tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81851417502384356592023-11-16T01:43:59.352-05:00Domestic Daydreamsmy crafty adventures in domesticity...Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-10114058869673580662011-01-04T08:55:00.000-05:002011-01-07T08:58:01.909-05:00Blogging AgainThe abandoned is not the forgotten.<br /><br /><br />A new year brings new things. Hop on over to <a href="http://www.poppiesandpoetry.blogspot.com/">Poppies & Poetry</a>, my new blog where you can find me from now on.<br /><br /><br />xoxoxo<br /><br />ChrisPoppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-53428595715675446822010-08-06T00:53:00.004-04:002010-08-06T00:59:59.491-04:00Abandonment<div align="center">I<span style="font-size:130%;"> wish I was perfect, and organized and perfect.<br /> </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />But I go through overwhelmed stages where cleaning the toilet makes it to the bottom of my list (ewwww gross I know)<br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Working and raising kids can obviously take over and leave nothing for the things I love and crave like creating, blogging and even baking.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Sorry for the prolonged absence. I'm sure I've set a record for absence apologies. They are all sincere I swear. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />My hope (but not my promise) is that I can keep this up more and really give it a committed go. <br />Because I love to share and if anything it's theraputic.<br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />See you soon.<br /><br /></span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">xoxoxoxo</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Chris</span></div>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-66324975241350156682010-05-26T21:40:00.007-04:002010-05-26T21:58:01.389-04:00All Grown Up<div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"> I remember when I was a kid, hearing parents say "they grow so fast". I didn't quite understand until I had munchkins of my own. It's true. If I blink I feel like I might miss it all. *tear* I get all choked up thinking about them growing up.<br /><br />My first born is now 5. Old enough to get things out of the fridge himself, watch movies at the theater, play a video game and go off and leave his Momma in pursuit of a higher education in kindergarten. *another tear* </div><div align="center"><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475760779646359234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs57H0LLJiMTJ0uYn0f61MafSEuYeWydgUKMVRqeiDWQeAPsGuHJCAlWuTf7j3UTQDIkBE-YB7d3byOxsN62XjSqw5Ps_x67RmdzGTipI_mnc9uskFQS5KwASZxH2CEfVaLZ2Bk299QCc/s400/25817_381060497902_593587902_3845195_7210060_n.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"><br />We had another fun bday party this year in April. GI Joe themed. Everyone came dressed in camo and Joe gave all the kiddos battle ready face. </p><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475761012297059490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB22N-FT54_RLrOMqG2JQy-jPcgp5Ki105mSFwy8ICJM3SQ9tOj_9IK2-5aOCP9-rsJRaNh9JTgVriqOtPWqeXh99Nvews1ogkn-uWWVDDYkrpAXSykN3KFFqwyQCOicG8LSLD5fEccPw/s400/25811_1276358000202_1567545066_30729513_498274_n.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">We played lasertag. Let me just tell you that I can't stop thinking about how much fun lasertag was even for an almost 30 year old mother of two. The hubby and I decided it would make a perfect date night! </div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475761203961714194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 294px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWudiwxpEKiP3Mw9ND-p7PbaeuktVJKQZJljCV71MVU1EiGDTPBGTq2UU1EU4PAMcDhU5YIIX31lvhZRB2mBkAjr4dggtQAe2K7iIDToS04IK8gvKxuhyphenhyphenQ6jGBUzK7iDuhyphenhyphen8ebcHB8uVg/s400/25811_1276360520265_1567545066_30729521_8272634_n.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">After gaggles of fun there we headed to the airport observation deck for a fun lunch and to watch some planes land. Turned out a bit windy, but fun nonetheless. </div><div align="center"><br /> </div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475761313722354210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzSuCSKu-oYFDEgoV-OryPEO2GwxyTDRe79zmOibvmv9quypswmRoX9zG2sP9ujq-YgVNKgvZfs4IMdlU8twYO8Oo0ZFRW3TzTsREOuEbX1nD0x9mhZa4GMc2IUB19peJIk_Fv8FZACg/s400/25817_381061502902_593587902_3845212_4651617_n.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475761432133263458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_gskgmOnDCg_ItOngNCj8eDEAROiFTcdiw7vz12W5FTOXqLL4RV8QWjfDgPref2ss4XB446u5dC5FnOsBysMpynvsVf1AKk2ES_a30TQvegcwSfE-w-G6J16p-f3zJPTfxddi_YwDxzA/s400/25817_381060512902_593587902_3845197_4341782_n.jpg" border="0" /><br />My boy is five. I can't believe it:)</div>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-78826311361464378912010-04-19T21:59:00.002-04:002010-04-19T22:12:04.299-04:00Mother's Day...are you preparing?<div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><center><a href="http://www.rufflesandstuff.com/2010/04/celebrating-mom-with-made.html"><img src=" https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJkLpNUo0CgMIScdOBNrTHfJ2apAN3mFqVAiH2FZvbovyB0ERruuAqTKkD36eMHfHDJxTzGhiKpP9vqiOLUaBD729hnk0g9UtelzoTV7ZBAAEVhcyrcF7MHYX31cIMeOxY4ZulCmteH0/s1600/GetAttachment-1.aspx.jpeg" /></a></center> </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />So, if you are anything like me..you procrastinate.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />You wait until the week before, the day before or maybe even a few hours before to pull a gift together. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />In the land of mommyhood it can be tough to be on top of all the holidays and celebrations especially if you prefer to give handmade most of the time (like me!). </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Well, <a href="http://www.rufflesandstuff.com/">Ruffles and Stuff </a>and <a href="http://www.dana-made-it.com/">Made</a> have an awesome week planned full of tutorials and lots of goodies for Mom. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />It all starts today!!! </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Boy this makes my to-do list so happy! <br />I guarantee there is gonna be something just perfect for me to make for all the mommies and mimis in my life. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Check out all the super wonderful <a href="http://www.rufflesandstuff.com/">here</a> and <a href="http://www.dana-made-it.com/">here</a>. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Maybe I'll have time to make me alittle something for myself this year:)</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />♥ enjoy ♥</span></div>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-13620450586663041502010-04-14T14:54:00.002-04:002010-04-14T15:09:57.852-04:00Exciting News!<strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKL6t4YBhIMy4xpY4I3C_By1OOK8qUGqndMbsW14nFZuV6hQYhku2arfpY5RNYVmfDkQ8sxeiz4ck7WAomQ59JmEE9bQT4GYofqUpQIfdgzmepujAkvkqOyDH7acIslotkdTfbPNzUNdk/s1600/poppies.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 250px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460071859599539474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKL6t4YBhIMy4xpY4I3C_By1OOK8qUGqndMbsW14nFZuV6hQYhku2arfpY5RNYVmfDkQ8sxeiz4ck7WAomQ59JmEE9bQT4GYofqUpQIfdgzmepujAkvkqOyDH7acIslotkdTfbPNzUNdk/s400/poppies.jpg" /></a><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><strong>First off I should apologize for my prolonged absence.<br /><br />I've been such a busy bee trying to make some things happen and dedicating myself to some goals I've had for a while.<br /></strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><strong>Well, I can check off getting my handmade goods into a local boutique! So exciting!</strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><strong>My items can now be found in The Cozy Cottage on Fairfield Avenue in Bellevue, KY. </strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><strong>It's such a sweet shop chock full of unique gifts and handmade goodies. </strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><strong>I plan on adding more handmade goodies to the line soon so keep those peepers out. </strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><strong>It's time to get back to the regular scheduled blogging program:)</strong></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;"><strong></strong></span></div>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-82399316962205756772010-03-07T20:46:00.003-05:002010-03-07T20:51:24.241-05:00Busy..Busy...Busy<div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">I've been away longer that I would like. So much going on and I promise to share soon. </span></div><div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">I have though been very crafty lately working on some custom requests like this cutie:</span></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446074192321217282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmNTvEATQC-RHnQlP9CnXeL1tftx1F2wOeZKCg09YawPgXmWOZ3D6ryR_lVa4T4Ff1gUl_7VFpiXQjTPHSTTfPmyummEsKm_pBRNj9mDN556RF6_kup9TOXppX9n7jDnLrHNM1X4cn0r8/s400/Custom+Cupcake+Onesie.