tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85538640165283996712024-02-18T21:04:55.541-08:00Finding Healthy HopeMaryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.comBlogger198125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-40973284639637560422013-10-06T10:50:00.000-07:002013-10-06T10:50:54.207-07:00life after death || my ultimate Hope<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">i woke up feeling under the weather this morning and was informed by my daughter that a sweet, sweet girl, Phoebe Fair, had been taken home to Heaven last night. she fought a long and hard battle with cancer, but last night God said, "it's time to come home, my love", and i imagine the mysterious and glorious transition from earth to Heaven.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">you see, like all of us, she had an appointed time to be born</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">, and she had an appointed time to die. Jesus always keeps good on His timing and promises, and it was Phoebe's time. our family was only made aware of this sweet girl and her family a few months back, but as fellow members of the family of God, we were privileged to hold them up in prayer, bearing their burdens from across the country, because of that One bond we share in Christ. that will never cease to amaze me! </span></span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">so, today we weep not for Phoebe, because she is more alive than ever and stands in the presence of her Creator. she is perfectly whole. healed. made new. what HOPE! what we must not forget, is that she left behind a family. we must, must, MUST lift them up in prayer. we must hold their feeble knees and pray healing for their broken hearts. death is swallowed up in victory, but our humanness feels the sting of loss. Phoebe's life was not in vain and neither is her death. i have witnessed miracles in and through the Rock solid faith of her parents. i have been forever changed because of sweet Phoebe's life. </span></span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">praying friends, please join me in praying for Phoebe's family.</span></span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">to read more of her story, you can go to the family blog:::</span></span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://atypicalmiracle.com/">http://atypicalmiracle.com/</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHraJRh1Ax2jm3iNRtIG0YK3XoMISXAAWvqRT67r-O2Ay_QYuBBMFVXle1dz1-JHei5o9Im8O4vbZPw_kbL9kvD40XmiIbIuB8vyv1rMVtAhgQk20nHE5CtdF9ydD6t8PRGb6fTHyhh0R/s1600/phoebefair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHraJRh1Ax2jm3iNRtIG0YK3XoMISXAAWvqRT67r-O2Ay_QYuBBMFVXle1dz1-JHei5o9Im8O4vbZPw_kbL9kvD40XmiIbIuB8vyv1rMVtAhgQk20nHE5CtdF9ydD6t8PRGb6fTHyhh0R/s640/phoebefair.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(jack's bulletin board)</span></div>
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xo</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>mary</b></span></div>
Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-41590031477746414922013-08-23T08:54:00.001-07:002013-08-23T08:54:26.607-07:00sometimes God comforts and encourages our souls quietly, through scripture and prayer, and for me, through song. but sometimes He sends tangible gifts, from new found friends from afar, to bless you and reassure that He does really care. and He cares in the details. i love that so much. some people make this world a better place just by being in it. that's you, @nataliecreates ! you are a treasure and my heart was so full from this thoughtful, carefully planned package. His love to me through you. :). i wanted to share my devotional this morning with you all, too. it encouraged me so much. || when we experience difficult or even devastating events, we may be tempted to wonder if things will ever be right---if we will ever be happy again. but we serve a God who transforms the past, replacing mourning with joy, and sadness with praise. there are no circumstances which dictate that we are doomed to a life of regret and emptiness. instead God promises that as we come to Him, He will replace pain with HOPE. because of His death and resurrection, we can find freedom from the pain of the past and HOPE for a beautiful and glorious future. || "to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called the trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified." isaiah 61:3 amen. xo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-39916040120199572532013-08-08T11:43:00.001-07:002013-08-08T11:43:35.668-07:00last night, honey and i briefly discussed our somewhat outdated 70's humble home with it's obscurities and space challenges. of course, i mentioned the vision i have for several of the rooms. :) we talked about the previous owners and the choices that they had to make to build it for their family. size, location, layout. i laid there and thought to myself, "they didn't even know that while they laid the plans for their future, and built this house for their family, God had plans all along for this house to be mine. He was building it for us....to swoop down in His mercy and rescue us from homelessness, one of our greatest times of need, and prove true His promises of provision for His own. even more, He was rescuing us from ourselves. the plan that WE had devised for our future fell through because of our rebellion. He pursued us and drew us back to Himself in His grace and mercy, because He loves us just that much." i cant even express to you how thrilling that humbling thought is to me! that our God would love us enough, even in our sinful wickedness and betrayal, to transform our lives and lavish upon us riches that we certainly do not deserve. this is our mercy house. i'm so glad that i can run down this driveway to our little piece of Heaven on earth. amen. where does He have you today? certainly right where He wants you, until He leads otherwise. :). #bloomwhereyouareplanted #boastintheLord #myheartspilledover #mercyhouse WHEN I'D FALLEN AND STRAYED, THERE WERE MERCIES ANEW || FOR YOU SOUGHT ME IN LOVE, AND MY HEART YOU PURSUED || IN THE FACE OF MY SIN, LORD YOU NEVER WITHDREW || SO I'LL SING OF YOUR MERCIES ANEW psalm 103:8<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-4753808418873625962013-08-05T15:11:00.001-07:002013-08-05T15:12:42.800-07:00i got up early. he got up early. i was a little annoyed because i treasure morning quiet and alone time. the Lord spoke to me and reminded me, ever so gently, that someday i will not have this. the early morning hours to make that iced coffee for my girl and chat over embroidering, or listen to jacks constant chitter chattering of what is on his giant heart. thank you, God, for these gifts, and for being that gentle reminder of how good You really are. Jack got up to memorize this::: 'And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.' Joel 2:13. he was successful in memorizing it! #boastintheLord #cherishthemoment #thankyouLord<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-35512192588892677742013-07-25T15:34:00.000-07:002013-07-25T15:34:58.986-07:00i can't really express with words what emotions this picture evokes of my precious firstborn. she is brave, loyal, kind and true. she seeks to harm no one, and is comfortable in her own skin. she'll never have to say, "i wish i would have tried", because she sets her mind to do what she desires to accomplish and doesn't quit. watching your children deal with pain and hurt makes you hurt with them. dealing with loss and experiencing rejection, even of the smallest kind, can seem so hard and unnecessary, yet i praise God for it. i praise Him for the way that He draws her to Himself, how He loves her like i cannot, and how she leans into Him during those times. it's really a beautiful thing to see her faith grown, and mine right along side of her. i certainly don't deserve this blessing and i am so unfit for this task, but He fills in my gaps and by His grace alone, we can do hard things. He IS enough. #soisingofYourmerciesanew #andthankYouforthetrials #Youmakeallthingsbeautiful #inYourperfecttiming<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXEfhJOaFX0s7p8tuh-gf0qXDu4G09rsfMbCfiNmGXv91_uIA9d7C3MWiz4nuJL_sH3UwXR31FyvOPfKQo7k1rkT3wEvjdIiiy9RQPf5c7VoYYXVEnNBdRh8xGTrXUaIIMa_uZqXkeODg/s1600/ellyguitarroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXEfhJOaFX0s7p8tuh-gf0qXDu4G09rsfMbCfiNmGXv91_uIA9d7C3MWiz4nuJL_sH3UwXR31FyvOPfKQo7k1rkT3wEvjdIiiy9RQPf5c7VoYYXVEnNBdRh8xGTrXUaIIMa_uZqXkeODg/s640/ellyguitarroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jesus! what a Friend for sinners!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jesus! Lover of my soul;</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Friends may fail me, foes assail me,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">He, my Savior, makes me whole.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jesus! what a Strength in weakness!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Let me hide myself in Him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tempted, tried, and sometimes failing,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">He, my Strength, my victory wins.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jesus! what a Help in sorrow!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">While the billows over me roll,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Even when my heart is breaking,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">He, my Comfort, helps my soul.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jesus! what a Guide and Keeper!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">While the tempest still is high,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Storms about me, night overtakes me,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">He, my Pilot, hears my cry.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jesus! I do now receive Him,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">More than all in Him I find.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">He hath granted me forgiveness,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am His, and He is mine.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Hallelujah! what a Savior!</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Hallelujah! what a Friend!</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Saving, helping, keeping, loving,</span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">He is with me to the end.</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">xo</span></div>
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Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-59449584017712204662013-07-24T16:00:00.002-07:002013-07-24T16:00:46.374-07:00i really didn't have time to rearrange the girls' room today, but the dust bunnies were out.of.control. now @ellygrace_99 has her own sweet little spot to create. totally worth it. :). #timewellspent #thelaundrycanwait<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJS9fTVc9_C3C5qiNnSmZ_-28Lke-G6Om8mKQCX6JHmirgmK0ke6yPVifpyKoW8eeq8k9X3D5sd0WlnGNHXTOK4dKMQfN8RLYzEEha-OfLtmWJP494GDrmGlThcNxTNn2TecO7t2VbWt6/s1600/ellyscreateroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZJS9fTVc9_C3C5qiNnSmZ_-28Lke-G6Om8mKQCX6JHmirgmK0ke6yPVifpyKoW8eeq8k9X3D5sd0WlnGNHXTOK4dKMQfN8RLYzEEha-OfLtmWJP494GDrmGlThcNxTNn2TecO7t2VbWt6/s640/ellyscreateroom.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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sometimes you just gotta set aside the laundry...<b><i>again</i></b>...and spend some quality time with your girl.</div>
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elly's style is a little more eclectic than mine, but i think i love it.</div>
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i'll never regret spending this time with her, making this space special.</div>
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xo</div>
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Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-5270196885939587092013-07-23T12:39:00.005-07:002013-07-23T12:40:48.995-07:00there are days when defeat and sadness rule my day. my expectations aren't met, i get easily offended, and these FEELINGS spiral into deeper sadness and feelings of worthlessness. such things never come from God, and are a full on attack from the evil one to render me useless for His kingdom. feelings will always fail you, but He never will. to think that my God cares about the intimate affairs of my life is so overwhelming to me. He loves in the details, and uses others as a tangible reminder of His unfailing, never stopping, pursuing, agape love. thank you @theadoptshoppe! YOU are a blessing and this necklace came at just the right time on one of those very low days when i wanted to quit. so glad i didn't. what has He done in the details for you lately? #boastintheLord.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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there is nothing more beautiful and reassuring than knowing that no matter what, <i><b>you are loved</b></i>.</div>
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whether you're high on the mountain top or deep in the valley, God is there, waiting to meet us </div>
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<i>RIGHT WHERE WE ARE</i>.</div>
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there is something so freeing about being vulnerable, and sharing your heart.</div>
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it's something i am learning to be better at each day, pushing my ugly pride aside.</div>
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i have found myself surrounded by the most beautiful women who encourage me daily and blanket me in their affirmations that we are in this together.</div>
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in the messy and the beautiful.</div>
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i am so thankful.</div>
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xo</div>
Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-34006778242003610522013-07-22T06:26:00.003-07:002013-07-22T06:27:26.506-07:00there is no normal with these two. :). my mama heart is so full because they gave their salvation testimonies before our preacher and the deacons tonight. we'll be headed to the river next sunday! expect lots of tears from this mama. CANNOT wait! God is so SO good. :)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOf1thlIe8NiVwptYitjjTMNTvwiS9bNiodlsnd79CttA67i5CXvxWJJcpouV9VPrVbYF6AwDV2VUaa_vGyr4edBMCkGRLp01GBwd2kY6Oys7jk8HFLBfLWTiZAHFSu6JBpofjH1Y-sKZr/s1600/jackandhenry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOf1thlIe8NiVwptYitjjTMNTvwiS9bNiodlsnd79CttA67i5CXvxWJJcpouV9VPrVbYF6AwDV2VUaa_vGyr4edBMCkGRLp01GBwd2kY6Oys7jk8HFLBfLWTiZAHFSu6JBpofjH1Y-sKZr/s640/jackandhenry.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
hello, friends.</div>
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i don't know exactly what it is or why, but lately God has been tugging at my heart to revive this little space of mine.</div>
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when i started my blog, i had the wrong mindset, the wrong aspirations for it.</div>
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i had this idea that i had to have hundred of followers, and that it always had to be perfect.</div>
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the problem is, perfect isn't real.</div>
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expectations aren't met, feelings get hurt and well, i think you know what happens from there. :)</div>
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so, i'm starting a photo journal, a little space to store and tuck away memories, for me, and for my family.</div>
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no expectations.</div>
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just a place where i can come and remember, smile, and thank God for what He has given me and boast in His goodness.</div>
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i may only post a photo, i may add some words. </div>
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who knows?</div>
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what i DO know is that this life is fleeting, my kids are growing, and instead of feeling like time is slipping through my fingers, i want to embrace each new season, because that's the way God intended it to be.</div>
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children don't keep, and i want to love them well, embracing each day.</div>
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my mama heart is full, and if you read the title of this post, i think you'll know why.</div>
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xo</div>
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-90964121088604078982013-07-21T06:27:00.002-07:002013-07-21T14:47:27.959-07:00chalkboard art is my favorite//and YOU are His favorite. happy sunday, dears!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuKRMZawIv4SUzPyUm752yd3y0uQIKst2YC38Q06wJAh9wIBhBkaaaX0GOkxLkjQB08hyGkRgmVpkoQpsSRW6SktqUloOsnnncu_d4RcwzJrr3ZUAZM48o7-aUg5KdobGP0m-IVwrA9YYJ/s1600/chalkboardartfavorite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuKRMZawIv4SUzPyUm752yd3y0uQIKst2YC38Q06wJAh9wIBhBkaaaX0GOkxLkjQB08hyGkRgmVpkoQpsSRW6SktqUloOsnnncu_d4RcwzJrr3ZUAZM48o7-aUg5KdobGP0m-IVwrA9YYJ/s640/chalkboardartfavorite.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-78510039354776723492013-07-20T12:17:00.000-07:002013-07-20T12:17:54.326-07:00the boy with the sunshine eyes. #henrygram<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNbJdlB5134SjaVMe-5CCY0m9XhugEpCufIYnJR1GRooS-mNqce633ah1_9LfJFIoY6r192Af6vlzBrgz5XEhiY6qBtW1uAl876cE8C6wHV0nL1TfyUTHItHDtwgSgGaeBRmHDwATO_Na8/s1600/henrybike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNbJdlB5134SjaVMe-5CCY0m9XhugEpCufIYnJR1GRooS-mNqce633ah1_9LfJFIoY6r192Af6vlzBrgz5XEhiY6qBtW1uAl876cE8C6wHV0nL1TfyUTHItHDtwgSgGaeBRmHDwATO_Na8/s640/henrybike.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-83118364932853089242013-05-16T19:37:00.000-07:002013-05-16T19:37:38.695-07:00i came up short...and late<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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so i'm a little late to the party.</div>
