tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48634315376863769652024-03-04T23:21:53.000-08:00My Three GsMom, Army Wife, ArtistSherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.comBlogger308125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-39532364005684286452015-08-18T12:05:00.000-07:002015-08-18T12:05:07.660-07:00Hello Beautiful You - mixed media painting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.</b></div>
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<b>Proverbs 16:24</b></div>
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Wouldn't you like to hear your inner voice say "hello beautiful you"? My inner voice isn't always kind and gentle but it should be. I pray each night for God to help me use my words to uplift and enlighten my girls. Maybe I should include myself.</div>
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Just a bit of trivia... the penny in the corner is from Greta. She gives me little thoughtful trinkets all the time. It makes my day. She also like to drop money on the ground in hopes that whoever finds it will have a brighter day. I found this penny in front of my closet door. It might have fallen out of a pocket but I chose to believe the good, that it came from Greta. She wouldn't admit to anything when I asked her about it. She just smiled. And now I smile every time I see it.</div>
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<br />Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-12177922840514785372015-08-14T06:45:00.000-07:002015-08-14T06:47:04.770-07:00Roll Tide - Alabama Message Boards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Football season is almost here and I can feel the excitement in the sweet home Alabama air. I was asked to make a few message boards similar to the Auburn message boards in my previous post. Knowing how <strike>fanatical</strike> dedicated the Alabama fans are to their team, I made a a couple extra and I'm pretty certain they will quickly find a loving home.<br />
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These are one of my favorite mixed media paintings to create. They have a practical purpose, they can function as a message board to hang notes/pictures or you can remove the clips and string and enjoy the painting by itself. Painting these gives me an opportunity to try different applications and really have fun. If I don't like what I see, I put a new coat of paint over the previous work and start again. That's how the red board and the vintage board (my favorite) was created. They were originally black and very busy... too busy.<br />
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I hope my Alabama fan friends enjoy these. Roll Tide!<br />
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<br />Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-32245519359018391262015-08-04T09:31:00.000-07:002015-08-04T09:35:44.926-07:00Auburn Message BoardsThere is a battle going on in Alabama and you are expected to pick on side or the other. Are you Roll Tide or War Eagle? The battle is revving up as football season is getting ready to begin. I was asked to to paint an Auburn message board. Not to worry, there are some University of Alabama paintings right around the corner.<br />
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So, the big question here is do I greet people with a Roll Tide or a War Eagle hello? I'm neutral. GASP!!! See, I went to college at University of Louisville, not that other school in Kentucky that some people know about. Even worse, I am a basketball fan living in football country so during basketball season you will find me wearing the Louisville Cardinals Red Shirt. During football season, you will find me enjoying all the food at the game parties.<br />
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<br />Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-65061918824459720452015-05-29T08:51:00.002-07:002015-05-29T08:51:51.780-07:00Creativity Comes In Many Forms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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People would say that my kids are creative. I mean, how could they not be? I have made a point of painting, sculpting, and drawing with them since they were tiny. They had birthday and Christmas themed around art supplies. Even though they have been exposed to all types of art one that I am most proud of is their interest and love of music.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Even though they have been exposed to all types of art one that I am most proud of is their interest and love of music. I played the piano growing up but my abilities never came close to my teenager's love of the piano. She's your typical teenage girl who blares her music from her room; however, it is often piano music that she is blaring. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge6o_A1ScZaou7WbL40XWjwMaabl-XuiPtCxmMLw8w-ksvcDGirSMuEwNGIUlS83_IiuW8vOzv8h22nKy2LubTsMPnNMVOVanG925mTlzfUdIXFuNE5ez9JsgMZCKVeQO4bMUynImE4Ek/s1600/IMG_5098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge6o_A1ScZaou7WbL40XWjwMaabl-XuiPtCxmMLw8w-ksvcDGirSMuEwNGIUlS83_IiuW8vOzv8h22nKy2LubTsMPnNMVOVanG925mTlzfUdIXFuNE5ez9JsgMZCKVeQO4bMUynImE4Ek/s320/IMG_5098.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48miKE0nKh42hyrEhx10Ex5P2X2kw4GrWqtiCVi4-UPn9YzOssN88xjjAzcbOLH_fFZPT7OeedfS1U75-t7h48O2CxVsZqXRQwhi8TQCyVYwnduGpyVVhGza9zjfOzYHz5PFi-a0bsjw/s1600/IMG_5099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi48miKE0nKh42hyrEhx10Ex5P2X2kw4GrWqtiCVi4-UPn9YzOssN88xjjAzcbOLH_fFZPT7OeedfS1U75-t7h48O2CxVsZqXRQwhi8TQCyVYwnduGpyVVhGza9zjfOzYHz5PFi-a0bsjw/s320/IMG_5099.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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My sweet youngest, who can be so quiet around others, is always using her voice. When she is home she sings, raps, and just makes noise. Her voice is strong and beautiful and perfect for choir. (She's the tall girl in the middle back row) It brings my heart joy to listen to them both enjoy art and creativity.<br />
<br />Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-86073757575008070192015-05-04T06:29:00.002-07:002015-05-04T06:32:36.458-07:00Take Your Kids to Work Day - Free Labor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This was the first time I was lucky enough to have a child on Take Your Kids To Work Day. Gene's a soldier and there has always been a big day planned with workplace tours, activities, and lunch for the whole family. The down side of that is that it is geared mostly to younger kids and ours are getting a little to old for it. His loss is my gain!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNfQstZaX9oRCIOppKI2e5eduxx6xhYSuWfU6IIev4MBO8s3osPAE-f_4Z1B8sdIBFuub-WkaxZccx_fwO6xQOc4u5ATt_4D7spwiS38FHD-3oNSzNkt8THOZohriBgJSk2UCqXczumkA/s1600/IMG_5062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNfQstZaX9oRCIOppKI2e5eduxx6xhYSuWfU6IIev4MBO8s3osPAE-f_4Z1B8sdIBFuub-WkaxZccx_fwO6xQOc4u5ATt_4D7spwiS38FHD-3oNSzNkt8THOZohriBgJSk2UCqXczumkA/s320/IMG_5062.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Greta and I started our day with a working breakfast at Cafe 302, the hole in wall dinner down the street. They make the best breakfast for $5 - two eggs, grits, sausage, and a biscuit with gravy. I'm always waiting for Flo to come out and say "Kiss my grits!" (that's a nod to Al's Diner for all you young'ins)</div>
