tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37648194243823808872024-03-13T14:00:54.941-07:00Jenny and Pearlkaren rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.comBlogger137125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-20961411775183829062012-09-18T16:42:00.000-07:002012-09-18T16:55:38.693-07:00Easy DIY - Vintage Tie Belt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-09djxKmnXGI/UFkJuK7ELkI/AAAAAAAABV4/lxS7zDaK4L8/s1600/IMG_5782.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-09djxKmnXGI/UFkJuK7ELkI/AAAAAAAABV4/lxS7zDaK4L8/s320/IMG_5782.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
I haven't posted anything in a looong time. I've been busy with family, business...life in general and more specifically, this little life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Iss_1rcmhU/UFj6PM6D1JI/AAAAAAAABT8/Y8J0CmMY7tc/s1600/mae4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Iss_1rcmhU/UFj6PM6D1JI/AAAAAAAABT8/Y8J0CmMY7tc/s320/mae4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Ooooh! Isn't she the cutest? This is my little granddaughter Elizabeth Mae. We call her Mae. She is almost seven weeks old and I can't get enough of her! I could sit and stare at her, smell her and nibble on her cheeks all day long. <br />
<br />
<br />
Ok, enough staring, smelling and nibbling. I will post more pictures later (you've been warned!), but the purpose of my post today is a DIY. This is one that I have been asked to post several times. This DIY is easy-peasy! Years ago, I sold these tie belts at a <a href="http://www.thelocalhb.com/HB_locals/Pier_Craft_Fair.html" target="_blank">local craft fair</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuS9ahC20pk/UFj8TPEh8MI/AAAAAAAABUs/ys7QjXDG-L0/s1600/IMG_5781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuS9ahC20pk/UFj8TPEh8MI/AAAAAAAABUs/ys7QjXDG-L0/s320/IMG_5781.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Now, I know that some male member of your family has a load of ties gathering dust in the back of their closet. If not, <a href="http://www.thethriftshopper.com/" target="_blank">your local thrift store</a> has racks and racks of them, in every color, pattern and style imaginable. I love this belt because it's adjustable, colorful and has vintage appeal with a twist. Menswear is definitely making a comeback this fall and this is a great way to <a href="http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty-and-style/menswear-for-women?page=3" target="_blank">incorporate menswear into your everyday look</a>.<br />
<br />
Okay, let's get to it. Here's what you will need.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sksr_UFhvZQ/UFj8H-qs02I/AAAAAAAABUE/EnTVzMIUrmE/s1600/IMG_5770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sksr_UFhvZQ/UFj8H-qs02I/AAAAAAAABUE/EnTVzMIUrmE/s320/IMG_5770.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>a tie </li>
<li>a buckle </li>
<li>scissors</li>
<li>needle and thread</li>
<li>a straight pin </li>
<li>measuring tape</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
Before you do anything, take your measurements. Measure around your waist or hips, wherever the belt will sit. Add 4.5" to allow for the knot and the end you are sewing onto the buckle. Add another several inches for the drop. That is how far you want the end to hang down. I usually prefer 8" but you can make it shorter or longer. Confused? It's simple.<br />
<br />
Waist - 30" (or your waist size)<br />
Knot - 4.5"<br />
Drop - 8"<br />
TOTAL - 42.5" (and yes, I used my fingers to add that up)<br />
<br />
This is how much necktie you will need. They come in varying lengths so make sure there's enough material to work.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2aWQ7uCBaYk/UFj8KwRdePI/AAAAAAAABUM/Z0FNy1FS0Vg/s1600/IMG_5773.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2aWQ7uCBaYk/UFj8KwRdePI/AAAAAAAABUM/Z0FNy1FS0Vg/s320/IMG_5773.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
1. Snip off the end of the tie at the desired length. I love the colors in this vintage Lanvin tie. Too pretty not to be seen!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bxhC7uZ6VAs/UFj8M2LyFBI/AAAAAAAABUU/U9fJFKGjg7Y/s1600/IMG_5775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bxhC7uZ6VAs/UFj8M2LyFBI/AAAAAAAABUU/U9fJFKGjg7Y/s320/IMG_5775.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
2. Fold the fabric through the buckle. I took the buckle off of an old belt and then used pliers to yank off that little metal thingy that goes through the hole in the belt, but you can buy a simple D-ring or a more elaborate buckle at your local fabric shop. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nvYP0W-_mI0/UFj8PO4yXFI/AAAAAAAABUc/vNa9c8YoMjA/s1600/IMG_5777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nvYP0W-_mI0/UFj8PO4yXFI/AAAAAAAABUc/vNa9c8YoMjA/s320/IMG_5777.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
3. Fold the fabric under itself and pin it in place. Make sure the back of the buckle lines up with the back of the tie before you start sewing!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W5eSsU106tM/UFj8Q7cqOwI/AAAAAAAABUk/yItqqkv5ydk/s1600/IMG_5779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W5eSsU106tM/UFj8Q7cqOwI/AAAAAAAABUk/yItqqkv5ydk/s320/IMG_5779.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
4. With your handy-dandy needle and thread, stitch along the sides and end of the fabric, as shown. To make it more secure you will want your stitches closer together than shown in the picture.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6wi2p3P20N0/UFj8V1Z9MqI/AAAAAAAABU0/PmHKfM4xdTc/s1600/IMG_5782.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6wi2p3P20N0/UFj8V1Z9MqI/AAAAAAAABU0/PmHKfM4xdTc/s320/IMG_5782.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Voila! You are done! Want to know how to tie it in the knot as shown above? Read on.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JuBfnl1DmMY/UFj8YdOy5OI/AAAAAAAABU8/Y8nXMK6wHAY/s1600/IMG_5783.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JuBfnl1DmMY/UFj8YdOy5OI/AAAAAAAABU8/Y8nXMK6wHAY/s320/IMG_5783.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
<br />
Put the belt around your waist<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mtkWFoJH8iA/UFj8cjhkYnI/AAAAAAAABVM/Xp6IIL_YQRY/s1600/IMG_5785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mtkWFoJH8iA/UFj8cjhkYnI/AAAAAAAABVM/Xp6IIL_YQRY/s320/IMG_5785.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Place the end of the tie into the buckle and pull it up, with the wrong side facing out. Tighten it on your waist.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hLe1wSqg51A/UFj8fIBnmPI/AAAAAAAABVY/zze5kLCLsVA/s1600/IMG_5786.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hLe1wSqg51A/UFj8fIBnmPI/AAAAAAAABVY/zze5kLCLsVA/s320/IMG_5786.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
<br />
Bring the tie back over and into the buckle, pulling straight down.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I6MAOezYWdk/UFj8htLUzKI/AAAAAAAABVg/vrvFv0uMMXA/s1600/IMG_5787.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I6MAOezYWdk/UFj8htLUzKI/AAAAAAAABVg/vrvFv0uMMXA/s320/IMG_5787.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Adjust the knot. Ta Da!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuS9ahC20pk/UFj8TPEh8MI/AAAAAAAABUs/ys7QjXDG-L0/s1600/IMG_5781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xuS9ahC20pk/UFj8TPEh8MI/AAAAAAAABUs/ys7QjXDG-L0/s320/IMG_5781.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Make one (or two or three) for yourself and a few for your friends!<br />
<br />
LOVE VINTAGE? Check out the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/jennyandpearl" target="_blank">Jenny and Pearl etsy</a> shop here.<br />
<br />
LOVE T-SHIRTS? Check out the <a href="http://copious.com/profiles/jenny-and-pearl" target="_blank">Jenny and Pearl Copious</a> shop here. <br />
<br />
LOVE DIY? Check out this <a href="http://jennyandpearl.blogspot.com/2011/09/diy-1-hour-project-yardstick-jewelry.html" target="_blank">simple jewelry storage solution</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-5991728028809557752012-05-11T19:08:00.001-07:002012-05-24T08:41:24.300-07:00$WIN$ Show Us Your Vintage Style Contest<br />
I was going to wait until the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JennyandPearl?ref=tn_tnmn">Jenny and Pearl Facebook page</a> hit 300 'likes', but we're at 297 as I'm writing this and I'm impatient plus I'm listing so many cute things that I'm dying for you to see (a few of which are in <a href="http://jennyandpearl.blogspot.com/2012/05/i-have-been-busy-girl-lately.html">my previous post</a>). I thought I would celebrate and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/JennyandPearl">award some lucky winner with a $50 store credit for Jenny and Pearl</a>. Good towards anything in the shop.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uotr41V-4no/T63EE-f9GPI/AAAAAAAABTU/9cSjuwaxYHY/s1600/WIN-AD.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uotr41V-4no/T63EE-f9GPI/AAAAAAAABTU/9cSjuwaxYHY/s320/WIN-AD.gif" width="237" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Of course, you want to win! So... follow these 4 easy steps.<br />
