tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29934002048482422782024-03-14T02:34:08.580-04:00Making A HomeAmberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.comBlogger813125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-61429999634653819922017-08-31T14:37:00.000-04:002017-09-11T15:14:40.200-04:00a mingling of seasons..<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It's that strange time of the year when the seasons are mingling, and I'm just never really sure what to do. There are gourds and a pumpkin from the garden sitting next to impatiens on the porch. The nurseries are selling mums but the summer flowers are still mostly vibrant and clinging on to life. The chilly morning air requires a sweater which is then quickly stripped off only an hour or two later. Time is tugged back and forth between garden preservation and getting on with the new endeavors of autumn. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">With two weeks of homeschooling tucked under the belt, we are getting ready to dive into the full swing of fall schedules. Music lessons, co-op classes, art class, community group, and the other activities that fill up our moments. And my yearning for some fiber work has been creeping back in over the last several weeks as the mornings and evenings have grown cooler and the days just a tad bit shorter. I am finding myself scrambling to finish up the few projects I left languishing over the summer so that I can break through into fall with a fresh project. Socks? A sweater? A poncho? All things that have flickered through my mind. </span></span><br />
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</span></span> <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">And a tizzy of preserving and canning has had me falling into bed exhausted every night lately. It's a good kind of exhaustion, stemming from long, productive days of work. And that freezer and can cellar is filling up with all manner of homegrown and homemade goodness. And if I shall be frank, this girl here is quite possibly looking forward to the fall and the change it brings. A bit of a break from the endless harvesting and a time to just draw in a bit more and concentrate on some cozier activities. </span></span><br />
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</span></span>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-13301369051117269912017-08-24T09:01:00.000-04:002017-08-24T09:01:11.511-04:00the eternal importance of motherhood...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
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The light this morning was amazing as the sun rose up over the hill across the pastures. Morning is my favorite time of the day. The day presents itself full of potential and promise. There is the quiet and stillness as the world begins to stir awake.<br />
<br />
As I type this post, one child is pounding notes out on the piano and the other is outside caring for the goats and chickens. I'm sipping on lukewarm coffee, the cup of a busy mom. In a few moments, we will gather on the couch, like we do every morning, for the start of another school day.<br />
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This is how I love to start our mornings. Together. Books. Coffee. Reading words out loud and hearing my children begging me to "read just one more chapter."<br />
<br />
This is only our fourth official day of our new homeschool year, and I've already found myself mentally reminding myself to calm down and face the day as the journey it is, not a checklist that my mind so easily makes it. This is the lifestyle we have chosen as best for our family. Spending time with one another. Reading good books and learning so much through the words of so many authors. Using our hands to make things and create things. Filling our home with the beauty of music, literature, and God's world.<br />
<br />
Be present, Amber.<br />
<br />
We did not choose this homeschooling lifestyle to rush through it, checking off boxes as we accomplish things.<br />
<br />
We chose it for the closeness it brings. The experiences. The breathing in of life at a steady pace. The beauty and messiness of living a life here on this soil where God has planted us. Learning how to live life peacefully with one another (and, oh, that can be tough and must be learned over and over again) and learning, together, how to live more like Jesus.<br />
<br />
And so I ask myself, "How do we glorify God in the midst of this ordinary day? In the midst of crumbs and dirty dishes and math problems and chores?"<br />
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By being present. By remaining humble and grateful for all the blessings He has given to us. By resting in the knowledge that this is the calling He has placed upon my life during this season. By thanking Him for the children I have who produce all of this dirty laundry. By being full of gratitude for the ability to chop and stir and prepare dishes of food that fill the bellies that gather around the table each night. (Because, to me, food is love.)<br />
<br />
My kids are growing. Each day that passes is one less day that their presence will grace our home. So I want to grasp onto each day and live it fully.<br />
<br />
This is what I yearn for ~ a heart that can be still enough and quiet enough and content enough to be fully aware of the opportunities God has given me right here in the moments of my ordinary life. Because this ordinary life is the one He has placed me in, and He has placed me here with an eternal purpose in mind. And, oh, if I could just remember that, my ordinary life wouldn't perhaps feel so ordinary. Right? Eternal purpose can never be ordinary.<br />
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<br />Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-61301950805075870732017-08-21T15:52:00.000-04:002017-08-21T15:52:13.341-04:00full days...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Last week was our last free week of summer. I know the official start of fall is not until mid-September, but the start of school almost always signals fall in my mind.<br />
<br />
However, today is in the mid-80's. We just finished up an awesome first day of school after a deliciously full summer of fun and experiences. We were so blessed to be able to view the eclipse (80-90% coverage here in Western Pennsylvania) this afternoon, and we are all looking forward to our upcoming annual trip to Maine.<br />
<br />
And as we ease back into the routine of studying and learning, I'm also going to keep a bit of a hold on these summer days. They slip by so quickly, yet there is so much about them that fills me up. The days are still long (though I've noticed the shifting sun setting earlier every day now), but I can feel myself shifting into a different mode now. I recognize it because it happens every year.<br />
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The last two weeks of freedom were full. Hanging out with friends. Walking the dirt paths through the fairgrounds. Seeing Crowder perform from literally fifteen feet away. Spending time bringing in the harvest from the backyard gardens. Learning new skills. Spending an evening canning and preserving as a family. Spending precious, precious one-on-one time with the kids. Early morning walks with a friend.<br />
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It's been full and wonderful and life-giving. <br />
<br />Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-65789841510708104832017-08-13T20:24:00.000-04:002017-08-13T20:24:01.033-04:00back into rhythm...<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I am so ready to start our new homeschool year. Well, except I'm not
physically ready to start because I'm still doing the planning part. I
had the bulk of this coming year's books ordered by the end of last May.
I was patting myself on the back. I had great intentions of starting
our Latin study the first part of July and getting multiple days under
our belt and on the clock before our official term started in September.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Then
I had a kid sick with Lyme's for weeks as well as an intestinal virus
for another week. Then the other kid got that virus as well as another
one. We spent many days in the car running from here to there (and how
is it that I cannot exactly remember where I was even driving to on
those days????) And I'm not complaining about this, although I am
feeling a bit depleted and out-of-sorts. It was a full, busy, fun
summer. We got to spend a lot of time with friends. The kids had
opportunities to volunteer. It was amazing being out and not cooped in
the house. It was a pretty amazing summer, despite the few bumps. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">But
Latin? Didn't happen. All the read-alouds we were going to do? Didn't
happen. (Although I read a TON of books myself.) Field trips? Nah.
