tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736767938648630992024-03-13T06:17:43.871-04:00Drinking From My Saucer {'cause my cup has overflowed!}My blog is a mixture of family, faith, food, and fun. I'm a homemaker, blogging about LIFE, one JOYful day at a time. Come along for the ride!Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.comBlogger1012125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-40737115700859707922015-11-04T15:45:00.001-05:002015-11-04T15:57:41.226-05:00Just Checking In...Our kids are great about checking in with us when they're away from home... So, when they aren't home by the time we were expecting them, I usually send a short text asking if they're ok. Today, I ran a few errands on my way home from work, and I got a text from our son saying, "You okay?"<br />
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#happyparentingmoment<br />
#thoughtfulson<br />
#justcheckingin<br />
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Just a reminder that you can always find me on Instagram --> <a href="http://instagram.com/sally.kelly"><img src="http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll208/lyndsayjohnson/instagram_zps876f7ac5.png" /></a></div>
Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-49011905408221856712015-06-23T11:45:00.002-04:002015-06-23T11:47:04.646-04:00Summer So Far<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
Hope you're having a great summer, so far. Last week, our girl worked at a Summer XP club (half-days) with other teens from our church, so I had a busy week of getting her there & back each day. Let me tell you... that made the week FLY by!</div>
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This week, she is on a high school church youth group <i>discipleship</i> trip to Estes Park, Colorado. I don't mind telling you that I'm a little jealous. The pictures that everyone is sharing are incredible. I'm so excited for the relationships that they will be building, first and foremost with the LORD!</div>
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Back here at home, things are moving a little slower, and I'm trying to catch up, and get some things in order. Nothing major -- just stuff that get overlooked, and piles up or gets backlogged!</div>
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I recently read (and have heard before) that though this is the most photographed generation, people don't <i>print</i> photos as much as they used to. Kind of makes me want to go on tour to promote Project Life - LOL. Speaking of which... I am caught up on my scrapbooks through Memorial Day weekend of this year. So, one of the things that I need to work on is PRINTING photos that bring me up to date, and getting them in the scrapbook.</div>
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The other day, I purchased the Project Life "Fine & Dandy" core kit. On the way home, I happened to think that there was some kind of contest related to this kit. Later, I looked through the kit to see if I could find any indication, and was happy to see a golden ticket smiling up at me. It entitles me to a limited edition value kit. What a nice surprise!</div>
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As I write this, it's raining. Again. Did I mention that it rained the entire week of the first Summer XP? They worked around it, but still. At this point, I'm getting kind of anxious for vacation. I'd like to experience rain in another state, at the very least. Ha! How's that for positive thinking? Seriously though, we always say that even if the weather doesn't cooperate for vacation, we are just happy to have a change of scenery and be in a place that we love. Storms are always more interesting at the beach anyway!</div>
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Well, that's all for now. Back to work!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hope it's sunny wherever you are.</span></div>
Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-85278732252871105732015-06-10T12:07:00.001-04:002015-06-10T12:07:32.866-04:00ExpectationsI am not a high-maintenance, demanding kind of girl. Ask my hubby, and he may disagree with you on any given day -- but for the most part, I think he knows he's spoiled.<br />
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Years ago, while still working full-time in an office setting, I witnessed a co-worker putting in a call to her spouse to ask where her birthday flowers were. I was young, and unmarried at the time, but still... my thought was, <i>if he's doing it because she TOLD him to, then... what's the point? Shouldn't it come from <u>his</u> heart... <u>his</u> intentions? </i>I vowed right then not to be "that" wife when my time came.<br />
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Fast forward to now. On Saturday, my hubby and I spent the day pulling weeds in our garden. Sitting back to appreciate our work, we decided that rather than spend money on gifts for Mother's Day, Father's Day, and our June birthdays, we would put the cash towards... are you ready?<br />
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MULCH.<br />
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You heard me.<br />
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I am fully aware that sometimes I can be so practical (and okay, CHEAP), that I suck the fun right out of things. We're not big on FUSS around here.<br />
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But MULCH? Well, we're hoping that it will be the gift that keeps on giving. Meaning: we won't have to weed again soon -- or at least, as often. (Stay with me here.) This will give us more time to sit back and <b>enjoy</b> our yard.<br />
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And actually, there is much <b>to enjoy</b>. Our garden is filled with beautiful flowers. I've been posting pictures on Instagram of the flowers we enjoy. But, what you can't see on Instagram is the weeds. Because... you know... I am crafty in how I take my pictures. *wink* Because of my craftiness, an Instagram-following friend thought I had a wonderful garden. It kind of made me sad to tell her that was really not the case... anymore -- that we'd gotten a little lazy in our weeding.<br />
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I became inspired. Time to whip the garden back into shape (the way my friend may envision it) so that it really DOES look wonderful... for the big picture! *wink* MULCH, my friends, is a part of that plan.<br />
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Sometimes changing your expectations about something (in my case, gift-giving & receiving) can open up all new possibilities.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Have you adjusted any of your summer-time expectations recently? It might make all of the difference in how you enjoy your summer-time experience.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Last year, I adjusted my expectations about what it meant to eat outdoors most summer evenings -- and about what things needed to "look like" in order to pull that off. You can read about it <span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/2014/06/being-more-intentional-about-eating.html" target="_blank">HERE.</a></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Summer will be here officially in a matter of days. In the meantime, I'm pretending!</span>Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-22828162783765091382015-05-26T11:07:00.000-04:002015-05-26T11:07:05.141-04:00Not Monday, TUESday!Three-day weekends sort of mess with my head. By the time Tuesday rolls around, I don't even know what day it is anymore. But... we managed to get everyone out the door this morning with the right day's schedule in mind. I reminded our daughter that she only has go go through this morning process 6 more days!!!<br />