<br />
1. '<a href="https://www.facebook.com/JennyandPearl">Like' the Jenny and Pearl Facebook page</a> - easy, peasy lemon-squeezy!<br />
<br />
2. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JennyandPearl">Post a picture of you, or someone you love, in their vintage best on the Jenny and Pearl FB page.</a> In the interest of fair play, here are a few pictures of my own to get the ball rolling.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TRpG4KSAn9k/T611LJoB9PI/AAAAAAAABS4/yj3l7t7H1fg/s1600/santa.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TRpG4KSAn9k/T611LJoB9PI/AAAAAAAABS4/yj3l7t7H1fg/s400/santa.jpeg" width="301" /></a></div>
<br />
Here I am with my brother, a menacing Santa and my sister (attempting to wink at the camera). We are making it happen in the 60's. My mother clearly had a thing for kids in stripes and short hair!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fRFn2cnuJJ4/T611S0hX12I/AAAAAAAABTI/2N6K7oWGP5s/s1600/vaters.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fRFn2cnuJJ4/T611S0hX12I/AAAAAAAABTI/2N6K7oWGP5s/s400/vaters.jpeg" width="387" /></a></div>
<br />
Marsha, Marsha, Marsha! Welcome to the 70's and our mini version of the Brady's, starring mom as Carol, Karen as Marsha, Kathy as Cindy, dad as Mike and Karl as Greg. Groovy!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZiYyYDgQpo/T611QZjyx0I/AAAAAAAABTA/UJrg6eWut2M/s1600/vaters+girls.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZiYyYDgQpo/T611QZjyx0I/AAAAAAAABTA/UJrg6eWut2M/s400/vaters+girls.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Oh the 80's - bigger hair and even bigger shoulder pads! <br />
I'm the one on the left with the poodle hair (don't be jealous!) holding my daughter Ashley. Next to me is my sister-in-law Shelley, Veronica, Anita (my mom) and Kathy (my sister).<br />
<br />
Get the idea? If you haven't survived several decades like me, post a current photo of you rocking vintage style or raid your mother's photo shoe box (I know that's where they're stored) for your family's vintage best.<br />
<br />
3. Wander on over to the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/JennyandPearl">Jenny and Pearl etsy shop,</a> pick out the one thing you would like best (or two, or three) and mention your favorite find below your picture.<br />
<br />
4. Spread the love. The picture with the most 'likes' on our Facebook page wins! Share the picture on your own FB page to get your friends to help.<br />
<br />
I know I've made this sound complicated, but it's really this easy.<br />
1. Like<br />
2. Post<br />
3. Comment<br />
4. Share<br />
<br />
Do you really want to win? Then, share your post with friends and family and beg them to vote for your picture. I know you're not above begging.<br />
<br />
Good luck!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">**Winner will be announced Monday, May 21**</span></div>
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aQVtV95pbeY/T75WL7V6mpI/AAAAAAAABTg/9jDyFKs21S8/s1600/IMG_3056_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aQVtV95pbeY/T75WL7V6mpI/AAAAAAAABTg/9jDyFKs21S8/s320/IMG_3056_2.jpg" width="320" /></a>*** Congratulations to our winner, Kathy! She chose this adorable skirt as her prize.<br />
<br />
<br />
Thanks to everyone who bravely participated and showed us their vintage best! <br />
<br />karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-74339828784942296302012-05-09T17:05:00.000-07:002012-05-09T19:58:32.838-07:00Summer FashionI have been a busy girl lately. Shopping my heart out (I know...pity me), prepping clothes, and finally, assembling a great team to shoot all this cute stuff to put in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/jennyandpearl">my shop, Jenny and Pearl</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_YJxKyLNMI0/T6r_jYjUzoI/AAAAAAAABSs/dG_aXlTIrNU/s1600/black+and+white.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_YJxKyLNMI0/T6r_jYjUzoI/AAAAAAAABSs/dG_aXlTIrNU/s640/black+and+white.jpg" width="472" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">black and white hawaiian caftan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Last weekend we got together and these pictures are some of the results of that photo shoot.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u5b17GQxZek/T6rygkr1rDI/AAAAAAAABQ0/P3M6Tn_4KUg/s1600/IMG_2237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u5b17GQxZek/T6rygkr1rDI/AAAAAAAABQ0/P3M6Tn_4KUg/s400/IMG_2237.jpg" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">80s patterned sweatshirt, high-waisted denim shorts and cross-body bag</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Summer is definitely on the horizon (or already here, depending on where you live), and these clothes are sure to get you in the summer spirit!<br />
<br />
There was a certain theme that emerged...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iVHRpCxWYJg/T6r4uDDI_1I/AAAAAAAABSI/jUctAAV_WyQ/s1600/flowerdress2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iVHRpCxWYJg/T6r4uDDI_1I/AAAAAAAABSI/jUctAAV_WyQ/s320/flowerdress2.jpg" width="223" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">spring flowers circle skirt dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zc1-kKyoFPs/T6r4Gi11SvI/AAAAAAAABSA/BSexa0i0wu8/s1600/flower+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zc1-kKyoFPs/T6r4Gi11SvI/AAAAAAAABSA/BSexa0i0wu8/s320/flower+dress.jpg" width="219" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>color...</i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CFCnmOduvW8/T6r5O86ArCI/AAAAAAAABSQ/3-XHTaxsYDA/s1600/IMG_2951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CFCnmOduvW8/T6r5O86ArCI/AAAAAAAABSQ/3-XHTaxsYDA/s400/IMG_2951.jpg" width="245" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/96348922/60s-mod-sheath-wiggle-dress-mad-men?ga_search_query=dress">60s mod bleeker street dress</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i> Color...</i></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2zqILmhSCoA/T6r1LD9c8QI/AAAAAAAABR0/zoCjP7Ksn2Q/s1600/bright+dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2zqILmhSCoA/T6r1LD9c8QI/AAAAAAAABR0/zoCjP7Ksn2Q/s640/bright+dress.jpg" width="427" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">bright flowered 60s angel sleeve dress</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i> </i></b> <b>...and MORE <i>color</i>!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P5dN0RTm-Fc/T6ryhrro5iI/AAAAAAAABRY/dv_cdjVspco/s1600/IMG_2585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P5dN0RTm-Fc/T6ryhrro5iI/AAAAAAAABRY/dv_cdjVspco/s400/IMG_2585.jpg" width="241" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/98904244/sweet-checked-secretary-tie-blouse-60s?ga_search_query=blouse&ga_search_type=user_shop_ttt_id_5882344">patterned secretary blouse</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/98047513/kelly-green-vintage-a-line-wrap-skirt-m">apple green wrap skirt </a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, whether your look is conservative...</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IQYLh5m76ok/T6ryhbxMUaI/AAAAAAAABRM/oxqnxuoiAXA/s1600/IMG_2310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IQYLh5m76ok/T6ryhbxMUaI/AAAAAAAABRM/oxqnxuoiAXA/s640/IMG_2310.jpg" width="344" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">floral multi-color maxi dress, suede feather purse, floppy hat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
or NOT...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lTHjstcLL-o/T6r-I6-fI0I/AAAAAAAABSc/jY31SrCRyUU/s1600/IMG_3212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lTHjstcLL-o/T6r-I6-fI0I/AAAAAAAABSc/jY31SrCRyUU/s400/IMG_3212.jpg" width="333" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mint green rockabilly dress and mint green rockabilly shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you like colors that pop..</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TgQ-Xv4Z4wU/T6r_IYkSbrI/AAAAAAAABSk/nhmkJNbtoQY/s1600/IMG_2985.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TgQ-Xv4Z4wU/T6r_IYkSbrI/AAAAAAAABSk/nhmkJNbtoQY/s640/IMG_2985.jpg" width="459" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">80s sheer black and gold top</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
...or just a bit of sparkle...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know you will find something you love at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/JennyandPearl">Jenny and Pearl Vintage.</a></div>
<br />
Please keep in mind, not everything shown here has been listed yet. After all, I'm only one person - well, three actually, if you count my alter egos Jenny AND Pearl. If you see something you like and you can't find it yet in my shop, just <a href="mailto:karen@jennyandpearl.com">contact me</a> and I can give you the specifics so you can snatch it up before anybody else does!<br />
<br />
Thanks again to my top-notch team.
