tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44696989689274271192024-02-06T22:45:06.058-06:00everything vintageJodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.comBlogger415125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-4860749321073873232012-01-18T20:06:00.001-06:002012-01-18T20:11:05.427-06:00It's been a LONG time coming...<p align="center">The title of the post says a lot  ~  to say the least.</p> <p align="center">It says a lot of what has happened in the past,</p> <p align="center">what's going on at the moment,</p> <p align="center">&  what I hope the new year will be for me.</p> <p align="center">Let me start by saying that it's been a while since I've ran my fingers through velvet millinery and vintage lace...</p> <p align="center"><font color="#6f6f37">Although it is all at my fingertips, I have been short on time.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uIGHOIqnnmE/Txd6frFxKDI/AAAAAAAAILI/LtOu7B95hJI/s1600-h/DSC_0300%252520%2525282%252529%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0300 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3scOX55Pn0c/Txd6gGjRliI/AAAAAAAAILM/XQVJ1MtORNg/DSC_0300%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="372" /></a> </p> <p align="center">My love for creams & browns still remains, along with mixtures of metals and lace and everything in between...</p> <p align="center"><font color="#6f6f37">Although it is all at my fingertips, I have been short on time.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-d87exGxgBl4/Txd6go1boEI/AAAAAAAAILY/OI5xjyQrBNY/s1600-h/DSC_0282%252520%2525282%252529%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0282 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NyNMc6tQWQQ/Txd6hAFZFkI/AAAAAAAAILg/A-X-SZuT1zU/DSC_0282%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="377" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I am longing to play with the little trinkets and goodies that beg my attention to create something beautiful...</p> <p align="center"><font color="#6f6f37">Although it is all at my fingertips, I have been short on time.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-psDkEpvtHUM/Txd6hej9eHI/AAAAAAAAILo/NjNP4064RXY/s1600-h/DSC_0288%252520%2525283%252529%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0288 (3)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IYBHGgjkX5s/Txd6hznw0GI/AAAAAAAAILw/ZnGegSYP76I/DSC_0288%252520%2525283%252529_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="297" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I beg for the time to sit and visit with you, my heart is lonesome for the inspiration you always provide to me...</p> <p align="center"><font color="#6f6f37">Although it is all at my fingertips, I have been short on time.</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QQOm1xxg6TE/Txd6iJZhddI/AAAAAAAAIL4/kYKLc4YfETE/s1600-h/DSC_0301%252520%2525282%252529%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0301 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fEfAbJ-uV4g/Txd6iej_t_I/AAAAAAAAIMA/q33SHWzUZDg/DSC_0301%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="404" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I admire those of you of whom time has been generous...</p> <p align="center">for that I am jealous.</p> <p align="center"><font color="#6f6f37">As a creative (& nosey) soul, I have been short on time  ;)</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OQs_d2FoC3I/Txd6izoNFmI/AAAAAAAAIMI/KAhWotFNkU0/s1600-h/DSC_0293%252520%2525282%252529%25255B19%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0293 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DYQuZbMyS64/Txd6jAUoTYI/AAAAAAAAIMQ/TbqM9ZdR-x4/DSC_0293%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B17%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="526" /></a> </p> <p align="center">It's been a LONG time coming since I've been creative "for no reason at all" but in the meantime, good things have happened too!</p> <p align="center">I have slowed down a little and learned to appreciate the things that really matter in my life such as:</p> <p align="center">no expectations</p> <p align="center">no promises</p> <p align="center">no regrets</p> <p align="center">no rush</p> <p align="center">and most importantly, lots of happiness.</p> <p align="center">Friends do come and go, </p> <p align="center">but the special memories still remain.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nBQtIBQTpUs/Txd6jkfm2UI/AAAAAAAAIMY/4saaXsbkhjs/s1600-h/DSC_0290%252520%2525282%252529%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0290 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-F1JpddowmSI/Txd6j4VeXxI/AAAAAAAAIMg/tQEQ3CiD0RI/DSC_0290%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="298" /></a> </p> <p align="center">After all, it's creativity that led me to blogging,</p> <p align="center">blogging led me to great friends,</p> <p align="center">great friends led me to the unforgettable memories,</p> <p align="center">so therefore...I'm always looking forward to what's coming my way next! </p> <p align="center">It can only get better, right?</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9DpL8Z1GlMk/Txd6kOHY0gI/AAAAAAAAIMo/t7uqI-fq_lk/s1600-h/DSC_0292%252520%2525282%252529%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0292 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZIoMhu5qWR0/Txd6kg5da9I/AAAAAAAAIMw/X6LemrvyJ7c/DSC_0292%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="272" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I guess the point that I'm trying to make here is...</p> <p align="center">It's been a LONG time coming that I've told you that I miss all of you on my side bar, all of you in blogland, all of you that I've met on the road and all of you that I've met at creative events. </p> <p align="center">And, it's been a LONG time coming that I've told you "Thank You" for making {everything vintage} what it is today!!!</p> <p align="center">I am hopeful that 2012 will bless me with time to stop in and visit with you and catch up, just like old friends do.  </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Qt6yyfpsEzA/Txd6kwyNtUI/AAAAAAAAIM4/SksM3ygOe9Q/s1600-h/DSC_0296%252520%2525282%252529%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0296 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ZZPXmFHMNQQ/Txd6lLPXG9I/AAAAAAAAINA/Lu1Ha90bC-Y/DSC_0296%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="325" /></a> </p> <p align="center"> The above photos are from a "pocket swap" hosted by <a href="http://jessicarodarte.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jessica</a> in 2010.</p> <p align="center">My swap partner was <a href="http://www.junkgirl-studio.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Leslie</a> and everything you see above are the beautiful things she sent to me.</p> <p align="center">It's been a LONG time coming that I post this...</p> <p align="center">~ <strong>I am hopeful</strong> that time is generous to me in 2012 ~</p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com66tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-44678991638642361882011-12-24T23:04:00.001-06:002011-12-24T23:04:10.095-06:00Christmas at the Mouse Pad...<p align="center">There isn't anything more "Magical" (that I know of) than spending 7 days at Disney World during the Christmas season...</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Os9AY9JRFrA/TvatzrgjdzI/AAAAAAAAH3I/yM05eyHLe9I/s1600-h/disney%252520011%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 011" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bbRTP6p-PAs/TvatzznskXI/AAAAAAAAH3Q/yXe1V72jUwY/disney%252520011_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="542" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="1"><em><strong>(above photo taken by Payton Fruge')</strong></em></font></p> <p align="center">Now don't get me wrong...Disney is "Magical" at <u>any</u> time of year but only once a year is it even <u>more</u> "Magical"!!!</p> <p align="center">Somehow, I keep returning to Disney every year (sometimes twice a year), since I first stepped foot on the Mouse Pad in 2007.</p> <p align="center">This time, I had two very special guests with me...</p> <p align="center">My sister (Penny) and my 18 year old niece (Payton), both have never caught the mouse fever until now...</p> <p align="center">ON FLIGHT TO DISNEY...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ld1zv0zkXxE/Tvat0YSUvjI/AAAAAAAAH3Y/uzBV950w864/s1600-h/disney%252520002%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 002" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DvWz5kBd2s8/Tvat0kOpoMI/AAAAAAAAH3g/MM7LnS8RTNc/disney%252520002_thumb%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="309" /></a></p> <p align="center"> WITHIN 24 HOURS OF ARRIVAL, </p> <p align="center">WE ALL HAD MOUSE FEVER!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iNWl-XuGUTA/Tvat1CztHLI/AAAAAAAAH3o/JcGCIGcU6pU/s1600-h/disney%252520014%25255B18%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 014" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjei60rfAxZV-NIbBwBBnd0ZwQ8Fl-IDzB3-h-D9Gnt0MdX3hCpdUf5jwptevF6ERoQEpsP-e-8Pn4hpq8i1MHvyLuBA8R59_2Nt3rvy3lwLz2BDFRGt29rqyk6QNOOZMDPz6b-McGW4aI/?imgmax=800" width="411" height="309" /></a></p> <p align="center">It's contagious! I know! Maybe I should warn you...</p> <p align="center">the photos below are really "Magically Contagious"!!!!</p> <p align="center">(guaranteed to put a smile on your face)</p> <p align="center">We visited all four Disney parks with a five day pass...</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">EPCOT...</font></strong></p> <p align="center">Where Payton found Nemo and friends!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jhAkYtxPSwk/Tvat2ITQQUI/AAAAAAAAH34/KonTtGdfyMY/s1600-h/disney%252520003%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 003" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PvsMGl7fs84/Tvat2fdD4RI/AAAAAAAAH4A/_0IOt21en0o/disney%252520003_thumb%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="545" /></a></p> <p align="center">Visited 11 countries...including France!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-J5G9_XYR8YU/Tvat2ydCltI/AAAAAAAAH4I/zOYm3AluIXo/s1600-h/DSC_0032%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0032" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-np06Qa8_9kw/Tvat3CYVDvI/AAAAAAAAH4Q/MJRst7zQPAY/DSC_0032_thumb%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="611" /></a></p> <p align="center">And Payton gave Santa her Christmas wish list...</p> <p align="center">(poor baby still doesn't have an iPhone)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zdxFHPaafSw/Tvat3hOyOLI/AAAAAAAAH4Y/q33t_tzdlQA/s1600-h/DSC_0033%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0033" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ays9211TKLA/Tvat4Cv5IhI/AAAAAAAAH4g/HgcHQ_gqEXM/DSC_0033_thumb%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="612" /></a></p> <p align="center">Then she decided to phone home and let everyone know that she wasn't coming home anytime soon...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-D3-RijJbD0I/Tvat4f0uo9I/AAAAAAAAH4o/oWYPwSG1bDA/s1600-h/disney%252520008%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 008" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HQs5WbNaGe8/Tvat44Nry3I/AAAAAAAAH4w/lg47QOzLuw8/disney%252520008_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="545" /></a></p> <p align="center">After traveling through the countries and riding <strong>everything</strong> at Epcot, we rested and woke up early for a big day at... </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">MAGIC KINGDOM (twice)</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>Where we felt like Princesses! </strong></p> <p align="center">(which we truly are in real life because </p> <p align="center">our tiaras are invisible to the "real" world...</p> <p align="center">did you know that? ;)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ySfSDXhCpFk/Tvat5ANasQI/AAAAAAAAH44/GTfkrjihwn4/s1600-h/disney%252520010%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 010" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-agC8iQdByJk/Tvat5t31YzI/AAAAAAAAH48/ydHOy7LfEr8/disney%252520010_thumb%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="545" /></a></p> <p align="center"><strike>Alice</strike> Penny spun round and round in a "Magical" tea cup </p> <p align="center">in Fantasy Land...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-A_wTiQ7oPVA/Tvat6Oz0BxI/AAAAAAAAH5E/kyXvRn7TEB4/s1600-h/DSC_0047%25255B20%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0047" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-q2Rnhr_yw70/Tvat6fsofzI/AAAAAAAAH5Q/hVd5iCnYNZQ/DSC_0047_thumb%25255B18%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="630" /></a> </p> <p align="center">We had <strong>1st class</strong> seats for the "Dream Come True" parade</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lPwB6ZQBk9g/Tvat6zL74UI/AAAAAAAAH5c/ne2SGCx_7Ts/s1600-h/DSC_0062%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0062" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-II8v_-4fPAw/Tvat7PHtdLI/AAAAAAAAH5k/SM9GRqt6wRY/DSC_0062_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="277" /></a></p> <p align="center">to see Mickey & Minnie... </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GO3dOnvWj8M/Tvat7h4U1TI/AAAAAAAAH5s/xMiihjE-KsQ/s1600-h/DSC_0066%25255B27%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0066" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Yrn6N2JriIE/Tvat73e-ziI/AAAAAAAAH50/0ffTpdN_5cU/DSC_0066_thumb%25255B23%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="396" /></a></p> <p align="center">Pinocchio... </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-BM4hFl_IgRc/Tvat8a2msTI/AAAAAAAAH54/fwVRM0oBz-A/s1600-h/DSC_0068%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0068" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xY-pTELUxeU/Tvat8_3WVhI/AAAAAAAAH6E/xm33pma-D_Q/DSC_0068_thumb%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="611" /></a></p> <p align="center">Aladdin... </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pTq2Y5maaMs/Tvat9Nzc-jI/AAAAAAAAH6M/q67Yb9Hw2X0/s1600-h/DSC_0069%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0069" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OzCgbP1uq9s/Tvat9h_H9BI/AAAAAAAAH6U/JIMCH0ZQ9l4/DSC_0069_thumb%25255B13%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="486" /></a></p> <p align="center">Cinderella... </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0mYHY58mMNA/Tvat-NgAYBI/AAAAAAAAH6g/Qd99upocwOg/s1600-h/DSC_0072%252520%2525282%252529%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0072 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zUnt98iAVwA/Tvat-iz4uqI/AAAAAAAAH6o/PBKaCsOrvjg/DSC_0072%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="337" /></a></p> <p align="center">and the Beast (my all-time favorite fairytale of all)... </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-F773CVRPdcw/Tvat_MBaXBI/AAAAAAAAH6w/M9YqtNNBpl4/s1600-h/DSC_0074%252520%2525282%252529%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0074 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-W9D_DPTywxU/Tvat_ZOoqNI/AAAAAAAAH64/ezITWbylfP0/DSC_0074%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="407" /></a> </p> <p align="center">We also had <strong>1st class</strong> seats for the "Magical" Electric Parade which is a Disney Classic Must See!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QR1qLwGgyng/TvauADn3TOI/AAAAAAAAH7A/mhG1CLH4iDg/s1600-h/DSC_0133%252520%2525282%252529%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0133 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--bf5X7XtmM8/TvauAQxhskI/AAAAAAAAH7E/UmIQ1xJ0wbo/DSC_0133%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="479" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Tinkerbell...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-RAtgmrTAEFk/TvauAhGiNtI/AAAAAAAAH7Q/V6zKtxabI0Y/s1600-h/DSC_0132%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0132" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2Left_42zpw/TvauA7pDs2I/AAAAAAAAH7Y/Edl5FzF50fo/DSC_0132_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Puff the Magic Dragon...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6kiPs-S_Y9o/TvauBFjWsAI/AAAAAAAAH7g/Of8XtvzHXh4/s1600-h/DSC_0156%252520%2525282%252529%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0156 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FltwVF8JeEI/TvauBpHiYWI/AAAAAAAAH7o/DosD78VPbsQ/DSC_0156%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="438" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Tribute to America...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cRjTYrUl4vk/TvauB7BjxCI/AAAAAAAAH7w/hFF123lwPk4/s1600-h/DSC_0157%252520%2525282%252529%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0157 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-5X3ZIAJr5OQ/TvauCDuRECI/AAAAAAAAH74/l1VZjWNj1g4/DSC_0157%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="505" /></a> </p> <p align="center">and much MUCH more!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SLwU5JW4Byc/TvauCVwvp9I/AAAAAAAAH8A/VJt8XuondxI/s1600-h/DSC_0158%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0158" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-LjNS2ROoy-M/TvauCyEfkvI/AAAAAAAAH8I/Eiv-Bnsy3Gw/DSC_0158_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="611" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And of course...</p> <p align="center"><strong>the finale of the "Lighting of Cinderella's Castle"</strong></p> <p align="center">The Castle went from this...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IGqqMDW292M/TvauDNSgCDI/AAAAAAAAH8Q/GWPUvMhitNE/s1600-h/DSC_0116%252520%2525282%252529%25255B15%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0116 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-swMeuS3cWeI/TvauDQ3BxeI/AAAAAAAAH8Y/cDkxkZyhcAI/DSC_0116%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B13%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="452" /></a> </p> <p align="center">to this...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oydFiU6zbKo/TvauDo39ymI/AAAAAAAAH8g/8CYl7bAPTKU/s1600-h/DSC_0124%252520%2525282%252529%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0124 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-OcgNT2aa2oQ/TvauD2tqNKI/AAAAAAAAH8o/1XZ-MD9nR7M/DSC_0124%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="404" /></a> </p> <p align="center">to this...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FqxP9IVKGn0/TvauEcP9-EI/AAAAAAAAH8w/6pyUIQJHDKk/s1600-h/DSC_0163%252520%2525282%252529%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0163 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hPGW4B6j8_U/TvauEpXNCnI/AAAAAAAAH84/X1gh3NfJboI/DSC_0163%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="626" /></a> </p> <p align="center">to this...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fIr7BIu5fEo/TvauE4BwxII/AAAAAAAAH9A/pVHjihUPQZ4/s1600-h/DSC_0168%252520%2525282%252529%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0168 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gyBd2dbDU7k/TvauFTvkNrI/AAAAAAAAH9I/QU3UEltkxZk/DSC_0168%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B8%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="743" /></a> </p> <p align="center">to this...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lPWdGh6uC2o/TvauFhd59dI/AAAAAAAAH9Q/j3JLC2JOZZ4/s1600-h/DSC_0170%252520%2525282%252529%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0170 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YK5o8NU67Lg/TvauGFH1kaI/AAAAAAAAH9Y/vAhfHOXCem8/DSC_0170%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B9%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="696" /></a> </p> <p align="center">to this...in a sequence of Magical Lights & Fireworks!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-P3T5vTi4o8g/TvauGRcCTeI/AAAAAAAAH9g/PFkZ2WZvfII/s1600-h/disney%252520011%25255B26%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 011" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uz9Ei2qsRVI/TvauGiKAV3I/AAAAAAAAH9o/vKZgXYWtABU/disney%252520011_thumb%25255B22%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="542" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="1"><em><strong>(above photo taken by Payton Fruge')</strong></em></font></p> <p align="center"><strong>Spectacular...Disney style!!!!</strong></p> <p align="center">Then on Day Three, we were off to </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">ANIMAL KINGDOM...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uKzt0yK-qC0/TvauG6eiPGI/AAAAAAAAH9w/azv9KY-x8RA/s1600-h/disney%252520015%25255B19%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 015" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qZHD1dAOo_U/TvauHJNJQuI/AAAAAAAAH94/gkpv_SrRVrI/disney%252520015_thumb%25255B17%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="309" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And stood in awe at the "Tree of Life", carved with over 300 animals...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wkQHdi-wmG4/TvauHk-d3oI/AAAAAAAAH-A/f5y-k3A0PXw/s1600-h/disney%252520016%252520%2525282%252529%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 016 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CRCIjgqh50A/TvauILJtwhI/AAAAAAAAH-I/ZiWPlcc7HcU/disney%252520016%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="489" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="1"><em><strong>(above photo taken by Payton Fruge')</strong></em></font></p> <p align="center">We went on a "real" African Safari ride, with "invisible" boundaries to the most amazing animals!!! ...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rDbX2SII5Us/TvauKNWjN2I/AAAAAAAAH-Q/SZeD7e-l0ts/s1600-h/disney%252520021%25255B15%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 021" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0VfgwbdBf0I/TvauKkbaeqI/AAAAAAAAH-Y/lWSL83nPDNQ/disney%252520021_thumb%25255B13%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="309" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="1"><em><strong>(above photo taken by Payton Fruge')</strong></em></font></p> <p align="center">and birds!!! ... </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HjZtxrf09yE/TvauK7sZvDI/AAAAAAAAH-g/l3GCVM17pds/s1600-h/disney%252520020%252520%2525282%252529%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 020 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7tUf4RDiu50/TvauY21QOCI/AAAAAAAAH-0/L7XgxwQZ6FU/disney%252520020%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="352" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="1"><em><strong>(above photo taken by Payton Fruge')</strong></em></font></p> <p align="center">LOTS of giraffes...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-bCljBnwYIcI/TvauZSaaUJI/AAAAAAAAH-8/Nizg3EqjUSQ/s1600-h/disney%252520018%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 018" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kIKpmdfEml4/TvauZxlXG9I/AAAAAAAAH_E/JMr4S_l31xo/disney%252520018_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="545" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="1"><em><strong>(above photo taken by Payton Fruge')</strong></em></font></p> <p align="center">and baby elephants!!!! ...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-tnU_DkqipI8/TvauaXMAruI/AAAAAAAAH_Q/3fisWXAgQdM/s1600-h/disney%252520019%252520%2525282%252529%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 019 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yueNgYTAMFw/TvauatzM5sI/AAAAAAAAH_Y/tKVRNEDDZsU/disney%252520019%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="461" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="1"><em><strong>(above photo taken by Payton Fruge')</strong></em></font></p> <p align="center">We were able to see the Broadway-style musical</p> <p align="center"><strong>"Nemo & Friends"</strong></p> <p align="center">which made Payton a happy little mouse!!! ...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Tncq95LTyPk/TvaubAfj9bI/AAAAAAAAH_g/TmQC1jyccMQ/s1600-h/disney%252520022%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 022" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7ng2FC9HAU0/Tvaubbl9cPI/AAAAAAAAH_o/Nd8ub17BRQo/disney%252520022_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="545" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And Payton and I braved the Yeti of Mount Everest!!! </p> <p align="center">(Note: Penny totally chickened out)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jCY9GYVxjOk/Tvaub-3hhmI/AAAAAAAAH_s/KDhqHzYD6qk/s1600-h/disney%252520024%252520%2525282%252529%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 024 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yw88cn_cT08/Tvaucff1rwI/AAAAAAAAH_4/X6YH-4T-OKE/disney%252520024%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="353" /></a> </p> <p align="center">We sang along in the "Lion King" musical, which brought out the animal in some of us...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-T1uHwRmKMIA/TvaucptJHgI/AAAAAAAAIAA/blKbzs5yj2U/s1600-h/disney%252520023%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 023" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1dSHtKcujA4/TvaudUoDPZI/AAAAAAAAIAI/9I-ClovxLBk/disney%252520023_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="547" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And basically had a "wild" time :)))</p> <p align="center">Our last park after 4 days of Disney was</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS...</font></strong></p> <p align="center">I have to say, I really enjoyed this park. Of all the times I've come to Disney, I never stopped here as everyone said it was their "least liked park"... whaaaat?</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uuDJ7HcmgKc/TvauduDFekI/AAAAAAAAIAQ/3MBfnaRGW5U/s1600-h/DSC_0195%252520%2525282%252529%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0195 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IUkVYPKQqbo/TvaueImP17I/AAAAAAAAIAY/bjQ_ediGwOQ/DSC_0195%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="429" /></a> </p> <p align="center">All I can say is I've been missing out because <strong>I LOVE HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS</strong> and I will be back here next month!!!!</p> <p align="center">Payton and I learned a lot about Walt Disney himself...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RsNrqRprTKE/TvaueYlELVI/AAAAAAAAIAg/GWv6z-Y0Gh4/s1600-h/DSC_0203%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0203" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cf_-Lg7blj4/Tvaue72ly7I/AAAAAAAAIAo/TI46NACczl8/DSC_0203_thumb%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="609" /></a> </p> <p align="center">and little tidbits like...</p> <p align="center">After creating Disney Land in California and years of planning Disney World in Florida, Walt Disney never saw the completion of Disney World's Magic Kingdom. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-J6OPWhHb9Ns/TvaufFtsHII/AAAAAAAAIAw/ZFFcLhQDAME/s1600-h/DSC_0205%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0205" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-FN5CKhR16yU/TvaufmlsHLI/AAAAAAAAIA4/BSvXOtirwsQ/DSC_0205_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="277" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Walt Disney died December 15, 1966.</p> <p align="center">Below is his original office from California...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hStv75sYx5Q/TvaufxvWSaI/AAAAAAAAIBA/EJK--Y9H8Iw/s1600-h/DSC_0206%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0206" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oCOBuaddMoo/TvaugHxD-oI/AAAAAAAAIBI/H-6zUp5-M2o/DSC_0206_thumb%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="277" /></a></p> <p align="center">His brother (& partner of the Disney trademark), Roy Disney proceeded with the Florida project after Walt's death, opened it's doors on October 1, 1971 (my 1st birthday) and named it after his brother ... "Walt Disney World". </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YprZYHGa958/Tvaugv_V0GI/AAAAAAAAIBQ/zVbI8sgrt2M/s1600-h/DSC_0201%252520%2525282%252529%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0201 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8F5A40VQzEI/Tvaug3B0l7I/AAAAAAAAIBY/_VwPen1yx7w/DSC_0201%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="488" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Later came Epcot, then MGM Studios (now called Hollywood Studios), and then the newest and largest park, Animal Kingdom.</p> <p align="center">There was so much to learn here, so much to see. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYoTqakg_2Dzolu1XoIw4evXP5hafiitYvucJhjz6tt-xEZXgvYS91fa02u96j1-syszY_9iHVjtXeXkf6uY6vpvecOkystVi4TtOgxDDghOy-hdko48aicuirH3S-TQmn6Fe8i8_sWc/s1600-h/DSC_0199%252520%2525282%252529%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0199 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-A354M4_HuTM/TvauhkLAq9I/AAAAAAAAIBo/s5tInjn4fK8/DSC_0199%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="434" /></a> </p> <p align="center">But we DID walk through the haunted lobby of </p> <p align="center"><strong>The Hollywood Tower Hotel...</strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vEnJy-f9v1c/Tvauh7SINvI/AAAAAAAAIBw/V-VgOabt1zE/s1600-h/disney%252520026%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 026" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-cV5o5kKiju4/TvauibzZ7hI/AAAAAAAAIB4/4C_GVy9GH98/disney%252520026_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="544" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="1"><em><strong>(above photo taken by Payton Fruge')</strong></em></font></p> <p align="center">Yes...the Tower of Terror...we did it!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lh0igR6SGvU/Tvauik6Ic1I/AAAAAAAAICA/EX0X9W6_4Uc/s1600-h/disney%252520025%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 025" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-onwCBWU33TQ/TvaujAtVhdI/AAAAAAAAICM/ffBFZXLx7JU/disney%252520025_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="546" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Me? never again. </p> <p align="center">Payton? over and over again.</p> <p align="center">And there are over 100 variations of the ride so chances are, you will never have the same elevator experience in your lifetime! </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QAkUdrgaSsQ/Tvauj-UO_xI/AAAAAAAAICU/hBvobh1ZfYs/s1600-h/DSC_0198%252520%2525282%252529%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0198 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoMVl0Aaaiq85vb4OeK1rM8BRoS4xTMJegofkcDWWDvROi6Mm4o7SQ7myuBMVoH2IPxh1epeEtSm1dHZhuBtHS30_gdkEobTy8tB9seyKewNn7mL9OPqmsMcodqxticCeMm5ML_VrO8l4/?imgmax=800" width="410" height="557" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I think we saw it all, and rode it all except for the "Rockin' Rollercoaster"... somehow we missed it :(((</p> <p align="center">We even enjoyed "The Little Mermaid"... even though Payton doesn't remember watching the movie when she was little.</p> <p align="center">Chances are, she fell asleep as she does with all movies!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mFOlzk-Y7c8/Tvaukx6v1zI/AAAAAAAAICo/g4tnONsZLNw/s1600-h/DSC_0200%252520%2525282%252529%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0200 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-d7zTT5jv6tg/TvaulN2WVwI/AAAAAAAAICw/5XSgTjO4I3c/DSC_0200%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="326" /></a> </p> <p align="center">One of my favorite shows was the musical </p> <p align="center"><strong>"The Beauty and the Beast".</strong></p> <p align="center">"Belle" is so beautiful...and such a simple girl...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4Tdaqi-Dgwg/TvaulmhELiI/AAAAAAAAIC4/F-oJLkgSZsE/s1600-h/DSC_0208%252520%2525282%252529%25255B15%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0208 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_MnHhmLrKXE/Tvaul_FQoqI/AAAAAAAAIDA/VM5gqrwSxZU/DSC_0208%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B13%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="582" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I'm not sure why I love it so much but I always have. </p> <p align="center">(maybe because I LOVE "Lumiere", </p> <p align="center">he's so cute with his french accent!!!)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qtfIuqAaIdY/TvaumZM51II/AAAAAAAAIDE/vK0JrZPoNls/s1600-h/DSC_0211%252520%2525282%252529%25255B12%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0211 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-69KPjmhyu2I/Tvaunk3RWEI/AAAAAAAAIDQ/MlMKG8C7id0/DSC_0211%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="447" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I think it's the fact that someone could truly love something so scary, so mean, so ugly...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-eHRyUqpe-Ls/TvaunvnKXVI/AAAAAAAAIDY/ov5fFPet-ZE/s1600-h/DSC_0228%252520%2525282%252529%25255B23%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0228 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qCBOHlT3k5U/TvauoFr5vzI/AAAAAAAAIDg/LYiBhKNYBFI/DSC_0228%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B21%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="319" /></a> </p> <p align="center">without knowing something (like a prince) could come out of it in the end. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZilP_8GNXLg/TvauoosDk8I/AAAAAAAAIDw/tWFzCTKUhnY/s1600-h/DSC_0230%252520%2525282%252529%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0230 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iTLbo1ORMz8/TvaupuDfNMI/AAAAAAAAID4/-isViGwV1WE/DSC_0230%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="507" /></a> </p> <p align="center">To me that is real love...aaahhh. A true fairytale! ;)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SCyFnk6QGI4/TvauqOxMujI/AAAAAAAAIEA/3cLr7o7hIqU/s1600-h/DSC_0235%252520%2525282%252529%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0235 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QQ6cT0KSbLE/TvauqQwzawI/AAAAAAAAIEI/2edWyhaCpDE/DSC_0235%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="310" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Yes...I'm definitely going back to Hollywood Studios when The Man and I go back to Disney next month! </p> <p align="center">Since Payton and I had done (almost) EVERYTHING possible at Disney, we designated a whole day for...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-UyAb26xCHGI/Tvauqli0uaI/AAAAAAAAIEQ/BjKdP0eoXc4/s1600-h/disney%252520027%25255B19%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="disney 027" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7I-a2XLDyGc/TvaurKdyXnI/AAAAAAAAIEY/iqIxGTcUETw/disney%252520027_thumb%25255B17%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="546" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="6"></font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="6">HARRY POTTER!!!!