tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67376532963886022532024-03-18T14:58:38.360-05:00Counting Your Blessingsblessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.comBlogger884125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-7170780041052317742014-07-15T09:18:00.000-05:002014-07-15T09:18:34.361-05:00New Canvases<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEGzyXRH53vkalDty49B2PbeXOOfjP7rqsvlP31FF0XWtzqSExENSShTCIDU5Eqhfgesu8PEf3XTKr0sXOrvN8hpCE1WsRmHrbIe-E70x5R01lAWvRrDZapdXlIrqF52ehXei_nDxAaCs/s1600/IMAG2533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEGzyXRH53vkalDty49B2PbeXOOfjP7rqsvlP31FF0XWtzqSExENSShTCIDU5Eqhfgesu8PEf3XTKr0sXOrvN8hpCE1WsRmHrbIe-E70x5R01lAWvRrDZapdXlIrqF52ehXei_nDxAaCs/s1600/IMAG2533.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
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Since these days I spend most of my time at hospitals and rehabilitation facilities, my creative canvases are pretty limited. I'm becoming my own canvas by trying new hair and clothing. It doesn't come easily for me. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/countingyourblessings">Here's a short facebook post</a></div>
blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com104tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-2789468360028348432014-05-10T09:53:00.000-05:002014-05-10T09:53:34.706-05:00Unfailing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Through stage 3 mesothelioma and a stroke, she has been by his side unfailingly.</div>
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Sleeps in the hospital rooms with him. And on the sofa next him while at home.</div>
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Reads the Bible to him every morning.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCgDeBa1_aVlnrxRPtb57ou23TYFAx_2j3RfeLgPm8fGERXaqPBIqYlTbVxnl_08V1nOKrBaDAwann-cozSdJ8cCvjKfvGFbUYpBqYrJjy7eMrSeCzdReIdPece74kEF4LFb5bfOgQxHQ/s1600/Mom&Dad.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCgDeBa1_aVlnrxRPtb57ou23TYFAx_2j3RfeLgPm8fGERXaqPBIqYlTbVxnl_08V1nOKrBaDAwann-cozSdJ8cCvjKfvGFbUYpBqYrJjy7eMrSeCzdReIdPece74kEF4LFb5bfOgQxHQ/s1600/Mom&Dad.JPG" height="320" width="284" /></a></div>
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Together they have witnessed to and prayed for more nurses, doctors and patients who have crossed our path in the last six months than I have in my entire life. I have been blessed to see them in action, representing Christ's unfailing love to everyone around them. It's made me want to be like them. Opened my heart to souls needing more. It's inspiring to watch a very sick man lifting prayers for so many others. I'm awestruck watching my mom loving my dad "til death do us part" and yet loving God even more.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Mother's Days is not quite enough.</span></div>
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<i>Update: I'm sorry that it's been so long since I have posted anything to my blog. It's been a whirlwind of hospitals lately but I have been trying to do quick updates on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/countingyourblessings">my facebook page</a> so please follow along there if you don't see anything here. Dad is coming up on his last chemo this week and then we will head into Madison on June 4th to schedule the surgery to have his right lung removed. He is very weak and is sleeping a lot. But his vitals and levels have been good. He had a brain stem stroke on March 4th and does have some deficits from that but has good therapists and is making improvements. Mostly his vision and balance were affected but he also has some confusion. We aren't sure but we have reason to hope that after the surgery, when chemo & meds aren't exaggerating everything that those deficits will improve. The medical teams say it's a miracle that he's doing as well as he is. Although he is weak, he is unfailing. He's growing anxious to get beyond this and is in good spirits.</i></div>
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<i>How you can help: Pray. Because God is unfailing and He is not weak. Specifically, you could pray that dad gets through this last chemo strong enough to withstand a very major surgery. And pray for energy for mom and Steve & I.</i></div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-65429032708402161732013-12-16T19:56:00.001-06:002013-12-16T19:56:35.192-06:00It Isn't Always Pretty<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The first good snowfall hit and our historic neighborhood is a glistening wonderland.</div>
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Heavenly hosts, and all that. </div>
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But through the doors of our drafty home things are not always pretty. Sometimes, dare I even admit, the cohabitants are downright ugly to one another. There are times the pretty decor is overridden by the weeds of homeschooling and creating. There are times that the kitchen is disgustingly dirty. There are times when illness hits. I think that all of the above have applied to our home at one time or another over these last couple months. But something quite unexpected happened last week and I'm not good at talking about it. I don't know why, because I'm good at talking. About almost anything. </div>
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But when prayer is needed, it's time to speak up.</div>
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Many of you have met my parents at our market events. We host The Vintage Market at their home. Most of you know that I am very close to them. We eat Sunday dinner together every week and talk on the phone everyday. So I'm sure you understand the rattled-to-my-core feeling at learning that my dad has been diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer. "Six months, if left untreated" the oncologist says in the middle of lots of big words I didn't understand. I find myself falling apart, tripping over pieces of me as I'm trying to keep everyone else together. </div>
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We are still preparing for a lovely Christmas and praising God for all the family coming to visit and the beautiful things about this season. We are laughing when we can laugh, trimming the trees, hanging the holly, and loving the freshly fallen snow. We are playing Christmas music, enjoying the twinkling lights and reminding the kids that Jesus is why we have Christmas. We are creating and baking and conspiring about gifts. </div>
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But it isn't always pretty.</div>
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If you would pray for us, we would be so grateful.</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-41017568602145357642013-10-18T13:57:00.001-05:002013-10-18T19:47:34.603-05:00The Farmstyle Wedding<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Acs8ClyKs1IQoIrtWpnMTA3bP366rgAjTDflZM9fqce1BKLuHyiNqTmhk80sa3eJOwEBN-cQ6qM7yKIi2B6pO1WOWVgC2ZxJQFdadq658myQeFJzume1e8XFyjt7ofhorZhdvV-c5Ek/s1600/IMAG1267.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Acs8ClyKs1IQoIrtWpnMTA3bP366rgAjTDflZM9fqce1BKLuHyiNqTmhk80sa3eJOwEBN-cQ6qM7yKIi2B6pO1WOWVgC2ZxJQFdadq658myQeFJzume1e8XFyjt7ofhorZhdvV-c5Ek/s640/IMAG1267.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Because one of the biggest things in my life as mom occurred in the last month, I have to brag a wee bit...<br />
<i><span style="color: #45818e; font-size: x-small;">Canvas by <a href="http://www.serendipityrefined.com/" target="_blank">Serendipity Refined</a></span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #76a5af; font-size: x-small;">photo by me</span></i></div>
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<span style="color: #76a5af; font-size: x-small;">photo via my son, Noah</span></div>
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Rehearsal dinner on the farm - just one fence away from where the ceremony took place. </div>
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We prayed "You've calmed the winds before..." and the prairie winds that had us worried all day were gentle breezes by the start of rehearsal.</div>
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Farmstyle GPS</div>
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Anticipation from the bride's tent</div>
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Mitch's bride and his mama (in the reflection)</div>
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The week before the wedding, one of the bridesmaid's dresses hadn't arrived but unbelievably we were able to find a very close match at the mall. And I loved that Haley wanted all the moms and grandmas wedding dresses hanging in her tent.</div>
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The bride and groom's sisters as flowergirls.</div>
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My guys - the groom and best man on the right.<br />
