tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64183971821593994922024-03-14T00:52:53.884-05:00Everyday AshlieWith faith the size of a mustard seed...Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-33316381039262080692010-10-08T21:57:00.001-05:002010-10-08T21:57:05.125-05:00Old-School<p>When we first moved up here to East Tennessee, I found myself among the countless Americans who are unemployed. It was an odd feeling, to be sure! I never pegged myself as one of those folks who judges their self-worth on what I “did,” but it sure felt weird to not be helpin’ to bring in the bacon, as it were. Thankfully though, my hubby had already started his new job and we were able to move in with my in-laws (I know what you’re thinking about that, but they’re great. Really) so things weren’t too tight. </p> <p>In any case, with no job and nothing pressing to tend to, a girl’s got to find something to keep her busy, right? </p> <p>(What? Did y’all think this was gonna be a somber post about the state of America’s economic affairs? Ha! No, ma’am, I don’t think so! I try never to talk about politics if I can help it.)</p> <p>Anyway, in my first several weeks here in TN, my mother-in-law showed me all her favorite thrifting nooks. At one of the area rescue missions I found a cute little school chair for only $7! I saw it’s potential right away…a good sanding & some spray paint and it would be cute as can be!! </p> <p>Buster posing (reluctantly) to give y’all some size reference  </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TK_Z7S4M2ZI/AAAAAAAAGew/Wl_6iCVlypE/s1600-h/IMG_31073.jpg"><img title="IMG_3107" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" height="380" alt="IMG_3107" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TK_Z7wxzuoI/AAAAAAAAGe0/OLTo6tdxQbs/IMG_3107_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" border="0" /></a></p> <p>He got tired of posing pretty quick. Ha! I sanded the wood down to get the peeling varnish off. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TK_Z8TDqZrI/AAAAAAAAGe4/xjT5LeQPSvI/s1600-h/IMG_30983.jpg"><img title="IMG_3098" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" height="380" alt="IMG_3098" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TK_Z9GSnDUI/AAAAAAAAGe8/AeUfuZu6mqE/IMG_3098_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" border="0" /></a></p> <p>I sanded the metal lightly too so that my spray paint would stick better. See the ink blot (or some kinda stain) on the front edge of the wood? It didn’t come out completely after I sanded, but I like that. Gives it some charm.  </p> <p>The little manufacturer’s seal says “American Seating Co., Grand Rapids, Mich.” in the outer circle. In the middle it says “Envoy- Made in the U.S.A.”</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TK_Z9h0XhoI/AAAAAAAAGfA/A5TsAeeg2bY/s1600-h/IMG_30993.jpg"><img title="IMG_3099" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" height="380" alt="IMG_3099" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TK_Z-PPA9KI/AAAAAAAAGfE/AvP5fZ_flbE/IMG_3099_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" border="0" /></a></p> <p>That skinnier bar across the back moves back & forth slightly to mold to your back a little better. </p> <p><font color="#333333"></font><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TK_Z_MpOC9I/AAAAAAAAGfI/EmYh_fXTuuU/s1600-h/IMG_31022.jpg"><img title="IMG_3102" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" height="260" alt="IMG_3102" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TK_Z_kETqFI/AAAAAAAAGfM/2UWYenkSLB0/IMG_3102_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I didn’t take pictures of the whole sanding, priming, & painting process but here’s the <em>semi</em>-finished product. It’s a candy apple red. Fits the school theme, don’t ya think? Since this picture was taken, I’ve stained the wood with a natural stain. It looks like the same color wood as in this pic, just a little brighter. </p> <p><img title="IMG_3236" style="border-top-width: 0px; display: block; border-left-width: 0px; float: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-right-width: 0px" height="380" alt="IMG_3236" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TK_aAMTf2uI/AAAAAAAAGfQ/xubRx-cFmkU/IMG_3236_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" border="0" /> </p> <p>I can’t wait to find a spot for it in our new house! </p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-35764038389939944252010-09-26T19:55:00.001-05:002010-09-26T20:09:30.573-05:00A Little at a Time<p>Since it's been so long since I've written to y'all and I have about a million (exaggerating) pictures on my computer that I want to share, I figured I would just pick a photo album from my files and blog about it. Knowing me & my tendency toward OCD (I don't actually have the disorder...at least I don't think I do) I'll probably go in chronological order. And no, I won't blog them all in one post. That would be a little much for you <em>and</em> me!</p> <p> <br />First up is the going away party that my parents threw us before we left Louisiana in March. Several of our closest friends came to bid us adieu and we had a great time visiting with them all! A few weeks after the party, we and all our worldly goods relocated to the great state of Tennessee. East Tennessee to be <em>almost</em> exact.</p> <p>Food, family, & friends…all crowded in the kitchen. I love that!!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rPFmyhbI/AAAAAAAAFjQ/VEZ8rnmhwhY/s1600-h/IMG_2985%5B11%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2985" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="260" alt="IMG_2985" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rPvcXacI/AAAAAAAAFjY/FtYE0uabhtE/IMG_2985_thumb%5B9%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" border="0" /></a></p> <p>Kids playin’ in the floor </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rQZUQFgI/AAAAAAAAFjc/TRhGFJHatAo/s1600-h/IMG_2990%5B5%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2990" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="260" alt="IMG_2990" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rQzz9pjI/AAAAAAAAFjg/dTaeMNMiFkw/IMG_2990_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" border="0" /></a></p> <p> Some of the greatest friends in the world, Jarred, Katherine, & their sweet girl, Brynleigh</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rR_gBNgI/AAAAAAAAFjk/ugZ_mgm-PdA/s1600-h/IMG_2996%5B8%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2996" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="260" alt="IMG_2996" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_ukIkh-kI/AAAAAAAAFj0/YA_hOLW6SRA/IMG_2996_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" border="0" /></a></p> <p>Our long-time next-door neighbors & wonderful friends, Jackie & Grace </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rTH1YIQI/AAAAAAAAFj4/3BhwRTYOV58/s1600-h/IMG_2997%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2997" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="260" alt="IMG_2997" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rT-vCQLI/AAAAAAAAFj8/JKpgAn_teqo/IMG_2997_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Our buddy, Jerome (an Air Force friend of Nathan’s) holding Paula’s little boy Duncan</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rUk9e33I/AAAAAAAAFkE/SDCsechXT3A/s1600-h/IMG_2998%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_2998" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="260" alt="IMG_2998" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rVAyZCdI/AAAAAAAAFkM/oc2svnfZHwE/IMG_2998_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" border="0" /></a></p> <p>The sweetest woman in the universe, Mrs. Ruth, & her sweet granddaughter, Baylor </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rV8qUP9I/AAAAAAAAFkY/hRiK3_FsjpA/s1600-h/IMG_3005%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3005" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="380" alt="IMG_3005" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rWT7XFrI/AAAAAAAAFkg/B9MFf86AYPA/IMG_3005_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" border="0" /></a></p> <p>Friends that are more like family, (L to R) Nathan, me holding Martha’s baby, Baylor, Martha holding Boston, Mrs. Ruth, Amy, & her new husband, Mikey  </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rXF0SqfI/AAAAAAAAFko/FuO1lRsdfb4/s1600-h/IMG_3009%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3009" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="260" alt="IMG_3009" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rX6tlGcI/AAAAAAAAFkw/aeKKf4ZC6RA/IMG_3009_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" border="0" /></a></p> <p>Un-posed shot! Love it! </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rYg6PSAI/AAAAAAAAFk0/zrKgCKrDah8/s1600-h/IMG_3010%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3010" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="260" alt="IMG_3010" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rZaQmgrI/AAAAAAAAFk8/kWEaEh7WnPA/IMG_3010_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>Paula, Duncan, & me! One of my closest friends, sure do miss her!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rZ39BEAI/AAAAAAAAFlA/sWdRfjyFiVM/s1600-h/IMG_3014%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3014" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="380" alt="IMG_3014" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_racHdvFI/AAAAAAAAFlM/QvU8klB_RE0/IMG_3014_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" border="0" /></a></p> <p>The two of us with Paula & Duncan </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rbVjNMUI/AAAAAAAAFlU/h2IJCS8qRgY/s1600-h/IMG_3015%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3015" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="260" alt="IMG_3015" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rb7E9pLI/AAAAAAAAFlc/3tOoZviiry0/IMG_3015_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" border="0" /></a></p> <p>Nathan & Duncan…buddies! Don’t they look cute?! </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rcSQWwVI/AAAAAAAAFlg/wsVF_UVhQFw/s1600-h/IMG_3016%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3016" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="380" alt="IMG_3016" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rc_Ro7MI/AAAAAAAAFlk/2rmKWxbTcsQ/IMG_3016_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" border="0" /></a></p> <p>Mama with Baylor. She loves the little ones!!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rdp2RhdI/AAAAAAAAFlo/jPVXOnrTAWw/s1600-h/IMG_3018%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3018" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="380" alt="IMG_3018" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_reN0SFaI/AAAAAAAAFl8/qMNhR8l10eQ/IMG_3018_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" border="0" /></a> </p> <p>I wish I could remember what we were talkin’ about. It looks like it was hilarious! If Paula’s telling the story, it usually is!!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_re9sDmoI/AAAAAAAAFmI/nXKuLjvBHRY/s1600-h/IMG_3019%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3019" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="260" alt="IMG_3019" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rfQmYj8I/AAAAAAAAFmM/DGn_jthg8V4/IMG_3019_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" border="0" /></a></p> <p>My Daddy & Baylor. This is my absolute favorite pic of the night. So sweet! </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rgPJwhOI/AAAAAAAAFmc/LTO7hL72_PI/s1600-h/IMG_3021%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3021" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="380" alt="IMG_3021" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rg9PDhLI/AAAAAAAAFmk/i7psAseftd4/IMG_3021_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="260" border="0" /></a></p> <p>I found an old film camera (that had no film in it) & I thought Duncan might like to play with it. I was right! He kept blinding us all with the flash! Ha ha! </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rhiaY53I/AAAAAAAAFmo/NPxCHaGwuj8/s1600-h/IMG_3023%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3023" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="260" alt="IMG_3023" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_riGq9WCI/AAAAAAAAFm0/86gAztypK4c/IMG_3023_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" border="0" /></a></p> <p>Our sweet friend, Linda.  She’d do anything for her friends….including driving hundreds of miles so my Mom could see her mom & me!! You’re the best!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rjMqNLXI/AAAAAAAAFm4/JCNRHDCoQNQ/s1600-h/IMG_3024%5B4%5D.jpg"><img title="IMG_3024" style="border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-bottom: 0px" height="260" alt="IMG_3024" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/TJ_rjr829NI/AAAAAAAAFm8/qlOG8eRGZow/IMG_3024_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="380" border="0" /></a></p> <p>All of these people have been & are such a huge part of our lives. We have so many memories wrapped up in each one of you and with others that we didn’t get to photograph. I’m so grateful for the friends that became our family over the years! I miss you all so much and can’t wait to see you again! Much love to you all!