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Greta went to work helping me start paintings that are yet to be discovered. We had a busy day and finished eight backgrounds. That is a big accomplishment. It felt so good to have my helper with me but I think by the afternoon she was finished. When we called it a day she headed to her room and announced that she needed some alone time. What?!? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgRAWFZYqWS6HikzGmPwRjTTZ2KKDF-wQJ4wrk4SWjchbIwtrzf76toZuHCCVsPoW3oSS0CghzMNb0LDPJXFtMEYamyhI0h1Ffp114mN-7eyY43KF7-9ImPl9JiOfT1GPAV1NaxWV53A/s1600/IMG_5065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDgRAWFZYqWS6HikzGmPwRjTTZ2KKDF-wQJ4wrk4SWjchbIwtrzf76toZuHCCVsPoW3oSS0CghzMNb0LDPJXFtMEYamyhI0h1Ffp114mN-7eyY43KF7-9ImPl9JiOfT1GPAV1NaxWV53A/s320/IMG_5065.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here are a few textured backgrounds. Greta picked out the chandelier pattern and polka dots below and applied modeling paste. The texture will be awesome on a painting... when inspiration hits and I decide what it will become. I do know that I plan to use the petroleum jelly painting technique so I will have layers of color but still maintain the patterns. All in all, it was great day with my girl and hope she enjoyed it as much as I did but I doubt it. As I watch my girls grow up, I find myself grasping for and hanging onto days like this. I cherish them.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLCj-TWj7Jw4DVnJ53exsVgec-F0lq4fZdb_jdhQZlmr9pSSJyQxYJwUtGTWR9Sa9QI5rRF9kikayVMnO2RY_RGD1dFxQmD0w7jpDm6vbmeUu5_eLK0VrwGwKUS7lw76OXFoPN9gh6he8/s1600/IMG_5067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLCj-TWj7Jw4DVnJ53exsVgec-F0lq4fZdb_jdhQZlmr9pSSJyQxYJwUtGTWR9Sa9QI5rRF9kikayVMnO2RY_RGD1dFxQmD0w7jpDm6vbmeUu5_eLK0VrwGwKUS7lw76OXFoPN9gh6he8/s320/IMG_5067.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-11987749526041066372015-04-30T08:53:00.003-07:002015-04-30T08:55:47.729-07:00My Initial Welcome Sign<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrMX9U6H_QXU05KbMnf7ErJkDPaHMKnzf16oj_0kJbdNxTzrV2dfG5GOP6ATvlx6Xc6TNsXzF9oW4Z_rfqTT5G1jxKyGTh3AiecXyfmdT6wnE2uRVyfCzGd4dMpZXkH3K4H8k7WmP01ms/s1600/IMG_5073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrMX9U6H_QXU05KbMnf7ErJkDPaHMKnzf16oj_0kJbdNxTzrV2dfG5GOP6ATvlx6Xc6TNsXzF9oW4Z_rfqTT5G1jxKyGTh3AiecXyfmdT6wnE2uRVyfCzGd4dMpZXkH3K4H8k7WmP01ms/s1600/IMG_5073.JPG" height="400" width="192" /></a></div>
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I collect scraps of wood. Nothing makes my heart beat faster than driving by a new build in the neighborhood and seeing a dumpster filled with wood scraps. I'm a lucky girl because my hubby has not problem diving in and grabbing me the wood scraps I <strike>need</strike> want. This scrappy gem has been sitting in the corner of the garage waiting to be made into a welcome sign for our front door.</div>
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I painted the background during a craft night I hosted with my friends (see previous post) and set it aside until I had time to add my personal touch. Thanks to National Take Your Child To Work Day, also known as Free Labor Day in my house, I had extra time to work on my welcome sign. (There will be a post about that wonderful day coming soon) After Greta got bored painting backgrounds for me, I asked her to pick out a collection of papers that I could use for my sign. She did a great job, I love the colors! It was all quick and easy... I cut out petals for the flowers and printed positive words for the sign, distressed everything and glued it all into place. I then did a little shading, applied a good coat of outdoor sealer and I glued on my initial, Like magic, I have the happiest welcome sign to place at my front door.</div>
<br />Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-4512515081932482632015-04-20T06:30:00.000-07:002015-04-20T07:36:05.517-07:00Initial Boards and Craft Night with friends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I realized something the other night as I was hosting a craft night with some of my friends, there are a lot of last names that start with "B". Earlier in the day some of us were at a little antique/consignment store and we saw a simple board with an initial glued to it. I was so cute that we decided to have a craft night and make our own version.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNswTvzf8OEwfmbv1i2NzQDdc_S3muvZyu8xkV7OgPKYXLlh8bob6vVf7ehCW5sTJhR4IeOVXSwjwGgTk_GGRJkJ6ZTs81A41aLNgO87wgo7PiO3gpVgR6j_S1laGx1ElGs3edmO9ibg/s1600/GetAttachment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNswTvzf8OEwfmbv1i2NzQDdc_S3muvZyu8xkV7OgPKYXLlh8bob6vVf7ehCW5sTJhR4IeOVXSwjwGgTk_GGRJkJ6ZTs81A41aLNgO87wgo7PiO3gpVgR6j_S1laGx1ElGs3edmO9ibg/s1600/GetAttachment.jpg" height="320" width="200" /></a></div>
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We collected supplies, most of them we already had at our houses. One friend had an old board that she cut into pieces (I love a girl that uses power tools). If you don't have scraps of wood they are easy to get from the hardware store. I like to have my husband dumpster dive where there are new houses being built. It's like Christmas for me but free and I am recycling. I pulled out my collection of house paint samples and odds and ends burlap pieces. The colors were mismatched but we made them work. I recommend that you only use house paint if there is a possibility of these going outside. Regular craft paint does not hold up well in humidity or you can buy a sealer that is specially made for outside projects. The only thing that really cost anything was the initials and they were a few dollars from the craft store.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOXRz398YVQgOJOvhzQMMDuQSEUCwcKfPeOeRSHHUkieLimu8kz1UXXsnMCSDyRqjHoQsOCdFf1BLfMEvW3k6PXZPcUQG9W-3JNCQjB0iPeWbX8uoyG6eKhBZsb-uHYt1oXgEI4Fck-g/s1600/B+board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOXRz398YVQgOJOvhzQMMDuQSEUCwcKfPeOeRSHHUkieLimu8kz1UXXsnMCSDyRqjHoQsOCdFf1BLfMEvW3k6PXZPcUQG9W-3JNCQjB0iPeWbX8uoyG6eKhBZsb-uHYt1oXgEI4Fck-g/s1600/B+board.jpg" height="320" width="202" /></a></div>
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They turned out to be adorable! The plan is that sometime in the future, we will drill holes and run jute or burlap ribbon through the top so they can be hung. Maybe that will happen, probably not. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicXlXg77DUyyxKx8jD7dMcibNBhF7nFc02dQW3qE1aSxbS1Mt7KZWceUTMs-Ytwhts9Tc_RGHM7CB7RE8GifEfKJwKAEsWyi4lm90hbEL10FxYtuZMmN5wMIY6ncAZ2E3IUwskXfjAGTw/s1600/bh+board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicXlXg77DUyyxKx8jD7dMcibNBhF7nFc02dQW3qE1aSxbS1Mt7KZWceUTMs-Ytwhts9Tc_RGHM7CB7RE8GifEfKJwKAEsWyi4lm90hbEL10FxYtuZMmN5wMIY6ncAZ2E3IUwskXfjAGTw/s1600/bh+board.jpg" height="220" width="320" /></a> </div>
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It was a great night with an easy and inexpensive project and lots of laughter. I can't wait to see what we come up with next.</div>
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If you wondered, I have started the background on one but my scrap board is a piece that I have been saving. It is a couple feet long and I plan to paint a mixed media painting on it and prop it against the brick wall at my front door. I'll post a picture of it when I am finished.</div>