</font></strong></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ku4jhDQKik8/TvaurWzO4rI/AAAAAAAAIEg/FP5VM5fehns/s1600-h/DSC_0239%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0239" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lFzgNVfTMQM/TvaurhcssnI/AAAAAAAAIEo/vM7hCEELzUQ/DSC_0239_thumb%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="609" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Can you tell in the photo above that she is pooped out? </p> <p align="center">I'm practically having to hold her up!!!</p> <p align="center">This was Day 6 of non-stop park fun. </p> <p align="center">ALL day. EVERY day.</p> <p align="center">Let me give you a quick update ... By this time, my voice was gone, Penny had flown home already (good nurses can't play that long), Payton and I went to Cirque du Soleil's "La Nouba" (late  night show) and we were two tired little <strike>mice</strike> princesses!!!</p> <p align="center">Notice she has forfeited her Minnie ears?</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tP04NVTUZGQ/Tvaur2GTJVI/AAAAAAAAIEw/_fxj_z0Jff4/s1600-h/DSC_0241%25255B15%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0241" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OvtDKkXr7pU/TvausYGLPSI/AAAAAAAAIE4/lSD6btBN724/DSC_0241_thumb%25255B13%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="277" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Now...</p> <p align="center">Here we were in Hogsmeade...waiting for the Hogwart's Express to take us to Hogwart's!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-U66VGg1Lqfs/Tvausqw-QJI/AAAAAAAAIFA/BroZkIrMDDs/s1600-h/DSC_0256%252520%2525282%252529%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0256 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-SmTjxW32YQo/TvautLmTpAI/AAAAAAAAIFI/4wTR0kzn7_Y/DSC_0256%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="279" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Well, not exactly...</p> <p align="center">This Hogwart's Express doesn't "really" move so we had to actually "walk" to Hogwart's, plus wait 75 minutes to ride "Harry Potter's Forbidden Journey". </p> <p align="center">Me? ... It. Was. Awesome. As. Usual.</p> <p align="center">Payton? ... Loved the castle. Not impressed with ride.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-4RzeTWG0m7w/TvautGuI6fI/AAAAAAAAIFQ/4KOJ8HB3nFg/s1600-h/DSC_0242%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0242" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-M1B5eYt4TQY/TvautmkeKGI/AAAAAAAAIFY/w0Ex1S9xwew/DSC_0242_thumb%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="611" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I usually come here in January and there are NO lines. On this day, school was out for the holidays and everyone in Florida was at Hogwart's!!! ;))) </p> <p align="center">But the weather was gorgeous and we had all day to browse...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hkOTMpnhX2M/Tvaut_R_aiI/AAAAAAAAIFg/6iFj7jkuZuE/s1600-h/DSC_0244%25255B19%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0244" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-jPqvvddqoS8/TvauuEU9ldI/AAAAAAAAIFo/gHfIp8_PLdY/DSC_0244_thumb%25255B17%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="610" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And shop for things we need for Hogwart's...</p> <p align="center">Vintage Broom ... check</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-J5zNAbOqnbA/Tvauur61XVI/AAAAAAAAIFw/tepzzwGlvZM/s1600-h/DSC_0246%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0246" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-s0fAahaLEEA/Tvauu4lm0sI/AAAAAAAAIF4/_OoFLzHV9Ig/DSC_0246_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="277" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Chocolate Frogs ... check</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-JtJldKqV0Jk/TvauvHOj0sI/AAAAAAAAIGA/Q__jwkUfNC0/s1600-h/DSC_0243%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0243" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3ITzbXfhg2k/TvauvZ4pNKI/AAAAAAAAIGI/zFZgO9Xi9GY/DSC_0243_thumb%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="277" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Owl ... check</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7NaVCiqNE4M/Tvauv9uJRFI/AAAAAAAAIGQ/H5ChpxzP7X0/s1600-h/DSC_0250%25255B14%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0250" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UOJ5L-WhJaA/TvauwK1pFTI/AAAAAAAAIGY/Wo7gcgU-jqo/DSC_0250_thumb%25255B12%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="610" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And MOST importantly...</p> <p align="center">Wand ... check!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LYZqIRde5dM/TvauweEorDI/AAAAAAAAIGg/EpsngiZK98M/s1600-h/DSC_0251%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0251" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-K85Ysz040d4/Tvauwzy02oI/AAAAAAAAIGo/-H_i51jYcBE/DSC_0251_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="610" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And before we knew it, we were off to Hogwart's.</p> <p align="center">Professor Dumbledore would have been soooo proud of us!</p> <p align="center">;)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ySM4hY14YLg/TvauxBamLPI/AAAAAAAAIGw/kcsxqcQtHw8/s1600-h/DSC_0257%25255B13%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0257" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-y4lpDLDxUDk/TvauxmvNiJI/AAAAAAAAIG4/LQgUnrU6tDY/DSC_0257_thumb%25255B11%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="610" /></a> </p> <p align="center">   The cat is out of the bag...I'm a Harry Potter freak. </p> <p align="center">I could have run around the park in a Gryffindor robe and scarf (but I should be in a Slytherin outfit), waving my wand and casting spells.</p> <p align="center">But wait. I'm just a Muggle. </p> <p align="center">Back to the real world.</p> <p align="center">Wow! This was an awesome trip!!!</p> <p align="center">Oh! Did I mention that we spent the day in New Orleans before we even flew out to Disney? Yep...we sure did! </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Q0VwNuRibOg/Tvaux1_iG1I/AAAAAAAAIHA/BDj_c2_OkTQ/s1600-h/DSC_0023%25255B16%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0023" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZpATA_3XVjc/TvauyNDeMLI/AAAAAAAAIHI/wluDckpsPhY/DSC_0023_thumb%25255B14%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="277" /></a> </p> <p align="center">All three of us princesses are home safe and sound, spending Christmas with our loved ones.</p> <p align="center">I wonder if I could "Mobilicorpus" myself to bed before Santa arrives down our "fake" chimney...</p> <p align="center">No...it's impossible... sometimes I forget I'm just a Muggle.</p> <p align="center">Good night everyone, it's Christmas Eve!</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">Merry Christmas!!!</font></strong></p> <p align="center">Don't forget to wish Jesus a Happy Birthday and thank Mother Mary for such a wonderful gift she's given us!!! :)))</p> <p align="center">And, if I don't see or talk to you again before the end of the year...</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">Happy New Year!!!</font></strong></p> <p align="center">May 2012 bring you many blessings,</p> <p align="center">and much happiness!!!</p> <p align="center">:)</p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-40610777964478271062011-11-24T07:23:00.001-06:002011-11-24T07:23:43.770-06:00A Vintage Engagement Affaire...<p align="center">It started with an Engagement Party (postcard) Invitation that I created.</p> <p align="center">(some names & addresses have been deleted for privacy)</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">FRONT...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-C1_l2KI__zk/Ts5EfZ2Qb-I/AAAAAAAAHv0/SjyKBKX1xtU/s1600-h/treandjaniecopy18.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="treandjanie copy" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-H0vR17c-xbM/Ts5EfvwuxPI/AAAAAAAAHv8/Q7GsNUz7VRc/treandjaniecopy_thumb16.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="536" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">BACK...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rk-HU5vCCcU/Ts5Ef04gbFI/AAAAAAAAHwE/b9eR-oKe_YQ/s1600-h/treandjanie2copy13.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="treandjanie2 copy" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IwuvIVui7eQ/Ts5EgCMcO0I/AAAAAAAAHwI/3BsH_MaNmY8/treandjanie2copy_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="314" /></a> </p> <p align="center">About 100 invitations were sent out and we had an arrival of approximately 125-150 guests that attended.</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">It was a success!!!!</font></strong></p> <p align="center">It was a fairytale night indeed, full of family and friends. </p> <p align="center">Here are a few photos of the decorations...(I have to brag about it...because it really WAS awesome)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--Cr4B1SU2Cs/Ts5EgaREkjI/AAAAAAAAHwQ/LF0vLZm0P2I/s1600-h/DSC_000213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-s38SqWMM3JE/Ts5EggaK98I/AAAAAAAAHwY/fbcq-fHL-j0/DSC_0002_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="370" /></a> </p> <p align="center">The engagement party was an "end of the road" country setting, located outside in the evening light. </p> <p align="center">It was a little breezy, low 60's, bright moon...just perfect with the DJ playing our favorite music in the background.</p> <p align="center">Each of the 8 table centerpieces was decorated differently. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uicHYyz_lpU/Ts5Eg9QYrQI/AAAAAAAAHwg/qEKoW0AS-XE/s1600-h/trejanie_02815.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_028" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NgXtbv9zV_w/Ts5EhOVQvZI/AAAAAAAAHwo/0Pmhfpeh1gA/trejanie_028_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="366" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Several weeks before the party, I bought some small (real) pumpkins. </p> <p align="center">I taped off the stems and spray painted the pumpkins gloss ivory. After they were dry, I hot glued some moss to the tops of them. Simply elegant.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-F9gp-74tocE/Ts5EhahFsgI/AAAAAAAAHww/8cluD1SdOTc/s1600-h/DSC_000311.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0003" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WP1a0X21lWc/Ts5Ehovzy-I/AAAAAAAAHw4/Va-GRfH-ENg/DSC_0003_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="409" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I pulled out all of my vintage "stuff"... lanterns, books, doilies, old frames, and everything I could find and we had a blast decorating!</p> <p align="center">I also printed "Thank You" cards and placed one on each table. I love that special personal touch and to say "Thank You" is always appropriate! </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIl7b2iOMYKtDdiHblBpi3aac09qxDDcxPfUJlotQVqhLUYJ-yCpsw5yvZv-4TkJNFdfSChMZKv6GMFedr6opRMn7TfnGx7CIlmgmzvhQtb-PW6dSlukrc5WPEbM9IA-HGkzZpWbXh8ps/s1600-h/trejanie_0279.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_027" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rz4K6tKJ2eA/Ts5Eifo0a4I/AAAAAAAAHxM/31jOacXvuTw/trejanie_027_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="270" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I have this old desk that we used as the "sign in" table and decorated around it with personal touches...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4lWLDOnbfwA/Ts5EipMJzMI/AAAAAAAAHxU/O7WsQ5nmVso/s1600-h/trejanie_01915.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_019" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-V3HviSRFqAE/Ts5Eiy4t27I/AAAAAAAAHxY/m_W312QEetA/trejanie_019_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="565" /></a> </p> <p align="center">We used my vintage Samsonite suitcase for the gift cards...</p> <p align="center">**an idea I <strike>stole</strike> borrowed from <a href="http://suzanneduda.typepad.com/my_weblog/2011/10/the-card-suitcase.html" target="_blank">Suzanne's daughter's wedding</a>!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_Hs2Z6ezR7M/Ts5EjZowYbI/AAAAAAAAHxo/yaJM8_5glH0/s1600-h/trejanie_01810.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_018" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UtiBrPN_Aik/Ts5ElACAgcI/AAAAAAAAHxs/G_Syq2i2GqA/trejanie_018_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="557" /></a> </p> <p align="center">My old vintage Underwood typewriter with a cute little note that I printed and "vintaged up" a little...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3qxXPKc9jgg/Ts5Elv8o_ZI/AAAAAAAAHx0/WMtyEgpN1po/s1600-h/trejanie_01610.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_016" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-jtoNMLPOTS4/Ts5ElxnpEQI/AAAAAAAAHyA/FzqibV2Kl9I/trejanie_016_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="332" /></a> </p> <p align="center">On the other side of the desk, we placed some hay bales and covered them with a vintage inspired blanket. </p> <p align="center">There we put the gifts.</p> <p align="center">We also covered some Hershey Chocolate bars in some coordinating paper and fluffed them up for the guests to take home on their way out...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VdpqxUpwRDA/Ts5EmdjTIlI/AAAAAAAAHyI/9W-PdDv1DRw/s1600-h/trejanie_01119.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_011" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CuLquw8p9xA/Ts5Emo6X-5I/AAAAAAAAHyQ/8pLX748VY2s/trejanie_011_thumb17.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="305" /></a> </p> <p align="center">We placed other hay bales and covered them with vintage inspired blankets so the guests could cozy up and visit with one another...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oEfUB6QvLKw/Ts5EnOvk2oI/AAAAAAAAHyY/NEiPgRinbd4/s1600-h/trejanie_03611.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_036" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qEY2MdDm7-Q/Ts5EnZ_w2LI/AAAAAAAAHyg/yEODUOZEV3o/trejanie_036_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="560" /></a> </p> <p align="center">We also had an open bar...</p> <p align="center">I had some old military burlap that I've been wanting to use. </p> <p align="center">Since I didn't have a stencil large enough for the letters, I printed out the letters "B" "A" "R" as big as I could each on an 8.5x11 sheet of paper. </p> <p align="center">I used an exacto knife to cut out the letters, leaving me a nice sized paper stencil. </p> <p align="center">Using a sponge, I dabbed some black paint inside the stencil, let dry and hung them with safety pins. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikDZvx-IQymbEiKGgb7oMq5W2lP9F4OxyG2f2m84JrVxmUSTH4suOw7NG48qogOqb5OWDK7XAWPZT0IehHw7UyuSZs_xlirB0sW7CBv0OkAgyq93VC-wH-rqROR9mA4zH_vsNZs2aPEKA/s1600-h/DSC_000410.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0004" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fcCj-v7U7M8/Ts5EoEh8lPI/AAAAAAAAHyw/PIkS5OmECoE/DSC_0004_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="322" /></a> </p> <p align="center">The glassed frame above is from a garage sale. I think I picked it up for $2 last year. It was a picture of a boy and girl (not too cute) but I had big plans for it and it had been sitting in my garage for way too long. There was no better time to "convert" it as now!  </p> <p align="center">So I took it apart, turned the picture board around and painted it with black chalkboard paint.</p> <p align="center">**<em>Correction: I did not paint it...<u>The Man</u> sprayed it for me!</em> </p> <p align="center">The <u>best</u> chalkboard paint to use is Valspar and you can get it at Lowe's for $14.99 a quart. </p> <p align="center">I've tried the Krylon spray can and wasn't too happy with the results. At all.</p> <p align="center">After drying, I used chalk to write all the liquor, wines and beer that we were serving...</p> <p align="center">I then put the frame, matting and glass back together.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Rn_m2XaEW64/Ts5Eoe2JoVI/AAAAAAAAHy4/j063nlIQ-B4/s1600-h/trejanie_0268.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_026" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6k_uR-oCHww/Ts5EoqF8FfI/AAAAAAAAHzA/TZgtdXcMtWI/trejanie_026_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="611" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I know what you're thinking...</p> <p align="center">In Southern Louisiana, we sure can drink! And yes we do!!!</p> <p align="center">We find a reason to celebrate anything and everything!!!</p> <p align="center">Also on the bar table, I decorated a glass vase and turned it into a tip jar and placed it on some old books. I also placed some napkins in an old sewing machine drawer...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vnBD5fYDyFM/Ts5Eo9ek-jI/AAAAAAAAHzI/KuF5VkHrHis/s1600-h/trejanie_00720.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_007" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_hInRLj6RFo/Ts5EpIaqnhI/AAAAAAAAHzQ/PNuPM-BAUO8/trejanie_007_thumb18.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="316" /></a> </p> <p align="center">The tip jar must have worked well as the little guy we "hired" to bartend emptied it quite often and was very happy!</p> <p align="center">As for the beer, we gathered "feeding" troughs and wash pans from family members.</p> <p align="center">I knew I was serving only four varieties of beer so I only needed four large containers and after looking through family member's barns and sheds, this is what we came up with...</p> <p align="center">(after much cleaning!!!!)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-k3OL3W19TTk/Ts5EpcdfEnI/AAAAAAAAHzY/0pk57E12_68/s1600-h/trejanie_02513.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_025" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-z2NzRZSlG2I/Ts5Epq5MqcI/AAAAAAAAHzc/R2WQiK4cS24/trejanie_025_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="262" /></a></p> <p align="center">Again, we used hay bales to lift them up (plus the hay absorbed the condensation) and gave them just the right height we needed. </p> <p align="center">We tied some can openers and labeled each trough/wash pan with the choice of beer that was chilling inside.</p> <p align="center">I must say, the guys were impressed!  </p> <p align="center">We also had the white wines (chardonnay, riesling, & pino grigio) chilling in a smaller wash pan and used another wash pan for the bar ice...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pkliByEb-qg/Ts5FRQ6rupI/AAAAAAAAH0A/qgOmCqzNxnU/s1600-h/trejanie_04312.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_043" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-y5vHmmAm7rg/Ts5FRm1zSBI/AAAAAAAAH0I/AiBkoxZMbJ8/trejanie_043_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="277" /></a> </p> <p align="center">We set up a "self-serve" table that included sodas, tea and ice for those who do not drink alcoholic beverages.</p> <p align="center">(Just a note...that table was rarely touched!) haha!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-86E_DdZcSpo/Ts5FR5B96oI/AAAAAAAAH0Q/zlmoINW3EH8/s1600-h/trejanie_00813.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_008" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Gx9obV6kIBQ/Ts5FSDKOeiI/AAAAAAAAH0Y/uqMYNNSb6Uw/trejanie_008_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="420" /></a></p> <p align="center">And last but not least, we had one more useful old hay bale...</p> <p align="center">We placed my old vintage bath tub on it and filled it with bottled water and ice (and labeled that too of course!)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dfnf0uExjyU/Ts5FSefJoRI/AAAAAAAAH0g/j5h5Vym46bU/s1600-h/trejanie_01014.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_010" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Ra_P3_DH7CE/Ts5FSiPBdNI/AAAAAAAAH0o/qnABDIMibno/trejanie_010_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="450" /></a></p> <p align="center">One thing was for sure at this party...</p> <p align="center">Everyone knew "what" they were drinking! </p> <p align="center">So as the sun began to set and the guests began to arrive, our decorating  job was finished and it was time to spoil the guests upon their entrance...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-EbhdANRn89I/Ts5FS2LbODI/AAAAAAAAH0w/48KOk8xAzkU/s1600-h/trejanie_04216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_042" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xhnqduSJFAU/Ts5FTYLwrfI/AAAAAAAAH04/hKzC3GaZeOo/trejanie_042_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="336" /></a> </p> <p align="center">   One by one they signed it and took in each and every little detail...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xkryBDnhItE/Ts5FTt_SPJI/AAAAAAAAH1A/-8mnwdwpRZo/s1600-h/trejanie_01314.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_013" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c2hN7L5HhGY/Ts5FT500NHI/AAAAAAAAH1I/B2KeE1805TI/trejanie_013_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="647" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And all of us hostesses just sat back and smiled at our job (very) well done.</p> <p align="center">Oh...and there was food too!</p> <p align="center">Each hostess brought a side dish of their choice from the menu that I prepared in advance...</p> <p align="center">How could I be so rude as to not show you?</p> <p align="center">We transformed a carport into a dining extravaganza, filled with appetizers, meats, veggies and fruit...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_yGd4eIel98/Ts5FUIApMGI/AAAAAAAAH1Q/snCwNLM12wM/s1600-h/trejanie_05014.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_050" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WF46PFXl37c/Ts5FUVaRQMI/AAAAAAAAH1Y/-mqNvAyBqGg/trejanie_050_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="627" /></a> </p> <p align="center">The main course was Jambalaya and white beans...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VbdFH73_B-Y/Ts5FUkUCnYI/AAAAAAAAH1g/Lc2dtWFxbzI/s1600-h/trejanie_05113.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_051" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CiSZ74w_PtE/Ts5FU8xMLNI/AAAAAAAAH1o/3v2raODxcMc/trejanie_051_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="245" /></a> </p> <p align="center">and desserts plenty...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6fmNZUJrUeA/Ts5FVCpnBqI/AAAAAAAAH1w/apSVM-_2Lz4/s1600-h/trejanie_05231.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_052" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZHrysui_5rQ/Ts5FVayd3KI/AAAAAAAAH14/04X5doXR-PA/trejanie_052_thumb27.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="330" /></a> </p> <p align="center">So feel free to fix you a plate full of goodies and dine by the pool...I'm so happy you came too!!!!   ;)))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--NGqhNx45Wg/Ts5FVtjYPDI/AAAAAAAAH2A/ls6PVUMDOWo/s1600-h/trejanie_05416.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_054" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rpjDycHI8Wc/Ts5FV-cW8RI/AAAAAAAAH2E/Qdn6vayWyII/trejanie_054_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="276" /></a> </p> <p align="center">It was a lot of planning, a lot of preparation, and a lot of detail but it certainly all paid off in the end. </p> <p align="center">It was nice visiting with all of our aunts, uncles and cousins and most of all, knowing the couple of honor had just as much fun as we did!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-mJkQ8b7xx0A/Ts5FWPBkHDI/AAAAAAAAH2M/NkUH4NPo1Hw/s1600-h/trejanie_08719.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_087" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-h1iZGXm_uX4/Ts5FWyuavhI/AAAAAAAAH2U/fLn70AgBHbo/trejanie_087_thumb17.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="319" /></a> </p> <p align="center">They say this party was the talk of the year...</p> <p align="center">and that makes my heart happy (& proud).</p> <p align="center">Now it's time to unpack all of my vintage goodies and save them in their rightful places here at home...</p> <p align="center">Save all of my laundered linens (thank you Sonya)...</p> <p align="center">And sit back and enjoy the Thanksgiving Holiday!!!</p> <p align="center">(no more parties for a while...I think I may be just a little sad)</p> <p align="center">just a little...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iXK6iOIbZYY/Ts5FXD_h17I/AAAAAAAAH2c/SONMguD1ma0/s1600-h/trejanie_03114.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_031" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-vEahkxS8ShI/Ts5FXy4gdsI/AAAAAAAAH2k/E_F2fvPDj5U/trejanie_031_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="420" /></a></p> <p align="center"><strong>HAPPY THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY!!!</strong></p> <p align="center">~ be safe, be generous, & be thankful ~  </p> <p align="center">cheers! </p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-44782989845239223802011-11-20T17:56:00.001-06:002011-11-20T17:56:21.569-06:00I Remember...<p align="center">On this lazy Sunday while watching a <em>Lifetime</em> movie, something happened to me...</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-X4muj3Pf4mg/TsmTh5DNs6I/AAAAAAAAHrw/XpEz4ouTuTY/s1600-h/trejanie_03515.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_035" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKDKIIZG5KNlV8FpIbfjTW5o9TQut3qoyqIviweR5YQkm7-ZHxFuG7CTM-w4Y2ojZtwDS5L2KT15yc5KJJaymKprPp1_iNJ95gNHp9JVAzG1D4aBTCDXenohOFblfBzYIaxZ1PfFlJHu8/?imgmax=800" width="411" height="382" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Without leaving the comfort of my couch, I grabbed my iPhone, logged in to MY blog, read the last post and each comment that was left for me. </p> <p align="center">I realized that healing <em>does</em> take time. </p> <p align="center">I still have good days and bad days, but that seems to be my new normal. </p> <p align="center">However, I did not realize so much time had passed since.</p> <p align="center">You were with me every step of the way...</p> <p align="center"><em>Thank You!</em></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RrOWjVNSKCo/TsmTiqG-41I/AAAAAAAAHsA/DYvh7ihJTeY/s1600-h/trejanie_02414.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_024" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-olQoKbOuNos/TsmTi2A9-zI/AAAAAAAAHsI/B-WmeQzFZP0/trejanie_024_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="325" /></a> </p> <p align="center">From my blog, I then logged in to my Flickr account. </p> <p align="center">I really can't explain how my heart could be happy <em>and</em> sad all at the same time, but it was. </p> <p align="center">There I saw beautiful photos ... MY photos all of which hold priceless memories of creativity, happiness and friendships. </p> <p align="center">I turned to The Man and said <em>"You know, I really used to be creative and I enjoyed it so much. Every photo has a memory."</em> </p> <p align="center">He said in the softest voice...</p> <p align="center"><em>"You ARE still creative Jodie...you ARE."</em></p> <p align="center">And...with that said, I jumped off the couch and jumped on the computer because I AM LONESOME for YOU and CREATIVITY!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SjWpjLkvYcI/TsmTjMdb2wI/AAAAAAAAHsQ/HomNmfiAUSs/s1600-h/trejanie_021315.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="trejanie_021 (3)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-lRGwVkZb1mQ/TsmTjaD7pcI/AAAAAAAAHsY/z3ApAkmttDQ/trejanie_0213_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="493" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I believe creativity comes from within. I also believe everyone has a touch of it, but some may not believe they do. I don't think God would have made this world in such a way that we could not put our personal touches everywhere...do you?</p> <p align="center">And that goes for blogging too. I cannot count how many times that I was touched by something a blogger posted about or commented about. Touched by a photo I saw, or something someone created and shared with us all. </p> <p align="center"><em>Creativity is just plain amazing!</em></p> <p align="center">With all the time that had passed since I last posted, I thought I would go back and remember all of the things that have mended my heart (as much as possible), cleared my mind (but not forgotten), and kept me alive (which was much needed).</p> <p align="center">Here we go...</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">APRIL</font></strong></p> <p align="center">The Man and I bought us a camper... (love love)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-u_U-1iPB7Qg/TsmTjubrAWI/AAAAAAAAHsg/vsAb7N-unvQ/s1600-h/photo15.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="photo" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-pktMMq-YwgA/TsmTjypf7AI/AAAAAAAAHso/xO5ehOec7xw/photo_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="310" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">MAY</font></strong></p> <p align="center">My beautiful niece graduated from high school and was Valedictorian I might add!!!! </p> <p align="center">I just love this baby girl of mine!!!!! :)))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cDESLTEcBYc/TsmTkNxImJI/AAAAAAAAHsw/Ft713zyTP_w/s1600-h/DSC_0053224.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0053 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kv2N8gt7WT0/TsmTkFgZIqI/AAAAAAAAHs4/blBUeTLjTa8/DSC_00532_thumb22.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="571" /></a></p> <p align="center"> <strong><font size="5">JUNE </font></strong></p> <p align="center">One of my best friend's daughter was married...the bride and groom (Dr. & Mrs. O'Neal) baked me a cobbler before they left for their new home 7 states away! </p> <p align="center">I'm so lonesome!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-f_SS4undB3I/TsmTkdx9LeI/AAAAAAAAHtA/SzymC9IM25s/s1600-h/photo114.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="photo1" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xzo5gwYFtUo/TsmTkwVA5bI/AAAAAAAAHtI/fTq8BcBLJ08/photo1_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="548" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I went to Vegas with my girlfriends, aka The GG's! These girls are the best! I can never keep up with them...they are way too crazy for me but I just can't stay away from them! I was pregnant at the time but never told them until we arrived home. And...they were too busy drinking to notice that I NEVER drank a drop!  ;)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vczuVoxa0NE/TsmTlOfbljI/AAAAAAAAHtQ/Twdtq3uzhvU/s1600-h/DSC_000113.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0001" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-9hCmtu6LCOE/TsmTlccbOfI/AAAAAAAAHtY/tYNCZXtx1L8/DSC_0001_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="364" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">AUGUST</font></strong> </p> <p align="center">One of my nephews was married!!!!</p> <p align="center">It was a simply beautiful evening from start to finish...</p> <p align="center">(I stole this photo from my niece...thank <em>you Payton!</em>)</p> <p align="center">Please meet Mr. & Mrs. Creasman...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-z8BUMG3NISs/TsmTlqlKLQI/AAAAAAAAHtg/JUcgSXq14As/s1600-h/photo215.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="photo2" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-dtzPO1qvbMU/TsmTmK4XZAI/AAAAAAAAHto/LHRRF1vMObk/photo2_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="309" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Also in August, I enjoyed our Annual High School Co-Ed Softball Tournament. I'm not much of a "player"... I'm just a catcher. </p> <p align="center">I was just out of surgery 5 weeks at that time so I only played two innings throughout the whole tournament. I enjoyed being with my classmates...go 88! </p> <p align="center">We ended up winning the Championship for the first time this year! </p> <p align="center"><em>How ya like that game face of mine?</em></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TRppsbpiSmQ/TsmTmNo5MfI/AAAAAAAAHtw/Gg6iHT0YJ8Q/s1600-h/photo4220.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="photo4 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-_yMLmNAsWcU/TsmTmf3h3fI/AAAAAAAAHt4/vo0muCLsS_A/photo42_thumb18.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="616" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And...also in August, I spent the day helping my niece move into her very first apartment for her very first college semester. </p> <p align="center">We hauled boxes, clothes, went shopping, ate and had a wonderful day decorating her room while I forgot that I parked my Suburban in a handicapped spot. </p> <p align="center">I really intended to run up the stairs and run back down and move it...only to forget for two and a half hours and walk out to this scene...tickets in the window and wheel chocks! Geez!!!!</p> <p align="center">AND <strong>$275 worth of fines!</strong> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vkY3lD2qOmc/TsmTmoBMh4I/AAAAAAAAHuA/--6KElXmYgY/s1600-h/photo3%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="photo3" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zAPh-Ds97Wk/TsmTmzuiP1I/AAAAAAAAHuI/UofEyb6aJ10/photo3_thumb%25255B10%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="337" /></a> </p> <p align="center">At least my Suburban was clean for the photo, right? ;)</p> <p align="center">The Man thought that was <em>not</em> funny.</p> <p align="center">Moving on to </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">SEPTEMBER</font></strong></p> <p align="center">I decided to make a spur of the moment trip to Round Top/Warrenton Texas since I didn't go in the spring.</p> <p align="center">Besides, it was Cat Daddy's birthday and I needed a big hug from both he and <a href="http://talkingwhitetrash.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Debbie</a>!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSaieZ6_ws1jP7v58vGtPu_XenJDuO_8I095tOk1A4RbBOO5IQYWnPOMHcra3puWEzuHGet814FDIlSG1FSpQ8zSXKFrLZKmfFxcJ12rsbjuSfBdcz0JyngSsIQVk6ruHPVjEuTelyW4E/s1600-h/315519_2226610022470_1164364667_3230.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="315519_2226610022470_1164364667_32308960_1933687206_n" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WsyyHZHOtPo/TsmTnTru6zI/AAAAAAAAHuY/QeJw3fSIS9E/315519_2226610022470_1164364667_3230%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="309" /></a> </p> <p align="center">As an added bonus, I was able to met their daughter Jennifer in person and spend some quality "hug time" with baby Bella!!!!</p> <p align="center">Pictures were taken from my camera but for the life of me I cannot find them so I'm stealing these from someone's facebook...probably yours <a href="http://adornmentsbylisa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa P</a>!!! ;)</p> <p align="center">left to right:</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://gypsymermaidlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sarah</a>, Me, <a href="http://adornmentsbylisa.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa P</a>, <a href="http://talkingwhitetrash.