(Unless doctor offices, hospital ER's, and grocery stores count.) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">So
August 1st rolls around, and I'm feeling the heat. The "I haven't even
clocked any school days yet!" voice was screaming in my frustrated
little head. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Okay, okay. So the kids did volunteer.
Ian put in thirty-seven hours so far. And they did have their music
lessons, not to mention the hours they put into practicing and playing
at home. And, of course, there were many other learning opportunities
that occurred that I didn't document. In other words, I reminded myself
to chill out. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">This morning during the drive to
church, I announced to Brad and the kids that this week was going to be
my dedicated homeschool planning week. It's gotta be. We're starting
next Monday. Time to get serious about this thing.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">After
church, the boys went to ultimate frisbee and Lily went to play with
her cousin, so I sat down at the kitchen counter with my planner, my
papers, and the laptop and got started. I'm definitely not a rigid
planner. I am definitely not one of those homeschooling moms that plans
out the year or even a month at a time. I find that kind of planning too
restricting and stressful, and then I completely feel overwhelmed when I
get off of schedule a day or two. I cannot handle that type of
scheduling.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Instead, I like to sit down and get a
general overview of the year. I like to figure out how many days we will
need to finish each curriculum. I like to pick out our read-aloud books
(some based on what we are studying in history, music, and art and
others just for fun) as well as books for the kids to read on their
own. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I like to get a very casual planner put together
with pages to keep track of attendance, document the reading log and
field trips, write down goals and aspirations. Just a laid back guide
book that works well for me. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">So after spending an
incredible two months full of laid-back, come-as-we-want, take-it-easy
days, I'm ready to bring some order back into my days. And to speak the
truth, so are the kids. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">We'll still be taking advantage of the warm days of summer, and the garden, and outdoor time. We have a Maine trip coming up next month, and I have a few painting projects here at home that need to be done. But, wow, am I looking forward to waking up in the morning knowing that our day will have more of a regular rhythm. I always appreciate the long summer break, but I also really appreciate the start of a new school year and the routine it brings. </span></span>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-55133897238773114862017-08-10T07:51:00.001-04:002017-08-10T07:52:31.652-04:00truth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">August 10, 2017.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wow. The days of this summer are like the blur out a car window. And to be frankly honest, I typically struggle mentally with the arrival of fall. I've shared about my struggles with depression and anxiety on my blog here in the past. And, for the most part, it's been under control for the past few years. But the arrival of fall equals shorter, darker days and the impending doom (to my mind anyway) of the bleak, cold, gray winter. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ok, that in itself was a downer, wasn't it? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I felt the dark dread starting to settle in back in mid-July. A bit earlier than usual, but I think it's probably due to the cooler-than-usual, rainier-than-usual summer we've had this year. And when I felt it coming, I began to freak out a bit. Anyone that has had depression in the past can probably completely relate to what I'm talking about. How even a shadow of threat from the darkness can just about throw you off the rails. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So I sulked in it for a few days, and then I was like, "Amber, you can control this. You don't have to go back there." </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now, let me be clear that clinical depression is NOT something that you can control mentally. Trust me. I tried that for months the first time it settled on me nine years ago. It is a complete lie if someone tells you that you just need to buck up, change your mental thought patterns and deal if you are truly in the midst of an episode of clinical depression. It is NOT the same as being down, or sad, or blue. It is completely different and requires medical attention.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">However, I have also dealt with this long enough to know that there is a spiritual component to this struggle of mine as well. And I also know (because the Word tells me so) that the devil seeks to kill and destroy, and he surely wants to steal my joy and take away the abundant life that is rightly mine as God's child. So sometimes it is just a matter of putting on that spiritual armor and doing some hard battle. And that battlefield truly is in the mind. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Which leads me to the conclusion I came to a few weeks back. I had a choice to either wallow in the sense of impending doom (translated: winter and darkness) or to dig in my heels and fight for my peace of mind. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm choosing the latter. And sometimes I have to make that choice every single day, sometimes even during the moments of each day. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This means that I'm really trying hard to practice gratitude for all of the blessings that God has bestowed on me. I'm being really intentional about seeing the gifts in the moments of the day. I'm tuning my heart to the song of truth. I'm really trying hard to look at the coming seasons (that I truly do struggle with) as essential moments in the cycle of life that God has established. And because He made them, they are good. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This also means that I am praying so, so hard for God to open my eyes to the beauty and goodness around me. I'm asking Him to renew my heart. We're in this together. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Guys, He wants me to enjoy this life He gave me. How am I to glorify Him if I'm sullen and sulking the days away? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When I sat down this morning to type this blog post, I was planning on just writing about the busy days that have filled our days lately, but He obviously knew that I needed to pen these words because they just flowed. So I hope that they perhaps bless someone out there. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here's to abundant, joy-filled living! </span></span>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-80507879404238319342017-07-27T10:24:00.000-04:002017-07-28T09:30:33.221-04:00preservation...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The garden basket has been full and overflowing the last few weeks. It's been wonderful, and when I have felt myself feeling slightly overwhelmed at the massive amount of veggies and work, I remind myself of the blessing it is to have an abundant garden. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The can cellar shelves are starting to fill up and the freezer is full of berries, and there are still more to be picked and preserved. Simple but busy work to keep the hands busy and the heart full. </span></span>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-17197316554354208522017-07-25T20:18:00.000-04:002017-07-26T07:25:51.774-04:00A {not-so-little} girl's room redo...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Three years ago, we painted Lily's room a very bright, vibrant coral color. It was the color of her choosing, and I have to admit that I painted that bright color on those walls quite reluctantly, me being a student of more subdued, neutral colors and finishes.