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think anyone will notice?</div>
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nah.</div>
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i like to call it <i><b>fashionably</b></i> late.</div>
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and i am bound and determined to get these 10 on 10 photos sealed into history.</div>
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ready? ready.</div>
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let's just start off by saying that there is nothing fashionable about the first photo below.</div>
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me. in the garage. grinding coffee.</div>
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so i can have peace longer while the boys sleep.</div>
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also, i'm wondering why it's called beauty sleep?</div>
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because i don't wake up more beautiful.</div>
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i deteriorate at night. it's true.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Wcml5ScablIS2nLG3jpsIDr2dJqwbZFyydMLZV1-28fhoR_O1HWwp0CMUqLl4FSP_0FhyphenhyphenwJD8sfRp1ai0K8ZdZa5BojENWRkifxs6yVk_mJ3GsLPZHQ3-yD5EFS_Nu-XoHkRrWWlIwKK/s1600/10on10may20133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Wcml5ScablIS2nLG3jpsIDr2dJqwbZFyydMLZV1-28fhoR_O1HWwp0CMUqLl4FSP_0FhyphenhyphenwJD8sfRp1ai0K8ZdZa5BojENWRkifxs6yVk_mJ3GsLPZHQ3-yD5EFS_Nu-XoHkRrWWlIwKK/s640/10on10may20133.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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making necklaces and photographing them for the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/hopehomemade">shoppe</a> is my fave.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNiz2DOZQk1KXFn3HKh2rEQwQfmhgeagKsZcBFvF9SVGkvNrGiDm2LuM5tNve89WR046hwUWBI3HhVemWXub164FTTqUUFhrRtvHb1sl0xmudNeQc52cLbtqSxTfKy8VLoS5OyJHfb252x/s1600/10on10may20131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNiz2DOZQk1KXFn3HKh2rEQwQfmhgeagKsZcBFvF9SVGkvNrGiDm2LuM5tNve89WR046hwUWBI3HhVemWXub164FTTqUUFhrRtvHb1sl0xmudNeQc52cLbtqSxTfKy8VLoS5OyJHfb252x/s640/10on10may20131.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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my happy little family(insert creepy music).</div>
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it's too bad they have no idea what's coming to them. it's sad, really.</div>
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the caption below this photo on IG was, "shhhhh....don't tell them their mother is a murderer."</div>
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and if you read a few posts back, there's proof.</div>
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that might even make it premeditated.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1_77FttCXiISb0L_QC2Hi6n8iA332DeN4pC9VZSd7_peJW8ATklAOlbbp8WL3W_RD-WTpUYsMMCF_adAo4enDbgsTlR_wLqR3iPTM-LUxvJWoUdxsqpuovZYMIib3m6hm7qFdX6qp-KX/s1600/10on10may2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj1_77FttCXiISb0L_QC2Hi6n8iA332DeN4pC9VZSd7_peJW8ATklAOlbbp8WL3W_RD-WTpUYsMMCF_adAo4enDbgsTlR_wLqR3iPTM-LUxvJWoUdxsqpuovZYMIib3m6hm7qFdX6qp-KX/s640/10on10may2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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this is my very first attempt at my new iphone app, OVER.<br />
it made me ridiculously happy.<br />
my honey got me an iphone for mothers day and i love it.<br />
he got one too. so that's for...fathers day? <br />
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">*wink*</span></i></b><br />
you know i love you, dear.<br />
:)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl9HUKNSQJnLDb_YuDRIP3cMjSMVR4rwt04XpG2rvVBYY5UrQh9EmLkCFzXGh-jqd-RPM7SIm635MDGuZ0KMwkHT6qF74iqHgPgz3iOCJcynDJwUMkdMp1DMCs0WFnWqbLzaIqj_6tXLXo/s1600/may10on102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl9HUKNSQJnLDb_YuDRIP3cMjSMVR4rwt04XpG2rvVBYY5UrQh9EmLkCFzXGh-jqd-RPM7SIm635MDGuZ0KMwkHT6qF74iqHgPgz3iOCJcynDJwUMkdMp1DMCs0WFnWqbLzaIqj_6tXLXo/s640/may10on102.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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hey! we went to the thrift and i found a vintage dress for a dollar and these wooden beads.</div>
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wooden beads+mary=true love.</div>
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especially when they're only a $1.50!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7TznI2fmAZfy5aD6ZkMYPHNxm_FIyIirDXvGDLmX7htCFLkRj4_2bkrr4mu9EwMOPS1Rf4Y2fShJP3GBUbD-8K6xSXhFenwqByhJi6VtfeVCiEeegR3wBGm53Q0fvnT7JbAyqTU3Ni1w/s1600/10on10mary1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7TznI2fmAZfy5aD6ZkMYPHNxm_FIyIirDXvGDLmX7htCFLkRj4_2bkrr4mu9EwMOPS1Rf4Y2fShJP3GBUbD-8K6xSXhFenwqByhJi6VtfeVCiEeegR3wBGm53Q0fvnT7JbAyqTU3Ni1w/s640/10on10mary1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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i have turned into a crazy cat lady and i have no idea how.</div>
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this guy has me wrapped around his declawed paw and gets away with spilling way too much water.</div>
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i hate walking in wetness. hate.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsG1QLRAnrhlO888eRJI4DheBnPAeGddVKktIKlbGGDGmyGBN-mZ0LoFDHaFnwN4MtMtiaQO6BxO6F4c9jRn7ekBml-0YxBvjkYKIh1sJY3V7p0qBaEu1KqZcsmXZvzWKX3F05urp7n0q7/s1600/10on10may55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsG1QLRAnrhlO888eRJI4DheBnPAeGddVKktIKlbGGDGmyGBN-mZ0LoFDHaFnwN4MtMtiaQO6BxO6F4c9jRn7ekBml-0YxBvjkYKIh1sJY3V7p0qBaEu1KqZcsmXZvzWKX3F05urp7n0q7/s640/10on10may55.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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lessons. maddie is the queen bee activity coordinator/teacher in da house.</div>
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here, she is instructing her daddy on 'old macdonald'.</div>
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he did well and was pretty happy with himself. :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDOtKLJEOKS8BZ7nHcMppJ6AoZ1fhSuhppOKd4ub3S7jkucg9Lx09UwMRTrm3PJ6PUXajGsbgDRC4p9ZGsXtvkL2qXGxdYBiKlnMCcQfUoZUigtlEN_njHQd1Tur2Dr8ymjBJNQpmcZcCq/s1600/may10on10dad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDOtKLJEOKS8BZ7nHcMppJ6AoZ1fhSuhppOKd4ub3S7jkucg9Lx09UwMRTrm3PJ6PUXajGsbgDRC4p9ZGsXtvkL2qXGxdYBiKlnMCcQfUoZUigtlEN_njHQd1Tur2Dr8ymjBJNQpmcZcCq/s640/may10on10dad.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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so let's call this 7 on 10, mkay?</div>
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i have no idea what happened in between, i'm just glad i got these posted!</div>
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xoxo,</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>mary</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://rebekahgough.blogspot.com/"><img alt="ten on ten button" src="http://i1116.photobucket.com/albums/k578/rebagough/Screenshot2010-10-11at110042AM.png" /></a></div>
Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-46597718024478959172013-05-13T18:58:00.000-07:002013-05-14T06:12:38.677-07:00mothers day, a missions trip and a winner!<br />
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hello, friends!</div>
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first off, i just want to say thank you, thank you, THANK YOU<b><i> so very much</i></b> for your sweet and encouraging words about our new little <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/hopehomemade">shoppe</a>. </div>
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we are completely humbled and BLOWN.AWAY. by your kindness and love. </div>
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super excited, too! i'm not gonna lie!</div>
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taking the plunge to hang the open sign on the door was a scary one, but you have all made it SO fun and such a blessing!</div>
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i just keep saying, "to God be the glory!", because it is what it is and it's ALL HIM!</div>
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now that i said all that, i would like to give a little something back to YOU! </div>
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it started like this...</div>
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this morning i was sitting at the dining room table(my work space) while the kids were (supposed to be)doing school, picking at each other, begging for breakfast(at 9:30am...YIKES!), emptying the pencil sharpener all over(loathe), and sprinkling eraser shavings to kingdom come.</div>
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<b><i>i had ORDERS TO FILL! i had INSTAGRAM to check! gah!</i></b></div>
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basically i was getting a little stressed out and i started to grumble, but the Lord quickly reminded me<br />
NOT TO MAKE MY BLESSINGS A BURDEN. do you ever do that? <br />
i mean, i am SO blessed in so many ways, but i always seem to find the negative! yuck!<br />
i had to repent for being so silly and selfish and the Lord is always so gracious to forgive.<br />
then HE gave me the thought to do something fun for you guys.<br />
because you bless me so, so much, i am offering 15% off all items currently in the shoppe<br />
with the code::::YOUBLESSME!<br />
just enter it in at checkout and there ya go! <br />
how fun!!!<br />
(i also fed the kids hash and fried eggs, so they did actually eat)</div>
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shop til your little hearts content so that i can fill it right back up!</div>
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yay!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_czaRd1r0bQGgf6yk6GGJwM0dzpl4TA5IPZnkO9Dny8ugjlp4wV-ARMWFW6FGf4TSWTc66tDwcQn5X8INfNdH2Sr_CP667sohljQZkk5lLa0rl_i3HBwsmzDZt8XBnHRaqXlVWoUNbnTd/s1600/etsycouponcode.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_czaRd1r0bQGgf6yk6GGJwM0dzpl4TA5IPZnkO9Dny8ugjlp4wV-ARMWFW6FGf4TSWTc66tDwcQn5X8INfNdH2Sr_CP667sohljQZkk5lLa0rl_i3HBwsmzDZt8XBnHRaqXlVWoUNbnTd/s640/etsycouponcode.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">did you have a nice mothers day?</span></div>
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we sure did. </div>
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my kiddos and honey spoiled me GOOD! </div>
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i even survived the elmers glue-a-thon in my KINDERGARTEN sunday school class. </div>
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it was a close one for sure. ;)</div>
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we also managed to squeeze in a few pictures of me and my brood. <br />
there WERE tears from a certain little red headed person in the group whom will not be named.</div>
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even so, i'm so blessed to be their mama.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2AlskLcS_VOAFRbu5hQiEXB4pMOVIKavuetBkUSscr3iZPHImj0_pfj7oiqqHSKUTbm-aqKD0C7oOZ7oOSuxUxG5K6Lmst83NFkwPlFcYAxRXe5bEN51-EYGpJSnvG7lM4QvQ2obFDby/s1600/mothersday201312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir2AlskLcS_VOAFRbu5hQiEXB4pMOVIKavuetBkUSscr3iZPHImj0_pfj7oiqqHSKUTbm-aqKD0C7oOZ7oOSuxUxG5K6Lmst83NFkwPlFcYAxRXe5bEN51-EYGpJSnvG7lM4QvQ2obFDby/s640/mothersday201312.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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now, let's get onto the giveaway/missions trip/win-win situation all around! </div>
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my friend, jami, from Call Me Blessed, is raising money to help send her husband to uganda on a missions trip happening VERY SOON!</div>
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when God calls, we have to answer, and they are taking that step of faith in a BIG WAY.</div>
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i'll let jami take it from here...</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/67015636@N05/8719493918/" title="Uganda by callmeblessed, on Flickr"><img alt="Uganda" height="200" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7362/8719493918_504f61e6f2_m.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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today is the day! the day you get to see all the goodies up for grabs.<br />
aaaand, i'm nervous. there i said it. i feel better already.<br />
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if you read my post from last week you know that hubby is part of a mission team going to uganda this summer.</div>
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we are thrilled to be able to participate and can not wait to see what the Lord does.</div>
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the team will be traveling with<a href="https://cotni.org/"> children of the nations</a> spending time teaching and loving on children in group homes. they will also be visiting refugee camps, building a laundry facility and planting fruit trees.</div>
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the children they will be spending time with have been displaced by AIDS and war.</div>
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just the thought of it is heartbreaking to me. so many children with no parents and without a home. i long to look into their little faces. to tell them Jesus loves them. to tell them i love them. </div>
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for the time being, however, i feel called to send my hubby off with as much support and prayer as possible.</div>
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will you pray for him and the entire team? pray that everyone they come in contact with will see and feel the love they have come to bring.</div>
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we are also in need of financial support. some wonderful friends have rallied behind me to make this fun giveaway possible. i am beyond grateful for and humbled by their support.</div>
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please give what you can. a little. a lot. every dollar is appreciated.</div>
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here are all the entry details:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">*all of these items were donated by the shops and persons listed. this giveaway is open to US residents only. anyone of course, is free to give, however the gift sets will be shipped to US winners only. everyone can enter this giveaway once by leaving a comment with your name here and telling me that you shared this giveaway via twitter/facebook/instagram.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">after that? $10 per comment/entry. click the "donate" button at the bottom of this post to donate through paypal. donate $20 leave 2 comments. donate $100 leave 10 comments. easy peasy right?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">**please leave your email address with at least one of your donation comments so i can contact you if you win. the winners will be chosen using random.org and announced on monday, may 20th.</span></div>
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ok! let's get to the good good stuff.</div>
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there are 2 sets of prizes. so 2 winners! holla!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">set #1</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/67015636@N05/8724971560/" title="set1a by callmeblessed, on Flickr"><img alt="set1a" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7357/8724971560_f13c859e9f_c.jpg" width="800" /></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/67015636@N05/8724590278/" title="aly4 by callmeblessed, on Flickr"><img alt="aly4" height="266" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7403/8724590278_8eb7c2b79f_c.jpg" width="800" /></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/67015636@N05/8729091613/" title="set2d by callmeblessed, on Flickr"><img alt="set2d" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7286/8729091613_be8121b605_c.jpg" width="800" /></a>
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set #1 includes:<br />
- color pop necklace, feather necklace & aqua vintage inspired earrings from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/wifeysinger">happy days</a><br />
- gray and white polka dot infinity scarf form <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lovelylittlewhimsy">lovelylittlewhimsy</a><br />
- 1 necklace from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/hhappys">heathers happys</a>, winner's choice<br />
- 2 prints from<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/blossomandvine"> blossom&vine</a>, winner's choice<br />
- 10" teal wreath with fabric flowers from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SmallTownJoy?ref=seller_info">small town joy</a><br />
- $20 target gift card<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">set #2</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/67015636@N05/8725035578/" title="maryuganda by callmeblessed, on Flickr"><img alt="maryuganda" height="266" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7382/8725035578_f6ca9db495_c.jpg" width="800" /></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/67015636@N05/8723928219/" title="set2a by callmeblessed, on Flickr"><img alt="set2a" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7290/8723928219_de2d457eae_c.jpg" width="800" /></a>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/67015636@N05/8727634280/" title="set1c by callmeblessed, on Flickr"><img alt="set1c" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7352/8727634280_4882507b3e_c.jpg" width="800" /></a>
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set #2 includes:</div>
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-2 necklaces & 1 needlepoint from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/HOPEhomemade?ref=seller_info">hope homemade</a>, winner's choice </div>
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- 1 print from<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/blossomandvine"> blossom&vine</a>, winner's choice</div>