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<br />Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-30203882905609982962015-03-17T11:54:00.001-07:002015-03-17T11:54:43.120-07:00Message Boards and quotes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My memory is awful. There, I said it. I don't remember faces, names, movies, actors, songs, and I frequently read books twice before I realize I've read it before. A poor memory does not go well with someone who loves quotes. Inspirational quotes and Bible verses often help me stay focused and not become the guest of honor at my pity party. I write them down on scraps of paper and in notebooks, which I have scattered all over. The downfall to this is that the quote or verse that I want to focus on isn't in plain sight. So, I decided to try my hand at making a message board that is fun and beautiful so it can do double duty as a piece of art.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN7cR_3Ccwfnam7GmQlcrI_tVwz4GFkpKHGcwTPjZyGpQCxDD9Rf147zl9mk6T7o4dlZXO7uhLytCjtuKNdX9wj3RTbygr3vKaYpWlaftxEu8tXAFe9685yEpfkg2JqxrLvkNkJNm9kxo/s1600/IMG_4979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN7cR_3Ccwfnam7GmQlcrI_tVwz4GFkpKHGcwTPjZyGpQCxDD9Rf147zl9mk6T7o4dlZXO7uhLytCjtuKNdX9wj3RTbygr3vKaYpWlaftxEu8tXAFe9685yEpfkg2JqxrLvkNkJNm9kxo/s1600/IMG_4979.JPG" height="320" width="238" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOpTe4qm9HVjhmNPwGNa31zjTFsu45UZcmFqIIi2zPHrGwC54suJYovKsQ7ga5D70EgEkXf3T2CWTbj84oz2yraXR-1l5KNfAvrEf-8uSI6WDCY8mtKYcYnAHyiK5wIv8eEK0WGtTfug/s1600/IMG_4977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvOpTe4qm9HVjhmNPwGNa31zjTFsu45UZcmFqIIi2zPHrGwC54suJYovKsQ7ga5D70EgEkXf3T2CWTbj84oz2yraXR-1l5KNfAvrEf-8uSI6WDCY8mtKYcYnAHyiK5wIv8eEK0WGtTfug/s1600/IMG_4977.JPG" height="320" width="244" /></a></div>
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These have a lot of layers and texture. You can reach out and touch them. The cords/ribbons/strings are removable. I have one that I think I will hang up as a picture for a while and then transform it back into a message board.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZEEBdyatKXVhtX_i-rsOaIlAYvrNZAtWMKS8G5ka2YfRdu41EdP9usLH-lFd_LVPy4lZbPpoNwSPZOMgxUfM2Ml-IdffG1bXWmLzSa5fmbIA52kscm003bSEMg43T801hfibwhsA95g/s1600/IMG_4981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZEEBdyatKXVhtX_i-rsOaIlAYvrNZAtWMKS8G5ka2YfRdu41EdP9usLH-lFd_LVPy4lZbPpoNwSPZOMgxUfM2Ml-IdffG1bXWmLzSa5fmbIA52kscm003bSEMg43T801hfibwhsA95g/s1600/IMG_4981.JPG" height="320" width="157" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9yG4zKj4uvK__PgVc__lgf293Un0NF1A8qikJQdhf4wmwPiJe8wxIhaNvcYy9l9zMzOoBQclwSFKSUAYcKDYDMUbDSSW8SZS7pHbECFHLzCrfiA5GJcKhVpXAcQnGnjNrz2FkjODGoA/s1600/IMG_4983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9yG4zKj4uvK__PgVc__lgf293Un0NF1A8qikJQdhf4wmwPiJe8wxIhaNvcYy9l9zMzOoBQclwSFKSUAYcKDYDMUbDSSW8SZS7pHbECFHLzCrfiA5GJcKhVpXAcQnGnjNrz2FkjODGoA/s1600/IMG_4983.JPG" height="320" width="161" /></a></div>
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With or without a quote or picture, this is fun.</div>
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Count The Happies! I will be using this sentiment on other paintings. Just reading it makes me happy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh22fTwJXBSVUAizI5OF2oKzv5wqEM0oDGZF0DbMUV3298ISF1BYOIv3kgrbnqoQ-5bQ5LdkASnLDeYtW1_OmGWy-m6RI38mqUWyLivhyphenhyphenxnIWRHMtOvU6jUFpzB-6S0lx37a8nBvTWD5LY/s1600/IMG_4989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh22fTwJXBSVUAizI5OF2oKzv5wqEM0oDGZF0DbMUV3298ISF1BYOIv3kgrbnqoQ-5bQ5LdkASnLDeYtW1_OmGWy-m6RI38mqUWyLivhyphenhyphenxnIWRHMtOvU6jUFpzB-6S0lx37a8nBvTWD5LY/s1600/IMG_4989.JPG" height="320" width="242" /></a></div>
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How often does the daily chores take over life? Sometimes I forget to do just what this message board says - Take Time To Relax & Enjoy Life.</div>
<br />Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-91924658619660765502014-02-15T19:15:00.000-08:002014-02-15T19:21:13.641-08:00The Oak Sleeps In The Acorn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 17.5px; line-height: 1.25;">The greatest achievement was at first and for a time a dream. The oak sleeps in the acorn; the bird waits in the egg; and in the highest vision of the soul a waking angel stirs. Dreams are the seedlings of realities.</span><br />
<small style="background-color: white; color: #999999; display: block; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;">James Allen</small><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORPD6tNjs4_QUBBJ9XnBrYh6417GJ16-OdB8Guz25DGGEZRVjpEBwQQj8KwipPQDfIEL6PZTdQcNiF0i_KSXtkdcJa6BtwEjAkYjCecLDBy6uy8TF_mKXgmNyaXzXUKOhgoZI9YjzWnM/s1600/IMG_4432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORPD6tNjs4_QUBBJ9XnBrYh6417GJ16-OdB8Guz25DGGEZRVjpEBwQQj8KwipPQDfIEL6PZTdQcNiF0i_KSXtkdcJa6BtwEjAkYjCecLDBy6uy8TF_mKXgmNyaXzXUKOhgoZI9YjzWnM/s1600/IMG_4432.JPG" height="361" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Pursue your dreams.</td></tr>
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<br />Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-15429580420746222602014-02-12T13:21:00.000-08:002014-02-13T16:15:21.188-08:00Mixed Media Paintings and the military home.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif-ylMNqeVV41LQVE02OL5lHUzasyG32_I1rkCny4x8J4EVkErAA8_Y18GENifXEQ2QkTAxAmxsIEbUMTJ-IoK0UKDL9x4TVnKrhjem1Up-BSpVzJLQExv43UMlKMhpxwpXyheXBa5NsI/s1600/IMG_4426-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif-ylMNqeVV41LQVE02OL5lHUzasyG32_I1rkCny4x8J4EVkErAA8_Y18GENifXEQ2QkTAxAmxsIEbUMTJ-IoK0UKDL9x4TVnKrhjem1Up-BSpVzJLQExv43UMlKMhpxwpXyheXBa5NsI/s1600/IMG_4426-001.JPG" height="289" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This sentiment is so true - "Where We Love Is Home"</td></tr>
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The majority of military families move A LOT. People who aren't military (we call them civilians) ask me all the time how I do it. These two paintings are the formula of a successful military family... we make where ever we are in that moment our home. There is a familiar saying - "Home Is Where The Army Sends Us" <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZbI5UjPzUPWapaIaduF5G5W6yQKVpTcgm4q4NXD4Ye3UZvc-rawWU9BQMhhVQC7x8ve1CckWGfVYgVCBFzkiPiSHj7UHiFnVQM-vqmn9BwZg9E0-Sh7rSgpmsIO_WRk-GXBh7bG-3O8/s1600/IMG_4421-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKZbI5UjPzUPWapaIaduF5G5W6yQKVpTcgm4q4NXD4Ye3UZvc-rawWU9BQMhhVQC7x8ve1CckWGfVYgVCBFzkiPiSHj7UHiFnVQM-vqmn9BwZg9E0-Sh7rSgpmsIO_WRk-GXBh7bG-3O8/s1600/IMG_4421-001.JPG" height="294" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The little houses in a row represent military housing. I hadn't added the words when I took this picture.</td></tr>
