Angel Bottoms Boutique

My Ready to Ship Hats! Pay by 12/15/11 and I will guarantee Christmas delivery!

2011-12-08T10:58:00.000-08:00

4 to 7 years $10

6 to 10 years girly $10

1 to 3 years $10

1 to 3 years $12

Adult Small Santa Hat $15

4 to 7 years with American Girl Doll Size Hat $15

Newborn hat and cocoon $35

Newborn $10

3- 6 months $10

Victorian (Little House on the Prairie inspired) 6-10 years $12

0-3 months $10

6-10 years $12

Newborn $12

0-3 months $12

4-7 years $10

12-24 months $10

Nook Color Case $8

5" x 7" Book Cover Protector $10

Child's Purse $5

4-6 years $10

Preemie to Newborn $8

Newborn $8

Newborn $12

12-36 months $15

12-24 months $10

12-36 months $10

18 months to 3 years $10

6-18 months $18

2-4 years $10

6-10 years $10

4-7 years $8

6-10 years $10

Newborn $10

0-3 months $10

Newborn Hooded Cocoon $25

48" by 48" Fringed Phototgraphy Prop Blanket $40

Newborn Nest $25

12 to 36 months pick an applique $12

6-18 months $10

Count Your Blessings~

2011-11-03T05:16:00.000-07:00

Miss Chelsea as a Dr. Seuss character :)

Uncle Josh and Alyssa Marie

Chelsea's drawing that got her 8th place in the Apple Butter Festival drawing contest

Extreme Couponing $112 worth for $23

Extreme Couponing with Audrey

A napping Alyssa

Bff's Chelsea and Bree

Sister's are forever

Alyssa going all in carving her pumpkin

My Love of Sewing!

2011-07-18T20:25:00.000-07:00

One of my bead holders.....

Wool Longies....Will soon be listed on my My Etsy Shop

Upcycled jean book holder

Crocheted child's purse.....can add an owl face, flower.....or any embellishment you would like

The beginnings of Lens Animals.......

My Love of Photography!

2011-07-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

Chupacabra? Coyote?

2011-07-02T21:27:00.000-07:00

Old Friends

2011-07-02T17:25:00.000-07:00

I always wander how many can say they had the best neighborhood growing up. How many can say they still have friendships with those same people today as adults. I can say that. I can say that they are still very close friends. I thank God for the chance to have such a wonderful childhood.

So many things have gotten me to thinking of my childhood. All wonderful memories. Swimming with neighbors, forts in the woods, jumping the ramps :), playing house, and just hanging out. And I still have contact with all my wonderful childhood friends.

I remember sleepovers, playing in Mindy's mom's fabric room (I'm sure that's what got me addicted to fabric-thank you) Barbies in Tammy's playroom, jumping ramps with Shawn, and swimming in Shawn and Mindy's pool.

I always wished I could have been in the "popular" crowd growing up. Thinking about it God had other plans for me. I am friends now (not close friends) but I do chat with the "popular" crowd on Facebook. I see times in my life where I could have made different choices but I see that I wouldn't be where I am today if I did.

Wahhhhhhhhhhhhhh

2011-06-29T00:09:00.001-07:00

Wahhhhhhhhhhhhhh, a photo by jolynn82474 on Flickr.

See them people back there? They have changed that baby 5 times!

2011-06-28T17:16:00.001-07:00

See them people back there? They have changed that baby 5 times!, a photo by jolynn82474 on Flickr.

A Giveaway from a Blogging Friend

2011-05-26T12:22:00.000-07:00

Susan Godfrey is giving away a Lacto-Fermenting Starter Package, with a value of nearly $30. It includes: 1 Vegetable Fermentation Master lid and 1 copy of the book Truly Cultured. You can see the entire information about the giveaway at: http://susangodfrey.com/homegrownsimplicity/?p=59

Ramblings

2011-05-11T16:03:00.000-07:00

Sitting here debating what to write about next. I know it's been a long while. Since spring has finally arrived here in PA I think I may have gotten out of my funk. Feeling better anyhow. I have started an Etsy store (look in left column) Crocheting has really gotten me through my sad times. Love making baby things.

We had to take my mom for iron infusions. The way I understand is when she had her cancer removed they took out the spot on her small intestines that absorbs the iron into her body. So while she has been doing that we take our youngest fun places. I'm sure he'd be bored out of his mind to sit while grammy gets in IV for 2 hours. So last week we went to a park with cool new equipment and ducks to feed. He was so excited!

The last few months have been trying to say the least. Trying for baby for 9 months and then miscarriage and then d&c. I would love to try for one more baby. Just scared to go through all that again. Felt like I lost one every month for 9 months and then to finally get pregnant and lose it. This one seems worse than my first 2 losses. I am thinking of going to a support group. Maybe a few would help me cope some. And with no insurance meds are not possible. Been trying to get sunshine it seems to be helping some.

Yes I have started counting my blessings more and more. I am very thankful for my family! For Mother's Day I received chicken wire (yes you read that right chicken wire for a small china cabinet hubby bought that needed glass. I seen one at the antique store that they used chicken wire instead) I will surely take pics to share that one, I also got the Readers Digest Needlework book and a pile of kiddos cards and crafts. They are my favorite!

A few weeks ago we had a horrible storm. It was the weakened storms that spawned the mile long tornadoes down south. It was 3:45am and I was reading a good book on my new Nook. I started hearing the thunder from the south. We never have storms come from the south. Ours always come from the west. Next thing I know is the wind picks up and it sounds like a lawnmower is running over the house. That was freaky. Then the power goes out! Ugh! We didn't get power back on for 12 1/2 hours. Down the road they were out of power for a full day. There was trees down. There was a line of about 8 telephone poles that fell over/snapped. What a mess.

Thank God no one was hurt.

Upcycling Plastic Bags: Plarn

2011-04-07T19:37:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful idea to reuse and reduce the plastic bags going into our landfills. Here is my tutorial on making plarn:

Take a clean plastic bag. Lay it flat

Fold it in half

Fold it in half again

Cut the bottom off. Put that in your bag to make kitty toys with.

Cut the handle off. Put that in your bag to make kitty toys

Cut your bag evenly to make complete circles

Pull the circles together to form and length of plarn. Crochet and/or knit as you desire. Great for area rugs, soda can cozies, coasters....let your mind go wild.....

Walk with Grandma

2011-04-05T12:09:00.000-07:00

Author: unknown

I Like to Walk with Grandma

I like to walk with Grandma,
she takes small steps like mine.
She never says "let's hurry-up!
she always takes her time.
I like to walk with Grandma,
her eyes see things like mine.
Shiny stones, a fluffy cloud,
stars at night that shine.
People rush their whole day through,
they rarely stop to see.
I'm glad that God made Grandmas
unrushed and young like me!

Please Come See My New Venture

2011-03-29T10:29:00.000-07:00

I have started on a new venture of beautiful crocheted hats..... http://snipssnailsandpolkadots.blogspot.com/

Why I Haven't Posted.....

2011-03-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

The baby stopped growing at about 5 weeks along. The doctor had me wait to try to do miscarry naturally. So I did and went back and the sac was empty. So he did a d&c. I believe this will be our last try as I don't think I could handle anymore losses. I would so love another baby but it just doesn't look like a possibility.....

~Count Your Blessings Monday~

2011-01-30T22:31:00.000-08:00

I haven't done a blessings Monday in a long time. And I can tell. I don't appreciate life as much.

I am blessed to have a wonderful husband and family. My husband is such a dedicated person. His job is wonderful but lacks a few things eg. insurance. He works his butt off and then comes home and does his things and then I let him relax the rest of the night.

My children are all blessings. And to add another one to our quiverful household is awesome! Thank you God for letting me do it one more time :)

I need to lessen the stressors in my life. Stress doesn't let the baby get all the nutrients from me. So will start one by one eliminating these issues. At first it won't be noticeable but, eventually these stressors will notice.

This week I am going to start decluttering and lessening the "stuff" I have. It will make a good snowday plan. To bake and get rid of. Starting with the landfill, freecycle, and donation boxes.

Thank you God for getting me through one more stressful event today without melting down.......

BFP Photo!

2011-01-12T20:52:00.000-08:00

BFP

2011-01-09T18:47:00.000-08:00

Big Fat Positive! And yep that was on a pregnancy test. I am sooooo excited. I love new babies and this one is no exception. Wasn't planned and was planned. Just had fun trying. My due date is September 17th 2011. Almost another August baby. I go for my first appointment tomorrow. But that is only to talk to a nurse and get all the good reading material :D Then Thursday I go to WIC and Friday I see the doctor. I'm hoping for an ultrasound but it may just be too early. I will be 4 weeks 6 days then. Would be nice to see where "jellybean" is living though.

I tried to take a picture of the pregnancy test but my phone isn't the best for close ups like that. So I'll wait for the ultrasound pics. I am sooo excited. Off to freecycle everything we don't use to make room for "jellybean"

Going Back to the Idea of Homeschooling

2011-01-02T21:53:00.000-08:00

So tomorrow the kids go back after a 12 day vacation. Boy will I miss them. They are all growing up so fast. I was in a discussion on Facebook about missing my the kids and bringing them home for homeschooling. We tried with Audrey but I don't think either of us had the motivation. I would love to bring at least Chelsea home and not send Wyatt. Wyatt and I sat here tonight and watched videos on youtube about Jesus, sight words, holding your pencil and writing our name. We both enjoyed the quiet time together.

In PA you don't have to register your children till they are 8 in school. So technically we have 2 more years. If I can get myself together and a better schedule we will do this. I don't see my 13 year old wanting to homeschool. But then he has been not liking school.

I'm sure my mom and brother will have a cow over the whole thing but you know....never mind I won't go there on here.

So Wyatt and I will be starting to dig into homeschooling in the new year. Woohoo!!!

A New Year and New Way of Life

2011-01-01T21:14:00.000-08:00

I get so stuck between going to work outside my home or really getting into making my family goods and making them goods to sell from home. Been lead to read Proverbs and follow it as to use my home to it's fullest potential. I am looking into which area to pursue with sewing, knitting, writing, or photography. I love them all. So maybe a little of each till I find my true niche.