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Debbie</a> and <strike>red neck</strike> <a href="http://redneckchic.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Robelyn</a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-u533tDzFSZg/TsmTn5w3tFI/AAAAAAAAHug/5gqqlOjOJ1Y/s1600-h/300270_2226640223225_1164364667_3230%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="300270_2226640223225_1164364667_32308968_1722032721_n" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rdCG-S5nq_8/TsmToP2qAwI/AAAAAAAAHuo/l8kxTChdY9s/300270_2226640223225_1164364667_3230%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="310" /></a> </p> <p align="center">This was really the first road trip I took since I was down and it sure felt good to smile again :)  Thank you girls!!!!</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">OCTOBER</font></strong></p> <p align="center">Yep...I had a birthday. No big birthday MONTH bash like all my previous years. I was still on the mend. I appreciate all those who remembered...you bloggers and good friends are the best!!!</p> <p align="center">One of my other nephews announced his wedding engagement and I was honored to be the photographer of their engagement photos...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-98E7Mbzd03Y/TsmToUGd3ZI/AAAAAAAAHuw/4yRvJcSFFQg/s1600-h/engagehands114.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="engagehands1" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Pu62fiqNX5k/TsmTovFJM0I/AAAAAAAAHu4/fHM4ULT9dcw/engagehands1_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="575" /></a></p> <p align="center"><em>Gosh I loooovvvve that ring!</em></p> <p align="center">Their wedding will be coming up in February and I'm looking forward to taking those photos too. </p> <p align="center">They are such a cute couple, aren't they?  </p> <p align="center">The future Dr. & Mrs. Fruge'...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zMmeDCI9ITE/TsmTo-Po69I/AAAAAAAAHvA/ELvj6DwGn4Q/s1600-h/engage28719.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="engage287" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EvOxcTc2kWc/TsmTpPVltEI/AAAAAAAAHvI/n0ydAxNctJU/engage287_thumb17.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="294" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">NOVEMBER</font></strong></p> <p align="center">The first few photos of this post are from an engagement shower that I helped coordinate/decorate for my cousin's son last weekend. </p> <p align="center">I have a lot more of the engagement shower to show you but I will save it for my next post.</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">Thank you for visiting and catching up with me...I know it's been a while!</font></strong></p> <p align="center">I can't believe we are already into Thanksgiving Week...which makes me count all of my blessings, both big and small.</p> <p align="center">Before I close this post, I want you to know that YOU are one of my biggest blessings! I know I've been a terrible, bad, horrible blogger (not posting and not visiting) but I want you to know how very grateful I am that you haven't given up on me. </p> <p align="center">Thank you for the sweetest comments and emails and most of all, your patience!!!</p> <p align="center">Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!!!</p> <p align="center"></p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-27652395808940985022011-07-14T21:51:00.001-05:002011-07-14T21:51:26.518-05:00For a split second...<p align="center">How long is a second? </p> <p align="center">A minute? </p> <p align="center">An hour?</p> <p align="center">A LIFETIME?</p> <p align="center">It seemed that as quick as I was...I was not.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7vBY6MQpEEc/Th-rEdPmxTI/AAAAAAAAHq4/7Sep7csARCM/s1600-h/DSC_0018%25255B25%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0018" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Aa-pMG0vWdk/Th-rE6TYWlI/AAAAAAAAHq8/LxDzhBjzN7A/DSC_0018_thumb%25255B23%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="292" /></a></p> <p align="center">On June 15th, my whole life changed in <strong>a split second</strong>.</p> <p align="center">Me, at 40 years (young)... </p> <p align="center">with a loving husband of over 26 years...</p> <p align="center">and a wonderful 23 year old son...(yes...23 years)...</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">It was confirmed...WE were expecting! Again!</font></p> <p align="center">On what was to be a "happy day", I was already emotional as that was my Dad's birthday and I miss him terribly.</p> <p align="center">In the back of my mind, for <strong>a split second</strong>, I could hear the words "When one door closes, another one opens".</p> <p align="center">My husband and I knew I was pregnant (almost 7 weeks) but hearing it and actually seeing it was overwhelming...especially after 23 years.</p> <p align="center">I never in my life would have thought I could have SO many mixed feelings all in <strong>a split second</strong>.</p> <p align="center">And oh did I!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-FEStqH-vhyo/Th-rFd0GT7I/AAAAAAAAHrA/rnUqM3qPtxU/s1600-h/DSC_0012%252520%2525282%252529%25255B27%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0012 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-aCCe0k7j-vA/Th-rGMazgsI/AAAAAAAAHrE/6UXrGUwVh3I/DSC_0012%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B25%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="573" /></a> </p> <p align="center">What was three was about to be four...</p> <p align="center">Life as I knew it was changing forever...</p> <p align="center">And what seemed like a lifetime of tears that I shed on my steering wheel in the parking lot of the doctor's office that day was only for a brief moment...</p> <p align="center">Little did I know that I was soon to learn what the difference between <strong>a split second</strong> and a lifetime really is.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2I7qN0aW_hw/Th-rIK02V8I/AAAAAAAAHrI/fYHttYmJcHU/s1600-h/DSC_0015%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0015" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qpsXWA2b0kc/Th-rIkMHH3I/AAAAAAAAHrM/OKKXXl8S_k0/DSC_0015_thumb%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="610" /></a> </p> <p align="center">For the next month, it seemed like we spent hours of planning our new future (+1) together, chatting before falling asleep and giggling at the fact that we were going to be new parents again...after 23 years.</p> <p align="center">If any father could have the chance to be pregnant, it would have been MY husband. </p> <p align="center">Thad's blue eyes shined brightly every time someone congratulated us...and it tickled my tummy every time I saw it. He was so happy. We were so happy!</p> <p align="center">Our hearts felt young again, just like the first time since our Brett was little. But this time, without any struggles nor worries.</p> <p align="center">If anyone could love and provide for a child, WE could and in <strong>a split second</strong>, I finally accepted that no one would be more perfect than us as parents, for it was His plan. </p> <p align="center">I soon began thanking God every night for choosing US.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-dF0M0qGU51w/Th-rJDW3XTI/AAAAAAAAHrQ/y1brcjXFl-8/s1600-h/DSC_0008%25255B15%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0008" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-EAxGbWH8XXM/Th-rJhHq4pI/AAAAAAAAHrU/gm2Jn6ou8II/DSC_0008_thumb%25255B13%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="276" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Being expecting parents in our forties, we were so embraced by friends and family. Their excitement and happiness for us was overwhelming. We were bringing new life into a huge empty house and everyone was anticipating every second of it. </p> <p align="center">Imagining what our future Christmas' would be like with little pitter patter of feet, fingers pulling on the tree ornaments and in years to come, patiently waiting for Santa.</p> <p align="center">I know...all the thoughts of a whole lifetime of what was to be, was gone in <strong>a split second.</strong></p> <p align="center">Never in my life and certainly never for <strong>a split second</strong> would I have thought that a routine check-up at the doctor's office would change my life forever. Our life. Many lives.</p> <p align="center">In a heart beat...</p> <p align="center">but without a heart beat...</p> <p align="center">What was four was now three...</p> <p align="center">Life as I knew it was changing forever...</p> <p align="center">all in <strong>a split second</strong>...again.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HlJ28B0ZWQQ/Th-rJ6X8VpI/AAAAAAAAHrY/LYhI7LvPgeA/s1600-h/DSC_0013%252520%2525282%252529%25255B34%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0013 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2dQjQup6WjQ/Th-rKVYn8QI/AAAAAAAAHrc/H77QMRU_ef4/DSC_0013%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B32%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="352" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And for a brief moment, there I was ... shedding tears on my steering wheel in the very same parking lot of the doctor's office once again. </p> <p align="center">For <strong>a split second</strong>, I thought I was going to die.</p> <p align="center">I had NEVER felt so alone in my life.</p> <p align="center">I had never lost something so precious that was MINE.</p> <p align="center">I never in my life would have thought I could have SO many mixed feelings all in <strong>a split second</strong>...<strong>AGAIN!</strong></p> <p align="center">At that time, at that <strong>split second</strong>, I felt like I was the only one in the world that ever experienced a loss such as this one.</p> <p align="center">But...</p> <p align="center">I couldn't be the only one.</p> <p align="center">For it was then and there did I realize what the difference was between <strong>a split second</strong> and a lifetime is...</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">it is forever.</font></strong></p> <p align="center">I am not the only one because for whatever reason...</p> <p align="center">I know that each and every one of you that will read this,</p> <p align="center">you carry your own<strong> split second</strong> in your heart forever.</p> <p align="center">And...now I understand.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-uCKKKu4GpUg/Th-rK-QZUcI/AAAAAAAAHrg/5UbyBn0iEHk/s1600-h/DSC_0016%25255B17%25255D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0016" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-C44hEVaK6s4/Th-rLVm4DfI/AAAAAAAAHrk/BKBEv11_C3s/DSC_0016_thumb%25255B15%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="277" /></a> </p> <p align="center"> Many thanks to our family and friends and to those of you that we do not know but have experienced a loss in some way.</p> <p align="center">There is comfort in words. </p> <p align="center">Comfort in hugs. </p> <p align="center">Comfort in flowers.</p> <p align="center">Comfort in a simple smile. </p> <p align="center">My comfort is writing about this and sharing with you...</p> <p align="center">that I DO understand.</p> <p align="center">For <strong>a split second</strong> I was there and I will be forever.</p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com86tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-30085289962583797252011-04-27T07:21:00.001-05:002011-04-27T07:21:05.505-05:00Am I the ONLY one?<p align="center">I'm sure you're sick of hearing about the "Royal Wedding" but I just wanted to let you know that...</p> <p align="center">I'll be up early Friday, in the wee wee hours of the morning watching the royal fabulous-ness ALL day. </p> <p align="center">That's right. I sure will.</p> <p align="center">I have the day OFF and I will be glued to the television.</p> <p align="center">(just letting you know that you're not alone)</p> <p align="center">;)</p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-57864538898534020242011-04-01T07:18:00.001-05:002011-04-01T07:18:06.534-05:00It started with a green onion...<p align="center">Let me explain...</p> <p align="center">It "really" started with a new gas grill,</p> <p align="center">BUT...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCXOFWIVI/AAAAAAAAHpQ/nDByCwidErs/s1600-h/DSC_0404%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0404" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCXaVQgsI/AAAAAAAAHpU/siiEBUfJfKM/DSC_0404_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="277" /></a> </p> <p align="center">The "real" question was...</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">What's for supper?</font></p> <p align="center">I was too lazy to go to the grocery store and The Man had some yard work to do around the house.</p> <p align="center">Like a "good" wife, I followed him around the yard asking him what would he like for supper...and...as any "good" husband would respond...he said "anything as long as it's quick and hot."</p> <p align="center">(hmpf! very typical. not much help there)</p> <p align="center">I turned the corner and noticed that in a planter pot that I had put away last winter, there was a huge bunch of fresh green onions that returned from last year...yum yum! </p> <p align="center">I quickly picked a handful and ran back into the house, opened the fridge and...realized that I really "should" have went to the grocery store after all. </p> <p align="center">Besides the normal "necessities", the fridge was bare!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCXzKQrzI/AAAAAAAAHpY/8Lt5mCfWZtg/s1600-h/DSC_0396%20%282%29%5B20%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0396 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCYGFUT1I/AAAAAAAAHpc/TU71HnQ9cOI/DSC_0396%20%282%29_thumb%5B18%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="671" /></a> </p> <p align="center">{{{ok. I cannot believe that I'm showing you the inside of my fridge but I want you to get the full idea of my story!}}}</p> <p align="center">{{oh...and the beer is not ours...I swear! My girlfriend Cindy stocks my fridge for when she comes to visit. She knows it's safe with us because the The Man and I are whiskey people!}}</p> <p align="center">Okay...back to the green onion story...</p> <p align="center">We had these beautiful steaks defrosted and seasoned, ready to break in the new grill.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCYmGqo1I/AAAAAAAAHpg/OYRAanHGQro/s1600-h/DSC_0401%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0401" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCZDpAj_I/AAAAAAAAHpk/h5OhWw5lMSk/DSC_0401_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="309" /></a> </p> <p align="center">But we had nothing to add as a quick "side dish" and now my mouth was watering for those fresh green onions.</p> <p align="center">I was even MORE determined not to go the grocery store because I wanted to get to grillin'!</p> <p align="center">So back to basics, I opened the pantry and low and behold...I found some leftover hot dog buns that were soon to be thrown away.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCZQwTL2I/AAAAAAAAHpo/fki31E6goFg/s1600-h/DSC_0399%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0399" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCZ2TXjII/AAAAAAAAHps/S8KE9bzsH7s/DSC_0399_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="609" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And...in my solemnly bare fridge, I found some butter and some leftover Velveeta cheese...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCaYHmliI/AAAAAAAAHpw/yWiqpsz5aHg/s1600-h/DSC_0397%5B18%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0397" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCai1zikI/AAAAAAAAHp0/PO27KLkXDww/DSC_0397_thumb%5B16%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="359" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I added a little bit of bacon bits and some garlic powder and those fresh GREEN ONIONS and I made our own garlic bread...</p> <p align="center">Who needed to go grocery shopping, right?   ;)))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCbIHA1PI/AAAAAAAAHp4/yDQLAOtEHho/s1600-h/DSC_0400%5B18%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0400" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCbV2w44I/AAAAAAAAHp8/GWCVzSYbsJE/DSC_0400_thumb%5B16%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="276" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I was so darn proud of myself, I couldn't wait to slap them on the grill...</p> <p align="center">along with the steaks...</p> <p align="center">and a wiener for the pooch.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCb55HJOI/AAAAAAAAHqA/HtE0dXb4S6I/s1600-h/DSC_0405%20%282%29%5B16%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0405 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCcGQAfHI/AAAAAAAAHqE/Tg7fLPwFiJU/DSC_0405%20%282%29_thumb%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="369" /></a></p> <p align="center">I know, I'm sure you're thinking simple things like this is done all the time...we all "make do". </p> <p align="center"><font color="#808080">~~ I remember when I was an impressionable teenager, I'd watch my mother come up with the most "interesting" meals. Growing up with divorced parents, we didn't have a lot, but she always managed to pull stuff together from the most simplest of things. Even buttered biscuits filled with bologna and pickles were awesome. And the best part...anything and everything tasted better with green onions from her tiny container garden! ~~</font></p> <p align="center">But when I do it, it's such a good feeling because I'm guilty of being one of those "just go buy it done because I'm too busy" kind of girl. It just feels good to make do with what we have, don't waste anything and just live a little simpler.</p> <p align="center">Are you wondering about the wiener?</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCcs_rKLI/AAAAAAAAHqI/JIKg-ViZXg0/s1600-h/DSC_0403%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0403" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCdNTrNmI/AAAAAAAAHqM/b0UAs4rvL7Y/DSC_0403_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="371" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Oreo said it was nose smackin' delicious!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCdaBNCmI/AAAAAAAAHqQ/MQLMg2Mik7g/s1600-h/DSC_0402%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0402" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCd23eQAI/AAAAAAAAHqU/csLkW9Zq0-0/DSC_0402_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="371" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And the steaks and bread?</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCefE0hII/AAAAAAAAHqY/mtSLVGTPErU/s1600-h/DSC_0406%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0406" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCenOp0WI/AAAAAAAAHqc/h7we326uSBA/DSC_0406_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="271" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Well.</p> <p align="center">They surely got The Man's approval too...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCfJSdbLI/AAAAAAAAHqg/zc1_B7qRXSU/s1600-h/DSC_0409%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0409" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TZXCfWfhyMI/AAAAAAAAHqk/7Ac55ZA7YmE/DSC_0409_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="302" /></a> </p> <p align="center">New grill.</p> <p align="center">Happy dog.</p> <p align="center">Happy hard working Man.</p> <p align="center">And me? I love the simple things...</p> <p align="center">{gotta love those green onions}</p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>Happy April </strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>and have a wonderful weekend!!!</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>:)</strong></font></p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-62696317657583350372011-03-19T23:42:00.001-05:002011-03-19T23:44:58.306-05:00Where does the TIME go???<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFf7rpuVI/AAAAAAAAHoI/NxH_EEtl4u0/s1600-h/8_edbw20%20copy%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="8_edbw20 copy" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFgFOQY-I/AAAAAAAAHoM/J2AKZqs-O1Q/8_edbw20%20copy_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="511" /></a></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">Seriously?</font></strong></p> <p align="center">I'm sure most of you have been wondering where in the world is Jodie LeJeune. </p> <p align="center">I know...I've been MIA (but for GOOD reason!)</p> <p align="center">Let me tell you where I've been...let's start backtracking for a moment since it's been over a month since I've posted! Geez!</p> <p align="center">First of all, I've been behind my camera, snapping away at my beautiful niece and editing HUNDREDS of senior photos! I still have 999 left to go <strong>but the one above is my all-time favorite!!!</strong>  Her Mom hasn't even seen them yet so please feel privileged that YOU are the first to see some of them...hot off the press!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFgZVtV7I/AAAAAAAAHoQ/SiV6SX9ilrw/s1600-h/13_edfinalcolor301%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="13_edfinalcolor301" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFg4qKqQI/AAAAAAAAHoU/ykPP8lFys4Q/13_edfinalcolor301_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="511" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I've never taken photos of "people" before, especially for something as important as senior photos! I'm more like a "take a photo of an apple on the table" kind of gal...you know? So this was a big deal for me but it was SO fun because I had the BEST subject in the world to photograph! She's just adorable...inside and out. </p> <p align="center">Just giving you heads up that come May, I will be bragging my ass off about this little girl. Not only is she graduating TOP of her class with a 4.00+ but she's accumulated every scholarship there is out there and there's NO stopping this girl! </p> <p align="center">(do I sound like a proud Auntie?)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFhJuRq-I/AAAAAAAAHoY/AozeqinJS8M/s1600-h/11_ed160%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="11_ed160" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFhn9YkVI/AAAAAAAAHoc/3Dx3FCWtzPA/11_ed160_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="511" /></a></p> <p align="center">How come all seniors take a photo with a tree? She and I laughed about this the whole afternoon. I must have snapped at least 50 photos of her and "the tree".</p> <p align="center">Anyway, as I visually brag here about my beautiful niece, I'll catch you up on what's been going on in my world.</p> <p align="center">I haven't been on the computer lately (as you can tell) except for editing photos. </p> <p align="center">I checked my email early this morning and was flooded with over 200 personal emails...THANK YOU for thinking of me!!! :)))</p> <p align="center">I saved them all and I hope to respond to each and every one of you as soon as I can get some free time. I know, I've said that before but I really mean it! I miss all of you!!!! Rest assured that all is well on the home front...I've just been a busy girl!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFiJWAOTI/AAAAAAAAHog/VAqJYGjbXIE/s1600-h/5_edfav267%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="5_edfav267" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFie2EGdI/AAAAAAAAHok/YlODKZvFHso/5_edfav267_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="512" /></a> </p> <p align="center">(dang it...I gotta edit that vine out from the top of her head! </p> <p align="center">See? I told you I've never done "people" before! haha)</p> <p align="center">Anyway...Round Top is coming up and guess who's home? Me! Maybe I'll catch it in the fall...I sure am going to miss everyone! </p> <p align="center">I've been enjoying time with The Man and good friends lately.</p> <p align="center">We've been taking our Corvette out a lot lately in this gorgeous Spring weather we've been having. </p> <p align="center">I've been eating a lot of crawfish too! This IS the season and we've been indulging every chance we get! Yum Yum!</p> <p align="center">Have I told you that we went to Disney World? I wanted to go see the new Harry Potter world at Universal Studios and I must say I'm speechless! It is FANTASTIC and I have lots of photos but they are not even downloaded yet to share them with you...you're just going to have to take my word for it! It's worth every dime (or Ben Franklin!) </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFilibF-I/AAAAAAAAHoo/DrqFQYZpsZo/s1600-h/1_ed1fav313%20copy%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="1_ed1fav313 copy" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFjEIbc0I/AAAAAAAAHos/_XsJcXkrW_Q/1_ed1fav313%20copy_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="513" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I also survived Mardi Gras! It was a rainy one but that didn't stop anyone. We still stood on the side of road, watching the parades, and catching some beads IN THE RAIN! </p> <p align="center"><strong>Nothing stops us Cajuns from having a good ole time!  ;)</strong></p> <p align="center">I also went to see Clint Black! Remember him? Am I showing my age? ;)</p> <p align="center">He gave an awesome concert and lordy is he still pretty to look at!!! Some girlfriends got together to celebrate "being 50" and I was happy to tag my 40 year old butt along and enjoy the fun too! We spent the weekend at the casino in a luxury suite...it was high class country come to town! It was so fun!!!! There's nothing like girlfriends getting together!!!!  ;)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFjTHiC3I/AAAAAAAAHow/bJFSsA22QHQ/s1600-h/4_ed1fav222%20copy%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="4_ed1fav222 copy" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFklu3m_I/AAAAAAAAHo0/Dg0uZ5QADh0/4_ed1fav222%20copy_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="512" /></a> </p> <p align="center">{{{Payton says that her best feature is her eyes...they are beautiful! I can't even edit them because anything I do makes them look fake. So every shot of her eyes are REAL! Trust me! I have to disagree with her because I think that her best feature is her WHOLE PACKAGE...it's what's INSIDE AND OUT!}}}</p> <p align="center"> It's springtime here and the azalea bushes are blooming! I love this weather before it gets really hot. Right about this time, I usually get the huge fever to go out and buy all kinds of pretty flowers and flower pots and dirt and play in the yard for days on end. Then it gets hot, I hate to sweat, nothing gets watered and all the plants die. I have learned to quit committing murder and just not plant anything! When I feel the urge, I just jump in the car and ride around in the fancy neighborhoods and get my fix of pretty landscaping while sitting in the A/C and sipping on my Dr. Pepper...no sweat!  ;)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFk8ppv5I/AAAAAAAAHo4/kEmC8cRa-GQ/s1600-h/12_ed81%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="12_ed81" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFlUVlxcI/AAAAAAAAHo8/SzxApeXCdYg/12_ed81_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="510" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I've also been busy helping a good friend with her daughter's wedding. We've already attended two showers (hosted one of them) and the wedding is coming up in early June. It's been so much fun planning and creating and the bride-to-be is such a cutie. She agrees with everything and everyone and she is such a pleasure to plan with. She's certainly not BrideZilla! She and her fiance' are both graduating graduate school in May. She will be an Occupational Therapist and he will be starting his residency...she's marrying a surgeon!  </p> <p align="center">The weekend after the wedding, us girlfriends will be getting together again and going to VEGAS baby! Remember those 50 year old girls I spoke about earlier? We are all booked up and ready to go...I can't wait! </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFlpR-VEI/AAAAAAAAHpA/vfL9ljzbDK8/s1600-h/14_edoldphoto218%20copy%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="14_edoldphoto218 copy" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFlxC9iiI/AAAAAAAAHpE/SeXbpCEWkw0/14_edoldphoto218%20copy_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="512" /></a> </p> <p align="center">So there you have it...a snippet of what I've been up to.</p> <p align="center">I haven't forgotten about you...not at all! Matter of fact, I'm feeling pretty darn guilty that I haven't been over to visit and see what you're up to. </p> <p align="center">To all of my new followers out there, HELLO and I'm so happy that you stopped by! I do make a point to return the visit but that just hasn't been possible lately...please don't give up on me! Thank you for all of your kind words and I hope to visit soon!</p> <p align="center">I've had some WONDERFUL comments on my "Starting a Blog 101" post lately! I'm so happy to hear that the post is still inspiring others to start a blog and share what's going on in their part of the world...you KNOW we are all nosey, right?  ;))))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFmK0ImjI/AAAAAAAAHpI/YuQWpP1VzQo/s1600-h/2_edfav313%20copy%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="2_edfav313 copy" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TYWFmXHTtLI/AAAAAAAAHpM/VDNLFdKQoVQ/2_edfav313%20copy_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="513" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Thank you for sharing my bragfest and catching up with me today. </p> <p align="center">Oh and by the way, if someone out there knows where I can find a "time" tree, let me know. That's one thing I wouldn't mind buying, planting, watering and watching it grow!!!!!  I'd certainly sweat to reap the benefit of having MORE TIME!!!</p> <p align="center">;))))</p> <p align="center">Instead of promising you when I'll blog again, I'll just end this post today by telling each of you that I miss you and I'll be back again soon :) </p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-77233068178604899262011-02-16T00:51:00.001-06:002011-02-16T00:51:46.828-06:00Asleep for 20 Years...<p align="center"><font size="4">If I were to run away from the world...</font></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiR9uQdT0Dvr-dzyu9IuOvzFGo5Hdf2y1wCB9BHzOoKt7nTwF09KLXtshZEk3uGCOO02eHfqjz_DgbX740Ok4ZVR3nkz4TgiocSpNQgakFEI-ftMBwe9b1_uSK8_Zjv3HeSQuSu8e7I0k/s1600-h/DSC_0164%20(2)%5B18%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0164 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz2Y0Hi7I/AAAAAAAAHmk/p8hbEJFhzKM/DSC_0164%20%282%29_thumb%5B16%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="610" /></a> </p> <p align="center"> <font size="4">And if I were to fall a</font><font size="4">sleep for 20 years...</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz3NjC3bI/AAAAAAAAHmo/dtXv3lh_3Z8/s1600-h/DSC_0128%20%282%29%5B26%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0128 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz3_AmPsI/AAAAAAAAHms/alXsDXy4Tbw/DSC_0128%20%282%29_thumb%5B24%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="490" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4">This is where I would wish to lay...</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz4ksV8dI/AAAAAAAAHmw/R5jNhT8rw2M/s1600-h/DSC_0147%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0147 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz497M0FI/AAAAAAAAHm0/rvOcm5mVlCc/DSC_0147%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="418" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Curled up on the green grass under the moss covered oaks near the banks of Lake Peigneur.</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>After all, it did happen to </strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>Rip Van Winkle, </strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>didn't it?</strong></font></p> <p align="center">Well...That's the story that I heard.</p> <p align="center">(Mind you, <u>all</u> stories told in Louisiana are BIG stories)</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">He escaped to the mountain top for refuge from his nagging wife...</font></strong></p> <p align="center">(um hum)</p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>He had a few drinks and fell quietly to sleep...</strong></font></p> <p align="center">(yes he did)</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">for 20 years!</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz5akX3VI/AAAAAAAAHm4/weI8WoCvTCQ/s1600-h/DSC_0156%20%282%29%5B19%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0156 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz6DgBWyI/AAAAAAAAHm8/5FJJYDmKS7I/DSC_0156%20%282%29_thumb%5B17%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="487" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Only it's not "really" true.</p> <p align="center">It's just a fictional short story that was written in 1819 by the acclaimed author Washington Irving.</p> <p align="center">The role of Rip Van Winkle, which was played by aspiring actor Joseph Jefferson, made Mr. Jefferson a very wealthy man.</p> <p align="center">Mr. Jefferson acquired Orange Island in 1869, built his winter "home away from home" and spent the next 36 winters  hunting and fishing and enjoying all of what the South had to offer him...until his death in 1905.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz6cy1zII/AAAAAAAAHnA/kQPX74tSP5A/s1600-h/DSC_0165%20%282%29%5B20%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0165 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz68fUXjI/AAAAAAAAHnE/VETopGiMv34/DSC_0165%20%282%29_thumb%5B18%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="374" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Showing signs of age but never losing it's grace, the mansion was sold some 12 years later. </p> <p align="center">After a few decades, the new owners properly renamed it</p> <p align="center">"Rip Van Winkle Gardens". </p> <p align="center">Even the name of the island was changed from "Orange Island" to the most fitting "Jefferson Island" in honor of the man who made all of this possible.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz7praJcI/AAAAAAAAHnI/7Vuq9hDCE8c/s1600-h/DSC_0168%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0168 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz8NW9EVI/AAAAAAAAHnM/vonICzd2Dpw/DSC_0168%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="319" /></a> </p> <p align="center">As I stood here in front of the mansion, I closed my eyes and imagined what it would feel like to sleep for 20 years, only to wake up to this beautiful site. </p> <p align="center">Maybe this story isn't fictional after all.</p> <p align="center">If <strike>Rip Van Winkle</strike> Joseph Jefferson were to wake up today, not a thing has changed in almost 150 years.</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Imagine that.