tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26572125792039371392024-03-05T13:05:15.083-05:00Curious AcornJodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.comBlogger352125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-22974298137569173532014-06-19T09:56:00.004-04:002019-12-26T19:44:35.403-05:00Still growing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Popping in to say hello, and a special thanks to someone who called herself the "other Leslie." She left a very nice comment about reading my whole blog. Wow! Thank you very much, although thank you doesn't seem to be enough. Anyways, remember my homemade chandelier project? It's still growing. Every time I find old pieces of glass, I add them, which leads to taking the whole thing apart and reworking it. It's happy work. And I'm determined to get it long enough to skim the flames of candlelight dinners. Very cheery in the dark of winter. Bless you, friends. Hope your summer is full of shiny sparkle. </div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-34764553250073168532014-03-25T11:32:00.003-04:002014-03-25T11:32:57.469-04:00Where I"ve Been<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The older I get, the less I can multitask. There was a time when the blog was my main artistic outlet, but life has shifted, and now I can put time to the pencil and palate. Learning a lot. Loving a lot. Miss all you guys and your delicious blogs. Will be popping in from time to time. xox </div>
<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-70212237738719991092014-01-13T15:56:00.000-05:002014-01-13T15:56:13.088-05:00Therein Lies the Problem <span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">John Adair had little liking for the simple life; he said it was not simple, but the most damnably complicated method of wasting time that had every existed. He liked a constant supply of hot water, a refrigerator, an elevator, an electric toaster, a telephone beside his bed, central heating and electric fires, and anything whatever that reduced the time spent upon the practical side of living to a minimum and left him free to paint.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">But Sally [his daughter] did not want to be set free for anything, for it was living itself that she enjoyed. She liked lighting a real fire of logs and fir cones, and toasting bread on an old-fashioned toaster. And she liked the lovely curve of an old staircase and the fun of running up and down it. And she vastly preferred writing a letter and walking with it to the post to using the telephone and hearing with horror her voice committing itself to things she would never have dreamed of doing if she'd had the time to think. "It's my stupid brain," she said to herself. "I like the leisurely things, and taking my time about them. That's partly why I like children so much, I think. They're never in a hurry to get on to something else.” </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">― </span><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/50786.Elizabeth_Goudge" style="background-color: white; color: #666600; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;">Elizabeth Goudge</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">, </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/198995" style="color: #666600; text-decoration: none;">Pilgrim's Inn</a></i><br />
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-44182081181818108642014-01-05T21:23:00.000-05:002014-01-05T21:23:15.637-05:00This little light of mine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lookee what I got for Christmas! A colonial style mold for taper candles. For awhile now, I've been collecting beeswax from our hives, and this is just the type of mold I had hoped for. Now let me start by saying I usually find making things to be relaxing. BUT NOT THIS TIME!! </div>
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Threading the wick through this thing was a -----. Well, let's just say it could provoke undignified language, (which would certainly dim this little light of mine *ahem*). </div>
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Especially when you have to KEEP re-threading it until you get it right. After I few deep breaths, I realized that candle making has the ability to evoke the fruit of patience. </div>
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I learned something cool in the process: the difference between fruit and candles is that you cannot make fruit, though you <i>can</i> bear it...</div>
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...but you can make candles - <i>if</i> you can bear it.</div>
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Four of the candles popped out easily. Two are still stuck. There's an enlightening lesson in there somewhere.</div>
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Patience.</div>
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<span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.09375px;">Even though the making is not easy, it is worth it. No turning back. This little light of mine, la la la....</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 23.09375px;"><br /></span>Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-30587392574028923862013-12-05T16:21:00.001-05:002013-12-06T20:19:58.340-05:00Been SquirrelyWhere did November go? Eep! Every autumn brings on squirrely behavior. So we've been busy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGuAJW1cQfQed-S_gKQCJzGpv4Cb5jN7e9UFfrFgUNpO5cV5OK6ZUb20G_97qKZvQsW6g1VlEyQvs1hLLbEtDXRC-zGu5cf8FAi-SR0idpj9fHZVUFk6mzb7r_qAYMBzik-uWYJJPVQ/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHGuAJW1cQfQed-S_gKQCJzGpv4Cb5jN7e9UFfrFgUNpO5cV5OK6ZUb20G_97qKZvQsW6g1VlEyQvs1hLLbEtDXRC-zGu5cf8FAi-SR0idpj9fHZVUFk6mzb7r_qAYMBzik-uWYJJPVQ/s400/photo+4.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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The nip in the air sparks an urge to put up and put away for winter. You'd think we lived out on a remote homestead somewhere (my secret dream, although the reality of it would probably kill me). But no. I'm just a pioneer woman wannabe. Speaking of pioneers, we made a long overdue visit to our kids and grandchildren in the stunning High Plains of Texas.<br />
