tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76558538836287167302024-03-02T11:30:39.686-06:00 Rose Petal Tea
Enjoying Life One Sip & Stitch at a Time ...Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.comBlogger315125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-36330651201945314212021-08-12T15:31:00.004-05:002021-08-12T15:43:19.000-05:00Vibrant Celebration<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtuKds2VD8Armqnw-CGoqQx597rZBTCTp_IfQaRbOew9gGZDc2_0zOeSlx7bjDbtAM2o1btyweeEbYgrU2DSmRcGDfkjNPLvlSXcWtpoR59TtBbD6xsMt4Lbin5tp-jMJABaNqPtI9Q3o/s1226/IMG_E6273%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1226" data-original-width="987" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtuKds2VD8Armqnw-CGoqQx597rZBTCTp_IfQaRbOew9gGZDc2_0zOeSlx7bjDbtAM2o1btyweeEbYgrU2DSmRcGDfkjNPLvlSXcWtpoR59TtBbD6xsMt4Lbin5tp-jMJABaNqPtI9Q3o/s16000/IMG_E6273%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As summer begins its gradual fade toward softer autumn days, I look back at the vibrant splashes of color that have punctuated this season of my life. My days have been filled with working remotely as a professional writing consultant for a community college, which I love tremendously. In the deepest part of our isolation due to the Covid pandemic I never felt alone. Though that took place last winter, it bears mentioning because it's an integral component to my color explosive summer. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My workdays consist of hour-long writing consultations with students in which we are "live". The faces and voices of students fill my days with purpose, satisfaction, and comfort. The tongues of many nations often surround me as I work with students from all over the world. A bittersweet feeling always sweeps over me at the end of each semester. I must say goodbye to some I have worked with who are moving on, but I celebrate their academic achievements and am thankful to have been a small part of their journey. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As the fall semester begins next week, I will remain in the online environment. While tidying my workspace and mentally preparing for a new semester, it occurred to me that my home is overflowing with joyful color. I attribute this to God's faithfulness in an unprecedented time; a time when the world turned upside down, yet I faired well. It has dawned on me that the profusion of color is my celebration of the resilience of the human spirit. Given the work that I do, I have been allowed a unique glimpse at just how strong we are individually and collectively. My soul overflowed and burst into colorful testaments throughout my house that will forever be a reminder to me that we are survivors. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv7U7CiSMNebTEr-riHwYP8H29lNJRoFTjJVlmm5lCeZYfCZnnlMZlIkkIS1JNQdrhNWQsC0MasTs3Q04KcddYaEf84ZFR_pcQGOqNpRq9S5Bq1mKFfY9NBClwqamvcCSbub3OtyNZT5k/s3008/KRLJ2334%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3008" data-original-width="3008" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv7U7CiSMNebTEr-riHwYP8H29lNJRoFTjJVlmm5lCeZYfCZnnlMZlIkkIS1JNQdrhNWQsC0MasTs3Q04KcddYaEf84ZFR_pcQGOqNpRq9S5Bq1mKFfY9NBClwqamvcCSbub3OtyNZT5k/w640-h640/KRLJ2334%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My kitchen drawer soon began to burst once I discovered this pattern for the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/702003520/crochet-pattern-natural-cotton-farmhouse?ref=user_profile" rel="nofollow">Farmhouse Dishtowel</a> and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/692967929/crochet-pattern-natural-cotton?ref=shop_home_active_89" rel="nofollow">Farmhouse Dishcloth</a>. It is addictive to crochet because the pattern is easily memorized with a simple two-row repeat. I found it self-soothing, and loved the customizable aspect of the pattern as I recently purchased a new double oven. For those of you who have one, you know that a standard length towel hangs down over the handle of the lower oven. You can crochet these with any worsted cotton and hooks you prefer. I used <a href="https://www.knitpicks.com/yarn/dishie/c/5420207" rel="nofollow">Knit Picks Dishie</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tulip-71430-Etimo-Rose-Crochet/dp/B00BL8ZVUY/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=B00BL8ZVUY&psc=1" rel="nofollow">Tulip Etimo Rose Crochet Hooks</a>. The Dishie yarn holds up longer than other brands of worsted cotton and these hooks are worth the investment for those who have issues with hand or wrist pain.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PM4cMPwG68CnX9pYKJ34EYnI-coRK6TmIP3-zvTeOy3Tx55uTckEFDC69fq6kvZegbPJ8lor87vn7Mh_Ys1PgJm71wF6yFB3P4tlx5y3gzLgT8S0T-qSweYPO9arBWt1cnI12327m0E/s2905/NWXUE5691%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2905" data-original-width="2782" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PM4cMPwG68CnX9pYKJ34EYnI-coRK6TmIP3-zvTeOy3Tx55uTckEFDC69fq6kvZegbPJ8lor87vn7Mh_Ys1PgJm71wF6yFB3P4tlx5y3gzLgT8S0T-qSweYPO9arBWt1cnI12327m0E/w612-h640/NWXUE5691%255B1%255D.JPG" width="612" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There have been serene moments of colorwork on the porch swing, as I soaked up the freshness and promise that green life fortifies the spirit with. This cheery <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CherryHeartShop?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=952228529" rel="nofollow">Giant Granny Square</a> blanket is a free pattern that Sandra from Cherry Heart has offered for ages. The photo at the top is Sandra's <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/928871090/painted-roses-blanket-pdf-crochet?ref=shop_home_feat_2&bes=1" rel="nofollow">Painted Roses Blanket</a> in the vintage colors option. After longing to indulge in the crocheted splendor of both of these patterns for some time, I decided this was the right season of my life. The same soft <a href="https://www.lovecrafts.com/en-us/p/stylecraft-special-dk" rel="nofollow">Stylecraft Special DK</a> yarn is used in both blankets. Typically having a preference for natural fibers and an aversion to acrylic yarn, I must admit that I love this yarn. I messaged back-and-forth with Sandra for reassurance on this fiber. Now that it is settling itself into my house, I believe it's here to stay. The overgrown granny square is nearly finished, but the blocks for the painted roses will be a work in progress for the unforeseeable future. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1q87J1H4zkbI7HbopxWknYLjgOw8PGQ3DcBN1weQuUepRCOQJy9EqS6g8TbHjbp-SPhbMUiSeVoRGcym7UpRaVfsXntZgEcP3XF9TJnb30oHTkTfWk-VmNq3yjS_tINiclVkEaexWCcs/s1242/IMG_E6274%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1213" data-original-width="1242" height="626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1q87J1H4zkbI7HbopxWknYLjgOw8PGQ3DcBN1weQuUepRCOQJy9EqS6g8TbHjbp-SPhbMUiSeVoRGcym7UpRaVfsXntZgEcP3XF9TJnb30oHTkTfWk-VmNq3yjS_tINiclVkEaexWCcs/w640-h626/IMG_E6274%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I kicked the season off early with a smattering of embroidery. The floral piece in the round frame is a kit I purchased from the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/CrewelGhoul?ref=yr_purchases&section_id=23933186" rel="nofollow">Crewel Ghoul</a>. You can find the frame at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/750911123/circle-embroidery-frame-hand-embroidery?ref=yr_purchases" rel="nofollow">Modern Hoopla</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1nioJRrxul8e9iRjVj2OpLwrRhPmkoUcfOt7mUzW6Yj8Jgcr7A0CuMqEX9roRIAWU0sHOvlkmv-n6HbNybAbMj8LjN6C4HMAJCJKDfN7Wp_aPZEHCPE4Bkw86A1Sr7NfiwMypWXHTb_s/s1440/WYDN6878%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1nioJRrxul8e9iRjVj2OpLwrRhPmkoUcfOt7mUzW6Yj8Jgcr7A0CuMqEX9roRIAWU0sHOvlkmv-n6HbNybAbMj8LjN6C4HMAJCJKDfN7Wp_aPZEHCPE4Bkw86A1Sr7NfiwMypWXHTb_s/w640-h640/WYDN6878%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The pieces above and below are both kits purchased from Nicki Franklin at the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/StitcheryStudioShop" rel="nofollow">Stitchery Studio Shop</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When you look at her website you'll notice I added extra floss here and there to both of my pieces. That's not because the kit doesn't supply enough, it's because I have hoards of embroidery floss and don't know when to stop. The lovely wreath with the nest and blackbird is the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/777373360/the-seasons-spring-wreath?ref=shop_home_active_26&crt=1" rel="nofollow">Seasons Spring Wreath</a> kit. I decided the overall roundness of the work would be enhanced by a square frame. I found this one at our local shop <a href="http://www.thequiltcorner.biz/" rel="nofollow">The Quilt Corner</a>. It's safe to say I enjoyed stitching this more than any embroidery piece I have ever done in my life. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixowEohnDv29fTGTZwgTNSNUrHRUwPM_fNJeRPbWUUcE1m_0KyZyrUgbswIYwcbPS5OoP6pRvfJqEe658gAnL_1Jb_2L8KCa2rXW05meP2XSZfi2x70z4ogg_iRMSFIWk5sgxX-VJR44k/s1242/IMG_E6270%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1219" data-original-width="1242" height="628" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixowEohnDv29fTGTZwgTNSNUrHRUwPM_fNJeRPbWUUcE1m_0KyZyrUgbswIYwcbPS5OoP6pRvfJqEe658gAnL_1Jb_2L8KCa2rXW05meP2XSZfi2x70z4ogg_iRMSFIWk5sgxX-VJR44k/w640-h628/IMG_E6270%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Since pink trees have always made me stop and gasp for breath out of sheer delight that God would create such a wondrous thing, I knew I had to stitch this one! The lighting in the embroidery photos does not do the pieces justice, but they really are lovely sprinkled throughout my home. This sweet little tree is the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/748899881/mini-embroidery-kit-spring-blossom-tree?ref=shop_home_feat_1" rel="nofollow">Mini Embroidery Kit - Spring Blossom Tree</a>. The darling <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0148KLGR8?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details" rel="nofollow">frame and stand</a> came as a set. As mentioned before, I went crazy with an abundance of French knots. I do love it though! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsLtMwtwnY3rARMzeJZ5ZSpeINaBTcRFA0g-VV0ZxFrZOsj3Ly4V5lwytYZaJS7cU9Mvaf6ZUs4Zz9gZEerNtuZ8fDduXWPOAYcLuiTxRCrgCvt-_IXbdi5Cb2AA_9zj9vUt_IHXlzC8s/s3024/FDBL9616%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsLtMwtwnY3rARMzeJZ5ZSpeINaBTcRFA0g-VV0ZxFrZOsj3Ly4V5lwytYZaJS7cU9Mvaf6ZUs4Zz9gZEerNtuZ8fDduXWPOAYcLuiTxRCrgCvt-_IXbdi5Cb2AA_9zj9vUt_IHXlzC8s/w640-h640/FDBL9616%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My life is lived in and shaped by words, so many words. The words of others; written words and spoken words. It is also formed by my own words as I offer guidance, share stories, write essays for classes in which I am the academic student, and write poetry in which I am the continual student of life. In between it all, my days are filled with moments snatched at random and filled with a celebration of color because, above all else, the spirit within must always give thanks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Every secret of a writer's soul, every experience of his life, every quality of his mind, is written large in his works."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Virginia Woolf</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-64119493549884220492021-03-01T19:40:00.003-06:002021-03-01T21:50:16.197-06:00Soothing Sock Knitting <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWwE0W0Ra-7dRhnCIGwxlN1m-mblDN2K-MEetRMaXj-xfxfz5jEU2H0l7HJ4BHMdQbxWgxmJd_4mWGk3Mz6Zmh1881a2VVVM2x8VvooOQ6Wl5FlRpZHIgLAJXqg6J7LjBZwmMaZaTe5vU/s1440/OSEQ2730%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWwE0W0Ra-7dRhnCIGwxlN1m-mblDN2K-MEetRMaXj-xfxfz5jEU2H0l7HJ4BHMdQbxWgxmJd_4mWGk3Mz6Zmh1881a2VVVM2x8VvooOQ6Wl5FlRpZHIgLAJXqg6J7LjBZwmMaZaTe5vU/w622-h640/OSEQ2730%255B1%255D.JPG" width="622" /></a></div>Lately, I have been in the mood to knit socks. They are a small knit that can be picked up and worked on when time allows, or left in the bottom of my knitting bag to quietly await my return. Although I have countless patterns, I felt the desire to try something new and maybe a bit different. I took my time and searched through Ravelry. Then I began the treasure hunt anew on Etsy for just the exact thing. Admittedly, I had no picture in my mind of what I was looking for, just the heartfelt assurance that it would leap out at me when I found it. My hallelujah moment came when I found this beautifully feminine pattern for a pair of slipper socks on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lavenderhillknits?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=153374373" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lavender Hill Knits</a>. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYT49M-4I4JdtTGIew_A9xRI2yKBchhjMSAcXh-XthWDALSfgX7xHjmYLrCOZ4W4LQvWLMZZ-AHBfF8fNKEsllihUd4EdFYhPU8FZM5hnv7dbyJkbdSVxoAZfAit9n1KCYyiwia00bbi4/s1242/IMG_E5420%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1230" data-original-width="1242" height="634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYT49M-4I4JdtTGIew_A9xRI2yKBchhjMSAcXh-XthWDALSfgX7xHjmYLrCOZ4W4LQvWLMZZ-AHBfF8fNKEsllihUd4EdFYhPU8FZM5hnv7dbyJkbdSVxoAZfAit9n1KCYyiwia00bbi4/w640-h634/IMG_E5420%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There's a delicate lavender bud lace pattern that vines up the side and across the top of the foot. The lacework is simple and the pattern is well written with beautiful photos. It's part of the designers Summer in France collection and it's called <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/153374373/knitting-pattern-slipper-socks-lavender?ref=shop_home_active_36" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lavender Lace Socks</a>. You can see in the first picture they have a sweet picot edging that is added after the slipper sock is completed. The pattern gives instructions to either knit or crochet the edging. Mine is crocheted on. Although I can do either, I much prefer to crochet a picot edging to knitting one because it is much faster to accomplish and the end result looks about the same. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87NG-9XXTr0tatLHaXKiNSdX35MXaKvdVjGskODOvLeYRHl9FaqcekUciSjLCOZTnotLXhFIVLHFKEs2eMFL4ImIYB8uO5DSELq9bVyKel3hfCS5dYWC0zXSWnuHJupYzvy23QmgerMQ/s1440/GZET1844%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87NG-9XXTr0tatLHaXKiNSdX35MXaKvdVjGskODOvLeYRHl9FaqcekUciSjLCOZTnotLXhFIVLHFKEs2eMFL4ImIYB8uO5DSELq9bVyKel3hfCS5dYWC0zXSWnuHJupYzvy23QmgerMQ/w640-h640/GZET1844%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I must admit, the piece de resistance for me was this gorgeous lacy heel. When I saw the photo depicting it on the Etsy website, I literally sucked in my breath. That's when I knew my search was over. The best part was that when I downloaded the pattern and cast on to knit, this delicious square of lacy heel was the first thing made. The entire pattern is so unique and wonderful to knit. I enjoyed it so much that I am knitting a second pair. This first pair is fitted snuggly to the feet of my eldest daughter, Hilary, who absolutely loves them. The second pair on my needles will warm the feet of my younger daughter, Chelsea. With spring and summer around the corner, these slipper socks will be just the thing for them to pad around the house on their carpeted or hardwood floors. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtpfaJe2l_Ri8Cc8OLjrIGc_mH_00CROq0lZXiQiuJhIDqNSJRg8ammP9eK4XqeQBf7HjLzgrRzxVHSEoJxzF2FVGGueiIlqZ6R6iSIkQlV7v-1le_3cw8ysLgmRZyxtKVRyZ_roTM4kc/s1207/IMG_E5421%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1182" data-original-width="1207" height="626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtpfaJe2l_Ri8Cc8OLjrIGc_mH_00CROq0lZXiQiuJhIDqNSJRg8ammP9eK4XqeQBf7HjLzgrRzxVHSEoJxzF2FVGGueiIlqZ6R6iSIkQlV7v-1le_3cw8ysLgmRZyxtKVRyZ_roTM4kc/w640-h626/IMG_E5421%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Although it may seem like it to those who have never tried it, sock knitting is not a magical bit of hocus-pocus for the advanced knitting elite. If you have wanted to try your hand at it, I recommend this pattern. It can introduce you to a more instant gratification version of a sock we commonly call a "footie", while providing you with some uncomplicated lacework stitches. Each pair takes only a small amount of <a href="https://www.knitpicks.com/yarn/fingering/c/30010103" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">fingering weight yarn</a> that can be purchased new or rescued from your stash. Mine was happily waiting for just such an occasion. I am knitting them on my favorite <a href="https://signatureneedlearts.com/size-2-double-pointed-needles/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">double pointed needles</a> from Signature Needle Arts. My preference is for the stiletto tipped needles, which are especially handy for lacework. I typically like the 8-inch option, but they are available in 4, 5, and 6-inch lengths as well. You will, however, need an 8-inch length needle for this project. Regardless of what yarn or needles you choose, you will find that sock knitting is altogether soothing for you as a knitter and the overjoyed recipient of your time and love as well.</div> </div> "One can never have enough socks." <div> J.K. Rowling</div>Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-69880037436842576072021-02-06T21:16:00.012-06:002021-02-07T02:14:09.493-06:00The Wisdom of Marmee<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvOIvPwCl_ukp7X8NY_gJtNfnRQIMH-Dj3enwtFqonAdhg27GxON9iZ-Oxut4Qe_mvzPdywIhtKAt6tmicwltHCdj_1ZxKy_Y_6298Gzh39yQtICegJitZNA3l2VW6D3jDaeGz3OSudxE/s1242/IMG_E5217%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1242" height="618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvOIvPwCl_ukp7X8NY_gJtNfnRQIMH-Dj3enwtFqonAdhg27GxON9iZ-Oxut4Qe_mvzPdywIhtKAt6tmicwltHCdj_1ZxKy_Y_6298Gzh39yQtICegJitZNA3l2VW6D3jDaeGz3OSudxE/w640-h618/IMG_E5217%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>One of my favorite books is <i>Little Women </i>by Louisa May Alcott, and, consequently, on a cold, snowy day I love to return to the much-loved movie adaptation, in which Susan Sarandon plays the beloved character of Marmee. I have read the book countless times through the years and watch the movie at least once every winter. This winter as several things culminated in my life: a worldwide pandemic, my love for baking, a brand new convection oven, a lifelong love for literature, working remotely, continuing my education in the discipline of English/Literature, and my ever present affinity for Marmee (who is totally real to me), I was thrilled to discover there are <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Little-Women-Cookbook-Tempting-Recipes/dp/1558329919/ref=asc_df_1558329919/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=385498800369&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=99629135741842226&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9022093&hvtargid=pla-823572328462&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=78303887746&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=385498800369&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=99629135741842226&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9022093&hvtargid=pla-823572328462" rel="nofollow">cookbooks</a> out there based on classic literature! <div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2WqvEW4VwZjcecYah07yIG8cAQ_kKK751q4qQN2uIFs3aOBRCnQ8bmLvFiXVPkEZ4VJ4VypsB6XK9orO7t1I0HK1LW3nbRvzK24bYB6RcjDGKA2YIud80yKfzqXWWWYUP2gjsWDq2Ci4/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="440" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2WqvEW4VwZjcecYah07yIG8cAQ_kKK751q4qQN2uIFs3aOBRCnQ8bmLvFiXVPkEZ4VJ4VypsB6XK9orO7t1I0HK1LW3nbRvzK24bYB6RcjDGKA2YIud80yKfzqXWWWYUP2gjsWDq2Ci4/w352-h400/image.png" width="352" /></a></div><p></p><p>These lovely little "Vanilla Butter Cookies With Mr. Bhaer's Chocolate Drops" are quick and easy to mix up and bake when you feel the need for some snug comfort, especially when the frosty winds are blowing outside. The first time I baked them was on New Year's Day 2021. After all the things each of us experienced individually, and globally, I felt like it was more important than ever to ring in this new year with something totally different. My entire family was so delighted with the buttery taste of these simple cookies and the perfect chocolate star center that I plan to make this my New Year's Day tradition from now on. I feel like there's a bit of Marmee telling me, "After 2020, out with the old and in with the new has a whole new meaning!". I always listen to my inner Marmee.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQRetEoKvCEpN7ALjzjWTZwjk15UCUIyCQ-olbbWFv4qI6GxXNRWdEf9Ylr45PHbhyf0rkFEz21-8tEKR2lOq609IpJ4WGNhiSrvKiX7r8Wn6_s7veus6a6CwmFoWY8NPp24kFQMKsKok/s3780/DHQT4878%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3780" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQRetEoKvCEpN7ALjzjWTZwjk15UCUIyCQ-olbbWFv4qI6GxXNRWdEf9Ylr45PHbhyf0rkFEz21-8tEKR2lOq609IpJ4WGNhiSrvKiX7r8Wn6_s7veus6a6CwmFoWY8NPp24kFQMKsKok/w512-h640/DHQT4878%255B1%255D.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>When you take these out of the oven and that fresh-baked aroma hits you, it will make you happy to be alive. You will want to bless everyone who crosses your path with a melt-in-your mouth, this year will be better, I am sure it has to be because Marmee says so, cookie. It's the chocolate star in the center. I really think it's the star that we hang our hopes on. Well, actually, it's the wisdom of Marmee. Although the character "Jo" is primarily based on Louisa May Alcott, I think of Marmee as the heart of her creator, who was an <a href="https://library.arlingtonva.us/2020/04/01/writer-suffragist-feminist-icon-louisa-may-alcott/" rel="nofollow">abolitionist and a feminist.</a> If you have never read <i> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Little-Women-Louisa-May-Alcott/dp/B08PXBCX2F/ref=pd_sbs_12?pd_rd_w=QDZBr&pf_rd_p=c52600a3-624a-4791-b4c4-3b112e19fbbc&pf_rd_r=VB01X4FDX2V01C25MFK8&pd_rd_r=533d7a9e-a8e0-4258-b299-a9aab679a0c9&pd_rd_wg=fFYnE&pd_rd_i=B08PXBCX2F&psc=1" rel="nofollow">Little Women</a></i><i> </i>or anything by or about this great lady, I highly recommend it. She was a strong, independent thinking woman in a time when it was not yet fashionable. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHwqzaQqmtItFwXtPTNsMVlM4XMVgYHRQOYDVGPGJM3_o7f55AqOVdpIAnflgyg2MtMnf98tz2SfBZN6DlJq21Lju2knDGgzQqkw4ijbjhGLqRi0DwL3IlpgfS0s3lIXJ108_-Xwwnpgg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="333" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHwqzaQqmtItFwXtPTNsMVlM4XMVgYHRQOYDVGPGJM3_o7f55AqOVdpIAnflgyg2MtMnf98tz2SfBZN6DlJq21Lju2knDGgzQqkw4ijbjhGLqRi0DwL3IlpgfS0s3lIXJ108_-Xwwnpgg/w267-h400/image.png" width="267" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div> "Don't shut yourself up in a bandbox because you are a woman. </div><div> Educate yourself to take your part in the world's work." </div><div> - Marmee </div><div><i> Little Women </i></div><div> Louisa May Alcott</div></div><div> (1832-1888)</div>Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-53978369356553619022021-01-31T17:11:00.006-06:002021-01-31T17:27:21.895-06:00My Own Fairyland<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLxN8dIbPKyweXjHIE7pWxodM7vOciYLUd20u_LQy67UhG2gqsaAvG6ifg2V-iLJWunJcdLHpM63hzBPKDEKR2MQFg0-K5KZPAM2T6VG7tsm_0ulbxW2F-GpnJLxpS1Ppezkpi8IrqtE/s3007/DUPK5388%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3007" data-original-width="3007" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwLxN8dIbPKyweXjHIE7pWxodM7vOciYLUd20u_LQy67UhG2gqsaAvG6ifg2V-iLJWunJcdLHpM63hzBPKDEKR2MQFg0-K5KZPAM2T6VG7tsm_0ulbxW2F-GpnJLxpS1Ppezkpi8IrqtE/w640-h640/DUPK5388%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>When I was a child one of my favorite Disney movies to watch over and over was Mary Poppins with Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke. The biggest thrill for me was when she opened that magical carpetbag and started pulling items out, one after another that should not possibly have fit within. Every single time I watched the movie I held my breath in anticipation of that scene more than any other, even when I watched the movie with my own small children and, later, grandchild. For me, that beautiful bag was full of magic; I knew I must someday have a Mary Poppins bag of my very own.<p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">So, imagine my absolute delight when my lifelong search culminated in a dream come true and I discovered <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/MaxCarpetbagWorks" rel="nofollow">Max Carpetbag Works</a> on Etsy recently. I took time to scroll through all the fantastic options for just the right one; believing it would reveal itself to me because it had been waiting a lifetime to do so. The moment I found this incredible bag my heart jumped for joy as I'm certain I heard it say, "Finally, you found me!". Isn't that part of the allure for all of us who are irrepressibly drawn to the timeless charm of a carpetbag? There's a hidden part in us convinced they contain practically perfect magical moments deep inside. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">When this long awaited treasure arrived on Saturday I could barely contain myself. I knew from the first glimpse and brush of my hand, as I began to pull away the wrapping, that <i>my carpetbag </i>had found its way home. As I lovingly perused it I experienced an emotional rush of memories. I was a little girl with blonde pigtails on my grandparents farm, watching Mary Poppins with my cousins, wearing baby-doll pajamas. Suddenly, I became a young mother with two little girls, one with blonde pigtails, the other with auburn, staring with rapt attention at Mary Poppins, while I waited beside them for that scene I never tired of. All those years later, my own children were just as thrilled as me by the never-ending stream of magic Mary's bag produced. Finally, my heart warmed at the memory of a tiny granddaughter, with springy brown curls and delight in her eyes as she watched my favorite scene with me for the first time. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This carpetbag has lured me back into my own fairyland. All I had to do was open it, reach in, and start pulling the memories out one by one. Although it just found its way to me, it has the sense of having always been mine. I believe it's packed full of more magical moments waiting to reveal themselves to me every time I open it. I also feel strongly about surrounding myself with things of beauty that make me happy. If those things are functional, well-made, and stand the chance of serving the purpose for which they were intended for many years then the purchase is a wise one. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> "Don't you know that everybody's got a Fairyland of their own?" </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> <i>Mary Poppins</i> - P. L. Travers</p>Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-21640622298857563152021-01-23T19:35:00.004-06:002021-01-23T19:51:45.276-06:00Tiny Stars<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCARF2Sw6IlfvXOoHl-NdQYTW1IqXtWLjZ4KeIUIi7QAYQ1WlzLy5cmyntI4IuAMwxK4Q2oRwt9rT2adiHDSZmL6hHPkK0FVGRNvWT4RQek77n5cDPe-3JQ4XMdmhqy6kf_ffKu8dHKbg/s3233/OIPN4820%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3233" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCARF2Sw6IlfvXOoHl-NdQYTW1IqXtWLjZ4KeIUIi7QAYQ1WlzLy5cmyntI4IuAMwxK4Q2oRwt9rT2adiHDSZmL6hHPkK0FVGRNvWT4RQek77n5cDPe-3JQ4XMdmhqy6kf_ffKu8dHKbg/w598-h640/OIPN4820%255B1%255D.JPG" width="598" /></a></div>One of the most satisfying things in the world to me is to spend time knitting and crocheting baby items. They are so like the sweet little bundles they will eventually find themselves snuggled around: tiny, soft, warm, delicate, and beautiful. Making a special gift for a baby can be done fairly quickly and conveys love to the expectant parents. When invited to a baby shower or "sprinkle", I much prefer to give a handmade gift than something purchased. A handknit item can be passed down through the years and achieve heirloom status. This set pictured above is one of my favorite baby gifts. I've used various fibers over the years but have decided I prefer <a href="https://www.knitpicks.com/yarn/andean-treasure/c/5420107" rel="nofollow">Knit Picks Andean Treasure</a> above all else. It's soft, breathable, one hundred percent baby alpaca and is available in an array of beautiful colors. Pictured here are Cherry Blossom, Fog Heather, and Finnley Heather. The hat is "Baby's Cabled Milk-Silk Cap" designed by Susan Boye. The leg warmers are "Cashmere Baby Leg Warmers" designed by Patti Ghezzi. <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvGkZ9JBvL8YvlqTsIPMI7mgN_wtJbylcodA5JLBGDuioXHiqS-ECMc8XD7t0XL-33qWAL_QNDrV4rZgbLw7YdB6Mun4ghk5ZN7teOGcqgpqnWN6Kkw77Za4tRoLT46rbry70s7x7FYQ/s3675/KASO7467%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3675" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYvGkZ9JBvL8YvlqTsIPMI7mgN_wtJbylcodA5JLBGDuioXHiqS-ECMc8XD7t0XL-33qWAL_QNDrV4rZgbLw7YdB6Mun4ghk5ZN7teOGcqgpqnWN6Kkw77Za4tRoLT46rbry70s7x7FYQ/w526-h640/KASO7467%255B1%255D.JPG" width="526" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> The lovely golden hat pictured above is "Merino-Silk Cables for Baby" designed by Isela Phelps. The buttery soft and bouncy yarn used to make this cabled hat is <a href="https://sirdar.com/en/products/sirdar-sublime-baby-cashmere-merino-silk-dk-50g" rel="nofollow">Sirdar Sublime Baby Cashmere</a>. If you love to knit tiny baby hats you will really love this hat! It is too precious and it's unisex. So it's a win-win pattern and gift! A mommy can pass it along from baby to baby, especially when it's knit in a neutral color. What's not to love?! The patterns for both hats and the leg warmers can be found and purchased in this book on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Luxury-Yarn-One-Skein-Wonders-Indulgences/dp/1603420797/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3DQKSX1YGSVG3&dchild=1&keywords=luxury+yarn+one+skein+wonders&qid=1611444951&sprefix=luxury+one+skei%2Caps%2C168&sr=8-1" rel="nofollow">Amazon</a>.</div><p style="text-align: center;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOKSMJMu49fD6nrAdqwIx3QOj2crtBA1E1eZxCIrhwEdjfyWFLuYT30mZseqEjhLY2NfQl_26dZRR3aGD1cC3e-npUAC6pSF_MrnyMDdvn2ao4eKa3gDzh4yhflg8jR2lNagMMBpptPN8/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="469" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOKSMJMu49fD6nrAdqwIx3QOj2crtBA1E1eZxCIrhwEdjfyWFLuYT30mZseqEjhLY2NfQl_26dZRR3aGD1cC3e-npUAC6pSF_MrnyMDdvn2ao4eKa3gDzh4yhflg8jR2lNagMMBpptPN8/s16000/image.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">My absolute favorite baby booties (shown at top in the pink set) "Cute Cables" are designed by Frederique Alexandre and can be found in the book featured below, which can also be purchased on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Booties-Socks-Knits-Tiny/dp/1844489957/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=baby+booties+and+socks+50+knits+for+tiny+toes&qid=1611445549&sr=8-2" rel="nofollow">Amazon</a>. The somewhat squared toe and multitextured effect of these booties never fails to cause delight, not only in the recipient, but in me every single time I knit a pair. They simply make me happy. Also, once again, they are unisex, making them an absolutely perfect pattern to return to time and time again.</p><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2dbyAfMEgGakqF1Eqf-FSbhOVGIWE6U6m7vmQ-RvXHwdL1twReF-urwCCiVT-XlP4uwAnsgRyjWeYYRuOoclLkiqE7dAY9UOlcRNjryjfpODOAY_o3uy8f2YP7uhhCQukgdXLiVka_IE/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2dbyAfMEgGakqF1Eqf-FSbhOVGIWE6U6m7vmQ-RvXHwdL1twReF-urwCCiVT-XlP4uwAnsgRyjWeYYRuOoclLkiqE7dAY9UOlcRNjryjfpODOAY_o3uy8f2YP7uhhCQukgdXLiVka_IE/s16000/image.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table>There truly is something special about a couple of stolen hours in an afternoon spent quietly knitting baby items that's different than doing anything else. The stitches hold a particular charm unknown to all other pursuits. One can almost smell that magical essence of <i>baby</i> as the needles glide along smoothly. Baby knitting takes therapeutic value to a whole new level of nirvana. It must be experienced rather than described. If you love it like I do, you understand; it's a <i>feeling, </i>not an action. <br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN94h0KcPCZtpSbyoELYfMz8AoMpJTonz7Tk22tuO_wz1NDRdj5JHMUaFMTjWZezrfJJO-GVIu0wpFItf3LclBNKV4_vrJRefOOsBsW78kvypDQ9FeYvg7lv4bxWatWuQJNwRSXRCK0fA/s3185/BOYV2601%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3185" data-original-width="2548" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN94h0KcPCZtpSbyoELYfMz8AoMpJTonz7Tk22tuO_wz1NDRdj5JHMUaFMTjWZezrfJJO-GVIu0wpFItf3LclBNKV4_vrJRefOOsBsW78kvypDQ9FeYvg7lv4bxWatWuQJNwRSXRCK0fA/w512-h640/BOYV2601%255B1%255D.JPG" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Choice of color and adding embellishment (or not) makes this exquisite cabled earflap hat unisex also. For my favorite go-to crocheted rose and leaf pattern you can hop over to <a href="https://attic24.typepad.com/weblog/may-roses.html" rel="nofollow">Attic 24</a> and whip up as many May Roses as you like.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNd_WN3fB-FdPXL8mbuebBIk_9eTi_zOy0rkber7VrOiFVP6Z-85jhNsNG89u4q1w23le3LCTBRXg20WL-4kA0AkkMpuOSX22XLMwHXBF4hdf3FV4q-1b_6L-CwER6zsL6GEs4n4R2hYw/s4018/IMG_E5061%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2411" data-original-width="4018" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNd_WN3fB-FdPXL8mbuebBIk_9eTi_zOy0rkber7VrOiFVP6Z-85jhNsNG89u4q1w23le3LCTBRXg20WL-4kA0AkkMpuOSX22XLMwHXBF4hdf3FV4q-1b_6L-CwER6zsL6GEs4n4R2hYw/w640-h384/IMG_E5061%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Few things fill my heart with the same measure of joy as the sight of one so fresh from God nestled warmly in one of my handknit items. Babies are like tiny stars dropped down from heaven sent to add sparkle to all the dim corners of the world. They grow and shine their light into every crack and crevice, helping us to focus on the bright and beautiful things in life. For that we owe them a great deal.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><ul class="lt-teal" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #58595b; font-family: "Avenir LT W01 45 Book", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><li style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.625em; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px 0px 14px 2em; position: relative;"> “Like stars are to the sky, so are the children to our world. </li><li style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.625em; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px 0px 14px 2em; position: relative;"> They deserve to shine!”</li><li style="box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1.625em; list-style-type: none; margin: 0px 0px 14px 2em; position: relative;"> <span class="nobr" style="box-sizing: border-box; white-space: nowrap;">Chinonye J. Chidolue</span></li></ul>Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-32929837046748327782021-01-21T08:59:00.000-06:002021-01-21T08:59:54.598-06:00To Dwell In Possibilities<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTV1fhv8XLPqhYoCS5pH0SFN5GF3eGFMnQfvciIhE4UgevB4Bldfkq_TDKytTOViV6howa_Hohdb3K2qKe-juZBQZ6WfeRK6zT_a2mFpSZwWEkLCLRndbp0YZnZaGAhCkx16ymb_7ugus/s1170/IMG_E5183%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1170" height="584" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTV1fhv8XLPqhYoCS5pH0SFN5GF3eGFMnQfvciIhE4UgevB4Bldfkq_TDKytTOViV6howa_Hohdb3K2qKe-juZBQZ6WfeRK6zT_a2mFpSZwWEkLCLRndbp0YZnZaGAhCkx16ymb_7ugus/w640-h584/IMG_E5183%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div> There once was a girl of only sixteen who lay across her bed feeling ill. A young man, whom she already loved with her whole heart, quietly entered the room. In his hand was a small volume of poetry covered in blue velvet with silver lettering. The room was awash in the soft glow of late afternoon, which enhanced the golden aura the young man naturally exuded. <br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">Although he was only twenty at the time, he knew the secret way to her heart; the tender language of love. He sat quietly in the chair next to her bed, opened the book, and began to read aloud. His voice was melodic and gentle as it mingled with the words penned by Emily Dickinson from a time gone by; a time of once and future possibilities. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Tiny dust motes shimmered in a beam of light from a window and danced as fairies in the fading sun. They were joyous because they knew, as the young man continued to read, the magic of possibilities swirled in the air. The young girl was soon soothed into a peaceful sleep. She awoke completely restored. The young man still sat by her bed in a room full of dusk with a book of poetry in his hand. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Many years later, though the girl is not so young, she still loves that same man with her whole heart. A man who, when he was young, sat by her bed and read poetry to her. It was the beginning of possibilities. Possibilities to experience many times over. The reading of poetry, the carrying of one another through illness, the joy of togetherness, and the love and friendship that deepens over time.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoWjlGvhJdioUErUvsNg9Wj8Plq-IST5HVm_gqdE2Y-JPHQSHoV3cU3yo1QPFTpOcX2jv8g5SSbNuG_0jvizavg7sh57qaC_3eoj4nZ-1FtaGoImM90Snb8GRAz0oHuhDaXq3FMv4CleI/s1242/IMG_E5184%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1198" data-original-width="1242" height="618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoWjlGvhJdioUErUvsNg9Wj8Plq-IST5HVm_gqdE2Y-JPHQSHoV3cU3yo1QPFTpOcX2jv8g5SSbNuG_0jvizavg7sh57qaC_3eoj4nZ-1FtaGoImM90Snb8GRAz0oHuhDaXq3FMv4CleI/w640-h618/IMG_E5184%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">What would life be if we did not dwell in possibilities; if we did not live on the edge of <i>what if</i>? There would be a myriad of things and people we would miss along the way. We never outgrow the ability to reach for and achieve new possibilities. Do you have a dream, a desire, a longing, a passion to be or do something? The time has come for you to dwell in possibilities. May you reach for the stars and on your way up enjoy the thrill of reaching. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdB5iV0dmEWI_aSIPYhyphenhyphenVUyNx1LTNe3S-5H8_WXa71S5XPTGo8zHRkJbAlxw5MCRF6MqJdAm5pGASrkCboEGLbG0a3HeGjaFZy2OOblO-okSXs0Kk6Hk4lWlPU56asidb7lGPi3wIc5pM/s1229/IMG_E5175%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1229" data-original-width="1100" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdB5iV0dmEWI_aSIPYhyphenhyphenVUyNx1LTNe3S-5H8_WXa71S5XPTGo8zHRkJbAlxw5MCRF6MqJdAm5pGASrkCboEGLbG0a3HeGjaFZy2OOblO-okSXs0Kk6Hk4lWlPU56asidb7lGPi3wIc5pM/w572-h640/IMG_E5175%255B1%255D.JPG" width="572" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Though some of the pages are loose from nearly forty years of being read, the beloved blue velvet book of poetry is still one of my dearest treasures. It has been my constant reminder that life is full of possibilities. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"I dwell in Possibility - "</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Emily Dickinson</div>Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-45639924604074093642021-01-04T19:44:00.005-06:002021-01-04T20:57:07.257-06:00The Spirit of Winter<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkku59SPRUqwmi13wEGZ1-W8lPzyxW1TCyjCBN8NWKQNBfDLskDn3ZixXYXs49t6J6KrXe85jdjyskUMHG5hI1r4jXz7nZBAU55e8KsbBFkJIXTFKRU8E7Dp6dotxiOaI8MqQdNzzRQgo/s1440/GJUE5366%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkku59SPRUqwmi13wEGZ1-W8lPzyxW1TCyjCBN8NWKQNBfDLskDn3ZixXYXs49t6J6KrXe85jdjyskUMHG5hI1r4jXz7nZBAU55e8KsbBFkJIXTFKRU8E7Dp6dotxiOaI8MqQdNzzRQgo/w640-h640/GJUE5366%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hush, hush, <i>hush … </i>Do you hear it?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hush, <i>hush, hush … </i>If you listen very closely, with your heart wide open, you will <i>know </i>the silent, soft stillness of white. There is a magic that swirls in the air and settles into each tiny crystalized flake. As it dances round and round it captures the hopes and dreams of all humankind to sprinkle them in glistening purity throughout the land. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTHSJYrMSwPEoVyC4BiazKCwj_idMqQPpG2gquw2Btx_07p7eqXb0pcsfUM_aTvvtrWOJcTBUCMYmPK4WVvRgXONGPSyV44pOneQvC5dzjqv35EyYA3pSn52kHZegFjdT5o9FwN7-tDpc/s1440/CTJG4486%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTHSJYrMSwPEoVyC4BiazKCwj_idMqQPpG2gquw2Btx_07p7eqXb0pcsfUM_aTvvtrWOJcTBUCMYmPK4WVvRgXONGPSyV44pOneQvC5dzjqv35EyYA3pSn52kHZegFjdT5o9FwN7-tDpc/w640-h640/CTJG4486%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Soon the treetops are reaching towards heaven under the collective, glorious weight of the promise of a land filled with people who continue to hope and dream through even the bleakest of days. Each delicate snowflake holds the secret of the ages; each unique crystal knows the magic is in the believing. They know, too, that as beautiful as they are individually, they have the ability to create great moments of awe when they stick together. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtZ3FHViN8VJ6gGok6HOETBmDCDfjDFq9WLOqct14nTbTTaQj0cGmrVaWyHi4A5EFQuHgpJBbGbEqPedBqIupKhDpTI2cac7n0_KYszkIyInpsHkHRO3-_N-ULmt1fzw2gUsdzvBpwfg/s1440/NWLJ2816%255B1%255D.JPG"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivtZ3FHViN8VJ6gGok6HOETBmDCDfjDFq9WLOqct14nTbTTaQj0cGmrVaWyHi4A5EFQuHgpJBbGbEqPedBqIupKhDpTI2cac7n0_KYszkIyInpsHkHRO3-_N-ULmt1fzw2gUsdzvBpwfg/w640-h640/NWLJ2816%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When the things of the world strip us to our core, the trees don their winter finery to stand tall and regal before us in the hazy days. If we listen intently we will feel their message. We will hear the truth that can never be suppressed within them. The trees, no matter what, will always continue to sing for joy, and they invite us to rejoice with them in every single season. They want us to behold their remarkable, unchangeable, and beautiful resilience; to recognize that God has placed that age-old magic deep within our DNA as well. Our Creator equipped us to be overcomers and He uses the wonders of nature to bestow peace and instill new hope in us. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu43vFhzbiQM890_VR_-jNsLQs-r-FFeamEsW2-fKaM3Jl-wjIaVuSGG_Td-1UWKg-77LWLq6TAOLc22moer6M_XnIumaFoFwvNWMoNwa-PJ7S_qv5NSg_ZtEmqMPTG2YA0H8PDSbNYQY/s1440/BOHD8355%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu43vFhzbiQM890_VR_-jNsLQs-r-FFeamEsW2-fKaM3Jl-wjIaVuSGG_Td-1UWKg-77LWLq6TAOLc22moer6M_XnIumaFoFwvNWMoNwa-PJ7S_qv5NSg_ZtEmqMPTG2YA0H8PDSbNYQY/w640-h640/BOHD8355%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As I enter this new year of 2021, with the world just beyond my window holding her cold, frosty breath, I, too, am holding my breath. I am holding it in anticipation of all the good things that lie ahead. Although I have one last week of being cocooned in warm, slow days of knitting, while the dogs lay curled up in beds nearby, I will lay down the needles and return to the clicking of keys again soon. The holiday break has held much joy and given me a needed rest, however, it is time to look to the future. After taking a six month sabbatical I will resume my education starting next Monday. I earned one degree last summer and it's time to work towards the next degree (and the next … ). As much as I have loved taking a step back from school and filling the spaces with more knitted stitches than I had accomplished since I began this journey, I am ready and excited to dive back in. Books, literature, and writing have always been my great pursuits in life. Therefore, earning a BA in English has been a lifelong dream for me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6s-8uBrrHEXdJn9oZQFqTiihH76P4cPHkTEFGofAA1HvdY82EeUQrkAcpf6CoOsUSYXtojJJWJ_Tp8IBmXY2bxta9BOTrK-EjLGcYLucM85ujy_8yUXtqdS_KyNu6mO6dTnr8prMHHZg/s1440/ARUQ2839%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6s-8uBrrHEXdJn9oZQFqTiihH76P4cPHkTEFGofAA1HvdY82EeUQrkAcpf6CoOsUSYXtojJJWJ_Tp8IBmXY2bxta9BOTrK-EjLGcYLucM85ujy_8yUXtqdS_KyNu6mO6dTnr8prMHHZg/w640-h640/ARUQ2839%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a>The following week I will resume work, which I am still doing remotely. There are not enough words in the world to express how much I love my job as a professional writing consultant. When we went into pandemic mode in March and I began to work from home I was uncertain at first about my capabilities to connect with the students. Before long my hour-long consultations were finding their new rhythm in a world that had suddenly gone somewhat sideways. Those lovely, wondrous students filled my home and shaped my days with their diverse views, insightful conversation, and eventual friendship as the months continued to stretch on and on. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDOwqR2AG6Wx2kin9XVQ4H9eCekQdJUZexLhLljq530pBK_ISN7PyP_83zMlkMgOA9_eJxXuFA6XqHRLe-5olZFfrODyqqTiH5G9uhyjU3uhuhQe9cr7Fl5whaCogMgdCMxb4xLXxcCgs/s1440/TMIX5505%255B1%255D.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDOwqR2AG6Wx2kin9XVQ4H9eCekQdJUZexLhLljq530pBK_ISN7PyP_83zMlkMgOA9_eJxXuFA6XqHRLe-5olZFfrODyqqTiH5G9uhyjU3uhuhQe9cr7Fl5whaCogMgdCMxb4xLXxcCgs/w640-h640/TMIX5505%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>So, even though there were many challenges along the way last year, I have to say I am thankful for every one of them because they got me from there to here. And <i>here </i>is exactly the place I always want to be. Wherever <i>here </i>is I have learned to trust it is the place I am meant to be, which means all things will come together as they were intended to, usually better than if I had planned them on my own.<p></p><p style="text-align: center;">"Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them; let the trees of the forest sing for joy."</p><p style="text-align: center;">Psalm 96:12</p><p style="text-align: center;">"I am not afraid of storms for I am learning how to sail my ship." </p><p style="text-align: center;">Louisa May Alcott </p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>Little Women </i></p><p style="text-align: center;">Knitted dishcloth pattern "There's Snow Place Like Home"</p><p style="text-align: center;">Designed by Rachel van Schie</p><p style="text-align: center;">http://www.knitsbyrachel.com/</p><p style="text-align: center;">Yarn is Dishie from Knit Picks </p><p style="text-align: center;">https://www.knitpicks.com/</p><p style="text-align: center;">Colors: Blush, Dewdrop & Clarity</p><p style="text-align: center;">https://www.knitpicks.com/yarn/dishie-yarn/c/5420207 </p>Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-50980711590009414212020-01-11T19:55:00.002-06:002020-01-11T19:59:18.216-06:00The Beauty of Being Lost<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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These last few weeks have found me getting wondrously lost in my favorite wintery hygge pursuits. While being on break from my classes and work, I have enjoyed more time with family and friends. There was a week of vacation spent with my husband at Christmastime, as well as cozy evenings since then of long talks by candlelight. I've had lunch with my daughter, shopped with my mother and sister, and celebrated the birthday of a special friend in a favorite coffee shop. Too often I have treated myself to pastries and goodies I typically do not eat, but that's<i> hygge</i> after all, and I decided to relax into it, for awhile. </div>
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The house has been filled with the joyous sound of grandchildren laughing, running and living in the magical world of make believe. During the times the house has been quiet, with my only company being the dogs and an aged-calico cat curled up nearby, I have done what I always do on a cold-January day. I put the kettle on, turned on an audiobook and sat down to knit.</div>
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In preparation for these glorious days that I knew would come, I ordered a few different yarns from <a href="https://www.knitpicks.com/" rel="nofollow">Knit Picks </a>that I have never tried before. What better time to try a spattering of wools I've never used than during these snug, snowy days? January is always the time I think of variety when it comes to knitting. I think small in my knitting. As in small projects like mittens or fingerless mitts that are done fairly quickly. That way I can order several individual hanks of different wools. It's like opening a box of chocolates. Each one is a divine treat! </div>
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The first one I have fallen madly and irrevocably in love with is <a href="https://www.knitpicks.com/yarn/provincial-tweed/c/5420322" rel="nofollow">Provincial Tweed</a>. Because wool with delicious little blips of Donegal tweed will always have my heart, I ordered two hanks. The first must-have color shown here is grey with a faint lavender-blue undertone. The little tweed blips (or neps, as they call them) are plum and turmeric. The entire color combination is extremely pleasing. The fiber is soft, soft,<i> soft.</i> As you can see it gives perfect stitch definition to cabling, which is another major love of mine in the world of all things knit.</div>
