tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32580517339084457392024-03-13T01:27:25.576-05:00Delightful Handwork"She works with her hands in delight." Proverbs 31:13Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.comBlogger116125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-45336451956323568452017-01-11T19:00:00.003-06:002020-12-11T12:48:22.284-06:00you say goodbye, but I say hello...<div align="center">
I've given it much thought...</div>
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and I've decided...</div>
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to take this blog </div>
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{Delightful Handwork}</div>
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fold it up neatly & put it safely in the drawer of my history.</div>
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I think that it has played its part in my life & now I'm ready to move on.</div>
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I'm craving a fresh start & I intend to do that with a brand new blog.</div>
<div align="center"><a href="http://miss-strawberry-makes.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Miss Strawberry Makes</a></div>
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So this isn't really goodbye...</div>
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it's a new hello!</div>
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I'd be ever so honored if you dear followers would now follow my new blog.</div>
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It just wouldn't be the same without you!</div>
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-89463603566527800322016-11-01T20:13:00.001-05:002016-11-01T21:20:15.165-05:00and so it begins...<div style="text-align: center;">
Last Thursday was the opening day of my favorite thrift store's Christmas shop. The store is in an old Ben Franklin building & every October it's fun to peek over the banister into the basement where the <strike>volunteers</strike> elves have been busily organizing all the Christmas items that have been donated throughout the year. Then on the appointed day my sisters & I line up about half an hour before opening time along with all the other Christmas crazies around here. It's fun to dress festively. This is what I wore this year. ^_^</div>
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I've had this vintage wooly skier waistcoat for a few years. I bought it at a garage sale for a song. It's just so kitschy & cute!</div>
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A little girl in the line to check out behind me told her mom that I looked like an elf. Then her mom explained that they had just watched the movie Elf recently. So that means she thought I looked like Zooey Deschanel's character...which pretty much made my day. Heehee!</div>
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{Waiting in line with 2 of my sisters!}</div>
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These were most of the goodies I found. Not that I needed another single article of Christmas paraphernalia, but ya know...as if that even matters.</div>
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{Photo of my outfit snapped by my sister Beth}</div>
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<br />Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-64452430739392412372016-09-22T17:06:00.001-05:002016-09-22T20:06:52.762-05:00what Astrid & I made {cozy rosie corduroy frock}...<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy 1st Day of Fall, Y'all!</div>
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Yesterday afternoon & evening Astrid & I had fun making this frock! I had it cut out and ready to go since probably January or February, but once the weather turned warm it got shoved in the ufo pile. It felt good to pull it out of there & finally get it done.</div>
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It was my first time trying out Astrid & she worked like a charm! The only difficulty was trying to remember that the reverse thingy is on the left not the right like my old machine. My hand waffled back and forth a couple times before my brain could remind it that we're using a new machine now. *wink*</div>
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I used Simplicity 1080 a Dottie Angel pattern. I love her style! I've made a few frocks from this pattern. So, I felt confident to make some changes this time. I swapped out the tucks in the front & ties 'round the back for a bit of elastic at the waist in front & back. So comfy!</div>
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Our family tradition for the 1st day of Autumn is to visit out favorite orchard. Such a perfect outing to try out my new frock. ^_^</div>
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I love my jellies from <a href="http://www.sunjellies.com/" target="_blank">Sunjellies</a>! Do you remember those jelly sandals we wore in the 80s & 90s? Do you remember the blisters? Yeah, well these are not like that at all! So soft & bendable. And they come in the best colors! I also have the <a href="http://www.sunjellies.com/sun-banana/#cc-m-product-9904028794" target="_blank">pale yellow pair</a>. They make me want a banana Laffy Taffy real bad. *wink* I want to get the peach & mint pairs as well. {swoon} It made me even more in love with these when I learned that these original French jelly sandals were first made in the 1940s! I can't wait to wear them with tights when the weather turns. {On a side note Sunjellies also offers darling <a href="http://www.sunjellies.com/baskets/" target="_blank">jelly bags</a> that are perfect for toting around current knit or crochet projects in utterly adorable & kitschy style. I want one in every color!}</div>
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Here's to Fall. One of my 4 favorite seasons. Enjoy these fleeting days of harvest and colorful & crunchy leaves, and evenings of cozy comforts while the wind whips through the trees.</div>
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Oh and...</div>
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That's just the way it is. Random. But true.</div>
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Happy Autumn, dear ones!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Miss Michelle</div>
Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-70601193073483679622016-09-15T09:43:00.002-05:002016-09-17T15:51:16.899-05:00vintage garage sale on Instagram...<div style="text-align: center;">
Heads up blog friends!</div>
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I'm having a sale on Instagram!</div>
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Get ready for good deals galore on vintage goodies from my stash!</div>
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Go to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/delightfulhandwork_destash/" target="_blank">delightfulhandwork_destash</a> now!</div>
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Go, go, go!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Miss Michelle</div>
Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-61214110466180398212016-09-13T13:53:00.000-05:002016-09-13T18:19:03.960-05:00crazy for daisies...<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm sure by now you've noticed I've been tweaking my blog appearance.</div>
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I think I've finally settled on this vintage daisy theme. The inspiration was a vintage daisy feedsack in my collection.</div>
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I know I've mentioned it before that daisies are my favorite so I thought it was only right that they should feature heavily in my blog theme. ^_^</div>
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One of my most recent crochet projects is daisy granny squares. They are so much fun! I'm really enjoying experimenting with different colors for the background with stash yarn. My favorite is the aqua, naturally. ^_~</div>
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I tried out the "join as you go method" for joining some squares & I loved it. I used <a href="http://www.cherryheartcrochet.co.uk/2014/09/join-as-you-go-jayg.html?m=1" target="_blank">this tutorial</a> found on Pinterest. {Oh, I followed <a href="http://tillietulip.blogspot.com/2012/06/to-beg-chain-ch-5-and-join-to-form.html?m=1" target="_blank">this tutorial</a> for the daisy grannies, also found on Pinterest. I ♡ you, Pinterest! *blows kisses*}</div>
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I'm so in love with my new theme that I even committed to having some [square!] business cards made.</div>
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Happy Tuesday!</div>
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Much Love,</div>
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Miss Michelle ^_^</div>
Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-67199954367037800602016-09-06T16:01:00.000-05:002016-09-06T16:01:10.541-05:00meet Astrid the aqua sewing machine! {+ what I've been up to lately}...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYNAimDRIh2m-IEuFTjlssFl97WLLFk97fVvLo-Udoitj6jD8kqZzK_zMJ9XZMbwyIYY3oJ-EoFV4MoGlIWYMgQEtManUsTWjp7kYwj3sRPVnG6QbEPCO0C-o8x-HOeQ5yL00TaZUqDgQs/s1600/IMG_20160905_154550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYNAimDRIh2m-IEuFTjlssFl97WLLFk97fVvLo-Udoitj6jD8kqZzK_zMJ9XZMbwyIYY3oJ-EoFV4MoGlIWYMgQEtManUsTWjp7kYwj3sRPVnG6QbEPCO0C-o8x-HOeQ5yL00TaZUqDgQs/s640/IMG_20160905_154550.jpg" width="638" /></a></div>
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Isn't she a beaut?</div>
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She's actually a bit darker colored in person.</div>
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(It's so hard to get a good pic indoors.)</div>
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My sweet parents made my <strike>day</strike> year by buying me this retro chic sewing machine in my favorite color.</div>
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She'll be perfect for stitching up more bedsheet dresses such as...</div>
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this one that I made this past week.</div>
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~*~</div>
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I've also been doing a bit of decorating.</div>
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These pink wall pocket baskets were a steal of a deal for 70 cents from a favorite antique mall that was {sadly} closing. The faux strawberry plants were dissected from a thrift store find for $3.50. <br />
{Isn't faux such a much nicer way to say fake? *wink*}</div>
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This sweet planter from Target, reminiscent of a vintage head vase, was originally intended to have a succulent atop her head, but I think that this pink yarn bun fits my style even better! Doesn't she look like a giant egg cup though? *giggles*</div>
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This wire wastebasket was from the dollar section of Target for $3!</div>
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It makes such fun & cute storage for extra yarn leftover from previous projects.</div>
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The colors of this baby blankie I made for a friend's baby girl make me think of yummy saltwater taffy.</div>
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Though it may be in the 90s still outside in my neck of the woods,</div>
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inside our house it is decidedly Autumnal,</div>
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September 1st being our <strike>un-</strike>official first day of Fall.<br />
Lovely 70s are forecast for next week though.<br />
I can hardly wait for crisp air, colorful crunchy leaves, snuggly sweaters, & sturdy boots.</div>
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What have you been up to?</div>
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Much love,</div>
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Miss Michelle ^_^</div>
Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-51056248216070348762016-08-23T05:00:00.000-05:002016-08-23T05:00:00.150-05:00the almost lost art of thank you notes...<div align="center">
Do you still write thank you notes?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWAB-K_dhZjhMJ6Pkf_m2aeBkDxJkfdtkYGk7ejC0YpbeLORZUBPJ_UIlW-YGOBmNEC4pNq9DNVJwkWB_iiqWA0l0gSO7jHFglurAyMIasjGMtvtzNhyphenhyphen5JjTYvdAARoAOYXYU0g4mlrl-6/s1600/20160821_180759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWAB-K_dhZjhMJ6Pkf_m2aeBkDxJkfdtkYGk7ejC0YpbeLORZUBPJ_UIlW-YGOBmNEC4pNq9DNVJwkWB_iiqWA0l0gSO7jHFglurAyMIasjGMtvtzNhyphenhyphen5JjTYvdAARoAOYXYU0g4mlrl-6/s640/20160821_180759.jpg" width="446" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I try to as often as possible.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2yO2_axTmTprIemb-c44QZJq4E_ST100JJXI1OOAqfvVwHN1pi16vrK_H0_eanM0Jvfkta6ZPO2x76BpxUI7THfYdc7O9Kuvw_C3lboXz5-760o1BCx31dVCwNfSYYVtSe7WqqtMHwjB/s1600/20160821_181007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2yO2_axTmTprIemb-c44QZJq4E_ST100JJXI1OOAqfvVwHN1pi16vrK_H0_eanM0Jvfkta6ZPO2x76BpxUI7THfYdc7O9Kuvw_C3lboXz5-760o1BCx31dVCwNfSYYVtSe7WqqtMHwjB/s640/20160821_181007.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It seems to me it's not as commonplace as it used to be.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33mknJF5MVUsZJvF0zePC6fHDy5joo4qUPlb5Eeca8q_xUlRILTRk_nXfHyV3V4zBQ_0EaGFf3fHS2uhBxnHTDR2aPFz5NVknkfiIySUcmemg85Nrc_bIW2NuLnwJSUVDXPl1GQmZNp2Y/s1600/20160821_181020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33mknJF5MVUsZJvF0zePC6fHDy5joo4qUPlb5Eeca8q_xUlRILTRk_nXfHyV3V4zBQ_0EaGFf3fHS2uhBxnHTDR2aPFz5NVknkfiIySUcmemg85Nrc_bIW2NuLnwJSUVDXPl1GQmZNp2Y/s640/20160821_181020.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I think in our greedy, more is more society any opportunity to show gratitude is a wonderful thing.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7B4a8P4pJd1DdSK0917YHaaH6h5wJ1nVb2VP9D_KORdFU0els6ZUG-MQ3SgTDhRuvSj5dw0RQS2h061ZixWPJAMkuT7O2UO53qY7Sa7Ex0Oqga2v9kQWgH0dBqZKeiMWz-NwRZZVdJvd6/s1600/20160821_180832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="574" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7B4a8P4pJd1DdSK0917YHaaH6h5wJ1nVb2VP9D_KORdFU0els6ZUG-MQ3SgTDhRuvSj5dw0RQS2h061ZixWPJAMkuT7O2UO53qY7Sa7Ex0Oqga2v9kQWgH0dBqZKeiMWz-NwRZZVdJvd6/s640/20160821_180832.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And who doesn't like receiving happy mail, I ask you?!<br />
<br />
One of the first thank you notes I remember receiving was from the leader of Junior Choir at church, I was probably 7 or 8. I can't even remember what the note was thanking me for, but I do recall being so excited about receiving my very own piece of mail that I asked Mom if I could send a "You're Welcome" note in return. I was quite disappointed to find out that wasn't a thing. In my child's mind it was the only appropriate response since it was instilled in me to tell someone you're welcome if they told me thank you. haha!<br />
<br />
A little while back I heard that they are no longer going to be teaching cursive handwriting in school. I think that is a shame. I read an article once that said something about how important handwriting really is. They made a point that when you hand write something you use more of the old noodle than you do when you type. Isn't that interesting? I couldn't find a link to the article, but here is <a href="http://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2013/08/handwriting-makes-you-smarter/" target="_blank">a post</a> that talks about the article to which I'm referring.<br />
<br />
I can speak from experience that pieces of handwriting from loved ones now gone is something I treasure. For years I cleaned house for my great grandma, Grandma Lou, and did a little shopping for her too. I saved one of the notes she left me with the grocery list. She would have me do little mending jobs for her as well since she, an excellent seamstress herself, was no longer able. The note read: "Michelle, Could you put in a new zipper? This one is nuts. Gram" hahaha! She was such a hoot.<br />
<br />
So, I sat out on the deck on an unseasonable mild afternoon <br />
& started writing.<br />
{Making a photo worthy display beforehand of course. *wink*}<br />
Then I got to thinking about being thankful.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB8PeRuxZRDyaEv9-ZxnGN7Asze3px_R0748mtIprQOa-G6NjcxWMLUxLZbtcqe8rzyjOdFnBq48QiBlhZZa2B5LD2mVyHtcCWuPIzxF8JjuOsaLuDKQYtdQZTa73DADmaP6DYN0knvVN_/s1600/20160821_180903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB8PeRuxZRDyaEv9-ZxnGN7Asze3px_R0748mtIprQOa-G6NjcxWMLUxLZbtcqe8rzyjOdFnBq48QiBlhZZa2B5LD2mVyHtcCWuPIzxF8JjuOsaLuDKQYtdQZTa73DADmaP6DYN0knvVN_/s640/20160821_180903.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Being thankful is so important. <br />
We are told to be thankful to God for everything in all circumstances.<br />
{In each & every case it's always far better than what we truly deserve.}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3g_JjaGNQ5w2CZyL9tuijccU9m5zt5cmsLAzLWQCnzBi7BScZTNao2-WQpmeRU_foQ_6TtgTXiNAz_nN442XKUGESuNeA11dRT6pv-OSCUE49tEXFGzoDQ-8zap__yv5VL7q6__GJVl-/s1600/20160821_180919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3g_JjaGNQ5w2CZyL9tuijccU9m5zt5cmsLAzLWQCnzBi7BScZTNao2-WQpmeRU_foQ_6TtgTXiNAz_nN442XKUGESuNeA11dRT6pv-OSCUE49tEXFGzoDQ-8zap__yv5VL7q6__GJVl-/s640/20160821_180919.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, </div>
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to which indeed you were called in one body; </div>
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and <em>be thankful</em>. </div>
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Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,</div>
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<em> singing with thankfulness </em>in your hearts to God. </div>
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Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, </div>
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<em>giving thanks</em> through Him to God the Father."</div>
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{Colossians 3:15-17}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSFltW8XbAOBxxuDomhBvLEEiTbzyJySbqUPRdo8XWQklCyF99F-yEYl91geRnsHTP-UOmUi_vBiWmhyWUg0T0pE-MxKa9za5dDsSoqeT6-96IfT4iLFOJxlPoADZcmQM90G_DM0W8KleZ/s1600/20160821_183700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSFltW8XbAOBxxuDomhBvLEEiTbzyJySbqUPRdo8XWQklCyF99F-yEYl91geRnsHTP-UOmUi_vBiWmhyWUg0T0pE-MxKa9za5dDsSoqeT6-96IfT4iLFOJxlPoADZcmQM90G_DM0W8KleZ/s640/20160821_183700.jpg" width="392" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Rejoice always; </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
pray without ceasing; </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
in everything<em> give thanks</em>; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."</div>
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{1 Thessalonians 5:16-18}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSeS40ScxRRKVxqPvN_t63TBGT0OymNzrKLbkxN6GWfGpOWKak5O4y2Pd9FvuAL9DMtmtKC9FIwbz90kGjC-AfLU6AoozUUlJzR3XTzkI8i8XleE6AU-26CzsE5SgymHFEbMTD1HEgtRIs/s1600/IMG_20160806_091323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSeS40ScxRRKVxqPvN_t63TBGT0OymNzrKLbkxN6GWfGpOWKak5O4y2Pd9FvuAL9DMtmtKC9FIwbz90kGjC-AfLU6AoozUUlJzR3XTzkI8i8XleE6AU-26CzsE5SgymHFEbMTD1HEgtRIs/s640/IMG_20160806_091323.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Do not be anxious about anything, <br />