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">We finished later in the evening, after dark, and the coral was even brighter with the artificial lighting and a pink haze just seemed to hang in the air in that room. My sister even noticed the glow from her home which is about 150 yards away and in the woods!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I think I even told Lily that she better like that color for a long time because I was not planning on repainting anytime soon. I am not at all a fan of painting. I've done a ton of painting in our fifteen years in this home, but it's really far from one of my favorite things to do. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">And then she came to me this past February, asking if she could use her birthday money to buy paint for her room. Well, of course, she could spend her birthday money on that, but that also meant that mom and dad were going to have to be recruited to paint. And it's only been three years! That wasn't what I had in mind when I said it would be awhile before we painted again.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It only took us six months to actually get around to the painting part of it. I did have major surgery in March and we were away several times in May and June, but we finally leaped in and painted last week. We let the paint cure for a week, and tonight Brad hung everything on her walls and she spent some time getting everything just right. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It turned out quite cute, and she was the sole one in charge of the decorating. She shopped our house, bringing in my great-grandma's old Singer sewing machine to use as her desk, pulling an old painting from a basement closet, and snagging an ammunition-box-turned-side-table as one of her nightstands. She may have robbed me of a few other goodies, but I was glad to give them to her. And when Brad walked in on her hanging her "happy lights" tonight, I heard him laugh and say, "You're just like your mom." </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">And I'm quite okay with that. </span></span><br />
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<br />Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-78429992360316767992017-07-20T10:26:00.000-04:002017-07-20T10:28:42.559-04:00nostalgia<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I was looking through old photos on my laptop last night and realized three things:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">1. My kids are getting so old.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">2. I can't believe how young I used to look.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">3. My life has been very full and blessed.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">We've made a lot of really cool memories over the past thirteen years with our kids. And I'm so happy that I made it a point to pick up my camera often to catch a still frame of the moment.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">So even though my kids are not so keen on me taking their photos anymore, I'm still going to sugar-coat my pleas to them and snap whatever pictures I can in those rare instances when they give their permission. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cheers to making and capturing memories!</span></span>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-47498396451635329212017-07-11T11:17:00.000-04:002017-07-11T11:19:26.151-04:00right now...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We recently returned home after spending about a week in South Carolina with our friends. It was such a refreshing visit, and neither Brad nor I were quite ready to return home. They really are like family, so we always feel right at home when we stay with them.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But alas, here we are and we returned to some craziness indeed. There were various happenings that kept me very busy and a bit on edge, and Lily (who recently started treatment for Lyme's disease) had a bit of a relapse that required an ER visit Sunday night. I had to take Ian to the doctor yesterday to get his finger lanced after he got stung by something in the ocean while at SC and it got infected. It's just been crazy and strange, you guys!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lily... oh I feel so horrible for her. She's been laying around in bed since Sunday morning, so sick with the Lyme's as well as from side effects of the antibiotics she has to take. It hurts me to see my kids sick, it really does. I'm doing my best, feeding her nutritious foods and loving on her bunches, but she is so nauseated that she basically has to be forced to eat. I called the doctor today and we're going to give it a couple more days before we discuss possibly switching the med. She's on amoxicillin which is actually much milder than some of the other meds used to treat Lyme's. I'm really praying that she begins to tolerate it better so we can stay on course. So for now I'm trying to push protein-rich foods and giving her a daily probiotic.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We came home to a flourishing garden! It always amazes me how much a garden can grow in a week's time. We've been enjoying the bounty of those beautiful plants. Grilled veggies. Blueberry pancakes. Cucumber salads. Bags of berries for the freezer. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm also fermenting two jars of cukes. Fermenting is my absolute favorite way to prepare pickles. I throw in a bunch of garlic and some red onions as well as some dill, and the end result is just amazing! Pickles prepared this way never last long in our home. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've also dove into the world of kombucha brewing. Our SC friends' neighbor brews his own and had some SCOBY's that he gave me to start my own. As with most things, I just jumped right in. I spent quite a bit of our drive home online researching kombucha brewing. The SCOBY is so strange looking. It actually looks and feels like a piece of raw chicken. It's very alien-like!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today, I'm immersed in laundry (like most days) and preparing for an upcoming yard sale that I'm having. And I'm on my second cup of coffee which hasn't happened in a LONG time. Just need a bit more of a boost today.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Have a good one! </span></span> <br />
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<br />Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-89228381542407778162017-06-28T10:45:00.000-04:002017-06-28T10:45:17.789-04:00the work of hands...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have a goal to be intentional about "making" this summer. Whether that be with yarn, fabric, wood, paint, or food, I have some aspirations.<br />
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First of all, I absolutely go a bit crazy when I have a project languishing for too long, That means I have a few things that I absolutely want to get done before we start back to school in August. First of all, I have a pair of socks that I knitted for Brad. I finished the second sock while we were in Tennessee in May, but forgot my dpn's so I couldn't finish the toe. And it's STILL sitting in the project bag now a month later! What?! That's definitely a priority. Not because Brad needs wool socks in the summer, but because I only have several rounds left on that darn sock and it needs finished!<br />
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I also want to knock that large crocheted afghan out of the park over the next three months. It's already quite large, but my goal was to make it huge so that multiple bodies could snuggle under it. I was working along at a very nice clip until I ran out of yarn and had to order more and then, subsequently, lost my momentum. I'm using <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/granny-stripe-blanket.html" target="_blank">this pattern</a> by Attic24.<br />