Photographer - Jazmin of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JazminLanePhotography">Jazmin Lane Photography</a><br />
<br />
Stylist - Lauren Ashley Or<br />
<br />
Models - Natalie Contreras, Rachel Rutledge, Kathy Kohler, Jenna Duncanson and...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-COQUFDld9wA/T6ryg7tWYzI/AAAAAAAABRA/rJA5oqts47E/s1600/IMG_2282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="351" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-COQUFDld9wA/T6ryg7tWYzI/AAAAAAAABRA/rJA5oqts47E/s400/IMG_2282.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">black pearl button western shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...my reluctant, yet willing son-in-law Daniel Or!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And to my sweet husband Steve, who managed to pull together all the necessary equipment, just in the nick of time. I couldn't have done it without all of you! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-30703092512906880882012-03-20T11:13:00.001-07:002012-03-22T19:38:47.651-07:00Change Is In The AirHello friends!<br />
<br />
Wow! It has been a long time since my last post. I was on my way to 1000 Gifts and life hit me square in the face. You know those times, when you're treading water just to stay afloat? Well, that's been life in our house lately. But it looks like we're getting some long, clean strokes and finally making some progress so... here I am.<br />
<br />
The most exciting bit of 'life' that has happened recently is the fact that Steve and I are becoming grandparents! That's right, our daughter Ashley and her husband Daniel are expecting their first child - and it's a girl! It is slowly, very slowly sinking in and I'm liking the sound of it. <br />
<br />
I will post a prego picture soon!<br />
<br />
<br />
There have been other changes in the works as well.<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82609118/on-sale-vintage-needlepoint-and-velvet?ga_search_query=pillow&ga_search_type=user_shop_ttt_id_5882344"></a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0i5ZQ5EAcHY/T2ixp4g_6gI/AAAAAAAABQA/RsIOtyzjdOk/s1600/hibiscus+pillo" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0i5ZQ5EAcHY/T2ixp4g_6gI/AAAAAAAABQA/RsIOtyzjdOk/s320/hibiscus+pillo" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hibiscus Needlepoint Pillow - SOLD!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
I have been selling on-line in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/jennyandpearl">etsy shop</a> for some time, with a wide variety of lovely vintage goodies. I am shifting my focus to vintage clothing and accessories, specializing in colorful California style fashions and a bounty of fun accessories. So, what does this mean for you?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83732832/on-sale-framed-watercolor-pink-flower?ga_search_query=basket&ga_search_type=user_shop_ttt_id_5882344"></a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rpF4pP4xChc/T2iz-hKmr8I/AAAAAAAABQg/SWSsn5e_7WU/s1600/pink+flower+basket" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rpF4pP4xChc/T2iz-hKmr8I/AAAAAAAABQg/SWSsn5e_7WU/s320/pink+flower+basket" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Petite Spring Basket Watercolor - Sale price $14.40</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<br />
1. I have inventory that I'm selling off to make room for clothes. Everything in my shop that is NOT clothing related is ON SALE now for 20% off.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83195426/on-sale-van-briggle-pottery-art-deco?ga_search_query=lamp&ga_search_type=user_shop_ttt_id_5882344"></a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0YYmOqu-f6U/T2ixydpXu8I/AAAAAAAABQQ/axi6AEJKLZ0/s1600/van+briggle+lamp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0YYmOqu-f6U/T2ixydpXu8I/AAAAAAAABQQ/axi6AEJKLZ0/s320/van+briggle+lamp" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honeysuckle Pink Van Briggle Lamp - Sale price $60.00</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
I am trying to clear out my inventory, with new listings daily. This is a progressive sale, and the discount will go up to 30%, then 40%.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83305307/on-sale-boxed-stationery-note-paper?ga_search_query=stationery&ga_search_type=user_shop_ttt_id_5882344"></a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jsXL-eiEQz8/T2ix0wyDx2I/AAAAAAAABQY/j6QBU8bVTyo/s1600/velvet+petals+stationery" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jsXL-eiEQz8/T2ix0wyDx2I/AAAAAAAABQY/j6QBU8bVTyo/s320/velvet+petals+stationery" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Velvet Petals Fine Stationery - Sale Price $7.20</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
So...you can snatch up your favorite items now at the 20% discount or be patient, wait a week or two, and hope that the treasure you have your eyes on is still around when the discount rises to 40%!<br />
<br />
I am very excited about this new shift for my business and can't wait to show you all the beautiful clothing I have found.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/95678654/stunning-tiffany-blue-body-con-dress?ga_search_query=dress&ga_search_type=user_shop_ttt_id_5882344"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gUdsiqa6780/T2jGkafLqdI/AAAAAAAABQo/scdHjhtK8C0/s1600/tadashi+dress" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gUdsiqa6780/T2jGkafLqdI/AAAAAAAABQo/scdHjhtK8C0/s320/tadashi+dress" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiffany blue Tadashi dress - $120.00</td></tr>
</tbody></table></a><br />
<br />
Take a look around my shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/jennyandpearl">Jenny and Pearl</a> and my sister shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/jennyandpearljewelry">Jenny and Pearl Jewelry</a>. Happy shopping!karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-70245619572513202662011-11-08T20:02:00.000-08:002011-11-08T20:02:05.287-08:00My Sister, My FriendI'm slowly making my way to 1000 Gifts. <br />
<br />
Today, I could think of only one,<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-37Y_EXxbQjE/TrnyAj3R0vI/AAAAAAAABP4/OY4N6t1qU_s/s1600/karenkathy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-37Y_EXxbQjE/TrnyAj3R0vI/AAAAAAAABP4/OY4N6t1qU_s/s320/karenkathy+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">so #23 is my sister Kathy. </div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L3Glaqt9ac4/TrnwMcY2UWI/AAAAAAAABPo/0QxFokWSL4w/s1600/kathykaren.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L3Glaqt9ac4/TrnwMcY2UWI/AAAAAAAABPo/0QxFokWSL4w/s320/kathykaren.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Through thick and thin...</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cTMgVIx-rl0/TrnxUERW51I/AAAAAAAABPw/GAJuUKxTSTQ/s1600/kathykaren2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cTMgVIx-rl0/TrnxUERW51I/AAAAAAAABPw/GAJuUKxTSTQ/s320/kathykaren2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">there never was a dearer, truer friend.</div>karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-13168196623538528232011-11-07T17:54:00.000-08:002011-11-07T17:54:57.390-08:00Choosing Hope<div style="font-family: inherit;">I don't know if you would call it Murphy's Law or just 'life', but as soon as I set out to bravely list the 1000 things I'm grateful for, I encounter more pain in a week than I have in a long time. </div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">Very little of this has been my own pain, but the pain of those around me who I care for deeply. If you are dealing with severe financial stress, the threat of homelessness, the death of a loved one, the pain of betrayal or the heaviness of depression, then you know the pain of those near and dear to me. </div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">At times like these, it becomes almost more than we can bear. So, it seems very <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0054195/">Pollyanna</a> to list the small, daily blessings when faced with these hardcore realities. But, I know that if I fail to acknowledge life's little treasures, the hardships that I face become heavier.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;">The subject of hope has come up a few times this week and the committed act of choosing hope over hopelessness. Well, it appears as though my sister-in-law Nadine is on the same page, since she chose this topic for her blog post today. She shared so openly and candidly that I thought I would pass along her words to you.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oo2Sf-c7B3Q/TAqryizoj8I/AAAAAAAAANw/QCkEU7vZP3A/s1600/sky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oo2Sf-c7B3Q/TAqryizoj8I/AAAAAAAAANw/QCkEU7vZP3A/s320/sky.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
<br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">"I guess the choice is, you can live safely without hope and protect yourself from the chance of getting hurt but the exchange is that life is never what it could be, you’ve accepted the lowest common denominator for your life or that of your family. Or you choose hope and faith, put yourself at risk of getting let down again and again but you keep the door open to possibilities."</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">So, in the spirit of hope, here are the treasures I've gleaned from today, some of them little and some of them big.</span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">#18 friendship - I couldn't survive without this!</span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">#19 my parents - always there when I need them</span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">#20 a better-tasting gluten free bread (I know, lame compared to the others, but so much yummier than the alternative!)</span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">#21 hope - not because of, but in spite of the circumstances</span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Here's to hope! </span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></span>Read the rest of Nadine's post <a href="http://choosinghope-nadine.blogspot.com/2011/11/truth-of-hope.html?spref=fb">Choosing Hope</a>. Your heart will be encouraged.</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"> God, the one and only— <br />
