+18-08-47.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VGAZ9wcaPMk/TftZvjK6j1I/AAAAAAAAArw/Wk-ZSzXOZZo/s1600/2011-06-13+at+18-20-31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VGAZ9wcaPMk/TftZvjK6j1I/AAAAAAAAArw/Wk-ZSzXOZZo/s400/2011-06-13+at+18-20-31.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: left;">Are you enjoying your summer? What have you been up to?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Only By His Grace,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Billie</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-17660163807722442152011-04-10T18:00:00.001-04:002011-06-29T16:00:45.329-04:00It's been a while....Good Sunday afternoon ladies,<br />
<br />
It seems like forever since I've checked in with you. I've missed you and your sweet comments. I've missed linking up to parties and writing about what's going on.<br />
<br />
Last week we took the kiddos on a weeklong, much needed vacation! It's been spring break here, and we had the most fantastic time. The weather was as close to perfect as we could ask. The destination was beautiful. We lounged by the pool, we took in a couple attractions, we ate the most glorious meals! It was so great!<br />
<br />
But this week, it's back to life as normal. And what a busy week it will be...<br />
<br />
It may not seem overly busy to you, but for me, having a bundle of things on my schedule is a bit daunting when you factor in the post vacation laundry, lawn mowing, end-of-school year activities, girl scouts, and catch-up at work.<br />
<br />
<b>So, here's the reason I'm posting today. I wanted to give you my game plan for dinner on one of my busy weeks.</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
This week's menu consists of:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Tacos</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Salisbury steaks</div><div style="text-align: center;">mashed potatoes and gravy</div><div style="text-align: center;">peas</div><div style="text-align: center;">salad</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Spaghetti with meat sauce</div><div style="text-align: center;">salad</div><div style="text-align: center;">garlic bread</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Steaks on the grill</div><div style="text-align: center;">baked potato</div><div style="text-align: center;">salad</div><div style="text-align: center;">steamed broccoli</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chicken (in the crock-pot)</div><div style="text-align: center;">with veggies</div><div style="text-align: center;">noodles</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Fish</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oven Fries</div><div style="text-align: center;">Cole Slaw</div><div style="text-align: center;">Corn on Cob</div><div style="text-align: center;">Baked beans</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">How, on a week, when I have so much else going on, can I manage to make home-cooked dinners 5 nights of the week?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Today is my prep day! Let me tell you how it all comes about:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I have three meals this week that include ground beef. I have two meals this week that need chopped onion. I have three meals this week that include a salad.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">So today, here is what I did. I gave myself 30 minutes to prep these meals for the week -- all of them.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Let's look at each meal individually: </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Salisbury Steaks need:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Hamburger, chopped onion, bread crumbs and salt and pepper.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chicken in the crock pot needs:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chicken, chopped onion, chopped carrots and chopped celery.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Spaghetti needs:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Tomato sauce, spices and ground beef.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Tacos need:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Ground beef, tomatoes, lettuce, cheese, sour cream, spices and shells</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Steaks need:</div><div style="text-align: center;">Steak, garlic, rosemary, salt and pepper.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Fish is pre-cooked from the freezer section -- no prep needed.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Starting with veggies: </b>I know I need onion for two meals, so I chopped enough for both the salisbury steaks and the chicken. I went ahead and chopped the lettuce, tomatoes, carrots and celery for the tacos and crock pot chicken.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>I know I need ground beef: </b>So I separated my ground beef into thirds. In one bowl I put 1/3 of the chopped onion and 1/3 ground beef. I added the bread crumbs to the mix. The other 2/3 of ground beef went directly into my skillet to brown. I scrambled it up well -- and while it was cooking, I mixed up the other ground beef mixture and formed them into patties. These guys got covered and stored in the meat drawer of the fridge. Meanwhile, back to the skillet. The ground beef was cooked thoroughly, so I separated out about a cup of ground beef -- and stored it in the fridge. The remaining beef got taco seasoning added to it.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>We'll be having steaks: </b>So while the taco meat was simmering, I trimmed the excess fat from the steaks, put them in a ziplock freezer bag with olive oil, minced garlic, salt and pepper, and rosemary. Enough. It will be well-marinated when we want it later this week. Into the meat drawer it went.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Chicken in the crock-pot: </b>So I already chopped all those veggies, right? They got stored in a handy-dandy snap top bowl. I buy flash frozen chicken in the big bag at the price club. So out of the bag came 3 large chicken breasts - bone in, skin on for the crock-pot. It never dries out or overcooks that way. It went into a large gallon sized freezer bag with a chicken bullion cube. As it thaws in the meat drawer of the fridge, the bullion cube will dissolve and it will be ready to go directly into the crock pot.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>What does all this mean? </b>All this means that this week, when I arrive home exhausted and ready to fall asleep on the sofa, my evening meals will only take me about 15 - 30 minutes to make. </div><div style="text-align: left;">How? Why? Let's take a look:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Salisbury Steak night:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Grill up the salisbury steaks on my stove top grill (10 minutes)</div><div style="text-align: center;">make the pan gravy</div><div style="text-align: center;">Make the mashed potatoes (10 minutes)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Steam the peas (3-5 minutes)</div><div style="text-align: center;">put together the salad </div><div style="text-align: center;">(remember I already chopped the salad fixin's and stored them separately in the fridge)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Spaghetti night:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Assemble the sauce with the pre-cooked ground beef, canned tomato sauce, spices, </div><div style="text-align: center;">pre-chopped onions and garlic</div><div style="text-align: center;">Assemble the salad</div><div style="text-align: center;">pop the garlic bread in the oven</div><div style="text-align: center;">cook the pasta</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Steak night:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Grill the steaks on the stove-top grill</div><div style="text-align: center;">pop the potatoes in the microwave (I cheat here a bit)</div><div style="text-align: center;">assemble the salad</div><div style="text-align: center;">steam the broccoli</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Chicken night:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">In the morning before I leave</div><div style="text-align: center;">Pop the thawed chicken and veggies in the crock pot with pre-chopped veggies and 1 cup chicken stock</div><div style="text-align: center;">In the evening when I return</div><div style="text-align: center;">cook the noodles and heat up any left-over veggies from the previous meals</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Fish night:</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is the night I totally cheat.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I buy pre baked cod fish from the price club, I just have to re-bake it</div><div style="text-align: center;">pop the fries in the over with the fish to bake</div><div style="text-align: center;">heat the baked beans in the oven with the others</div><div style="text-align: center;">cook the corn on cob</div><div style="text-align: center;">serve with store-bought cole slaw</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">So, there you have it.... my weekly meal and prep. I usually don't skimp on meals like I am this week, but it is quite the week, and the week following vacation. I'm sure I'll still be in a vacation state of mind... I hope!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I have other meal plans that I use when things get really crazy. I'll try to post those at another time. I just find that 30 minutes of prep on the weekend, and 45 minutes of planning before I grocery shop makes my weekly meals so much easier to manage. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">How do you plan your meals on your busy weeks?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Only by his grace,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Billie</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-12106529893512760352011-03-17T09:24:00.000-04:002011-03-17T09:24:58.427-04:00Reasons...It is a beautiful sunny morning here. I hope you're feeling the warmth of the sun where you are today, as well.<br />
<br />
I haven't posted very much lately. There are many reasons. But I've been contemplating why I blog - why I post what I post.<br />
<br />
Let me explain: When I first started blogging, I wanted my blog to be an inspiration. I wanted to show a lovingly decorated home without spending a boat load of money to do it. I love to shop used furniture stores and consignment shops. I love a good bargain, almost as much as I love shoes! I do love shoes! I'll have to post about that soon...<br />
<br />
But I found myself in a very strange place. It almost felt like competition to keep up with other bloggers. I felt compelled to shop for the next blog entry -- meaning, I had to shop to find something interesting to blog about. Not that I was spending too much money, or being frivolous, but it seemed like my focus wasn't on sharing, but on keeping up. I didn't really like that feeling, so I've taken a step back from blogging some. I wanted to see what in my everyday normal life I could blog about.<br />
<br />
What do I do that I enjoy?<br />
<br />
What do I spend time on that you might enjoy?<br />
<br />
What is my reason for blogging?<br />
<br />
I contemplated shutting down my blog. I thought about just abandoning my blog. But neither of those things felt right either. So I decided there must be a balance to it all.<br />
<br />
So over the next few weeks, or months, you may see all sorts of things here. It may not always be home decor or remodeling. It might be shoes, or running, or pictures I've taken. I don't know. But I've decided that I want to blog about the things that make me feel happy... not just about the things I buy.<br />
<br />
Life isn't about how many things we own. It's about the time we spend with those we love and enjoying the time spent together. :)<br />
<br />
On that note, last Saturday was my niece's first birthday. I got some really good shots of the kids playing outside. I thought I'd share some happy times with you!<br />
<br />
Only By His Grace,<br />
<br />
Billie<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">The Birthday Girl -- 1 year old!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0fdTddxwDBQ/TYIGgo4kHCI/AAAAAAAAApE/mHbIWkrrSkQ/s1600/2011-03-12+at+13-23-55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-0fdTddxwDBQ/TYIGgo4kHCI/AAAAAAAAApE/mHbIWkrrSkQ/s400/2011-03-12+at+13-23-55.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Mr. Austin -- the coolest cousin a girl could have -- or so he thinks!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vbrnSQpUl9c/TYIGo1OZ2eI/AAAAAAAAApI/X7oVOOrTSRM/s1600/2011-03-12+at+13-24-45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vbrnSQpUl9c/TYIGo1OZ2eI/AAAAAAAAApI/X7oVOOrTSRM/s400/2011-03-12+at+13-24-45.jpg" width="287" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Another cousin, Ayda.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4DlZ47nmpwo/TYIGv24ASiI/AAAAAAAAApM/d9lkR0NvbnA/s1600/2011-03-12+at+13-26-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4DlZ47nmpwo/TYIGv24ASiI/AAAAAAAAApM/d9lkR0NvbnA/s400/2011-03-12+at+13-26-21.jpg" width="312" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Birthday girl's sister, Lillly.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eP2Qb14TTsI/TYIG1dx7mNI/AAAAAAAAApQ/sft9mOGTqV0/s1600/2011-03-12+at+13-26-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eP2Qb14TTsI/TYIG1dx7mNI/AAAAAAAAApQ/sft9mOGTqV0/s400/2011-03-12+at+13-26-26.jpg" width="317" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Cousin, Mina. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-J5tgtjyK3cE/TYIG6Jma6aI/AAAAAAAAApU/TL6mSfI9NzI/s1600/2011-03-12+at+14-11-09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-J5tgtjyK3cE/TYIG6Jma6aI/AAAAAAAAApU/TL6mSfI9NzI/s320/2011-03-12+at+14-11-09.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Cousin, Teta.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YRGajbgfIwA/TYIHAltJSeI/AAAAAAAAApY/XXCgjl6Sxdw/s1600/2011-03-12+at+14-11-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-YRGajbgfIwA/TYIHAltJSeI/AAAAAAAAApY/XXCgjl6Sxdw/s320/2011-03-12+at+14-11-22.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Miss Kayla -- a little grumpy from lack of sleep.. but still the party girl all the same.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-t0paFfEaxLU/TYIHHssnmfI/AAAAAAAAApc/MQDigDk_Zj0/s1600/2011-03-12+at+14-20-37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-t0paFfEaxLU/TYIHHssnmfI/AAAAAAAAApc/MQDigDk_Zj0/s400/2011-03-12+at+14-20-37.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">The first birthday cupcake! Don't burn the baby!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jbTx_hD-nso/TYIHNyy3VWI/AAAAAAAAApg/4yS9zs5RVSo/s1600/2011-03-12+at+14-33-57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jbTx_hD-nso/TYIHNyy3VWI/AAAAAAAAApg/4yS9zs5RVSo/s400/2011-03-12+at+14-33-57.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Mmmm. That's good stuff!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-oHuJQqtRVUM/TYIHX-DPJtI/AAAAAAAAApk/KL--J4PS4B4/s1600/2011-03-12+at+14-36-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-oHuJQqtRVUM/TYIHX-DPJtI/AAAAAAAAApk/KL--J4PS4B4/s400/2011-03-12+at+14-36-26.