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Another fun crochet project was the market bag. I literally made that entire thing in under 24 hours, start to finish. I used <a href="http://justbcrafty.com/2017/05/crochet-farmers-market-bag-pattern.html" target="_blank">this pattern</a>, and I love how it turned out. It's a bit bigger than I thought, but that just means I can fit more things into it. This was a practical item for me to make, and I do plan on using it when I visit the little farmer's market we have here in the summer. But I could also see this bag being very useful for the beach as well.<br />
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Lily is currently making a crocheted rug out of thrifted sheets. I made another thrift store run yesterday morning for more sheets. One of our local thrift stores sells flat sheets for $1 each, and you really can't pass that up, especially when you have a use for them. I bought enough sheets for her to make her rug, as well as enough for me to make one.<br />
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I also have a collection of vintage, thrifted pillowcases that I want to trim with a crochet trim. This will probably not be done this summer, but it's definitely on my list of creative "to-do's." I love the look of <a href="http://rosehip.typepad.com/rose_hip_blog/2016/09/new-stock.html" target="_blank">these</a> pillowcases. In addition, I bought that charm pack last spring because I wanted to make a quilt. Not an over-the-top quilt, but, rather, just a plain, simple patchwork quilt. I've only ever quilted a few smaller projects, so I think intimidation has been preventing me from actually cutting into that fabric. That's silly though, isn't it? <br />
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Handiwork has become a very important pastime here in our home. I suppose it has something to do with me sticking the kids in their highchairs at the age of one with oversized paint brushes and non-toxic paint. They've always just seen the process of creating from both Brad and myself, so I suppose that they would just naturally assume the same habit. In the above photos, the sewn doughnuts, the woven candle mat, the rag rug, and the yarn on the spindle are all projects that Lily completed or is working on right now (plus many, many more.) That girl can create up a cloud of dust when she gets in the frame of mind to do so. She's always got her fingers into a project of some sort. Ian is more interested in working with wood or repurposing things (he gets that from him dad and a bit from me.) He made me the wooden coasters from a tree he cut down behind our house and gave them to me as a Mother's Day gift.<br />
<br />
So, yes, we spend a lot of our time making things here in our home. Maybe that's foreign to some people, but I honestly couldn't imagine not making that a priority for our family. And I am absolutely certain that it is essential to me and my peace of mind. It's a big part of how I express myself. I just feel like I must create. Which is one of the reasons I have recently took up watercolor painting again this summer. I used to paint in high school and college and my hands-down favorite medium was watercolor. I recently started a nature journal which I am head-over-heels in love with because it is enabling me to practice painting again and learn and record so much about nature (which is another favorite topic of mine.) <br />
<br />
Now I suppose I need to find the time to pursue all of these creative goals/projects this summer. I have a rather good feeling that I will not accomplish near what I would like to because I do spend most days out-of-doors in the summer. But there are always rainy days and nights around the campfire which lend to the "making" mood.<br />
<br />
Some other crafty plans I have...<br />
<br />
I love this <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/chevron-chic-tote-bag" target="_blank">Chevron Crocheted Bag</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://jakigu.wordpress.com/2015/01/31/crochet-pattern-stacking-baskets/" target="_blank">These</a> would be great for storage.<br />
<br />
I love<a href="http://www.notey.com/@sandra-cherryheart_unofficial/external/14522492/peachy-geometric.html?utm_content=buffer9c797&utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest.com&utm_campaign=buffer" target="_blank"> this shawl</a> by Cherry Heart.<br />
<br />
I need <a href="http://ninered.blogspot.com/2013/10/bringing-in-barn-quilt.html" target="_blank">one of these</a> on the side of my barn. <br />
<br />Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-77167391610006407012017-06-27T08:28:00.000-04:002017-06-28T08:57:13.162-04:00a seed...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I couldn't imagine life without a few certain things, one of those being a garden. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is how I love to spend my mornings. After Brad leaves for work, I brew myself a cup of coffee, slip on my rubber boots and a sweater and head out to the garden. I tend to my plants, watering, weeding, loving on them. Each day, I observe their growth, appreciating each plant that will be feeding our little family very soon. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The green of the leaves, the tendrils wrapping around the trellises, the smell of the basil and tomato plants, the way the dirt splashes on the sides of the beds when I water. All of these things are noticed and swallowed deep. They feed my soul. They fill my God-given need for nature and beauty. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A seed is planted and cared for, and then it bursts open beneath the ground. It bursts from within the boundaries of its dead, hardened shell, and new life pushes its way up from beneath the dirt and soil. What once was dead is now alive.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">So it has been with my life. This is how I have been changed. It is a process. I have died to my own selfish pursuits so that I can grow through Christ. First I must die so that I can grow and florish. Such an upside-down way of thinking. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">But won't I be miserable if I deny myself? Oh, but this is where it really becomes topsy-turvy. My heart is filled anew with lasting joy, with contentment, with a treasure of the knowledge of all of the good things I have received. My eyes are suddenly wide open and capable of seeing things which had not previously been seen. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">And the heart knows that this is best. It is full. It has been filled with the treasure of God, the gift of His Son. And this is best. </span></span> <br />
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<br />Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-61811296014641268472017-06-26T09:12:00.001-04:002017-06-26T09:12:38.991-04:00Lately...<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Wow! I haven't posted since December!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm quite
active on Instagram, and I have found that it has replaced my need to
blog. I have discovered that the reason I loved blogging in the first
place was because it enabled me to record and share moments in our life.
Instagram has allowed the same and with less thought and intention
because it's photo-sharing with a small snippet of a thought. I am all for being intentional in life, but sometimes keeping my blog updated has felt like a chore requiring more thought than I feel able to expend. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">But
I've missed blogging. Do people still read blogs? I feel like there has
been such a big shift to Instagram. It's funny how quickly certain
social media platforms can replace others.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">So perhaps
I'll get back to blogging on a more regular basis. I definitely have
more time during the summer since we take a break from our
homeschooling.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">So far this break, I have been doing a
ton of reading. I set a goal for myself to read twenty-five books this
year. I've read twelve so far which means I'm pretty much right on pace.