I want the year ahead to be full of laughter, enjoyment and much needed calmness. I had so much hatred and sadness in 2010 that I need to start forgiving those who caused it. I am so grateful for my husband as he has endured all my mood swings from the goings on in our house. I need to see my mom as a different person. I don't think I ever had a nice mother/daughter relationship with her. I always felt closer to her mom and miss her so much. And yes I was a daddy's girl. I am grateful for all the wonderful memories he left me with. I still can't believe he will be gone 5 years in February.

I really want to use the house to it's fullest potential as that is what an inheritance is supposed to be used for. I thank my mom and dad for letting my family and I live here and make our memories.

Here's to a wonderful 2011!

Newest Design

2010-11-06T23:06:00.000-07:00

Offering this in postcards, enlargements and canvas. Email me for pricing. Of course without the watermark

Awesome Print!

2010-11-05T22:25:00.000-07:00

Will offer this in canvas, enlargements and postcards......any interest PM me! Of course without the watermark

Personal and Private Digital Photography Lesson

2010-08-25T13:58:00.000-07:00

I am participating in a photo enhancement contest....Prize is his photo tips and tricks!! Woohoo!! I love learning

http://www.mcklinkyblog.com/201008/join-me-in-a-personal-private-digital-photography-lesson/

I recently took a trip to Colorado and posted a bunch of photos on our family blog. I had lots of people wanting to know the techniques I used to put some “wow” into the photography. Check out the photos here…

So, let’s have some fun. I’ll reward those who participate by letting you in on some private tips, tricks and secrets on how to put some dazzle into your shots. Here’s the deal:

Download this original landscape photo I took by clicking here…

Do your own version of improving, enhancing and otherwise putting “wow” into this image

Put up a post on your blog displaying your enhanced photo, and explaining what you did

Come back to this post, and enter your photo and blog post on the Thumbnail Linky below (I’ve put in the first link just to show you how the Thumbnail linky works)

Then, I’ll do a private online demonstration of what I do to get my outdoor photography to come alive, and send a link to every person who participated by following these instructions and entered the Thumbnail Linky list.

On Friday of this week, I’ll do a very informative demonstration and teach you not only how to do the photo enhancements, but how to LOOK AT photos and “see” what kind of improvements are needed.

Here’s the photo we’ll all be working on:

My version:

I played with the color temperature, saturation, tint, brightness and so on. I had a lot of fun as our mountains gorgeous but love seeing other mountains. I live in the White Deer Mountain area and it is lined with pine and maple trees.... :D

Writer's Block and Junk

2010-08-08T20:44:00.000-07:00

I absolutely looooove being a grammy. But hate that Audrey and Alyssa live 5 hours away. I miss them more everyday. They were here to visit this weekend. Three days was not enough. It flew right by. Took 200+ photos this weekend. Well of course, it's my passion. And I had some beautiful models.

I still pray daily for them to move back to PA or at least way closer. Some things happened that made me upset but I won't get into that. I just need to talk to a few people about the happenings.

We had a family picnic Saturday. Alyssa met some of my family. My cousin and his family are up from Texas for 2 weeks. So we all had a great time! I haven't laughed so hard in a long time. It's so nice to get together with them other than weddings and funerals.

It's been so hard to keep up with writing and knowing what to write. I want to write daily but wow to know what to write. I can post tons of photos but I know photos do not get as many hits as writing does. So here are some of the photos from this weekend.

The New Grandbaby is here!

2010-06-13T13:35:00.000-07:00

Sitting here peacefully in the quiet of a Maryland morning. Tommy's family is all working and Chelsea, Audrey and baby Alyssa all sleeping. I snuck off for a shower thinking about my people back in PA. I miss them so much but I know this time with Audrey and Alyssa isn't very long. So I try not to think about going back to PA right away.

Alyssa had jaundice but feeding her every two hours and sunlight therapy has brought it down. Doc still wants her to keep feeding that way to make sure it all gets out of her. I am so proud of Audrey and Tommy. They are doing wonderfully with her. You know I had my doubts with Tommy. He moved my baby girl to Maryland. He took her away....but you know as I talk to him this week, he reminds me a lot of my dad. I smile thinking about him watching all that goes on here and I am sure he is proud of all our accomplishments.

Here are some photos from this week.

A Glorious Way to Vacation in Central PA

2010-06-03T14:00:00.000-07:00

My family and I bought a camper a few years ago. In the forest we live by we area allowed to use their campsites free of charge. Now they don't have water or electricity but we have a holding tank for water and a generator for electricity. We only use that at night for lights and hot water. It doesn't cost much more for food as we already have to eat anyhow.

We use this time to teach our children about the plants and animals of the Bald Eagle State Forest. We like to do this at least three times during the summer as there are different cycles for the plants to be blossoming. One of our children's favorite times is around July 4th as the wild blueberries and teaberries are ripe and ever so yummy. Around the same time our state flower the Mountain Laurel is blooming. Oh our hikes are so pretty.

Our food menu consists of all of our camping favorites. Along with smores and hot dogs on the fire we love packet cooking. I'll take mixed veggies, rice and a cooked meat (be it ham, chicken, steak, etc.) wrap it in foil and lay them in the fire. Mmmmmm, what a treat. One of our traditional desserts is pumpkin pie. I freeze my veggies from my garden the year before and save a few cups of our pumpkin for our 4th of July meal. Pumpkin pie on the 4th of July! I love our traditions.

There is a "beach" we like to go to during our camping trips. It is Raymond B. Winter State Park. Lovely spot. The water is frest mountain water 38 degrees all year round. Picnic tables, a beach, and many trails to explore make for a wonderful beach trip.

Being a one income family we find many ways to keep the children stimulated all summer and not lose the learning aspect of being out of school. And to do it on a small budget which having the camper has saved us a lot of money vacationing and going to visit family in neighboring states.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-05T20:22:00.000-07:00

Some Photos from Our Weekend!

2010-04-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

30 Days Till Mother's Day

2010-04-09T19:16:00.001-07:00

MckMama is giving away......

2010-04-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

an IPAD!!!!! http://www.mycharmingkids.net/2010/04/little-ipad-with-big-purpose.html

She has raised $17,000 so far! What an accomplishment! For every $5 that you donate you will be entered into the drawing for the Ipad. There is talk of someone donating a second Ipad so the chances are greater to win one.

Off to sew and stock my stores......

Thankful Thursday

2010-04-08T20:22:00.000-07:00

My heart is full of things to be thankful for! I want to shout to the world a few of my important ones

My mommy is boring! A blessful boring.....all her bloodwork is perfect, cancer free for 3 years, and is an awesome grandma!

My hubby putting up with me, our house, and all his hours of work at his new job. I haven't been the easiest to put up with lately and I'm not sure why. I'm just not happy but I am going to start a new happy way of thinking. Not look at the whole picture but look at the steps to get there. Our house was my parents home. My childhood home. Sad to say the upkeep wasn't the greatest and we are paying for it now. I pray everyday to have an easy carefree life here. His new job was a blessing as the owner called him for the job. He didn't even have an application or resume in with them. But he works 12-14 hour days. I do pray he finds a better job with benefits as him and I don't have health insurance. Which scares me.....

But I am thankful for our home. We are rent and mortgage free, I take care of my mom and children and home without paying someone else's mortgage.

Multiple Instant $7 Payments sent directly to PayPal!

2010-04-07T11:00:00.000-07:00

Do you need money today?

Instant $7 Payments Directly To Your PayPal Account!

This is great. If you are looking to make

some Instant Cash, go check out the link

below.

They pay Instantly multiple times per day

directly into your PayPal account.

How many $7 payments do you think you can

generate today?

5, 10, 20 or more?

If you need to make some quick cash today

to pay an overdue bill or something, this

is your best bet...

Click the link below Now!

http://www.massivesalesx.com/default.aspx?affilid=shimmer

Our Easter Sunday Activities.....

2010-04-04T19:34:00.000-07:00

After dinner hubby took our oldest son to practice baseball and I took the youngin's to play at the park. It was a fun day for all.......and after we went for ice cream YUM!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-31T20:19:00.000-07:00

Not Me~Monday!

2010-03-29T12:51:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

I did not go the the local antique store to hunt down all their buttons. Nope not me....

And did not come home with bins and bins of buttons

So I can make button bouquets for my daughter's baby shower. She is due in June and her shower is in April.

The pink ones are for her bouquet and the bright ones are for the centerpieces on the tables.

But did find some awesome bakelite buttons though.....

And some awesome fabric and binding to make camera straps for sale in my store!

Not me I sure don't have an awesome colorful button collection now!

My Latest Finds

2010-03-27T18:11:00.000-07:00

Watch for a New Look for my Blog!

2010-03-24T13:43:00.000-07:00

I am having a new look for my blog done by Angie at Resale Clipart. I am soooo excited! Should be done by tomorrow afternoon! Woohoo!

3/23/96 is a Day I Will Never Forget

2010-03-22T20:46:00.000-07:00

My father in law's hand, my daddy (RIP), my mommy and I

My mother in law, my mommy and I

My son in his casket

This is the story of my angel Dominick Joseph~

Dominick's Story

I was just thrilled to be pregnant again. My daughter was 5yo and I wanted a boy so bad. I had the Norplant removed in October of 1995 and became pregnant in December of 1995. Everything was going great. I had a six week ultrasound to see actually how far along I was. By my calculations I was right. We heard the heartbeat (and saw it). I had my 13 week check-up and everything was fine. Went in for my 17 week check-up and they couldn't find a heartbeat. I was so scared. I was by myself (boyfriend at home with my daughter). They had me go to the hospital for an emergency ultrasound. On the way their I heard a song that will be my son's song forever - Go Rest High On That Mountain - Vince Gill. I cried so hard. Wanting so bad for this to be a bad dream.

I got to the hospital and waited for about a half an hour to do the ultrasound. That was horrible. I had it done and the technician didn't say anything. She wasn't aloud without the doctor being there. I couldn't see the monitor. So I didn't know what was going on. I was released. I waited again I swear forever. Probably another half an hour or so. The doctor came and said I am sorry your baby has passed on. (I don't think I would want that job). I cried and cried. Had to call my boyfriend. He rushed down and my best friend had just called before he left and met him down there and took my daughter so I could deal with it.