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">It was warm and sunny, so outside the kiddos went. What kid can't have fun in a jeep?</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-aIzh56It0kk/TYIHeo77bGI/AAAAAAAAApo/WAgkQfvWrBM/s1600/2011-03-12+at+15-30-39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="383" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-aIzh56It0kk/TYIHeo77bGI/AAAAAAAAApo/WAgkQfvWrBM/s400/2011-03-12+at+15-30-39.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-vrgdp4YkXAE/TYIHnRqWczI/AAAAAAAAAps/xeIUVlG2j1A/s1600/2011-03-12+at+15-31-00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-vrgdp4YkXAE/TYIHnRqWczI/AAAAAAAAAps/xeIUVlG2j1A/s400/2011-03-12+at+15-31-00.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c9GreNsPb3Q/TYIHwOx0imI/AAAAAAAAApw/XZjHGVXaPfE/s1600/2011-03-12+at+15-34-29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-c9GreNsPb3Q/TYIHwOx0imI/AAAAAAAAApw/XZjHGVXaPfE/s400/2011-03-12+at+15-34-29.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mmJZg9s-Lgo/TYIH4og3LyI/AAAAAAAAAp0/ZUjPRKcqsHk/s1600/2011-03-12+at+15-41-29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mmJZg9s-Lgo/TYIH4og3LyI/AAAAAAAAAp0/ZUjPRKcqsHk/s400/2011-03-12+at+15-41-29.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I won the race up the big hill!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wmvN0_6Lvg0/TYII7nOc6LI/AAAAAAAAAqY/2kSozt7dzrE/s1600/2011-03-12+at+16-03-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-wmvN0_6Lvg0/TYII7nOc6LI/AAAAAAAAAqY/2kSozt7dzrE/s400/2011-03-12+at+16-03-12.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Austin, are you sure you can drive this thing?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1MEu7JuGzGQ/TYIH-KQscQI/AAAAAAAAAp4/50njSP6yfBw/s1600/2011-03-12+at+15-43-28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1MEu7JuGzGQ/TYIH-KQscQI/AAAAAAAAAp4/50njSP6yfBw/s400/2011-03-12+at+15-43-28.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Looking out over the farmland...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-B1PUD6C6iYA/TYIIHNQVmXI/AAAAAAAAAp8/aCut9zsrbFo/s1600/2011-03-12+at+15-44-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-B1PUD6C6iYA/TYIIHNQVmXI/AAAAAAAAAp8/aCut9zsrbFo/s400/2011-03-12+at+15-44-11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Playing on the fun set.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-q08sUwxMf98/TYIIQplXg_I/AAAAAAAAAqA/Xz5nUuQhvD4/s1600/2011-03-12+at+15-47-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-q08sUwxMf98/TYIIQplXg_I/AAAAAAAAAqA/Xz5nUuQhvD4/s400/2011-03-12+at+15-47-03.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b-Y_TxITE_c/TYIIX0F5B6I/AAAAAAAAAqE/kfmSBgU_LJY/s1600/2011-03-12+at+15-47-17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b-Y_TxITE_c/TYIIX0F5B6I/AAAAAAAAAqE/kfmSBgU_LJY/s400/2011-03-12+at+15-47-17.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Even big girls just wanna have fun.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8fIqJhOGrwQ/TYIIeLQcgfI/AAAAAAAAAqI/dc1B7MWLHK4/s1600/2011-03-12+at+15-58-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8fIqJhOGrwQ/TYIIeLQcgfI/AAAAAAAAAqI/dc1B7MWLHK4/s400/2011-03-12+at+15-58-22.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6d5CDywpqI0/TYIIkqGmzUI/AAAAAAAAAqM/JtY7FcJfmyA/s1600/2011-03-12+at+15-59-06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6d5CDywpqI0/TYIIkqGmzUI/AAAAAAAAAqM/JtY7FcJfmyA/s400/2011-03-12+at+15-59-06.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">The backyard view...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EjOdD8snEYg/TYIIs1YBt_I/AAAAAAAAAqQ/4rMdD4toZmU/s1600/2011-03-12+at+16-00-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="334" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EjOdD8snEYg/TYIIs1YBt_I/AAAAAAAAAqQ/4rMdD4toZmU/s640/2011-03-12+at+16-00-23.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6BTlCmTeSVg/TYIIxRDnCWI/AAAAAAAAAqU/MMAKTHlJjQ8/s1600/2011-03-12+at+16-00-27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="506" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6BTlCmTeSVg/TYIIxRDnCWI/AAAAAAAAAqU/MMAKTHlJjQ8/s640/2011-03-12+at+16-00-27.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
Must say... it was a great party! And so relaxing to be around all those kids. Wonder when I forgot how to have fun like that?Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-15386651835458226492011-03-05T20:25:00.000-05:002011-03-05T20:25:24.520-05:00Now, back to our show...Remember when television used to say that? "And now, back to our show..."<br />
<br />
That's how I feel about this whole laundry room remake.<br />
<br />
Do you remember what started this whole fiasco? We started a load of laundry... ALL the kids school uniforms were in that load... the washer finished the wash cycle but failed mid way through the rinse cycle. Being a front loader, the door locked... of course... and so our wet clothes were in there for 3 days before we could get it fixed and get our clothes out. It cost us approximately $150... to find and remove this little guy:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-FWhGH24oI5Q/TXLXoliLVnI/AAAAAAAAAmc/xUXzGgdaGtM/s1600/IMG_4967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-FWhGH24oI5Q/TXLXoliLVnI/AAAAAAAAAmc/xUXzGgdaGtM/s400/IMG_4967.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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Trouble-maker!<br />
<br />
<br />
At least we didn't have to buy a new machine, replace parts, or fight with the manufacturer for further instructions. <br />
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But, as any good wife would do :), when I got in there to clean up the mess, it occurred to me that we should do a little updo... Ladies, I know you've never done that before!<br />
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As most of the rooms on our main floor, our colors are red, gold, brown, sage... But I wanted a change.<br />
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Here's the before. Remember, ladies, it IS a laundry room. Don't be shocked if you actually see some....<br />
<i>gasp </i>LAUNDRY. :)<br />
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Warning: These pictures aren't badly exposed. The room is just really that yellow!<br />
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So here are the yellow walls -- with the little hole in the background where Holly was apparently planning a prison break. We wondered why she put up that poster....<br />
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Here's the recently repaired washer... pushed all the way down toward the wall - in it's new location.<br />
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The lovely shelving above the washer/dryer units. No matter how hard I try to organize this space, it still just looks like ick!<br />
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Another view -- this long shelf will come down, and the new cabinetry will go up in its place. Can't wait!<br />
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Here's the adjoining wall where I currently hang our clothes for drying or waiting to be ironed. This shelf will come down and we will move the hanging bar to the other wall.<br />
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Here is the view from the doorway.<br />
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Here's the ugly painting I had in there:<br />
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So out with the old, and in with the better... I'm thinking spa blue and birds!<br />
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First purchase: A pale blue print, "Live, Laugh, Laundry."<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A couple of small mirrors I had in storage</div><br />
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A "new" $3.00 mirror -- Thanks Goodwill!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Tg7LEGDUfug/TXLZVy6GNJI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/MrOGOfaqUoY/s1600/IMG_4858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Tg7LEGDUfug/TXLZVy6GNJI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/MrOGOfaqUoY/s400/IMG_4858.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
This adorable pale blue watery wooden shelf...<br />
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Here's the detail of the shelf.<br />
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A couple of blue plates... just in case I get hungry for a snack while I'm washing all those clothes. :)<br />
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A little glass bottle with a precious blue bird on top.<br />
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An off white candle holder from Target and a pale blue candle from Home Goods.<br />
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Here's that little birdy -- she's ready for her close up.<br />
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While I was at Target, I purchased the cutest little brown bird. The gentleman helping my cashier was so helpful to wrap up my little bird in tissue paper. He said, "this little bird needs some love."<br />
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When we (the little bird and I) got home, I dropped her on my concrete driveway. See how pretty she looks now? :(<br />
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No worries. Nothing a little Elmer's glue won't fix. She's taped up while her glue dries. <br />
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she's alright from this side.<br />
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Here's an iron bird cage I'm planning to place the little broken bird in.<br />
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And here she is. Snug as a bug in a rug...<br />
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Here are those plates again...<br />
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A couple of iron sconces...<br />
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Those found mirrors from the basement...<br />
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The candle and those little birds from my powder room...<br />
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A wreath we had in the basement family room... If you look closely you'll see a little pink bird in there.<br />
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And here's this side of the room.<br />
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Opposite the laundry area --- my picture, a couple of carafes and my new shelf. In the bottle on the far right, I will eventually put my Downy. In the bottle on the far left, I will put my Era. Lovey only requests that I wait until he can rehang my shelf with some Molly bolts... I can do that!<br />
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Here's my blue birdy again.<br />
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So once I got all that done, I realized I didn't like the metal shelves after all. Of course, I've known this for 4 years now... but it really, really made me want my laundry room to look more like this: a laundry room where I can tuck away all those things you want to hide, and a nice clean place where I can display all of the beautiful goodies I just hung up and placed.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q3NBLlx31gk/TXLfmm2ahGI/AAAAAAAAAo4/iX7X-yzfPIs/s1600/screen-capture-20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q3NBLlx31gk/TXLfmm2ahGI/AAAAAAAAAo4/iX7X-yzfPIs/s400/screen-capture-20.png" width="272" /></a></div><br />
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But, I would also be pleased with this:<br />
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But more than likely, it will be more like this:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-EvfeCcXzZrU/TXLfn2IEwuI/AAAAAAAAAo8/a51slV6tdzw/s1600/screen-capture-21.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-EvfeCcXzZrU/TXLfn2IEwuI/AAAAAAAAAo8/a51slV6tdzw/s400/screen-capture-21.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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We purchased 2 sets of cabinets to go above the washer dryer. Our wall is 90 inches long. The cabinets will be 48 inches. We will attach a clothing bar to the left wall of the cabinets and then again to the wall. This will be where I hang our wet clothes, and those needing to be ironed.<br />
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We will then remove the other hanging bar, and hopefully put in a small table to use as a folding table. I happen to have on in the basement I'm not using... :) It might need a paint job, though.<br />
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So we'll see how it goes! Mr. Lovey assembled the cabinets last Sunday, but we haven't received the metal hanging bracket in the mail yet. As soon as we receive it, I'll post again, and then you can see the final after shots!<br />
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Until then...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O2EeTh8kxLM/TXLfpLDE95I/AAAAAAAAApA/rFCluABV4I4/s1600/screen-capture-22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="554" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-O2EeTh8kxLM/TXLfpLDE95I/AAAAAAAAApA/rFCluABV4I4/s640/screen-capture-22.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Only by His Grace,<br />
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BillieBillie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-74655515574836341942011-03-05T19:34:00.000-05:002011-03-05T19:34:34.656-05:00It's been a while...Good Saturday evening, everyone. It seems like it's been forever since I've posted. Things have been a little... hairy around here. Here's our little sweet one, Holly. She's also a little hairy. With all the sickness and unexpected appliance breakdowns... I realized she hadn't been to the puppy spa (aka the groomer) since Thanksgiving! No wonder she was stinky. I felt like such a bad doggy mommy.<br />
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She's our little "cookie tester." She loves her job, by the way.<br />
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</div> So we got her an appointment, and she spent the day at the spa... She came home with her hair cut, bows in her hair, nails filed and teeth brushed. You can see here that she was exhausted from all that attention. The groomer loved her! <br />
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The children spent some time relaxing as well. It's been rainy here - at least it's not snow! So we've been playing inside and enjoying some down time.<br />