</p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-1049071968865838342010-05-05T01:07:00.002-05:002010-05-05T01:25:43.178-05:00ReminiscingSo, I've been looking back over several of my earlier posts and it's made me quite sentimental. Also, I really wish I'd had my "good" camera back when I first started this blog. The little mouse ornament I made would've benefited from it <i>so much</i>!! I can't believe how bad the lighting is in most of my old pictures! And I was always so satisfied with myself for playing around with my little Nikon point and shoot to get just the right settings. Ha! Shows how much I knew. <div><br /></div><div>Don't get me wrong, that camera gave me tons of great pictures. It's just that the lighting in my old house was horrible, especially if the sun wasn't shining. </div><div><br /></div><div>Nevertheless, there have been several changes in my life since I last wrote to y'all, many moons ago. My husband graduated cum laude (only one in his program) with a Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering Technology. I quit my job as a newborn nursery/post-partum nurse. We MOVED to Tennessee (which is why I quit my job)!! My hubby started a very promising new job at a company much like the one he was working for in Louisiana. And now, we are living in my in-laws' basement until our house back home sells. I am job-hunting, although I haven't been hitting the applications too hard, until recently anyway. I've now reached the point where I'm over the whole "I don't have to go to work, I can do whatever I want" phase and on to the "I don't have to go to work but I'm bored out of my ever-lovin' mind" phase. Ha! </div><div><br /></div><div>I have a few promising avenues that I'm praying about but nothing definite yet. I just know that I do NOT want to go back to the 12 hour shift, every-other-weekend, whatever-holiday-they-decide-you-should-work routine. So we'll see where God places me. I'm looking forward to what He has in store for our future! </div><div><br /></div><div>Y'all have a great day!! </div>Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-61362295203052880002009-10-03T23:34:00.001-05:002009-10-03T23:34:46.074-05:00Georgia on my mind<p>At the beginning of September, my parents, Nathan, and I took a little trip down to Georgia to see my grandmother. Go-Go, as she's known to me and my sis. It was the first time I'd gotten to see her since my sister, Laura's, wedding 2 years ago and it was a much overdue trip. She's had a rough go of it since my grandpa died a few years ago. She owns a florist shop and business isn't all that great right now. I guess with the economy in the dumps, people are cutting back on frivolities like fresh flower arrangements. </p> <p>She also had a scare last year when she blacked out in the parking lot of a store and banged her head up pretty bad. To top it off, she later had to have back surgery and my mom went over to stay with her for about 5 weeks while she recovered. </p> <p>Now, I'm glad to say that her many doctors have given her a clean bill of health as far as the major organs go. Still, I hate the thought of her being so far away and living all alone. Given all of the above, it was so good to get to spend a little time with my spunky grandma. </p> <p>Oh yes, she may live alone, but she is far from being pitiful. She is still sharp as a tack and witty, too. Can't get much by that one! </p> <p>While we were there, we ate at a few new-to-us restaurants like Red Robin Cafe (gourmet hamburger joint) and Panera Bread Co. Oh, how I wish we would get a Panera here!! It was so good! We also went down to the River Walk area of downtown. It's so pretty and peaceful. There is a really nice, brick walk-way along the river and it's lit by the lamps you see in the picture below. There's an old mill at the edge of the waterfall that has an antique-y charm. The downtown area was once booming with textile mills and was called Milltown...original, ay?</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsglqUMPDiI/AAAAAAAACxE/PlJc6xs5ioU/s1600-h/IMG_2337%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2337" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Ssglq-6GAwI/AAAAAAAACxI/p42nJrnxO18/IMG_2337_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a></p> <p>The other side of the river is actually Alabama!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsglrhPzF7I/AAAAAAAACxM/JZz8NuaK7qw/s1600-h/IMG_2332%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2332" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsglsHy5i8I/AAAAAAAACxQ/OOXSH6RO88k/IMG_2332_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>We had to take a few face shots as well. My honey has his binoculars around his neck so he could see what the guys on the other side of the river were catchin'. Ha!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsglsrOzWDI/AAAAAAAACxU/AhWcjfl866Y/s1600-h/IMG_2343%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2343" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsgltK0TmgI/AAAAAAAACxY/jLRcoBNQUY0/IMG_2343_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a></p> <p>Go-Go, Daddy, and Nathan</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsgltuzVeyI/AAAAAAAACxc/fVRaVR_ig-M/s1600-h/IMG_2346%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2346" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsgluEjR1dI/AAAAAAAACxg/R_qTULjgwEE/IMG_2346_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>3 generations!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Ssglu_0zVTI/AAAAAAAACxk/8XIE8-_U5AE/s1600-h/IMG_2350%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2350" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Ssglvd4wIEI/AAAAAAAACxo/caaKErfpOAg/IMG_2350_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>A pretty fountain</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsglwL5BauI/AAAAAAAACxs/ZL1kVClrXBQ/s1600-h/IMG_2370%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2370" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsglwvSPeTI/AAAAAAAACxw/UXOQmyHG-Zc/IMG_2370_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>I liked the orange of the sign against the old architecture of this church.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsglxIfWplI/AAAAAAAACx0/Y3pQ6g3sliw/s1600-h/IMG_2373%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2373" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Ssglxsn6EXI/AAAAAAAACx4/jxR8Zz5Sz0c/IMG_2373_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>We took a drive up to Callaway Gardens one afternoon just before sunset. There's a look-out point and country store that serves really yummy food!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsglyNw5EAI/AAAAAAAACx8/Z3PxpHri5WE/s1600-h/IMG_2390%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2390" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsglypJCF4I/AAAAAAAACyA/9V0XbtXiAME/IMG_2390_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>Mama and Go-Go waiting patiently on the rest of us to finish looking at the look-out point! </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsglzHRCWcI/AAAAAAAACyE/3TD_kRwPNR0/s1600-h/IMG_2393%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2393" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SsglzlmmA2I/AAAAAAAACyI/g1UTbGHGKHM/IMG_2393_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>Pretty flowers at the entrance to the country store</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Ssgl0dstbMI/AAAAAAAACyM/5C2QkVdcRmw/s1600-h/IMG_2396%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2396" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Ssgl1IQ6IcI/AAAAAAAACyQ/39awfpPwx_k/IMG_2396_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>Everybody heading in for some dessert!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Ssgl1hXu2VI/AAAAAAAACyU/OMi0w5IsM-8/s1600-h/IMG_2395%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2395" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Ssgl2Xnf0LI/AAAAAAAACyY/oZO6Ey7ZldQ/IMG_2395_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>It was so homey inside! We got there a little before they closed so I didn't have near enough time to look at everything! No, Laura, I didn't get to read the labels on every jar and book, much to my chagrin!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Ssgl3JYFHxI/AAAAAAAACyc/p0zbpGrx1fQ/s1600-h/IMG_2401%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2401" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Ssgl3gQFIWI/AAAAAAAACyg/ycFQ4VGKxF0/IMG_2401_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Ssgl4iuAg2I/AAAAAAAACyo/qQBI2f03qPM/s1600-h/IMG_2402%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2402" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Ssgl5RMHPxI/AAAAAAAACys/G7uo1BwQr7Q/IMG_2402_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>And that's only one side of the store! I had to put the camera away & eat my apple dumpling before they closed up shop and booted us out! </p> <p>Our visit was way too short, as always, but it was so good to spend some time with my Go-Go. Hopefully, the next visit won't be so far away!! </p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-26556095683770562962009-05-28T01:22:00.001-05:002009-05-28T01:22:11.552-05:00I have worms in my fridge<p>See them? There amongst the leftover Capri Sun & Honey Buns from our camping trip this weekend...</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Sh4ti_dKYaI/AAAAAAAACpQ/LIHwCE2hdZk/s1600-h/IMG_2192%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2192" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Sh4tjQbILNI/AAAAAAAACpU/pFVB_QMq6dE/IMG_2192_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a></p> <p>This is so wrong. Please forgive me, Mama! But my man must have fresh worms for reelin' in those big beauties!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Sh4tj8r9GvI/AAAAAAAACpY/J94af6HMAiU/s1600-h/IMG_2201%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2201" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Sh4tkex9G5I/AAAAAAAACpc/WV1TYheCCkw/IMG_2201_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>Ick! Let's keep the lid on shall we? Hey Honey...don't you wanna go drown some worms? Please??!!</p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-68733663558643736252009-05-19T17:02:00.001-05:002009-05-19T17:04:20.017-05:002 Years of the best Blessing ever!<p>On this day 2 years ago, I married the sweetest cutie pie ever. Around this time, my bridesmaids and I were in an upstairs room of the church getting dressed and putting finishing touches on our makeup. I can't believe it's already been 2 years!! It's absolutely flown by! In honor of this momentous day in mine and my hubby's life, I thought I'd post some favorite shots from our special day. I hope you enjoy!</p> <p>Me & my bridesmaids eating at Strawn's before going to the salon for hair & makeup. All of us are <em>sans</em> makeup! </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsI610WDI/AAAAAAAACks/lLSYFlGfkkc/s1600-h/DSCN0455_1%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN0455_1" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsJT6-R8I/AAAAAAAACkw/vun0GnNajVA/DSCN0455_1_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>Hair in progress and seeing my bouquet for the first time! Daddy & his brother, Greg, in the background</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsKFTBkAI/AAAAAAAACk0/abL6GDt6bHU/s1600-h/DSCN0468_1%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN0468_1" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsKkPHK1I/AAAAAAAACk4/gh749tudnqY/DSCN0468_1_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>Hair and makeup is done! Now on to the church!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsLCMYgjI/AAAAAAAACk8/AHV_Wag_8xQ/s1600-h/DSCN0510_1%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSCN0510_1" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsL4G9cHI/AAAAAAAAClA/9ZFkDVFVNzI/DSCN0510_1_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>Me and my sis with our Dad</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsMljQttI/AAAAAAAAClE/vxe5VNEmSG8/s1600-h/DSC_0145%5B12%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC_0145" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsM4hgy0I/AAAAAAAAClI/QwJi4qlzy3U/DSC_0145_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>Me with Mama</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsNdwsRmI/AAAAAAAAClM/LazLALpA2xk/s1600-h/DSC_0149%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC_0149" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsONxht8I/AAAAAAAAClQ/C1G7ZoylX9M/DSC_0149_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>My goofy bridesmaids (Katherine does not have to go to the bathroom--she was just showing off her pregnant belly!)</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsO6QlCeI/AAAAAAAAClU/G72ECyICstE/s1600-h/DSC_0160%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC_0160" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsPTvkpII/AAAAAAAAClY/OqFutC6jSjE/DSC_0160_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>the stage setting</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsQJI_eiI/AAAAAAAAClc/ySzf4zoI-n4/s1600-h/DSC_0169%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC_0169" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsQvileoI/AAAAAAAAClg/ojkDLo9G6Zs/DSC_0169_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>walking down the aisle</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsQz4sEDI/AAAAAAAAClk/XadaqWrVENQ/s1600-h/DSC_0199%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC_0199" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsRdUmfqI/AAAAAAAAClo/22v_PcETHsY/DSC_0199_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>I love this shot!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsR1zeRVI/AAAAAAAACls/YVAvwc4Qp-Y/s1600-h/DSC_0198%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC_0198" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsS2GQddI/AAAAAAAAClw/LRzyGNKYuUM/DSC_0198_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>Our ring-bearer :)</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsTX4MjlI/AAAAAAAACl0/y7hSelGuE4Q/s1600-h/DSC_0193%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC_0193" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsTjv6VoI/AAAAAAAACl4/_GM3C1IIWiI/DSC_0193_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>saying our vows</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsUQJuzDI/AAAAAAAACl8/LIdwVWZZH6k/s1600-h/DSC_0237%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="DSC_0237" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsU5uVbGI/AAAAAAAACmA/lsnBIgMcHXg/DSC_0237_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>having fun at the reception (which was on the veranda of a Barbecue restaurant!)