I'm still not sure where this super cool old limestone building is. The wedding party took off down the road in Mitch's pick-up truck for a few minutes after the ceremony. It was an evening wedding so we had limited daylight to work with. Our friends, Bob and Karmen and Kim, did all of the photography as a gift when our scheduled photographer had to back out at the last minute. How they got so many lovely photos in such a short time frame is a miracle.<br />
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My little guy, the vow bearer </div>
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The amazing bouquets and boutonnieres were created by our hugely talented friend <a href="http://www.serendipityrefined.com/2013/09/flowers-for-autumn-wedding-pinecones.html" target="_blank">Kim</a>!</div>
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Roses, pinecones, raw cotton and burlap - all freeze dried so they will last forever.</div>
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The wedding was held on the bride's <a href="http://countryguesthouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">grandparent's farm</a>. Karen did a great job of adding all the little touches!</div>
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Their prayer</div>
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In the midst of all the romantic decor, THIS is what it was all for!</div>
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Thank you, Father, for creating these two for each other.</div>
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"The Plot Thickens"<br />
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Our menu was chili, cornbread and apple pie but the kids had a cutting cake and we added in some fresh things from the farm. Friends & aunts pitched in with pasta and fruit salads. There's no such thing as a "simple" wedding. =)<br />
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Wash stand near the port-a-potty</div>
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Bing Crosby's "I'll Capture Your Heart" gave a vintage note to the DJ's table.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlBHBMggoQTt36fyDiLN6PSixAraB8OGeyxa5c8f37PjIoxRZT4JE5BClXsZAVtIWF6E3ezIBubWwaXG9_1qF3ouNOH1tzcz0ngpywqfuyH9WmfoRPCN0YYhqeqHZVXIzsCzSM7u3QzDY/s1600/mitch+and+i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlBHBMggoQTt36fyDiLN6PSixAraB8OGeyxa5c8f37PjIoxRZT4JE5BClXsZAVtIWF6E3ezIBubWwaXG9_1qF3ouNOH1tzcz0ngpywqfuyH9WmfoRPCN0YYhqeqHZVXIzsCzSM7u3QzDY/s1600/mitch+and+i.jpg" /></a></div>
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Our dance - My boy remembered <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ah_uGgDDT-c" target="_blank">the song</a> from his childhood.</div>
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<i>"...'Cause somewhere in the course of this life, my little boy will need a Godly wife - So hold on to Jesus baby wherever you are..."</i> </div>
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I held it together (sorta) all day until that moment. If he hadn't been holding me up, I would've been reduced to a puddle right then.</div>
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Candlelight dinner - Good thing too because the generator was persnickety.</div>
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We hand dyed all the girls ruffle wraps.</div>
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It was c-o-l-d after the sun went down.</div>
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The bonfire was the perfect place to take a break from dancing.</div>
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I'm dying to show you all the decor and props that we poured ourselves into for the months leading up to the wedding!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6nl34hzhl_S5Cpq_AVyy5w_nI_0bK1xSDYvvbVhbm1bY_HyfImqCZwigN1yRCmFy6-1PywnlBkz9GOXJpY3ai5BL04U5hhWOniz4bNBpY-HIHqkWweUwPwYB-XboGIuCHgyuXhaGCfU8/s1600/COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6nl34hzhl_S5Cpq_AVyy5w_nI_0bK1xSDYvvbVhbm1bY_HyfImqCZwigN1yRCmFy6-1PywnlBkz9GOXJpY3ai5BL04U5hhWOniz4bNBpY-HIHqkWweUwPwYB-XboGIuCHgyuXhaGCfU8/s400/COLLAGE.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
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But we had a couple special guests that are going to show you all that.<br />
We are <u>incredibly</u> honored to be part of Fifi's new book <a href="http://fabulousfifi.typepad.com/chez_fifi/2013/10/prairie-style-weddings-details.html">Prairie Style Weddings</a>!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3_UDGfShase56cCHjsz24omHU3AWh7r1f_fzgaSHwtN0_uQGqSoqsigiEJyxzcWgWdhNzgm3HYA0HEXB8-WiQnifYWuZeToUODdTavuEmE1k566Db1U8hd_cx2P74S1u6kEmYksg7tU/s1600/love+notes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3_UDGfShase56cCHjsz24omHU3AWh7r1f_fzgaSHwtN0_uQGqSoqsigiEJyxzcWgWdhNzgm3HYA0HEXB8-WiQnifYWuZeToUODdTavuEmE1k566Db1U8hd_cx2P74S1u6kEmYksg7tU/s640/love+notes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Many, many friends gifted items for our big event. I can't even begin to thank all of you for the help with food, photos, watching my kids, and the gorgeous handmade items!!!! You are an immeasurable blessing to us.<br />
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For more photos and details... Keep an eye on Fifi's page for the release of Prairie Style Weddings so you can see all the beautiful handiwork of our friends in this vintage industry.<br />
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Wedding photography by:<br />
<a href="http://bobbryerphotography.smugmug.com/MyGallery/Haley/31889489_VSVnkz#!i=2767146284&k=4pNkRTC" target="_blank">Bob Bryer Photography</a><br />
<a href="http://www.serendipityrefined.com/2013/10/vintage-farm-style-wedding-haley-and.html">Serendipity Refined</a></div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-82080076353667723912013-08-17T09:15:00.003-05:002013-08-17T09:15:48.423-05:00The Vintage Market!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZrjltf1a1e1b4Ek7D2rvHj4b5_UFqSY2BPVd3W0ianBbDrz8LnT_oC4Tk7Y-kTW5qm3BCDiR6CuUVvg7P-Fi4e6GRRVoHLLSpUqWXeDxDFgqqr3jk44W-AtGi-xuq0Yn1yVXSWrmRzl0/s1600/harvest+2013+flyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZrjltf1a1e1b4Ek7D2rvHj4b5_UFqSY2BPVd3W0ianBbDrz8LnT_oC4Tk7Y-kTW5qm3BCDiR6CuUVvg7P-Fi4e6GRRVoHLLSpUqWXeDxDFgqqr3jk44W-AtGi-xuq0Yn1yVXSWrmRzl0/s640/harvest+2013+flyer.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Harvest 2013 Vintage Market is right around the corner!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sept 20-21 9:00-4:00</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="color: #741b47;"><b>Lots and lots of NEW vendors!</b></span></div>
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Don't worry, many of your favorites have returned too!</div>
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We are growing by leaps and bounds so we have selected a new (and permanent) Harvest location with a meandering pasture and lots of room to grow.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Very conveniently located just 3 miles from Cherryvale Mall. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">*3 miles off I90 and 2 miles off US 20* (Get Directions <a href="http://www.countingyourblessings.com/pages/VintageMarketDirections.htm" target="_blank">here</a>)</span></div>
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If you are coming from out of town and need to book a hotel,<a href="http://www.countingyourblessings.com/pages/VintageMarketAccommodations.htm" target="_blank"> here's a link</a> to local hotels, and restaurants.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3TqqS8JZhrYZFJRuTGxojOjXZAmHhXgBMqT54mnQRDFjhXQkevfJY4kl4RXyohtMooxZWEx3yPUChj4Qp8rsWel1DRTxzsJlXSottuNKcoQvLz30AcOVvxaPEL0nx6drVVQnR8PQbok/s1600/camp+vintage+button.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3TqqS8JZhrYZFJRuTGxojOjXZAmHhXgBMqT54mnQRDFjhXQkevfJY4kl4RXyohtMooxZWEx3yPUChj4Qp8rsWel1DRTxzsJlXSottuNKcoQvLz30AcOVvxaPEL0nx6drVVQnR8PQbok/s1600/camp+vintage+button.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">Glampers, you are invited to camp FREE on our event grounds!</span></div>
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Show off your vintage glamping style!</div>
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<a href="http://www.countingyourblessings.com/pages/CampingSignUp-Harvest2013.htm" target="_blank">Check out the glamping info here</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvQ0Z7_ShGID0Oy2rmOJcW9oKFqyzN2hCLlVVo8dkDRR1_6CtJ11dQy_HnW4q9N8ZKwJbKx9I0X6oMtqMMCq8uw8xQPtPuOhv8XyimVopW_FCG9Tqo1hDcX4y6Tr8SIyycPwuxRLzyZA/s1600/campers+for+sale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvQ0Z7_ShGID0Oy2rmOJcW9oKFqyzN2hCLlVVo8dkDRR1_6CtJ11dQy_HnW4q9N8ZKwJbKx9I0X6oMtqMMCq8uw8xQPtPuOhv8XyimVopW_FCG9Tqo1hDcX4y6Tr8SIyycPwuxRLzyZA/s1600/campers+for+sale.jpg" /></a></div>
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Do you have a vintage camper that you would like to sell? Promote it free at The Vintage Market!</div>