It's been wonderful to get lost in books again. I'm reading mostly
fiction right now, with a couple of non-fiction also on the bedside
table, picked up from time to time.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I've also been very
busy with gardening and outdoor work. I love the summer. I can hardly
stand to be in the house this time of year which also means that I do
not do much knitting. I'm too much in love with the weather to sit and
knit. However, I did start crocheting a <a href="http://justbcrafty.com/2017/05/crochet-farmers-market-bag-pattern.html" target="_blank">cotton market bag</a> yesterday
which I will actually use at the farmer's market this summer. Most of my
yarn-time the last few years have been spent knitting, so this little
project has been a nice, quick break. It's amazing how much faster
crocheting is than knitting.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is also our summer to
travel. We were in Gatlinburg, TN, and made a quick stop in Asheville, NC, to visit a friend last month and have vacations to
Charleston, SC (to visit our best friends) and Bar Harbor, ME, planned
as well. I LOVE traveling. I LOVE getting away. I always feel so
inspired and refreshed after traveling. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-59064189644815104112016-12-14T07:57:00.000-05:002016-12-14T07:57:55.632-05:00making things<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are several times during each year when my creative senses seem to jolt to life. During those times, I find it hard concentrating on much other than creating and making or thinking about creating and making. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have noticed that the time from Thanksgiving until Christmas day is one of those times. Something clicks in my brain, and I just find myself wanting to make everything. And I love it. Although it does prove challenging to balance it and keep it in check with all of my responsibilities. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Even our homeschooling days reflect this. Sure we continue on with our math and grammar and history, but this is the time of year when I find that it's pertinent to fit in the creative enrichments that I find so important. Classical music fills the air. The yarn and paint and fabric is usually littering many surfaces of our home. The piano and guitar are humming away. The oven is churning out many more yummy delicacies than it does any other time of the year. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Right now, with the encouragement of Bob Ross (or should I say his old re-runs on Netflix) my kids are enthralled with painting. We're using acrylics as Brad had a bin of them left over from his painting days many years ago (note: acrylic paints stay good even after twenty years of not using them as long as they're sealed tight.) We picked up some canvases, and the kids have been spending many hours at the kitchen table painting. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While they are busy creating their masterpieces, I'm finding moments of time to knit and cross-stitch. I did some Christmas gift knitting, and now I am trying to focus on getting some socks done that have been on the needles for a couple of months. I get a bit twitchy when I have projects languishing for more than a month or so. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And we got our first substantial snow last night. It looks so pretty! As much as I prefer a warmer climate, I figure that if it's going to be cold it is much better for there to be snow. Without it, all is gloomy and grey. </span></span><br />
Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-1125063761352167872016-12-07T16:43:00.000-05:002016-12-07T16:43:26.450-05:00And so begins December...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh my goodness! It has been such an incredibly long time since I virtually scribbled in this space. September. And now it is December and we're in the midst of Advent, and I just don't know how those months went by so quickly.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I have been doing some relatively frequent posting on Instagram (see link in the sidebar.) I have been finding the ease of snapping a photo and captioning just more fitting for my life lately, but I have recently found myself missing keeping this space filled with musings and photos. Writing here requires a slowing necessary in order to put down coherent thoughts. Quite honestly, my mental energies have been all tied up in various other places which is probably why I haven't felt the drive to sit down and write here. But slowing is good, isn't it? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">So perhaps I will try to be more diligent in my keeping of this blog? We shall see. But for now, I wanted to just post something of an update and attach a few photos of the happenings around our home. I am soaking in the miracle of Christmas right now. I am in love with this season, with this celebration. </span></span><br />
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<br />Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-54551508364420533432016-09-12T20:26:00.002-04:002016-09-12T20:26:50.037-04:00September, in part...<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"> September! Oh glorious September!! You have been so, so good and full of beauty! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">What a kick-off to the month to be in one of our favorite places, Acadia National Park in Maine. Now that is a glorious place in itself. Raw beauty and wonder that makes my heart sing. A week spent hiking and climbing rocks and traversing the beautiful terrain. Having no obligations other than to eat, sleep, and do whatever we pleased. I do miss waking in the morning before everyone else, pouring a cup of coffee and enjoying my Bible reading in complete solitude with only the birds in the trees to accompany me. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">And then it was so good to return to our cozy little home here in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania. It's always so good to go away, but it's also just as nice to come home. Home to the familiar and the routine, invigorated and ready to conquer the world one laundry basket and school lesson at a time.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">We came home and had two days to gear up for the new school year. I had done all of the major prepping before we had left, so I just had a few ends to tidy up for our start. And then I had major first-day-of-school jitters, more than I've ever had before. Gosh, I felt like I was back in school myself. I think it was just all the emotions bundled up and tied tight. I'm telling you, homeschooling is not easy. It's no small thing to feel the weight of your children's educations on your shoulders. Normally I'm pretty good with shrugging that off and going with the flow, but, boy, this year has been a bit different. Perhaps it's because Ian is in seventh grade, and I feel like we need to step up the game a bit more. (And perhaps I, like every other homeschool mom, am just hard on myself and want to try my darndest not to screw my children up.) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">Whatever the reason, the first day came and went, and fairly smoothly at that. So now we're in our second week and trying to find a rhythm that will fit our family this year. That will come. It always does.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></span> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">In the midst of all of this, Ian turned thirteen! Another teenager. We celebrated in a low-key way, per his request, with a campfire and cookout for the five of us followed by a game of <i>Settlers of Catan</i>. I made key lime pie, also per the birthday boy's request, which was quite yummy and vegan and gluten free to boot. It was a great, simple celebration. We have Sergei's coming up the end of this month. He's going to be twenty! What?! Really? Twenty?</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">And this morning was the perfect autumn morning. There was a slight crispness in the air that was just enough to warrant some of my handmade woolens being put to use when I went out to tend to the animals. Just a hat and scarf. And then it warmed up to around eighty which was marvelous. And the sun was out! Yes, these days of yours, September, have been stunning! </span></span><br />
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<br />Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-55191221256687357482016-08-22T08:39:00.001-04:002016-08-22T08:39:51.397-04:00in the kitchen together<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">In all honesty, I'm a true procrastinator at heart. I work much better, much more efficiently when I have a clear and looming deadline. I'm the type of person that finds setting a timer for thirty minutes helps me to stay more focused on tasks and chores because I push myself to work hard to get as much done as I can in that short period of time. It's the way God wired me, I suppose. Sometimes it drives Brad a little crazy, but I always get things done and get them done well. And the looming deadline invigorates me a bit and pushes me to do my best.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">However, this procrastination also carries over into the kitchen and meal-making. I would get an "F" in meal-planning if I was graded. Oh gosh. And this is the one area where I find my procrastinating spirit to lead to a bit of stress. All I can say is thank goodness for the auto defrost option on my microwave! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">So one of my goals this coming fall (and coming school year) is to start meal-planning again. I have always enjoyed the mental freedom that has come from having a plan when it comes to meals. I suppose I just haven't disciplined myself enough to actually make it a habit. However, it's such a WONDERFUL feeling at 4:00 p.m. on a weekday to know that dinner is already planned and probably already started or even in the crock pot almost ready to be eaten. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">My kids, at ages 13 and 10, love to cook and bake. It's something that they've always seen me do, and I've let them have reigns in the kitchen since an early age. In my mind, it's one of the most important life skills I can pass on to my kids ~ the skill of feeding oneself. And not only feeding oneself, but feeding oneself good, wholesome, home-cooked meals. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">My problem as a kitchen procrastinator, though, is that when I've waited until the last possible minute to start a dinner that I'm not even sure what it's going to be, I don't have the patience for the kids in the kitchen with me. I want to get in there, have all the room to move around, and crank out whatever I'm making. And sometimes I don't even know what I'm making until it hits the kitchen table and is done. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">But, I'm totally robbing my kids and myself of some special, very productive time together as well as some really awesome learning experiences approaching meal-time this way. And it's all because I'm too lazy to do a little planning ahead of time. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">This past Saturday, Ian and I went to the garden together and picked a bunch of veggies to use to make dinner. The kids and I then husked the corn together and spent an hour chopping, mixing, sauteing, and prepping our dinner. When we pulled the stuffed green peppers out of the oven two hours later, there was a great satisfaction felt around the table that night. We had worked together from start to finish. And on top of that, most of the food was from our garden. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I was reflecting on this later that evening. We had so much fun together. The kids kept saying how much they loved cooking with me and how they want to do it more often. And, I really do swear, that food tasted so much better knowing that we made it together. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">So this is one of my goals this new school year. I'm going to work on disciplining myself to meal-plan again, and I'm going to work more group cooking sessions into our schedule. Not only does this enable some really great quality time with my kids, but it's also equipping them for their future when they leave home. </span><br />
<br />Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-30802582010566253902016-08-16T10:30:00.000-04:002016-08-16T10:31:45.417-04:00an essay on home<br />
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<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I love home. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">What does home mean to me? What image do I conjure up in my mind when I think of home? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I
imagine a cozy, quaint place that is warm, beautiful but simple. A
place where love flows freely. A place where words of encouragement are
spoken and life is breathed into those who enter. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I
imagine a place where the dwellers feel free to be themselves. Guards
can be dropped. Feet can be kicked back. Weary bodies can toss
themselves onto the sofa and cozy up under a well-worn quilt. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A
place where laughter is real. Where learning happens all of the time.