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">I have some fun stuff to share soon. Stay tuned!</span></p>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-49121414111918935272010-02-15T18:53:00.009-05:002010-02-15T23:29:59.096-05:00Dollar Store Fun House<div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Who doesn't love themselves a good dollar store? Until recently I wasn't really aware of the awesome craft potential a dollar store could hold. <a href="http://www.dollarstorecrafts.com/">Dollar Store Crafts </a>blog opened my eyes. </span></div><div align="center"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Not too far back I came across this <a href="http://dollarstorecrafts.com/2010/01/playhouse/">$8 foam board house</a> by <a href="http://urbancraft.wordpress.com/">Urban Craft</a>. Had to do it for my boys!!</span></div><div align="center"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">So I ventured out and luckily found the foam board and picked up packing tape. I wasn't really sure how it was put together so I picked some extra materials and went to work. </span></div><div align="center"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">A fun little house was achieved!!</span> </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438683684320859538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyDXtHTmRk3akushMkC6oCkDWKHBSktoXs3Z4kS8wJ2B1do9CGS61YfDhlXxEApAgcapWvD4G5e8YVExRjDoGajdLvLCH9ko5AWRSPLMrftzZ_Jnm1BmQ38OwNQMc9FkelEl3y3NOpig/s400/house+3.JPG" border="0" /><span style="font-size:130%;">I used twelve foam boards, a roll of packing tape and a bit of poster board. I took about half hour or so to assemble but provides hours of fun for the munchkins for roughly $13</span></div><div align="center"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Here's a peek into how I did it with some visual aides.</span></div><div align="center"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">The foam board comes 20" in width by 30" in length for $1. Like I said for this house you will need twelve and a roll of packing tape, also a dollar. What's so great is there is barely any cutting.</span></div><div align="center"><br /></div><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438683849635729858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ19jKDli3RL_GfbC6Z_3tI6T-vC2RcmCA53hKpiQgEDcKmqLkISveVzM71bilfDZ7WPKjFy3QK0KVTTU6AoHOQPhM1tH4d0oUtebZLME7J1cIPaY89ih8CsE1IWjgaACxS6_5_JCPFDk/s400/house+tute+1.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">The highlighted area is one panel. Each wall is made up of two panels taped together except the front wall with the window. It's one panel with a half on top cut to fit. </span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">The top back wall is just blue posterboard cut to fit the opening. I almost left it open as a window, but my oldest wanted alittle more "privacy".<br /></span><br /></p><p><br /></p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438684040051270450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrvFCIv3XBR7hs2n16PZjlb6zDdSO-Xo3hCq2aEFvgGiEpVTesqqxegeJsu7aebGVOxkarHxbz9g91XaZKolLXWpY7L3gaGR6RxTmYq37vPdOBvl-7d9G6_AYlVhT_qXc0Sn7vgbnLImI/s400/house++tute+3.jpg" border="0" /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">I stood the panels up taping them together and created the base for the house. Each side of the pitched roof is made up of two panels taped together as well. </span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Once the base was established I taped a side of the roof onto the base and then taped them together at the peak.</span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Am I making any sense here?</span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"> I reinforced all the taped areas inside with more tape. </span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Lots of tape used here people!</span></p><p><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></p><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438684202440717490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMK-imAES1gfHNMe14uowFYc0OIoyDq6bUVeHytF9uRdHo4mowd1oqp1DGz9OrCrfVXhu6KjQ3gLd9fdoCsswRpNbqVezZKGOHPcU91bxzCYXOs3g_0c32V8Cw9gdzROY6v9uVuzNVFg0/s400/house+tute+4.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">After the structure was up and re-inforced I used an exacto and cut out an opening for a cute window. I really just wanted an excuse to put curtains up:) I cut some cute vintage fabric up into little panels and taped them in.</span> </div><div align="center"></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438684563338283266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigExxwRz4s5G513Ae0acMnUmxuivQmoTPaHINNZyqyYSTAfQXhL-ZF3TOuXDL7vpvL8O1J2aq4PaQY1B82ejEGU-asOQNX8sjw_MT6x1dk_Jm42b7X3Ud2UrA2httwStAxwnggGMOIa5A/s400/house+tute+5.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">I have every intention of making a little flower box for the front with some paper flowers someday. For now my boys like to take crayons and markers to it. A great activity for all these snowy days we are having here in the Cincinnati area.</span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">This house is surprisingly really sturdy and pretty big so you have to have some room for it. For now mine is in my living room and at some point knowing my little cyclones, it will get destroyed and it'll find a resting place out by the curb for recycling. </span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">I was thinking though that if you had lots of room such as an adequate size basement, that lots of these little houses could make up a cute pretend village complete with things like a post office, firehouse and grocery store. I'm just salivating over all the craftylicious things I could make to go into that village. </span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">I'm gonna put that on my very large "To Do Someday" list. </span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">♥ Hope you enjoy ♥</span></p>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-63676971422399694932010-02-10T15:51:00.010-05:002010-02-10T20:57:11.920-05:00Better Late Than Never: Valentines Crafts<div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Valentines day is just around the corner. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Yay</span> for holidays that celebrate love!</span></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">I actually did a few cute crafts for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Vday</span> with the kids. I've been meaning to post them for weeks now...but better late than never, right?</span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">No worries there is still time to craft up some cuteness before Sunday!</span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Caleb and I did a fun craft with crayon shavings and wax paper. We made stained-glass hearts. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">A bit messy, but adorable results and easy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">peasy</span>. This is very adaptable for a multitude of holidays and celebrations.<br /></span></div><div align="center"><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436788008228659202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtTqgz4JCa9RqXkGn5iMYuyC7m8-jKigUqfiTZUu9UvzABd7YYoi7dPC24Hby1JJFVJPPcwNJN2l4XkzKLuEh0JUFgHTw18qUCspe-xoOOWZ47Alx-kj6-yAWEJaiwzU-EJOH-4NL-xY/s400/hearts.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#993399;">I found the tutorial for the hearts over at </span><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Martha Stewart</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;color:#993399;">. We connected some and made mobiles to hang in the window. </span></div><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#993399;">I also made a quick wreath for the door with materials I had on-hand. I based mine off the burlap heart wreath tutorial over at </span><a href="http://diaryofacraftaholic.blogspot.com/2010/01/white-burlap-heart-door-decor-with.html"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff6666;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Craftaholics</span> Anonymous</span></span></a><span style="color:#cc66cc;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#993399;">. I just didn't have any burlap so I used some other red fabric I had and ran a straight stitch through a strip and gathered it on the heart shaped coat hanger. I finished it by hanging it with a remnant of a polka dot scarf. It feels very Betty <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Boop</span> to me. Don't you agree?