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<i></i> I also browsed through Knit Picks selection of patterns for fingerless mitts. That's another annual tradition of mine. I look for new patterns for mitts and mittens I've never made before. If they have cables, lacework or colorwork, I'm all in. Winter is the ideal time, when evening darkness is stretched out, and the weather gets up to all manner of things, to settle in with something new on my needles. The pair of fingerless mitts pictured is the gorgeous Knit Picks pattern <a href="https://www.knitpicks.com/trilsean-fingerless-mitts/g/10774220" rel="nofollow">Trilsean</a>. You'll notice that in the mitt on the right I have light orange waste yarn stitched in where the thumb will go. This may seem a bit wonky for those of us who love a beautifully knit thumb gusset. However, follow the directions exactly, which are not difficult, and you will find it quick and easy, both while knitting and when picking stitches back up to create the thumb. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzJmyueg11YVZydh7T9yiuAgKeh351OamyLy5yLUCU79rAY52SJaVnOQVcrmba3HJ0SvJPX1aJr_lHy9z4VSPjEMcJn3eOJ1fYm1FhSQbyWIu0pjiOOxdrSoskQ4YzFfEGyNytzJmldk/s1600/IMG_E9603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1553" data-original-width="1600" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzJmyueg11YVZydh7T9yiuAgKeh351OamyLy5yLUCU79rAY52SJaVnOQVcrmba3HJ0SvJPX1aJr_lHy9z4VSPjEMcJn3eOJ1fYm1FhSQbyWIu0pjiOOxdrSoskQ4YzFfEGyNytzJmldk/s640/IMG_E9603.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Also, remember the cable is not meant to ramble down the center of the hand. It travels next to the thumb, below the index finger. This is what captured my attention while browsing through patterns. One fat cable; simple, yet different. I like it. As a matter of fact, I like it (them) so much that I used the second hank of Provincial Tweed, which I purchased in the color <a href="https://www.knitpicks.com/yarn/provincial-tweed/c/5420322" rel="nofollow">Cream</a>, to make a second pair.</div>
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This colorway has a lovely creamy earthiness to it, while still being liberally sprinkled with that plum and turmeric blip-type stuff I love<i> so much.</i> And the really awesome thing about this yarn? The yardage. With 250 yards in each 100 gram hank, I can make two pairs of fingerless mitts per hank! What can I say Knit Picks? You will always be my first love for all things yarn-y. </div>
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Another really cool thing about this pattern, you can turn the mitts inside out and put them on the opposite hands they were made for. Voila'! You're doing a new thing, Girl! I love it! So much!</div>
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As for the other wools and patterns I have up my sleeve, I'll get there soon. Not in this post because that would be spoiling all of my delightful <a href="https://www.knitpicks.com/" rel="nofollow">Knit Picks</a> knitting surprises I have in store for you. Until then, I hope you are all enjoying some snuggly winter delights of your own making. Remember, it's okay to be lost for awhile. Just relax into it and let it be.</div>
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<i>"I am not lost, for I know where I am. </i></div>
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<i>But however, where I am may be lost."</i></div>
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<i>Winnie-the-Pooh</i></div>
Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-15530575502065361022020-01-01T16:24:00.000-06:002020-01-01T17:10:56.240-06:00Next Year's Words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiER6k4akfq-IPzrhG_lInKhRHdDQcw9ixUqpjSCV2K_DjH9LAZER42GPVBpLAgXMoEHkBcNP6g371tT6EgWix8mNzs8RTNy7ue5GxxF5LGVWZc5ZDoElEPjAcgvtK8EXEtvLL4LPr8iKA/s1600/IMG_E9545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiER6k4akfq-IPzrhG_lInKhRHdDQcw9ixUqpjSCV2K_DjH9LAZER42GPVBpLAgXMoEHkBcNP6g371tT6EgWix8mNzs8RTNy7ue5GxxF5LGVWZc5ZDoElEPjAcgvtK8EXEtvLL4LPr8iKA/s1600/IMG_E9545.JPG" /></a></div>
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With each passing year I love the season of winter more and more. After giving this much thought, I've realized that I find comfort in the gaping bareness of the trees, as they twist and stretch themselves in bleak, cold skies. Rather than causing me to feel lonely or depressed, a briskly cold winter day, filled with misty grayness, clears my mind in a way that nothing else can do. Therefore, I have come to appreciate, and anticipate, this resting dormancy the earth goes through with a quiet gratitude. </div>
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The wide-open spaces of the world around me work synergistically with the gradual decline of days, and I breathe deeply in preparation for the coming year. I enjoy reflecting on the many changes a single twelve-month span has brought into my life. Really it can be quite amazing from one year to the next just how many things, big and small, can change. One of my favorite treasures is always the people God brings into my life. Each individual is a shiny new gift. They add another layer of richness, along with those I have cherished and held in my heart for so long. The mingling of the old with the new is an exquisite thing; in it we are shown there is always more to come.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxZ1BP4C2IJbuy20wAQiY_8Vh1_FmUv4frZBM_GBfOddl3BgSBts82dAKBrSl5SMqr8K4GI-mZyMgm8G0CNGlyJTvhyphenhyphenIBjXldX_yMvUhSArIGl2D-xxlGRTyKXJUZ01BNZzbURFJvyYY/s1600/IMG_E9550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxZ1BP4C2IJbuy20wAQiY_8Vh1_FmUv4frZBM_GBfOddl3BgSBts82dAKBrSl5SMqr8K4GI-mZyMgm8G0CNGlyJTvhyphenhyphenIBjXldX_yMvUhSArIGl2D-xxlGRTyKXJUZ01BNZzbURFJvyYY/s640/IMG_E9550.JPG" title="Parker, New Year's Day 2020, five years old." width="480" /></a></div>
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That's what I love so much about the first day of a new year, it holds out its hand, inviting us to step into 365 days of an unknown future. Some of those days will be challenging, some may be sad, and others could be complicated in ways we won't understand. However, so much of life is what we make it and the bulk of those days can be happy, joyous and extremely fulfilling. The decision lies within us. We must open ourselves to every opportunity of making the air around us alive with love, kindness and compassion for all who come in contact with us. Not only will there be a tangible difference in the atmosphere and the lives we encounter, but our own hearts will benefit greatly. </div>
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If we want to shake off the old year and start afresh, we need to love with a love that knows no bounds. Selfless love always lifts up, supports and believes the best of and for the recipient. Over the last few weeks I've begun to dream occasionally that I am flying. Each dream is somewhat different, as I'm not always in the same place when I suddenly feel myself begin to rise up and float, gently at first. Then, as I begin to fly somewhat faster, the joy I feel is indescribable; it's like nothing I've ever known. A few nights ago Scott appeared in the dream for the first time. I was overjoyed that he finally caught me flying! I looked down and called out to him, "Scott! Look! I'm flying!!!" My dream self was expecting a huge reaction, possibly one of incredulity or fear. Instead my husband looked up at me and said, in his casual way, "I always knew you could fly."</div>
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I hope that 2020 will be the year that finds you loving more deeply, reaching higher for your dreams and resting in personal contentment. I pray you know the love of God in your life and are able to see your fellowman through His eyes. I trust that you'll gain strength to endure the hardships, as you focus on the abundance of blessings in a single day. May it be the year that finds you flying because somebody, even if that somebody is yourself, always knew you could.</div>
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From my heart to yours...</div>
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I wish you a very</div>
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Happy New Year.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcbnW1CFwb7nxm5AMNVC6LfyBQVMF311JnqeTAvgGZ51NVh-L_lgbdZcxSGEENVDAMFgkI5h9-ffJoRElzi5dtKfjiFCMOokKxrqI-8iQU-KCBi4eO75q5PqkK_L8qREytIimM5zVDBg/s1600/IMG_E9548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcbnW1CFwb7nxm5AMNVC6LfyBQVMF311JnqeTAvgGZ51NVh-L_lgbdZcxSGEENVDAMFgkI5h9-ffJoRElzi5dtKfjiFCMOokKxrqI-8iQU-KCBi4eO75q5PqkK_L8qREytIimM5zVDBg/s1600/IMG_E9548.JPG" /></a></div>
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"<i>For last years words belong to last years language</i></div>
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<i>and next year's words await another voice."</i></div>
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<i>T.S. Elliot</i></div>
Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-58575094943666267532019-12-20T17:27:00.002-06:002019-12-20T19:01:04.068-06:00Our Hearts at Christmas<div style="text-align: center;">
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Once again the season of Christmas is upon us, sprinkling the air with unseen particles of magic. The faces of people seem more open and cheerful this time of year. Though there is much to be done, with last-minute shopping and holiday baking, our hearts hold the wonder of all that is about to transpire. We know when the last ribbon's tied, making our final touches complete, those who are dearest will gather from near and far. The gifts they bring will be their joyous laughter and endless love. The spirit of Christmases past will soon entwine with this year's festivities, forming new memories and deeper bonds with all who are precious to us.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif2ggjAZTD-JbTOlsDiTg2rCcpOYNtZmZobVll837AQMg5IphuPPXqZInpRDNCgCnoq2PhnIh-AOmE20M_HPBqmswKJtiB3TpIBESum5d706KqCZGH1BjFLbefoYddcrX-08-pU34uiRI/s1600/GUJCE3692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1599" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif2ggjAZTD-JbTOlsDiTg2rCcpOYNtZmZobVll837AQMg5IphuPPXqZInpRDNCgCnoq2PhnIh-AOmE20M_HPBqmswKJtiB3TpIBESum5d706KqCZGH1BjFLbefoYddcrX-08-pU34uiRI/s640/GUJCE3692.JPG" width="639" /></a>Invite them home in elegant style by sending a personalized card from <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/" rel="nofollow">Paperless Post</a>. In just minutes your entire guest list will receive a lovely invitation via email with an option to respond, like the <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/christmas_invitations?card=7772" rel="nofollow">"Branches de Houx"</a>, with accompanying envelope, I chose for my Christmas Eve gathering. It saves you time, as well as money for cards and postage, and there's no extra running around in cold weather. There's also the added benefit of the paperless aspect being an environmentally conscious choice. Most of us love the ease of communicating through email and getting something festive is always fun. Also, this allows us to know immediately who is able to attend, as they send back their replies.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbdcEmNfCs0sRsOHxYsiaYklbXFo0yR6eI2FcUiHM8XmUcvgFanAfldfwpoZH4BTqE9UN3dkStmwZKQS8a0v4lIeJpE3m3nQVSu2RltlY6AhlFxv4fkXpqRMGvjXa3dDto5zJuiVoLuRg/s1600/HLOPE7761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbdcEmNfCs0sRsOHxYsiaYklbXFo0yR6eI2FcUiHM8XmUcvgFanAfldfwpoZH4BTqE9UN3dkStmwZKQS8a0v4lIeJpE3m3nQVSu2RltlY6AhlFxv4fkXpqRMGvjXa3dDto5zJuiVoLuRg/s640/HLOPE7761.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Maybe you're like me and still need to send some <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/christmas-cards" rel="nofollow">Christmas cards</a>. Paperless Post has literally hundreds of fabulous options to help you send your love and warmest wishes in mere moments. Let those who touch your life in so many ways know, during this season which reminds all souls what matters most, that you count them among your greatest blessings. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomAhqqlheiAmwj1mDIUPi4Mu3A-ctj49Ohbr9Xwgerwd9s6J8xdv0wJYxP3S5ILNpbRxmIuWusMtGLBbANPntXUM-m-4VpFxphz80nYPqG84J0h8xtj6YUYFhAMzNdP0dM87d-WFUb5o/s1600/DSC_0191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomAhqqlheiAmwj1mDIUPi4Mu3A-ctj49Ohbr9Xwgerwd9s6J8xdv0wJYxP3S5ILNpbRxmIuWusMtGLBbANPntXUM-m-4VpFxphz80nYPqG84J0h8xtj6YUYFhAMzNdP0dM87d-WFUb5o/s640/DSC_0191.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Wherever this holiday season finds you, I hope you are wrapped in the warmth and happiness of those who hold you most dear. May you see out the final days of this year being the recipient of true joy and lovingkindness; so you can carry these gifts into the new year and pass them on to all you meet. If each one of us would keep a measure of what resides in our hearts at Christmastime, the world would be a kinder, gentler place the whole year round. </div>
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Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas.</div>
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"Nearer and closer to our hearts be the Christmas spirit,</div>
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which is the spirit of active usefulness, perseverance, </div>
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cheerful discharge of duty, kindness, and forbearance!"</div>
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Charles Dickens</div>
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"What Christmas Is, As We Grow Older"</div>
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<span style="font-family: "quot";"><b><i> *This post is kindly sponsored by <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #fa4b68; font-weight: normal; max-width: 100%; text-decoration: none;">Paperless Post</a></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "quot";"><b><i> All sentiments and selections are my own.</i></b><b><i>*</i></b></span></div>
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Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-47809769292763275742019-10-27T20:09:00.000-05:002019-10-27T20:29:03.142-05:00The Quest for Inspiration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I went into this weekend knowing that I would spend Saturday morning working on finishing an essay that I needed to write for one of the classes I'm taking this semester. I had already chosen my topic, selected my sources, done the bulk of my research, and handwritten (something I don't typically do) a sketchy rough draft. So, I was <b>prepared</b>. </div>
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Then Saturday morning arrived and it hit me. I had that deep-down feeling of being <i>restless.</i> I couldn't focus as I sat down shifting papers around and opening tabs on my laptop. I tried various things like moving around the house, letting dogs in and out, applying my make-up, and very nearly overdosing myself on caffeine. It finally occurred to me that I was suffering from that dreaded condition known as <b><i>writer's block (eek!).</i></b></div>
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An interesting side note on this is that I worked with several students this past week who told me they were struggling with this same issue. They lacked inspiration, knew what they wanted to say but couldn't put it into words, and so on. I doled out all sorts of little tips and tricks that I use to get myself over the hump. I saw light bulbs come on in their eyes as they happily began jotting notes or rearranging sentences on the computer. All of that went right out the window the moment I sat staring at a blinking cursor on my own computer. </div>
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Usually I press on. However, I decided to do things differently by taking a fresh approach on Saturday. I put that essay on the back burner and looked for something else to inspire my creativity. Snatching up my crochet hooks and a couple of different skeins of alpaca, I <i>relaxed</i> with some crocheting. At first it was difficult to force myself not to obsess over a writing deadline (blah, blah, blah...), and being conscientious about my time, but I began to realize that it was exactly what I needed. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4u7Qu4C0WUCVp6ZNundSwbHINTBCCOScH4IVZG5UWekkWYgZ73UcZlwT8KzNJKfqk-h7tQKxNEuyTNxtSpPvIPo47WJyKRiVxXdUDN_g02uCKJMsWZX4MAcFFXbmbIGlqNaFJGPVE04/s1600/DSC_0176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4u7Qu4C0WUCVp6ZNundSwbHINTBCCOScH4IVZG5UWekkWYgZ73UcZlwT8KzNJKfqk-h7tQKxNEuyTNxtSpPvIPo47WJyKRiVxXdUDN_g02uCKJMsWZX4MAcFFXbmbIGlqNaFJGPVE04/s640/DSC_0176.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Instead of going back to writing, I spent the entire day, which was a rainy one, trailing that crochet work everywhere I went. It traveled from room-to-room with me. When we went on a few errands in the afternoon I snatched it up and kept it running through my fingers, while riding in the passenger seat. As I enjoyed my day of working with luxurious fiber, my mind not only relaxed but it returned to its creative center. <i>Aha! </i>It was a day off and yet it wasn't. </div>
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Today dawned bright, beautiful, clear, and fresh from all of yesterday's rain. My mind had also been cleared, put in order and once again inspired. I arose knowing what direction to take. Not only was I able to tackle that essay, finally wrapping it up, but I awoke to a finished crochet project and another one well on its way. Something valuable was learned yesterday; when my creativity hits a brick wall I need to shift my focus to other things that inspire me. It really is just that simple.</div>
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These are just a few of the things that inspire me:</div>
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<ul>
<li>knitting</li>
<li>crocheting</li>
<li>love</li>
<li>family</li>
<li>reading</li>
<li>writing</li>
<li>observing nature</li>
<li>people</li>
<li>animals</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqnV1R9mnezTwgK4vwOYOLKJ_hYcGScp5UfutaRDRPMTNoZk8wnRD079nqmVcoAUx1GIYY8UJXKPLiYEguLuoSR_0TFqrgBpKQsCHfgcJ6_D1VIEPupUJ3eTO78cHA2t4Xllct6MhAfo/s1600/DSC_0173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqnV1R9mnezTwgK4vwOYOLKJ_hYcGScp5UfutaRDRPMTNoZk8wnRD079nqmVcoAUx1GIYY8UJXKPLiYEguLuoSR_0TFqrgBpKQsCHfgcJ6_D1VIEPupUJ3eTO78cHA2t4Xllct6MhAfo/s1600/DSC_0173.JPG" /></a></div>
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What inspires you?</div>
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What helps your creativity flow? </div>
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What causes you to relax?</div>
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What keeps you in the pursuit of being <i style="font-weight: bold;">you</i>?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFlrnMGTvNc50gZi4SpY_42MsQ6-Rv85uXfZpXTocSVTszs6TwJDrKEk61oTq4VnQws1YaWf5AfQX35Vb0oKVYFrkXodS8MOR_zM79QkfIDiJC1JX32w2KIwovcro52p5G78e0YtBOLNQ/s1600/DSC_0178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFlrnMGTvNc50gZi4SpY_42MsQ6-Rv85uXfZpXTocSVTszs6TwJDrKEk61oTq4VnQws1YaWf5AfQX35Vb0oKVYFrkXodS8MOR_zM79QkfIDiJC1JX32w2KIwovcro52p5G78e0YtBOLNQ/s1600/DSC_0178.JPG" /></a></div>
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"Put your ear down close to your soul and listen hard."</div>
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Anne Sexton</div>
Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-19699101026189290562019-09-28T13:15:00.000-05:002019-09-29T18:19:22.074-05:00Falling In Love With Fall<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdrdmH6PncadDvk1EI-Z4Ee84yim7M4HzIqFAE5S5rKPqAzG5BhKlWYCuo4xuLK3kdue6fUoZ_eMoXx2R_l0MvWDh7XZpOxYUyZvsbC4nQ9at6AMZ6ROaEEe5flTREINOwmBCBZVfH3Tg/s1600/DSC_E0133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdrdmH6PncadDvk1EI-Z4Ee84yim7M4HzIqFAE5S5rKPqAzG5BhKlWYCuo4xuLK3kdue6fUoZ_eMoXx2R_l0MvWDh7XZpOxYUyZvsbC4nQ9at6AMZ6ROaEEe5flTREINOwmBCBZVfH3Tg/s1600/DSC_E0133.JPG" title="Knitted pumpkins. Danette Bartelmay. Front Porch Knits" /></a></div>
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When speaking of the seasons, the word<i> Fall</i> instantly conjures a whole host of colors, smells, tastes, and memories for most of us. As we step into cooler days and crisper evenings, the thrill of anticipation begins to stimulate our senses. Soon the world around us will be transformed into breathtaking-burnished hues. We'll inhale that mystical aroma that's part smokiness, part leafiness, and somehow, part faded sunshine. Before we realize it, we'll find ourselves falling in love with<i> Fall</i> all over again.<br />
There will be hayrack rides, fields of pumpkins begging to be picked, and blissful walks amidst a carpet of crunching leaves. We'll also find ourselves returning to all of our fun Fall activities that need a bit of planning. As we snuggle into our favorite sweater, and sip our beloved pumpkin-spice latte, we can let our friends at <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/" rel="nofollow">Paperless Post</a> help us make all of our gatherings easier than ever before.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEiN1jqlJnD_RRB-YaeK__rHPng27MDYasXIiCS36F6IGZNgtJ1Boz6uZfEZLDf-CAy_HJt30XtvCIqe6JoOUhR6PcoA6Qd35wag3lzMys5mbZSoSSVJgfUZrJB307LPLdLA0uMCmc7Q/s1600/DQRN6164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/halloween-invitations?card=36031" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEiN1jqlJnD_RRB-YaeK__rHPng27MDYasXIiCS36F6IGZNgtJ1Boz6uZfEZLDf-CAy_HJt30XtvCIqe6JoOUhR6PcoA6Qd35wag3lzMys5mbZSoSSVJgfUZrJB307LPLdLA0uMCmc7Q/s1600/DQRN6164.JPG" title="/www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/halloween-invitations?card=36031" /></a></div>
Maybe you want to host a pumpkin-carving contest in your home, so that everyone's porch will be lit up for the big night of little one's tromping through the leaf-strewn sidewalks in search of candy. Paperless Post makes it fun and easy with options like this sweet <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/halloween-invitations?card=36031" rel="nofollow">Little Pumpkin </a>Card. By creating your own account, you will be able to choose from a variety of cards, envelopes and liners. Then you get to customize your selections with different fonts, colors, and fun postage stamps. The really awesome part is that it's all done online! Not only does this save you time and money, but it is absolutely wonderful for the environment.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqA6NkxASIye3Basx9lDCkgN4vhnMkO9DKgzw7nZObsjFi5RlciZ9ByOPxcV1gVA-u6cnbkUdRgOaw1y2xNiaUSkaNmOn8QVH0zsneUA4hKZ3uJfK2TbSN0IdXWc_sUJgjXS7dm9gmD1Q/s1600/IMG_E8948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/halloween-invitations?card=7777" border="0" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="1119" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqA6NkxASIye3Basx9lDCkgN4vhnMkO9DKgzw7nZObsjFi5RlciZ9ByOPxcV1gVA-u6cnbkUdRgOaw1y2xNiaUSkaNmOn8QVH0zsneUA4hKZ3uJfK2TbSN0IdXWc_sUJgjXS7dm9gmD1Q/s640/IMG_E8948.JPG" title="www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/halloween-invitations?card=7777" width="635" /></a></div>
You might choose to kick off the season with a simple reunion of friends and family. Let Paperless Post help you bring them together for a Fall Fete with this gorgeous <a href="http://www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/halloween-invitations?card=7777" rel="nofollow">Owl </a>invitation. All it takes is a fun-filled hour or so spent online creating your personalized invitation. You'll send it to everyone via their e-mail and never have to leave the cozy comfort of your own home!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZFani_kuvFfsHs8jlkWOWyUJGNsPyLTrNuvL7NemYVS8G0Yq_9p-6BguohfD1HjsIOytwDJe4KpYzkZEQYmriZrrK9fCDcwaFFHMh-PzqAkzYPAN_E28xzKCbaMeNneluxINUbLyYLw/s1600/IMG_E8970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1384" data-original-width="1001" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZFani_kuvFfsHs8jlkWOWyUJGNsPyLTrNuvL7NemYVS8G0Yq_9p-6BguohfD1HjsIOytwDJe4KpYzkZEQYmriZrrK9fCDcwaFFHMh-PzqAkzYPAN_E28xzKCbaMeNneluxINUbLyYLw/s640/IMG_E8970.JPG" title="/www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/halloween-invitations?card=7619" width="462" /></a></div>
You might wish to go all out with festive goodies to eat, delicious apple cider to drink, spooky décor, and a full-blown costume party. All you have to do is exchange your own personal details on this <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/cards/category/halloween-invitations?card=7619&page=1&tab=cards" rel="nofollow">Halloween Party </a>invitation and send them off to everyone on your ghoulish guestlist. Although, I have to admit, if I were able to take a ghostly step back in time, I might like to join Mary and Percy Shelley at the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Villa_Diodati" rel="nofollow">Villa Diodati</a>. (Some of you know how I love<i> <a href="https://www.rosepetaltea.com/2019/08/in-midst-of-greatness.html">Frankenstein</a></i> by Mary Shelley!).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXD2vmo2VcLJm2xHDY4oNAL8wY6DBbCvfyY64lsLnqkzJnbawIeLohZ_Qnr7P0_5ZKxpeG7xoQXt0CpaqOBSBhj_U-UjXQUhg4m0vklHsLVCOKV9nZ4vtI4jEFJHLxxI6vojDDB8QscI/s1600/FHBC5459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1599" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXD2vmo2VcLJm2xHDY4oNAL8wY6DBbCvfyY64lsLnqkzJnbawIeLohZ_Qnr7P0_5ZKxpeG7xoQXt0CpaqOBSBhj_U-UjXQUhg4m0vklHsLVCOKV9nZ4vtI4jEFJHLxxI6vojDDB8QscI/s1600/FHBC5459.JPG" title="Dogwood in the rain. Danette Bartelmay" /></a></div>