Where good thoughts are shared and discussed. Where life is lived fully
and where joy prevails.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This is what I strive for, this is
what I want for our home. And me, as a wife and mother, well, I have
such an awesome opportunity to influence the atmosphere of our home.
This is my office. This is my place of work. This is my opportunity to
shine as I foster an environment that encourages growth physically,
mentally, and spiritually for my family and all who visit. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">What an awesome privilege that is! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">So
instead of complaining about the never-ending laundry, I need to thank
God for the healthy bodies that wear all of that clothing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Instead
of dreading washing the dishes again, I need to praise God for the food
He has so graciously and extravagantly provided. The food that fills
those plates three times a day, that fills our bellies full. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">And
the messes that scatter so easily around the house? Oh those can test
me. But those little messes were made by the ones that are dearest to my
heart. I want to be thankful that I have these beautiful children who
are healthy enough to be up and making messes. And I need to be thankful
that I have the opportunity to teach my children to be responsible,
clean-up after themselves, and contribute to our home's well-being. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I
enjoy home. I enjoy keeping my home. I used to think that it was sinful
to want a beautiful home (note that I do not mean large, filled with
extravagant things, or magazine-worthy) for my family. But I now realize
that God put that creative desire within me, that love for beauty, the
attention to the aesthetics. God made me that way. And, of course, I
could use those desires in sinful ways, but I can also choose to
embrace them and make my home a dwelling that quenches the thirst of dry
souls, that replenishes the spiritual tanks of those who enter, that
inspires others to seek the beautiful and simple things of God. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I
am so thankful that God has enabled me to be a keeper of my home. I am
thankful that He has shown me the importance of making our home a
shelter to my family and others.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Lord, open my eyes up
to the great privilege You have blessed me with to be a keeper of our
home. Thank you for our home. Thank you for those that fill it. May it
be used for Your glory, and may all who enter feel surrounded by Your
love and grace. </span><br />
<br />Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-75895399139601478702016-08-08T09:55:00.001-04:002016-08-08T09:55:44.024-04:00change<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<br />
The kitchen is progressing. It's almost done. I think. There seem to be so many little things that need done. In my mind's eye, however, all that is left is some caulking, touch-up painting, and then the shelves need hung. But Brad can probably think of more little things that need to be finished before we can actually wrap the project up. He's a perfectionist like that.<br />
<br />
This summer's home renovation project has translated into a sorely neglected garden and low motivation to even keep up with it and the preserving. Such a shame. I feel like I used to have so much more energy to do multiple things at one time.<br />
<br />
School. UGH! It's coming. We won't officially start until after our vacation in September, but we've already logged some of our days with camps and field trips and impromptu learning sessions. My goal is to get all of the curriculum figured out this week and order everything. I want to have it all organized and ready to go before we leave for vacation so that we'll be able to get started as soon as we get home.<br />
<br />
Change. There seems to be a lot of change for our family in the weeks and months ahead. I feel as if it could easily be our theme word for this year, if we were to have one. It's exciting and yet slightly anxiety-provoking all at once. I'm trying to look at it as an adventure in which to fully exercise faith in God. Yep. That's what I'm doing.Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-60147707125092823272016-07-22T10:43:00.000-04:002016-07-22T10:43:18.207-04:00in the thick of home improvement<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I am having so much fun updating our house. Lately, I've been a little
mentally stressed. Not because of all of the work. Work doesn't scare
me. It's the lack of a proper kitchen since our current remodel is the
kitchen. Everything is kind of scattered about, so when I need a mixing
spoon or a knife or a bowl or this or that, I have to search for it.
Thankfully our home is small and I've just kind of shifted everything
into the living room and onto the kitchen table. But still. I guess I didn't
realize how much my life revolves around my kitchen until it was in a
state of disarray. I've heard others speak of this when they've done a
kitchen remodel.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">However, it will be fabulous when it's
finished. It will be a kitchen that is still tiny, but so very much me.