</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz8_vFDSI/AAAAAAAAHnQ/LTfhHVvVXMQ/s1600-h/DSC_0173%20%282%29%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0173 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz9fN2BWI/AAAAAAAAHnU/Ib2ryMBES5k/DSC_0173%20%282%29_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="418" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Well, let me rephrase what I just said.</p> <p align="center">Maybe a "few" things have changed since...</p> <p align="center">like the automobiles! ;)</p> <p align="center">The Man and I, along with MANY of our Corvette friends spent Valentine's Day together on Jefferson Island. </p> <p align="center">We had a beautiful lunch at Cafe Jefferson...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz-DWpUrI/AAAAAAAAHnY/GRulsSo5w30/s1600-h/DSC_0148%5B16%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0148" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz-ZbktwI/AAAAAAAAHnc/Uc3vhWrmzp8/DSC_0148_thumb%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="313" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Walked the beautiful gardens...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz-0DzRMI/AAAAAAAAHng/b7ok-dFHqFI/s1600-h/DSC_0141%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0141 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz_dxl_bI/AAAAAAAAHnk/9C8P6HW0sTg/DSC_0141%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="401" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And enjoyed the gorgeous weather.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVtz_zsEHrI/AAAAAAAAHno/zYdSkuzMcNg/s1600-h/DSC_0143%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0143 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TVt0AlIN-xI/AAAAAAAAHns/z5sts5zsKBQ/DSC_0143%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="477" /></a> </p> <p align="center">As for me?</p> <p align="center">Many times during my walk through the gardens did I close my eyes and just imagine.</p> <p align="center">Many times did I smile and think of how lucky I am to have these beautiful places to visit with good friends.</p> <p align="center">All right here in my backyard...</p> <p align="center">I just LOVE Louisiana!</p> <p align="center"><strong>Hope you had a wonderful Valentine's Day where ever you were too!!!</strong></p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-40725571006126078142011-01-16T15:50:00.001-06:002011-01-16T15:50:42.766-06:00I'm still here...Happy New Year!<p align="center"><font size="4">The clock just doesn't stop, doesn't it?</font></p> <p align="center">Well, not for me at least. </p> <p align="center">I just keep spinning a web that never seems to end, all the while I am determined that 2011 will be a GREAT year.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoE_o4lKI/AAAAAAAAHlU/fh8OfRmylMM/s1600-h/DSC_0202217.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0202 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoFU-rStI/AAAAAAAAHlY/CtV3e4AVtDw/DSC_02022_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="531" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I've had so much fun preparing for the Christmas holidays, enjoying festive parties, relishing in the company of my family and friends BUT...</p> <p align="center">before I knew it...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoFwqT1_I/AAAAAAAAHlc/boVyi1HuovM/s1600-h/DSC_0204224.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0204 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoGPFkbZI/AAAAAAAAHlg/egAErud3XVg/DSC_02042_thumb22.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="508" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">It was all over.</font></p> <p align="center">There was so much preparation and such a busy holiday schedule, but it was SO worth it and I loved every second of it.</p> <p align="center">I have so many happy (& not-so-happy) memories.</p> <p align="center">It was a holiday that I'll hold dear, never to be forgotten.</p> <p align="center">I've put my heart on the edge of breaking for the sake of the people I love, but it was worth the risk.</p> <p align="center">Sometimes, taking a risk is worth it and prevents one from making the same mistakes over and over. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoG1Z_v-I/AAAAAAAAHlk/02RbISXsZt0/s1600-h/DSC_0206213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0206 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoHI4E2_I/AAAAAAAAHlo/YIWRaXnCFKQ/DSC_02062_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="408" /></a> </p> <p align="center">In the past month, I've learned things since and...</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">I have grown wiser.</font></p> <p align="center">If you are wondering if my Christmas decorations are still out...they are. </p> <p align="center">I still light up the house every evening when I return from work.</p> <p align="center">I'm sure soon I'll slowly start taking it down...but what's the rush?</p> <p align="center">I really think it should be Christmas every day...</p> <p align="center">No, not the expense of it...but the JOY of it!!!!</p> <p align="center">;)</p> <p align="center">So far, I am 16 days into the new year and MANY things have changed already!</p> <p align="center">Without making any resolutions or promises to myself or others, </p> <p align="center">I prayed for a sign to lead me in the right direction for the new year...</p> <p align="center">and I got it!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoHqZz5LI/AAAAAAAAHls/H09pGmgw_pk/s1600-h/DSC_0207%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0207 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoH-54NxI/AAAAAAAAHlw/xsviGApvmQY/DSC_0207%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="536" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Do you see the PEACE sign above?</p> <p align="center">Funny...I really didn't even have to look hard for it...it was right there in front of me the whole time  :)</p> <p align="center">(it's amazing what I see through my camera lens!)</p> <p align="center">I am living life, enjoying every second and I'm determined to be POSITIVE and at PEACE! </p> <p align="center">Changes were made at work...LOVE it!</p> <p align="center">Changes were made in my eating habits...not-so-loving-it but it needed to be done.</p> <p align="center">Changes were made mentally...learning to accept the things I cannot change.</p> <p align="center">Changes were made physically...walking and bike riding does a body (& a brain good)!!!</p> <p align="center">But most importantly, my biggest change wasn't a "change" at all.</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">It was remembering who I AM.</font> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoIa13mSI/AAAAAAAAHl0/g9Psi_ArsUg/s1600-h/DSC_0217%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0217 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoIilULVI/AAAAAAAAHl4/Qu4SxRoWO7E/DSC_0217%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="379" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Sometimes in life and also in the blog world too, it is easy to forget "who" we really are.</p> <p align="center"> There are all kinds of influences, trends, fads and temptations and before you know it...you are sitting front and center on the bandwagon.</p> <p align="center">I can say this because I know this. </p> <p align="center">It's happened to me and although the ride was good, I'm over it. </p> <p align="center">I'm not much of a follower. I never was.</p> <p align="center">And I wouldn't even call myself a leader. </p> <p align="center">But I AM a friend and a great CHEERleader!</p> <p align="center">I've met some beautiful people along the way and for that I am grateful. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoJMbeBRI/AAAAAAAAHl8/Q0h9_scdjQM/s1600-h/DSC_0213%20%282%29%5B17%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0213 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoJRFvtcI/AAAAAAAAHmA/XQoS30BvsYo/DSC_0213%20%282%29_thumb%5B15%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="321" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Sometimes it's hard to appreciate the new growth when we are covered in rust...know what I mean?</p> <p align="center">We get set in our same old routines and then we start thinking life is boring...</p> <p align="center">NOT! </p> <p align="center">It's not boring at all! </p> <p align="center">It's all what WE make of it, and the possibilities are endless!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoJ_Q1oUI/AAAAAAAAHmE/fTwAkrZBAbQ/s1600-h/DSC_0227%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0227 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoKikBwEI/AAAAAAAAHmI/mK0gQZDkpZw/DSC_0227%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="623" /></a> </p> <p align="center">If I don't succeed in anything else today, I hope at least I'll light a fire under your butt to step back, take a breath, and ask yourself...</p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>Are you where you want to be today?</strong></font></p> <p align="center">If so...I'm so happy for you, I love your PEACE!!! :)</p> <p align="center">If not...it's never too late to be YOU! :))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoLpVDi0I/AAAAAAAAHmM/tWEU_sIWjwY/s1600-h/DSC_0222%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0222 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoL5rb_4I/AAAAAAAAHmQ/HvJVazwjPTI/DSC_0222%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I am determined to never let another night fall without being grateful for who I am, what I've accomplished with my own two hands, having people in my life who love me and most of all...praying that I never forget it!!!! </p> <p align="center">Not even for a second!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoMM1eO2I/AAAAAAAAHmU/212PvMGt9e4/s1600-h/DSC_0233%20%282%29%5B19%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0233 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TTNoMqhOT9I/AAAAAAAAHmY/cU85c24LhpU/DSC_0233%20%282%29_thumb%5B17%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="709" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I apologize for being absent for a month but I really needed to regroup and think about which road I will take next.</p> <p align="center">My computer is not attached to the edge of my fingers but I do hope to start posting often again. </p> <p align="center">My blog is very important to me...it is my soul and I have no intentions of giving it up.</p> <p align="center">I appreciate that you visit and I love love LOVE hearing from you. </p> <p align="center">Thanks to all of you who checked up on me...you are awesome!</p> <p align="center">I'm so looking forward to spending 2011 with you...</p> <p align="center">if this is where you choose to be  *wink wink!!!!</p> <p align="center">:)</p> <p align="center">HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!</p> <p align="center"></p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com60tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-4832098422140445272010-12-17T18:06:00.001-06:002010-12-17T18:06:25.470-06:00Noel a la Maison LeJeune ~ Chapter Five<p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv6z9iagNI/AAAAAAAAHi8/SFTJRLCFly4/s1600-h/DSC_0136216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0136 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv60WWQHNI/AAAAAAAAHjA/CF4L0D6Pm-Q/DSC_01362_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="515" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Everyone who knows me, {{{knows}}} that  there is always something to eat in our kitchen :)) </p> <p align="center">Our love of food is as deep as our love of entertaining and having dear friends and family home for the holidays (or any time of year!)</p> <p align="center">Call it a "Cajun way of life" or call it whatever you'd like, I can assure you that our kitchen is the social area of the house.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv602yJf0I/AAAAAAAAHjE/VfUppxF2zf8/s1600-h/DSC_0134212.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0134 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv61Ds2DxI/AAAAAAAAHjI/otZWWuMD3MY/DSC_01342_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="429" /></a> </p> <p align="center">It's a small octagon-shaped kitchen, but it's filled with good times and LOTS of memories :)</p> <p align="center">For the holidays, I "borrowed" a good friend's Lefton China Christmas Colonial Village and placed it on top of our cabinets. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv61iU3pTI/AAAAAAAAHjM/LOFf2A5ohVY/s1600-h/DSC_0204211.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0204 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv61_5kkTI/AAAAAAAAHjQ/ChJP-f7Kg9k/DSC_02042_thumb9.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center">My sister came and helped me place everything and made sure the "snow" was perfectly landscaped and lit. We had such a great (busy) day together! We always do!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-yYVtX0RwpZo-64aSTonjy2xKPvTo-t06Etnoy9cLK0cqIXeDlCywWOJzwzlCZbZZX7QFJk8y8BpzyMcExAvjrycphEOskAS7BpRTzIL6wna3jHO23ZLx3MxrhriHIluXd_jqRRuAPV8/s1600-h/DSC_0207214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0207 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv62QRxasI/AAAAAAAAHjY/OBMo0Ca5alo/DSC_02072_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="420" /></a> </p> <p align="center">When company comes, chances are that you'll find everyone standing and visiting around the center island table. </p> <p align="center">Of all the places to sit and visit, this is where they choose to be. </p> <p align="center">I just L-O-V-E that! :)))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv625KRkcI/AAAAAAAAHjc/VA_cyxD1mh8/s1600-h/DSC_0209216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0209 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv63NXRymI/AAAAAAAAHjg/LmTNTn0l-Os/DSC_02092_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="318" /></a> </p> <p align="center">You can usually find a Gumbo simmering, or maybe a HUGE roast cooking, or some big FAT gulf shrimp boiling. </p> <p align="center">There's always something to eat and Christmas is no exception!</p> <p align="center">But today, finger foods will have to do.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv63rwrYeI/AAAAAAAAHjk/Krz2RebnYB8/s1600-h/DSC_0135215.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0135 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv63zExGUI/AAAAAAAAHjo/lJY2mLnEKME/DSC_01352_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="416" /></a></p> <p align="center">I'm not "cooking" anything major until Christmas dinner so the kitchen will stay clean for at least a few more days.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv64ZOXIZI/AAAAAAAAHjs/ICkRmiC7FJs/s1600-h/DSC_0220210.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0220 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv64o2Cd0I/AAAAAAAAHjw/y5GgeSpp4Lc/DSC_02202_thumb8.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="610" /></a></p> <p align="center">The glittery decorations on the stove will remain pretty and untouched for now...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv65MrpRvI/AAAAAAAAHj0/Ab-OIptwKXU/s1600-h/DSC_0215216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0215 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv65TbWD6I/AAAAAAAAHj4/7ehLJ9HkdcU/DSC_02152_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="352" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And there aren't any dirty dishes at the moment...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv65yvtHvI/AAAAAAAAHj8/fNIULFGNkNg/s1600-h/DSC_0225214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0225 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCk-Zdm4IUpiOdDN-z9rUuEsaSJd6CfNu3VqmX9kF6dlMF35vWxdY5gqlEbhZiKcaayRCqEQtzqZGXtnboOYkERdObqALVTRpCUGdcIsY5flarDmoZil0HpV8Bk8kbbo5fCZBOWKoudXc/?imgmax=800" width="411" height="429" /></a></p> <p align="center">For when the Rougeau-LeJeune families collide on Christmas Day, this kitchen will be alive with the sights, sounds and smells of everything "Christmas" (including LOTS of dirty dishes!)</p> <p align="center">I cannot wait!  :)</p> <p align="center">Now don't get me wrong, even though we hang out around the food in the kitchen, we do "play" in the living room too! </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv66uh2UXI/AAAAAAAAHkE/7R8ekAZnulM/s1600-h/DSC_0254212.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0254 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv67I4E6cI/AAAAAAAAHkI/Lid-kipmRyc/DSC_02542_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="396" /></a> </p> <p align="center">We've been known to find a comfy spot on the floor to call our own and play some old fashioned BINGO or a crazy game of Pictionary. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv67dfCldI/AAAAAAAAHkM/pkw5lbWpovI/s1600-h/DSC_0256212.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0256 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv67qdBdUI/AAAAAAAAHkQ/8OjmpjHhvu0/DSC_02562_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="339" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Don't let the Christmas decorations in this room fool you...things can get pretty crazy in here. It looks nice and neat right now but just ask Cajun Santa how crazy things can get in here...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv68McSAII/AAAAAAAAHkU/nXbIjR9r6qw/s1600-h/DSC_0251217.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0251 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv68ZRhekI/AAAAAAAAHkY/R2zMR443FbQ/DSC_02512_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="653" /></a> </p> <p align="center">This room is where we "live". </p> <p align="center">We break out with the pillows and blankets and cozy up.</p> <p align="center">We play games, watch football (which can get pretty rowdy),  and we watch NHRA and NASCAR (which puts me to sleep). </p> <p align="center">We sit and visit and sometimes, we tend to just be lazy in here on a Sunday afternoon.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv68zYGEbI/AAAAAAAAHkc/RvXEHUoHZL8/s1600-h/DSC_0257213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0257 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv69GWWbJI/AAAAAAAAHkg/r8CLAZw5yog/DSC_02572_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="627" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I know, the photos are dark. </p> <p align="center">There's not much light in this room as we keep it low because of the big screen tv...sort of like being in the theater. </p> <p align="center">If you're wondering what that "thing" is in the corner, it's a mahogany bird house. It's 6 feet tall and intricately ornate. </p> <p align="center">We have no bird...it's only for show!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv69UXqc9I/AAAAAAAAHkk/ew0_ikpAja8/s1600-h/DSC_0259215.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0259 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv690QDZGI/AAAAAAAAHko/lCYYP1eMUT4/DSC_02592_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="573" /></a> </p> <p align="center">It's usually in the library but I moved it to make room for the main Christmas tree. </p> <p align="center">When my sister came for the day to help me decorate, she was DETERMINED to decorate the bird house too. I just let her do and I must say...it's the prettiest thing in the house!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv6-O8KdbI/AAAAAAAAHks/_3LN8f8uTIQ/s1600-h/DSC_0261216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0261 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv6-it0YTI/AAAAAAAAHkw/yzxHkOCGE3c/DSC_02612_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="440" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Everyone who comes to visit just says how pretty it is and I can't even take credit for it!!!! (Thanks Sis!)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv6-10iltI/AAAAAAAAHk0/QMXJD0seplk/s1600-h/DSC_0270213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0270 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv6_XSpyKI/AAAAAAAAHk4/s6Ayv87aSkE/DSC_02702_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong>I love it all. </strong></p> <p align="center">Everywhere I look is so full of Christmas memories and I'm constantly smiling.</p> <p align="center">I am SO enjoying the holidays and looking forward to Christmas Day. </p> <p align="center">I'm slowly getting my shopping done, the presents wrapped and I'm looking forward to being off of work.</p> <p align="center"><strong>There's so much to celebrate.</strong></p> <p align="center">Health, Happiness, Family & Friends.</p> <p align="center">But most of all...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv6_zoiBqI/AAAAAAAAHk8/Dmh6aomyCCk/s1600-h/DSC_0269213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0269 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQv7AJB0III/AAAAAAAAHlA/kdReNQTQfpU/DSC_02692_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="364" /></a> </p> <p align="center"> <strong><font size="5">We'll be celebrating the most special of birthdays!!!</font></strong></p> <p align="center">Thank you for following along in our Noel a la Maison LeJeune Christmas decorating and Home Tour. </p> <p align="center">We are wishing each of you a VERY MERRY AND BLESSED CHRISTMAS...& A HAPPY NEW YEAR!</p> <p align="center">Thank you for all of the sweet comments and emails. Those of you who are new to my blog...I thank you for following! </p> <p align="center">I am quite behind on returning the visits and comments but I hope to catch up with you soon. Thank you for being so patient with me!!! :)</p> <p align="center"></p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com56tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-16463379477124258882010-12-15T07:58:00.001-06:002010-12-15T07:58:31.364-06:00Noel a la Maison LeJeune ~ Chapter Four<p align="center">Born and raised in Southern Louisiana, </p> <p align="center">we LOVE our New Orleans Saints football.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJYKuQ7AI/AAAAAAAAHhs/jPZcW0JI4qU/s1600-h/DSC_0241216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0241 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJYqmvXHI/AAAAAAAAHhw/lpu_dM__PrI/DSC_02412_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="654" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Whether it was growing up watching the football games with paper bags over our faces or watching them win the Super Bowl this past season, the Saints were always "our" team...</p> <p align="center">{{{no matter what}}}</p> <p align="center">Season before last, I bought a 7 foot black Christmas tree at the "after Christmas sale". </p> <p align="center">I knew exactly what I was going to do with it. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJZWyVKuI/AAAAAAAAHh0/UYwHVS-XqQI/s1600-h/DSC_0240213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0240 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJZhCBYPI/AAAAAAAAHh4/c6X1K8QxFJM/DSC_02402_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Right before football season started last year, I fluffed the tree next to our big screen tv in the living room.</p> <p align="center">I glittered some black and gold balls with our favorite Saint's players and some balls with a fleur de lis. </p> <p align="center">I proudly decorated our "Saints Tree" and there it stood the whole season, through the Super Bowl and it is still standing today. I've never taken it down. Can you imagine having to dust each ball on the tree? whew!!!! </p> <p align="center">However for this holiday, I went a teeny bit further!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJaFokcjI/AAAAAAAAHh8/qwrreVTEdyM/s1600-h/DSC_0382213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0382 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJanHruAI/AAAAAAAAHiA/CWPU1IDViHE/DSC_03822_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="591" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I moved our "Saints Tree" to the breakfast room and decorated the WHOLE room in black and gold!</p> <p align="center">This room is small but the tree fit perfectly in the corner. </p> <p align="center">I've inherited my parent's 70" round table and chairs that hold MANY memories of the six of us kids growing up, spilling milk, doing our homework, not eating all of our vegetables, etc. </p> <p align="center">Every time I look at the table, I smile and remember how many times I couldn't get up until everyone was finished eating because I didn't eat my black-eyed peas. For the life of me, I never knew why Mom put them in my plate in the first place...she knew I couldn't stand the sight of them! ;)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJbMwAzlI/AAAAAAAAHiE/PEcUqdtyYGE/s1600-h/DSC_0383216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0383 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJb_pNEFI/AAAAAAAAHiI/WrdtkVnGdfU/DSC_03832_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="580" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I set the table with four place settings using a simple black place mat, a white dish, a black and gold mug filled with gold beads and a white feather for accent.</p> <p align="center">In the center of each plate, I placed a gold fleur de lis ornament.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJdGmS3jI/AAAAAAAAHiM/bxfdP4G2Zuk/s1600-h/DSC_0232214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0232 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJdi_r9KI/AAAAAAAAHiQ/IfMdeQNj50A/DSC_02322_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="573" /></a></p> <p align="center">In the center of the table is a lazy susan filled with three candles that I wrapped with black and gold ribbon and hot glued a gold tassel.  I placed various sizes of black and gold balls in the center to complete my table centerpiece.</p> <p align="center">I also inherited my parent's old hutch which is now my liquor and wine cabinet. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJd-54CfI/AAAAAAAAHiU/15eTQjHdLA0/s1600-h/DSC_0229215.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0229 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJeWg4FCI/AAAAAAAAHiY/TsDgkDmEeUI/DSC_02292_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="679" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I removed all the wine from the top of the hutch and placed my gold Christmas reindeer up there. </p> <p align="center">I tied the same black and gold ribbons around their necks as the ones that I glued on the candles on the table. </p> <p align="center">I placed a white feather in each collar to add an elegant touch.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJevN0CZI/AAAAAAAAHic/Ugz5Nwid4-s/s1600-h/DSC_0386213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0386 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJfJjG6GI/AAAAAAAAHig/4ZwqjUwc0Tk/DSC_03862_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="423" /></a> </p> <p align="center">On the open shelf of the hutch, I just gathered some black and gold items that I had in other parts of the house and grouped them here to continue to the black and gold theme.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJfu3632I/AAAAAAAAHik/GxT20De6GyM/s1600-h/DSC_0227215.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0227 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJgG_Xh1I/AAAAAAAAHio/VIT3YrTQTA4/DSC_02272_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="429" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And last but not least, on the back door in the breakfast room I placed a Saints wreath that <a href="http://gypsymermaidlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sarah</a> made for me last year. </p> <p align="center">It's been hanging on the back door inside the living room so I moved it to the breakfast room for the holiday season. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJgSZc6dI/AAAAAAAAHis/Fd-fMNzEtJ8/s1600-h/DSC_0230214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0230 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJgwUfRBI/AAAAAAAAHiw/gfaKu7TDcFI/DSC_02302_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong>I just LOVE our Louisiana heritage and </strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>our Cajun culture. </strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>I LOVE our Saints football too...</strong></p> <p align="center">Black and Gold just "fits" into our Christmas home perfectly...don't you think so too? </p> <p align="center">I just may leave this room like this forever :)))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJhZdKGvI/AAAAAAAAHi0/bF9z2xKCXk0/s1600-h/DSC_0369217.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0369 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQjJhlqN_rI/AAAAAAAAHi4/P6ZN-WOFtpY/DSC_03692_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="564" /></a></p> <p align="center">Next up, Chapter Five...</p> <p align="center">Noel Kitchen and Living Room </p> <p align="center">Are you finished Christmas shopping yet? </p> <p align="center"><strong>You only have 11 more days!!!!</strong></p> <p align="center"></p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-26383913049668423452010-12-13T07:57:00.001-06:002010-12-13T07:57:39.168-06:00Noel a la Maison LeJeune ~ Chapter Three<p align="center"><strong><font size="4">"Come" they told me</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>pa rum pum pum pum</strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYl7E1PYbI/AAAAAAAAHeY/jfuoWFpK9Fo/s1600-h/DSC_0110218.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0110 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYl7v9AzvI/AAAAAAAAHec/ot5kdnElUy0/DSC_01102_thumb16.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="606" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">A new born King to see</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>pa rum pum pum pum</strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYl75CjOgI/AAAAAAAAHeg/H-7CMuvhPGs/s1600-h/DSC_0112216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0112 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYl8vtDq-I/AAAAAAAAHek/J88YRJc9ZQM/DSC_01122_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="609" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Our finest gifts we bring</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>pa rum pum pum pum</strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYl8wGf63I/AAAAAAAAHeo/ZsPdJzBzsro/s1600-h/DSC_0111218.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0111 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYl9dCSW6I/AAAAAAAAHes/Tn14BKexMnM/DSC_01112_thumb16.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="651" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">To lay before the King</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>par rum pum pum pum</strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYl9rfGZVI/AAAAAAAAHew/Fu7yD0n4Nls/s1600-h/DSC_0113216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0113 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYl-CoO85I/AAAAAAAAHe0/L4DfvDITwyg/DSC_01132_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="642" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong>rum pum pum pum...rum pum pum pum</strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYl-tnvbqI/AAAAAAAAHe4/alEwZgeXF5A/s1600-h/DSC_0108217.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0108 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYl_FhkG4I/AAAAAAAAHe8/tAWlGVWMbL4/DSC_01082_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="604" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">So, to honor Him</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>pa rum pum pum pum</strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">When we come.</font></strong></p> <p align="center">In all of my 40 years, I've never owned a Nativity scene of my own...until now.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYl_ewgmFI/AAAAAAAAHfA/FTJToWSzKWA/s1600-h/DSC_0063215.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0063 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYl_4W5tZI/AAAAAAAAHfE/tRYu9_M7wPI/DSC_00632_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="615" /></a> </p> <p align="center">When I was out shopping for a birthday gift the other day, I entered a local hometown store and my heart just dropped when I saw this beautiful painted tin metal Nativity scene.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmARlqsUI/AAAAAAAAHfI/_mcPLXVCKZ8/s1600-h/DSC_0062219.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0062 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmA6OTGmI/AAAAAAAAHfM/P9spj1iPQXw/DSC_00622_thumb17.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="586" /></a> </p> <p align="center">It was the perfect colors for my dining room and I just knew it had to come home with me.</p> <p align="center">I had the perfect place to put it... </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmBIg-AdI/AAAAAAAAHfQ/1EYssoISOV4/s1600-h/DSC_0355314.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0355 (3)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmBiKmxCI/AAAAAAAAHfU/G4Kfv7SMqzA/DSC_03553_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="522" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I arranged the pieces atop of my dining room table. </p> <p align="center">I started out with a gold crushed velvet throw. Then I added some plastic containers (various sizes) underneath the velvet throw to give some of the pieces different heights. </p> <p align="center">Once I situated the Nativity scene just how I liked it, I added some floral Spanish moss on top of the velvet throw. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmCKfN4FI/AAAAAAAAHfY/nsdsLBlv6NQ/s1600-h/DSC_0046213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0046 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmCqhqfTI/AAAAAAAAHfc/Q-5FrQDVHfc/DSC_00462_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="335" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Then I tucked in several small battery powered flickering tea lights beneath the Spanish moss. They give a glorious glow in the evening. I keep them on 24/7, they've been burning for about two weeks now!</p> <p align="center">Then I set two place settings, one at each end of the table. </p> <p align="center">One for me and one for The Man. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmC2xv-QI/AAAAAAAAHfg/0hcbI6_utuY/s1600-h/DSC_0066215.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0066 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmDSTIpZI/AAAAAAAAHfk/8Kc2gqfGlz4/DSC_00662_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="570" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Instead of using my fine china (because "we" don't eat off of fine china), I used my everyday dishes and dressed them up a bit with gold utensils and chargers.  </p> <p align="center">I had a little fun with the drinking glasses below.</p> <p align="center">I added some bronze plastic "ice" to the wine glass...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmDqDZs-I/AAAAAAAAHfo/vF8VDoOoTuE/s1600-h/DSC_0056217.