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Austin is playing a Lego Racing game on his ipod. He just learned to read alone last week... The boy honestly picked up a book and spontaneously started reading. It was very exciting, to say the least. I'm very proud.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9mt8PnqpZFM/TXLS0JheHXI/AAAAAAAAAmE/oGe5APIgK-I/s1600/IMG_4990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9mt8PnqpZFM/TXLS0JheHXI/AAAAAAAAAmE/oGe5APIgK-I/s400/IMG_4990.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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Kayla was snuggled in her pink robe, reading her new book, <i>Anne of Green Gables. </i> She read <i>Jane Eyre</i> last summer. She's in 4th grade. She loves to read. She must get it from both parents. My BA is in English Lit. and her dad loves to read anything non-fiction. He's quite the history buff. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CZ2nnHqtIUQ/TXLS6PZNUOI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/VVIBjbldRPE/s1600/IMG_4996.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-CZ2nnHqtIUQ/TXLS6PZNUOI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/VVIBjbldRPE/s400/IMG_4996.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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So we got a break from the rain, and I tromped through the marshy, swampy back yard to the "creek" to snap a few pics with my new lens. We have the Canon Rebel T1I. Last weekend I bought the Tamron 18-270 mm F/3.5-6.3. I really wanted to check out some landscape shots with it.<br />
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This is looking up the right side of the creek. The water is flowing away from us, so I tried to focus on the nearest point.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-R95_cgmz_yQ/TXLSokFz0rI/AAAAAAAAAl0/JR5iRjHQg8U/s1600/IMG_4980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-R95_cgmz_yQ/TXLSokFz0rI/AAAAAAAAAl0/JR5iRjHQg8U/s400/IMG_4980.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><br />
Same view, different camera setting.<br />
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Here's the view directly where I was standing... This "creek" is usually dry. It only fills up about 3 or 4 times a year.<br />
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Here is the creek looking toward the left, up the hill. The water is running toward us.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QezzNbzs9bw/TXLSyDSS_gI/AAAAAAAAAmA/iG6g-kHvyI0/s1600/IMG_4987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-QezzNbzs9bw/TXLSyDSS_gI/AAAAAAAAAmA/iG6g-kHvyI0/s320/IMG_4987.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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It really was a beautiful, restful, relaxing day.<br />
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Glad to be back,<br />
<br />
BillieBillie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-76398944743247385302011-02-26T21:28:00.000-05:002011-02-26T21:28:23.861-05:00Can't wait to show you the new...It may be a few days before I'm ready to post all the pictures of what's going on here at our crazy house.<br />
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It all began like this:<br />
<br />
Last Sunday we had a family girl scout outing -- we drove to a ski slope for some family tubing. Great! But first, I need to start a load of laundry. Oh, we might not be back in time for me to get all the kids' school uniforms washed and dried by school on Monday.... Okay, I'll just throw them all in together, on cold so nothing will fade. It'll be fine!<br />
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The wash cycle went well, but during the drain and rinse... not so well. The washer (only 6 years old) started to hum loudly... What the dickens? Guess what? The washer was broken...<br />
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But it gets even better. Because it's a front loader, the door locks... and all the kids' uniforms were locked inside. The repair man charged us $126 just to come out and assess the situation. Then he had to take the washer back off and check inside. Guess what happened? <br />
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You know those little plastic hooks retailers use to hang socks on the slat wall? Well, apparently we missed one. The little bugger got through the wash cycle, the rinse cycle and into my drain pump...<br />
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Thankfully the repair man could just remove it and be done with it. That's an expensive little plastic hook, huh?<br />
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Back to the remodel! When said repair man drained our pump, water went all over the laundry room. We cleaned it up, but in the mean time I had to move the washer and dryer down the long wall... Hmmm. Wouldn't it be great to have cabinets above my washer/dryer? Why, yes, yes it would!<br />
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So today we took a trip to Ikea! We bought the cabinets...still waiting to decide on one other factor, but I'll let you know about that later...<br />
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I'll try to post up some photos soon of the laundry room... I can't wait to see the difference!<br />
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Until then,<br />
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Blessings!<br />
<br />
Only by His Grace,<br />
<br />
BillieBillie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-17033201177733112872011-02-22T20:40:00.000-05:002011-02-22T20:40:24.264-05:00Run! Run like the wind....Okay, not exactly -- like the wind... but like a spring breeze...<br />
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I run. Have I ever told you that before? I'm not as consistent as I used to be.<br />
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It all started when.... Don't you love stories that start that way? <br />
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Mr. Lovey and I had been married about 5 years when we were told by 3 specialists that we would never have children. There were complications that looked unable to overcome. Unfortunately, I'd been taking some meds that caused me to gain an enormous amount of weight. When Lovey and I married, I weighed 103 pounds. (Of course I was 19 years old) But after months of medications, I was nearly 150 pounds. That was a lot for me. I'm only 5' 4''.<br />
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So on January 1, 2000, I got on my treadmill and I ran. I only made it .30 of a mile, but I was determined to become a runner. Each day I got on my treadmill after work and I ran. By the end of the week I was up to a mile. By May of 2000, I had lost 26 pounds. After a few more months I was down to 112 pounds. Then I found out I was pregnant -- I was nearly 4 months pregnant. It was quite the surprise!<br />
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After Kayla was born (via C-section) I was running again after 3 weeks. I know it sounds crazy... but I was quite a young, naive, and prideful young woman. <br />
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When Miss Kayla was 2, we moved to a house in a subdivision with lots of hills... big ones. And I ran with her in the jogging stroller shouting, "Faster, mommy! Faster!" I just considered her my coach. <br />
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Then I busted my knee. The MRI showed the fluid that cushions your knee joint -- was missing.... Don't know where it went... but it wasn't in my knee where it was supposed to be. The pain was excruciating! <br />
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However, that is how I met my dearest friend, Erin, a Physical Therapist.<br />
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Now, 10 years later, I don't run races or 1/2 marathons any more.... but I do enjoy a good jog on my treadmill...<br />
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My question is, "How may pairs of running shoes does one girl need?"<br />
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The answer? Apparently, the answer is three!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pf2JYzqYb78/TWRhPrenZsI/AAAAAAAAAkw/B7YpGqHNrY8/s1600/IMG_4836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pf2JYzqYb78/TWRhPrenZsI/AAAAAAAAAkw/B7YpGqHNrY8/s640/IMG_4836.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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The yellow pair are Adidas... they are specific for arch support.<br />
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The purple pair on the far right are Aasics gel, recommended to me by world-renouned runner Ken Combs right after I was diagnosed with the missing fluid situation. They're very cushy and I can run in them when I can't run in anything else. <br />
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The pink pair in the middle are my newest pair. I've only logged about 15 miles on them so far. They are Saucony. They're pretty squishy, too. I'm liking them a lot! They might end up replacing the Aasics. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-atC5NPh9azM/TWRhJlPkYZI/AAAAAAAAAkk/O9zF98G4H5U/s1600/IMG_4832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="616" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-atC5NPh9azM/TWRhJlPkYZI/AAAAAAAAAkk/O9zF98G4H5U/s640/IMG_4832.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Some people don't like the monotony of the treadmill. They feel like they're going round and round and round without end...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lyd647z-_AA/TWRhN45jYAI/AAAAAAAAAks/xKjeOrDrZ-k/s1600/IMG_4835.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lyd647z-_AA/TWRhN45jYAI/AAAAAAAAAks/xKjeOrDrZ-k/s640/IMG_4835.jpg" width="598" /></a></div><br />
But I love my treadmill... Call me crazy, but I feel like I'm running from my troubles, and running toward good health.<br />
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I can usually hop on my treadmill and run for 3 or 4 miles at a time before the pain gets too much to take... but I'm not often diligent.<br />
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Today, though, while at Target, I bought a little inspiration. I bought four pair of new running pants; two black pair and two gray pair.<br />
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I'm only showing you 3 pair because I'm wearing one pair, and right now, I'm a sweaty mess. I bought two full-lenth pair, and two capri-length pair.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GDKo40YFq9M/TWRhSKSIDMI/AAAAAAAAAk0/vugcy0oiFEc/s1600/IMG_4838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GDKo40YFq9M/TWRhSKSIDMI/AAAAAAAAAk0/vugcy0oiFEc/s640/IMG_4838.jpg" width="538" /></a></div><br />
Why you ask? Because they were on sale, of course. And because I needed them, Right?!?!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2fAh02ybBFg/TWRhTgqkeZI/AAAAAAAAAk4/hqCaiXh-kr0/s1600/IMG_4839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2fAh02ybBFg/TWRhTgqkeZI/AAAAAAAAAk4/hqCaiXh-kr0/s640/IMG_4839.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
That's right! Four pair of pants at $1.50 each. That's $6.00 for four pair... Original price was $6.00 per.<br />
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Do you exercise? What's your favorite thing to do for exercise? Do you run, jog, cycle, swim? Do you go to the gym for weight training? Do you walk in the sunshine? <br />
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Whatever you do, I encourage you to take care of yourself. And by all means, find something you enjoy.<br />
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Only By His Grace,<br />
<br />
BillieBillie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-54832004408572827202011-02-21T17:16:00.002-05:002011-02-21T17:20:51.999-05:00Small changes bring BIG results...<div style="text-align: center;">Do you ever wake up in the middle of the night with an idea and think... </div><div style="text-align: center;">"Why didn't I think of that before?!?!"</div><br />
That's what happened to me last night. About 3:00 a.m. I awoke out of the blue with an idea... and boy, am I glad I did. Of course, I was so excited I couldn't go back to sleep.... so since I'm sleep deprived today, it might not be as good an idea as I thought... Let's see what you think...<br />
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Remember, all comments are welcome. I'm not a decorator, so if something looks terrible, it's your duty as my bloggy friend to tell me! Thanks!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Ready or not...here we go!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Welcome to my dining room:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here is the view from the front door. It is the first room you really see as you enter the house. Because of that, I want it to be really friendly and welcoming. Let me tell you all I've done.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-24xyLI417ik/TWLexmkjmhI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/Lk002R2dPxs/s1600/IMG_4803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-24xyLI417ik/TWLexmkjmhI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/Lk002R2dPxs/s640/IMG_4803.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">In the far left corner, I have a corner etagere. It has some really fun stuff on it, I think. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I picked up the etagere at the Peddler's Mall for $10.00.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6T9aHuEr6bw/TWLezeiNxuI/AAAAAAAAAjU/BGEcxeKpJPk/s1600/IMG_4804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6T9aHuEr6bw/TWLezeiNxuI/AAAAAAAAAjU/BGEcxeKpJPk/s640/IMG_4804.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Here's a close up</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hs88O3KgUU8/TWLfi9pp42I/AAAAAAAAAkc/G06II5EobGk/s1600/IMG_4806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hs88O3KgUU8/TWLfi9pp42I/AAAAAAAAAkc/G06II5EobGk/s640/IMG_4806.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here are some close ups of the goodies displayed there...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">a little lamp -- I bought the shade at Bombay before they closed... for $5.00! Yay for bargains!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tTN2SP3I-Og/TWLe5SZ9MgI/AAAAAAAAAjc/lFgOtXTlPRQ/s1600/IMG_4807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tTN2SP3I-Og/TWLe5SZ9MgI/AAAAAAAAAjc/lFgOtXTlPRQ/s640/IMG_4807.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Here's my little bird and antique books...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GWBz0ifSwVc/TWLe7wAsbNI/AAAAAAAAAjg/scUQ1J7DEqA/s1600/IMG_4808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GWBz0ifSwVc/TWLe7wAsbNI/AAAAAAAAAjg/scUQ1J7DEqA/s640/IMG_4808.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">A basket of ivy</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nzUr0rH4uSU/TWLe-m6iK-I/AAAAAAAAAjk/-Rj_RPgpeUo/s1600/IMG_4809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nzUr0rH4uSU/TWLe-m6iK-I/AAAAAAAAAjk/-Rj_RPgpeUo/s640/IMG_4809.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And my rooster olive jar... love roosters!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6aSCqkWdUHE/TWLfBIQnduI/AAAAAAAAAjo/skhhDN2PYfQ/s1600/IMG_4810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6aSCqkWdUHE/TWLfBIQnduI/AAAAAAAAAjo/skhhDN2PYfQ/s640/IMG_4810.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Next to the etagere are my two sweet prints I bought at Cato of all places...</div><div style="text-align: center;">they were clearance for $3.00 each...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XkaxNwPBtX0/TWLe1lwvO9I/AAAAAAAAAjY/0EU5_cQv7wc/s1600/IMG_4805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XkaxNwPBtX0/TWLe1lwvO9I/AAAAAAAAAjY/0EU5_cQv7wc/s640/IMG_4805.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">To the right of the entry way is my plate rack.