</span><br /></span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436787454510201746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDB7hVXJq1RxJC4XrCHitt7YQTSYtiEBLhg5irzq2ikICHF1Uh2k94lqe06Sib18bGPRKChPuNukdNYyxm_-ErueK9W9tDtwqpEUMn08Br3inh_MdObgfYiVY0vZ7yrbGoSEKxf9-MXNY/s400/heart+wreath.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6666;">There are lots of other amazing Valentine's ideas on some of the other blogs I'm a fan of. Here are just a few:</span></div><br /><br /><a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#cc33cc;">Skip to My Lou</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6666;"> has a great tutorial for rice </span><a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/2010/01/15/heart-rice-krispie-pops/"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#cc66cc;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">krispie</span> heart shaped pops</span></span></a><span style="color:#ff6666;"><span style="font-size:130%;">. These would make the perfect Valentine!</span><br /></span><br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 321px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 449px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.skiptomylou.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/HeartRiceKrispiePops.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#cc0000;">How about a super cute lollipop <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">boutonniere</span> for your little man? I bet you could take this further and make corsages for the little ladies! Check the </span><a href="http://theopulentpoppy.blogspot.com/2010/02/lollipop-bouts.html"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" style="font-size:130%;color:#cc66cc;">tute</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;color:#cc0000;"> out at </span><a href="http://theopulentpoppy.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#cc66cc;">The Opulent Poppy</span></a><span style="color:#cc0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;">. What a creative idea!</span> </span></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436792290738126338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 324px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoctHV40FFscuvZ6eIjxgEMpd9X94eGdyZ1lnrAa_j31NpQpZsdNRbKxQvoqd4cwjyvesTWZtWs7MPStHlq-bQuzcAO1mz5AggPB7dH10w3zfkoZPMnxh7xGEyHQmh2v6l5tQfU0O595g/s400/lollipop+bouts" border="0" /> <p align="center"><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#993399;">And </span><a href="http://ohsocrafty.blogspot.com/2010/01/valentine-garland.html"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">heart garland</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;color:#993399;">! This is something I didn't get to this year, but so will next. I've seen this done with paper, fabric and felt. Easy, cheap and simply sweet. </span><a href="http://ohsocrafty.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Oh So Crafty</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;color:#993399;"> has a great tutorial on her inspiring blog.<br /></span><br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436794846538497554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijymFabTlWnhzUYWilJ_TRKQ_XjH3N-tpZcbOLgBnBLwFhGlbtwpyOsv90vs11-hXJpfsKZ8SaH8CrTMY7eKGnFhDOLzpK0wUaI05f6ZnXNn7D4rU_R14h0imbZXcagTnr3gegDYd9iJY/s400/heart+garland.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Hope you have a chocolate-covered, sugary-sweet, c<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">aramel</span>-centered Valentine's day with the one you ♥ !</span><br /></span></p>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-56673319301901518582010-01-25T20:46:00.008-05:002010-02-09T15:43:01.671-05:00Fabulous French Onion Soup<div align="center"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Cold wintery months mean yummy soups, stews and chilis in my house.<br /><br />One of my personal favs is french onion soup. It can fetch a pretty penny in gourmet cafes and fancy restuarants. But really it is so much cheaper to make at home and so easy really.<br /><br />I usually have everything on hand to conjur up a pot. Even my little guys flip for it.<br /><br />Who doesn't want a mound of stringy cheese on slices of french bread atop a bowl of happy?<br /><br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431248018356178210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfhh-KbHqpvHhSQRnLAqFyhpn3Hk-jgaGQOexwAFtdBcoqyMhDleUFquck0A0r4EtllCmla_k4bHx4iml_5j4GgTfKGYR2_3dO_woOxPg1uoGN_j4Q3LWCIPnKIPFQwkTiS9i6UiRnhDM/s400/043.JPG" border="0" /></span> <span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><br /><p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Fabulous French Onion Soup</span></strong></p><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">4 large onions, chopped<br />3 tablespoons butter<br />3 tablespoons all-purpose flour<br />1 teaspoon ground black pepper<br />1 teaspoon white sugar<br />3 (10.5 ounce) cans beef broth<br />1 1/4 cups water<br />1/2 teaspoon dried parsley<br />1/4 teaspoon dried thyme<br />1 cup white wine<br />1 French baguette, cut into 1/2 inch slices<br />8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese </span></p><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><br /><p align="center"><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;">In a large pot over medium heat, saute the onions in the butter or margarine for 10 minutes, or until onions are tender. Stir in the flour, ground black pepper and the sugar to form a pasty mixture.<br />Now add the beef broth, water, parsley and thyme and simmer for 10 minutes, Then add the wine and simmer for 10 more minutes. Preheat oven to broil. </span></em></p><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><em>Fill individual oven safe bowls 3/4 full with the soup. Place a slice of bread on top of the soup and cover with the cheese. Place bowls in the oven.<br />Broil in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly</em> </span></p><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">I personally prefer Gruyere cheese, but mozzerella is more cost effective when feeding this to your family and I usually always have a couple bags in my freezer along with some demi french baguettes.</span></p><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">This sweet little recipe always reminds me of my Paris travels with the hubby. </span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Ahhh...The City of Lights I ♥ you!</span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431250277937851698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 285px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl4h3G557vzldV3bqAABSA2yPU6G3MqD8Sx3j_5X0KsQuEwhmCk062-za0F441BdBii-mfiEZekRCMYplAb3xdMNt4SiIpKuxQzij73mcLujT6eZf_8otPptw6SaUAP5vmSN2RovNoSeo/s400/paris+notre+dame.jpg" border="0" /></span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">yours truly outside the <a class="l" onmousedown="return clk(this.href,'','','res','3','','0CBgQFjAC')" href="http://www.notredamedeparis.fr/">Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris</a> in 2000</span>. </span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">♥ Enjoy ♥</span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </p><p align="center"><a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/2010/01/18/made-by-you-monday-2/"><img src="http://www.skiptomylou.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/button2.jpg" /></a> </p>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-69700696408365429882010-01-18T19:45:00.008-05:002010-01-18T21:16:44.801-05:00Haiti On My Heart<div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Last night I had a hard time falling asleep in my nice warm bed complete with down feather pillow and comforter.<br /><br />I couldn't stop thinking of the devastation. The orphans.The disease. The hungry. The injured. The missing. The dead. The mourning families. The looters. The dying.<br /><br />It seems wrong all of a sudden to enjoy all the modern conveniences that I do regularly without having Haiti on my heart.<br /><br />What can we do? </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Pray. Pray. Pray.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Give money of course. That is the best thing at this point. But I want to do more. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">So I went searching for other ways to make an impact.<br /><br />I came across other opportunities to help be apart of the Haiti relief effort.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.souls4souls.com/">http://www.souls4souls.com/</a> </strong><br /><br />This is an organization that helps get shoes to those in need. They have committed to one million pairs of shoes to Haiti. You can enter your zip in their donation site finder to find a location nearest to you. </span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://www.thehowertons.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size:130%;">The Howertons</span></a></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428255620295001810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6BeGJGMAtUQNIG8vyoYt5jtpmaE_n1IoH4W4Zxh2VmH2C8E4sgYZqHRwkYckO0_uXPanTnNsy6dza7zTtUpRt8WfoRLCH18FZPYx6QIYzDD0Eh_cAhkkNOwGHD5oyfpERB0ZWT-m4ZK4/s400/me_kids.JPG" border="0" /><br /></span><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">and others like them adopting children from Haiti and having trouble bringing them home now that the earthquake has struck.</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">They need everyone's help to influence government to grant Humanitarian Parole for Adoptive Children. </span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Anyone & everyone can help influence this by simply emailing, tweeting, facebooking, calling and writing letters from the comfort of your home or office. </span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">I can't imagine having to leave my son in Haiti RIGHT NOW!</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">You can get all the info you need to help plus sample letters on their blog. </span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Copy & Paste. That simple.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><a href="<br /><br />http://www.friendships.org/"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br />www.friendships.org</span></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Another great organization that has a ship almost packed and ready to set sail to Port Au Prince to provide aide. They have a list of non-perishable items they need on the site. Also, there is a disaster response application if you are interested in volunteering your time. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><a href="<br /><br />http://www.smileofachild.org/"><span style="font-size:130%;">www.smileofachild.org</span></a></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">This organization has been collecting new dolls/trucks for the children of Haiti and other nations for years. Dolls/trucks may seem trivial admist the other needs, but so many children have been displaced and traumatized that this could provide a small comfort.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br />Always money is a great idea and can make a HUGE difference. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></div></span><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.redcross.org/"><span style="font-size:130%;">www.redcross.org</span></a></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">text Haiti to 90999 and $10 will be added to your phonebill for Haiti relief.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">text Yele to 501501 to donate $5 to the Yele Haiti relief</span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.hope-for-haiti.org/"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />http://www.hope-for-haiti.org</span></a></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br />A facebook friend recently posted this: Isn't helping others in times like these the basic responsibility of every human being?</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Absolutely. I truly believe so.</span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-67923844338423562572010-01-08T11:22:00.008-05:002010-01-08T12:28:07.430-05:00Snow Day!<div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#000099;">A beautiful blanket of snow has hit the mid-west!</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Some people freak out.<br />Some people run to the grocery to buy a bulk supply of milk, bread & eggs.<br />Some people wait in long lines at the gas station.<br /><br />Not me.<br />I leave work early and layer my kids up Christmas Story style and head out for some sled riding.</span> </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424414083327626594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-sOCh-p9_iKkEFWEijqSPDmeoQulG7ySIn3Q6X0V3ErJQp-_BHL_vbuBWVOS-YPd2OE0OoHOpVwWaqjvX97SCOAAMI09tgvA5ShlBeWAWhMq-B-2MIWirJB20XxFD_cjqFuo5H9vGhW0/s400/IMG_2001.JPG" border="0" /> </p><br /><p align="center"></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424415324154830066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3QTFBJI_ukSNZ_F2-mooNkt5jalKXEOIC7WARvWkbEDFmYfAwtnDPASOqeelgW7ep2upt2GAIEQXQ_87nshYmgJG0qld5kS-bP9RvNgHNZ8pYOrvoFX2kLOUjLagKdSplIc00xKD_PJw/s400/IMG_1999.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424416109016633074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_AYsSmySOA0-zS-WUbVi_WJKyZdSipFotE05Pjg3DTMv3rKZng3_bwoKbMmVGMNTxvoE1xZVkkZtdRv7JE9HsEutnhGOPLt3qt5WvBKRjI54D5xmoSoWuPvL2xuv9pkfsuSDiMf58DY/s400/IMG_2007.JPG" border="0" /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#000099;">I feel like a kid again instantly. </span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#000099;">Memories of the many snowdays my brother and I enjoyed together in our backyard come to me making me feel all gooey.</span> </span></p><br /><p align="center"></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424414918790798290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX1lj2Vq_5LHgOBHRSwM0ODtzmLqqccNM4aqa0wYoOztAhiCk-rx49YheMDw7XVg_prcOEf5f4bGRiN0JOBH1Fq8na5Ds8AOiACrQHbGf2xr_ORplVlL5YKytXgWUhBPjAOUSCqQGoul0/s400/IMG_2000.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p align="center"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#000099;">I love making these kinds of happy memories with my boys. </span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#000099;">And just like when I was a kid, every snowday ends with a cup of hot chocolate. The real kind made on a stove, not with powder in a cup.</span> </span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#330099;"><strong>Snowday Hot Chocolate</strong></span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#000099;">4 teaspoons sugar<br />1/3 semi-sweet chocolate chips<br />4 cups milk<br />a couple squeezes chocolate syrup<br />1 teaspoon vanilla</span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#000099;">add milk,chocolate chips, sugar and syrup into saucepan on medium heat. continously stir until all is combined. add vanilla. serve steaming in cute mugs with lots 'o marshmellows and whipcream. </span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#000099;">yummy, sweet and will spoil your dinner:)</span></p><br /><p align="center"></p><br /><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424419940037117330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKB8awHw1OCol6XKCdvPDPlqs8Ni4zJFBAkuG-TM8TmA1Mu-RBa_FilZBX7fZFyXtIvvuspUdzZwaaLoSvUNHuJnradQnhsZDvMsG-0E04oADsWDVqt5GyMgKHS3_ond5s9fwVZUel3oI/s400/2010-01-08+11.48.45.jpg" border="0" /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#000099;">Me & bro (way back there) in our backyard with our awesome Pa in 1984</span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#000099;">I was the same age then as my Caleb is now. </span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#000099;">Happy Winter!</span></p>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-69274682260554644642010-01-03T20:28:00.010-05:002010-01-03T23:17:56.600-05:00Yummy Holidays<div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Happy New Year!<br /></span></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">I hope everyone's holidays were as blessed and beautiful as ours:)<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">The holidays can most definately be stressful with all the shopping, wrapping entertaining and hectic social schedule.</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">All the more reason why I like to make Christmas Day and New Year's Day relaxing days where I don't have to be slaving in the kitchen or thinking about what to feed my sweet little family.</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">So I plan some brunch casseroles that we can eat and pick on all day if need be. My longtime faithful is the Country breakfast casserole. So easy and my hubby's fav!