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-1 7" twig & flower wreath from<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/florerocreations"> florero</a></div>
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-1 necklace from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/hhappys">heathers happys</a>, winner's choice</div>
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-1 print from<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/katygirldesigns"> katygirl designs</a>, winner's choice<br />
- key necklace from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/salvage517?ref=seller_info">salvage517</a></div>
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-$20 target gift card</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">bonus set</span><br />
ok, a little bonus for you. because we are so grateful for everyone's support there will also be a winner of these fabulous items!<br />
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-a custom designed blog header from <a href="http://www.danielleburkleo.com/p/blog-design.html">danielle burkleo</a> worth $35.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/67015636@N05/8729345311/" title="forjami by callmeblessed, on Flickr"><img alt="forjami" height="107" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7396/8729345311_43593af8e0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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- a custom made clutch from jenni carlisle{@ragamuffinbeauties on instagram}</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/67015636@N05/8730283408/" title="jenni1 by callmeblessed, on Flickr"><img alt="jenni1" height="166" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7330/8730283408_aa7bd13c3e_o.jpg" width="166" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: large;">one more thing...</span></div>
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my dear friend <a href="http://www.carinalee.com/">carina</a> has come up with another way you can support us.<br />
for every arrow necklace purchased from her <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/129013648/silver-arrow-and-turquoise-teardrop?ref=shop_home_active">shop</a> she will donate $10 to our uganda fund.<br />
you can't really beat that.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/67015636@N05/8723959607/" title="carina3 by callmeblessed, on Flickr"><img alt="carina3" height="375" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7427/8723959607_d16542720d.jpg" width="500" /></a>
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well there you have it!</div>
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please visit all of these shops. these are some truly wonderful women.<br />
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and will you spread the word? tweet, facebook, instagram, blog about it? we would be super grateful.<br />
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thanks friends!<br />
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ok, it's mary again. :)<br />
we are thrilled to be a part of this, so if God is tugging at your heart to help in any way, head over to <a href="http://www.callmeblessed.com/">jami's</a> and enter in.<br />
our prayer is that the gospel will be shared in a big way and that lives are CHANGED by the transforming power of Christ!<br />
amen.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwovW5STogYLAZGLDUWE6Unxd62bm-CUo3e4bjtuggFF_wk7bGSSuwBv1cLOVoWlQnGMOCmlNlCdutJ5RdPoJhZ-cfmV2L5jKTu0Wu7x9Y8N3f74qZ33foBs66QWGl5YXKsnzi8ZjE9Zd/s1600/etsywalkbyfaithnotbysight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwovW5STogYLAZGLDUWE6Unxd62bm-CUo3e4bjtuggFF_wk7bGSSuwBv1cLOVoWlQnGMOCmlNlCdutJ5RdPoJhZ-cfmV2L5jKTu0Wu7x9Y8N3f74qZ33foBs66QWGl5YXKsnzi8ZjE9Zd/s640/etsywalkbyfaithnotbysight.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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and speaking of<a href="http://www.findinghealthyhope.blogspot.com/2013/05/were-still-kickin-and-giveaway.html#comment-form"> giveaways</a>....the winner of the we walk by faith necklace is #16!<br />
miss AMY! i will be sending you an email VERY soon!<br />
congrats!<br />
now, remember, i didn't want the rest of you to feel left out, so head over and use the 15% off coupon<br />
YOUBLESSME to snag your own <span style="color: #f1c232;"><b><i>'frosting</i></b>'</span>.<br />
hahaha...i had to say it. sorry.<br />
don't forget, we do customs orders, too, so bring on the ideas! ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-CN-83OozJzaBi5USyZsNpPQIDLXekHhraJvNRRPICJmT78lTAom6a7p4nrmhlhoBq7uLj2-HNMX0xu-Mmnc4Q0Cyea-ty1TqH5FuKUXOkwQuXwUfeyrbYYwlZiruScaGFnmU4p8YY15x/s1600/etsybusinessscards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-CN-83OozJzaBi5USyZsNpPQIDLXekHhraJvNRRPICJmT78lTAom6a7p4nrmhlhoBq7uLj2-HNMX0xu-Mmnc4Q0Cyea-ty1TqH5FuKUXOkwQuXwUfeyrbYYwlZiruScaGFnmU4p8YY15x/s640/etsybusinessscards.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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talk to ya soon.<br />
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xo<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">mary</span></b><br />
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Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-24328790420226378102013-05-06T08:04:00.000-07:002013-05-06T08:30:58.245-07:00we're still kickin' and a GIVEAWAY!<div style="text-align: center;">
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well, guess what?</div>
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i've hemmed and hawed about how to start this post, so here ya go.</div>
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i miss you. there. i said it. :)</div>
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i miss your comments of encouragement and the love that you show to me so graciously.</div>
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i miss sending reply emails and getting to know you better.</div>
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i miss sharing our life, and documenting it for my children(the whole point!).</div>
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<img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhipUAKeILohHTqORL2QH8-p66Mf_UGMaSoeijneLPbRY3IEM_IVqYIwi8JIlq52VVjcwG3wcWIpTjNMKMzthmZmdtXuvCQaYw6HLgNWX0wNdBOsSRrsFb3PtWR3xb_jECjsLbmHqQ2-Cst/s640/mayblog.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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the krauses are still very alive and well! </div>
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life has simply gotten the best of me these days </div>
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and i've decided that it's moving waaayyyyy too fast for my liking.</div>
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i have a daughter who is 14 going on 30(see above).</div>
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my boys are becoming little men.</div>
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and my sweet maddie, well, she keeps me busy with sleepovers and such!</div>
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but of course, in the middle of all of that, you can find me hiding in a pile of laundry a mile high, or trying to figure out what to make for lunch(again), maybe grading papers, killing succulent plants, scouring the toilet, perhaps? </div>
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maybe photographing my sweet husband repairing a leak. </div>
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<i>#iamthatgirl</i></div>
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if you are on instagram, you may see the goings on of our life over there(mary_krause).</div>
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it's so easy for me to share photos and activities on there, but part of me misses the interaction over here, too.</div>
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it's like sending a text when i should be calling.</div>
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or an email when handwritten is best.</div>
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i have really gotten impersonal and while it is convenient for this 90MPH life that i feel like i am barely hanging on for some days, </div>
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i know that i crave slow and simple and being more reflective. </div>
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being more present is important to me! <i>#helpmeLord</i></div>
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i don't just want to hang on for the ride, i want to enjoy the journey.</div>
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and i have to come clean, these past few months i haven't been doing that very well.</div>
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i'm sure some of you understand.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi47-DVOT126oRXipAtNaZCokwvuZwc-I8LL_r5gUc0cLgyzJqO6n5rRFA9yz4zWgJGaOMavqroyDMD1uGJu2EEQYxlrSvgsrdAYFOvq2xcHJTyPOpoojBMe_XNGc-kr2ocweyaVlOe4tbY/s1600/mayblog5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi47-DVOT126oRXipAtNaZCokwvuZwc-I8LL_r5gUc0cLgyzJqO6n5rRFA9yz4zWgJGaOMavqroyDMD1uGJu2EEQYxlrSvgsrdAYFOvq2xcHJTyPOpoojBMe_XNGc-kr2ocweyaVlOe4tbY/s1600/mayblog5.jpg" /></a></div>
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the Lord has been teaching us so many things, and He has been so gracious and tender with me along the way.</div>
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i am SO glad that HE is the captain of this ship, because i would for sure steer us right into trouble.</div>
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He is my TRUE NORTH.</div>
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unfailing. constant. </div>
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me....not.so.much.</div>
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SO! with that said, my friends, we have been up to some pretty fun stuff that we are really excited about!</div>
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my daughters have this constant desire to create and make(no idea where that comes from!?), and so, with the Lord's help, we decided to DO IT AFRAID and start up our very own etsy shoppe.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjobWudLW377psnkLWZlnopUnkMrnOWAcV2_HTSoC3zc95J1bq99JVVSIJty5jzSpFqzqRppmZxuBWtwdt3iUG8DkjJS-38ElGTYY1TwwkWsaa6KZ4fbi4ckd0CMeu9lRZQi86eqwhtQi1u/s1600/etsybanner123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjobWudLW377psnkLWZlnopUnkMrnOWAcV2_HTSoC3zc95J1bq99JVVSIJty5jzSpFqzqRppmZxuBWtwdt3iUG8DkjJS-38ElGTYY1TwwkWsaa6KZ4fbi4ckd0CMeu9lRZQi86eqwhtQi1u/s1600/etsybanner123.jpg" /></a></div>
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believe me, i.was.scared!</div>
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our prayer is that HOPE homemade inspires you in your faith and that our pieces will be a constant reminder of His love and faithfulness to and for you.</div>
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i mean, we can NEVER be reminded of that too much, right?</div>
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so, to kick off our new venture, we would like to have a giveaway!</div>
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here's a peek at some of our creations.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLg6pVj0tXldUQVJGFQl5oNvnEcbejD8mGlrf1amYYp6DAy9MQgdXvd50iIFY23zCl-MtyYw6ADiSluhHWT3F4g3anVAFt6vTQihfUgv8_MUJe-XJYKbvDrO4h03WbITOIULFYrqbKdeD/s1600/etsycollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLg6pVj0tXldUQVJGFQl5oNvnEcbejD8mGlrf1amYYp6DAy9MQgdXvd50iIFY23zCl-MtyYw6ADiSluhHWT3F4g3anVAFt6vTQihfUgv8_MUJe-XJYKbvDrO4h03WbITOIULFYrqbKdeD/s640/etsycollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><i>and</i></b>..........we are giving this necklace away to one of YOU!</div>
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something that i need to be reminded of DAILY. or MINUTELY, more like it!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">>>>we walk by faith, not by sight<<<</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ71_YQSQ0KIRf9gEcc9023ipg9mhK-Pw37nsNAsWL6v0wi6uKGAGvgs6OHSUjfbKQ6m1nGyoCwlZVn_dG_ffZklAO0H5WMM9O5umQ4byr7pBLOFXh67fpSvo2e_gZd4xkshbdQqDSKTVv/s1600/etsywalkbyfaithnotbysight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ71_YQSQ0KIRf9gEcc9023ipg9mhK-Pw37nsNAsWL6v0wi6uKGAGvgs6OHSUjfbKQ6m1nGyoCwlZVn_dG_ffZklAO0H5WMM9O5umQ4byr7pBLOFXh67fpSvo2e_gZd4xkshbdQqDSKTVv/s640/etsywalkbyfaithnotbysight.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>to enter:::</b></u></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>just leave me a comment on this post!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>#easypeasy :)</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><u><b>additional entries(leave separate comment for each one):::</b></u></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><u><b><br /></b></u></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1) visit <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/hopehomemade"><i>our shoppe</i></a> and tell me what your favorite item is!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2) share this giveaway on facebook/instagram/your blog</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">giveaway ends 5/10 and is open to readers <span style="font-size: large;">worldwide</span></span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;" /><span style="line-height: 18px;">a random winner will be picked(out of a hat!) by 5/11 :)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">please leave your email addy so that i can connect with you if you are the winner!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">head on over to :::<a href="http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/"><span style="font-size: large;">sew mama sew</span></a>::: for TONS more giveaway fun!</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">thank so much for stopping by!</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">we HOPE you love our creations and that they inspire you in your faith.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;">it feels good to be back. :)</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/hopehomemade">SHOP</a>:::<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Finding-Healthy-Hope/174719502581631?ref=ts&fref=ts">FACEBOOK</a>:::<a href="http://followgram.me/mary_krause">INSTAGRAM</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>xoxo,</b></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18px;"><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">mary</span></b></span></div>
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Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com180tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-62008926853609142912013-02-20T05:44:00.001-08:002013-02-20T06:53:33.063-08:00welcoming spring chick:::a bloggy shower<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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pardon me while i dust off the cobwebs from this little space of mine.</div>
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life has been on fast forward for several months now, but since celebrating the birthdays of all four of our kids within 35 days of each other, i am ready for it to slow down.</div>
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i am thinking slower paced, less stressed and calm.</div>
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we shall see about that! :)</div>
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today is all about partying again, though, and blessing one of my dear sweet friends.</div>
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it's going to be super fun! </div>
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<a href="http://www.aliciahutchinson.com/">alicia from la famille</a>, is only EIGHT weeks away from welcoming their lil spring chick into their quiver. </div>
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i met her through...wait for it....BLOGGING!</div>
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she has a super great sense of humor and is just real. i love that.</div>
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because we can't get together in person(wouldn't THAT be grand?), we thought that having an online 'bloggy' shower would be the next best thing!</div>
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how fun is that!?! </div>
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click on the image below to head over to becky's house. she is hosting this fun party and has lots of fun stuff over there!</div>
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there are several other women attending today, so go check them out!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">welcome to the party!</span></b></div>
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if you were coming to my home, i would be in a panic frenzy right about now...</div>
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the coffee would be brewing and i would have treats waiting for you to munch on, <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/product/home-bath/23946684.jsp"><b>my favorite candle</b></a> burning, and <b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSJD8Yk67eY&list=PLfNEBFFvhQA52Hw01Sq7OAInXXeYX1dBV&index=1">faint music in the background</a>.</b></div>
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it would be so much fun!</div>
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i adore party planning and details, so i would have banners hung and chalkboard art somewhere!</div>
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but best of all, i would get to hang out with you and rub alicia's belly(that sounded funny). just go with it.</div>
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i love babies, i love alicia, and i love big baby bellies.</div>
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when i first started thinking of some things that i wanted to make for this sweet one, my mind wandered to a mobile.</div>
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something knitted, perhaps? maybe felt? feltED?</div>