They said he passed on at about 16 weeks. Nobody knows what exactly happened to Dominick. We had him buried at a cemetary where a lot of our relatives have been buried. His grandmother bought the plot. I am so greatful to her. I was scheduled to be induced on March 23, 1996. That was horrible to go through the labor and have nothing to show for it. He was born at 7:44 that night. Weighed 3 ounces and was 7 inches long.

We buried our son on March 26, 1996. That had to be one of the coldest days that year. We buried him next to a mountain.

It took us a while but on Thursday, May 7, 1998, his headstone was put on. It took us awhile to save it up. But we did it. Now the world knows all about Dominick Joseph Francis.

March 23, 1996

Jo Lynn

******************************************************
Wife to Robert since July 20, 1997 together
since June 26, 1990

Mommy to:

Audrey Elizabeth since April 26, 1991
Dominick Joseph bornstill March 23, 1996 ^I^
Joshua Ryan-Lee since August 30, 1997
Chelsea Renae since August 25, 2000
Jonathan Robert 9 week miscarriage October 20, 2003^I^
Wyatt Allen since February 2, 2005

TTC after the first of the year 2010

Angel Bottom's Ezine #1

2010-03-11T09:13:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the first edition of the Angel Bottom's Ezine! I will be publishing it on this blog until I get hosting sat up again for the website.

Table of Contents:

1. Top Sponsor Ads
2. Privacy Policy
3. What's New!
4. Freebies
5. Homemaking Tip
6. Helpful Websites
7. Article
8. Article
9. Homemaking Tip

Top Sponsor Ad:

http://www.homemaking-cottage.com/

The Homemaking Cottage is here to inspire, encourage, teach and support all women in the home: homemakers and housewives! How do we do this? With recipes, crafts, and other inspirational articles, eBooks, and our exclusive Deluxe Edition . This website is updated regularly. We invite you to visit often for the latest articles.

What's New!

Welcome to the first edition of the Angel Bottom's Ezine! I will be writing homemaking articles, tips, and listing what's new in my store. The special in this edition is buy one ebook, get one free! You buy from the store http://www.angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/ then you send me an email with the ones you want for free. The new listings are not including in this special.

New Ebooks this edition:

Brick and Mortar Business for Newbies http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7201362
Buying Triggers: 100 Mind Altering Selling Tools http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7201541
Hot New Business http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7202603
How Ordinary People Make Big Money on the Internet http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7203080
How to Attract a Flood of Clients http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7204943
Selling Your Way to Your First Million http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7208018
Turning Browsers into Buyers - 5 Day ecourse
Worm Farming http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7213347
Baby Shower Guide http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7199410
Magazine Publishing http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7211203
Wedding Photography Tips http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7213376
Breaking Through Learning Disabilities http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7200950
101 Tips for Enhancing Your Love Life http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7195323
Improving Your Marriage to Newlyweds Again http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7210646
Banish Bad Habits http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7200446
I Don't Remember http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7209975
The Perfect Diet http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7213289
Natural Weight Loss http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7213137
Quick Weight Loss Action http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7213251
Massage Therapy-Feel Better Through Massage http://angelbottomsboutique.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=7212973

Freebies~

How to Tell Stories to Children

http://tinyurl.com/y89q4ap

Homemaking Tip~

Save Money By Making Your Own Laundry Detergent

Homemaking Tip #1

Homemade Liquid Laundry Soap- Front or top load machine

4 Cups - hot tap water
1 Fels-Naptha soap bar
1 Cup - Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda*
½ Cup Borax

- Grate bar of soap and add to saucepan with water. Stir continually over medium-low heat until soap dissolves and is melted.

-Fill a 5 gallon bucket half full of hot tap water. Add melted soap, washing soda and Borax. Stir well until all powder is dissolved. Fill bucket to top with more hot water. Stir, cover and let sit overnight to thicken.

-Stir and fill a used, clean, laundry soap dispenser half full with soap and then fill rest of way with water. Shake before each use. (will gel)

-Optional: You can add 10-15 drops of essential oil per 2 gallons. Add once soap has cooled. Ideas: lavender, rosemary, tea tree oil.

-Yield: Liquid soap recipe makes 10 gallons.

-Top Load Machine- 5/8 Cup per load (Approx. 180 loads)

-Front Load Machines- ¼ Cup per load (Approx. 640 loads)

*Arm & Hammer "Super Washing Soda" - in some stores or may be purchased online here (at Meijer.com). Baking Soda will not work, nor will Arm & Hammer Detergent - It must be sodium carbonate!!

Powdered Laundry Detergent - Top load machine

1 Fels-Naptha soap bar
1 Cup - Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda*
½ Cup Borax

-Grate soap or break into pieces and process in a food processor until powdered. Mix all ingredients. For light load, use 1 Tablespoon. For heavy or heavily soiled load, use 2 Tablespoons. Yields: 3 Cups detergent. (Approx. 40 loads)

*Arm & Hammer "Super Washing Soda" - in some stores or may be purchased online here (at Meijer.com). Baking Soda will not work, nor will Arm & Hammer Detergent - It must be sodium carbonate!!

TIPS FOR LAUNDRY SOAP: We use Fels-Naptha bar soap in the homemade soap recipes, but you can use Ivory, Sunlight, Kirk's Hardwater Castile or Zote bars. Don't use heavily perfumed soaps. We buy Fels-Naptha by the case from our local grocer or online. Washing Soda and Borax can often be found on the laundry or cleaning aisle. Recipe cost approx. $2 per batch.

Inexpensive Fabric Softener Recipes

Recipe #1
1 Cup White Vinegar
Add vinegar to rinse cycle. Works great. Removes residue and odors. Also helps to keep washing machine and hoses fresh and clean too.

Recipe #2

1 Container of Name Brand Fabric Softener
4 Inexpensive sponges, cut in half

Pour entire container of softener into a 5 gallon bucket. Fill empty softener container with water twice. (2 parts water to 1 part softener) Add sponges to softener/water mixture. When ready to use wring out extra mixture from one sponge and add to the dryer as you would a dryer sheet.

Helpful Websites~

http://www.homemaking-cottage.com/
http://www.livingdeliberatelydaily.blogspot.com/
http://www.veganfamilystyle.blogspot.com/

Titus 2:3-5

3Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. 4Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, 5to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.

MAKING A GARDEN

The first thing in garden making is the selection of a spot. Without a choice, it means simply doing the best one can with conditions. With space limited it resolves itself into no garden, or a box garden. Surely a box garden is better than nothing at all.

But we will now suppose that it is possible to really choose just the right site for the garden. What shall be chosen? The greatest determining factor is the sun. No one would have a north corner, unless it were absolutely forced upon him; because, while north corners do for ferns, certain wild flowers, and begonias, they are of little use as spots for a general garden.

If possible, choose the ideal spot a southern exposure. Here the sun lies warm all day long. When the garden is thus located the rows of vegetables and flowers should run north and south. Thus placed, the plants receive the sun's rays all the morning on the eastern side, and all the afternoon on the western side. One ought not to have any lopsided plants with such an arrangement.

Suppose the garden faces southeast. In this case the western sun is out of the problem. In order to get the best distribution of sunlight run the rows northwest and southeast.

The idea is to get the most sunlight as evenly distributed as possible for the longest period of time. From the lopsided growth of window plants it is easy enough to see the effect on plants of poorly distributed light. So if you use a little diagram remembering that you wish the sun to shine part of the day on one side of the plants and part on the other, you can juggle out any situation. The southern exposure gives the ideal case because the sun gives half time nearly to each side. A northern exposure may mean an almost entire cut-off from sunlight; while northeastern and southwestern places always get uneven distribution of sun's rays, no matter how carefully this is planned.

The garden, if possible, should be planned out on paper. The plan is a great help when the real planting time comes. It saves time and unnecessary buying of seed.

New garden spots are likely to be found in two conditions: they are covered either with turf or with rubbish. In large garden areas the ground is ploughed and the sod turned under; but in small gardens remove the sod. How to take off the sod in the best manner is the next question. Stake and line off the garden spot. The line gives an accurate and straight course to follow. Cut the edges with the spade all along the line. If the area is a small one, say four feet by eighteen or twenty, this is an easy matter. Such a narrow strip may be marked off like a checkerboard, the sod cut through with the spade, and easily removed. This could be done in two long strips cut lengthwise of the strip. When the turf is cut through, roll it right up like a roll of carpet.

But suppose the garden plot is large. Then divide this up into strips a foot wide and take off the sod as before. What shall be done with the sod? Do not throw it away for it is full of richness, although not quite in available form. So pack the sod grass side down one square on another. Leave it to rot and to weather. When rotted it makes a fine fertilizer. Such a pile of rotting vegetable matter is called a compost pile. All through the summer add any old green vegetable matter to this. In the fall put the autumn leaves on. A fine lot of goodness is being fixed for another season.

Even when the garden is large enough to plough, I would pick out the largest pieces of sod rather than have them turned under. Go over the ploughed space, pick out the pieces of sod, shake them well and pack them up in a compost heap.

Mere spading of the ground is not sufficient. The soil is still left in lumps. Always as one spades one should break up the big lumps. But even so the ground is in no shape for planting. Ground must be very fine indeed to plant in, because seeds can get very close indeed to fine particles of soil. But the large lumps leave large spaces which no tiny root hair can penetrate. A seed is left stranded in a perfect waste when planted in chunks of soil. A baby surrounded with great pieces of beefsteak would starve. A seed among large lumps of soil is in a similar situation. The spade never can do this work of pulverizing soil. But the rake can. That's the value of the rake. It is a great lump breaker, but will not do for large lumps. If the soil still has large lumps in it take the hoe.

Many people handle the hoe awkwardly. The chief work of this implement is to rid the soil of weeds and stir up the top surface. It is used in summer to form that mulch of dust so valuable in retaining moisture in the soil. I often see people as if they were going to chop into atoms everything around. Hoeing should never be such vigorous exercise as that. Spading is vigorous, hard work, but not hoeing and raking.