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We enjoyed a wonderful, traditional weekend with all of my immediate family, and extended out-of-town family-friends as well. Cornhole and Hillbilly Golf are always set up, but most of all, we sit on the deck at my parents home talking and munching. Beside all of the munching... great meals, too!</div>
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We look forward to, and treasure the time together. This year, the weather was wonderful -- even though rain was in the forecast. We managed to get away with just wind and lots of falling seeds-and-such from the trees.</div>
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Back at our house, the Poppies opened -- sort of a Memorial Day weekend tradition, as well. Hope you had a wonderful weekend with the ones you love. Enjoy this shortened week!</div>
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Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-24152081217490515542015-05-22T07:00:00.000-04:002015-05-22T07:00:01.024-04:00Hello. It's Me.It's funny how things that you thought were never-ending suddenly just run out of steam and... end. For me, that's been my blog. For me, that's been time spent<i> reading</i> blogs. Life just has a way of re-prioritizing itself sometimes. This past school year, I got so busy with other things in life. Blogging just felt like a way of "keeping up with the Joneses," so to speak. I didn't have time for the latest home decor. I didn't have money for hanging out needlessly at Target. I didn't care to read "sales pitches" in my blogroll. Nothing wrong with any of those things. I've subscribed to all of them at one time or another. I just haven't had time lately. The blogging world sort of came to a screeching halt for me.<br />
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Today, I was hanging out HERE, and trying to see my blog with fresh eyes. I removed a few things, and consolidated some others, and well... we'll see what happens next. I want to stay true to myself, and not get carried away trying things that I know darn well will never work for me and my blog.<br />
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I do love writing. I do love sharing pictures. I think it's time to just get back to basics.<br />
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After school's out today, there are only eight more days left for our girl. Then, our summer gets turned upside down as she has a part-time job helping out with a summer Bible Club called "Summer XP." I will be the chauffeur (gladly), and I have a feeling that we will be in the car a lot.<br />
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We have some plans for other fun stuff, though - so, it's all good.<br />
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Come along for the ride, as I "go with the flow" this summer.Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-53365105452234397732015-04-03T12:00:00.000-04:002015-04-03T12:00:13.414-04:00Life Un-bloggedGood Grief! I've been living my life un-blogged for 3+ weeks. What's the world coming to? There was a day when one of those (a day) couldn't go by without me having something to say. Lately, though, each day is so full of knowing I am right in the middle of where God wants me that there are no words at the end. (read: I collapse, exhausted.)<br />
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Also... if you follow Sasha @ LemonadeMakinMama, do you remember the day when she asked if Instagram had taken the place of blogging? At the time, I didn't have an Instagram account, and (quite frankly) I was incredulous at what she was suggesting.<br />
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Today, I am here to tell you... Sasha knew what she was talking about. I love documenting my days on Instagram with brief captions. It only takes me a second. So, long-story-short -- I would love it if you follow me there. You can see my Instagram slideshow over there --> in my right side-bar, and if you would like to follow along, just click on this link:<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/sally.kelly/" style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">https://instagram.com/sally.kelly/</a></div>
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and "FOLLOW."</div>
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My days of baby-rocking are quickly coming to a close for the season. The summer will hopefully be more wide-open, and we are already planning for our summer vacation. It's like a light at the end of a long winter tunnel! My intention is to be more present here. We'll see how that works out.</div>
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Praying that your heart will be fully engaged in this Easter weekend. I will be rocking babies, serving dinner for 11, and remembering (with a grateful heart) the reason I am able to do all of this things.<br />
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If not for Christ on the cross...Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-50704142030640194322015-03-11T06:00:00.000-04:002015-03-11T06:00:09.379-04:00Not Too Seriously<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For the most part, we don't take ourselves too seriously around here. For the <span style="font-size: large;">most part, </span>we are all pretty good at laughing at ourselves. Here's a perfect example.<br />
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Last night, I remembered a dream from the previous night, and I shared it with my daughter. The dream was a little odd in that I had a mustache. Yep. I looked in the mirror and there it was. In the dream, it wasn't at all strange to me that I had a mustache... only that it was quite raggedy and uneven. I was in a quandary about how to best even it up. Do you trim it to match up with the top or the bottom of your lip, I wondered.<br />
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At this point in my explanation to my daughter, she held up her hand and amid hysterical laughter said, "Wait, wait! Mom, you didn't think maybe you should just <span style="font-size: large;">SHAVE?</span>"<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">LAUGHING OUT LOUD, LOUDLY.</span><br />
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Nope. That idea never crossed my mind.<br />
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See what I mean?<br />
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Not too seriously.Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-68851607117888307562015-03-02T06:00:00.000-05:002015-03-02T06:00:10.100-05:00It's Like Riding a Bicycle...Remember <a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/2015/02/stay-warm.html" target="_blank">THIS POST</a> where I mentioned that we were having a little friend come to visit?<br />
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Well -- IT. WAS. AWESOME.<br />
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He came in like he owned the place, and within the first five seconds, found the teddy bear that I'd put out for him. He willingly said goodbye to Mommy & Daddy. No big deal.<br />
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We played. He investigated the house, turning questioning eyes on me when he wanted to check something out. There were only a couple things that I had to lay down the law on... like him picking up the little weights that I use when I walk <span style="font-size: x-small;">[away the pounds]</span>, and dropping them. Ummmm, NO! We put that to an end before little toes got smashed.<br />
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He brought his own kitchen toys, and so, "cooked" at my feet while I made him mac-n-cheese for lunch.<br />
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He "talked to Mom" on his pretend phone, and then I got to "talk to her" too!<br />