</div><div style="text-align: center;">It has two rooster / hen plates and one Friends and Family plaque. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I like it.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fBiCd_4XLZE/TWLfGBlNUTI/AAAAAAAAAjw/YSZZ8zyQ1ew/s1600/IMG_4812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fBiCd_4XLZE/TWLfGBlNUTI/AAAAAAAAAjw/YSZZ8zyQ1ew/s640/IMG_4812.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fkbt0kpV3uM/TWLfDtredjI/AAAAAAAAAjs/x7EprV-nbp0/s1600/IMG_4811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fkbt0kpV3uM/TWLfDtredjI/AAAAAAAAAjs/x7EprV-nbp0/s640/IMG_4811.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's the chandie I bought a couple summers ago. I bought it at the Peddler's Mall for $20. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I brought it home and spray painted it with black wrought iron paint for outdoor furniture.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I bought the shades at Peddler's Mall for $2.00 each.</div><div style="text-align: center;">For less than $40 I have a whole new chandie.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8MgRR1dhgEI/TWLfLLuTvGI/AAAAAAAAAj4/DsJgKVIaywI/s1600/IMG_4814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8MgRR1dhgEI/TWLfLLuTvGI/AAAAAAAAAj4/DsJgKVIaywI/s640/IMG_4814.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here is our dining room set. It was the first real set of furniture we bought. When we first got married everything -- and I do mean everything -- we owned was given to us. At 22 we bought our first house, and this was the first furniture we bought. I may never get rid of it! Ever. Ever. Ever!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_aDoT4ey6kw/TWLfRMbZ7uI/AAAAAAAAAkA/uQ_R-kGhaoU/s1600/IMG_4816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_aDoT4ey6kw/TWLfRMbZ7uI/AAAAAAAAAkA/uQ_R-kGhaoU/s640/IMG_4816.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O9szEdofeJo/TWLfOPe8bTI/AAAAAAAAAj8/X54jKJdtt6s/s1600/IMG_4815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O9szEdofeJo/TWLfOPe8bTI/AAAAAAAAAj8/X54jKJdtt6s/s640/IMG_4815.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Here is the edge detail. I also mixed it up a little with yellow and red cushions...</div><div style="text-align: center;"> I like the two colors together.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sa4A7MTTpT0/TWLfUByfIDI/AAAAAAAAAkE/0J4OFcXve9c/s1600/IMG_4817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sa4A7MTTpT0/TWLfUByfIDI/AAAAAAAAAkE/0J4OFcXve9c/s640/IMG_4817.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here are the three prints along the back wall.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-08I0NRQXUD4/TWLfYCLgy_I/AAAAAAAAAkM/mEZwzes1x9o/s1600/IMG_4822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-08I0NRQXUD4/TWLfYCLgy_I/AAAAAAAAAkM/mEZwzes1x9o/s640/IMG_4822.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And in the far right corner I have a sweet eucalyptus wreath with a red gingham bow</div><div style="text-align: center;">and my iron candle stand. Picked it up at Peddler's Mall for $5.00</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7LimWNCfst8/TWLfa1oyT9I/AAAAAAAAAkU/ttKC-X6qQIg/s1600/IMG_4827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7LimWNCfst8/TWLfa1oyT9I/AAAAAAAAAkU/ttKC-X6qQIg/s640/IMG_4827.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Now, for the Big Big change. I hope you like it. I LOVE it!</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'll be joining the girls and the gang at <a href="http://www.betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/">Between Naps on the Porch</a> for Metamorphasis Monday. <br />
I'm link # 258. There's lots of good stuff to see... check it out!<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">About a year ago, someone in my family lovingly (and more importantly honestly) told me that my curtains needed to be hung on a different curtain rod. Yes, they were right... But I never did anything about it. I wanted something different than a new curtain rod.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's the before of the window:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6CBYv7LjzFQ/TWLfIi_wT_I/AAAAAAAAAj0/OadSQmgIZSw/s1600/IMG_4813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6CBYv7LjzFQ/TWLfIi_wT_I/AAAAAAAAAj0/OadSQmgIZSw/s640/IMG_4813.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SjUgVTmDLIw/TWLfVyiI34I/AAAAAAAAAkI/EbY3oiU5sck/s1600/IMG_4820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SjUgVTmDLIw/TWLfVyiI34I/AAAAAAAAAkI/EbY3oiU5sck/s640/IMG_4820.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I bought the curtains about 2 years ago at Target on clearance for $6.48 for the pair! They're heavy duty cotton and they are embroidered! Oh what a find! Again, Yay for bargains!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I also bought some valances for the kitchen...but they didn't work out so well... blocked too much light. </div><div style="text-align: center;">So I folded them up and put them in the closet.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Then at 3:00 a.m. I woke up and thought, "What if I combined the two?"</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm so glad I did!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I added the valance at ceiling height and lo and behold, the window looks about 8 inches taller! </div><div style="text-align: center;">And my hope is it brings attention to the tray ceiling. We've lived here 5 years and my husband JUST realized we had a tray ceiling at Christmas...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Wanna see?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RpdvCDOI6Rk/TWLfcvQE48I/AAAAAAAAAkY/muL-Rt2UiTY/s1600/IMG_4828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RpdvCDOI6Rk/TWLfcvQE48I/AAAAAAAAAkY/muL-Rt2UiTY/s640/IMG_4828.jpg" width="498" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Before:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6CBYv7LjzFQ/TWLfIi_wT_I/AAAAAAAAAj0/OadSQmgIZSw/s1600/IMG_4813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6CBYv7LjzFQ/TWLfIi_wT_I/AAAAAAAAAj0/OadSQmgIZSw/s320/IMG_4813.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">After:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RpdvCDOI6Rk/TWLfcvQE48I/AAAAAAAAAkY/muL-Rt2UiTY/s1600/IMG_4828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RpdvCDOI6Rk/TWLfcvQE48I/AAAAAAAAAkY/muL-Rt2UiTY/s320/IMG_4828.jpg" width="249" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">What do you think?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Leave me your comments! I can't wait to hear your reviews!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And don't forget to check out Metamorphasis Monday at </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/">Between Naps on the Porch</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Only By His Grace,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Billie</div>Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-31045866152736529582011-02-20T10:15:00.000-05:002011-02-20T10:15:28.774-05:00It's time to start updating...We've had such wonderful weather this past week -- warm 60 degree weather -- sunny warm breezes... It's making me think of spring! Of course, that makes me think of updating our deck.<div><br />
</div><div>Here are the before pics:</div><div><br />
</div><div>This is the view from the living room door to the deck.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r3n2hgzIq5k/TWElaGaj1uI/AAAAAAAAAhc/MmcarBzBOno/s1600/IMG_4772.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r3n2hgzIq5k/TWElaGaj1uI/AAAAAAAAAhc/MmcarBzBOno/s640/IMG_4772.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
This is the view from the kitchen door to the deck.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KJKDlHTcHQM/TWEldQJyZ1I/AAAAAAAAAhg/754WSCGFzyk/s1600/IMG_4773.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KJKDlHTcHQM/TWEldQJyZ1I/AAAAAAAAAhg/754WSCGFzyk/s640/IMG_4773.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
As you walk out onto the deck, you can see it opens up for a little more space.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yc0oSEHItd4/TWElf98gEHI/AAAAAAAAAhk/ZOjUYMU1aYE/s1600/IMG_4774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yc0oSEHItd4/TWElf98gEHI/AAAAAAAAAhk/ZOjUYMU1aYE/s640/IMG_4774.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
The view from the stairs to the back yard.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CEq99NcRz9A/TWEli4KkoYI/AAAAAAAAAho/i29PQGltFSk/s1600/IMG_4775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CEq99NcRz9A/TWEli4KkoYI/AAAAAAAAAho/i29PQGltFSk/s640/IMG_4775.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bO4O77xrGMY/TWEll5joIxI/AAAAAAAAAhs/N4viE4me0hA/s1600/IMG_4776.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bO4O77xrGMY/TWEll5joIxI/AAAAAAAAAhs/N4viE4me0hA/s640/IMG_4776.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gxQDZDAinOI/TWElooo0OdI/AAAAAAAAAhw/6-ytC7Waf34/s1600/IMG_4779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gxQDZDAinOI/TWElooo0OdI/AAAAAAAAAhw/6-ytC7Waf34/s640/IMG_4779.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yK8N1QJ16Rg/TWElq0WaObI/AAAAAAAAAh0/WVhxanKPBA8/s1600/IMG_4780.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yK8N1QJ16Rg/TWElq0WaObI/AAAAAAAAAh0/WVhxanKPBA8/s640/IMG_4780.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s-QzYKb3ux8/TWElthQpyXI/AAAAAAAAAh4/5dxjENePV2g/s1600/IMG_4781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s-QzYKb3ux8/TWElthQpyXI/AAAAAAAAAh4/5dxjENePV2g/s640/IMG_4781.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7H5hWABs5c/TWElv8jBiMI/AAAAAAAAAh8/RHAJhJe_Bu4/s1600/IMG_4782.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7H5hWABs5c/TWElv8jBiMI/AAAAAAAAAh8/RHAJhJe_Bu4/s640/IMG_4782.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
My latest plant stand purchase... got it for $9.00 at the Peddler's Mall. It's really heavy iron, and I can't wait to put some beautiful red geraniums in there :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WZSJiaeM-_o/TWElxjcEtxI/AAAAAAAAAiA/DtdX4djDHDE/s1600/IMG_4783.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WZSJiaeM-_o/TWElxjcEtxI/AAAAAAAAAiA/DtdX4djDHDE/s640/IMG_4783.jpg" width="368" /></a></div><br />
I'm thinking some spider plants or maybe asparagus ferns in here...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QmfuFtAnAn8/TWEl0cz7kVI/AAAAAAAAAiE/SZxymy2piXw/s1600/IMG_4784.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QmfuFtAnAn8/TWEl0cz7kVI/AAAAAAAAAiE/SZxymy2piXw/s640/IMG_4784.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
This is my ivy... it's hibernating right now. But it will wake up soon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nkW9YjwytPA/TWEl2w8hO0I/AAAAAAAAAiI/uF_WfcRBvwM/s1600/IMG_4785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nkW9YjwytPA/TWEl2w8hO0I/AAAAAAAAAiI/uF_WfcRBvwM/s640/IMG_4785.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>So here are the problem areas: </div><div><br />
</div><div>(1) The decking and all the furniture are all the same color. Last year we had the deck cleaned and stained...but as you can see, it doesn't look like it. The guys who did the staining said the deck was so weather beaten that the stain wouldn't take -- the wood just kept soaking it up... I'm not so sure -- I think it was a scam... but whatcha gonna do a year later? Lesson learned.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Since we can't replace the deck -- it's a 2 story deck -- and it doesn't need replaced. I think we may try to re-stain it this year ourselves -- but we'll see.</div><div><br />
</div><div>(2) Our adirondack chairs are chaffing... on us... every time we set down in them we get powder coated.</div><div>(3) The little square table is starting to peel.</div><div>(4) The coffee table isn't a coffee table at all... it's part of a storage shelf (at least it matches the rest of the furniture) No one has ever noticed... until now... since I've told you...</div><div><br />
</div><div>The plan is:</div><div><br />
</div><div>(1) Sand down the old chairs and repaint them black or chocolate brown. </div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yK8N1QJ16Rg/TWElq0WaObI/AAAAAAAAAh0/WVhxanKPBA8/s1600/IMG_4780.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yK8N1QJ16Rg/TWElq0WaObI/AAAAAAAAAh0/WVhxanKPBA8/s320/IMG_4780.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
(2) Re-install my outdoor rung. It's black and tan. The seating area will resemble the one below.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-loFqh0cJulQ/TWEpC2p314I/AAAAAAAAAic/xy__GJmyfrg/s1600/DeckE.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-loFqh0cJulQ/TWEpC2p314I/AAAAAAAAAic/xy__GJmyfrg/s320/DeckE.png" width="320" /></a></div><div>(3)Move the storage shelf across from the chairs as in the photo above. I may install the second tier and use it as a potting bench...</div><div><br />
</div><div>(4) Next, I think the metal frames of the chairs and table will get a matching coat of paint -- whichever I choose; black or chocolate... I'm not sure yet. Install new seat cushions...these have seen better days.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7H5hWABs5c/TWElv8jBiMI/AAAAAAAAAh8/RHAJhJe_Bu4/s1600/IMG_4782.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7H5hWABs5c/TWElv8jBiMI/AAAAAAAAAh8/RHAJhJe_Bu4/s320/IMG_4782.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> I'm hoping the color will resemble this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nk6_8o5UOGo/TWEpAIjCn3I/AAAAAAAAAiQ/jtWTA4oytwk/s1600/DeckB.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nk6_8o5UOGo/TWEpAIjCn3I/AAAAAAAAAiQ/jtWTA4oytwk/s320/DeckB.png" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>(5) As we have the layout now, we will have one seating area and one dining area. I love the red in the photo below, but don't want that much red... so we'll go with red accents.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eAhRq3aHF8Y/TWEpBUEiptI/AAAAAAAAAiU/IFZKqjnUPPU/s1600/DeckC.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eAhRq3aHF8Y/TWEpBUEiptI/AAAAAAAAAiU/IFZKqjnUPPU/s320/DeckC.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(6) I would like to either add a new outdoor coffee table (I love those candles) or a couple of outdoor end tables. I'm thinking the end tables at this point... I think they're more versatile. If we need them separately we have two, if we need a coffee table we can pull them together.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PcV6noWHyyQ/TWEpDwWG2BI/AAAAAAAAAig/MDn6vxZoF5I/s1600/DeckF.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PcV6noWHyyQ/TWEpDwWG2BI/AAAAAAAAAig/MDn6vxZoF5I/s320/DeckF.png" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>(7) And when the weather is warm enough... plants... plants... plants... although, maybe not this many plants.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-696SeDzuvrs/TWEpCZpRqiI/AAAAAAAAAiY/3-KBudMmv7g/s1600/DeckD.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-696SeDzuvrs/TWEpCZpRqiI/AAAAAAAAAiY/3-KBudMmv7g/s320/DeckD.png" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>Here's where we stand so far: </div><div><br />