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It was kind of cool day-dreaming in the middle-of-nowhere prairie land, imagining covered wagons rolling by, a la Oregon Trail. Does anybody remember that video game of the same name? As I recall, the idea was you had to keep your virtual pioneer character alive as they journeyed the Oregon Trail. While visiting, I got a toothache. The left side of my face swelled twice its normal size (not pretty), and to make matters worse, there was not a dentist to be had for miles. My daughter-in-law made onion poultice, and my son medicated me with his home-brewed hard cider. I did eventually receive 21st century dental care. So I survived. Had I been an actual pioneer, I would've been buried on the side of the trail. Game over.<br />
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When I worked on an <a href="http://curiousacorn.blogspot.com/2012/06/good-bye-petticoats-hello-nail-polish.html" target="_blank">18th century working farm museum</a>, visitors would sometimes say, "Oh, I'd love to live that way." My answer was always, "Not if you had a toothache." Haha, my own words came back to haunt me. Anyway, all is well now. I'm safe and sound in the suburbs, sharing with you the rewards of our squirreling. A girl can pretend, can't she?<br />
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We've been:<br />
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Saurkrauting (did I mention fermenting is my new hobby?)</div>
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Mead brewing</div>
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Pickling</div>
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Apple gathering</div>
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Playing dress-ups (when did my baby get taller than me?)</div>
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Learning to make Mexican chocolate from scratch, thanks to my daughter-in-law</div>
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Ordering baby chicks for spring (old photo)</div>
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Wood chopping and stacking</div>
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Putting the gardens and the beehives to bed</div>
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Best of all: Celebrating 32 years of marriage with the dearest farm-hand ever</div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">It's been a full autumn. I'm thankful. Now onto Advent...</span></div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-27087298694981871562013-10-16T12:06:00.000-04:002013-10-16T12:32:17.295-04:00The Perks of Being a Beekeeper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The honey, of course; but besides that, I've been saving the wax cappings from the comb we extracted. </div>
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My son Alex designed the labels. He's so talented! Hive Jinx, like hi-jinx. Get it?</div>
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Three years worth of cappings. Sheesh. </div>
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Next, using an old milk carton and some cheese cloth...</div>
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Melting the wax using a double boiler</div>
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(Sorry for the harsh lighting. Ick.)</div>
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Straining it to catch old bee parts and other sludge</div>
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Pure beeswax smells delicious. I let it cool overnight. </div>
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The next step is to find some decent taper candle molds, and wick. If anybody out there has made taper candles and can recommend a good mold, that would be awesome. And any other advice for molded candles you might have. I have made hand-dipped before, but never poured molds. Thanks, pals! </div>
<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-54308964968538971002013-09-18T15:30:00.002-04:002013-09-18T15:30:47.741-04:00A Goldberry Evening<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"'Here's my pretty lady!' he said, bowing to the hobbits. 'Here's my Goldberry all clad in silver-green with flowers in her girdle! Is the table laden? I see yellow cream and honeycomb, and white bread, and butter; milk, cheese, and green herbs and ripe berries gathered. Is that enough for us? Is the supper ready?'</i></div>
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<i>'It is,' said Goldberry."</i></div>
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Watching "Lord of the Rings" for the gazillionth time</div>
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Rachel/Goldberry</div>
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Her marvelous creation</div>
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<i>"It was a long and merry meal. Though the hobbits ate, as only famished hobbits can eat, there was no lack. The drink in their drinking-bowls seemed to be clear cold water, yet it went to their hearts like wine and set free their voices. The guests became suddenly aware that they were singing merrily, as if it were easier and more natural than talking."</i></div>
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<i>*Excerpts from Fellowship of the Ring</i></div>
<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-91194523003669229902013-08-26T16:43:00.001-04:002013-08-26T16:44:33.303-04:00Pollyanna UpdateI know a few of you asked for me to keep you posted as the "<a href="http://curiousacorn.blogspot.com/2013/07/polly-acorn-plays-glad-game.html" target="_blank">Glad Game chandelier</a>" progressed. I've since found some new, interesting pieces. It's still in the making. Remember, it has to skim the flame of beeswax candlelight.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">So thar she </span><strike style="text-align: start;">blows</strike><span style="text-align: start;"> grows! Sorry...but I am having a whale of a time creating.</span></div>
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In a few days, I'll be sharing our latest Hobbit Day adventure, an annual event in the Acorn household. You will finally meet the gifted Miss Rachel, who brought a most charming creation to our Middle Earth feast. </div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-24237329277811306682013-08-07T12:38:00.000-04:002013-08-07T12:38:35.445-04:00Oh, Snap<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 11px; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