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Just <a href="mailto: thevintagemarketevent@gmail.com" target="_blank">contact me</a> so we can save you a space. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW86235nPKzNDRMlGaRtz-PAPrBTpfqWhzvxftxHO_scfVqwlmu9X09bNfj5t3uqBIG3-3Pj2FQRLAvlib7ATHQ-ifLF5Z7HVUSqH9JQIYrn8jpOhcurdog4ESTNIYe9dxRQFig7sb7uA/s1600/havest+2012+a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW86235nPKzNDRMlGaRtz-PAPrBTpfqWhzvxftxHO_scfVqwlmu9X09bNfj5t3uqBIG3-3Pj2FQRLAvlib7ATHQ-ifLF5Z7HVUSqH9JQIYrn8jpOhcurdog4ESTNIYe9dxRQFig7sb7uA/s1600/havest+2012+a.jpg" /></a></div>
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Vintage & Handmade shopping</div>
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Vintage Campers</div>
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Food & Music</div>
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It's going to be a lovely vintage weekend!</div>
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Keep an eye here and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/VintageMarketEvent" target="_blank">our facebook page</a> as we begin announcing vendors, sharing sneak peeks and counting down the days!</div>
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September 20th-21st</div>
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9:00 - 4:00</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-10559796370286482972013-07-30T17:39:00.002-05:002013-07-30T17:39:53.993-05:00Flying the Coop<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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My little boy is flying the coop soon.<br />
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It's going to be a most spectacular farmstyle wedding!<br />
And the weekend after the wedding, our spectacular wedding props will be at the <a href="http://www.thevintagemarket.net/" target="_blank">Vintage Market</a> in a very special Harvest Wedding tent.<br />
We are so busy that I think my arms might fall off.<br />
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Amidst it all, a mama is letting go... and yet... gathering in - a new daughter into our fold.<br />
I can't even put to words how much I love this boy and his girl next door or how happy it makes me that they love each other. My heart is doing things it's never done before. So you'll have to excuse me if I'm a little twirly these days.</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-73703188404794980602013-06-21T19:02:00.002-05:002013-06-21T19:02:49.424-05:00On Being Off The Grid<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjODGM1_SANNIcLrXqKhIh0YFuWezkgwlPMADl-V1IPcdXNa6LqWfDts28nDsVyZjGnKSkbLVPjVNiFBgBKeG32soJArhDMaTcVomgyjW4PryilE2Hqkjs6KabZZAE93fwJGoJb17PQcY/s1600/bed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjODGM1_SANNIcLrXqKhIh0YFuWezkgwlPMADl-V1IPcdXNa6LqWfDts28nDsVyZjGnKSkbLVPjVNiFBgBKeG32soJArhDMaTcVomgyjW4PryilE2Hqkjs6KabZZAE93fwJGoJb17PQcY/s1600/bed.jpg" /></a></div>
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Other than the super fun <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NelliesBarnSale?fref=ts" target="_blank">Nellies Barn Sale</a>, we have been somewhat off the grid.</div>
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So what fills our days if we aren't doing sales? </div>
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A little of this.</div>
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<i>He brings a smile to my whole life. Seriously, it comes from somewhere deep and washes over me. Not to be confused with exhaustion, which also washes over me. </i></div>
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A little vintage wedding planning.</div>
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<i>3 months and counting. We have a whole room dedicated to wedding stuff. We have HUGE plans and a small budget so we are creating and painting and spending lots of time on Pinterest. Hmm... not so different than doing the shows after all. </i></div>
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A little (very little) fluffing of the house.</div>
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<i>Funny how the house isn't getting any cleaner. Mr. Blessing has been very diligently cleaning the basement so that our oldest can come home for these last few months before the wedding. Other than that, not clean.</i></div>
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Perhaps on the face of it, what with the business of life replacing the business of money, it may not seem like it but parts of me are healing. When I overhear my 10 year old saying to his sister, "I love that story in the Bible where it says..." When my daughter runs to whisper something in my ear. When my 15 year old sings lullabies to the baby. When my son and his almost new wife have dinner with us. And when I get to kiss a baby's palm. There's healing in those moments.</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-81125330119631328112013-05-29T10:51:00.002-05:002013-05-29T10:51:22.684-05:00I Heart the Story<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNLj0jJL-_D6pYspuZI7yQGJDgpayrPvJ0uOGUBCJKakYg-iLcGMtrMATN_GZsYib3F-A9PQt4Fhk11zyEajVpiRukTYN0Y497NfWTPK1d4GcSsaMDCpDuCWhEBi-5yG8q6B5NlJA9TNk/s1600/paint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNLj0jJL-_D6pYspuZI7yQGJDgpayrPvJ0uOGUBCJKakYg-iLcGMtrMATN_GZsYib3F-A9PQt4Fhk11zyEajVpiRukTYN0Y497NfWTPK1d4GcSsaMDCpDuCWhEBi-5yG8q6B5NlJA9TNk/s1600/paint.jpg" /></a></div>
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I found this watercolor kit in a box at the Salvation Army. I love that the colors are so vibrant, even though they're old. I wonder what pictures the child painted with those colors - however many years ago it may have been. I wonder if her grandma or her mom saved it thinking that surely she would put water to hue, brush to paper one more time but then it was forgotten in the junk drawer or perhaps she grew up faster than expected. And how did it end up in a cardboard box, surrounded by forks and stained Tupperware? I love the story that I haven't heard about the creativity born. But my favorite part of the rusty old paint tin is that the red dried in the shape of a heart. <i>(I heart you too, little box of vintage sweetness.</i>)</div>
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We are going through some boxes of our own here at the Blessing farmhouse. Leftovers from years of market events. Boxes that are lining my basement and crawl spaces and garage and a storage unit. Since we are only doing a couple of events this season, I want to clear it all out! So please, please join us at the Nellies Barn Sale June 7th and 8th and help me make room for the next chapter. Who knows, you might find some untold stories you'll "heart".</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-73955017359177164312013-05-06T14:20:00.000-05:002013-05-06T14:20:35.157-05:00So that He may increase<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRORWgfYLYDe2lR__mKW0DJhYUNLwyMfIVSVwp_DBGAVlAzw8lRdEmfBUOBj6xQUX-2uuXicn4i-0r-0e80y1ekpdLju_Kb5h7uwDrs9byESfDXeN50qFBa35wfDRvkkhLjBCEBG5wP2Y/s1600/spotlight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRORWgfYLYDe2lR__mKW0DJhYUNLwyMfIVSVwp_DBGAVlAzw8lRdEmfBUOBj6xQUX-2uuXicn4i-0r-0e80y1ekpdLju_Kb5h7uwDrs9byESfDXeN50qFBa35wfDRvkkhLjBCEBG5wP2Y/s1600/spotlight.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>photo <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/234327986833929127/" target="_blank">via</a></i></div>
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It isn't a popular thing to take your business out of the spotlight, to promote yourself <u>less</u>. But sometimes the spotlight shifts. </div>
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You may have noticed that our open-air boutique hasn't been at all the usual Spring markets. There were lots of factors that led to the decision of taking a season off. Those of you that have known us for the last couple of years, you know what a grueling schedule it has been. Although it was our complete joy to make a living doing what we love, keeping up inventory and being at an event every weekend is exhausting. Our children are at ages that have us running in every direction. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1r7rbhy3-mZx431VZlqMRiKqDUTmrAUqo49zDe9pPupn0_wuBey4RDXt4lUYa5U3erbBdltQ6wJcFvn59wlAISeljOmQ66qMqKW4OH_nqbYZ0Hu0bjN3x39yEABeZNAup1daW-bGhO1w/s1600/shopping+piling+it+on+limit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1r7rbhy3-mZx431VZlqMRiKqDUTmrAUqo49zDe9pPupn0_wuBey4RDXt4lUYa5U3erbBdltQ6wJcFvn59wlAISeljOmQ66qMqKW4OH_nqbYZ0Hu0bjN3x39yEABeZNAup1daW-bGhO1w/s1600/shopping+piling+it+on+limit.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>photo <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/138837600984671250/" target="_blank">via</a></i></div>
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But, truth be told, I might have continued pushing the limit, piling the responsibilities on - even though I knew my time was stretched thin, my health was beginning to fail, our family was stressed. Isn't it funny how we can push ourselves beyond what is good for us and sometimes not even realize it? And because I AM that dense at times - God intervened.</div>