</div><div>Tan and black seat cushions for the adirondack chairs. Two chairs, two cushions.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_CSKb4TEI5w/TWEsyxw69HI/AAAAAAAAAio/R12iwAo2Jzk/s1600/cushion1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_CSKb4TEI5w/TWEsyxw69HI/AAAAAAAAAio/R12iwAo2Jzk/s640/cushion1.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>New red and tan cushions for the dining chairs.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rx_qRmN8mjc/TWEtFvem2uI/AAAAAAAAAi4/Pav3slJlD4Y/s1600/cushion2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rx_qRmN8mjc/TWEtFvem2uI/AAAAAAAAAi4/Pav3slJlD4Y/s640/cushion2.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>We also have a red market umbrella from Lowe's -- wait til you see how Mr. Lovey installed this guy! Ingenious! </div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OZzvtu0VT9Q/TWEtPZy7lRI/AAAAAAAAAi8/M-4vTFF51PA/s1600/CPR-9-8_RedUmbrella_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OZzvtu0VT9Q/TWEtPZy7lRI/AAAAAAAAAi8/M-4vTFF51PA/s320/CPR-9-8_RedUmbrella_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>And a couple of large plants...</div><div><br />
</div><div>This one I rescued from my neighbor two years ago. She was going to throw it away. I need to repot it. It's doubled in size. Thanks miracle grow!</div><div> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1lcNfSstE8g/TWEtbKaNUJI/AAAAAAAAAjA/T07orkLeE8g/s1600/plant1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1lcNfSstE8g/TWEtbKaNUJI/AAAAAAAAAjA/T07orkLeE8g/s640/plant1.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><br />
A Ponytail palm... my dear friend gave it to me. I love it... the winter indoors has taken a bit of a toll on it... but spring in coming... it will bounce back.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0C8DqEVvcA/TWEtbilJsvI/AAAAAAAAAjE/VUVnKZ4UbHY/s1600/plant2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0C8DqEVvcA/TWEtbilJsvI/AAAAAAAAAjE/VUVnKZ4UbHY/s640/plant2.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div>So there's the whole plan. I still want a couple of red throw pillows for the adirondack chairs, a couple of new tables -- but I have my eye on some used ones I saw that are just crying for a makeover... we'll see..., and a few red geraniums for those clay pots. </div><div><br />
</div><div>I'm also looking at some outdoor lamps... They have iron bases and thick glass (like stained glass) shades. They aren't electric. They use large candles! I think I really might have to have a couple they were great! If I can't find them, I'll just use outdoor candles and hurricanes. </div><div><br />
</div><div>I'll have more photos when the weather warms up.. </div><div><br />
</div><div>I can't wait much longer... Come on spring! </div><div><br />
</div><div>Only By His Grace,</div><div><br />
</div><div>Billie</div>Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-48146260738428077552011-02-18T09:54:00.000-05:002011-02-18T09:54:22.991-05:00These are a few of my favorite things...Do you remember that song from "The Sound of Music?" <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">R<i>aindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Brown paper packages tied up with string</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>These are a few of my favorite things...</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Silver white winters that melt into spring</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>These are a few of my favorite things...</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>When the dog bites</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>When the bee stings</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>When I'm feeling sad</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I simply remember my favorite things</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And then I don't feel so bad.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: left;">So that's what I'm thinking about today. I thought I'd show you a few of our favorite things.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">It all started when Austin (our 6 year old) told me liked a new pillow I'd bought. Kayla then told me something that she really liked. Then Mr. Lovey mentioned something he liked a lot... </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Sometimes I look at magazines and other blogs and think to myself how empty and lifeless my own house feels... Then out of the clear blue someone in my precious family says something simple that makes it feel like <i>home. </i>And now...on with our show.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>I love lamps! They are my favorite way to light a room. It all started 20 years ago in our tiny apartment. Our bedroom had one overhead light and it was HARSH! So beside our bed I put a TV tray (for a table -- because we were BROKE!) and on it -- one small lamp my husband made in high school. And my love affair with lamps began. The light they give is so warm and cozy. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Here are a few of the lamps we have in our house... </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">A pair of ceramic based lamps for the living room</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nY9yu196snw/TV6B4fcPtNI/AAAAAAAAAfo/PAfDhj-pkQA/s1600/IMG_4737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nY9yu196snw/TV6B4fcPtNI/AAAAAAAAAfo/PAfDhj-pkQA/s640/IMG_4737.jpg" width="324" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">One small lamp on the bakers rack in the kitchen.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zfe5k8LRnms/TV6B_WCFktI/AAAAAAAAAf4/PhjwcRhhH-E/s1600/IMG_4743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zfe5k8LRnms/TV6B_WCFktI/AAAAAAAAAf4/PhjwcRhhH-E/s640/IMG_4743.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This little beauty on the piano in the front office. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CV5sBVHeA5g/TV6CCy5Hf4I/AAAAAAAAAgA/M51OqsF3Wdg/s1600/IMG_4745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CV5sBVHeA5g/TV6CCy5Hf4I/AAAAAAAAAgA/M51OqsF3Wdg/s640/IMG_4745.jpg" width="364" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">The two "buffet" lamps in our bedroom.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--TQSSbV7wA8/TV6CUepi4OI/AAAAAAAAAgg/cBg1wLKbKuk/s1600/IMG_4753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--TQSSbV7wA8/TV6CUepi4OI/AAAAAAAAAgg/cBg1wLKbKuk/s640/IMG_4753.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">One lamp on the breakfast bar.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E4nb-h3Re30/TV6CjBtr3CI/AAAAAAAAAg4/bOjMTK4N1Qk/s1600/IMG_4760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E4nb-h3Re30/TV6CjBtr3CI/AAAAAAAAAg4/bOjMTK4N1Qk/s640/IMG_4760.jpg" width="304" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">A pair of lovlies on the kid's computer table.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oUfoqKoi1YI/TV6CkAffDjI/AAAAAAAAAg8/469XOIHsnlk/s1600/IMG_4761.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oUfoqKoi1YI/TV6CkAffDjI/AAAAAAAAAg8/469XOIHsnlk/s640/IMG_4761.jpg" width="248" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">This one gives a nice glow.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5vdkkXvuNxU/TV6Cl3yn6nI/AAAAAAAAAhA/843n1mOUz_o/s1600/IMG_4762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5vdkkXvuNxU/TV6Cl3yn6nI/AAAAAAAAAhA/843n1mOUz_o/s640/IMG_4762.jpg" width="346" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">This small night light lamp on the corner shelf in the dining room.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xbCLXfl5OHE/TV6CnCjDhPI/AAAAAAAAAhE/5yZZ437SCIo/s1600/IMG_4763.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xbCLXfl5OHE/TV6CnCjDhPI/AAAAAAAAAhE/5yZZ437SCIo/s640/IMG_4763.jpg" width="322" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">A pair for our bedside tables</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8fLVAdqPZ18/TV6Co0fF1TI/AAAAAAAAAhI/CwDmoM5Aa4Q/s1600/IMG_4764.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8fLVAdqPZ18/TV6Co0fF1TI/AAAAAAAAAhI/CwDmoM5Aa4Q/s640/IMG_4764.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">This little guy for the kids' bathroom. Wait till you see the close up of the shade :)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XyV2j794jRA/TV6CrSrjhOI/AAAAAAAAAhM/mHZDUiNlP_o/s1600/IMG_4765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XyV2j794jRA/TV6CrSrjhOI/AAAAAAAAAhM/mHZDUiNlP_o/s640/IMG_4765.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UdGGNku_t3U/TV6CtWVjWaI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/2trRXGpz7JE/s1600/IMG_4766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UdGGNku_t3U/TV6CtWVjWaI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/2trRXGpz7JE/s640/IMG_4766.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">These two in Kayla's bedroom... I love the black shade with gold polkadots...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bQMDGJg0OlU/TV6CwcFF3DI/AAAAAAAAAhY/WfHKPKvs6aM/s1600/IMG_4768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bQMDGJg0OlU/TV6CwcFF3DI/AAAAAAAAAhY/WfHKPKvs6aM/s640/IMG_4768.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Then there are these other things that make our house a home... My family's favorites!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Lovey really likes the curtains at the windows. I can't say I think they look great... but he really likes them. Probably their simplicity.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s13_FfjV9YY/TV6B6eIlhWI/AAAAAAAAAfs/-CNYRGcCBVo/s1600/IMG_4738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><b><i><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s13_FfjV9YY/TV6B6eIlhWI/AAAAAAAAAfs/-CNYRGcCBVo/s640/IMG_4738.jpg" width="396" /></i></b></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Our plaque</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cQ1Eg7cmvjg/TV6B7aYe97I/AAAAAAAAAfw/Ykn1fkpFOuc/s1600/IMG_4740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cQ1Eg7cmvjg/TV6B7aYe97I/AAAAAAAAAfw/Ykn1fkpFOuc/s640/IMG_4740.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Our ROSS coat hooks.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3v1Lx_wXDbQ/TV6B9EIxs4I/AAAAAAAAAf0/wMZFQ0Zpz5I/s1600/IMG_4741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3v1Lx_wXDbQ/TV6B9EIxs4I/AAAAAAAAAf0/wMZFQ0Zpz5I/s640/IMG_4741.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">My little bird in the dining room... She looks like she's searching for a worm.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ebAGfAciBc0/TV6CBJj1HkI/AAAAAAAAAf8/LZPWqqbCxHc/s1600/IMG_4744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ebAGfAciBc0/TV6CBJj1HkI/AAAAAAAAAf8/LZPWqqbCxHc/s640/IMG_4744.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">The new faucet in the kids' bathroom</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GC7dTWe0-nQ/TV6CEiyzt3I/AAAAAAAAAgE/jfEWx3Jig5E/s1600/IMG_4746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GC7dTWe0-nQ/TV6CEiyzt3I/AAAAAAAAAgE/jfEWx3Jig5E/s640/IMG_4746.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">My bathroom clock. A girl's gotta be on time, you know.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G0AvJRvQG6c/TV6CGythouI/AAAAAAAAAgI/H1V0gLF3UAM/s1600/IMG_4747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G0AvJRvQG6c/TV6CGythouI/AAAAAAAAAgI/H1V0gLF3UAM/s640/IMG_4747.jpg" width="498" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">My bathroom flower arrangement. I'll share the story behind this someday...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Np9IXXErAA/TV6CJYYLHHI/AAAAAAAAAgM/nvNJR2HH4_Y/s1600/IMG_4748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Np9IXXErAA/TV6CJYYLHHI/AAAAAAAAAgM/nvNJR2HH4_Y/s640/IMG_4748.jpg" width="470" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Candles</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BskzqKJtoa8/TV6CPuXlzOI/AAAAAAAAAgY/nI-U4A7TLXc/s1600/IMG_4751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BskzqKJtoa8/TV6CPuXlzOI/AAAAAAAAAgY/nI-U4A7TLXc/s640/IMG_4751.jpg" width="460" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-utHVC9yL9UU/TV6CWksHGrI/AAAAAAAAAgk/nZ4nUmKFASU/s1600/IMG_4754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-utHVC9yL9UU/TV6CWksHGrI/AAAAAAAAAgk/nZ4nUmKFASU/s640/IMG_4754.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdaRBglqKtk/TV6CYtBBT-I/AAAAAAAAAgo/HT7ni3dQaXo/s1600/IMG_4755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdaRBglqKtk/TV6CYtBBT-I/AAAAAAAAAgo/HT7ni3dQaXo/s640/IMG_4755.jpg" width="526" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">My new pillow (the one Austin likes so much)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9oa1aJ2apZk/TV6CbTzQDdI/AAAAAAAAAgs/aHnAnud00HA/s1600/IMG_4756.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="410" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9oa1aJ2apZk/TV6CbTzQDdI/AAAAAAAAAgs/aHnAnud00HA/s640/IMG_4756.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SDhWKBzaUEA/TV6Ce9aZrdI/AAAAAAAAAgw/XTLgvIIV3YE/s1600/IMG_4757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SDhWKBzaUEA/TV6Ce9aZrdI/AAAAAAAAAgw/XTLgvIIV3YE/s640/IMG_4757.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">and last but not least, Fleur de Lis.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2qNWciklX8/TV6ChAZmWtI/AAAAAAAAAg0/UjpF1HDjVu8/s1600/IMG_4759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="630" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2qNWciklX8/TV6ChAZmWtI/AAAAAAAAAg0/UjpF1HDjVu8/s640/IMG_4759.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Although our house isn't professionally decorated -- and there are certainly areas that look like a yard sale -- these are the special touches that make us feel at home. They give us that special feeling you only get when you're home.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">What are your favorite things?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Only By His Grace,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Billie </div>Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-82036932321834984802011-02-08T16:26:00.000-05:002011-02-08T16:26:48.521-05:00Remember when I said...Remember when I posted a couple weeks ago about my living room? Remember that I said it was rare that it was actually clean?<br />
<br />
Well.... I was recently visiting one of my favorite, favorite, favorite blogs, <a href="http://www.savvyseasons.com/"><span id="goog_648853837"></span>Savvy Seasons by Liz<span id="goog_648853838"></span></a>, and I was inspired to rearrange my living room furniture.<br />
<br />