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However you choose to celebrate this glorious season when the sun shines more softly, the air grows misty, and the leaves swirl in magnificent abundance, let <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/" rel="nofollow">Paperless Post</a> make sending invitations part of the fun.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgql8J547YobFa3BJLXZnY6S7ifiK5w0xeik-q2WyH1JNbpTgQkLVRqwdaE9qZma5k56tEGEFPvrlVFT0OCpSVwDky_0icnuThvnyVWSiOp0PXLFXdfF-XXk8ySm3v31G_iq2bMA3p7ZEw/s1600/DSC_E0147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="835" data-original-width="1557" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgql8J547YobFa3BJLXZnY6S7ifiK5w0xeik-q2WyH1JNbpTgQkLVRqwdaE9qZma5k56tEGEFPvrlVFT0OCpSVwDky_0icnuThvnyVWSiOp0PXLFXdfF-XXk8ySm3v31G_iq2bMA3p7ZEw/s1600/DSC_E0147.JPG" title="Knitted pumpkin. Danette Bartelmay. Front Porch Knits" /></a> </div>
"And the sun took a step back,<br />
the leaves lulled themselves to sleep<br />
and Autumn was awakened. "<br />
Raquel Franco<br />
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<span style="font-family: "quot";"><b><i>*This post is kindly sponsored by <a href="https://www.paperlesspost.com/" rel="nofollow">Paperless Post</a></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "quot";"><b><i> All sentiments and selections are my own.</i></b><b><i>*</i></b></span></div>
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Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-69399561607244617832019-08-01T21:57:00.000-05:002019-08-08T19:31:23.311-05:00In the Midst of Greatness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYK9V8sF6ajASyPxy_Drnf2nFD4GBJ0uIwq8zhIm8NFjomlRQmaLuvKC1DI1NfWSUQ4MV3jFAuiuVpLsurnW-xFgyt1598Zj_oel3sd_JVJ2c8w6OEFj5noYZtogIUMJcbM_votk_VB0/s1600/DSC_0127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYK9V8sF6ajASyPxy_Drnf2nFD4GBJ0uIwq8zhIm8NFjomlRQmaLuvKC1DI1NfWSUQ4MV3jFAuiuVpLsurnW-xFgyt1598Zj_oel3sd_JVJ2c8w6OEFj5noYZtogIUMJcbM_votk_VB0/s1600/DSC_0127.JPG" /></a></div>
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As August arrives, ushered in by the age-old love song of cicadas, I feel myself emerging from a dreamlike world. The golden summer sun sets ever-so-softer and sooner than it did mere moments ago, or so it seems to me. Only yesterday it was early June when I began summer classes and stepped into the pages of fabulous books, causing the world to dim around the edges, as I found myself in the midst of greatness.</div>
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My days were spent with dead poets, writers, dancers, artists, and men and women who fought to make our world and our nation a better place. I read non-stop, well into the wee hours. Oftentimes reading books I would not have chosen to read and yet I enjoyed every book I read. A particular favorite was<i> Frankenstein: The 1818 Text</i> by Mary Shelley. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjno3Kn1qXOqUkPNDq3kq8u2UTQ5o5A9SW4GOKsOw9EO-EY-KKRvnS7u82iTg8yuJ0fSUwVGHYO-xdpIyjAsYWGmiksLTKqOEPbLB5UCy4qn8WjQipaUsGl9E3Bo-WQbaCPhqhvrtn5PPs/s1600/IMG_E8137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="729" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjno3Kn1qXOqUkPNDq3kq8u2UTQ5o5A9SW4GOKsOw9EO-EY-KKRvnS7u82iTg8yuJ0fSUwVGHYO-xdpIyjAsYWGmiksLTKqOEPbLB5UCy4qn8WjQipaUsGl9E3Bo-WQbaCPhqhvrtn5PPs/s1600/IMG_E8137.JPG" /></a></div>
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The language is beautiful, lyrical and almost poetic. It offers exquisite details of landscapes throughout the story. Mary Shelley wrote this classic when she was only eighteen years old. Within its pages are the opportunity for deep moral contemplation on several levels. For those who love works written in the romantic style I highly recommend it, especially in this version so you get the back story. I loved it so much that I chose to write a long essay about it for one of my classes.</div>
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When I wasn't reading, and reading some more, I was writing essays. Lots and lots of essays. I discovered that I have the ability to dissect and critique a book and all of its characters down to the final word and to within a hair's breadth of their fictional lives. I also really enjoyed researching and learning as much as I could about all of the real people that I wrote about.</div>
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I know quite a bit more about Ernest Hemingway than I did before and I learned so much about Picasso, Martha Graham, Virginia Woolf, Grace Hartigan, and Betty Friedan, just to name a few. Although summer classes ended, on a very high note for me, on July 25, the voices of these remarkable people still whisper to me all night long. I cannot lay them to rest just yet. I'm still conversing with them and telling their stories the minute I fall asleep every night. </div>
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Maybe they will slowly, gradually fade into the background as the Fall semester starts for me. Unbelievably that's just around the corner on August 19. I have a feeling some of them will linger on with me for some time yet. Especially because I may embark on another new adventure soon that will, most likely, involve a few of them.</div>
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One of my professor's sent me an email during my summer classes and asked if I would be interested in working as a Writing Consultant in the Writing Studio at the Illinois Central College East Peoria campus. I decided I would very much like to do that. So, while I continue to take classes, I will, hopefully, work a few hours a week helping other students with their writing. The professor sent an email of recommendation and I was already contacted by the director. I have a couple of days of training to attend next week. I'm pretty excited to be given this opportunity.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCDEHvy0JXuTdej5FJyax899vCSzivVT5n0FYkXkdRFyHxEgCVx2QO4ZYqNS2QX0nThcV66NCpuef83KfUzOS6eSSfC4inogm2mzhJhA-B3i5FuS0lNL42XPFRllP-I9-oGV1if62bW1w/s1600/DSC_0129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCDEHvy0JXuTdej5FJyax899vCSzivVT5n0FYkXkdRFyHxEgCVx2QO4ZYqNS2QX0nThcV66NCpuef83KfUzOS6eSSfC4inogm2mzhJhA-B3i5FuS0lNL42XPFRllP-I9-oGV1if62bW1w/s1600/DSC_0129.JPG" /></a></div>
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Though I have an odd sense of summer having somewhat passed me by, like it's been all around me, and yet slightly out of focus and just beyond my reach, I wouldn't change a thing. My typical, languid days, usually spent knitting on my front porch, found me with a book in hand or a computer on my lap on that same swing instead. It was an adjustment, especially in the beginning. But I got the hang of it. I have always loved to read and write; so total immersion was pure ecstasy. As far as knitting goes, I do have a finished shawl that needs blocking. I'll tell the specter's who whisper in my mind to hush for a time so I can block it and possibly capture a beautiful daughter in a field of wildflowers soon for a photo shoot. Although I won't be surprised if we see a faint shadow of the late, great artist, Grace Hartigan, standing in the background painting a picture, because she refuses to be silenced.</div>
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"A work of art is the trace of a magnificent struggle."</div>
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Grace Hartigan</div>
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(1922-2008)</div>
Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-1974283988502821982019-06-27T21:10:00.001-05:002019-06-28T10:31:53.486-05:00In the Presence of Angels<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5eIEGGsr_K-np4rkCg07rbapK3dSicVLTtJlYn7ELUN24X9C50mJ9Py0yX2dcDwtsSb8cVOjvjUczAeJbliPuovM-vamc6LT9BKHs9gkGozQIGmyCSq-qcPllY43IwRy3n2DeD35Look/s1600/DSC_E0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5eIEGGsr_K-np4rkCg07rbapK3dSicVLTtJlYn7ELUN24X9C50mJ9Py0yX2dcDwtsSb8cVOjvjUczAeJbliPuovM-vamc6LT9BKHs9gkGozQIGmyCSq-qcPllY43IwRy3n2DeD35Look/s1600/DSC_E0034.JPG" /></a> Spring seems to have danced right on by. </div>
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I've found myself at the end of June and halfway through my summer classes. </div>
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I have loved being a college student again after all of these years.</div>
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It has certainly kept me occupied.</div>
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Most of my time is spent reading and writing papers.</div>
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Thankfully, those are two of my favorite pursuits.</div>
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Another thing I enjoy immensely is the ballet,</div>
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especially when my granddaughter is performing.</div>
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Last weekend Gabby danced in Ballet Under the Stars. </div>
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This was <a href="https://peoriaballet.com/academy/">Peoria Ballet's</a> first time to offer this free production</div>
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at the Glen Oak Park. </div>
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It was spectacular.</div>
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The first photo shows her dancing a number from the ballet<i> Giselle</i>. </div>
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The evening was quite warm, </div>
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which caused Gabby's cheeks to take on the same beautiful rosy pink as her tutu.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFDmDfFe6CNIEqtP74qffu4LAvQPQpIFysi5am_Zl84VjBd6yBLlCzXKePzYsh_EI7edZz8d9_tmEkrSpDXhXGxgclFoUY6lhTSgOriKiKosPUNK3AJzvBjkMR4_cLl_KPsSJTLcH69Yw/s1600/DSC_0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFDmDfFe6CNIEqtP74qffu4LAvQPQpIFysi5am_Zl84VjBd6yBLlCzXKePzYsh_EI7edZz8d9_tmEkrSpDXhXGxgclFoUY6lhTSgOriKiKosPUNK3AJzvBjkMR4_cLl_KPsSJTLcH69Yw/s1600/DSC_0059.JPG" /></a></div>
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At one point, I caught Gabby in midair.</div>
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She looks as though she's in flight in this photo. </div>
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That's one of my favorite things about dance.</div>
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I love the way the body moves and sets the spirit within free. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDXVIE8EF2uh0EcBfgKsmm4V-Y61bRUFApKroghAd6wdxHP9cKVLN8aSHzguCIuzVoJMHfOF5U4EVdrN2GjfWshpKwshyvzC-gQ0H1ILQG8x-MQHFuybtPYXrFiZB_udzs380xiWWAGbM/s1600/DSC_0094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDXVIE8EF2uh0EcBfgKsmm4V-Y61bRUFApKroghAd6wdxHP9cKVLN8aSHzguCIuzVoJMHfOF5U4EVdrN2GjfWshpKwshyvzC-gQ0H1ILQG8x-MQHFuybtPYXrFiZB_udzs380xiWWAGbM/s1600/DSC_0094.JPG" /></a></div>
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The expression that is sometimes caught</div>
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on a dancer's face in a single moment can</div>
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move an audience to great depths of feeling. </div>
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I love it when I see them working the stage with all of their passion. </div>
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The art of dance is really in a world all its own. </div>
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It brings the inner beauty of the dancer's soul </div>
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out for us mere mortals to experience.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw4qXpTHfMkNpHPCsuBb0Fs4sszA5MfPmXPIDgSPD6eQdpnTIJM0oQU0ZqtSkmw29RbnrEIKY6PPEMJM5axE86Ev89_ZGMSyelFocILYwPVi-_D_oJp_bdomEKmoHTJYzn-VFdB4xeReI/s1600/DSC_0083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw4qXpTHfMkNpHPCsuBb0Fs4sszA5MfPmXPIDgSPD6eQdpnTIJM0oQU0ZqtSkmw29RbnrEIKY6PPEMJM5axE86Ev89_ZGMSyelFocILYwPVi-_D_oJp_bdomEKmoHTJYzn-VFdB4xeReI/s1600/DSC_0083.JPG" /></a></div>
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At the end of it all, we glide softly back to earth. </div>
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Though particles of the celestial cling to us as we go.</div>
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For no one is ever truly the same after an hour or so </div>
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spent in the presence of angels.</div>
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"Dance is another way of putting things. </div>
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If it could be said in words, it would be;</div>
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but outside of words,</div>
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outside of painting, outside of sculpture, </div>
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<i>inside</i> the body is an interior landscape </div>
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which is revealed in movement."</div>
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<a href="http://www.marthagraham.org/">Martha Graham</a></div>
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(1894-1991)</div>
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<span style="font-family: "nobile";"><b><i> *This post is kindly sponsored by</i></b></span><span style="font-family: "nobile";"><b><i> <a href="http://www.paperlesspost.com/">Paperless Post</a></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "nobile";"> <b><i> All sentiments and selections and events are my own.</i></b><b><i>*</i></b></span><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
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Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-42771991182205390702019-04-27T17:24:00.000-05:002019-04-28T13:20:27.201-05:00In The Secret Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuP9zOS4D3mn_otBrn450rhyoT1oVog_RNZkRZ9hZxnzUX5k2dnb3vzuW9C4DGn0Jy7nL7TnnRm9BdgC4A2cRVqYl5D1YqeMMkXVI-zNuhwwP7gQ35HvQAvyj7Yu0S1xjlagdo3Iy_iV4/s1600/IMG_E7634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1227" data-original-width="977" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuP9zOS4D3mn_otBrn450rhyoT1oVog_RNZkRZ9hZxnzUX5k2dnb3vzuW9C4DGn0Jy7nL7TnnRm9BdgC4A2cRVqYl5D1YqeMMkXVI-zNuhwwP7gQ35HvQAvyj7Yu0S1xjlagdo3Iy_iV4/s1600/IMG_E7634.JPG" title="https://aliciapaulson.com/products/blackberries-and-heather-bells-embroidery-kit" /></a></div>
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Long ago, there was a young girl, who being drawn to beautiful colored threads, took up stitching. Her first attempts, made in her early teens, were simple embroidery. She found this to be a very soothing and satisfying way to spend an occasional winter evening or summer afternoon. </div>
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As time went on, she advanced to more intricate types of needlework such as <a href="https://www.crewelwork.com/">crewel work</a>, <a href="https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/swedish-huck-embroidery-4114621">Swedish huck embroidery</a> and <a href="https://www.everythingcrossstitch.com/rose-cuttings-mrp-p5688.aspx?k2=c279">counted cross stitch</a>. Her love for the feel of the soft, satiny fibers gliding through her fingers grew with each passing year. She was delighted by the delicacy of the stitches and the beauty of the colors combined. Her mind was filled with ideas for lovely things waiting to be made.</div>
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Although she taught herself to do the simple embroidery of the early days, as well as the crewel embroidery, others picked up the thread from there. The connections she made with those who taught her along the way was one of the most wonderful aspects of the journey, as she continued to ply her needle. Friendships were being formed and relationships became deepened.</div>
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When the girl was grown, but only<i> just,</i> she worked in a salon. Virginia, a lovely older lady, came to her every Thursday to get her hair styled. Sharing a love of needlework, she began to instruct her in the fascinating art of Swedish huck embroidery, or huck weaving. Once again, she was thrilled to learn something new. </div>
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In that same salon, the girl learned to crochet from another special woman named Lois. With list in hand, she purchased supplies and took to the new form of needlework like she had been born to do it all along. She crocheted feverishly whenever time allowed. </div>
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Soon after, the young girl got married. When her new husband had to work in the evenings, her dear mother-in-law decided she should spend one evening a week with her learning to do counted cross stitch. This phenomenal lady, an artist with threads and paints, took the young bride under her tutelage and schooled her in the art of beautiful stitchery on fine linen. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-M2g7Pp50yAZ0D-wRKOGLVEpyDsdFf3PcZvWPQGjQzJw-XmAtjhfNyATDWpAOYW6tT5-qhWfyuyyc1-iNY1vu70yaCc04BXzw04xA_Pj_AcNFZkmEJalvHe1AsHc7xgBodcgMJ3DXS4s/s1600/IMG_E7636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-M2g7Pp50yAZ0D-wRKOGLVEpyDsdFf3PcZvWPQGjQzJw-XmAtjhfNyATDWpAOYW6tT5-qhWfyuyyc1-iNY1vu70yaCc04BXzw04xA_Pj_AcNFZkmEJalvHe1AsHc7xgBodcgMJ3DXS4s/s1600/IMG_E7636.JPG" /></a>In the early days of motherhood, the young woman took up her knitting needles for the first time. She paid for some classes at a local yarn shop and thus began a lifelong passion. As the years went by she continued to crochet and, for a time, she did a bit of embroidery, but not often. Knitting had become her one true love in fiber art, with crochet running a close second. Through all of the many things that took place as her children grew and life took its twists and turns, her deep love for knitting grew like a well-nurtured garden. She knew that nothing would ever pluck it out of her soul, for it was well rooted deep within.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkTK6AkyDu1RSBqF4-VrkxSd13ihSSRq_cX-WDe8T5sBV7_4jWVYujsIzw9E9Z37KG-SshenvSfCnXQ0z5ImqdOeH0CQjboA_n5gUZHd5ryHtKk6nucc7Z3dLi6nOrKayGaO9Aq5bl1M/s1600/IMG_E7640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1228" data-original-width="1242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkTK6AkyDu1RSBqF4-VrkxSd13ihSSRq_cX-WDe8T5sBV7_4jWVYujsIzw9E9Z37KG-SshenvSfCnXQ0z5ImqdOeH0CQjboA_n5gUZHd5ryHtKk6nucc7Z3dLi6nOrKayGaO9Aq5bl1M/s1600/IMG_E7640.JPG" /></a></div>
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She also knew that long before there was knitting or crocheting, and before she ever threaded a needle with a delicate strand of embroidery floss, there was something else planted in the secret garden of her heart. It was the constant, unseen thread woven through the tapestry of her life. Her love for<i> words.</i> Not remembering a time before that love, she assumed she had been born with it mixed in the soil of her DNA.</div>
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By the time she was in grade school her love for words and books came out on paper in stories from her own imagination. There were diaries and journals scribbled across and filled over the years. Her pen flowed with poetry that her mind couldn't shut off once she entered her early teenage years. </div>
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In her late twenties, she started college in pursuit of a nursing career. After accumulating most of her college credits for an Associates Degree, she changed her mind and dropped out of school. Life continued and she happily did many other things. As she developed her knitting skills, she continued to write. She embraced the new thing called a blog when it first entered the scene. She was elated to have a creative outlet for her writing and loved connecting with other fiber artists and people around the world.</div>
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In the fullness of time, that wild, nearly abandoned jumble of hopes and dreams began to take root, flourish, and bloom within the center of the garden of her life once again. For a minute, maybe even two, she feared that the girl was now too<i> old</i> to accomplish those long ago desires and turn them into actual goals. Then she lifted her face to the sun and decided to grow in a new direction. </div>
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Although the coming of June 2019 would find her in her mid-fifties, she would be starting that same month by going back to school to finish off her degree. First, she would work to get an Associates Degree in Arts with an emphasis on English. Then she would move onto obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in English.</div>
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She could finally feel herself coming full circle. She had found the key to unlocking the next door and was excited, if a bit nervous, to step through it. For she believed there was a beautiful garden waiting on the other side. Even if it was going to take time to prune, water, feed and nurture it. It would grow in the way it was meant to. She had faith. She knew she was on the right path this time.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQUTNr73bzOUryv0dTXkrl4ek7mHwUnwnuBneAKrvbPqW5ARNplXrtK9g69zI-ogcpSVW8jDhqU1MuYWBnCqQPsZihpZ2qZ5iBCLYK8TN-9sgc_ItdB-xo-3qm4bvzlSd14nW3FLZ3p8/s1600/RQUXE1916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1532" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQUTNr73bzOUryv0dTXkrl4ek7mHwUnwnuBneAKrvbPqW5ARNplXrtK9g69zI-ogcpSVW8jDhqU1MuYWBnCqQPsZihpZ2qZ5iBCLYK8TN-9sgc_ItdB-xo-3qm4bvzlSd14nW3FLZ3p8/s1600/RQUXE1916.JPG" /></a></div>
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"At first people refuse to believe that a strange new thing can be done,</div>
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then they begin to hope it can be done,</div>
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then they see it can be done -</div>
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then it is done and all the world wonders </div>
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why it was not done centuries ago."</div>
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Frances Hodson Burnett</div>
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"The Secret Garden"</div>
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<b><i>*Special Note - For those interested in the beautiful embroidery kit shown in the photos, you can purchase it, while supplies last, from the very talented Alicia Paulson, author of the much-loved blog, *Posie Gets Cozy"</i></b><b><i>* </i></b></div>
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<a href="https://www.posiegetscozy.com/embroidery/">Blackberries & Heather - Bells</a></div>
Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-49017541743652464542019-04-24T09:27:00.000-05:002019-04-28T10:42:43.295-05:00Far Better Things Ahead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhknjbCykM_QMgAiQfTcZ5jq8Ew9kcKyySWZ5UL5f-bQb4BqkKbHLj6JBjir1ICjyd8gKEZoeoAVIKKxti3iigt8PRIZ75h3xx0czSQ-hXt9jCj63ANecr-6D5QmBnnK7siD6I9veHUez4/s1600/IMG_E7585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhknjbCykM_QMgAiQfTcZ5jq8Ew9kcKyySWZ5UL5f-bQb4BqkKbHLj6JBjir1ICjyd8gKEZoeoAVIKKxti3iigt8PRIZ75h3xx0czSQ-hXt9jCj63ANecr-6D5QmBnnK7siD6I9veHUez4/s1600/IMG_E7585.JPG" /></a></div>
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The budding of each glorious spring always brings the hope and promise of a fresh beginning. It allows us to shake off the old and step into the new. As we breathe in its daily transformation, our hearts become joyful as our spirits grow lighter. Spring brings us many causes to celebrate. It offers us Easter, Mother's Day, weddings, birthdays, and graduation ceremonies. What's not to love about this season that gives rise to new growth and the wonder of things to come?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKhvhRMqECBpzRo9c5-nS8i2OV3GOsMeHYSQ69KIPcMr8LyWXLkzRRTSeQkZngxIFdqzIPa7UId17Za1HNbd9herQ7KE_FGX7ljyPJ9zho8BU-ju0nXAkH6Q6bF135uv6sgwKVMajmYgg/s1600/DDAHE8221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKhvhRMqECBpzRo9c5-nS8i2OV3GOsMeHYSQ69KIPcMr8LyWXLkzRRTSeQkZngxIFdqzIPa7UId17Za1HNbd9herQ7KE_FGX7ljyPJ9zho8BU-ju0nXAkH6Q6bF135uv6sgwKVMajmYgg/s1600/DDAHE8221.JPG" title="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/long-floral-print-high-low-party-dress-ep07383.html" /></a></div>
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If this is the springtime that finds you preparing to graduate, let Ever-Pretty help you choose the perfect <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/dresses/graduation-dresses.html">graduation dress</a>. They have many beautiful styles to offer. This long, floral print dress with its graceful high low hemline is a lovely choice for an outdoor ceremony. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWkuuzoVvKvPg0TSm77o7XCmxjTo6_R3n_1KMiAixHeESwNE3VTkOBCI6FxgMLE6A5LmvzCV0rHB8b2yjRBT6S29P3pKSjaj8s8GRuVlyyNiomfexYWR-CbZbyieTpDmudbcyBVFM9IN8/s1600/FUQQE9275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWkuuzoVvKvPg0TSm77o7XCmxjTo6_R3n_1KMiAixHeESwNE3VTkOBCI6FxgMLE6A5LmvzCV0rHB8b2yjRBT6S29P3pKSjaj8s8GRuVlyyNiomfexYWR-CbZbyieTpDmudbcyBVFM9IN8/s1600/FUQQE9275.JPG" title="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/knee-length-rose-print-party-dress-ep05960.html" /></a></div>