I'll wait as long as he says. <br />
Everything I hope for comes from him, <br />
so why not? <br />
He's solid rock under my feet, <br />
breathing room for my soul, <br />
An impregnable castle: <br />
I'm set for life. </div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Ps 62:5-6 (MSG)</span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</div>karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-30967324634775148152011-11-05T22:06:00.000-07:002011-11-05T22:06:06.722-07:00Lazy SaturdayToday was an unusually relaxed day. <br />
<br />
Slept in a bit, spent time with my two favorite girls and a good friend, and did a whole lot of nothing. I forgot how much pleasure there is in being completely, totally and unapologetically unproductive. <br />
<br />
Here are gifts #12-16 on my way to 1,000.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rKjkuq0UdQE/TrYUhTCyA6I/AAAAAAAABPg/RpFI9EEpArg/s1600/hammock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rKjkuq0UdQE/TrYUhTCyA6I/AAAAAAAABPg/RpFI9EEpArg/s400/hammock.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>#12 the view from the hammock on my back porch<br />
<br />
#13 the pleasure of having known Kaye, a remarkable lady who inspired yesterday's post<br />
<br />
#14 a day with my girls<br />
<br />
#15 being lazy<br />
<br />
#16 hunting for treasures (I'm a garage sale junkie)<br />
<br />
oh yes, I almost forgot,<br />
<br />
#17 'falling back' into bed tomorrow morning after the clocks go back an hour (definitely a tie-in to #15)<br />
<br />
Enjoy your weekend, and make time to be lazy!karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-41216270506806105242011-11-04T12:13:00.000-07:002011-11-04T12:13:10.258-07:00A Legacy of LoveI've just begun making my way through to 1000 gifts. Yesterday, I had my post all ready to go when I received some incredibly sad news. I didn't know what to say, or how to respond, so I posted nothing. I can't say I feel any better prepared today, except my mind has been filled with a single thought. I will share that thought later, but first, the sad news.<br />
<br />
Yesterday, my dear friends Amie and Emily, lost their beautiful mother Kaye, in a tragic car accident. Their dad, Phil, was badly injured.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G0jzpaxWTZ0/TrQzmKV1jsI/AAAAAAAABPY/xkzsQvk5rwo/s1600/kaye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G0jzpaxWTZ0/TrQzmKV1jsI/AAAAAAAABPY/xkzsQvk5rwo/s1600/kaye.jpg" /></a></div><br />
"Grandma Kaye", as she was known to so many, was one of those rare individuals. Kaye was love in action. She exemplified grace, mercy and compassion in a way that is hard, if not impossible, to find. She was kind to a fault. I take that back, there is no fault in kindness.<br />
<br />
Her boundless energy and love for people was evident in everything she did, tirelessly giving to her family, her friends and anyone in need. <br />
<br />
I cannot begin to imagine the pain her dear children and grandchildren are feeling at this time. But I pray they find some measure of comfort in God's arms and in the love of family and friends.<br />
<br />
This is the thought that has been occupying my mind. <br />
<br />
I feel challenged today to live the way Kaye lived<br />
<ul><li>proud of the roles of mom, wife and friend </li>
<li>giving selflessly whenever there is a need</li>
<li>ready with a smile and a word of encouragement</li>
<li>filled with boundless energy</li>
<li>showering others with grace and love</li>
<li>always ready to see the best in others </li>
<li>loving Jesus, fully and completely</li>
</ul>Grandma Kaye, thank you for your godly example and the legacy of love you have left behind.<br />
<br />
"<i>Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.</i>" <span style="font-size: x-small;">(1 Corinthians 13:4-8 NIV)</span>karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-66201901648696936532011-11-02T16:24:00.000-07:002011-11-02T16:24:31.306-07:00Gifts #5-11These are the gifts I'm thankful for today.<br />
<br />
#5 listening to my daughter's speech for school - so well-written and smart!<br />
<br />
#6 a phone call from my hard-working, newly-married, first-born daughter<br />
<br />
#7 the perfect tart, crisp, green apple<br />
<br />
#8 a pain-free day (a gift I thought I would never receive again)<br />
<br />
#9 the camellias blooming by my front door<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--uoEe4ZGYwA/TrHQtBadoTI/AAAAAAAABPQ/O1cHgnLdWy4/s1600/sam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--uoEe4ZGYwA/TrHQtBadoTI/AAAAAAAABPQ/O1cHgnLdWy4/s320/sam.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>#10 a hug from my needs-a-haircut, drives-me-crazy, makes-me-laugh, candy-consuming, almost-taller-than-me teenage boy<br />
<br />
#11 a sister-in-law who is also a holistic nutritionist - in spite of the no-sugar, no-gluten, no-dairy diet she has me on right now<br />
<br />
What a difference in my day, looking for the gifts, instead of focusing on my needs!karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-63758606243143829752011-11-01T17:44:00.000-07:002011-11-01T17:44:38.129-07:00One Thousand GiftsJust discovered a new blog, well, new to me anyway. It is called <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/">A Holy Experience</a>. The writer of this blog, Ann Voskamp, has also written a book "One Thousand Gifts". <br />
<br />
I have never read the book and have just begun reading Ann's daily posts but, right away, I was struck by the purpose of <a href="http://onethousandgifts.com/">One Thousand Gifts - A Dare To Live Fully Right Where You Are</a> - a recognition of the power of gratitude.<br />
<br />
So, I have started my own One Thousand Gifts journal, where I can record daily reminders of all the beautiful gifts I have been given. These are the first four gifts that came my way today.<br />
<br />
#1 - the blank pages of a journal - filled with endless possibilities<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q_3fpMH9JDQ/TrCPuYe2SpI/AAAAAAAABPI/-OSoh1muIJ0/s1600/pomegranate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q_3fpMH9JDQ/TrCPuYe2SpI/AAAAAAAABPI/-OSoh1muIJ0/s320/pomegranate.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>#2 - ruby red pomegranates bought at a roadside stand<br />
<br />
#3 - a text from my teenage daughter just to make me smile<br />
<br />
#4 - wise counsel from a dear friend<br />
<br />
I'm on my way - 4 down and 996 left to go!karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-7618872291320954682011-09-16T18:06:00.000-07:002011-09-16T18:34:36.377-07:00DIY 1 Hour Project - Yardstick Jewelry Peg RackI recently moved my office/studio into our daughter's old bedroom. I gave it a fresh coat of paint and have been slowly organizing my supplies and product to make it my own little perfect getaway. I love it!<br />
<br />
One of the things I really needed was a place to hang chains so they would be accessible and untangled for my jewelry making. As I was scouring the garage for inspiration (yes, I find inspiration in odd places), I came across an old yard stick that had just the right amount of wear and vintage appeal.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ak4xZH4kbc/TnP5EVPRSpI/AAAAAAAABPE/vfBbF_WRRKU/s1600/jewelry+rack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ak4xZH4kbc/TnP5EVPRSpI/AAAAAAAABPE/vfBbF_WRRKU/s320/jewelry+rack.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I've taken that yardstick and made myself the perfect peg rack for my chains. So, if you are looking for a fun and easy project (won't take you more than an hour, I promise), find an old yard stick or, if you don't need quite as much space, use a ruler, and follow my step-by-step instructions.<br />
<br />
Step 1 - Assemble all your tools. For this project you will need a hammer, a yardstick, a small nail, cup hooks or eye hooks. You can buy cup hooks at the grocery store, hardware store, Wal Mart, etc. I started with eye hooks but switched them out for cup hooks further on, since I felt they would hold more.<br />
<br />
Make sure your hooks have a small screw, to avoid splitting the wood. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XpudNZbJvIM/TnPr4HHq77I/AAAAAAAABOA/L1KppUh1kpA/s1600/DSC04339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XpudNZbJvIM/TnPr4HHq77I/AAAAAAAABOA/L1KppUh1kpA/s320/DSC04339.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Step 2 - Every two inches, nail a hole into the wood to make it easier to screw in your hooks. NOTE: Do not try to put a hook too close to the edge or the wood will split.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--1pVOFmZ7Nw/TnPsHFSDKnI/AAAAAAAABOE/DQa6YX5Qst8/s1600/DSC04340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--1pVOFmZ7Nw/TnPsHFSDKnI/AAAAAAAABOE/DQa6YX5Qst8/s320/DSC04340.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