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then alicia foiled all of my plans when she came up with<b><a href="http://www.aliciahutchinson.com/2013/02/counting-sheep-nursery-plans.html"> the cutest mobile on the planet</a></b>!</div>
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i should have known! (overachiever) jk, a!</div>
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so instead, i made a different kind of 'mobile'.</div>
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i cut stars from an antique french grain sack and strung them from bakers twine on a branch.</div>
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each of the six stars represent a family member...every one different and unique.</div>
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their lights shine brightly through personality traits and their uniqueness,</div>
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but together, as a family unit, they weave a beautiful, tight pattern like the grain sack itself.</div>
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i cannot wait to witness the uniqueness that spring chick will bring to this family!</div>
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if you notice there are seven stars...that's because the brightest, most uniquely gifted and powerful One of all is God...right in the center...guiding this family and blessing them with His overwhelming goodness.</div>
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babies are a gift, you know?</div>
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so maybe we should talk gifts now?</div>
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ok....grab your coffee and have a seat...it's time to unwrap.</div>
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alicia, you go in the middle. :)</div>
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alicia is registered at <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.target.com/GiftRegistrySearchViewCmd?registryType=BB&jsRequest=true&catalogId=10051&status=completePage&cumulativeTime=-1&listId=wK3ZdUZx59FUn_-D-EvmGg&noOfPings=&registryFirstName=alicia+&langId=-1&segmentGrpName=J&storeId=10151&registryLastName=hutchinson">target</a>.</span></div>
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it's so fun to see what she picked out and what she needs...it makes us feel closer, you know? </div>
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well...she pretty much needed everything because the sweet girl got rid of all their baby stuff when they moved across the country!</div>
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i picked up a blanket from targy(not on the list...rebel!), because it was neutral and striped and well, i just love neutral and stripes. </div>
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seeing as we have similar tastes, i trusted my gut. </div>
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we also picked up a few onesies that WERE on the list.</div>
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my daughter made them extra special.</div>
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if you want to bless her, too, than by ALL means <b><a href="http://www.target.com/GiftRegistrySearchViewCmd?registryType=BB&jsRequest=true&catalogId=10051&status=completePage&cumulativeTime=-1&listId=wK3ZdUZx59FUn_-D-EvmGg&noOfPings=&registryFirstName=alicia+&langId=-1&segmentGrpName=J&storeId=10151&registryLastName=hutchinson">head over there</a>!</b></div>
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then i spotted these chicks at marshals and well...the rest is history. :) </div>
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and no baby could possibly survive without knitted moccasin booties.</div>
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my daughter made these as well.</div>
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are you seeing a pattern here?</div>
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does anyone need a refill on coffee?</div>
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another bar?</div>
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becky, you wanna reset the music?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87fF2a19Q62fRWJsrfuEHq9BkAXuTLUEQ32_k3ThqvNTubYimlOOVmQAlQ7wdCE700EowbMjE5LtaVhcmvsxmiUNVgH32pG8HxqpvTjkiNX_HNS98jGL0o2jxiQyRk6SNZRJxnxvEp8Ta/s1600/springchick20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh87fF2a19Q62fRWJsrfuEHq9BkAXuTLUEQ32_k3ThqvNTubYimlOOVmQAlQ7wdCE700EowbMjE5LtaVhcmvsxmiUNVgH32pG8HxqpvTjkiNX_HNS98jGL0o2jxiQyRk6SNZRJxnxvEp8Ta/s1600/springchick20.jpg" /></a></div>
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maybe we should play a game now.</div>
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YEAH!</div>
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one of my favorite shower games is to make up baby names out of the letters of mama and daddy's names.</div>
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in this case it would be out of ALICIA and JARROD. </div>
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i don't know if they've settled on a name yet, so i thought i'd help them out...wanna play? </div>
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also, *note alicia* i am doing this in list form, because i know how you feel about lists. :)</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjASp0VP-wGIBXzt7rdi3t0zfLocgAS6MJ3qQ6JmDHNxqY5E4BmPPKuRlmZYVrACabHjVuYb84ikB6vSI09F4Vijn-aSL6X19gr4chu06KvKnUiGZmmDfX_HooGrSmD63Gu6mFMzy7Lsg-P/s1600/springchick67.jpg" /></div>
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it's good to see i haven't lost my touch, huh?! </div>
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i think i gave them some very viable names to work with here.</div>
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a-rod is my personal favorite.</div>
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my husband pointed out that rod would suffice, but i think the 'a' gives it more of an 'alicia' feel. teehee!</div>
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feel free to add to the list in the comments below!</div>
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let's keep this one going, peeps.</div>
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alrighty, friends...</div>
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let's see what alicia has decided on for her nursery theme.</div>
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it's FAB! </div>
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i absolutely adore this calm and neutral pallet that she has chosen.</div>
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it's something that i would totally pick, too!</div>
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below is the ADORABLE mobile that she lovingly handcrafted.</div>
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isn't it PRESH?!</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PtAr4zolgqHt6FJtkIQhDhDMXKhIduVOI-6eSL2SCsp3OiRfiY7YKzG_d4TEtJYCRUxXA64UO3DUEGrzJ8FLkTJsndWHEy4BgKO_JMxCcIk5BcmlfztZrD6hxg1ZaR8rRFy3cjH4PDvj/s1600/springchick123.jpg" /></div>
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in honor of her sheepy theme, i made a few printables for her to hang in the nursery if she'd like.</div>
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i know new mamas can have long nights and need extra encouragement.</div>
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what better way to be encouraged than by our wonderful, merciful, Savior </div>
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and the ever flowing fountain of peace and grace that only He can give.</div>
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scripture is like a balm to the soul and i pray that these will bless her. :)</div>
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they look the best when printed on linen paper and i think they look really cute hung with simple washi tape.</div>
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i also thought they would be cute clipped with mini clothes pins on a strand of twine.</div>
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easy up...easy down.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2slCOPCXHXLSWTS29wqQAUJ9lVqZIj9vjyy8-qrNU-WUzn5B85LOvU5banHlOR0yr94s9ZFqf7_Jav-GPFcBAQYecsVkl6T7oa4HSQ4GbJdlnrWPD5jKHfdS0PN1gz2UgJsh2isPn5r_s/s1600/aliciaprintable+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2slCOPCXHXLSWTS29wqQAUJ9lVqZIj9vjyy8-qrNU-WUzn5B85LOvU5banHlOR0yr94s9ZFqf7_Jav-GPFcBAQYecsVkl6T7oa4HSQ4GbJdlnrWPD5jKHfdS0PN1gz2UgJsh2isPn5r_s/s1600/aliciaprintable+(1).jpg" /></a></div>
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i think this just about wraps up the party...i'm kinda sad.</div>
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do you really have to go?</div>
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wait! i want to leave you with this...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv-zqwpEocgh8cIdUZzzLecdA6EtcWyZp6x6QSAxobktrReeF7tbfwaGkysdbgP77st4ygfY_EirL7IpBfOC147x_r06OpTzFpTmiBlSMo657vc-dxcqgzKvV10cj7hfaqGulUfGSqlQDf/s1600/springchick789.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv-zqwpEocgh8cIdUZzzLecdA6EtcWyZp6x6QSAxobktrReeF7tbfwaGkysdbgP77st4ygfY_EirL7IpBfOC147x_r06OpTzFpTmiBlSMo657vc-dxcqgzKvV10cj7hfaqGulUfGSqlQDf/s1600/springchick789.jpg" /></a></div>
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dear miss a,</div>
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you have been so much fun to get to know through blogging and i am blessed to call you my friend.</div>
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i am so excited for this baby...this wonderful gift that has been entrusted to you and your family.</div>
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i cannot wait to watch His plan unfold in your life and to see where He guides you.</div>
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the future may be uncertain for us all, but there's one thing for certain...</div>
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He holds the future and we can rest in that.</div>
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His plans, His ways, are higher and greater than ours and better than even we can imagine.</div>
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i hope you know that you are loved.</div>
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<b>so. very. much.</b></div>
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xo,</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">mar bear</span></b></div>
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now go! see what's shakin' over at <a href="http://farmgirlpaints.blogspot.com/">becky's</a>, <a href="http://www.carissagraham.com/">carissa's</a>, <a href="http://blissfulblooms.blogspot.com/">amy's</a>, <a href="http://www.privetandholly.com/">suzanne's</a>, <a href="http://amyluckynumber13.blogspot.com/">amy's</a>, <a href="http://www.lemonademakinmama.com/">sasha's</a> and <a href="http://littleforalittlewhile.blogspot.com/">amy's</a>!</div>
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grab a button and join in the fun!</div>
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Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-2126331700244602212013-01-11T07:31:00.000-08:002013-01-11T08:07:46.053-08:0010 photos on a special 10th day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
yesterday was january 10th.</div>
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fifteen years ago yesterday, i married my honey on the COLDEST day of the year!</div>
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the bubbles we had were freezing in the air and dropping to the ground!</div>
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my husbands tricky brother lathered our old car with butter and food.</div>
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yum.</div>
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we left our reception early because i hate being the center of attention.</div>
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i'm thankful for days like yesterday.</div>
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days that aren't out of the ordinary, but yet, they are.</div>
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days we remember and reflect on years gone by, and all of the blessings that we have experienced.</div>
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but not without heartache.</div>
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when you're in the middle of 'life', it's so hard to see things in the big picture, but looking back, our vision seems 20/20.</div>
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we can see how God led, protected, and why He allowed the things He did.</div>
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i'm SO thankful that He is in control!</div>
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here's our day yesterday.</div>
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we arent fancy.</div>
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i woke up excited to give my honey his small things, all handmade because that's how we roll around here.</div>
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i made him this card from inspiration i saw on pinterest.</div>
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it's true!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRprFlwBcMEhy404pI3ynVhFuTEO5usuvrBL5HouuJeh3OOIClL9yj4oZ3YXsipFMsTPhyBA0drjsh5ZRfPdGBmqlqoSPWOstVQ4Ysm8l4aKMBu6ob7rBs3dWWJ4ZmotHxf6YzDLz1psI/s1600/10on10january.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyRprFlwBcMEhy404pI3ynVhFuTEO5usuvrBL5HouuJeh3OOIClL9yj4oZ3YXsipFMsTPhyBA0drjsh5ZRfPdGBmqlqoSPWOstVQ4Ysm8l4aKMBu6ob7rBs3dWWJ4ZmotHxf6YzDLz1psI/s640/10on10january.jpg" width="558" /></a></div>
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our lil jackaroo! how cute is he?</div>
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he tortures his mama in the best way. makes me smile every time.</div>
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those eyes!</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilT2fFeCCf2V343j4RMx5k5J1MOj7Jt1prap-cStVIdCSD1KQff6YdHUEshaKfF9dz3tvXhuOiYEUyQKITK4Brf1LR_XNbRj7DhvspM4TFAF3wJ1sZj6kvK_x3ApcB_vTq_uMIRTltHeLR/s640/10on10jan456.jpg" /></div>
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nathan + mary = true love :)</div>
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<img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfmVzLkTjKxkLYUfWsEK3v-SR0-pTv-Nz078z0bYLpqDednfEUP6I7Ba26hUq5uv7s00cWG8ukylZ0cv8jltPje5T2Akl9w-JKaDJjko145WVdATcDhJfoFj6t0-pUQ36d35WCzKLaiwu/s640/10on10jan.jpg" width="480" /></div>
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i don't know where this came from, but it was good.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkddMkhQY9vyrJb-lJo1vpMMasvvAsovQ0QpNH9guptU_fyN6NnvGB6NM9VqeuoQ4BfyrSurU5c_PkrzVdqnvqebklJITtTDIWOFC7zjapFp7cIz8K6Fl2kbDu7WFtrcrohH-t3dTytPkE/s1600/10on10jan2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkddMkhQY9vyrJb-lJo1vpMMasvvAsovQ0QpNH9guptU_fyN6NnvGB6NM9VqeuoQ4BfyrSurU5c_PkrzVdqnvqebklJITtTDIWOFC7zjapFp7cIz8K6Fl2kbDu7WFtrcrohH-t3dTytPkE/s1600/10on10jan2.jpg" /></a></div>
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PROOF that God knows what we need, when we need it.</div>
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i sold a few things on consignment and it came to me at JUST the right time!</div>
<br />
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<img height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZeojTvspfx7midiM75ZBKQZs6tM3cWZb9dprkJppHRSQ4alSlqaVIK62PsuDWZC_j9BdXj6bJ8rxP8SGYOQXoaZ8A05gKWZ4ynq_pezi5GulIbwyower26ofRxvJIoYMOJtKHCS8JvjQj/s640/10on10jan5678.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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stress relief.</div>
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old hymns are the best.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGvOYLxWmonN6Ybbvg75_-LcyOY6Er0v9Xab0MQ2XkuSfPAxsp-4pVNqD0EBo0asL23Uk9-ZfnLgZt7wDreK0YGs5JZQm-InThSwqzT6GpchKVq7mTRZesaISqZUJNp2mKU1GSRP5GvW-Z/s1600/10on10jan4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGvOYLxWmonN6Ybbvg75_-LcyOY6Er0v9Xab0MQ2XkuSfPAxsp-4pVNqD0EBo0asL23Uk9-ZfnLgZt7wDreK0YGs5JZQm-InThSwqzT6GpchKVq7mTRZesaISqZUJNp2mKU1GSRP5GvW-Z/s640/10on10jan4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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mid day mess.</div>
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<img height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6GGgx1DlVCYJfc1TWqjZb0freT9Bso696Fye6tt-DOfVyT5SWRxYKsgebPlx0hfH3hinlNmWXAKnM7ks4W5MBeyonNNvml97zKWyFm8_npfdg-5NabcZCdyTepwNLI1yjR_epo4Mlt640/s640/10on10jan5467.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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the cutest goodies arrived for henry's foxxy party on monday!</div>
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#mybabyisturningseven wahhhhhhhh!</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBqQQLSss305cbYlGbcHEHYr_zgqkJnJ08Fo2_klPWQIJQSrbOZQSOfUtbAew8CKQLC-gKfzlgRbUNJM0E8Ggw5E22PBbv7ueXwx2G45S7JnozsNgWePBNXNgYvm7VHU7vwqCbJyrdBBDl/s640/10on10jan345.jpg" /></div>
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the look on kit cats face says it all!</div>
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<img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWvvYq-VYrYzv59xvx5Oyld1HdmZT3VibtxyWeAqyKiG0_MoB8fjn9JbZeR1jI6rv2Dt1PKWUOsq8cVL10arnYf7c6a0cwKRq04_D3syXMjdmEYkutQjE1NjbgKox-c_0kstKoO7LVGIp8/s640/10on10henry.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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free cheesecake? </div>
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why, sure!</div>
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i loved watching my family laughing all together at the table last night.</div>
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this is what life is all about.</div>
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it's also about paper plates at every meal.</div>
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i told you, we're not fancy!</div>
