tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46987064832137460112024-03-05T13:02:43.593-06:00Dinie's Tangled ThreadsWhat began as just sewing has now morphed into a Homesteading and self-sufficient blog outlet. Moving to a new state, starting our homestead and trying to do what we can to keep ourselves healthy and saving money. "Use it up, Wear it out or Do without." Is the motto here. I look forward to growing and learning. Come along with me! Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.comBlogger130125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-25103656076880471492020-02-21T09:55:00.000-06:002020-02-21T09:55:08.360-06:00Thank you<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">“Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father” (Colossians 3:17)<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased !important; box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 1em;"><br /></span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Today is Monday and I'm feeling lazy and whiny about all that I have to do today. </span><br />
Monday for me means laundry, and cleaning all the mess from the weekend, plus planning the rest of the week.<br />
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Things I was thinking-->Thoughts that I should be thinking.<br />
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God in His infinite knowledge gave us all these blessings and I should choose to thank Him and praise Him for all that we have.<br />
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Piles of dirty laundry waiting to be washed--->Thank you Lord that we have clothes to clothe our bodies and to keep us warm in this season.<br />
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Stacks of dirty dishes waiting to be washed -->Thank you Lord for the food in our bellies and the food we will be able to eat again tonight because you have provided for us.<br />
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The dryer's piercing song of its people--> I don't have to salt our clothes and hang them outside in the cold to dry them or have them drip in the house making another mess to clean up.<br />
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The animals need to be fed and I don't want to go outside- -> Thank you Lord that you give us dominion over the animals that we can have fresh eggs all year long and meat for our table. By my hand I can give them the best lives I can and the quickest death so they can help me to live.<br />
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<br />Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-50776695560038918782020-02-12T09:47:00.000-06:002020-02-12T09:47:21.108-06:00Long time no seeSo its been over 3 years? since Ive posted because I didntthink anyone was interested in my thoughts and ideas. I have a farm page on FB now and a lot of people are following me there. You are welcome to as well. I'd like to get back to adding to the blog again, but not on a schedule like I tried to do before. It's a lot of work. Maybe just some photos and a blurb about what's going on? I tinkered with the idea of a Vlog on youtube since a lot of what I do would be more helpful to see. But, I don't really want to edit all the videos either.<br />
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I had more going on in my life than I could deal with most days. I was president of the local bee club until December 2019. I had so many doctor's appointments and let downs. Worst of all my Mom passed away in 2019 rather suddenly. And now I'm being sued over her estate. Needless to say, its's been rough around here.<br />
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We're hoping that 2020 goes well, even though I miss my Mom. Sometimes she was the only person who even read my blog and she always supported me. She was so proud of the woman I have become. And I will love and miss her always.<br />
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<br />Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-56560917335075709142017-05-12T08:00:00.000-05:002017-05-12T08:00:02.156-05:00New Garden bed. I decided to make this bed in response to the gopher raid of 2016.<br />
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The gophers ate EVERYTHING I planted except a few turnips, and my onions and garlic. And my strawberries. I did get a few tomatoes from my crop, but not enough to can everything I wanted.<br />
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So, I'm fighting back this year. I decided to put hardware cloth under a raised bed of bricks. There are exactly 114 bricks in this bed and next time I think I will use wood. But, I love the look of this since it's right out in the open area.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYgI8tOleWuoyy5MJet6nqAqP6XrR0J1VSf89WiOZgEIwHh_GUtgQ3Qbp_1peJWgcOmoHhEPlDSkzqGJHadRkYcWmdrHqhWEbEZGLOb2fj8eIOwXAvihPkzUmpeDfVM0sBQbkokkNYsQbx/s640/blogger-image-1362530144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYgI8tOleWuoyy5MJet6nqAqP6XrR0J1VSf89WiOZgEIwHh_GUtgQ3Qbp_1peJWgcOmoHhEPlDSkzqGJHadRkYcWmdrHqhWEbEZGLOb2fj8eIOwXAvihPkzUmpeDfVM0sBQbkokkNYsQbx/s640/blogger-image-1362530144.jpg" /></a></div>
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My chickens loved helping me flatten it out and look for bugs as the same time. You can see my soil quality isn't that good so a raised bed takes care of that problem as well. Although I have not had gophers in this exact spot...I don't put it past them to find my goodies after they are planted.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xcYVzfdiUeulU2m283Ck2rbyJWF7SDjObqsmD6Ubh1okKqoKi0f_vVhO8NArBl6F_YYZlQgqD0qWLjVFE-Dyuv5Lo5HbCbf-6W-GggLnzpWHZpb0TypG1xFtSR4QCZaSZ1JmgoB5AkVz/s640/blogger-image-734193707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xcYVzfdiUeulU2m283Ck2rbyJWF7SDjObqsmD6Ubh1okKqoKi0f_vVhO8NArBl6F_YYZlQgqD0qWLjVFE-Dyuv5Lo5HbCbf-6W-GggLnzpWHZpb0TypG1xFtSR4QCZaSZ1JmgoB5AkVz/s640/blogger-image-734193707.jpg" /></a>I used 3 of these sections of wire since I couldn't find any length of it anywhere in my area. The bed ended up being just a bit wider than 4 feet and about 13 feet long. I have pretty long arms and I will be able to reach in from either side to plant, weed, till, or harvest. </div>
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You can also see my new cold frame in the back left of these photos. I'm excited to get moving on this in 2017!</div>
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Here is the bed almost finished. I think I had to pick up the last of the blocks, I put some old straw in the bottom to help hold in moisture and provide a bit of composting action too. </div>
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I have been going to my neighbor's farm and picking up compost from his barn. (He gives it away, I'm not stealing it.) </div>
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As soon as it is all filled I am going to plant a few things in there for spring. I may end up having to lay a piece of wire across the bed to keep deer from eating all my greens, but we will see. </div>
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What are you planning to garden for 2017??</div>
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Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-9032704874782844272017-05-08T08:00:00.000-05:002017-05-08T08:00:08.148-05:00My Easter Dress/New look 6224 review<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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This year I decided to make my Easter dress at home, since I haven't been able to find things that fit me too well in styles that I like at the stores. What's going on with fashion right now? I don't want to wear spandex or hi/low blouses/tunics. I feel like I (and people like me.) aren't being represented in the stores right now. Off my soapbox now.</div>
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I LOVE linen so I went to the store and looked at the linen fabric. They only had a few options that were not solid colors. I saw this floral print that was mostly red and I bought a bit more than I needed so I could make something else with the "scraps" later. Since red is a central color in my capsule wardrobe I thought this would fit right in with my Spring capsule. </div>
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I enjoyed making this dress and I enjoy wearing it too. It is perfect for these warm spring days. </div>
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I used New look 6224 for this dress. </div>
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I made the muslin and after checking fit I cut out the fabric. Here it is on my cutting table. I was doing some organizing too. You can see a photo of my parents and the current quilt I'm working on as well under the dress. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sewed the whole thing on my featherweight 1947!</td></tr>
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I chose New look 6224, view C, which is the blue one on the pattern envelope. I thought it would be an easy simple dress to make since I only gave myself 2 weeks to get it completed. I read the pattern instructions, happily cut out the pattern on view C, and started making a muslin. Once I got to step 5 (adding the neck band) I was stumped. I sewed it on and unstitched it no less than 20 times. I got so frustrated that I threw it down for a day and watched netflix. (Yeah it happens to all of us I'm afraid!)<br />
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Finally I tried (in desperation) to sew the facings on upside down. SERIOUSLY!?! UGH, the person who wrote this pattern should be fired. It makes absolutely NO sense. They call it a facing, but it's not sewn on like a facing at all. It's a neck band and they should simply call it that from the get go. It might make it a bit easier and not associate it with a facing in my mind.<br />
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I actually wrote on my pattern directions, something I NEVER do btw, to sew the facings upside down. Because that's the only thing that works when sewing this dress.<br />
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Now in cutting out my main fabric I realize that I would really like to have some pattern weights and a huge cutting table. But, I do not have room for a huge cutting table. Guess, I will just keep using the floor. But, a lady can dream, right?<br />
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<b style="border: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Pattern Description: </b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans serif"; font-size: 14px;">Close fitting bodice on dress with 3 different sleeve variations and 3 different neckline variations. Full skirt portion is cut on the bias.</span><br />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px;" />
<b style="border: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Pattern Sizing:</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans serif"; font-size: 14px;">10 - 22. I sewed a size 22.</span><br />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px;" />
<b style="border: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans serif"; font-size: 14px;">Yes</span><br />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px;" />
<b style="border: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Were the instructions easy to follow?</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans serif"; font-size: 14px;">Instructions were very easy to follow, other than said neck facing. </span><br />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px;" />
<b style="border: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans serif"; font-size: 14px;">I like the gathers instead of bust darts, they are easier to adjust for a larger bust.I normally have to do a FBA on commercial patterns. I love the skirt part and the larger neck line gives it an interesting look. The sleeves are cute too. Since I live in MN I need something that I can layer if it gets cooler. I love the flutter sleeves, but it just isn't practical for me. </span><br />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px;" />
<b style="border: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Fabric Used:</b><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans" serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">Linen.</span></span><br />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px;" />
<b style="border: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:</b><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans" serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;">I made a muslin to test fit and struggled with the neck. Every review or blog post I've read about this pattern either glosses over the neck part or they made the view with the smaller neck. </span></span><br />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans serif"; font-size: 14px;">I ended up raising the front V one inch because it was way too low for me and my modesty. (as suggested by another blogger)</span><br />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px;" />
<b style="border: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans serif"; font-size: 14px;">Yes - it's a comfortable dress with a nice, flowing, feminine touch to it. Although, I doubt I will actually sew another one. </span><br />
<br style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px;" />
<b style="border: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Conclusion: </b><span style="border: 0px; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I really like wearing this dress and it is so comfortable. I actually made it with the zipper, but with the ease in the dress I don't feel like I need it. So, I'm going to be taking it out soon. </span></span><br />
<span style="border: 0px; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span><b style="border: 0px; font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, 'sans serif'; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; outline: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></b><br />
<a href="https://pjfrocknstuff.blogspot.com/2014/12/new-look-6224.html?showComment=1491852820285#c2740840084499862659" target="_blank">another blogger's dress. </a> She actually was the only one that I could find that did the same view. Most people do view 'C' (flutter sleeves and narrow neckline)<br />
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I did french seams on the edges because linen has a tendency to fray and I want this dress to last a long time since I love it so much!<br />
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Here is how I did the french seams. They are such an easy way to enclose seams. It's probably my favorite way to enclose seams. And since linen is one of my favorite fabrics this makes sense.<br />
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First, since the seam allowences were 3/8" I sewed a 1/4" seam with the wrong sides together.<br />
Then I ironed it down. I flipped the fabric to right sides together and ironed the other side open. I then sewed the right sides together at a 1/4" seam. Which I know is actually 1/2" seam total, but it was easier for me to do.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8kYjGwAs4VsLBIykKwR9fcX2PQiJnz2tKe76_I09vnhUa6slaiJNKe4lL6ZNmFFiz3sUZvTd1aRZIxPBTTzI5zlwu-0gRW9GJUMiq_AI7sNlSuglDBhWizRxtBePmY5BeExWFAkhLKrFU/s1600/blogger-image--972372142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8kYjGwAs4VsLBIykKwR9fcX2PQiJnz2tKe76_I09vnhUa6slaiJNKe4lL6ZNmFFiz3sUZvTd1aRZIxPBTTzI5zlwu-0gRW9GJUMiq_AI7sNlSuglDBhWizRxtBePmY5BeExWFAkhLKrFU/s320/blogger-image--972372142.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Step 1</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_pAtK7tWmWoCIWRzovl8moCVMUVGGl3oDVH7G25JaIeiocO2kxOT93fzM45IaJxU3K83u_19XVkFeaZhi0iFbUK-p1DaJWTtl8p5MdUseMYYriuocr8n-0qHfPXk6l5hPL0hEiWNdToFA/s320/blogger-image-367270243.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Step 3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_35jc5iK5gdK4WBBjCm8sQpZqSowa_ZwxWk77aQsZpFJKw0Du5b29j2gXPUBU5_TbCoj3Y4q7z-f8iMbtRQ1FSAPVtbdJwwcaPFKFSaLp9WC1sixm-bawXDTEdKl74V3_AAzp7oiDFrHu/s320/blogger-image-53227513.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Step 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A few finished pictures of the dress. The linen does make the dress a bit less structured, but I like it.<br />
I know the black belt looks odd, but I was wearing black shoes too. For whatever reason my DH did not get that in the photo.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge3LTBNQxQOBJMxEKlLqKIx8JNHnPafn3cXxhBLa5nwMOLWOH3rwY0MpihTAfJypdgCSjkNgmESNQQ-d2o12xV5rOzuJPqNLKaeBO4l56tXCKZqNQgq8fpeHQCkTunMCq0KLK9TfKEnmC9/s1600/dress1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge3LTBNQxQOBJMxEKlLqKIx8JNHnPafn3cXxhBLa5nwMOLWOH3rwY0MpihTAfJypdgCSjkNgmESNQQ-d2o12xV5rOzuJPqNLKaeBO4l56tXCKZqNQgq8fpeHQCkTunMCq0KLK9TfKEnmC9/s400/dress1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLGanAw4f7qtK2PNOnfbxotTElqlM0sR9TJ5K4tJHDbP2NfQZ8tVJiMEykArw-bMgUZ1GLA7NpmafrRKepbObdmf7LDxCTqjy_kPogrXKAo-xSTRM9GHCwhBmorZtLYRYiFAW9kMpLlz2/s1600/dress2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoLGanAw4f7qtK2PNOnfbxotTElqlM0sR9TJ5K4tJHDbP2NfQZ8tVJiMEykArw-bMgUZ1GLA7NpmafrRKepbObdmf7LDxCTqjy_kPogrXKAo-xSTRM9GHCwhBmorZtLYRYiFAW9kMpLlz2/s640/dress2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this picture of us. </td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans" serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></span>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans" serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><b style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans, serif;">If sewing is not your thing then think about 'forget the frock' instead. (for 2018 or anytime you are culturally expected to buy a new dress.) </b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans" serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></span>