My first attempt, with an old ruler. Too close to the edge.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ubkccg3qkZE/TnPrrYqyRLI/AAAAAAAABN8/CZJVSi5FZ5M/s1600/DSC04338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ubkccg3qkZE/TnPrrYqyRLI/AAAAAAAABN8/CZJVSi5FZ5M/s320/DSC04338.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Step 3 - Screw your hooks into the nail holes. I used a drill bit to help hold the small hook and give leverage.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rNO6p7ZEnRA/TnPsaHgzjTI/AAAAAAAABOM/ypvMJ9zxRac/s1600/DSC04342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rNO6p7ZEnRA/TnPsaHgzjTI/AAAAAAAABOM/ypvMJ9zxRac/s320/DSC04342.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
By now, your yardstick should look something like this.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--VGOTBPYVFg/TnPs7eUA68I/AAAAAAAABOc/JV7pz3deZug/s1600/DSC04347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--VGOTBPYVFg/TnPs7eUA68I/AAAAAAAABOc/JV7pz3deZug/s320/DSC04347.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Step 4 - Make sure your yardstick is level. Trust me, if it's not, it will irritate you every time you glance at it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ub4Aa87Zqug/TnPtLgxzaAI/AAAAAAAABOk/kDdNeiN22fs/s1600/DSC04351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ub4Aa87Zqug/TnPtLgxzaAI/AAAAAAAABOk/kDdNeiN22fs/s320/DSC04351.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Step 4 - Use screws to attach it to the wall. Again, do not screw to close to the edge. Do I sound like a broken record here? Go in at least one inch. You may need drywall anchors if you want it to hold a lot of weight.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LkeyDzvYpBM/TnPtvD5LpTI/AAAAAAAABO4/Qjqq4s90atg/s1600/DSC04356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LkeyDzvYpBM/TnPtvD5LpTI/AAAAAAAABO4/Qjqq4s90atg/s320/DSC04356.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Here's the finished project hanging on the wall by my work table. I love the way the sun shines into my room and the beautiful aqua paint on the walls. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iYLUAuuHrvM/TnPt7VGRXFI/AAAAAAAABPA/C_MGI7BisCY/s1600/DSC04366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iYLUAuuHrvM/TnPt7VGRXFI/AAAAAAAABPA/C_MGI7BisCY/s320/DSC04366.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Next week I will show you the rest of my space, where I work, dream and create!<br />
<br />
I would love to see your version of this fun project. What would you use this for? A towel rack, key rack. Be creative! Post it on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JennyandPearl">Facebook</a> page to show your craftiness!karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-70813635136306752932011-08-24T16:05:00.000-07:002011-08-24T16:05:48.104-07:00Daniel and Lauren Ashley Wedding Photos - Part 2Okay, I promise...after this post I will not talk about Daniel and Ashley's wedding again...ever...well, at least for a little while.<br />
<br />
Last week, I shared pictures of the Cambodian ceremony that we celebrated. This week, I want to share with you the pictures from the 'Big Day'. And what a day it was. A beautiful celebration from beginning to end.<br />
<br />
I never imagined that having your child get married would be so emotional, wonderful, joyous and just plain fun!<br />
<br />
So, here's a peek at the day.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QRcQHeKzM4I/TlVHeB7MKvI/AAAAAAAABMU/SLMCR3rwmdE/s1600/OR_0415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QRcQHeKzM4I/TlVHeB7MKvI/AAAAAAAABMU/SLMCR3rwmdE/s200/OR_0415.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q_XDqH0yA5Q/TlVHaC8FPoI/AAAAAAAABMQ/gbzAyfv_ey4/s1600/OR_0224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q_XDqH0yA5Q/TlVHaC8FPoI/AAAAAAAABMQ/gbzAyfv_ey4/s200/OR_0224.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Getting ready, the bride and groom were all smiles.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VA2P-D6vkkM/TlVHhrxmSlI/AAAAAAAABMY/FCwxQKWe8Lk/s1600/OR_0602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VA2P-D6vkkM/TlVHhrxmSlI/AAAAAAAABMY/FCwxQKWe8Lk/s400/OR_0602.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Brothers</div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X5e4uAatoes/TlVHtjPQB_I/AAAAAAAABMk/a8t0_saP-jM/s1600/OR_0855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X5e4uAatoes/TlVHtjPQB_I/AAAAAAAABMk/a8t0_saP-jM/s400/OR_0855.JPG" width="266" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Sisters</div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0jumod3V5Ks/TlVHlhm1H_I/AAAAAAAABMc/NzGcH6FnXEA/s1600/OR_0723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0jumod3V5Ks/TlVHlhm1H_I/AAAAAAAABMc/NzGcH6FnXEA/s320/OR_0723.JPG" width="320" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Dad, do not make me cry!</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FtLj_yxGw6Y/TlVHpbCUAaI/AAAAAAAABMg/vekgYL2wTQU/s1600/OR_0725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FtLj_yxGw6Y/TlVHpbCUAaI/AAAAAAAABMg/vekgYL2wTQU/s320/OR_0725.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qn3gist1Op4/TlVH-uQFyeI/AAAAAAAABM0/_oZoQxhybFk/s1600/OR_1194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qn3gist1Op4/TlVH-uQFyeI/AAAAAAAABM0/_oZoQxhybFk/s400/OR_1194.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Walking our girl down the long, leafy aisle - it felt like a dream.</div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0OQ7B07vrA/TlVH1z12AvI/AAAAAAAABMs/vP3wluON88E/s1600/OR_0939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0OQ7B07vrA/TlVH1z12AvI/AAAAAAAABMs/vP3wluON88E/s320/OR_0939.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P3W3ielhPpE/TlVICQcLqZI/AAAAAAAABM4/C1LIGNrn85I/s1600/OR_1332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P3W3ielhPpE/TlVICQcLqZI/AAAAAAAABM4/C1LIGNrn85I/s400/OR_1332.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hI4LeOi-Slk/TlVIWawE4HI/AAAAAAAABNI/2dF-dZkbP9g/s1600/OR_1887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hI4LeOi-Slk/TlVIWawE4HI/AAAAAAAABNI/2dF-dZkbP9g/s400/OR_1887.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Finally, Mr and Mrs Or</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hI4LeOi-Slk/TlVIWawE4HI/AAAAAAAABNI/2dF-dZkbP9g/s1600/OR_1887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NeEfp5oJZSs/TlVIaGggqTI/AAAAAAAABNM/3wzv1TFPBIE/s1600/OR_2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NeEfp5oJZSs/TlVIaGggqTI/AAAAAAAABNM/3wzv1TFPBIE/s400/OR_2012.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The most beautiful bride ever!</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xVYBqVjGNLU/TlVZOTY9WWI/AAAAAAAABNg/fsQun4LCNuU/s1600/OR_1540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xVYBqVjGNLU/TlVZOTY9WWI/AAAAAAAABNg/fsQun4LCNuU/s400/OR_1540.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Our new family portrait</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HZVH5MkMHPs/TlVZTKrUP3I/AAAAAAAABNk/5RepDdpVA9c/s1600/OR_1563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HZVH5MkMHPs/TlVZTKrUP3I/AAAAAAAABNk/5RepDdpVA9c/s320/OR_1563.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NfSjKYBh3pg/TlVZlOYdnaI/AAAAAAAABNo/5ceEcu5Ghl0/s1600/OR_1756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NfSjKYBh3pg/TlVZlOYdnaI/AAAAAAAABNo/5ceEcu5Ghl0/s400/OR_1756.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Grandma and Poppa Vaters...look what you started!</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TIm5k7z_x_M/TlVZr5DJFxI/AAAAAAAABNs/-bjIg7cOWL0/s1600/OR_1769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TIm5k7z_x_M/TlVZr5DJFxI/AAAAAAAABNs/-bjIg7cOWL0/s400/OR_1769.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Incredible to have so many of the Rutledge clan come from Canada to share our joy! </div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uRhwRjowRzk/TlVZx-wkXzI/AAAAAAAABNw/22h7x7En7ZE/s1600/OR_2186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uRhwRjowRzk/TlVZx-wkXzI/AAAAAAAABNw/22h7x7En7ZE/s400/OR_2186.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> After the food...</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w7RMvIe5j-I/TlVZ2g05ivI/AAAAAAAABN0/LRo8eY2Vrvs/s1600/OR_2282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w7RMvIe5j-I/TlVZ2g05ivI/AAAAAAAABN0/LRo8eY2Vrvs/s400/OR_2282.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">and the cake (lots of cake)...</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0RDTBJ7ZrT4/TlVIdjjHoGI/AAAAAAAABNQ/G-hptDCXRB4/s1600/OR_2666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0RDTBJ7ZrT4/TlVIdjjHoGI/AAAAAAAABNQ/G-hptDCXRB4/s400/OR_2666.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> They danced.</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqA_Myc6BYs/TlVIlJ6HzLI/AAAAAAAABNU/4NR8I3-mHCQ/s1600/OR_2708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dqA_Myc6BYs/TlVIlJ6HzLI/AAAAAAAABNU/4NR8I3-mHCQ/s400/OR_2708.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> We danced.</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6DGj8On4KnU/TlVIr__DYfI/AAAAAAAABNc/HQ8DAzXcKwM/s1600/OR_2833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6DGj8On4KnU/TlVIr__DYfI/AAAAAAAABNc/HQ8DAzXcKwM/s320/OR_2833.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Everybody...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1nZNj58CGg/TlVIo6B7QzI/AAAAAAAABNY/tuICXmrXuy8/s1600/OR_2739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1nZNj58CGg/TlVIo6B7QzI/AAAAAAAABNY/tuICXmrXuy8/s320/OR_2739.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I mean everybody, danced. </div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kfAo5ZyHug8/TlVbsTT87CI/AAAAAAAABN4/p2S4ny_F3EI/s1600/OR_2945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kfAo5ZyHug8/TlVbsTT87CI/AAAAAAAABN4/p2S4ny_F3EI/s400/OR_2945.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cW_ULRkE-do/TlVH6buf5SI/AAAAAAAABMw/fedv2FXrF1w/s1600/OR_0953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cW_ULRkE-do/TlVH6buf5SI/AAAAAAAABMw/fedv2FXrF1w/s400/OR_0953.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...happily ever after. </div>karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-63793602666817488952011-08-17T17:12:00.000-07:002011-08-17T17:12:14.585-07:00Daniel and Lauren Ashley Wedding Photos - Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Mrs. Ashley Or - it's still a bit strange to hear my daughter referred to that way. <br />
