I Find it Interesting

Going along with the theme of trying to create everyday items that one normally buys at the store and at a much higher cost, I did research on making my own dishwasher soap. I found the information off a YouTube clip. Again, like the laundry detergent, this mixture only requires 3 ingredients that can all be found at Wal-Mart:

1 and 1/2 cup of Borax
1 and 1/2 cup of baking soda
1 cup of salt

Mix all the ingredients together in an airtight container and when you are ready to run a load of dishes, add 1/4 cup of the mixture and add a little vinegar to the 'rinse' compartment. I tested this out last night and all went well. The skillet we used to fry hamburgers came out clean and not a trace of grease.

If I did the cost analysis correctly, I was tired when I tried to figure this one out, the four cup concoction will do 16 loads of dishes for a total of $1.05. That beats any store brands I know.

Try it!

Doesn't Make Sense

Matthew received the call today that Ethan's headstone had arrived and was in place, so we went this evening to the cemetery for the first time since his memorial service. As soon as Matt told me it had come, I started crying and I cried all the way to the cemetery, so I knew this wasn't going to be pretty. We cut some flowers that were growing in our yard, a type of lily, a hydrangea bloom and another flower of which I don't know the name, to be placed in the vase we purchased along with the headstone.

The cemetery was peaceful and beautiful and green. We escaped a Southern Summer storm for this visit. As soon as I walked up on Ethan's spot, with tears streaming of course, I noticed the little pieces of dirt scattered on top of the headstone and immediately wanted to clean his spot off...nurturing and motherly desire I guess. Wanting to care for my baby who is with the best Caretaker in the whole world. I found a broom and cleaned his plot off and proceeded to sit in the dirt next to the headstone and cry in to the super-absorbent washcloth I brought, as I knew a few tissues weren't going to cut it.

There was no vase at the site. We laid the flowers on top knowing that the first strong wind would toss them haphazardly about and hoping I would not see them this way the next time I came to visit.

Many thoughts going through my head, but the main one being "Why is sin manifested in this way?". You grow up learning sin is telling a lie, being mean to a sibling or eating their brownie that was meant for their dessert, not in the death of a child. Why does sin in this case equal Ethan dying? I don't understand...

Homemade Laundry Detergent

This past Friday, I suddenly had the desire to learn how to make everyday household items that we find at the grocery store. Well, in my search, I found A LOT of possibilities. The first item on my list and one that I made today and putting to the test right now, homemade laundry detergent. It requires 3 ingredients that can all be found at Wal-Mart.

1 cup of Ivory soap (needs to be shaved from the bar)
1/2 cup of washing soda
1/2 cup of Borax

Combine all the items into an airtight container (I used a plastic vinegar bottle) using a funnel and shake well. For a small load of laundry use 1 tablespoon and for a large load use 2 tablespoons. My nerdiness went further and I did a cost analysis of the concoction. It cost roughly $0.60 to make the above amount and out of it you can get 20 large loads ($0.03/load) to 40 small loads ($0.015/load).

I just pulled the items out of the washer and they look/smell clean! That load of laundry was particularly testing as we wore those clothes at the farm this past weekend...rock wool, dust, paint, sweat, dirt...all sorts of nasty things got on our clothes.

Try it!

Upcycled Mason Jar Pincushion

This functional little treasure was fun and easily made! Using an empty mason jar, a scrap of fabric, poly-fil (you could even use cotton balls or small fabric pieces), a small piece of cardstock and hot glue, I whipped this together during a typical Southern evening storm.

Pretties and Blackberry Picking

Watch out for snakes and spiders!
We have enough here for at least 3 muffins.

I look forward to more visits to the farm and picking blackberries in the coming months.

The first vase of wild flowers that graced the dinner table and a few small spiders came with them. :)

Family Farm

2 Thessalonians 3:3

But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.

Isaiah 40:31

but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

I've learned a neat term for babies that go Home to be with Jesus before we are ready for them to..."Early Flight". I like that. It is comforting in a way.