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Don't get me wrong, I haven't been completely satisfied at every single duty station. I can think of only two out of nine or so different addresses (I lose track sometimes) that I didn't love. I am not saying that I didn't like them - there is always something positive in each place and that is usually the great friendships that develop. The first place we were only there for 6 months but our youngest was born during that time so it has wonderful and exhausting memories. The second place had a lot of old memories connected with it. It was a place for personal growth and we made fantastic friends. I never forget the places we lived when Gene was deployed... talk about spiritual and personal growth. I couldn't watch a single redeployment commercial during the Super Bowl this year without crying. It gets me every time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5J3EBCM18QtnngfVteYmhu6GpuR-jToZg4_-_rR3u5eWUYeXEZ8vt2zyWDVepSvfJTfXMUXTm9NEzR3h-nFFFEoetqFDGMfLzDSuB0imd5gGxGnETLQGpnBecQxElHLGIt1vzkr-KAgg/s1600/IMG_4424-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5J3EBCM18QtnngfVteYmhu6GpuR-jToZg4_-_rR3u5eWUYeXEZ8vt2zyWDVepSvfJTfXMUXTm9NEzR3h-nFFFEoetqFDGMfLzDSuB0imd5gGxGnETLQGpnBecQxElHLGIt1vzkr-KAgg/s1600/IMG_4424-001.JPG" height="312" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I will probably add a sentiment to help complete the thought/meaning.</td></tr>
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These two paintings represent that feeling of the military home. It's not about the house we are living in or the weather or the stores or the schools (all these things can help) but it is about the people we surround ourselves with. I grew up in the same little town on a cattle farm. We made a lot of memories and learned how to work hard but I have loved the adventures the Army has sent us on. So, these paintings have special meaning to me. One has already gone home to another military family. They are sweet reminders of our way of life that might be a bit different from others but loved none the less.<br />
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<br />Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-30047714905055764782014-01-29T16:11:00.001-08:002014-01-29T16:14:14.730-08:00Reusing Spiral Notebooks<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpRDl5ZbUYqs4e3ip45ZB2FAna-13LntpKSR8dHl9C_mSZNoi1OxCfddliAHAi46RCpudEMs3v3CZtwpXdIT6X8IAzliSjjy-G4r4JxSGqybrhxGNHZmtt_ZXjZvaIw99R8RHFGEslNxE/s1600/IMG_4415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpRDl5ZbUYqs4e3ip45ZB2FAna-13LntpKSR8dHl9C_mSZNoi1OxCfddliAHAi46RCpudEMs3v3CZtwpXdIT6X8IAzliSjjy-G4r4JxSGqybrhxGNHZmtt_ZXjZvaIw99R8RHFGEslNxE/s1600/IMG_4415.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Are you at the part of the school year when you child comes home and tells you that she/he needs a new notebook the very next day, so you run to the grocery store and pay twice the normal amount for a sad little notebook? No one wants to be the bad parent who sends their child to school without supplies. And then do you repeat the exact same thing the next week? I know I can't be the only one. Right?!?! Please tell me I'm right. <br />
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Do you have a stack of partially used spiral notebooks stashed away in a closet that came home from school at the end of the year? Do you try to talk your little angel into using one of those old notebooks before you pawn your wedding ring (okay, I may be exaggerating a bit) to buy the overpriced notebook at the grocery store down the street?<br />
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Do you have a box of odd and end scrap booking supplies that you can't get rid of but you probably won't use? Or, are you like me and buy scrap booking supplies but never scrapbook?<br />
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If you answered yes to these questions then grab your Mod Podge because I have the solution for you!<br />
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This little gem was the result of "Mom!!! I need a new Science notebook for school tomorrow!!" I wasn't about to leave the house without my bra on and I wasn't putting on a bra to go get another stinkin' notebook. Don't judge... the sun was down and my jammies were on. I checked the old notebook stash and remembered that when we moved I painstakingly dismantled all the old spiral notebooks so they could be recycled... but I found an survivor. I located a vintage notebook from when my husband was in college about ten years ago. JACKPOT! Take a look at what we made with a paper bag, scrapbook supplies, and Mod Podge. She loves it.<br />
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<br />Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-14191477216108830862014-01-23T09:11:00.002-08:002014-01-23T09:11:48.127-08:00steampunk/military messenger bag for the tomboyWe are still using those steampunk inspired pendants. They were so much fun to make and I have set a few aside to use in my mixed media paintings. I have so much "stuff"collected for paintings. My previous post shows how we made them and then turned them into a banner <a href="http://mythreegs.blogspot.com/2014/01/discover-steampunk-banner.html" target="_blank">Steampunk Banner</a>.<br />
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Gigi is a tomboy. She doesn't get why girls like to spend time fixing their hair, putting on make-up or worrying about accessories. (I love all those things.) I was so excited when I found out that her friends talked her into using a purse. She refused to carry any type of bag that looked girly or pink or had flowers or had anything that indicated she could possible be a girly-girl. I showed her a few of the Kavu bags, which are functional, durable, and fun. I carry one. She didn't really love any of them so off we went to look through my fabric scraps.<br />
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Gigi designed her own small messenger tote by using left over pieces of an Army uniform, chevron canvas, left over military patches and pins from her Dad's collection and some of her steampunk charms and pendants. It turned out so cool. Or should I say epic? I can never keep up. Now she's not walking around school with her pockets full of her phone, chapstick, pens and pencils, papers... her new steampunk/military inspired bag holds it all.<br />
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Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-56357816932527407332014-01-15T09:32:00.001-08:002014-01-15T09:37:21.609-08:00Discover - steampunk banner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It started out as Christmas craft with the kids...<br />
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I found a ton of cute paper clay sculptures on Pinterest and decided it was a craft I would have to try. During down time on Christmas break I brought out the paper clay and gathered the girls around the table for some mother-daughter craft time. Greta didn't last long but Gigi and I stuck to it and decided to make steampunk inspired pendants... and a few birds.</div>
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We started by rolling and cutting out the clay into mostly squares. I had some adorable little "cookie" cutters in the shapes of squares and circles that I bought when I picked up the paper clay. I also had a bunch of steampunkish bits and pieces that Gigi and I found on a late night trip to Micheals Arts and Crafts, and when I say a bunch I mean more than I will ever use in a lifetime. </div>
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We made our basic clay pendants and arranged the steampunk pieces into the clay. After that was finished, we took a break for about... two weeks. In our defense, the clay had to dry and we all know that crafts dry better when they are left on the kitchen counter and forgotten. Just a note, very few of the steampunk embellishments stuck in the clay and most of them had to be glued to the pendants after they were painted.</div>