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<h2 class="text-align-center" style="font-family: adelle-sans; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 0.02em; line-height: 1.15em; margin: 24px auto 0px; text-align: center; text-rendering: optimizelegibility;">
"Ditch the suit. Hang up the fancy dress and the desire to impress.<br style="word-wrap: break-word;" />This Easter, you'll buy a t-shirt from a charity. Any charity.</h2>
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You'll wear your t-shirt Easter Sunday.<br style="word-wrap: break-word;" />You'll tell everyone about the charity you're supporting.</h2>
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That charity you bought the shirt from?<br style="word-wrap: break-word;" />They'll feed an orphan.<br style="word-wrap: break-word;" />Educate a child.<br style="word-wrap: break-word;" />Drill a clean water well.<br style="word-wrap: break-word;" />Rescue a slave from human trafficking.<br style="word-wrap: break-word;" />Employ a widow or single mother.<br style="word-wrap: break-word;" />Provide medical care for the sick.<br style="word-wrap: break-word;" />Share the good news of Christ."</h2>
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<a href="http://www.forgetthefrock.org/" target="_blank">Check them out here.</a></div>
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Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-142397211030536272017-04-03T08:00:00.001-05:002020-11-21T12:15:14.209-06:00Farm History year by year part 1I was sitting on my couch thinking about all I have accomplished in the (almost) 4 years we have been here. I thought I would write it up so I could remember it all when I've been here 20 years or more.<br />
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Feb 2014- We bought our place before we got married (scary!) and nothing was here except the house. Thank God for that at least. Basement was unfinished though and we had only 1 bathroom.<br />
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June 2014- I moved in after we were married. DH lived in the house alone and without any furniture.<br />
I planted a few strawberries and a very small garden to test the soil and started with some amendments. I got dutch rabbits(free) to test out if I wanted to do rabbits. Worked on cutting all the grass to manageable levels. A neighbor came by to tell me that it hadn't been cut in years. I believe it...<br />
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2015- I bought our first Silver Fox rabbits and slaughtered the last of the dutch rabbits. I expanded the gardens and fenced it in to keep deer out. I also planted a few apple trees. I had 1 hen gifted to me and several roosters though all the roosters were eaten.<br />
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2016- I started building a chicken coop after I ordered my Dominique chicks. We had some adolescent ducks gifted to us. I bought 3 more of the same breed and all turned out to be male except 1 and one died.(le sigh) Planted 1/3 of my large garden with strawberries the rest with annual vegetables.Always adding compost to the garden soil. Planted 2 plum(Toka and Black ice), 2 pear(Patten and Parker) and 1 apricot tree. Cleaned up a lot more of the property, since we have been maintaining more and more each year. Started stacking wood for later use. Started a chicken run to be finished in 2017.<br />
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2017- Finished chicken run, built a duck run and new duck house, built perennial raised beds and planted my regular gardens again. Always adding compost to make the soil better. Planted more resistant apple trees(duchess of oldenburg, wolf river, haralson, and ?) because the others died last year.<br />
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And there is still so much more to be done for 2017. Some of this is just planned for 2017. I got a little overboard, but I am concentrating on finishing up things that we had started last year for 2017. Not too many new projects, other than the duck pens and house that should have been done last year.Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-24494812357848683562017-02-23T08:00:00.000-06:002017-02-23T08:00:14.564-06:00Clothing Challenge #3<br />
I've decided to let go of a few more of my pieces. But at the same time I want to finish and have more me made things in my wardrobe that fits and flatters my body.<br />
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I've resolved to a few new sewing rules for 2017.<br />
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1. Sew a seamwork (I explain this at the end of this post) pattern every month to completion. They are supposed to take 1-3 hours to do, unless you add steps like I always do. Even still I think I can do this as they are all pretty simple. Getting the fit right with a muslin will be the longest step for me.<br />
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2. Finish one piece of clothing that has already been started. Sadly I have more than 12 so this won't be clearing up my sewing room too much. But it will help me to complete things and that is what I am concentrating on in 2017. (even if I can make progress on these things!)<br />
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3. Finish up a quilt that is already started. I have at least 5-6 of these and maybe it will be more like get something finished on them. Quilts are larger projects and if I give 2 months to each I can still get my backlog finished and be snuggling under them for Christmas 2017.<br />
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4. Plan, shop and begin on handmade Christmas presents for one person each month.<br />
I'm still working on this list, but I know I need to keep it reasonable. For example, for my husband's niece I was thinking of making her a makeup bag and buying her some brushes and a few staple pieces.<br />
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So far I have written down all the things I have unfinished in my sewing room and have tried to put them all together so I can just grab it off my new sewing rack and start working on it.<br />
I know that this seems like a lot to do, but I am considering this my stretch goal. I also have homesteading chores and lots of gardening to do.<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Underwear- 21</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I feel like this number is OK. I always have more than I use in a week, but if I don't get to the laundry one week (rarely happens) then I'm still going to have underwear. There are a few lacy ones that I don't really like to wear because they are polyester lace and itchy. I need to get them out of there. I just ordered a few new pieces from <a href="https://wearpact.com/" target="_blank">pact</a>. I'm hoping to replace all my undies with these now or make some. We will see how that goes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Bras-5 in use 8 waiting. Total 13 </span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: inherit;">-1 that broke and I took one out of storage=12</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I loved the fit of a specific bra I bought and when I found out it wasn't being made anymore I ordered 10 of them. I still have 7 in packaging for when I need them. I hate to even think of the day when I will have to go look for a new favorite bra. :( </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Socks-46</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">A lot of these socks are from when I lived in SC so I have so many pairs of thin summer socks, which I don't really even wear that often up here. Maybe I should just let them go so that drawer isn't so packed. Or maybe I could combine it with my leggings. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Slips/Camisoles-3</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I use these occasionally and I feel it's a good number. I have one full slip, one skirt only and one camisole.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Tights-2</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Both of these are going to wear out this year probably and will find their way to the trash. So, nothing to worry about here. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Pantyhose-13</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">These all fit nicely in a shoe box that I have in my sock drawer, but I don't wear them often as I have better things to keep me warm and in the summer I'm in the garden most of the time. Again...maybe I should be more ruthless with these.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;">Thermal tops- </span><strike style="color: #333333;">5 </strike><span style="color: red;">3</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;">Thermal bottoms-</span><strike style="color: #333333;">3 </strike><span style="color: red;">2</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red; font-family: inherit;">I released the cotton long johns that don't actually keep me warm in the tundra that I live in. Released 2 tops and 1 bottom.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Swimsuits-4</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">one of these is wearing out and in need of replacement. I would like to loose a bit more weight around my middle, but wishful thinking won't do it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Tees-16</span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;"> +1=17</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">I won another t-shirt on new years. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;">Blouses/tops-52 </span><span style="color: red;">+4=56 -1 + 55</span></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">I made 2 Sorbetto tops. Then on vacation I got something on a mint blouse (black of course and it's not coming out...) I bought a short sleeve spring knit top and a black velvet top to go out in. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Tanks-4</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">These are always worn under a shirt for modesty or warmth.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Pull over Sweaters-14</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">I LOVE wool things and cashmere so I have invested in a few (too many?) sweaters. I </span><i style="color: #333333;">might</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"> be willing to let a few go though that don't match the direction my closet is going or are too thin to bother with up here. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: red;">Most of the thin ones are not wool or cashmere anyways. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Cardigan Sweaters-6</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">These are great for layering. I think I have a bit of crossover in the pink section of my closet and I could figure out which one to keep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Leggings-5 </span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: inherit;">-1 +1= 5 (still)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I do have plans to make a pair of leggings to replace a pair that I wore a hole through in the thigh(nobody knows it's there 'sept me and Jesus...and now you.) and one more pair in addition. Most of these I wasn't sure whether to put them in the thermals bottoms section or here. I wear them pretty much the same. I only have 1 pair of thermals that are only over pants because they have odd seams on the sides.</span><span style="color: red;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">I bought a new pair of dark red leggings from pact as well. I'm hoping to receive them in the mail anyday now. When they come I will toss the ripped pair. Maybe I should just do that now?</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Pants-14</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: red;"> +1=15</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Yay pants!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">You can see that I don't think leggings are pants. I do not wear them alone. For me, it's a modesty and comfort issue.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: inherit;"> A pair ripped on vacation, I am going to try to patch them. Why do my things always get holes in the thighs? And I bought a pair of carharts on sale to work in.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Skirts-13</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Not sure why I have so many of these as I don't really wear them that often. Most of them were packed away and are, like the dresses, light gauzy material that is waiting for warmer days.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Dresses-20 </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">Making Dahalia and Rue (22)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I LOVE dresses when it's warm and I am still learning how to wear dresses in the cooler weather. A lot of these are sheer-like or silk and are strictly summer-wear. As my needs change I will release them to my closet or out of the house.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Special Occassion Dresses-5</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: red;">+2=7</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">These only get worn occasionally, but they are classic and do get some wear a few times a year. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: inherit;">My Mom gave me 2 more dresses while we were down, but I don't know if I want to keep them or not. I'm still thinking about it. So, in the mean time I will add them to my number. (sigh, I feel like I'm not doing too well with this stuff.)</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Shorts-5</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I am acclimating more and more to the weather here. Right now this is a good number for me. I may require more later, but I will sew some when I need them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Vests-1</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I actually forgot all about this. Its a wool roving vest that I used to wear to the office. Its a bit fancy for anything I would wear now. I may have to let it go or start wearing it again.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Scarves-8</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I have 2 blanket scarves and I love those. You can wear them in so many ways. I never got that whole infinity scarf thing, but I'm not a huge scarf person. I keep trying to make it happen because I see fashion bloggers talking about how it can "draw your outfit together." I only remember to grab one when it's cold outside and it stays with my coat most of the time-unless it's chilly indoors too.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: red; font-family: inherit;">Which makes me think why do I have so many of these?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Belts-8</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I seem to wear one in particular over and over and over and...well you get the picture. Yet, I have 7 more? One only goes with one dress. And I can't remember the last time I wore that dress. Maybe I should get it out and spin. I made it to go swing dancing with my husband (then BF) and it's fun, but we have no where to go dancing up here.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">PJs/nighties-8</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I feel like a broken record-SC=hot and MN=not hot. My clothes haven't caught up quite yet. I'm closer though. Oh so close. Some of these are from when we got married. *Newlyweds!*</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Shoes-16 </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">no change. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Jackets-5</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Strangely enough I could probably get rid of a few of these, but I won't/don't want to do that.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Hats-6 </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">no change</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Seems like they hide from me when I'm looking for them, but really I wear the same one all the time. It is starting to get a bit thin. I doesn't help that my #declutterdog ate the little ball of one of my hats last year. <strike>Most</strike> All except one of these are winter hats/caps.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="color: #333333;" /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Purses-4 </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">no change yet, I plan to make one for 2017 though.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Painting Outfit-1 </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;">No change </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">How do I figure out what I want to sew for the next year? (OR what is Seamwork?) I am a subscriber to seamwork by Colette.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you would like to <a href="https://www.seamwork.com/subscribe?ref=stephanie11147" target="_blank">become a member</a> and get half off your first month use this link. Some of the patterns I don't see myself ever wearing, but some of them look great. And all of them take less than 3 hours to make (according to them.)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For 2017 I plan (ha ha) on more time sewing and less time planning and dreaming. Even though I'm great at planning and dreaming! My stretch goal is to have an entirely me made wardrobe. I started with the basic pieces like tanks and I'm investigating undies. I'm not sure if I'm ready to tackle bras yet, but maybe by the time I wear out the ones I have I will be ready! They even have one on the seamwork patterns selection! Even though I'm not crazy about the back I think it would be a great exercise in starting to make my own bras.</span>Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-33413086948365688932017-02-20T08:00:00.001-06:002017-02-20T08:00:05.330-06:00Spring is coming!<br />