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We put a chair cushion on a kitchen chair so that he was sitting higher for lunch, and he ate like a champ.<br />
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Shortly after lunch, it was naptime... meaning: the pack-n-play in my room. Story first, read by my girl -- who was equally tickled to have the little guy here. Then, shade pulled. Familiar blankies. And knowing his "code word" for blankie, too! I stood at the top of the stairs listening to the movements behind the almost-closed door. It only took about 3 minutes, and there was stillness. I waited for a little voice to call,.. but nothing.<br />
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Two hours later, I knew that Mommy would return shortly, so I went up to wake the little man. I called his name gently, reminding him that he was at Sally's house. I expected a bit of a fuss upon waking -- you know how that can be. I didn't know if he'd remember where he was. But, no biggie.<br />
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We came downstairs and played with his trains as had been promised before naptime. All in all, it went so smoothly, and way too fast! Mommy was back before we knew it.<br />
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Though I care for these sweet little ones at church, I haven't had little ones in my home in a long time. Even the nieces and nephews are grown up. Age-appropriate toys are mostly gone -- and all of the important tools (high chair, crib) are long gone. So, I wasn't really sure how it would go, but...<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's just like riding a bicycle!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is one of my favorite pictures... the little guy on my couch, feet crossed, looking at pictures of himself on my iPod.<br />Sign of the times... and those crossed feet? A clue to his comfort? Precious!</span></td></tr>
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Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-83527262781789344052015-02-23T06:00:00.000-05:002015-02-23T06:00:09.749-05:00(that post where I won't name any names...)What a whirlwind weekend!<br />
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Friday night was a drive to camp to drop off our girl and her friend for a Winter Weekend with our church youth group.<br />
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Saturday was snow, snow, snow, and though it was recommended that we wouldn't, my hubby and I ventured out for lunch (breakfast food for me) at a neighborhood cafe that we have recently discovered.<br />
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Sunday was baby rockin', worship, a Mexican lunch, and a drive back to camp to get our girl -- and then a lot of feet up, surfin', snoozin', kids & friends playing cards, and Downton Abbey watchin'. (No awards, thank you.)<br />
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There was a lot of down-time in between all of the running, so, it was a nicely balanced weekend, even though it sped by.<br />
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The highlight of my Sunday morning in the nursery was a silly little thing -- but in another way, huge. One little guy was going around the room, pointing back to me and saying, "That's Sally." It just kind of struck me that... he really knows me. Week after week, visit after visit, we have become buddies. So much so, in fact, that when I saw him again later in the morning, he kissed me. On the lips.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">OBviously,</span> we have become close. I'm laughing out loud, and shaking my head. Oh that boy.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you had a great weekend, too!</span></div>
Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-78194737407946456142015-02-20T06:00:00.000-05:002015-02-22T19:42:58.845-05:00Stay Warm!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I hope everyone is staying toasty warm on this coldest of cold days. My girl and I are hunkered down at home... school was cancelled yesterday and today due to the extreme temps/windchills expected -- and we are all too happy to be spending the day with one of our favorite "littles" from church. It's been fun to dust off some old toys, favorite books, and a naptime blanket for him. I'm looking forward to some great adventures... indoors.</div>
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Stay warm!</div>
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And for your viewing pleasure: frost on one of our windows. <span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">God's handiwork.</span></div>
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Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-79244153657317501592015-02-13T07:56:00.000-05:002015-02-13T07:56:59.964-05:00Valentine's Day Weekend... I Hope<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I hope you have a beautiful Valentine's Day Weekend. I hope it's filled with <span style="font-size: large;">fun adventures.</span> I hope you <span style="font-size: large;">get crafty. </span>I hope you prepare some of your <span style="font-size: large;">favorite foods... </span>together. <span style="font-size: large;">Spend time... </span>together.</div>
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I hope you do... the things that will give you the MOST wonderful memories.</div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Happy Valentine's Day!</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">#LoveIsWorthCelebrating</span></div>
Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-20240182084141785712015-02-05T09:41:00.000-05:002015-02-05T09:41:36.620-05:00Sunny Days Inspiration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">SUNSHINE. </span></div>
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I just googled and found out there is an average of 164 days of sunshine where I live. 164 out of 365. That's only about 45% of the days in a typical year. That puts our city at 44th of the list of the top 101 cities with the <i>lowest </i>average sunshine amount. BOO. Also - I just did all that MATH before 9:30AM. If my calculations are wrong, don't tell me. This is NOT a math blog - *wink.</div>
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Okay, so this is an average. I get that. That means there are some years where we have lots of sunshine, and other years... not so much. Well, this has been one of those "not so much" years -- at least so far. My south-bound mother teased me a little about my dismal outlook this year. To that, I can only say, "Talk to the hand... You weren't LIVING it." LOL. Just teasin' ya back, Mom. {By the way, nice tan!}</div>
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Anyways, I'm here to tell you that there have been a handful of sunshiny days in the last week or so, and... all record-making, taking, or breaking aside... I'll TAKE 'EM!</div>
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It was a dreary January, but as soon as the sunshine showed up, I felt like my brain was finally open for business. I even went so far as to do a little crafting, resulting in some Valentine decor. Kind of blew my own mind, since I've been in a long dry spell.</div>
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I also was inspired to do some picture-taking -- which I haven't done [just for fun] in a long time. Most of the pics showed up on <span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: large;"><a href="http://instagram.com/sally.kelly/" target="_blank">Instagram</a></span>, as you know if you follow me there. As usual, I'm way behind the curve when it comes to technology. I've only recently "inherited" my daughter's old iPod. It takes ridiculously crummy pictures, but I'm having fun with it nevertheless. Someday, I will have something even "smarter."</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But I digress. </span></div>