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About six weeks ago God put two lovely children in our home (yep, in addition to the 4 we already have). <i>Nothing says "screeching halt" like having a new baby and a new teenager</i>. But God knew exactly what I needed so that I could let go of our crazy work schedule. Without a doubt it's still crazy around here - a different kind of crazy but crazy good! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiVLV_6J1hRqeDbdSlTQWdHKaF-6P_QZoQwm-UTuw0fDLsp1S3jst3_UhTIx_nhUsVsD_KGwRms3qfhowq9caRfbnkQwAcTT2ABHoqGoukhtHEv__ZaYSB7aUZNMlaaVAsM2ZwHi1MCGw/s1600/goodbye+baby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiVLV_6J1hRqeDbdSlTQWdHKaF-6P_QZoQwm-UTuw0fDLsp1S3jst3_UhTIx_nhUsVsD_KGwRms3qfhowq9caRfbnkQwAcTT2ABHoqGoukhtHEv__ZaYSB7aUZNMlaaVAsM2ZwHi1MCGw/s640/goodbye+baby.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<i>photo <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/246501779574852398/" target="_blank">via</a></i></div>
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And although one is leaving and one is staying, our family has grown immeasurably. We are thankful for the new children and extended family that we get to be part of. And I am thankful for being rescued yet again from the schedule I imposed upon myself. We are all kinds of tangled up and busy but we are also settling into a new way of life. So while it may seem that we are out of the spotlight, we know that we must decrease so that <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John%203:30&version=ESV" target="_blank">He may increase</a>.</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-52789535617007607322013-03-26T12:19:00.001-05:002013-03-26T12:19:47.193-05:00Props<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkBE852az5K4FmL3W4UdWvnucSo7rjliNBl7FJc5ZT7_Itx_B4KJd_0wRk9Es-nYf6n_tJtmduG-M09CCZwxrNDm7kQBdU2Ji88xLPPuzEn6WuEigjRA0Pesagq9lz5eTahnBqA-PH09s/s1600/rollerskates+vases.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkBE852az5K4FmL3W4UdWvnucSo7rjliNBl7FJc5ZT7_Itx_B4KJd_0wRk9Es-nYf6n_tJtmduG-M09CCZwxrNDm7kQBdU2Ji88xLPPuzEn6WuEigjRA0Pesagq9lz5eTahnBqA-PH09s/s1600/rollerskates+vases.jpg" /></a></div>
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Flower "vases" for our picnic area at <a href="http://www.thevintagemarket.net/" target="_blank">the Vintage Market</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXaIprEOG1_nlhoBmY3gOl7IDp9hcIePTtwz_xqvp0gfnUuNfzcnRPiIeaOJ_Z8Gnxx-ktCbiJqmwdZtBRJZlfvO5wDjB11iVZPAhV2i7YvvGs5hVoYbHMnhehnQXMHiIQ8Pl1TDPNeM/s1600/prom+dresses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieXaIprEOG1_nlhoBmY3gOl7IDp9hcIePTtwz_xqvp0gfnUuNfzcnRPiIeaOJ_Z8Gnxx-ktCbiJqmwdZtBRJZlfvO5wDjB11iVZPAhV2i7YvvGs5hVoYbHMnhehnQXMHiIQ8Pl1TDPNeM/s1600/prom+dresses.jpg" /></a></div>
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Vintage Prom Dresses for the windows.</div>
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The vintage story wall is almost done.</div>
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The vintage wedding corner will be packed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3LLeCNCfsgU6gbVkncRFyVZSCzOK10RtkDD4ohkWwnezkQxoRoQLhn0231UPWCeDuwFxec2LmeJkYZLbEG66svKcuWNSnTb5jOgm39Q0OTopuRkJvKswsuXmwuSrwSSpuslvTioS_qoQ/s1600/spring+2013+flyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3LLeCNCfsgU6gbVkncRFyVZSCzOK10RtkDD4ohkWwnezkQxoRoQLhn0231UPWCeDuwFxec2LmeJkYZLbEG66svKcuWNSnTb5jOgm39Q0OTopuRkJvKswsuXmwuSrwSSpuslvTioS_qoQ/s1600/spring+2013+flyer.jpg" /></a></div>
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Amazing vendors with vintage, handmade and re-purposed items.</div>
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I can't wait!!</div>
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<a href="http://thevintagemarket.net/">TheVintageMarket.net</a></div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-4178832112040583032013-03-21T15:19:00.000-05:002013-03-21T15:19:43.909-05:00In Bloom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrfssFV8iI7mIUSe813a16MukgVFM33kHxYcNE1v0FS6UzF7RLW3vRwM-QPlntHtFlE0UmG5AHuI0Nl5m4V9yBaPgVcLCcY-8a5QH_ckK20O-oE3Hr8sHnx4u4cj32-oZaHFaiuLY51x0/s1600/paint+brushes+in+teapot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrfssFV8iI7mIUSe813a16MukgVFM33kHxYcNE1v0FS6UzF7RLW3vRwM-QPlntHtFlE0UmG5AHuI0Nl5m4V9yBaPgVcLCcY-8a5QH_ckK20O-oE3Hr8sHnx4u4cj32-oZaHFaiuLY51x0/s1600/paint+brushes+in+teapot.jpg" /></a></div>
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Our house is all aflutter with the anticipation of <a href="http://www.countingyourblessings.com/pages/VintageMarket.htm" target="_blank">The Vintage Market</a>!</div>
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We are creating and fluffing and project-ing (just ask Steve, he'll tell you that's a real word!).</div>
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Lots of handmade items for Spring.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy9rp-U9wI8lTBdfmNNtzZwYu4Pbm5DMWhKbxGxy9aIiLqJzExoP0RrKLi2Vvzxjkbs-1vK7Lf8JkVQX071j4cJEax5D6rmSY3jUlx5MeSBK7Cs3fL2jrpFd626kMKeTiGN1R0j2FfbM8/s1600/blossom+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy9rp-U9wI8lTBdfmNNtzZwYu4Pbm5DMWhKbxGxy9aIiLqJzExoP0RrKLi2Vvzxjkbs-1vK7Lf8JkVQX071j4cJEax5D6rmSY3jUlx5MeSBK7Cs3fL2jrpFd626kMKeTiGN1R0j2FfbM8/s1600/blossom+sign.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9dn1JVGZq4cODZRLd_3QtG0qhKZZH6J0R7R3t_1ZNp6DPkodTkZSPFe2rqjyiPi6pj7T2gl2j8uK0CS4UT7Cf57lA4RcJABy59x7enPy5rgSvKZNRLtU9GFhp466ELIUqYEZKyXZPgs/s1600/lavender+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9dn1JVGZq4cODZRLd_3QtG0qhKZZH6J0R7R3t_1ZNp6DPkodTkZSPFe2rqjyiPi6pj7T2gl2j8uK0CS4UT7Cf57lA4RcJABy59x7enPy5rgSvKZNRLtU9GFhp466ELIUqYEZKyXZPgs/s1600/lavender+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
We've decided to add a little blossom shop out back with creative floral wreaths, dried lavender and take-home seasonal flowers.<br />
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<a href="http://www.thevintagemarket.net/" target="_blank">The Vintage Market</a> is officially blooming!<br />
Save the date - Come visit us - April 19th - 20th</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-71493777695604802712013-03-02T10:48:00.000-06:002013-03-02T11:14:29.671-06:00Magnolia Pearl Giveaway!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtBf5pfLOERj5-BLbCHUAOhSj2digNE_NE99VU9BrFOgfpolMZebOjTOJfjHwcc_BIp903Tzg6b_2lEexhAD2H486qmzs0Sx1WxbDbosDYJ-WU53i-ZtHj3DZlWLgyj1J1YtzivTXKaI0/s1600/MP+giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtBf5pfLOERj5-BLbCHUAOhSj2digNE_NE99VU9BrFOgfpolMZebOjTOJfjHwcc_BIp903Tzg6b_2lEexhAD2H486qmzs0Sx1WxbDbosDYJ-WU53i-ZtHj3DZlWLgyj1J1YtzivTXKaI0/s1600/MP+giveaway.jpg" /></a></div>
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Yes, two complete outfits!</div>
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<a href="http://fionaandtwig.blogspot.com/2013/03/magnolia-pearl-ranch-and-giveaway.html" target="_blank">Go, go, go right now and enter</a>...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglhc-yiYshyphenhyphenQV87mbXuFRiU0YrPHY2Y-75BnG2jbgjLucUgXh3inkboB1yG9ioPAdRQzgXNF_wKp0hwr75XtVxQCqLJXLlUa6UOnClG3idElfIddWKr3QT8fZM3HJXcdnBWS3WH64618g/s1600/mp+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglhc-yiYshyphenhyphenQV87mbXuFRiU0YrPHY2Y-75BnG2jbgjLucUgXh3inkboB1yG9ioPAdRQzgXNF_wKp0hwr75XtVxQCqLJXLlUa6UOnClG3idElfIddWKr3QT8fZM3HJXcdnBWS3WH64618g/s400/mp+house.jpg" width="386" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://fionaandtwig.blogspot.com/2013/03/magnolia-pearl-ranch-and-giveaway.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">photo via</span></a><br />
And while you're there, go look at my dream houses.</div>
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Three of them.</div>
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When will a chance like this come up again?!</div>
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Whomever you are, person lucky enough to buy Robin & John's ranch, please know that I will forever be jealous of you and maybe even a little mad at you for living in my wonderland. So if we pass cross paths someday at some glorious market, just know that I will be shooting darts of envy at your back!<br />
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...in a Wish-I-Was-You, loving kind of way - of course.</div>
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<a href="http://fionaandtwig.blogspot.com/2013/03/magnolia-pearl-ranch-and-giveaway.html" target="_blank">Check out the Magnolia Pearl ranch</a></div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-22399302987588240562013-02-22T10:35:00.003-06:002013-02-22T10:35:52.851-06:00Spring 2013 Vintage Market<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM8JXnIes7DjAQ-zdILTqneQkd7zZaM3kk85C4zFnUXFOaoQGTZVZxxCwCKmVgx-Zh2SIFfli8buIoWFB1D7W1v6MFYL00rhiBVoCViljoPIHmTCYIEn5n0tb2yyyDPTX8LWOkTUUO2no/s1600/spring+2013+flyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM8JXnIes7DjAQ-zdILTqneQkd7zZaM3kk85C4zFnUXFOaoQGTZVZxxCwCKmVgx-Zh2SIFfli8buIoWFB1D7W1v6MFYL00rhiBVoCViljoPIHmTCYIEn5n0tb2yyyDPTX8LWOkTUUO2no/s1600/spring+2013+flyer.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b style="color: #8e7cc3;"><span style="font-size: large;">Shop the house, the porches, the yard and our sweet garden chapel!</span></b></div>