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Maybe you prefer a shorter floral dress. This knee-length one, with its dainty, rose print is just the thing. The overall effect is totally charming, with its rounded neckline and peekaboo cutout sitting just above the waistline. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkHjuEcoBoE3mE3AkwTJ-oRXqDSoGH4aUtrWg8BwjhwXm90Nu4YUzBcS_zbiPIJzDlNOU7nmdQd6DdWpeMAm_0oj2zBWsqgODDTsrlaMghYSD706ZNlYrDi08xRKYfEyDLNCXvrS6h4UM/s1600/ALFGE9274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkHjuEcoBoE3mE3AkwTJ-oRXqDSoGH4aUtrWg8BwjhwXm90Nu4YUzBcS_zbiPIJzDlNOU7nmdQd6DdWpeMAm_0oj2zBWsqgODDTsrlaMghYSD706ZNlYrDi08xRKYfEyDLNCXvrS6h4UM/s1600/ALFGE9274.JPG" title="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/alisa-pan-short-lace-babydoll-dress-as05890.html" /></a></div>
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You might want to go a bit shorter in length with this all over lace dress. The darling babydoll silhouette can be dressed up with a pair of simple strappy high heeled shoes. It has spaghetti straps and a v-neck that points down to a row of decorative buttons. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfMji1ZifkqOaSRZnJ0F39C0N8Mqt8r1bkBo-HC5x-ZgjhkaVm2hwkYdkpVcJEU5T17HFR5Qe7QLzps4nBiJPWPmM3WoXPV1ZD8U8NST1VDQtqe-gYH9Vndghgf60mD2n4_bkoSQKlqs/s1600/VQMVE1331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfMji1ZifkqOaSRZnJ0F39C0N8Mqt8r1bkBo-HC5x-ZgjhkaVm2hwkYdkpVcJEU5T17HFR5Qe7QLzps4nBiJPWPmM3WoXPV1ZD8U8NST1VDQtqe-gYH9Vndghgf60mD2n4_bkoSQKlqs/s1600/VQMVE1331.JPG" title="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/alisa-pan-v-neck-lace-party-dress-as05901.html" /></a></div>
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If you love the feminine touch that lace gives and really like white this gorgeous v-neck dress with its asymmetric hem will be just what you want when you receive your diploma. It's one of the selections in Ever-Pretty's collection of <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/dresses/graduation-dresses/white.html">white graduation dresses</a>. A fresh face of natural makeup with just a touch of nude lipstick will complete your youthful, buoyant look in a white dress. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhskhj5OmmweQ6bQr0lTxqKHptofEF6Kk7MbUFVttAjnOs2uCyuJUUp5nTfYaONfw1er9B7brr_aU3wM-u0d7iSHRVasra9mAm5xgXalmO5mxfGEioZr0G6oeD0_Cx_zX1jRu_Km6QYeCk/s1600/MRCPE9541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhskhj5OmmweQ6bQr0lTxqKHptofEF6Kk7MbUFVttAjnOs2uCyuJUUp5nTfYaONfw1er9B7brr_aU3wM-u0d7iSHRVasra9mAm5xgXalmO5mxfGEioZr0G6oeD0_Cx_zX1jRu_Km6QYeCk/s1600/MRCPE9541.JPG" title="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/short-one-shoulder-white-party-dress-ep04116.html" /></a></div>
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Before heading off to college, celebrate your accomplishment with a trip after you graduate. By choosing this short one shoulder dress for your special day, you can easily incorporate it into your everyday wardrobe. This sweet summer dress will take you from graduation to that far away land you've been dreaming of.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSn6tBC2sswe_IUc5G6U7Xf27PE5CYCaUV7W_EG06JNAuoVlayYPvaHQdHn3SS9fCmMRvRQOHuyqbp_kK6pWgj5rf69Xcf6NIvO1w8GiMIyV6Df2DKq6y21UX4LoTDK3j0XlBBtA04EI/s1600/LRPB0902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSn6tBC2sswe_IUc5G6U7Xf27PE5CYCaUV7W_EG06JNAuoVlayYPvaHQdHn3SS9fCmMRvRQOHuyqbp_kK6pWgj5rf69Xcf6NIvO1w8GiMIyV6Df2DKq6y21UX4LoTDK3j0XlBBtA04EI/s1600/LRPB0902.JPG" title="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/alisa-pan-retro-printed-fit-and-flare-dress-as05469.html" /></a></div>
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Set your spirit free with this fun retro-printed dress of little red lipsticks when it comes time to shop for <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/dresses/graduation-dresses.html?p=2">college graduation dresses</a>. Once you've worn it to your commencement ceremony, you can make a fabulous first impression on your first day of your new job. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4hIQNJ66uLjgcnIzSsSToovXDYVT1isBpvm6hIJEwwvkxJeQKK-vfnxissyQA7DahHgo0fFvL2AGNMgN7oj2JvDUdvYcYpCCL8FGwogKj0fItqJmx99dVXl0DlfpWOniFCPViyM9Hi0/s1600/IMG_E7610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1461" data-original-width="859" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4hIQNJ66uLjgcnIzSsSToovXDYVT1isBpvm6hIJEwwvkxJeQKK-vfnxissyQA7DahHgo0fFvL2AGNMgN7oj2JvDUdvYcYpCCL8FGwogKj0fItqJmx99dVXl0DlfpWOniFCPViyM9Hi0/s1600/IMG_E7610.JPG" title="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/short-v-neck-lace-party-dress-ep04036.html" /></a></div>
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There's a long road of hard work behind you finally. Graduation is your right of passage into a bright new future that awaits you. A future that's filled with the possibilities of a lifetime of dreams. <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/">Ever-Pretty</a> is honored to be a part of all that lies ahead in your life. Let them help you choose beautiful, affordable <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/dresses/graduation-dresses.html">graduation dresses</a> to wear for your graduation ceremonies and parties and for all the days ahead. Great adventures are on the horizon!</div>
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"There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind."</div>
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C.S. Lewis</div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #999999; font-family: Nobile; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 0.5px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i> *This post is kindly sponsored by Ever-Pretty.com</i></b></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "quot"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #999999; font-family: Nobile; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 0.5px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i> All sentiments and selections are my own.*</i></b><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-67383740571797233672019-04-22T16:41:00.000-05:002019-04-22T18:59:06.901-05:00When Blue Flowers Sing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6z_y8sXqk_Mi9i3CfXX6beMy8p8pSipt8tjhnP3h4ebPhpGcPy5rvYQ3WGU_epXVFSp3y9_gkUJ5Fl6P4aEJgXCt1P5O1E7Ud_D4_7N3Ii2AFW7Hh2t3vW4AiAXASvnrfSqkakKRdQO8/s1600/DFXY6683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1048" data-original-width="1080" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6z_y8sXqk_Mi9i3CfXX6beMy8p8pSipt8tjhnP3h4ebPhpGcPy5rvYQ3WGU_epXVFSp3y9_gkUJ5Fl6P4aEJgXCt1P5O1E7Ud_D4_7N3Ii2AFW7Hh2t3vW4AiAXASvnrfSqkakKRdQO8/s1600/DFXY6683.JPG" /></a></div>
There's just something about blue that makes me sigh with deep delight, especially when it's found in nature. Tiny wildflowers, so vivid they might have come from an artist's brush strokes, sing out to me in the early spring. They fill me with an overall sense of calmness and well-being. When I spy a patch of lovely blue sprouting up from the earth, I am awash with serenity. It's like nature has gently encompassed me with azure skies above and a blanket of sapphire flowers dancing about my feet. When Mother Nature arrays herself in shades of blue I am completely soothed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBZrvJvu8PWgTLtmXhyphenhyphenqQPXruEse97NBya6AsytD6hzfaFGEL02yHerDnPq7HdGuNwTG1VrZu2oyTQTMpTHpFMBgIY2RBGv8GJJurC9J-8MUhvNJAesj3e9i34bJga3UhWwLpd56HZc2U/s1600/IIWE8956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1007" data-original-width="1080" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBZrvJvu8PWgTLtmXhyphenhyphenqQPXruEse97NBya6AsytD6hzfaFGEL02yHerDnPq7HdGuNwTG1VrZu2oyTQTMpTHpFMBgIY2RBGv8GJJurC9J-8MUhvNJAesj3e9i34bJga3UhWwLpd56HZc2U/s1600/IIWE8956.JPG" /></a></div>
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Suddenly I find myself wanting to be surrounded by as much of this mystical color as possible. I mimic nature by dressing in more blue clothing. I find myself choosing gorgeous blue fibers to create with. This stunning handpainted sock yarn is my recent example. I love the way the colors fade in and out of vibrancy. </div>
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Once again, I chose a crochet pattern by designer Kristin Omdahl. I'm a huge fan of her feminine touch in crochet design. You can find pattern details and see how the scarf lays while being worn, in <a href="https://www.rosepetaltea.com/2017/05/lacework-in-full-bloom.html">this previous post</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGURt9mWI5zomQQr5uKHTgAuYj3cKdczmW2ux30L0YokKnaNp02s0YVg3svswL_1eH6XpLGYmWLmZsPjDooEqES0PsQF6-BJ3Wi0tAFSrgdsC-S0naQ-6RrokdKEnK1wYhcmOvyQ5_38/s1600/IMG_E7557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1212" data-original-width="964" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGURt9mWI5zomQQr5uKHTgAuYj3cKdczmW2ux30L0YokKnaNp02s0YVg3svswL_1eH6XpLGYmWLmZsPjDooEqES0PsQF6-BJ3Wi0tAFSrgdsC-S0naQ-6RrokdKEnK1wYhcmOvyQ5_38/s1600/IMG_E7557.JPG" /></a></div>
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I am always totally captivated by a piece of crochet that has flowers worked into it. This scarf makes me particularly happy with its charming blossoms that flounce around when in motion. It's long enough to wrap in any way that suits the mood of the day. Being lightweight and on the somewhat narrow side, adds to its extreme femininity. </div>
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Recreating a little fraction of nature is always very centering for me. I am deeply grounded by the beauty found in nature. So when I'm able to express any part of it in my artwork, whether it be crocheting, knitting, or writing, I am wholly satisfied. The sense of connectedness I derive from it is absolutely freeing. </div>
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The next time you encounter a field of magical blue flowers, dancing beneath the brilliant sky, stop for a moment and stand very still. You just might hear them singing to you too. Or sit down amongst them and allow your soul to be set free.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzdIbn8He0Psxu-Kyxnpt9B0dgZPCWjQKv9aBXIu9nOfY_hUPDrDCCaC787PoUSEBIMurlqVfQCvAS0zYaL_lrYph40eN46IP9mAAapJHtLAueUhD2lxLIyOrHWCa_1sGmarqRrANBTE4/s1600/IMG_E7558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1234" data-original-width="1033" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzdIbn8He0Psxu-Kyxnpt9B0dgZPCWjQKv9aBXIu9nOfY_hUPDrDCCaC787PoUSEBIMurlqVfQCvAS0zYaL_lrYph40eN46IP9mAAapJHtLAueUhD2lxLIyOrHWCa_1sGmarqRrANBTE4/s1600/IMG_E7558.JPG" /></a></div>
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"Blue has no dimensions, it is beyond dimensions."</div>
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~ Yves Klein</div>
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"Flowers are my music."</div>
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~ Thomas Walker Arnold</div>
Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-20860788780586976122019-04-16T17:08:00.003-05:002019-04-16T19:10:30.742-05:00Travel the World in Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvXNrlmBpdLtrpXuFCOJ-MuJdt0uQJWwFFPhXylUbNYDDfbbgnkVqELyPEJzg9CCwhGiskou7SmCacyVb7mk-6hv_HlGcu2GIiJBJBIvZFzyOhiP3ifxd3rziEoXrqfQRsGOtI7GwpFZ8/s1600/IMG_7439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvXNrlmBpdLtrpXuFCOJ-MuJdt0uQJWwFFPhXylUbNYDDfbbgnkVqELyPEJzg9CCwhGiskou7SmCacyVb7mk-6hv_HlGcu2GIiJBJBIvZFzyOhiP3ifxd3rziEoXrqfQRsGOtI7GwpFZ8/s1600/IMG_7439.JPG" /></a></div>
Does the Jamaican Coast whisper your name as it laps its way to the shore? Are you pulled to the ocean by rhythmic waves of blue that call to your soul? Do you long to feel salty breezes blowing through your hair as you walk in the sun of a distant land? If you have a wanderlust to roam gorgeous coastlines in warm, carefree days, let <a href="https://www.fashionmia.com/">FashionMia</a> help you travel the world in style.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkpUhUXFFJydTPGz-bIDKOx19DBxYP8WQChz-MdbAgV7UyqqesLrGCnJjXAVnqDz77dkSdI64BlgispPBqEv0anY1sttdDaMCuAw2tp3ArjD_1_d1OJcGcidgd_Yudt8_O13o09rcflGk/s1600/BRFC8704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkpUhUXFFJydTPGz-bIDKOx19DBxYP8WQChz-MdbAgV7UyqqesLrGCnJjXAVnqDz77dkSdI64BlgispPBqEv0anY1sttdDaMCuAw2tp3ArjD_1_d1OJcGcidgd_Yudt8_O13o09rcflGk/s1600/BRFC8704.JPG" title="https://www.fashionmia.com/Products/round-neck-elastic-waist-plain-chiffon-midi-skater-dress-212988.html" /></a></div>
They have an abundance of beautiful <a href="https://www.fashionmia.com/dresses-53/">dresses for women</a> in every style, size, and color imaginable. Like this lightweight, sleeveless dress of chiffon. You'll love the delicate flutter of it against your skin as you stroll along the seaside.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBeJugyr3Di_HcncI3wirR8zUKnRRFGM0adsuArgnrFWePJ4Xk9vk9X5o5U9r1W8zezK4cVqafJd35bZY_3YdRR3W2dRzGMdMhMhu6jr10DTFeMMTBQkgb2v-MnzHu11c-9a-JhGdk8w/s1600/PZEV3161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBeJugyr3Di_HcncI3wirR8zUKnRRFGM0adsuArgnrFWePJ4Xk9vk9X5o5U9r1W8zezK4cVqafJd35bZY_3YdRR3W2dRzGMdMhMhu6jr10DTFeMMTBQkgb2v-MnzHu11c-9a-JhGdk8w/s1600/PZEV3161.JPG" title="https://www.fashionmia.com/Products/off-shoulder-elastic-waist-plain-maxi-dress-213924.html?color=yellow" /></a></div>
This might be the summer you finally get to take that long hoped for birthday trip. Imagine yourself in this gorgeous off-the-shoulder maxi dress on your special day! You'll feel the elegant flow of it all day long as it moves gracefully around you. An extra special dress always makes the day more memorable.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqcthIzJFHI9yOgeu95ye6KCPjDqA1skYHGi0qjOwXXrMcH0-4-4YuBIB1OivD6ufZs_8rH8cBod9YnGFEN-x0_VhGSjX21vNjrj3ve5B7BfOe8lQx5y_gC3lKONhoCiVn7EDRMLsd-WI/s1600/IMG_E7473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1051" data-original-width="792" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqcthIzJFHI9yOgeu95ye6KCPjDqA1skYHGi0qjOwXXrMcH0-4-4YuBIB1OivD6ufZs_8rH8cBod9YnGFEN-x0_VhGSjX21vNjrj3ve5B7BfOe8lQx5y_gC3lKONhoCiVn7EDRMLsd-WI/s640/IMG_E7473.JPG" title="https://www.fashionmia.com/Products/round-neck-printed-shift-dress-219417.html" width="482" /></a></div>
If you need a dress to take you from the beach into town to shop and have lunch with a friend, this darling mid length shift, with its sprinkling of flowers around the bottom, is absolutely perfect. It comes in four beautiful colors and six different sizes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDPAPwymFIHRH4k42p1IrjZCiHgtsx77I_zNA5FGENGu0QDwccXTmNAKRR6_jddFswP8SLgEKlcQoxBZBMfHOVBqCRSdYv7WpYgMjNgRCYtwo0l7ZCKesXlxSkOzTsyfy-4mqkCYYnCg/s1600/KTPTE0835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuDPAPwymFIHRH4k42p1IrjZCiHgtsx77I_zNA5FGENGu0QDwccXTmNAKRR6_jddFswP8SLgEKlcQoxBZBMfHOVBqCRSdYv7WpYgMjNgRCYtwo0l7ZCKesXlxSkOzTsyfy-4mqkCYYnCg/s1600/KTPTE0835.JPG" title="https://www.fashionmia.com/Products/crew-neck-fashion-printed-shift-dress-218528.html" /></a></div>
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Your adventure may fly you by plane into a city you've always longed to visit. This ultra-feminine dress, filled with roses, will take you all through the day, right to dinner in the evening. During the day, you can keep it simple with flats, minimal jewelry, and an everyday purse. Then dress it up with high heels, more jewelry, and an evening bag for a special date or a summertime wedding.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXuR9xwf41-FKluWM0mAPZtpRNc2xktjJ7wg5p3eGSPEUgC0tfnjR5OAMO4wXANJCm2DE-Qnd6LE9oc-FylRCP3WfvpNSyCe6vqBO3-QUv0rdP2qNeDs4_b8hyqQH2-0mADPqcmPzrkqo/s1600/DBSQE4742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXuR9xwf41-FKluWM0mAPZtpRNc2xktjJ7wg5p3eGSPEUgC0tfnjR5OAMO4wXANJCm2DE-Qnd6LE9oc-FylRCP3WfvpNSyCe6vqBO3-QUv0rdP2qNeDs4_b8hyqQH2-0mADPqcmPzrkqo/s1600/DBSQE4742.JPG" title="https://www.fashionmia.com/Products/elastic-waist-plain-mid-rise-jumpsuits-219714.html" /></a></div>
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You may find your summer travels taking you on walks through city streets, as you take in the sights you've seen only in your dreams. When dresses or plain clothes aren't quite what you want, let FashionMia outfit you in one of their <a href="https://www.fashionmia.com/jumpsuits-77/">sexy jumpsuits</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKE_Z8AzUDzxKiIguC-DBYWHHXtEM1-UVVDV_JnQEh0nZMYAbAUCiIe9NJqfpBxBZQkN4jmsoDzpeEwwimQIuFDrDXWMsFx9DolNhWesd_G07rExHzv_V0XEpMr4sCYt4bLW3WC_vMAw0/s1600/IREYE8223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1457" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKE_Z8AzUDzxKiIguC-DBYWHHXtEM1-UVVDV_JnQEh0nZMYAbAUCiIe9NJqfpBxBZQkN4jmsoDzpeEwwimQIuFDrDXWMsFx9DolNhWesd_G07rExHzv_V0XEpMr4sCYt4bLW3WC_vMAw0/s1600/IREYE8223.JPG" title="https://www.fashionmia.com/Products/halter-pocket-plain-wide-leg-jumpsuit-198073.html" /></a></div>
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They have jumpsuits in beautiful styles, not only for daytime sightseeing but also for that night out on the town. You can add a pair of dangling earrings, your favorite pair of strappy heels, and head for the ballet, the opera, or sparkle at a dinner party.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8I0WxBXTPR68NBTczwdKlxUhqnk526un0er6tTzCfoaiZDd-sMc7P22-c8-8TZcZe3cjvfxNYxa6IxEnrCbellQMDt9dLR8x3F-rQWHm4yombXnoEMmw9SH6H0CuXdvr4Bcxi6PvmqOY/s1600/ETYY4172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8I0WxBXTPR68NBTczwdKlxUhqnk526un0er6tTzCfoaiZDd-sMc7P22-c8-8TZcZe3cjvfxNYxa6IxEnrCbellQMDt9dLR8x3F-rQWHm4yombXnoEMmw9SH6H0CuXdvr4Bcxi6PvmqOY/s1600/ETYY4172.JPG" title="https://www.fashionmia.com/Products/color-block-bell-sleeve-round-neck-straight-jumpsuit-195728.html" /></a></div>
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Maybe this spring or summer will find you as a guest at a destination wedding. Choose this fashion-forward jumpsuit, with its quarter length bell sleeves for that wedding you're attending. Jumpsuits are a classy, trendy and sleek alternative to a dress. They're beautifully stunning and appropriate for daytime and evening wear. They can be easily accessorized for formal occasions.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHHQnTDSEfiJklIZ684t8pccxOYGQtX6QOf85RxCp3zSWrc1ShZRQVdJFTTrScoDJ-i0MY2Q6vjxva4XHMzGdT9HL5LR-Rf3ZXbM4CzPcsobksL7sljmH-IQ3aV7P4Cv-bdUxlDbLlTIc/s1600/IMG_7440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHHQnTDSEfiJklIZ684t8pccxOYGQtX6QOf85RxCp3zSWrc1ShZRQVdJFTTrScoDJ-i0MY2Q6vjxva4XHMzGdT9HL5LR-Rf3ZXbM4CzPcsobksL7sljmH-IQ3aV7P4Cv-bdUxlDbLlTIc/s1600/IMG_7440.JPG" /></a></div>
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Wherever your adventurous spirit leads you in the upcoming season of your life, whether you sail on the wild blue ocean or soar away with the clouds, FashionMia has everything you need to pack your suitcase for the journey ahead. Wearing clothing that makes you feel more confident and beautiful can be an important step in making your dreams come true. FashionMia makes it fun, easy, and very affordable. So go ahead, let your imagination run wild!</div>
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"What is a Wanderess? Bound by no boundaries, contained by no countries, tamed by no time, she is the force of nature." ~ Roman Payne, The Wanderess</div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #999999; font-family: Nobile; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 0.5px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>*This post is kindly sponsored by FashionMia.com</i></b></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "quot"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #999999; font-family: Nobile; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 0.5px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>All sentiments and selections are my own.*</i></b><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com55tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-30570141178646849692019-04-10T17:49:00.001-05:002019-04-10T18:28:55.865-05:00Lost in the Beauty of Spring<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBgruukvxQp516sBgY1FLdcKt5StQjLicMSw_jKGjKDAr-Snnv_aXnqeegrTJyxD0sS-KobAjT_sYbc9P0AkiXj_3TDnqQMb5rQ09tkyE3lmDQ47mxrp4M9bgQUGIMuUc-rQDrXrvE_3M/s1600/IMG_E7328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1237" data-original-width="970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBgruukvxQp516sBgY1FLdcKt5StQjLicMSw_jKGjKDAr-Snnv_aXnqeegrTJyxD0sS-KobAjT_sYbc9P0AkiXj_3TDnqQMb5rQ09tkyE3lmDQ47mxrp4M9bgQUGIMuUc-rQDrXrvE_3M/s1600/IMG_E7328.JPG" /></a> I took a little drive this week down a country road, headed for an appointment. As I traveled along I began to revel at how very blue the sky was. Bluer than it had been in ages. It was bursting with white billowy clouds, as though it had been inadvertently overstuffed and they were somehow falling out. There was green grass covering hills and meadows, along with tiny buds on many of the trees. Some of those trees were wearing blossoms of pink or white. It seemed as though the entire earth had come back to life again, finally! </div>
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Before long it occurred to me that I had gone too far and had missed my turn quite a way back. The sensation of panic and the feeling of being lost began to flood me. This was absolutely ridiculous, of course, because I was only ten minutes away from home in totally familiar territory. While I was still in that all over sweat mode, and considering turning around to head back in the opposite direction, I spotted the landmark I usually watch for along this route. There it stood, like a beacon, ahead of me in the distance. Wait a minute.<i> Really</i>? Okay, wow! This adds a whole new dimension to being lost. I often find myself being off with the fairies if I am alone in the car. My spirit wanders and takes my mind along for the ride. If the day is a particularly fine one, well then, who knows where I might find myself. While I was never truly<i> lost</i>, I had been lost in the beauty of the budding Springtime that enveloped my senses. I had become one with the day.</div>
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That sky with its utter blueness had caused me to keep going forward and forward with no sense of time or space. It beckoned to me, while at the same time surrounding me and holding me in its embrace. No longer did I have a sense of mere self, I was an integral part of the whole.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDwYIM531331Km2lpU5NUw-X7xFYyhZrbTl-mvUq7bVJXXxv6CXeipN-tsGw1BB_YU-nbPwGtzGna-9jdBT8Xc2XVDdAMpD8KpQ1MWvH_wkCUpAHpE_TEwmbMK99-dDqaigckzw5KlDk/s1600/IMG_E7335.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1053" data-original-width="1054" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDwYIM531331Km2lpU5NUw-X7xFYyhZrbTl-mvUq7bVJXXxv6CXeipN-tsGw1BB_YU-nbPwGtzGna-9jdBT8Xc2XVDdAMpD8KpQ1MWvH_wkCUpAHpE_TEwmbMK99-dDqaigckzw5KlDk/s1600/IMG_E7335.JPG" /></a></div>
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Technically, I was not alone. Riding next to me, in his little crate, keeping a watchful eye on me, was my nine-month-old poodle, Percy. The appointment I was heading for pertained to him, however, he offered no help with directions. Basically, he couldn't have cared less where our destination was. As long as he gets to go along with his mommy, he's a really happy boy. For him, the joy is always in the journey. (I think there just might be a lesson to be learned from his sweet attitude).</div>
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Since time was of the essence though, I began to reign myself in. I'm here to tell you there was a war within me. While still feeling a bit mentally confused, albeit relieved, to find I was not actually the great distance down the road that I thought I was, I was also disappointed. A big part of me wanted to remain in that euphoric place of dreamland. The battle was almost otherworldly, as I forced myself to shake off my dreamlike state and carry on with the task at hand.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBQU0gcY9xkEu3IgOEANSfvLZfUOi6ZGiPT-DpW8lAbKwV6TcaOXtQ0TrSF-uCrq6Uuw4y6UsvhsoUl7y32r8ah7JX2SA3Bx5jkKTwU2g12lRZGarBlkBbiiV597Z_1vEWM6PK2N-lwuE/s1600/IMG_E7333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="971" data-original-width="1242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBQU0gcY9xkEu3IgOEANSfvLZfUOi6ZGiPT-DpW8lAbKwV6TcaOXtQ0TrSF-uCrq6Uuw4y6UsvhsoUl7y32r8ah7JX2SA3Bx5jkKTwU2g12lRZGarBlkBbiiV597Z_1vEWM6PK2N-lwuE/s1600/IMG_E7333.JPG" /></a></div>
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But I took the usual turn, and glancing at the clock I realized I was cutting the time pretty closely. Apparently, I had been moving in slow motion while floating along with those irresistible, fluffy clouds. No matter, I knew I could make it on time. I only had one more turn to take off this long, busy street. Eventually, I would turn right onto a road that's so small that it's easy to buzz right past it if you aren't paying close attention. Well, being in the state of mind, or rather the mood of spirit, I was in,<i> buzz right past it</i> was exactly what I did!<i> Seriously</i>?!</div>