but in every situation, by prayer and petition, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em>with thanksgiving</em>, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
present your requests to God. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{Philippians 4:4-7}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRKSGipN31SJ3VuVxaYUOyrUc6yINRodai0qugNb_5jCTrNoks1qjfne639TapQ212blh7ROeI0LGedNrUF9nnN6Z4gD5OWz0sNewhiXG8uYOku49kmTgJcu4pLa6Q89V5emWSdMICVZYz/s1600/20160821_182141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRKSGipN31SJ3VuVxaYUOyrUc6yINRodai0qugNb_5jCTrNoks1qjfne639TapQ212blh7ROeI0LGedNrUF9nnN6Z4gD5OWz0sNewhiXG8uYOku49kmTgJcu4pLa6Q89V5emWSdMICVZYz/s640/20160821_182141.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Did you notice how often the words 'rejoice' & 'grateful' or 'thankful' are in the same passage?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ah, nothing cultivates the joy of the Lord quite like giving thanks to Him.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It puts things into the right perspective.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We remember that He is in control.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All things are filtered through His loving hands.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
How can you help but have joy when this is the case?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When we thank someone for some kind thing that they have done for us we ultimately thank God as well because He is the One Who put these givers in our lives.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
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Let us always be thankful to Him for the innumerable gifts He gives us every day. ^_^</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{But especially that greatest gift of all: His beloved Son, Who gave His life a ransom for those who will believe in Him & His sufficient sacrifice to reconcile wretched sinners to Himself.}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, next time you're penning thank you notes </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to those who are a blessing to you,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
remember the ultimate Giver.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJwhIYMZtFbOXUd9H970_eOD-PplQ9YnDgXLcg2mIJn9AI8fmTRHxWeS6xQOQLe29kh_7Y4B0kdKMlYgN0M2NRjm2wzI1BZVjoH1_3cUv-SL63tt8hxRYiPRvj6V8W32psJYysOwR82_Rr/s1600/20160821_185611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJwhIYMZtFbOXUd9H970_eOD-PplQ9YnDgXLcg2mIJn9AI8fmTRHxWeS6xQOQLe29kh_7Y4B0kdKMlYgN0M2NRjm2wzI1BZVjoH1_3cUv-SL63tt8hxRYiPRvj6V8W32psJYysOwR82_Rr/s640/20160821_185611.jpg" width="418" /></a></div>
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{And be sure to take a coffee & cake break <br />
when your hand starts to get a bit tired.}<br />
<br />
~*~<br />
<br />
Do you have any treasured memories connected with hand writing?<br />
<br />
How often do you hand write things?<br />
</div>
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^_^</div>
<div align="center">
Much Love,</div>
<div align="center">
Michelle<br />
{Yep, I took the piccies & I ate that cake. It was good.}</div>
Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-6723258102729746292016-08-15T05:00:00.001-05:002016-08-15T05:00:02.203-05:00it's my 30th birthday I can cry if I want to... {+ my birthday gift to you!}<div align="center">
Just kidding.</div>
<div align="center">
I don't feel like crying at all. ;)</div>
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But my 60s dress & hair-do made me think of that 60s song<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsYJyVEUaC4" target="_blank">"It's my Party"</a> & I couldn't help but giggle.<br />
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikiJbYDchowMc437C_wlfsHJnS5-Zb6-j9i9iC2Tw__CFc2jo442RuymF2XQx8bem2arrbG3Q3FQFZ9AU30GyymYLmrt7S9WnPzRExbDmasAAh1L3CjPP_MywXYhE-fXNYLC62agKsfPGL/s1600/20160814_095532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikiJbYDchowMc437C_wlfsHJnS5-Zb6-j9i9iC2Tw__CFc2jo442RuymF2XQx8bem2arrbG3Q3FQFZ9AU30GyymYLmrt7S9WnPzRExbDmasAAh1L3CjPP_MywXYhE-fXNYLC62agKsfPGL/s640/20160814_095532.jpg" width="404" /></a></div>
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Everyone keeps telling me that turning 30 isn't bad at all.</div>
<div align="center">
In fact, they enjoyed their 30s so much more than their 20s,</div>
<div align="center">
but they'd probably be the type to tell you that colonoscopies aren't all that bad either,</div>
<div align="center">
so I'm not sure if I'm gonna fully take their word for it. ;P</div>
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</div>
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But this I do know:</div>
<div align="center">
Hitherto my Lord has helped me <br />
& I know He will still for as many days as He gives me.</div>
<div align="center">
I'm not fretting about getting older.</div>
<div align="center">
Every day I learn more about Jesus,<br />
& it's one day closer to heaven,</div>
<div align="center">
and hopefully with every day & every year I become more like my Savior.<br />
What more could anyone want than that?</div>
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</div>
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{Plus my niece insists that I'm only 21 *wink*}</div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBLty5yRD95vrSg5Vt6bB7tpHCBRgEnEDPUAc-3nzhfRtjPHg9BXBVpsHc1e5UvPKiQHxjow809r-fn9raPY223y0L-PAzsNtxfJZUsFHu38b8sM_jS5KY2rQC5qc-8MBbuTXCIpn4Yj-M/s1600/20160814_095526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBLty5yRD95vrSg5Vt6bB7tpHCBRgEnEDPUAc-3nzhfRtjPHg9BXBVpsHc1e5UvPKiQHxjow809r-fn9raPY223y0L-PAzsNtxfJZUsFHu38b8sM_jS5KY2rQC5qc-8MBbuTXCIpn4Yj-M/s640/20160814_095526.jpg" width="394" /></a></div>
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Now as to this dress.<br />
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26qAVbxwd3AHeUV0z2lChU5-ORcTFLk5u9pubf4_91zvNkvVcal9rpjKW96WTVaT3LGsVg22U2ecLvfGwhRQLHDcJzmhg4qj1FEUQ-PBx_E9xAvLeJ22NOFDhwrrZVOZaPUoPP1cyhXzz/s1600/20160814_095510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh26qAVbxwd3AHeUV0z2lChU5-ORcTFLk5u9pubf4_91zvNkvVcal9rpjKW96WTVaT3LGsVg22U2ecLvfGwhRQLHDcJzmhg4qj1FEUQ-PBx_E9xAvLeJ22NOFDhwrrZVOZaPUoPP1cyhXzz/s640/20160814_095510.jpg" width="414" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
Vintage 1961 McCall's Pattern #6120.</div>
<div align="center">
Vintage rose bed sheet for the fabric.</div>
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{Picked up at my favorite thrift store a few years back.}</div>
<div align="center">
Vintage notions: old metal zipper from a bag of goodies <br />
my friend Ang gave me,</div>
<div align="center">
and thread that came with an old treadle sewing machine my Uncle Bill salvaged for me out of an old house slated for demolition. <br />
{His only price was one of my apple pies. What a guy!}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6p6vMFz4P5dUioPTCfVvEYCii0sal0JRgfc4VHMVZBTJ5MuJI8WRxOl9qrkuGzNZX7FY-oeAda6Gh4Kb8BVkUb11VEQMvkBqF52HQpp3GCvPXCh-1B5iYTdX9bPeaHBP_TyvCyPFT4xj/s1600/20160814_095425c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz6p6vMFz4P5dUioPTCfVvEYCii0sal0JRgfc4VHMVZBTJ5MuJI8WRxOl9qrkuGzNZX7FY-oeAda6Gh4Kb8BVkUb11VEQMvkBqF52HQpp3GCvPXCh-1B5iYTdX9bPeaHBP_TyvCyPFT4xj/s640/20160814_095425c.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was my first time making this pattern & it was about a size too big.</div>
<div align="center">
I made some adjustments after cutting it out that I should've done before cutting it out.</div>
<div align="center">
I skipped the sleeves because they looked wonky because of the adjustments.</div>
<div align="center">
(I now know what I'd do differently if I make this pattern again, which I plan to do.)</div>
<div align="center">
I love the pleats of the skirt. They make it lay so nicely.</div>
<div align="center">
I think my favorite detail is the matching bow belt.</div>
<div align="center">
I had never really cared much for the styles of the 1960s until just recently.</div>
<div align="center">
{And I still don't care for all of it, mind you, this is what I consider to be good 60s.}</div>
<div align="center">
I felt very Call the Midwife or Andy Griffith Show in this sweet frock.</div>
<div align="center">
Mom did my bouffant for me.<br />
She can recall watching her mom do a similar pouf to her own hair.<br />
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I recently brought my sewing machine & dress form {Donna Sue} upstairs to my room.</div>
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I'm so enjoying having them up here & not down in the icky basement.</div>
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It's such a cozy little corner of my room now.</div>
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{Who wore it better: me or Donna Sue?} ;)<br />
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As a special treat for you dear friends I'd like to offer you a coupon code for 30% off in my <a href="http://www.delightfulhandwork.etsy.com/" target="_blank">etsy shop</a>.<br />
(Get it?! Get it?! <u><em>30</em></u>%)</div>
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It's good all day today {August 15th, 2016}.</div>
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Just in case there's something in there you've had your eye on.</div>
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The code is: ADELIGHTFUL30TH</div>
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This week's post is a day early so that I could offer you all this deal.</div>
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{And maybe to make up for last week's being a bit late.} ;P</div>
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My family had a party for me yesterday afternoon & it was such a wonderful time.</div>
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Momma & Dad</div>
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My sisters</div>
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This is probably my favorite pic & my favorite part - </div>
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surrounded by my six wee leetle rabbits. <3<br />
{Though if you'd been there your ears would most likely still be ringing from the deafening shout of "cheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeese" that came forth from these wee ones.} ^_~</div>
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Today I'll be out shopping anywhere my heart desires.</div>
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{Mostly craft stores & thrift shops.}</div>
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I am so blessed.</div>
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Much love,</div>
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Miss Michelle ^_^</div>
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{the old fart}</div>
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Photos by Momma, Dad, Aims & Me.</div>
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-68115377903615724422016-08-09T19:30:00.000-05:002016-08-09T19:30:28.616-05:00The Great British Birthday Party<div align="center">
This post is a little later than normal, but still on Tuesday...</div>
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so it totally counts for keeping to my blogging schedule.</div>
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Well, yesterday morning I awoke without a clue as to what I was even going to write about for this week's post. I normally have a few ideas to choose from, and have already started on it by that point.</div>
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So, I just went about my business of the day hoping something would come to mind.</div>
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I did my laundry. </div>
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{Not too blog worthy. I've already shared my love for line dried sheets & wicker laundry baskets several times here.}</div>
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I had a dentist appointment for an impression for my permanent crown for <a href="http://delightfulhandwork.blogspot.com/2015/03/somethings-missing.html" target="_blank">the tooth which had to have the implant</a> done.</div>
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{Definitely NOT blog worthy.}</div>
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My sister Aimee went with me since we had made plans to go to our friend <a href="http://taylorella.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Taylor's</a> house for a cup of coffee and a nice visit after my appointment.</div>
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We ended up having a little extra time before we were expected there so we grabbed a bite to eat at DQ & stopped by HomeGoods to see if there was anything we just had to have.</div>
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Didn't end up buying anything. Which is just fine. Plus we'll be going back next Monday since it's my {30th!} birthday.</div>
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So, we arrived at Taylor's house & through the big window next to her front door I spied some Union Jack bunting hanging in her dining room.</div>
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My first thought was "Aww, that sweetie must've decorated for us coming to visit."</div>
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When we stepped inside we were greeted by shouts of "SURPRISE!" & out popped not only Taylor, but her sister <a href="http://joyoustouch.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Gus</a> and my other sisters Beth & Kelsey! (As well as baby Joel!)</div>
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Needless to say I <em>was </em>surprised. ;)</div>
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These gals sure know how to put together a theme.<br />
They did The Great British Bake Off.<br />
A mutual favorite of ours.<br />
Plus they know how much of an anglophile I am. ^_^<br />
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If you've even seen the show you will immediately recognize the red gingham tablecloth.</div>
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Our place cards were our photos just like the contestants on the show have behind their bakes.</div>
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There were beautiful cottage garden flowers.</div>
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{I'm guessing from Gus' garden.}</div>
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Beth made yummy cucumber sandwiches.</div>
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Tay & Gus even made a <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/262686590743895647/" target="_blank">Prinsesstårta</a> {Swedish Princess Cake}</div>
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Oh. my. word. It was good.</div>
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Beth, me, & Aims enjoying Taylor's wonderful coffee.</div>
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I wish we would've got pics of all of us together, but oh well.</div>
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We'll always have the memories. ^_^</div>
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Aimee remembered that I once mentioned that I've always wanted to try this striped peanut butter & jelly ever since the first time I saw it on the movie Matilda when I was a little girl. Wasn't it just so thoughtful of her to remember? Now all I need is <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/199213983492037457/" target="_blank">Miss Honey's cottage</a> & my life will be complete. ;)</div>
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Beth got me very English gifts as well!</div>
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A cast iron scottie dog, yummy buscuits in a cute tin, & wonderful "Cups of Tea" scented lotion.</div>
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How cute is this children's book Kelsey gave me.</div>
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{I <strong>love </strong>cute kids' books!}</div>
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It's about a little girl who knits sweaters for all and sundry.</div>
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Very appropriate, no? ;)</div>
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It was such a wonderful party!</div>
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I feel so very blessed to have such dear & thoughtful friends & sisters in Christ.</div>
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Thanks again girls for all that you did.</div>
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Probably my favorite part of the party was after we had all eaten our fill...</div>
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(Well, eaten our "stuffed like a sausage about to burst" may be more appropriate.) ;)</div>
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we retired to the living room & had a delightful chat.</div>
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There's never a lull in the conversation with these dear ones,</div>
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and it always ends up centering around the Lord.</div>
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~*~</div>
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Have you ever seen The Great British Bake Off?</div>
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{If you have}</div>
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Do you have a favorite judge?</div>
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What dessert would you most like to try from the show?</div>
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Much love,</div>
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Miss Michelle ^_^</div>
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{Photos with the Delightful Handwork watermark by me. Others by Gus.}</div>
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-62082599929964003032016-08-02T05:00:00.000-05:002016-08-02T05:00:05.623-05:00consider the stars...<div align="center">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlba6mcCztp5diun6WrADj_IuhYLQFllC_JHh4jWSWilXSE-t3WbABAabwBEv5DvXuZsyEl7gxWOtM_Xjc3_u8vmm1cjEB0JisVSlXEVD5gjXNIbbAWYws_cDltrTMcb1CLgUjyOmJd7HB/s1600/IMG_20160719_081648721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlba6mcCztp5diun6WrADj_IuhYLQFllC_JHh4jWSWilXSE-t3WbABAabwBEv5DvXuZsyEl7gxWOtM_Xjc3_u8vmm1cjEB0JisVSlXEVD5gjXNIbbAWYws_cDltrTMcb1CLgUjyOmJd7HB/s640/IMG_20160719_081648721.jpg" width="584" /></a></div>
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<span title="Edited"><!-- react-text: 37 -->☆"Lift up your eyes on high And see who has created these stars, </span><br />
<span title="Edited">The One who leads forth their host by number, </span><br />
<span title="Edited">He calls them all by name; </span><br />
<span title="Edited">Because of the greatness of His might and the strength of His power, </span><br />
<span title="Edited">Not one of them is missing." </span><br />
<span title="Edited">{Isaiah 40:26}☆ </span><br />
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"He who counts the stars and calls them by their names,<br />
is in no danger of forgetting His own children."<br />
{Charles Spurgeon}<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJHt4cmzNfL9BG7vGQl7hhmWiku9RCiP0p0_l0ATsZzJFdtcy17iwSiTzohf6AgqX-4xZ8AjAyVNrq0HiTtHFXwCWibvPqQJ_b2Y6v9YHs450mMpE-VQbmSqhJQgTxr1daW6zpoprpvW0t/s1600/20160721_063635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJHt4cmzNfL9BG7vGQl7hhmWiku9RCiP0p0_l0ATsZzJFdtcy17iwSiTzohf6AgqX-4xZ8AjAyVNrq0HiTtHFXwCWibvPqQJ_b2Y6v9YHs450mMpE-VQbmSqhJQgTxr1daW6zpoprpvW0t/s640/20160721_063635.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm so excited to show you all one of my latest crochet projects - <br />