Butcher block. White cabinets. Open shelving. I'm going for cozy and
quaint, which is what I pretty much go for in all of my decorating. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">But
mixed in with all of that remodeling goodness, we've had quite a busy
summer. We visited our best friends in Charleston, SC. We had one of my
oldest friends from childhood and her daughter (who also happens to be
Lily's age) come stay with us for a while. We have had cake decorating
class and electronics class. And then there is the gardening and animal
care that is part of our everyday life. Oh, and we became the owner of
kittens. Two of them. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What a full summer we've had so far. </span></span>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-42731995426991281272016-06-27T08:55:00.000-04:002016-06-27T09:12:46.882-04:00progress and a pause<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uoPxYen5Id8/V3Ef2EJIdwI/AAAAAAAAVgQ/eiMAU1IyyVoyWMs_LgAbrIpuVCcsy87CwCLcB/s1600/DSC_0236.JPG" /></a></span></span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">We finished the living room to the point where we could get the furniture all put back in place. We still need to attend to a few details such as face plates, wall decor, and curtains, but I'm giving the paint another day or so to cure. I've learned that lesson the hard way in the past. </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">We were going to start the kitchen and dining area over the weekend, but we decided to take a much-needed family break and spend some time resting and playing. This week is going to be broken up a bit due to some traveling, so we're going to hit the kitchen hard next week and tackle everything at one time. I'm currently hem-hawing around regarding the paint color of our kitchen cabinets, so I want to at least have that finalized by the end of this week. </span></span><br />
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</span></span> <span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The plan for the kitchen is to paint the ceilings and the walls. I'm going to paint the cabinets either a shade of white or possibly a light gray. We bought butcherblock countertop and a white ceramic farmhouse sink (I'm sooooo happy about both of those purchases.) I'm having Brad remove one of the upper sections of cabinets from one side of the kitchen window so we can put open shelving there. And we will be installing a white subway tile back splash. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The weather was perfect over the weekend. We spent time outside. We picked and ate many blueberries straight from the bushes. We spent time weeding the raised beds. We visited with family who were in from Texas. We played with our animals, and the kids visited and played with their cousins and spent lots of time in the pool. We made sushi. I listed a bunch of homeschool material <a href="http://homeschoolclassifieds.com/show_list.asp?member=amber1726&tab=sale" target="_blank">online</a>. I spent some time knitting my shawl and spinning some merino. It was very unusually laid back for a summer weekend. </span></span>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-53330602085774123322016-06-22T08:04:00.000-04:002016-06-22T08:04:23.977-04:00homegrown and handmade<br />
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Some of my handspun. </div>
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Very high tech fiber-drying apparatuses, huh? </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I fought with the seeming frivolity of posting today. When I get
really busy and consumed with projects or duties or just daily life, I
often find pausing to take photos or write blogs tedious. I'm like,
"Let's just get on with it! No time to pause for photos!" </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">And
many times, that is true and quite agreeable. I certainly find it
harder to stay focused when I'm stopping to find my camera and snap
photos. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">But yesterday, while swirling around in my
busyness, I remembered why it is that I pause to take photos. I love to
look back through our Shutterfly
albums or read back through this blog and see all that we did as a
family. I love to see our adventures, our journeys, our projects, our
trips, our endeavors. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So I paused long enough to grab
my camera several times yesterday and this morning. And, admittedly, I
hesitated. But, come one, these are the moments. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So what has kept me so exceptionally busy?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Well,
remember that interior door that I decided to paint? The one I
mentioned back in <a href="http://makingahome-pa.blogspot.com/2016/06/a-dash-of-this-and-that.html" target="_blank">this </a>post? Yes, well that turned into painting all of
our trim white. Then we decided to paint the walls. But first the
ceilings, because nothing has been painted for eight years and you could
tell. Then my mother-in-law gave us a very nice monetary gift to be
used for a "home improvement" project! So then we decided we were going
to replace our forest green counter top (yay!) and paint the cabinets. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">You know how home improvement projects escalate.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">But
also on top of all of that, I've been trying to wash as much as my
alpaca fiber as possible, which is an all-day process. It's not an
all-day project in the sense that I'm constantly consumed and attentive
to it, but, rather, one that is drawn out and requires attention
frequently. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've also been spinning and knitting and
we've been picking and freezing cherries like crazy. And now my herbs?
Well, they need picked and dried so we can enjoy them throughout the
next year when we no longer have the fresh ones. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Do I
sound like I'm complaining? Oh, I'm not. All of these things are quite
up my alley of interests. (Well, except painting ceilings.) And it has
felt quite good to be so involved in the things that get my heart
ticking. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">By the way, I'm joining in on the <a href="http://www.gsheller.com/" target="_blank">Yarn Along</a> over at Ginny's blog, Small Things. </span></span>Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-70156122502297150012016-06-07T09:10:00.000-04:002016-06-07T09:10:02.574-04:00a dash of this and that<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So you've all heard about the snowball effect, right? Well, have you ever noticed that that's what often happens in the world of home improvements? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Ian and I decided that we were going to paint the inside of the front door yesterday morning. We visited our "paint store" in the basement (in an effort to not spend money and use what we already had) and found a gray color that I liked. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We painted the door. We stepped back. We gagged.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Oh my goodness did it clash with all of the honey oak trim that is ALL through our house. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It looked horrible.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We found a can of white trim paint in the basement. He started sanding. I started painting. Twelve hours and four coats of paint later, two walls of beadboard wainscoting were white. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">But I still have a hallway, a third living room wall, and a dining room worth of beadboard trim to paint. And now the walls need done. Which, in all honesty, haven't been painted for eight years and are in desperate need of some new paint anyway. It's been on the to-do list.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Then Brad comes home from work, and he decides that our ceilings need painted before the walls (which they do, but I'm typically not one to examine ceilings so it wasn't something that was extremely important to me.) Also, those honey oak colored beams? Yeah, we should probably give them a coat (or five coats) of paint too. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">And that, my friends, is how a front door paint-job snowballed into a whole-house job. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So for my own sanity, I am already psyching myself up to view this as a summer-long project. I'm doing this by myself as much as possible (Brad's so busy and the last thing he needs is another project), so it's definitely not going to be a quick job! And that beadboard? Gosh is that time-consuming to paint. I think I'm going to go for a mix of white trim and the oak. It can be done quite tastefully, and I honestly can't even imagine the time it would take to paint all of the oak trim in our house. Besides, in the next few years, we're planning on ripping down the old trim and replacing it with a more substantial trim, so this is a bit of a temporary update.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Also, the garden beds and the big garden are planted. I might throw in a few more seeds, but everything is pretty much set. I planted impatiens in our landscaping, and I'm patiently waiting to see what perennials decide to spring forth from the soil for the summer season. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The peonies are blooming like crazy. This is the first year that I've gotten a good crop of peonies. I think that this is the third year since I planted them. Anyway, I've got jars of peonies set out around the house. They are my most favorite flower. And I even spun up some pink yarn to match!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Ian made me a coffee table. It was my mother's day gift, but I just realized that I never posted a picture of it. He did it all by himself, and I love its simplicity. It's actually exactly what I wanted. He's getting really good at building things from wood. I started a board on Pinterest for him to mark projects that he could maybe tackle over the summer.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I pray that you have a most blessed day. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm off to spend the day painting again! </span></span><br />