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0056 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmE37ulUI/AAAAAAAAHfs/nH4sWrR0OSk/DSC_00562_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And I added some clear plastic "ice" to the water glass...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmFpjMYnI/AAAAAAAAHfw/OZCp0Eg2zmw/s1600-h/DSC_0057217.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0057 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmGarvyEI/AAAAAAAAHf0/uQVSvm5xwgQ/DSC_00572_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center">This "ice" can be found at Hobby Lobby in the bridal department. They come in many colors and are fabulous to use for parties too. You can sprinkle them anywhere for a little sparkle and reuse them over and over!</p> <p align="center">Instead of using a cloth napkin, I rolled a vintage crochet doily and placed it in the napkin ring. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmG_e-2PI/AAAAAAAAHf4/jol2fzG2Ln8/s1600-h/DSC_0053212.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0053 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitvaxG8ve3oIIEZF20YR0VlvTg7r0OK2_3BHOMMEwFhjqZtcl1Y3zgSMG9AtxEiAKRM_AFRXCVH9sQ149NG2ExeSCJxLI0euCU5GGuaeYhznkTzeA8ZVMkDkvaaZi84XHDkuQokpnS91U/?imgmax=800" width="410" height="327" /></a> </p> <p align="center">As for the dishes...I kept it simple. </p> <p align="center">To add interest, I added a simple handmade coffee filter rose (from <a href="http://vintagewithlaces.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Julia</a>), a tassel and a bronze glittered snowflake in the bowl. </p> <p align="center">A glittered sprig of gold on the side balanced the setting.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmIW94EhI/AAAAAAAAHgA/W8E55WMDwsI/s1600-h/DSC_0146214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0146 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmJDtmW1I/AAAAAAAAHgE/3XPb13SGKxI/DSC_01462_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center">To carry the gold, bronze and green theme throughout the dining room, I decorated a small tree and placed it in the corner. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmJs6_vmI/AAAAAAAAHgI/34cOU96E4UM/s1600-h/DSC_0043219.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0043 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmKL8Kz9I/AAAAAAAAHgM/4q4qFAGrfu0/DSC_00432_thumb17.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="664" /></a> </p> <p align="center">To add the height I needed in the corner of the room, I placed the tree on a small round table and topped the tree off with feathers.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmKXhEX1I/AAAAAAAAHgQ/3ojJQSTxrUU/s1600-h/DSC_0051213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0051 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3LojZPo_VYCL-wZGYy2SzQYuEJS9ewqsP41ShRB2f0IEDF2wOEaHuYznU6V3-3rMlUirY7oN5ek0WZxqDz7k8SVB93lo_L_9DLKkwkEFc9XufJzYDE20a6-vo_ZKzkDSx_YSlpPtjOTQ/?imgmax=800" width="411" height="335" /></a> </p> <p align="center">The tree is decorated in our "normal" dining room colors...</p> <p align="center">green ribbons and balls, bronze balls and snowflakes and gold glittered grape picks.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmLM9c-FI/AAAAAAAAHgY/CZLOHbE33cI/s1600-h/DSC_0048216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0048 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmLuFAHvI/AAAAAAAAHgc/vAEfmKvlvWs/DSC_00482_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center">At the base of the little table, I placed a tin basket full of pinecones that I picked and spray painted. </p> <p align="center">I set an old Santa atop of a book on the floor to hide the tree wires ;)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmMI9HcbI/AAAAAAAAHgg/pbR3bz0D_TI/s1600-h/DSC_0145213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0145 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmMa5vAKI/AAAAAAAAHgk/ZiwvnKGXDF8/DSC_01452_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="291" /></a> </p> <p align="center">On the opposite wall, the china hutch is decorated with the same colors. </p> <p align="center">I added a gold angel (she's a tree topper) in the center, looking down on the Nativity set...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmM0XCMaI/AAAAAAAAHgo/zGPf5-XlVrQ/s1600-h/DSC_0120217.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0120 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmNEUi59I/AAAAAAAAHgs/2flq_HkFDFA/DSC_01202_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="557" /></a> </p> <p align="center">She gives such devotion to our dear Baby Jesus :)))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmNqYBuQI/AAAAAAAAHgw/ULs6QCUFaPo/s1600-h/DSC_0125214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0125 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmOEJlQSI/AAAAAAAAHg0/j2WhL5LLyzA/DSC_01252_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="519" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I also added a festive detail to each of the eight chairs at the dining table. </p> <p align="center">It's something I love to do for each occasion we have. </p> <p align="center">It's so easy and makes a huge impact...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmOinE3MI/AAAAAAAAHg4/8aHnx1SWTO0/s1600-h/DSC_0117215.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0117 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmOy1MlII/AAAAAAAAHg8/AlV9PyWjSwk/DSC_01172_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="417" /></a> </p> <p align="center">With some Christmas ribbon, I just tied a simple knot and let the "tails" hang. I inserted a "pick" of gold glittery grapes in the center of the knot.  </p> <p align="center">I kept the buffet area simple as I wanted to leave my dining room table as the focal point of the room...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmPw930wI/AAAAAAAAHhA/_efbXYk_-KQ/s1600-h/DSC_015013.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0150" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmQPLby5I/AAAAAAAAHhE/2enoml7-8cA/DSC_0150_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="570" /></a></p> <p align="center">I didn't add much to my "everyday" decor except the lighted garland full of picks, a little golden angel and a Santa book...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmQriZYiI/AAAAAAAAHhI/PyWUyRfnbmU/s1600-h/DSC_0149212.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0149 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmRHHeDKI/AAAAAAAAHhM/y2LPbIjDCl8/DSC_01492_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="262" /></a> </p> <p align="center">The whole room just came together perfectly...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmRYR2MeI/AAAAAAAAHhQ/xomcgAlX_PQ/s1600-h/DSC_0323214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0323 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmSc5_ozI/AAAAAAAAHhU/RHk8HfHGURY/DSC_03232_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="577" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Just as I imagined it would when I walked in the store that day and saw the beautiful Nativity set for the first time...I love it and I'm sooooo happy! </p> <p align="center">My new Nativity scene is Merry Christmas to me! from me! ;)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmSuyUVWI/AAAAAAAAHhY/iVnujCiIc2I/s1600-h/DSC_0131220.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0131 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmTFGcSrI/AAAAAAAAHhc/3sOCAvl1pJk/DSC_01312_thumb18.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="399" /></a> </p> <p align="center">This just may be my favorite "Christmas" room of the house...especially in the morning light :)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmTrr16WI/AAAAAAAAHhk/XGEQdbIlxsc/s1600-h/DSC_0140214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0140 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQYmUnsAgZI/AAAAAAAAHho/samjkSAxKtY/DSC_01402_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="566" /></a></p> <p align="center">Let me not forget to mention the beautiful ribbon tassel that <a href="http://www.chantaljohnson.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Chantal</a> made me for my birthday. It's hanging in the middle of the curtains. It's so perfect there :)</p> <p align="center">Chapter Four is coming up next... </p> <p align="center">Please stay tuned for a little Black & Gold Christmas coming up soon!!! It's Saintsational!!!! </p> <p align="center">:)))</p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-18978988433031635652010-12-10T07:36:00.001-06:002010-12-10T07:36:46.947-06:00Noel a la Maison LeJeune ~ Chapter Two<p align="center">Thank you for sharing Christmas with us in our home...I'm so happy that you are still here :)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIsuRKbCOI/AAAAAAAAHcM/ecCcEdheksk/s1600-h/DSC_0201%20%282%29%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0201 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIsundtOjI/AAAAAAAAHcQ/0SyuXiyOaBU/DSC_0201%20%282%29_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="443" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Let's continue through the tour as we walk through our son's wing of the house which is now the Guest Bedroom, Guest Bath, and....MY Studio! Our son has left for college since 2007 so therefore, I am really the only one who uses this part of the house, unless we have overnight guests/family.</p> <p align="center">There aren't any signs of a teenage boy in this bedroom anymore but I did keep it a "little" masculine by placing my Dad's childhood family portrait on a chest by the nightstand. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIsvECaVEI/AAAAAAAAHcU/NS6B3qLsBJo/s1600-h/DSC_0196%20%282%29%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0196 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIsvnXxLcI/AAAAAAAAHcY/7Rb1H9HP0d8/DSC_0196%20%282%29_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="683" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I also added a "little" bit of fluff in the opposite corner too.</p> <p align="center">I placed some of my favorite pieces such as a beautiful vintage hat on a stand that once belonged to a dear friend of mine when she was a young lady. </p> <p align="center">Another favorite piece is this art collage that I just adore, given to me by <a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa</a>.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIsv0yeLUI/AAAAAAAAHcc/bvOx_Hv2DSQ/s1600-h/DSC_0198%20%282%29%5B11%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0198 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIswSw6sfI/AAAAAAAAHcg/lVM12_B5CNA/DSC_0198%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="543" /></a> </p> <p align="center">We put a king size bed in there as I wanted to make it feel more like a "hotel getaway" with plenty of room for our guests to spread out when they come, yet I still wanted to make it feel like home.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIswihv1eI/AAAAAAAAHck/qc-hGPkJef4/s1600-h/DSC_019413.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0194" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIsw1867bI/AAAAAAAAHco/lkYkuq1faDo/DSC_0194_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="535" /></a> </p> <p align="center">In the far left corner is another art collage given to me by my sweet friend <a href="http://provokingbeauty.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Leanne</a> recently. I haven't had the chance to post about it but I will soon! :)</p> <p align="center">I still need to add curtains...I haven't found any that I've fell in love with yet, so for now...the blinds will have to do.</p> <p align="center">As for the headboard, those louvered doors are not really meant to be a headboard. I bought them years ago when I used to scrapbook in our master bedroom. They separated my little creative spot from our sleep area. Now that I have my own studio, I didn't want to get rid of them, so I placed them behind the bed to give it a headboard "look".</p> <p align="center">Do you see that beautiful velvet bag hanging on the louvered doors? That's another favorite piece of mine, given to me by <a href="http://vintagewithlaces.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Julia</a>, my sweet friend from Germany. I just love it as much as I love her!!!</p> <p align="center">Since our little Miniature Pomeranian "Oreo" is getting old now, she really doesn't use her stairs to enter our bed anymore. We have to "carry" her to bed so I placed her steps in this bedroom just for show. Maybe in the back of my mind, I'm still thinking that one day she'll use them again.</p> <p align="center">Opposite the bed is a TV entertainment center. I really didn't decorate with a lot of Christmas in here but I did put a simple touch on the nightstand...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIsxZpzZJI/AAAAAAAAHcs/ekeA997zGBc/s1600-h/DSC_0195213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0195 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIsxyomv3I/AAAAAAAAHcw/wSwBwLviOEk/DSC_01952_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="531" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I made all of the stained glass in the home...a total of 5 pieces. </p> <p align="center">I love the old vintage transom windows of long ago and I wanted to add a touch of that throughout our new home. </p> <p align="center">Here's a view of the entrance to the guest room...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIsyNjqujI/AAAAAAAAHc0/j2dJESFJaoI/s1600-h/DSC_007119.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0071" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIsy3Mv_wI/AAAAAAAAHc4/DnloAZdtO8I/DSC_0071_thumb17.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="611" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And...here is a view to the entrances of the guest bathroom (on the right) and my studio (on the left)...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIszQaIPOI/AAAAAAAAHc8/gpnYnkqK6Yc/s1600-h/DSC_0074216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0074 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs0JU2uKI/AAAAAAAAHdA/5TyWvquwQOw/DSC_00742_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="609" /></a> </p> <p align="center">For the Christmas Tour of Homes last Sunday, I didn't want anyone to enter my studio as I have SO much "crap" in there so I thought I'd leave the door open, hang a sign across the door and actually entertain the all of the visitors instead of just closing the door.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs0UOSHlI/AAAAAAAAHdE/dDFI51igR4o/s1600-h/DSC_0333217.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0333 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs0hRC_CI/AAAAAAAAHdI/Sf0d8Ec6wd4/DSC_03332_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="392" /></a> </p> <p align="center">So with Sophie's help, (my dress form and studio partner in crime) I created this little scene and it was a big hit as I think everyone "got it"...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs1PnsdfI/AAAAAAAAHdM/x14UxtPgnRM/s1600-h/DSC_0185215.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0185 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs1irl3rI/AAAAAAAAHdQ/ykYKZNVX6Zs/DSC_01852_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="573" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Sophie was so busy wrapping Christmas presents for me while I was entertaining! haha </p> <p align="center">Seriously...those boxes around her "feet" are all of the birthday presents still waiting for me to open!!!! :)))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs1xgl4tI/AAAAAAAAHdU/jwmlme8-qTA/s1600-h/DSC_008212.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0082" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs2GoW0lI/AAAAAAAAHdY/nLBrIJO7YJ8/DSC_0082_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="277" /></a> </p> <p align="center">As for the studio, that will be a future post at a later date. I promised to show it to you a couple of months ago and I never got around to doing so. I apologize for that, but it's slightly a mess at the moment. I hope to get to it after the holidays and take you a little more closer up into my clutter!!!  ;)</p> <p align="center">Now for the guest bathroom, it's one of my favorite rooms that's SO full of Christmas...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs2tPFBII/AAAAAAAAHdc/ul4hikQ9dlQ/s1600-h/DSC_0347216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0347 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs3ObWbxI/AAAAAAAAHdg/P9C7RYsalgc/DSC_03472_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="624" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I posted earlier with sneak peeks about what I was doing in here with the "old" new bottles...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs3XgMNOI/AAAAAAAAHdk/gwmEakOGcrw/s1600-h/DSC_0341%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0341 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSVqJk3izV0v9XoqFo-2VvZDx6HU9Gl2tP3F9Nd1Kpk8LqAYso2fxYKCWGBxyZtal75FE-PofU9nM-92Z-2CYIVbyBTpVad118ZFKuguJ0HcgOifmY_Cb0A-bF88kF5qCWGANysKwCZ9s/?imgmax=800" width="411" height="257" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I was making a sweet little vintage Santa vignette that included old books, a silver brush and mirror set and bottles filled with snow and pearls.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs4ACLqTI/AAAAAAAAHds/pQmgeYiZnds/s1600-h/DSC_0345215.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0345 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs4QR2mgI/AAAAAAAAHdw/TDtwe7al1lQ/DSC_03452_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="421" /></a></p> <p align="center">And as for the snowflakes, I hung them on the wall...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs4-Zr8II/AAAAAAAAHd0/Ng7nDdBpb4c/s1600-h/DSC_007017.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0070" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs5MgTg_I/AAAAAAAAHd4/QAQVd6yUj2g/DSC_0070_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center">and in front of the mirror...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs5moCP6I/AAAAAAAAHeA/lfFWL5LK26Y/s1600-h/DSC_007925.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0079" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs6F4kTSI/AAAAAAAAHeE/dJ415K6iTxE/DSC_0079_thumb23.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="455" /></a> </p> <p align="center">What started out as a little old world vignette in a round pewter platter totally inspired a room full of Santa and snowflakes! </p> <p align="center">As for the tub, I just kept it simple. A towel and a washcloth with three mercury glass ornaments placed on top. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs6axstaI/AAAAAAAAHeI/fhcyU87ZQ3o/s1600-h/DSC_0346%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0346" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs6pd_NOI/AAAAAAAAHeM/iiZA2ruVkbo/DSC_0346_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Even though it's just a bathroom, this room was so much fun to decorate! </p> <p align="center">I think I'm ready to have Christmas guests over!!!! :)))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs7OTc8zI/AAAAAAAAHeQ/ZNjzozaBxJQ/s1600-h/DSC_007620.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0076" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TQIs7iswpdI/AAAAAAAAHeU/cc_L3AmkS9k/DSC_0076_thumb18.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="633" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Do ya think the bathroom is RED enough? </p> <p align="center">;)</p> <p align="center">Chapter Three is coming up next. We'll give the RED a break (for a little while) and we'll bask ourselves in green, bronze and gold...</p> <p align="center">& baby Jesus too!</p> <p align="center">~ Happy Friday ~</p> <p align="center"><strong>Only 16 days until Christmas!!!!</strong></p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-52419718415252150862010-12-08T08:56:00.001-06:002010-12-08T09:09:43.900-06:00Noel a la Maison LeJeune ~ Chapter One<p align="center">My wish for today would be for you to join me for a walk through memory lane of Christmas past, enjoy Christmas present and be inspired by Christmas future...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cSRjY30I/AAAAAAAAHZA/IQBZugCHdhQ/s1600-h/DSC_000523.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0005" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cS5CyE1I/AAAAAAAAHZE/c6oww4AKntU/DSC_0005_thumb21.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="620" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Oreo has been waiting for you...</p> <p align="center">She'd love to sit on your lap while I tell you a little bit about how we decorate for the holidays. </p> <p align="center">It's such an exciting time of year for us when we anticipate celebrating with friends and family.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cTOLA9_I/AAAAAAAAHZI/ignLBKtukn8/s1600-h/DSC_0009232.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0009 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cThv6IRI/AAAAAAAAHZM/ijTPC8sIYpY/DSC_00092_thumb30.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="536" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Our home is always welcoming and the doors are always open. </p> <p align="center">Toasts and cheers, stories and smiles, food and games, memories and good times are extremely abundant here. </p> <p align="center">We wouldn't have it any other way :)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cUa-I1_I/AAAAAAAAHZQ/MJRHxHi-G6I/s1600-h/DSC_0010223.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0010 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cU3lwC_I/AAAAAAAAHZU/S_yJhfWzVNw/DSC_00102_thumb21.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="512" /></a></p> <p align="center">All of our decorations throughout our home reflect our heritage and our simple Southern Cajun life which we are SO very proud of. </p> <p align="center">Old porcelain tubs filled with pinecones and poinsettias and tree bottoms covered in burlap...Simple is sometimes beautiful.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cVWfA9wI/AAAAAAAAHZY/XGK3_-UEooU/s1600-h/DSC_0018222.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0018 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNX9h2uXndJqipHdmjXmw6Cw6niKAbR6oAhYtNj7fabONMxgN0I3qy7MqpCu0OwaWnY_SqDUUGPIek7abiOAR88SDU-ELVtSV5PlIZ5lKPFjKXt82EKxvqEEGPR2S863eO3U8k0dmSWzc/?imgmax=800" width="411" height="456" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Most of all, I would like to think that our home reflects our appreciation of the reason that we celebrate this glorious season...</p> <p align="center"><font color="#800000" size="4">the birth of Jesus Christ.</font></p> <p align="center">You need not take your shoes off but I would ask you to leave all of your worries at the front door and come on in.</p> <p align="center">I promise to take your mind away from the holiday hustle and bustle and beg you to relax and enjoy yourself so that you can begin to experience first hand...</p> <p align="center"><font color="#800000" size="6">Noel a la Maison LeJeune</font></p> <p align="center">(Christmas at the LeJeune Home)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cWPHMhjI/AAAAAAAAHZg/8TVq6kvM4lA/s1600-h/DSC_0017215.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0017 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cWi8yfHI/AAAAAAAAHZk/d3JUffp6_MU/DSC_00172_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="597" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I believe it's the little details that make a house a home ~ don't you agree?</p> <p align="center">You won't find a fancy interior decorator nor any expensive ornaments here. </p> <p align="center">Sometimes, all it takes is adding a little red and green to your favorite everyday things and you can have an instant Christmas atmosphere too.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cXppklhI/AAAAAAAAHZo/a9_8Pa_NBE0/s1600-h/DSC_0019216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0019 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cX4N1u9I/AAAAAAAAHZs/SjbZx3UctxE/DSC_00192_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="458" /></a> </p> <p align="center">First stop is the Front Room or the "Library" as we call it.</p> <p align="center">Of course it's not massive like the Library of Congress...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cYRgYTiI/AAAAAAAAHZw/HEZ8pyyiLdI/s1600-h/DSC_0076212.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0076 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cY4dye3I/AAAAAAAAHZ0/jD7WNwkfASs/DSC_00762_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="642" /></a> </p> <p align="center">But it's cozy and warm and it does hold our favorite reads such as The Man's love for aviation and automobiles, our son's love of military history and as for me? </p> <p align="center">Well, it holds our main computer and I just love to sit here and blog with you every chance I get!</p> <p align="center">I personally have a lot of inspiration in this room, it is one of the favorites of our home. </p> <p align="center">And using some of that inspiration, I hung our Christmas stockings on the old trunk with care, hoping that St. Nicholas would soon be there!  </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl5To0RSgnchJ5ZZpzAks85GuOFArraqrW6vVyijOwBnHQyt3RXdv-mDUGI6WQPUY_p28GoHhyphenhyphenHJp9pHmlLZY2s-7Ojr3DnO_vx6jpWl5Q3eRaUlEtHUYyF3w2N8-Dka_a-KHGHrwWrlk/s1600-h/DSC_0056216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0056 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cZ9KKiSI/AAAAAAAAHZ8/_BvJTZHlz4k/DSC_00562_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="609" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Nestled in the corners and arranged on the shelves among the books, this room is also filled with gifts from friends, garage sale finds and family treasures from the past.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-caTEnb4I/AAAAAAAAHaA/lA_8dO0bC3Q/s1600-h/DSC_0171219.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0171 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-caqQ5ifI/AAAAAAAAHaE/-WDb-CrwzDo/DSC_01712_thumb17.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="639" /></a> </p> <p align="center">With these little treasures at my fingertips, I'm always inspired to be a little creative outside of my studio which can be so much fun, especially during the holidays!!! </p> <p align="center">I just love mixing the past with the present.</p> <p align="center">It's sort of like crossing an imaginary time warp and I'm always saying that I was SO born in the wrong era (but I cannot do without my modern day air conditioning...and my fast food!!!) </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cbDDmDkI/AAAAAAAAHaI/DXQPRRzziAA/s1600-h/DSC_0169215.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0169 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cbc3UYNI/AAAAAAAAHaM/b7mGkU-E7js/DSC_01692_thumb13.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="290" /></a> </p> <p align="center">A whole family memory was created and enjoyed by all in just one little vignette that included my grandmother's eye glasses, an old world atlas (so Santa can find me), a vintage Underwood typewriter, a vintage-looking letter I made on the computer (to remind Santa that we've been good all year) and a few touches of red and gold here and there and ... voila!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cb-3jnaI/AAAAAAAAHaU/-OLYyl7rkfg/s1600-h/DSC_0168214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0168 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-ccSbmevI/AAAAAAAAHaY/USo_hMx1UGg/DSC_01682_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="375" /></a></p> <p align="center">It feels like Christmas!!! I'm SO ready for Santa!!! </p> <p align="center">(I hope he finds me) </p> <p align="center">:)))</p> <p align="center">I just couldn't stop there, I had too much family treasures to leave out so I tied some green silk ribbon around some of my Dad's old Catholic school books that are from the 1940's.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-ccoODB4I/AAAAAAAAHac/e20zK1B8BV8/s1600-h/DSC_0081213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0081 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cdC4213I/AAAAAAAAHag/sq9LNh09Hrs/DSC_00812_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="379" /></a></p> <p align="center">And with that stack of books, I created a little vignette on the coffee table that included some more treasures that are truly dear to my heart...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cdjZg_YI/AAAAAAAAHak/6-EWFjE8DfE/s1600-h/DSC_0064220.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0064 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cd73IlSI/AAAAAAAAHao/ib9OSeZ7UYQ/DSC_00642_thumb18.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="561" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Treasures such as gifts from friends who share their family treasures with me...old postcards and letters from their loved ones...they totally make my heart skip a beat! :)))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-ceZgYs4I/AAAAAAAAHas/ohDnUp2mf14/s1600-h/DSC_0084214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0084 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-ceqShkAI/AAAAAAAAHaw/49mle2r2Aug/DSC_00842_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="494" /></a> </p> <p align="center">When all of this fabulousness was arranged together, I added just a touch of Christmas red, green and gold and it became totally holiday PRICELESS! </p> <p align="center">The red alarm clock was a flea market find earlier this year. I just LOVE it! </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cfqtzYXI/AAAAAAAAHa0/0CvT4_MeuIs/s1600-h/DSC_0070%20%282%29%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0070 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cf5EBhRI/AAAAAAAAHa4/HuCqQ9ci0h0/DSC_0070%20%282%29_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="610" /></a> </p> <p align="center">The feeling of old Christmas is certainly in the air in this room.</p> <p align="center">Since one of us is always in this room at any given time of the day, AND since it's the Front Room aka Library, we decided to put our "main" Christmas tree in here by the front door. It's nothing fancy, only a tall slim tree but it's filled to the brim with old ornaments from Christmas past.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cgYxpI8I/AAAAAAAAHa8/gERy3G__kcY/s1600-h/DSC_0069216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0069 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-chKIE3CI/AAAAAAAAHbA/iQ6GA7UqODw/DSC_00692_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="379" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Along with the Christmas presents, I love tucking some of my favorite vintage items under the tree to add a warm and cozy feeling. Some items are previous gifts, or garage sale finds such as the lovely octagon-shaped Holmes hat box, and some are sweet memories of special friends and family. </p> <p align="center">This beautiful pair of vintage children's shoes below and the altered silverware box under the tree above, (just to name a couple) were both gifts from my girl <a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa</a>. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-chQ952OI/AAAAAAAAHbE/0CA-qyqBNSQ/s1600-h/DSC_0074218.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0074 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-ch5wh_FI/AAAAAAAAHbI/oUR_-aMjDB0/DSC_00742_thumb16.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="462" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Incorporating the past with the present makes me feel like my loved ones are still here with me...near and dear to my heart :)</p> <p align="center">This beautiful China Doll was loaned to me by a very sweet friend of the family. Growing up, she lived in the same town as my parents and she now has become like a mother to me since my Mom has passed away 7 years ago. I found the old wooden child's swing at a flea market for $8. I cleaned it up (but left it all chippy), placed the beautiful china doll in it, set the precious pair of shoes near her and tucked an old "Night Before Christmas" Golden Book by her side. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzk7a4QQdc4W8dK-ZAzwi_FCskjLu1eL5_wvj7Cq3Uokvq1e4W6f0naaCPy55nZNd2d4LvKG3AROkJncoAnjTRPndL69pwkMJkHq0p1QVHFRiaf-waWc5BUHE9qG-1f2ixEZwhKEznnaU/s1600-h/DSC_0167313.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0167 (3)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cikvc-eI/AAAAAAAAHbQ/qZPPGtYHYjI/DSC_01673_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="428" /></a> </p> <p align="center">She's so beautiful sitting under the tree :)</p> <p align="center">On a high ledge in the library, over the grandfather clock that my Dad bought for us as a housewarming gift when we built this home in 2003, I placed an old Samsonite suitcase filled with a "Santa" Golden Book and some vintage ornaments that I've collected over the years. The photo may be a little blurry, it's about 9 feet high and I tried to zoom in on it so you could see the detail...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cjOtc3FI/AAAAAAAAHbU/i4NCamF6sBk/s1600-h/DSC_0035313.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0035 (3)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cjlu6SGI/AAAAAAAAHbY/MIBrxEc0DIQ/DSC_00353_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="601" /></a> </p> <p align="center">The rest of the ledge is filled with fun little Christmas icons such as a metal sleigh, the three wise men's camels, a Christmas hat box and some other little treasures. It was so hard to photograph...sorry I can't show you the big picture.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cj--BHeI/AAAAAAAAHbc/J2CjuW-WIVA/s1600-h/DSC_0001%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0001 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-ckqc2B6I/AAAAAAAAHbg/OaeQlz_PROc/DSC_0001%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="620" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Another little vignette that I put together was on the entrance table near the front door...it was SO simple.</p> <p align="center">Do you keep old Christmas cards that you've received over the past years? I do. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-ck5LfkpI/AAAAAAAAHbk/SB2qRLKhbDM/s1600-h/DSC_003117.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0031" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-clR7S91I/AAAAAAAAHbo/Z2dYdWcL-S8/DSC_0031_thumb15.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="610" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I taped one of my favorite old cards to the back of a backless garage sale frame and stood it up on an easel. I placed it on a metal tray along with a brass trumpet and bow, some "wish" tickets, a crystal vase filled with snowflakes and red glittery filler, a huge glass ornament that my MIL gave me YEARS ago, a vintage wooden carpenter ruler that I folded out into a star (loved the idea from <a href="http://mamiejanes.