After lumps are broken use the rake to make the bed fine and smooth. Now the great piece of work is done.

ABC OF SOUP MAKING

Lean, juicy beef, mutton, and veal, form the basis of all good soups; therefore it is advisable to procure those pieces which afford the richest succulence, and such as are fresh-killed. Stale meat renders them bad, and fat is not so well adapted for making them. The principal art in composing good rich soup, is so to proportion the several ingredients that the flavour of one shall not predominate over another, and that all the articles of which it is composed, shall form an agreeable whole. To accomplish this, care must be taken that the roots and herbs are perfectly well cleaned, and that the water is proportioned to the quantity of meat and other ingredients. Generally a quart of water may be allowed to a pound of meat for soups, and half the quantity for gravies. In making soups or gravies, gentle stewing or simmering is incomparably the best. It may be remarked, however, that a really good soup can never be made but in a well-closed vessel, although, perhaps, greater wholesomeness is obtained by an occasional exposure to the air. Soups will, in general, take from three to six hours doing, and are much better prepared the day before they are wanted. When the soup is cold, the fat may be much more easily and completely removed; and when it is poured off, care must be taken not to disturb the settlings at the bottom of the vessel, which are so fine that they will escape through a sieve. A tamis is the best strainer, and if the soup is strained while it is hot, let the tamis or cloth be previously soaked in cold water. Clear soups must be perfectly transparent, and thickened soups about the consistence of cream. To thicken and give body to soups and gravies, potato-mucilage, arrow-root, bread-raspings, isinglass, flour and butter, barley, rice, or oatmeal, in a little water rubbed well together, are used. A piece of boiled beef pounded to a pulp, with a bit of butter and flour, and rubbed through a sieve, and gradually incorporated with the soup, will be found an excellent addition. When the soup appears to be too thin or too weak , the cover of the boiler should be taken off, and the contents allowed to boil till some of the watery parts have evaporated; or some of the thickening materials, above mentioned, should be added. When soups and gravies are kept from day to day in hot weather, they should be warmed up every day, and put into fresh scalded pans or tureens, and placed in a cool cellar. In temperate weather, every other day may be sufficient.

Various herbs and vegetables are required for the purpose of making soups and gravies. Of these the principal are, Scotch barley, pearl barley, wheat flour, oatmeal, bread-raspings, pease, beans, rice, vermicelli, macaroni, isinglass, potato-mucilage, mushroom or mushroom ketchup, champignons, parsnips, carrots, beetroot, turnips, garlic, shalots and onions. Sliced onions, fried with butter and flour till they are browned, and then rubbed through a sieve, are excellent to heighten the colour and flavour of brown soups and sauces, and form the basis of many of the fine relishes furnished by the cook. The older and drier the onion, the stronger will be its flavour. Leeks, cucumber, or burnet vinegar; celery or celery-seed pounded. The latter, though equally strong, does not impart the delicate sweetness of the fresh vegetable; and when used as a substitute, its flavour should be corrected by the addition of a bit of sugar. Cress-seed, parsley, common thyme, lemon thyme, orange thyme, knotted marjoram, sage, mint, winter savoury, and basil. As fresh green basil is seldom to be procured, and its fine flavour is soon lost, the best way of preserving the extract is by pouring wine on the fresh leaves.

For the seasoning of soups, bay-leaves, tomato, tarragon, chervil, burnet, allspice, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, clove, mace, black and white pepper, essence of anchovy, lemon-peel, and juice, and Seville orange-juice, are all taken. The latter imparts a finer flavour than the lemon, and the acid is much milder. These materials, with wine, mushroom ketchup, Harvey's sauce, tomato sauce, combined in various proportions, are, with other ingredients, manipulated into an almost endless variety of excellent soups and gravies. Soups, which are intended to constitute the principal part of a meal, certainly ought not to be flavoured like sauces, which are only designed to give a relish to some particular dish.

Homemaking Tip #2

How To Vacuum

To maintain the look, feel, and appearance of your
carpet you'll need to vacuum on a regular basis. If
you are new to vacuuming, you'll find the tips below
to help you when it comes to keeping your home clean:

1. Before you start, you should always inspect
the area. Pick up any objects that could cause
your vacuum cleaner to clog up. The smaller objects
are fine, just as long as they will pass through the
vacuum.

2. You should check the vacuum bag to ensure
that is isn't full already. If it is full, you
should go ahead and change it. A full bag isn't
going to suck up much dirt, as the power will be
greatly reduced due to the bag taking up a great
deal of storage and limiting the suction.

3. You should always vacuum forwards instead
of going backwards. Going forward will get the
job done quicker and you won't wear your cord out
near as fast. When going backwards, you also run
the risk of running back over your cord, which is
something you don't want to do.

4. Be sure that you overlap your strokes
to ensure that you get out all of the dirt and the
residue. You don't want to miss any of the carpet,
which is why it is important that you overlap your
strokes.

5. You should change your vacuuming
direction on occasion to reduce any type of matting
in your carpet. You can change direction without
any problems. Doing this every time you make a
sweep on the carpet or every other time you vacuum
will be good.

6. On corners, use a damp cloth or a
crevice tool attachment that hooks up to your
vacuum cleaner. This will ensure that you get the
corners and tight areas good, and they don't
stand out from the rest of the carpet.

7. You can get rid of dust particles and
dirt by waving a vacuum wand under your bed. Doing
so on occasion will ensure that your bedroom
stays clean, and smells clean as well.

For kitty litter on carpets or floors, you should
use a lightweight vacuum cleaner. To get deep
into the fibers of the carpet, you should try
an upright vacuum cleaner with a power brush. Kitty
litter can be a pain in the neck if it gets
crushed in the pile or embedded, which is why
you should get it out as quick as you can.

Give some thought to purchasing a vacuum cleaner
with a rotating brush or combination beater and
brush bar, which will loosen up the dirt in the
carpet and then suck it out. This will beat the
dirt from the fibers and even embedded dirt, which
will leave your carpet clean and smelling great.

Whenever you vacuum, you should always be on the
lookout for straw, thread, and string as it can
trap debris in the vacuum hose and result in a
clog. These types of hazards are also bad for the
agitators as well, as they can clog up the suction
as well, or get tangled up in the agitators and
cause more problems.

If you have pets, you should sprinkle some baking
soda on the carpet before you vacuum. Let it sit
for a little while, then vacuum. The baking soda
is a lot cheaper than carpet fresheners and it
does the same thing - only better.

Vacuuming is very easy to do, and it's something
that should be done on a regular basis. You don't
have to be an expert to vacuum, all you have to
do is make an effort. Your carpet will look good
all the time, and your house will stay smelling
great - which is reason enough to grab the vacuum
and take a trip through the house with it.

Automatic Seed Planting Chart

2010-03-07T19:45:00.000-08:00

for the Lazy Gardener. How cool is that???

I just found this wonderful automatic seed planting chart at You Grow Girl! You just input your last frost date and it calculates it all for you! Such as 20-MAR-09 - if you don't use that format then it won't work. I figured that out the hard way. I hope you have as much fun with this as I did!

Since I Missed the Photo Dog Photo Contest on Pioneer Woman

2010-02-28T19:53:00.000-08:00

Here are some of my dog photos!

#1 Is Heather

#2 Is my lovely daughter Audrey and our dog Zoe

#3 Is our terribly missed doggy Sammy. She was hit by a car and we nursed her back to "health" after an extensive stay at the animal hospital

#4 Sammy and Wyatt (Wyatt is now 5 years old)

#5 A very "heavenly photo" of Sammy....We miss you!

An amazing giveaway!!!!

2010-02-28T18:49:00.000-08:00

There is an adult size Large short sleeve T-shirt with the store logo on it. There is also a tote bag with the store's secondary logo on it. One cute and sassy Yellow Felted Bag that just says Spring, a Salad Pod for those early Spring salads we are all going to grow, a Jar Spoon to get down to the bottom of those quart jars, 5 packets of Dandy Blend and a tea infuser spoon. We sweetened the pot by adding a pack of recipe cards and a $15 store gift certificate.

There are several ways that you can put your name into the hat.

Go to: http://amazinggrazefarm.blogspot.com/ to find out how!

Going Through my 45,000 photos

2010-02-25T07:53:00.000-08:00

As I go was going through my 45,000 photos I found a video with my daddy in before he went to heaven. You can't see him but you can hear him and boy what a treat this is for me......

Recent Antique Store Find

2010-02-24T13:01:00.000-08:00

An awesome collection of knitting needles. Love them!

Goodies Going Up for Sale tomorrow in My Store

2010-02-17T21:25:00.000-08:00

Count Your Blessings Monday

2010-02-08T21:18:00.000-08:00

I know I do complain about my husband. Too much so lately. As I sit here and think about the past 20 years we have been together, I would not have it any other way. I know there are women out there that are abused and neglected. I know my husband is going through a bad time with being laid off. He feels less of a man not having an earned income. I am thankful that we are getting through another lay off in our relationship.

I am thankful for wonderful uncle in law. Both of our vehicles are down and need some repairs. With little income it's hard to repair them. My husband's auto abilities have kept us out of garages our whole marriage all but car inspections. His wonderful uncle has left us borrow his truck. It only hauls 3 so trips aren't too many. But very thankful for a vehicle to get us what we need.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-03T17:28:00.000-08:00

Tell the Truth Thursday~Older People

2010-01-20T18:24:00.000-08:00

Do you feel that advice from older people carries a special weight because of their greater experience?

I live on the wise advice of the older generations. I have lost all of my grandparents and still go back in my mind for the conversations we have had.

My mother in law passed away last June. My hubby was raised by his grandparents. His mom lived to be 90 years 11 months. She went to be with her Lord June 9, 2009. I loved sitting with her talking about her children, cooking, her sisters, the senior citizen center......yea sometimes she would tell stories more than once. That was fine....I would give anything for another day with her.

Her dad built 2 hutches for her when she was married. I prayed I would get them when she passed but alas I didn't. They were built with love for her and Petey.....but I have my memories and no one can take them from me.