So I wanted to show you my new arrangement... Wanna see? Just remember...my living room is lived in, so anything you see lying about out of place... it's just where it always is...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>The kids computer table got moved to the opposite side of the room where the TV armoire was.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGyqCpGtwI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/uT0sJb0i5t0/s1600/IMG_4697.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="596" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGyqCpGtwI/AAAAAAAAAfQ/uT0sJb0i5t0/s640/IMG_4697.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>The stuff on the mantle got moved around a bit to accommodate the new vase... Found it at Annie's Attic for $6.00. I had to move the stuff around since some other things in the Living Room changed as well.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGysp6uk4I/AAAAAAAAAfU/LFcsJGFJc_g/s1600/IMG_4700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGysp6uk4I/AAAAAAAAAfU/LFcsJGFJc_g/s640/IMG_4700.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>See how the lamp and table moved over beside the green chair? Both chairs now flank the fireplace. Nice and warm and cozy!</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGyvUrF5qI/AAAAAAAAAfY/DZRkcwHEdgo/s1600/IMG_4701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGyvUrF5qI/AAAAAAAAAfY/DZRkcwHEdgo/s640/IMG_4701.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Here's why some of the stuff moved around. I wanted the entertainment center on the tall blank wall that always drove me crazy. It's been there before, but we had new carpet installed around Thanksgiving and we moved it then...but it never really suited me in the corner. </i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGyyaQ-ixI/AAAAAAAAAfc/ucOH9RQtN20/s1600/IMG_4702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGyyaQ-ixI/AAAAAAAAAfc/ucOH9RQtN20/s640/IMG_4702.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Here are the chairs beside the fireplace... It's very warm to sit here</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGy1EK7xrI/AAAAAAAAAfg/wJUCvxtbvNI/s1600/IMG_4703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGy1EK7xrI/AAAAAAAAAfg/wJUCvxtbvNI/s640/IMG_4703.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>And here is where the sofa and table are. Never mind the house shoes, toy bins, and Nascar racers on the floor... If I think of them as accessories lovingly added by my family, they don't bother me as badly!</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGy4Jv8-KI/AAAAAAAAAfk/xGq5niqEalg/s1600/IMG_4704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGy4Jv8-KI/AAAAAAAAAfk/xGq5niqEalg/s640/IMG_4704.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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What do you think? Do you like the before (<a href="http://designedforlife.blogspot.com/2011/02/living-room.html">link here</a>) or the after better?<br />
<br />
Only By His Grace,<br />
<br />
BillieBillie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-10317296320577666792011-02-08T16:00:00.000-05:002011-02-08T16:00:53.867-05:00Roo Decor Galore...Alright, Ladies, I've visited many of your blogs and I know how crazy about Roos some of you are...<br />
<br />
I must admit, I have quite the admiration...no, that's not the word.... Adoration....no, that's not it, either... Let's just call it a slight obsession, shall we, and we'll go from there.<br />
<br />
I wanted to share some of my roos with you today.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>A couple of roosters for my plate rack in the dining room.</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGq2zttprI/AAAAAAAAAeU/KtJ2Ww3VqO8/s1600/IMG_4710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGq2zttprI/AAAAAAAAAeU/KtJ2Ww3VqO8/s400/IMG_4710.jpg" width="390" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Okay, so this one is technically a hen....but what's a rooster without his henny?</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGq4Er_LwI/AAAAAAAAAeY/PHo5xpSowD4/s1600/IMG_4711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="365" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGq4Er_LwI/AAAAAAAAAeY/PHo5xpSowD4/s400/IMG_4711.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Here's the guy that started it all. Isn't he cute stuck in there?</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGq6lDd_9I/AAAAAAAAAec/6MDzOv94Gy8/s1600/IMG_4712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGq6lDd_9I/AAAAAAAAAec/6MDzOv94Gy8/s640/IMG_4712.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Here's one of a tri-rooster vignette in the kitchen.</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGq-1J68nI/AAAAAAAAAek/eWrTboEDZ5w/s1600/IMG_4714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGq-1J68nI/AAAAAAAAAek/eWrTboEDZ5w/s400/IMG_4714.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrB1bHeMI/AAAAAAAAAeo/Dx8grvU7QFI/s1600/IMG_4715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrB1bHeMI/AAAAAAAAAeo/Dx8grvU7QFI/s400/IMG_4715.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrFR15S1I/AAAAAAAAAes/Zcd0P3xT7LY/s1600/IMG_4716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrFR15S1I/AAAAAAAAAes/Zcd0P3xT7LY/s640/IMG_4716.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>This little guy has been with us since our first apartment... Goodness, he's almost 20 years old. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Lookin' good for his age, huh?</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrHfxLgBI/AAAAAAAAAew/skup3PebrW0/s1600/IMG_4717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrHfxLgBI/AAAAAAAAAew/skup3PebrW0/s400/IMG_4717.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>These guys are above the kitchen cupboards.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrJl8YznI/AAAAAAAAAe0/PylEQqDXJKk/s1600/IMG_4718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrJl8YznI/AAAAAAAAAe0/PylEQqDXJKk/s400/IMG_4718.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrMVHYQcI/AAAAAAAAAe4/Go1JBTvNITY/s1600/IMG_4722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrMVHYQcI/AAAAAAAAAe4/Go1JBTvNITY/s400/IMG_4722.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>This little guy was the second rooster I ever bought. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I really like that he's white...</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrO9jWvQI/AAAAAAAAAe8/ixC3t-L9qx0/s1600/IMG_4724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrO9jWvQI/AAAAAAAAAe8/ixC3t-L9qx0/s400/IMG_4724.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>May I introduce, Bob. Yep, that's right. I liked this guy so much, he got a name.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Why Bob? Because that's what roosters do when they waddle around the farm yard, right?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ladies and Gentlemen, may I introduce -- Bob the Rooster!</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrROL5FcI/AAAAAAAAAfA/046K2yApbpM/s1600/IMG_4732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrROL5FcI/AAAAAAAAAfA/046K2yApbpM/s400/IMG_4732.jpg" width="352" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Rooster plate</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrTKlz6-I/AAAAAAAAAfE/Uf0nEyuBJwQ/s1600/IMG_4733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrTKlz6-I/AAAAAAAAAfE/Uf0nEyuBJwQ/s640/IMG_4733.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Rooster olive jar</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrbgJptoI/AAAAAAAAAfM/43lA33aocaY/s1600/IMG_4713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrbgJptoI/AAAAAAAAAfM/43lA33aocaY/s640/IMG_4713.jpg" width="348" /></a></div><br />
And, as if all this were not enough.... I adopted one more little roo today!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>He's just a little roo, but he's never early, never late, he's always right on time.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrV3Qz1xI/AAAAAAAAAfI/iO5E6YwNhnk/s1600/IMG_4734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TVGrV3Qz1xI/AAAAAAAAAfI/iO5E6YwNhnk/s640/IMG_4734.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
Hope you enjoyed visiting with my roo's today. <br />
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Only By His Grace,<br />
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BillieBillie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-47861620171415994182011-02-05T00:21:00.000-05:002011-02-05T00:21:43.422-05:00Along the lines...My last post was about using kitchen canisters in other areas of your home, such as the bathroom or laundry room. That really set my mind reeling... <br />
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I have been sleeping on the floor of my son's bedroom the past two nights, and tonight, between 9:30 and 11:30 he woke me up six times... That's okay, it's part of being a mom. <br />
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But part of being a blogger mom, is checking your email at midnight after your son has woke you up six times. As I laid there reading all the sweet comments about the canister idea, I had a brain storm - a news flash - and then my mind wouldn't rest until I did some research...<br />
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So along the same lines as yesterday, if we're thinking outside the home decorating box, using kitchen canisters outside the kitchen... why not use something else outside the kitchen???<br />
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Why not use vintage -- or new if you can find them -- wine or liquor decanters in the bathroom or laundry room?<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Imagine if you will: Three or five vintage wine decanters filled with a </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>variety of bubble baths and bath oils...</i></div><i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbhkcgPrI/AAAAAAAAAdk/39Dd2nNXlSI/s1600/screen-capture-15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbhkcgPrI/AAAAAAAAAdk/39Dd2nNXlSI/s400/screen-capture-15.png" width="192" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbh2s-uGI/AAAAAAAAAdo/HrSaoYj3F3E/s1600/screen-capture-16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbh2s-uGI/AAAAAAAAAdo/HrSaoYj3F3E/s400/screen-capture-16.png" width="182" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbjH4DaFI/AAAAAAAAAd0/sZ3uhsWJkWU/s1600/screen-capture-19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbjH4DaFI/AAAAAAAAAd0/sZ3uhsWJkWU/s400/screen-capture-19.png" width="179" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbndgCqRI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/eznPPfHPcnM/s1600/screen-capture-26.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbndgCqRI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/eznPPfHPcnM/s400/screen-capture-26.png" width="233" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Why not a couple large ones in the laundry room to hold </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>liquid detergent and liquid fabric softener? Is your laundry room blue? </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Blue detergent and blue fabric softener would be stunning in one of these babies!</i></div><i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzblKIOvvI/AAAAAAAAAeA/17QinqBsfMo/s1600/screen-capture-22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzblKIOvvI/AAAAAAAAAeA/17QinqBsfMo/s400/screen-capture-22.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzblpvFBXI/AAAAAAAAAeE/EwgmwaEKyxE/s1600/screen-capture-23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzblpvFBXI/AAAAAAAAAeE/EwgmwaEKyxE/s400/screen-capture-23.png" width="396" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbm-rnvSI/AAAAAAAAAeM/VNvY1VtIC7k/s1600/screen-capture-25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbm-rnvSI/AAAAAAAAAeM/VNvY1VtIC7k/s400/screen-capture-25.png" width="285" /></a></div><i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbmHrIrhI/AAAAAAAAAeI/vjsp3NNmrGY/s1600/screen-capture-24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="393" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbmHrIrhI/AAAAAAAAAeI/vjsp3NNmrGY/s400/screen-capture-24.png" width="400" /></a></div><i><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>How about one next to the stove to hold your olive oil?</i></div><i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbiq4V-6I/AAAAAAAAAdw/ef1U5uVC3x4/s1600/screen-capture-18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbiq4V-6I/AAAAAAAAAdw/ef1U5uVC3x4/s400/screen-capture-18.png" width="223" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbkSR9U-I/AAAAAAAAAd8/duUNuPRvfDY/s1600/screen-capture-21.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbkSR9U-I/AAAAAAAAAd8/duUNuPRvfDY/s400/screen-capture-21.png" width="348" /></a></div><i><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i>And last but not least, how would you like this beside </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>your kitchen sink to pour dishwashing liquid from this beauty? </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbiGUBMiI/AAAAAAAAAds/lfZuHHJIj4g/s1600/screen-capture-17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUzbiGUBMiI/AAAAAAAAAds/lfZuHHJIj4g/s400/screen-capture-17.png" width="241" /></a></div><i><br />
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Somehow I think I might not dread my domestic duties nearly as much if I could add a little vintage beauty to the household chores.<br />
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I'm so inspired I think I may take an hour tomorrow morning to hit a couple thrift and consignment shops looking for a couple of these little guys... I'm very excited about the prospect!<br />
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Ahhhh....now my mind can go back to sleep! Sweet Dreams everyone!<br />
<br />
Only By His Grace,<br />
<br />
BillieBillie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-63797132955495433652011-02-04T07:53:00.000-05:002011-02-04T07:53:25.795-05:00I had an idea...I haven't yet shared with you our master bathroom. The main reason is, it's always a mess!<br />
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Since the kiddos bathroom is in the mix for a redo -- hopefully not a gutting and then a redo -- but nonetheless... The kiddos have been sharing our bathroom. So at any given time, you could find socks, undies (grin) boats, mermaids, bubble bath bottles, scrubbies, or other bathroom paraphernalia strewn about as if a tornado broke into our house while we were away at work and school, and vacationed in our bathroom. So, no pictures of that room yet.<br />
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It's not an overwhelmingly large bathroom, but it is by far the largest bathroom we've ever had. So, we love the space. However, I have come to notice, that given the size and shape of the room, we have very little storage. Lovey has a cabinet under his sink, as do I. We share 3 drawers that divide the two cabinets -- and that's it. <br />
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Lovey stores towels and wash cloths under his side. I store bath and body products under my side. But sometimes, you just have to have more room to store those everyday items...and we hate to just leave them lying about, don't we?<br />
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We have a jacuzzi tub in our bathroom (what a blessing) and so we have a pretty good sized surround. It would be the perfect place for storage -- if I could come up with something clever!<br />
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So yesterday I received an email about Kirkland's online sale. A sale? Online? I'm so there! And I don't even have to get out of my jammies!<br />
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As I started my online shopping adventure, here's what I found at Kirklands:<br />