</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsVUeL3II/AAAAAAAACmE/P11OoDtrwKQ/s1600-h/BLAIR0524%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="BLAIR0524" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsV8PUN6I/AAAAAAAACmI/EB4MkhWe9bQ/BLAIR0524_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>about to get my garter yanked ;)</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsWdJHEAI/AAAAAAAACmM/YbvzraGjtCM/s1600-h/BLAIR491%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="BLAIR491" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsW-oO3aI/AAAAAAAACmQ/7Upqu5tH94U/BLAIR491_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a></p> <p>throwing the bouquet...Nathan's sis, Courtney (in black & white) caught it!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsXZVmS4I/AAAAAAAACmU/LB6iY9KmLkU/s1600-h/BLAIR0496%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="BLAIR0496" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsX1thqpI/AAAAAAAACmY/L_sw457JV8A/BLAIR0496_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>our First Dance (please excuse the liquor banner in the background, that was an uh-oh on the restaurant's part!)</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsYXKzZoI/AAAAAAAACmc/GK0adlas9vQ/s1600-h/BLAIR498%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="BLAIR498" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsYshiKiI/AAAAAAAACmg/GsFNtVcL03k/BLAIR498_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>walking in the field behind the restaurant...one of my favorites!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsZNtWO2I/AAAAAAAACmk/891jgRvlJMk/s1600-h/blairaart%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="blairaart" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsZoyXjFI/AAAAAAAACmo/tlCZ9cSxFKA/blairaart_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>leaving the reception</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsaIPs4UI/AAAAAAAACms/dtmlBGs-8m4/s1600-h/BLAIR545%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="BLAIR545" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsasVX6OI/AAAAAAAACmw/uwsf-RRQydg/BLAIR545_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>one last shot with friends who are more like family!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsbH0xtxI/AAAAAAAACm0/cyfzyfNE218/s1600-h/BLAIR0549%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="BLAIR0549" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShMsbgFw0jI/AAAAAAAACm4/Lw8HK2i3sZc/BLAIR0549_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>We had such a beautiful and fun wedding! Thank you to all our friends who helped out so much! Nathan, I love you forever!!</p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-4651507992680321282009-05-18T11:43:00.001-05:002009-05-18T11:54:00.128-05:00My Birthday Boy<p>Last Thursday, May 14, Nathan turned 27! He's as old as me now!! A fact that he does <strong>not</strong> like and frequently reminds me that I'll always be older than him, even if it is only by <em>9 months</em>! Ha!</p> <p>We had a very low-key celebration since it was a Thursday and Nathan had school that afternoon in Ruston. I cooked supper and a chocolate Butterfinger cake and we had our good friends P & K over to eat with us. </p> <p>Before we ate, Nathan opened his cards from family and his gift from me. He's intently reading some sweet sentiments...</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShGRtRVjOLI/AAAAAAAACis/WfL6mYx3iTE/s1600-h/IMG_2126%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2126" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShGQGM2VKLI/AAAAAAAACiw/fEUkmED5pUg/IMG_2126_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>Nathan requested to eat his dinner on the "Red Plate." It was a wedding gift from some friends of Nathan's dad. It came with a marker to write each special occasion on the back. I think a birthday qualifies as a special occasion, don't you?</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShGQG-jxuYI/AAAAAAAACi0/qb16lSuayg4/s1600-h/IMG_2128%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2128" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShGQHAwSv8I/AAAAAAAACjA/6Q4jBnE2pys/IMG_2128_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>After dinner, I pulled the cake out of the fridge... It's iced with Cool Whip and has crushed Butterfinger bars on top <em>and</em> between the layers. Not to mention the Sweetened Condensed milk and caramel ice cream topping that's mixed together and poured all over it. Yum! </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShGQH9TthsI/AAAAAAAACjE/31P7o0WUBQM/s1600-h/IMG_2134%5B7%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2134" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShGQIYzuTUI/AAAAAAAACjM/Fk-a3P-1hCw/IMG_2134_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="240"></a> </p> <p>I had bought some fun, crazy candles for my sweetie. We put on all 27 and lit 'em up!!! It was so pretty, but the candles melted so fast! We had to hurry BIG TIME! </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShGQI5KiPsI/AAAAAAAACjY/JW5ZshF2tYA/s1600-h/IMG_2136%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2136" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShGQJTMeWZI/AAAAAAAACjc/q698FsOz3wc/IMG_2136_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>Nathan turned 27 in a blaze of glory!! At least on the cake anyway! Happy Birthday, Babe! I love you!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShGQJ2vwToI/AAAAAAAACjg/RwWiJuTF40g/s1600-h/IMG_2137%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2137" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/ShGQKYQhOpI/AAAAAAAACjw/O6jdaIh1IiA/IMG_2137_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a></p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-65658375744895291682009-05-08T18:24:00.001-05:002009-05-08T18:24:46.303-05:00Polka Dots make me happy<p>A recent trip to Lowe's got me all excited about a new project idea. Rows and rows of gorgeous flowers had my heart beating fast. Then I saw the section overflowing with sweet potato vine. I've wanted some of this forever but never got any because it can get out of control and go <em>everywhere</em>. We already have some ivy that goes its own way no matter how much we try to tame it! </p> <p>But, that day, when I laid my eyes on that bright green vine it called to me. Begged me to take it home. So, I gave in. I even had the perfect spot picked out for it in my mind...it would brighten up that little bare spot in the front window box so well. I knew I would need to attempt to contain it, though, and that's when the idea hit me. </p> <p>Why not paint up a pot all cute? With a little spray paint action I could have it done in no time. Thus, the Polka Dot Pot was born!</p> <p>I got the 14" terra cotta pot and spray paint at Wal-Mart because, hey, it's cheaper than Lowe's!! Don't hate.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_EFtTSKI/AAAAAAAACes/QJksrl3So2c/s1600-h/IMG_2061%5B10%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2061" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_Ep6gyNI/AAAAAAAACew/l8RGK9oaFYk/IMG_2061_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>It took several coats of primer to get good coverage. That terra cotta soaks up paint like no tomorrow! Oh, and if you're gonna spray paint something, you have GOT to get one of these little trigger thingies. I learned that lesson after I couldn't feel my fingertip for 2 weeks the first time I sprayed something. True story. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_FBH7JtI/AAAAAAAACe0/va97dA69N14/s1600-h/IMG_2064%5B9%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2064" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_F5ZwWjI/AAAAAAAACe4/475brorkhCE/IMG_2064_thumb%5B7%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>I made a polka dot template using my handy quilting mat (for the grid it provided) and used acrylic gloss paint for the dots. It says it's for indoor/outdoor use. We'll see how well it holds up...</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_GG0ilLI/AAAAAAAACe8/vBbTijq4zms/s1600-h/IMG_2067%5B7%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2067" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_GyqThhI/AAAAAAAACfA/3tfdFymUv5Y/IMG_2067_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>Traced my dots using a white paint pen (which was hard to find, by the way). My dots are a little wonky because the pot is curved and my pattern was, um, straight. Now I know for next time, right?</p> <p>I almost forgot to tell you! I picked out this blue paint because I thought the bright green of the vine would look amazing against the blue. And I got it in a glossy sheen because, <em>duh</em>, I love shiny stuff! However, I think I had to do like 20 million coats before you could even tell that it was glossy. Remember how I said the terra cotta soaks up paint? Yeah.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_HfvkfHI/AAAAAAAACfE/q6F1A0a2I-o/s1600-h/IMG_2071%5B18%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2071" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_IGtkh4I/AAAAAAAACfI/3Xdzxs7KB2A/IMG_2071_thumb%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>I filled in my dots with 2 coats of the glossy acrylic, let it dry overnight, and then hauled it outside for a little sealer action. 3 coats of High Gloss spray sealer later, and we were in business. Well, after it dried anyway. </p> <p>**this stool gets the pleasure of supporting most of my painting projects, hence the weird markings. :)</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_I0bXo9I/AAAAAAAACfM/uWYKOjmeYts/s1600-h/IMG_2077%5B10%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2077" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_JQz5A2I/AAAAAAAACfQ/Io_5_zxGywI/IMG_2077_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>Add some Miracle Gro potting soil, the sweet potato vine, and a <a href="http://houseplants.suite101.com/article.cfm/kalanchoe_plant_care" target="_blank">kalanchoe</a>, and voila! You've got yourself a bright little garden jewel! </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_J2hwD_I/AAAAAAAACfU/lYqPCOOGRtA/s1600-h/IMG_2078%5B9%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2078" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_KjoG48I/AAAAAAAACfY/6yhF3QDCMkM/IMG_2078_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_LBKiIKI/AAAAAAAACfc/en0VUunbnzM/s1600-h/IMG_2084%5B8%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2084" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_L0r3mII/AAAAAAAACfg/ghslj7milsU/IMG_2084_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>The kalanchoe is part of the succulent family. I can't wait 'til it's blooms open up!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_MfbWKnI/AAAAAAAACfk/k7AS1fRlQ80/s1600-h/IMG_2081%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2081" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_MmmVcJI/AAAAAAAACfo/XybG82fOG4Y/IMG_2081_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>I love this shot of our window box. Feels like I have my own little cottage garden! I really need to cut that silverleaf back though.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_NSdmFHI/AAAAAAAACfs/AWuVAFxX01M/s1600-h/IMG_2085%5B10%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2085" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_N7xO4VI/AAAAAAAACfw/lTquj6xYpBc/IMG_2085_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>Nathan has had this rose bush for years. It's so pretty and is loaded with blooms every year. Smells divine!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_Oq6JHAI/AAAAAAAACf0/e8n4TmnAzJ0/s1600-h/IMG_2102%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2102" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SgS_PahX1AI/AAAAAAAACf8/UHd9OoA-mLU/IMG_2102_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="360"></a> </p> <p>Have a great day, everybody!</p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-87368278940789761512009-05-04T12:51:00.001-05:002009-05-04T13:00:03.389-05:00Saved by the blood, washed in the water<p>On Easter Sunday, Nathan made the decision that he needed to be baptized. He had been studying all week in preparation for leading our Small Group in our study of Malachi. While studying, he had been reading about the temple priests who were doing the Lord's work with blemished hearts and motives. The Lord was angry with the priests for giving Him their second-best offerings and for not leading the people to serve the Lord with sincerity. Take a look at Malachi if you've never read it. The study of it has shown me just how easy it is to let myself become lazy with my service to the Lord!</p> <p>After leading our small group, Nathan and I went down and participated in a wonderful service. Our good friends, K & P, had come to join us and our pastor, Bro. Scott, spoke about our Lord's death on the cross to pay for our sins. He spoke about the hope that we Christians have while walking this life because of Christ. When the time came for the altar call, Bro. Scott invited anyone that felt the need, to come down to the front and pray. Nathan headed down there, and later told me that he just felt like he had to go. He said that while he was praying, he remembered all the things he had learned while studying for class. And he felt that if he hadn't obeyed God by doing the one thing He asks us to do after accepting Him as our Savior (being baptized), then he was no better than those priests in Malachi!