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Last week, sitting in my favorite quiet space, I prayed. My words were punctuated with, "What if...?" and "How long...?" While moaning, I watched a Swallowtail butterfly land on the potted geranium in front of me. Along with it came the memory of something I had read in an a weather related article a few days before: "When a butterfly flaps its wings in one part of the world, it can cause a tsunami in another part of the world." Pfft, that's ridiculous, I thought. Sometimes praying feels ridiculous, especially when the weight of uncertainty seems to crush all but the breath out of you. Still, every flap of its painted wing seemed to say, "Snap out of it. Where's your faith?" I do have faith! Just then, the soul-fog lifted. Once again...oh the Grace. I was reminded that prayer is even greater than a tsunami's power. The next words uttered, "Thank you and amen." Suddenly, that butterfly zipped, and I mean zipped, past my face. I've seen a butterfly flutter by, but never <i>zip</i>; and my spirit heard--yes it did--still, small laughter, which made me laugh out loud. Looking down, these words jumped out:</div>
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<b>I <i>will</i> trust You.</b></div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-23198588412499974652013-07-31T10:12:00.001-04:002013-08-01T09:17:17.585-04:00The Pleasantest Thing...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My friend Nancy Franson at <a href="http://outofmyallegedmind.com/operation-poetry-dare-for-the-love/" target="_blank">Out of My Alleged Mind</a> has been on a journey of poetry appreciation. In her latest post on Tweetspeak, she asked the question: "For those of you who love poetry, how did you come to love it?" Here you go, Nan-girl.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">"Poetry soothes and emboldens the soul to accept mystery." --John Keats</span></i></span></div>
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I owe my love of poetry to my father, who would read to me almost every night when I was very young, tucking me in with Eugene Field's Wynken, Blynken, and Nod, and other poets. He would read slowly and with feeling, savoring every word. Not bad for a guy who had no more than an 8th grade education. Having been placed in a children's home at age 2, and then shipped in and out of foster care, his other parenting skills were less than awesome. Not surprising, really. But man, could he recite a poem. Thanks, dad. Because of you, Robert Louis Stevenson will always have a special place in my heart.<br />
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<i>"Oh I do think it's the pleasantest things ever a child can do..." </i></div>
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<i>-The Swing, R.L.S</i></div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-38284790262002721292013-07-23T10:38:00.001-04:002013-07-23T10:38:14.036-04:00Pulling a Rabbit Out of the Hat?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Not a rabbit, a Renee at <a href="http://itwasbroughtonbylove.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Southern Gal Thoughts</a>! Congratulations, my little bunny! Heh heh.</div>
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My lovely assistant</div>
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Renee, send me your info, and I'll mail it off. Once again, I wish I could send everyone a present. Thanks for playing!</div>
<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-62206861993233913262013-07-22T11:20:00.005-04:002013-07-22T11:20:44.148-04:00It Wouldn't be a Celebration Without "Torta"Tonight, at 8 o'clock, a winner will be picked for the blog-aversary giveaway! In the meantime, let's discuss cake.<br />
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What I really want to do is honor the cake maker, my young friend Audrey. Her family and ours have been long-time friends. Every member of that clan is wildly creative, so our get-togethers are a great source of joy and inspiration. When you visit the D-family, you'll experience aria singing, beer brewing, bee-keeping, gardening, piano/harp playing, painting, drawing, and all manner of hilarious Jane Austen-quoting. Curious Acorn has already featured some of the talents of Joan, Mary, and Fiona (Rachel, your turn is coming next, and I can't wait!)<br />
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Anyway, today belongs to Audrey and the magnificent <i>"Cassata alla Siciliana"</i> she made for our visit last week. I've seen the recipe for this cake, and let me tell you, it's daunting. Audrey took up the challenge and was victorious. Way to go, beauteous shield maiden!<br />
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<i>*The Cooking of Italy, Time-Life Books</i></div>
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"Delizioso!"</div>
Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-20327389414574511582013-07-15T12:30:00.000-04:002013-07-22T10:27:46.688-04:00Curious Acorn turns 4--Want a Prezzie? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Continuing in the hobbit tradition - it's my blog's birthday, you get the present. The things I give away are a bit random. Not unlike my blog. They represent the spirit of Curious Acorn and what you'll find when you visit here.<br />
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The package will include:<br />
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1. A yummy blank paper journal from the Brandywine Conservancy, perfect for sketching or writing<br />
2. A sparkly-warkly glass honey bee ornament<br />
3. A beautiful miniature painting/magnet of <i>Portrait of Miss Mary Dupont (1906)</i> from the Brandywine River Museum (come on, admit it, you know you've always wanted one)<br />
4. A package of absolutely ridiculous and oh-so-pretty flowered paper drinking straws, because everyone needs a bit of nonsense in their lives (after all, "a little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men") <br />
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My most favorite thing about blogging is the friendships that I have made. My love languages are gifts and words of affirmation. You've probably guessed that by now. So this is my way of saying thank you for all that you have given.<br />
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To get your name in the hat, all you'll need to do is leave a comment. If you're a lurker who has never commented before, introduce yourself for goodness sakes! Deadline is Monday, July 22nd at 8:00PM EST. I'll mail the gift anywhere - it's a small world after all.<br />