this star bunting!<br />
I made the original as a gift for a dear friend's birthday.<br />
I'm now offering them <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/469634979/consider-the-stars-hand-crocheted-star?ref=shop_home_feat_4" target="_blank">for sale in my Etsy shop</a> as well!<br />
It looks so "4th of July" with our cheery red gingham kitchen curtains.<br />
I want to make myself some in pastels for my bedroom.<br />
Wouldn't they just be the sweetest thing in a nursery though?<br />
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<strong>"</strong>When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers,</div>
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The moon and the stars, which You have ordained;</div>
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What is man that You take thought of him,</div>
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And the son of man that You care for him?"</div>
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{Psalm 8:3+4}</div>
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The star theme brought to mind these precious verses as well as this beautiful song from the Getty's newest album.</div>
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<br />
I also just finished this patriotic star shaped doily for my Momma.<br />
It may look like I'm practicing some sort of voodoo, but rest assured, <br />
I am not.<br />
I'm just starching & stretching this doily so it will stay in its crisp shape <br />
& not be all wiggly-woggly.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FGuhuK860qLAQaZ2UDh2JJoM7QtRgHDcvJzvXB0IwuNZQPmUFaqW0-BhtdsbFNvPJjZjm4YjwXi_SzUgsnHy7aQod27kmlOvIR1JKuP-QdoCeOSLJwc8M2crwYIvdYgM1Y-_Gpy77B9n/s1600/stardoily.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FGuhuK860qLAQaZ2UDh2JJoM7QtRgHDcvJzvXB0IwuNZQPmUFaqW0-BhtdsbFNvPJjZjm4YjwXi_SzUgsnHy7aQod27kmlOvIR1JKuP-QdoCeOSLJwc8M2crwYIvdYgM1Y-_Gpy77B9n/s640/stardoily.png" width="444" /></a></div>
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Oh, by the way, if you do bop over to my <a href="http://www.delightfulhandwork.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a> be sure to check out the cute vintage patterns I've been listing. Perhaps there's something there you just *need*. ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi15yh6OX7RNUjeeK304VGaRyxQClj3mMGSrsefq1Td_T-kL-931ygCw9iFMSMX2Xq2KcmBZMShQc6SOwjbINYAYWGtlCMpw2uX9nf5OytL6ovBDxNhZfREwOuJpUopojnrOmU5oYLvR0Z7/s1600/DSCN5864.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi15yh6OX7RNUjeeK304VGaRyxQClj3mMGSrsefq1Td_T-kL-931ygCw9iFMSMX2Xq2KcmBZMShQc6SOwjbINYAYWGtlCMpw2uX9nf5OytL6ovBDxNhZfREwOuJpUopojnrOmU5oYLvR0Z7/s640/DSCN5864.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: cyan;">What do you think of my star garland?</span></div>
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<span style="color: yellow;">Have you been working on anything that you're excited about lately?</span></div>
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Much love,</div>
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Miss Michelle ^_^</div>
Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-50680134157409158952016-07-28T20:05:00.000-05:002016-07-28T21:59:50.327-05:00happy {150th} birthday, Beatrix!<div align="center">
Our much beloved Beatrix Potter was born 150 years ago today!</div>
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I thought it was a perfect occasion to wear <a href="http://delightfulhandwork.blogspot.com/2015/04/what-would-beatrix-wear.html" target="_blank">another outfit</a> inspired by my favorite artist.</div>
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My niece Abbey snapped a couple pics for me. ^_^</div>
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Abbey, my sister Kelsey, and I thought we'd try our hand at some watercolor in honor of Miss Potter.</div>
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{'Arteests' at work.}</div>
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It was so much fun!</div>
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{A cup of tea was always nearby, naturally.}</div>
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The finished "masterpieces". ;P</div>
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Try not to laugh too hard at my rendition of Hunca Munca & one of her babies. <br />
{I really need to work on those eyes. Spooooky.}</div>
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Kels decided to just do her own non-Beatrix-inspired thing.</div>
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I'm in love with Abbey's rendition of Jemima Puddle Duck!</div>
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"Thank goodness I was never sent to school;</div>
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it would have rubbed off some of the originality."</div>
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{Beatrix Potter}</div>
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Did you know today was Beatrix's birthday?</div>
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Did you do anything special to celebrate?</div>
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What is your favorite Beatrix Potter book?</div>
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Love,</div>
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Miss Michelle ^_^</div>
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-55671141857575944992016-07-26T05:00:00.000-05:002016-07-26T05:00:11.626-05:00the heart of the home...<div align="center">
Would you like to take a step inside my sister's kitchen & look around?</div>
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You'll love it here, it's one of the coziest places I know.</div>
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I love to sit and chat over a cup of tea or coffee by the big picture window that looks over her patio where the kids are playing, and her flower garden where bees are buzzing & butterflies are fluttering.</div>
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When a kitchen sink is as gorgeous as this it makes washing dishes a joy!</div>
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{And how perfectly does this vintage tablecloth that's doing duty as a skirt apron match the cabinet?! I just can't get over it.}<br />
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Some of those flowers usually find their way indoors, bringing their freshness & sunshine with them.</div>
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Kitschy kitchen goodness is in every nook and cranny.</div>
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Of my three sisters, Beth & I probably have the most similar decorating style. </div>
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We both love anything cheerful, farmy, kitschy, & vintage.</div>
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Which can make garage sale-ing together a little tense.</div>
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Just kidding. We share pretty well. ^_^</div>
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In Beth's country kitchen there's always sure to be some fresh veggies about the place this time of year.</div>
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That's bound to be when your husband is a landscaper & expert gardener with about 4 or 5 vegetable patches.</div>
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{I've lost count how many actually...there seem to be more every year!}</div>
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Even her ceiling fan is cute for cryin' out loud!</div>
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We affectionately call it a fandelier.</div>
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I helped her paint her cabinets this beautiful shade of <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/" target="_blank">Annie Sloan</a> chalk paint, <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/paints/chalk-paint/henrietta-chalk-paint.html" target="_blank">Henrietta</a>, a couple years back. The insides are painted with <a href="https://www.anniesloan.com/annie-sloan-products/paints/chalk-paint/henrietta-chalk-paint.html" target="_blank">Antoinette</a> & have Hello Kitty liner on the shelves. I neglected to take a piccy of that, but I'm sure you can picture it.</div>
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There's nothing like climbing around on the counter tops with the Beatles playing in the background whilst sipping endless cuppas with your sister.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif00YymiLBh67HTFuIcO1egWO6XFZvHdkJFbKDMgD013gGtcfixUtyYPSiWLKYHZ9slLhsMNjsOvGUVwoxdSfuiRjwLjFk8gu1sNvy9unRelMOx1rUt3dtm-cOR8-0ADLHJEjItXeT1xsY/s1600/DSCN5767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> Speaking of cuppas...</div>
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here is the all important coffee counter.</div>
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*angelic choir music plays*</div>
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{I'm irritated with myself for accidentally cutting off the head of the cute crocheted chick-i-poo on top of her lil Keurig. Bah. Didn't realize I'd done it till I got these piccies on the 'puter. You can see it un-decapitated in the previous photo though!}</div>
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{A refrigerator isn't complete without some artwork!}</div>
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Even the fridge got a makeover!</div>
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She glued a pretty wood decal thingy on & then painted over it.</div>
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That chalk paint really does stick to anything.</div>
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I gave her this old metal garbage can & gave it a coat of Antoinette.</div>
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{Oscar the Grouch simply couldn't make his mortgage payments anymore & had to move to a smaller can. ^_~ You know, the economy & stuff.}</div>
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Everywhere you look there's something cute to make you smile...<br />
this corner cabinet which belonged to our great grandma is a home to all sorts of cute tchotchkes...<br />
vintage hanky bunting adorns the window...<br />
and some adorable vintage wicker umbrellas hang jauntily from a hook.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif00YymiLBh67HTFuIcO1egWO6XFZvHdkJFbKDMgD013gGtcfixUtyYPSiWLKYHZ9slLhsMNjsOvGUVwoxdSfuiRjwLjFk8gu1sNvy9unRelMOx1rUt3dtm-cOR8-0ADLHJEjItXeT1xsY/s1600/DSCN5767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif00YymiLBh67HTFuIcO1egWO6XFZvHdkJFbKDMgD013gGtcfixUtyYPSiWLKYHZ9slLhsMNjsOvGUVwoxdSfuiRjwLjFk8gu1sNvy9unRelMOx1rUt3dtm-cOR8-0ADLHJEjItXeT1xsY/s640/DSCN5767.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Possibly one of my favorite things about Beth's kitchen is that she always has something yummy baked. {And she's always willing to cut you a slice} It was yummy zucchini bread this time with zukes from {one of} their garden{s}. ;)<br />
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If you're interested in the recipe she said she uses <a href="http://www.bhg.com/recipe/quickbreads/zucchini-bread/#page=0" target="_blank">Better Homes & Gardens' Recipe</a>, but without the nuts cuz eww. ;P<br />
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I hope you've enjoyed your visit to Bethie's kitchen!<br />
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Much love,<br />
Miss Michelle ^_^<br />
{Photos by yours truly}</div>
Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-8012651138084664522016-07-19T05:00:00.000-05:002016-07-19T05:00:15.969-05:00the friendliest flower {Auntie & Niece Style No. 1}...<div align="center">
I've been a fan of the Mother/Daughter fashions that seem to have had their heyday in the 50s for a long while now. I blame my Mother really. (Poor Moms. They get blamed for everything.) ;P Mine got me started with my love for matchy-matchy apparel since she made <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/572590540104893444/" target="_blank">coordinating Daisy Kingdom dresses</a> for my younger sister & me when we were little girls. Though it may be dorky...at this point I don't give a hoot. <br />
{Being well and firmly established in my dorkiness.}<br />
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The Lord hasn't made me a mother, but He HAS made me an aunt!<br />
I am so blessed with this niece who doesn't mind matching her ol' auntie.<br />
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{Pinterest Sources: <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/199213983496399338/" target="_blank">1</a>*<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/199213983496422541/" target="_blank">2</a>*<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/AYI_aU3e9F5R57AZV145zhbQlDjWAnJC-1WbKFlK0Y3ltXH4Vt1vZpM/" target="_blank">3</a>}<br />
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{and another lil niece who'll get in on this action soon enough </div>
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& 4 nephews...who probably...won't. ha!}</div>
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You may have noticed from previous posts that I haven't been wearing much vintage lately. I tend to go through spurts of wearing it a lot and then not so much. I'm in a not so much phase right now. I still L-O-V-E all things vintage, but I just haven't been very dedicated to the wearing of it lately. Part of the reason being that I've lost some pounds and not much of my old wardrobe fits quite right. (Not that I'm complaining about it by any means. Lol!)</div>
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I'd have to put some serious work into making a new vintage wardrobe, and I'm just not feeling it right now. I'd say my style is still very much vintage inspired, but there are times when I just wanna wear skinny jeans...or overalls...or modern clothes. That blasted Lauren Conrad keeps coming out with something beautiful to tempt me in her line of clothing at Kohl's.</div>
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And I'm ok with that.</div>
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My style has always been pretty eclectic anyway.</div>
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But anyhoo...</div>
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I've entitled Abbey & my matching frocks "the friendliest flower" because of the "You've Got Mail" quote about daisies being the friendliest flower. ^_^</div>
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I already have some ideas for other installments of Auntie & Niece Style too, but I had to start somewhere and these super simple pre-smocked lovelies were a good way to kick it off.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvKLNRhO6qVTYidz7_0VzUcn5nsWg_P_2Bwav5sqoPIVnHpEOY2M9MNJ9MZcWjHIZyROUW6Ps8G4G1LC1SAEoDyz-4lCBAXnbbbrs2IE0ub3vLLY1qwf_9QKlcCP7n0Zi5lfKJ_80FiSYo/s1600/DSCN5793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvKLNRhO6qVTYidz7_0VzUcn5nsWg_P_2Bwav5sqoPIVnHpEOY2M9MNJ9MZcWjHIZyROUW6Ps8G4G1LC1SAEoDyz-4lCBAXnbbbrs2IE0ub3vLLY1qwf_9QKlcCP7n0Zi5lfKJ_80FiSYo/s640/DSCN5793.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Daisies are pretty much my very favorite flower.</div>
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Their sweet simplicity & happy lil them-ness just gets me.</div>
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I love them as a motif for decorating too. This daisy handkerchief & candle ring brighten up my bedside table. I also started these seeds this year so hopefully I'll have my own friendly blooms for years to come.<br />
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It's a given that if I have a bouquet of these cuties about the house<br />
I'm bound to take a picture {or two or 5,037)<br />
and then if I take a picture I'm bound to add a verse or quote to it.<br />
It's just the way it is.<br />
^_~<br />
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And Yardley of London's <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Yardley-London-Royal-English-Toilette/dp/B004TGBVGS" target="_blank">Royal English Daisy</a> is my favorite perfume.<br />
Though daisies aren't actually particularly fragrant it captures the cheery feeling that daisies evoke.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEcw4pm6bJyaeM3AOGFvd7Ww91dZwjPQ1VMLGLZ_3cxg_JPndS91cyH7AwHFmmYOQYJD_OJRIy6qFAczjHz6j3EmF1hPhj-7PtMuhaB0lYTAqbR0uw_r0pEvl-4XY98d70fFBXgiWIGBLR/s1600/DSCN5797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEcw4pm6bJyaeM3AOGFvd7Ww91dZwjPQ1VMLGLZ_3cxg_JPndS91cyH7AwHFmmYOQYJD_OJRIy6qFAczjHz6j3EmF1hPhj-7PtMuhaB0lYTAqbR0uw_r0pEvl-4XY98d70fFBXgiWIGBLR/s640/DSCN5797.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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While this isn't the first time Abbs & I were caught "twinning"</div>
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It is the first time I specifically <em>made </em>us matching apparel.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYhrJWMj4Wj2yoPCATrxOHh-JqXeyCAq56Z2mokGVNig9d2Hfs6dz8OC6sj-VTyDJT5ou23qWfCBskPmgF0XZ5gNJn2_b3r-27LX5ORuooWcgJE-V9ruIEqbTotBgUW2q7CA4EaccD0s-W/s1600/DSCN5824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYhrJWMj4Wj2yoPCATrxOHh-JqXeyCAq56Z2mokGVNig9d2Hfs6dz8OC6sj-VTyDJT5ou23qWfCBskPmgF0XZ5gNJn2_b3r-27LX5ORuooWcgJE-V9ruIEqbTotBgUW2q7CA4EaccD0s-W/s640/DSCN5824.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So when I found this adorable <a href="http://www.joann.com/style-in-an-instant-27in-embossed-dress-daisy-check-red/14658975.html#q=Style+In+An+Instant&start=30" target="_blank">"Style in an Instant" fabric</a> from Joann Fabrics I just couldn't resist the cheery daisy & gingham print - two of my favorite things! It was a breeze to whip up. Just one seam. I took the fabric to WallyWorld (Wal-Mart) to find matching tank tops & there ya go.</div>
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We didn't have a field full of dancing daisies in which to take our pics so we used the next best thing - a row of ginormous sunny sunflowers!</div>
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Cuz you know daisies & sunflowers go together like peanut butter & jelly.</div>
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{That's a metaphor. Don't eat these flowers.}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezhoPvmrOOP_CrebQfa329zCzIaOOoM5dFqYtKIpHi2zpoQ1AQrq4Y4LMlau78ZK_NfpakcxPnYheHSpiEAeLn6lDyfUtSjQch9yAvwv85894mcgBaj33AottqHJtNDsfzqtwRYf6KyDD/s1600/DSCN5807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> The best shenanigans are gotten up to with this girl.</div>
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I better hurry up & make more matching things before she gets embarrassed of me. ^_~</div>
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<span style="color: lime;">~<span style="color: #e06666;">*</span>~</span></div>
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<span style="color: lime;"></span> </div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;">What's your opinion on the matchy-matchy thing?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #f1c232;">Super dorky or kitschy cute?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #e06666;"></span> </div>
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<span style="color: lime;">What's your favorite flower?</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Much love,</span></div>
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Miss Michelle ^_^</div>