</p> <p>A little background here: Nathan had accepted the Lord as his Savior while at a summer camp when he was a kid, but had no real discipleship or spiritual guidance at home. So, he grew up remembering the Lord kind of in the back of his mind until he joined the Air Force and moved here to Louisiana. He was never baptized after initially accepting Christ. After he had been here in La for a few years, Franklin Graham (Billy Graham's son), brought his ministry here for a Revival event at our local arena. Nathan, myself, my sister, and several of our friends all attended together. After a simple message from Franklin, there was an altar call. Nathan says he felt the draw to go down and recommit his life to the Lord and <em>really</em> start following Him, but he was hesitant. Fortunately, he whispered this hesitancy to my sister, and being the outgoing girl she is, she said, "Well, go on, and I'll go with you!" So down they went, and Nathan rededicated his life to the Lord. </p> <p>Well, shortly after that experience, Nathan was deployed to Diego Garcia with the Air Force and, again, the opportunity for baptism slipped away. Life went on and a few years passed. Nathan would occasionally mention that he would like to be baptized, but I suppose it really wasn't in the forefront of either of our minds. Until Easter Sunday, 2009. That's when Nathan decided that the time had come. So, the arrangements were made, and the day for his baptism was set. </p> <p>April 26, 2009, 11:00 a.m. service! </p> <p>My parents were there along with several of our friends (even a few watching on TV screens in the nursery!) to be witnesses to Nathan's obedience and to covenant to pray for him in his walk with the Lord. Of course, I was able to get a few pictures of his special day!</p> <p>This is Bro. Scott pointing out all the friends and family that were standing in the audience to support him! (Bro. Scott asks friends & family to stand during baptism so that the one up there in the dunking booth can see just how many people are promising to encourage & pray for them). </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Sf8q_TJzTjI/AAAAAAAACds/mTVsFUfFlRY/s1600-h/IMG_2028%5B18%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2028" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Sf8q_vzy7qI/AAAAAAAACdw/SIbWG0Y46X8/IMG_2028_thumb%5B16%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="271"></a></p> <p> Bro. Scott explaining the ordinance of baptism. Nathan is about to be washed in the water! With this act, he's publicly declaring that he has decided to follow Christ and that his old self is being buried (lowered into the water) and he is rising a new creation (coming up out of the water) to live a new life in Him. Praise God!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Sf8rAXQkiTI/AAAAAAAACd0/BiAfCkx7kVc/s1600-h/IMG_2029%5B8%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2029" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/Sf8rBHO9cOI/AAAAAAAACd4/5okn84J6A8Q/IMG_2029_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="360" height="271"></a> </p> <p>Congratulations, Honey! I'm so proud of you!</p> <p>Note: If you'd like to know more about what baptism is all about, you can click <a href="http://www.baptisthistory.org/pamphlets/baptism.htm" target="_blank">here</a> or <a href="http://www.sovgrace.net/baptism.htm" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-81289766425634895742009-04-24T18:37:00.001-05:002009-04-24T18:43:43.327-05:00Better late than never. Right?<p>My friend, Destiny, was so sweet and gave me an award! It's been a few weeks since she asked me to pick it up at her blog, but I'm nothing if not a procrastinator. Also, the nature of the award had me wanting to be able to showcase some type of crafty goodness when I told y'all about the award, but alas, my only project since Christmas is very small and more importantly, <em>not done</em>. So, I decided that if I waited to post about this fun award until I had something to show for it, I would never get around to it. How's that for logic? </p> <p>Thank you so much for your thoughtfulness, Destiny! Please accept my apologies for not putting it on here before now!</p> <blockquote> <p> <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNL-XN6FI/AAAAAAAACZk/vic_iB1p79M/s1600-h/kreativ%20award%5B8%5D.jpg"> <img border="0" alt="kreativ award" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNMveR9KI/AAAAAAAACZo/G2qGcj0mp4I/kreativ%20award_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="186" height="186"></a> </p></blockquote> <p>The rules of the award state that I should list 7 things that I love and then pass it on to 7 deserving bloggers. Obviously, I love my family, God, and my sugar-pie husband so instead of getting really deep or serious, I thought I'd do a picture list of things that make me smile. </p> <p>1. Our sweet puppy, Buster</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNNCimoMI/AAAAAAAACZs/qyh55zBfTvE/s1600-h/IMG_0569%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_0569" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNNgN3lhI/AAAAAAAACZw/kyh_7Mfluzs/IMG_0569_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="160"></a> </p> <p>2. The robin's nest on our back porch. She built it and then abandoned it (maybe she's camera shy?) but I loved watching her work!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNOR59mmI/AAAAAAAACZ0/PT9gMvVc2TU/s1600-h/IMG_1804%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1804" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNO-EsguI/AAAAAAAACZ4/zaHlpe9LVR0/IMG_1804_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="160"></a> </p> <p>3. The pretty pinwheel I got from Hobby Lobby. Look closely and you might be able to see rain drops falling!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNPjJp4ZI/AAAAAAAACZ8/tNggTefIf8g/s1600-h/IMG_1755%5B7%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1755" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNQBn3O2I/AAAAAAAACaA/BUUKHAGg2Ws/IMG_1755_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="160"></a> </p> <p>4. The amaryllis in our backyard garden. It's gorgeous!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNQ1aZ5QI/AAAAAAAACaE/_5_cWz6Trrw/s1600-h/IMG_1961%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1961" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNSLpeb-I/AAAAAAAACaI/pUKAt78s50c/IMG_1961_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" height="160"></a> </p> <p>5. The Martha Stewart Everyday collection soap dispenser that I got for <em>5 bucks</em> at K-Mart. I was so excited 'cause those things are usually like $10 or$12! Why that is, I have no idea...</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNSltrOcI/AAAAAAAACaM/OeH_ewBmlAk/s1600-h/IMG_1977%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1977" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNTD7d-BI/AAAAAAAACaQ/TnAAzLnEhvA/IMG_1977_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="160" height="240"></a> </p> <p>6. The bird feeder on the back porch. I love watching the little birdies out the bathroom & kitchen windows. They're greedy though, I just filled that sucker up 2 days ago!! </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNTqwhOJI/AAAAAAAACaU/D-ElfC1zT_U/s1600-h/IMG_1973%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1973" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNUKK1oLI/AAAAAAAACaY/QuUwC74HN6c/IMG_1973_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="160" height="240"></a> </p> <p>7. Ladies, this stuff is AWESOME!! Nathan even loves it! Click on the picture so you can read the name of it and then go getcha some! It has little scrubby beads in it, and when you rub it between your hands to lather, it instantly warms up! So yummy! Feels like a miniature spa visit, right in your own shower. Oh, and it really makes my acne scars look smoother, too! Yes, Aveeno, you're welcome for the free product endorsement. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNUjatezI/AAAAAAAACac/CODlpyYG3kM/s1600-h/IMG_1983%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_1983" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SfJNVRI8QnI/AAAAAAAACag/pvnyn_OltY0/IMG_1983_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="160" height="240"></a> </p> <p>Okay, now I'm supposed to pass this on to 7 Kreativ bloggers. Here goes...</p> <p>1. <a href="http://militarywifeproudly.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Laura (my little sis)</a> </p> <p>2. <a href="http://polkadotsandpaisleysembroidery.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Martha</a></p> <p>3. <a href="http://lullabiesandlacecrochet.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Anna</a></p> <p>4. <a href="http://reflectionsbysharron.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sharron</a></p> <p>5. <a href="http://davidjessicamccash.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jessica</a></p> <p>6. <a href="http://zackamyzayde.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Amy</a></p> <p>7. <a href="http://brinoahslittleworld.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Carrie</a></p> <p>Come and get 'em, girls! :)</p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-70575657583163808612009-02-19T12:57:00.002-06:002009-02-19T13:10:46.431-06:00If it hadn't been for the cold, we might've done some good<p>Several weekends ago (the day of Jessica's visitation for my local buds), Nathan and I woke up really early and headed out to a fishin' hole that he'd heard was really hot. As in, the fish were biting really well, because it was definitely <em>not</em> hot outside! It was super cold and we both had on ski masks and hunting jumpsuits. It was definitely not my best fashion moment but to be honest, I didn't even care! I was <em>COLD</em>, y'all. Even with all my garb on, the ride out to our destination was mind-numbing. Seriously, you know how when you eat ice cream too fast, you get brain freeze? That's what my poor forehead felt like the whole ride there. Like a million tiny ice picks all flying at my skin at the same time. That wind cut right through the dinky little ski mask I was wearing. And don't even get me started on the hunting gloves of Nathan's that I was wearing. Ha! </p><p>Once we got there and got set up, the wind wasn't so bad. It was blowing just enough for Nathan to have to keep his foot on the trolling motor pedal. I brought my camera in hopes of getting some good action or nature shots, but my hands were so dang cold I was afraid to get it out of the case! I just knew I would fumble around too much and drop it or something. I've never been what anyone would call <em>graceful</em>. So anyway, we set up the crappie (read: croppy) poles and had about 8 poles going across the front of the boat. Nathan has these cool crappie rig things that hold 4 poles at a time so you get maximum bite-age. Yeah, I know that's not a word, but it sounded good when I thought of it. ;) </p><p>We, along with about 5 other boats, calmly sat in our fishin' chairs waiting for a bite while the wind rocked us gently around the cove. After we had waited a while, we waited some more. Needless to say, the fishin' hole was not hot that day! I think we ended up catching 2 or 3 really small crappie (which we threw back) and a few of our own lines. Towards the end, I started getting antsy, so I decided to be brave and get out the camera. Thankfully, my hands had thawed some and I was fairly confident that the camera wouldn't go flying out of my fingers into the beautiful Louisiana river water. **I hope you all know I'm being sarcastic about the water. It's not beautiful at all, unless you're enamored of Ovaltine.**</p><p>I ended up getting a few decent shots, but nothing spectacular. However, in keeping with the tradition of posting pictures along with words, I'll show you what I got. Try to keep in mind that we don't get beautiful winters down here in LA. We get gray and brown foliage along a muddy river mixed with a little haze in the air from the humidity. And said humidity always seems to be trying to decide if it should freeze or rain. That's right, we have noticeable humidity even in the winter. Lucky ones, aren't we? With that in mind, here you go...</p><p>One of the many stands of grass, weeds, whatever, that grow along the rock-wall jetties </p><p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZ2tfUY12XI/AAAAAAAACL8/ZN4z2-TpsoQ/s1600-h/IMG_1029[8].jpg"><img height="267" alt="IMG_1029" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZ2rfjqhAbI/AAAAAAAACMA/nVIvKegm9b0/IMG_1029_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" /></a> </p><p>Some of our bait, otherwise known as minnows, scrambling to be the last one picked for the team</p><p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZ2rgQRhIHI/AAAAAAAACMI/SO7SYG3v9Ug/s1600-h/IMG_1031[8].jpg"><img height="267" alt="IMG_1031" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZ2rgw5xy2I/AAAAAAAACMM/7zo_hT4KA00/IMG_1031_thumb%5B6%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" /></a> </p><p>A lonesome little buoy, just hangin' out</p><p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZ2rhanvTKI/AAAAAAAACMQ/pFS1EzssqDU/s1600-h/IMG_1057[7].jpg"><img height="400" alt="IMG_1057" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZ2rhnfSdPI/AAAAAAAACMc/bVCXnypg2Fo/IMG_1057_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="267" /></a> </p><p>Me, in all my get-up, helping hubby load up the boat. What? You can't find me?</p><p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZ2riT0XImI/AAAAAAAACMg/GWg6_opRGoc/s1600-h/IMG_1060[7].jpg"><img height="400" alt="IMG_1060" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZ2ri0IuSxI/AAAAAAAACMo/kIyenuM6VxU/IMG_1060_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="267" /></a> </p><p>See? Here I am!!