<br /></span></div><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422691784331700706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBe3CVZMmjrlY54mqAcPr1ZSzV3otZTLyNJNjQ8qoQ5YkJ6zyXgpHesfF2SF68U8ItZScFohSLKEDrN_nXMBzI2OZoGL6alF9hLPTO6r8CP6Pt_UKAqCQVYbZrlm-fvw88hli3aFxqjz0/s400/sausage+casserole.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Forgive the pic, but my fam wastes no time diggin in.</span></p><br /><br /><p align="center"><strong><em><span style="font-size:130%;">Country Breakfast Casserole</span></em></strong></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>Ingredients<br /></strong>1 (16 ounce) package breakfast sausage<br />1 chopped green onion<br />2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese<br />6 eggs, lightly beaten<br />1 cup water<br />1/2 cup milk<br />1 (2.64 ounce) package country gravy mix (I make my own if I don't have this on hand)<br />6 slices bread, cut into 1 inch cubes<br />2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)<br />paprika to taste (optional)<br /></span></p><br /><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>Directions<br /></strong>Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease an 11x8 inch baking dish.<br />Brown sausage in a large skillet; drain fat.<br />Combine sausage with green onion and spread evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Top with shredded cheese. Whisk together eggs, water, milk, and gravy mix; add mixture to baking dish. Arrange bread squares evenly on top. If desired, drizzle melted butter over bread, and sprinkle with paprika.<br />Bake 40 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Set aside 10 minutes before serving. </span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Earlier this year I came across this wonderful </span><a href="http://megduerksen.typepad.com/whatever/2009/04/baked-french-toast-.html"><span style="font-size:130%;">baked french toast </span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">at </span><a href="http://megduerksen.typepad.com/whatever"><span style="font-size:130%;">Whatever</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"> and knew it would be perfect with my other casserole. </span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">So easy and quick and absolutely delish!</span></p><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422693967608748338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW_Q5NwC1qNtXm1wv0Vy6DOaBodTzSnhCw9pAxL4iyWeGtTQo6RjVV8APUW6EhiHsiL_lpJwjXteIsG-GZ0LKImgOHZle6jgkpDvRJFAa8-tI0tTqkwQm9Dq3qgZwO-3XUZ-GZ4UGp-68/s400/french+toast+casserole.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /></span><p align="center"></p><p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">Baked French Toast</span></strong></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">melt 1 stick of butter then add in 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 t. cinnamon and stir together.<br />pour into a 9x13 pan covering the bottom.</span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">then layer slices of bread on the sugar mixture with the crusts removed.<br />(it would probably just as good with the crusts on....)<br />i used 15 pieces of bread.<br />fill in the holes with smaller pieces.</span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">in a mixing bowl whisk together 2 cups of milk and 6 eggs.<br />pour over the bread.<br />that's it.</span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">put it in the oven at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes.<br />when it looks baked and golden, pull it out and drizzle syrup over the top.<br />put it back in the oven under the broiler until brown and bubbly.</span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Here's my youngest, Quinn enjoying it all!</span></p><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422694361430059762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC4mxufH6A0ziDkyewYpI90TUqyEs3TYKx_aR5cKKYehlpv8iz1O1kVwhiiq5cCZUWaFxoCkkEJ0b5ZBTIERHd5_gkN4h1z6awVxG8HqYRhluUCQi9GTLmfQ5XI8yhr5hzIYHjsA4n5-s/s400/quinn+eating.jpg" border="0" /></span></p>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-37328876547738502812009-12-24T07:30:00.001-05:002009-12-24T07:30:00.597-05:00Happy Birthday Jesus!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CH1uhpDkJDKD9SnC0hAWabT_YcJWBpdAQAx1pS-M-xYogdrrM3ii_c2UaQ_fPxago6038iBb0YKwm5uWeHF_dlIN4KnucrqDkrK97Dd5oCxf7PVTpAHRTdpQ9GexPUou8g1F-e4gEr0/s1600-h/lindsey+xmas.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418501171486789810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 272px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1CH1uhpDkJDKD9SnC0hAWabT_YcJWBpdAQAx1pS-M-xYogdrrM3ii_c2UaQ_fPxago6038iBb0YKwm5uWeHF_dlIN4KnucrqDkrK97Dd5oCxf7PVTpAHRTdpQ9GexPUou8g1F-e4gEr0/s400/lindsey+xmas.jpg" border="0" /></a>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-68900069784930473222009-12-23T11:34:00.004-05:002009-12-23T12:19:17.352-05:00Christmas=Water<div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"><br /><br />Two villages have the gift of Water!<br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;">and <a href="http://www.project320.blogspot.com/">Project 320 </a>is responsible.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"><br />Amazing. Glorious. Unbelievable.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"><a href="http://project320.blogspot.com/2009/12/almost-there.html"><br />Lives have been saved</a>!</span></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"><br />Thanks to the wonderful women behind Project 320 for being God's hands and feet.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"><br />I have truly been personally inspired by each of them.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"><strong></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"><strong></strong></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:180%;"><strong><br />This</strong> feels like Christmas.</span></div>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-12858404663178931812009-12-13T15:33:00.004-05:002009-12-13T15:42:30.461-05:00Project 320<div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">On December 14th,</span> </div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">We are going to </span><a href="http://mycharitywater.org/p/campaign?campaign_id=1929"><span style="font-size:130%;">build a well</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">.<br />You are going to </span><a href="http://mycharitywater.org/p/campaign?campaign_id=1929"><span style="font-size:130%;">build a well</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">. </span></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><div align="center"><br /></div></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEialwpWnwwS4GoC_HN2KbUtKaMqaGAcp9pZmmMzMY6sWzdEBoenxS1Jd0BNkz0WHQZji1PFC03yTDb70uk9NsUaQCdxUrrh-M-77aKC1RNsUtgMGcGdFnvGC9mBn2iIHcftvpgKns7TLRGd/s1600-h/charitywater17.jpg"></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5414822653176001170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 272px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2urODqUxqKqq8ayVGDsJV9pXlHMSgF9yFyWIKehmN-_b2dL3-xyEt_8Gz7bTwCKkt3GlYDCehCZEZPskRruIYpMYetqDIRzaSvgw14CYdb6ce2KP8mpSBcbhO3XdDtBBybS96YlFT-oo/s400/project+320.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center">(</span><a href="http://jodyrlanders.com/">photo courtesy of Jody Landers</a>)<br /></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Because we can.<br />Because you can.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;">How?</span></p><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Right now sweet, generous, creative and caring women from all over the country are sewing, knitting, painting, shopping, blogging, praying.<br />Donating.<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Over 100 items.<br />Handmade and heartfelt happiness.<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Starting<br />December 14th<br />and ending<br />December 18th<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Project 320<br />will be holding a virtual raffle.<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">10 prize bundles.<br /></span><a href="http://mycharitywater.org/p/campaign?campaign_id=1929"><span style="font-size:130%;">Each $10 donation to the well</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />earns one virtual ticket.<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">You get to choose how many "tickets" to buy<br />and which prize package you want to win.<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">On December 21st we will "draw" ten winners.<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">But most of all,<br />we will celebrate the victory.<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">The promise of clean water for a village.