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{Photos of Abbs & me by my sister Aims. Others by moi.}</div>
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-90831463117887802222016-07-12T05:00:00.000-05:002016-07-12T05:00:14.091-05:00the colors of my life...<div align="center">
When I was a little girl I sang in our local civic chorale's youth chorus for a few years. We sang a wide variety of types of songs from show tunes to Psalms to oldies. {and one weird song about an ocelot of all things, "Saucy Little Ocelot", which contained the line "Saucy little ocelot, likes to fuss & boss a lot." Which my friend who sat next to me during practice & I thought perfectly described another girl in the group. We would elbow each other & try to keep from giggling...but I digress...}</div>
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One of the show tunes we sang was called <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBuDvtwiA30" target="_blank">The Colors of My Life</a> from the musical Barnum (which I've never actually seen.)</div>
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Some song lyrics tend to take up residence in my brain and never leave. </div>
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Such as the lines</div>
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"The colors of my life are bountiful & bold." sung by the fella</div>
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and</div>
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"The colors of my life are softer than a breeze." sung by the lady.</div>
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Every so often I think about these words & I wonder which color schemes would I use to characterize my life?</div>
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I really like both bountiful & bold AND softer than a breeze colors.</div>
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The only colors I'm not too terribly fond of are neons.</div>
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And in moderation even they can be tolerable.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5XxlZcpWZ7mPe7SLlALxJWgrwa132czyvov1mlSxRVeSevZSBraFeZ1aO9Toqt6cA8LxGMdRsG745SFpZoL0njW4aQjWQh8ty9Za7GiudbJ8P_OduT52xkHzvQSPMBUAvL8tw7FH_aaYf/s1600/Screenshot_2016-07-10-17-31-49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5XxlZcpWZ7mPe7SLlALxJWgrwa132czyvov1mlSxRVeSevZSBraFeZ1aO9Toqt6cA8LxGMdRsG745SFpZoL0njW4aQjWQh8ty9Za7GiudbJ8P_OduT52xkHzvQSPMBUAvL8tw7FH_aaYf/s1600/Screenshot_2016-07-10-17-31-49.jpg" /></a></div>
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Picking out colors for a new knit or crochet project is one of my favorite parts of the whole creative process. I love trying different color combinations. Nothing pleases my eye so much as just the right balance of colors. In my life there is a time & place for bright & cheery as well as pastel & pretty. I like to incorporate them both into my wardrobe & décor.</div>
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Since it was the lady who mentioned the gentle colors we'll take a look at some of those first.</div>
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{Ladies first ya know.} ^_~</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfOays9KSk1Oxvgqjw1baacRc3WJNb5vwv_lbqNVSLKn79vE8PcgAc5hpw52Y4JzTz5F58d8MoxQ2Fkqv9AcRUpyCHQ3eG1K_U7YGHKV9UnuUrJaMkh23YQ6zj_jnPnULFvcLuhqb7rX8F/s1600/IMG_20160611_160258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfOays9KSk1Oxvgqjw1baacRc3WJNb5vwv_lbqNVSLKn79vE8PcgAc5hpw52Y4JzTz5F58d8MoxQ2Fkqv9AcRUpyCHQ3eG1K_U7YGHKV9UnuUrJaMkh23YQ6zj_jnPnULFvcLuhqb7rX8F/s640/IMG_20160611_160258.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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gentle</div>
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peaceful</div>
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lovely</div>
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calming</div>
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cozy</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl30XxvPdO5qCsQSzgBt4oFvHDGc5cdXSqvewT9xvTcMAMX_j_A_pn6oXWHTy2Xa4oeGoBaaeIbS7DSlkuWmixuKm-zWQbSg54kQLom9H9NXTh3sJa9ouM0uQfleDc2CCHMJG-iY7Q_F34/s1600/IMG_20160620_115049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl30XxvPdO5qCsQSzgBt4oFvHDGc5cdXSqvewT9xvTcMAMX_j_A_pn6oXWHTy2Xa4oeGoBaaeIbS7DSlkuWmixuKm-zWQbSg54kQLom9H9NXTh3sJa9ouM0uQfleDc2CCHMJG-iY7Q_F34/s640/IMG_20160620_115049.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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like a relaxing day at the beach</div>
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that's what I think when I see pastels.</div>
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</div>
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~*~</div>
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</div>
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Now as to all things bright and beautiful...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqo0NLDKfQb1505nPNpEDEUkmCZ2Kdv9k7DGY46NJRsewbXmtXhIWVlZolCIBG9_KtnjKjd5fwJ8JUZ20MnntsjxOaBvXzlDWxdo5OrWaIgGukRpeXp2hknLZk46ReI8V5OcSidOa8TRtS/s1600/IMG_20160710_092418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqo0NLDKfQb1505nPNpEDEUkmCZ2Kdv9k7DGY46NJRsewbXmtXhIWVlZolCIBG9_KtnjKjd5fwJ8JUZ20MnntsjxOaBvXzlDWxdo5OrWaIgGukRpeXp2hknLZk46ReI8V5OcSidOa8TRtS/s640/IMG_20160710_092418.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
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fresh & juicy</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkunRqGFRt8YoqD2qJGbZcsLl9pPe6pZWhZVThdAzenIh2mEgKcRB1zEzGLv0m4MFjtTaWArKJC6rNNjBQUY4Q-oGq7Mugu6wnUNzKsVN_8dR2vFil8TbFQj4LlKt65jbZa9ecPHIui8bt/s1600/IMG_20160702_185831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkunRqGFRt8YoqD2qJGbZcsLl9pPe6pZWhZVThdAzenIh2mEgKcRB1zEzGLv0m4MFjtTaWArKJC6rNNjBQUY4Q-oGq7Mugu6wnUNzKsVN_8dR2vFil8TbFQj4LlKt65jbZa9ecPHIui8bt/s640/IMG_20160702_185831.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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cheerful</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2IDjDMi12qSEx2bd8FrIUwW4W1MR45V8zKL5WAE9Va24uDty2RFUllEilCofB5ZpUh4H37Ba3tO-i2SCyFZgmkyinjXqdJE7nGMxu0dqmbYHTzanajeu37YVsZqMDklpPDUwrD9oL8cA/s1600/IMG_20160519_153132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc2IDjDMi12qSEx2bd8FrIUwW4W1MR45V8zKL5WAE9Va24uDty2RFUllEilCofB5ZpUh4H37Ba3tO-i2SCyFZgmkyinjXqdJE7nGMxu0dqmbYHTzanajeu37YVsZqMDklpPDUwrD9oL8cA/s640/IMG_20160519_153132.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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playful</div>
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<br />
energizing</div>
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*like a cup of coffee for your eyes*</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxW1HLRoayTfjE8HPpTqPZazADgR6MeM362JToBDpgErdjL5ZP5WywsDvpX6AATrzb81kqh2UJAGOJiFRl0M3cr6MP5peaBUd-i00ZSQ6CCVYjYY_b_V57Zga9y5PmoNVLUHuFADupUhH4/s1600/IMG_20160619_123146283.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxW1HLRoayTfjE8HPpTqPZazADgR6MeM362JToBDpgErdjL5ZP5WywsDvpX6AATrzb81kqh2UJAGOJiFRl0M3cr6MP5peaBUd-i00ZSQ6CCVYjYY_b_V57Zga9y5PmoNVLUHuFADupUhH4/s640/IMG_20160619_123146283.jpg" width="442" /></a></div>
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warm</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGL9B693DlIij7aw767fdidbFYUWC1ey8pkPnDfJbNJocQDCr3XwqgS8wzlr7mjMTjIL0J8BojlmHSFLOTCDIhfbuA3V2w1MrKcxc17tLibwBSXwqFgPIx5ooUhpcTrWACmUTq_aYjB6r8/s1600/PhotoGrid_1466194245981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGL9B693DlIij7aw767fdidbFYUWC1ey8pkPnDfJbNJocQDCr3XwqgS8wzlr7mjMTjIL0J8BojlmHSFLOTCDIhfbuA3V2w1MrKcxc17tLibwBSXwqFgPIx5ooUhpcTrWACmUTq_aYjB6r8/s640/PhotoGrid_1466194245981.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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</div>
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like childhood summer days</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVe6YcifNAILhVqfMek5Cww8_3PRBSeojVdI-XrYb7Fg00bmyqvkdlsXvw143cUsBKvcG1INwpruOmxIloP1DuRvqj8aMrf5Pxr2jTyqyRzLyU4_TWjXMPNoodw_wzcPKGz0uljlDNu7x_/s1600/PhotoGrid_1467854652511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVe6YcifNAILhVqfMek5Cww8_3PRBSeojVdI-XrYb7Fg00bmyqvkdlsXvw143cUsBKvcG1INwpruOmxIloP1DuRvqj8aMrf5Pxr2jTyqyRzLyU4_TWjXMPNoodw_wzcPKGz0uljlDNu7x_/s640/PhotoGrid_1467854652511.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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That's what I think of when I see cheery brights.</div>
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^_^</div>
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As you can see I've been keeping busy with granny square blankies.</div>
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They are my most recent obsession, and they lend themselves very well to experimenting with different color palettes. I've just started on one I've been calling "pastel rainbow" while also working on a vintage beachy sweater in pale coral, light blue, & white. {Seen in some of the pics at the top.}</div>
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~*~</div>
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</div>
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So these are the colors of <em>my </em>life.</div>
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Both light & lovely AND bright & beautiful.</div>
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</div>
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What colors do you prefer?</div>
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Is there a certain scheme of colors that characterizes your life?</div>
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</div>
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Much Love,</div>
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Miss Michelle ^_^</div>
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{Photos by me apart from the one of Mema & me. That was taken by Aunt Liz.}</div>
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</div>
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</div>
Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-82476024291155072482016-07-05T15:19:00.000-05:002016-07-05T15:19:39.512-05:0030 baby pies for the 4th of july...<div align="center">
I hope you all had a lovely Independence Day!</div>
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I sure did.</div>
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The day was spent in my favorite way - with family & friends.</div>
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I found some adorable mini pie tins at Dollar General (of all places!) a couple months back & I just knew what I would be making for our celebration.</div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUpGZloFzPl3qcfflK0XUcQEcF0o_iA9Xt3cUZ1qKFD0ls6Vw2ZHA0nW5l9Eakm6ocWpclsReAnRLm-yRQJUUmM4zfjZ9sV0q6lI8KCIezRLzorATasrStTYDSkjScTAHSTtJG5I1Idh7/s1600/DSCN5713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUpGZloFzPl3qcfflK0XUcQEcF0o_iA9Xt3cUZ1qKFD0ls6Vw2ZHA0nW5l9Eakm6ocWpclsReAnRLm-yRQJUUmM4zfjZ9sV0q6lI8KCIezRLzorATasrStTYDSkjScTAHSTtJG5I1Idh7/s640/DSCN5713.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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In the Summer we try to use the oven as little as possible to keep the house as cool as possible.</div>
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So, I decided cold pies were in order & graham cracker crust since they don't require such a hot oven as regular pie crust. Although we just recently bought a nice toaster oven that could actually accommodate 2 regular sized pies or 12 mini pies. So, I could have actually made baked pies, but I already had my heart set on cream pies.</div>
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I thought I'd cheat & use boxed pudding mixes & canned filling too just to make things easy.</div>
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But then we got this beautiful box of juicy Georgia peaches.</div>
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Strawberries are my all-time favorite fruit, but peaches run a close second.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPnypmPvb3D6BmnqzdwaFTrScQjwmTtmxpZ0J8pVJGybO3t0WcaR2XMyelaJSEIiaLK-yjEo2u-FvbLmVeAV85lgyBaXbWM6yIzdJuxqsG_ekgcnL9Gqj_EE585JwkLvX1cVw-6yIVMcS/s1600/IMG_20160702_151401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPnypmPvb3D6BmnqzdwaFTrScQjwmTtmxpZ0J8pVJGybO3t0WcaR2XMyelaJSEIiaLK-yjEo2u-FvbLmVeAV85lgyBaXbWM6yIzdJuxqsG_ekgcnL9Gqj_EE585JwkLvX1cVw-6yIVMcS/s640/IMG_20160702_151401.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I couldn't do it.<br />
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I couldn't cheat.</div>
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I had to use these fresh beauties.</div>
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I know, I'm a weirdo. ;)</div>
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And then I remembered how wonderful homemade pudding is too.</div>
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Plus we recently had a break in the hot weather & had a few days of gorgeous Fall-like weather.</div>
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So, that clinched the deal.</div>
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</div>
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~*~</div>
There's nothing easier than a graham cracker crust!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3eKkTHv5alsh2g_O4_pUzfz4QjuyK52N-5fc5LInsYoIlHdE-Kp86_Usm6AiV8H3Cfd25_PHMOdLUy_iCx-6JsxydNOIfXa2nNg2IxjVOoNQMdcSGS47tDeDBlYN7BWiiBtTqdHlaAZ3P/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3eKkTHv5alsh2g_O4_pUzfz4QjuyK52N-5fc5LInsYoIlHdE-Kp86_Usm6AiV8H3Cfd25_PHMOdLUy_iCx-6JsxydNOIfXa2nNg2IxjVOoNQMdcSGS47tDeDBlYN7BWiiBtTqdHlaAZ3P/s640/PicMonkey+Collage2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I made a few gluten free ones as well for my sister Beth.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_xWDGz477rUvXlgGSjIbGetXeGjQ3BfxnOaTOLY-KJxUXDlsRxQXOKy4hHpf9OY6-jkYY6mRT-uJEn0_bBeyiUb8rke_TdGK_61hV1VjtK-sMzLe00H4EirFq0gRyYXTvcaN-Ya-q0VSl/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_xWDGz477rUvXlgGSjIbGetXeGjQ3BfxnOaTOLY-KJxUXDlsRxQXOKy4hHpf9OY6-jkYY6mRT-uJEn0_bBeyiUb8rke_TdGK_61hV1VjtK-sMzLe00H4EirFq0gRyYXTvcaN-Ya-q0VSl/s640/PicMonkey+Collage3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I used a cream cheese mixture under the fresh peaches.<br />
It was pretty good, but if I were to do it again I would use homemade vanilla pudding instead.<br />
Mmm...there's nothing quite like a fresh peach glacé pie<br />
I did make coconut cream & banana cream using the vanilla pudding.</div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbpJeINIyaX9r86bEzeUYdsjXQT0W6fXEe_-idCwR6m0DQWxoLEArxKyJvRUGYIPbmWMKdIl5R3neBtvk9rEnhyVHTkJJ56KvYb6QgW2WwM_G0E4PpdTvMIMHAQvbnkuVN9ZS23rmCZKu/s1600/IMG_20160704_230203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRbpJeINIyaX9r86bEzeUYdsjXQT0W6fXEe_-idCwR6m0DQWxoLEArxKyJvRUGYIPbmWMKdIl5R3neBtvk9rEnhyVHTkJJ56KvYb6QgW2WwM_G0E4PpdTvMIMHAQvbnkuVN9ZS23rmCZKu/s640/IMG_20160704_230203.jpg" width="622" /></a></div>
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Abbey is always my little helper. ^_^</div>
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She put the little flags on.</div>
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I finally found a use for this cute scrapbook paper a friend gave me a couple years ago.</div>
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About halfway through the baby pie assembling I thought</div>
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"Wait just a cotton pickin' minute, how am I gonna fit all of these in our fridge?!"</div>
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You should've seen the rigged up system of egg cups & spools of thread I concocted to stack the trays.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0m77CuwolgKSgYq-t-JqMTFSfhKXAmYMeEcUtoEIm1L-nNCjXDkVLDFnBEZCGE93CI0cxibwfhebqchMC_E2G0PkWTYw-P1IaCgPY2RhDKiPsRgAJbana9gDuLy9pDeE22cx50Rp_dSn/s1600/DSCN5720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0m77CuwolgKSgYq-t-JqMTFSfhKXAmYMeEcUtoEIm1L-nNCjXDkVLDFnBEZCGE93CI0cxibwfhebqchMC_E2G0PkWTYw-P1IaCgPY2RhDKiPsRgAJbana9gDuLy9pDeE22cx50Rp_dSn/s640/DSCN5720.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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How cute is this widdle pie?</div>
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{Shenanigans}</div>
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My sister Beth has the cutest décor, doesn't she?</div>
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Her whole kitchen is just thing cutest thing.</div>
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I've said it before but it seriously deserves its own post at some point.</div>
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Gluten free for Beth ^_^<br />
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My favorite part of the day, though, was spending time with my lil poopsies.<br />
{See them playing on the swing set out the window? That's where we spent the better part of the day.}<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jEdldM6gAwqvd7fZ5ZDKV59fGnmVGuS11_a6F8K6PGF_FK4JCd1OWhYLbbt1Y3QcVGlhyphenhyphenRjd317x8LOBdRAP2PrOg2fzHld45EeoIpMvrc9kjI32lWCLCgKeGjIcGSdr8XnwBPJtWAG7/s1600/DSCN5711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jEdldM6gAwqvd7fZ5ZDKV59fGnmVGuS11_a6F8K6PGF_FK4JCd1OWhYLbbt1Y3QcVGlhyphenhyphenRjd317x8LOBdRAP2PrOg2fzHld45EeoIpMvrc9kjI32lWCLCgKeGjIcGSdr8XnwBPJtWAG7/s640/DSCN5711.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Annelise<br />
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Twas a grand ol' celebration.</div>
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Here are the recipes if y'all are interested.</div>
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<strong>Graham Cracker Crust:</strong></div>
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1/3 c. butter</div>
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1/4 c. sugar</div>
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1 1/4 c. finely crushed graham cracker crumbs</div>
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</div>
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Melt butter; stir in sugar. Add crushed crackers; toss to mix well.</div>
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Spread evenly onto bottom & sides pie plate.</div>
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I used a small measuring cup to press them.</div>
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Bake in a 375* oven for 4-5 minutes or until edge is lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack.</div>
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Makes 1 9-inch pie crust or 8 mini pie crusts.</div>
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</div>
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<strong>Peach Glacé Pie:</strong></div>
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6 c. sliced, peeled peaches</div>
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2/3 c. water</div>
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2/3 c. sugar</div>
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2 T. cornstarch</div>
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</div>
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In a medium bowl mash 1 c. of the peaches well with a potato masher. Add water & set aside.</div>
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In a medium heavy bottomed saucepan combine sugar & cornstarch; stir in blended peach mixture. Cook and stir over medium heat until mixture is thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir 2 minutes more. Cool for 10 minutes without stirring.</div>