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Now, I know what you're thinking! "Those are kitchen canisters..." Why, yes, yes they are! But why couldn't you use them in a bathroom? They seal air tight. You could keep bath salts in one, bath soaps in another, hair clips in one... I'm sure you could come up with something very clever...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvwAFxaIwI/AAAAAAAAAc0/Tgy9dklhDAA/s1600/screen-capture-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="385" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvwAFxaIwI/AAAAAAAAAc0/Tgy9dklhDAA/s400/screen-capture-2.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvwApWOs5I/AAAAAAAAAc4/tkqGY5LN2ek/s1600/screen-capture-3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvwApWOs5I/AAAAAAAAAc4/tkqGY5LN2ek/s400/screen-capture-3.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzMzf9dVI/AAAAAAAAAc8/AxWx2vzshNc/s1600/screen-capture.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="380" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzMzf9dVI/AAAAAAAAAc8/AxWx2vzshNc/s400/screen-capture.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I especially like the idea of bath salts and unwrapped soaps in the clear ones.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzNWLNpzI/AAAAAAAAAdA/Yj5P9xxAx-8/s1600/screen-capture-4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="387" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzNWLNpzI/AAAAAAAAAdA/Yj5P9xxAx-8/s400/screen-capture-4.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzN2zEPCI/AAAAAAAAAdE/wFd1pHgSxWQ/s1600/screen-capture-5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="386" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzN2zEPCI/AAAAAAAAAdE/wFd1pHgSxWQ/s400/screen-capture-5.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzOVOZKbI/AAAAAAAAAdI/UHppfAhkuDM/s1600/screen-capture-6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzOVOZKbI/AAAAAAAAAdI/UHppfAhkuDM/s400/screen-capture-6.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzO3_eg7I/AAAAAAAAAdM/QSXkqMKTHJw/s1600/screen-capture-8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzO3_eg7I/AAAAAAAAAdM/QSXkqMKTHJw/s400/screen-capture-8.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here's what I found at Target:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm sure you've all seen these on your shopping excursions to Tar-zhay. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Wouldn't rolled washcloths be neat in the big one?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzPFuk8VI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/Q9n2Fd2ElR8/s1600/screen-capture-10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="385" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzPFuk8VI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/Q9n2Fd2ElR8/s400/screen-capture-10.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Are you thinking what I'm thinking? These already come with a scoop for bath salts! That means 3 different scents...right there at the ready!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzPtOAGZI/AAAAAAAAAdU/R44mHtkErdM/s1600/screen-capture-11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzPtOAGZI/AAAAAAAAAdU/R44mHtkErdM/s400/screen-capture-11.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzQA_HTyI/AAAAAAAAAdY/msJH5zM23Q0/s1600/screen-capture-12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzQA_HTyI/AAAAAAAAAdY/msJH5zM23Q0/s400/screen-capture-12.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">These are air tight acrylic canisters. Not overly large. One size. How about 3 or 5 of them in a row?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzQRd0w3I/AAAAAAAAAdc/q174rouCB8I/s1600/screen-capture-13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzQRd0w3I/AAAAAAAAAdc/q174rouCB8I/s400/screen-capture-13.png" width="281" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And I must admit - the following canisters stole my heart. I love the French Country </div><div style="text-align: center;">look and Fleur-de-lis! <b>I nearly swooned! </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">In fact, I'm thinking I know exactly where I could put these beauties.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The Laundry Room!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Laundry Detergent in the big one. Fabric softener sheets in the middle one. The small one would be my Starbucks bin. (That's where all the loose laundry change goes...into my Starbuck's bin. How am I supposed to know which pocket it fell out of? Finder's keepers!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzQ4gRkmI/AAAAAAAAAdg/Eysx5ZVZUMo/s1600/screen-capture-14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUvzQ4gRkmI/AAAAAAAAAdg/Eysx5ZVZUMo/s400/screen-capture-14.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Only By His Grace,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Billie</div>Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-68470210084865685942011-02-03T16:56:00.000-05:002011-02-03T16:56:32.498-05:00The Living Room...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">I posted a few weeks ago about our lower level family room. We do spend a lot of time down there... but we also spend a lot of time in our living room.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">In fact, I'm going to show you a rare photo -- where the living room is.... <i>clean!</i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">The pics aren't great, but I just can't seem to find the good ones I took a month ago... Hmmm.... ???</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">So here it is: The Living room.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>This is the front hallway, looking toward our front door and foyer. It is very narrow... about three feet wide, but it does it's job.</i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsWW8zshzI/AAAAAAAAAbk/qWE1-NBSnhU/s1600/IMG_4602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsWW8zshzI/AAAAAAAAAbk/qWE1-NBSnhU/s640/IMG_4602.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Since the hallway isn't wide enough for a table -- or even a shelf -- </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>we hung a mirror and a couple of sconces in stead... </i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsWh5Ow0II/AAAAAAAAAbo/gJI9tdphdvM/s1600/IMG_4606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsWh5Ow0II/AAAAAAAAAbo/gJI9tdphdvM/s640/IMG_4606.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Please pardon the yellow -- it was cloudy outside and the lighting was really bad. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Can you see the rain on the windows?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>This is the view you see from the front door as you enter through that long hallway.</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsWvqplLPI/AAAAAAAAAbs/6SOGJpGR2OI/s1600/IMG_4608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsWvqplLPI/AAAAAAAAAbs/6SOGJpGR2OI/s640/IMG_4608.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>This is the view you get as you enter the living room. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>To the right is the kitchen -- open to the living room. We do love the openness of this room.</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsW8u4ADBI/AAAAAAAAAbw/iIvWeJHoXU8/s1600/IMG_4609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsW8u4ADBI/AAAAAAAAAbw/iIvWeJHoXU8/s640/IMG_4609.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>From behind the sofa, you see the opposite side of the room. If you look to the left side of the photo you'll see the hallway you just entered through.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsXV4hSkvI/AAAAAAAAAb4/RWPn6UwJMSg/s1600/IMG_4611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsXV4hSkvI/AAAAAAAAAb4/RWPn6UwJMSg/s640/IMG_4611.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>And from the desk side of the room. You can see into the breakfast room and kitchen. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Oops. I forgot to close the pantry doors...)</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsXjv-MvSI/AAAAAAAAAb8/UD7Ip92TxW4/s1600/IMG_4612.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsXjv-MvSI/AAAAAAAAAb8/UD7Ip92TxW4/s640/IMG_4612.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>I<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>This is one of our sage green chairs... they're recliners and we do love them! We bought the sofa, and then a year later decided we needed a chair... What we didn't know is that, although we bought them at two different times, at two different stores, from two different manufacturers, they have the same stylings: rolled backs, rounded arms, tapered legs... They really match well.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The pillows were purchased at The Peddlers Mall for $10 for the pair... They are custom made at a high-end upholstery and interior decorating store in town... I guess someone just didn't want them anymore. Oh well...one man's trash...</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I made the afghan a few years ago.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsXwgOnRjI/AAAAAAAAAcA/gh28LUm15o0/s1600/IMG_4613.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsXwgOnRjI/AAAAAAAAAcA/gh28LUm15o0/s640/IMG_4613.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Here's our "free" painting... We had some friends that moved shortly after we did, but when they moved into their house, the previous owner had left some "artwork" (aka posters). This beauty was in their trash pile...well, Mr. Lovey really liked this hand painted picture and wanted to take it home. So, we adopted the unloved and it became part of our family.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>We love the way the orange and brown and greens match exactly our living room colors.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsYTsAy4VI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/3Vi1UUsezFo/s1600/IMG_4620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsYTsAy4VI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/3Vi1UUsezFo/s400/IMG_4620.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>These little gems were purchased at Garden Ridge...The plate was $6.00 and the fleur de lis dish was $8.00 -- </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsYBLrpyoI/AAAAAAAAAcI/cUf5oPSWbbs/s1600/IMG_4616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsYBLrpyoI/AAAAAAAAAcI/cUf5oPSWbbs/s400/IMG_4616.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>These candle sticks were purchased -- again at the Peddler's Mall -- for $12.00 for the pair. I suspect they came from Kirklands originally, but I bet they were more than $12.00! </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Score one for the frugal shopper!</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsYKS580YI/AAAAAAAAAcM/uFmlm21LKNI/s1600/IMG_4617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsYKS580YI/AAAAAAAAAcM/uFmlm21LKNI/s640/IMG_4617.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>The next photo is full of shadows...sorry... but you get the picture (no pun intended.)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The black table I bought at Annie's Attic about 7 years ago... It was a vanity table. I took off the mirror and painted it black. It has a drawer for stashing stuff, too. Very handy.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The ivy sconces have been with us for about 19 years. I bought them from Home Interiors our first year of marriage. About 8 years ago, I painted them black. I still love them! </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I don't care if they're 20 years old. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The book ends are solid concrete. Boy are they heavy! </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>My Goodness, what a workout just rearranging them. But they're fun!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsYdoyzLLI/AAAAAAAAAcU/7RcMnCpiR-c/s1600/IMG_4622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsYdoyzLLI/AAAAAAAAAcU/7RcMnCpiR-c/s640/IMG_4622.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Here they are close up. </i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsYnBR6u3I/AAAAAAAAAcY/Db8eQbg87Bo/s1600/IMG_4623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsYnBR6u3I/AAAAAAAAAcY/Db8eQbg87Bo/s400/IMG_4623.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Here's the entertainment center. It's about 16 years old... The coffee table and end table all match...</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>I love the little fleur de lis "thingy" on top. I don't know what it is, or what it's for, but it's fun...and it matches the goodies in the living room.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsYwZtsGQI/AAAAAAAAAcc/rC3opTLRRzc/s1600/IMG_4625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsYwZtsGQI/AAAAAAAAAcc/rC3opTLRRzc/s640/IMG_4625.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>This is the table scape of the side table next to the sofa. So these lamps... You're not gonna believe this: I went into Cato one day, and they were in the clearance section. The bases are porcelain, and the shades are a taupe color with brown trim. There we are...Lovey and I.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsY6Ms_YkI/AAAAAAAAAcg/QVMeylbaov4/s1600/IMG_4627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsY6Ms_YkI/AAAAAAAAAcg/QVMeylbaov4/s640/IMG_4627.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Here's the other one of the pair. Any guess how much? $17.99! Yep, that's right. </i></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/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsX4-Tq5mI/AAAAAAAAAcE/VjbC3eqnhHo/s1600/IMG_4615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsX4-Tq5mI/AAAAAAAAAcE/VjbC3eqnhHo/s400/IMG_4615.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Here's the throw and some sofa pillows -- just in case you decide on a nap... not that I ever do that... </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(That's my story and I'm stickin' to it!) </i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsZKSRfxmI/AAAAAAAAAck/1alhjtR5Rao/s1600/IMG_4628.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsZKSRfxmI/AAAAAAAAAck/1alhjtR5Rao/s400/IMG_4628.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And against the back wall, I placed the "desk." It's really a sofa table, but the kids needed a place for their laptop. So, it goes against the window -- the kids can overlook the pond outback... </i></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsZS9VhBSI/AAAAAAAAAco/drhTOygxeB4/s1600/IMG_4629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsZS9VhBSI/AAAAAAAAAco/drhTOygxeB4/s640/IMG_4629.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>So, here's the window dilemma: The two windows against the back window are tall. They are full sized windows, with a little extra window at the top. The windows on the fire place wall are just normal sized windows. So if I hang taller curtains on the shorter windows, then I have this section of bare wall about 13 inches high... Hmmmm. So I have a valance on the two shorter windows.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Any one have any ideas?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsZcHubd8I/AAAAAAAAAcs/dFhXlwIgKuw/s1600/IMG_4630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUsZcHubd8I/AAAAAAAAAcs/dFhXlwIgKuw/s640/IMG_4630.jpg" width="425" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I'm glad you stopped by for a visit today.<br />