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It took a fellow-blogger's comment to snap me out of the doldrums after <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/2015/01/friday-farrago-11615.html" target="_blank">THIS POST</a>.</span> Amanda and I have become blogging buddies since we both participated in the <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/search/label/my%20kitchen" target="_blank">"This Week in My Kitchen"</a> </span>bloghop. She chided me, saying, <i>"...really [pictures] are what jog our memories when we look back on life... TAKE MORE PICTURES, and stop wishing the winter away. ;)"</i></div>
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Thanks Amanda. You were right. {You can find Amanda's blog <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://dymacek.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a></span>.}</div>
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Picture-taking can really change your perspective on things.</div>
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The other day, I was downtown at a stop-light that was taking forever to change. It was a beautiful sunny day, and all of a sudden it occurred to me that I might get an interesting "urban" shot of the red traffic light with the sunlight behind it. So, instead of sitting at the red light tapping my fingers, I was taking pictures. BOOM. Perspective changed.</div>
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Try it. You might be surprised. Also: some of the best picture-taking happens on days without sun! NO SHADOWS!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't forget:</span><span style="color: red; font-size: large;"> #LoveIsWorthCelebrating</span></div>
Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-30024504804480507062015-02-02T06:00:00.000-05:002015-02-02T06:00:07.908-05:00When Crafting With Candy, Know Your Audience<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, I'm not entirely sure what I was thinking when I fell in love with my friend <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.houseofhawthornes.com/2013/02/its-snowing-hearts.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Pam's Valentine idea.</span></a> </span>Obviously, I forgot her comment: <i>"You gotta use a candy that you don't love more than life itself, or you're just asking for it be be refilled constantly." </i></div>
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Obviously, I forgot the "audience" at my house -- since this jar wasn't even out on display 48 hours before somebody wanted to empty it. [In reality, 48 hours is probably some kind of record around here!]</div>
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<i>That person</i> shall remain nameless, but suffice it to say that he[?] was told it was there for decorative purposes. I really didn't think that these little cinnamon red-hot things would be very tempting.</div>
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Obviously, I am not the right person to ask. Obviously.</div>
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The good news is that I am pretty sure he[?] heard the edge to my voice, shook in his[?] boots, and returned the jar to the tabletop, unopened. Pretty sure. Or, you know... umm, not.</div>
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Either way, I have learned my lesson.</div>
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When crafting with candy, KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE.</div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">#LoveIsWorthCelebrating</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: large;">To see all the "daily-daily" stuff,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: large;">follow me on Instagram here:</span></div>
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Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-42437676411052058732015-01-30T06:00:00.001-05:002015-02-12T11:49:09.802-05:00A Valentine Banner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In my daily blog-reading, <span style="color: #e06666;"><a href="http://exquisitelyunremarkable.com/2015/01/note-card-valentine-banner.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;">KIM'S,</span></a> </span><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thoughtsfromalice.com/2014/01/rustic-valentines-love-banner-no-sew-diy.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">ALICE'S,</span></a> </span>and <a href="http://www.cleanandscentsible.com/2015/01/valentines-day-chalkboard-photo-banner.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">JENN'S</span></a> posts inspired me to create a Valentine banner. I decided to use a roll of wide burlap "ribbon" that I had leftover from Autumn decorating. I also knew that I had some Valentine scrapbook paper on-hand, so the basic idea was to create a banner from supplies that I already had. I purchased nothing for this project.</div>
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I knew that I wanted to use the burlap ribbon for the individual banner-flags. I started by cutting a small length of the burlap, folding it in half, and notching out the bottom. Once I was certain that I liked the size, I cut 11 more of the same, making 12 little "banner-flags" in all.</div>
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I cut a way-too-long piece of red and white twine, so that I knew I had more than enough. I stretched it out on my counter, and started folding the banners over it.</div>
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I cut 12 hearts out of decorative scrapbook paper, laid them on the banners, and stapled them in place. I wasn't too worried about the look of the staples. I knew that when I hung the banner, the staples would be too far away to really be noticed. Also - the staples are the only way this is held together. I stapled through the heart and both layers of the folded banner.</div>
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Once all of that was done, it looked kind of plain and in need of a bit more dimension. I went searching for, and found some ribbon to tie in between each banner.</div>
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That was all it took, and I was happy with the results. It's simple, and it cost me nothing.</div>
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As you can see, this is no "rocket-science" project. Maybe it will inspire YOU to create something fabulously simple.</div>
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You'll notice that my wreath isn't exactly like any of my inspirations. Instead, there are elements of each in it, making it completely my own. My favorite part is that I didn't spend a dime, and I ended up using up some crafty odds and ends. Win-win!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's amazing how a little sunshine streaming through the window can inspire you! It sure inspired me this week!</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">#LoveIsWorthCelebrating</span></div>
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I'm joining up at Share Your Cup Thursday <a href="http://jannolson.blogspot.com/2015/02/share-your-cup-thursday-136.html" target="_blank">HERE.</a></div>
Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-64333103569312459752015-01-28T08:05:00.001-05:002015-02-22T19:46:11.360-05:00Blessed Beyond Measure ~ Rockin' BabiesYesterday, I sat in a room with four other ladies, and nine kiddos under the age of two. [We don't always enjoy those great ratios!] It was absolute bliss for me. I was in my happy place. Now, I know that lovin' on babies is not everyone's "thing" -- though it took me years to catch on to this. Who doesn't love babies[?] was my thinking.<br />