I feel so invigorated after my vacation. Almost 2 weeks of not having to do my regular things! We mostly spent time with family and some old friends. We went out occasionally, but really it was just a visiting vacation. My Mom and I talked a lot about homesteading stuff and both of us bought a copy of a book that mother earth put out called 'Self-reliance and country skills.' There are quite a few cool articles in there and I'm really excited for spring now. <div>
While I was in SC it was like spring to me. The daffodils were blooming and things were starting to bud out. As we drove back up the MN it got colder (also, because it was getting dark because it was turning into night.) and it felt more and more like winter. </div>
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We woke up the next day and it is now 57 degrees and sunny outside. I decided to get into my bees and make sure they were doing well. I am a really successful beekeeper so far! I bought 2 packages of bees and caught a swarm on my first year! The ones I caught did not make it through the winter because they didn't have enough food to make it and one of my packages didn't make it because the hive was tilted backwards and I think they got too much water inside. There were puddles of water on the bottom and there was a bit of mold on the top cover. So, it could have been mold that did it too from the water, but I'm not sure. Cleaning them all out was sure a job! </div>
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But I feel better knowing that one of my hives has made it through a whole year and we are going to get more delicious honey. Even though I made my husband ration it all out because I planned on feeding the bees their honey back in the spring if they were still alive. I actually just moved the frames with honey still in them to the hive that was alive. </div>
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All in all I learned a lot about bees this year. And I'm really eager to see what this new year brings. I like to celebrate the new year 3 times a year. January 1st, Chinese new year, and (my favorite) the dawning of spring. </div>
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Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-19163373847794255582017-01-17T08:00:00.000-06:002017-01-17T08:00:20.920-06:00Me made in 2016Every year I like to look back and go over what I made. This year I almost forgot about it. I was so wrapped up in a new project.<br />
<br />
My quilting friend introduced me to a new project by doing old ones. She showed me this <a href="http://www.allpeoplequilt.com/how-to-quilt/finishing/2017-ufo-challenge" target="_blank">UFO website</a> and instead of a BOM for this year we are going to finish up all the projects that are hanging about. She's doing quilting only. I have a clothing list as well. I'm going to try to double up on my lists in case we go on vacation or I get wrapped up in summer gardening or building.<br />
<br />
I didn't finish very many things this year, but I did start a lot of things and one of my goals for 2017 is to finish things, so I hope to have a full page next year of all the things I made!<br />
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<br />
So, without further ado what I made in 2016.<br />
Apparently it was a year of baby quilts.<br />
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I really feel like this fancy forest quilt is my masterpiece thus far. </div>
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<br />Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-90566498882265593052016-12-19T08:00:00.000-06:002017-01-15T16:03:36.635-06:00Clothing Count Challenge #2<br />
I counted up my clothing (after washing it all) and this is what I have. All of these things are in rotation in my closet or were in storage and have been handled and gone through this year. I know I could do another sweep, but I'm trying to get more intentional about it.<br />
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I did not count costume pieces, in progress pieces, planned or anything from the mending pile. One of my goals for 2017 is to get all of those things out of the sewing room and either to my closet or out of the house.<br />
I also didn't include my workout gear. Since I did a capsule specifically for those things. They all fit in one drawer and as long as it stays that way(and it should) I will not need to address it again.<br />
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<h3>
<u>Here are the totals of each item and a bit about them or why I have that number. </u></h3>
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Underwear- 21<br />
I feel like this number is OK. I always have more than I use in a week, but if I don't get to the laundry one week (rarely happens) then I'm still going to have underwear. There are a few lacy ones that I don't really like to wear because they are polyester lace and itchy. I need to get them out of there.<br />
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Bras-5 in use 8 waiting. Total 13<br />
I loved the fit of a specific bra I bought and when I found out it wasn't being made anymore I ordered 10 of them. I still have 8 in packaging for when I need them. I hate to even think of the day when I will have to go look for a new favorite bra. :(<br />
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Socks-46<br />
A lot of these socks are from when I lived in SC so I have so many pairs of thin summer socks, which I don't really even wear that often up here. Maybe I should just let them go so that drawer isn't so packed.<br />
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Slips/Camisoles-3<br />
I use these occasionally and I feel it's a good number. I have one full slip, one skirt only and one camisole.<br />
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Tights-2<br />
Both of these are going to wear out this year probably and will find their way to the trash. So, nothing to worry about here.<br />
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Pantyhose-13<br />
These all fit nicely in a shoe box that I have in my sock drawer, but I don't wear them often as I have better things to keep me warm and in the summer I'm in the garden most of the time. Again...maybe I should be more ruthless with these.<br />
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Thermal tops- 5<br />
Thermal bottoms-3<br />
I have been flirting with the idea of releasing the cotton long johns that don't actually keep me warm in the tundra that I live in. They were great for occasional wet cold rainy days in SC. That would get rid of 2 tops and 1 bottom.<br />
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Swimsuits-4<br />
one of these is wearing out and in need of replacement. I would like to loose a bit more weight around my middle, but wishful thinking won't do it.<br />
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Tees-16<br />
These are Tees I wear on their own around the farm/gardening and working. I don't worry if they get messed up.<br />
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Blouses/tops-52<br />
I have to admit that I was really surprised by this one. I thought I had done well with the tops.<br />
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Tanks-4<br />
These are always worn under a shirt for modesty or warmth.<br />
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Pull over Sweaters-14<br />
I LOVE wool things and cashmere so I have invested in a few (too many?) sweaters. I <i>might</i> be willing to let a few go though that don't match the direction my closet is going or are too thin to bother with up here.<br />
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Cardigan Sweaters-6<br />
These are great for layering. I think I have a bit of crossover in the pink section of my closet and I could figure out which one to keep.<br />
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Leggings-5<br />
I do have plans to make a pair of leggings to replace a pair that I wore a hole through in the thigh(nobody knows it's there 'sept me and Jesus...and now you.) and one more pair in addition. Most of these I wasn't sure whether to put them in the thermals bottoms section or here. I wear them pretty much the same. I only have 1 pair of thermals that are only over pants because they have odd seams on the sides.<br />
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Pants-14<br />
Yay pants!<br />
You can see that I don't think leggings are pants. I do not wear them alone. For me, it's a modesty and comfort issue.<br />
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Skirts-13<br />
Not sure why I have so many of these as I don't really wear them that often. Most of them were packed away and are, like the dresses, light gauzy material that is waiting for warmer days.<br />
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Dresses-20<br />
I LOVE dresses when it's warm and I am still learning how to wear dresses in the cooler weather. A lot of these are sheer-like or silk and are strictly summer-wear. As my needs change I will release them to my closet or out of the house.<br />
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Special Occassion Dresses-5<br />
These only get worn occasionally, but they are classic and do get some wear a few times a year.<br />
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Shorts-5<br />
I am acclimating more and more to the weather here. Right now this is a good number for me. I may require more later, but I will sew some when I need them.<br />
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Vests-1<br />
I actually forgot all about this. Its a wool roving vest that I used to wear to the office. Its a bit fancy for anything I would wear now. I may have to let it go or start wearing it again.<br />
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Scarves-8<br />
I have 2 blanket scarves and I love those. You can wear them in so many ways. I never got that whole infinity scarf thing, but I'm not a huge scarf person. I keep trying to make it happen because I see fashion bloggers talking about how it can "draw your outfit together." I only remember to grab one when it's cold outside and it stays with my coat most of the time-unless it's chilly indoors too.<br />
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Belts-8<br />
I seem to wear one in particular over and over and over and...well you get the picture. Yet, I have 7 more? One only goes with one dress. And I can't remember the last time I wore that dress. Maybe I should get it out and spin. I made it to go swing dancing with my husband (then BF) and it's fun, but we have no where to go dancing up here.<br />
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PJs/nighties-8<br />
I feel like a broken record-SC=hot MN=not hot. My clothes haven't caught up quite yet. I'm closer though. Oh so close. Some of these are from when we got married. *Newlyweds!*<br />
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Jewelry- ??<br />
I meant to count these but then I just didn't. I don't wear a lot of jewelry and I don't have a lot. Earlier this year I went thorough my big jewelry box and donated all the things I wasn't wearing because it was all old costume stuff I'd been holding onto since HS or someone had given it to me long ago and blah, blah. None of it was worth anything anyways. Mostly a box of junk I've been carrying around in each move. I'm sure I have more stuff around here that would qualify for the same treatment, but I haven't reached that layer of it yet. I feel OK with where I am with the jewelry. What I decided to keep is classic pieces that aren't gaudy and I actually will wear from time to time.<br />
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Shoes-16<br />
I can still remember when I had an old dishwasher box FULL of shoes when I moved after I left college. I think all my shoes could fit in a copy box now. I sold a lot of my designer shoes. I think I have maybe 2 pairs. I've had the one pair repaired so many times I'm not sure that it even looks the same anymore and definitely is not worth anything to anyone but me now. I could stand a little more running here too.<br />
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Jackets-5<br />
Strangely enough I could probably get rid of a few of these, but I won't/don't want to do that.<br />
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Hats-6<br />
Seems like they hide from me when I'm looking for them, but really I wear the same one all the time. IT is starting to get a bit thin. I doesn't help that my #declutterdog ate the little ball of one of my hats last year. Most of these are winter hats/caps<br />
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Purses-4<br />
I might make one more. Maybe...<br />
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Painting Outfit-1<br />
You have no idea how often I'm painting something around here. These aren't going anywhere unless it suddenly develops a huge hole in the butt.<br />
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So what do I need? Probably nothing. All of my clothes are different colors and I've been trying to get a cohesive wardrobe going on here. I wore a lot of purple, but it's not striking me now. And as I get a bit older my style has changed a little bit.<br />
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I'm trying to figure out the holes in my wardrobe, but that will be the next installment after I decide what I don't need anymore.<br />
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<br />Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-6269846689889262422016-12-16T08:00:00.000-06:002016-12-15T11:21:11.874-06:00Sorbetto shirts.I feel like I'm always late to the sewing party. I'm making some Sorbetto tops. The pattern is free from Colette, one of my favorite pattern companies. I love their classic style and lady like patterns. They actually help you learn so that you can sew more! What an awesome service to people who want to sew. If you get frustrated with it you might quit.<br />
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I'm making a regular Sorbetto in a pink flower print, but I'm adding sleeves to it.<br />
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I'm also working on a black linen version. I'm thinking of inverting the pleat or removing it all together so I can have a clean black tank as a layering piece. I might make one in white too without the pleat as I always need a nice comfy tank to wear. What better than a custom fitted one that you made yourself? It's not a show piece, but everything can't always be amazing. Also, I've found that people are just amazed if you wear anything that you didn't go to the store and make. When did that happen to our society? I Digress.<br />
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This is my first muslin. I didn't like the large opening that it gave for the armholes in the size I used. I ended up sizing down and doing a larger FBA than normal to get the sleeve opening comfortable. Every blog I read about the tops said that they thought they were too short so I added length to them (quite a lot actually!) There is a hack for making this into a dress as well, but I don't think it would look too great on my body shape. More updates and pictures to come as I straighten out the fit and whip a few of these up.<br />
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<a href="https://www.colettepatterns.com/catalog/sorbetto" target="_blank">Download 'Sorbetto' here</a> and make your own. I'd love to see your creations. There are so many people on the Sorbetto kick. Some have made changes to this basic pattern and made some amazingly beautiful things. Even if you make it as written it's a fun and easy pattern to make.<br />
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There is also a link to show you how to make your own bias tape!!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "lemondelivreclassicstd"; font-size: 12.000000pt; font-weight: 700;">colettepatterns.com/go/continuous-bias-tape</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "lemondelivreclassicstd"; font-size: 12pt;">A zero waste sewing win!!</span><br />