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P.S. If you've won before, it doesn't mean you can't win again. AND, I will mail it overseas!Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-52704150637161128002013-07-12T21:12:00.000-04:002013-07-12T21:12:39.898-04:00Almost FOUR -- Bless me!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's that time again! Time for this hobbit to celebrate her blog-iversary. And, in keeping with Acorn tradition, I'll be having a giveaway. Because, as we all know, hobbits <i>give</i> presents on their birthdays. And speaking of hobbits, can you believe I took the photo of this hobbit hole? Yes, indeedy, I actually got to visit Hobbiton in New Zealand. Eeep! A Tolkien-geek dream come true! But--back to the matter at hand. I'm running a bit late this year concerning the "party business". </div>
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Wow, tempus does fugit, heh heh. Four years ago, I started blogging as a creative outlet. It really has been an adventure. This year I have had the opportunity to pursue another dream--devoting more of my time to messing about with paint. Hence I haven't posted as much. But through Curious Acorn I've met such excellent and admirable hobbits, er, I mean, such fascinating people, and made some genuine friendships to boot. So, unlike Bilbo, I'm not planning to disappear. </div>
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<span id="goog_1377916616"></span><span id="goog_1377916617"></span>In a few days time, I'll get back to you, my lovely visitors, on the details of this year's anniversary giveaway celebration.! Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-21945476016254051632013-07-04T19:05:00.000-04:002013-07-04T19:05:27.904-04:00Polly-Acorn plays the Glad Game<div class="reading" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 20px; margin: 0.5em 20px; text-indent: 1.5em;">
<span style="text-indent: 1.5em;"> As she talked, she did not look at his face. Her rapt eyes were still on the dancing flecks of color from the prism pendants swaying in the sunlit window.</span></div>
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"And that's all," she sighed, when she had finished. "And now you know why I said the sun was trying to play it--that game."</div>
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For a moment there was silence. Then a low voice from the bed said unsteadily:</div>
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"Perhaps; but I'm thinking that the very finest prism of them all is yourself, Pollyanna."</div>
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"Oh, but I don't show beautiful red and green and purple when the sun shines through me, Mr. Pendleton!"</div>
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"Don't you?" smiled the man. And Pollyanna, looking into his face, wondered why there were tears in his eyes.~ Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter<br />
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Do you remember the film Pollyanna? Heyley Mills won an award in 1960 playing a character by the same name. She was the "glass half full" kid who went around cheering up the curmudgeons in her town, introducing them to the "Glad Game", where you find something to be glad about in every situation. In the movie, Pollyanna transforms the life of one particularly crabby woman simply by hanging some sparkly-warklies in the old dame's window. Ah, if it were only that easy... <br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">I'm not exactly what you'd call a "glass half full" girl. I can, if not careful, lean towards the curmudgeon-y, so I work at it. I've been playing at my own "glad game" by making a ka-razy chandelier for over the dining room table. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We put in a glass-beaded ceiling lamp from one of those home warehouse stores. But the very next day, I regretted buying it because it was BORING. Still the thought of returning it meant annoying my husband and son who installed it, finding the receipt which I probably threw out, and blah, blah, blah. Til one hap-hap-happy day, I got the idea to start attaching old crystal chandelier prisms and other bits of colored glass to the beaded strands...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've made a game of finding the sparkly bits at yard sales and what not. It's not quite long enough yet to catch sunlight from the window and shoot mini-rainbows around the room. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, I'll keep hunting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;">I hope I can add enough pieces so it gets really long and dangles and clinks and tinkles eccentrically and just skims the tips of the flames at a candlelight dinner -</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Like something you'd find at a Wonderland-esque tea party.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ooh, Pollyanna meets the Mad Hatter! I'm feeling less curmudgeon-y already. </span></div>
Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-64719559477070028382013-06-24T08:09:00.000-04:002013-06-24T08:09:10.234-04:00Dry Bones<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">"Alas, poor Yorick" is headed to an art show today. Someone paid me a very nice compliment, saying "It has life even though it's bone!" Yes, I read somewhere that can happen.</span></div>
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Study in grisaille, oil on paper<br />
<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-76107052954521065892013-06-09T19:21:00.001-04:002013-06-10T08:16:05.452-04:00Where I belong<span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.1875px;">"I know you doubt me and I know you always have. And you're right, I often think of Bag End. I miss my books and my armchair and my garden. You see, that's where I belong. That's home. And that's why I came back, because you don't have one. A home. It was taken from you, but I will help you take it back if I can." --Bilbo Baggins (The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey) </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19.1875px;"> </span><br />
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504. Found this painting in a second-hand shop circa 1959. I adore its quirky elegance, and love what the artist was trying to achieve with the light filtering through the trees. *Sigh* Maybe someday, decades from now, someone will buy one of my quirky, paintings in a second-hand shop.</div>