<br />
It has been quite the couple of weeks: Remember two weeks ago my 6 year old son had the flu? Well, he got over it within a couple days. Flu B must not be that bad, huh? Then last weekend, my daughter came home from our shopping trip with a sore throat and headache...three days of that! Then today, the school called me to come get my big guy again... His fever was 104! Can you imagine? We went straight to the doctor. Guess what he has? Flu A. Yep -- Two types of flu, one 6 year old boy - 15 days apart. UUUGGGGHHH. But, maybe tomorrow I'll get the house cleaned while he rests...<br />
<br />
I guess I'll be making chicken soup tonight, huh?<br />
<br />
Anywho: Until we chat again,<br />
<br />
Only By HIs Grace,<br />
<br />
Billie<br />
<br />
p.s. anyone with suggestions for furniture arrangement, artwork, or window treatments for the living room are more than welcome to comment...<br />
<br />
<span id="goog_427715506"></span><span id="goog_427715507"></span>Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-89955733878858500262011-02-02T06:03:00.000-05:002011-02-02T06:03:18.917-05:00Here's to a little girl's smile...So, I took a couple days off to work on a little project. It's really nothing fantastic, but it sure did make one very special little girl smile.<br />
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<i>Disclaimer: </i>Let it be known that I am neither an upholsterer, nor an interior decorator. I just like to crate things and rearrange furniture. Nothing you see on this blog is professional quality. It's just for fun... Oh -- and I'm not a professional photographer, either.<br />
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That being said, if you are a professional upholsterer, you may want to look away. This blog post contains graphic images.<br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>A Barbie Sofa</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><br />
</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Items you will need:</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>A shoe box</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>duck tape</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>hot glue & glue gun</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>2 old kitchen towels</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>a little fiberfill</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Step One:</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Take an old shoe box, and cut it into the shape of a sofa. I took mine apart at the side seams, and they naturally created the arms of the sofa for me. Duck tape the seams so the sofa frame will stay stable.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk1h9tcUFI/AAAAAAAAAZk/KFrFw91zQ_k/s1600/IMG_4591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk1h9tcUFI/AAAAAAAAAZk/KFrFw91zQ_k/s400/IMG_4591.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk1tT1e4DI/AAAAAAAAAZo/ulkFb8vKgcQ/s1600/IMG_4592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk1tT1e4DI/AAAAAAAAAZo/ulkFb8vKgcQ/s400/IMG_4592.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Next cover the entire sofa frame with duck tape. I used black to make it look like a black leather sofa, but Walmart has Duct tape in Zebra, Cheetah, and Neon colors, too. That would be fun!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk14CxcS1I/AAAAAAAAAZs/ObsV3wXrO0o/s1600/IMG_4593.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk14CxcS1I/AAAAAAAAAZs/ObsV3wXrO0o/s400/IMG_4593.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>When the entire frame is covered, go back and trim excess pieces of tape.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk2DZIVFZI/AAAAAAAAAZw/9V8mDkZboKc/s1600/IMG_4594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk2DZIVFZI/AAAAAAAAAZw/9V8mDkZboKc/s400/IMG_4594.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Cut sections of fabric the length and width you need to form a seat cushion </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>- I used an old dish towel to look like chenille - but you can certainly use any fabric you have.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You can sew this, but since the Barbies aren't actually that hard on their furniture, I chose to hot glue all my seams. Hot glue the length, and one end. </i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk2NdJ0z3I/AAAAAAAAAZ0/m0ug3qvuSlw/s1600/IMG_4596.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk2NdJ0z3I/AAAAAAAAAZ0/m0ug3qvuSlw/s400/IMG_4596.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">F<i>ill with a small amount of fiber fill, and hot glue the other end closed. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i> Then hot glue directly to the bottom of the sofa.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk2ZS6SmGI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/mO8PgXmU47A/s1600/IMG_4597.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk2ZS6SmGI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/mO8PgXmU47A/s400/IMG_4597.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Repeat the process for the back cushion and two arms.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk2kS_LYCI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/1KipI-k-oJ8/s1600/IMG_4598.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk2kS_LYCI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/1KipI-k-oJ8/s400/IMG_4598.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Once all the pieces are attached, it will look like this.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>One last assembly step: I took a left over block of 2x4 that happened to fit perfectly, and hot glued it to the base of the sofa. Then I covered it with black tape, too. But I forgot to take a picture of that.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk2vaoFXRI/AAAAAAAAAaA/o-MGPn0lRco/s1600/IMG_4599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk2vaoFXRI/AAAAAAAAAaA/o-MGPn0lRco/s400/IMG_4599.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>With another old dish towel, I made two pillows</i> </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk25uDLscI/AAAAAAAAAaE/dGhQ8W6cnwM/s1600/IMG_4600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk25uDLscI/AAAAAAAAAaE/dGhQ8W6cnwM/s400/IMG_4600.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>And a sofa throw. </i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk3DHGeIwI/AAAAAAAAAaI/GQLI8HG7uxY/s1600/IMG_4601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUk3DHGeIwI/AAAAAAAAAaI/GQLI8HG7uxY/s400/IMG_4601.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I didn't know a 10 year old girl could squeal that loudly! She loves it! And to think, all it took was a box, some duck tape, a couple of old dish towels, and a block of wood...</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: left;">These are the days I love what I do! </div><div style="text-align: left;">They may not be pretty, but the smile on my daughter's face sure was!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Until next time, friends,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Only By His Grace,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Billie</div>Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-23699057058195557212011-01-31T15:59:00.002-05:002011-01-31T15:59:49.954-05:00Thinking of a birthday surprise...Friday is my baby girl's 10th birthday. It's really hard to believe it.<br />
<br />
I may not be posting much over the next few days because I'm thinking up a fantastic birthday surprise.<br />
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I can't say too much because she's been known to frequent mom's blog... so, for now, "shshshshshshhhhhh." I must keep it on the DL.<br />
<br />
I'll show you pictures when I'm done... Ohhhh.... it's gonna be great!<br />
<br />
Only By His Grace,<br />
<br />
BillieBillie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-59116538593288903412011-01-30T15:58:00.000-05:002011-01-30T15:58:41.597-05:00What do you do when...What do you do when your body is tired, your mind is consumed and you just need some stress relief? I create...<br />
<br />
Sometimes I just dig through my craft bin and create a book mark. Sometimes I put together a list of ideas I'd like to do "someday." Sometimes I knit. Today I decided to crochet.<br />
<br />
My sweet baby girl and I went on a little overnight shopping trip this weekend... While she was in Claire's I saw the most precious scarf. It was pastel pink with white crochet trim. It was $14.99, not a bad deal, but I don't usually wear pastels near my face. So I didn't buy it. <br />
<br />
However, I did decide that I could crochet a similar scarf - for a much cheaper price tag - and make it suit my needs.<br />
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I decided on a small gauge thread and hook - the finished project will be very delicate. The pattern is a basic shell pattern.<br />
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My base chain was 28. I did 5 rows of single crochet. On row 6 I began my shell pattern: in the 4th chain from the hook I did a basic shell (2 dc, ch 1, 2 dc). Then continued that pattern across. In the last single crochet, chain 3 and turn... It's the same pattern across each row, ending in a chain 3 and turn.<br />
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Here are the pictures so far:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUXPCoWXqqI/AAAAAAAAAZU/3ykdO7noor4/s1600/IMG_4584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUXPCoWXqqI/AAAAAAAAAZU/3ykdO7noor4/s640/IMG_4584.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUXPLigi2_I/AAAAAAAAAZY/bZcZ59-E8Tg/s1600/IMG_4586.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUXPLigi2_I/AAAAAAAAAZY/bZcZ59-E8Tg/s640/IMG_4586.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Once the I reach the desired length, I will single crochet down the long edges on each side, and probably add some picots or a dangling floral trim... I'll have to see what inspires me when I reach that point.<br />
<br />
All I know at this point is that I want it to be delicate and feminine. I want to be able to wear it with my t-shirts and jeans, and my business suits alike. One thing is for sure... I have to show you the finished project when I'm done.<br />
<br />
Until then,<br />
<br />
Only By His Grace,<br />
<br />
BillieBillie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-989695043253824970.post-42820788158285107012011-01-28T17:05:00.000-05:002011-01-28T17:05:15.927-05:00And the winner is...Today is the final day for the Spring Give Away. <br />
<br />
I want to thank everyone who entered the give away, who posted on your blogs, you became followers, to those who added links in sidebars... I appreciate you. I wouldn't blog if it weren't for you, my friends.<br />
<br />
So, thank you to each one of you. I wish I had a gift for everyone! I really do. But, unfortunately, I only have one giveaway right now. But check back... I've already started gathering goodies for the next one!<br />
<br />
And now, the moment you've all been waiting for...<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The winner of the Spring Give Away will receive the following:</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM7X8NnNtI/AAAAAAAAAY8/-UsJNZjpXx4/s1600/IMG_4417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM7X8NnNtI/AAAAAAAAAY8/-UsJNZjpXx4/s320/IMG_4417.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Cakes and Bakes cookbook.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM7YhYcY2I/AAAAAAAAAZA/WR03y29xCNQ/s1600/IMG_4421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM7YhYcY2I/AAAAAAAAAZA/WR03y29xCNQ/s400/IMG_4421.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Sweet Pea scented candle from Bath and Body Works.</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM7ZHmKLDI/AAAAAAAAAZE/uG-sDDi6xY4/s1600/IMG_4422.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM7ZHmKLDI/AAAAAAAAAZE/uG-sDDi6xY4/s320/IMG_4422.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Two notebooks reminding us, "We can do all things through Him who strengthens us."</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM7Zc64zqI/AAAAAAAAAZI/kIX81zOy7rA/s1600/IMG_4423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM7Zc64zqI/AAAAAAAAAZI/kIX81zOy7rA/s320/IMG_4423.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>One very large coffee mug.</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM7Z00utDI/AAAAAAAAAZM/1Xm1ZSv7rD8/s1600/IMG_4424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM7Z00utDI/AAAAAAAAAZM/1Xm1ZSv7rD8/s320/IMG_4424.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i>Two yummy coffees: French Vanilla and Chocolate Velvet!</i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM7aXjwvBI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/55KP4O59wQE/s1600/IMG_4426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM7aXjwvBI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/55KP4O59wQE/s320/IMG_4426.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And two individual hand sanitizers: Midnight Pomegranate and Warm Vanilla Sugar.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i></i></div><i><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>Drum roll, please.</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>Dadadadadddadadadadadadadadadadadaddadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadadda</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM6hUzL4AI/AAAAAAAAAY4/MYrxC2mgsgE/s1600/drumroll.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_TUb9iqSr6h4/TUM6hUzL4AI/AAAAAAAAAY4/MYrxC2mgsgE/s640/drumroll.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>(Okay, I know that was cheesy, but this is an exciting moment!)</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>We had 38 entries... my random number generator (Also known as Lovey) </i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>picked </i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>number </i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>21.</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>The winner is:</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>Pat @ Gypsy Heart</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>Congratulations, Pat. </i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>If you haven't checked out her blog, check her out. </i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><a href="http://gypsyheartandsoul.blogspot.com/">http://gypsyheartandsoul.blogspot.com/</a></i></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">I think she's running a give away, too...</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">Congratulations, again, Pat.</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;">And to everyone else, keep checking in... I have another giveaway in mind!</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">Only By His Grace,</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">Billie</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i><br />
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</i></div>Billie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03509450127478619888noreply@blogger.com3