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;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_OG3AFn58FfUOuRHNJicjMWjHjl6EzphT8OnfKPfqwFamKSm1kwD507Xt195ZzCBco50E1ZSllaoXg5k8HnLpGZ9BRlf6YDdyn4npHloWh2WrFixT8Uo_1G94XFo7xSstJIZIivnATT_/s1600/10on10jan123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV_OG3AFn58FfUOuRHNJicjMWjHjl6EzphT8OnfKPfqwFamKSm1kwD507Xt195ZzCBco50E1ZSllaoXg5k8HnLpGZ9BRlf6YDdyn4npHloWh2WrFixT8Uo_1G94XFo7xSstJIZIivnATT_/s640/10on10jan123.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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so there you have it.</div>
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it was a good, good day.</div>
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:)</div>
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<br /></div>
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xo,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">mary</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<a href="http://rebekahgough.blogspot.com/"><img alt="ten on ten button" src="http://i1116.photobucket.com/albums/k578/rebagough/Screenshot2010-10-11at110042AM.png" /></a></div>
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-84292102357036096212013-01-09T22:23:00.001-08:002013-01-09T22:23:45.611-08:0015<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaY9-yDS-xCmsEzM2-sDfo-e0FAM9rfC3wW58ZczSZ2ahdrCZhylVnFQW9nehB4lfxyUnfoOHRjuzKPy7AhQMlUriLRqGfiKnnxcA0II4z-KJEuXzi1-nheLdbBFFly9QQox8Oh6gmYpg4/s1600/anniversary2.jpg" /></div>
<br />
i can totally remember back in the day when i was a very young wife(married at 18), looking at people who were celebrating 15 year anniversaries and thinking how LONG of a time it was to be together.<br />
at that time, it seemed like an eternity away for us.<br />
i was looking towards our five year thinking <i>THAT</i> was an accomplishment.<br />
of course it was, but then...<br />
<br />
i blinked.<br />
<br />
and here we are.<br />
<br />
fifteen years in, overwhelmed with God's goodness and mercy each and every day.<br />
praying that i can absorb even an ounce of it and pay it forward to my husband, my children and others.<br />
<br />
i would do it all over again in a heartbeat, but with much more wisdom and purpose.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>I, Mary, take thee, Nathan, to be my wedded husband</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86DM55JU1SXujmlqRIBTBNnei-p4TCMsTCuARHIIeZst_Z2SZ3CKXf9kV82_eS7wowlf5QQdpTW7hmMZ98bs9PzkyH_5oepQY0qagKssLFdNXIdjg8syp4_lXJbkFDgwLgZV4Bg3xW3oc/s1600/familyphotos2012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg86DM55JU1SXujmlqRIBTBNnei-p4TCMsTCuARHIIeZst_Z2SZ3CKXf9kV82_eS7wowlf5QQdpTW7hmMZ98bs9PzkyH_5oepQY0qagKssLFdNXIdjg8syp4_lXJbkFDgwLgZV4Bg3xW3oc/s640/familyphotos2012.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">to have and to hold from this day forward</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRG6F6dbWhAKAt6BlS0-CVuj3cJgPTDZFvmBoYrmmG_3pBZrgbSHCdHWmntzgq6SOqfeFEuOriRmweqG9hq1ub3FrD44DNSochpWqb07drJw-PrbWE1Tsyy7-mNtCgp-rcS-GhExSvbK97/s1600/familyphotos20122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRG6F6dbWhAKAt6BlS0-CVuj3cJgPTDZFvmBoYrmmG_3pBZrgbSHCdHWmntzgq6SOqfeFEuOriRmweqG9hq1ub3FrD44DNSochpWqb07drJw-PrbWE1Tsyy7-mNtCgp-rcS-GhExSvbK97/s640/familyphotos20122.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>for better, for worse</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_igV31TtRwW0moJzq49LDRe7cWKHS8GT7HYbxG0PA5YVZcoYOykOr1av9e1WR7CEkAUFxHYho-QTbmH5ioqS2Ej6-ba1z2hIf82FNWSrNnSXj52Wa5_GegKQhUnAWWmwW_uFnxOhbg7P/s1600/familyphotos3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi_igV31TtRwW0moJzq49LDRe7cWKHS8GT7HYbxG0PA5YVZcoYOykOr1av9e1WR7CEkAUFxHYho-QTbmH5ioqS2Ej6-ba1z2hIf82FNWSrNnSXj52Wa5_GegKQhUnAWWmwW_uFnxOhbg7P/s640/familyphotos3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">for richer, for poorer</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vu7goBDXfj79IT1X0fYuBy_liRx0E1kkt36vJpu7iwOe59_uPijQ6wWhCGrwocxVaqGaEV0i_4yaSvQs-Eq-OtklEMmPvtjrFiJmF8BQo8mFtxPCovl7fhv69NRKnjp0yj_BYpTMPhPB/s1600/anni77.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vu7goBDXfj79IT1X0fYuBy_liRx0E1kkt36vJpu7iwOe59_uPijQ6wWhCGrwocxVaqGaEV0i_4yaSvQs-Eq-OtklEMmPvtjrFiJmF8BQo8mFtxPCovl7fhv69NRKnjp0yj_BYpTMPhPB/s640/anni77.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">in sickness and in health</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRx5QGSMJJeP_cIY4n-muL8kyO-uZgTD4vEiZi_1Z9nRI7idZCG64qJd5n7APxHY8tUr_I8M0YKAWwprBKbAqbSFgkUDvPiKwY9Cuh-B5TN236PWNajS-5aoAB0Id0uaVtkZvq43l9F7Lt/s1600/familphotos20127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRx5QGSMJJeP_cIY4n-muL8kyO-uZgTD4vEiZi_1Z9nRI7idZCG64qJd5n7APxHY8tUr_I8M0YKAWwprBKbAqbSFgkUDvPiKwY9Cuh-B5TN236PWNajS-5aoAB0Id0uaVtkZvq43l9F7Lt/s640/familphotos20127.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>to love and to cherish</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdp2Dl3V-KQrnkhi-ckuq3X7f7mQXuRHPs1ckq4MTb7AX_N9J6JStZP6xjxc6HjwSBPC_VwWLwRcUJYzMTQrCWxbPqJckgaB21cJzzkadxqf69-9LTimQEKyj9_s5SqRTxNZ5UMGfYatMj/s1600/anni46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="574" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdp2Dl3V-KQrnkhi-ckuq3X7f7mQXuRHPs1ckq4MTb7AX_N9J6JStZP6xjxc6HjwSBPC_VwWLwRcUJYzMTQrCWxbPqJckgaB21cJzzkadxqf69-9LTimQEKyj9_s5SqRTxNZ5UMGfYatMj/s640/anni46.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">until death do us part.</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkYYuAgs4wn-6KFknedgtUVux3WcWCneNk6mQArC-cgx_dARf2jOyM8zEGz2NGyBGCUAYnp8WRdGn7jPK4dBqODNE35bCJQcpTPsIFEsODWPQEO2oaChROdJH2kuGnrApfV-v2Ui6uleW/s1600/anni56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFkYYuAgs4wn-6KFknedgtUVux3WcWCneNk6mQArC-cgx_dARf2jOyM8zEGz2NGyBGCUAYnp8WRdGn7jPK4dBqODNE35bCJQcpTPsIFEsODWPQEO2oaChROdJH2kuGnrApfV-v2Ui6uleW/s640/anni56.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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we've been on the mountaintop.</div>
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and we've been in the valley.</div>
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i suspect we will be there again, but by the grace of God we will do it together.</div>
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there's no one else i'd rather be spending this one crazy life with than you, Mr. Krause.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyokXOgzV_eNqYGWd37Rb5aFMJhfu_im3XXgDK2eQYtywB6v4Uzmr4ULYXmaNESwl_TAvog2-3FhFJ962ZtBK0ATG7V2B3T74JLfK9eX_TB4PP7HltJ-iHr7ZNO2W5QNN_qC7EYBZHZHDm/s1600/anniversary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyokXOgzV_eNqYGWd37Rb5aFMJhfu_im3XXgDK2eQYtywB6v4Uzmr4ULYXmaNESwl_TAvog2-3FhFJ962ZtBK0ATG7V2B3T74JLfK9eX_TB4PP7HltJ-iHr7ZNO2W5QNN_qC7EYBZHZHDm/s1600/anniversary.jpg" /></a></div>
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happy anniversary.</div>
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xo,</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>mary</b></span></div>
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-29074083398180702802013-01-07T06:08:00.004-08:002013-01-07T06:12:48.795-08:00One for One:::A GIVEAWAY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Good morning sweet friends!</div>
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Did you have a great Christmas or what?!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We sure did, and now that the dust has finally settled a bit, we will be diving back into school full time this week.</div>
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Pray for me, okay? :)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You wanna know something REALLY exciting?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
God has brought the sweetest people into my life through blogging and I am so excited to have one of my dear friends over here with me today.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Her name is Joy, and she blogs over at <a href="http://smalltownjoy.blogspot.com/">Small Town Joy</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Her faith completely inspires me, and she challenges me in the best way.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Proverbs 27:17 came to mind the other day as I was amazed at her realness and genuine love for and faith in our great BIG GOD!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.</span></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Friends, meet Joy. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">:)</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P3uOs-L35Lo/UOjo1CbFEVI/AAAAAAAAFMM/O2vtJwr2ZfY/s1600/2013-01-05" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P3uOs-L35Lo/UOjo1CbFEVI/AAAAAAAAFMM/O2vtJwr2ZfY/s400/2013-01-05" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hello new friends! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm Joy, from <a href="http://smalltownjoy.blogspot.com/">Small Town Joy</a>, where I blog about my faith, family and our journey in foster care. I am a lover of Jesus, my main squeeze, and the little hearts I have been entrusted with.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My sweet man (Barry) and I are blessed to be the parents of three of the coolest kids on the block. Two "big kids" we call Jordan (15) and Riley (12), and one little sister we call "Pie". She's two. She's full of spunk. She's our foster child.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our "Pie" has brought so much joy to our family. Our skin does not match, but our hearts match up just right. She has lived every day of her little two year old life with us. She knows no other family. We are hers, and she is ours.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQvLZVItj466iIUDp7t8ce2PpyRS0gJlT7L3c4HVjpLZ0rVHwyV8H36AIVyTOaOIWk1PRw9BEzFZ6F_VnxYVXsjwQuwjHEm0Fk-0xBAwGzRjOZUDmD07BtH77_f7X88CDAjFou0vECR0Q/s1600/IMG_0155%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQvLZVItj466iIUDp7t8ce2PpyRS0gJlT7L3c4HVjpLZ0rVHwyV8H36AIVyTOaOIWk1PRw9BEzFZ6F_VnxYVXsjwQuwjHEm0Fk-0xBAwGzRjOZUDmD07BtH77_f7X88CDAjFou0vECR0Q/s640/IMG_0155%5B1%5D.JPG" width="425" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The past two years have been filled with much wait and little activity. Her case has been a doozey and due to circumstances surrounding her case we felt God calling us to stand up and fight for protection our girl. After much prayer we hired a private attorney to help us stop the chaos surrounding this child's case and finalize our adoption. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi0wtaVCBHR5DuHXlg0QL6FlJj8UIhUzjR0Nf6wsy1nH_tDncsOlC-91m_cUolUHb3oCoznPCmu646r2AZnetqdGnAvhtMS3C7BZ7VCGbWxfwyIVWJLqG3tiKkCS7Cu5_-QrJ8RLPUUjc/s1600/christpic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eea="true" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi0wtaVCBHR5DuHXlg0QL6FlJj8UIhUzjR0Nf6wsy1nH_tDncsOlC-91m_cUolUHb3oCoznPCmu646r2AZnetqdGnAvhtMS3C7BZ7VCGbWxfwyIVWJLqG3tiKkCS7Cu5_-QrJ8RLPUUjc/s640/christpic.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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2012</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the past weeks things have begun to move very quickly. Our adoption will likely be finalized <em>soon. </em>It would bless our socks off if you would donate $1.00 to our adoption fund. Do it so that ONE child may have a forever family. ONE less child will be in foster care. ONE family will have their forever child. Your ONE dollar will make a big difference.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our goal is... $8500.00 to finish off our legal fees and finalize our adoption. Every single dollar counts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And one more thing, will you share about this fundraiser? We need your help to get the word out. My friends have joined up and put together a <a href="http://kellymonkeybusiness.blogspot.com/">sweet little giveaway</a> for those of you who SHARE about this fundraiser. You can earn entries for sharing via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and your personal blog. You can NOT earn entries for giving. Skip on over to <a href="http://kellymonkeybusiness.blogspot.com/">Kelly's blog</a> and check out the giveaway... there's even a Kindle Fire!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thank you so much for giving and praying and especially sharing!</span></div>
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<a href="http://smalltownjoy.blogspot.com/"><br /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><em><a href="http://smalltownjoy.blogspot.com/">Click here to visit our blog, grab our button and donate to our adoption.</a></em></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">God is good, all the time!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Isn't this exciting?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I sure hope that you will prayerfully consider donating, sharing or praying for this sweet family!</span></div>
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Please, SHARE SHARE SHARE!</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">:)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">xo, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>mary</b></span></div>
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<oneforone67 .jpg=".jpg"></oneforone67></oneforone></oneforonecollage>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-21937089585691212372012-12-24T08:33:00.001-08:002012-12-24T08:45:30.068-08:00From our family to yours...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Merry Christmas!</span></b></div>
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the Christmas program is done, </div>
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gifts have been exchanged with friends,<br />
we've decorated our hearts out,<br />
goodies have been made,<br />
and the presents are all wrapped sitting snugly under the sparkly lights of the tree.</div>
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<img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif3iOIHStecnruO9C8mQDfp9lEyuUMFOi_gS1oIjDtpC5RGCYiS_JsU1JZab_W882exJyGbLYjWnx9AmmburP5unVMR1RTHreHUWvXW6_W_RDsmwlFURoJa2aERB4if8EuisIuBKL3PZSu/s640/christmasevecollage.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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now, we anxiously wait.</div>
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we wait for the birthday of the One Who was born to take our place.</div>
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Who lived the life we should have lived,</div>
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only to die the death that should have been ours.<br />
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<span style="color: #ffd966; font-size: x-large;">the Greatest gift that we could ever receive.</span></div>
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can you even imagine the scene that night in the manger</div>
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when the Savior came into this world so humbly?</div>
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my heart flutters at the thought. </div>
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<img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB5vGyE01Qedb5j8s5xc2438ZMzRJsu4z0xiz7SjSvvwPpzHZhyphenhyphenjVqyr3rzQAgT9Fc4WjCQ4pQ5HcpAB0Zcbc1bQLdLq4IQRSy6FmU5ZrTOESLN2G6TtUm2Z-ATp0bTr6LZ4xz_9EK_L1j/s640/christmaseve1.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal; text-align: start;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #76a5af;">And a loving thought sent a </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #d0e0e3;">snow white lamb</span></span><br style="font-weight: normal; text-align: start;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: normal; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #45818e;">To a little town known as Bethlehem</span></span><br style="font-weight: normal; text-align: start;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: normal; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #134f5c;">And the little lamb thought of you and me</span></span><br style="font-weight: normal; text-align: start;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: normal; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #0c343d;">As He hung His gift on the Christmas tree.</span></span></span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">blessings to you and your dear families at this most wonderful Season!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><b>xo,</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>mary</b></span><br />
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-56222238118222610972012-12-21T22:24:00.000-08:002012-12-22T07:46:28.664-08:00Our home for the holidays:::CHRISTmas 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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come on in, friends.<br />
it would be really fun to have you over in real life for lattes or cocoa,<br />
but since that won't be happening this year, here's a little peek into our home.<br />
we have had so much fun decorating for the birthday of our Savior!<br />
only three days left!<br />
yikes!<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Dlpt0SZlfxRRHmVcnngk47-nx19GmfPRhmLC89p4DQ9kfLZWLbi4dDCvMmQJbnGzFuN9n1GuByGjkLLxwKN59hw9ubcwlvwMMEyg85lhGPRVpLYUomZA6q_JhaVtlj9cPnmeLStgOHg/s1600/christmastournativity.jpg" /></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1-Oty6aUH1zYtvs_TCskcbLiQtIw4nusdCLeSyVT_pKNoPDC8JeIHevHT_Hx12IYQf9wK9uyVoSeVbwHLLs_g9IPMnJdMef9Vs7hMQkidRTJqwww8vQNKCocy4FtRWrBlmUAvXs21cxA/s1600/christmascollage234.jpg" /></div>
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my friend,<a href="http://beautyinbloom.typepad.com/"> jennifer</a>, made the adorable twine star garland.<br />
it's totally me and i love it so much!<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBU2GIl0jAB1NzOPfT0kPDJ8qWHGBGBnB7QnoDOuM6j2L3glzHxFaQmmxiD8mxMRNoLSF-7aGjms70xBNANRsKr3lbq8BMpOgf_0iS1oKt9EolHsKMuuAYRdJtjR-YQHiTonu9kxPTMpY/s1600/christmasornament.jpg" /></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jEHeZ6RGsSCKCERHog14BU24SkeusCGbWSWZdOF_UTHHW5H3SlOsu6U2PvITlUpd06GgUxFtCiGAZ5LIzd5eAEEbTiONBE3opQTEpbd1cnpb5iL7FFUtqxeSYRUZsJv0n7hy7IDJ1g8/s1600/christmastourlivingroom1.jpg" /></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUfb4VFhtix2DA54mov_x0kuVOzGnEdk0iGFhAilUfHbiU0zUIUCy7_4at-t4cO6u925aMolPSwAzyajlXLrpCaqdc2LIx4XFW45XFmcWp4uSI7ErjanPfOSbiv6Gavi1jyoQUg-_coOQ/s1600/christmascollage2.jpg" /><br />