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That's right, we're clearing out the house again and getting ready for the Vintage Market!</div>
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We loved having the event at our home last Spring. It was unique and kind of lovely in the setting of the historic district. And busy! Goodness. We were humbled by how many of you came to visit us. It was inspiring to spend two days with such fun and talented vendors too. Steve and I knew that we wanted to do the event here again but we weren't sure if the City was going to allow it, considering how HUGE it was last year.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdC6jAWPok6KBSdahUjqzRzdMpSVtHjpTbn1hyphenhyphenfP7qjLSt2doUXtLeh5D37-CU-uHbq6owmO-kjwmTmLzyXIY3F618uee9f3w9Scu4fzwW3By0HlwzVJs4l_pOzezP97rFTmXerOyyVPQ/s1600/have+you+heard+300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdC6jAWPok6KBSdahUjqzRzdMpSVtHjpTbn1hyphenhyphenfP7qjLSt2doUXtLeh5D37-CU-uHbq6owmO-kjwmTmLzyXIY3F618uee9f3w9Scu4fzwW3By0HlwzVJs4l_pOzezP97rFTmXerOyyVPQ/s1600/have+you+heard+300.jpg" /></a></div>
I've been waiting to announce it officially until we had jumped through all the city/zoning/permit hoops but last week our petition was approved! I'm so excited to create a whole new look for this Spring (Steve is getting tired just from the mention of all my ideas) and make this event even bigger than last Spring. I'll post peeks of our projects as we go. And we already have an amazing list of vendors! (<i>openings are limited - only a couple spots left- but if you are in the area and are interested in being a vendor, contact us or visit the website for an application.)</i> We are going to fill this old farmhouse with cool handmade and vintage stuff! I can't wait!!<br />
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<span style="color: #8e7cc3;"><b>SAVE THE DATE - April 19th - 20th, 9:00 - 4:00</b></span>.<br />
Visit <a href="http://www.thevintagemarket.net/" target="_blank">our website</a> for more information including directions, nearby shoppes, restaurants & accommodations, photos and vendor info.</div>
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<i><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Share the love!</span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #8e7cc3;">Feel free to add this button to your blog or website to help spread the word. Link it back to thevintagemarket.net</span></i></div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-27622256678614195312013-02-06T12:36:00.001-06:002013-02-06T12:36:20.544-06:00Healing<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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We're in the thick of Winter here in the Midwest!</div>
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Doesn't it seem that around every corner our friends & co-workers are falling prey to illness?! My daughter had an appointment with the pediatric neurologist last week (migraines) and the nurses separated the waiting room - healthy kids on one side - sick kids on the other. We've had our share of coughs and colds at our house, even influenza. A month or so ago, I couldn't seem to get one kid better before another one was coming down with something. </div>
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The Lord reminded me recently of that verse in Isaiah 53 - "...by His stripes we are healed." I know that it's referring more to spiritual healing and believe me, I fervently pray for spiritual healing in my children, in myself. But lately I've also been praying those words for physical healings, for financial healings, for relational healings.</div>
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And God is faithful.</div>
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I am delighted to tell you that after 4 years of unemployment, odd-jobs, and part time work, Steve is back to full time employment!! It's not in his field. It's not what we would've chosen as a career change 4 years ago. It's not glamorous. </div>
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But oh is it beautiful!</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-23888279510495751002013-01-25T14:37:00.001-06:002013-01-30T09:50:41.723-06:00Cream & Sugar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZGmeouV5PcFn1lUz0I6goUYRRSyl8Uy4pooC17s6dbBi0IExys_PDeMaVr0iDluD-W4Ss34KtwOC_7__mwythz4sI93dh4yi547U0kTW98nYMOAdwfM6s64B8tUPGXN-cjC8phDRdgE/s1600/vanilla+lavender+candle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHZGmeouV5PcFn1lUz0I6goUYRRSyl8Uy4pooC17s6dbBi0IExys_PDeMaVr0iDluD-W4Ss34KtwOC_7__mwythz4sI93dh4yi547U0kTW98nYMOAdwfM6s64B8tUPGXN-cjC8phDRdgE/s1600/vanilla+lavender+candle.jpg" /></a></div>
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Gathering spare sugar and creamer pieces, shopping from our storage rooms. <i>It's one of the benefits of the off-season, having boxes of leftovers.</i> Then melting down some of my favorite candles, mixing a few scents and pouring them into the silver. I know it's not real candle making but they turned out so pretty and they smell amazing! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir67HUl2aTVEdiM3tB0PZxV0mjOAvqdTPQI5gCqwxjJF-LiK46xPUuYIa8VseHqHDphgIZC-CiSmzayUW4M90_770whXIwz9SQhL9TXuxNJYdPreW-4KS-Bn75V9JusPrcgD2xkQBdfn8/s1600/chair+and+heart+pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir67HUl2aTVEdiM3tB0PZxV0mjOAvqdTPQI5gCqwxjJF-LiK46xPUuYIa8VseHqHDphgIZC-CiSmzayUW4M90_770whXIwz9SQhL9TXuxNJYdPreW-4KS-Bn75V9JusPrcgD2xkQBdfn8/s1600/chair+and+heart+pillow.jpg" /></a></div>
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Enjoying candlelight with Mr. Blessing and <a href="http://www.lesmiserablesfilm.com/" target="_blank">Les Miseables</a> this weekend. <i>Wait until you see Mr. Blessing's version of candle making! I'll share his project next week.</i> </div>
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Happy Weekend!<br />
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<a href="http://www.timewashed.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #444444;">Linking today with Time Washed</span></a></div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-16180336228341269132013-01-23T13:52:00.000-06:002013-01-23T13:53:34.632-06:00Hypoallergenic Laundry Day<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy80rNHV7l_-RxEt5k5CiAZQS0UMAUb30w7K4d6lMMZ8XAx7PG8s3jGOPZjcBTCD36BoYKTl30NFUARifgtGw2vQuvVpOiBI9v6cgXaZt0Vg8RltzeNPYpm2L1Mq-y-8YMVsboH4vGpnQ/s1600/ralph+lauren+garden+rambler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy80rNHV7l_-RxEt5k5CiAZQS0UMAUb30w7K4d6lMMZ8XAx7PG8s3jGOPZjcBTCD36BoYKTl30NFUARifgtGw2vQuvVpOiBI9v6cgXaZt0Vg8RltzeNPYpm2L1Mq-y-8YMVsboH4vGpnQ/s640/ralph+lauren+garden+rambler.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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I love homemade anything. I'll pick homemade over store bought nearly every time. But I'm cautious when it comes to things that my kids might be allergic to. My children are practically allergic to themselves. Over the years we have discovered what laundry detergent works at our house so that no one ends up with hives. Believe me, it was an arduous process that repeated after each new baby. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVWTMQ-1aotMJgBhqZkcHM25AzdQi7XTYhxCYhItdheH-TydF-Nj1ZTX3gqp77ZNt48TxTVHxW5E-2qgmvOKs8JyHk6BumuBD15wTHXFouR3dPxJm1Wwp6E-Zwgnfe7jTZBr4ml5ByJjU/s1600/laundry+soap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVWTMQ-1aotMJgBhqZkcHM25AzdQi7XTYhxCYhItdheH-TydF-Nj1ZTX3gqp77ZNt48TxTVHxW5E-2qgmvOKs8JyHk6BumuBD15wTHXFouR3dPxJm1Wwp6E-Zwgnfe7jTZBr4ml5ByJjU/s1600/laundry+soap.jpg" /></a></div>
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I've always loved the idea of making our own laundry soap but the thought of going through the allergy patrol has nixed the project every time. But, being the risk-taker that I am (ha!), I decided to make a batch last week, do one load and see if we had (1) hives and (2) clean clothes. I can now confidently report that <a href="http://www.lizmarieblog.com/2012/05/diy-laundry-soap/" target="_blank">this recipe</a> (minus the fragrance and using only one bar of Fels-Naptha) met both criteria! One batch made 8 large mason jars and each jar holds appx 30 loads! <i>And they look pretty on the shelf.</i> The cost? Just under $12. And no hives!!<br />
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<i><span style="color: #444444;">Linking with Time Washed's <a href="http://www.timewashed.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #444444;">Blissful White Wednesday</span></a></span></i></div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-33881167830092708712013-01-15T19:55:00.000-06:002013-01-16T09:16:34.266-06:00Flea Market Style Wedding Products Linky<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Grp0zXk94vdN0tAGp5Hs_aAr8WeaO-ZXpDwXGKtWc8N7cYCb3pWlCuHPXESi5oHHgJa3eUbMjQ5teYb4MzSyEfmnFEoFlRBlzfnR2hAQ9Lo3yfoe7eTzkX8YwRsK6Ye-U0NaEa3Fz_s/s1600/hearts+on+mantle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Grp0zXk94vdN0tAGp5Hs_aAr8WeaO-ZXpDwXGKtWc8N7cYCb3pWlCuHPXESi5oHHgJa3eUbMjQ5teYb4MzSyEfmnFEoFlRBlzfnR2hAQ9Lo3yfoe7eTzkX8YwRsK6Ye-U0NaEa3Fz_s/s1600/hearts+on+mantle.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #45818e; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>A Linky for Your Romantic Flea Market Style Products!</b></span> </div>