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Happy Sewing!!Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-74418644427618973422016-12-12T08:00:00.000-06:002016-12-16T16:16:04.636-06:00Counting Clothing Challenge #1I'm always reading different blogs. I do subscribe to a few, but then I get bored when they only talk about one topic. Which is why I'm always switching gears on my blog. I'm sure it makes a few people crazy that I can't stay on topic. But, that's just the way my brain works. I can't concentrate on one thing for prolonged periods of time.<br />
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I've been really getting into organizing my closet and minimizing it more so that I only have what I need.<br />
I'm going to execute this challenge and count up all of my clothing and try to figure out what I have and what holes I might need to fill. Or what I need to get rid of too.<br />
I want to sew up a few new pieces, but I don't want to over clutter my closet again. It's a problem that I have trying to be a minimalistic seamstress. How do I know what to make?<br />
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I'm really hoping that I can figure out how to keep things under control all while adding some new favorites to my wardrobe. I know my winter capsule is really lacking in dressier things.<br />
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I'm going to follow <a href="https://anexactinglife.com/2013/04/27/year-long-wardrobe-project-complete/" target="_blank">this</a> and <a href="http://www.extraorganised.com/2013/05/how-many-clothes-do-you-have.html" target="_blank">this blog</a>'s example and make categories to add up what I have currently.<br />
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The categories I plan on using are these:<br />
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Underwear-<br />
Bras-<br />
Thermals-<br />
Swimsuits-<br />
Tees-<br />
Blouses-<br />
Leggings-<br />
Jeans-<br />
Pants-<br />
Skirts-<br />
Shorts-<br />
Scarves-<br />
Jewelry-<br />
Shoes-<br />
PJs-<br />
Outerwear-<br />
Hats-<br />
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I can't think of any other categories, but I may add a few more if I feel I need them.<br />
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<br />Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-52315721240629943702016-12-01T08:00:00.000-06:002016-12-01T08:00:12.812-06:00Surviving winter in MinnesotaSince winter is coming, I decided to do a winter post to get us all ready. Maybe you need to change your mindset about winter. Or maybe you need some supplies to get your through it?<br />
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I've been in Minnesota two years now and although my first winter was a mild one, or so I'm told, I learned a few things to keep warm during those chilly winter months.<br />
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Here is my top ten tips. </div>
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<li>I love wool socks and blankets. I need to get some more of them. A lot of people find them "scratchy" but I don't. If you do look for a wool blend instead. </li>
<li>Always wear socks, inside you an wear the socks with the rubber on the soles so you can have a little traction on linoleum, tile or hardwood floors.</li>
<li>Try to keep the heat at a constant temperature. I kept mine at about 68 most of the time. It helps the heater by not having to get the house up to a new temperature. </li>
<li>If you are chilly in your constant temperature house, put on a sweater or even a hat if you need it. Remember in the stories from last century, people wore stocking caps to bed? It holds in more of your heat. </li>
<li>Bake something yummy and leave the oven open after you finish and turn it off to let the warm air seep into the house. </li>
<li>Remember that the cold can dry you out just as much as the heat. You need to drink water or liquids. I like to make hot tea to get my liquids and have some honey. </li>
<li>If you have a pet, snuggle with them. It's amazing how much heat they can create. I trained my husky mix dog to sleep on my feet. That may not work for everyone, but it does for us. </li>
<li>If a dog laying on you doesn't appeal to you, and it doesn't to my DH, get a rubber water bottle and fill it with hot/boiling water and stick it in the foot area of your bed to warm it up. (be careful not to touch it with bare feet as it could burn you.) You can also knit/crochet/sew a cover for your water bottle to insulate the heat and so it doesn't burn sensitive feet. </li>
<li>Go outside and get some exercise. It will help your body to adjust to the changing season and you will feel better. </li>
<li>Wool Merino everything. This stuff keeps me toasty warm all winter long. A lot of people think that wool is itchy. This stuff isn't. Go to the store and touch it and you will see what I mean. It isn't thick and bulky under things so you don't look bigger than you are, a plus when you are wearing the long underwear versions. </li>
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I love that Minnesota has four seasons. I can't wait to go through them all again. </div>
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Each season has it's own beauty and faults, much like people. </div>
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I love spring for the rebirth of the earth, yet the work cycle begins again. </div>
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I love summer for the fresh fruits and warm sunshine, yet the sun can get overbearing and the mosquitos swarm all around. </div>
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I love fall for the respite from the cool and the harvest time, yet colder weather brings an end to the fresh foods. </div>
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I love winter for the quiet and serenity, yet it can be brutally cold in it's own way. </div>
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I think if you learn to see the joy in every situation, life can be so much more enjoyable. </div>
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Just a few thoughts from me today. </div>
Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-73732398594602661752016-11-28T08:00:00.000-06:002019-02-25T12:20:29.079-06:00Some winter outfits<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Winter 2015 </div>
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I tried the leggings with a sweater overtop. I didn't feel comfortable in this. I guess I'm not a leggings as pants type of girl. I'm all about wearing them with a skirt or a dress like they are tights or under pants. (So, I won't be wearing this look anymore.) Second photo is just me in a wool sweater, jeans and my winter coat. I got this big scarf in 2015 and I LOVE it. I can use it like a scarf or wrap it over my head when I go outside. It's a versatile piece. Then I have my favorite hat, because it matches everything and covers my ears, and a bright red cashmere sweater. I love cashmere. DH bought me this for my birthday a few years back. I get a lot of use out of it now that we are in MN. </div>
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<br />Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-13084959148717566172016-11-23T12:00:00.000-06:002016-11-23T12:11:21.606-06:00No buy day vs. black Friday madness<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">The day after Thanksgiving has become completely crazy. </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">CRAZINESS</span></div>
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People are trampling, beating, cutting, pepper spraying and killing one another-for stuff. </div>
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It's all just stuff! </div>
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As Americans our homes are full of stuff, over flowing with stuff, junk, trinkets, things, moments from everywhere. Our closets are jam packed and over flowing. </div>
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We have a show about people who have too much stuff, they even have a special name for them-Hoarders. </div>
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But, what about "normal people" who have too much stuff, but it's all put away and organized neatly?</div>
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Who are these people fighting over things at stores and hurting others? </div>
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I can't even believe that we as a society have gotten bad enough that we can't even stop to help someone who is clearly having a heart attack or trapped in a car in a lake. </div>
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It's IDIOCRARCY! (side note: amazing movie made in the early 2000's. I see it happening all around us.)</div>
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People have lost the sense that God gave them! </div>
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So what is the answer? </div>
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<li> Realize that there is nothing that you can buy that will make you (or anyone else) happy. </li>
<li>Know when enough is enough. </li>
<li>Value people over things.</li>
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This video shows the real cost of Black Friday and our wasteful ways. At the end of this post I will post some alternatives you can start this year. </div>
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For this year on Black Friday I<u> <b>refuse</b></u> to be a part of the madness, craziness or traffic. I don't want to stand in line to get a 90" TV for $200 if there is a chance that I will die over it, or someone else will. </div>
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I do not need another TV. We have one that works just fine. (This is just an example. There is nothing that I need this badly, that I would even CONSIDER putting someone else at risk for it.) </div>
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As a Christian, why would I ever want to do this? Why would I trade who God has made me to be for a TV, or a 90% off discount? (again, example.) </div>
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God made me to love people, to lead them to Him. To the only freedom that we can ever know. </div>
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How can I do that if I am bashing them over the head one day and then greeting them in church a few days later? What does that say to the unbeliever? It says that I'm a hypocrite. That I only say that I care about people. That's not what I want people to think of me and it's definitely not what I want people to see when they look at Jesus. </div>
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Jesus said, 'put down your cross and follow me.' </div>
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Put it down. Put down the discounted TV, put down your sorrow and loneliness that you think can only be filled up by material goods. </div>
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Seek the one that made you. He waits for you. </div>
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<span class="text Mark-8-34-Mark-8-37" id="en-MSG-10498" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;">"Calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; <i style="box-sizing: border-box;">I</i> am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to saving yourself, your true self. <u>What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you? What could you ever trade your soul for? </u></span><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"><u> </u></span></div>
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If any of you are embarrassed over me and the way I’m leading you when you get around your fickle and unfocused friends, know that you’ll be an even greater embarrassment to the Son of Man when he arrives in all the splendor of God, his Father, with an army of the holy angels.”</div>
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-Mark 8:34-38 (The Message Translation) </div>
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This year, lets spend the time with our family, friends and people. Make it a day to buy nothing. Focus on what is important to you. If you think that things are important you are going to go shopping no matter what. But, just ponder these words in your heart. </div>
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That thing that you just have to have, will it save you or make you free?</div>
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Buying things isn't wrong. We are all human and have needs. Even Jesus, when he was on Earth had needs. Just keep them in their proper place. </div>
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Have a Happy Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas!</div>
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Want to make a difference?</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Sponser a child who has nothing. Give them food, education and the chance to grow up healthy. <a href="http://www.compassion.com/" target="_blank">For $38 a month</a> you can give a child a better life. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Learn more about <a href="http://www.zerowastehome.com/" target="_blank">zero waste</a>.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Invite someone to your Thanksgiving that you know can't go home to their family this year or will be alone. It is a hard time of year and no one should have to be alone. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Come up with a shopping-free tradition for your family this year. </li>
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Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-32540184452639841822016-11-14T08:00:00.000-06:002016-11-14T08:00:07.871-06:00Zero Waste-October<div>
I feel like I've maintained everything really well so this will be the last of these I do an update for ZW. Which is probably why I didn't think about doing it before now.<br />
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We are working through some bottles in the bathroom, but we are not bringing anything new that has trash in it or packaged in trash so I feel I can finish that up by the end of the year. I've also noticed that my hair has gotten healthier and I have no actual need for conditioner. It is available in bulk at the co-op I shop at, but I just use what I have as a monthly conditioning and it has lasted almost 2 years.<br />
I've been taking a lot of things to the thrift store that we don't use or need anymore. It's freeing up space in the house and in my mind. It's really strange how peaceful you can be when you actually give yourself space in your own home.<br />
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If you have any questions about this process let me know I'd be happy to answer them for you.<br />
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<u><b>Goal #1-<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Switch every family member over to using reusable bags</span></span></b></u><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal Obtained. </span><br />
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<b style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u>Goal #2- Stop using the plastic bags in the produce section.</u></span></b><br />
<b style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><br /></u></span></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained.</span><span style="color: #333333;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><span style="color: #333333;">Goal #3 </span><span style="color: #333333;">Stop junk from coming into the house</span></u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></u></b></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Will this ever happen? Junk mail is still coming, but less of it and I am not buying as much. DH hardly brings anything in-he never was the problem...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></u></b></span><b><u><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">Goal #4 </span><span style="color: #333333;">Compost all paper that does come into the house.</span></span></u></b><br />
<b><u><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span></u></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u>Goal #5 <span style="color: #333333;">Shop at the Co-op in town for bulk items</span></u></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained.</span> </div>
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></b></u><u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal #6 <span style="color: #333333;">Switch to "ReUsies" instead of plastic storage bags. </span></span></b></u><br />
<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span></b></u><span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><span style="color: #333333;">Goal #7 </span><span style="color: #333333;">Stop using disposable head razors.</span></u></b></span><br />
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No Change.<br />
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal #8 <span style="color: #333333;">Get more serious about composting.</span></span></b></u><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained.</span><br />
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Goal #9 <span style="color: #333333;">Switch to using handkerchiefs instead of tissue.</span></span></b></u><br />
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<span style="color: red;">No Change.</span><br />
I am composting the tissues I am using.<br />
Trying to finish up the boxes that are left in the house. Seriously, we don't even use them that often. We are still on the same box in November that were were on in April.<br />