My grammy's were awesome! My dad's mom was the cook. I do have some of her recipes but a lot of them she took with her. I so wish I would have paid more attention and been in the kitchen with her.

My mom's mom and I could sit down and talk about anything. I always told her I felt her more of a mom than mine. Now though I see my mom is like her. With losing my dad almost 4 years ago it changes a lot of things.

I will take what I learned from all them with me through life and teach my children those lessons.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-20T17:58:00.001-08:00

How to Get Thousands of Links to Your Blog!

2010-01-07T12:07:00.000-08:00

This strategy is not about buying links, trading links, or sitting at the computer all day on forums. This is a very cool strategy for getting backlinks to your blog – it is free and takes very little time. Remember, one of the criteria for getting to the top of Google search results is the number of sites linking to your website or blog. So the more sites you have linking to you, the better your chance of appearing on the first page of Google. And that is what we want so that we can get organic traffic.

Try this strategy. It has to do with commenting on other blogs that contain a WordPress widget called “Top Commentators.” Here are the steps:

1) Find a blog with the Top Commentators plug-in with thousands of posts (I have a few examples below).

2) Make 10 or so comments on that blog over a few days time.

3) Repeat the process daily adding new blogs to your list.

Some blogs with the Top Commentators plug-in that you can comment on:

John Chow

Rice Blogger
Paystolivegreen

jonlee.ca

blogtrepeneur

I found this tip in the eBook Blogging to the Bank – a comprehensive 58 page eBook that explains how to monetize your blog the smart way. It has some really creative strategies for traffic building and monetizing your blog. Skip McGrath recommends this eBook on his blog and I have to agree, it is very good.

Keep your eye out for the Top Commentators plug-in as you make your way around the blogosphere, and add any that you know of in the comments section below.

"Discover 89 Quick and Easy Strategies for Saving Money In Today's Economy!"

2010-01-06T22:14:00.000-08:00

If you're tired of finding more month at the end of the money, then get this FREE 9 day course now!

Here's what you'll discover today, inside...

What to avoid like the plague when money is tight

Why your neighbors could be costing you thousands

How to give like Santa at Christmas without spending a fortune!

Where to find name brand clothing for pennies on the dollar!

How to save hundreds of dollars per year by presenting this one tiny piece of paper, and it's FREE!

And Much More...

Leave me a comment and you will start receiving the 9 day course daily...

The Holidays

2010-01-04T10:44:00.000-08:00

My holidays aren't complete. Audrey hasn't come up for her "Christmas day" All her presents are under the tree and in the trunk of the car. :( I miss her

The kids have had a pretty good Christmas holiday. They got all they asked for even if it took a few days after. Those Zhu Zhu pets are still hard to find. But we did find 2 last night.

Could it be Santa?

I am updating and creating a few new blogs on photography, antiquing, making this one more for homesteading and creating a personal blog of my everyday quests. All of my blogs are listed under my profile photo.

New Ultrasound Photo

2009-12-15T10:27:00.000-08:00

My grandlove~Audrey is 12 weeks 3 days here. Today she is 13 weeks 1 day.

Disclosure Statement

2009-12-15T10:21:00.000-08:00

This policy is valid from 15 December 2009

This blog is a personal blog written and edited by me. For questions about this blog, please contact jfrancis@dejazzd.com.

This blog does not accept any form of cash advertising, sponsorship, or paid topic insertions. However, we will and do accept and keep free products, services, travel, event tickets, and other forms of compensation from companies and organizations.

The compensation received may influence the advertising content, topics or posts made in this blog. That content, advertising space or post may not always be identified as paid or sponsored content.

The owner(s) of this blog is not compensated to provide opinion on products, services, websites and various other topics. The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely the blog owners. If we claim or appear to be experts on a certain topic or product or service area, we will only endorse products or services that we believe, based on our expertise, are worthy of such endorsement. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider.

This blog does not contain any content which might present a conflict of interest.

To get your own policy, go to http://www.disclosurepolicy.org

Argyle Applique Ornament Tutorial

2009-12-03T04:43:00.000-08:00

so september: Argyle Applique Ornament Tutorial

This cute little argyle ornament looks quick and easy to do - try the tutorial here!

My Sweetheart

2009-11-20T16:09:00.000-08:00

First Grandbaby Photos!

2009-11-19T18:04:00.000-08:00

These are first ultrasounds of my grandbaby.....I'm in love already :D With a due date of June 21, 2010 :D Can't wait....

My Photo Layout for MckMama!

2009-11-17T19:41:00.000-08:00

Here ya go Jen! I figured it out on CS2 :D Thank you for the wonderful tutorial......Please do share what is needed for a basic photo shoot. you are awesome!

This is the photos of the paper before and after with the giant Moravian (Jesus star) Star.....

Giveaway: The Deluxe Edition of the Homaking-Cottage

2009-11-12T20:08:00.000-08:00

Shiloah of The Homemaking Cottage is have an awesome giveaway. She is giving away a year subscription The Deluxe Edition of the Homemaking-Cottage. Prepare yourself to be inspired by The Deluxe Edition of The Homemaking-Cottage. Homemaking is a challenging occupation at times-yet nothing is so crucial to the survival of our culture and traditions. Join us in creating a cozy environment where family and friends can feel comfortable and welcome under your roof. No other website compares to the tender, honest insight provided at The Homemaking-Cottage.

For more information please visit: The Homemaking Cottage

The Start of Our Star's for the Craft Fair

2009-11-09T20:28:00.001-08:00

Here is some of the stars we have for the craft fair. The fair will be on December 5 from 9am to 4pm at the Mifflinburg Middle School...

Stars, Cookies and Laughter~

2009-11-08T20:12:00.000-08:00

A roll of wrapping paper, some Christmas ribbons and many tries at fabric stars. Make some beautiful creations! Friends, cookies coffee and laughter.....what a fun night! I am so blessed to have such wonderul friends and family. More Moravian stars and boxes in all colors and sizes. I have a few photos from tonight. Will be snapping photos of the finished stars and boxes in the morning.

One Big Star

2009-11-06T21:22:00.001-08:00

So we have been making Moravian stars for a craft fair and to sell online. Hubby and oldest son get an idea to make a huge one. Thinking I may use it for attention at the craft fair.....Here is the results!

My Newest Creations!

2009-11-04T17:55:00.000-08:00

These are the first of my holiday creations. Boxes will be 4 for $6 with free shipping. The Moravian Stars will be $3.50 each with freee shipping. I also make the boxes out of any kind of paper you would like. I have children's books I salvaged from the basement of a library. I am going to be getting scrapbooking papers and any request you may have. Email me!

Thrift Store Finds

2009-11-03T19:31:00.000-08:00

Today's thrift store finds.......love the colors......wanna paint my kitchen with those colors this winter

Holiday Gift Ideas......

2009-11-01T19:56:00.000-08:00

How to Make Homemade Blocks
http://www.ehow.com/how_5590247_make-homemade-blocks.html

How to Make a Christmas Cracker
http://www.ehow.com/how_5587059_make-christmas-cracker.html

How to Make a Cardboard Doll House
http://www.ehow.com/how_5582426_make-cardboard-doll-house.html

How to Make a Cloth Doll
http://www.ehow.com/how_5582314_make-cloth-doll.html

How to Make Puppets from Papier Mache
http://www.ehow.com/how_5500478_make-puppets-papier-mache.html

Happy People

2009-11-01T18:11:00.000-08:00

The reason people find it hard to be happy is because they see the past better than it was, the present worse than it is, and the future less resolved than it would be.

Trick or Treat 2009

2009-11-01T13:06:00.000-08:00

A random jack o lantern on our walk

Josh the welder

Chelsea the nice witch

Chelsea, Wyatt and Josh

Another Awesome MckMama Giveaway!

2009-10-27T20:04:00.001-07:00

Would you like to win a $200 Best Buy gift certificate????? I know I would!! Visit MckMama's contest blog and leave a comment....and you could be the lucky winner and could possibly use the money to buy this beautiful, shiny, spacious, wonderful, refrigerator that MckMama now has!!

A New Adventure

2009-10-21T22:04:00.000-07:00

I am going to start slowly getting out of the sewing business unless I have custom orders. I am going to start selling my photos. I will be doing specialty photos also. Thinking alphabet names, buildings ie. barns, sheds, outhouses and thinking maybe tea party shots.

I am so excited. I feel the Lord is leading me this direction and cannot wait to start on my journey.

My mother board on my main computer died so I am on an ancient laptop at the moment. I am hoping to possibly sell a few photos to get me back online with my main computer.

Woohoo! Life is Good!

Not Me~Monday!

2009-10-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

I am going to write about Not Me's from over the years. With having 4 kiddos I have quite a few doozies.

Audrey my baby girl at 3 years old (after she cut her hair on Father's Day) :(

Way back in the day when my baby girl (now 18) would sneak out in the kitchen and take a bowl and "bake" under the kitchen table. She'd put it eggs, flour, oatmeal, olives, coffee, pretty much anything she could find in the fridge.......She has turned into a wonderful baker/cook :D

Me, my Daddy holding Jimmy my baby brother and Audrey Mook our second cousin

But then her mommy (that would be me) was a little tyke and wanted to be a big helper to her daddy.....so then she put a pot on the stove put some coffee and less water in the pot and turned on the burner....I wanted to make my daddy his morning coffee :D

Jimmy my baby brother

Way back in the day my little brother was outback flying a kite. Playing for a good while.....he went running toward the neighbors parked truck....not watching where he was going right into the back of the neighbors truck.....so my dad came down the backyard to pick us up. The good big sister I am didn't say Jimmy I think you'll need stitches :O started crying all over again. Get down to the hospital. The nurses ask my dad how fast the truck was going. It was parked.....my poor mom at work got the same story that the truck was moving......nope! It was parked!

Count Your Blessings Monday

2009-10-19T07:27:00.000-07:00

I attended an awesome church yesterday! I praise and thank God to have taken me in this direction. This church is very open in praising God. It was awesome! Pastor James Bond and his wife Jilline are wonderful. She has such a beautiful voice. His service was wonderful! It was like he was talking to me and my situations in life.