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It became evident, at that point, that I needed to make a call to the veterinary clinic to make my feeble excuses as to why I was about to be late. After all, I had only been there once before and the building does sit back, kind of out of sight on that out of the way road...(no mention was made of my otherworldly state of being).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZt7RSyYod8NacY20jvipL40bLuVcHyumC0blYVV7D2ftDJkLgl_dVOmo_AEBXMosOrzMKTTyA0_JjfgM4yNBRpVuXO-OlrwKklXaZriFoEuhhztQSShqJwfZTSDH2FteYlOW4b73omE/s1600/IMG_E7334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1231" data-original-width="1242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZt7RSyYod8NacY20jvipL40bLuVcHyumC0blYVV7D2ftDJkLgl_dVOmo_AEBXMosOrzMKTTyA0_JjfgM4yNBRpVuXO-OlrwKklXaZriFoEuhhztQSShqJwfZTSDH2FteYlOW4b73omE/s1600/IMG_E7334.JPG" /></a></div>
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Being late is a dragon I have slain, for the most part, over the years with the help of living with a very punctual husband. I don't like for my tardiness to reak potential havoc on the busy workday schedule of someone else. But they were extremely gracious and in the end, I was only five minutes late. </div>
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Though I still don't like to be inconsiderate to the valuable time of others with my lateness, I am thankful that in this instance no harm was done. </div>
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There are times when I find it is actually quite valuable to us to have our head in the clouds. Although I didn't like the psychological feelings associated with being lost or late, my overall day was an extremely wonderful and refreshing one. What it did for me mentally, emotionally, and spiritually was like rain soaking a dry and thirsty land. It was even physically good for me because I slept better that night than I had for many nights prior to that. Sleep does not always come easily to me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQZLYivQr377gZQsusmRhKZLdyhmzg_7Rkbmb6S1G70QErpTYeE36ySnNkOg-VJB3qA50jwCNeUzQPKXwHxs_aUTOI0OVPUDfJApsQAgfhjs2Cto7K0JZtCUYHJSUHNQ5VLNPHI-uxvA/s1600/IMG_E7329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="955" data-original-width="1242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQZLYivQr377gZQsusmRhKZLdyhmzg_7Rkbmb6S1G70QErpTYeE36ySnNkOg-VJB3qA50jwCNeUzQPKXwHxs_aUTOI0OVPUDfJApsQAgfhjs2Cto7K0JZtCUYHJSUHNQ5VLNPHI-uxvA/s1600/IMG_E7329.JPG" /></a></div>
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So, what were some of those random thoughts that were taking up so much space in my mind, or more accurately, in my spirit, as I drove down that country road? Here are a few that I remember:</div>
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"How can a sky be<i> so blue</i>?!"</div>
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<b></b><i></i>"God, what made you choose blue as the color for the sky and the ocean and so many things that soothe our souls?"</div>
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"Oh my goodness! The grass is getting green everywhere!"</div>
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"There are pink flowers on the trees again!"</div>
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"I wonder if it's possible to keep driving until you end up in the clouds?"</div>
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"Those bushes are covered in big white flowers, I wonder what those are called..."</div>
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"I have to remember to stop and visit with the geese at the park on the way home."</div>
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"That<i> sky...</i>"</div>
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I love the changing of the seasons. Spring with its continual rebirth and renewal and Summer with its lush fullness are my favorite seasons. But I have learned to be happy with each season, each day, as it comes, no matter how it is clothed. I believe this is what God meant by giving us our<i> daily bread</i>. I also believe it is the key ingredient to living a meaningful life full of purpose. As humans, we are prone to making much ado out of nothing, whereas God's ways are simple. He means for us to enjoy the journey along the way. He wants times of rest for our souls. He desires that we live in the moment, being anxious for nothing, without always rushing ahead. He doesn't mean for us to borrow the troubles of tomorrow, while still breathing in the joys of today. He offers us rest, which gives us restoration. Days like I had on that country road when I was lost for a time, are moments of restoration for the soul. They are individual Sabbath moments when we connect with God through nature. <span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">I think Percy and I might just take another ride in the country next week when we have no place to be and all the time in the world to get there.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsHcKs0XsyLKfRvtdcL_ltcJrFviOatvxZNzIHxRkH38lZ2mo0a0zXFG_05zjzWc66Ge_fdvhqhkfSNL3wQ9a9-MObmTv-OnbIftWXcdycjYfw5c2A6QwUkTKlKVAb6kEr0RQpSD81kWU/s1600/IMG_E7338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1223" data-original-width="1242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsHcKs0XsyLKfRvtdcL_ltcJrFviOatvxZNzIHxRkH38lZ2mo0a0zXFG_05zjzWc66Ge_fdvhqhkfSNL3wQ9a9-MObmTv-OnbIftWXcdycjYfw5c2A6QwUkTKlKVAb6kEr0RQpSD81kWU/s1600/IMG_E7338.JPG" /></a></div>
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"If you . . . call the Sabbath a delight . . .</div>
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then you shall take delight in the Lord,</div>
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and I will make you ride upon the </div>
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heights of the earth."</div>
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Isaiah 58:13-14</div>
Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-28755719265556680972019-04-06T15:35:00.000-05:002019-04-06T15:35:43.881-05:00Birthday Ballerina<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0ECvSweqLcYHFIvLZHKGQ-5fPqFbfZ1fpiMLLK1m9nA-HVIC2SIoVbTDSMnXLHcuggsPTbuy9he-IJTJ6QPtJ4ebh7LjCdwZR4zn-aqJyQBSRo6174ALbiUNewZQ7o9SQg1TuXJD1og/s1600/IMG_E7271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0ECvSweqLcYHFIvLZHKGQ-5fPqFbfZ1fpiMLLK1m9nA-HVIC2SIoVbTDSMnXLHcuggsPTbuy9he-IJTJ6QPtJ4ebh7LjCdwZR4zn-aqJyQBSRo6174ALbiUNewZQ7o9SQg1TuXJD1og/s1600/IMG_E7271.JPG" /></a></div>
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It's been a lovely week here. A week of vacation for Scott and me, precious time that we've spent together and with family. Also, we have had the joy of seeing our beautiful granddaughter perform with Peoria Ballet in their production of Alice in Wonderland. Gabby was able to celebrate her twelfth birthday doing the thing she loves most in the world -<b><i> ballet</i></b>. </div>
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Her birthday was on Friday, April 5th. We went along with Chelsea to take her to lunch after the ballet held a morning performance for the area schools. Gabby loves Mexican food and La Fiesta, here in Morton, is a family favorite. They sang happy birthday to Gabby when they brought out her dessert. Besides doing Alice in Wonderland, the show also included the beautiful Spanish ballet Paquita. As they were singing to Gabby, they saw this on her T-shirt and sang happy birthday to Paquita instead of Gabby. We all got a kick out of that!</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzkB60wqoRx8k0xu013jJxumsrg1eYRwvkPNO1-sohGwRq_ZY_gO-4ZQYt3mA3MU4u3TopJkFhwTwMHZUh4fg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Peoria Ballet's rendition of Alice in Wonderland was absolutely stunning. It was full of adorable woodland creatures. Gabby was part of the Cheshire Cat as well as a Deer. The make up you see on her face at lunch is part of her deer costume. Chelsea is a makeup artist and her expertise is invaluable during Gabby's ballet performances. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU5Jhsj9Plt38EH4XxXuS0qTOPT66KssvBZI4uaXPdwMxDjXFNTVZn9gXEPM_vOz5JhCWAid_N1_FC1662lk4Gpog2XjCmfdbfNc-ER_iSL97oPXtQBG9O7WBWc5u0ICc0m4OliJgy0YY/s1600/IMG_E7246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU5Jhsj9Plt38EH4XxXuS0qTOPT66KssvBZI4uaXPdwMxDjXFNTVZn9gXEPM_vOz5JhCWAid_N1_FC1662lk4Gpog2XjCmfdbfNc-ER_iSL97oPXtQBG9O7WBWc5u0ICc0m4OliJgy0YY/s1600/IMG_E7246.JPG" /></a></div>
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All of the costumes, props, and makeup are done by volunteers. </div>
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The mom's and dad's of the dancers work hard behind the scenes</div>
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to make everything come together. They have amazing talents and dedication.</div>
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This is a backstage glimpse of Gabby and the young man who played The Mad Hatter. Todd is originally from Morton and grew up with my oldest daughter, Hilary. He has spent the last several years performing and teaching dance and fitness in New York City. He was phenomenal as The Mad Hatter! </div>
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This is Gabby and me after last nights performance. She's actually taller than my 5'3". I'm wearing heels there and she is wearing flat shoes. The lighting and background aren't the most flattering. But at these events, we have to take what we can get in order to capture the moment. </div>
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In the twelve years, since this lovely creature entered the world, my life has been enriched in countless ways. Yes, she was the first to usher me into the newness of grandparenting. But there's so much more than that alone. Gabriella - that's the long version of her name. It's meaning is, a woman of God, God is my strength or messenger of God. Day by day I see her growing into the fullness of this name. She has definitely been God's messenger to me. He uses her to teach me. Through her eyes, the world is a gentle and kinder place. She loves all people without reservation or judgment. Her nature is soft and sweet, as she literally floats through this life. Observing her is like witnessing poetry in motion, and that's even when she's not dancing. She is the rare, physical embodiment of what God calls the pure in heart. I am so thankful that God chose this humble family to drop such an ethereal beam of starlight into. She already, at such a tender age, has a strong sense of who she is. What a powerful thing this is to see. It's what we want for our future generation. I recognize a whole mind, body and spirit connection in total sink within her. To have internal direction and be at peace with oneself, at any age, but especially at such a young one, is of great gain.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC1sedWDV-fRxlW84PH0knBlbBH7iE1ITAp_qRYuldeOCf32L85AGShQje02RPUFq6JbmKDPkWwDwrkvKKj__QR_TnMQ3SuhGJatouShQPUcd8iGdp6j9CER4mCtfJbI0ero1rWEW-e1c/s1600/IMG_7269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC1sedWDV-fRxlW84PH0knBlbBH7iE1ITAp_qRYuldeOCf32L85AGShQje02RPUFq6JbmKDPkWwDwrkvKKj__QR_TnMQ3SuhGJatouShQPUcd8iGdp6j9CER4mCtfJbI0ero1rWEW-e1c/s1600/IMG_7269.JPG" /></a></div>
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"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."</div>
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Matthew 5:8</div>
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"Who in the world am I? Ah, that's the great puzzle."</div>
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Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland</div>
Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-11849270435205686302019-03-27T13:20:00.000-05:002019-04-15T10:23:34.262-05:00 The Magic of Purple<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Colors have the distinct power to awaken a full range of emotions within us.</div>
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They bind our memories to times, places and people we hold forever dear.</div>
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Our soul connects colors with the fragrance of our favorite flowers.</div>
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Just the sight or smell of lilacs, floating on a gentle breeze, </div>
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and we are instantly carried back to a carefree day, </div>
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spent in the golden sunshine of early Spring, </div>
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with the one our heart adores.</div>
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Since the beginning of time, purple has been the queen of colors. </div>
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There was an era when young lovers presented gifts of light purple flowers </div>
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to the object of their affection as a token of the joyous beginning of new love.</div>
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Lilacs, in particular, were a symbol of the first budding emotion of romance. </div>
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Is it any wonder we feel the allure of Spring as it embraces us each year?</div>
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Our senses sparkle with life once again as we are captivated</div>
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by nature's divine shades of purple, declaring that love is in the air. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNJeWulwdI1yyU_B7PThA1NwMn-X8yNsw8G-24zY9WnLLZC4XqVxBhlciEP_CbRpuHyABRA7zSu1B6ETII1hA_q5so4Om4MOlg1wDFMtfqQgE5klq6NsYEZTdb-bn22ws6lMg2u8O-Ss/s1600/IMG_E7093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1502" data-original-width="880" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwNJeWulwdI1yyU_B7PThA1NwMn-X8yNsw8G-24zY9WnLLZC4XqVxBhlciEP_CbRpuHyABRA7zSu1B6ETII1hA_q5so4Om4MOlg1wDFMtfqQgE5klq6NsYEZTdb-bn22ws6lMg2u8O-Ss/s1600/IMG_E7093.JPG" title="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/off-shoulder-long-v-neck-bridesmaid-dress-ep07202.html" /></a></div>
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If you are planning a Spring or Summer wedding, </div>
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let purple reign supreme, as your heart</div>
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is enchanted by the splendor of its luxurious hues.</div>
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For the most beautiful <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/the-wedding-shop/bridesmaids-dresses/purple.html">Purple Bridesmaid Dresses</a>,</div>
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in shades and styles to flatter all </div>
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of the special ladies in your wedding party, </div>
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shop the gorgeous selection at <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/">Ever-Pretty</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0DUbjspSMQnXZs4LMU50pLraTRYvmtdO3tORAPWp-YCRuXfbhYH5zRVgjkQVnmEoDGeV0Kxs3eXA52rBB399NK022nSojNyyepLNNqj3BeR3Ex3M9DN9Irn7X2DFWnGQHCKjwiaIP1Hk/s1600/REEVE3927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0DUbjspSMQnXZs4LMU50pLraTRYvmtdO3tORAPWp-YCRuXfbhYH5zRVgjkQVnmEoDGeV0Kxs3eXA52rBB399NK022nSojNyyepLNNqj3BeR3Ex3M9DN9Irn7X2DFWnGQHCKjwiaIP1Hk/s1600/REEVE3927.JPG" /></a></div>
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Your bridesmaids will flow down the aisle in classic elegance with the soft swish<br />
of chiffon in individual tones of purple to enhance their lovely complexions.<br />
Or for an absolute dreamy effect, you might choose soft shades of<br />
<a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/strapless-empire-waist-long-chiffon-bridesmaid-dress-ep09955.html">grey or pink</a> for the most magical day of your life.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt94BS2ZvzkNUphoKlFzVKz-4lxmJAU6uykSBKfGekMMEvI7b0lX3P6YIDfqiDo16ngVWAfT8fahP_R44S1OxP_E7kpSIO_mHKLGwaN95d6O4FcqLb_VRUXFz4ywVmhHQPrTpnxSfQpeE/s1600/KPGD8234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt94BS2ZvzkNUphoKlFzVKz-4lxmJAU6uykSBKfGekMMEvI7b0lX3P6YIDfqiDo16ngVWAfT8fahP_R44S1OxP_E7kpSIO_mHKLGwaN95d6O4FcqLb_VRUXFz4ywVmhHQPrTpnxSfQpeE/s1600/KPGD8234.JPG" /></a></div>
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You'll enter the world of fairy tales</div>
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when you grace your bridesmaids </div>
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in gowns of various <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/elegant-long-chiffon-bridesmaid-dress-with-corset-back-ep08863.html">pastel colors</a> like this one,</div>
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boasting a delicately ruched sweetheart neckline</div>
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with a divine corset lace-up back.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlCS48sorEtR_nARrQkEiojvO8V1h-QycZxuIArPw4yilG692K8MfQbOC5SPze0opzKpZ21N5KQO75uWjIrZZhv0gHLbg7ICYs1XfQC_TlS5oZ7f0EUo3hDo9kHrJGFNWNhQJhqCmTOs/s1600/NVWK9162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLlCS48sorEtR_nARrQkEiojvO8V1h-QycZxuIArPw4yilG692K8MfQbOC5SPze0opzKpZ21N5KQO75uWjIrZZhv0gHLbg7ICYs1XfQC_TlS5oZ7f0EUo3hDo9kHrJGFNWNhQJhqCmTOs/s1600/NVWK9162.JPG" /></a></div>
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The beauty of a Spring wedding, that's done in an array of different pastel colors, can be breathtaking. Choose the <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/the-wedding-shop/bridesmaids-dresses.html">bridesmaid dress</a> your heart is longing for and adorn each bridesmaid in her own color for a purely feminine aesthetic.<br />
Ever-Pretty makes it so easy and extremely affordable!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7KVwe-GDYtCbG9qxaqYm9x3e016riOm-gXIMwfyJLmT93_4ZVoMNfwOkYrM-uIsE2nQk7MbuKL5NUASLTaRyI9R7ig1znbe1V3Gp_bLxaYr_CEx9CQlPKG1040qP86kCwJ39TuagcvRA/s1600/MOERE1436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7KVwe-GDYtCbG9qxaqYm9x3e016riOm-gXIMwfyJLmT93_4ZVoMNfwOkYrM-uIsE2nQk7MbuKL5NUASLTaRyI9R7ig1znbe1V3Gp_bLxaYr_CEx9CQlPKG1040qP86kCwJ39TuagcvRA/s1600/MOERE1436.JPG" /></a></div>
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The deep rich, <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/plus-size-lace-cap-sleeve-evening-gown-epp9993.html">jewel tones</a> of plum or aubergine</div>
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are luxuriously suited to a formal </div>
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Spring or Summertime wedding.</div>
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Dark purple is said to have a sacred meaning</div>
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from days of old, due to its rarity in nature.</div>
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It's thought to be precious, noble</div>
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and the color that depicts deep devotion.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFuGdQJXI6p0Oppkys1ugveKawSEl4RM6esYGDLG5mI2_bw8gsbiHx6Ro12h0EX2FwQ73xCPAGAU2eG5rjyax6uyTTRJ-JOeqLVwwHr_FcvfB6A_t7KoT_wlu53nPCvIY5T97Z1WL0Ht8/s1600/IMG_E7147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="806" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFuGdQJXI6p0Oppkys1ugveKawSEl4RM6esYGDLG5mI2_bw8gsbiHx6Ro12h0EX2FwQ73xCPAGAU2eG5rjyax6uyTTRJ-JOeqLVwwHr_FcvfB6A_t7KoT_wlu53nPCvIY5T97Z1WL0Ht8/s640/IMG_E7147.JPG" width="336" /></a></div>
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Summer afternoon weddings call for</div>
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the loose flounce of a <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/the-wedding-shop/bridesmaids-dresses/hemlines/short.html">short bridesmaid dress</a></div>
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in vivid violet with shiny, strappy silver shoes.</div>
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Violet purple, the color for faithful, undying affection.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpNUpVcEtELjMrn6-rnzf-7jSq1_7fwnbYBDopRQcupEzaQrT7B4WTj0jOT4x_jAkONzyX6FqCYhOMBwH8VgUtfIugnoOy6xeT2LKWFKM9IuHD-saZKvl5lgxhdU960y9GvsgnSd27_KU/s1600/IMYWE4589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpNUpVcEtELjMrn6-rnzf-7jSq1_7fwnbYBDopRQcupEzaQrT7B4WTj0jOT4x_jAkONzyX6FqCYhOMBwH8VgUtfIugnoOy6xeT2LKWFKM9IuHD-saZKvl5lgxhdU960y9GvsgnSd27_KU/s1600/IMYWE4589.JPG" /></a></div>
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Or the timeless soft, sweetness of <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/short-flowy-bridesmaid-dress-with-halter-neckline-ep04051.html">delicate pink</a>.</div>
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Light pink, the symbol of tenderness, kindness, and comfort, </div>
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as well as the longstanding color of total femininity.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM3krsItaiT_RCCKdO8REWQC2978cf1qMEj7ne5_t1SjS1-OFdbNfkKdeTVmtWKVSOwqj-tc4zu5Acy1rBCQAitnCBRFU24RJ581-zT0R3waRO8NU85-9ICyg1mKHENvUhKQsjyxDguNY/s1600/pink-bridesmaid-dress-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM3krsItaiT_RCCKdO8REWQC2978cf1qMEj7ne5_t1SjS1-OFdbNfkKdeTVmtWKVSOwqj-tc4zu5Acy1rBCQAitnCBRFU24RJ581-zT0R3waRO8NU85-9ICyg1mKHENvUhKQsjyxDguNY/s640/pink-bridesmaid-dress-4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
Crown them with flowers and wrap them<br />
in the simple elegance of <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/short-v-neck-bridesmaid-dress-ep05894.html">periwinkle blue satin</a>.<br />
Nothing is more classic than satin in clean lines,<br />
while periwinkle gives us feelings of serenity and calmness.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP1iKqC6UVjhWN5PmNZLdP9eb7YNFLopYpNcJLzLCdwC4m3fh88kVpw3rCrSGeMdj3P7DagDeU1csD8IPl-OqusPfMyjaKXeTGS7PtXsHRrF81Um0E51kcWhwiW66-KrgV2UL-G8SyG9A/s1600/IMG_E7158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1456" data-original-width="845" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP1iKqC6UVjhWN5PmNZLdP9eb7YNFLopYpNcJLzLCdwC4m3fh88kVpw3rCrSGeMdj3P7DagDeU1csD8IPl-OqusPfMyjaKXeTGS7PtXsHRrF81Um0E51kcWhwiW66-KrgV2UL-G8SyG9A/s1600/IMG_E7158.JPG" /></a></div>
For an outdoor Summer garden wedding,<br />
pair lovely shades of <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/sleeveless-long-halter-neck-bridesmaid-dress-ep07201.html">lavender</a> with soft, buttery <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/sleeveless-v-neck-semi-formal-maxi-dress-ep08110.html">yellow</a>.<br />
Lavender was the ancient flower and color for holy matrimony.<br />
Yellow brings us happiness, joy, and loyalty.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjypfnyeRQb9ZZf50yIPe6pMryZBIignaMZpMkYlL5oHn5RcYFlrAB4i6SH5fpZzFtW1VBXyXS5Ap2IJDJsAKlxOL5EYPuSLUVoICPNNmPrlYJ6ARH4HmE0YrcwZBSZ22lfMkTN0yxFeUI/s1600/RBYH8094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjypfnyeRQb9ZZf50yIPe6pMryZBIignaMZpMkYlL5oHn5RcYFlrAB4i6SH5fpZzFtW1VBXyXS5Ap2IJDJsAKlxOL5EYPuSLUVoICPNNmPrlYJ6ARH4HmE0YrcwZBSZ22lfMkTN0yxFeUI/s640/RBYH8094.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Always consider using <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/the-wedding-shop/bridesmaids-dresses/white.html">white dresses</a> to either mix and match with other colors<br />
or make a statement of stunning sophistication all on their own.<br />
They are gorgeous for daytime or evening weddings.<br />
By day they are cool and crisp, adding an extremely stylish air to your wedding.<br />
For an evening wedding, imagine the purity of white in a candlelit church.<br />
Or a night of exchanging vows beneath the twinkling stars.<br />
The beauty of all white will add an ethereal essence,<br />
as your wedding party dances under the gentle glow of the moon. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsiMmVdhyRmAg7ZkQuOhmyOBTWIuS__nAQGNhufjI1vd4SX_-1CY4aqw59JYZ_EkLme35tBlTGaf34hVIyh1oKtMLKJ1qRYbznI4GprKK_y-09N7XJDInbbPLyKQgEPGJaNxOSMTH8VTo/s1600/KYJRE6133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsiMmVdhyRmAg7ZkQuOhmyOBTWIuS__nAQGNhufjI1vd4SX_-1CY4aqw59JYZ_EkLme35tBlTGaf34hVIyh1oKtMLKJ1qRYbznI4GprKK_y-09N7XJDInbbPLyKQgEPGJaNxOSMTH8VTo/s640/KYJRE6133.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
If you're planning a destination wedding,<br />
the variety of choices in <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/catalogsearch/result/?q=gray+tulle+long+ethereal+evening+dress">style</a>,<br />
as well as <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/v-neck-spaghetti-strap-long-blush-bridesmaid-dress-ep07369.html">color</a>, is absolutely fabulous.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNbA4ILufStmUk4xpm53N33rp8aK1TnuixbhCq0p9YI6ZynPDTAr4m9NYZIYQORuklSMlMXukfOyvBPCt33zfv1YqXGGyHAcz7b2rcL1G3yVyCU2lfcqnyCpW-SXK7iUDi_FzoBeL7iFY/s1600/VSRR2593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNbA4ILufStmUk4xpm53N33rp8aK1TnuixbhCq0p9YI6ZynPDTAr4m9NYZIYQORuklSMlMXukfOyvBPCt33zfv1YqXGGyHAcz7b2rcL1G3yVyCU2lfcqnyCpW-SXK7iUDi_FzoBeL7iFY/s640/VSRR2593.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Whether you choose purple as your main color,<br />