More Sad Surprises

Well, Father's Day and Mother's Day alike have taken on a whole new meaning for our family. Days where we celebrate each other, but pelted with a noiseless house. In the movies, on TV and in life, there are the moments when a new mother and father are laying in bed, turned toward each other with their little bundle sleeping or cooing between them. Well, we did that sans baby. Instead we had a large, rectangular sized tissue box between us. Every so often plucking a tissue to catch the tears sliding down our noses. No baby, yet still mommy and daddy. Our heartbreaking moments are becoming fewer, but we know the sadness will never completely go away and I don't think we want it to cease. I titled this entry "More Sad Surprises" because we never know when something is going to bring up hurt until we are in the situation.

Dulce Chocolat

Set to open September 1st, Dulce Chocolat is a dream come true for two extraordinary women, Martiza and Marlena. They are sisters, each bringing different stories to the table, yet dedicated, hardworking and a grand example of perseverance. One, a wife and mother of five, the other, a 40+ hour a week caregiver for an extended amount of time, wife, mother of six and grandmother of three. Why are they starting this new adventure? Not only to share their love of a sweet treasure, but to share the zest they have for life and to welcome you, a stranger, in to their warm and family-friendly shop. So, be on the lookout for Dulce Chocolat, its mouth-watering treats and the affection behind its creation.

The above photos are the beautiful boxes these two ladies made for me and my new husband at our wedding. The boxes, along with the homemade treats inside, charmed many.

Happy Father's Day Matthew!

The tray of brownies were made from scratch for the best daddy to our baby in the whole entire world. The funny star shaped blueberry crumb bread was handed out to the others dad's in our lives.
Tossing the ball around with his dad and brother was a treat to watch.

Sunshine, swimming and beer. That explains itself.

Last but not least, hitting several rounds of balls at the local batting cage.

Happy Father's Day Matthew!

Upcycled Half Apron

What a fun apron! I made this from a pillowcase and love the retro feel it provides. I've made a half apron for myself and enjoy being able to use it while cooking, cleaning, gardening or crafting. As I am a messy person, my pocketbook, wardrobe and husband appreciate it when I protect my clothing. :)

These galoshes are rocking my world! They are a bright color. They make it more exciting to get into messes and now I can go splash in rain puddles without fear of worms squishing up through my toes. Oh, and there are cute little turtles on them. Thank you Mom.

Finally!

Thanks to garage sales, we finally found Matthew a bike. We are both very excited about it and plan on taking part in the Beautiful Backroads Century ride in north Cartersville come September. I think Matt is more willing to participate because you get two free beers once you complete the ride. Anyway, despite our enthusiasm, we have yet to find time to go riding together, but hope to do so soon.

Upcycled Skirt

I made this skirt from a pillowcase. It was so much fun, I tell ya'! Not only is it from upcycled material, but vintage according to etsy. This skirt is not meant for those that are rough with their clothing, which includes me. That said, I need to share it with someone. This skirt is best to wear poolside or to the beach because you can see through it. :) I am firmly against slips. That's just me.

What To Do First?

Last night, Matthew and I set up a 'Fun List' for the Summer and early Fall. We accomplished this while we were sitting on 285 in bumper to bumper traffic. We have quite the list, as you can see. Where should we start? Any suggestions? :)

Sweet Painting

I eyeballed this painting about a week after Ethan passed away at an art show my mom was displaying some of her work in. I briefly commented on it and pointed it out to Matthew and Mom, as it was within sight of her booth. Well, low and behold, the day of Ethan's memorial, it showed up on the little table set out to display items at the cemetery plot. It brings tears to my eyes because it does remind us of our little boy, but it holds the meaning that our children are not ours but belong to God. With baby number two, we will be placing this in the nursery.

Yet Another!

I'm on a roll, so why not post another completed hat!

Chunky Grey Hat

I finally placed one of the crocheted hats on etsy. It only took me 6 months to post.

Beach Vacation

Several weeks ago, Matthew and I took our first real vacation since we have been married or even a couple for that matter. We went to Daytona, compliments of Half Off Depot, and had a wonderful time. Matt had not seen the ocean in about 20 years, so we remedied that. Watching him enjoy himself and God's creation gave me so much joy and happiness in my heart, it almost burst. We enjoyed the beach, sun, sand, food and many sites. Also, all couples, whether dating or married, need to take part in two-man kayaking. It will help you asses how well you communicate within your relationship. I'm serious.