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505. First blooms of the garden. </div>
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506. An armchair and a good book.</div>
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507. Painting everyday - Practicing values.</div>
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508. Just because it's pretty.</div>
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509. Farm Boy.</div>
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510. Thriving herb garden.</div>
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511. Blue.</div>
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512. Enjoying the view.</div>
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513. Bee yard. </div>
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514. The scent, the look, and the name of marigolds. </div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-12847863903674184452013-05-16T16:39:00.001-04:002013-05-17T08:31:03.279-04:00"Whatssamatta ya scared?" <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Barbara Stanwyck. I love her old black-and-white films (<i>Lady Eve</i>, hi-larious!) She has a line in a movie that I can't remember the title of (arrgh!), but she said, "Whatsamatta, ya scared?"In a real sassy tough girl way.I always wanted to use that line, but never had a good reason to up 'til now. Eeep! Introducing my bird of prey scarecrow. To all those garden-nibbling rabbits and groundhogs out there: "Whatsamatta, ya scared?" Muahahaha!</div>
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BOOM!</div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-36514517739143991602013-05-14T15:40:00.001-04:002013-05-14T15:40:19.695-04:00Miss Brown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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She worked in the city, and would travel home via the train. I used to watch her walk down the street to her house, which was next door to mine.<br />
"Hello, Mrs. Brown!" I shouted.<br />
"Miss Brown!" she would firmly reply. I couldn't get it to stick in my juvenile head that the elderly man she lived with and cared for was her father, not her husband. Miss Brown had a dignified beauty, neat as a pin. I never saw her in anything except dresses, and her red hair was always worn up in a French twist. I don't believe she stood over 5'0 tall, if even that; yet for a brief time, she was a giant in my life.<br />
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I once sat on the steps outside our house, crying. Inside, my parents were screaming at each other, loud enough for the whole neighborhood to hear. Miss Brown came over and took me by the hand, and, without a word, lead me into her parlor. Handing me a small piece of cloth, some thread, and a needle, she sat beside me and taught me how to do a running stitch. I'll never forget the deep, steady tick of the grandfather clock in that room. To this day, that sound gives me a feeling of calm.<br />
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Then there was the sunny afternoon that had suddenly turned to rain. Miss Brown's sun-dried wash was still hanging on the line. I quickly got to work and slipped the full basket through her cellar door (back in the day when a person could leave the door unlocked.) Later that afternoon, there was a knock on my door.<br />
"Did you rescue my laundry?" She asked.<br />
"Yes," I nodded. She smiled and handed me a china figurine. "I've had him ever since I was a child," she said, "he used to have a mate, but she broke years ago. I believe he would like to live with you now. Take care of him."<br />
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We were shuffled around a lot as kids, but everywhere I went, he went with me. With every move he was carefully wrapped in newspaper. However, on one journey when I was a teen, his head broke off. I glued it back on with clear nail polish. Hey, it worked. I'm amazed he survived after 48 years. I'm still taking care of him, Miss Brown.<br />
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There are many more stories I could tell you about her. When I get to Heaven, I'm going to give that little lady a big kiss, and thank her for being a life-raft when things were horribly stormy. I do believe there is a God Who cares, and Who places the <i>willing</i> in our path throughout our lives. I guess the best thank-you I can give Marion Brown is to live by the example she set. <br />
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I bet all of us, if we tried, could look back on our pasts and remember those who stood like guide posts to Heaven, even when we were yet far off. I don't remember Miss Brown talking much, but her loving actions spoke volumes. She truly did love her neighbor.<br />
Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-77469359432826515802013-04-25T19:55:00.001-04:002013-04-25T20:02:09.980-04:00Say WHAT?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was backing out of a parking space in a very small lot at a local market, when I noticed a distinguished looking elderly man waiting beside my car to get to his. For some reason, he was morally outraged that he had to wait for a minute because I was backing out. He proceeded to drop the f-bomb on me eight times (yes, I counted). I was completely shocked - stopped in mid-reverse, and stared at him with an expression that said, "Seriously?!?" He kept at it. I pushed the button to lower my power window, made a peace sign with my hand, and said, "Peace, my brother". His head jerked back, as if I had taken my two peace-signing fingers and poked him in the eyes. He was the one looking stunned now. Total credit for my response belongs to the Holy Spirit, since it is not in my nature to respond kindly to verbal assault. </div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Anyway, this amusing little episode got me to thinking about the power of words, and why I like blogging. Most times, not always, but most times, people say kind things to one another in the comment sections in Bloglandia. Whenever I'm having a bad day, I peruse old posts and reread the nice things people have shared, It's encouraging and healing. I hope to give back the same when I read your posts or emails or letters. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">And speaking of letters, I found on Pinterest a cool way to keep the snail mail I've received over the years from family, friends, and fellow bloggers (who have become friends). I'm a lazy letter-writer, but I do cherish the ones that have been sent my way. This little project helps me to keep these treasures safe.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">To make one, you'll need a small ring binder and a hole punch. I carefully punch holes in the cards and letters where the writing wouldn't be damaged, and decorated the front cover with some old stamps from around the world. Some of you may recognize cards and letters that you have sent. If not, please know that they are in there and part of the collection. In fact, I am starting a second binder :)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">The good Word says: "Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks". Thank you for sharing yours with me. It's done my heart good.</span></div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-81719605410963560352013-04-13T12:14:00.000-04:002013-06-28T13:32:00.181-04:00cue Simon and Garfunkel: Slow down, you move too fast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you've been reading this blog for awhile, you know that I used to work on an 18th century farm doing 18th century labor, where doing things the old-fashioned way takes time. But there were 21st century time constraints, like each class having to finish their activity in 30 minutes. For eight years, I have been trained to do slow things fast.</div>
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I'm relearning now. I'm taking classes in classical drawing and painting. My teacher's beautiful accent comes over my shoulder as she examines my work. "Slow down, Jodi. Slow down." These instructions are good for me. There are no shortcuts, no techniques allowed--just the fruit of repetition and the discipline of learning to render what you see. She's an amazing teacher, and I'm learning to tell myself it's okay to take three hours to draw a simple egg. </div>
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The first hour of class is excruciating. It takes that long for me to warm up, to find my groove. I love the analogy my instructor used: "I would never hand you a violin and tell you to play me something. I would teach to to play and make you practice, practice, practice. Your pencil and your paintbrush are your violin."</div>
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She continues, "You must draw and paint every day, everything you see. If you are drinking a glass of milk, paint it." </div>
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homework</div>
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learning to conquer the palette</div>
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work in progress</div>
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first stage - blocking in - still life study</div>
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So that's where I'm at. S-l-o-w-l-y, exercising lazy muscles, trying to squeeze every bit of goodness from this opportunity I've dreamed about. Feeling blessed.</div>
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"Life I love you, all is groovy</div>
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ba da ba da da, da da da da..."</div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-66705582726022379852013-03-29T12:32:00.000-04:002013-03-29T12:32:49.095-04:00That revolutionary morning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When we were much younger and more energetic, my husband and I would wake before dawn. I'd make coffee, and he would pop on the album <i>Songs of the Father</i>. We's sit together on the dining room floor, mugs in hand, and pray in Easter morning. I'll never forget the sense of peace that would fill the room, and how it made you feel like a sponge, absorbing every bit of it. It was changing us. We could feel it. </div>
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This is how we did Easter morning for a few years while the kids were babies. And then like most things, life changes, and our little pre-dawn ritual fell away. </div>
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This morning I remembered that we had a box of albums from long ago stashed away in our garage. I asked Mike if he thought there was any chance that we still had the one we used to play on Easter morning twenty-some years ago. Sure enough, we did! We've been playing it all morning for our youngest daughter to hear.</div>
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It all came flooding back--memories of our budding faith. It all came back, except the peace. That has never left. </div>
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Listening to the album, I wondered if my daughter would cringe at the kind of folksy, kum-by-ya sound of the recording that emanated from the record player. So different from the slick, high-tech recording of today. "Praise be to God for His blessings and His gifts, and the table that He sets with His hands". "Oh, I like that," she said, humming along. Times change, yet the truth and power of the words still carry through, still carry us.</div>
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"You have made us for Yourself, O Lord,</div>
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and our hearts are restless still,</div>
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Until they rest in You, O Lord,</div>
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Until they rest in You."</div>