or decide to blend it with the many options<br />
that complement it so beautifully,<br />
you are sure to find the perfect <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/the-wedding-shop/bridesmaids-dresses.html">dress </a><br />
for everyone in your wedding party.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyB21gnwl6J-G_-G-V_l_0avTemtv15R2lOn-VgrbHIUC2NwCQsER3M_StLsfk8sQJHKKDStg8VELWrerVg8wJ2CAnuCnAcRx6Eom2wa4Gyr5LpwTBSS6yTn1jXwgg7GmU2Nfv1AkRXyo/s1600/IMG_E7096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1466" data-original-width="872" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyB21gnwl6J-G_-G-V_l_0avTemtv15R2lOn-VgrbHIUC2NwCQsER3M_StLsfk8sQJHKKDStg8VELWrerVg8wJ2CAnuCnAcRx6Eom2wa4Gyr5LpwTBSS6yTn1jXwgg7GmU2Nfv1AkRXyo/s1600/IMG_E7096.JPG" /></a></div>
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Finally, you stand on the shore of your new horizon.</div>
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This is the day you have waited for all of your life.</div>
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It needs to be as magical as you've always known it would be.</div>
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Let <a href="https://www.ever-pretty.com/us/">Ever-Pretty</a> help you make all of your wedding dreams come true.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAUTBWi7XMlsR_TxcSrkFHtfcTPXWqeCZsJCYNaNQg8aLHom3EQ_OW7tQboYIF3-gF7utZQtgueR7fNj6ZACkjC2G8geNJwL5i_kjn0n9rnHc-dL4SOSkOnEpazkL-6RYIaFu9-Xn-T1s/s1600/IMG_E7142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAUTBWi7XMlsR_TxcSrkFHtfcTPXWqeCZsJCYNaNQg8aLHom3EQ_OW7tQboYIF3-gF7utZQtgueR7fNj6ZACkjC2G8geNJwL5i_kjn0n9rnHc-dL4SOSkOnEpazkL-6RYIaFu9-Xn-T1s/s1600/IMG_E7142.JPG" /></a></div>
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"All the other colors are just colors,</div>
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but purple seems to have a soul -</div>
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when you look at it, </div>
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it's looking back at you."</div>
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~ Uniek Swain<br />
<br />
<b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #999999; font-family: Nobile; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 0.5px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>*This post is kindly sponsored by Ever-Pretty.com</i></b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><b style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #999999; font-family: Nobile; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 0.5px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>All sentiments and selections are my own.*</i></b><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-9168973346565256132019-03-20T19:46:00.000-05:002019-03-20T21:48:17.618-05:00The Nature of God<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDO6dzndrNeUbZryjBi3xufXTdD7phIeKUJjLJuy1xE9NOrAnRqMRrozENTKlKLU5Y82KqA02L7AnjG9Xgjhr-L6xfO-QPGWxPu9nmG3TLgodgi4tQwJWfGfyyOnFhJIzJ-5UVVIqDXE/s1600/IMG_E7045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="560" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDO6dzndrNeUbZryjBi3xufXTdD7phIeKUJjLJuy1xE9NOrAnRqMRrozENTKlKLU5Y82KqA02L7AnjG9Xgjhr-L6xfO-QPGWxPu9nmG3TLgodgi4tQwJWfGfyyOnFhJIzJ-5UVVIqDXE/s640/IMG_E7045.JPG" width="566" /></a> </div>
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Through the many harmonies of nature we are constantly </div>
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being refreshed, renewed and reborn.</div>
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It is an avenue, a conduit, God uses for our continual</div>
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healing, personal growth and forward motion in life.</div>
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As I stood at my kitchen sink early this morning,</div>
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looking out at a familiar scene that has given me</div>
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great comfort for over thirty years now, </div>
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my heart quickened and I was lost in a reverie of pure joy.</div>
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For there in the distance, across the yards to the back of me,</div>
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standing with great majesty in the hazy sky, </div>
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are a pair of old trees I've known and loved for years.</div>
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I've watched each season change their crowning glory</div>
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all these decades, and today they have signaled to me, </div>
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even through the gloom that cloaked them like a shroud,</div>
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that Spring is about to touch my weary and thirsty soul again.</div>
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I was so happy to see that these lovely old trees are clothed</div>
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all over once again with a sprinkling of tiny buds of red.</div>
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Immediately the Psalms rose up in me...</div>
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"O clap your hands, all peoples; </div>
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Shout to God with the voice of joy." Psalm 47:1</div>
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"Let the field exult, and all that is in it,</div>
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Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy..." Psalm 96:12</div>
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And so the cycle begins again. Freshness, newness and rebirth.</div>
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I am clapping my hands and singing, along with the trees,</div>
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in a joyful voice to God with great thankfulness.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhrhAFAfAXogGGFT2IBk3BQM9nM_g6ve7Aw_kCxtbtrcThOGUf5rY0fNc7b2W3IMDOkZGTxZjXqEqRP1o8PFpKakQsA6AR-GakeAekWCQFI51gk43VABxk67OQdPB13gtksb6vKN6rxho/s1600/IMG_E7044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="615" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhrhAFAfAXogGGFT2IBk3BQM9nM_g6ve7Aw_kCxtbtrcThOGUf5rY0fNc7b2W3IMDOkZGTxZjXqEqRP1o8PFpKakQsA6AR-GakeAekWCQFI51gk43VABxk67OQdPB13gtksb6vKN6rxho/s640/IMG_E7044.JPG" width="618" /></a></div>
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I am reminded, even in the cool grey dampness of a March day,</div>
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that God has His hand on everything and just as the new dawn</div>
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of yet another Springtime is gently starting to unfurl, </div>
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He will always lead us out of the wintertime of our souls. </div>
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"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Psalm 147:3 </div>
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If you have woundedness, loneliness, brokenness or despair of any kind, </div>
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take the time to listen to nature and you will hear the voice of God.</div>
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He speaks to us in the rustle of the pines, the chatter of the squirrels,</div>
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the ebb and flow of the seasons, the hush of a new fallen snow,</div>
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and the soft stillness of a moonlit night.</div>
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He calls to us, He teaches us, He loves us beyond measure.</div>
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His ways are not our ways. We spend our days caught up in worry.</div>
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He offers salvation, hope, restoration and<i> peace.</i></div>
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"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.</div>
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Not as the world gives do I give to you<b>.</b> </div>
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Let not your hearts be troubled,</div>
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neither let them be afraid."</div>
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John 14:27</div>
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God created so many things in the natural world to</div>
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benefit our hearts, spirits and souls, if we would just take time</div>
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to slow down and observe and<i> absorb</i> His presence all around us.</div>
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In perfect stillness I watch a hawk gliding through the sky.</div>
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What utter grace and beauty and<i> peace.</i></div>
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Then it hits me afresh...</div>
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God's Word says I am even more valuable</div>
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than this glorious creature. I am humbled anew.</div>
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But there's more to that portion of scripture. </div>
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He is also using the birds of the air to teach us not to worry.</div>
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{Matthew 6:26}</div>
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He wants us to look to nature and see Him; fully know Him.</div>
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Through the trees he tells us, though the branches are barren for a season,</div>
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He breathes new life into them as they continue to reach up to Him.</div>
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He shows us that, as the clouds turn from ominous grey to billowy white,</div>
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they roll away and reveal a bright blue sky that is fresh and new and clean.</div>
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These elements of earth and nature are our examples. </div>
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They were designed for a purpose by a Father who loves us.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRhXJQ-sqsb66GJB2nzZ7eHUr5vv1fWvlAvhGsvjZyivDvUK9a9Jpw9mJKl_V9Hh0D7mo-3jYenPqcKipRt0cDSzXXIDNbLIO_t47nAtRy-OGh7XRi1E6yI4XJulH0HTnfXHN9MQsiQs/s1600/IMG_E7043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="567" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRhXJQ-sqsb66GJB2nzZ7eHUr5vv1fWvlAvhGsvjZyivDvUK9a9Jpw9mJKl_V9Hh0D7mo-3jYenPqcKipRt0cDSzXXIDNbLIO_t47nAtRy-OGh7XRi1E6yI4XJulH0HTnfXHN9MQsiQs/s640/IMG_E7043.JPG" width="574" /></a></div>
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"But ask the animals and they will teach you, </div>
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or the birds in the sky,</div>
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and they will tell you; or speak to the earth,</div>
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and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you.</div>
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Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this?</div>
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In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind."</div>
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Job 12:7-10</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJ6NsvyD2Ch8GU2VlpYXIDfx-3BbKKqyIVXUAjGk3ym8m5CMlmXpcU-YsCFJWvlfQjlZpGUG67B26wOUriNmewpG9G6uMddVe58VWrvKkpr_kFaYLXjPNz8pkspe0jmwp4vak1HLCj7M/s1600/KXHQ5436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1494" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJ6NsvyD2Ch8GU2VlpYXIDfx-3BbKKqyIVXUAjGk3ym8m5CMlmXpcU-YsCFJWvlfQjlZpGUG67B26wOUriNmewpG9G6uMddVe58VWrvKkpr_kFaYLXjPNz8pkspe0jmwp4vak1HLCj7M/s640/KXHQ5436.JPG" width="596" /></a></div>
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We all have unique ways that God speaks to us through nature.</div>
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I would like to encourage you to seek quiet new ways</div>
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to meet Him in this vast, glorious world He has given us.</div>
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You just might be amazed at what it will do for you.</div>
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Sometimes it brings poetry out of me so fast I have to </div>
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capture it with pen and paper before it fly's away forever.</div>
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I'll leave you with a recent example and a hope</div>
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that you will begin to touch the heart of God </div>
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in new and deep ways in the days ahead.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**</span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"></span><br /></div>
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<b><i>Moonglow</i></b></div>
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<b></b><i><br /></i></div>
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There will be peace</div>
In the valley of my soul<br />
As it reaches toward that place <br />
Of beauty and wonder once more.<br />
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<br /></div>
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My heedless heart wanders;</div>
Restless to the core,<br />
As it seeks verdant hills,<br />
Holding memories from distant shores.<br />
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<br /></div>
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I stand open, trembling and free.</div>
Your breath whispers in soft breezes<br />
Of pine needles blowing<br />
Over, under and all around me.<br />
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<br /></div>
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My eyes cling to barren trees,</div>
Reaching, clawing in their nakedness<br />
Through winter's forsaken sky,<br />
Pleading in their supplication.<br />
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<br /></div>
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We search this world together,</div>
Longing for our healing touch.<br />
Till evening cloaks us both in softness<br />
And blackness hovers all around.<br />
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<br /></div>
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Finally you find me in the darkness,</div>
Weaving stars throughout my hair.<br />
Stars of hope eternal<br />
And love that knows no end.<br />
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<br /></div>
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You cover me in moonglow.</div>
How very like you to blanket me<br />
With the brightness of your glory<br />
In the Winter of my soul.<br />
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<br /></div>
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Danette Bartelmay</div>
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February 2019</div>
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Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-64019660209927585922019-03-16T19:54:00.000-05:002019-03-16T21:32:56.689-05:00Every Perfect Gift<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGJKR0_J1WzuOPixIqi3goZc20xLpE398foTZgm0itDGoFdQnXoBzvGs-X9-ftjZqs_FIdT4g0Xf3sTjiT-ttPLSoESMTaKiPJSsF2I0uwaQe13trPP1IUfU6iG6bOvp0aulwu7hsgDE/s1600/IMG_E6965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGJKR0_J1WzuOPixIqi3goZc20xLpE398foTZgm0itDGoFdQnXoBzvGs-X9-ftjZqs_FIdT4g0Xf3sTjiT-ttPLSoESMTaKiPJSsF2I0uwaQe13trPP1IUfU6iG6bOvp0aulwu7hsgDE/s640/IMG_E6965.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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If you've been a long time friend of mine here,</div>
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you may notice I've made just a few changes recently. </div>
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As of April 2nd Google Plus will shutdown,<br />
therefore I updated my profile and returned to using Blogger this week.</div>
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My profile was long overdue for a serious tweaking so that's a good thing.<br />
One thing that might not be so good however,<br />
is that I seem to have issues with comments while using Blogger.<br />
I have people telling me they try repeatedly<br />
to post a comment to my blog and are unable to do so.<br />
So if this is happening to you, I am so sorry!<br />
Actually, this was happening with Google+ sometimes as well.<br />
I'm not sure what the problem is or what to do about it.<br />
But I will continue to try to figure it out.<br />
I may decide to switch everything to Wordpress in the future.<br />
It's something I have considered and am still mulling over.<br />
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht5lJ4HTSo7KG4Zj5j8YY5B9I65d1paXPr1tG2blitwSXWRSFx2EU8PJwJN5GuxCwWxQJSWw-WPhaoWd1yZXlyz4Ol83jvZmCpBcxkTsabtQ7eLT-0GKCyzboDbQXrS9lowu0xVcXri68/s1600/IMG_E7005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht5lJ4HTSo7KG4Zj5j8YY5B9I65d1paXPr1tG2blitwSXWRSFx2EU8PJwJN5GuxCwWxQJSWw-WPhaoWd1yZXlyz4Ol83jvZmCpBcxkTsabtQ7eLT-0GKCyzboDbQXrS9lowu0xVcXri68/s640/IMG_E7005.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Another recent change is the addition of a <a href="https://www.rosepetaltea.com/p/email.html">Sponsorhip</a> </div>
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tab at the top of the page for you to click on if you are </div>
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interested in contacting me to promote your business or products.</div>
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You can refer to the Sponsorship page</div>
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then contact me via email for more details.</div>
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I've been blogging for over a decade at this point and I have</div>
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thousands of readers and followers around the world. </div>
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I would love to be an avenue that helps you gain more exposure</div>
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for your business by helping you to grow your online presence.</div>
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Over the years I've taken, and excelled in, many college classes </div>
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in writing and am currently taking more to further hone my skills.</div>
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I also plan to take professional photography classes in the near future.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCPnybztsvtpjthmPOz8g47y_mMDFzGIj3whfdozdao-kxbKawVY7I5T8bcPOEKTn6RLr3aCstEVK9o3UVg3kqL68Gm-fObKT6ewD7peGgSeFqJT2I13uw669uqrykfo614utPCtVlMs0/s1600/IMG_6967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCPnybztsvtpjthmPOz8g47y_mMDFzGIj3whfdozdao-kxbKawVY7I5T8bcPOEKTn6RLr3aCstEVK9o3UVg3kqL68Gm-fObKT6ewD7peGgSeFqJT2I13uw669uqrykfo614utPCtVlMs0/s640/IMG_6967.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">It is my belief that when we all work side by side,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"> bringing our individual and unique talents and gifts together, </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">we can accomplish amazing things that make the world</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"> a better and more beautiful place for all of us.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">We are creatures of togetherness and as such,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">we were created to build one another up; </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">to unlock and enhance the potential in each other.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">Every single thing we have in this life is a gift</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">that must be valued and offered wholeheartedly to others.</span></div>
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No matter what our specific set of skills,</div>
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talents or gifts may be, we are meant to use them to</div>
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build the Kingdom of God and further humankind.</div>
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Each of us has a light within waiting to be sparked.</div>
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Our lights shine more brightly as they absorb and reflect</div>
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the energy from other creative, talented individuals.</div>
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Together we are stronger, healthier and happier.</div>
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It's the only way our gifts ever truly reach total fruition. </div>
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As human beings we were designed to</div>
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complement one another and work together.</div>
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I am thankful every time I log onto this blog</div>
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and read your comments and see the overwhelming </div>
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amount of views and readers I have every day.</div>
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Your presence here matters so much to me. </div>
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Thank you for shining your light into my world.</div>
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<br /></div>
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"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much."</div>
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</span></div>
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Helen Keller</div>
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<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br /></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"></span> </div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"> "Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"> coming down from the Father of lights,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;"> with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow." </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: #999999; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "nobile"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: normal; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px; word-wrap: break-word;">James 1:17</span></div>
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Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-85838871312496854432019-03-12T18:26:00.000-05:002019-03-12T18:26:46.566-05:00The Sands of Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxUh_ReBOZuGc0ush3K5d38r5VsNRq8XOcWdJ3Wyk_u4kogvE0wn38JRrlEUZwQ19HJkwCk426mWpUhFlr_MJ1Tc3X195qrK7WXTGenW1NmM_IjCj2Fi_xzvkblHsfpKBtpnw6Kd0oYY/s1600/IMG_E6979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1272" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxUh_ReBOZuGc0ush3K5d38r5VsNRq8XOcWdJ3Wyk_u4kogvE0wn38JRrlEUZwQ19HJkwCk426mWpUhFlr_MJ1Tc3X195qrK7WXTGenW1NmM_IjCj2Fi_xzvkblHsfpKBtpnw6Kd0oYY/s640/IMG_E6979.JPG" width="508" /></a></div>
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Have you ever felt that the sands of time flow incredibly fast?</div>
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It certainly seems like it to me as I peer into the faces of my grandchildren</div>
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and see two little girls giggling together on a swing set mere moments ago,</div>
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only to realize they are now the grown up mothers of these precious young things.</div>
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I hear and feel the redolent echo's of their long ago laughter </div>
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embodied in these fresh, youthful souls. </div>
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What went on in daily slow motion now feels</div>
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as though it all happened too quickly somehow.</div>
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The hand of time stretched out, the hourglass was flipped,</div>