I am thankful for
My Lord
My new found church
My wonderful hubby
My children
My mom
My internet friends
Unemployment so we can live till hubby gets back to work

Thank you God for all the blessings in my life....

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

2009-10-15T07:55:00.000-07:00

My father in law's hand, my daddy (RIP), my mommy and I

My mother in law, my mommy and I

My son in his casket

This is the story of my angel Dominick Joseph~

Dominick's Story

We buried our son on March 26, 1996. That had to be one of the coldest days that year. We buried him next to a mountain.

It took us a while but on Thursday, May 7, 1998, his headstone was put on. It took us awhile to save it up. But we did it. Now the world knows all about Dominick Joseph Francis.

March 23, 1996

Jo Lynn

My Week in Photos!

2009-10-14T19:45:00.000-07:00

Miniature Photography
Washing my wool
First fire in the wood stove of the year
Stitch Markers
Wyatt's creation

Not Me~Monday!

2009-10-05T19:02:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

In the past week I have not bribed my hubby to finally clean out the garage by taking away the remote to his tv noooo not me. I didn't finally start cleaning out said garage after 3 years of all the stuff being in there. Stuff that belongs to my grandparents, his grandparents, my parents and us.

My 12 year old son didn't run in the house and wake his sister up this evening at 6pm and tell her it was time to go to school hurry you will miss the bus. Nooo not my 12 year old. He wouldn't do something like that.

And that same 12 year old on a Saturday afternoon didn't mow the lawn and give his little brother a ride in the wagon and the dog followed him around the whole yard. Dude's good at multitasking.

I didn't just clean out under my 9 year old daughter's bed and find 3/4's of her clothes. Having to do 4 loads of laundry....not my daughter she wouldn't shove all her clothing under her bed.....

I am sure this coming week will be full of Not Me's......Being a mommy of 4 life is FUN! :D

Awesome eBook Special~Open Your Own Store for $35!

2009-10-03T13:34:00.000-07:00

For $35 I will sell you a page of over 100 ebooks and a store for you to sell them on! Hurry the offer will end Sunday night......

paypal jfrancis@dejazzd.com

Cleaning my wool fleece

2009-10-03T13:07:00.000-07:00

Pictures to come~Soon!

My Wants in Life

2009-09-28T20:58:00.001-07:00

I had an interview last week with the Street of Shops. The lady said they will contact the chosen one one day this week. I made up my mind if I don't get the call I will go back to school. I would love to go to McCann for massage therapy. I've wanted to do that for a long time. With my mom better now and life finally calming down (after a talk with family today) I want to move forward in life and make something of myself.

I started working on miniature photography. Here is some of my favorites.

Not Me~Monday!

2009-09-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

Well this weeks is a bit between me doing and kiddos doing. My oldest son didn't clean his bedroom and bring every piece of clothing he owns to the bathroom for me to wash. Why do they do that? I do laundry everyday so I know they aren't all dirty but are now because they were walked on on the bathroom. Argh!

I did not run away last night with hubby so I didn't have to run mooches around to bars and such. I didn't stay out past midnight.......I am so tired of running for everyone.

Boy do I miss the time before my daddy got sick and it was just me and my kiddos at home during the day.

In Trials and Tribulations~Response to Mckmama

2009-09-27T12:47:00.001-07:00

I try so hard to be a good kind person. I catch myself and apologize. Noticing alot lately I have been harsh and mean. Think before I speak is what I've been trying to do.

I am at a crossroads in my life. My mom is in remission from her cancer, my brother is (kinda) getting back on his feet but I run those two all over. I want to either get a job or go back to school. I had an interview last week for a cashier's position at an awesome antique shop. If I don't hear from them by Wednesday I will be calling about schooling to become a massage therapist. Asking God to direct me where my next turn will be.

Thank you for posting this and making me "blog" about my trial and tribulations going on in my life right now.

Originally posted as a comment by Jo Lynn on My Charming Kids using Disqus.

For $35

2009-09-25T11:24:00.000-07:00

For $35 I will sell you a page of over 100 ebooks and a store for you to sell them on! Hurry the offer will end Sunday night......

paypal jfrancis@dejazzd.com

Apron Give Away

2009-09-22T11:38:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the Autumn season, Emily Elizabeth is giving away this adorable apron and pot holder set. Go on over to her blog and enter.

Understanding Container Gardening

2009-09-22T11:23:00.000-07:00

If you are a garden lover, but have no space for your gardening appetite, don’t worry gardening is not necessarily out of your reach. In the available space of your house say balcony, patio, deck, or sunny window, you can create a container gardening, which will not only bring you joy but also vegetables. So, are you ready to start container gardening yourself…

In the past, gardening is an exclusive realm of the landowner. Nowadays even the flat dweller can grow his dream garden without having any fuss. One’s dream can be fulfilled by container gardening, which means the gardening in a special container. Container gardening gives delights of landscape without weekly mowing. In the container, you can raise some perennials, annuals, and even shrubs and small trees.

Don’t think container gardening can be achieved very easily. Container gardening also requires proper planning just like that of traditional gardening. Planning consists of finding your USDA zone (this will help to identify the suitable plant variety of your zone), amount of daylight you are receiving in your apartment, and finally choose your beloved plant variety.

It is always advisable to buy the plants from nearest nursery unless you have right conditions to go for indoor seedlings. You should not keep the tender plants of container gardening outside below 45° F temperature or in soaring winds. Moreover you should not leave the new plants through out the night in the outside to get frost it out.

There is a false notion that all the plants grow in the ground won’t grow in the container gardening. It’s not so. If you have any doubt, please do experiment on it. Moreover, any container with holes for drainage can be used for your container gardening.

Container gardening requires little budget in the initial stage. But it is having low maintenance with good satisfaction. Container gardening requires little fertilizer and water according to the specific needs of the plants.

There is numerous pot growing vegetable varieties as container gardening. In this type, the vegetable plant requires only sunlight and water. Providing these two things can easily help you get fresh vegetables for your ratatouille or salad. You can get more satisfaction by serving these varieties nurtured by your own hands to your beloved pals.

Don’t despair-if you’re not having balcony or deck? Get nod from your landlord for window boxes, a modern container gardening. It is highly possible to grow many bloomy annuals year-round and indoor vegetables in your sunny window. There is another type of garden called community gardens, which will satisfy the city dwellers.

There is no need to end your container gardening since you have entered autumn. But you can continue your container gardening by selecting the plants that are withholding the frost. The common plant varieties that stand up to the frost are Eulalia grasses, Mexican feather grass, Cornflowers, Lavender cottons, Jasmine, Million bells, Stonecrops, etc.,

In order to extend the life of your garden from early spring to fall, you can replant to match the conditions. Even you can contact some of the America’s best gardeners through online to get design for your container gardening. They offer suggestions such as caring and choosing for pots, how to grow tips for succulents, roses, and bulbs, in containers.

Bruce W Derr's Python Release Party at the Cherry Alley Cafe in Lewisburg

2009-09-13T21:23:00.000-07:00

Bruce

Baby Jack watching Bruce

Bruce

More than one cord confuses Bruce (or so he says)

Bruce

Bruce and Jesse Yamas owner of the Cherry Alley Cafe in Lewisburg PA

Kailee jammin :D

Bruce

Becky and Baby Jack

Jake sporting a shirt designed by Becky

Eric :D

Danielle and Baby Lastat

Jake taking a picture of Kathy with her "party hat" on

Watch for Coming Contests

2009-09-04T18:30:00.000-07:00

I am collecting many goodies to have contests in the coming weeks for. I am waiting for a delivery from the mail lady to have this weeks. I will be posting some of the goodies here tonight! Keep checking back!

Gingham Cherry: Teacup pincushion tutorial

2009-09-03T08:05:00.000-07:00

Gingham Cherry: Teacup pincushion tutorial

They Must Grow Up

2009-08-31T19:58:00.000-07:00

It's been a year since my baby girl has moved out and started her own life. I still cry thinking about all I am missing of her life. Will I miss all the planning of special events? Getting married? Having babies? My grandchildren growing up. She moved 5 hours away. I'm a mess lately. A dear friend of mine Patty from Morning Ramble had shared with me a poem she was given when her daughter's left the nest. Thank you Patty. I still read it and it still helps.....
On Children
"And a woman who held a babe against her bosom said, "Speak to us of Children."
And he said:
Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you, yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts.
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow, which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them, but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.
You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite, and He bends you with His might that His arrows may go swift and far.
Let your bending in the archer's hand be for gladness;
For even as He loves the arrow that flies, so He loves also the bow that is stable."

Over the last week we have been celebrating 3 birthdays. My 35th birthday was August 24; Chelsea's 9th birthday was August 25; and Josh's 12th was August 30. I can't believe it's been 18 years since I became a mommy. I had many tell me I could never do it. That the dad wouldn't stick around. Proved them all wrong. We have been together 19 years in June and married 12 in July. I wouldn't trade any of it for the world. I hope I have been a good influence on my children and I have taught them all they need to know to become productive adults. There are a few things I brainwashed them on. ie. drugs, "lovin" before marriage....

We are planning on one more baby. I am so excited. I absolutely love being a mommy. It is the most wonderful job. I hope they all know how much they are wanted and loved. (((HUGS))) to my babies.....

My Sunday Morning Musings

2009-08-30T08:51:00.000-07:00

Many thoughts are going through my mind this morning. My wonderful hubby is having much turmoil in his life. He lost his loving mother, the only woman he knew of as mom for 43 years. She was a blessing. If it wasn't for her, I would have never met him. I miss her so much. Now the Will has been read. She didn't leave him anything. Unless his Aunt and Uncle would have been dead would he have gotten anything. He is very unhappy. It effects him everyday. None of them are offering him anything from her home. Not even to buy. It's hard to see his heart breaking like this.

My garden is growing very well. Just sad that I couldn't get it out earlier with the frost and rain early on this year. Still many zucchini coming on. I have 3 watermelon and 4 cantaloupe. Kids keep watching them waiting for the wonderful outcome :D

School started last Monday. Kids love their new teachers. Josh is happy to have his friends back from his old school. That is nice we are still in the same school district so all the elementary schools come together at the middle school. So he knows kids from 2 of the schools. Chelsea had an accident in gym class Friday. Ran into another little girls head. We watched her Friday night and Saturday all day. Seems better today.