<br />Life.<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Are you excited?<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">You should be!!!!<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Because it is going to be awesome.<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Grab a button.<br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Spread the word. </span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="left"><br /><br />-post shared from the Project 320 blog</div>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-61920423565544511002009-12-06T22:24:00.001-05:002009-12-06T22:44:38.748-05:00My First Craft Fair!<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8BLyLMH7393GH_Yy5q_LDQ-BeS11KwvA5j7fK0bDHubHcNSUnELDGpfQ975n9t9VzzTFIsy8BgL7_dHdKtHBlSxWVOX_uDvvVY5RMaafXJIsbpcTdnvC6eF8EI8m6AQIfMLSlOmjTqFc/s1600-h/craft+fair+1.jpg"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412332999138406450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8BLyLMH7393GH_Yy5q_LDQ-BeS11KwvA5j7fK0bDHubHcNSUnELDGpfQ975n9t9VzzTFIsy8BgL7_dHdKtHBlSxWVOX_uDvvVY5RMaafXJIsbpcTdnvC6eF8EI8m6AQIfMLSlOmjTqFc/s400/craft+fair+1.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;"><br />So after months of planning and trying to make inventory every spare moment, my first craft fair has come and went. Boy, was it alot of work, but oh was it fun!<br /><br />I used this craft fair as a thumbprint for the many more I hope to do. Figuring out my display was a hurtle but I really heart it.<br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;"></span></span></div><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412333174507051874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSgxUyROxOdGTYFKKVZ0YcJDrIVAyJ703rBdxsZ-rNKWLR0UDRkj4YpeOHVPUvxUGCA4jT4VFtmebc6QSC9MKz38a_rE2yIn1GM1dcuDXc91xqDUQb1vIJaDxsiHi9OHbVShF4m7z-icU/s400/craft+fair+4.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /></span><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;">Anthropologie is always a source of inspiration for me so I tried to use that to create a display I was pretty happy with. </span></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412333452402566882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgCHPFgEpKj0mWNW5VWHjc9KmSM4cPthFqW62GmTssu-d9dS-w4gqfznAidbSzeGTOFrrcSVtNOUdaXFI1pAX-twWHB1HqG3z9EtsgSxOWfV7XYCFdvyn0yp8xJysWwzFAsGPBPl8KovI/s400/craft+fair+7.jpg" border="0" /></span> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;"><br />The branch is from my front yard and was perfect with a quick coat of turquoise spray paint for my headbands. Some thrifty finds and some borrowed things pulled it all together.<br /><br />My friend Jill from Three Little Rosebuds shared space with me. Aren't her canvases so adorable?<br /><br /></span></p><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412333804326557218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcwPw57EAQqQb179bNBnE_b8l7Cvk7p6OGD8r5vfuHORk-fYjwAMsWOa1YdpqxgM5M9nbbCBu289OLbcdVNJ_g6wP_SU63Kb9tkaRzVfJ9Tifmsbf3NZzs7lzI4ZNp-1A8RmtdQQSSRo/s400/craft+fair+8.jpg" border="0" /></span> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;"><br />Especially this one that I'm dying for. </span></p><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412334017505950098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDK_oOPQe8Zda9zfag1phECIuwsMpqToemltgnN7HU1MLYAb7dGyZjoP_qhWslfXrvf4jtwEsHNLUTaoONh6ox5WZlCzpBiyEzdkd8xMhZHShV-2iYTPC4Grola5JOaWZzaiXribERNI8/s400/craft+fair+9.jpg" border="0" /></span> <p align="center"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;">It sold first for her. Yay! She was also the show coordinator and did a fabulous job!<br /><br />It was great to get feedback from the public about my product. Sales weren't too shabby either.</span></p><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff6600;">Always nice to take on a new adventure and be pleased with the results!</span> </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-41688835330799170832009-11-17T11:51:00.000-05:002009-11-17T21:33:39.262-05:00Tutu's In my Etsy shop!<div align="center">
<br /></div><div align="center">
<br /><span style="font-size:130%;">So I finally am going to put some tutu's in </span><a href="http://www.poemlindsey.etsy.com/"><span style="font-size:130%;">my etsy shop</span></a><span style="font-size:130%;">.
<br />
<br />Can you say neglect?
<br />I've totally been neglecting my shop and blog with the added pressure of getting ready for an upcoming craft show.
<br />
<br />Does it count that I think about both alot?
<br />At some point I will figure out how to manage it all:)
<br />
<br />Atleast I have talented friends who have adorable daughter's to take pics of for </span><a href="http://www.poemlindsey.etsy.com/"><span style="font-size:130%;">Poppies & Poetry.</span></a></div><div align="center">
<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br />Aren't these the sweetest? </span></span></div><div align="center">
<br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Their Mommie sure knows her way around a camera.
<br />
<br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br />It's almost Christmas!</span></span></div><div align="center">
<br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Come over and buy a tutu for a special little girl you know.</span>
<br />
<br /></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405118728230992338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 265px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-G4UWEg3y2mVDUzDFs0IUT7BYJv3jFN_9FEm0GinIrwmuk6K3VHoGqtDL16xgGPuIfuknwAreoDuwwNaiaZ4RP9gpK_H3Sk1p5miWC-hUnXObWYOYvTsUuA3Yj1olIREj9QdvE27GCNY/s400/madison1.jpg" border="0" /></div><div align="center">
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<br /></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405119007449937490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 265px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWj1UrOHPtndM2cinnQQyvZu7Id4Qk7a4wEgbZ73A8_DmBRzBU3ypegTkby70IKn5GqdkTSyvDeHDnty-BV7ffhtt-ofQuIsB-XtMlUc3QdMO3b4ohPEPuelka2upwrpvmISXE3qpz29c/s400/madison+2.jpg" border="0" /></div><div align="center">
<br /></div><p align="center"></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405263550270314050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 255px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 430px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlltramiywxJIuIjrlLI8gtxRrGc6AE0BqPQEAoUGJ-U9FuWwYRtf13ATAS_qmVL75HrGFSHf2mvHnl0mnVJb69B6d6rxxDXJoOwYIehbGJF9118dgRPBsXZHuiDFRLyEnlAvhsBlNT_M/s400/grace.jpg" border="0" />
<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405263805057860610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 265px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOQSEMydW_4yTK9LtsUTKa75oKTrY8QiiZniE_JiRg-mkt6qozct1cSQoOMD193DSTw9d2LWcxrClU8ttMW3VGG0rZz1wklaLQ063OghAns1_WFW-TTlurGsZJTSBbCSurFga2NYxb5g/s400/grace2.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center">~Kylee Burnett Photography~</p>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-55892197428682488072009-11-13T22:56:00.000-05:002009-11-14T19:52:18.428-05:00Water for Christmas<div align="center">
<br /><span style="font-size:130%;">This year my family and I have decided to challenge ourselves in our generosity with both our money and time. </span></div>
<br /><div align="center">
<br /><span style="font-size:130%;">I recently became aware of Water for Christmas, a charity that works to provide clean water across the globe to those who do not have access to it. </span></div><div align="center">
<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><strong>Did you know:</strong></<>
<br /></span>
<br />One billion people on earth do not have clean water.
<br /></span></div><div align="center">
<br /><span style="font-size:130%;">4,500 mothers bury their babies everyday due to the lack of clean water.</span></div>
<br /><div align="center">
<br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Unclean water and the lack of basic sanitation cause 80% of all sickness and disease and kill more people every year than all forms of violence, including war. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404122944869550274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 398px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 91px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-sGgp-eo0mrTibESrgjcvYhkQJtGputWklkLdX8nOFXz2q8tvfgKOf9BVK5dxKYTMgu-ggck-xdIS9L0aYOZqqoJQVlBvvMUuOyNgB5yq1VvLfG_1zMmPu5YSsMHQvU6bp5wacLXBo0/s400/water+for+christmas.png" border="0" /></span> <p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br /><strong>Now get this:</strong>
<br />
<br />Only $10 dollars could provide clean drinking water to a person in Africa for ten years.