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and suddenly...</div>
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I was no longer the mommy in charge of wiping away tears,</div>
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chasing butterflies in the sunshine, reading bedtime stories,</div>
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saying prayers and giving goodnight kisses, as I tucked </div>
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blankets up to those sweet sleepy faces each night.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTnka2V9WixG7uLzgUibsE_2rGNr_HtbtCR8BNaS75iKVo5tLP7Ua-VHs9csWKH1xSVRH6LxJ_OcRnclW6H434F7qeMRipbO6cSOTxlhe-0_ZKVDDKy0l2ZCBM-Hu68RrKaoNqQVR78Rs/s1600/IMG_E6919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1308" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTnka2V9WixG7uLzgUibsE_2rGNr_HtbtCR8BNaS75iKVo5tLP7Ua-VHs9csWKH1xSVRH6LxJ_OcRnclW6H434F7qeMRipbO6cSOTxlhe-0_ZKVDDKy0l2ZCBM-Hu68RrKaoNqQVR78Rs/s640/IMG_E6919.JPG" width="522" /></a></div>
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While I was living and breathing those days;</div>
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the days of raising my own two girls, I had no idea</div>
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of the passage of time or the day to day progress being made.</div>
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We were just simply living life.</div>
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The good, the bad, the messy and the in betweenness of it all.</div>
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The ordinary and the extraordinary.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqw7jppaVvWEoPu_oU1P2st7B6SSkEylGxqjjVhd1liFlautvxNN9I7sNL3Tr_fk2bpleKXsyuamb3knVIB_HpvCDUmX_8_j-g6uk7zCF0tE30MWP0pyNZm3aqyN9xk1QCPtXdZnNJa4/s1600/IMG_E6927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1253" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqw7jppaVvWEoPu_oU1P2st7B6SSkEylGxqjjVhd1liFlautvxNN9I7sNL3Tr_fk2bpleKXsyuamb3knVIB_HpvCDUmX_8_j-g6uk7zCF0tE30MWP0pyNZm3aqyN9xk1QCPtXdZnNJa4/s640/IMG_E6927.JPG" width="501" /></a></div>
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As a mother I just kept on keeping on, like we do.</div>
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Time kept on moving like it does too and before I knew it,</div>
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after what felt like no time at all, those little rosebud daughters had </div>
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blossomed into the most beautiful full grown flowers I had ever seen.</div>
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I hear the word, "Mommy, Mommy...Mom".</div>
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I turn to look and there before me stands a little girl, a teenager, a woman.</div>
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Where did the time go so suddenly?</div>
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Ahh... but it's still here,<i> right here</i> with me.</div>
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I see it and feel it and sometimes even smell it.</div>
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It's in my mind's eye on a quiet day,</div>
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as I stand at the sink looking out</div>
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across a backyard that once held a swing set...</div>
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It's in the glow of three faces that look to me now calling out, "Grammy"!</div>
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My heart is still captured, carrying me backwards, by snatches of fairy stories,</div>
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remnants of songs, and the fresh smell of laundry hanging to dry,</div>
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as I stand there again with two laughing girls chasing each other in and out of </div>
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the sheets as they hang on the line in the warm summer sunshine. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg68LnniLVSG1XqGXHvxtQeonxQEowoGZmZPkZ0sf8lTMYfJddpxKqS2C46b1v7ZZCKYMiyWAnfB83aSSWv02KeSEdpj9g9S_TWCUshMt3cc5VWdjIz-qeLHcDAzI2Gyyol67m75cD5EMg/s1600/IMG_E6925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1179" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg68LnniLVSG1XqGXHvxtQeonxQEowoGZmZPkZ0sf8lTMYfJddpxKqS2C46b1v7ZZCKYMiyWAnfB83aSSWv02KeSEdpj9g9S_TWCUshMt3cc5VWdjIz-qeLHcDAzI2Gyyol67m75cD5EMg/s640/IMG_E6925.JPG" width="471" /></a></div>
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And the true joy of it all is that it never really ends.<br />
It just becomes redefined and continually<i> refined</i> as those<br />
lovely jewels we raise up come into their own, find their way<br />
in this world, spread those glorious wings and<i> fly...</i>!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrNt4vmj_Snrh2k7d7CkgPJXHKrexsob7exC9lMpR3o6baRXJhshCxNH2mTlXybkBp1gRPCXi87tgySTsymDwG9duaz3D2VPQljajP-sIGbllyeEMJI78Y-v5YGJ_cM7uQ-hTOGqZj64g/s1600/IMG_E6929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrNt4vmj_Snrh2k7d7CkgPJXHKrexsob7exC9lMpR3o6baRXJhshCxNH2mTlXybkBp1gRPCXi87tgySTsymDwG9duaz3D2VPQljajP-sIGbllyeEMJI78Y-v5YGJ_cM7uQ-hTOGqZj64g/s640/IMG_E6929.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Layer upon layer upon layer, our relationships with them and<b><i> to</i></b> them change.</div>
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It is a bond that needs perpetual nurturing for an entire lifetime of blooming.</div>
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This love we share with our adult children is multi-faceted.</div>
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It grows and develops in a whole new dimension.</div>
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Although we are not needed in the same childlike ways we once were</div>
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for them, we are still needed in their lives and in their hearts.</div>
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They often enjoy our company and sometimes seek our advice.</div>
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Thankfully, they have reached that time of valuing our opinion,<i> finally.</i></div>
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<i></i> And our need for them has experienced a metamorphosis of its very own.</div>
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We have been relieved of the primary care and responsibility for them</div>
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and yet we still need, on some level, to be needed by them. </div>
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Or maybe it's more that we need for them to know that </div>
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we are always here if and when they have need for us. </div>
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I love the way mothering has grown me as a person.</div>
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How it has changed me and continues to do so.</div>
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I know so many different things about the world around me, </div>
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other people and myself than I ever did all those years ago,</div>
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all because of this one vital, life-giving role in my life.</div>
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I love knowing that my daughters are on this same journey.</div>
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They are each taking their individual paths in their own ways.</div>
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Just as it did for me and my mother before me,</div>
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one day the hourglass will suddenly be flipped over and</div>
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the sands will slowly start to release a new beginning</div>
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into the wonder of their lives,</div>
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as they step into truths that can be known only</div>
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by the living and never by the being told.</div>
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They too will be captured in moments when sights,</div>
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sounds or smells transport them back to the childhood </div>
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sweetness of their own offspring and maybe even further back</div>
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to the days when they were the ones laughing, swinging, chasing</div>
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and knowing nothing but the beauty of this moment.</div>
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I hope they will find me there, waiting in a continual circle of love.</div>
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For memories are not bound by the flow of sand</div>
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and love will always be stronger than time.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3VJM4ArkBM0CtJsrzvMUu6BrQzyhUSHR7PlRloEaw17bl8iCSOdpOZFaO6X0vUMU0Zmi8yYfNGmYh9fAAch-V-rqbuS-NThA73d8CGdykhQx8eo4fjxf6HwdeoItc7BpAJ357TFFdAxM/s1600/IMG_E6969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3VJM4ArkBM0CtJsrzvMUu6BrQzyhUSHR7PlRloEaw17bl8iCSOdpOZFaO6X0vUMU0Zmi8yYfNGmYh9fAAch-V-rqbuS-NThA73d8CGdykhQx8eo4fjxf6HwdeoItc7BpAJ357TFFdAxM/s640/IMG_E6969.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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"Of Roses and Bunnies"</div>
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Of roses and bunnies</div>
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And sweet childhood days,</div>
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When time was our friend</div>
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And life was just play.</div>
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We skipped in the sunshine </div>
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And splashed through the rain,</div>
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As we chased in a land</div>
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Where time knew no end.</div>
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There were teacups and cartwheels</div>
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And butterflies and bugs;</div>
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Laughter and bike rides</div>
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And tears that brought hugs.</div>
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Oh how I'd love to go back </div>
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If just for one day,</div>
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To that sweet land of roses,</div>
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Bunnies and childhood play.</div>
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<br /></div>
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~ Danette Bartelmay</div>
Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655853883628716730.post-10716824405286732262019-03-08T06:50:00.000-06:002019-03-08T09:47:30.914-06:00Creativity Connected<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd1qYn3M9jtPUL9otudRGTftQX4kZ1Dg4o7JPC-dliwFL1Bxki9qfznPWKkVK7fYTrw0M7KUOE2-Cq03usgaIFGiTxt8dI53zUVncMQ8Ennq4mVswJMDOI_Se8wfTvgt8KyslA674iZe0/s1600/IMG_E6845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd1qYn3M9jtPUL9otudRGTftQX4kZ1Dg4o7JPC-dliwFL1Bxki9qfznPWKkVK7fYTrw0M7KUOE2-Cq03usgaIFGiTxt8dI53zUVncMQ8Ennq4mVswJMDOI_Se8wfTvgt8KyslA674iZe0/s640/IMG_E6845.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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I love the fact that we live in a vast world rich with diversity, color and creativity.</div>
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There's a never ending abundance of artforms for our enjoyment and use.</div>
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I am constantly amazed by the talent of others, those things which inspire them,</div>
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the mediums they choose and the unique outcome of their endeavors.</div>
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Today I have some gorgeous results to show you of what can </div>
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happen when two totally separate forms of creativity come </div>
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together to make some truly beautiful artistic design.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxxs8FWJCrmnQ2dqcL582uTX05_Q5sFfhsCelTzjQ5HDQFwp-Ur5fQs2Z80lAG_iOOrg0p6NDj39bNqASTF-IuLgKv6FxjUSMgaW64KBkofgZIJ6zrvHP3dbeFcExtq-k5_Tu5DAKGK0/s1600/IMG_E6833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxxs8FWJCrmnQ2dqcL582uTX05_Q5sFfhsCelTzjQ5HDQFwp-Ur5fQs2Z80lAG_iOOrg0p6NDj39bNqASTF-IuLgKv6FxjUSMgaW64KBkofgZIJ6zrvHP3dbeFcExtq-k5_Tu5DAKGK0/s640/IMG_E6833.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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I have the most exquisite cookies for you to see,</div>
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along with the two completely different sources of </div>
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creative genius that it took coming together to create them.</div>
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First, let's talk about that delightful shimmering gold</div>
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<a href="https://www.stencilrevolution.com/products/buffalo-check-cookie-stencil">buffalo check</a> pattern that's on these delectable cookies.</div>
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Every artist must have the perfect set of tools and oftentimes </div>
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the tools themselves are works of art, in and of themselves,</div>
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such as those required to make the various motifs</div>
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you'll see pictured on the cookies throughout this post.</div>
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This gorgeous work was accomplished by using a variety of </div>
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precision laser cut cookie stencils by <a href="https://www.stencilrevolution.com/">Stencil Revolution</a>.</div>
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This fantastic company is a small, family-owned operation based in</div>
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sunny Spring Hill, Florida, where every item is made to perfection, </div>
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packaged with great care and shipped on time.</div>
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This takes a team of people who put their heart and soul into it.</div>
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That's what I love about a family run business, they work hard together</div>
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to give every step of the process their personal touch, ensuring that each</div>
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customer reaps the benefits of their creativity and cohesive teamwork.</div>
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You can see their happy faces and read their story right <a href="https://www.stencilrevolution.com/pages/about">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9qcuwGRqFzZeL5wOW_BH_8bM_1nh_sAkGEyyFovJwCkRCiRzP2DHgYCzm4ahAtflMeneazgBFo1rbc9pnpkQ9VKLcw2nw-Ema7vqZQTq5nmTU1OMJRxHbaXBj6K516cLcfIQMilboc4/s1600/IMG_E6851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><i></i><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji9qcuwGRqFzZeL5wOW_BH_8bM_1nh_sAkGEyyFovJwCkRCiRzP2DHgYCzm4ahAtflMeneazgBFo1rbc9pnpkQ9VKLcw2nw-Ema7vqZQTq5nmTU1OMJRxHbaXBj6K516cLcfIQMilboc4/s640/IMG_E6851.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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You can't get such detailed results unless the stencils</div>
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are cut by someone with an artistic eye who also </div>
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cares about putting out the best product possible.</div>
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Just look at those magnificent scales on the mermaid tails</div>
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that were achieved by using the <a href="https://www.stencilrevolution.com/products/fish-scale-cookie-stencil">Fish Scale Cookie Stencil</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQ3VvM0NEijmSVBqPWxH1MQn0HPRWl98ONZiFX70XpDX3mfnmjNi8MYSFL_I91a0mNCU9roA_0fkOYh9CT2ijbvpZbEFkXEVMBnY5SRpNQFZfTUnEzK_-GZqrcCzwHQHJdVHRAdOGNzE/s1600/IMG_6861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQ3VvM0NEijmSVBqPWxH1MQn0HPRWl98ONZiFX70XpDX3mfnmjNi8MYSFL_I91a0mNCU9roA_0fkOYh9CT2ijbvpZbEFkXEVMBnY5SRpNQFZfTUnEzK_-GZqrcCzwHQHJdVHRAdOGNzE/s640/IMG_6861.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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And look at the detailed woodgrain pattern of the</div>
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<a href="https://www.stencilrevolution.com/products/wood-cookie-stencil">Wood Cookie Stencil</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZOASRh6a5zi17xWfI9JAczscePbxxEk8SoSSxGzAEbvX22Ai9Lhw1LxHc87YYjNv4Zg5keKGI0YrLk2396V1WZxAZWECEigRIzeCeKOfidIIQXXaYK63ljZeQGWvpsiNpJHPpaPLkrk/s1600/IMG_6859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZOASRh6a5zi17xWfI9JAczscePbxxEk8SoSSxGzAEbvX22Ai9Lhw1LxHc87YYjNv4Zg5keKGI0YrLk2396V1WZxAZWECEigRIzeCeKOfidIIQXXaYK63ljZeQGWvpsiNpJHPpaPLkrk/s640/IMG_6859.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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How fun would it be to create your very own beach themed </div>
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party with the use of these spectacular stencils?! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj3ZrCFxvGMKliJcu1vedAvbKL9HUu7QzcLCoFj0GNzEizdqfnWSocUgAFGOhgQsWJfcnrHAGU6zfPEc2lEPH9iiTnoDKoz2kWWipdRQlKD3IbOjuuvjQ84yXdTMVy436xElDiSkj5juY/s1600/IMG_6867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj3ZrCFxvGMKliJcu1vedAvbKL9HUu7QzcLCoFj0GNzEizdqfnWSocUgAFGOhgQsWJfcnrHAGU6zfPEc2lEPH9iiTnoDKoz2kWWipdRQlKD3IbOjuuvjQ84yXdTMVy436xElDiSkj5juY/s640/IMG_6867.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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The possibilities are endless!</div>
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They have so many more fantastic stencils for things other than cookies too.</div>
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Like the breathtaking <a href="https://www.stencilrevolution.com/collections/mandala-stencils">Mandala Stencils</a> that come in different styles and sizes.</div>
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There are two of these beauties that are my very favorites.</div>
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Probably because they remind me of giant crocheted doilies.</div>
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My absolute first favorite is the <a href="https://www.stencilrevolution.com/products/harmony-mandala-stencil">Harmony Mandala</a></div>
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but I also really,<i> really</i> love the <a href="https://www.stencilrevolution.com/products/bliss-mandala-stencil">Bliss Mandala</a>.</div>
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Okay, so is it the whole crochet connection for me,</div>
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or am I just feeling the peaceful vibes from the thought of </div>
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painting some<b><i> harmony</i></b> and<b><i> bliss</i></b> into my daily life...?</div>
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I think I just might find out in the future because I'm already</div>
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scoping out an area and dreaming of the colors...</div>
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One other stencil that I really love and already have is the</div>
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<a href="https://www.stencilrevolution.com/products/farm-fresh-pumpkins-stencil">Fresh Farm Pumpkins Stencil</a></div>
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I plan to show it to you in an upcoming post in the early Autumn,</div>
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once I've done something completely awesome with it.</div>
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I have it in an 18"x12" size. As with the Mandala's, </div>
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all of their stencils are available in several different sizes.</div>
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As for the cookie artist who worked her magic</div>
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on these over the top, sweet confections, </div>
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that would be my extremely talented sister, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bridget.englund?epa=SEARCH_BOX">Bridget</a>.</div>
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Nobody can take a little of this, a little of that</div>
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add a pinch of sugar here and there and end up with </div>
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something that will enchant<i> all</i> of the senses like she can.</div>
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<i></i>She's as remarkable as Mary Poppins with her bag full of goodies.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23zl6E6bCCrSVD4EwVMgFcUulOWM8qxo9rrLBILmnu-bhOo7i6-V0UXnR0K7AUtXOZeWg58hfcXF6plGtuNGlq3iRpP8rsslBdaMuvT55uBl8NRFSyotk9QDd9ppIaq_X_k1GeMmdvLY/s1600/IMG_E6904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1388" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23zl6E6bCCrSVD4EwVMgFcUulOWM8qxo9rrLBILmnu-bhOo7i6-V0UXnR0K7AUtXOZeWg58hfcXF6plGtuNGlq3iRpP8rsslBdaMuvT55uBl8NRFSyotk9QDd9ppIaq_X_k1GeMmdvLY/s640/IMG_E6904.JPG" width="554" /></a></div>
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This world of ours is a truly astonishing place.</div>
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For all it's great breadth of many cultures and people,</div>
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we continue to find sensational new ways every day </div>
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to connect to one another so beautifully,</div>
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so perfectly, and sometimes even magically, </div>
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in our own individual forms of creativity.</div>
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It connects us heart to heart across all boundaries.</div>
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Sometimes it takes your work of art in</div>
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order for me to make my form of magic.</div>
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Now tell me that's not a fantastic design.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxEA1IWH25eswVfRvwWCfRcuqlD3UGKdJA7IOkrIbvEU3ebLamjBJLyvIPWCUSN4hGAUtdDGnPQjXwXrQCTH9UBRSFkRd55W8p8o3AuYjbpUdzPqVF2qFMt-DwHthC_LaxtDpQSC1E9Ls/s1600/IMG_E6829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1384" data-original-width="1368" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxEA1IWH25eswVfRvwWCfRcuqlD3UGKdJA7IOkrIbvEU3ebLamjBJLyvIPWCUSN4hGAUtdDGnPQjXwXrQCTH9UBRSFkRd55W8p8o3AuYjbpUdzPqVF2qFMt-DwHthC_LaxtDpQSC1E9Ls/s640/IMG_E6829.JPG" width="632" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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"Creative collaboration is awesome."</div>
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Alicia Silverstone</div>
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<br /></div>
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"Creativity is just connecting things.</div>
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When you ask creative people how they did something,</div>
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they feel a little guilty because they didn't really do it,</div>
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they just saw something.</div>
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It seemed obvious to them after a while."</div>
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Steve Jobs</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i>*This post is kindly sponsored by Stencil Revolution.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>All sentiments and stencil selections are my own.</i></b></div>
Danette Bartelmayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12610193916999812047noreply@blogger.com6