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Then one day while cleaning, I decided that was impossible to truly clean my kitchen unless I stopped what I was doing and painted the clay pendants. Isn't that how all crafty people clean? So, I transferred all the tiny little clay and metal pieces to my art studio and started smearing paint on them. I literally used my fingers and smeared them with watered down black craft paint and then started rubbing them with a dab of different colored metallic craft paint. I love the outcome. <br />
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When Gigi got home from school I had to have her remind me where the different steampunk pieces went on which clay pendant and then we glued them in place and enjoyed our accomplishment. We had a pile of pendants that we loved but didn't know what to do next. <br />
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A bolt of lightening struck and we decided to make a banner. So after the completed pendants relaxed on my desk in my art studio for another handful of days, I came up with an idea for a banner. It only took an afternoon to put together and now it proudly hangs in her room. All the pendants on the banner are the ones that Gigi designed. It is absolutely one of the coolest things we have made together. <br />
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We still have pendants left over for other projects. I have a purse that Gigi and I designed to show you next... which uses more of her steampunk pendants. <br />
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<br />Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-51264947577880507152014-01-03T05:59:00.002-08:002014-01-07T18:33:33.427-08:00I'll miss you 2013<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIA4tt4wm_PIhDKmZzazmIuGlLpC8gVzgA70PMnRKrD54IxZ6B9KfPU0A5I7s-0Spcs14LvatdUBCpckZHTz_AVlvLy27EF5_Tp5LhvCiwXgOnC4d1dSKNsWE_hQuIt2YmGQksOWeDfuc/s1600/moved.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIA4tt4wm_PIhDKmZzazmIuGlLpC8gVzgA70PMnRKrD54IxZ6B9KfPU0A5I7s-0Spcs14LvatdUBCpckZHTz_AVlvLy27EF5_Tp5LhvCiwXgOnC4d1dSKNsWE_hQuIt2YmGQksOWeDfuc/s320/moved.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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What a busy year that was filled with many changes and challenges. Our biggest change was our move to Alabama in July. It signified more than our typical military move, this move is the start of a new chapter in our lives. We PCSed from Ft Leonard Wood Missouri. It was the most difficult assignment we have encountered. Normally, I find pride in my ability to make anyplace fun; however, the entire family didn't adapt well during the two years we were in MO. I had to accept that some things don't change no matter how badly we want them to and things I wanted to stay the same, like our wonderful friends and neighbors, do change (and move). I guess I learned to look for the positive. When we received our orders for Redstone Arsenal we were thrilled. This was a place we always wanted to live. We carefully chose a house to purchase in a school district we loved because we plan on staying until the girls graduate. Gene is still in the Army but his retirement is coming up in about two years and we are looking forward to being settled. It has been six months in our home and we still love it.<br />
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I found a new level of comfort and excitement with my art. I embraced painting and it has gone so well. People seem to really enjoy my art work and the creative process calms my soul. The rest of the time, well, I have been so disorganized (which is not like me). That will change in 2014.<br />
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The girls have done well in their new schools. Greta had her usual adjustment period but is doing great. She enjoys singing lessons and made the choir at her school. One of her biggest joys is living in a subdivision with a pool. This kid is a fish and loves to swim laps just for fun. This upcoming summer she is going to try out for a swim team. It is exciting to live someplace that has these opportunities. Gigi has continued with piano and continues to excel in academics. If I just had a tiny bit of her smarts. It is so fun watching her become her own young lady. One of the biggest changes I have seen is her decision to step back from competitive softball. Gigi still loves to play but wants to play at a recreational level. She has decided to focus on music and academics and is considering martial arts. I have a tough time stepping back but at least Greta still holds my hand to cross the street. <br />
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Gene enjoys his new position at work. It is a secret so I don't know much about what he does all day but I do know that he comes home with a sense of satisfaction. He has the biggest changes to anticipate. When I refer to our retirement I really mean that Gene will be retiring from the Army. It will be a big change for him to not be a soldier and a big change for us to not be a military family.<br />
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I can't forget the pets. They are such a big part of our lives. We lost our sweet border collie Friday in April 2013 due to a seizure disorder. That was heartbreaking but it also opened our hearts to adopting Maizy May Flower, a super shy Corgi/Sheba Inu mix. May loves four people and gosh, we love her back. Then after we got settled in Alabama we adopted August Blue. He is an Australian Shepherd/Basset Hound mix and a bundle of energy. I can't even begin to count the number of funny things he has done... or chewed. Well, that's not true, I have a hard time forgetting all the costly things he has chewed up. ha ha Bandit is still hanging in there, despite all the changes. He continues to follow around his favorite person, Greta.<br />
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So, here's to 2013. It was good year with so many changes and challenges. Welcome 2014, I am looking forward to the joys you will bring. This year will be about living with purpose and finding our place.Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-18549415269603027352013-12-19T12:49:00.004-08:002013-12-19T12:49:40.467-08:00Curtains, who needs them?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I wonder if this will be me by the end of summer? I am thrilled that the empty lots are selling in our fabulous subdivision. The lot beside our house and the lot behind our house have sold. I can feel our property value increasing.</div>
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.However, I must admit that I was a bit surprised to see this giant start to go up behind me. The majority of houses on our street are for people with arthritic knees, just like me. They are lovely single story homes. There are a few two story houses mixed in, no problem. All the houses are beautiful, just like this home will be. It just feels odd to know that folks can look into my backyard. However, they may be sorry for two simple reasons. First, I don't care for blinds. I like the sun to shine in. As a result, I don't have curtains or blinds that cover the window. All my curtains are for looks only. I'm sure the neighbors have learned to look away. Second, Gene takes the dogs out back in his skivvies late at night and early in the morning. It makes me giggle just thinking about those poor people looking out their bedroom window in the morning, stretching, and enjoying the start of their day only to look down and BAM! there's Gene on the back porch. ha ha!!! I don't know, maybe he will start putting on a robe.</div>