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Our farmhouse is all abuzz these days with wedding details. Our oldest boy is marrying his childhood friend <i>(she has lived so close to us and been part of our lives so long, we should refer to her as the girl next door)</i>. It seems every conversation around here is peppered with wedding this and wedding that. The sweet girl next door is another redhead with a love for vintage <i>(Can you hear my squeals of joy?!)</i>. In fact, we spent most of yesterday in "wedding speak" that involved phrases like Mason Jar Chandeliers and Deconstructed Sofas In The Photo Booth. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc5M3k3jISSPGUlJEFEb_O-Xfpj31IfMYPleyXXawYj6S4xDd8upDm49p0wXP3lVYFvSz7O-EDxoybTtnF3I3Y8sDEu_vIpjmP8KFuNBYqeYzzm026hd51vmXK2JvSqrJiGsZCxYMg1Qs/s1600/FMS+WED+Cover_official32581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc5M3k3jISSPGUlJEFEb_O-Xfpj31IfMYPleyXXawYj6S4xDd8upDm49p0wXP3lVYFvSz7O-EDxoybTtnF3I3Y8sDEu_vIpjmP8KFuNBYqeYzzm026hd51vmXK2JvSqrJiGsZCxYMg1Qs/s1600/FMS+WED+Cover_official32581.jpg" /></a></div>
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We are so much enjoying the new Flea Market Style Weddings magazine. I have to say that the first issue hit the stands just in the nick of time for us (not to mention Valentines Day). I even picked up another copy today so that we don't have to share. It's right up my vintage alley!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyinSNTi79fq2oovHINx6hMuq1hrufwlK3SnCvVhhzvGPDE25A-hp1RxGcumeQ93WnnJ948RhHSrOouDLkwVUlKf2Zdn9nJiAYQl-TRxM4565mm-wSJlvXXIuJrGrcAxVilBQhU5JvKPY/s1600/cones+typewriter+500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyinSNTi79fq2oovHINx6hMuq1hrufwlK3SnCvVhhzvGPDE25A-hp1RxGcumeQ93WnnJ948RhHSrOouDLkwVUlKf2Zdn9nJiAYQl-TRxM4565mm-wSJlvXXIuJrGrcAxVilBQhU5JvKPY/s1600/cones+typewriter+500.jpg" /></a></div>
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It got me thinking...</div>
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I know so many of my blogging friends have exactly the style that I'm talking about... Romantic, Shabby, Farmgirl, Vintage-chic... And I'll bet you have hundreds of creations that us wedding planning crazy people would love to see. Wouldn't it be fun to put together a linky party of wedding products that fall into that flea market style?! We could just keep adding to the list from now until my boy's wedding date (9/13/2013).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHwFGqSUmrzD6nixz4-WxcSMCAd8xNIsNfyUdQR9wYZKKEaY0tmFB-t5ttAGBk4_EuxOejTwEvsBO20ZPoyjqRrrt-q4fkJbsDCkXCTtUuMXeSdgghHGkM0ab4H04YuunMFUYK76DrDek/s1600/FMS+Weddings+Products+button+500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHwFGqSUmrzD6nixz4-WxcSMCAd8xNIsNfyUdQR9wYZKKEaY0tmFB-t5ttAGBk4_EuxOejTwEvsBO20ZPoyjqRrrt-q4fkJbsDCkXCTtUuMXeSdgghHGkM0ab4H04YuunMFUYK76DrDek/s640/FMS+Weddings+Products+button+500.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
Won't you please, please join me? <br />
Add your vintage-y and handmade romantic items below. Feel free to link up your blog posts with flea market wedding style ideas too. </div>
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Share the Love!</div>
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Feel free to add this button to your blog so your friends can join in the fun too. Just link it back to this post.</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-78963178867114996002013-01-06T14:23:00.000-06:002013-01-06T14:23:52.903-06:00Lovely Blogs - 2013 Collection<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH5VKQlDxLJQ0WAFVCs5aKHENxwh8JOAZe_1vlnfGgmMHlw4h3BnIEuNCDLW-h1kKOzWvs3D0R5b8MaGg0vDJlUd-DKR1WS51RXX_esvHgY_qWKyFy3HBodUynV31J1ra2LPgVpKB_luE/s1600/2013+button+500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH5VKQlDxLJQ0WAFVCs5aKHENxwh8JOAZe_1vlnfGgmMHlw4h3BnIEuNCDLW-h1kKOzWvs3D0R5b8MaGg0vDJlUd-DKR1WS51RXX_esvHgY_qWKyFy3HBodUynV31J1ra2LPgVpKB_luE/s1600/2013+button+500.jpg" /></a></div>
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Back in 2007 I started compiling a list of lovely blogs to visit because we were all in search of beautiful and inspiring new things. Whether it's for the photos or the friendships, we have all enjoyed finding new "kindred spirits". I have been honored to be the "hostess" of the collection over the years. </div>
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With this new year, it's time to freshen up our list and begin a new collection. Don't worry, the previous collections are still available for viewing (<a href="http://countingyourblessings.blogspot.com/2010/05/lovely-blogs-non-party.html" target="_blank">2010-2012</a> and <a href="http://www.keepandshare.com/doc/view.php?u=304577" target="_blank">2007-2009</a>). It's just that those lists have gotten pretty long after two years and sometimes have broken links, etc. So I thought that with the start of 2013, we could begin a new official collection!</div>
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I would love for you to add your blog to our collection. It's a great way to make new friends so even if you were on the previous lists, be sure to add your link to the new collection so newcomers will find you. All you need to do is use the linky below. In the "name" field, just put the name of your blog. In the link/url field use your general blog address (not the address of a specific post).<br />
<i><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">And when you're done here, <a href="http://frenchcupboard.blogspot.com/2013/01/inspiring-pinterest-linky-collection.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">stop over to French Cupboard</span></a> and share the link to your inspiring Pinterest boards!</span></i><br />
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Share the love... add the button to your blog & link it back to this post so your friends can link up too!</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-79621744118114953522012-12-26T11:56:00.001-06:002012-12-26T11:56:03.989-06:00Leftovers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT9G7PhVMKfHKE9LQzESr7nKOWjPv3pX7UiBZL4Vqor-jskUEy6MBe-SjGWI0Ey6_6APfvYTICAT3YYxY7uogI8WMkR3UGMgL27cejBUt2YYqPWnnK3UzbHli_VNb0uE8cdbo2HOyZuOc/s1600/chair+quirky+heirloom+throw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT9G7PhVMKfHKE9LQzESr7nKOWjPv3pX7UiBZL4Vqor-jskUEy6MBe-SjGWI0Ey6_6APfvYTICAT3YYxY7uogI8WMkR3UGMgL27cejBUt2YYqPWnnK3UzbHli_VNb0uE8cdbo2HOyZuOc/s1600/chair+quirky+heirloom+throw.jpg" /></a></div>
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A day of doing nothing and eating leftovers!</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-45639840423641232992012-12-24T14:28:00.001-06:002012-12-24T14:28:45.577-06:00From Our Farmhouse...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6fW5PppHLz2OCnp6oQq4FjMV6cylABDMOecllFD3eb9Xt0S5vs9Ftdmz24s5uePaPhoJngPxADrDCMDbM3ri-nQUt7rQEnSgIb9SA9WoKGhZmZf7niSqDgEEhWHj_GLXEXFT6gtK7Jog/s1600/bucket+candles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6fW5PppHLz2OCnp6oQq4FjMV6cylABDMOecllFD3eb9Xt0S5vs9Ftdmz24s5uePaPhoJngPxADrDCMDbM3ri-nQUt7rQEnSgIb9SA9WoKGhZmZf7niSqDgEEhWHj_GLXEXFT6gtK7Jog/s1600/bucket+candles.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSK1fo8_RUuSL3hnbW7jyrDqVHe-0Qgh090PeaduKH9O9z0HKzVhQb358W8Wb-FgOquGJt1WzoZH0F8F1eRrukmVOBj9-3v5sfvXl6nVNqKdLa1xts7KKdzRM4arkaCZTrGI10AeY4aOU/s1600/silver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSK1fo8_RUuSL3hnbW7jyrDqVHe-0Qgh090PeaduKH9O9z0HKzVhQb358W8Wb-FgOquGJt1WzoZH0F8F1eRrukmVOBj9-3v5sfvXl6nVNqKdLa1xts7KKdzRM4arkaCZTrGI10AeY4aOU/s1600/silver.jpg" /></a></div>
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From our farmhouse to yours,</div>
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May you have Christ at the heart of your home this Christmas.</div>
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Love & Blessings... </div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-2502105050777922832012-12-21T15:11:00.001-06:002012-12-21T15:11:27.814-06:00Last Minute<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijk_Adx2chwXjk4fq1VkxCJP6hywS7urwT4ehzmP_Azvu-8J6cZzEM75WnXuTVAvWKAxafD0BSDTd8zRgRoODoLZbIrIWlHV0VeeP3pxH2cgQJ_UzW2hXsVBaGNRW9gJBXt4IGS7wYdUY/s1600/candycane+lane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijk_Adx2chwXjk4fq1VkxCJP6hywS7urwT4ehzmP_Azvu-8J6cZzEM75WnXuTVAvWKAxafD0BSDTd8zRgRoODoLZbIrIWlHV0VeeP3pxH2cgQJ_UzW2hXsVBaGNRW9gJBXt4IGS7wYdUY/s1600/candycane+lane.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-QvC0jhUF6VyEAZRYAe00wQ52fabnXI6Uo9p-xxocL2lyJR1mPY03QIGspEgGZ3N9C5ykeJnrUMQKGZSnnJ_H5u3loYFxLtgSu-sjc-2ATQCqICgjWxQYWJ_LxuT1uc1B02iOEzNAZQ/s1600/ladder1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-QvC0jhUF6VyEAZRYAe00wQ52fabnXI6Uo9p-xxocL2lyJR1mPY03QIGspEgGZ3N9C5ykeJnrUMQKGZSnnJ_H5u3loYFxLtgSu-sjc-2ATQCqICgjWxQYWJ_LxuT1uc1B02iOEzNAZQ/s1600/ladder1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Only a few gifts left to wrap.</div>