</p><p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZ2rjZ2LqEI/AAAAAAAACM4/TF-xp62pd70/s1600-h/IMG_1062[7].jpg"><img height="267" alt="IMG_1062" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZ2rjwTsKpI/AAAAAAAACM8/2FcvrVlZEi0/IMG_1062_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" /></a> </p><p>And the post wouldn't be complete without a pic of my favorite fisherman! He's so cute! Muah, Sweetie!</p><p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZ2rkeuWhuI/AAAAAAAACNE/POA-GdfyTuY/s1600-h/IMG_1063[7].jpg"><img height="267" alt="IMG_1063" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZ2rlOncbRI/AAAAAAAACNI/Ad-ErDaklV8/IMG_1063_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="400" /></a> </p><p>'Til next time...Y'all have a great day!</p>Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-64374026919992502122009-02-18T16:05:00.006-06:002009-02-18T16:31:15.192-06:00Color in bloomLook what my sweet hubby gave me for Valentine's Day! He showed up at my work with these pretty flowers and lunch from Subway! I was so surprised...I was just sitting there charting and all of a sudden I hear a knock on the nursery window. When I opened the door, he peeked around the corner and said "Happy Valentine's Day!" It made my day! But the poor thing was embarrassed 'cause when I gave him a kiss, my head nurse stuck her head in the room and said something like, "Oooh, look who's gettin' some sugar!" Nathan's face turned so red and he didn't stay long after that. Ha! I guess that's why he's not too fond of coming up to my work, all the older ladies like to tease him! <div><div><br /><div>You'll never believe it, but the flowers are still going strong! I've added more water to them once and they seem to show no signs of fading just yet! Nathan asked the florist to add a calla lily to the arrangement since he knows they're my favorite flower. Wasn't that sweet? I thought so! :)</div><br /><div>Sittin' pretty in the afternoon sunshine<br /><br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304265257449399922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZyJJgC3pnI/AAAAAAAACKo/iDXZEDKFsUE/s400/IMG_1368.JPG" border="0" /><br />Isn't this little glittered heart just the sweetest? It reminded me of candy!</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304265945590070722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZyJxjkY_cI/AAAAAAAACKw/a8NcZQLJiwI/s400/IMG_1384.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>Sweet little details on the basket...</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304266768351073794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZyKhcl5lgI/AAAAAAAACK4/JjY-55jm-hM/s400/IMG_1378.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>Such a beautiful flower!</div><div> </div></div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304267645628022562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZyLUgtBfyI/AAAAAAAACLA/fq6L04X0olE/s400/IMG_1381.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p>Have a beautiful day, Y'all!</p>Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-27739106090145952612009-02-10T15:35:00.001-06:002009-02-10T15:35:54.453-06:0050mm Miscellaneous<p>I'm loving playing around with my camera! I thought I'd share a few random pics taken with my 50mm lens. It makes everything look good, no thanks to me! Oh, and I took the button header pic with it, too! Enjoy! By the way, these are <em>definitely</em> random, ha!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZHzCIqwDpI/AAAAAAAACJc/d9Ar5IQwdSA/s1600-h/IMG_1357%5B23%5D.jpg"><img height="200" alt="IMG_1357" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZHzCQQ_PCI/AAAAAAAACJg/VnRRFf0DFq8/IMG_1357_thumb%5B21%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="300"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZHzCxMktTI/AAAAAAAACJk/i1z1mzZ3s_E/s1600-h/IMG_1359%5B7%5D.jpg"><img height="300" alt="IMG_1359" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZHzDsWuAyI/AAAAAAAACJo/atjj70Zy7B4/IMG_1359_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZHzEpveWBI/AAAAAAAACJs/QCXZ9X9bztA/s1600-h/IMG_1345%5B10%5D.jpg"><img height="200" alt="IMG_1345" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZHzFCgZFaI/AAAAAAAACJw/GdSXm4Cp5SM/IMG_1345_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="300"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZHzFmesndI/AAAAAAAACJ0/wD1GlzHCBz4/s1600-h/IMG_1262%5B6%5D.jpg"><img height="300" alt="IMG_1262" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZHzF8AW64I/AAAAAAAACJ4/Uer4noN7bcE/IMG_1262_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="200"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZHzGZmDlGI/AAAAAAAACJ8/_Udo36SaCS4/s1600-h/IMG_1261%5B5%5D.jpg"><img height="200" alt="IMG_1261" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZHzNwkeqvI/AAAAAAAACKE/psSahAfh5iw/IMG_1261_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="300"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZHzOFRJPLI/AAAAAAAACKI/p0QTWmqdhxg/s1600-h/IMG_1112%5B6%5D.jpg"><img height="200" alt="IMG_1112" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SZHzOkrOlJI/AAAAAAAACKM/c1xGqSj9JUA/IMG_1112_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="300"></a> </p> <p>That's all for now! I'll talk to y'all again soon!</p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-56121968383723578082009-02-05T13:42:00.002-06:002009-02-05T13:45:38.938-06:00I don't seem to have much inspiration to blog lately, but I decided to play around with my blog look today. I wanted something brighter and more open-feeling and Cutest Blog on the Block always comes through! Oh, and what do you think of my header pic? Funny, huh? I probably won't keep that up there very long but hey, it's different, right? Well, y'all have a great day and I'll see ya sometime soon. Gotta go run some errands! Bye now!Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-72644081600645534522009-01-27T18:03:00.001-06:002009-01-27T18:03:05.818-06:00Whoa, oh, oh, Lookin' out my back door...<p>We have been invaded around here! Our backyard is always full of little birds fighting over the bird feeder and squirrels rooting around in the grass. I have such a great time watching those little birdies flit around and run here and there! They're so active & inquisitive! Just look how cute they are! And be sure to click on the pics to get a better look!</p> <p><em>They spend a lot of time fighting for space on the suet feeder! A fresh suet cake draws a big crowd!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-ggYjrh2I/AAAAAAAACGs/HtZt8qzGXWc/s1600-h/IMG_0893%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_0893" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-ggzaxUyI/AAAAAAAACGw/11kd9r8eU0w/IMG_0893_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-ghUDA4uI/AAAAAAAACG0/38O9bGW8TPI/s1600-h/IMG_0901%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_0901" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-ghgmfoII/AAAAAAAACG4/9x-e-6SMzc4/IMG_0901_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-giHDYSkI/AAAAAAAACG8/SUPtGeo5iRg/s1600-h/IMG_0908%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="240" alt="IMG_0908" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-giYxU2VI/AAAAAAAACHA/jcyCI3luDa0/IMG_0908_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="160"></a> </p> <p><em>See? So inquisitive!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gi8g4rSI/AAAAAAAACHE/PH70vW5L4tE/s1600-h/IMG_0917%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_0917" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gjffcclI/AAAAAAAACHI/D0fQISmyeJ8/IMG_0917_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><em>Look! A pretty little dove coming to check out the little hidden water bowl I set out for the critters.</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gj8K_5-I/AAAAAAAACHM/RW7-Kgd0moM/s1600-h/IMG_0922%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_0922" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gkAK8dsI/AAAAAAAACHQ/dLBa5MA8LPg/IMG_0922_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gknoYgTI/AAAAAAAACHU/ml7eDLZWWC8/s1600-h/IMG_0924%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_0924" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-glXIYgEI/AAAAAAAACHY/OoWtgTAo8o0/IMG_0924_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><em>And I think my favorites are the cute little squirrels with their fat white bellies!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gmW70JwI/AAAAAAAACHc/1AZCrFM8L4Q/s1600-h/IMG_1207%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_1207" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gnJkXYxI/AAAAAAAACHg/G7XN-HnN1Pc/IMG_1207_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gng3kgDI/AAAAAAAACHk/bMX94mB3p2g/s1600-h/IMG_1204%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_1204" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-goEs5rlI/AAAAAAAACHo/1THtRnPy1G8/IMG_1204_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><em>Just at look at that little face! He (or she?) was scratchin' around in the dirt just past our back porch stoop. </em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-go1qqgXI/AAAAAAAACHs/kvT9YxdmvS8/s1600-h/IMG_1239%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_1239" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gpaGpYyI/AAAAAAAACHw/2PWb_oXpMN4/IMG_1239_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gqdqHq2I/AAAAAAAACH0/wPOXaRMxtkk/s1600-h/IMG_1240%5B12%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_1240" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-grSjsbII/AAAAAAAACH4/41StB9A3xXY/IMG_1240_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gsTP7PnI/AAAAAAAACH8/nsd53tJcvDw/s1600-h/IMG_1241%5B4%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_1241" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gsi3cT4I/AAAAAAAACIA/dB-byY7slek/IMG_1241_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240" border="0"></a> </p> <p><em>See where he scratched up the dirt? Not sure what he was lookin' for, but I thought it was neat!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-gtm5NpbI/AAAAAAAACIE/YA5R5bxsEq0/s1600-h/IMG_1242%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_1242" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SX-guKXmWRI/AAAAAAAACII/Pdj3NbDICJw/IMG_1242_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>I hope you enjoyed meeting my little friends! What's in your backyard?</p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-67216311094629261762009-01-19T09:32:00.001-06:002009-01-19T09:32:41.645-06:00In memory<p align="center"><strong><em>"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." Matthew 5:4</em></strong></p> <p align="left">I don't quite know what to say this morning. Our beloved pastor, Bro. Scott Teutsch, and his family lost their precious daughter, Jessica, to a car crash Thursday morning. She was on her way to student teach at a middle school in Texas when another driver crossed the center line and hit her car. </p> <p align="left">I can't wrap my head around the fact that Jessica is really gone from us. It's not real that I won't see her singing with the praise team at church. It's not real that we'll never pass in the hallway and she'll never give me that shy, bright smile again. My heart aches for her family and the friends that loved her so much. We all loved Jessica. Her sweet, gentle spirit and quiet strength compelled us to do so. That was evident at her memorial service, which was filled almost to capacity with people who loved her. </p> <p align="left">Her family is a strong one, their faith in God tangible. Jessica was, as one of the ministers said, a humble & quiet servant. She learned that from her parents and took it to heart. And, as Bro. Aaron so eloquently said, her life was not lived in vain. In serving others, she served our Lord. </p> <p align="left">I left her memorial service with a sober heart asking God to reveal to <em>me</em> ways to serve others. I don't want to have lived my life in vain. When the time comes for my memorial service, I want to be remembered for the difference I made in the lives of those I encountered. Not a huge, attention-getting difference. Just a difference that feels personal to each one. </p> <p align="left">So, this is the hope that we have in Christ. That even though our lives on earth will end, we will yet live to worship the Lord forever in Heaven. Faith in Christ and a desire to make him our <em>personal </em>Lord is all that he requires of us. Jessica is gone from us for a time, but I take comfort in the fact that the moment she drew her last breath in a mangled car in Texas, she sang her first note of praise in Heaven. I pray that all of you who read this also have that hope in Jesus. If not, please feel free to e-mail me with questions. I don't have all the answers, but I am willing to search them out with you. </p> <p align="left">Please pray for the Teutsch family. Though they know their sweet girl is in Heaven, they are still human and will be going through a hard time adjusting to life without her. I want to leave you all with a favorite verse of Jessica's that really spoke to me at her memorial service...</p> <p align="center"><em>"For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."</em></p> <p align="center"><em>Romans 8: 38-39</em></p> <p align="center"><em><strong>In loving memory</strong></em></p> <p align="center"><em><strong><font size="4">Jessica Elise Teutsch</font></strong></em></p> <p align="center"><em><strong>February 27, 1987 ~ January 15, 2009</strong></em></p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-86937889257236535502009-01-12T15:39:00.001-06:002009-01-12T15:39:41.988-06:00A few days late, as usual...