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this year, i broke down and put a star on top of our tree.<br />
we have always had this simple wooden angel that i just LOVE, but nathan and the kiddos really wanted a star.<br />
i made this one with twigs, twine, red dogwood branches, hot glue, and floral wire.<br />
then i added a small strand of lights to make it <span style="color: #f1c232;">SHINE</span>!<br />
we all love it.<br />
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the kiddos made the glittery chain garland out of pipe cleaners.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjlOwlFBNsmyH5t_oV-aDJ3wtG4N5zyonYT6NEog8JsryuJce_sIovdP0FPupFUzCmwwskVehYW3oJq6T2lTMmBITUC3j4psCIHTefgiv5_RduzosAaEogl63YBfLk3AKMD8smUNlMAHE/s1600/christmasballs.jpg" /></div>
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nevermind the dust on that cupboard! :)<br />
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making these orangeaments was our favorite project this year.</div>
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i was inspired by this sweet girl over <a href="http://www.annaleahart.com/2012/12/how-to-make-dried-orangeaments.html">here</a>.</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Apc3079nvJv6TdzcE17hpWwSBPbX03g8MAA17sBRCKx5JQF1URP9BqBWQnoCAeuLzEBFqKoYqoLx2hM3WWgbSRisaY9kiNmWl39DRBYhXWuHKI_B361SfQolOXcdv4Z5NXdmuc9Nkds/s1600/christmastour4.jpg" /></div>
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i'm keeping this Christmas cactus alive and thriving. a Christmas miracle!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW4H5L-CRxOaWW9oLp9w-jHUltbj6GA8V7rIoFL1KpVQtejbuQOKZ4_4QOQpD8T4ahEs6c8R6vP-DGY75yUur5Q3C1Ujte10Ncu8Frqu2deSZRp2Y4tV6-4VvEDx__EALX2fm3O3OFsk0/s1600/christmascollage45634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW4H5L-CRxOaWW9oLp9w-jHUltbj6GA8V7rIoFL1KpVQtejbuQOKZ4_4QOQpD8T4ahEs6c8R6vP-DGY75yUur5Q3C1Ujte10Ncu8Frqu2deSZRp2Y4tV6-4VvEDx__EALX2fm3O3OFsk0/s1600/christmascollage45634.jpg" /></a></div>
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i made these wreaths last year and decided to bring them out for Christmas, since i couldn't find any reasonably priced boxwood wreaths.<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij6j-rUoDizNs93I09B8JnFxrJtQ_xZqYJXenrNR3KbbY5qs0bPHNtEY7HkRHfKFLApMvH6hapgB_A-Cs-KHg3SGQUSW7hSk_eOrNnvaGcu7XFKGa1_wWA5d88ddmYEwupOtf1mknGCM4/s1600/christmastour578.jpg" /></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRMH-Yn0Ce2kOjQoJoqbudZHMdiJQm8059mO7T_tRRFDY8AFva7R7nZZO8LwBsOBMljlBbHv4VzWJ2oWp7oJfaXV5llp744QFP8DUkCUnHixbsxhPL1iYfzTw4DyDzFze2RTLzingHNM/s1600/christmascollage3214.jpg" /><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie5B1V2LRO1pskHFm44IABQnaibcIl7lrApag7KPYrTTpOSjTCMI77WSEGmfikgWqQ5IIz9BXSdOTgOsXnnuyFcqN3oavhvEOiPMRm2Pb-fpK9U8CjEP5cF9mZSHh1-kzVQhiOSR-2CZk/s1600/christmastour546.jpg" /></div>
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i have to admit, i have really dropped the ball on the advent this year. :/<br />
i made this last year out of an old $1 cork board, some fabric,<br />
ribbon and those little boxes from michaels push-pinned into the cork.<br />
simple and fun!<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3t9VZQ6cNAQcreXdGUTDeuAgB_8uTsV9ETLxStloswNnhyphenhyphenLp1noN2OrHS48q3HRB1iwJGOd0Pti5tmlPDQLdwRHQ27t_Y-tXZnODbF3wz06OFbeTYf4GPTmHGyAfYMIzineXIelS9CTI/s1600/christmastour55.jpg" /><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMXK4L5DGxBMF5Rzdz7IzuPLqHhZJ8SjO3JbmPVNJVsmw7ggGglJBZPQjp-zU7IyYU0zS3RIa9PXjj45xLhk8-CJWh_17YzAbLki5FTEO0IcgQlqXxqHXAhTd5zwFS0xql8_9JlTxjoyE/s1600/christmastour4867.jpg" /><br />
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yummy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs_0aIpYQ_W6z6_bKkx4xuCRWo-Oy4GAGtMKwV4K72RQUHLyCSx3T0NhcXrd0-Cs2BkoxYaII8mkZPbEyiSRVFSdW5InuPtI2ifpus-ZCNeRNxA0AwY-LAKEpSY_vo_Dkno8Jxki87cLo/s1600/christmascollagecocoa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs_0aIpYQ_W6z6_bKkx4xuCRWo-Oy4GAGtMKwV4K72RQUHLyCSx3T0NhcXrd0-Cs2BkoxYaII8mkZPbEyiSRVFSdW5InuPtI2ifpus-ZCNeRNxA0AwY-LAKEpSY_vo_Dkno8Jxki87cLo/s1600/christmascollagecocoa.jpg" /></a></div>
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thanks so much for taking the time to stop by today.</div>
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i pray that your Christmas is filled with His blessings and all those you hold dear.</div>
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we are so ready to celebrate!</div>
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are you?</div>
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xo,</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>mary</b></span></div>
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Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-37576656673980622392012-12-20T09:22:00.000-08:002012-12-20T09:30:36.256-08:00Spreading the Good News:::A Printable<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
i have been contemplating the horrific event from last week and the evil that is present in our world.<br />
my heart <b>breaks</b> for the losses of family and friends and for the innocent children who were gunned down senselessly.<br />
i cannot imagine <i><b>BEING</b></i> one of those parents or being the parent of the man who orchestrated and carried this evil out.<br />
as darkness and sin waxes worse and worse in our world today, there is this great opportunity for the Light of the world to shine brighter than ever.<br />
after all, darkness is simply the absence of Light, and people around us need to know the Truth of that Light Who came to save us. <br />
Who came to save <i><b>them</b></i>. <br />
He is no respecter of persons.<br />
i am the same as the murderer.<br />
only saved by His wonderful grace. sinner, still.<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">but now, i am a Light bringer.</span></b><br />
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so what better opportunity do we have to share Him than the season that we celebrate His birth?<br />
it's like an open door that God is just waiting for us to walk through.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TFxitWS419bUWCmdHAtpwHZpLW4V39YqexOg1iAkmO_Smn1O9mdsuCej20Y3oy0PEHYR216Q8muetY93pRirH3aBkIDQ-W8b7GsP4RrSGXOsPSG5LiyreWJkLLZA0ijrmA3OQ0mExYY/s1600/decembercandycane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TFxitWS419bUWCmdHAtpwHZpLW4V39YqexOg1iAkmO_Smn1O9mdsuCej20Y3oy0PEHYR216Q8muetY93pRirH3aBkIDQ-W8b7GsP4RrSGXOsPSG5LiyreWJkLLZA0ijrmA3OQ0mExYY/s640/decembercandycane.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
do you know anyone that needs to know?<br />
has the Holy Spirit whispered in your ear as He has mine?<br />
i have come up with some pretty lame excuses as to why,<b><i> "i can't, Lord!"</i></b><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>"what will they think?"</b></i><br />
<i><b>"will they be offended?"</b></i><br />
<i><b>"i don't know what to say!"</b></i><br />
<i><b>"now's just not the time."</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
i have struggled to present the Gospel to them because they are people that i don't see on a regular basis.<br />
my hairdresser, the owner of a shop that we love, our neighbors, the librarians and so.many.more people.<br />
my prayer is that God will use this to plant a seed.<br />
to open the doors to greater conversations than, "<b><i>soooooo.....how 'bout that weather!?".</i></b><br />
that as i grow these wonderful friendships, i am able to share with them my Best Friend.<br />
who knows how God will stir in their heart?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-SVyUkVtVvhV9Ai8v5ZlaYNhfHH8lTIhfVzA07rditywBU8R81YzYKdMsKAA3pXa8RyS4XuE4iefvSa-kSkNrbylFGU-5ljw_ZDjskyKpP66qZVky9OHbWTtIZvYVeguz4Uy9IwDxu8w/s1600/decembercandycane111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-SVyUkVtVvhV9Ai8v5ZlaYNhfHH8lTIhfVzA07rditywBU8R81YzYKdMsKAA3pXa8RyS4XuE4iefvSa-kSkNrbylFGU-5ljw_ZDjskyKpP66qZVky9OHbWTtIZvYVeguz4Uy9IwDxu8w/s1600/decembercandycane111.jpg" /></a></div>
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i know this comes a bit late in the season, but i think all of our grieving hearts needed days to process what has happened and love on our families.<br />
i am so grateful for my children, and that they are here with me.<br />
my hearts aches with the families that are enduring such grievous loss and pain, especially during such a joyous season.<br />
it would never, EVER be easy, but Christmas...it just seems worse. ya know?<br />
my prayer is that hearts would be turned to the Babe in the manger.<br />
the One who came to reconcile us from sin, such as we have seen of late.<br />
the One Who radiates HOPE and longs for us to look up.<br />
may we look up.<br />
may we pray.<br />
may we reach souls for Him.<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;">He is the answer.</span></b><br />
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<div>
with the help of my dear friend,<b><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://beautyinbloom.typepad.com/">Jennifer</a></span></b>, i was able to bring this printable to you.</div>
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i designed it, and she so graciously(and quickly) made it so that there could be four on a page.</div>
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my computer and brain have limitations. :)</div>
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thanks, dear friend. :)</div>
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they are nice to just hand out as is, or to attach to gifts.<br />
they spread a message of Hope and the true Meaning of Christmas<br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33GUixwB8ckU0iLa7vBIY18EInKDkvTbHpWwI9j4Ei6t4r5YX4ApEuHe6vtQVYlho6lE8mCtjX0HT1oY15AjULL8kFFNqg3DCvbcyrxe5t-80ixwJwWIkzS6JLyAdUFlRVcuPOQcXXaU/s1600/candycane12.jpg" /><br />
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what you will need:<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>printer</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>paper (i printed on cardstock for weight)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>hole punch</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>twine or ribbon</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>exacto knife(for the slit for the candy cane)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>candy canes</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrWW_MlF4X_f3YUC4KnBIA1YjOY7ExbCX1Nty3NgraS9qx-IdaS0jvO4s6b79x4ZsD98i1CGvqPpBCm40b3Y8MW4i2YjvcfxL_FOFZ3yXcrbYdiWcizqyeg8bSxAucNXhaLaETENU2c0/s1600/decembercandycane234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrWW_MlF4X_f3YUC4KnBIA1YjOY7ExbCX1Nty3NgraS9qx-IdaS0jvO4s6b79x4ZsD98i1CGvqPpBCm40b3Y8MW4i2YjvcfxL_FOFZ3yXcrbYdiWcizqyeg8bSxAucNXhaLaETENU2c0/s1600/decembercandycane234.jpg" /></a></div>
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i hope you all are having a wonderful week!<br />
i treasure your friendship SO much...each and every one.<br />
you are a gift to me!<br />
<br />
sending lots of love your way, dear ones.<br />
<br />
xoxoxo,<br />
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;">mary</b><br />
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b>Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-51123244475968263692012-12-12T13:53:00.002-08:002012-12-12T15:31:40.688-08:00all was calm, all was Bright<div style="text-align: center;">
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nathan and i finally had the opportunity to brave the stores(<b><i>alone</i></b>) and finish up(<i style="font-weight: bold;">mostly</i>) our Christmas shopping yesterday.</div>
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since giving gifts is my favorite, i have NO trouble seeking out treasures that i feel will best suit our loved ones and friends. </div>
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money is always the issue. always.</div>
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i would love to give SO much more materially, but that simply cannot happen and frankly, it's just not the point.</div>
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truthfully, i need to give more of my time and compassion to others, and they would probably appreciate that more than a gift card or any sweater that i think is just perfect.</div>
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it took a few minutes for us to get our brains aligned and really make some progress on our list.</div>
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does that happen to you?</div>
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in my frantic desire to provide someone with the perfect gift, i found myself entangled in the same lies that lead to the distractions that completely take my mind off of the Reason why we are doing this all anyway.</div>
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i get irritated with my poor hubby as he yawns and seems completely unstressed.<br />
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">why isn't he stressed!?</span></i></b></div>
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then i get even more riled up over my assumption of his disinterest in it all, when, truthfully, he had it all right.</div>
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when i headed into target for the <b><i>second time</i></b> and heard jingle bells blasted for the millionth time, in the seventeenth version, it didn't take long for a still small Voice to ground my footing and become seriously grossed out by all of the commercialism that has completely overtaken the world.</div>
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i had fallen prey to it's lies and it made my heart hurt a little. <i><b> or a lot.</b></i></div>
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and then that Voice reminded me very clearly...</div>
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it wasn't like this that night.</div>
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it wasn't loud.</div>
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it wasn't flashy.</div>
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it didn't have glitter and music and a parade to make His presence known.</div>
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He was the Perfect Gift.</div>
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He still is.</div>
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<img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBAseS1LLM183cJLXzqzNSyuo7GVbDEY3O-fsQDrJe4DcK-EuHUZBeBTiObuLxI98YFBNKJtc8V4VoSnO1_DGMH2AC1VOM19ZoCB92_ACfG1GJrmXYSHQX1YSeXrREDIPI91O6SF1Lp2U/s640/2b5480b4423911e2947622000a9e138b_7.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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all was calm.</div>
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all was Bright.</div>
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and as the Savior, our <b><span style="font-size: large;">Rescuer</span></b>, came into this world, He bore a burden so great.</div>
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it was us.</div>
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our sin.</div>
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so as i reassessed the day, and the hunting of the perfect gifts, the stressing over it all, i felt a great peace.</div>
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a peace that comes from the realization that Jesus broke the chains of death and sin for me, so that i don't have to be a slave to my sin anymore.</div>
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He has given me the victory.</div>
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forever and ever. </div>
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amen.</div>
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but yet with the peace, came a very grave realization that not all have this Peace that i know.</div>
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my heart breaks for a nation that takes Christ out of Christmas and replaces it with meaningless nothingness.</div>
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even more reason for me to<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"> <a href="http://findinghealthyhope.blogspot.com/2012/11/go.html">GO</a></span></b>, tell and love.</div>
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and so i share this little vignette with you that is in my dining room.</div>
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a visual reminder of the Gift that was given to us over 2000 years ago.</div>
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the One that would forever change the course of this world.</div>
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One that can never get overplayed.</div>
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bear with me if i sound like a broken record over here.</div>
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He's just too good not to share.</div>
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xo, </div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">mary</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://southernhospitalityblog.com/green-and-red-christmas-sparkle-in-the-kitchen/"><img height="320" src="http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj29/LaylaPalmer/Linky%20Buttons/Southern_Hospitality_Blog.jpg" width="252" /></a></div>
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<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-46831823843150202242012-12-10T14:54:00.000-08:002012-12-10T16:43:42.253-08:00our CHRISTmas mantelhey, friendlies! :)<br />
i'm a little late to the partay, but i'm popping in to join in on the fun over at the lovely lettered cottage mantel linky!<br />
plus, i wanted to show <b><i>YOU</i></b> my mantel, too.<br />
it was really easy and fun to put together.<br />
i'm a pretty simple decorator, and i love to use natural elements in my home, and that is what inspired me this year. :)<br />
<br />
i wanted the focus of our mantel to be on Jesus, Who is our only True Hope in this weary world.<br />
the thrill of Hope, that we can be reconciled to God through the gift of His ONLY Son!<br />
<br />
the only money i spent was on the beautiful print from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/115918136/a-thrill-of-hope-8x10-chalk-art-print">lesley</a>, the frame from target, and the mandarins.<br />