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I have reminded myself that once spring arrives that I won't be able to see the house. There is a beautiful mature tree already there and I planted apple trees in that corner. Plus, it is a great excuse to continue to landscape - one of my favorite things to do. Get the shovel ready Geno, I need some evergreens.<br />
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August has been guarding the yard. He normally doesn't hang out in the yard but he is really enjoying being a guard pup. Isn't he the cutest? I wish I had a picture of him standing. He is an Australian Shepherd and Basset Hound mix. He has those adorable short turned in Basset legs. It just makes me smile to look at him.<br />
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Lastly, I wish I had learned more in my Spanish classes. The construction workers enjoy their day. They are always joking and laughing... loudly. I want to laugh with them.Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-30381386726320347492013-12-11T05:57:00.001-08:002013-12-11T05:57:52.762-08:00Quality materials are a must - don't be cheap like me.A big sigh...<br />
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I have a habit of being thrifty. I always try to go the less expensive route and more than once, I have paid the price. My lesson I have learned is to always use quality art material where it matters most - the foundation.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5466F-o6pnOtZ7kakq8AK7mQYjJbV8bWOlh57qpnavSw7y0ivcYTuP-ypnEPg8sAlkB-tmY9SD2X8lE9016Vrt9iyqUfQNC7yIJ8vlnqPU0vftQ7HavIDh9u-j2tOaOm5RxyO1gS6rmY/s1600/IMG_4288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5466F-o6pnOtZ7kakq8AK7mQYjJbV8bWOlh57qpnavSw7y0ivcYTuP-ypnEPg8sAlkB-tmY9SD2X8lE9016Vrt9iyqUfQNC7yIJ8vlnqPU0vftQ7HavIDh9u-j2tOaOm5RxyO1gS6rmY/s320/IMG_4288.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See the slightly messed up lower left corner?</td></tr>
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I had a slightly warped and inexpensive canvas I had been saving. I thought it would be good for an experiment in mixed media. I mean, what would it matter? If the painting was a total pile of yuck then I didn't lose much money on my canvas. It never crossed my mind that I might love the painting. I have learned my lesson.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9_WYxNzhjVE/UqhrTxHd3mI/AAAAAAAACS0/hOz2Vr_XTXY/s1600/IMG_4284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9_WYxNzhjVE/UqhrTxHd3mI/AAAAAAAACS0/hOz2Vr_XTXY/s320/IMG_4284.JPG" width="213" /></a><br />
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I started painting on my wobbly warped canvas, ignoring that it was bouncing all over the table. It was just a little warped. I didn't know that the paint would eventually make it worse. So, now I have this experiment that I love, that is hanging on my wall for everyone to see right when you enter my home, and it drives me crazy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik08iStN16Ttr2g7g9fvEQCOqFioW0wt3RnuFTHafo7t_XTO3AhyHYzP3oB2jrn5QlHlkfVjHi_QsRE_6MJek662B9rsrgy0sbpfy13VeWjoLVvfxq4u1eiUMWJfPuVvO1yoze7jMUuGQ/s1600/IMG_4293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik08iStN16Ttr2g7g9fvEQCOqFioW0wt3RnuFTHafo7t_XTO3AhyHYzP3oB2jrn5QlHlkfVjHi_QsRE_6MJek662B9rsrgy0sbpfy13VeWjoLVvfxq4u1eiUMWJfPuVvO1yoze7jMUuGQ/s320/IMG_4293.JPG" width="213" /></a><br />
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Moral of the story... use quality material. The canvas matters. Oh, and be careful if you bump up against the painting that is meant to be touched. It is hanging a bit precariously and may jump off the wall.<br />
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Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-39932100478805028492013-12-05T08:02:00.003-08:002013-12-05T08:04:54.797-08:00Christmas Mixed Media PaintingsWow, it has been a long time since I posted. We moved into our new house six months ago and I finally found my camera battery but I am still missing my SD cards. I'm really wishing I had been more diligent about backing up my pictures. boo hoo<br />
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Christmas is around the corner and I had a great time painting these mixed media paintings. My husband has been in the Army for over 20 years. This Christmas I was inspired by all my military friends who have endured and tried to enjoy Christmas during deployments. It is an unbelievably emotional time.<br />
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I always try to add a ton of texture to my paintings. I want the viewer to pick them up and touch them. My favorite part of this group of paintings is the snow. It is molding paste that is swirled, painted, and then sparkled. That's how I imagine snow looks like when it is fresh and the sun makes it sparkle. I normally add a saying to my paintings, which are normally inspired by scripture or a song, but this time I left two blank so they could be personalized. The fireplace painting and the Christmas tree painting now have personal messages.<br />
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I hope you have a Merry Christmas!<br />
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... and the fire is so delightful</div>
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Goodwill towards men</div>
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Joy</div>
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Peace & Joy</div>
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Peace</div>
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Winter Cabin</div>
Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-42128235051504649552013-08-08T08:25:00.000-07:002013-08-08T08:25:56.341-07:00Getting SettledI has been a month since we have moved to our new house. So far we love it. I would post some pictures but for some unknown reason I haven't been able to load pictures since we moved.<br />
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The actual move was a little frustrating and Gene is still trying to catch up. The mover/driver chose to not hire helpers and had his family help him unload our household goods. He had a 13 year old son, and 10 year old son, and his wife (who didn't seem to embrace his decision). Although I applaud him for teaching his children the lessons and benefits of hard work, they were too small to carry a lot of items and didn't seem to understand the process. As a result, a lot of furniture was slightly damaged, things ended out in odd places, or things didn't get any farther than the garage. I think the most frustrating part for Gene was that the mover took apart a lot of furniture that shouldn't have been taken apart and didn't put it back together. As a result, we have had to order new parts, etc. But like I said, I still like a family that works together.<br />