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Jane</a>), and a vintage Railroad log book that I picked up at Homestead in Fredericksburg Texas while visiting and shopping with <a href="http://fionaandtwig.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Anne</a> earlier this year.</p> <p align="center">It's a simple vignette but it's cute. It's full of reminders of fun times and all of the wonderful people that I've shared inspiration with. It was just enough for the narrow table...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-clx1FAUI/AAAAAAAAHbs/Yz8G1UkL-WY/s1600-h/DSC_0028216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0028 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cmT_F4pI/AAAAAAAAHbw/e8qJ_uJnolY/DSC_00282_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="509" /></a></p> <p align="center">And not one thing is "new" on it...just all sweet memories!!!!</p> <p align="center">We had lots of fun over the past month decorating our home this year. </p> <p align="center">One of my sisters and a few local friends took a day here and there to come over and help me put my things out. I think the best part about the decorating was spending time together, reliving all of the memories, telling stories to each other and just plain being creative! We even surprised ourselves at times!!!! :)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cm6T3jEI/AAAAAAAAHb0/YGr7sVNLlwA/s1600-h/DSC_0057%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0057 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSXDGPztRX_HZ9V3VIOuNWp_fr4j9Y1FL6ED98Jw6iKYuP2XCaUmEJZ0qztbpC8wKHRXH7CYARIDSWtkyTjlAd4WzgezACsUv4z_jE_BO0d-dPbv4h3bPetcUXqpPt1zdTjU4HYyu_u9Q/?imgmax=800" width="412" height="623" /></a> </p> <p align="center">In our home, the Christmas music is ALWAYS playing in the background, can you hear it?  :)</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">I hope you've enjoyed Chapter One...we are SO NOT finished experiencing Noel a la Maison LeJeune by any means!!!</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">We've only JUST begun!!!</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cnr5NloI/AAAAAAAAHb8/RojrbVsahXU/s1600-h/DSC_0058%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0058 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-coLhsm8I/AAAAAAAAHcA/c7pOXcV6-Lw/DSC_0058%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="677" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">~ Please stay tuned for Chapter Two ~</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">In the next post, we'll continue the tour to another holiday room.</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cojJuenI/AAAAAAAAHcE/t6KGqWjY9b0/s1600-h/DSC_0078%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0078" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP-cpJFychI/AAAAAAAAHcI/cUAcPoToZkc/DSC_0078_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="608" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>Note:</strong> After much consideration, I chose not to photo the layout of my home and post it "to the world" <strong>due to security reasons</strong>, however...I do promise to show you all of the Christmas highlights and inspirations that we hold dear in the LeJeune home for the holidays.  </font></p> <p align="center">Thank you for stopping by for the tour...but please don't leave. Just sit back, relax and read a book in the library.</p> <p align="center">Make yourself at home :) </p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-64115723626075046712010-12-07T08:38:00.001-06:002010-12-07T08:38:13.757-06:00Christmas Chaos...<p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP5GyzwtjqI/AAAAAAAAHYo/kAihNfEGWNM/s1600-h/DSC_0099%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0099 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP5GzdYMrHI/AAAAAAAAHYs/1RzKTCRT8xo/DSC_0099%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="339" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">I survived!!!! :)</font></strong></p> <p align="center">If I could tell you how much <strong>FUN</strong> and <strong>REWARDING </strong>the Christmas Tour of our Home was on Sunday...you just wouldn't believe me!!! There were between 150-200 people that strolled through the house in 3 hours, oooohing and aaaaahing about the smallest little details that I didn't think anyone would notice. </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">My heart was SO happy!!!</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP5G0CfcjRI/AAAAAAAAHYw/4Smrm0nnRno/s1600-h/DSC_0127%20%282%29%5B20%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0127 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP5G0Rhy2II/AAAAAAAAHY0/IeWa521mOwg/DSC_0127%20%282%29_thumb%5B18%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="522" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I promised to show you photos and I will soon. For the past 48 hours, I've caught up on my sleep (I think), The Man made me go into work full-time again (he said the "party" is OVER! hahaha!) and when I tried to download almost 300 photos, my computer started acting funny yesterday (I'm crossing my fingers that a "new" computer will not HAVE to be on my Christmas list).</p> <p align="center">I plan to play with the post again this evening when I return from work and I hope to start walking you through the tour soon too! </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP5G0xjERvI/AAAAAAAAHY4/p4yylk3QnBM/s1600-h/DSC_0123%20%282%29%5B19%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0123 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TP5G1cwTrUI/AAAAAAAAHY8/5yRdMdEFiVE/DSC_0123%20%282%29_thumb%5B17%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="430" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I have over 100 emails to answer, birthday presents that are still waiting for me to open, and I haven't even sent out my "thank you" cards nor my Christmas cards yet...I'm just terrible! Have I told you (my loyal visitors and friends) that I THANK YOU for the sweetest comments you've been leaving here? Even though I haven't returned them, you have NO idea how they make my day!!!! You sure know how to make me smile!!!! :))))</p> <p align="center"><strong>Can we PLEASE postpone Christmas at least 15 more days???</strong> <strong>Am I the only person in the world running late? </strong></p> <p align="center">(just kidding...there's NO postponing sweet Jesus' birthday!!!!)</p> <p align="center"> Oh...and did I mention that I'm hosting two parties this weekend in my home? One Friday night and one Saturday night? </p> <p align="center"><strong>Is there a discount when you buy Calgon by the case??? </strong></p> <p align="center">;)</p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-58277761460834246722010-12-02T08:24:00.001-06:002010-12-02T08:24:47.244-06:00Snow and Pearls...<p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TPesI7l5WVI/AAAAAAAAHYI/StTWR2iFsu0/s1600-h/DSC_0043%5B17%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0043" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TPesJK_y7rI/AAAAAAAAHYM/qFh-jGmoV1s/DSC_0043_thumb%5B15%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="610" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Hey Friends!!! Do I miss all of you here in blog land or WHAT? </p> <p align="center">I haven't been on my computer much in almost two weeks. Aside from having blogging withdrawal, my fingers are so sore from cleaning and decorating, I can hardly type!  ;)</p> <p align="center"><strong>THIS Sunday (5th) is the 2010 Parade of Homes and I can finally say...Our home is really looking (& smelling) like Christmas! :))) I'm soooo excited to be a part of it!</strong></p> <p align="center">I'm putting some final little fun details here and there and thought I'd share with you... </p> <p align="center">I gathered some glass bottles, some were old and some were "old-looking", but new.</p> <p align="center">I filled up one bottle with pearls from a broken strand of old costume jewelry...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TPesJlnaFSI/AAAAAAAAHYQ/ZtG1siHFqAc/s1600-h/DSC_0037%20%282%29%5B18%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0037 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TPesJ3vdIQI/AAAAAAAAHYU/o0PbwfEUKs8/DSC_0037%20%282%29_thumb%5B16%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="295" /></a></p> <p align="center">Matter of fact, any colored pearls or gemstones in red and green or even silver and gold would be gorgeous too!!! I just used what I had on hand but the possibilities are endless!</p> <p align="center">I filled up another bottle with Christmas snow (out of the bag)...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TPesKalOT_I/AAAAAAAAHYY/BHS4xzYovU8/s1600-h/DSC_0041%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0041" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TPesKqwuIsI/AAAAAAAAHYc/EkjCtk3hh2o/DSC_0041_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="583" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I love the "fluffy-ness" of the bagged snow, it totally makes me soooo happy to run my fingers through it :)))</p> <p align="center">Then I arranged these bottles, along with other vintage items to create a little vintage vignette in the bathroom by the sink...</p> <p align="center">.</p> <p align="center">.</p> <p align="center">.</p> <p align="center">oh dang! I almost forgot!!!!...</p> <p align="center"><strong>I can't show you until AFTER the 5th!</strong> (sorry)</p> <p align="center">Next week when you come here to visit...you'll have <strong>Christmas home overload</strong>...I'm just warning you in advance :))))</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">The Moral of this Post...</font></strong></p> <p align="center">I was surprised at just how much "everyday" stuff I had on hand to make MANY decorations with. Instead of going out to the stores, fighting the shoppers and coming home exhausted, I opened my cabinets, dug in the closets and found things that I forgot I had and brought them out for a "new" vintage look. And all the while, I was still warm and in my pajamas with NO stress! Yay!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TPesLKlQDtI/AAAAAAAAHYg/38bdejZ5Wdk/s1600-h/DSC_0042%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0042 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TPesLvyfMxI/AAAAAAAAHYk/3-tkZvXyGoE/DSC_0042%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="337" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I hope you are being creative and using little things around your home to create those special Holiday touches :))) </p> <p align="center">There's nothing like a Christmas cozy home that you can call your own...</p> <p align="center">{sigh} </p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-711663762481936252010-11-24T05:26:00.001-06:002010-11-24T05:26:08.327-06:00Thanksgiving Blessings...<p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOz2R1BaMXI/AAAAAAAAHX4/qsM7D3eMCR8/s1600-h/DSC_0263%20%282%29%5B17%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0263 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOz2SzcJYuI/AAAAAAAAHX8/n1FllHfPsNA/DSC_0263%20%282%29_thumb%5B15%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="515" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">I'm wishing you a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving Holiday...</font></strong></p> <p align="center">letting you all know how much of a blessing each and every one of you are to me.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOz2TWBreDI/AAAAAAAAHYA/daizTa3nzyg/s1600-h/DSC_0241%20%282%29%5B16%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0241 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOz2T3P_y-I/AAAAAAAAHYE/gTGTZ2ZPxKQ/DSC_0241%20%282%29_thumb%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="337" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">My heart is overflowing with tons of thankfulness!!!! </font></strong></p> <p align="center">:)</p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-54711482703762132382010-11-19T08:09:00.001-06:002010-11-19T08:09:51.583-06:00Snowflakes Anyone?<p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOaFEQ_8OaI/AAAAAAAAHXI/O1nDs6bgiIo/s1600-h/DSC_0030226.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0030 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOaFE6p9jiI/AAAAAAAAHXM/kK95V62xIE4/DSC_00302_thumb24.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="364" /></a> </p> <p align="center">If you've read my last post, then you know I've been a cleaning monster as I've been fluffing our house for the Christmas Parade of Homes on <strong>December 5th</strong>. (16 days & counting...) </p> <p align="center">As of today, I am dropping my title as the "cleaning monster" and I'm moving on towards becoming a "decorating diva".</p> <p align="center">Oh hell...Just call me the Snowflake Queen for the day...</p> <p align="center">What started off with some simple dollar store snowflakes, a box of small glittered snowflakes, some glue dots and ribbon has become such a total joy and yes...I AM playing with glitter, can you believe it? Just don't go tellin' the world now, okay?</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Simple and plain white dollar store snowflakes...</font></strong></p> <p align="center">(they look red because they are reflecting off of my red walls)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOaFF90yZeI/AAAAAAAAHXQ/SUwjaoEm8Wc/s1600-h/DSC_0027219.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0027 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOaFGyhVQHI/AAAAAAAAHXU/yYCQWpUAe_E/DSC_00272_thumb17.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="554" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">A box of small glittered snowflakes... </font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">(</font></strong><a href="http://hobbylobby.com" target="_blank"><strong><font size="4">which are 50% off</font></strong></a><strong><font size="4">)</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOaFHSqkcDI/AAAAAAAAHXY/-h9JLrbRnG8/s1600-h/DSC_0033218.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0033 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOaFIUOpwoI/AAAAAAAAHXc/z5tvPyqQtww/DSC_00332_thumb16.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="325" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>Insert a glue dot and place the small snowflake in the center of the large white snowflake...</strong></font></p> <p align="center">(you can place one on each side if you like)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOaFJNClIAI/AAAAAAAAHXg/_4QVLjK-BTQ/s1600-h/DSC_0026236.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0026 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOaFJVRCFpI/AAAAAAAAHXk/JBBxMSg-RdQ/DSC_00262_thumb34.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="327" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Just add some ribbon for hanging and you will have a collage of glittery elegant snowflakes!!!! </font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOaFJyXDhxI/AAAAAAAAHXo/bmQajfrg6k0/s1600-h/DSC_0028216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0028 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOaFKeZEZVI/AAAAAAAAHXs/la9DgQUg6kE/DSC_00282_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="404" /></a> </p> <p align="center">(Just in case you are wondering, yes...that is a bathroom sink.)</p> <p align="center">The layers also look great on any kind of snowflake, I even embellished some larger and thinner ones too...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOaFK_QIdLI/AAAAAAAAHXw/BQE2vA8EIIg/s1600-h/DSC_0032216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0032 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOaFLoF5X1I/AAAAAAAAHX0/9l14OL5YDfE/DSC_00322_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="533" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I cannot show you my snowflake masterpiece until after December 5th but let's just say it involves a bathroom mirror... </p> <p align="center">I'm having snow much fun!!!</p> <p align="center">With Love, </p> <p align="center">The Snowflake Queen</p> <p align="center">:)</p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-28636455136798009962010-11-17T06:00:00.001-06:002010-11-17T06:00:50.814-06:00Renovation...<p align="center"><font size="4">What started out as a simple "house cleaning" turned into a two week cleaning extravaganza in the LeJeune household...</font><font size="2">and I'm still not finished!</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOPD6CU0LtI/AAAAAAAAHW4/kDmK9b5OP-0/s1600-h/DSC_0422%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><font color="#29303b" size="4"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0422 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOPD61qlIyI/AAAAAAAAHW8/lf7kgOwpm9w/DSC_0422%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="348" /></font></a><font size="4"> </font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>Can you believe it all started with a measly light fixture? </strong></font></p> <p align="center"><strong>and the fact that our house will be on the Christmas Parade of Homes in <font size="4">14</font> days? </strong></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">It's really about the light, let me explain...</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">I hate florescent light. </font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><font size="2">~just hate it. I'm a romantic, soft light kind of gal~</font> </font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">I called an electrician and replaced the huge wooden boxed florescent light with lots of recessed lighting in the kitchen. </font></p> <p align="center">~why didn't I do this when I built the house? seriously!~</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">The electrician made a dust mess so I wiped down the kitchen cabinets. </font></p> <p align="center">~I almost forgot how much I love my black walnut wood~</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">While wiping down the kitchen cabinets, I decided to clean and weed out the inside of the cabinets. </font></p> <p align="center">~how did I accumulate so many plastic containers without lids? like who needs 20 empty pickle jars anyway?~</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">After cleaning the inside of the cabinets, I noticed some the baseboards were slightly nicked on the corners so I broke out with the paint touched up a few corners here and there.</font></p> <p align="center">~3000 square feet covered in blue tape. imagine that~</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">While sitting on the floor, I noticed the tile was in dire need of a steam clean. Needless to say...I did that too.</font></p> <p align="center">~love my Hoover floor cleaner. it really got a work out. and...so did I~ </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">I don't know about you, but when I'm in "cleaning mode"... I am a MONSTER. Don't talk to me, don't make me stop to eat, don't you dare make a crumb on the countertop, don't walk through my house with your shoes on and most of all...don't EVER disturb me when I'm in "cleaning mode".</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">leave. me. alone. until. I'm. finished. <font size="5">grr</font>rr<font size="3">rr</font>!</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Got it? </font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Well! And if I was going to be a monster, I wanted everyone in the house to be in "monster mode" too...</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">So I made a "to-do" list for The Man. </font></p> <p align="center">You know the old saying...</p> <p align="center">"If Mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy."</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">It was just a simple list...I don't know why he had that look on his face but he's been a good guy, scratching off one honey-do after another (with only minor huffing and puffing).</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOPD7qZft3I/AAAAAAAAHXA/dyBIpKb0VAM/s1600-h/DSC_0424%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><font color="#29303b" size="4"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0424 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TOPD8BcwlRI/AAAAAAAAHXE/SXgrW_jQqCA/DSC_0424%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="302" /></font></a><font size="4"> </font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">A few things on the list were simple...</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Pressure wash the rest of the house.</font></p> <p align="center">~I started a month or so ago, but didn't finish~</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Take the faded shutters off and repaint them.</font></p> <p align="center">~while he was at it, he painted the only exterior wall that's not brick or stucco. looks lovely. I'm happy~</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Take the Christmas decorations down from the attic. There's only a million and one totes up there.</font></p> <p align="center">~the son came to his rescue~</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Take all the light fixtures down so I can clean them.</font></p> <p align="center">~If I weren't scared of heights, I'd have done it myself~</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">And while on a ladder, change all the batteries in the fire detectors.</font></p> <p align="center">~whether needed or not...it's time...don't ask me why!~</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Caulk and paint the front door.</font></p> <p align="center">~pronto. I need to decorate it for Christmas~</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">And...paint the two rear doors too.</font></p> <p align="center">~it only makes sense since he has the brush in his hand, right?~</p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><em>And there are a few other small little "to-do's"</em></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">In the meantime, I'm still cleaning but it IS starting to look like Christmas in the LeJeune household.</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>No more florescent light, no more dust.</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">I'm not "quite" such a monster anymore.</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">I'm seriously thinking of calling a therapist about my OCD... </font></p> <p align="center">(thanks for reminding me of my illness <a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa</a>! You and The Man must be in a conspiracy to put me away) </p> <p align="center"><font size="4">In the meantime, I'll be walking around the house in my white socks...</font></p> <p align="center">~ maybe the next time you'll hear from me, I'll be wearing a white straight jacket if my white socks become dirty ~</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">;)</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="3"><strong>Note to self:</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="3">* I <font size="4">still</font> have many birthday presents to open. If I haven't posted about it yet, I haven't opened it :)))</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="3">* I still have to send "thank you" notes :)))</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="3">* Thank you to all of my new followers...I can't wait to stop by and visit with you soon too :)))</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="3">* Thank you for all of the comments you leave here even though I haven't had the chance to visit you lately...please don't give up on me...I beg of you! :)))</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="3">* I'll try and post sneak peeks of my decorated home but I can't show you the "big picture" until after the Parade of Homes on December 5th.</font></p> <p align="center">Hopefully by then, my green skin will return to a pale shade of freckled white, the hair on my teeth will have disappeared, my claws will have shrunk and I'll be back to the same old Jodie as once before ;)</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Sorry this post is oddly short of photos... </font></p> <p align="center">Instead of my camera, my swiffer has been my new best friend lately! </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4"><em>Are you ever a CLEANING MONSTER? </em></font></strong></p> <p align="center"></p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-36502112806060931822010-11-11T06:22:00.001-06:002010-11-11T06:22:32.642-06:00For the love of Vintage Gloves...<p align="center">You know I'm crazy about "Fat Books" right?</p> <p align="center">Well this one indeed is NO exception!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfosP6DSI/AAAAAAAAHS0/ZG3cW2THoYU/s1600-h/DSC_0385%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0385 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfo3M80KI/AAAAAAAAHS8/wPzujWigUaQ/DSC_0385%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="300" /></a></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Fat Book = A book made of fabric, bound by ribbon and embellished with every bit of FabUlousness known to mankind.</font></strong></p> <p align="center">oooh, did I say FabUlous? Yes, I did!</p> <p align="center">Only ONE girl comes to mind when I say FabUlous and that would be none other than the hostess of this beautiful swap...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfpZOVpLI/AAAAAAAAHTA/GCz5bdwKQV0/s1600-h/DSC_0415%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0415 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfpycZAOI/AAAAAAAAHTE/807wx3LTMos/DSC_0415%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="305" /></a> </p> <p align="center">(insert Hollywood lights here)</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">~ Miss <a href="http://smndesigns.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sandy Navarro</a> of <a href="http://smndesigns.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">SMN Designs</a> ~</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://smndesigns.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sandy</a> gathered several girls together and I have to tell you...we totally made some magic with vintage gloves!!!</p> <p align="center">There were eight participants and each participant made eight embellished fabric pages consisting of a vintage glove in the theme of "Fall".</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfqZas77I/AAAAAAAAHTI/3HmQZuLO_6Q/s1600-h/DSC_0379%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0379 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfqviPIzI/AAAAAAAAHTM/ihWCoUovHs4/DSC_0379%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="327" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Once complete, each participant mailed their 8 pages to <a href="http://smndesigns.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sandy</a>. </p> <p align="center">She then created the covers, inserted a fabric page from each participant, bound  them together and mailed a completed Fat Book to each of the eight participants.</p> <p align="center">Sounds easy enough right? NOT hardly! </p> <p align="center">Much time and effort is involved in a swap to this extreme. </p> <p align="center">MONTHS ago, <a href="http://smndesigns.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sandy</a> contacted a select group of girls. Some agreed without a second thought and some wished they had the time, but declined. After gathering all the participants together through ongoing emails, she set a deadline for returning the pages to her.</p> <p align="center">Do you get the picture of how much is involved in a Fat Book swap? If so, let's carry on so we can appreciate the beauty in the details...</p> <p align="center">Opening the book was simply amazing...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfrDM7RRI/AAAAAAAAHTQ/MmXiGdHz5Uo/s1600-h/DSC_0387%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0387 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfrdER0QI/AAAAAAAAHTU/n6V23b7hjcA/DSC_0387%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="277" /></a> </p> <p align="center">The first page was from</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4"> </font></strong><a href="http://smndesigns.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><strong><font size="5">Sandy Navarro</font></strong></a><strong><font size="5"> (hostess)</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">front...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfrj5QX5I/AAAAAAAAHTY/fLAoY66C-pM/s1600-h/DSC_0386%20%282%29%5B18%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0386 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfr9_8WFI/AAAAAAAAHTc/9M22_QpaV3s/DSC_0386%20%282%29_thumb%5B16%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="284" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">back...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfsWFpccI/AAAAAAAAHTg/EvUdKZ8nlMU/s1600-h/DSC_0389%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0389 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfsnrxUVI/AAAAAAAAHTk/mFR-vFVfIuI/DSC_0389%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="324" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Page Two...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvftFgBgYI/AAAAAAAAHTo/GH6kCdHLhXs/s1600-h/DSC_0388%20%282%29%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0388 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvftVftKYI/AAAAAAAAHTs/cZQi3AyxtDk/DSC_0388%20%282%29_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="265" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5"><a href="http://myheartsease.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Charlene Gray</a></font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">front...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvft7tkroI/AAAAAAAAHTw/fA2dDFTO49w/s1600-h/DSC_0391%20%282%29%5B17%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0391 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfuEzOfXI/AAAAAAAAHT0/SnmJXw44X84/DSC_0391%20%282%29_thumb%5B15%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="324" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">back...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfuv-zTqI/AAAAAAAAHT4/aUgvKAO2k-Q/s1600-h/DSC_0392%20%282%29%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0392 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfu-G0PmI/AAAAAAAAHT8/IGSo3bUr1lM/DSC_0392%20%282%29_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="309" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Page Three...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfvYIBgqI/AAAAAAAAHUA/WC83WbQP4KU/s1600-h/DSC_0394%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0394 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfvt3mNyI/AAAAAAAAHUE/BgckNVV4ZDo/DSC_0394%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="267" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5"><a href="http://sewrevived.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sandy Marotti</a></font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">front...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfwL7VKOI/AAAAAAAAHUI/l0EVRy1dAm4/s1600-h/DSC_0393%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0393 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfwTisVqI/AAAAAAAAHUM/uK8oU-_gPGw/DSC_0393%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="299" /></a> </font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">back...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfw0IIQFI/AAAAAAAAHUQ/HrMSpS66RPQ/s1600-h/DSC_0395%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0395 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfxJb-YmI/AAAAAAAAHUU/cfKFO0sq8D0/DSC_0395%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="314" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Page Four...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfxiChtuI/AAAAAAAAHUY/FHacAX_OFuc/s1600-h/DSC_0397%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0397 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfyTB4OBI/AAAAAAAAHUc/1U9bgw7WM8I/DSC_0397%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="254" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5"><a href="http://fluffandfinery.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Pam Kern</a></font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">front...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfyhh0ONI/AAAAAAAAHUg/Uxs1kesueaM/s1600-h/DSC_0396%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0396 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfzBbLxbI/AAAAAAAAHUk/A0EFHE-6sYw/DSC_0396%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="330" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">back...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvfz8MF3-I/AAAAAAAAHUo/x09aTaSEvJ8/s1600-h/DSC_0398%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0398 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf0Ag3MxI/AAAAAAAAHUs/9yN4mrO5ysk/DSC_0398%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="302" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Page Five...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf0qW70sI/AAAAAAAAHUw/XzwOncMUk6M/s1600-h/DSC_0400%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0400 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf052CwuI/AAAAAAAAHU0/LJa-wc4cpzg/DSC_0400%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="262" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">Jodie LeJeune (Moi)</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">front...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf1fa8FQI/AAAAAAAAHU4/z_66wBBlH3M/s1600-h/DSC_0399%20%282%29%5B16%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0399 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf1i3gI7I/AAAAAAAAHU8/aJo94M_7P6w/DSC_0399%20%282%29_thumb%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="327" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">back...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf2unx08I/AAAAAAAAHVA/jIb_4gBQeaA/s1600-h/DSC_0401%20%282%29%5B17%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0401 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgld5xyxJRIMPYKe7PVYf1-Bjpba_b7r9DEgkdKuIAEybmX659TX8S2Hn3q-wQp2cI1Sh7HckGBoYm33LRidHTXoLKB7Pa02YAK1SXy5Bbmn2pcxcsbVsr42q5WEnfGvjYRNfONVFuZlhI/?imgmax=800" width="411" height="367" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Page Six...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf3RLecfI/AAAAAAAAHVI/3Go57wdU4gc/s1600-h/DSC_0403%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0403 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf3gb5eFI/AAAAAAAAHVM/zfjN2PbkeX8/DSC_0403%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="246" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5"><a href="http://gypsymermaidlife.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sarah Huckman</a></font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">front...