I have started preschool with Wyatt. He loves to learn his letters. Now he is bringing things up to me to show me all the letters he can make out of different objects.

We are doing a craft table at the Oktoberfest in Port Trevorton. I can't wait. Gonna start sewing this week more. No appointments or anything scheduled. Will post those photos as I get stuff made.

Watch for a contest by the end of this week. I am getting together a list of goodies to enter to win! Watch out for details throughout the week!

Would you like to have your own online business?

2009-08-27T20:23:00.000-07:00

I am putting up eBook store packages on my ecrater page. So far I have homemaker, homeschool and an ultimate eBook package.

I am doing very well selling my eBooks and am offering you the opportunity to have the same experience!

Checkout Angel Bottom's Boutique Ecrater Store

In Our World

2009-08-23T20:24:00.000-07:00

My garden is doing wonderful! Not wanting the summer to end. A million tomato plants. All tomatoes are green so far. Will have a ton when they all ripen. I have 6 zucchini plants. I see lots of little zuch's so will have a ton probably by the end of the week. I have about 20 loofah gourd plants planted and growing tall. I hope I can get some sponges for holiday gifts. How exciting. :D
We harvested our potatoes. We made out better with the red potatoes (make note next year red potatoes) We have a few watermelons and cantaloupes growing. I hope to have more before the cold nights. My corn is few and far between. Have enough probably for one meal.

The kiddos are all in bed. Tomorrow is the first day of school. :( I will definitely miss them. I so want to homeschool. I feel they would learn so much more here than in public school but with finances we are both looking for work and praying for more orders from my business. Josh starts the middle school. I can't believe he is a middle schooler. It was just yesterday my water broke. Chelsea will be in the third grade. She is so excited she can play on the big playground this year :D Wyatt and I will be doing preschool here at home. I want to help him with his speech and letter/number recognition to start with. Daddy wants to make him wooden letters with his wood tools. They all are growing up too fast.

My mom is cancer free for 18 months. Praise the Lord! No meds since April. Life is calming down in that area. She will only go every 3 months to her family doctor and every 6 months to the cancer doctor with scans. With only one kidney she is limited to the dye in the cat scans.

I will be 35 tomorrow. Wow I remember wanting to be 16 then 18 then 21 now I'll be 35 wow! Hubby and I will probably go for lunch and walk around the Street of Shops for a bit. Then home to do more housework. I am so into this decluttering. I have gotten rid of 12 bags of clothing, 3 trailer loads of trash and freecycled lots of knick knacks and stuff.

Well off to bed! Have to get up early to get the kids off to school :(

Preparing Your Garden for the Winter

2009-08-18T16:04:00.000-07:00

Some people believe that when the weather starts getting colder and the
leaves start to fall, it is time to put away the gardening tools and wait
until next spring to work on their garden again. Wrong. Winter is an
important time to maintain your garden's health and assure yourself a good
crop for next year. You may think that might take to long to prepare your
garden, but the truth is that it takes less than one day to prepare your
garden for the upcoming winter.

When the nighttime temperatures drop to less than forty-five degrees
Fahrenheit for more than four days in a row, or frost is forecasted for
your area (usually around late October or November) you know its time to
begin preparing your garden. You should begin by evaluating your garden
design, check which plants grew well in the past season, and which plants
did not do well. Fall is a good time to decide which plants will remain in
you garden next year, and which ones should go.

It is also a good time to decide which new plants you want to grow. To
make your garden more colorful and healthy, be sure only to plant the more
hardy plants during the fall so that they can withstand the winter. Some
plants that will do fine being planted in fall are: rudbeckia, Aster
Novi-belgii, Anemone Japonica, panicle hyandea, endive, escarole, and
Brussels sprouts. You can find all of these and more in gardening
magazines or your local nursery.

After you have finished this you should begin cleaning up your garden.
Begin by pulling out weeds that may have cropped up, and raking fallen
leaves. Weeds and rotten leaves can carry insects and diseases that might
be harmful to your garden. You should also rid your garden of spent annual
plants, and harvest your vegetables and other plants that cannot withstand
the winter weather. After fall has come and gone, the leaves will be off
your trees and you can see the rotten branches. Trimming off the unwanted
branches from your trees isn't necessary to your gardens health, but may
help later on by not dropping branches on your plants and not blocking too
much of the sun.

If you have younger trees you should consider wrapping them and supporting
them with stakes to help them survive the winter wind and cold. Putting
mulch over your garden for the winter can be a helpful way to protect
plants from sudden temperature changes and heavy snow. For mulch you can
use about five inches of shredded bark, pine needles, or a variety of
other materials. You have to be careful not to mulch too early, because
some insects may still be alive and able to take shelter in it for the
winter.

Once you are finished with your gardening tools you should clean them and
make sure they are in a safe place where they won't rust and you know
where they'll be for next year. Before winter comes you should always set
out slug repellent, as slugs are one of the worst bugs to have in your
garden. If you have a pool or fountain in your garden, be sure to take out
any fish that you have in them and bring them inside. There’s nothing
sadder than a fish frozen in a block of ice.

Not Me~Monday!

2009-08-17T09:45:00.000-07:00

I didn't sit in front of here all day praying for the safe return of two little children that became lost while swimming in the Susquehanna River. Keep flipping through websites for new updates. No not me.....praying to God they came home.

http://www.wnep.com/wnep-union-search-missing-children,0,3196580.story

I didn't sit here in tears when they called the coroner to the rescue. Questioning why the parent's weren't around. Why did they let and 11 and 8 year old to swim in the Susquehanna River without adult supervision.

I didn't grab up my kiddos and hold them for a half an hour against my 11yo sons will. I am counting my blessings tonight........

Zucchini Overload? 11 Ideas and Recipes to Get You Through Zucchini Time

2009-08-16T21:16:00.000-07:00

by Monica Resinger
http://homemakersjournal.com

It's that time of year when it seems you don't have enough friends and family to give zucchini to. I have come to love zucchini time because over the years I have gathered quite a few ideas and recipes. Here are eleven ideas and recipes to help you through zucchini overload time.

1. Freeze it. Shred it, measure it into the correct measurement for your favorite zucchini bread, then freeze in a freezer bag. When you want fresh zucchini bread this winter, all you have to do is thaw a bag out and add it to the recipe.

2. Freeze zucchini bread. Make zucchini bread loaves (see recipe below) and freeze them for later. These are handy for bringing to potlucks or giving as Christmas gifts.

3. Add to... You can shred zucchini and add it to spaghetti sauce and meat loaf. This adds nutrition and bulk.

4. Deep-fry it. Make your favorite beer-batter for making fish and chips, dip slices of zucchini in it and deep fry for a delicious treat. Dip in ranch or barbecue sauce.

5. Fry in butter. Dip zucchini slices into egg wash, then flour, then fry in butter and season with salt.

6. Eat it fresh. Cut it up and dip it in your favorite vegetable dip such as ranch.

7. Stir-fry it. Zucchini is excellent stir-fry material. Add it to your next stir-fry, or stir-fry it all by itself. Heat a wok or large frying pan on high heat, add a little oil and stir-fry until crisp-tender. Add stir-fry sauce or eat it plain, either way is good.

RECIPES

8. Zucchini Bread

3 cups shredded zucchini (about 3 medium)
1 2/3 cups sugar
2/3 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla
4 eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease bottoms only of 2 loaf pans that are 9x5x3 inches. Mix zucchini, sugar, oil, vanilla and eggs in large bowl. Stir in remaining ingredients. Pour into pans. Bake 50 - 60 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes. Loosen sides of loaves and remove from pans.

9. Zucchini Relish

2 cups chopped zucchini (about 3 medium)
1 cup chopped onion (about 1 medium)
2 tablespoons salt
1 3/4 cups sugar
1 cup cider vinegar
1 teaspoon ground mustard

Combine zucchini and onion. Sprinkle with salt and cover with cold water. Let stand 2 hours. Drain; rinse and drain thoroughly. Combine remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Add vegetables; simmer 10 minutes. Pack hot relish into hot jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Adjust two-piece caps. Process 10 minutes in a boiling- water canner.

10. Chicken Zucchini Parmigiana

1 garlic clove, finely chopped
2 tablespoons oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
seasoning salt to taste
1 large or 2 medium zucchini, sliced
4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon dried basil

In a large, heavy skillet saute chicken breast and garlic in oil about 8 minutes or until lightly browned. Sprinkle with seasoning salt to taste. Remove from skillet; set aside. Add zucchini to skillet, sprinkle with seasoning salt to taste and cook and stir 5 minutes or until zucchini is crisp-tender. Push to sides of skillet. Arrange chicken in middle of skillet. Top chicken with cheese, tomato sauce and herbs. Cover, cook 3 minutes or until cheese melts and sauce is hot.

11. Black-Bottom Zucchini Bars

1/3 cup canola oil
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups shredded zucchini
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup baking cocoa

In a mixing bowl, combine oil, sugar, egg and vanilla until. Blend in the zucchini. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; add to zucchini mixture and mix well. Divide batter in half. Add cocoa to half; spread into a greased 13x9x2-in. baking pan. Pour remaining batter on top and spread out evenly. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until bars test done. Cool. As you can see, zucchini is very versatile. I hope you'll come to appreciate it as much as I have.

Check out the Vegetable Recipe E-book:? http://homemakersjournal.com/vegetablerecipes.htm
Monica is the founder Homemaker's Journal E-publications, the growing home of many fun and informative home and garden e-books, tip sheets, articles and more!? http://homemakersjournal.com/
Get a FREE Slowcooker Recipe E-book when you subscribe to Monica's FREE e-zine for homemakers!? To subscribe and receive instructions for picking up your FREE e-book, just send a blank e-mail to:? HomemakersJournal-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Just My Ramblings As I Lay in Bed

2009-08-14T22:07:00.000-07:00

Why do material things make people so evil? Why is money so bad but we need it to live and prosper?