<br />
<br />That's about 3 grande latte's at Starbucks (which I've been know to drink all in one day).
<br /></span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">A dollar a year to save a life.
<br /></span></p><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>Unbelievable!</strong></span></div>
<br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">If you are like me I struggle on what to get my friends and family for Christmas because they all basically want for nothing.
<br /></span></div>
<br />
<br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Buy Water in their name instead. </span></div>
<br />
<br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Save a life instead of buying that gift that will most likely end up being in the white elephant gift exchange elsewhere anyway. </span></div>
<br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">100% of the money raised goes directly to drill for clean water.</span></div>
<br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>Join me.</strong>
<br />
<br /></span></div>
<br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">BUY WATER. SAVE LIVES.</span></div>
<br />
<br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404121230024148994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0PmWnGToTRc_ITYHRkKz-NUo23yKakrJGnfKhSwnw71C7TethdKggALQ7LcNcVBaET3zG29lrAcN-ETAeLlxhDMKfYOjv3pvaf6DZrTYO0FOwGk7uHXaJ73twafZz1_RoQv16_FnyCXc/s400/water+for+christmas+2.jpg" border="0" />
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<br />Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-35255805510125328382009-10-22T01:01:00.000-04:002009-10-22T10:38:34.970-04:00October Travel<div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;color:#666600;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;color:#666600;">This month includes lots of traveling for me. My bi-annual trip to New York City for Bridal Fashion week with Paris Inc. and then a lovely trip to Siesta Key, Florida to celebrate my Mom's 50th birthday with my fabulous Aunts.</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#666600;"></span></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;color:#666600;">Now that my work trip is over I can look forward to some fun in the sun! </span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;color:#666600;">I must say NYC was some hard work but there was some shining moments of glamourous fun. </span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;color:#666600;">We attended the annual Martha Stewart Weddings Party. This year was the 15th Anniversary celebration and it was held at the gorgeous Plaza Hotel in Manhattan. It was quite the party! </span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;color:#666600;">I'll share more of all the fun details later, but for now here are some fun pics of the party:</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:130%;color:#666600;"></span><br /> </div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#666600;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#666600;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395432104631685378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 247px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 339px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgys5Rh6_fqe9BCRenx2vBrV2GVck6QKMKpa2dD1QwTcnONhR5emKcLYQR5U2H8ZtzWsTfrza7W0majRVqXmeL5ibETDgqGKQ9DksM6PS9UQN1kocrTHp9bSBqZceQVVcqN84jw8FW2_mg/s320/martha+crew.bmp" border="0" /> <p align="center"> </span><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;color:#666600;">The Paris Crew</span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-family:Trebuchet MS;font-size:130%;color:#666600;"></span><br /> </p><p align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><span style="color:#666600;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5395432357164289426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieiqszAbvhpcoKkKCKhzTJ2vg8CxTwKRCrK-8cABshXvCA8q7kKW_nkmFaFsFUyw9nMVtH9c-qzA-tXFzjtXW98KIjq6KV3ruXsQWbcVht9IKm13JEbv3OAtOH4N6VJHM54xPH1HUb4CU/s320/me+and+robert.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-size:130%;">Me and my newest BFF, <a href="http://www.robertverdi.com/">Robert Verdi</a></span></span></span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><br /><span style="color:#990000;"></span></span></p><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#990000;"></span>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-75259517571130196042009-10-07T21:07:00.001-04:002009-10-07T22:01:36.171-04:00Shoe Overhaul<div align="center">Recently, I have stumbled among some amazing ideas for re-doing or enhancing your shoe wardrobe. From boots to Sex-in-the-City-like chic heels, there are some amazing ideas complete with tutorials. Check them out and get inspired to freshen up your shoe situation!</div><br /><div align="center">A little ribbon can make a big difference:</div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><a href="http://hopestudios.blogspot.com/2009/06/tutorial-tuesday-shoe-make-over.html">Hope Studio's Tute</a><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390031205352041058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_2Xlvb0CbJaKxAsZxkzhCtA9H0kYQh6CNMwwwA22OFQHU3vo76A7vm5pBoavzTKuIh6xtrFOjNTGDhOjL-s6_aOoPr-BQL6PDKavtaD2DLxLGyJC6dJxqnL9adTDxbvsc2smDvm5fGeY/s320/sex+and+the+city+ribbon.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="center">fabric, ribbon and thread=big designer impact<br /><br />One of my very favorite blogs ever<a href="http://www.lovemaegan.com/2009/05/diy-christian-louboutin-petal-sandal.html"> ..Love Meagan's amazing tute</a>:</div><br /><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390033606221866626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyks1dKPKPoYSszl_eXtp1GxhqRG4wO5NRlzAMQuwrbAA9IJOPmb25rCtJBeTAUh_uf175fGp_iYf1KqWAp-9Q4IZYgNHYmRaINMatGhrOQEDKrp8_vPzzrOgWfOkJkkO0KbzFbrNMptg/s320/DIY-Christian-Louboutin-Petal_Sandal-14.jpg" border="0" /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">I found this crafty gal via<a href="http://www.craftster.org/"> craftster.org</a>, who took sweater arms and an 'ol pair of mary jane crocs and got this:</div><br /><div align="center">the craftster link <a href="http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=323331.0">here<br /></div></a><p align="center"></p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390034879472234626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFo-cHpwsVPF_s9tazZH9H_IQGcKC7IVlRO06BKqw7Muus9UmfvFj4JAkwLWKqQhbgLUhNCsbzrJagoLlCR_YpE77Ay2GKWrK9m6PcYl4xPPBVejaCzpOFS37oOgeLySDmEUKSiyDdM8M/s320/181064_04Oct09_brownsweaterdressandboots2.jpg" border="0" /></p><p align="center">I absolutely love DIY!</p>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-84664946021097424922009-09-28T09:00:00.000-04:002009-09-28T09:00:09.296-04:00Make-It Monday<div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">So vacay is over and I am (almost) back on track. I've gotten many fun things accomplished that I've been wanting to share. My best laid plan is that my posts will be more frequent and scheduled through the week. Let's start now with Make-It Monday!</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">My oldest dumpling, Caleb is super obsessed with Star Wars. Really it's bordering scary obsession. Luckily the Hubby and I are way into it too. </span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">I found the greatest Star Wars vintage pillowcase at the thrift (my obsession) for 40 cents. Joe said he had the same sheets and pillowcases on his bed when he was little, so it makes this one all the more special.</span></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385972466955969778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWtd2Njr9h8pAWok6IWfonTxd29yP_GHvOK0IjzDjYnNaKdkCOlFUzx4i-tVT8QkxPDC8Qxbq7e88rdJV5nIKJZM7ubv-6S5G8X9rROO0uM0ev40sTL3sBUJXAxwTqdHY3uSVYRQoqdg/s320/star+wars+pillowcase.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">I contemplated for a couple of weeks on exactly what I was going to do with it and then I ran across this adorable <a href="http://mayamade.blogspot.com/2009/06/childs-travel-pillow-tutorial.html">tutorial</a> for a travel pillow from <a href="http://mayamade.blogspot.com/">Maya Made </a>and knew immediately. The tutorial was super easy to follow and took about an hour or so from start to finish.