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf3zSqUmI/AAAAAAAAHVQ/h-eNFUaGZts/s1600-h/DSC_0402%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0402 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf4elqmfI/AAAAAAAAHVU/gyDKPXQP2yU/DSC_0402%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="330" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">back...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf4viYoPI/AAAAAAAAHVY/17xrNxDRfXM/s1600-h/DSC_0404%20%282%29%5B16%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0404 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf5K4ViyI/AAAAAAAAHVc/KNKO9SZ639w/DSC_0404%20%282%29_thumb%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="351" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Page Seven...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf5VAasCI/AAAAAAAAHVg/0VrFzyXwK9U/s1600-h/DSC_0406%20%282%29%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0406 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf5l4qQ4I/AAAAAAAAHVk/c4bPGTaenM8/DSC_0406%20%282%29_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="252" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5"><a href="http://joycampbell.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Joy Campbell</a></font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">front...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf6NFMgJI/AAAAAAAAHVo/PtGHWwdE2qk/s1600-h/DSC_0405%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0405 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf6bLHIeI/AAAAAAAAHVs/xO5vZcGS7RY/DSC_0405%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="335" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">back...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf7f94KCI/AAAAAAAAHVw/Hoy0a0qfdB0/s1600-h/DSC_0407%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0407 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf7kn5VTI/AAAAAAAAHV0/h9-sM86pAVM/DSC_0407%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="358" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Page Eight...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf8Ldhb9I/AAAAAAAAHV4/sQaNwYe1ezw/s1600-h/DSC_0409%20%282%29%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0409 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf8VU7pHI/AAAAAAAAHV8/1g5-wR24y1U/DSC_0409%20%282%29_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="257" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5"><a href="http://somedaysarediamonds-karen.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Karen DeCapite</a></font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">front...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf80riVII/AAAAAAAAHWA/br4up989IZM/s1600-h/DSC_0408%20%282%29%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0408 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf9b4DyfI/AAAAAAAAHWE/qEFDwOBOIJI/DSC_0408%20%282%29_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="335" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">back...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf9midyII/AAAAAAAAHWI/zg_Dna46cyQ/s1600-h/DSC_0410%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0410 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf-XB0NtI/AAAAAAAAHWM/fC6CHdZ1P7c/DSC_0410%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="406" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">The rear cover...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf-xRMkII/AAAAAAAAHWQ/sShElQey1oc/s1600-h/DSC_0411%20%282%29%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0411 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf_Eo-GoI/AAAAAAAAHWU/pBtQCoXmQAE/DSC_0411%20%282%29_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="386" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Just FabUlous!!!!</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvf_pbhRQI/AAAAAAAAHWY/D0EE0xbsIZM/s1600-h/DSC_0413%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0413 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvgAEImX5I/AAAAAAAAHWc/DF-AhKpEBXQ/DSC_0413%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="576" /></a> </font></strong></p> <p align="center">It's all in the FabUlous details.</p> <p align="center">Look what <a href="http://smndesigns.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sandy</a> attached to the front cover...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvgAd-wleI/AAAAAAAAHWg/pcgBGjNM8YI/s1600-h/DSC_0381%20%282%29%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0381 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvgA_MG3sI/AAAAAAAAHWk/uCmxRYxPrZw/DSC_0381%20%282%29_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="406" /></a> </p> <p align="center">She asked for a childhood photo and I sent her a photo of me when I won QUEEN of the Harvest Festival back in the late '70's.</p> <p align="center">If you look closely, there IS a crown on my head!!!</p> <p align="center">{{okay. they picked my name out of a hat}} </p> <p align="center">But really...who cares "how" they picked me, they picked ME! right?  ;)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://smndesigns.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sandy</a>, along with all of the other girls, did a wonderful job and I'm so excited to be a part of this FabUlous Fat Book!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvgBSt6SuI/AAAAAAAAHWs/FS0YbrDoSMM/s1600-h/DSC_0421%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0421 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNvgBxJfCbI/AAAAAAAAHWw/gm1P71SWox4/DSC_0421%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="350" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I would like to be excused for now...</p> <p align="center">I'm going to run my fingers over all of the embellishments and textiles AGAIN! </p> <p align="center">:)</p> <p align="center"></p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-304299112419765192010-11-04T19:05:00.001-05:002010-11-04T19:05:49.263-05:00Sweet as a Georgia Peach...<p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKJnN-Y1I/AAAAAAAAHQ8/hip0t3gHymQ/s1600-h/DSC_0362%20%282%29%5B16%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0362 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKJ7N8w-I/AAAAAAAAHRA/mb7yRnRXM5g/DSC_0362%20%282%29_thumb%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="367" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4">A</font>s a rule of thumb when referring to all things good in life, </p> <p align="center">some people come into your world and make a huge impact.</p> <p align="center">It may be a nod at a grocery store, followed by a smile.</p> <p align="center">Or, maybe a courtesy wave at a four-way stop sign.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKKcMs8dI/AAAAAAAAHRE/PauVOwLxJ9I/s1600-h/DSC_0360%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0360 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKKh4YeSI/AAAAAAAAHRI/CtkvxGmHNEE/DSC_0360%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="514" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Sometimes...</p> <p align="center">I really believe that <font size="4">FATE</font> brings two people together and before you know it, a lasting friendship is formed.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKLNPVfEI/AAAAAAAAHRM/2jAK2Jc-Dz4/s1600-h/DSC_0361%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0361 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKLz5l2hI/AAAAAAAAHRQ/mJfDll-hMcw/DSC_0361%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="563" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I have been blessed with some wonderful friends and one of whom I'm singling out today is <a href="http://www.sugahbeez.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Heidi Meyer</a> of <a href="http://www.sugahbeez.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Sugah Beez</a>.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.sugahbeez.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Heidi</a> and I have visited each other's blogs for a while and luckily, we were able to meet (in real life) in Savannah Georgia this past Spring while attending an art retreat hosted by <a href="http://www.sweeteyecandycreations.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Jennifer Hayslip</a>.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKMG76MKI/AAAAAAAAHRU/jVoSUZfpa4U/s1600-h/DSC_0363%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0363 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKMvlU80I/AAAAAAAAHRY/ZMOPD7GWMtA/DSC_0363%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="332" /></a> </p> <p align="center">As her tag stated above...this was the postcard that started it all :) This postcard from Savannah, along with the handmade tag in the first photo are now very very dear to me :)))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKNjurr6I/AAAAAAAAHRc/ykKejM4-PDA/s1600-h/DSC_0364%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0364 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKN3G1yOI/AAAAAAAAHRg/iLE1_568j2s/DSC_0364%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="374" /></a> </p> <p align="center">A Georgia Peach with a heart of gold and smile that will melt your heart, <a href="http://www.sugahbeez.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Heidi</a> surprised me with a Birthday Gift in the mail (November IS my post-birthday-month!) </p> <p align="center">After a busy entry into November and being glued to the political elections (both local and national), I came home from work today and relished in opening one of my many gifts that are still waiting for me that I've yet to open   :)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKOalOdGI/AAAAAAAAHRk/L7LnA3_VyNo/s1600-h/DSC_0357%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0357 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKOxWzLQI/AAAAAAAAHRo/znfBfSC9WCk/DSC_0357%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="399" /></a></p> <p align="center">This was such a sweet sight as I opened the box. Little gifts wrapped ever so softly in tissue paper, adorned by the most fragrant of handmade tags and vintage bling. </p> <p align="center">ummmm...I smelled both vanilla and coffee...ummmm.</p> <p align="center">I. was. in. heaven.</p> <p align="center">One by one, I opened them while all the while thinking just how thoughtful this girl is.</p> <p align="center">She sent me this totally sa-weet headband lined in brown velvet (velvet...my favorite!) and adorned with rabbit fur applique! </p> <p align="center">Soooooo Soft!</p> <p align="center">:)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKPcLdC8I/AAAAAAAAHRs/rt9K69FyR-M/s1600-h/DSC_0359%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0359 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKPrXoK0I/AAAAAAAAHRw/PKsaVTK3mE8/DSC_0359%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="358" /></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.sugahbeez.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Heidi</a> also reminded me that I was <strong>40</strong>.</p> <p align="center">This tag (along with the others) is going on my inspiration board.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKQH4_lHI/AAAAAAAAHR0/w7qZ2F26sF4/s1600-h/DSC_0366%20%282%29%5B17%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0366 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKQb0F7zI/AAAAAAAAHR4/78VCQyLntpc/DSC_0366%20%282%29_thumb%5B15%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="438" /></a> </p> <p align="center">She's so thoughtful and knows exactly what makes my little heart go pitter patter...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKRXB0k-I/AAAAAAAAHR8/D1oAvFbEwBQ/s1600-h/DSC_0365%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0365 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKRgFnX5I/AAAAAAAAHSA/UdQiBIqAZa8/DSC_0365%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="490" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And most of all, <a href="http://www.sugahbeez.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Heidi</a> SO knows how to spoil me with not only Victorian trims but also with her beautiful handmade goodies...I love this little tablet! It's going right on my desk!!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKSMlUg8I/AAAAAAAAHSE/FuFozEZ5_fM/s1600-h/DSC_0368%20%282%29%5B9%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0368 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQXAFZeiQsKnnjET4MZp5KN20uRYh0s3mEHMmS6HK1Z8Y0ejt2IeoODvr8A8XzkEH0afPdDNpxGzlG-XROD-3cCKvWFJe8tZ3lp72IDNg3bbligJF4RVZ4og_gdQ_BDm00dKTGDytFho/?imgmax=800" width="410" height="369" /></a> </p> <p align="center">But I really think that this little gift below was the icing on the cake. </p> <p align="center">Her sweet birthday wishes and sentiments will last me a lifetime...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKTJNvFJI/AAAAAAAAHSM/uVGZDob0vvs/s1600-h/DSC_0370%20%282%29%5B27%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0370 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKTtVKicI/AAAAAAAAHSQ/X3prVPaEnQc/DSC_0370%20%282%29_thumb%5B25%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="408" height="555" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Only to turn it over and get weak in the knees...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKTyyWz_I/AAAAAAAAHSU/0EzL6ROJ-1U/s1600-h/DSC_0371%20%282%29%5B16%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0371 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKUVKcz1I/AAAAAAAAHSY/r51bccB23Gs/DSC_0371%20%282%29_thumb%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="609" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4">The personal touches are amazing and SO ME!!!!</font></p> <p align="center">The "J" on the crown and the glittered "1" could stand for the following:</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKVCl9yPI/AAAAAAAAHSc/dtgc3hw3muc/s1600-h/DSC_0372%20%282%29%5B18%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0372 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKVcSzHsI/AAAAAAAAHSg/tB5g570ojo4/DSC_0372%20%282%29_thumb%5B16%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="336" /></a> </p> <p align="center">a.)  me being the number one queen</p> <p align="center">b.) me being the birthday queen on the 1st</p> <p align="center">c.) I am her number one queen</p> <p align="center">d.) all of the above!</p> <p align="center">Just kidding, I'm not full of myself! </p> <p align="center">(or am I?)</p> <p align="center">(okaaay...maybe I am just a liiiittle bit)</p> <p align="center">(but this is MY blog so if I'm not full of myself, who will be?)</p> <p align="center">;) </p> <p align="center">All I can say (without being too full of myself) is that YOU, my friends, are TREASURED...each and every one of you!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKV_bR8LI/AAAAAAAAHSk/LMjnb-Se5Ps/s1600-h/DSC_0374%20%282%29%5B19%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0374 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKWNWVrPI/AAAAAAAAHSo/Ex6MsCZ7-DI/DSC_0374%20%282%29_thumb%5B17%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="507" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Old ones, new ones, bloggers, emailers, stalkers, lurkers, locals, and those far far away...all of you are TREASURED. </p> <p align="center"><strong>Thanks to FATE and our paths crossing...</strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>YOU have made a huge impact on me :)))</strong></p> <p align="center">By visiting your blogs and reading your delightful comments you leave here, I am soooo blessed.</p> <p align="center">I am STILL working on my birthday "thank you" notes as I cannot say "thank you" enough for making my <strong><font size="4">40</font></strong> so special!!!! </p> <p align="center">I'm writing them one by one but I will mail ALL of them off at the same time :)))</p> <p align="center">I just can't seem to find the right words to say except I'm truly thankful to have all of you. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKWqKan2I/AAAAAAAAHSs/_0BknyAQe5s/s1600-h/DSC_0377%20%282%29%5B16%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0377 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TNNKXE2Cy0I/AAAAAAAAHSw/Xch_routxFw/DSC_0377%20%282%29_thumb%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="408" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Speaking of "thankful", <a href="http://www.sugahbeez.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Heidi</a> has the sweetest post up.</p> <p align="center">It sure made me reflect...I'm sure it will touch you too.</p> <p align="center">Did I wish you a Happy November, full of thankfulness???</p> <p align="center">:) </p> <p align="center"></p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-69338290402943578062010-11-03T07:35:00.001-05:002010-11-03T07:35:37.612-05:00I'm seeing RED...<p align="center"><strong>and I've NEVER been so happy!!!</strong></p> <p align="center">My ingredients for breakfast this morning:</p> <p align="center">~ add a touch of white</p> <p align="center">~ add a touch blue</p> <p align="center">~ pause 5 minutes to admire my Flag</p> <p align="center">AND Thank God we are headed in the right direction.</p> <p align="center"><strong>Happy November everyone!!!!</strong></p> <p align="center"><strong>:)</strong></p> <p align="center"></p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-87366762277639749712010-10-31T18:08:00.001-05:002010-10-31T18:08:08.905-05:00Birthday MONTH: Day 31<p align="center"><font size="6" face="Haunted"><strong></strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="6" face="Haunted"><strong>HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Do you want to hear a <font face="Haunted">scary</font> story?</font></strong></p> <p align="center">I woke up this morning to voices in my head saying...</p> <p align="center"><font face="Haunted">oooopen meeeee</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Haunted">oooooopen meeeeee</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="5" face="Haunted">oooooooopen meeeeeeee</font></p> <p align="center">I rose out of bed all sleepy eyed and I looked around.</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">I saw a huge white box floating in the air...</font></p> <p align="center">(seriously! i really did!)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32LsFra8I/AAAAAAAAHKU/vir46tD3BHo/s1600-h/DSC_0229%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0229 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32MHtS_wI/AAAAAAAAHKY/NrpXg4DX9WE/DSC_0229%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="326" /></a></p> <p align="center">It started circling my head and I heard voices again...</p> <p align="center"><font face="Haunted">yooooou bettta...</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Haunted">yooou betttttta ooooopen meeeeeee...</font></p> <p align="center"><font face="Haunted">yooooooou bettttttttttta oooooooopen meeeeeeeee...</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Haunted"><strong>ooooorrrr eelllllllllsssse!!!!</strong></font></p> <p align="center">Could it be?</p> <p align="center">Oh no...</p> <p align="center">Could it be...</p> <p align="center">the voice of...</p> <p align="center"><font size="4"></font></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="7" face="Haunted"></font><font size="7" face="Haunted"><a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa Marie?</a></font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="7"></font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32MiImj0I/AAAAAAAAHKc/e0dMVSzYoCA/s1600-h/DSC_0233%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0233 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32NCBtipI/AAAAAAAAHKg/dEmllCunuPE/DSC_0233%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="259" /></a></p> <p align="center">Without a second thought, I reached for the box in the thin air because I'm too chicken sh*t to wonder about what the alternative of <font size="4" face="Haunted">"or else"</font> would be.</p> <p align="center">For forensic sake, I grabbed my cell phone and I documented the whole ghost story~ </p> <p align="center">(just in case I wouldn't be alive to share it with you)</p> <p align="center"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>warning: this is a long post. </strong></font></p> <p align="center">Like <strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">SCARY LONG!!!!</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32NhlCk4I/AAAAAAAAHKk/cYYJ0x49n14/s1600-h/DSC_0235%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0235 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32NwPqknI/AAAAAAAAHKo/RCq_MWEqLv8/DSC_0235%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="322" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="3" face="Haunted">Trust me, it was SO scary</font>.</p> <p align="center">Once I grabbed the box, my cell phone and my camera, the voices in my head had <font size="3" face="Haunted">stopped</font>. </p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Haunted">I was the only one in the room...</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Haunted">but I felt like I wasn't.</font></p> <p align="center">(continuously looking over my shoulder)</p> <p align="center">With shaky hands and my heart pounding...</p> <p align="center"><font size="3" face="Haunted">I sliced open the huge white box.</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ for the record, it's 9:12 and no sign of a ghost ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32OYwyoBI/AAAAAAAAHKs/7yNlQ8j8K9I/s1600-h/DSC_0236%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0236 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32O2YNJbI/AAAAAAAAHKw/PzIu7bQc8IM/DSC_0236%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="310" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ only sightings of beautiful things to come ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center">I removed everything from the huge white box and this is what I was left with...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32PeGIo_I/AAAAAAAAHK0/UEOr1G_kpgI/s1600-h/DSC_0239%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0239 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32P6mC7kI/AAAAAAAAHK4/QrgDuqighfM/DSC_0239%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="327" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #1</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ a French and English Dictionary ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32QEvIADI/AAAAAAAAHK8/cXDaTSYnQAk/s1600-h/DSC_0240%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0240 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32QuCB4FI/AAAAAAAAHLA/DUMdE_7JZmg/DSC_0240%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="408" /></a> </p> <p align="center"> I gently opened the inside cover and noted that  long ago, someone  had a wonderful sense of scary (but true) humor.</p> <p align="center">It reads:</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">Alice Catherine Word's </font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">French Dictionary</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">If you have any use for this, </font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">use it well.</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">If not my dear Mr. or Miss</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4"><font face="Haunted"><u>Go</u> <u>to</u> <u>He</u>aven!<font size="5">*</font></font></font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4"><font face="Haunted"><font size="5">*</font>a woman always means the opposite of what she says</font></font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32RetVPOI/AAAAAAAAHLE/sQBkUfjSc5E/s1600-h/DSC_0241%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0241 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32Ri27AhI/AAAAAAAAHLI/NzGU6UMRwCA/DSC_0241%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="255" /></a> </p> <p align="center">This old French English dictionary is certainly in good hands with me...until I DIE!!!! </p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #2</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ a little white shipping bag full of love ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="5" face="Haunted"><strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32RyjY9QI/AAAAAAAAHLM/DZeN7nQ6TRA/s1600-h/DSC_0242%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0242 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32SadNgYI/AAAAAAAAHLQ/nUhIOvnmOKY/DSC_0242%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="276" /></a> </strong></font></p> <p align="center">With my eyes closed, I nervously reached in the little white bag and pulled out the soft velvety contents...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32S8Um-KI/AAAAAAAAHLU/LFQzuukGfCE/s1600-h/DSC_0244%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0244 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32TlrwI8I/AAAAAAAAHLY/j-aHsXM5jcY/DSC_0244%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="379" /></a> </p> <p align="center">What's so <font size="4" face="Haunted">scary</font> about this is how much <a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa Marie</a> loves me...</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">I could NEVER have let this perfume case go!!!! E.V.E.R.</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32UOc2DxI/AAAAAAAAHLc/5FvJIFcUobc/s1600-h/DSC_0249%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0249 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32UUiVhdI/AAAAAAAAHLg/kwks6SsX5J8/DSC_0249%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="411" /></a> </p> <p align="center">It's now <font size="4" face="Haunted">MY</font> favorite thing in the world...</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Haunted"><strong>buuaaaahhhahahaha!</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><strong><font face="Haunted">(insert crashing thunder and lightning here)</font></strong></p> <p align="center">(clearing throat) So how are you liking my scary story so far?</p> <p align="center">Grab you some tootsie rolls 'cause we're FAR from through!</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ for the record, it's 9:22 and no sign of a ghost ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32U6MhaJI/AAAAAAAAHLk/RzJhO5ZW2aU/s1600-h/DSC_0250%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0250 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32VMil6-I/AAAAAAAAHLo/VNLP5C7OdSU/DSC_0250%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="334" /></a></p> <p align="center">Here we have a little gift wrapped in sewing pattern tissue...I just love that!</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #3</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Some Tim Holtz Love ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32WBqxGwI/AAAAAAAAHLs/nxE4W51-h-8/s1600-h/DSC_0251%20%282%29%5B20%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0251 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32WSNtetI/AAAAAAAAHLw/igNSuZXead4/DSC_0251%20%282%29_thumb%5B18%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="350" /></a> </p> <p align="center">okay. This is <font size="4" face="Haunted">VERY SCARY!</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Haunted">How would <strong><a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa Marie</a></strong> know that <a href="http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/" target="_blank">Tim Holtz</a> is my Rock Star?</font> </p> <p align="center">...unless she stalks me every second of the day...hmmm</p> <p align="center">(looking over my shoulder again)</p> <p align="center">ooooh...we have another little blinged out sewing pattern gift...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32Wo4tSJI/AAAAAAAAHL0/yV7N6eeAiRc/s1600-h/DSC_0252%20%282%29%5B19%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0252 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32W2ldBhI/AAAAAAAAHL4/D8rUzxB8xNQ/DSC_0252%20%282%29_thumb%5B17%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="310" /></a></p> <p align="center">The house was quiet except for the crinkling noise of the sewing pattern tissue as I unwrapped this...</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #4</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ A Vintage Atlas ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32XcsSGYI/AAAAAAAAHL8/YgqA9RVFiJQ/s1600-h/DSC_0255%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0255 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglD08Ow-ZuSMeAfPi7aV6cNjXArJ-sek0Gsc-wh4QaYHPEjpv3X-KyZBbGFyGxS0tZeh7xms02zQIF9kfbJdqamvsX_NWDwmIP4RxUdE-NxwcPcErTbYfDTb_Buf0fkmEMO622EnE2rUs/?imgmax=800" width="410" height="548" /></a></p> <p align="center">It is a beautiful old French Atlas once belonging to...</p> <p align="center">Patille Grady of 5 Rue Lion Dieux</p> <p align="center">I'm sure he/she is <strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">DEAD</font></strong> by now.</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">I LOVE </font></strong><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">DEAD PEOPLE'S STUFF.</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32YNeL9EI/AAAAAAAAHME/XsZ1BA7OGeg/s1600-h/DSC_0256%20%282%29%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0256 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32YZDPu9I/AAAAAAAAHMI/AZdXCFjqvq0/DSC_0256%20%282%29_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="255" /></a> </p> <p align="center">And it now belongs to <strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">MOI!</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Haunted"><strong>buuaaaahhhahahaha!</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><strong><font face="Haunted">(insert crashing thunder and lightning here)</font></strong></p> <p align="center">Every page is colorfully illustrated containing beautiful French script and perfectly aged edges...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32Y2QuokI/AAAAAAAAHMM/tSCSG1ViK34/s1600-h/DSC_0258%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0258 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32Zuld8vI/AAAAAAAAHMQ/04LxAU72Vh0/DSC_0258%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="342" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Perfect for planning my next trip!!!!</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">muuaaaahahhhhahahahahhaha!</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5" face="Haunted">*****</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5" face="Haunted">Part TWO: THE BOX</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #5</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ THE BOX ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Instead of doing the <strong>Monster Mash</strong> today, we are going to do the </font><font size="4">Les Sauterelles Polka which in English = the </font><font size="4">Grasshopper Polka</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">{wth <a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa Marie</a>?}</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32aKbEHZI/AAAAAAAAHMU/5Ygu-inb29A/s1600-h/DSC_0259%20%282%29%5B17%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0259 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32arqN9kI/AAAAAAAAHMY/TRq30FJ80wk/DSC_0259%20%282%29_thumb%5B15%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="276" /></a> </font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">But first Ladies and Gentlemen:</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>I must have your attention!</strong></font></p> <p align="center">Today is  <font size="4" face="Haunted"><strong>Halloween</strong> </font>and my story only get's scarier from here on out.</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">I must warn you</font></strong> that if you have a pacemaker, an artificial gut, or a metal plate in your head...</p> <p align="center">I advise you to stop here.</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Symptoms of continuing on with this post may include, but not be limited to:</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">heart attack, cramps and severe discomfort, severe bouts of jealousy, loss of bodily functions, demonic intuitions, and <a href="http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/" target="_blank">Tim Holtz</a> fantasies,</font></strong>  just to name a few.  </p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Are you with me?</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">We shall now <strong><font face="Haunted">OPEN <font size="5">THE BOX</font>...</font></strong></font></p> <p align="center">(insert freaky creaking noises here)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32bCL-NsI/AAAAAAAAHMc/CN0JK2pjUno/s1600-h/DSC_0260%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0260 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32bTAg5iI/AAAAAAAAHMg/-5QdJyAzzNI/DSC_0260%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="272" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="1" face="Haunted">it's about freakin' time you open me...</font> </p> <p align="center"><font size="5" face="Haunted"><strong>Did you hear that?</strong></font></p> <p align="center">It's that voice again!</p> <p align="center">I could have sworn it said...</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">It's about freakin' time you ooooppppen meeeee!</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa Marie</a>...is that you?</p> <p align="center">(grabbing my garlic and crucifix)</p> <p align="center">All of the sudden, "things" started floating out of the box before me...</p> <p align="center">oh no!</p> <p align="center">It's a photo of <a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa Marie</a> (in the center) and I hear the voices in my head again!!!!</p> <p align="center">They are saying...</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">Jooooodddddieeeeee...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">"I should have given you a swift kick in the ass for not opening your gift while we were in Round Top.</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">You made me spend a small fortune at the Post Office. I'll get you my little pretty..."</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32byRdMLI/AAAAAAAAHMk/BiBt0Ocd2x4/s1600-h/DSC_0264%20%282%29%5B50%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0264 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32cBgk8PI/AAAAAAAAHMo/s1xDFizNMLw/DSC_0264%20%282%29_thumb%5B48%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="421" /></a> </p> <p align="center">and...and...could that be...could that be <a href="http://the-feathered-nest.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Dawn</a> and <a href="http://fionaandtwig.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Anne</a> standing behind her laughing at me???</p> <p align="center">(shaking my head and clearing my eyes)</p> <p align="center">I blink again and see...