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And then one day, I thanked a church high school department intern for loving on my kids through some hard years, and they said, "<i>OhMyGosh - I SO LOVE working with high school students!!!!</i>" and I thought, "Wait. Seriously? They LOVE it? They're joking, right?"</div>
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Here's the thing... they weren't joking. Just as I'm not joking when I tell you that it totally fills me up to the brim to love on these sweet little ones! Better than that, I can tell you that the ages of about 6 months to 2 years are MY ZONE!<br />
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I have served in various ways through the years -- but when I am in THE ZONE and doing my best work -- I am rockin' the babies [as I like to call it]. I cannot even begin to tell you how freeing it is to know that -- to be able to say, "no" when something is not my strength, and to say "YES" to holding a little one for hours on end --which may or may not include things like lots of crying, and some changing, feeding, or putting to sleep.</div>
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And another thing I've learned about baby-lovin'... You're really doing <b>double duty!</b> Usually, when you are loving on babies, you are allowing their mamas to be doing something that they WANT to do, you know... as in FREE TIME. Bonus, right? I have met some of the most delightful mamas just because I have loved their babies! Big, big bonus for me too!<br />
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I'm so thankful for days like yesterday!</div>
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<b>#DeclanLoganLockeCalvinMatthewZekeLeoJudeanddontforgetAudreyJan27TimeOutForMoms</b></div>
Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-28769845161325584142015-01-23T06:00:00.000-05:002015-01-23T06:00:05.322-05:00BEST Brussel Sprouts (trust me)Do you like brussel sprouts? I have only recently learned to love them. This shouldn't really come as a surprise to me, since I am a broccoli lover from way back, and they are so similar in flavor.<br />
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I've tried roasting them on a cookie sheet with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and they are delicious -- but, the other night, I outdid that method. For some reason, I decided to put them in a foil packet. This is just a method of steaming [the brussel sprouts] to tender perfection. There are probably a kazillion recipes out there, but I didn't even look. I just did my own thing, and I'm sharing what worked for me.<br />
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Preheat your oven to 450F. To prepare the brussel sprouts: rinse them well and remove the outer leaves. Cut off the stem-end, and cut them in half to [theoretically] make the cooking time shorter.<br />
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Place the cut brussel sprouts on an extra-long sheet of foil. I sprinkled them with a little olive oil, some sea salt, and freshly ground pepper, just like when I roast them. [You could also add a little lemon juice, or any spices that you enjoy.]</div>
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Then, fold the foil in half over the brussel sprouts. Fold up and crimp the three open sides. Place directly on the oven rack, and "bake" for about 20-25 minutes at 450F. Carefully slit the foil with a knife [beware the steam!], and test for done-ness with a sharp knife or a fork.<br />
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The result is super-tender, melt-in-your-mouth, flavorful brussel sprouts. No tough spots or hard edges. Just pure deliciousness!<br />
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I didn't take any pictures when I made them the first time. After tasting the result, I knew that I wanted to share the idea with you -- and my mouth has been watering just thinking about making them again. The second time did not disappoint!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Also... I read some interesting information about brussel sprouts <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=10" target="_blank">HERE.</a> Imagine that by steaming them, you "up" their cholesterol-lowering power! Who knew?</span>Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-69463787656955551172015-01-21T06:00:00.000-05:002015-01-29T22:26:12.109-05:00Quick Valentine WreathYou may remember this wreath that I made a few years ago for winter and Christmas. Since it was so simple, it stayed nice for a long time. But when I took it down this year, I knew I wouldn't want to use it one more year. It was easy to dismantle without damaging the wreath itself, so I decided to put the grapevine portion to good use for another holiday -- Valentine's Day.<br />
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My girl and I hit Hobby Lobby the other day and looked around for supplies to turn our grapevine into something love-y, and came up with these supplies: pink and red bandanas, and felt hearts.<br />
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I love using unusual items for the "bow" on a wreath. I simply rolled the bandanas corner to corner, and then tied them around with wreath in a square knot.</div>
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I took the ribbons out of the felt hearts, and used clear fishing line to tie them to the wreath-form.</div>
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What I specifically like about this wreath is how it is seen from the street. It is obvious that it is covered in hearts, and if you're going to go to the trouble, then... well, it's nice that it can be seen for what it is! </div>
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Admittedly, no crafting skills were used in the making (and I use the term loosely) of this Valentine wreath. But also, not much time was used -- and that was exactly what I needed this year.</div>
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A friend on FB recently talked about Valentine's Day being her favorite holiday, and reminded her friends that #LoveIsWorthCelebrating. Since my kids are older, I tend to let these little holidays go, but the reminder was a good one for me. I don't, however, think you have to celebrate in an "over-the top" way in order to recognize the holiday, and this simple wreath follows that same philosophy.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do you usually celebrate Valentine's Day, or just let it slip by?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't forget: <span style="color: red;">#Love is worth celebrating!</span></span></div>
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* Linking up with <a href="http://jannolson.blogspot.com/2015/01/share-your-cup-thursday-133.html" target="_blank">Share Your Cup Thursday</a></div>
Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-44636517482344109742015-01-16T09:26:00.000-05:002015-01-16T09:26:07.831-05:00Friday Farrago ~ 1.16.15<span style="font-size: large;">Have you ever found yourself at a loss for words? -- specifically BLOGGING words?</span><br />
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I am SO THERE right now. I am at a blogging low. I long to post something... anything... to be present here, but people: I got nothin'.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In case you're wondering what I've been up to instead of blogging, I've been:</span><br />
* drinking hot tea<br />
* wishing the winter away<br />
* rubbing my hands together to keep warm<br />
* circling scarves infinitively around my neck, indoors and out<br />
* trying to keep up with the laundry<br />
* NOT taking pictures<br />
* watching my hubby can applesauce<br />
* wishing for sunshine<br />