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal #10 <span style="color: #333333;">Stop my trash service.</span></span></b></u><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">In July, we got a smaller trash can. We are saving $5 a month. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">In November, we switched trash companies (same service, less cost)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span>Still not feasible yet.<br />
This may never be feasible for use because I cannot find a drop off recycle place in our area.<br />
But, we are sending less and less to the landfill. :)<br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><b><u>Goal #11 Make our own bread from scratch. </u></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">DH's bread!! I'm doing sourdough.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><b>Goal #12 Replace freezer bags with jars.</b></u></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><b><br /></b></u></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">No change</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red;">I am using less bags and I'm considering giving what I have left to a friend.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><b><u>Goal #13 Compost cat poop in a </u></b></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u>separate area</u></b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal Obtained.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Total we sent out 1 bag for recycling and 1 bag for the landfill. We are getting better at this ZW stuff.</span></span></div>
Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-91929013662936386382016-11-11T08:00:00.000-06:002016-11-11T08:00:05.801-06:00Adaline velvet dress-part 2--pattern selection<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Well, the cruise came and went and I didn't get this finished. I didn't even have time to f<strike>inish</strike> start the muslin for it. I am still going to work on this, but<strike> zero waste change and getting my garden in this past spring and summer were/are just more of a priority at the moment</strike> life got in the way. (I started this as soon as I got back from the cruise, but honestly, I was a little bummed at myself for not having time to do it. We had a great time and then I forgot about it for awhile.)</div>
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Sewing and quilting is more of a winter activity for me anyways. </div>
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Now that it is getting colder, I'm really thinking about finishing this up. Also, holiday parties are coming and how awesome would it be to rock this dress at a Christmas or New Year's party? </div>
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Oh yeah, DH better start planning to take me somewhere AWESOME!!</div>
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In case you haven't read the first part of this on going series. It's <a href="http://tangledthreadsbydinie.blogspot.com/2015/11/age-of-adeline-wine-velvet-dress.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</h3>
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This is part 2 of the making of 'The age of Adeline' Wine Velvet party dress. I posted pictures of the original dress in the previous post, if you need to refer back, I provided a link above. </div>
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This took quite awhile to do and in the end, I already had everything I needed...go figure. *eye roll at self*</div>
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I looked through current pattern books at the store and nothing jumped out at me. Blah, I'm hating the new styles coming out right now. Retro all the way! </div>
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So, I dug through my pattern stash and found 2 that I can frankenpattern together to make the dress.</div>
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First up is a 1970's era empire waist dress. This is practically perfect. It already has darts in the bottom where I need them, but I think I'm just going to use the puff sleeves and the skirt part on this one. I would have to redraw the entire bodice if I used this whole thing. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkFy5LXLrPRy3Rm1ZvXJMZbqFKetaR37J7tlR_7sTRtIBE3R34FYOLEA_RqgTD_9IA1b0LNVuNmlOsvXJi1RwhZXYeDvCrtdCuyLUSM7zvW3TWsStvz5HyQXrMnG0y6zBvCpxcnkiRSTh/s640/blogger-image--642251821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwkFy5LXLrPRy3Rm1ZvXJMZbqFKetaR37J7tlR_7sTRtIBE3R34FYOLEA_RqgTD_9IA1b0LNVuNmlOsvXJi1RwhZXYeDvCrtdCuyLUSM7zvW3TWsStvz5HyQXrMnG0y6zBvCpxcnkiRSTh/s400/blogger-image--642251821.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXhVrCNQNcRIf7EV7W7ZtLytcx6FPcATp2r_21dB_YAHnVfmnUevaKyiSineJIqA6wdQk8DZ0YRhEeIiliWFjF39StDtWnk470sHX1n-a9e02SX6MazVvguu1doEowtw5AIyK_bFo68nvZ/s640/blogger-image-1328033543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXhVrCNQNcRIf7EV7W7ZtLytcx6FPcATp2r_21dB_YAHnVfmnUevaKyiSineJIqA6wdQk8DZ0YRhEeIiliWFjF39StDtWnk470sHX1n-a9e02SX6MazVvguu1doEowtw5AIyK_bFo68nvZ/s320/blogger-image-1328033543.jpg" width="109" /></a>This is a better picture of the one I'm talking about above. Aren't those sleeves perfect?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizhAQ_3jLrEBvdTslqMCi291FKgwjez9n4AigOp0KsAUHQlPFAaIs4sAXNvX3pC3dQ6oIX7JifpG4dtX_bL9xzlUjWzhV0HEsWn6klKLEky0SHL3TpKBHuDqUI0YkwU52BE2gmGuDrB8Or/s640/blogger-image-1105211734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizhAQ_3jLrEBvdTslqMCi291FKgwjez9n4AigOp0KsAUHQlPFAaIs4sAXNvX3pC3dQ6oIX7JifpG4dtX_bL9xzlUjWzhV0HEsWn6klKLEky0SHL3TpKBHuDqUI0YkwU52BE2gmGuDrB8Or/s400/blogger-image-1105211734.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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This pattern top is perfect for this application. I'm really only looking at version 'A/B' here and he gathering at the collar could be very easily changed to a couple darts (who wants to try and gather velvet? Because this dress requires actual velvet, not stretch velvet. </div>
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Here is a closer shot of version 'A.' Do you see what I mean? It will be easy to slash the front to make that low dip and change the gathers to a dart or a tuck even. (It's really hard to tell from the movie and pictures whether it is a tuck or a dart, so I suppose it's up to my own interpretation here.) Since I don't need anything but the top-that's all I'm looking for in the pattern department. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Li9g7UvhckdZwRru44rQ11rdc5b2mTTDSr4QbS5upIuxP1dQQ4E1M0eGmV6eEykapT6Wl_UZlychWN21mWxzcv3diypveY5Jw2kR2jb-e4d9bnGfcfWBs1R3nZOwM47Lw6kF3WZeu_N8/s640/blogger-image-1831342539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Li9g7UvhckdZwRru44rQ11rdc5b2mTTDSr4QbS5upIuxP1dQQ4E1M0eGmV6eEykapT6Wl_UZlychWN21mWxzcv3diypveY5Jw2kR2jb-e4d9bnGfcfWBs1R3nZOwM47Lw6kF3WZeu_N8/s400/blogger-image-1831342539.jpg" width="234" /></a>The same thing goes for the back. There is really only the one picture of the back and it's a long ways away in the shot that you cannot see where the zipper placement is in the dress. I'm thinking it should go in the back over the bum for ease of dressing. Which would put zipper in the back and a hook and eye in the front making this a difficult dress to get on and off really. But, I want it to look seamless once I have it on my body. I think part of the all of the dress is wondering how it's made and how she even got it on. Right? Or is that just me?</div>
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Looking at that plunge Im nervous. I dont have an adequite bra for that and I dont think my girls would do in a sewn in bra, but maybe...boob tape?</div>
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So I'm looking into that still. I'm willing to take suggestions here too. (hint, hint) </div>
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I will not be able to complete this in the original time frame as I had hoped. I have been working on baby quilts for some people and obviously the cruise is over. So, I have to put aside my plans for a fancy dress...for now. Once it is completed I can wear it for years. (assuming that I can keep my shape after having children) *crosses fingers*</div>
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We are trying to have a baby now, so it might not be the best time for me to be working on a fancy dress anyways. I still wanted to do an update on my thoughts for the dress. I am going to work on it, but don't expect this to be done quickly. I have a few other things on the sewing table that need to be finished up before this really gets underway. </div>
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But, having a solid plan for it makes me feel that much better. </div>
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Have you ever frankenpatterned something like this? What do you think of this massive project? Are you excited to see it finished? As far as I know nobody else has made one yet (or at least it's not online anyways.) So, I'm really excited to make it perfect and perfectly tailored to my shape. </div>
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Next up for part 3 is the making of the muslin. </div>
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Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-75360898327147926112016-11-09T08:00:00.000-06:002016-11-09T08:00:00.180-06:00Are you the Luke 13 woman too?<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yeah, I know...you cringed when you read that. Wait, who? What woman? Is she important? What was her name again...?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Do you remember the woman in Luke 13?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">No? Neither did I. I had always read over it thinking it wasn't important...because, yeah I'll be honest, I wanted to get to the good stuff. But, this IS the good stuff. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I mean here is this woman who had probably been in the synagogue for a long time. The rabbis know her, they have seen her every week, maybe every day. Yet, no one had healed her or been able yet. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Then there is the woman in Luke 8 who just touched Jesus' clothing(look her up later. Powerful stuff!) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Doesn't really seem like a big deal at first. But...then I went to a women's retreat this past weekend. WOW!! I feel like these stories were explained to me in terms I could understand. And it was SO powerful in my life. I'll explain(a bit.) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You see...I'm the secret keeper. No, it's not an official title. Some of you may know what I mean and I hurt for you, I pray the healing power of Jesus name over you. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The secret keeper isn't told (usually) to keep it. They just do, they feel unworthy, unimportant and sometimes even unloved. Have you ever felt that way? I've always heard we all feel like this, so I thought it wasn't a big deal. *HINT* I was wrong. <b><u>Really</u></b> wrong. You see, Jesus cares for us-deeply, passionately and honestly. It's a love that we cannot understand. We just aren't wired to understand it. (Ephesians 3:19)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sorry, I'm getting ahead of myself a bit here. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Luke-13-10" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">10 </span>Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="text Luke-13-11" id="en-RSV-25519" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">11 </span>And there was a woman who had had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years; she was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="text Luke-13-12" id="en-RSV-25520" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">12 </span>And when Jesus saw her, he called her and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your infirmity.” </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="text Luke-13-13" id="en-RSV-25521" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">13 </span>And he laid his hands upon her, and immediately she was made straight, and she praised God. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="text Luke-13-14" id="en-RSV-25522" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">14 </span>But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the sabbath, said to the people, “There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be healed, and not on the sabbath day.” </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="text Luke-13-15" id="en-RSV-25523" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">15 </span>Then the Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the sabbath untie his ox or his ass from the manger, and lead it away to water it? </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="text Luke-13-16" id="en-RSV-25524" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">16 </span>And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?” </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="text Luke-13-17" id="en-RSV-25525" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">17 </span>As he said this, all his adversaries were put to shame; and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by him.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">-Luke 13:10-17 </span><br />
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<span class="text Luke-13-17" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Did you get that? Cause just reading it, I admit...I didn't get it. </span></span><br />
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<span class="text Luke-13-17" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It seems like I was focusing on the wrong part of the story. He's telling these guys that they are hypocrites because they do work and unbind their animals on the sabbath, yet they cannot even see that this woman is worthy of the same treatment. Yet, I didn't see it. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">She has probably been in the church/synagogue a long time. Jesus says 'She's one of ours, a daughter of Abraham.' She's been bent over for EIGHTEEN YEARS!! Can you imagine? The Bible doesn't say exactly how she was bent over, but she may have been looking at the floor for years. Maybe she heard about this Jesus and was there like the woman in Luke 8. Maybe it was just chance. Maybe she had nowhere else to go having spent all her money on healers and physicans. Maybe she knew all the feet and voices that passed her by, never seeing a kind face look her way. These are a lot of maybes, but we really don't know and it's not for us to know. But, it does say that she had an infirmity, some translations say demon. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Satan wants to bend us over ourselves. So that we cannot do God's kingdom work. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Are you bound and bent over? Does satan have you fooled into thinking that you can't be healed? That you aren't worthy? That you don't matter? That nobody loves you and you aren't important to anyone??</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>LIES! ALL LIES. SATAN IS THE AUTHOR OF LIES. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Don't listen to Him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I was bent over thinking it was my fault, that I somehow was to blame for someone else's abuse. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm not. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">That I was some how responsible for someone's actions toward me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm not. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> I was fooled and tricked and bent over myself with hatred, guilt, shame and regret. I don't have the power to change the past (There are a few things I'd like to fix in my life...) But, Jesus has the power, and wants to, heal us for the future. He wants to give us a future and a hope.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm not claiming that for my future anymore. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">See, Jesus, in His mercy calls this woman by name. We don't know it, but He does. We don't need to know everything. We just need to let him do a healing work in us. Maybe it's physical, maybe it's spiritual, or maybe, like mine, it's emotional. These chains keep us from seeing Jesus' face. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">When this woman is healed the very first thing that she sees is Jesus face. How amazing is that? Can you imagine? I can't even. I mean, you are bent over for 18 years! Nobody has healed you, then this man calls you over to him by your name. And heals you, just like that. And you look up into his sweet, sweet face. We need to seek His face. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">All things are for the Glory of the one who made us. All things are for the Glory of God, The most high, He who is worthy to be praised, He who is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">He cares deeply about YOU!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the same way he calls this woman by name. He calls you, He wants to know you, wants you to come to Him. But, He always lets us choose. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="text Eph-3-14" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">14 </span>For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="text Eph-3-15" id="en-RSV-29244" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">15 </span>from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="text Eph-3-16" id="en-RSV-29245" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">16 </span>that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with might through his Spirit in the inner man, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="text Eph-3-17" id="en-RSV-29246" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">17 </span>and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="text Eph-3-18" id="en-RSV-29247" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">18 </span>may have power to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="text Eph-3-19" id="en-RSV-29248" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span class="versenum" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px; position: relative; top: 0px; vertical-align: top;">19 </span>and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fulness of God.</span></span><br />