<p>I have been such a lazy blogger! I haven't posted in weeks and I've just barely managed to make the rounds of keeping up with everybody else! I suppose I got caught up in all the Christmas craziness and work has been super-busy lately too. By the way, if you have any pregnant friends, you should probably go visit them in the hospital. I'm almost positive that every local pregnant woman has delivered in the last week...<em><strong>at my hospital</strong>! </em></p> <p>Our Christmas was wonderful, the only thing that would have made it better is if my little sis & her husband had been with us. Don't worry though, she sent us a couple pictures that made it feel like she was there. Ok, so it didn't feel like she was there at all, the pictures just made us cry! Thanks a lot, Laura!</p> <p>We had Christmas with Mama & Daddy on Christmas Eve and ate way too much. Here's a few pics of us opening gifts.</p> <p><em>Silly Daddy!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4aM-Nm6I/AAAAAAAACCs/NiZvX7cFjPk/s1600-h/DSCN2293%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="240" alt="DSCN2293" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4aVq-eMI/AAAAAAAACCw/rm_N2uNWh0A/DSCN2293_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180"></a> </p> <p><em>Sweet smile, Mama!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4bJ29HlI/AAAAAAAACC0/kIUs948I9bQ/s1600-h/DSCN2294%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="240" alt="DSCN2294" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4bkCcYsI/AAAAAAAACC4/7h0J5fkNt3w/DSCN2294_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180"></a> </p> <p><em>Uh-oh! He's hooked! (that's an ornament shaped like a fishing lure)</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4cfPguPI/AAAAAAAACC8/9zBcaGJa5zE/s1600-h/DSCN2302%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2302" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4ctFA-yI/AAAAAAAACDA/ifXjBs9xS88/DSCN2302_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><em>I love my necklace, Sissy!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4dRj0dfI/AAAAAAAACDE/Cc1qYCpXjPA/s1600-h/DSCN2304%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2304" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4dyG_j4I/AAAAAAAACDI/aAYgYmvWncw/DSCN2304_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>Then, on Christmas morning, Nathan and I couldn't wait to open our presents so we jumped out of bed at 5:30 a.m. and ran to the living room. Actually, I stumbled in there while Nathan was hollering enthusiastically for me to "get outta that bed!" He likes to be all happy and bouncy (translation: loud) in the mornings while I cringe at the sound of a light being switched on! </p> <p>Anyway, we huddled on the couch together while Nathan read the story of Jesus' birth from Luke. We prayed and gave thanks for the bounty that God has blessed us with, and then we took turns opening our gifts. Nathan did an amazing job with my gifts. Thank you Sweetie! He got me a gray peacoat that is so cute, an electric Dewalt hand sander (sometimes a girl needs her own tools), and....are you ready for this?...a Canon EOS 50d SLR camera with 2 zoom lenses!!! Ahhhhhh! I cried when I opened it. I had fallen in serious like with my friend Martha's 50d and told Nathan that was the only thing on my Christmas list. Well, we talked about it and decided that since it was not a cheap camera, that we would wait and save for it. So, I had my mind all set that I was not getting the camera for at least 6 months and I tried to shove it to the back of my mind. When I opened up that box and saw it sitting there, I was completely overwhelmed and blubbered out a heart-felt thank you on my sweet husband's shoulder. My Dad chipped in on the camera,too, so I was sure to tell him thank you when we went over for Christmas dinner!</p> <p>Needless to say, we had tons of fun playing with it that day. I think I have about 100 pictures of each of my living room's decorations since I was playing with all the different settings. We went out to the waterfowl reserve on the Air Force Base and took lots of pictures of the ducks milling around out there. Nathan likes the camera just as much as me, he would hardly let me have it while we were out at the reserve! Check out some of the neat pics we got, or should I say, shot? :)</p> <p><em>Let's go, Ashlie!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4eX-e1vI/AAAAAAAACDM/YPNh4rcQd74/s1600-h/IMG_0110%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="240" alt="IMG_0110" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4ewhYGmI/AAAAAAAACDQ/SL-c8Y-o7WQ/IMG_0110_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="160"></a> </p> <p><em>Every hunter's home away from home</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4fq07qnI/AAAAAAAACDU/L9OeneDx4Es/s1600-h/IMG_0132%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_0132" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4f53FLgI/AAAAAAAACDY/3HXikg44Qko/IMG_0132_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><em>Look at that sunshine!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4gSkrUyI/AAAAAAAACDc/GlcScRLfO0g/s1600-h/IMG_0136%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_0136" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4gm8Qx8I/AAAAAAAACDg/YdpVVUzQIUo/IMG_0136_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><em>We spooked them a little</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4hlENHfI/AAAAAAAACDk/ecgDQ6Q5Nag/s1600-h/IMG_0208%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_0208" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4iJzFuvI/AAAAAAAACDo/6O0IE7oosHs/IMG_0208_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><em>Birds of a feather flock together</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4i4553SI/AAAAAAAACDs/ak5ZMxkgbp4/s1600-h/IMG_0213%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_0213" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4jYwKmoI/AAAAAAAACDw/wIO97b0j664/IMG_0213_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><em>Flyin' high</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4j5vWKzI/AAAAAAAACD0/BmWlDcSEE0Y/s1600-h/IMG_0155%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="160" alt="IMG_0155" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4kmgGzaI/AAAAAAAACD4/d_CSeacgGRk/IMG_0155_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><em>Handsome pose, Baby!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4lLKo6cI/AAAAAAAACD8/NreGBeQ-hog/s1600-h/IMG_0199%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="175" alt="IMG_0199" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4ldVei0I/AAAAAAAACEA/ESE_bz13EVk/IMG_0199_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><em>A trail less traveled</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4muJeMkI/AAAAAAAACEE/n4cPPXni9-Y/s1600-h/IMG_0143%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="240" alt="IMG_0143" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SWu4nBwm3UI/AAAAAAAACEI/amPu1BKJk4c/IMG_0143_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="160"></a></p> <p>I'm lovin' my new camera! I'm half-way through the instruction manual (yes, I'm one of those nerds) and I play with it every chance I get. Oh, and is it just me, or does anyone else feel like they should have pretty nails when they handle a pretty camera? I've painted my nails <strong>three times</strong> since I got it. I just feel like my hands should be pretty to match the camera! I know, I'm weird. Oh well, at least I'm a weirdo with pretty paws! </p> <p>I hope all of you had wonderful Christmases. I just took our decorations down this week! Ha! I put them up late, so I felt like they needed to stay up a little later too. Y'all have a great day now, ya hear?</p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-13828320093099067952008-12-24T10:37:00.002-06:002008-12-24T10:51:03.823-06:00Merry Christmas, Y'all! Things at my house are still going full speed in preparation for Christmas dinner and dinner with my folks tonight. I hope you too are anticipating a wonderful Christmas with your families!<br /><br />As for me, the out-of-town packages have been sent and all the remaining gifts are wrapped & hanging out under the tree. The last couple of weeks have been a blur of crazy-business at work, decorating for Christmas, and finding something special for all my loved ones. This year, instead of spending tons of money and breaking the bank to buy gifts, I tried to remember that how much you love someone is not measured by how much you spend on them. This was hard for me because I feel the need to lavish lots of presents on everyone! But, I'm trying to keep in mind that Christmas is not supposed to focus on the number of boxes and bags under the tree! In that spirit, I fashioned several handmade gifts for a few of the people on my list. Y'all, I hope you like them!<br /><br />I have to make a last-minute run to Wal-Mart for provisions, so I'll say goodbye for now. Take the time this evening and tomorrow to truly cherish the loved ones around you. Thank the Lord for sending His son to be born in a manger so that we might live in mansions. Merry Christmas!Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-69422830094126203742008-12-05T23:57:00.006-06:002008-12-06T00:31:58.928-06:00Maybe mice aren't always ickyRemember how in one of my recent posts I told you all that I'm having fun with felt these days? Well, today I got to visit with my new-found friend for a good chunk of creative craft time. And since it is the Christmas season, what better to make than an ornament? Nothing, I say.<br /><br /><div></div><div>It also helped that I needed an ornament for an o-swap (sorry, tired of typing "ornament") that was occurring <em>tonight</em>. At a Bunco party. A game that I have only heard of in passing, yet not ever participated in. Which was actually really fun and not too taxing on my strategy-deficient brain. If I have to think about more than one or two things at a time while playing a game, then forget it. If I have to think about those things <em><strong>and-be-quick-about-it</strong></em>? Nah. I might as well hang it up! </div><br /><div>So anyway, I spent a chunk of my time today with my friends the needle and thread. Oh, how I love them! My sweet hubby actually came up with the idea for this ornament. I asked him on Thursday night, "Sweetie, I want to make an ornament for the Bunco party but I don't know what shape I should make. What do you think?" At this point, I expected a glassy stare and a "Huh?" To my surprise, however, he immediately spouted, "I think you should make a mouse. Holding a chocolate chip cookie." </div><br /><div>Wha??!!</div><br /><div>Genius, darlin', just genius! </div><br /><div>And I commenced to fashioning a big, fat mouse holding a chocolate chip cookie. And since it IS the Christmas season, which abounds in all things sparkly, I made his belly out of white felt covered in glitter. Which you will probably not be able to see in the ensuing photos. Oh, well. Just use your imagination. Or go look at the felt display at Hobby Lobby. Whichever is easiest for you.</div><br /><div>Without further ado, here is "Sweet Cheese".....</div><br /><div>Her whiskers are floral wire painted black! Thanks for the idea, <a href="http://www.militarywifeproudly.blogspot.com/">Sis</a>!</div><br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276556999275025682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SToYomrjlRI/AAAAAAAABn0/kZdkxOvCu4E/s320/DSCN2227.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><div>Back view, with a little surprise....</div><br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276557486624209650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SToZE-Mp-vI/AAAAAAAABn8/aLj3dX0EyWU/s320/DSCN2228.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>The <em>ONLY</em> mouse allowed in my kitchen. How do you think she snitched that cookie in the first place? </p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276557896699046898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SToZc12Ha_I/AAAAAAAABoE/JY6RN6pvOHk/s320/DSCN2231.JPG" border="0" /><strong>What she's made of:</strong> embossed felt, pillow stuffing, blanket stitching (love it 'cause it's so versatile!), one big jingle bell on the inside (for some fun), two tiny pink buttons for eyes, and the aforementioned floral wire for whiskers. The pattern for the ball shape came from <a href="http://grandrevivaldesign.typepad.com/">Grand Revival Designs</a> (look in the sidebar under 'free patterns'). All other embellishments came from my crazy mind. Except for the whiskers, those were from Laura's crazy mind!<br /><br />I hope you're all having fun getting ready for the Holiday! I still don't have a tree up but I. Will. Not. Stress. About. It. Nor will I stress about the fact that I only have 2 gifts bought. I always work better under pressure anyway! Ha! Have a great day, Y'all!Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-92071870364074891412008-12-04T12:38:00.006-06:002008-12-04T14:20:56.158-06:00I really must have too much time on my hands!Hello everybody! Guess what I'm doing right now? Sitting at home typing at you, that's what!<br /><br />I'm actually supposed to be working today, but I was put on call this morning. And I called work to see what the possibilities of me getting called in were, and they said it probably won't happen. Woo hoo! Although, if I did get called in, I would be making time and a half. So, it's good either way, I guess.