* working on Project Life scrapbooks for a friend<br />
* waiting for the sun to come out, so I can take some indoor pictures<br />
* staying home because things have been cancelled<br />
* wishing the winter away again [and again]<br />
* drinking more hot tea<br />
* NOT being creative & wondering where those creative juices have gone this year?<br />
* still drinking out of Christmas mugs<br />
* watching my hubby can MORE applesauce<br />
* finally putting the Christmas mugs & all of the other Christmas stragglers away<br />
* having a friend over for lunch<br />
* baking bread in the bread machine -- though I want to try <a href="http://www.simplysogood.com/2015/01/crusty-bread-movie.html" target="_blank">THIS METHOD!</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">and last but not least:</span><br />
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* thinking about making a Valentine wreath for my front porch, but haven't gotten to the store for those specific supplies yet<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What's new with YOU this Friday?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">TGIF ~ and have a great weekend!</span>Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-13055995482462819882015-01-12T06:00:00.000-05:002015-01-12T06:00:10.070-05:00Recipe: Teriyaki Pork RoastA long time ago, I teased you with <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/2012/02/recipes-cookbooks-and-some-treasures.html" target="_blank">a peak at a recipe.</a></span> This morning, that same recipe is cooking away in my crock pot, and I thought I would finally take the time to share it with you. It contains a couple secret ingredients. Don't leave anything out -- and be sure to make the gravy! It is fantastic -- and oh, so flavorful!<br />
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Teriyaki Pork Roast</h3>
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¾ c. apple juice</div>
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2 T. sugar</div>
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2 T. soy sauce</div>
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1 T. vinegar</div>
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1 tsp. ground ginger</div>
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¼ tsp. garlic powder</div>
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⅛ tsp. black pepper</div>
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1 lean boneless rolled loin pork roast (2-3lb.)</div>
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3 T. cold water</div>
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1½ T. cornstarch</div>
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In crockpot, mix juice, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, garlic powder, and pepper. Add roast, turning to coat. Turn fat side up. Cover & cook on low 7-8 hours or until meat is very tender.</div>
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Transfer meat to warm platter. Cover & keep warm.</div>
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Strain cooking liquid & place in saucepan. Skim off fat. Over medium heat, bring to a boil. In a small bowl, mix water & cornstarch until smooth. Stir into boiling liquid. Stir, bring to a boil, & boil for 1-2 minutes or until thickened.</div>
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TIPS :: Sometimes, I like to shred the meat, and mix with gravy and egg noodles, making a casserole -- but you can also serve the gravy and meat up separately (sliced or shredded) with noodles, rice, or potatoes. Delicioso! ENJOY!<br />
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Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-12060028079966887022015-01-06T06:00:00.000-05:002015-01-07T21:32:28.503-05:00Say It Out Loud!New Year's Resolutions. Not. They have never been my thing.<br />
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Words have worked. JOY. Trust. Mostly <a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/search/label/JOY" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">JOY.</span></a><br />
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But, I've been noodling over this thought that was planted in my head recently by I-wish-I-remembered-who! Was it a blogger? Probably. If it's YOU, claim it in the comments here, will you?<br />
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The idea was that when you encounter people (friends, loved ones, strangers) and find yourself <i>thinking</i> something complimentary about them, SPEAK IT ALOUD TO THEM.<br />
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While Christmas shopping, I found myself pulling open the door to Panera, close behind another women who had the most beautiful colored coat on. I don't remember the color now, and the color isn't what's important. It's what I did next that's important. I touched her shoulder and said, "I love your coat. The color is gorgeous!" She smiled and thanked me. But as she turned away, I saw that her smile stayed. It cost me nothing. We both moved through the door together. No time was lost. So, why don't I do this all the time?<br />
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I know most of the cashiers at my neighborhood grocery store -- even though I tend to go through the self check-out line. But on this particular day, there was a new cashier, and I went through her line. And then I saw... her fingernails. I don't remember the design now, but the design isn't what's important. It's what I did next that's important. As she scanned my groceries, I said, "Your nails are beautiful!" She smiled, and told me a story about them. It cost me nothing. I stood still directly in front of her while she did her job. No time was lost. Why don't I do this all the time?<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Sir... the black stripe in your scarf</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">really brings out your beautiful charcoal eyes!"</span></div>
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[The picture may be a bit of a *wink*, but the sentiment of this post is sincere!]</div>
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Both of the moments that I mentioned were just a small connection. It's not likely that I will speak with these women again -- or maybe I will. But did you notice? Neither of the "connections" took any additional time. So why don't I do this all the time?<br />
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Please know that I am not trying to "toot my own horn." Rather, I am trying to plant a thought in your head. WHAT IF. What if when we found ourselves thinking a nice thought about someone, we expressed it? What do we have to lose? -- and more importantly, what would the person receiving our comment gain?<br />
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How far would this little task go in building people up and encouraging them?<br />
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I guess we'll never know unless we try.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My plan for 2015, is to try HARDER. Will you join me?</span><br />
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Feel free to report back if you have interesting results!<br />
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<b>[Linking up to <a href="http://jannolson.blogspot.com/2015/01/share-your-cup-thursday-131.html" target="_blank">Share Your Cup Thursday</a>.]</b>Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-39837646050374763372015-01-02T06:00:00.000-05:002015-01-02T06:00:05.150-05:002014 in the Rear-View MirrorI have often scratched my head at these year-end posts, wondering why we choose to revisit blog posts all over again. With all the tools we have [like Pinterest] to save the information that is important to us, it just seems unneccessary. However, I read a blog post the other day where the blogger stated that this type of post was mainly for HER purposes -- and <u>that</u> made sense to me.<br />