<br />
She is now a married woman, starting out a new life with her best friend, Daniel. It is true, what they say. We didn't lose a daughter - we gained a son. <br />
<br />
The wedding celebrations were beautiful, exciting, emotional and, did I mention, beautiful?<br />
<br />
We received the official photographs from <a href="http://hughforte.com/">Hugh Forte</a>, their incredible photographer, and I wanted to share, with you, a glimpse at all the festivities. <br />
<br />
This first group of pictures are from the Cambodian ceremony, honoring Daniel's family and culture. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_jA-vMkJ6uk/TkxGyj_oBtI/AAAAAAAABLk/WeC9767GL2c/s1600/OR_1_0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_jA-vMkJ6uk/TkxGyj_oBtI/AAAAAAAABLk/WeC9767GL2c/s400/OR_1_0048.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Endless hours were spent dressing and primping for each one of the three portions of the ceremonies that day. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qmzjxngNUi0/TkxBaoPGSyI/AAAAAAAABK8/SnuXsOmUMAs/s1600/OR_1_0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qmzjxngNUi0/TkxBaoPGSyI/AAAAAAAABK8/SnuXsOmUMAs/s400/OR_1_0100.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Daniel led the procession down the street, bringing gifts for the bride and her family.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FD87qdc1G5A/TkxG2hHofPI/AAAAAAAABLo/rfLAu2VDkI8/s1600/OR_1_0111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FD87qdc1G5A/TkxG2hHofPI/AAAAAAAABLo/rfLAu2VDkI8/s400/OR_1_0111.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zY7gqP5rue4/TkxBj1J4d5I/AAAAAAAABLE/piHmPxLNg9U/s1600/OR_1_0195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zY7gqP5rue4/TkxBj1J4d5I/AAAAAAAABLE/piHmPxLNg9U/s400/OR_1_0195.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GXuLniMtyPY/TkxBfXc53lI/AAAAAAAABLA/L0G3l8HgEo8/s1600/OR_1_0150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GXuLniMtyPY/TkxBfXc53lI/AAAAAAAABLA/L0G3l8HgEo8/s400/OR_1_0150.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br />
Daniel sees his beautiful bride, waiting for him at the door!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hfk_lyuOKbU/TkxHA1gj3VI/AAAAAAAABLw/fLp3LUGnkfM/s1600/OR_1_0276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hfk_lyuOKbU/TkxHA1gj3VI/AAAAAAAABLw/fLp3LUGnkfM/s400/OR_1_0276.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Engagement portion of the ceremony - exchanging of the rings<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ACg-V_nGGOU/TkxG74OtHII/AAAAAAAABLs/24t_Ip8ap6Y/s1600/OR_1_0185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ACg-V_nGGOU/TkxG74OtHII/AAAAAAAABLs/24t_Ip8ap6Y/s400/OR_1_0185.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
The bridal party - John (Daniel's brother), Andrew (Daniel's best man), Daniel (groom), Ashley (bride), Hosanna (Daniel's sister), Natalie (Ashley's matron of honor)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g_RVu4YqLyk/TkxJV7BcskI/AAAAAAAABMA/k7K9XjpXZ84/s1600/OR_1_0192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g_RVu4YqLyk/TkxJV7BcskI/AAAAAAAABMA/k7K9XjpXZ84/s400/OR_1_0192.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DEbsvd100a4/TkxBoDaMoqI/AAAAAAAABLI/fp7cdhzFREk/s1600/OR_1_0379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DEbsvd100a4/TkxBoDaMoqI/AAAAAAAABLI/fp7cdhzFREk/s400/OR_1_0379.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br />
Clothing change #2 - green and gold<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fBUS86aQ2Us/TkxHLwJSQ_I/AAAAAAAABL4/MKdZHDMwt0Q/s1600/OR_1_0543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fBUS86aQ2Us/TkxHLwJSQ_I/AAAAAAAABL4/MKdZHDMwt0Q/s400/OR_1_0543.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Grooming ceremony - Daniel and Ashley are 'groomed' and blessed by family and friends. Some of us got a bit carried away. You know who you are!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s03UGBSoHt8/TkxVf871wjI/AAAAAAAABMM/rCwrO5s77EQ/s1600/OR_1_0498.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s03UGBSoHt8/TkxVf871wjI/AAAAAAAABMM/rCwrO5s77EQ/s400/OR_1_0498.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bfqH9stadSo/TkxVarvnnoI/AAAAAAAABMI/Wjb250MIIsQ/s1600/OR_1_0486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bfqH9stadSo/TkxVarvnnoI/AAAAAAAABMI/Wjb250MIIsQ/s400/OR_1_0486.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jV6I5PYEdsY/TkxB8QB9baI/AAAAAAAABLY/xLnOAuFUi1o/s1600/OR_1_0633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jV6I5PYEdsY/TkxB8QB9baI/AAAAAAAABLY/xLnOAuFUi1o/s400/OR_1_0633.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Clothing change #3 - gold, gold and more gold! <br />
Daniel and Ashley receiving a blessing from their siblings.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yCmftjlD6so/TkxCB0GwHpI/AAAAAAAABLc/0YMn9IDjm2o/s1600/OR_1_0729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yCmftjlD6so/TkxCB0GwHpI/AAAAAAAABLc/0YMn9IDjm2o/s400/OR_1_0729.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Our new and improved family.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wqcg3mNpEbs/TkxJbpb3njI/AAAAAAAABME/WH6KxALP8VI/s1600/OR_1_0750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wqcg3mNpEbs/TkxJbpb3njI/AAAAAAAABME/WH6KxALP8VI/s400/OR_1_0750.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
The Or family.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ir5HgeBu_4I/TkxHR9ybftI/AAAAAAAABL8/OQ6WZfkQzuA/s1600/OR_1_0654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ir5HgeBu_4I/TkxHR9ybftI/AAAAAAAABL8/OQ6WZfkQzuA/s400/OR_1_0654.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
What a beautiful day, blessed by God.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Next week - Wedding Photos - Part 2 </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-puovi6i09ZE/TkxCIUPVz-I/AAAAAAAABLg/VvLUlsPOnxo/s1600/OR_1_0786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div>karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-13667933325590434262011-05-18T10:41:00.000-07:002011-05-18T13:51:03.732-07:00Tea TimeI can't believe we're this close.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3fpJdQHODqc/TdQs3XO4vwI/AAAAAAAABKs/EIOCZB89ffQ/s1600/teacups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3fpJdQHODqc/TdQs3XO4vwI/AAAAAAAABKs/EIOCZB89ffQ/s320/teacups.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ehOyMuWnZts/TdQu63V4iJI/AAAAAAAABKw/Q_SpyiADJas/s1600/teacups2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ehOyMuWnZts/TdQu63V4iJI/AAAAAAAABKw/Q_SpyiADJas/s320/teacups2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Only 38 days until Ashley and Daniel tie the knot! Up to this point it's just been a lot of talk, but last Saturday, things really began to kick into gear. We celebrated with a beautiful bridal shower tea and I could start to feel the excitement.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sDKcTafMV18/TdNSiD8RKeI/AAAAAAAABJ4/yl7BLBw49ew/s1600/rachel%252C+ashley+and+mom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sDKcTafMV18/TdNSiD8RKeI/AAAAAAAABJ4/yl7BLBw49ew/s400/rachel%252C+ashley+and+mom.jpg" width="262" /></a></div><br />
Here I am with the bride-to-be and her sweet sister Rachel who worked so hard to help make this day special.<br />
<br />
The day was a bit chilly and overcast (by Orange County standards anyway) but it was a perfect day for an outdoor tea. The event was held in my sister Kathy's backyard. What a beautiful spot for friends and family to gather!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y9mQMnEe_yo/TdPYkD_m1ZI/AAAAAAAABKE/ohxEXImx834/s1600/ashley+and+frenn+girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y9mQMnEe_yo/TdPYkD_m1ZI/AAAAAAAABKE/ohxEXImx834/s320/ashley+and+frenn+girls.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Since this was a tea and we are ladies, after all, we just nibbled lightly on a few little treats. Those Frenn girls discovered Devonshire cream and we fought over every last drop!<br />
<br />
This was our dainty menu for the afternoon<br />
<ul><li>ice tea</li>
<li>a variety of hot teas</li>
<li>cinnamon scones</li>
<li>blueberry scones</li>
<li>chocolate chip scones</li>
<li>raisin scones </li>
<li>Devonshire cream (to smother the scones)</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mnCL710klH4/TdQvPP9IjCI/AAAAAAAABK0/CcsnIYjpFOM/s1600/tarts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mnCL710klH4/TdQvPP9IjCI/AAAAAAAABK0/CcsnIYjpFOM/s320/tarts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>(no, we're not done yet)<ul><li>lemon mini tarts with berries</li>
<li>chocolate mini tarts with whipped cream</li>
<li>cucumber dill sandwiches</li>
<li>aram sandwiches</li>
<li>peanut butter and jelly sandwiches</li>