<br />Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-60175514455326153902016-05-24T08:38:00.000-04:002016-05-24T08:38:21.682-04:00outside play<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It has been so gray, dreary, cold, and rainy here for way too long. When I woke up yesterday morning, the sun was actually out and the sky was blue and I was so, so happy. I'm telling you all, I do not tolerate gray days very well. Which is completely ironic since I live in Western Pennsylvania, which happens to be one of the least sunny places in the United States. Really now. Go figure. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, the sun was out yesterday when I woke up, and I immediately felt so much more energized and ready to go about my day. I had herbs, veggies, and flowers that I wanted to plant, and I had a big pile of my handspun yarn that needed heat-treated and hung out to dry. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I managed to get all of the yarn simmered and pulled out of the pot and hung outside to dry. I'm not kidding when I say that a mere ten minutes after I hung out the skeins, Lily yelled into the house that it was thundering. I thought she was mistaken, but then the wind started to blow and the rain started to pour from the sky. Thankfully, Lily's warning gave me time to grab the skeins and put them on the back porch. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It was a short-lived rain. It probably only lasted less than an hour, and then the sun did come out again and remained out the rest of the day. I can live with that. And while it rained, we ran to our neighbor's nursery and picked up a few hanging baskets and flowers. We also stopped and picked up a couple of fleeces that a neighbor was giving to me since she was literally just going to throw them away. (Gasp.) I have no idea what type of sheep she has; she didn't know either. Her son had bought them for her at an auction. However, I'll clean the wool and play around with it and see what it's like. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It ended up being a pretty productive day. The yarn dried. I got all of the plants into the raised beds. I prettied up our landscaping with some flowers. And I enjoyed doing all of these things while replenishing my vitamin D levels. </span></span><br />
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Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-30385590964343083162016-05-05T12:15:00.001-04:002016-05-05T12:15:01.809-04:00Fiber Play<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Lily taught herself how to spin yesterday using my drop spindle and some YouTube videos. I have to admit that I do feel impressed at her eagerness and determination. I do NOT spin using the drop spindle. I had purchased that spindle at a local yarn and fiber festival two years ago and had not used it since trying it at the festival. Shame on me. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">However, Lily picked it up and got a rhythm going surprisingly fast, and she is enjoying it much more than spinning at the wheel. She's already planning my spindle spinning lessons. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I have also been spinning. I spun up a dreamy gray merino last week, and it made the most squishy, soft, scrumptious yarn. OH MY. I had bought a whole pound of this roving, so there is still a lot left to spin. I am just so happy with how it turned out. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I just spun up four ounces of hand-dyed Cheviot roving. I bought it off a hand-dyer, so I didn't do the actual dying. I love the colors, but it's a bit courser than what I prefer to wear next to my skin. However, I do believe that it would be perfectly fine knitted up as a hat. From what I have read, Cheviot is supposed to be a nicer, softer fiber so I'm thinking that maybe the micron count of this fiber I ordered is a bit higher and courser than some Cheviot. Regardless, it is absolutely beautiful, and I have another four ounce roving in this same fiber but different colorway to spin. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I finished the prayer socks for Liz, and those will go in the mail as soon as they have their mail set up at their new home. I've since started the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/swedish-lines" target="_blank">Swedish Lines shawl</a> using <a href="http://www.craftsy.com/supplies/cloudborn-baby-alpaca-fingering-yarn/24542" target="_blank">Cloudborn baby alpaca fingering weight yarn</a>. I am loving this yarn! It's so soft! And I'm really excited about this shawl. It's going to be perfect for cooler nights this spring and summer. The navy and taupe color are also really exciting me because I think that it will make such a classic garment. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have a good one!</span></span><br />
<br />Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2993400204848242278.post-74856147959359787082016-04-27T16:25:00.001-04:002016-04-27T16:25:27.078-04:00a beautiful week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The past five days have been such a gift from God. Such a blessing. Also very bittersweet. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's hard to believe that the six weeks that were remaining when we found out our best friends (and pastor) were moving to South Carolina have come to an end. Geoff, Liz, and their girls pull out early Friday morning. I feel like we've been trying to squeeze as much together-time in as we can over these few days we have left as neighbors.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We just love them so much, and we are truly going to miss them. Last night we celebrated Brad's 36th birthday and Liz's birthday (hers is two weeks after they move) with Taco Tuesday (our traditional meal that we always seemed to eat when we got together) and apple pies (Brad and Liz's favorite pies.) My heart felt so blessed by the time we had together last night, their family and ours. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lily was baptized this past Sunday afternoon. Geoff and Brad baptized her together. That was definitely special and very sweet. Geoff has now baptized all three of our kids which is pretty cool. Cool in the aspect, that they have been involved in that spiritual part of our children's lives. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">After the baptism, my parents had dinner at their home, followed by a long hay ride. The weather was really perfect. Sunny and just a bit chilly. I just really love the photos that I snapped during the ride. Everyone was so alive and happy and laughing. Don't you love laughing? I love it so. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's just been such a sweet week to my heart. We've been busy preparing the kids' projects for the project fair this Friday. We're almost finished. We've also been very busy with outside tasks. I spent five solid hours shoveling manure on Monday, and that's not even done yet. Definitely, my least favorite part of having animals. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I've also been spending some time knitting and spinning. Of course I have. I'm not sure what it would feel like to go a day without doing one of those things for at least a few minutes. I'm almost finished with a pair of prayer/friendship socks that I'm making for Liz. They're not going to be finished by Friday, so I'll have fun putting together a little package to send her in the mail. Oh, and I finished my Harvest Cardigan (except for weaving in a few ends which you can see sneaking out in the photo above.)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Lily's newest craze is making mini skeins of yarn. They're just so darn cute too. I just really love them. So tiny. I gave her some of my leftovers to wind up into mini skeins. She's having a blast, and they will look so much nicer than just having loose balls of yarn getting all tangled up. That girl is so much like me. It amazes me.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Well, ladies, I pray that you have a wonderful evening. We are, again, spending the evening at our dear friends' home along with some other friends from church. Just soaking these last moments in. Because, you know, I am a sap. Sniff. Sniff. </span></span><br />
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Amberhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01520682388731742925noreply@blogger.com12