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I hope your last minute holiday list will be enjoyable. </div>
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<i>(We are all on the mend it seems, though I'm almost afraid to breathe a sigh of relief just yet - thank you for your prayers and well wishes)</i></div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-18321296273632242672012-12-16T11:53:00.000-06:002012-12-16T11:53:40.168-06:00Puttering<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI8UTRZzeo7wKjB6FMhbKGKF6rftZBSfwMw-5C9gh-l7vIKbb-U6XvDfVNEPlF97Ra4ilorLgceJ5SpYAANVUeuD5KHto62Zm23l6qnHVoohZi0U2rNOJtuzv-gIGXylVmVJOavPTvsBU/s1600/bench.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI8UTRZzeo7wKjB6FMhbKGKF6rftZBSfwMw-5C9gh-l7vIKbb-U6XvDfVNEPlF97Ra4ilorLgceJ5SpYAANVUeuD5KHto62Zm23l6qnHVoohZi0U2rNOJtuzv-gIGXylVmVJOavPTvsBU/s1600/bench.jpg" /></a></div>
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Influenza stuck the kids last week. With one in the hospital and another home with pneumonia, I didn't get much done but for mothering and holding their little hands. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-6SXvB-18batP1VuS_EBgfuuY_6PgXQ0uT7NCLBsPlkE6xNyCEcsioD1TPrWRtOhKj_eHza0Wke2hyphenhyphenD-ACdSjeCOWPbQRvh6MlovVooZovg7X64OGMvisQWei-wV2o98Z-MFv_YJ0nU/s1600/dinning+room+light.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-6SXvB-18batP1VuS_EBgfuuY_6PgXQ0uT7NCLBsPlkE6xNyCEcsioD1TPrWRtOhKj_eHza0Wke2hyphenhyphenD-ACdSjeCOWPbQRvh6MlovVooZovg7X64OGMvisQWei-wV2o98Z-MFv_YJ0nU/s1600/dinning+room+light.jpg" /></a></div>
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Puttering is about all you can do in between the "Mama, come sit with me" moments.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVSbsU-S4QS7XWEwUZybN287OH_MYwAZ6Db3PbfTjcrcJ_K6B77c-TCB1LhCU0r8hIX239bB5IcM1YTGW953xc5azZ2qdEUj5npLEsJ3gwcVv_muTXxN2ojIROz97wxMCEltJvpmIkIU8/s1600/farm+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVSbsU-S4QS7XWEwUZybN287OH_MYwAZ6Db3PbfTjcrcJ_K6B77c-TCB1LhCU0r8hIX239bB5IcM1YTGW953xc5azZ2qdEUj5npLEsJ3gwcVv_muTXxN2ojIROz97wxMCEltJvpmIkIU8/s1600/farm+sign.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>If you are waiting on an order, I will be shipping the last of the holiday orders out this week.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjary3s59FkMLQr1W2iR48jOu7R8XkJlbESpUJSBHfG-ZysfOCXT9dV6pl0MPsYgPxGuyshn7mQG8JZ66zNki0mfGCnkSSSKt6-8MH0A8_vOC5asUCQ8u974qbLOFIl1nhzRpZAW6XA6Qs/s1600/star.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjary3s59FkMLQr1W2iR48jOu7R8XkJlbESpUJSBHfG-ZysfOCXT9dV6pl0MPsYgPxGuyshn7mQG8JZ66zNki0mfGCnkSSSKt6-8MH0A8_vOC5asUCQ8u974qbLOFIl1nhzRpZAW6XA6Qs/s1600/star.jpg" /></a></div>
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I hung a few sleigh bells as I puttered, trying to get the kids in the Christmas mood even though they had to miss their holiday programs and some family gatherings.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidE44rESSOxR7RewmCM59ER0sOxgfaWTPdbkb6DXU50W0MbKFX0wOv-4R_vFJig0c053XvdhLbBf-Efv8B8ODUAJ1IMD-kYO6Y7Coa_QTo5KMcVYw-LkVemh2GILDXVCN799zZjRAecA0/s1600/sleigh+bells+and+reindeer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidE44rESSOxR7RewmCM59ER0sOxgfaWTPdbkb6DXU50W0MbKFX0wOv-4R_vFJig0c053XvdhLbBf-Efv8B8ODUAJ1IMD-kYO6Y7Coa_QTo5KMcVYw-LkVemh2GILDXVCN799zZjRAecA0/s1600/sleigh+bells+and+reindeer.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0vPo4hJpS2ngefi4hyphenhyphenUaVMv6Nqzznrem3hSY9facFi4CXvNyRv3esxPGZ3Z5BJuS9iTHktkw-2Mz4phuFfZs7yaZJuhyOPT_EdR53KWIdMFBWuJ_dYLcOk7QXRG_3js1ToXvuIooN7I/s1600/window+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0vPo4hJpS2ngefi4hyphenhyphenUaVMv6Nqzznrem3hSY9facFi4CXvNyRv3esxPGZ3Z5BJuS9iTHktkw-2Mz4phuFfZs7yaZJuhyOPT_EdR53KWIdMFBWuJ_dYLcOk7QXRG_3js1ToXvuIooN7I/s1600/window+kitchen.jpg" /></a></div>
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Everyone is home now and slowly on the mend. We are enjoying fir scented candles, log fires, twinkling Christmas lights and sweet Hallmark movies. </div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-31137966216091929482012-12-05T15:39:00.000-06:002012-12-05T15:39:29.707-06:00DIY Holiday Farmhouse Trimmings<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5S9iubFzasK6AApbGUgZGxVr-UyDvg2UWwNilDnRXflLF6dSqsSPSi9laYPcj5N81CTEplrkVDA5Ll0qYq4QkEjKfZtoUH68oJtEtLJAcIOp8j_gZwYQbYVFtHQ9OGpB3MG5H-BPRj1s/s1600/christmas+mantle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5S9iubFzasK6AApbGUgZGxVr-UyDvg2UWwNilDnRXflLF6dSqsSPSi9laYPcj5N81CTEplrkVDA5Ll0qYq4QkEjKfZtoUH68oJtEtLJAcIOp8j_gZwYQbYVFtHQ9OGpB3MG5H-BPRj1s/s1600/christmas+mantle.jpg" /></a></div>
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The kids and I are enjoying some time at home! We've been making Christmas gifts and slowly decorating the house. Here are a few of the inexpensive trimmings at our farmhouse...</div>
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(pardon my messy fireplace - we use it OFTEN)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjydxcmtglBX2T9uZVC5grlbkzAULrKQYeN-Mzs1rMY52Sm8mwzIJDVAgrTNOv1EgLvMvDg3Jcye0NquCys_xqAk5Q-r80oOX-Dy4b96douL6AIydlEYv2tyLYjDmAULKPK392vMz0Dvfs/s1600/granny+boot+stockings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjydxcmtglBX2T9uZVC5grlbkzAULrKQYeN-Mzs1rMY52Sm8mwzIJDVAgrTNOv1EgLvMvDg3Jcye0NquCys_xqAk5Q-r80oOX-Dy4b96douL6AIydlEYv2tyLYjDmAULKPK392vMz0Dvfs/s1600/granny+boot+stockings.jpg" /></a></div>
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We made birch candles for appx $1 each <i>(see how <a href="http://www.the36thavenue.com/2012/11/diy-christmas-ideas.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>)</i> (Stars by <a href="http://www.rebeccaersfeld.com/2009/11/work-in-progress.html" target="_blank">Rebecca Ersfeld</a> - Granny Boot stockings available <a href="http://www.countingyourblessings.com/item_912/Granny-Boot-Stockings.htm" target="_blank">HERE</a>).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzX4fSx-PVdM2cl3emn9g901wDf7NuGh0vBM6AZlOhpjrTv75CUKdP9XqjOMnWJ_CHObnk4HZQHGZd_zrdjtWyjKs6ylrahnKx3fkw7FKdwqkGnLugVnCbZvqUmuhoKAg775_9Id0yqZY/s1600/gift+haley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzX4fSx-PVdM2cl3emn9g901wDf7NuGh0vBM6AZlOhpjrTv75CUKdP9XqjOMnWJ_CHObnk4HZQHGZd_zrdjtWyjKs6ylrahnKx3fkw7FKdwqkGnLugVnCbZvqUmuhoKAg775_9Id0yqZY/s1600/gift+haley.jpg" /></a></div>
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Large paper flowers make impressive bows (my soon-to-be daughter-in-law called this one a "glitter bomb". - Yep, we are SO excited to have a wedding in our future!). <i>(Video tutorial <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXNeVq2RxFU" target="_blank">HERE</a>)</i>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfetGjXYrbao2oFajnJ2fDrujqNPZWkZn7l9ElansvzkTyVgD9XCbvzCZS3gOagUgXdtti5EImsXtFPzVTn5cXIWsaxOi5g35k2nRq1eY1TxN8InifpnYycVB-JnVHSx7nsiWWY5ETyRk/s1600/paper+rosette+bows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfetGjXYrbao2oFajnJ2fDrujqNPZWkZn7l9ElansvzkTyVgD9XCbvzCZS3gOagUgXdtti5EImsXtFPzVTn5cXIWsaxOi5g35k2nRq1eY1TxN8InifpnYycVB-JnVHSx7nsiWWY5ETyRk/s1600/paper+rosette+bows.jpg" /></a></div>
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These paper rosettes/pinwheels are nice for smaller packages (see tutorial <a href="http://blog.thecelebrationshoppe.com/2012/07/19/diy-paper-pinwheels/" target="_blank">HERE</a> or purchase <a href="http://www.countingyourblessings.com/item_916/Paper-Rosette-Bows.htm" target="_blank">HERE</a>). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwl_n84FCAEs-tEEZxWyBycE5c3YSQalVbBiuAu216tBTzh5hyphenhyphenn079fXsbKs6L9wDBgEFGtXeiJS7Suic341mD_dDU_Hr9TBidERT0wVUkW95nOdKB_75AsBQP47rrrj-Uql0GYZrHRfA/s1600/glitter+laundry+pins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwl_n84FCAEs-tEEZxWyBycE5c3YSQalVbBiuAu216tBTzh5hyphenhyphenn079fXsbKs6L9wDBgEFGtXeiJS7Suic341mD_dDU_Hr9TBidERT0wVUkW95nOdKB_75AsBQP47rrrj-Uql0GYZrHRfA/s1600/glitter+laundry+pins.jpg" /></a></div>
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A dozen glittered laundry pins add some sparkle to the tree <i>(Just brush on Elmer's & cover with fine glitter. I sprayed mine with a clear glossy finish to keep the glitter in place no matter which of my little elves play with them)</i>.</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGy2_02M9SpnX011j68H98bvu90DG0bm4ieYyo0IFWDQ7Lc4oy_A7hvB6mvXN2i2jOXqyO7rGGsAl-ePyKOMv6SwSQRHJ33onZ37OnS5NwyW764z9iG_R9Ks2rKg8GAQwsPSP92z6C4zU/s1600/personalized+banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGy2_02M9SpnX011j68H98bvu90DG0bm4ieYyo0IFWDQ7Lc4oy_A7hvB6mvXN2i2jOXqyO7rGGsAl-ePyKOMv6SwSQRHJ33onZ37OnS5NwyW764z9iG_R9Ks2rKg8GAQwsPSP92z6C4zU/s1600/personalized+banner.jpg" /></a></div>