<li>egg salad sandwiches</li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SbUidDHruv8/TdQvsBpRvpI/AAAAAAAABK4/5F27BEcIa9s/s1600/fruit+and+veggies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SbUidDHruv8/TdQvsBpRvpI/AAAAAAAABK4/5F27BEcIa9s/s400/fruit+and+veggies.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>(we're almost finished!) <br />
<ul><li>fresh veggies and dip (for the health conscious)</li>
<li>fresh fruit</li>
<li>cream puffs</li>
<li>strawberry shortcake</li>
<li>chocolate dipped strawberries</li>
</ul>Wow! <br />
<ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_iQwRo4NHVc/TdPXPgmf7vI/AAAAAAAABKA/e-Hm7T22eLk/s1600/ashley+and+the+girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_iQwRo4NHVc/TdPXPgmf7vI/AAAAAAAABKA/e-Hm7T22eLk/s320/ashley+and+the+girls.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<i>All</i> of this food was made by this small team of ladies - Grandma, Aunt Kathy, Natalie (maid of honor) and Rachel (bridesmaid). They worked tirelessly baking scones and tarts, washing and cutting fruits and veggies, polishing china cups and making everything look lovely for the occasion!<br />
<ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nBR9xCh-aUs/TdPYxGF5sDI/AAAAAAAABKM/rqCtvIyFCio/s1600/ashley+and+gifts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nBR9xCh-aUs/TdPYxGF5sDI/AAAAAAAABKM/rqCtvIyFCio/s320/ashley+and+gifts.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>All of this for me! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ltVTTog6Fo/TdPcETB8k1I/AAAAAAAABKg/D66EIPchd2Q/s1600/ashley+and+natalie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ltVTTog6Fo/TdPcETB8k1I/AAAAAAAABKg/D66EIPchd2Q/s320/ashley+and+natalie.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>After stuffing ourselves with all of the delicious food, we rolled ourselves over to watch Ashley open gifts.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rmFpghrqx2Q/TdPcDI4pYGI/AAAAAAAABKc/bxvojJcdV7Q/s1600/ashley+and+gift.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rmFpghrqx2Q/TdPcDI4pYGI/AAAAAAAABKc/bxvojJcdV7Q/s320/ashley+and+gift.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>There was gift after gift of beautiful and practical items for the home that she will share with Daniel. (Note to self - buy stock in Crate & Barrel and Target!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oq-jg9qhdP0/TdPY7zyQmZI/AAAAAAAABKU/238Kve16qFE/s1600/ashley+and+star+wars+t.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oq-jg9qhdP0/TdPY7zyQmZI/AAAAAAAABKU/238Kve16qFE/s320/ashley+and+star+wars+t.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Younger brother Sam sent a gift to the shower but I think he was confused as to what type of shower this was. Is that what you call a 'subtle hint'? There were also a few little (ahem) personal items thrown in for good measure. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ymx2Igdavs/TdPYq-0ScQI/AAAAAAAABKI/gQBDTHiX8ps/s1600/ashley+and+friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ymx2Igdavs/TdPYq-0ScQI/AAAAAAAABKI/gQBDTHiX8ps/s320/ashley+and+friends.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Overall, the day was a great success. Ashley had a smile from ear to ear.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b_kCcnCrPZA/TdPY8ixczwI/AAAAAAAABKY/UGWRriy08pk/s1600/DSC01427_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b_kCcnCrPZA/TdPY8ixczwI/AAAAAAAABKY/UGWRriy08pk/s320/DSC01427_2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Ashley's cousin (and my sweet niece) Veronica just announced her engagement so it appears as though we will be in 'wedding mode' for some time yet. Congratulations Veronica and Sam!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ybsfeni5Vu4/TdQEi77C-tI/AAAAAAAABKo/wC9lDRwwM34/s1600/family+shower+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ybsfeni5Vu4/TdQEi77C-tI/AAAAAAAABKo/wC9lDRwwM34/s400/family+shower+pic.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Thanks to everyone who helped us celebrate and showered Ashley and Daniel with love, gifts and good wishes.<br />
<br />
38 days and counting!karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-57389049173513196752011-03-23T16:35:00.000-07:002011-03-23T16:35:45.066-07:00BlessedThe year 2010 was lousy. One more year at the end of a string of rotten years. We were glad to wave goodbye and step into 2011. <br />
<br />
Well, so far 2011 is turning out to be a difficult year as well. I won't call it rotten yet, because this year still has 9 months left to redeem itself. Since this year began, my mom, Ashley and Steve have all had surgery and Rachel has been nursing a bad sprain. It's only March, but I can safely say I have no desire to see the inside of a doctor's office or hospital <i>ever</i> again!<br />
<br />
It's easy right now, to feel a wee bit sorry for us. Nobody likes illness and pain affecting the people that they love. It's exhausting and disheartening. But every time I feel like I'm due for a full-blown pity party, I think of Japan, Libya, Syria, Afghanistan and the beautiful people around the world who live in situations beyond my imagination, clinging to a shred of hope.<br />
<br />
I'm choosing to step away from the pity party and be reminded of my blessings. Here are just a few, in no particular order.<br />
<br />
<ul><li>I can worship God with fellow believers without fear of reprisal.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Sam always knows how to make me laugh.</li>
</ul><ul><li>I was raised in a loving, godly home.</li>
</ul><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S9wS9ArK24o/TYpr2WOXdYI/AAAAAAAABJg/ONhFRRngeHs/s1600/japan_0331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S9wS9ArK24o/TYpr2WOXdYI/AAAAAAAABJg/ONhFRRngeHs/s400/japan_0331.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><ul><li>I have <a href="http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/articles/pray_for_japan/">a home that is safe, warm and whole</a>. </li>
</ul><ul><li> Ashley will be marrying Daniel, the love of her life, in 14 weeks. </li>
</ul><ul><li>I have a car that gets me where I need to go. </li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://media.sbs.com.au/news/upload_media/site_1_rand_328326619_japan_radiation_scan_l_110315_aap.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.sbs.com.au/news/yoursayarticle/1501332/Do-you-support-nuclear-power&usg=__OfbYzDqFJ4X_QFiqvNFlXLIyS_Q=&h=486&w=648&sz=303&hl=en&start=0&sig2=hNjrvyj6RFvioGfCIHSTIA&zoom=1&tbnid=m33FU5vT5PEgDM:&tbnh=138&tbnw=256&ei=OHaKTeGTLJG8sAPukdiJDA&prev=/search%3Fq%3Djapan%2Bradiation%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26hs%3DJsC%26sa%3DX%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26biw%3D1280%26bih%3D784%26tbm%3Disch%26prmd%3Divnsu&itbs=1&iact=hc&vpx=589&vpy=499&dur=6271&hovh=194&hovw=259&tx=145&ty=169&oei=OHaKTeGTLJG8sAPukdiJDA&page=1&ndsp=23&ved=1t:429,r:20,s:0" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-jDhjUIMr_Wg/TYp2dt9EyEI/AAAAAAAABJs/SYMQwtj9ht0/s400/site_1_rand_328326619_japan_radiation_scan_l_110315_aap.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><ul><li>I am not dealing with the threat of radiation. </li>
</ul><ul><li>I have an incredible, supportive network of friends and family. </li>
</ul><ul><li>Rachel plays the piano every day, filling our home with worship music.</li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/current-affairs/in-pics-libyas-unrest-to-restpeace-plans_527372.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Wm4iRX3VSVg/TYpx2L9bVMI/AAAAAAAABJk/fmUZuElRwX0/s400/Gaddafi_Libya_unrest_600.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><ul><li>I do not live in <a href="http://myglobalfamily.org/daughterproject">fear of violence</a>.</li>
</ul><ul><li>My daily commute to work is from the coffee maker in my kitchen to my computer.</li>
</ul><ul><li>Steve and I will celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary this year.</li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/articles/daily_bread/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-o39q6kzUzxA/TYp1UJ8-xmI/AAAAAAAABJo/DIbqikhBYrs/s400/Haiti_food_2-15-11_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><ul><li>I don't worry about my <a href="http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/articles/pray_for_japan/">children going hungry.</a></li>
</ul><ul><li>We have health insurance and Steve received the surgery he so desperately needed.</li>
</ul><ul><li>The sun is shining today and the jasmine is blooming.</li>
</ul>I realize now that there is an unending list of things to be grateful for. We have been blessed beyond measure and certainly beyond what we deserve. <br />
<br />
I have a choice now, I can live snug and warm and secure without a thought for others, or think of ways that I can reach beyond <i>me</i> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=88052596010">extend blessing to those in need</a>. To be honest, I'm not always sure how to do this. The needs seem so overwhelming that sometimes I'm left doing nothing. <br />
<br />
I don't want to be a nothing-doer but someone who is generous and compassionate. I choose to start today. <br />
<br />
If you feel like life is dumping on you, try this exercise and look beyond yourself. Tell me, what are you grateful for today? How do you share with those who are in need?karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-19482050265961289152011-02-07T15:58:00.000-08:002011-02-07T15:58:42.517-08:00To-Do ListsLast week I was real busy. I finally got around to cleaning off the back patio. It was piled with junk - boxes, old furniture, dried leaves, etc. I discarded the junk, swept it clean and stacked what was remaining. <br />