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For a whole pie:</div>
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Spread 1/4 c. of the glaze over bottom & sides of a baked shell.</div>
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Arrange half of the fruit in crust.</div>
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Carefully spoon half of the remaining glaze over fruit.</div>
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Repeat the last two steps being sure that glaze completely covers all of the fruit.</div>
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Chill 1 to 2 hours.</div>
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</div>
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For minis:</div>
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Arrange 1/3 to 1/2 c. of peaches in each tins, depending on whether you're making peaches & cream pies or plain peach.</div>
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Top with a large spoonful of glaze, dividing evenly.</div>
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Chill 1 to 2 hours.</div>
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Top with whipped cream.</div>
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Yum!</div>
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</div>
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<strong>Vanilla Cream Pie:</strong></div>
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4 egg yolks</div>
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3/4 c. sugar</div>
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1/4 c. cornstarch</div>
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2 1/2 c. whole milk</div>
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(or half & half if you're awesome)</div>
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1 T. butter</div>
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1 1/2 t. vanilla</div>
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</div>
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In a medium heavy bottomed saucepan combine sugar and cornstarch. </div>
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Gradually stir in milk {or 1/2 &1/2 ^_~}.</div>
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Cook and stir over medium-high heat until thickened & bubbly; reduce heat.</div>
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Cook & stir for 2 minutes more.</div>
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Remove from heat.</div>
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Slightly beat egg yolks with a fork.</div>
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Gradually stir 1 c. of the hot filling into yolks.</div>
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Add yolk mixture to filling in the pan.</div>
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Bring to a gentle boil; reduce heat.</div>
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Cook and stir for 2 minutes more.</div>
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Remove from heat,</div>
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Stir in butter and vanilla.</div>
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</div>
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<strong>For Coconut Cream Pie:</strong></div>
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Stir in 1 c. flaked coconut.</div>
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Garnish with whipped cream & toasted coconut.</div>
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</div>
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<strong>For Banana Cream Pie:</strong></div>
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Arrange sliced bananas on the bottom of baked pie crust.</div>
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Top with pudding.</div>
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</div>
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Top with whipped cream.</div>
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{Of course}</div>
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<strong>If you accidently eat all of the pudding on its own before it makes it into a pie:</strong></div>
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I won't judge.</div>
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It's delish.</div>
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;P</div>
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Much Love,</div>
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Miss Michelle ^_^</div>
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{All photos taken by me apart from the ones I'm in. Those are by my sisters Beth & Kelsey.}</div>
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-2328327152314037432016-06-28T05:00:00.000-05:002016-06-28T05:00:03.495-05:00the littlest of things...<div align="center">
laundry drying on the line...<br />
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wicker laundry baskets in the green grass...<br />
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bumbles going about their business...<br />
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dappled sunlight through the treetops...<br />
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rain falling on the green fields...<br />
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{ever so rarely this year though}<br />
<br />
running through the sprinkler...<br />
and sprinkler rainbows...<br />
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<br />
sharing a best friends necklace with my 7 year old niece...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVly491ei_2LbqcqjnK6zVTai3sn9AkANKlZjqaKfpVlm0KS4fC82ZyyZW38VwYxEEM00EAy22w9Ii93gQ7YOlu1Iq4L1dzHPu9iaf8ZsOf1xjrqX-hKX6gbKbEiQ26WFMHBCD4sndYXG2/s1600/IMG_20160623_122523814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVly491ei_2LbqcqjnK6zVTai3sn9AkANKlZjqaKfpVlm0KS4fC82ZyyZW38VwYxEEM00EAy22w9Ii93gQ7YOlu1Iq4L1dzHPu9iaf8ZsOf1xjrqX-hKX6gbKbEiQ26WFMHBCD4sndYXG2/s640/IMG_20160623_122523814.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
blowing bubbles...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbenMh167yN-UMcId4L98XNShrT9DTBaS8HHda3pp1uXP8dcbxGJJN6zojC-NtC1P7GZXmV1KJl4Knuz2CbXA6q7r7lqw6bZH6wK06D13tyXMl3nfNomLc1vWnbLMUfL_zQ2oFFJq8jAe/s1600/IMG_20160602_144736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbenMh167yN-UMcId4L98XNShrT9DTBaS8HHda3pp1uXP8dcbxGJJN6zojC-NtC1P7GZXmV1KJl4Knuz2CbXA6q7r7lqw6bZH6wK06D13tyXMl3nfNomLc1vWnbLMUfL_zQ2oFFJq8jAe/s640/IMG_20160602_144736.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0NDcFef7yaGAAa98dKNs6qKDf6oBfvrQQEslnnlhHo42eZI2QjfFyEfKY0g8SoeIXoXhEsf7jiSbpsW4xMtml0brfg4WepR0zoBvXwAxvDJsBqmYllg_jr29FLjo7vrUSPVb90rBxSnNx/s1600/jackbubble.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0NDcFef7yaGAAa98dKNs6qKDf6oBfvrQQEslnnlhHo42eZI2QjfFyEfKY0g8SoeIXoXhEsf7jiSbpsW4xMtml0brfg4WepR0zoBvXwAxvDJsBqmYllg_jr29FLjo7vrUSPVb90rBxSnNx/s640/jackbubble.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
picking these wild gems...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUN9zPtssYfvIlXJcYRJq3Ll0rcGcwV83ZQekpDW0zbZtzmbnVVOdBjlGhS2Qe_863aPBk8AFqGkkb5numNYkxoemrz51_u6W_1zNv_qKt5rfWpyCfPljtRtAJFYHVL61TjrDJOmlc2oKl/s1600/blackrasp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUN9zPtssYfvIlXJcYRJq3Ll0rcGcwV83ZQekpDW0zbZtzmbnVVOdBjlGhS2Qe_863aPBk8AFqGkkb5numNYkxoemrz51_u6W_1zNv_qKt5rfWpyCfPljtRtAJFYHVL61TjrDJOmlc2oKl/s640/blackrasp.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
eating cheese & apples...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg175jinZlAsC6naxR4oKGv_of4f6HlM6L3mUZBR7wyccjsSszcW77b5o_AuRiSkVfWE3mwqAxSlwMhtXFeLOuSkxxPu_OREy9A8yk8ZpZz4eYvSxQsU5kXRL4_f_-lauAM4UL-qBA4e_lF/s1600/applesnchz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg175jinZlAsC6naxR4oKGv_of4f6HlM6L3mUZBR7wyccjsSszcW77b5o_AuRiSkVfWE3mwqAxSlwMhtXFeLOuSkxxPu_OREy9A8yk8ZpZz4eYvSxQsU5kXRL4_f_-lauAM4UL-qBA4e_lF/s640/applesnchz.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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donuts...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYPYIuKOjErYZ-2F4EAT2dXZtsMQSj82tKe2WisbC38u3BI12kaYUKokz6BBPctoEC4Sr4a2kvSNydnH5M6BEP9x7qB7vl4KNBnY0EdY0aP1reY1w4VWxQJP0CMDqeUTIQVqXvtmvV1_-H/s1600/IMG_20160603_104143289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYPYIuKOjErYZ-2F4EAT2dXZtsMQSj82tKe2WisbC38u3BI12kaYUKokz6BBPctoEC4Sr4a2kvSNydnH5M6BEP9x7qB7vl4KNBnY0EdY0aP1reY1w4VWxQJP0CMDqeUTIQVqXvtmvV1_-H/s640/IMG_20160603_104143289.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
{and iced coffee}<br />
<br />
ice cream...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN5mjzl7rt9bAVnm3WNbAk_7eoMj0zI-rVD90LPS9Uwc6uWv9GQ0ewxJ_J2K_mkfDMjsnCVMGr2GMMPFG60cx-i9U64gRBoF3y4RmjtWqfKbixh6hlk3kx532_UWtvRhbtSAn-AMv_dP8Y/s1600/crunchies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN5mjzl7rt9bAVnm3WNbAk_7eoMj0zI-rVD90LPS9Uwc6uWv9GQ0ewxJ_J2K_mkfDMjsnCVMGr2GMMPFG60cx-i9U64gRBoF3y4RmjtWqfKbixh6hlk3kx532_UWtvRhbtSAn-AMv_dP8Y/s640/crunchies.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
{with crunchies}<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniSCKSpCF8TEcDbavWeFXfGNe0XdTcJBjAS2fIdekMnwsDzbp0ZnC3cV_7Po0Zmlsh9lPDixyUXqA8mf1aZ9N5j47vO6W_be02G4O9DU-4FSrF9DYHkQ-3HCvnWoaFb1BsivATk8NWEtk/s1600/IMG_20160614_184019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjniSCKSpCF8TEcDbavWeFXfGNe0XdTcJBjAS2fIdekMnwsDzbp0ZnC3cV_7Po0Zmlsh9lPDixyUXqA8mf1aZ9N5j47vO6W_be02G4O9DU-4FSrF9DYHkQ-3HCvnWoaFb1BsivATk8NWEtk/s640/IMG_20160614_184019.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
{or with rainbow sprinkles}<br />
<br />
country roads with red barns...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiazKfmFI7ua0lFR9AcTgERFekkB-C9ZrUdpq3LlBSGe8rmFjyV4kYbtOZZyYzoZxiE1s0DHft01o3sq9HFj7R_e7GXHKLj1eVKjU5afUlp2o7WyBNQCsGxNTZaPRh1cWdjwoUHk4XIGsX/s1600/redbarn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiazKfmFI7ua0lFR9AcTgERFekkB-C9ZrUdpq3LlBSGe8rmFjyV4kYbtOZZyYzoZxiE1s0DHft01o3sq9HFj7R_e7GXHKLj1eVKjU5afUlp2o7WyBNQCsGxNTZaPRh1cWdjwoUHk4XIGsX/s640/redbarn.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
and round bales...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTeRpWrOGhsnqw-y0tJrc-zS9W8s0oPybZFwCWutGGgM9yFZx-pcaZf5ZWA-M4O8NjrkO_MFuYR-uzoZUDumu63IHU3c2bt2hWdo9GPKlvIiT1KNhPcOEDax9Dck77o5jYb1XNhaGJ85M/s1600/bales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTeRpWrOGhsnqw-y0tJrc-zS9W8s0oPybZFwCWutGGgM9yFZx-pcaZf5ZWA-M4O8NjrkO_MFuYR-uzoZUDumu63IHU3c2bt2hWdo9GPKlvIiT1KNhPcOEDax9Dck77o5jYb1XNhaGJ85M/s640/bales.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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riding the ferris wheel at the carnival...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRy14OhuOYWxOEKp3tStGRIChFavAFog7Jg1LDb1bfJ9fh2GiDxxqGytVoQiL03G_48qSbADelbg1uc2-iQTc93KBrWAvVdGscRFBzVKkBXEv1UZhs0Glz3HRT29nWXO6ox4TKB1BO83U/s1600/IMG_20160624_204545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRy14OhuOYWxOEKp3tStGRIChFavAFog7Jg1LDb1bfJ9fh2GiDxxqGytVoQiL03G_48qSbADelbg1uc2-iQTc93KBrWAvVdGscRFBzVKkBXEv1UZhs0Glz3HRT29nWXO6ox4TKB1BO83U/s640/IMG_20160624_204545.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
spending as much time out of doors as possible...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6f0ZzQlPDiwDbikjjfx61AnE6zG_H4CD2Ef2ExLseZVENKr4h59WT2G1Z1bdqzcz1D8cl7xiM5xdlwoCxiURxf2KY25YCv1M6Ogban8Vntx-y8jo9wQyPbiSo3T7vnDQ8rtHw98Ctn9H/s1600/IMG_20160627_150538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6f0ZzQlPDiwDbikjjfx61AnE6zG_H4CD2Ef2ExLseZVENKr4h59WT2G1Z1bdqzcz1D8cl7xiM5xdlwoCxiURxf2KY25YCv1M6Ogban8Vntx-y8jo9wQyPbiSo3T7vnDQ8rtHw98Ctn9H/s640/IMG_20160627_150538.jpg" width="634" /></a></div>
<br />
it's the littlest of things that make summer...<br />
well, SUMMER!<br />
^_^<br />
<br />
I hope you're all enjoying yours so far.<br />
What makes summer *Summer* to you?<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
Miss Michelle<br />
<br />
{Photos taken by me except the two of Abbey & me. Those were taken by my sisters Aimee & Beth}</div>
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-63378421931230797012016-06-26T05:00:00.000-05:002016-06-26T05:00:10.018-05:00my 100th post & one of the most intimidating experiences of my life...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The night before I had a dream, well a nightmare I guess, that I forgot our nice camera & accidentally brought my first digital camera. It's about the size of a credit card and there's a piece of tape over the battery compartment to keep it from popping open due to hitting the deck one too many times. </div>
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Needless to say I was relieved to awake.</div>
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I warned her.</div>
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I warned her that I'm not a professional.</div>
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I don't have a professional camera.</div>
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I'm not a very commanding person...</div>
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so I wasn't sure if I'd be able to get everyone to look at me & say cheese.</div>
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She's a brave gal & she said she didn't care.</div>
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She wanted me to take their wedding pics.</div>
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My sweet & beautiful cousin Hannah {& her honey, Matt}.</div>
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The closer that fine day got, the more nervous I got.</div>
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She assured me she'd still love me even if they turned out horrible.</div>
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The thing is we aren't just cousins. </div>
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This girl is like another sister to me.</div>
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We grew up just a couple blocks away from each other.</div>
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It was really an honor to take the photos at her wedding.</div>
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And thankfully she <em>did </em>like them.</div>
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<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/AVvXsEjFyDKBOvf8p7f1QTFX_UKwCIe-CgVgHCCggILdvxbd7kr7rOTyVdAC19eq5W4GZ_y4jaRcJ9Ywu9O4olp612jihcaDnNvpnoOLoJjng_xsHyVNmOgpqjnfOp5uM64nYKCjx3bDpR1EOugq/s1600/DSCN4511dusk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyDKBOvf8p7f1QTFX_UKwCIe-CgVgHCCggILdvxbd7kr7rOTyVdAC19eq5W4GZ_y4jaRcJ9Ywu9O4olp612jihcaDnNvpnoOLoJjng_xsHyVNmOgpqjnfOp5uM64nYKCjx3bDpR1EOugq/s640/DSCN4511dusk.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hannah & Matthew ~ September 26, 2015</td></tr>
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But just look at these cuties.</div>
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Kinda hard to take a bad pic.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLX_qcKN6e2YiPCViNlDHGPsXz_u1qEmklc4Rm4QJnufRioy3CU-Dz-nTAo7KOrxOS8LjdmFX9K4tdhkWCnwxCcTHVoUkckfulMpsomHsLcATkNDh9vZrKzutjvQWLu-pLfU_GE-UHnqtq/s1600/DSCN4442cp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLX_qcKN6e2YiPCViNlDHGPsXz_u1qEmklc4Rm4QJnufRioy3CU-Dz-nTAo7KOrxOS8LjdmFX9K4tdhkWCnwxCcTHVoUkckfulMpsomHsLcATkNDh9vZrKzutjvQWLu-pLfU_GE-UHnqtq/s640/DSCN4442cp.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6QvwKWO_q2hLHTCXCUIuIaXH5LxKK9kUKfPm2Xk_LWNKncafFcgMgwouIkoAMYfwopWoai4JgcQW2p-q22UlvS8juiSr6fB5qYzDOy4mRyvGD_cb3xIer6pJi8n3tqGP36v6fBQBhzdSt/s1600/DSCN4465bw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6QvwKWO_q2hLHTCXCUIuIaXH5LxKK9kUKfPm2Xk_LWNKncafFcgMgwouIkoAMYfwopWoai4JgcQW2p-q22UlvS8juiSr6fB5qYzDOy4mRyvGD_cb3xIer6pJi8n3tqGP36v6fBQBhzdSt/s640/DSCN4465bw.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Dad's first look at his little girl as a bride. <3</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5gLtEo2zoZcLHL3AGrYiB1XTn01CZ9fYHC1PgtvDq2LqAYQopH797KRsayEltfTDZP2RgBr7XMRGy6wgZZ-RFm3yoTiILkHWnFjE5o77HhULJO2UZZh-fsJUrztxhwusAh3UAbkBru4BQ/s1600/DSCN4563tranquil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5gLtEo2zoZcLHL3AGrYiB1XTn01CZ9fYHC1PgtvDq2LqAYQopH797KRsayEltfTDZP2RgBr7XMRGy6wgZZ-RFm3yoTiILkHWnFjE5o77HhULJO2UZZh-fsJUrztxhwusAh3UAbkBru4BQ/s640/DSCN4563tranquil.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrSMnvvE2nJED9AFbiusl9DAjh5dE1Y2Exkc1OqIHbF90m58nN0vFj7gmXuJbHvJEnrui6h4KLdHpeYuwWC5DB0D0lceNNHgnT8pC7HkWOIIH5UFDtdmRnbet27L2Bf3Zz0BwTH5y9m-U/s1600/DSCN4568cp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrSMnvvE2nJED9AFbiusl9DAjh5dE1Y2Exkc1OqIHbF90m58nN0vFj7gmXuJbHvJEnrui6h4KLdHpeYuwWC5DB0D0lceNNHgnT8pC7HkWOIIH5UFDtdmRnbet27L2Bf3Zz0BwTH5y9m-U/s640/DSCN4568cp.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We did some cross country photo taking.</div>
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Some of the highlights being my sister's barn, a beautiful local church, & a gorgeous old home on a brick street. Hans was a wonderful bride. Not a bridezilla in the least. In the midst of these barn pics we discovered that her skirt had become infested with a bajillion baby grasshoppers. She didn't even freak out then! What a gal. hahaha...good times...good times...<br />
{That's one to tell to the grandkids one day, Hannie.} ;)</div>
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I couldn't help but try some of the vintagey filters on these church pics.</div>
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And I tried really hard not to sing "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rTq7w8P6_2I">Going to the Chapel</a>" whilst snapping my fingers in the process, but to no avail. </div>
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Who am I kidding I didn't even try not to. ;P </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-_3H6mdjqTZSDMYFCBLrzBIlhTMKQT2445VrS2bghY0QAXHcHVN1_6H06_J84NhdkpL7Yf0OZhKl_omHDqj-d67iCk-GS_AIlyQuXu0LaDRL5RMBFtsaf0HxslGRJj_XQL464BE7NU-s/s1600/DSCN4827daguerreotypeshiro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx-_3H6mdjqTZSDMYFCBLrzBIlhTMKQT2445VrS2bghY0QAXHcHVN1_6H06_J84NhdkpL7Yf0OZhKl_omHDqj-d67iCk-GS_AIlyQuXu0LaDRL5RMBFtsaf0HxslGRJj_XQL464BE7NU-s/s640/DSCN4827daguerreotypeshiro.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The 3 amigos: Kels, Hans, & Gus</div>
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My sister Kelsey, the matron of honor, was 9 months pregnant with JoelyPants.</div>
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She was terrified she was going to go into labor during the ceremony, but thankfully did not. Ha!</div>
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I've known these lovely ladies & dear sisters in Christ since we were all little girls. The best part about taking photos of people you know and love is that you can make them laugh like this. ^_^ I love making people laugh as much as I love laughing. :D And I love it when people smile like they mean it. Don't play. Smile like you mean it. ;P<br />
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Hannah & her "little" brother Noah<br />
He loooooves his sisser. </div>
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My nephew Wes thought it would be totes hilar-lar to photobomb the groom's shots.</div>