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32ca_UWVI/AAAAAAAAHMs/oP-i7SbxTZI/s1600-h/DSC_0265%20%282%29%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0265 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32coAC4QI/AAAAAAAAHMw/FEp0yYEhedQ/DSC_0265%20%282%29_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="210" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4"><strong>Whew!</strong></font> </p> <p align="center">That was a <font size="4" face="Haunted">SCARY VISION</font> there for a second. </p> <p align="center">I'm so happy to know that <a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa Marie</a> wasn't haunting me. </p> <p align="center">She'd <font size="4" face="Haunted">NEVER</font> say anything like that to me.</p> <p align="center">I know she loves me too much to be mad at me  ;)</p> <p align="center">Besides, she made this just for me...</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #6</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ The Hauntingly Beautiful Diary ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32c0ultyI/AAAAAAAAHM0/DjfeiVwPymU/s1600-h/DSC_0266%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0266 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32dVQ2zxI/AAAAAAAAHM4/T9Cp0AeQMho/DSC_0266%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="529" /></a> </p> <p align="center">On the inside cover, </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">She cast a spell for our friendship to LAST FOREVER...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Haunted"><strong>buuaaaahhhahahaha!</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32di4TlsI/AAAAAAAAHM8/cqC5IwIgCMg/s1600-h/DSC_0267%20%282%29%5B16%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0267 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32eNK5AoI/AAAAAAAAHNA/-KBs4ZGdBBY/DSC_0267%20%282%29_thumb%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="331" /></a></p> <p align="center">oh wait. that's not a spell...my bad...it's just a sentiment! ;)</p> <p align="center">Inside of the back cover,</p> <p align="center">She made a secret pocket to hold all things <strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">SCARY...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32erVZ1mI/AAAAAAAAHNE/ORewBoKYxs8/s1600-h/DSC_0270%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0270 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32e7FStKI/AAAAAAAAHNI/d_1OO26vTLg/DSC_0270%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="536" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted"><a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa Marie</a> is one talented WITCH.</font></strong></p> <p align="center">She even sent me a noose to two...</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #7</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Beautiful vintage lace ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32fNNUPlI/AAAAAAAAHNM/0BT72NcPSK0/s1600-h/DSC_0272%20%282%29%5B19%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0272 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32flohi0I/AAAAAAAAHNQ/3nCtMWbRo20/DSC_0272%20%282%29_thumb%5B17%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="347" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #8</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Funeral trimmings ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32f-FoUcI/AAAAAAAAHNU/cZ3j5jJQD6o/s1600-h/DSC_0279%20%282%29%5B19%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0279 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32gskMlwI/AAAAAAAAHNY/PJlXO3uk1WI/DSC_0279%20%282%29_thumb%5B17%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="440" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Still secured inside the box were lots of potion ingredients...</p> <p align="center">such as <strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">DUCK FUR...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #9</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Feather Plume ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32hLGz6xI/AAAAAAAAHNc/pHnzchwTDxs/s1600-h/DSC_0261%20%282%29%5B16%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0261 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32hT1-GiI/AAAAAAAAHNg/0CWt-qCE8Vs/DSC_0261%20%282%29_thumb%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="576" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">Secret codes...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #10</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Medals ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32hhIdt4I/AAAAAAAAHNk/KNPCeYjVpeY/s1600-h/DSC_0273%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0273 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32iEwaZWI/AAAAAAAAHNo/eRWCbNw4GNM/DSC_0273%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="375" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">Mysterious Crystal Ice and Scalpels...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #11 & #12</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Vintage Bling and Calligraphy Pen ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32ircd6bI/AAAAAAAAHNs/vlr_egdbfyk/s1600-h/DSC_0276%20%282%29%5B15%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0276 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32i-GE5-I/AAAAAAAAHNw/GpLl9fsshrs/DSC_0276%20%282%29_thumb%5B13%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="504" /></a></p> <p align="center">With "things" still floating in the air, I was surrounded by inspiration. It was then and there that I knew I had to document this paranormal experience as soon as I could. </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">(The scariest thing is that it's taking me over 7 hours to write this post so far!)</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #13</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Rubber Stamp ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32jS4WjtI/AAAAAAAAHN0/baQzYaVeGyc/s1600-h/DSC_0280%20%282%29%5B18%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0280 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32jhPDcHI/AAAAAAAAHN4/wWA8DXvaj4s/DSC_0280%20%282%29_thumb%5B16%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="355" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Helping me write my Petite Histoire (little story) was this Tout-Petite Dictionnaire...</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #14</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Little French Dictionary ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32kD430lI/AAAAAAAAHN8/SMAao5_SC9Y/s1600-h/DSC_0303%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0303 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32kSQReVI/AAAAAAAAHOA/P2OPyTSEdAk/DSC_0303%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="492" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I love the inside cover...I love all things French :)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32kwPieqI/AAAAAAAAHOE/4TL-BcV02O4/s1600-h/DSC_0306%20%282%29%5B23%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0306 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32le5zDNI/AAAAAAAAHOI/LwR7itijjdY/DSC_0306%20%282%29_thumb%5B21%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="464" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Trust me when I tell you that it's really <strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">SCARY</font></strong> petite!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32l85lVZI/AAAAAAAAHOM/6AgJlYNVtrI/s1600-h/DSC_0308%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0308 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32mH-IIUI/AAAAAAAAHOQ/tANY1JzBzGk/DSC_0308%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="374" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Speaking of petite...</p> <p align="center">I wonder which of Lisa Marie's triplets these cutie bootie belonged to????</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #15</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Vintage Baby Shoes ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32mZKIbGI/AAAAAAAAHOU/vhoMU_zfze8/s1600-h/DSC_0295%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0295 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32m57kCiI/AAAAAAAAHOY/SM4rqVEnwOI/DSC_0295%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="348" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Oh the Hell with the voices, the ghosts, the Halloween spookiness! I'm WAY to excited to be scared now!!! </p> <p align="center">All of these goodies are so awesome and there are STILL plenty I have to show you! </p> <p align="center">The only <font size="4" face="Haunted"><strong>SCARY</strong></font> thing I can think of is...</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Haunted"><strong>How and Where did <a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa Marie</a> find SO many beautiful things to send to me???</strong></font></p> <p align="center">She must have a secret place that she's not telling the world about. </p> <p align="center">Is <strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">"Mummy"</font></strong> the word???</p> <p align="center">(can you tell that i'm getting delirious now?)</p> <p align="center">How much sewing pattern tissue does this girl have? ;)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32nbDLA3I/AAAAAAAAHOc/kCPzQ_FvMew/s1600-h/DSC_0296%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0296 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32nrEVgzI/AAAAAAAAHOk/YlkoagM4o30/DSC_0296%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="289" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I unwrapped it and out floated all kinds of little goodies!!!!</p> <p align="center">I have NO clue what this is...but I love the packaging!</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #16</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Undetermined (1) ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32oGKp_MI/AAAAAAAAHOo/5IzCJ0NvqwU/s1600-h/DSC_0312%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0312 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32oSn8G4I/AAAAAAAAHOs/mfLtQeY2HYI/DSC_0312%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="399" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #17</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Undetermined (2) ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center">This is an Elgin watch part. </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">The envelope is sealed and...</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">dared to be opened ~ muuuhaaaahahahaha</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong><font face="Haunted">(insert crashing thunder and lightning here)</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32olnbDBI/AAAAAAAAHOw/jRRwSK-DJKc/s1600-h/DSC_0313%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0313 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32o_yPIhI/AAAAAAAAHO0/oOzevLfLki0/DSC_0313%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="462" /></a> </p> <p align="center">OH MY GAWD! </p> <p align="center">Where does she find this stuff????</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #18</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Ghost Story ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32pUR2nHI/AAAAAAAAHO4/qr3KM89EIfo/s1600-h/DSC_0314%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0314 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32p9RpYPI/AAAAAAAAHO8/CqqoiWo3u1I/DSC_0314%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="361" /></a></p> <p align="center">(i'm about to faint...please call 911)</p> <p align="center">Are you having bouts of jealousy? </p> <p align="center">Cramping?</p> <p align="center">Loss of bodily functions?</p> <p align="center">I told you so!! </p> <p align="center">It's too late to go clean up now...<font size="4" face="Haunted">keep on reading.</font></p> <p align="center">Look at the inside...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32qDifsII/AAAAAAAAHPA/yuQmCAADDVI/s1600-h/DSC_0316%20%282%29%5B16%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0316 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32qQrbniI/AAAAAAAAHPE/EiCY2NnWJBA/DSC_0316%20%282%29_thumb%5B14%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="262" /></a> </p> <p align="center">It's written in one-on-one dialogue!!!! Sa-weet!!!!</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">(guess what I'll be reading tonight?) bahahaha</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #19</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Vintage Sympathy Card ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32rGpXUpI/AAAAAAAAHPI/FWiDD6VIlj4/s1600-h/DSC_0317%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0317 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32rnYbuGI/AAAAAAAAHPM/h8Zxu6iKiKU/DSC_0317%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="352" /></a> </p> <p align="center">(love love!)</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #20</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Vintage Cemetery Photo ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32sTGT5JI/AAAAAAAAHPQ/Jk_xEl1q6ac/s1600-h/DSC_0318%20%282%29%5B17%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0318 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32ssakVCI/AAAAAAAAHPU/8M8fLEqpDSM/DSC_0318%20%282%29_thumb%5B15%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="404" /></a> </p> <p align="center">(love love LOVE!)</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #21</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Fabric Image of a Funeral Cabinet Card ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32tAD004I/AAAAAAAAHPY/etoB5ECldCU/s1600-h/DSC_0322%20%282%29%5B9%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0322 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32tvE88EI/AAAAAAAAHPc/H4IxWealDA8/DSC_0322%20%282%29_thumb%5B7%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="337" /></a></p> <p align="center">(okay...I LOVE everything <font face="Haunted">DEATH</font>!)...except stuffed ducks </p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #22 </strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Hotel Monteleone Correspondence ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32uNR0cZI/AAAAAAAAHPg/rrs8TL-caXo/s1600-h/DSC_0319%20%282%29%5B14%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0319 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32uUU5RQI/AAAAAAAAHPk/qpsoP7_Qs98/DSC_0319%20%282%29_thumb%5B12%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="305" /></a> </p> <p align="center">(I LOVE everything New Orleans too!!!!)</p> <p align="center">It's postmarked 1925!!!</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #23</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Fabric Image of Hotel Monteleone ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32u4kqYVI/AAAAAAAAHPo/8uhVkJlzA70/s1600-h/DSC_0321%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0321 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32vGnF5iI/AAAAAAAAHPs/obDbcLN9ioI/DSC_0321%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="398" /></a> </p> <p align="center">{sigh...I'm just in LOVE with it all}</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ for the record, the box is almost empty and it's 10:01. STILL no sign of a ghost ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32vom5TwI/AAAAAAAAHPw/UoPktkv_g24/s1600-h/DSC_0324%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0324 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32v0EqGNI/AAAAAAAAHP0/JA5arONYF_c/DSC_0324%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="347" /></a> </p> <p align="center"> We're almost to the end. </p> <p align="center">After hearing all of those voices, I just better see a ghost in this damn package!</p> <p align="center">;)</p> <p align="center">Here's another little gift wrapped in sewing pattern tissue...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32wJl9C4I/AAAAAAAAHP4/IA3k2gYQrWk/s1600-h/DSC_0326%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0326 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32wvcpkHI/AAAAAAAAHP8/Ro1tmmJJPtQ/DSC_0326%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="394" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #24</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Paris napkins ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32xEwOHfI/AAAAAAAAHQA/ilsKm2x7stM/s1600-h/DSC_0329%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0329 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32xvUQCoI/AAAAAAAAHQE/N2pzLlSR2xM/DSC_0329%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="460" /></a></p> <p align="center">oh...did I tell you that I love everything PARIS too?</p> <p align="center">:)</p> <p align="center">Almost overlooked was this tiny little envelope, secured by a pearl stick pen...could the ghost be in here????</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32yF00hJI/AAAAAAAAHQI/peslOGKTLmA/s1600-h/DSC_0297%20%282%29%5B17%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0297 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32ycdSk_I/AAAAAAAAHQM/RBFRm4pXIgM/DSC_0297%20%282%29_thumb%5B15%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="379" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #25</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Fleur de lis and Moon and Star pin ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32ymj7ohI/AAAAAAAAHQQ/AdypIr1ITRQ/s1600-h/DSC_0300%20%282%29%5B12%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0300 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32zH5jaZI/AAAAAAAAHQU/F0vKm5jVhBQ/DSC_0300%20%282%29_thumb%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="318" /></a> </font></strong></p> <p align="center">What an awesome combination...I'm loving this!!!! Just look how the fleur de lis has that perfect shade of "vintage" on it   ;)))</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #26</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Some more <a href="http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/" target="_blank">Tim Holtz</a> Love ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32zcDj3dI/AAAAAAAAHQY/XwGA4ZFAWAU/s1600-h/DSC_0310%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0310 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM32zkTIQaI/AAAAAAAAHQc/LzWvJI5hbPE/DSC_0310%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="337" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I'm adding it to my wall collection containing HIS goodies!!!!</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #27</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Letter "J" Printer's Stamp ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM320EnaYKI/AAAAAAAAHQg/SIw6zIkXvsE/s1600-h/DSC_0311%20%282%29%5B19%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0311 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM320WWVb7I/AAAAAAAAHQk/8MrwR0dilPw/DSC_0311%20%282%29_thumb%5B17%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="449" /></a> </font></strong></p> <p align="center">I love ANYTHING with my initials...ANYTHING!!!!</p> <p align="center">One last gift in the box and guess what...it ain't no ghost!!!!</p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>Circumstantial Evidence #28</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4" face="Times New Roman"><strong>~ Sheet Music ~</strong></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM320zyGaCI/AAAAAAAAHQo/w-BLjQbaAbU/s1600-h/DSC_0325%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0325 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM321JQgD9I/AAAAAAAAHQs/D6Fi66Yo3G4/DSC_0325%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="421" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Can a girl ever have enough sheet music????</p> <p align="center">:)))</p> <p align="center">Well folks.</p> <p align="center">Thank you for staying with me until the end.</p> <p align="center">No Ghosts. </p> <p align="center">Plenty Birthday Love.</p> <p align="center">Numb legs.</p> <p align="center">Dirty teeth.</p> <p align="center">Aching back.</p> <p align="center">Crossed eyes.</p> <p align="center">Starving husband.</p> <p align="center">Neglected dog.</p> <p align="center">28 gifts and 52 photos later...</p> <p align="center">I'm ready to go to bed even though it seems like I just woke up!</p> <p align="center">Do me a favor. Look at the time stamp at the bottom of this post and see what time I finished writing this. </p> <p align="center">Right about now...it's <font size="4" face="Haunted"><strong>SCARY</strong></font> how much I love <a href="http://tarnishedandtattered.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lisa Marie</a>. </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM321jwJxuI/AAAAAAAAHQw/lrW_ALyj8ek/s1600-h/DSC_0333%20%282%29%5B13%5D.jpg"><img style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0333 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TM321-yQsBI/AAAAAAAAHQ0/yrurxw-5FXM/DSC_0333%20%282%29_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="302" /></a> </p> <p align="center">But it's even <strong><font size="4" face="Haunted">SCARIER</font></strong> how much she loves me!!!</p> <p align="center">I love her enough to sit at the computer for this long AND I'm wondering where the hell my day went!</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5" face="Haunted">The End.</font></strong></p> <p align="center">of my scary (not so scary) story.</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5" face="Haunted">The End.</font></strong> </p> <p align="center">of my Birthday MONTH.</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5" face="Haunted">And tomorrow is the beginning...</font></strong></p> <p align="center">of my POST Birthday MONTH.</p> <p align="center">I received some more packages over the weekend and I will open them throughout November. I'm sorry I couldn't fit them all into the month of October but you know me...I love to savor the moment and enjoy each gift...no matter "when" I open it  :)))</p> <p align="center">To me, every day is my birthday and I Thank You!!!!</p> <p align="center">I just need a break from posting almost every day and that will be my gift to MYSELF!!!!!</p> <p align="center">See ya again soon~</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5" face="Haunted">HAPPY HALLOWEEN!</font></strong></p> <p align="center">(what's now left of it!)</p> <p align="center">;)</p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4469698968927427119.post-34373005448428660422010-10-30T13:19:00.001-05:002010-10-30T13:19:15.513-05:00Birthday MONTH: Day 30<p align="center"><a href="http://scrapstobeautybyzandra.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Zandra</a> is all about Zebra Print. </p> <p align="center">Every time I see zebra print, I think of her.</p> <p align="center">Nestled inside my birthday box were presents wrapped in zebra print, which by the way looks great with Halloween colors!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhbYj26CI/AAAAAAAAHIg/M2QIOQibPPM/s1600-h/DSC_0020218.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0020 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhb_LdCvI/AAAAAAAAHIk/cSOBOvZwGI0/DSC_00202_thumb16.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="571" /></a></p> <p align="center">Also inside the birthday box, I found this spooky glittery candelabra tassel...I love it!!!! </p> <p align="center">SO creative!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhcCbUlMI/AAAAAAAAHIo/IoE1l_8JStI/s1600-h/DSC_0017214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0017 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhcpO63DI/AAAAAAAAHIs/14aJnTpp1T0/DSC_00172_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="682" /></a></p> <p align="center">I think it was then and there that I knew what direction this birthday present was going...everything was going to be "Halloween"...my favorite holiday :)</p> <p align="center">If you noticed in the first photo, the bottom present had a little orange tag tucked under the bow. </p> <p align="center">It read:</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhdCwzOtI/AAAAAAAAHIw/y0Cht79YgYg/s1600-h/DSC_0022226.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0022 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhdgJEkhI/AAAAAAAAHI0/JAAeYRZsXYk/DSC_00222_thumb24.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="610" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Well hell...</p> <p align="center">The last time she sent me smelling salts was when she surprised me with an autograph & photo from <a href="http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/" target="_blank">Tim Holtz</a>...my Rock Star!</p> <p align="center">Can you just imagine this scene:</p> <p align="center">I was really nervous to open it. </p> <p align="center">I felt a panic attack coming on...could it be?</p> <p align="center">I thought, should I call a friend to come stay with me while I open it ~  just in case I faint?</p> <p align="center">(this was one time that i wished i had LifeAlert!)</p> <p align="center">ok. I'm a big girl. I'm 40. I opened it...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhd-Ol28I/AAAAAAAAHI4/dy8pWvYkaMQ/s1600-h/DSC_0030213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0030 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxheYNCRDI/AAAAAAAAHI8/VRJ4diZ-akg/DSC_00302_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="408" height="549" /></a> </p> <p align="center">Whew! </p> <p align="center">It was just a rubber stamp, one of the new ones from <a href="http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/" target="_blank">Tim Holtz</a>. </p> <p align="center"><strong>I love it!</strong></p> <p align="center">But...But...</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">OH</font>...</p> <p align="center">(I suddenly wished that I'd have phoned a friend)</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">It's not JUST a rubber stamp...</font></strong></p> <p align="center">oh noooooo~</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhexKbeiI/AAAAAAAAHJA/fittFu_E49M/s1600-h/DSC_0031220.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0031 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhfnsPhvI/AAAAAAAAHJE/Qoi4P-ZJD-U/DSC_00312_thumb18.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="336" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">It's an AUTOGRAPHED rubber stamp from my ROCK STAR!!!!</font></strong></p> <p align="center">Sure enough, I could NOT breathe.</p> <p align="center">My knees were weak.</p> <p align="center">WHY didn't I listen to her warning on that darn tag?</p> <p align="center"><strong>LOOK!</strong></p> <p align="center">Tim Holtz actually TOUCHED this stamp!</p> <p align="center">(I smelled it. I rubbed it back and forth across my cheek)</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Can. You. See. IT???</font></strong> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhf8xf8MI/AAAAAAAAHJI/K5ZRnSJJ80c/s1600-h/DSC_0032213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0032 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhgWylwLI/AAAAAAAAHJM/TizUpvN_ENA/DSC_00322_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="403" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I really think <a href="http://scrapstobeautybyzandra.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Zandra</a> is trying to kill me.</p> <p align="center">I mean...I know she loves me and she DID give me a warning before hand but...It's just that us Cajuns don't follow directions very well. (lucky if we even read the directions at all)</p> <p align="center">{sigh}</p> <p align="center">~ i need a break all over just talking about it ~</p> <p align="center">.</p> <p align="center">.</p> <p align="center">.</p> <p align="center">.</p> <p align="center">.</p> <p align="center">.</p> <p align="center">.</p> <p align="center">.</p> <p align="center">.</p> <p align="center">okay. i'm back.</p> <p align="center">I still had a little bit of life left in me, it was time to open the second present...</p> <p align="center">{love that purple zipper flower!}</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhgyofFlI/AAAAAAAAHJQ/nJjaCnCx-Ew/s1600-h/DSC_0020316.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0020 (3)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhhBg_jaI/AAAAAAAAHJU/_r1JSVvb8cQ/DSC_00203_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="378" /></a> </p> <p align="center">okay. <font size="4">REWIND!!!!!</font></p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Did. You. See. His. Autograph. on. MY. stamp?</font></p> <p align="center">Let me show you again...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhf8xf8MI/AAAAAAAAHJI/K5ZRnSJJ80c/s1600-h/DSC_0032213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0032 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhgWylwLI/AAAAAAAAHJM/TizUpvN_ENA/DSC_00322_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="403" /></a> </p> <p align="center">;)</p> <p align="center"><font size="4">Gah!</font> I just wanted to make sure you saw it!!!!</p> <p align="center">Let's get back to the second present!</p> <p align="center">(are you sure you saw it?)</p> <p align="center">oh-kaaaay!!!!</p> <p align="center">Let's peek inside...I'm sure you are all nervous and sweaty now too, huh? um hum...I know the feeling...believe me!  :)</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhh_VXUQI/AAAAAAAAHJY/Cl7KIbmtO-0/s1600-h/DSC_0026212.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0026 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhiZyI8mI/AAAAAAAAHJc/FaEQd2fzqGM/DSC_00262_thumb10.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="346" /></a> </p> <p align="center">This looks SO familiar...can it be?</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="4">Yes!!! Yes it IS!!!</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhi2C95yI/AAAAAAAAHJg/sjlpZo4LOlc/s1600-h/DSC_0023219.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0023 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhjkvEUJI/AAAAAAAAHJk/avHaJLge43s/DSC_00232_thumb17.jpg?imgmax=800" width="409" height="497" /></a> </p> <p align="center">This is the SWEET little Halloween Top Hat that <a href="http://scrapstobeautybyzandra.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Zandra</a> made and she posted about it (<a href="http://scrapstobeautybyzandra.blogspot.com/2010/10/graphic-45halloween-in-wonderland.html" target="_blank">click here</a>). I remembered reading her post because she said she made it for "someone special" and I thought wow...that must be really someone special! </p> <p align="center">Never thought that her "someone special" would be ME!!!! </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://scrapstobeautybyzandra.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Zandra</a> was inspired by <a href="http://tvintagekey.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Laura at The Vintage Key</a> who designs for <a href="http://g45papers.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Graphic 45</a>, <a href="http://www.provocraft.com/index.php" target="_blank">Provo Craft</a> and more! </p> <p align="center">She even wrote and signed the inside...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhkEV0n8I/AAAAAAAAHJo/S8ACZLYaN5g/s1600-h/DSC_0025223.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0025 (2)" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhklX3YmI/AAAAAAAAHJs/ZGuz6LwhkT4/DSC_00252_thumb21.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="313" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I absolutely LOVE it and I'm so honored that she thought of ME!</p> <p align="center">There's one thing about <a href="http://scrapstobeautybyzandra.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Zandra</a>...she's certainly not lacking in the thoughtfulness department!!!! She's surprised me with little gifts throughout the year...she has a HUGE HEART OF GOLD!!!!</p> <p align="center">of course she does, she's a Libra too!!!!  :)))</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhluAMplI/AAAAAAAAHJw/vnDRUdkmiek/s1600-h/DSC_0029214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0029 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhl67ce-I/AAAAAAAAHJ0/pU3xR0PBpB4/DSC_00292_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="611" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I opened this birthday box on Thursday and I couldn't post about it. It was killing me not to.</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://scrapstobeautybyzandra.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Zandra</a> was in London and she asked me to post about it when she returned home to the states...</p> <p align="center">...and today is the day!!!!</p> <p align="center">:)))</p> <p align="center">This rubber stamp autographed by <a href="http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/" target="_blank">Tim Holtz</a> will remain close to my heart...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhmdMhT2I/AAAAAAAAHJ8/5qSdrtNMP5Y/s1600-h/DSC_0033213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0033 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhmo_slMI/AAAAAAAAHKA/lTUQ9Phi0gA/DSC_00332_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="669" /></a> </p> <p align="center">forever and ever.</p> <p align="center">It's sitting high on a shelf in my studio now, right next to my framed photo and autograph of <a href="http://timholtz.typepad.com/my_weblog/" target="_blank">Tim</a> and <a href="http://scrapstobeautybyzandra.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Zandra</a> from last year...</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhnKg6dGI/AAAAAAAAHKE/tKRWS9IUzJ4/s1600-h/DSC_0042216.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0042 (2)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhnw1VcNI/AAAAAAAAHKI/thLwTBgkA3o/DSC_00422_thumb14.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="288" /></a> </p> <p align="center">(I guess I could have stood on a chair to take a better photo for you, but I'm still light-headed from all the excitement :)</p> <p align="center">I just LOVE everything Z...thank you!!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhodDf9iI/AAAAAAAAHKM/rrssuty1cBY/s1600-h/DSC_0034214.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0034 (2)" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhop0VjkI/AAAAAAAAHKQ/8-BBx9mdkwE/DSC_00342_thumb12.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="302" /></a> </p> <p align="center">I'm just checking ONE more time...</p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">Did. You. See. IT???</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhf8xf8MI/AAAAAAAAHJI/K5ZRnSJJ80c/s1600-h/DSC_0032213.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0032 (2)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_QkHQzKC2qfE/TMxhgWylwLI/AAAAAAAAHJM/TizUpvN_ENA/DSC_00322_thumb11.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="403" /></a> </p> <p align="center"><strong><font size="5">:)))</font></strong></p> <p align="center"><strong></strong></p> <p align="center"><font size="5" face="Haunted">Be safe on Hallow's Eve!!!!</font></p> Jodie (everything vintage)http://www.blogger.com/profile/05124360606762194428noreply@blogger.com22