<span class="text Eph-3-19" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">-Ephesians 3:19</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Versions stated in this post are Revised Standard Version. I encourage you to read more than one translation and find one that makes sense to you. Read your Bible and check that these things I say (or anyone says) about Jesus are true. Don't just believe something because someone tells you to believe. Investigate, pray, read, and speak to Our Father. He longs to hear from you. He longs to know you. He longs to have a relationship with you. If you don't know what this means. I will be glad to talk to you or find someone that you know in your community to speak with about Jesus. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">He loves us, Oh how He loves us. How He loves us ALL. </span>Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-2028889803959065132016-09-22T11:40:00.002-05:002016-09-22T11:40:51.397-05:00Cleaning beeswax<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDvHrvGc9-aO1X69uWWZwSdUQ2W-O3nZpNj21ow1OAd5VQyizSvB7aEZsOBX482VF-0zhqYxdLd2lT-UJ-xCwEVYD4L69SbpnpnqKuHAPjtx7KYeqZQdOk3TYhkR_6VZRkdI_KuO7lFvI/s640/blogger-image-960955530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDvHrvGc9-aO1X69uWWZwSdUQ2W-O3nZpNj21ow1OAd5VQyizSvB7aEZsOBX482VF-0zhqYxdLd2lT-UJ-xCwEVYD4L69SbpnpnqKuHAPjtx7KYeqZQdOk3TYhkR_6VZRkdI_KuO7lFvI/s320/blogger-image-960955530.jpg" width="240" /> I LOVE having bees on site. They are amazing creatures. They pollenate my vegetables, fruits, and flowers. All for the sake of making beautiful amber honey for themselves- that I steal. HA! You can see some of my butternut squash that I've over wintered here in this first photo as well. So yummy.<br />
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So what do you do with the weird over growths of burr comb? I had to scrape a lot off when I put my packages in and they went crazy before I got another box on. I used quite a lot of it when I caught a swarm this summer. I rub the beeswax on empty frames so that the bees can get going faster and just move the wax around. It's worth it. </div>
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I put a folded over piece of (market) cheesecloth into my double boiler. All the junk stays in the cheese cloth and most* of the wax will leak through. I think I will try another method for getting the beeswax next year though. This works, but it takes awhile.<br />
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When I poured the liquid in the silicone trays I noticed it was an odd color. I let them cool and it separated the wax to the top and the pollen on the bottom. So, now I have a bit of pollen in this as well. I poured the pollen into an old salsa jar and froze it to use in the spring for the bees to get started into brooding faster.</div>
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I'm going to use this to make some cosmetics later, so look for those posts at a later date. Zero Waste cosmetics, well as close as I can get to it anyways. One step at a time towards a better life! </div>
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Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-29857972060312433712016-06-10T08:00:00.000-05:002016-06-10T08:00:09.381-05:00Seasonal Eating<br />
I've been working on a lot of areas in our lives and sharing them with you. Today I want to talk about our food. Do you know where the food you eat comes from? Are you eating something in a plastic bag that is filled with yucky chemicals? I really hope that you aren't.<br />
We started on this crazy journey by eliminating High Fructose Corn Syrup from our diets, then I eliminated palm oil (We only had one slip up there, DH bought PB with palm oil in it. I talked to him about it and he understands.) I'm not going to go into why these are bad for your body and there is conflicting thoughts here, but I think that the less processed food we eat, as a whole, we are better off.<br />
Then I starting doing a whole foods diet. Where everything was whole before I processed it in my kitchen. For example, if we want potato fries I use a potato, chop it up and bake it in the oven in some oil. Sometimes I make them spicy or add a flavoring to them to change it up. Sort of at the same time we began making the switch from boxed foods that were being marketed as healthy, to foods that I make from scratch. They are always fresher and taste much better, in our opinion anyways.<br />
I realize that not everyone has the time to do all of these things, but if you could just do a little bit to make your diet better you would feel better, sleep better, even have better sex because your body will be getting energy and oxygen to the blood that you can use. (Trust me...)<br />
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Now the next thing that I want to tackle in our kitchen is seasonal eating.<br />
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Here is a <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=faq&dbid=28" target="_blank">link</a> to a site that explains a little bit about why you should eat seasonally.<br />
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Below, this is taken from the site mentioned above and I did <u>NOT</u> create this list, but it is a good starting point to think about. Just because something isn't on this list doesn't mean you can't eat it. But you will figure out what is in season in your area and what isn't as you go along. I've been trying to do this a little bit, but DH doesn't want to give up certain things. I'm working on alternatives for things right now. Since we are no longer by the ocean, sea food is old and really expensive by the time it gets to us. That's not acceptable in my book. So, I'm purchasing lake fish that are native to the area, like crappie, bass, catfish, perch, sunfish, walleye and trout.For replacing something like oysters I'm growing salsify, which tastes like oysters but doesn't have the texture or consistency so it's good in soups and stews.<br />
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On to the list!<br />
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<li style="margin: 0.2em 0px;">In spring, focus on tender, leafy vegetables that represent the fresh new growth of this season. The greening that occurs in springtime should be represented by greens on your plate, including <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=16">Swiss chard</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=43">spinach</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=61">Romaine lettuce</a>, fresh <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=100">parsley</a>, and <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=85">basil</a>.</li>
<li style="margin: 0.2em 0px;">In summer, stick with light, cooling foods in the tradition of traditional Chinese medicine. These foods include fruits like <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=32">strawberries</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=15">apple</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=28">pear</a>, and <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=35">plum</a>; vegetables like <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=62">summer squash</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=9">broccoli</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=13">cauliflower</a>, and <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=90">corn</a>; and spices and seasonings like <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=102">peppermint</a> and cilantro.</li>
<li style="margin: 0.2em 0px;">In fall, turn toward the more warming, autumn harvest foods, including <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=21">carrot</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=64">sweet potato</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=45">onions</a>, and <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=60">garlic</a>. Also emphasize the more warming spices and seasonings including <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=72">ginger</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=74">peppercorns</a>, and <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=106">mustard seeds</a>.</li>
<li style="margin: 0.2em 0px;">In winter, turn even more exclusively toward warming foods. Remember the principle that foods taking longer to grow are generally more warming than foods that grow quickly. All of the animal foods fall into the warming category including <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=104">fish</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=116">chicken</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=141">beef</a>, and <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=117">lamb</a>. So do most of the root vegetables, including <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=21">carrot</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=48">potato</a>, <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=45">onions</a> and <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=60">garlic</a>. <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=92">Eggs</a> also fit in here, as do <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=90">corn</a> and <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=20">nuts</a>.</li>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is a helpful list, but not all inclusive as I stated. But if you start growing your own garden you will soon learn when the seasons are around you. There are different regions and zones within the United States. So whats in season in the South isn't in season in the upper midwest. So, I've learned to adjust my eating. Certain things are never going to be in season in your location though. For example, rice isn't grown in my area. Wild rice is and I try to eat that in the fall, winter and early spring as it is gathered in the fall. But, I buy a large bag of rice from the store in town when I need it. I'm still looking for someone local who collects it. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For me I love being able to walk out to my garden and pick my salad greens in early May before most people have even started planting yet. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It's a journey, but one I would love for you to join me on. </span></span><br />
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Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-69869948446498516252016-06-06T08:00:00.000-05:002016-06-06T08:00:53.619-05:00Cat waste part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Starting off Here are my little poopers. To the left is Grayson and to the right is Calypso (We call her Caly for short.) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdHk2wF49c5qFDpc7aw0rh7APtCnYWcskCS7DlHG6pt67fp3cBSCTfZNoDFpohhccFv63nM4xjkqdFe4KkJ_3cx-Si0ezDdScvuFywoE5eluipdybQ5rhW8AC_gpOcWU0GSw0eOUe6xKaH/s640/blogger-image--1001351567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4RjsgMwFPlqqwyWFW6ZLmGmKgx1elfBEbArMHnVMAnpdNt1UfciDMtx4ogLBlyfV7fjMY4xVhQ7mZAgNaUC2eiMY1MvE_9I9BDjlRpGTZvehxXxW2g5_9RLst2jS5kFmJgqhYW3mZi2Dz/s640/blogger-image-465813137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4RjsgMwFPlqqwyWFW6ZLmGmKgx1elfBEbArMHnVMAnpdNt1UfciDMtx4ogLBlyfV7fjMY4xVhQ7mZAgNaUC2eiMY1MvE_9I9BDjlRpGTZvehxXxW2g5_9RLst2jS5kFmJgqhYW3mZi2Dz/s320/blogger-image-465813137.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdHk2wF49c5qFDpc7aw0rh7APtCnYWcskCS7DlHG6pt67fp3cBSCTfZNoDFpohhccFv63nM4xjkqdFe4KkJ_3cx-Si0ezDdScvuFywoE5eluipdybQ5rhW8AC_gpOcWU0GSw0eOUe6xKaH/s1600/blogger-image--1001351567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdHk2wF49c5qFDpc7aw0rh7APtCnYWcskCS7DlHG6pt67fp3cBSCTfZNoDFpohhccFv63nM4xjkqdFe4KkJ_3cx-Si0ezDdScvuFywoE5eluipdybQ5rhW8AC_gpOcWU0GSw0eOUe6xKaH/s320/blogger-image--1001351567.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I wanted to add some visual aids to the zero waste cats. The hardest part about having zero waste cats is dealing with the litter, poo and the packaging it all comes in to you. </div>
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We can't do anything about the poo, that's a natural process. The liter and the packaging we can change!</div>
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This is a picture of the litter I used to use. I bought it in these big buckets because at least I could use the buckets for something, until they broke. Now I put the spent liter and the poo in this empty bucket. When it gets full(or close enough) I take it outside, dig a hole and cover it back up so it can compost. </div>
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyfYoSi2JFlDHzX_iqXlGSLTjrxhTIB8jGUk598f0NG40sdoMedO31Ik8CapQVQivDShqL8aLmWs9RbWOsJc-f9GKio2DvUNBq2DxNaChgr50r9aKsm0p0dgrqjinyCQeAIU-R4eivd6J_/s320/blogger-image-277142246.jpg" width="320" /><br />
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This is the liter we are using now. It's in a compostable cardboard container. I've already put one in my compost pile. I rip off the stickers and add them to the landfill waste, because it's plastic based and I try to keep that out of my gardens.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiALMVsB69pUFnffDpU7XamPddyUdmZlicbK62as1UWh-FOvFli0GLZPi3AZPEn29BcYBhfaTM_0yBTriEmDm4L3-Ix50wX2pNoYtEOGtn4R4GKs5oefjAypOMvXXK91a_tbrsjz4oOSuaH/s1600/blogger-image-594272087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiALMVsB69pUFnffDpU7XamPddyUdmZlicbK62as1UWh-FOvFli0GLZPi3AZPEn29BcYBhfaTM_0yBTriEmDm4L3-Ix50wX2pNoYtEOGtn4R4GKs5oefjAypOMvXXK91a_tbrsjz4oOSuaH/s320/blogger-image-594272087.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is a picture of the compost inside. Its made from cedar and corn. It actually smells pretty good, but not like the chemical laden stuff. This is also widely available at Petsmart. (which is where I've been buying it.) It comes in 2 sizes. I buy the bigger size so I don't have to go as often. But, if I only had 1 cat I might just get the smaller one. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1nhoyJndhsr76MZmipYeIzJTiWIzpoi5Sv1fQCZqPxk1FlOt-1itAby_0AQvxTQnGfkF5eOfmM5DWAj65lWe2ZmXlqecNh0jpF84DX7X5I78BJgk5c8SlyoLztp-0V76JcvyNy5kXvpn/s1600/blogger-image--1957557162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1nhoyJndhsr76MZmipYeIzJTiWIzpoi5Sv1fQCZqPxk1FlOt-1itAby_0AQvxTQnGfkF5eOfmM5DWAj65lWe2ZmXlqecNh0jpF84DX7X5I78BJgk5c8SlyoLztp-0V76JcvyNy5kXvpn/s320/blogger-image--1957557162.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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That's about all there is to it. It's simple, and not too much different than what I was doing. </div>
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We're working on going to a different food that I can recycle the bags for as well. I'm still on the search. Right now we're using Blue, because it doesn't have corn and soy products in it. </div>
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Are you zero wasting your pets? I'd love to hear any tips that you might have for us. </div>
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Meow!</div>
Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-18027724362274972442016-06-01T08:00:00.000-05:002016-06-01T08:00:23.480-05:00Zero Waste-Month #3-May<div>
<u><b>Goal #1-<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Switch every family member over to using reusable bags</span></span></b></u><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal Obtained. </span><br />
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<b style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u>Goal #2- Stop using the plastic bags in the produce section.</u></span></b><br />
<b style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><br /></u></span></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained.</span><span style="color: #333333;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">I thought this would be easy, and for me it is easy. DH goes to the grocery store so infrequently. But seems to keep bringing these bags home. I take them to the recycling container when I go shopping the next time and I don't say anything about it. But, he brought 3 home this month. Although he's using his reusable bag! :) </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><span style="color: #333333;">Goal #3 </span><span style="color: #333333;">Stop junk from coming into the house</span></u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></u></b></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Will this ever happen?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></u></b></span><b><u><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">Goal #4 </span><span style="color: #333333;">Compost all paper that does come into the house.</span></span></u></b><br />