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St. Augustine</div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-34540851401834576132013-02-27T12:29:00.001-05:002013-02-27T12:36:17.656-05:00Adventure Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">"But why do we have color? It seems to serve no practical purpose--at least none that scientists can discern. And why are there photoreceptors in our eyes that enable us to see it?</span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">I believe that God's goodness is the point of His creation. He is 'good to all, and His tender mercies are over all His works' (Psalm 145:9). He colored the world for our childlike delight. He's like that, you know." ~</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">David Roper </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">Hi, guys. I just finished up a pre-semester workshop called "Views of Vincent". The idea of the class was to learn to apply paint in the manner of Van Gough, and to learn to see beauty in ordinary objects.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkt7HzU5fKFFqa9gY1TBG4CAqW3Oob6Jw1HRppQJUn62I20FDHaRSShMpfGE_UYCI_kmSdi8Gg8fpbhojuYu_gZS3PnP75j8BwImcWy-gmmQJ_5dOU5eZL2U7vhdX2klUbWbFGE9jUHA/s1600/DSC00022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkt7HzU5fKFFqa9gY1TBG4CAqW3Oob6Jw1HRppQJUn62I20FDHaRSShMpfGE_UYCI_kmSdi8Gg8fpbhojuYu_gZS3PnP75j8BwImcWy-gmmQJ_5dOU5eZL2U7vhdX2klUbWbFGE9jUHA/s400/DSC00022.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Since the weather outside was not favorable, we were given photographs of landscapes to work on. We had to work quickly--"in one go," as the instructor told us. So this is my landscape of somewhere in France...or New Hampshire, I can't remember. I think it came out well, but it bores me a wee bit. I like parts of it...I might like the whole of it later.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnNageldsuBfxP08i4BW1Kd0aI0ey-wIs32NUkz4GN2sX2PB_OqianGv_a4Uz3f3qWEm8DvR8WF9LiIQVJlOS1BI7S9UkjpIv8qpaeQYyspg2KBlkOaVC02X72nnTTb0hhP6V4_ZTTng/s1600/DSC00033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnNageldsuBfxP08i4BW1Kd0aI0ey-wIs32NUkz4GN2sX2PB_OqianGv_a4Uz3f3qWEm8DvR8WF9LiIQVJlOS1BI7S9UkjpIv8qpaeQYyspg2KBlkOaVC02X72nnTTb0hhP6V4_ZTTng/s400/DSC00033.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Next, we had to quickly paint our shoes. These are my Vincent-esque mules. It has some glaring issues, but it's far more interesting to me than the landscape. I'm being stretched and pushed and loving every minute. It's good. Next week, spring semester starts. One class is called "Conquering the Palate." With God's help, I intend to. *Cheesy grin* </span></div>
<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-21735401411589608442013-02-18T15:03:00.001-05:002013-02-18T15:23:03.384-05:00A decidedly American tea party (just a title...no politics)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdEk8Bf8T-LA1LJiRTZc8MOvn0KEIll-4yYhLz0kh_goFqzZhUm3eNVyBOQeO6E0zw8NhFXSzWwRqV93tag2COKPU6U2f4iS_B9McdEqDyYQa_J_m1Bi9_9zSqIj_IJ5gl87bThfHD5Q/s1600/DSC00003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdEk8Bf8T-LA1LJiRTZc8MOvn0KEIll-4yYhLz0kh_goFqzZhUm3eNVyBOQeO6E0zw8NhFXSzWwRqV93tag2COKPU6U2f4iS_B9McdEqDyYQa_J_m1Bi9_9zSqIj_IJ5gl87bThfHD5Q/s400/DSC00003.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">As promised, here's another book from my pantry closet book shelf--</span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/0316855316/?tag=googhydr-20&hvadid=4238190249&ref=pd_sl_38sx3t5lqc_b" style="text-align: start;" target="_blank">The Tasha Tudor Cookbook</a><span style="text-align: start;">. There's some marvelous recipes inside, like the one for Baked Beans, and another for Yorkshire Pudding. Scrummy! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgarjPBFE5P3vMWtDIRlZHMgju4GAeEmsLXWO4cZv2fXfqxJxpm2v2-VrRdPf7repFU4JSmWvp_1W31YUA6lJw3L0nKsIDb3QoJa6AMyONu4LwxspuxRp2LNIVcHJCdC4RsAA7TKeD9BA/s1600/DSC01092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgarjPBFE5P3vMWtDIRlZHMgju4GAeEmsLXWO4cZv2fXfqxJxpm2v2-VrRdPf7repFU4JSmWvp_1W31YUA6lJw3L0nKsIDb3QoJa6AMyONu4LwxspuxRp2LNIVcHJCdC4RsAA7TKeD9BA/s400/DSC01092.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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I like Tasha Tudor. We used to share the same fashion sensibilities</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQrVysGVuJjXciwh5uXScYUhbPj4uYjX2hZ1WgGWWBMeIVA87EGMWQPieV70uo_I1pdEqo7AF-Y7e4lBZAcnRLgjUdd2tF0pSBjzy7aPFPl1_u76RZGNz5XnxrJI5_mHrsFqkLiyA7Wg/s1600/DSC00005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQrVysGVuJjXciwh5uXScYUhbPj4uYjX2hZ1WgGWWBMeIVA87EGMWQPieV70uo_I1pdEqo7AF-Y7e4lBZAcnRLgjUdd2tF0pSBjzy7aPFPl1_u76RZGNz5XnxrJI5_mHrsFqkLiyA7Wg/s400/DSC00005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In honor of Presidents' Day, I baked her Washington's pie. </div>
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It's a simple sponge cake, or "delicate", as Tasha would say. Its main flavors are the raspberry jam mixed with kirschwasser spread between the layers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMtPrmiuQ4PrzG-WkgOdjKiMJocVeUNQ6F1Mgi6jIr3s8PgdHlyc4x3QCftnohAR8BMJ2zD0d6VhUGOSJzv-JnlWobhSoRZNx59a42J7nK_CNeGdZoZ8RVepIeVtlHCSYtJmFw2Mf4pQ/s1600/DSC00008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMtPrmiuQ4PrzG-WkgOdjKiMJocVeUNQ6F1Mgi6jIr3s8PgdHlyc4x3QCftnohAR8BMJ2zD0d6VhUGOSJzv-JnlWobhSoRZNx59a42J7nK_CNeGdZoZ8RVepIeVtlHCSYtJmFw2Mf4pQ/s400/DSC00008.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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What do you think of the <a href="http://curiousacorn.blogspot.com/2010/02/o-what-cunning-little-hatchet.html" target="_blank">cunning little hatchet</a> design?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzghC35U-PKHiBCgIcidQaMhgpbIY41GJ_MgkbcGHdDvHV2R8f7d-GHuahPu7Lg7IDznA5dMcV9YcD32CKjswhNSz350OeE0gLTHeYkJe0AKpjZkhyphenhyphenK1347mE3fOgg_E8Fw2mYEjIKpg/s1600/DSC00010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzghC35U-PKHiBCgIcidQaMhgpbIY41GJ_MgkbcGHdDvHV2R8f7d-GHuahPu7Lg7IDznA5dMcV9YcD32CKjswhNSz350OeE0gLTHeYkJe0AKpjZkhyphenhyphenK1347mE3fOgg_E8Fw2mYEjIKpg/s400/DSC00010.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">And as promised, I'm inviting you to tea. You don't mind the mismatched china, do you? Speaking of china, I saw a 1930's tea set from England in the local thrift shop, missing only a saucer or two.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQ4ZDYlDU4vHzUG2frWxGPUARD8P-_jm-eKfSdmsS6VTsq7gOznG2yZ08QWlogWOhayJ-uA9FCo2ovdaN1RfcRAopiIxso4-uled5w5jCCQiZgGFXtJHQxYH6vFP1t8L52RlHR6w6jA/s1600/DSC00011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQ4ZDYlDU4vHzUG2frWxGPUARD8P-_jm-eKfSdmsS6VTsq7gOznG2yZ08QWlogWOhayJ-uA9FCo2ovdaN1RfcRAopiIxso4-uled5w5jCCQiZgGFXtJHQxYH6vFP1t8L52RlHR6w6jA/s400/DSC00011.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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It was under twenty dollars. It was charming. I decided not to pounce but to think about it. I was a fool. Went back a few days later. Let's just say that she who hesitates is lost. Especially in the world of thrifting. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCOsJFSKvYKSLQ1neXIq9o-4GMM2m-HR-nwQvV80LA38jSiurbvsiQZ-nBhyphenhyphen7CVmOIkEpeZ6Sldco1btT35Bxck_rQ0FYumbujUg7oSk49kcA5G9LsZrrRvPamSQVn7Myw4lRjR7Eow/s1600/DSC00013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCOsJFSKvYKSLQ1neXIq9o-4GMM2m-HR-nwQvV80LA38jSiurbvsiQZ-nBhyphenhyphen7CVmOIkEpeZ6Sldco1btT35Bxck_rQ0FYumbujUg7oSk49kcA5G9LsZrrRvPamSQVn7Myw4lRjR7Eow/s400/DSC00013.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">But never mind that. I'm glad you're here. One lump or two?</span></div>