These past 2 months since my mother in law went to heaven have been emotional. Death and possessions make people very greedy. I want this or you need to pay me for doing that. It is a sad day when you have to watch your husband tear up because ones are fighting over your childhood home and you have no say in it. Being he was adopted by a wonderful lady his grandmother and it is her biological offspring fighting over the estate.

It hurts a lot not being able to stop it all and make it better for him. Please keep us in your prayers to get us through this horrible time. He needs prayers to help him hold together, to make sure his mother's name isn't run through the dirt.

Lastat Michael

2009-08-13T18:31:00.000-07:00

Lastat Michael Dreisbach
5 pounds 14 ounces
18 inches long
August 13, 2009
3:35 am
One month early
Proud Mommy Kathleen Dreisbach

Music in the Park

2009-08-13T07:22:00.000-07:00

Went to music in the park last night. Billy Kelly and the Blah Blah Blah's were playing. Lots of fun kids songs.

Storm With 80 Mile an Hour Winds

2009-08-12T14:10:00.000-07:00

No power for a day, almost lost my garden down the backyard :( ruined many corn crops around us. Horrible storm.

YE OLDE AND NEW COLLECTION OF HINTS FOR HOMEMAKERS

2009-08-11T07:51:00.001-07:00

HEALTH AND RELAXATION

Try a cup of baking soda in a Cup of warm water. Relax for ten
minutes or until refreshed.

One tablespoon of baby oil in very warm bath water for smooth
skin. Watch the wrinkles go.

Try a warm bath with feet propped up high for a relaxing twenty
minutes.

Mix dry oatmeal and water into a paste and spread on face. Lie
down and let it dry. Wash off with warm water. Excellent
facial.

Cold Cream on eyelashes and brows keeps soap out of eyes while
shampooing.

For that Bright Eyed look, place cucumber slices on eyelids
while relaxing in a hot bath for ten minutes.

Remove gum from hair with nail polish remover, then shampoo.

Cornbread mix spread on face, let dry and wash off with warm
water and see how clean your skin looks.

Another refresher... squeeze cotton pads out of ice water, place
on eyelids and lie down, elevate feet.

To prevent hair pins from falling out, bend one prong in a "V"
about halfway up and insert in hair. It will stay.

Clean your rings with toothpaste and old brush.

Artgum eraser will clean bone colored shoes.

To keep Cold Cream from spoiling and maintain its freshness,
keep it in the refrigerator... and it's so cool.

Prevent wrinkled scarfs. Roll and place in toilet tissue cones.

Old lipstick tubes, thoroughly cleaned, are great for
purse-sized pill boxes or for pins etc.

White shoe polish will keep a cast clean on broken bones.

Clip on earrings can be used for cuff links or scatter pins.

Cuticle remover will clear hands of nicotine stains.

Ice water and soap to remove ring from swollen finger.

Cut legs off old card table, to about ten inches high. This
will make a good table for sick or bed-ridden folks.

Boil pine splinters and sip tea to stop hiccups of long duration.

Use a lazy susan at bedside to enable sick to reach more items.

Old socks worn over shoes on ice helps to prevent falls.

Tape on shoes helps prevent falls on highly waxed floors.

Emergency Sinus Relief - swap white vinegar high up in the
nostrils.

Recycle Your Own Paper - Use backs of unwanted advertising mail
for scratch paper pads. Roll your newspapers into a tight roll
until they are log size, tie with a wire and burn in the
fireplace. It will burn like a log, but even longer. Shred all
of your newspapers and junk mail and save in a large bag for use
in packing materials and for making paper mache items by adding
flour and water.

Save cans to freeze leftovers in.

Save plastic bags from bread for freezer use.

Save plastic milk containers, fill with water and freeze. Use
in camper iceboxes or coolers. Also these can be used to freeze
colored water or juices in for later use in a punch bowl.

Clean vinyl with liquid window cleaner.

Avoid tears when peeling onions, slice first, then slip the
bands of skin off.

Use an egg slicer to slice apples or mushrooms.

Leftover pancake batter makes good fried onion rings. Separate
and let soak in batter for fifteen minutes. Fry in hot oil.

Loose door knob? Put a drop of shellac in the screw hole, then
tighten. It works.

To grow thyme - thyme will grow anywhere, but it prefers a dry,
poor soil. If the ground is rich, the plant will become too
luxuriant and lose its aromatic qualities.

Very strengthening drink - beat the yolk of a fresh egg with a
little sugar, add a very little brandy, beat the white to a
strong froth, stir it into the yolk, fill up the tumbler with
fresh milk and grate in a little nutmeg.

How to preserve flowers and fruit - Fruit and flowers may be
preserved from decay and fading by immersing them in a solution
of gum arabic and water two or three times, waiting a sufficient
time between each immersion to allow the gum to dry. This
process covers the surface of the fruit with a thin coat of gum,
which is entirely impervious to the air, thus preventing the
decay of the fruit or flower. Roses thus preserved have all the
beauty of freshly picked ones, though they have been separated
form the parent stock many months.

Household cleaner formula: Soap powder - 2 oz.; soda ash - 3
oz.; trisodium phosphate - 40 oz.; finely ground silica - 55 oz.
Mix well and put up in containers. most of the above items can
be purchased from drug stores or hardware and paint stores.

Household window cleaner formula: Castile soap - 2 oz.; water -
5 oz.; chalk - 4 oz.; french-chalk - 3 oz.; tripoli powder - 2
oz.; petroleum spirits - 5 oz. Mix well and pack in tight
containers. Above ingredients can be purchased at local drug,
hardware, paint, or nursery stores.

Fire Kindler Formula: Rosin or pitch - 10 oz.; sawdust - 10 or
more oz. Melt, mix and cast in forms.

Paint Brush Cleaner - ammonia (household ammonia will do).

Sun Burn Lotion - Peanut oil (buy at grocery store).

Radiator Cleaner - Tri-sodium phosphate (buy at paint store).

Tree Wound Dressing - Lanolin (buy at drug store).

Frosted Window Paint - super saturated solution of Epsom salts.

Mosquito Repellant - Oil of Pennyroyal, rub on skin (buy at drug
store).

Furniture polish and cleaner - Vinegar.

Tile Cleaner - Deodorized kerosene (buy at an oil company).

Windshield Anti-fog - Glycerine (buy at drug store).

Label Cement - Egg white is an excellent label cement.

Cockroach Exterminator - Borax (buy at the grocery store).

Ground Mole Control Powder - Black pepper placed liberally in
their runs.

Battery Anti-corrode - Vaseline.

Fire Extinguisher - Plain baking soda.

Nail Bleach - Hydrogen peroxide (buy at the drug store).

Type Cleaner - rubbing alcohol (buy at the drug store).

Wonder Car Product - Removes tar, paint, wax gum, etc. Benzol.

Cures Cigarette Habit - Take before breakfast 1/2 teaspoon each
of Rochelle Salts and Cream of Tartar, also chew Ginseng root
and swallow the juice.

For Great Beauty - drink a teaspoon of Figwort. This will
banish every blemish from your skin as it cleanses the blood.
Chamomile teas will give one a complexion to be proud of.

SEWING HINTS

Emergency ripped hem repair - use double faced sticky tape
between hem and dress.

Bobbins, thread, and other sewing notions can be hung on a
bulletin board with straight pins near your machine.

Cut buttons, zippers, snaps, hooks, and eyes from all old
clothes and place near your sewing machine. Pin all the buttons
that are alike together with a large safety pin. Saves a lot!

Cut the cost of making a round tablecloth by using the fringe
from an old bedspread.

To cover unremovable spots on children's clothes, iron transfers
of animals, etc. over spots or paint with textile paints. Looks
new!

To reline a jacket or coat, use the old lining for the pattern.
Spray heavily with starch and press. Pin to the new material
for a perfect pattern.

For a matched set of spread and drapes, buy two bedspreads and
make a set of drapes from one.

For an attractive eyeglass case, fold a pot-holder and sew up
one side and the end.

Worn out tops of little girls slips? Cut off at the waist and
insert elastic for half-slip. Also good if she has grown too
tall for it.

Use iron-on rug binding on men's trousers to prevent "waist-band
curing" of trouser tops. Great for the heavy-set men.

CLOTHING HITS

Footlets twisted twice in arch of foot prevents slipping off.

Use two rubber bands and three safety pins on sliding bra
straps. Pin to each strap and in a "V" to center bra.

Use hair spray to stop runs in hose.

Clear nail polish will stop runs in hose and also makes good
glue.

Use nylon net to brush lint off dark clothing.

Fold several pieces of tissue, pin through dress with tissues on
back to prevent heavy broach from sagging.

Felt markers are good to cover shoe scuffs.

Grease spots which have set, in washable fabrics, can often be
removed by rubbing fresh grease on spot and washing immediately.

My Nursing Necklaces

2009-08-10T17:37:00.001-07:00

Not Me~Monday!

2009-08-10T11:41:00.000-07:00

For the past day and a half we have been without power (Praise the Lord! It's been restored) today being the hottest day of this season. Heat index of 98 degrees.

Not Me! I didn't go to bed last night texting to Twitter about going through withdraw not being able to get online. Then driving to Walmart to get cell signal so I could tweet some more before I went to bed.

Not Me! I didn't run out during these 80 mile an hour winds to shut the garage door for my hubby. He just painted his motorcycle. And shut the door on my shed door that is my storage for my fabric and beads. Not Me!

Not Me! I didn't plug my computer and fridge into the generator this morning to get a few minutes of online time. :)

Giveaway~Once Upon a Blog Design

2009-08-09T06:45:00.001-07:00

Come and celebrate the 2 year anniversary and Grand Re-0pening of Once Upon a Blog~
Enter to win 3 different giveaways! Sign up for a blog makeover and receive $10 off! Check out all the new design services that are being offered!

Car Photos~1973 Volkswagen Squareback

2009-08-08T09:46:00.000-07:00

This is the car hubby is restoring. It was in pretty good shape to start with. But it had a lot of work under the car. Yea, got wet feet driving in the rain :( recovered the seats, still waiting on the mirrors to be shipped (2 months now)