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(I'll admit I thought it was pretty funny myself. I don't know where he gets it.) </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1MMlNfg03-VJzSLh4fuUfWXcD_maH82srtZA_ivHNFYvwVLQNXWFqwT7MYQtR9Tx1R-UyGM0ZyDBX6E36U-zeDLEeIJ9cJyvIACrsIhgwue53_h5A1GdpNmsUXfsxyTrXsXMmLfMXuw1j/s1600/DSCN4493cp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1MMlNfg03-VJzSLh4fuUfWXcD_maH82srtZA_ivHNFYvwVLQNXWFqwT7MYQtR9Tx1R-UyGM0ZyDBX6E36U-zeDLEeIJ9cJyvIACrsIhgwue53_h5A1GdpNmsUXfsxyTrXsXMmLfMXuw1j/s640/DSCN4493cp.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now you see him</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now you don't ;)</td></tr>
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Mother & Son</div>
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I don't know Matt's family as well as Hannah's of course, but they are just the sweetest people.</div>
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Our families mesh very well.</div>
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Noah's still not quite sure about this Matt character...</div>
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but Hannah seems pretty sure. </div>
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Gus wrote & performed a beautiful song for the happy couple.</div>
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You can hear it here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0CoWLPeAmE">Cleave to You</a></div>
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See the pretty ruffley backdrop thingy?</div>
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I got to sneak behind that to take the next pics.</div>
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{Like a stealthy ninja sniper photographer. *cue pink panther theme*}</div>
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And then my worst nightmare happened.</div>
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No, not the camera one.</div>
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I. missed. the. first. kiss.</div>
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Yep.</div>
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My camera decided to be a stinky & take it's sweet time like it is prone to do in poor lighting.</div>
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So...</div>
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a reenactment was necessary.</div>
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The empty auditorium is kind of a nice touch though in my humble opinion.</div>
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But guess what?</div>
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She was true to her word & didn't hate me.</div>
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Not even a little.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLpW4VtBv-jBKh5U1brDV_37W1yPvSabgGyHH7tlyu1Cw1k7LZx9BnxCJ7k96vJMquI8CJxh1O5pTBKGdxLJU-zVjAviA7p57QylHdj270WZ-xLCrtRfNF9g1KqczSM_WufmER5tUpHMDL/s1600/DSCN5250bw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLpW4VtBv-jBKh5U1brDV_37W1yPvSabgGyHH7tlyu1Cw1k7LZx9BnxCJ7k96vJMquI8CJxh1O5pTBKGdxLJU-zVjAviA7p57QylHdj270WZ-xLCrtRfNF9g1KqczSM_WufmER5tUpHMDL/s640/DSCN5250bw.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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So, by God's grace they did not, in fact, turn out horrible.</div>
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He really carried me that day.</div>
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I felt extremely inadequate to the task at hand,</div>
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my heart was in turmoil because I had just broken up with my boyfriend,</div>
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& I tend to be a squishy puddle of emotional-giftedness anyway at weddings of my loved ones,</div>
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but He carried me through it all.</div>
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He's so good.</div>
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Now as I look back at these photos, nine months later, I can recall to mind His faithfulness.</div>
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</div>
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He's always been faithful to me.</div>
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</div>
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"This I recall to my mind,</div>
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Therefore I have hope.</div>
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The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,</div>
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For His compassions never fail.</div>
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<i>They</i> are new every morning;</div>
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Great is Your faithfulness."</div>
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{Lamentations 3:21-23} </div>
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</div>
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Hannah & Matt,<br />
I pray that the Lord will bless you with many happy years together.</div>
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Thank you for the opportunity to serve Him by serving you in this way.</div>
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Love you lots!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYbgIZDtnFotLO2lXQgOmpVVpXlFMliQqKrImOPWdgtIOaUALgVJWHXdiNfrKUBRXOBIjclo8w45jGHA9LjThkB0GRv9S9P9V9T_G6tn5ubT0NvmuARj5W5EGjhpiDM6ayWp-uAa2OAaut/s1600/DSCN4553cp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYbgIZDtnFotLO2lXQgOmpVVpXlFMliQqKrImOPWdgtIOaUALgVJWHXdiNfrKUBRXOBIjclo8w45jGHA9LjThkB0GRv9S9P9V9T_G6tn5ubT0NvmuARj5W5EGjhpiDM6ayWp-uAa2OAaut/s640/DSCN4553cp.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
<br />
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart<br />
And do not lean on your own understanding.<br />
In all your ways acknowledge Him,<br />
And He will make your paths straight."<br />
{Proverbs 3:5+6}</div>
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-66897371073344908612016-06-10T15:17:00.000-05:002016-06-10T16:44:00.318-05:00the ol' barter system...<div align="center">
A little while back my friend Gus told me there was a sweater pattern she had found that she absolutely adored and wondered if she could pay me to make it for her.</div>
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To me it seemed perfect timing because I was just thinking about asking her if she'd make a piece of art for me. She is a pastel artist & you can see her awesome work on her blog <a href="http://joyoustouch.blogspot.com/">Joyous Touch Art Studio</a>. She's done some pretty amazing cows that are just the cutest thing. </div>
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So, we agreed to employ the ol' barter method.</div>
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Exchanging skills with no money changing hands.</div>
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Win-win if you ask me.</div>
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</div>
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So, to Pinterest we went to give her an idea of what sort of painting {er...pasteling?} I wanted.</div>
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I knew I wanted a cottage.</div>
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I started pinning oodles of old cottage paintings on our board </div>
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<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/birdsoftheair/cottage-art-inspiration/">Cottage Art Inspiration.</a></div>
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I love old pastoral scenes too so I made sure to mention that.</div>
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I was so very pleased with what she came up with!</div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIB6yg072niJXwLKi383ALLPJmUdzwyyqWx8Tz-bNbR3jUsrY0bsVuP5l82uI6X3GxDsHJXIVaEHQHmfAYeadRZDF32-cXLbC5PNekF8rFfS2pG4lkYDWLGvfpf8E3zDBvqOoA8_4xr7k7/s1600/MichellesCottageDream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIB6yg072niJXwLKi383ALLPJmUdzwyyqWx8Tz-bNbR3jUsrY0bsVuP5l82uI6X3GxDsHJXIVaEHQHmfAYeadRZDF32-cXLbC5PNekF8rFfS2pG4lkYDWLGvfpf8E3zDBvqOoA8_4xr7k7/s640/MichellesCottageDream.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I named it "Michelle's Cottage Dream" ^_^ complete with chickens & sheep & sunflowers. And a little creek with a bridge! I didn't even know I wanted that, but of course now I do. ;)</div>
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She took all the elements I love from those old paintings & added to them her own personal flair & cheery style which I so love. The size she made it is so charming as well. So very much like an antique pastoral scene. I couldn't be more pleased with it!</div>
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</div>
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Now as to that sweater...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVPGvYes0lUTVNf3ToYVhkc-TVH_1_wNDl6823zTYIEwP7i09hUaCTwZZ6dqVGC6nTPmRdAXB0Q2OZ8-LkzITAJB0FadCw2I8VFwh-hl-y-IVVhm06Ewmg5Q3Fqr0FX5zkVgHWhXmmtXWR/s1600/theolbartersystem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVPGvYes0lUTVNf3ToYVhkc-TVH_1_wNDl6823zTYIEwP7i09hUaCTwZZ6dqVGC6nTPmRdAXB0Q2OZ8-LkzITAJB0FadCw2I8VFwh-hl-y-IVVhm06Ewmg5Q3Fqr0FX5zkVgHWhXmmtXWR/s400/theolbartersystem.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I used the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/levenwick">Levenwick pattern</a> by Gudrun Johnston.</div>
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It was quite simple to follow & was knit mostly in the round. (Which was really nice because the finishing work is my least favorite part about knitting and there were very few seams to sew up!) I just love the style of this unique sweater & wouldn't mind making one for myself. Lol! I'll just add that to the list. ;P </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge0-41dHDxmmpfEB8WkA8NRBgx9Od7UklXN-VewGLSHMUV01cDPE_uqbDlYBhRutxH1HCh-cYG_QacLFEWmzfNY22SU7BMnF7fi58MD5zszXq46MK8p5taYhxBGkCtXeZFtPnF1hF_4Ez5/s1600/theolbartersystem2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge0-41dHDxmmpfEB8WkA8NRBgx9Od7UklXN-VewGLSHMUV01cDPE_uqbDlYBhRutxH1HCh-cYG_QacLFEWmzfNY22SU7BMnF7fi58MD5zszXq46MK8p5taYhxBGkCtXeZFtPnF1hF_4Ez5/s400/theolbartersystem2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love the beautiful teal-ish green yarn she picked & the big red buttons! The pictures simply do not do the color justice.</div>
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Thinking back I think it may have been well over a year now since we first had this bright idea.</div>
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Wow, time flies.</div>
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All in all a very good trade me thinks. ^-^</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwc6eqBqy3m_X22i28vm9t1PbRI-dANQ-BwLgDT3bDeFZ8SASi4AeGm6DrLnneKBPtNkNaN2C6BKGpViHN0WKpQPS6jOVMWsXwP_VpdsCZjnP9mJWTegm4X5jWch4wJ_0Sk0uEKY1AY2vl/s1600/BlogNameCard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwc6eqBqy3m_X22i28vm9t1PbRI-dANQ-BwLgDT3bDeFZ8SASi4AeGm6DrLnneKBPtNkNaN2C6BKGpViHN0WKpQPS6jOVMWsXwP_VpdsCZjnP9mJWTegm4X5jWch4wJ_0Sk0uEKY1AY2vl/s1600/BlogNameCard.jpg" /></a></div>
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{The 1st and 2nd photos were borrowed from Gus. Thanks girl!}</div>
Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-30967166708951217332016-06-05T19:18:00.000-05:002016-06-06T22:19:52.809-05:00hulloooo there...<div align="center">
Remember me?</div>
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I'm Michelle.</div>
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(You know, that gal who writes this blog.)</div>
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Hee hee, saying "hulloo" always makes me think of Winnie the Pooh ^-^, but I digress.</div>
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So, I've been doing well.</div>
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The Lord is good.</div>
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So good.</div>
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So faithful.</div>
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My life has been quite filled with good things.</div>
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Blessed.</div>
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That's what I am.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiChoyw42Y3kdfTTjus2qkDKRjPYFZ9hw3Au1HgVv_DgwBZpo0-Odq3JvFpUN_JT9gvYTkE-xcEO2ULDKdtsDP4zWDEIscmEt83zXZoXITrQAQ4auvjFJQRLTUfge6WS-WJRa0hSn33qssF/s1600/IMG_20160430_233158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiChoyw42Y3kdfTTjus2qkDKRjPYFZ9hw3Au1HgVv_DgwBZpo0-Odq3JvFpUN_JT9gvYTkE-xcEO2ULDKdtsDP4zWDEIscmEt83zXZoXITrQAQ4auvjFJQRLTUfge6WS-WJRa0hSn33qssF/s400/IMG_20160430_233158.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I kept meaning to get back on board with this blogging business.</div>
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Time just kept slipping away bit by bit.</div>
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Before I knew it months had passed.</div>
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It's a bit like jumping into a swinging jump rope.</div>
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Well, I mean, it's not like I'd get smacked in the face with a rope or anything, but still.</div>
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I think you catch my drift. ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6oWBa1BXZBf0lINnp6pAyWdrOWyS0zq9DLGl-O71Z9kW7z9KVN75i_Ah-iyDewI4Kc-WjWqkektqEWG3vZkP6wgtWtr_d_J8dyDwIw7nFgf9_YgnaQ2Cxy2arAiOl5vIJMlGMY6nbgRx/s1600/IMG_20160523_072841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6oWBa1BXZBf0lINnp6pAyWdrOWyS0zq9DLGl-O71Z9kW7z9KVN75i_Ah-iyDewI4Kc-WjWqkektqEWG3vZkP6wgtWtr_d_J8dyDwIw7nFgf9_YgnaQ2Cxy2arAiOl5vIJMlGMY6nbgRx/s400/IMG_20160523_072841.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Lately, I've been Instagramming a lot.</div>
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I'm kind of into making Bible verse or godly quote pictures such as the ones above.</div>
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And this...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-kvWkH1kxvITajlemLE2RFvQutXsiMX3PTFb9XRJx2UsNLrx2vKE8iJS_Y4qgr19lkEAKi3M3M59nzph1G2BG7pkkiP77PG_hdCWsnJQCFrCq7g5K7-XaRzuPup9Idv9OFCc1RiJq5_n6/s1600/IMG_20160514_233139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-kvWkH1kxvITajlemLE2RFvQutXsiMX3PTFb9XRJx2UsNLrx2vKE8iJS_Y4qgr19lkEAKi3M3M59nzph1G2BG7pkkiP77PG_hdCWsnJQCFrCq7g5K7-XaRzuPup9Idv9OFCc1RiJq5_n6/s400/IMG_20160514_233139.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Oh, and just to thoroughly confuse y'all my name on there is now miss_strawberry_shortgirl.</div>
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It's completely random.</div>
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Don't ask me why.</div>
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I just thought it would be fun to have a...well...fun name...just for fun. ;P</div>
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My mind can be so like a butterfly flitting from one pretty thing to the next.</div>
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I am trying to discipline this mind of mine more.</div>
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Dwelling on lovely things is good, indeed it's scriptural.</div>
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But I can't just stop there.</div>
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I'm trying to delve deeper.</div>
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To know.</div>
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To know Him.</div>
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More & more everyday.</div>
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The depths.</div>
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The riches.</div>
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Unfathomable.</div>
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But I'll do my best as far as He enables me.</div>
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No more scratch & sniff Christianity for this girl.</div>
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Nope.</div>
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He paid far too great a price to make me His.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgstJFxLmoEw6GfIsDdZ0eVnaiLJU2Ljf2Cz5naGpuDmJ6nlrT14zFMQbULX_i8IrWPduZySKQ9Jc-imTffVKhSX1S_2Otp7zbMEtK7AelD0Wxv1aZrmHFew6on-WmzYq6akpp9DQ2ywWha/s1600/PhotoGrid_1454039544188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgstJFxLmoEw6GfIsDdZ0eVnaiLJU2Ljf2Cz5naGpuDmJ6nlrT14zFMQbULX_i8IrWPduZySKQ9Jc-imTffVKhSX1S_2Otp7zbMEtK7AelD0Wxv1aZrmHFew6on-WmzYq6akpp9DQ2ywWha/s400/PhotoGrid_1454039544188.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrP1dQczwmTqJ-GWx96t1qGQN903vr3AbJotG5mZT_NsyIinnzMCN_VkE2N4k130W6wMGEQ_SEZjYCO1F4XDU40Nn6V7P5HceP31MX_QMq44bgJqbZGxafWFPLiNeBb3U96K4NqNLJ8UWy/s1600/IMG_20160519_081445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrP1dQczwmTqJ-GWx96t1qGQN903vr3AbJotG5mZT_NsyIinnzMCN_VkE2N4k130W6wMGEQ_SEZjYCO1F4XDU40Nn6V7P5HceP31MX_QMq44bgJqbZGxafWFPLiNeBb3U96K4NqNLJ8UWy/s400/IMG_20160519_081445.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Also, just lately I've been crocheting like a fiend.</div>
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(If fiends actually do crochet. Don't quote me on that...I'm not 100% sure.)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFZYmir65v-yfnn3EBuiwDkfQcLiVjcChM4PFWF5gxSlZwR9lfc_rMtNtPCMa1_JfLVYs4xC99DJGjcFJMMZR1cLcuW6KvVTAVLlMDLl1di55aVUSoY84i-2-wipGuFnYLfAFCyz1Z_pNO/s1600/IMG_20160518_140955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFZYmir65v-yfnn3EBuiwDkfQcLiVjcChM4PFWF5gxSlZwR9lfc_rMtNtPCMa1_JfLVYs4xC99DJGjcFJMMZR1cLcuW6KvVTAVLlMDLl1di55aVUSoY84i-2-wipGuFnYLfAFCyz1Z_pNO/s400/IMG_20160518_140955.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqyFMHGiyOliWnp1ahZ2ORY5UToNW-T8tZY-JytBUdXM9a0oS-PAbzOLUo8JV929evzetEpS_6sr8LqyOseD190fmfZzs5J2Rbsern6QyM6qS9vKzjBL6t76IrIEUltMOoJtHqSvxRwIPI/s1600/IMG_20160522_155224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqyFMHGiyOliWnp1ahZ2ORY5UToNW-T8tZY-JytBUdXM9a0oS-PAbzOLUo8JV929evzetEpS_6sr8LqyOseD190fmfZzs5J2Rbsern6QyM6qS9vKzjBL6t76IrIEUltMOoJtHqSvxRwIPI/s400/IMG_20160522_155224.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFGskkmQbMS_LB4zOjAHauO1lnwiVCbFBkfi7vm-8mwixuChSM7OaHCIVzrQu5DEmI8njmNDEbNNPbyXP9b0x5RyI_1NLKF5LOxXT4CK0HR0v4QQ80rbyY9otp8bKknwXrlEm3acdUM_V/s1600/IMG_20160523_173058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFGskkmQbMS_LB4zOjAHauO1lnwiVCbFBkfi7vm-8mwixuChSM7OaHCIVzrQu5DEmI8njmNDEbNNPbyXP9b0x5RyI_1NLKF5LOxXT4CK0HR0v4QQ80rbyY9otp8bKknwXrlEm3acdUM_V/s400/IMG_20160523_173058.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Having been an avid knitter for so many years I was skeptical as to whether crocheting was even a necessary skill for me to acquire. After all, just about anything crochet could do knit could do better, or so I thought.</div>
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I can see now why people are so in love with the craft.</div>
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It does work up so fast.</div>
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And ya just can't beat a classic granny square for that old fashioned kitschy charm.</div>
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I've heard people say crochet is easier than knitting, but that I don't see.</div>
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I think they're both easy once you get the hang of it.</div>