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We have been spoiled by our military moves the past 20 years. After we have unpacked, the moving company always came back to pick up our boxes and packing paper. The sweet life is over. The girls and I tackled that job. We found a recycling area the next town away and filled up our little red car multiple times. Even though it was hot and humid work, I thought it was fun. It cracked me up to see the girls in the car with paper packed all around them. They even talked one of the neighborhood kids into helping. It was so satisfying to see the finished project... our garage floor.<br />
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We are still hanging curtains... a job Geno and I both despise, but for the most part, we are settled in. The girls have enjoyed the neighborhood pool. Gene has taken Gigi fishing at the river that runs beside our subdivision. The absolute best part was that the first week there we were invited to a neighborhood barbecue. The neighbors are so fun and friendly.<br />
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I know we are going to like it here. Now, I just need to get Gene to dig more holes in the yard for my landscaping obsession. ha haSherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-1300643182056126312013-07-21T13:11:00.000-07:002013-07-21T13:11:13.832-07:00Mountains and FirefliesBefore my dear friend Jen moved to Utah she asked me to paint her a picture with mountains and fireflies, her two favorite things. I had never painted a firefly picture before so I was excited about the challenge and wanted the picture to be extra special for her. <br />
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Jen is so vibrant and fun that I decided to make the painting bright and colorful like her. I normally age my paintings but this time I went for all the joy and wonder I could create. Gosh, I'll miss this girl.<br />
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Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-31105606117556345632013-07-21T12:49:00.002-07:002013-07-21T12:50:04.962-07:00Late For ClassJuly is more than half way through and I still have some late June-early July posts yet to write. I started this post before we moved in early July and have since lost the draft. No surprise there. I've lost multiple things in the past few weeks during our move. <br />
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Some wonderful ladies came over for a mixed media painting class. Their paintings turned out beautifully and we had such a great time laughing.<br />
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I am a messy free spirited painter and reminded them several times to PUT DOWN YOUR PAINTBRUSH (Gina). I wanted them to feel their art... literally. Paint washes off eventually.<br />
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Beautiful paintings ladies. <br />
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Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-20445513076330731792013-06-19T15:59:00.000-07:002013-06-19T20:20:47.958-07:00Painting Smalls - Mixed MediaWe are in the middle of moving and can you guess what I am obsessed with? All I want to do is paint 6x6 mixed media paintings. This size of canvas is one of my favorite. I can finish a simple painting in a day or two and since it is a "deep" canvas, the sides become part of the painting.<br />
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Maybe I am enjoying painting these so much because I packed up my sewing machine and already shipped it to our new home a few states away - or - maybe it is because I am avoiding the never ending cleaning that needs to be done to move from our rental house. Either way, I am loving my time in my art studio. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBShDQiftaRT3SczSTk-23m34FPwl2-uKpoLdFkB-I8hDJE6LdCFZfzNPXW0gfnj0cGMDHdy4ylzbWrOPOT2ya0CcjIpCyotkhv1Ukfhb9-4105BE2st7KY0EiZ_-ezx2iFRHnM9bqr7c/s1600/IMG_4196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBShDQiftaRT3SczSTk-23m34FPwl2-uKpoLdFkB-I8hDJE6LdCFZfzNPXW0gfnj0cGMDHdy4ylzbWrOPOT2ya0CcjIpCyotkhv1Ukfhb9-4105BE2st7KY0EiZ_-ezx2iFRHnM9bqr7c/s320/IMG_4196.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Believe The Best</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Know In Your Heart</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breathe</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJVNpKYeIoZuE6ndcdgp87KVKBN7JUcqQ9iMvree1t9CmNMtIIMW4xGf-5V0izt7H7uq9FokdjeeX44lHRHO6MnrqPllA0FAvK6aEX8wcSMtVQBGbbz1qdwXo1g0N4MGiYh9JOwfiS2I/s1600/IMG_4211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJVNpKYeIoZuE6ndcdgp87KVKBN7JUcqQ9iMvree1t9CmNMtIIMW4xGf-5V0izt7H7uq9FokdjeeX44lHRHO6MnrqPllA0FAvK6aEX8wcSMtVQBGbbz1qdwXo1g0N4MGiYh9JOwfiS2I/s320/IMG_4211.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-86365661063028988952013-04-30T09:03:00.001-07:002013-04-30T09:05:59.325-07:00How to manage time...There are so many things I want to try to create. Some are completely full of artistic freedom... I have a stack of canvases sitting beside my painting table just waiting for the ideas to be put into color. I'm not running short of ideas. I have a sermon journal/sketchbook full. I also have sewing orders that need to be completed as fast as my little arthritic fingers can move.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJJndMuqS7AQ5zTbsLeZBIybxMBNve7SVNBiRmesluffbKNpDi9vDzFQhhthoAGkNnh1CW6n949Vn2vE0x5eOD1u66RTqOjWLH8mPSMu73E8c5QIj_D4jZ_ENc8WV2-gx3ktpgT0du6o/s1600/canvas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJJndMuqS7AQ5zTbsLeZBIybxMBNve7SVNBiRmesluffbKNpDi9vDzFQhhthoAGkNnh1CW6n949Vn2vE0x5eOD1u66RTqOjWLH8mPSMu73E8c5QIj_D4jZ_ENc8WV2-gx3ktpgT0du6o/s320/canvas.JPG" width="152" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you hear them calling my name?</td></tr>
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Then I look at blogs like this one and I am inspired at Lisa Leonard's <a href="http://www.lisaleonardonline.com/blog/diy/diy-dishtowels" target="_blank">http://www.lisaleonardonline.com/blog/diy/diy-dishtowels</a> time management skills. She has a successful jewelry business, looks adorable, and continues to create for her personal space. Plus, she has a family who she talks about and the challenges that come with her story. How does she do it? I wonder if she feels totally frazzled in real life but pulls it all together for the blog. I want to make some of these dishtowels for our new house...in my spare time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExF3d3ngv_l5MAOmrVCMFq74jbtOwo43PjwUZrOuH97AWblnRfdQm9160SsqWs7l6nIFinnSs4GVX0oTXKuj9_fDP0WaXcALe7O18LONPKZW4GBFu7lYZezbzJLvQtsUHC5bYdCDx0jY/s1600/lisa416_047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExF3d3ngv_l5MAOmrVCMFq74jbtOwo43PjwUZrOuH97AWblnRfdQm9160SsqWs7l6nIFinnSs4GVX0oTXKuj9_fDP0WaXcALe7O18LONPKZW4GBFu7lYZezbzJLvQtsUHC5bYdCDx0jY/s320/lisa416_047.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">these are so simple and cute<br />
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P<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/PoppyCatSews" target="_blank">oppy Cat Sews</a> is doing well; however, I am struggling to figure out how to successfully juggle all the responsibilities. Do I fill orders and let my house go to shambles (which drives me crazy)? I love to design and sew but my heart also desires to paint. And, how do I manage family and continue with the unbelievably high mothering standard to which they are accustomed (sarcasm)? It's all a conundrum for me. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilr8fMzw8JPKoWZpH6Si81Bx4aJymIL8v6AbO5qZ-LQchWgI60gUrPxPLy9zWqH3MbQyLu_UIaiIPy6yGfEJ8YEM3rFxIIfpaVypqg30hx5vudLQVx_xZEM6L5bMBMSjqVOhWjaxpk9YA/s1600/crossbody.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilr8fMzw8JPKoWZpH6Si81Bx4aJymIL8v6AbO5qZ-LQchWgI60gUrPxPLy9zWqH3MbQyLu_UIaiIPy6yGfEJ8YEM3rFxIIfpaVypqg30hx5vudLQVx_xZEM6L5bMBMSjqVOhWjaxpk9YA/s320/crossbody.JPG" width="144" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A collection of crossbody bags.</td></tr>