i had the rest already tucked away here and there.<br />
as you may be able to tell, the late 1800's mantel is still just propped up against the wall.<br />
it may never get nailed down, and i'm okay with that.<br />
<br />
anywho...we have been SO busy trying to finish up school before Christmas.<br />
the girls have been crafting and creating maniacs and i can hardly keep up!<br />
we have baked lots of goodies(and ate them). #hello!muffintop<br />
and after thanksgiving, let me tell you...it's REALLY hard to buckle down and focus on school.<br />
like realllllllyyyyyyyyy hard!<br />
as a home school mama, once you get into vacation mode, it's really hard to get back in the focus of school.<br />
but we're doing it.<br />
most of us anyway...my littlest is acting like he has serious ADD, but he is just super excited(kinda like me). :)<br />
<br />
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i hope that you all are enjoying this blessed season, and remembering the True Reason that we celebrate.<br />
from <i><b>RECENT</b></i> experience, i know just how hard it can be to keep the Right Focus.<br />
the devil sure does try to steal my joy some days, but i am not going down with out a fight!<br />
<br />
we, as a family, have purposed in our hearts to have a different Christmas this year.<br />
less about ourselves and more about Him.<br />
and that means more about others.<br />
God graciously led us to a family who could not afford Christmas this year so we were able to shop for them.<br />
the kids had so much fun! who am i kidding...nathan and i had a blast, too!<br />
to God be the glory. :)<br />
<br />
we also bought the Jesus Storybook Bible and have been reading it every day for advent.<br />
i'm pretty sure i have enjoyed it the most.<br />
the simply written Bible stories that weave the perfect path to Him and mirror His perfect plan of redemption thrills me to my core!<br />
the fact that my Savior was born in the lowliest of places and dwelt among sinners, born only to die for my wickedness and yours wrenches my heart in the best way.<br />
i am so humbled and grateful for His free gift.<br />
the debt that He paid so that I don't have to.<br />
born to die, my Jesus was.<br />
<br />
this is what Christmas is all about!<br />
spreading the Good News that Jesus was sent for all sinners.<br />
and just like any other gift,<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i> we have to take it</i></span></b> for it to be ours.<br />
my prayer is that i will be a light for Him this season...encouraging those among me to<br />
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<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">"Let earth receive her King!"</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">have a wonderful day, friends!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">i'll be back this week with a Christmas home tour....yay!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">xo,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>mary</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/christmas-mantel-decorating-ideas-link-party/"><img alt="The Lettered Cottage" height="320" src="http://i268.photobucket.com/albums/jj29/LaylaPalmer/Linky%20Buttons/The_Lettered_Cottage.jpg" width="252" /></a></div>
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<br />
<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-4169351919337676902012-11-26T19:50:00.000-08:002012-11-27T07:39:32.656-08:00and just like that...<div style="text-align: center;">
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...the shift has occurred again. </div>
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goodbye, thanksgiving.</div>
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hello! Christmas!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">haha. nathan is in his socks. :)</span></div>
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while i've hardly digested the <strike>thousands</strike> millions of calories i consumed over the weekend from our thanksgiving feast<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">S</span></b>, the pilgrims have come down and have been replaced with the much anticipated nativity set. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and while i tucked away the last of the pumpkins, bittersweet and bits of harvest, the peppermint wreath is already being made, bing is set on pandora, and we are decking the halls like the rest of the country. </div>
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how crazy<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><b> <span style="color: #cc0000;">F</span><span style="color: #38761d;">U</span><span style="color: #cc0000;">N</span></b></span> is that?!</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3XIpyyrkLgxqUoRYFVl6I5fNIzeQTlZjPDOwUAda60IRIBGz_TAGrYaUinRMtVd_iX4LFjxj49wu3xrdzM6kIWxzdBu6PrYJV0cOANU8Lbnn56E3X8_yUr6cZUKXHi6klXe69tDBQ5w/s1600/thanksgivingvcollage1.jpg" /></div>
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<br /></div>
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but let's back up the train a bit.</div>
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we had a lovely thanksgiving with both sides of our family this year. </div>
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and while i'm on the subject, i would like to give a shout out to my moms for being such amazing cooks. </div>
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with that said, i really, truly, SERIOUSLY need to step away from the comfort food buffet line.</div>
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what is wrong with me? i've totally traded my mostly raw diet for anything cooked, baked or loaded with sugar.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SOMEONE HELP ME.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">situations like the one below don't help, either.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG93VjLw155oogd5z74Am8IqEdbUTQz4KUNAde5sPGJZHwpdGfAGJrOqP-ET5-JZAXvddJ8X_-M8ebjeoka03afpGVxPkFTGmaTjIWe4EICMYy-rr99Lj83gwmnjQcQExptedjEbDfKo4/s1600/thanksgivingcollage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG93VjLw155oogd5z74Am8IqEdbUTQz4KUNAde5sPGJZHwpdGfAGJrOqP-ET5-JZAXvddJ8X_-M8ebjeoka03afpGVxPkFTGmaTjIWe4EICMYy-rr99Lj83gwmnjQcQExptedjEbDfKo4/s1600/thanksgivingcollage3.jpg" /></a></div>
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instead of black friday shopping this year, my mom, sister and i, opted to do some holiday baking.</div>
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i can assure you that one of those pans of mixed nut bars(lower left) is already half gone.</div>
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we split the goodies that we made between the three of us, but still!</div>
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also, those walnut crescents in the upper left hand corner are my FAVE. yikes. </div>
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i'm totally in trouble with all of this taunting me in the basement freezer.</div>
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(that's where i do the laundry and the freezer is RIGHT next to the washer and dryer. VERY convenient...and private...muahahaha!!!)</div>
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AND i'm not even going to explain henry and the bottle of sprinkles. it pretty much sums up his existence. :)</div>
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after school, we spent most of the day cleaning, packing away fall, and bringing up a few Christmas decorations.</div>
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that is, after i apologized to all of my children at least three times for losing my temper and yelling at them.</div>
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at the time, i did not know why it was so hard to round to the nearest hundred, sound out the long E sound, or put quotation marks around a quote. </div>
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all day long i was edgy and i kept telling myself, "turn the volume down, mary!" (see? quotation marks!).</div>
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because i wan't just yelling, i was <b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;">YELLING</span></b>!</div>
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thankfully, my children kindly forgave me and we proceeded with the Christmas cheer. :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMyexlLo6Ek9CD6sgMznus7UcY1UBiaiOOyUOP1Td9TgdZSVKxx28Y4fnyBIAGXC_Xf0ra3FcVuHDOEcIN5NyVP17SYKj6ShbCyToRKZq7pmnqyi9f26p2lFzKVl_NdodGidZojZaUxY/s1600/thanksgiving5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMyexlLo6Ek9CD6sgMznus7UcY1UBiaiOOyUOP1Td9TgdZSVKxx28Y4fnyBIAGXC_Xf0ra3FcVuHDOEcIN5NyVP17SYKj6ShbCyToRKZq7pmnqyi9f26p2lFzKVl_NdodGidZojZaUxY/s640/thanksgiving5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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this is the advent calendar i made last year.</div>
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i used an old cork board from the thrift store and covered it with fabric.</div>
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then i used some pretty ribbon to decorate it, and push pinned those little $1 boxes from michaels in.</div>
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the kids LOVE it.</div>
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i kinda do, too.</div>
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i tried my hand at chalkboard art today, and besides being time consuming, it was really easy!</div>
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check out how i did it, <b><a href="http://mysweetsavannah.blogspot.com/2012/10/chalkboard-wall-lettering-diy.html">HERE</a></b>.</div>
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i have been trying to find a home for my folk art carved wood chain(somebody seriously carved that thing out of a solid piece of wood), and the lyrics to O Holy Night came to mind.</div>
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</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">Truly He taught us to love one another,</span><span style="color: #990000; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">His law is love and His gospel is peace.</span><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"> </span></div>
<span style="color: #f1c232;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Chains shall he break, for the slave is our brother.</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">And in his name all oppression shall cease.</span><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"> </span></div>
</span></span><span style="color: #990000;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,</span><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"><div style="text-align: center;">
With all our hearts we praise His holy name. </div>
</span><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we, </div>
</span><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"><div style="text-align: center;">
His power and glory ever more proclaim! </div>
</span><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;"><div style="text-align: center;">
His power and glory ever more proclaim!</div>
</span></span></span></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
i think i may be a little addicted to chalkboards. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>especially </b></i>when they deliver such a Wonderful message.</div>
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tomorrow we get to pick out our tree(nathan's home!), and dig up some more fun stuff from the basement.</div>
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it's always so fun to see what you have, remember your favorite things from years past, and find those that you have recently made or collected.</div>
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over and out, girlfriends.</div>
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when are you able to get together for a peppermint mocha and some cinnamon bread?</div>
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uh...i mean, veggies and tea. ;)</div>
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<br /></div>
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xo, </div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">mary</span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #134f5c;"><br /></span>
Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-13077335353340956672012-11-18T19:18:00.000-08:002012-11-18T19:46:21.418-08:00thirTEEN<br />
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some of you may know that i have officially been the mother of a teenager for a good nine months now.</div>
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you know your life is coming full circle when your daughters pinterest boards are cooler than your own. :)</div>
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i mean, do i really look old enough to have a teenager? <b><span style="color: #bf9000;"> -------------------------------------------------></span></b></div>
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#dontanswerthat</div>
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this darling girl has been the recipient of all of my worst mothering mistakes. she was my guinea pig. </div>
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<b><i>my</i></b> heart's desire as a teenager(GASP! that's what she is!), was only to get married and have children.</div>
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seven was my 'magic' number.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">after i had a few kiddos the number decreased, but by God's grace, i think it may just still be our number.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">but that's for a whole different post. ;)</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
i got married to my love when i was 18, and one year and one month later, miss elly was born.</div>
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baby in arms...we were in LOVE.</div>
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now she's growing up on us. *sigh*</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUolMCAc40gs46uvxqoZdoelMaJxuhyphenhyphenu_uybhujIoJ_VcxFJvvF3f4LFONU4ylg6PQbJL8NG0ltC9AyEnJaftRqlPlCAIJP_rBHvYNr4f59rvJvfIXIDC_hWR5dSQwjeAb3YuRj56N01c/s1600/ellycollage6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUolMCAc40gs46uvxqoZdoelMaJxuhyphenhyphenu_uybhujIoJ_VcxFJvvF3f4LFONU4ylg6PQbJL8NG0ltC9AyEnJaftRqlPlCAIJP_rBHvYNr4f59rvJvfIXIDC_hWR5dSQwjeAb3YuRj56N01c/s640/ellycollage6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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as i look back at all of my naiveness as a young mother, and my <strike>millions</strike> trillions of mistakes, i see a story that is grace laced in every way. </div>
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i was not always a great mother. i was a very strict, demanding mama who required nothing less than perfection for a long time. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
of course, i know this is impossible, but it didn't stop me from trying.</div>
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i didn't give grace, and so that put a barrier between my very own daughter and myself.</div>
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as weird as it may seem, and as harsh as it feels to me, my daughter and i have not always connected in the way i thought we would.</div>
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it would take 13 years for me to fully grasp the gift that my daughter is to me and that she was specifically chosen for me.</div>
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what an honor and a blessing!</div>
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here are a few pictures of her birthday party this past february. </div>
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it was a very bitter cold day, and her brother had a bad ear infection, but we had a great time just the same.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
i know it seems late to post this, but i so badly want to document this vapor of a life. :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHjJpzNwEsLc2_95zr3Ng4aXzSvY5dQ5lga_Ydm7XXU8LxSjtTca0RcZ8VuYtKz2F0mNflsZimKd0TIHRQ0HRMjQVy-vp-VgR9sfLXlGlGlMz-yrwHBdqLWxHGh2dJhIxYqoijJUtoXLg/s1600/ellycollage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHjJpzNwEsLc2_95zr3Ng4aXzSvY5dQ5lga_Ydm7XXU8LxSjtTca0RcZ8VuYtKz2F0mNflsZimKd0TIHRQ0HRMjQVy-vp-VgR9sfLXlGlGlMz-yrwHBdqLWxHGh2dJhIxYqoijJUtoXLg/s640/ellycollage3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg59xBQGUYRqvQFXzFrd4Ap6YDevhxBjMWZTszCrOI_oLq_LLRPSo1px1WLhzljvyqs3-qe7lS0cvX-z3vDcnit5hu03gV3QcGOd2h7q6Vr2jDffE6kFX_1KIIu_ZwFqeUTPTT3hP0APk/s1600/ellycollage2.jpg" /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg01o5h9BBIhajZ_iC63RmxRiBc-uZVf9y_-o3VGp2H9UinLF-q9FqYzEPaM10_3a9diEttxj4jEon7USHHWOULCTDf8_r1iRYfIhOuXmLTQ8o5qUqjOc73L1_THnapz7AKo-1tSsLsWRQ/s1600/ellycollage65.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg01o5h9BBIhajZ_iC63RmxRiBc-uZVf9y_-o3VGp2H9UinLF-q9FqYzEPaM10_3a9diEttxj4jEon7USHHWOULCTDf8_r1iRYfIhOuXmLTQ8o5qUqjOc73L1_THnapz7AKo-1tSsLsWRQ/s640/ellycollage65.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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we chose a crafty theme for the maturing girl.</div>
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she requested fish tacos and individual nutella cheesecakes. </div>
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#todiefor!</div>
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certainly the ONLY way we ended up where we are today is by the grace of God.</div>
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and a whole lotta caulk. because Lord knows, He had to fill in a multitude of gaps that i left along the way.</div>
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and He still is.</div>
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elly is so much like me it hurts sometimes.</div>
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i think that contributed to our clashing. ok. for surely it did.</div>
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she is a beautiful girl, inside and out, and she is just bursting with talent!</div>