<br /><br />Anyway, I've been playing around on the computer and I found the neatest thing! I get e-mails from Better Homes & Gardens about decorating ideas and projects. Through one of them, I found a little site where you can <a href="http://http://snowflake.bhg.com/?sssdmh=dm17.349743&esrc=nwholdec23_09&email=1527722454">make your own virtual snowflake</a>! It's so neat! And you can even add a Christmas message to it when you're done. If you want to go to the site and look up my snowflake, there's even a place to click on and find it! Ha! Who would've ever thought?! To find my flake, just type in my name (Ashlie, duh) and my location (Louisiana). Oh, and since I already looked it up, and saw that there's another "Ashlie from La", you might want to put in the first line of my message, which is "this was so fun!" There are already several million of them and it's so fun to look through them. Although I realize that nobody has enough time on their hands to look at 7 million snowflakes!<br /><br />Oh, and if you make one, be sure to let me know so I can go admire your handiwork!!<br /><div></div><br /><div>****On a completely un-related note, <a href="http://catherineholmanfolkart.blogspot.com/">Catherine Holman, painter extraordinaire</a>, is having a giveaway on her blog. She's giving away the cutest little Christmas Cupcake painting you ever did see. And just to give you a sneak peek, here it is...</div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276032051407814642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 312px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STg7Mne8__I/AAAAAAAABnU/6D1k4Ht_BAY/s320/Gingerbread+Cupcake+2.jpg" border="0" />Head on over to her blog and enter to win. Or don't, because then I'll have a better chance of scoring it! Ha!<br /><div></div>Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-79966757764449018022008-12-02T13:49:00.001-06:002008-12-02T13:49:40.067-06:00Welcome back, December!<p>Well, y'all, my blog is all decked out for the holidays, but my house has yet to get the same attention. Hopefully, that will change this evening. Hubby and I are gonna have chicken & sausage jambalaya for supper and then deck the halls. Should be fun with the local Christmas station playin' on the radio. And this year is going to be low-key as far as the tree goes. We had a real tree last year but decided not to get one this year. And I don't want to pay full price for a <em>faux</em> one, so I'm going to wait until after the holidays and try to get one on sale. </p> <p>Don't worry, though, we won't be completely tree-less. I have a topiary tree that I used in my wedding and I plan on sprucing it up for the season. I'm gonna try something different this year and make a Christmas vignette. I have a picture in my head of what I want it to look like. We'll see if I can bring it to life!</p> <p>I'm just starting to get into the Christmas groove. I just can't bring myself to even think about Christmas until December actually gets here. I know lots of people start decorating in the middle of November, but well, that's not gonna happen in my house. Not with the procrastinate-itis I've had since birth. I'm doing good if I get the goodies up by mid-December! Oh well, it stays up 'til January anyway!</p> <p>So, since I don't have any Christmas pretties to show y'all yet, I thought I'd give you a peek at what's been inspiring me lately. Here's a little photo show-and-tell...</p> <p>A 3-layer yellow cake with chocolate frosting and fall leaves sprinkles; recipe for the cake came from <a href="http://bakerella.blogspot.com/2008/11/finally-i-found-it.html" target="_blank">Bakerella</a>. Yum!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWPQVUoAtI/AAAAAAAABmc/H17qC7Z3QCw/s1600-h/DSCN2151%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="240" alt="DSCN2151" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWRM-CTfZI/AAAAAAAABmg/N6c-JK08-aA/DSCN2151_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180"></a> </p> <p>A cardinal ornament made from felt and corduroy. A jingle bell & a little stuffing on the inside give it a little pizzazz! </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWRNro9Q6I/AAAAAAAABmk/wD4fnU_n49Q/s1600-h/DSCN2158%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2158" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWRN_aLuBI/AAAAAAAABmo/nPgxgYE-JM8/DSCN2158_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>Blanket stitching around the edges holds it together and double French knots give him his eyes. He was a gift for <a href="http://polkadotsandpaisleysembroidery.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Martha</a>. I hope you like him!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWROXS1BNI/AAAAAAAABms/xza5jBuM6gU/s1600-h/DSCN2166%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2166" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWROhepLPI/AAAAAAAABmw/f4R-dTfEnqM/DSCN2166_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>The ingredients for a new Christmas project!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWRPTJ2ggI/AAAAAAAABm0/qmoMCk9MDB0/s1600-h/DSCN2195%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2195" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWRPyN4R9I/AAAAAAAABm4/KB9c4cRqFIA/DSCN2195_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a></p> <p>My sweet Mama made us an Advent Bag! You open a bag each night and it has a verse and some treats. Fun! Thanks, Mama!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWRQnrWZXI/AAAAAAAABm8/IEjpVtgr14k/s1600-h/DSCN2207%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2207" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWRRMm58-I/AAAAAAAABnA/QJLLBIs7sx0/DSCN2207_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>I'm having fun with felt these days. The possibilities are endless with this stuff!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWRR3avUPI/AAAAAAAABnE/Q-OTBsiXJX8/s1600-h/DSCN2218%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="240" alt="DSCN2218" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWRSRQ3R5I/AAAAAAAABnI/km7bzMraNos/DSCN2218_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180"></a> </p> <p>Buttons, and glitter, and beads, Oh My! What can I make next? I love stash-building!!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWRTUxLRRI/AAAAAAAABnM/wUI5pRqfAzk/s1600-h/DSCN2220%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="240" alt="DSCN2220" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/STWRUFs08aI/AAAAAAAABnQ/3q6sujJ2YBk/DSCN2220_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180"></a> </p> <p>Have a lovely day, y'all! Now, I'm off to work on that Christmas project! Mmm, fun! </p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-62336894886041960222008-11-26T23:45:00.003-06:002008-11-26T23:52:28.040-06:00<div align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;">Happy</span></em></strong> Thanksgiving to you!</div><br /><br /><div align="center">Happy <strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;">Thanksgiving</span></em></strong> to you!</div><br /><br /><div align="center">You look like a <em><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>turkey</strong></span></em>,</div><br /><br /><div align="center">And <strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;">smell</span></em></strong> like one too!!</div><br /><br /><div align="center"></div><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273210240649812050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SS40xnPiWFI/AAAAAAAABlk/clajeUErtR4/s320/DSCN0950.JPG" border="0" />I hope y'all have a wonderful day full of food, family, and friends. Don't feel bad about eating too much. God knows it's a requirement on this day, and therefore waives the rule about not being a glutton. Just for one day, though. What you do with the leftovers is on <em>your</em> conscience, not mine.</p><p>That said...Eat! Drink (non-alcoholic drinks, of course)! And be merry!<br /></p><div align="center"></div>Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-71430683157216617562008-11-23T17:54:00.002-06:002008-11-23T19:01:52.751-06:00This is the kind of thing you only hear about happening to other peopleMy family and I were side-swiped by a HUGE blessing on Friday.<br /><br />The morning started out normally, until I read my mom's text that said, "Ash, call me as soon as you get up. I have a problem I need advice for." I immediately thought, "this can't be good." I mean, what does my mom need advice from her daughter for? She's the one with all the wisdom, right?<br /><br />So, I called her right away and she said there was something wrong with her eye. A floaty thing in her left eye that darted back and forth when she turned her head. And she'd been seeing the floaty thing for about a day. Uh. Oh. A floater? That could be really bad news. When I had my Lasik surgery back in April, the doctor told me to call <em>immediately</em> if I ever saw any floaters because they can be a sign of retinal detachment. Which, hello! That can lead to <strong><span style="font-size:85%;">BLINDNESS</span></strong>!<br /><br />Why is she seeing a floater dart around in her eye, you ask? Well, she's had a monstrously bad sinus infection-slash-bronchitis for about a week now. And apparently she's been coughing hard enough to tear a hole in her retina! Yikes!<br /><br />Naturally, when she asked me to call my eye doctor and see if they could fit her in, I got right to it. The doctor's office agreed to work her in at 1:30 pm and I breathed a sigh of relief that she'd be seen that day. When I got there, my parents were already in the exam room with the doc and I came in on the tail-end of a conversation which contained the words, "Laser surgery...today...can not wait... must be done today...you came in early enough..." You get my drift? I think the doctor was adamant that it be taken care of that day, don't you? Oh, and in case you think I'm callus enough to show up late for such an important appointment, just know that my dad misunderstood the time I told them and my parents got there like 30 minutes early.<br /><br />So, the doc told her assistant to call the local state hospital's eye clinic and let them know that my mom was coming right over and needed to be seen ASAP. Except that nobody was answering the telephone at the state hospital's eye clinic. Maybe they were all out to lunch. Or maybe they decided to start the weekend a little early. It <em>was</em> 2 pm on a Friday after all. Whatever the case was, the doctor eventually found out that the retinal specialist wouldn't even be there until Wednesday, which would clearly be too late. You know, seeing how my mom had a hole in her retina and all.<br /><br />We ended up going right down the street to a privately practicing retinal specialist's office. And by private practice, I mean <span style="font-size:130%;">expensive</span>. Don't you love the medical field's code words? Anyway, we waited for what seemed like forever but really wasn't, only to find out that Mama did need laser surgery <strong>today</strong>. Then, we waited another forever while I tried to remember that they were fitting us in and all the other people there already had appointments. To make matters worse, there were absolutely NO magazines in any of the waiting rooms. Just some decorative books that looked like they came from the thrift store. But then, if you're there to see a retinal specialist, I guess you can't really read a magazine, huh? And I'm sure the doctor doesn't mind saving a penny or two on magazine subscriptions.<br /><br />Swerving back from the sidetrack...the actual laser procedure took about 15-20 minutes and Mama said it just felt like somebody was thumping her lightly in the eye. Gotta love those numbing drops! We walked up to the front desk to check out and my Dad asked the dreaded question, "So will y'all send us a bill?" And do you know what that receptionist said?<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>"There will be no charge today, sir."</strong></span><br /><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></strong><br />What?!?! No charge? You mean, as in, we don't have to pay for the laser that just karate-kicked the hole in my mom's retina? For real?! <strong>Praise the Lord!! </strong><br /><br />Yes, it's true. We didn't have to pay a dime for that saint of a doctor's time and service. Apparently, he doesn't go to Mexico or overseas on mission trips and chooses instead to do his good deeds right here in our town. That came straight out of the receptionist's lips, y'all. And if I wasn't afraid of wackos knowing exactly where I live, I'd shout that retinal specialist's name all over this blog. Suffice it to say that, Dr. B, you are <span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>the man</strong></span>!!<br /><br />So, next time you're questioning whether or not human kindness is just a fondly recalled myth, remember our story. And remember that even though they don't get front-page status very often, many followers of Jesus are still out there just trying to be His hands and feet in a really mean, uncaring world.<br /><div align="center"><strong></strong> </div><div align="center"><strong><br />"He who is generous will be blessed..." Proverbs 22:9a</strong></div>Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-70070852602977241932008-11-17T14:07:00.001-06:002008-11-17T14:07:19.796-06:00Yay! It's Kelly's Bloggy Baby Shower Day!<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SSHO8EOA2OI/AAAAAAAABlU/NFD45TfT-x8/s1600-h/babyshower-350btn2%5B3%5D.png"><img height="240" alt="babyshower-350btn2" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SSHO8xflIKI/AAAAAAAABlY/zRDaYlIVZKk/babyshower-350btn2_thumb%5B1%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p><a href="http://jennababe.blogspot.com/2008/11/we-love-kelly-baby-shower-edition.html" target="_blank">Jenna</a>, <a href="http://www.walkwithmebyfaith.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Faith</a>, and <a href="http://www.lifeatsonicspeed.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Heather</a> are throwing <a href="http://www.kellyskornerblog.com/" target="_blank">Kelly</a> a baby shower today and we're all invited! Click on the link to Jenna's blog to mingle with the attendees!