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Vintage Paperie holiday banners (<i>available to personalize <a href="http://www.countingyourblessings.com/item_913/Vintage-Paperie-Banner--Personalized.htm" target="_blank">HERE</a> or create your own with old book pages, twine and stencils.)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-tZ1t9WKMlv-KuTY-npkKVriIxWFRI73F2hJrg4JgUrky5jMaLC9cmxAuWW1GBZXnj0Qiw0cSQ63Ai0IxQeorwD05ILbD3jxd3JSodafu7wG8j21VymAce5PSbyS8eZpdkS8HtsnXZmg/s1600/charles+dickens+book+page.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-tZ1t9WKMlv-KuTY-npkKVriIxWFRI73F2hJrg4JgUrky5jMaLC9cmxAuWW1GBZXnj0Qiw0cSQ63Ai0IxQeorwD05ILbD3jxd3JSodafu7wG8j21VymAce5PSbyS8eZpdkS8HtsnXZmg/s1600/charles+dickens+book+page.jpg" /></a></div>
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Book pages folded like a fan, wrapped in burlap and tied with ribbon.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8A3WSd8baMKZUAiYwdj-OtdqOx1d2kDj1BKJVVLxLcrEk9eVtI6hHMYcC1ScliZf1EcotVoCM6AQ7LxeRBP_dJac6vQFikiRNSaSzdjiP984RldZkNReJ2nUa7OP9liH-w-jTkLGO7k4/s1600/burlap+bows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8A3WSd8baMKZUAiYwdj-OtdqOx1d2kDj1BKJVVLxLcrEk9eVtI6hHMYcC1ScliZf1EcotVoCM6AQ7LxeRBP_dJac6vQFikiRNSaSzdjiP984RldZkNReJ2nUa7OP9liH-w-jTkLGO7k4/s1600/burlap+bows.jpg" /></a></div>
Burlap bows <i>(available <a href="http://www.countingyourblessings.com/item_915/Burlap-Bows--Set-of-2.htm" target="_blank">HERE</a> or create your own with a couple yards of burlap. I sprinkled mine with a mix of mica and fine glitter)</i>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKMs4B3-qxw8EFJyBzH-xvKCseRkn09Wd5IAnu0aDYZKDsCb_ZkqlrKEQgFSBpOECp2v_lejZagQa8uwasVVTHgp-H3B3caI6sohB2fBKjmMroW3rIzK0L8STW3fzij_82bA_w83dZrjA/s1600/wings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKMs4B3-qxw8EFJyBzH-xvKCseRkn09Wd5IAnu0aDYZKDsCb_ZkqlrKEQgFSBpOECp2v_lejZagQa8uwasVVTHgp-H3B3caI6sohB2fBKjmMroW3rIzK0L8STW3fzij_82bA_w83dZrjA/s1600/wings.jpg" /></a></div>
French script angel wings <i>(I made my own pattern <a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?hl=en&sa=X&tbo=d&biw=1024&bih=649&tbm=isch&tbnid=OCkjgcImsmlq5M:&imgrefurl=http://www.hawaiidermatology.com/angel/angel-wing-template.htm&docid=09XEtnfKksbzbM&imgurl=http://susan.lothe.org/Jul/AngelWingsPattern.png.png&w=1472&h=1293&ei=SK6_UKzXBaqA2gWt0oGYCA&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=12&vpy=336&dur=597&hovh=209&hovw=239&tx=111&ty=92&sig=106900108556549698351&page=3&tbnh=139&tbnw=175&start=46&ndsp=21&ved=1t:429,r:62,s:0,i:279" target="_blank">-here is a similar template</a>- but you can purchase a downloadable pattern from Feathered Nest <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/117023691/pdf-fabric-angel-wings-no-sew-tutorial" target="_blank">HERE</a> or a completed set of wings <a href="http://www.countingyourblessings.com/item_917/French-Script-Angel-Wings--Large.htm" target="_blank">HERE</a>.)</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQXrRm8edhLWgdMkbTCh2jGpOyUbJyP5Op3wJnf_nI7SfExcJDq7WNx2WQn9j7_eYbyI4MPgWD0-A54tGv6248cVKF3LrMvoW1XtYKtHMqEHGdYQOxU_13xQwzTIL_msfJJKTsoHm0uTw/s1600/camera+360+app.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQXrRm8edhLWgdMkbTCh2jGpOyUbJyP5Op3wJnf_nI7SfExcJDq7WNx2WQn9j7_eYbyI4MPgWD0-A54tGv6248cVKF3LrMvoW1XtYKtHMqEHGdYQOxU_13xQwzTIL_msfJJKTsoHm0uTw/s1600/camera+360+app.jpg" /></a></div>
Not a fancy tree by any means but I wanted to share a fun photo editing app with you. I took this picture with my phone. Camera360 allows you to use cool filters right from your phone like Lomo, HDR, Dreamy, Ghostly, and even fun scenery, and share them to Facebook, etc. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEoTCJDuih_FTR2vsMdlpLeBVUUmOLLAz4HX1oELfosFDRUMes-w5Z_PEMFN8yxH5SGpZEG-1LamEwf99NcXoPbsUmtWSCiVHsn0jc-aGM9oi3al272q578HZzrmkpO_vHYtbqimQ99M/s1600/camera+360+app2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEoTCJDuih_FTR2vsMdlpLeBVUUmOLLAz4HX1oELfosFDRUMes-w5Z_PEMFN8yxH5SGpZEG-1LamEwf99NcXoPbsUmtWSCiVHsn0jc-aGM9oi3al272q578HZzrmkpO_vHYtbqimQ99M/s1600/camera+360+app2.jpg" /></a></div>
It's a free DIY toy (read more about it <a href="http://www.androidfamily.net/2012/11/05/camera360-ultimate-3-8-6-v3-8-6-apk-download/" target="_blank">HERE</a>).</div>
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Mr. Blessing has a rare night off so we are going to have a fire and watch DVR'd programs. My favorite kind of date night - right in the middle of the week!</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-11897073686934196172012-11-19T10:22:00.000-06:002012-11-19T10:23:54.793-06:00Magnolia Pearl Christmas<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNwMdfclWU2-s5kU2_u59PNTyJ4oITlxtTnQlZNVqoza4F4_bejp3W30W32RbLXy5ZU-9dIu9mFbwuTkp0o6EPPtU9P2x0zPJJkNzQpZ_MOwPvew_tBl7ZqnSSwdt1lNdEbtDCY1lzBA/s1600/christmas+2012+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNwMdfclWU2-s5kU2_u59PNTyJ4oITlxtTnQlZNVqoza4F4_bejp3W30W32RbLXy5ZU-9dIu9mFbwuTkp0o6EPPtU9P2x0zPJJkNzQpZ_MOwPvew_tBl7ZqnSSwdt1lNdEbtDCY1lzBA/s640/christmas+2012+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I think I may have mentioned one (or five) times that I'm pretty stunted when it comes to holiday decorating at my house. We have the gaudy tree filled with ornaments the kids have made and a hodge podge of Santa and Jesus things. <i>(We've never let our kids believe that Santa is real but somehow figurines have worked there way into the abyss of the Christmas decor closet -I know, the no Santa thing deprives the kids of those magical feelings but somebody said to me once upon a time, "If you tell kids that there's a jolly guy you can't see that gives gifts and helps those in need... When they find out Santa isn't real, how will they trust you when you tell them that God is real?) </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8ioICsDMMsihkAvpqAikLe-ffpfoMIrFOlhWDl9PgO2WL0VDNjX28ej1qCLrT8ZPaA861Mge1SSpZgZlm83ZhdKaL8AATZRmQNWg_AQpgZjbwIbAOxYmGLBaRWo7KF7kNjXPwdpwBdc/s1600/christmas+2012+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8ioICsDMMsihkAvpqAikLe-ffpfoMIrFOlhWDl9PgO2WL0VDNjX28ej1qCLrT8ZPaA861Mge1SSpZgZlm83ZhdKaL8AATZRmQNWg_AQpgZjbwIbAOxYmGLBaRWo7KF7kNjXPwdpwBdc/s640/christmas+2012+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anyhow, every year I think that maybe this will be the year I discover my Christmas style. I don't much care for red or green or even pink anymore. I guess I lean more toward white and simple but I'm truly not one for no color or for lots of glitter (If you visited one of our booths recently that comment probably seems a little stunning, considering how much glitter we use. But for my own house, I love Romantic, Victorian, French, Farmhouse... but not too much of any one of them. I'm a bit of a gypsy like that I suppose.) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5XV9S47UWKiClcDKJ6s8RfXTzpvVpFbEII4snusVG2_aQ4hL-X11xSHLx1px413IIlmP_IZTRYzGv-mTmYizrCiqbzx1MgRZkXgEyEhab4-pQqvkWqpYmylf_ParYqoZmoyW_2xi4_LU/s1600/christmas+2012+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5XV9S47UWKiClcDKJ6s8RfXTzpvVpFbEII4snusVG2_aQ4hL-X11xSHLx1px413IIlmP_IZTRYzGv-mTmYizrCiqbzx1MgRZkXgEyEhab4-pQqvkWqpYmylf_ParYqoZmoyW_2xi4_LU/s640/christmas+2012+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I've often said that I'd like to know how Magnolia Pearl does Christmas decor. THAT would probably be my style to a tee. Well, now we have a little peek! Go <a href="http://www.magnoliapearl.com/shop/clothing/gallery_nomusic.htm" target="_blank">HERE</a> and check out all the loveliness!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWH_0ptczQvWBUsq-hfJ8QWHGHu5bc88Bnqs54RIT-3AFuvgFK5HW9YF607IsEVXlkF_JItlOmeXkeyS_5Zpp9dH45ip4nq1hj2W7AUydbqUaBkMrcev-1akKN8bee0lgvZ-R6bd6J4Vo/s1600/christmas+2012+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWH_0ptczQvWBUsq-hfJ8QWHGHu5bc88Bnqs54RIT-3AFuvgFK5HW9YF607IsEVXlkF_JItlOmeXkeyS_5Zpp9dH45ip4nq1hj2W7AUydbqUaBkMrcev-1akKN8bee0lgvZ-R6bd6J4Vo/s640/christmas+2012+4.jpg" width="376" /></a></div>
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I'm definitely leaning toward a Magnolia Pearl Christmas for my studio! The kids can take over the rest of the house but the Blessings Studio is all mine. </div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6737653296388602253.post-19279860137514782062012-11-15T18:30:00.004-06:002012-11-15T18:30:59.543-06:003 French Hens<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDCcJ2rP28RxuhAlo5T7VeC_Ux-J9kNEisGoXVGGP46cLojlW8C9bTAkFzDoScT825-1lsUVBXRljr8ClVX_jUKXjo40zFfP79yEdzB8aVDCxVxGVcfyPhuhKwXXOMrQM4dsxTMKEWSw4/s1600/granny+boot+stockings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDCcJ2rP28RxuhAlo5T7VeC_Ux-J9kNEisGoXVGGP46cLojlW8C9bTAkFzDoScT825-1lsUVBXRljr8ClVX_jUKXjo40zFfP79yEdzB8aVDCxVxGVcfyPhuhKwXXOMrQM4dsxTMKEWSw4/s1600/granny+boot+stockings.jpg" /></a></div>
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I'm putting on my big girl granny boots and heading out to the <a href="http://3frenchhensmarket.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">3 French Hens Holiday Market</a> in Morris, IL! And these sweet ol' stockings will be there too. =)</div>
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Look for us in the main building, just inside the door. </div>
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It's the most romantic, vintage-y holiday sale - I can't wait!!</div>
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blessingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00329222864151673117noreply@blogger.com5