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It IS interesting to keep track [for future blogging purposes] of what was popular -- but it's also interesting to see HOW people came to my blog, and I'd like to thank those bloggers first.</div>
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Heather @ <a href="http://beautythatmoves.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Beauty That Moves</a></div>
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Patty @ <a href="http://lemonlanecottage.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Lemon Lane Cottage</a></div>
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Myquillyn @ <a href="http://www.thenester.com/" target="_blank">Nesting Place</a></div>
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Trish & Bonnie @ <a href="http://www.uncommondesignsonline.com/" target="_blank">Uncommon Designs Online</a></div>
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<a href="http://ohiofarmgirl.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Ohio Farm Girl</a></div>
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Vee @ <a href="http://ahavenforvee.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Haven for Vee</a></div>
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Jill @ <a href="http://stillkeepingonline.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Still Keeping on the Narrow Way</a></div>
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Sarah @ <a href="http://randomthoughtsfromamomsperspective.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">It's On the Tip of My Tongue</a></div>
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Sue @ <a href="http://peartreelanefarmhouse.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">To Live, Love, and Journal Our Days at Pear Tree Lane Farmhouse</a></div>
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Kelly @ <a href="http://www.talkofthehouse.com/" target="_blank">Talk of the House</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My sincere thanks</span> to these lovely ladies. I appreciate your linky parties - or your outright links to my blog, that you include my blog on your "favorites" or "friends" page -- or in your sidebar, the conversations that we share via blog comments and emails, and the wonderful readers that you send my way.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Friends,</span> please click on the blog-names above to check out their awesome blogs.</div>
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And now, my <span style="font-size: large;">TOP TEN POSTS for 2014.</span> This will be brief, and I'll tell you why... Positions #10, 9, 8, 7, 6, and #4 are held by posts in the <a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/search/label/my%20kitchen" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">"MY KITCHEN"</span></a> category. Heather @BeautyThatMoves held the wonderful "This Week In My Kitchen" blog hops, and they were so much fun! It was really interesting for me to see other family's kitchens. It's amazing to realize the things we take for granted that everyone DOES, or everyone EATS! I've also been intrigued by the different <i>tools and techniques </i>that people use in their kitchens! If you read my posts there is a link to Heather's blog hops, and you'll be able to see some fun kitchens there.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">#5: <a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-quiet-is-overrated.html" target="_blank">The Quiet is Overrated</a> </span>is a fun little post about my daughter, a broken refrigerator, and noise. I just re-read it, and find it still accurate - LOL.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">#3: <a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/2014/12/glimpses-of-christmas.html" target="_blank">Glimpses of Christmas</a> </span>is a look at some of this year's Christmas vignettes around our home.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">#2: <a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/2011/12/project-pinterest-ornament-with-vintage.html" target="_blank">Ornament w/ Vintage Hymnal Pages</a> </span>- After three years, this crafty Christmas ornament post is still really popular!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">AND #1: <a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/2013/04/recipe-killer-hashbrown-casserole.html" target="_blank">Killer Hashbrown Casserole</a> </span>- If you spend any time here at my blog, you know that this recipe has stayed in my side bar as one of my ten most popular posts ever since I posted it after Easter 2013. It continues to be a family favorite around here, too.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">See? That was relatively painless. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Here's to "good follow-up" on lessons learned here today. *wink</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Blogging friends: Have you had a post that has surprised you with it's popularity? Will you tell me about it??</span></div>
Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-45798040919209489932015-01-01T06:00:00.000-05:002015-01-01T06:00:06.945-05:00A Simple Welcome to 2015<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Out with the old... in with the new!</h3>
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We have a few traditions when it comes to New Year's Eve. They include:</div>
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<li>staying in with our kids</li>
<li>eating some of our favorite appetizers and snacks</li>
<li>watching movies</li>
<li>watching the ball drop, and counting down the seconds till the new year with a glass of sparkling non-alcoholic white grape juice in-hand</li>
<li>sweeping the front door open to let the old year out, and the new year in</li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The last</span> is our most recent tradition, and is just a little something I read about. [I wrote about it <a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/2013/01/and-away-we-go.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.] At the time (and still) it seemed so hugely symbolic to me... to let go of all that had been in hopes of something even greater to come. This is not to say that anything in the previous year was particularly bad, it's just that you are freeing yourself from all of it, and moving unencumbered into the new year.</div>
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I don't mind telling you that it brings a tear to my eye every year. On some level, I feel like my family is laughing at me as I sweep the door open, but I think that secretly they all "get" it, and are privately trapped in their own thoughts. There is usually light chatter about the weather, depending on whether we are met with a bitter gust of wind, or a warm balmy night {One never knows in NEOh.}. We don't go too deep with the thought process, still I think it's a good [if quirky] exercise.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Whatever</span> your New Year's traditions, I pray that 2015 will be a year of blessings for you and yours.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy 2015!</span></div>
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p.s. <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://elitedaily.com/life/culture/resolutions-you-need-for-new-year/890253/" target="_blank">HERE'S</a></span> an interesting list of things NOT to do in the new year! Have a read...</div>