<b><u><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span></u></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u>Goal #5 <span style="color: #333333;">Shop at the Co-op in town for bulk items</span></u></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained.</span> </div>
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></b></u><u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal #6 <span style="color: #333333;">Switch to "ReUsies" instead of plastic storage bags. </span></span></b></u><br />
<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span></b></u><span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained.</span><br />
<span style="color: red;">What do I do with these zipper plastic bags I have now is the issue??</span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><span style="color: #333333;">Goal #7 </span><span style="color: #333333;">Stop using disposable head razors.</span></u></b></span><br />
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No Change.<br />
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal #8 <span style="color: #333333;">Get more serious about composting.</span></span></b></u><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained.</span><br />
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Goal #9 <span style="color: #333333;">Switch to using handkerchiefs instead of tissue.</span></span></b></u><br />
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<span style="color: red;">No Change.</span><br />
I am composting the tissues I am using.<br />
Trying to finish up the boxes that are left in the house. I still need to buy DH a hankie to use.<br />
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal #10 <span style="color: #333333;">Stop my trash service.</span></span></b></u><br />
<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span></b></u>Still not feasible yet.<br />
This may never be feasible for use because I cannot find a drop off recycle place in our area.<br />
But, we are sending less and less to the landfill. :)<br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><b><u>Goal #11 Make our own bread from scratch. </u></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">DH's bread!! I'm doing sourdough.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><b>Goal #12 Replace freezer bags with jars.</b></u></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><b><br /></b></u></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Trying to get all my jars in one place is difficult. I have some upstairs to use, but more things that I want to freeze are cooked meat (ham that I cooked and diced for something else. It's hard to break up in the jar.) and soup. The soup does well in the ice cream containers. ButI can't seem to get anymore of those. I really want to make sorbets in the summer with the extra fruits. </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I'm not freezing as much as I thought I would be though. Maybe I just don't need this as much and the jars I have will work just fine with this? </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Although, I do occasionally cut up bits of ham and freeze them. I'll probably need to freeze them on a sheet pan and then put them in the jar so I can get them out. </span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><b><u>Goal #13 Compost cat poop in a </u></b></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u>separate area</u></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal Obtained.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Total we sent out 2 bags for recycling and 1 bag for the landfill. </span></span></div>
Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-5586610151720713882016-05-23T08:00:00.000-05:002016-05-23T08:00:38.247-05:00Jack of all trades or homesteader?<span style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; line-height: 16px;">Yesterday I gave my neighbor a small pot of delphiniums that I had grown this spring. She was so suprised and called me a jack of all trades. At the time I laughed and said 'not really', but then I went home and really starting thinking about it. </span><br />
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I’m a homesteader which at it’s core is to be a jack of all trades. So you learn to do what is needed in each season as it’s needed. </div>
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I grow my own vegetables, fruits, herbs and I nourish my sense of beautiy with homegrown, usually perennial, flowers. </div>
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She gives me excess bulbs or overgrowth from her garden all the time. (She’s been living here for over 20 years and has the most beautiful yard!) So, when I grew flowers this year, from seed I decided to pot one up and give it to her. Maybe she was suprised that I grew it from seed, or that I thought of her, I’m not really sure. But the thing that stuck with me is that as a homesteader you learn so many more skills than you would being a commercial farmer of, say only corn or soy. </div>
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Your washer is broken? Well, you could call someone to look at it or you could go get a how to repair washers or a plumbing book from the library or look it up online and do it yourself. I can’t see paying someone to come out and fix it when I have all the tools and resources to fix it myself. As a married couple, DH and I split up the tasks based on what we like to do around the homestead, and of course what we have time for also. He likes to tinker so he usually fixes the washer and those things. Just last week he moved our washer drain hose from the draining into the utility sink to going directly into the drain line. Once he had the right tools and parts it was easy. He also does the electrical, which I wouldn’t touch anyways, and has plans to move our gutter system soon so that the ice slick won’t be right on the walkway in the winter and we will be able to utilize some rain barrels in the summertime. He helps me engineer new buildings and with getting them up. He does so much around here and I don’t get to brag on him very often, but he is really a crucial member of our homestead. Especially since it’s just the two of us right now. </div>
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I on the other hand like to garden for, as I said above, vegetables, fruits, herbs, flowers and I’m really into the perennial vegetable garden right now. (I’ll do another post on that later.) </div>
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I also do most of the cooking, baking and cleaning. Not that he doesn’t help, but I usually have the time to complete these chores. </div>
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I like to sew and quilt to ensure the warmth of my family and I do a fair bet of mending on our clothing so that we can get the most use out of it. </div>
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I really love raising animals and getting new animals or birthing new ones on the homestead is the highlight of my day. I try to give them the best lives that I can so that when the day comes that they die, I know they lived well. </div>
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I also am the one butchering our animals. DH is slightly interested in this and will watch or hold something, like a knife or a bowl, for me. But, he’s not going to go doing it all on his own anytime soon I don’t think. He did assist with deer and hog skinning and cleaning when we were at my Mom’s house in SC. He is more fascinated by the larger animals that the small ones that I am doing right now. </div>
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Homesteading, by it’s very nature is to be a jack of all trades. And I’m so glad that I read fast and absorb the knowledge of my forefathers so that I can continue on in the human tradition of caring for my family as much as I can on the homestead. </div>
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Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-82384344110720985112016-05-20T08:00:00.000-05:002016-05-21T20:58:02.952-05:00New boots.Its almost spring here in Minnesota!!<br />
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That means its time for me to get my spring capsule wardrobe out. </div>
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In the fall I talked about buying some grey boots. I ordered them (all the way from England.) and they were too tight. I was irritated, to say the least. I sent them back trying to get an exchange but I had to pay to send them to them and then they wanted me to pay to ship the next size to me. Umm... No. By this time I'm in for too much money. They refunded my money(except for the money I spent sending them back.) </div>
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So, I had been looking for another pair of boots. I decided if I bought grey I would be the grey woman. Too much! </div>
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I went to take my black malibrans to the fluevog store so they could take them to the specialty cobbler. And to have my purse cleaned. When I went to pick them up I looked at what they had available. I kinda wanted some mint shoes but they didnt have any. I saw these brown boots and tried them on. They were a bit snug, but the guy at the store said that they loose up a lot after a few wears. (He was right.) </div>
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Since I was looking for a pair of boots that were above my ankles, did not have zippers up the sides and were leather. Do you know how hard that is to find?? Really hard...</div>
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I got 3 different colors of laces when I bought them. The aqua/mint matches my purse. Its in my spring capsule as well. Im not sure how often I am going to remember to switch the laces though. I wore them with the mint laces first and I just changed them to the light brown ones for the rest of spring. </div>
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Well what do you think of my addittions to my capsule? Do you do a capsule? Leave a comment to your blog if you do, Id love to see it!<br />
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*Update*-I bought these in March 2016. When I polished them they got a little bit darker, but I still really love them. I have put them away fro the season because I'm barefoot most of the time in the summer. </div>
Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-15880882812553227192016-05-06T08:00:00.000-05:002016-05-06T08:00:00.322-05:00Zero Waste Month #2-April<div>
<u><b>Goal #1-<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Switch every family member over to using reusable bags</span></span></b></u><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal Obtained.</span><br />
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(I have stopped using the plastic bags in small garbage cans around the house. I've taken most of the cans away as well. DH still wants the one in the bathroom. I need to address this soon. He is also addicted to cotton swabs and I don't know what to do with them. Are they compostable? Should they be? I rarely use these at all and since I buy them in the 500 count package and he uses 2 each time he showers that's 30X2=60 a month X 12 months= 240 a year. So a box should last him almost 2 years. Should I worry about this at all? The packaging is recyclable in my area and the paper insert is compostable. Yet, I feel bad for sending all those little swabs to the landfill.)<br />
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I'm composting all the tissue paper. I was putting it down the toilet, but after a talk with DH on how they might be ruining our septic tank, I stopped.<br />
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<b style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u>Goal #2- Stop using the plastic bags in the produce section.</u></span></b><br />
<b style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><br /></u></span></b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained.</span><span style="color: #333333;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">*Side Note* I'm REALLY annoyed when I see people putting their bananas in a plastic bag. Do they not realize that it comes in a carrying case?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><span style="color: #333333;">Goal #3 </span><span style="color: #333333;">Stop junk from coming into the house</span></u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></u></b></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">I started using the paper karma app. But, it only let me do so many requests before I had to sign up for something to keep requesting. So, I uninstalled that. I am now calling each company (as Be a Johnson suggests in her book-Zero Waste Home.) and it's going pretty well so far. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">I was bummed that I got a paper copy of the town yellow pages this month though. Not sure what to do with it yet...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">This is a tough one because I can't seem to get OTHER people to stop sending me things. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></u></b></span>
<b><u><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">Goal #4 </span><span style="color: #333333;">Compost all paper that does come into the house.</span></span></u></b><br />
<b><u><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span></u></b>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained. </span><span style="color: #333333;">All paper (mostly junk mail) that came into the house has been shredded and added to the compost pile. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">(include a picture of the compost pile here)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u>Goal #5 <span style="color: #333333;">Shop at the Co-op in town for bulk items</span></u></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained.</span> I also found that my local grocery store has a small bulk area for nuts, oats and some candies. I've used this a few times, although I'm staying away from the wrapped candies. </div>
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></b></u><u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal #6 <span style="color: #333333;">Switch to "ReUsies" instead of plastic storage bags. </span></span></b></u><br />
<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span></b></u><span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained.</span><br />
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I'm using the plastic reuses for the opened cheese (sadly in plastic...) and for taking things to work (for DH)<br />
The freezer we are putting things in jars or glass containers. I have a couple ice cream freezer things I bought and I put soup in these sometimes also. (Overtime DH sees them he thinks they have chili in them since I did that the first time...Weird-o)<br />
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What are we going to use in the freezer now? New goal #12?<br />
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u><span style="color: #333333;">Goal #7 </span><span style="color: #333333;">Stop using disposable head razors.</span></u></b></span><br />
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No Change.<br />
Still using my epilator though.<br />
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal #8 <span style="color: #333333;">Get more serious about composting.</span></span></b></u><br />
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<span style="color: red;">Goal Obtained.</span><br />
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I probably could have marked this one as obtained last month, but I wanted to keep tabs on my compost things for one more month to make sure that it had really stuck to compost those other things and get them out there. Things that most people don't think about that I'm composting are hair (mine and the pets), nail clippings (again, mine and the pets), paper from the butchers (I talked to them and there is no plastic on it-only paper. I make sure to rinse it out real good so there is no blood or meat scraps on it when I send it out to the compost pile though.), shredded paper, and paper seed packets. And the tissues I mentioned above.<br />
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I'm considering composting the cat poop as well in a separate space. new goal #13?<br />
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Goal #9 <span style="color: #333333;">Switch to using handkerchiefs instead of tissue.</span></span></b></u><br />
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No Change.<br />
I am composting the tissues I am using. Still have <strike>5</strike> 4 boxes left.<br />
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<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Goal #10 <span style="color: #333333;">Stop my trash service.</span></span></b></u><br />
<u><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span></b></u>Still not feasible yet.<br />