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I have one statement that is on my mind... pray without ceasing. I may not have figured out how to manage my time in the way that I want or with the discipline that is needed but I am thrilled that I am overflowing with the gift of creativity. I've held it at bay for 20 years and I know I am moving towards living the life God called me to live at this place in time... even if it is a bit chaotic, unbalanced, and messy (just like this blog post).Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-58821438078013046292013-04-27T18:04:00.002-07:002013-04-27T18:04:50.955-07:00How do you know you are loved?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLh8ZBWxdfy5VrByTPxPkJDOSiZt0CYE-5AFpjV_qyNjM2I5k5IWFMQDv-3DsVmK2nYs8KFfPudj3AtYHVcq5KZ_wQMyyPpKkBT2JBd-kmJNjQJ8WqbJaOu1rmEZXAEKTiYkqSi7Knlc/s1600/gigi+flowers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLh8ZBWxdfy5VrByTPxPkJDOSiZt0CYE-5AFpjV_qyNjM2I5k5IWFMQDv-3DsVmK2nYs8KFfPudj3AtYHVcq5KZ_wQMyyPpKkBT2JBd-kmJNjQJ8WqbJaOu1rmEZXAEKTiYkqSi7Knlc/s320/gigi+flowers.JPG" width="191" /></a></div>
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One the way to our house there are beautiful purple flowers that grow out of the rock face from the side of the road. I know I am loved because Gene scaled the rocks and picked me a bouquet. I opened the door and Gigi presented this wonderful surprise to me with a smile (not this goofy smile, which I love). God is good.Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-44317744422366627712013-04-18T09:48:00.004-07:002013-04-18T09:49:27.699-07:00Off Track In The Rain<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsSavL-xmdUqIpyxPElIeFPb-9T7DOuU2RUJHLLmRD8SBFhXwXkRnGE8VXIruxAcIzpCz03bsVQGczCZDzG_aLmoMckOB_9OXuaBl4FPyP_yI5dBJKqVtBYeGW43RBsbULcxWF8YNuNU/s1600/runners-knee%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsSavL-xmdUqIpyxPElIeFPb-9T7DOuU2RUJHLLmRD8SBFhXwXkRnGE8VXIruxAcIzpCz03bsVQGczCZDzG_aLmoMckOB_9OXuaBl4FPyP_yI5dBJKqVtBYeGW43RBsbULcxWF8YNuNU/s320/runners-knee%5B1%5D.jpg" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This picture is obviously not me but it's the best I could find when I searched for "joints and rain". Most of the pics were not about knee joints! HA HA</td></tr>
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Spring is the time to start fresh, right? For some reason Mother Nature and my heart and body doesn't realize this. The weather here has been unpredictable... just like me. I am normally organized and think of myself as someone who handles change well. I am a military spouse after all! <br />
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I have been in a slump. My life has gotten a bit off kilter and I am really looking forward to Spring. I am ready to start fresh and start finding gratitude for God's gifts. I even bought air fresheners for my car that say Think Happy Be Happy.<br />
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Today is rainy. I usually love the rainy days. I'll work extra hard in the morning to be able to carve out some time in the afternoon to sit and read a book and enjoy the rain. Today I realized that it takes longer to recover from surgery than I thought and rain makes the pain flare up but I am happy to have a knee that is still getting me around - even if it is super achy on rainy days. I missed an Etsy order and discovered that people are kind and forgiving. Thank you Lindsay for your understanding. I may be easily overwhelmed at this moment and a bit emotional. We have a move coming up and so many things to keep my mind wrapped around. I am thankful to God for making me a woman who feels joy just as strongly as any other emotion. I am also blessed to have a family who sees my needs. Just last night my husband listened to my worries and assured me that he understood and my girls cleaned the kitchen after dinner so I could have a break.<br />
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So, thank you God for getting me a bit off track in the rain today so I can be reminded to be thankful for the mercy and grace that you have freely given.Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4863431537686376965.post-4622577354822930302013-04-12T18:32:00.001-07:002013-04-12T18:32:32.784-07:00Learning to grocery shop once a month...Please take note that my title has the word "learning" in it. March was my first attempt at monthly shopping. I did pretty well but I still over purchased. One of the things I learned is that we only drink a gallon of milk a week. We are still drinking last months milk. Good thing it has been frozen. <br />
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I really need to think about lunch for the girls. They take their lunch to school every day and by the end of the month we were trying to come up with anything that would be easy to eat and pack. They only get a few minutes for lunch so the food has to be easy to shovel in. Isn't that sad? We quickly ran out of apples and fruit. Fresh fruit, especially apples, is a big lunch staple in our house. As a result, I have given myself "permission" to shop for produce twice a month. To be honest, I did have to sneak to the store and buy some lettuce. Gene was sorely missing his salads.<br />
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My budget goal for April was $300. I failed on that one. I didn't take the time to plan well and left the few coupons I had at home. It's been a crazy month and it hasn't even been two weeks yet. ha ha I also did a little retail therapy and bought things I didn't really need or were more expensive than was needed. Note to self: STICK TO THE LIST! I did stick to my original $400 budget which is quite an accomplishment since I forgot when I was planning the shopping list that we needed pet food and all our bathroom paper products. TMI?<br />
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As far as the pre-made homemade mixes... the oatmeal and pancake mix was a huge success. The containers are completely empty. The dry cream-of soup mix will be reluctently used. It tastes odd, not terrible, but just off a bit. I will probably try it again but add different spices.<br />
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I have started following The Krazy Coupon Lady on Facebook. They post every great sale and coupon available. Some days I get a little bugged by all the posts but I know that when we move and live in a metropolitan area that it will be more helpful. I also got the Ibotta app on my iPhone. Sadly, it doesn't work with the commissary but in a few months I'll have a Target available and will use it then. Take a look at their Facebook page or blog. It has a bazillion money saving tips for popular stores.<br />
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My goal next month is to get as close to $300 as I can. I'm going to have to be more organized and clip some coupons but I think I can do it. Wish me luck.Sherryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05410182571308816172noreply@blogger.com0