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Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-35454981613063935942014-12-31T06:00:00.000-05:002014-12-31T11:01:47.526-05:00A Fresh Start<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy week-in-between Christmas and New Years. I trust that you all had a wonderful Christmas. Ours was great... though something about it was different this year. My daughter swears that it didn't seem like Christmas due to the fact that we didn't have one iota of snow. Not one. The grass is green, and the leaves have now fallen. (It was an odd year for leaf-fall. Anyone else notice that?) Anyway -- snow is a Christmas-must for my daughter, so she was disappointed.<br />
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As for me, I have to agree with her about something just not feeling Christmasy this year, though I think it has more to do with events leading up to Christmas, or should I say the lack thereof? Some years, we do lots of festive things during the Christmas season, and this just wasn't one of those years. No complaints. Just a statement of fact, as I honestly can't see where we would've thrown in one more "have to be there" item on the calendar.</div>
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I had a medical issue to deal with during November and December -- and am happy to say that all is well. I'll spare you the details other than to say that all the fuss and calendar-arranging over it kind of robbed me of the energy to fuss much over Christmas. Once upon a time I would cover the house with Christmas, but I have learned to be more discerning, and only use what seems "right" for each year. As in previous years, this year was more about little vignettes around the house, rather than covering every inch -- which ended up being a good thing, because...</div>
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The day after Christmas, my husband cooked us a fabulous meal of Chicken Parmesan with salad and homemade bread. While we ate, he said, "How about if we start cleaning the carpets tonight?" Now, cleaning the carpets is not MY THING -- so, I've learned to take him up on it at every opportunity. We decided to go for it, doing the downstairs by thirds in each room so that there was still someplace to walk. He managed to accomplish the task over a period of three days, even getting most of the upstairs completed, while the rest of us reorganized the house around dry areas of carpet. What a good feeling to have it done! As a result, Christmas got cleaned up, gifts got put away, and the house got a general tidying up! Hip, hip.... HOORAY! Even our daughter (who hates parting with Christmas decor - especially the tree) could appreciate the fresh start.<br />
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There are still some Christmasy decor items scattered around, and I will whittle away at those as I have time. There are no overwhelming tasks involved.<br />
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We enjoyed a wonderful Christmas season, and our security guard son was able to be with us for both Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day -- what a blessing. I was prepared to rearrange our traditions, so that he felt like he was a part of the whole process, and not forgotten or left out. But, he took it upon himself to work things out, without any pestering or pushing by me. It made me realize how much he appreciates our traditions.<br />
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I hope that your Christmas was filled with the blessings of health and family time, with fresh air and free time, with PEACE and love, and with THE SAVIOR!<br />
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<b>As we look to <span style="font-size: large;">2015,</span> my prayer is that:</b><br />
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<li><b>I will prioritize the things that are really important to me in life, and let go of things that just don't fit.</b></li>
<li><b>I will use my time, energy, and resources more effectively and efficiently.</b></li>
<li><b>I will become braver about using the word "NO" in order to save some sanity at the end of the day. Sometimes I have to remind myself that it is not MY JOB (alone) to save the world. I just need to do MY PART.</b></li>
<li><b>I will look (more often/more naturally) to the Lord for guidance rather than trying to handle so much in my own strength.</b></li>
<li><b>God will use MY GIFTS in a way that allows others to see HIM.</b></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Wishing you a blessed new year! I'll be back sometime after school starts up next week... maybe sooner.</span></div>
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Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-41909880141218277572014-12-18T06:00:00.000-05:002014-12-18T06:00:08.961-05:00DIY - A Wrapping Paper Placemat/Runner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I mentioned this little "runner" <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/2014/12/glimpses-of-christmas.html" target="_blank">HERE</a></span>, but I wanted to give you some additional details. Remember that I used a short roll of gift wrap from the Dollar Spot at Target? The width was pretty close to the depth of my microwave -- which is what I was wanting to dress up a little. Our microwave is on a cart, and the top usually has some kind of decorative display on it.<br />
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I cut a length of paper that seemed appropriate, and then I started trimming. Realizing that I wasn't good at cutting the rough edges straight, I resorted to using the paper cutter that I use for scrapbooking. I matched up the clean edges, folded the paper and trimmed the rough sides with a nice clean cut. Then, I went one step further to make it a little more interesting... I fringed the edges! I didn't measure, I just eyeballed it and snipped away -- all the way around. And one last step... I messed up the fringe a little so that it was more obvious instead of just laying flat.</div>
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I love the look! This could easily be done (fringe and all) for a table runner, or even many individual placemats!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What little decorative tricks do you have up YOUR sleeve this Christmas?</span></div>
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Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-873676793864863099.post-90385398526967083122014-12-17T06:00:00.000-05:002014-12-17T06:00:05.302-05:00An Old DIY Ornament Favorite<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/2011/12/project-pinterest-ornament-with-vintage.html" target="_blank">this post</a> </span>has been pretty popular lately, thanks to the great linky parties that I linked up with three years ago! At the time I shared this idea, I said to use either glass or plastic fill-able ornaments. This many years later, I will tell you that I made my ornaments with the large, glass balls, and they are way too heavy for my tree. I would highly recommend using the plastic ornaments.</div>
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The good news is that they sure are a pretty way to fill a large bowl. Underneath, I have some extra gold ribbon as a nest-of-sorts. It just shows through a little in a few places.</div>
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I added some pretty pine cones, and a glittered, silk poinsettia stem. These Vintage Sheet Music Ornaments are still one of my favorite DIY Christmas ornaments. If you need a last-minute idea, they are SUPER-easy, and you can find the directions <a href="http://sally-drinkingfrommysaucer.blogspot.com/2011/12/project-pinterest-ornament-with-vintage.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">HERE.</span></a></div>
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Sally @DrinkingFromMySaucerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00852430785247119538noreply@blogger.com1