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Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2657212579203937139.post-35130156682139192102013-02-14T00:03:00.000-05:002013-06-05T22:13:47.452-04:00The Month that needs Lipstick<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Making red things in February is like putting lipstick on an endless gray day. Here's a cheery "red thing": strawberry and blood orange marmalade from the "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Blue-Chair-Jam-Cookbook/dp/0740791435/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1360811857&sr=1-1&keywords=blue+chair+jam+cookbook" target="_blank">Blue Chair Jam Cookbook</a>". Cookbooks are a bit of a weakness of mine--can you tell? My husband once asked the question, "How many cookbooks does one woman need?" I proceeded to make him an "epic meal" (she said modestly) from one of the books. After practically licking the plate clean, he said, "Let's forget about that silly question I asked earlier." What's that, dear? I didn't hear you. HA. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjewQjTXOXbU7NZgqc-_1M7-fpuavX5AaknUhEg_Ge94YaBYsBTTx1D9C58LXdWErmEcsjV3ZiheKXRatMCZ01GD9JvbdnHmwkYeUwzL2kn7zMJVoeGBMx4-G03Yx5CNzvA3rtKA_XGMA/s1600/photo+(13).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjewQjTXOXbU7NZgqc-_1M7-fpuavX5AaknUhEg_Ge94YaBYsBTTx1D9C58LXdWErmEcsjV3ZiheKXRatMCZ01GD9JvbdnHmwkYeUwzL2kn7zMJVoeGBMx4-G03Yx5CNzvA3rtKA_XGMA/s320/photo+(13).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Anyways, I thought it would be fun to show you some of the books I've collected over nearly thirty-two years of domesticity and we can pretend to make some things together. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35UgwldclZn6pIxFi-gIuFxbnvQN4CfWiEWmOlQsLNiuQ0BrKQ3WloWO2ez-2euVRtAh5pGY96rxD9vicstgXNn8qj70t6eCJtU1RKe2E2FRRZeqdgxZbN1_umJG0yFFuROeZ9joshw/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35UgwldclZn6pIxFi-gIuFxbnvQN4CfWiEWmOlQsLNiuQ0BrKQ3WloWO2ez-2euVRtAh5pGY96rxD9vicstgXNn8qj70t6eCJtU1RKe2E2FRRZeqdgxZbN1_umJG0yFFuROeZ9joshw/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">This cookbook is visually gorgeous, unlike my own pix--sorry, my camera has died and I'm using my phone. The directions are somewhat fiddle-y in my opinion, but if you relax and take your time, it's not so bad.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSXFZjXBbfGGXvFUgBzoGhZuq9AQPcb9QGnAq86fouIzf-JsYrcSQ35bSuOs8wQbpYH8PDbPg3CqXfOIW0vx9_JRXzPD05cNUGiz7yoKSXvv0Z2n8FeNMbNXK1TKWmZHNB9d1PKV8EQ/s1600/GetAttachment+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSXFZjXBbfGGXvFUgBzoGhZuq9AQPcb9QGnAq86fouIzf-JsYrcSQ35bSuOs8wQbpYH8PDbPg3CqXfOIW0vx9_JRXzPD05cNUGiz7yoKSXvv0Z2n8FeNMbNXK1TKWmZHNB9d1PKV8EQ/s320/GetAttachment+%25283%2529.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
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Not only do I like the recipes, but I try not to covet the clothing the author wears. All the photographs in the book are inspiring and pret-tay. </div>
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<img alt="Photo from The Blue Chair Jam Cookbook!" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/192x/1a/3e/bf/1a3ebf860c2e133070c9c13cd13f90b4.jpg" width="213" /></div>
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*photo from Blue Chair Jam Cookbook via Pinterest</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6yPspBe0fBqP70luwwaqkYqRHp0WPa6PM9_AoYAT0h6Uu4LMUibU_oXX6tIRwb6ib_oKDk5nAhYFoEhNtd59BPxee-LMIJPMTxCJcbUDnTeCqRxrgginLPb3GVl4gp7QC-WWEvt4Wg/s1600/GetAttachment+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6yPspBe0fBqP70luwwaqkYqRHp0WPa6PM9_AoYAT0h6Uu4LMUibU_oXX6tIRwb6ib_oKDk5nAhYFoEhNtd59BPxee-LMIJPMTxCJcbUDnTeCqRxrgginLPb3GVl4gp7QC-WWEvt4Wg/s320/GetAttachment+(2).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Okay, back to the marmalade.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYE_OCfXckgG3PO3_Dhcs0Yb71NjPFh3iuUDSVKo-js-cNqIt9JpFl3LOmgWkXgOP2zHDXvS1g1HnNyuW1wNYAQeBpaygEGQymAusboEE1TY6Irx5BBsZn5LC6rsh9ObHDqy1D5RC9w/s1600/GetAttachment+(5).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYE_OCfXckgG3PO3_Dhcs0Yb71NjPFh3iuUDSVKo-js-cNqIt9JpFl3LOmgWkXgOP2zHDXvS1g1HnNyuW1wNYAQeBpaygEGQymAusboEE1TY6Irx5BBsZn5LC6rsh9ObHDqy1D5RC9w/s320/GetAttachment+(5).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It tastes delicious, but I have to be honest and tell you, the outcome wasn't so "epic." I forgot to relax and rushed the end a bit. Since it didn't cook it long enough, it never quite jelled properly. My mistake.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKTS8OrZFvtDXHiLjgQ-5mPSjbyDOphq0H1utxiHA5PafSfYC3s7Gj95WuEf-OHe7Q3n9mOO9v6sYFvQkwse-iWUDywftAAkguYfZMreSp5QK9frbcwUWGuEZdJpy2Lk67gGbiEyzvFw/s1600/GetAttachment+(9).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKTS8OrZFvtDXHiLjgQ-5mPSjbyDOphq0H1utxiHA5PafSfYC3s7Gj95WuEf-OHe7Q3n9mOO9v6sYFvQkwse-iWUDywftAAkguYfZMreSp5QK9frbcwUWGuEZdJpy2Lk67gGbiEyzvFw/s320/GetAttachment+(9).jpg" width="237" /></a></div>
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This didn't affect the flavor, though. I'm still spooning it on toast. Yum! And I'm thinking it might make a tasty marinade for meat. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcg7ye5-GBUxtm6f4XOc2wLpZW4eo4T16Y0d2SgA57edUTHuL1ucD-6TclE6AcSRodUFNCsOyFCpHjZ0cBk-u4nnErc0GxRm11Q5nz4nubKNmglqKL7T6MpomKqHtTEje7pOgSIBUgbQ/s1600/GetAttachment+(12).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcg7ye5-GBUxtm6f4XOc2wLpZW4eo4T16Y0d2SgA57edUTHuL1ucD-6TclE6AcSRodUFNCsOyFCpHjZ0cBk-u4nnErc0GxRm11Q5nz4nubKNmglqKL7T6MpomKqHtTEje7pOgSIBUgbQ/s320/GetAttachment+(12).jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
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Soon, I hope to pull another book from the stack, and invite you to a virtual tea party.</div>
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Wanna come? </div>
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<br />Jodihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09934973314360291318noreply@blogger.com29