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There are definite pluses to both.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ZOeiMqThqMt8XuYhmy3k7muECLAW56bdQUdaWvrISaVK_W_-cuFvIcnvP5dvoJD7OUxMkPilUD0rX0AjGi8xxJMqZqhy7WISHHG6swjYvR1jG0CqdGvbIY5wI_0jNNlFQ28PbhtsTqxx/s1600/IMG_20160510_163052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ZOeiMqThqMt8XuYhmy3k7muECLAW56bdQUdaWvrISaVK_W_-cuFvIcnvP5dvoJD7OUxMkPilUD0rX0AjGi8xxJMqZqhy7WISHHG6swjYvR1jG0CqdGvbIY5wI_0jNNlFQ28PbhtsTqxx/s400/IMG_20160510_163052.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZfwKTiXZDfsYXOnaT1ZeQrDdsIu_WUApAwbOZ2t-pmnyKjodX31yn0S6r9A84VGPiknew6e6z7mlzaL3GUQgRoZl5UkhcyqjS25dkboroEbkH5CZ9XtyWZcO6F0m5he1NOvmk5EMD1J-/s1600/IMG_20160512_125643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGZfwKTiXZDfsYXOnaT1ZeQrDdsIu_WUApAwbOZ2t-pmnyKjodX31yn0S6r9A84VGPiknew6e6z7mlzaL3GUQgRoZl5UkhcyqjS25dkboroEbkH5CZ9XtyWZcO6F0m5he1NOvmk5EMD1J-/s400/IMG_20160512_125643.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Oh, and I've just been spending as much time as is humanly possible with my babies & my sisters.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhae0ptpL_QRYJ5Iy2x6f60tfFy4Mowj-Jm_XGaQNa1soUcJ7Cbsbt7b6qJXW8vq6fJpaoGkd_B00adUfoRSKBwls38CY0anoZlZHEsAO8pF1XXlR_RTbdqf6JhBWeGR6maueD7BvP-Q-fR/s1600/IMG_20160505_131719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhae0ptpL_QRYJ5Iy2x6f60tfFy4Mowj-Jm_XGaQNa1soUcJ7Cbsbt7b6qJXW8vq6fJpaoGkd_B00adUfoRSKBwls38CY0anoZlZHEsAO8pF1XXlR_RTbdqf6JhBWeGR6maueD7BvP-Q-fR/s400/IMG_20160505_131719.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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These truly are the good old days.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsWP5P9CNTpUuIfNZInE8EuO6UgpTlc0W1IKEdRxv41OZ6g7RPjif6yZhHyGSQXklnLBNLEiEpTAYeuFUPY21lPAVw1hhKFqF8_XWwSXcW_9f8YGxG99NRhpHB3mbS9CgZ-mj3rorCej-/s1600/IMG_20160324_142137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsWP5P9CNTpUuIfNZInE8EuO6UgpTlc0W1IKEdRxv41OZ6g7RPjif6yZhHyGSQXklnLBNLEiEpTAYeuFUPY21lPAVw1hhKFqF8_XWwSXcW_9f8YGxG99NRhpHB3mbS9CgZ-mj3rorCej-/s400/IMG_20160324_142137.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I know I will miss these days terribly when they're passed & gone.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvskz1ggBByJhQnK9IIO1fmhpYkx105GPWY7XInVCnAioAGOWc5JcbCmARxPjYCh4tnlfhbVB3X9MZ8Zz80qFxJi2pFur5gJ97Gro2M2NOw8Z1kvw_Eueqha0hVDMJTmruyGfgSkWh5H2q/s1600/IMG_20160404_183606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvskz1ggBByJhQnK9IIO1fmhpYkx105GPWY7XInVCnAioAGOWc5JcbCmARxPjYCh4tnlfhbVB3X9MZ8Zz80qFxJi2pFur5gJ97Gro2M2NOw8Z1kvw_Eueqha0hVDMJTmruyGfgSkWh5H2q/s400/IMG_20160404_183606.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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So for now I cherish every moment that will soon be a memory.</div>
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I stare at their little faces to try to memorize them.</div>
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I always give them a sniff & a squeeze so I can always remember their smell & squishiness.</div>
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For it won't be long before they're all grown & patting me on the head.</div>
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As I said before...</div>
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blessed.</div>
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I'm blessed beyond measure.</div>
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Well, sorry about the barrage of pictures.</div>
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All of them shamelessly stolen from my Instagram feed.</div>
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Thank you for all the kind words from those of you wondering just where I'd got to.</div>
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Here I am though.</div>
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I hope to stay.</div>
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By His grace.</div>
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For His glory.</div>
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Much Love,</div>
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Miss Michelle</div>
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aka</div>
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miss_strawberry_shortgirl</div>
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^_^</div>
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-50808616113069341902015-12-06T15:11:00.000-06:002015-12-07T21:42:55.150-06:00"When Jesus then saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby..."<div align="center">
There He was,</div>
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hanging on a cross,</div>
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suffering unspeakable agony.</div>
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"But standing by the cross of Jesus were His mother, and His mother's sister, </div>
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Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. </div>
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When Jesus then saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, </div>
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He said to His mother, "Woman, behold, your son!" </div>
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Then He said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother!"</div>
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From that hour the disciple took her into his own household."</div>
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{John 19:25b-27}</div>
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I read the beloved disciple's account of Jesus crucifixion earlier this week,</div>
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and I was simply stuck by this tender scene.</div>
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Looking down from that old rugged cross,</div>
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battered & bruised,</div>
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Christ the mighty Maker dying for man the creature's sin...</div>
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He saw His mother.</div>
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Even in His utter agony He thought,</div>
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so sweetly,</div>
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of her care.</div>
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What a wonderful Savior!</div>
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While He was suffering for her sins (& mine) He made provision for her earthly care.</div>
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In this I note His faithfulness.</div>
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As her first-born it was His responsibility to care for her needs.</div>
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He shirked none of the things the Father required of Him.</div>
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From the greatest to the smallest.</div>
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I also note His tender care & compassion.</div>
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Oh, how kind!</div>
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Perhaps, even at this moment the sword of Simeon's prophecy in Luke 2:35 was piercing her soul as she watched Him suffer that day. <br />
What a comfort it must have been for her to know His love.</div>
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Take notice that He left her to the care of His beloved disciple.</div>
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He didn't just leave her to the care of His half brothers, James or Jude.</div>
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I read in a study note that, at this time, they did not yet believe.</div>
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He was surely even concerned for her spiritual well-being in placing her in a believing household.</div>
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I was just overwhelmed by this little morsel of goodness the Lord showed me from His word.</div>
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I am in awe over His tender care & concern for His own.<br />
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It is a good reminder too, in seeing John's example of obedience to Lord in this,<br />
that if the Lord places in our care one of His own to treat them as just that - His loved one that we have been given the great privilege of caring for here on earth. Whether it be a little child or an aged parent or whatever. It's an honor & a privilege to serve Him in this way.</div>
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Of course, at this time of year my thoughts naturally gravitate back to His humble entrance into this sin-cursed world. As that Baby unlike any other.</div>
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Son of God & Son of Man.</div>
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The woman's Seed Who would crush the serpent's head.</div>
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So, of course, I have another song for ya. ;)</div>
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Cuz, that's just how my brain works.</div>
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I think I must think in song.</div>
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When we were kiddos my friends & I would play a game where someone would say a random word, and we would try to think of a song with that word in it. I think I was only stumped once. (That was before you could just google it too.) ;P</div>
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Music has just always been very dear to me.</div>
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I love to sing.</div>
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As a little girl a family rule was legislated just for me.</div>
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"No singing at the supper table" was the decree from Mom & Dad.</div>
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(Apparently they did NOT want me singing for my supper.)</div>
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I think music is very dear to God too though.</div>
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I'm so thankful that He has chosen it as a main means of praising Him.</div>
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Oh, how wonderful it is to sing praises to our Redeemer!</div>
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Just lately I've gotten kind of irritated with most "Christmas" music.</div>
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Sorry but Jingle Bells 75 different ways just doesn't cut it for me.<br />
(That's <em>not </em>what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.)</div>
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I've been craving real CHRISTmas music.</div>
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I absolutely love all the Christmas hymns.</div>
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(Hark! The Herald, Joy to the World, all that good stuff.)</div>
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I've just recently discovered the Getty's Christmas album & I. am. in. love.</div>
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Here are songs of substance.</div>
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(And it doesn't hurt that they're Irish, I am a wee bit Irish myself. Lol!) ;)</div>
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I love every song on the album, but here is one of my faves.</div>
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I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!<br />
My other faves are "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHOOvNlaz3w&list=PLIb2rkLLKhOM0oeHlY6nEejq6xHAX20X8&index=3">Fullness of Grace</a>", "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQZfavrBBPI&index=7&list=PLIb2rkLLKhOM0oeHlY6nEejq6xHAX20X8">O Savior of Our Fallen Race</a>", <br />
& "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IiXY1NxQkIU&list=PLIb2rkLLKhOM0oeHlY6nEejq6xHAX20X8&index=4">Joy Has Dawned/Angels We Have Heard on High</a>." ^-^<br />
You better believe I'll be dancing like a fool with the kiddos to some of these...<br />
pretending I know how to do those jigs & reels. Lol! #sorrynotsorry ;P<br />
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~*~<br />
<br />
I'm not making any of my Christmas gifts this year, but I do have a few knitting projects I've been working on. Hopefully I'll have some pics to share soon. Do you remember the <a href="http://delightfulhandwork.blogspot.com/2014/12/vintage-pixie-hat-squirrel-purse.html">vintage pixie hat</a> I made for my niece, Annelise, last year? Well, she's naturally outgrown it so I made her another in a larger size. Thankfully, last year's version shan't go unused this year though, because my sister had another baby this year too! Yay for more babies! So, sweet baby Joel & Annelise can have matching hats of adorableness. ^_^ (RolyPolyJoely is that cutester in my profile pic.)<br />
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~*~<br />
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-10684959021716086242015-10-22T22:38:00.001-05:002015-10-22T22:38:45.058-05:00be still my soul...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPGAqkQkXuscyL0fgekErJ1FnBLfzuZw21w9ytseSXbOBLkDCMB2gsbHWFHRriZDHZ4jrXosyhE3KgiThceRD65Oy784_iR-JK5aiJC8eV-lrapeAi3ikeLIdzppF1ItzspBIANa0FTdrx/s1600/BeStillMySoul.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPGAqkQkXuscyL0fgekErJ1FnBLfzuZw21w9ytseSXbOBLkDCMB2gsbHWFHRriZDHZ4jrXosyhE3KgiThceRD65Oy784_iR-JK5aiJC8eV-lrapeAi3ikeLIdzppF1ItzspBIANa0FTdrx/s640/BeStillMySoul.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">This old hymn has been on my mind the past couple days...</div><div align="center">this verse in particular.</div><div align="center">Last night I made this little picture of said verse...</div><div align="center">and then I opened my Bible to read a little before bed.</div><div align="center">I've been reading through the gospels again.</div><div align="center">Want to guess what chapter I "happened" to be ready to read?</div><div align="center">Luke 8</div><div align="center">In this chapter is one of the records of Jesus rebuking the wind & waves.</div><div align="center">(Don't you just love when the Lord causes these little "coincidences"?)</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">{Luke 8:22-25 NASB}</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">"Now on one of <i>those</i> days Jesus and His disciples got into a boat, and He said to them, “Let us go over to the other side of the lake.” So they launched out. </div><div align="center">But as they were sailing along He fell asleep; and a fierce gale of wind descended on the lake, and they <i>began</i> to be swamped and to be in danger. </div><div align="center">They came to Jesus and woke Him up, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” And He got up and rebuked the wind and the surging waves, and they stopped, and it became calm. </div><div align="center">And He said to them, “Where is your faith?” They were fearful and amazed, saying to one another,</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> “Who then is this, that He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey Him?”</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">Who indeed?</div><div align="center">My Lord & my God.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">He Who can calm the wind & surging waves can certainly calm my little heart.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">Hearts are funny little things aren't they?</div><div align="center">You can know something in your mind, but hearts are awful slow in getting the message.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">I've just been pondering these verses & thoughts.</div><div align="center">Nothing too deep or concrete to share...</div><div align="center">just...</div><div align="center">thinking.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">I found this lovely rendition of this much loved hymn.</div><div align="center">I've no idea who this gal is, and some extra words have been added.</div><div align="center">I usually don't like when people add to old hymns</div><div align="center">(I'm just not big on change. ;P )</div><div align="center">but I don't think any harm has been done here. ;) </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mq59iE3MhXM" width="480"></iframe><br /><br />
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And now I'm going to sleep.<br /><br />
(Well...probably listen to this song a few times...but...)<br /><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgj_FZ8auJWjI02ZSvILnLIlbMYFSrMQhoaKqRc6_28COv2CFriEdXeH8aaqMOOOpaY3NXWa6gVtTLv1zajQoIhsyvTmVNBBdH3SVUieU0o8cZNzA6KZ8mt7N47wUI4RHTHF2jwdUhepPU/s1600/BlogSignature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgj_FZ8auJWjI02ZSvILnLIlbMYFSrMQhoaKqRc6_28COv2CFriEdXeH8aaqMOOOpaY3NXWa6gVtTLv1zajQoIhsyvTmVNBBdH3SVUieU0o8cZNzA6KZ8mt7N47wUI4RHTHF2jwdUhepPU/s1600/BlogSignature.png" /></a></div> </div>Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-15199162814282985402015-10-14T08:21:00.001-05:002015-10-14T14:33:58.157-05:00love is strong as death...<div style="text-align: center;">
I was afraid the words may have been running out...</div>
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in near panic I wrote that thought in the notebook I had been feverishly writing in.</div>
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I asked the Lord to continue to teach me.</div>
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He's taught me so many invaluable lessons.</div>
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He answered.</div>
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He gave me more words to write down.</div>
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Oh, I thought, but these are far too personal to share with anyone else.</div>
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So, I selfishly hoarded them to myself in my little book.</div>
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Old sins die hard.</div>
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I've always been selfish with my thoughts & words.</div>
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They are such a window into our very hearts, are they not?</div>
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After a couple days of selfish hoarding I had quite a hard day yesterday emotionally.</div>
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My flesh continued to wage war against me & what I know to be true.</div>
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I wondered why I couldn't just do a half-hearted attempt at Christianity as others seem to be able to do.</div>
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But then I was reminded that </div>
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I am not my own.</div>
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</div>
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I am His.</div>
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</div>
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He owns me.</div>
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</div>
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He bought me with a price.</div>
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</div>
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I am His & He is mine.</div>
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</div>
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He loves me...with love as strong as death.</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