This may never be feasible for use because I cannot find a drop off recycle place in our area.<br />
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Lots of boxes went to be recycled this month because I ordered bee hives. But I requested recyclable packaging and they actually put all paper in the box, no plastic at all. I'm considering saving it for wrapping paper to get one more use out of it before it gets recycled.<br />
Our usual bag of recycling went out as well and one bag of trash, that wasn't even all the way full! I'm feeling excited about it. :)<br />
The waste from the shop was a little disheartening though. A big trashcan full of random stuff to go. I tried to sort through it, but not much of it was recyclable. Although, this took 4 months to fill, so I should feel pretty good about that though.<br />
The second recycle day was just one bag of stuff. After I got rid of the things that were hanging around it felt lighter and easier to deal with here.<br />
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I am thinking about going from the large trash can to a smaller one. It's taking us a month (or more) to fill up a big bag for the trash. Nothing in it stinks since all of that is being composted now, so it could sit there I suppose.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><b><u>Goal #11 Make our own bread from scratch. </u></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">DH's bread!! I'm trying to do sourdough as well. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">I only bought 2 bags of bread this month from the store.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">I started up a sourdough starter this month. Hopefully I can keep it going. I have to look for some more recipes for things. I have a good muffin recipe I got from a friend. Do you have any you would like to share?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><u><b>Goal #12 Replace freezer bags with jars.</b></u></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This is a small thing, but I just have to remember to do it. I do have a few freezer bags left in the house and I need to do something with them. But, now that I'm not using them I don't know what to do with them...</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #333333;"><b><u>Goal #13 Compost cat poop in a </u></b></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u>separate area</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Most of my trash is cat poop. I was putting the cat poop in plastic bags and taking it to the trashcan. When I started getting serious about zero waste I was doing pretty well with just 2 bags of trash a month and 4 grocery bags of cat poo. Now I'm </span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">down</span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> to 1 bag of trash a month and 4 bags of cat poo. If I could compost that I'd not have to worry about the trash can that often. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I am working on switching my kitties to a compostable litter. I am keeping it in an old cat litter bucket, with a lid to contain the smell. The plan is to take that out into the big yard and dig a hole and let it compost in one area at a time. Maybe I can amend the soil with all the cat poo. I just can't put it around things that we are going to eat so it just go out into the front yard that is mostly sand. It doesn't grow too much out there anyways. It needs all the help it can get! </span></span><br />
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Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4698706483213746011.post-387246027359945102016-05-03T08:00:00.000-05:002016-05-03T08:00:12.843-05:00Buy Nothing Month ReviewAt the start of April I posted about how we are trying to pay off our mortgage faster.<br />
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Chronicle of how the days went for us. It seems like we spend money every day, or discuss future purchases anyways. We need to be more discerning in how we are spending our money. This may be funny to read or just monotonous to you. Either way, I'm trying to be accountable here.<br />
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1. We started out on a Friday. DH was off work and he had been discussing an auction online (not eBay) that he was interested in bidding on in March. He made his bids in March and if he wins then we will pick them up and pay for them. We will see how that goes, but it's all stuff that would have been really expensive to buy new anyways. He put in the max bids that we were willing to pay at the end of March. We also tried to make sure that each of us knew the rules for this month of no spending. We decided that money on gift cards held would not count since that money was already spent.(I have about $70 for HD) We both have $105 of spending money, but once that is gone there is no more. (Also, I'm in the hole with my spending already but about $110, so I really shouldn't spend anything at all anyways. But, I do have a few things I know I will spend $5 on this month for quilting meetings.)<br />
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2. Today some friends came over to visit and help up put up the garage door openers I bought for DH at a garage sale last year. It was so kind of him to offer to help. The friend is an electrician and I do NOT do anything with electrical work on the farm. (I'm scared of it and I've been shocked too many times already now.) He also offered us some shelving that they are discarding from his work-for FREE!! Awesome...now we just have to watch those auction bids to see how many we are going to end up with. It's a good thing we have 2 garages I guess.<br />
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3. Today is Sunday. We don't usually have problems with spending money on Sundays. So, it was nice and restful for us. Or so I thought... until I asked DH what he was struggling with. He said he was making a to-do list and a lot of the things on the list need supplies to finish the jobs. He wants to finish these things, but doesn't want to spend the money. So, I guess it's safe to say I had a relaxing day...<br />
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4. DH talked about changing the plumbing situation in the laundry room. He said it would only cost $15. But, it's working fine right now so... I vetoed this for this month. I think he is keeping a list of all the things he wants to do in May and June now. LOL. We also talked about what we are doing for the chicken run we are building. We have some materials that we are going to use. I may not finish it this month, but we will get a good start on it.<br />
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5. Auction was checked and we are only winning about $45 worth of things now. We lost all the bids on the shelving. YAY!! (Isn't that weird to say we are happy to have lost it??) That doesn't seem so bad. I wanted to go to lunch with the Bible study ladies, but I resisted the urge and came back home to have lunch with my DH. We had leftover soup and I used up some pieces of veggies that went into a lovely salad. :)<br />
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Then I went to the co-op and bought groceries(on budget), went to pick up my rotary cutter and bought $20 of fabric, spent $12 on bee supplies and $2.50 at the bee meeting on raffles. I'd call the second half of this day a fail. But, Im going on. Tomorrow is a new day. <u><span style="color: red;">Money spent-$34.50</span></u><br />
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6. Today I was dreaming of buying silicone hair ties. The ones I'm using stretch out so fast it seems. But, I use them multiple times a day, just about every day. What's the life of a hair tie anyways??<br />
I went to pick up my chicks at the post office. We went to the gym and watched disc 3 of season 5 of walking dead on DVD on loan from the library.<br />
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7. Worked on decluttering and sewing. I didn't spend any money today.<br />
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8. Worked inside since it snowed. I didn't spend any money today. I had a sewing snow day.<br />
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9. I bought cat and dog food (necessary and on budget) and some groceries for us, also on budget. I did get the chicken dinner deal at cub. I opted for the larger one so we could eat more out of it than just once. Their fried chicken is just SO good. It's kind of a treat for us since we can't (won't) go out and this is still technically grocery money. (Little bit more trash that I wanted with this though...)<br />
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10. Bought nothing. DH had to work a 12hr shift again, so I went to church and spent time at my neighbors house just chatting. It was a good day.<br />
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11. Laundry day. It's so nice out that I put my clothes on the line, therefore using less electrical power and saving money in the process. Did you know that your dryer is probably the most energy using thing in your house?<br />
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12.Took homemade lemon poppy seed bread to my ladies bible study. They loved it. No money spent.<br />
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13. I did a lot of gardening today. I also went to HD and took some things back that I didn't need for the entry way re-do. I picked up some things, but I used my store credit card. Officially I spent no money. In fact I still have money on that store credit card.<br />
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14. I tilled up more of the garden. I planted my honey berry plants, bleeding heat, some of my flower seeds for the bees, lettuce, cabbage and some onions. I did a lot of work, but I was satisfied with everything and that I got plants and didn't spend any (more) money on them. I had a beer(It was already in the fridge.) and just relaxed over looking my homestead.<br />
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15. It was a friend's birthday so we went out to eat. I spent $12. Then she wanted to go garage sale hopping and to a few antique stores. In most of the stores I would pick something up that I wanted to have and carry it around for awhile. Then I reminded myself that I wasn't trying to spend money and I would put it back. I faltered when I saw a mirror that I wanted for my entry way re-do. I did not buy it, but I took a picture and came home to show my DH. He was not impressed with the fact that I wanted to buy it, but he was that I didn't. I did get a $10 baby gate for our dogs at a garage sale.<br />
<u><span style="color: red;">Money spent: $22</span></u><br />
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16.I did more work in the garden today. I planted what was left of what I didn't get to on Thursday. Went over to my neighbor's house and talked with her for a few hours. We both had an enjoyable time. No money spent at all. :)<br />
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17.Went to church today. The sermon was about generosity. Funny that. Here I am doing a no spending month and we are learning about how God loves a cheerful giver. I try to be a cheerful giver, but sometimes I'm not. Hey-I'm not perfect. But, I want to be able to give more of my time, talents and money with a glad heart.<br />
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18.Today I worked around the homestead on things that have needed doing for awhile. I'm finding that as I spend less money I have more time to devote to projects that I've already got going. I'm really enjoying that aspect of it! I went to a friends to help her with installing her bees. It was fun. We talked for awhile at her place and she plans to come over tomorrow to watch me open my hive.<br />
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19.Went to Ladies's bible study and then to lunch with some friends. They wanted to go shopping after, but I didn't buy anything except some batteries for the dogs collar and that was on the budgeted items list. Then another friend came over and we opened my bee hives. WE walked around the homestead and she looked at all the things I've been doing. We talked for a good long time as well. I had a wonderful day, and only spent money on lunch out. <u><span style="color: red;">Money spent: $12</span></u><br />
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20.Today was DH's birthday!! I had bought his presents months previous and so I didn't need to spend money on that. I reused some gift bags and paper to wrap them so no trash and no spend there. I made him a fancy biscuit sandwich for breakfast and he went to sleep. (He had just got done with night shift so when he got up we went out!!) We went out to celebrate DH's birthday at our favorite Indian Restaurant and then to a bar that does Karaoke. We went there to do karaoke, but we bought a few beers. <u><span style="color: red;">Money spent: $45.</span></u><br />
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21.We stayed home and ate our leftovers and moved trees and planted the trees that I ordered in March. It was a beautiful day and I was busy planning and watching the weather.<br />
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22.Again stayed home and planted things...Mostly the strawberry plants that I ordered.<br />
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23. Today was tough. I went to the grocery store to get the cake and the food for the party? Does this count for buy nothing? I knew I would be doing this, so...I tried to plan accordingly. I'm going to be angry when we look back on the month and realized we've spent more in April than other months...<br />
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24. HA HA!! Fooled him... I made DH think that Wednesday was his only birthday celebration. I threw a surprise birthday get together for him after church on Sunday. Time spent with friends is really the best birthday/anniversary celebrations in our opinion. So, he really enjoyed this!<br />
He was so touched that so many people showed up. If you were one of them-THANK YOU!!<br />
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25. I still had strawberry plants to plant, but it rained really hard all day and was a bit cold. So, I stayed in a sewed a dress. Then I went to ladies Pinterest party at church and then to book club.<span style="color: red;"><u>Money spent:$10</u></span><br />
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26. Went to the last Ladies Bible study group, we had a brunch. It was nice. I went out with some ladies shopping. It was fun. I did spent some money, but it was for things that were previously discussed with DH. So, it was budgeted. I didn't think that I would even go out to get these things, but since some of my friends wanted to check out the new hobby lobby I figured they might have some things there that I could use. We re did the entry way in our house. I'm still looking for a few pieces to put in there and I will be doing a separate post about it later.<br />
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27. Didn't do much today, it rained so I sewed a lot.<br />
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28.I spent $35 at the quilt store. They have a "birthday sale" and I won a gift card. It had to be used that day. I got $100 or more worth of fabric, but I was a little disappointed in myself today. And I was SO close to the end. <span style="color: red;"><u>Money Spent:$35</u></span><br />
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29. Did regular chores and we had 3 baby bunnies arrive today!!<br />
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30.We stayed home and planted more things in the yard and gardens. It was the most enjoyable day! We talked about how we felt moving forward into May and things that we noticed that we needed/wanted to buy. We planned a big trip to Home Depot.<br />
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All totaled up I spent $158.50. I know you're probably thinking WOW, that's a lot of money. But, it's not too bad for me. I usually spend that much with one shopping trip to Home Depot. (They get SO much of our money right now...) This will come out of my personal money. I got $105 this month so I'm over by $53.50. So, I just can't spend as much in May on personal things. I plan to be busy with my garden and all the new life that is coming, or has come already, to our homestead.<br />
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Thanks for keeping me accountable in this month of 'No Spend.' I know it's not a true no spend month, because I did spend money, but it has taught me quite a lot about myself. Mostly, I've learned to think more about what I think I want or need in my life to be happy. We require so little to be truly content in our lives. Our basic needs are met and we need nothing else in our lives.<br />
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Have you done a 'No Spend' month? How did it go? Would you consider doing one? I'd love to hear about it if you decide to do one.<br />
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Here is another <a href="http://www.believeinabudget.com/5-tips-for-a-no-spend-day-or-week-or-month/" target="_blank">blog</a> about it to get you started if you are interested.<br />
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Diniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05639124231054802442noreply@blogger.com0