</p> <p>Kelly's blog was one of the first ones I found when I started my own blog about a year ago. Her cute layout and fun personality had me hooked from the start! I've been keeping up with her almost daily since I found her (she updates way more frequently than I do!) because her blog is such a fun place to be! There are yummy recipes to try, super-cute outfits to see, sweet friends, and encouraging words from the Lord. Even in the midst of a very real and very emotionally draining struggle with infertility, Kelly kept her eyes on the Lord and her faith in Him was unwavering. She claimed Ephesians 3:20 as her promise from God, <strong>"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us..."</strong></p> <p>And we were all so ecstatic when she announced on her blog that she was, indeed, pregnant!! Kelly, and her husband Scott, had waited for that day with great anticipation and it was finally here! Yay! Praise you, Lord!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SSHO9XqluXI/AAAAAAAABlc/viH4a0tTm_0/s1600-h/kelly%20and%20scott%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="kelly and scott" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SSHO9vH8piI/AAAAAAAABlg/Q3Ahyw1IB64/kelly%20and%20scott_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>See their huge smiles? Yep, they're happy alright! Actually, they were at a Razorback game supporting their beloved team, but you know little <strong>Harper Brown</strong> wasn't too far from their minds. Oh, did I forget to mention that they're having a girl? That's right, they're having a sweet little girl who is going to be every bit as beautiful as her parents. She's already got a gorgeous room waiting on her and it's filled to the brim with all kinds of pink frilly stuff! There's even some zebra and giraffe thrown in for a little extra sass. She will be a very stylish baby, that's for sure! </p> <p>Kelly, thank you for sharing your life with all of us bloggers. I have so enjoyed getting to know you and your family. And, it has been a pleasure to pray with you through your struggles. Each time I open up your blog, I am blessed in some way. I pray that Harper arrives safely into your arms and that her presence fills you and Scott with a joy like you've never known. Enjoy this day to honor you and your precious baby. God bless you! </p> <p align="center"><strong>"I have prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of Him." 1 Samuel 1:27</strong></p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6418397182159399492.post-73443128377122507832008-11-13T09:41:00.001-06:002008-11-13T09:41:58.781-06:00It's her official debut, so be kind, please<p>The sewing project I mentioned in my last post? It is done! Finished. Finito! I wasn't able to finish it before church on Sunday morning but I made a lot of head-way and got it done late that evening. Late, as in, 1:00 Monday morning! And I had to work, so I was going on 4 hours of sleep! It was so worth it, though! I have lots of pictures to illustrate the process (well, some of it. I got impatient) so lets get to it. </p> <p>I found an <em>entire yard</em> of <strong>zebra</strong> print suede-like fabric in the remnant section of Hobby Lobby awhile back. At the time, I had no idea what I would make with it, but I was 900% positive I could find a use for it at some point. This fabric was just too fabulous to pass up! Scrumptious, even! </p> <p>Then, at <a href="http://www.joann.com/joann/" target="_blank">JoAnn Fabrics</a> (I'm sorry Hobby Lobby. I'm not cheating on you, I swear! You'll always be my first love!) I picked up several <a href="http://www.fatquarterworld.com/quilts/" target="_blank">fat quarters</a> in various blue patterns. Once I brought these new pretties home, it hit me! A purse! I shall make a zebra purse with blue lining! And I'll use the fusible fleece that was supposed to be used for our stockings <em>last year</em> as the interfacing! And I'll put a zippered pocket in the lining even though I've never even looked twice at a zipper that wasn't already sewn in something! Oh, and I'll put one of those magnetic clasps in there too! Oh boy, I can't wait to get started on this purse! </p> <p>Yeah, excitement & enthusiasm will only get you so far, ladies. Once I came down off my creative high, I realized I had no idea how to put in a zippered pocket, a magnetic clasp, or interfacing! Therefore, I commenced to researching the process. I typed in "how do I sew a zippered pocket in the lining of a purse?" (not joking) into Google and <a href="http://creativelittledaisy.typepad.com/creative_little_daisy/2007/02/dont_fear_the_z.html?cid=137695250#comments" target="_blank">this is what I found</a>. Autum, from <a href="http://creativelittledaisy.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Creative Little Daisy</a>, has several amazing tutorials. It was exactly what I was looking for, and even had pictures!! Yay! I am such a visual learner. You can try to tell me what to do all day long and all you'll get is a blank look with an occasional nod. But, you give me a picture, and watch out! Sista's goin' to town!! </p> <p>I started out by using the measurements from one of my favorite purses to make a pattern. I just rolled out some parchment paper and used the measurements on my cutting mat as a guide. I wanted a not-quite-rectangular shape so the bottom is 18" wide, the top is 16" wide, and it's 12" tall. I like 'em big, y'all.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKW900tfI/AAAAAAAABjY/YacgBSenG5E/s1600-h/DSCN2101%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2101" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKXofhvSI/AAAAAAAABjc/v7sOdYtMnuU/DSCN2101_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>Then, I ironed my fat quarters and pinned the pattern in place. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKYe5XUaI/AAAAAAAABjg/BiWot5lrkBc/s1600-h/RSCN2104%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="RSCN2104" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKYkfzqgI/AAAAAAAABjk/9CXMKtzLd3A/RSCN2104_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>I cut it out and <em>voila</em>! The lining is born!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKe-rKeMI/AAAAAAAABjo/EVCXp_eA7XQ/s1600-h/DSCN2106%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2106" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKfFox7vI/AAAAAAAABjs/j8Jt4cxpzf8/DSCN2106_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>I did the same with the outer fabric. I get excited all over again just looking at it!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKgPPSSaI/AAAAAAAABjw/FOPEWblhV1k/s1600-h/DSCN2107%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2107" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKg-zRkZI/AAAAAAAABj0/q9SIAIjul9g/DSCN2107_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>Next, I laid my pieces onto the fusible fleece and cut it out. I had to be careful because that stuff can shimmy around on you even when it's pinned! I fused the fleece to the fabric, which was kind of frustrating, because you can't have the iron too hot or it will melt your fabric. And you can't let the iron touch the fusing medium cause your iron will become gross and sticky and have to be washed with soap 500 times. And you have to go slow and count to 10 another 500 times while pressing really hard with the iron or it won't stick to the fabric. Yes, experience is the best teacher. </p> <p>Once all the pieces were fused, I cut a 1.5" square out of the bottom corners of the lining & outer fabric. This is to make a gusset, which will help the purse stand up on its own. I cut out a 9"x14" rectangle from a contrasting blue fabric for the zippered pocket. I'm not going to go into all the details because I only took a few pics of the process. If you want to see exactly what I did, and I mean <em>exactly</em>, then go check out <a href="http://creativelittledaisy.typepad.com/creative_little_daisy/2007/02/dont_fear_the_z.html?cid=137695250#comments" target="_blank">Autum's tutorial</a>. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKhtECBoI/AAAAAAAABj4/82iySY8CMGQ/s1600-h/DSCN2110%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2110" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKiHR_ytI/AAAAAAAABj8/E_3P1SQcNMk/DSCN2110_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>Here's a closer look at the 0.5"x7" rectangle I drew for the zipper opening. You may have to click on it to get a good gander. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKjId939I/AAAAAAAABkA/bLUnDRprwto/s1600-h/DSCN2114%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2114" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKjm1RRII/AAAAAAAABkI/5INSInEPMMI/DSCN2114_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>The zipper opening all sewn and pressed. Isn't it purty?</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKki6amMI/AAAAAAAABkM/N5cYEPXx3yY/s1600-h/DSCN2117%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2117" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKlcQh9AI/AAAAAAAABkQ/J4SrqG6EWiw/DSCN2117_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>The zipper in its place. Autum said to use fusible tape to hold the zipper in place while sewing, and I do believe that's the best tip I've ever gotten! That stuff rocks!</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKmTt435I/AAAAAAAABkU/s42bk75-d5A/s1600-h/DSCN2122%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2122" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKnHE92HI/AAAAAAAABkY/n51ZXUyvgRo/DSCN2122_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>And...the pocket open. See the little polka-dots? Gotta love 'em!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKn6a_GaI/AAAAAAAABkc/ytKwVoVmH0Q/s1600-h/DSCN2121%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2121" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKoSa2NBI/AAAAAAAABkg/99VUSFmd628/DSCN2121_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>Okay, so this is where I got impatient and just wanted to get it done. I don't have step-by-step pics anymore so you'll just have to settle for the end product. I'm sorta glad, though, because if you could see what the top seam looks like on the inside, you would be scared. Let's just say a zig-zag stitch combined with about 3 inches of fabric and a needle on its last legs makes for a less-than-tidy look. Good thing all is well on the outside! Ha!</p> <p>I needed pockets on the inside for my cell phone and card wallet, so I whipped one up out of the same polka-dot fabric and used a little <a href="http://www.pellonideas.com/content/view/23/27/" target="_blank">Pellon Craft Fuse</a> to give it some oomph. Oh, and see the magnetic clasp? Super easy. I just followed the instructions on the package!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKpEvuGXI/AAAAAAAABkk/j7XfW-1afaI/s1600-h/DSCN2132%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2132" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKpu58B1I/AAAAAAAABko/ncBbwtEIsLI/DSCN2132_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>All my stuff. This is stream-lined, mind you.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKrlC0k0I/AAAAAAAABks/yMjkZOwqSlo/s1600-h/DSCN2145%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2145" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKsE04XUI/AAAAAAAABkw/-VSH59NMIXc/DSCN2145_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>The straps. Those little tabs connecting the D-rings to the straps were, oh, how should I put this? A pain in the patooty! But only because I'm a genius and didn't exactly follow the directions. And, I didn't <em>realize</em> I didn't follow the directions until <strong>all four</strong> of them were done. I tried to fix one but only made it worse. Thankfully, you can't tell I had technical difficulties. Can you?</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKs3UpM-I/AAAAAAAABk0/83mRz7dhQWg/s1600-h/DSCN2137%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="240" alt="DSCN2137" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKtQSJBlI/AAAAAAAABk4/1QIodoh2_BM/DSCN2137_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180"></a> </p> <p>The finished bag. Oh, how I heart her. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKt0_4c_I/AAAAAAAABk8/WHAObzREsfQ/s1600-h/DSCN2129%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="240" alt="DSCN2129" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKuZsNq6I/AAAAAAAABlA/4JyY_rvoNws/DSCN2129_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="180"></a> </p> <p>That little silver button is actually the center of the black velvet bow. See?</p> <p>**Never mind all my clutter. I can't make stuff and be tidy at the same time.**</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKvDkPbgI/AAAAAAAABlE/6xSd3Qeb0F8/s1600-h/DSCN2128%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2128" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKvuwAOlI/AAAAAAAABlI/gL79zCwoY0k/DSCN2128_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>Maybe this is better? I really hope you can see it. I know it's hard since it's such dark ribbon. But did I mention it's velvet? Fabulous, I tell you! </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKwv0VjXI/AAAAAAAABlM/iwv29XLI1VU/s1600-h/DSCN2125%5B3%5D.jpg"><img height="180" alt="DSCN2125" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_A5Aj9zZSUg8/SRxKxKpqXEI/AAAAAAAABlQ/nX2xzaOkQHU/DSCN2125_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="240"></a> </p> <p>Okay, now where can I go today so I can wear my sweet little purse on my arm? And what should I wear so we'll coordinate? Hmm, I'm gonna go peruse my closet. And I think Hobby Lobby is having a sale on some stuff I need *ahem, want*. Y'all have a great day, now! </p> Ashliehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03677838046672255809noreply@blogger.com11