stronger than actually.</div>
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</div>
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Last evening when I was so deep in the trenches of warfare against self</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the Lord gave me Mr. Spurgeon's evening devotion from his book "Morning & Evening"</div>
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(a Christmas gift from Momma)</div>
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The text was</div>
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"Love is strong as death" Song of Solomon 8:6</div>
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Let me share it with you as it meant so very much to me.</div>
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</div>
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"WHOSE love can this be which is as mighty as the conqueror of monarchs, the destroyer of the human race? Would it not sound like satire if it were applied to my poor, weak, and scarcely living love to Jesus my Lord? I do love Him, and perhaps by His grace, I could even die for Him, but as for my love in itself, it can scarcely endure a scoffing jest, much less a cruel death. Surely it is my Beloved's love which is here spoken of—the love of Jesus, the matchless lover of souls. His love was indeed stronger than the most terrible death, for it endured the trial of the cross triumphantly. It was a lingering death, but love survived the torment; a shameful death, but love despised the shame; a penal death, but love bore our iniquities; a forsaken, lonely death, from which the eternal Father hid His face, but love endured the curse, and gloried over all. Never such love, never such death. It was a desperate duel, but love bore the palm. What then, my heart? Hast thou no emotions excited within thee at the contemplation of such heavenly affection? Yes, my Lord, I long, I pant to feel Thy love flaming like a furnace within me. Come Thou Thyself and excite the ardour of my spirit.</div>
<center>
"For every drop of crimson blood<br /> Thus shed to make me live,<br /> O wherefore, wherefore have not I<br /> A thousand lives to give?"</center>
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<br />
Why should I despair of loving Jesus with a love as strong as death? He deserves it: I desire it. The martyrs felt such love, and they were but flesh and blood, then why not I? They mourned their weakness, and yet out of weakness were made strong. Grace gave them all their unflinching constancy—there is the same grace for me. Jesus, lover of my soul, shed abroad such love, even Thy love in my heart, this evening."</div>
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~C.H. Spurgeon</div>
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</div>
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Love so amazing.</div>
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</div>
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Then I was also reminded that unfaithfulness does not go unpunished.</div>
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(I should know...)</div>
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And the longer you go on in unfaithfulness the worse the consequences will be.</div>
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And just because it <em>seems </em>that others are getting away with bad behavior doesn't mean that is so.</div>
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If you are the Lord's</div>
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you are just that</div>
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His.</div>
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And He will bring you back into His fold no matter what it takes.</div>
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Because He IS faithful.</div>
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Even when we are not.</div>
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</div>
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"Oh, Love that will not let me go</div>
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I rest my weary soul in Thee</div>
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I give Thee back the life I owe..."</div>
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</div>
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{Thank you Lord for not letting go of me in Your awesome love that passes knowledge. </div>
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Even if I think I'd like You to loosen Your grip...</div>
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thank You that You don't always give me what I think I want. </div>
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Draw me ever nearer, Sweet Lord.}</div>
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</div>
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Another well beloved hymn comes to mind...</div>
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</div>
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</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dPdmmzRHlMA" width="480"></iframe><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is not the melody I'm used to hearing with this hymn,</div>
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but it is such a beautiful one that I immediately fell in love with it.</div>
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</div>
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"Were the whole realm of nature mine</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
that were an offering far too small</div>
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Love so amazing so divine</div>
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demands my soul, my life, my all."</div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Love <u>demands</u> my soul!</span></div>
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My life. My all.</div>
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</div>
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-13553738614327586192015-10-09T06:39:00.000-05:002015-10-09T06:39:41.274-05:00maybe...<div align="center">
Maybe...</div>
<div align="center">
if God isn't moving the mountain we want Him to...</div>
<div align="center">
it's because He wants to take our hand and guide us to the summit.</div>
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</div>
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Maybe...</div>
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He's saying "climb, My child."</div>
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And when we are tired, and our foot begins to slip...</div>
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He will not let us fall.</div>
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He will carry us.</div>
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{When I was a little girl most hikes ended with my earthly father carrying me.}</div>
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:)</div>
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</div>
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Maybe...</div>
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there is something He want to show us from that great height...</div>
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that we could never see in the deep forest at the mountain's base.</div>
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</div>
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Maybe...</div>
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our faces will shine with a reflection of His glory when He brings us back down...</div>
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so that we may be better able to tell others of His truth.</div>
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</div>
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{"...when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the Rock that is higher than I." Psalm 61:2}</div>
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</div>
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***</div>
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Maybe...</div>
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when God doesn't allow us to speak...</div>
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to tell someone all that we think needs said...</div>
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it's because He has things far better that <u>He</u> wants to tell them.</div>
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Things not so very full to the brim & overflowing with us.</div>
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</div>
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Maybe...</div>
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when He closes our mouths...</div>
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it's because of unbelief...</div>
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like Zacharias when he failed to believe the word of the Lord through Gabriel.</div>
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</div>
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But...</div>
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when our tongues are loosed...</div>
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may they be ever full of praises....</div>
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as his was.</div>
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</div>
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***</div>
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Maybe...</div>
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when He lets us be hungry...</div>
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it's because He wants to fill us with something far greater that our necessary food...</div>
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He wants to make us understand that we do not live by mere bread...</div>
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but by every word from His beautiful mouth.</div>
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{Deuteronomy 8:3} {Job 23:12}</div>
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</div>
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-81645238141236859112015-10-07T12:22:00.001-05:002015-10-07T12:22:12.856-05:00"what if my greatest dissapointments or the aching of this life is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy?"<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JKPeoPiK9XE" width="480"></iframe><br /></div><div align="center">Last night just while I was drifting off to sleep I was listening to this song.</div><div align="center">Then it would end and I would have to hit the replay button again...</div><div align="center">and then again...</div><div align="center">and again...</div><div align="center">It's such a lovely song.</div><div align="center">And it's funny cuz all the "what ifs" in this song aren't really a question in my mind.</div><div align="center">I know that they are the truth.</div><div align="center">I know it.</div><div align="center">And yet...</div><div align="center">I go from times of resting in them...</div><div align="center">to anguish again over the fear of loss.</div><div align="center">I <u>know</u> that God is sovereign.</div><div align="center">I <u>know</u> His ways are right & good.</div><div align="center">But oh. My flesh.</div><div align="center">It wages war against me & what I know to be true.</div><div align="center">I earnestly pray "Not my will but Thine be done, Sweet Lord."</div><div align="center">And I mean it.</div><div align="center">But my selfish will still has a way of weaseling it's way back into the forefront of my mind.</div><div align="center">I run to His word & find great solace there.</div><div align="center">It seems as soon as I close it & go about my work I'm back at square one.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">{Oh Lord. You are so patient with me.</div><div align="center">Keep me resting in Your promises.</div><div align="center">They are true & steadfast</div><div align="center">Because You, Oh Lord, are sovereign & unchanging.}</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">And then as invariable happens I feel the overwhelming urge to praise my sweet Savior.</div><div align="center">The last two songs from Handel's Messiah popped into my head so I had to listen to them too.</div><div align="center"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3x2fSxOeij4">Worthy is the Lamb & Amen</a></div><div align="center">The wonderful thing about Handel's Messiah is that it is God's word.</div><div align="center">Set to beautiful & stirring music.</div><div align="center">Music is such a powerful thing, is it not?</div><div align="center">Sometimes I have to listen to it as loud as I can possibly take it </div><div align="center">& just feel the triumphant chords echoing in my chest cavity. Yeah, I'm weird, I know. ;)</div><div align="center">These precious words of praise to the Lamb that was slain are from Revelation 5:9-11</div><div align="center">I can not wait to sing those words to Jesus & my Father in Heaven.</div><div align="center">I'm guessing it probably won't be to Handel's tune...</div><div align="center">but I'm sure the Heavenly tune will be more beautiful & glorious than this little mind can comprehend.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">~*~</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">I sincerely hope I'm not irritating anyone with all these words that keep pouring out of me.</div><div align="center">(Well, it's not like you <em>have</em> to read any of this. lol)</div><div align="center">I just feel so full of them that I think I might burst if I don't find some outlet for them.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">I marvel at how every one of these lines of thought leads to praise.</div><div align="center">It is as it should be, I know...</div><div align="center">but I still stand amazed.</div><div align="center"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-CqYYtN9m9jGlOEnrB6B6K8Mn08meQhUJ89DdyHOuiPxAyLlxudMkXWMTD6SOXhkn6S7dAuv4ZnWqRCy1bMvrIKV9AP_6KYvxj4dbYIEJAXIz2Gx_IFjJwgDVg0oF8HKZlTonkbYoIwdd/s1600/BlogSignature.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-CqYYtN9m9jGlOEnrB6B6K8Mn08meQhUJ89DdyHOuiPxAyLlxudMkXWMTD6SOXhkn6S7dAuv4ZnWqRCy1bMvrIKV9AP_6KYvxj4dbYIEJAXIz2Gx_IFjJwgDVg0oF8HKZlTonkbYoIwdd/s1600/BlogSignature.png" /></a></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"></div>Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3258051733908445739.post-87123828222149819662015-10-06T15:46:00.001-05:002015-10-06T15:52:35.547-05:00faith like hannah...<div align="center">
Sometimes the pain comes like contractions...</div>
<div align="center">
I'm brought to my knees like woman in travail.</div>
<div align="center">
I plead with God for deliverance.</div>
<div align="center">
Then He reminds me that this is only momentary...</div>
<div align="center">
{2 Corinthians 4:17}</div>
<div align="center">
soon the pain will give way to great joy...</div>
<div align="center">
the reward of the labor...</div>
<div align="center">
precious as a newborn child...</div>
<div align="center">
to be given back to my Lord...</div>
<div align="center">
as Hannah's beloved Samuel...</div>
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</div>
<div align="center">
{1 Samuel 1-2:11}</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
Could I leave my little son "to minister to the Lord" and go back home?</div>
<div align="center">
{1 Samuel 2:11}</div>
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</div>
<div align="center">
She had so longed for a child.</div>
<div align="center">
She poured out her soul before God. {1:15}</div>
<div align="center">
She only kept him 'til he was weaned...</div>
<div align="center">
that's not so very long...</div>
<div align="center">
but then what is time?</div>
<div align="center">
We aren't guaranteed any sure amount of it.</div>
<div align="center">
It's all in the Lord's most capable hands.</div>
<div align="center">
It's His to give as He sees fit.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
What a testimony this woman has.</div>
<div align="center">
I can't quite wrap my mind around her beautiful song of thanksgiving...<br />
</div>
<div align="center">
{1 Samuel 2:1-10 (NASB)}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then Hannah prayed and said,<br />
“My heart exults in the L<span style="font-size: xx-small;">ORD</span>;<br />
My horn is exalted in the L<span style="font-size: xx-small;">ORD</span>,<br />
My mouth speaks boldly against my enemies,<br />
Because I rejoice in Your salvation.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
“There is no one holy like the L<span style="font-size: xx-small;">ORD</span>,<br />
Indeed, there is no one besides You,<br />
Nor is there any rock like our God.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
“Boast no more so very proudly,<br />
Do not let arrogance come out of your mouth;<br />
For the L<span style="font-size: xx-small;">ORD</span> is a God of knowledge,<br />
And with Him actions are weighed.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
“The bows of the mighty are shattered,<br />
But the feeble gird on strength.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
“Those who were full hire themselves out for bread,<br />
But those who were hungry cease <i>to hunger.</i><br />
Even the barren gives birth to seven,<br />
But she who has many children languishes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
“The L<span style="font-size: xx-small;">ORD</span> kills and makes alive;<br />
He brings down to Sheol and raises up.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
“The L<span style="font-size: xx-small;">ORD</span> makes poor and rich;<br />
He brings low, He also exalts.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
“He raises the poor from the dust,<br />
He lifts the needy from the ash heap<br />
To make them sit with nobles,<br />
And inherit a seat of honor;<br />
For the pillars of the earth are the L<span style="font-size: xx-small;">ORD’S</span>,<br />
And He set the world on them.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
“He keeps the feet of His godly ones,<br />
But the wicked ones are silenced in darkness;<br />
For not by might shall a man prevail.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
“Those who contend with the L<span style="font-size: xx-small;">ORD</span> will be shattered;<br />
Against them He will thunder in the heavens,<br />
The L<span style="font-size: xx-small;">ORD</span> will judge the ends of the earth;<br />
And He will give strength to His king,<br />
And will exalt the horn of His anointed.”<br />
<br />
Wow.<br />
This O.T. saint knew her God.<br />
She knew experientially that<br />
e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g<br />
belongs to God.<br />
Even her well-beloved son.<br />
She knew that there was no better place for her little one <br />
than squarely within the Lord's will for him.<br />
He had big plans for little Samuel.<br />
What a lesson to be learned here...<br />
<br />
{Deuteronomy 10:14 (NASB)}<br />
"Behold, to the LORD your God belong heaven and the highest heavens,<br />
the earth and all that is in it."<br />
<br />
...that's pretty inclusive...<br />
<br />
...Just a little rabbit trail of thought<br />
that my Lord led me down...<br />
to comfort me.<br />
<br />
<3<br />
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Michelle {Miss Strawberry Shortgirl}http://www.blogger.com/profile/01513836550696454322noreply@blogger.com10