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.