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i'd like to say that she is a lot like me in her love of creating. ;)</div>
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we both come alive when we are able to 'make'.</div>
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she also has a very tender heart, the best kind.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpuOVj_od1E7kLjpsCrLDvvrqQG9gwtMwz93n3CwaJ0LA8mSbhO3x7nmTDv8xd0T6a8Qb4bM1h-EGYd92M9SErhDzWa9ZrMUMBKrVXR8bTO32xbUOMGz8gLf9plF13SsdCyFwIpgNytNQ/s1600/ellycollage67.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpuOVj_od1E7kLjpsCrLDvvrqQG9gwtMwz93n3CwaJ0LA8mSbhO3x7nmTDv8xd0T6a8Qb4bM1h-EGYd92M9SErhDzWa9ZrMUMBKrVXR8bTO32xbUOMGz8gLf9plF13SsdCyFwIpgNytNQ/s640/ellycollage67.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtre2oxBppgw9a4dhBu1kKxUN8DUC_65oXa-Eft-0_DWQkxoGzh6eZsDEQPKbDhMK6ZrH90W6dTRO3_tRqTr8tv9MQnXpElM9m5FazbKj-CKRZ2HPhEafFVDgYYB4iOwc0thzIG0acZEI/s1600/ellycollage99.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtre2oxBppgw9a4dhBu1kKxUN8DUC_65oXa-Eft-0_DWQkxoGzh6eZsDEQPKbDhMK6ZrH90W6dTRO3_tRqTr8tv9MQnXpElM9m5FazbKj-CKRZ2HPhEafFVDgYYB4iOwc0thzIG0acZEI/s640/ellycollage99.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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can you even stand the wisconsin sweater? i am SO making that but with the united states on it!</div>
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she did that all by herself, and the sewing is amazing!</div>
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also, she has been able to bless a few of my bloggy friends(and others) with these baby moccasins. </div>
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aren't they the CUTEST?</div>
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she is a wonderful knitter, a gifted pianist, loving sister, daughter and friend.</div>
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family singspiration just would NOT be the same without her.</div>
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLqXZEA7OxIGRru8sBpyXPqx0ApvjrKbWj1tkJcwiEO6Ac3vBtPoG5Xf1huz9KaTfbarHNZU67VVOKpIekyXTx9TJGq_CcouBemMu2BZ5-y2G8GgtmcBNBUGO99vM0vlhzvYitPEL0Rrc/s640/IMG_20121118_210433.jpg" /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgtz1AV-_9jkJO_c4e8XCUqYRbrD5jKzQcaVKxS8wrsBw3lXNvwd4kVZ55KjTH_g76E8AQG9WXKHzaFJbPoHXWUoUr3bxnuc_SH6gHq-1MgWC1RrHyCm0SWPIGtKDjFH_hcK0mug7CI4U/s1600/ellycollage77.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgtz1AV-_9jkJO_c4e8XCUqYRbrD5jKzQcaVKxS8wrsBw3lXNvwd4kVZ55KjTH_g76E8AQG9WXKHzaFJbPoHXWUoUr3bxnuc_SH6gHq-1MgWC1RrHyCm0SWPIGtKDjFH_hcK0mug7CI4U/s640/ellycollage77.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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this season of my life with her has {by far} been the best ever.</div>
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we totally 'get' each other, we love to create together, and yes, we share favorite TOMS and certain clothes.</div>
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i can break out in, "i just called......to say....i love youuuuuuu!" with fake mike in hand at target and she only gets mildly embarrassed. :)</div>
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hey, that's my job!<br />
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<img height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ouAe1dEHKNdrQsFSlMwUN7TJ3E2J9TvDWd53yAWYtEx1T8zVLe0_7xN_3vKHkFHTtApJkNw-DvGKNjVnKexIMtMuKAMwmFKLJHZTO9PhadfSJpHKz_3qDk7ZNk-CupcAnjyGx2uD-dc/s320/IMG_0441.JPG" width="320" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhphYauQ1y092HQvuvZFaMqIrAeGh4hvSwMvoaOSTFZE1iqcCGGSzG1Hbzln42o6KzmWs6g0ukfIxgppzV1iuA8Yec6GSuslJKeORx33U5lO9UCng1YLfACSSIWgctlh8NTxDXImhE33KU/s320/22605_4738179935862_1986577254_n.jpg" /></div>
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so today, and every day, i'm so thankful that God chose ME to be her mother.</div>
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watching her grow up has been my privilege and i am keenly aware of how quickly time is fleeting.</div>
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we may only have her for a few more years, and i plan on enjoying every little bit.</div>
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eye rolls and all.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9Ypb7xVhhpODuhpOsI6ZL6PAaYrBmpKoUfI4Jn7mZ7i0w7FliVB3OdkMACaM5VEkqv4TF82XFd3IcJhD159gOUvxos22fse1s-WVfEi5YbQWkeaJJXdQWyCJPfZJPOicD-qb_HhqgI0/s1600/ellysbirthday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9Ypb7xVhhpODuhpOsI6ZL6PAaYrBmpKoUfI4Jn7mZ7i0w7FliVB3OdkMACaM5VEkqv4TF82XFd3IcJhD159gOUvxos22fse1s-WVfEi5YbQWkeaJJXdQWyCJPfZJPOicD-qb_HhqgI0/s640/ellysbirthday.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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i hope she never forgets Who she truly belongs to.</div>
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she was bought with a price, a very high One, and my prayer is that she will radiate that Life to all those she meets.</div>
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Lord, i thank you so much for blessing me with this rare and precious jewel of a daughter.</div>
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may YOU shine brightly through her and continue to fill in all of my gaps!</div>
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mama loves you, <span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>elly grace</i></span>.</div>
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xo, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>mary</b></span></div>
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<br />
<br />Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8553864016528399671.post-50932830243645930862012-11-09T12:03:00.000-08:002012-11-09T18:21:20.484-08:00go<div style="text-align: center;">
i'm not gonna sugar coat this, dears.</div>
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this has been a hard week for me.</div>
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the results from tuesday were exposing my faithlessness in all sorts of ways.</div>
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one minute, i'd be walking on water{trusting!} and the next, i'd be in sackcloth and ashes{faithless!}...crying out to God.</div>
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as i was curled up in His lap late tuesday night, He calmed my fears, brushed away the tears, and i realized that THIS is what He wants from me all the time.</div>
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my complete attention and dependence. </div>
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eyes fixed <b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Above</i></span></b>.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
of course, all of this uncertainty and crazy turn of events is happening in the midst of the season of thankfulness, and there's nothing better to turn a frown upside down than a mile long list of blessings that are completely undeniable.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
so here are a few of my #capturingourblessings from this week. <br />
i have been playing along with <a href="http://rebekahgough.blogspot.com/">rebekah</a> on instagram and i am loving it!</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
first off, <b><span style="font-size: large;">my privilege to vote</span></b>. i was able to give the kids a lesson in this as we went into our tiny town voters booth tucked in the basement of independent living apartments. </div>
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there's plenty of old ladies with candy, and the cutest little americana curtains that i'm pretty sure one of them sewed to hide the old school write in voters stations.</div>
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i didn't get a sticker, but i felt a deep sense of pride knowing that i exercised my right to choose whom i feel would best represent this country with the morals and standards that are closest to those that God would be pleased with.</div>
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america is truly an amazing country. we are blessed.</div>
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i captured this sweetness in the kitchen. <b><span style="font-size: large;">having a loving, Godly father for my children</span></b> is an absolute joy and blessing. He loves his children fiercely and always points them to Him. always.</div>
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seeing the daughter/daddy love just about puts me into a puddle.</div>
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<img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDUbrLyYqZrCFKPrEC615tMac02w0qqFEdDV8GJDXLKPFxiY51M2nXRUNE8yi3JoBY8NH1ue5qK_x8hYQNDeASU8TdxYT4npEd-PpXVzd2u29lfswHQ-HhL9DDcZB5XL4-Uq8wY9TsAoM/s640/nov8.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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in typical God fashion, He had this package of blessings delivered right to my door step on wednesday.</div>
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wednesday would have to be the peak of my faithlessness this week. </div>
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i mourned certain losses, and was melancholy at best.</div>
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a few weeks ago, i had seen a giveaway via one of my favorite blogs, <a href="http://dreamywhites.blogspot.com/">Dreamy Whites</a>, so i hopped over <a href="http://mysweetsavannah.blogspot.com/">here</a> to enter.</div>
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as it would turn out, i was the winner among many people who entered, and the timing was so appropriate.</div>
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His always is, you know? He loves in the details. and i love details.</div>
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maria is such a sweetie, and to say she has impeccable taste and incredible gifts would be an understatement.</div>
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in my package, i received a beautiful moroccan market tote, a monogrammed antique french linen sheet, two antique french linen pillow cases, soap, a lavender stuffed french grainsack pillow and a sweet sachet of lavender.</div>
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all of <b><span style="font-size: large;">these treasures are my fave</span></b>. </div>
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head over to <a href="http://www.dreamywhitesonline.com/pages/shop_landing.htm">her shop</a> to see more.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs85Mx6FMXUKT9tfjkQNgnlPcnPrCV1hwh1D461aTm_MvIY5PEro7WxNdq4IEwOPbeqMlzaf3G5ZP0Fd4urLT2-kBivISyTwbB-I67UxBKAzURitTJxT2DmRwzINHPgXn9KJz1sVgxzDw/s1600/nov5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs85Mx6FMXUKT9tfjkQNgnlPcnPrCV1hwh1D461aTm_MvIY5PEro7WxNdq4IEwOPbeqMlzaf3G5ZP0Fd4urLT2-kBivISyTwbB-I67UxBKAzURitTJxT2DmRwzINHPgXn9KJz1sVgxzDw/s640/nov5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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having <b><span style="font-size: large;">a Bible believing, Gospel preaching, family of brothers and sisters in Christ</span></b> is an absolute blessing.</div>
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we always go to prayer meeting on wednesday nights, </div>
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but this night in particular i craved fellowship with my friends more than ever.</div>
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i needed love.</div>
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i needed encouragement.</div>
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i needed comfort and solace.</div>
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and that's exactly what i got.</div>
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if there is ever a time to seek God's face, it is now. </div>
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Christians must band together and fight the good fight NOW.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Z3wOV323OQ01MZT8vUPqMzSxJKHQdwRM6fjNKvChQKfgadUlq3_ij33zM64OWK6JnwaV_etOjokO7QtafsGeHzODmnpmBxkJ3gikTgkdQWc9X730GGnfrpJnib0vEh1KkGVeoAj8cX0/s1600/nov3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Z3wOV323OQ01MZT8vUPqMzSxJKHQdwRM6fjNKvChQKfgadUlq3_ij33zM64OWK6JnwaV_etOjokO7QtafsGeHzODmnpmBxkJ3gikTgkdQWc9X730GGnfrpJnib0vEh1KkGVeoAj8cX0/s640/nov3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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this one may have been stretching it, but as i FINALLY sifted through ginormous piles of laundry, i couldn't help but be thankful <span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">for the bodies that fill these clothes </span>that i so carefully fold into neat little piles.</div>
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you do not even want to see the mountains that remain, but i made a dent and that is always a good thing!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSzesv7wy6j2_XE4jtGk0pUmGhnYy4Kt5mCacyaV87Qp74ufQJI6DzleWbNME2PGJIhK6SExL-TXTvSGqFc9Ua0ZexsacfiDuqiNJcgSZfkY_T8fJJjTXbSc-npYdX_INChetAciywfU/s1600/nov2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrSzesv7wy6j2_XE4jtGk0pUmGhnYy4Kt5mCacyaV87Qp74ufQJI6DzleWbNME2PGJIhK6SExL-TXTvSGqFc9Ua0ZexsacfiDuqiNJcgSZfkY_T8fJJjTXbSc-npYdX_INChetAciywfU/s640/nov2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij3daCNYal2B26Nc-vFCBz3NuCyGYwg2XcyEoDoBewaZiQdkl6o0eu9SCHErOHWdoqMsUeRVrSOCqqxWnNQAWIDjQkWBwgnZc6xLHawjE9AJD6O74lLc7yi9QzXoQeef-RgBuGG90q1X0/s1600/nov1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij3daCNYal2B26Nc-vFCBz3NuCyGYwg2XcyEoDoBewaZiQdkl6o0eu9SCHErOHWdoqMsUeRVrSOCqqxWnNQAWIDjQkWBwgnZc6xLHawjE9AJD6O74lLc7yi9QzXoQeef-RgBuGG90q1X0/s640/nov1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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as i shake the dust off of my feet from this disappointing and rather difficult week, </div>
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One thing remains <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>the same</b></span> throughout the crashing waves and uncertainty that lie ahead.</div>
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yesterday, today, forever, Jesus is the same.</div>
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all may change, but Jesus, NEVER.</div>
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glory! to His name!</div>
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</div>
<div class="chapter-3" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: center;">
<span class="text Ps-100-1"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-100-1" id="en-KJV-15510"><b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Make a joyful noise unto the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, all ye lands.</span></b></span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-100-2" id="en-KJV-15511"><b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;"> </sup>Serve the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> with gladness: come before his presence with singing.</span></b></span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-100-3" id="en-KJV-15512"><b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;"> </sup>Know ye that the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.</span></b></span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-100-4" id="en-KJV-15513"><b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><sup class="versenum" style="vertical-align: top;"> </sup>Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.</span></b></span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-100-5" id="en-KJV-15514"><b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="font-size: x-large; vertical-align: top;"> </sup><span style="font-size: x-large;">For the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.</span></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-100-5"><b><span style="color: cyan; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Psalm 100</span></b></span></div>
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we, as a country, may have changed and forfeited His blessings by choosing </div>
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sin and self indulgence over obedience to Him and His Word, </div>
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but those who have put their faith and trust in Him have no need to fear.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">the events of the week have been a call to action, friends!</span></b></div>
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a catalyst to GO and BE the hands and feet of Jesus, fearlessly proclaiming His name </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>BOLDLY.</b></span></div>
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God cannot use those who sit, paralyzed in fear and complacency.</div>
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i do not want to live in fear and with constant worry.</div>
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so i will trust, as well as i know how.</div>
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i will spread His hope and the Gospel to the unreached that need to know.</div>
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we are SO ready to</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"> <b>GO</b>.</span></div>
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who do you know that needs to know?</div>
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are you with me?</div>
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xo,</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>mary</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b>vintage marquee 'GO' letters found at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/noodleandlouvintage">this</a> fun shop!</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.carinalee.com/"><img alt="a punk, a pumpkin and a peanut" src="http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/h471/punkpumpkinpeanut/ohsothankful.jpg" /></a></div>
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Maryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16480672396257936931noreply@blogger.com15