</span><br /></div></div><div><div align="center"><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385973279784404178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QYmbZjbBYT-jMTgjOfSDVG15EsOBDO-KUQwBNMuHYTrs4ItbPTVTKZbqWDMkK9mQ2BcVy3xPdpSoQj1QF37g96fTrn9Q_nclCcoZh29zcYWZaz93aG8GRkjfxtAas_m4jeEzQ-gSogo/s320/stwars+pillow+finished.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">When I find the right fabric I'm gonna do one for my Quinnie too. </span><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">This made quite the companion for Caleb on the long drive to and from Myrtle Beach. It has a strap for carrying easily and I added a little Darth Vader pocket from the scraps for his little figures. R2 feels totally at home among his peeps!</span><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;">Enjoy:)</span></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div><div align="center"> </div></div>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-86551647644053559932009-09-15T00:07:00.000-04:002009-09-15T00:10:46.137-04:00A Beachy Hiatus<div align="center"><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:130%;color:#3333ff;">I've been out of my usual routine lately. Went on a wonderful beach getaway with my family. Have some fun new stuff to share soon...</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#3333ff;"></span></div><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381541646367942546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhFfcxSjdrDZ14Rrxy5orZw-RXbC6G_2geqsNnQY14PR-xQOO8GObp8RsSg8YJBJ8CJA_p2q5fvbBHawC0acqQGmvg78KmwM8Ptrx8OF_Vu06bY19Y9DlfkXeIqlKngo045PuC8LOb-ZE/s320/022.JPG" border="0" /></div>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-23063484948439340722009-08-27T15:39:00.001-04:002009-08-27T15:48:50.181-04:00Name Change<div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </div><div align="left"><span style="font-size:130%;">So, I'm working on my etsy account again. I let it go there for awhile, but now I'm back with a whole new name and new vision for it's future. Presenting: <em><strong>Poppies & Poetry</strong></em>. </span></div><div align="left"><br /></div><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374732581205028658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 413px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 77px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTGEzn0DGV426-vYMFFV9oUCQsse0mrDbgQm69WOYdKSUU-U_ukoY1vvAVGu2WXl7_A-K6ChCT_ouLWvVl_qLFuLoGDVfCvA-EMPgcqwMAXcAOH-pTjRGBzi3ZyIm0lNNGrJWU7JjHoGY/s320/poem.jpg" border="0" /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Handmade whimsy for your pleasure. Stop by. I plan to be loading it up with all kinds of goodies over the next week or so. </span></p><p><span style="font-size:130%;"></span> </p>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-22947767536284352492009-08-26T03:17:00.000-04:002009-08-27T15:30:23.501-04:00Lemon Obsession!<div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">As I may have already mentioned I love all things <span style="color:#ffff00;">lemon</span>...especially desserts!<br /><br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:130%;"></div></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;">I found this recipe recently on </span><a href="http://www.allrecipes.com/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">allrecipes.com </span></a><span style="color:#ff0000;">and it is now my new favorite. So easy to make and has the most gourmet result for minimal effort. The top bakes up into sort of a light angel food cake and the bottom becomes a rich lemon sauce. Perfection!!<br /><br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></div><span style="color:#ff0000;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5374725808014018978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuL5OWMCP_pXVjFdXadNr2A3yG4aI__468wwHVQSr2u8NbnUoNBpj9YiDfbjwPusLy_QeFUc5Qtyr7Em7TepW-aT6ynAaKxrbShmyqg374hEsEsFdF7YqiPmA2AI6kMJZze3xx9UdEOGQ/s400/lemon.jpg" border="0" /></span></span><span style="color:#ff0000;"><br /></span><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Embarassingly enough, the damage done to this is all done by me. Don't judge, once you taste this you will not be able to restrain yourself without help. I promise!</span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Lemon Pudding Cake:</span></strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></div><div align="center"><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">4 eggs, separated<br />1/3 cup lemon juice<br />1 teaspoon lemon zest<br />1 tablespoon butter<br />1 cup white sugar </span><span style="color:#ff0000;"><span style="font-size:85%;">(I cut sugar downfrom original recipe)<br /></span>1/2 cup sifted all-purpose flour<br />1/2 teaspoon salt<br />1 1/2 cups milk<br /></span><a id="ctl00_CenterColumnPlaceHolder_RecipeToolsControl_lnkSaveToRecipeBoxIcon" style="BORDER-TOP-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-LEFT-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-BOTTOM-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT-WIDTH: 0px" href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Lemon-Pudding-Cake-I/SaveToRecipeBox.ashx" rel="nofollow"></a><br /><br /><a id="ctl00_CenterColumnPlaceHolder_RecipeToolsControl_lnkAddToShoppingListIcon" style="BORDER-TOP-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-LEFT-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-BOTTOM-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-RIGHT-WIDTH: 0px" href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Lemon-Pudding-Cake-I/AddToShoppingList.ashx?rurl=http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Lemon-Pudding-Cake-I/Detail.aspx&rid=7665&rserve=12" rel="nofollow"></a><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>DIRECTIONS<br /></strong>Beat together egg yolks, lemon juice, lemon rind, and butter or margarine until thick and lemon colored. Combine sugar, flour, and salt; add alternately with milk to the yolk mixture, beating well after each addition.<br />Beat egg whites until stiff. Blend egg whites into batter on low speed of electric mixer. Pour into 8 inch square baking dish.<br />Place a pan of hot water in the oven, and set the baking dish into the pan. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 45 minutes. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ffcc66;"></span></div>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8185141750238435659.post-76259866195770286462009-08-16T21:51:00.000-04:002009-08-17T10:32:34.463-04:00Kitchen Towel to Fab Pillow<div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;">During one of my many yard sale-ing days this summer I picked up this super cute Anthropologie kitchen towel for just 25 cents.<br /></span></div><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370932086114520642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEQZtcaneA34XbuBXr1zmilny0_5gUJCIbVCDAMIfgoV5DXF3NIOWaGLzmVE0nccZfueDEZfOgkfcPjN6ERiFcAmGXHq7A5zUIfPFyxZGVWmJTiaI47WC0iTBSOnO_1xTFgR5CV1h_6PI/s400/Anthro+Towel.jpg" border="0" /><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;">What a steal, right?<br /><br /></span></p><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;">Well it was just too cute to wipe greasy hands on, so in as little as 10 minutes I transformed it into a pillow.<br /><br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;"></span> </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370932296539000402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxSQyq964TaeSLIOSeTG83MwrUyuj7dQUTQDKFubEeuRKazoGrn3Ya-AR7EtaTIKLQm-g3RiWgn5SZDxPkWtkGw5OegM1HDmjCp7biocYADA_FhhDWcJePsDqBntHPeboPkHEl5JdQFp4/s400/anthro+pillow.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff6600;">I</span><span style="color:#ff6600;"> know I've seen this done out there before as well as an instance where someone turned an Anthropologie towel into kitchen </span><span style="color:#ff6600;">curtains.</span> </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff6600;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="color:#ff6600;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Super cute results when you start thinking outside the box!<br /></span></div></span><div align="center"></div>Poppies and Poetryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12066852531446687434noreply@blogger.com0