<br />
Next, I tackled my garage. Same thing in there - got rid of some trash, organized what was left (still a lot of stuff, I'm afraid) and swept the floor clean.<br />
<br />
I went through the house and dealt with a lot of <a href="http://www.diynetwork.com/">small DIY projects</a> that I've been putting off for a while. You know the ones - switchplate covers that never got back on, wobbly screws in the bathroom hooks, even a couple buttons sewed on some clothes that were in a pile in the corner of my room.<br />
<br />
I even tackled my son's room! His bedroom got the once-over, more like the twice-over, that it's been needing for quite some time now. Every Nerf bullet, <a href="http://www.lego.com/">LEGO piece</a>, Star Wars figure and video game cable is in it's appropriate bin.<br />
<br />
It was a productive week. Of course, as in any household, the items on the to-do list seem to grow faster than I can check them off, but overall, I was pretty satisfied with what I accomplished. Except for one small thing...<br />
<br />
My busyness has been avoidance. I've been keeping myself busy to avoid what I really felt I <i>should</i> be doing.<br />
<br />
Have you ever done this before, or is it just me? <br />
<br />
Every day, when I wake up, I have this nagging feeling (conscience?) of what I really should be dealing with, what I really ought to be doing. The only way to really quiet my conscience is to get busy. So... my house got cleaned in the process. <br />
<br />
I've been arguing with myself that my cleaning frenzy is way better than drowning that voice with a bottle of whiskey, a dozen donuts or just being plain old lazy - after all, look at what I accomplished. I'm getting things done (picture a pat-on-the-back here)!<br />
<br />
So, day after day, I have been pushing my 'should-do' list further and further back in my mind and replacing it with the trivial 'to-dos'. Every time I accomplished something else, or I would hear someone say, "The house looks great!" that little voice would get a bit quieter.<br />
<br />
Until today.<br />
<br />
Tonight is my ladies book club night and <a href="http://crazylovebook.com/">we're ready Crazy Love by Francis Chan</a>. So far the book has been good and I've enjoyed it, but today I read Chapter 4. It's a powerful chapter entitled "Profile of the Lukewarm". The whole chapter is challenging but one small sentence hit me like a brick.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TVB_gxFqsfI/AAAAAAAABJY/XIhfsULhk7Q/s1600/brick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TVB_gxFqsfI/AAAAAAAABJY/XIhfsULhk7Q/s400/brick.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
"Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins"<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=james%204:17&version=NIV">James 4:17</a><br />
<br />
This is how it reads in the New International Version,<br />
<br />
"If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them."<br />
<br />
Ow!<br />
<br />
I'm still reeling. I'm sure there is a large lump forming right between my eyes where that brick hit. This is how that verse reads in Karen's Abridged Version (KAV), "If Karen knows the good she should do and doesn't do it, it is sin for Karen." <br />
<br />
This has nothing to do with you or anyone else. I can't rank myself on a scale of goodness and feel proud of how good I am 'compared to' anyone else. I know what I should be doing. I'm not doing it. It is sin for me.<br />
<br />
I really wish I hadn't read Chapter 4 - of Crazy Love or of James. They both annoyed me and hurt my feelings at first. They made me uncomfortable and made me stop and think. Arrrggh! I'm too busy to be uncomfortable or to be thinking this hard!<br />
<br />
I still have a dishwasher to unload and reload, clothes to wash, toilets to clean, weeds to pull...you get the picture.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TVB_nJF3brI/AAAAAAAABJc/IWY3E_gyimk/s1600/crazylove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TVB_nJF3brI/AAAAAAAABJc/IWY3E_gyimk/s400/crazylove.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
But, I did read them both. So, now I have a choice. I can continue to ignore "the good I ought to do" or get cracking and start living the life I am meant to live.<br />
<br />
This is the weird part - there are days that "the good I ought to do" is cleaning toilets and doing laundry. It is a vital part of my life and crucial to keeping this family running. But there are days when those things are fillers, days that I need to let the dishes sit in the sink, or ignore the laundry and attend to those things that are more important. <br />
<br />
Today, I felt like this post was on my list of things I <i>should</i> be doing. It is hard being vulnerable and revealing myself and my flaws on a regular basis but today I'm getting to the nitty-gritty. Most of the things on my critical 'should-do' list are personal, between me and God. <br />
<br />
I know he loves me in spite of my sin, but I want to show him how much I love him by obeying him and listening to his voice, not ignoring it and filling my days with my own agenda. So, this post is dedicated to the One I love.<br />
<br />
"<i>Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment.</i>"<br />
(Matt. 22:37-38)karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-10837182232952593152011-01-29T10:32:00.000-08:002011-01-29T11:45:56.162-08:00Girls Night OutI have been looking forward to Friday all week. Last night was Girl's Night Out. I haven't had one in a while and this week, in particular, I needed a break from the stresses of daily life and time away with friends. It was so nice, reconnecting with old friends and getting to know new ones better.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TURZERP_9RI/AAAAAAAABJQ/mdtLoZRPXzY/s1600/girls+night+out.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TURZERP_9RI/AAAAAAAABJQ/mdtLoZRPXzY/s200/girls+night+out.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
This was a point of contention between Steve and I when we were first married, believe it or not. I would want to go out with a friend for a coffee or a night out, no let me rephrase that, I <i>needed</i> to go out with friends. Steve didn't get it. Why did I need to go out with my friends when I had him? Wasn't he enough? Isn't that cute.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TUMibrF6nbI/AAAAAAAABJI/d7Z6EeYPctw/s1600/donna+and+karen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TUMibrF6nbI/AAAAAAAABJI/d7Z6EeYPctw/s200/donna+and+karen.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
He just did not have that innate need to bond with other guys. When I would get home, after a coffee or dinner out, he would pepper me with questions, "What did you talk about?", "Where did you go?", "Did you talk about me?" I would just smile, and say, "We have plenty of other things to talk about," as I gave him a kiss and a hug.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TUMiZi_9EVI/AAAAAAAABI8/gnSaOTSlxSI/s1600/girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TUMiZi_9EVI/AAAAAAAABI8/gnSaOTSlxSI/s200/girls.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>After some time, Steve discovered something that changed his outlook. I would leave the house irritable, stressed and uptight and return home just a bit more relaxed and ready to face life's challenges. There was something about that time with friends that energized and encouraged me. Before long, he started saying, "Karen, why don't you call someone to go out for a coffee? When was the last time you had a girl's night out?" That Steve, he's no dummy.<br />
<br />
It's not that I don't like spending time with guys. I love my guys! I spent last weekend hanging out with six of them at the cabin. It was loud and chaotic and I enjoyed every minute of it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TUMiaO7gDII/AAAAAAAABJA/DDvotPkT6KY/s1600/girlfriends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TUMiaO7gDII/AAAAAAAABJA/DDvotPkT6KY/s200/girlfriends.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
But only us creatures with brains wired with estrogen can relate the same way to each other. When we get together, we generally don't reach any great epiphanies or solve any monumental problems, we just know how to spend time sharing, laughing and hanging out. And yes, it generally involves something delicious and indulgent if you're out for a meal with me!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TUMicoLkIqI/AAAAAAAABJM/iOwAloI8q2w/s1600/kathy+and+karen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TUMicoLkIqI/AAAAAAAABJM/iOwAloI8q2w/s200/kathy+and+karen.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
So guys, if it's been a while since your lady had a coffee with a friend, encourage her to go and tell her you will be thrilled to watch the kids! Girls, if it's been way too long since you met a friend for a meal or a night out, do it soon. You will be better off for it. If you don't know who to call, I am always ready for a cup of coffee (and a Pazookie!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TUMiawRMY_I/AAAAAAAABJE/bjBb3VvLYBY/s1600/girls2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="138" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TUMiawRMY_I/AAAAAAAABJE/bjBb3VvLYBY/s200/girls2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<h6 class="uiStreamMessage" data-ft="{"type":"msg"}" style="font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody">A good friend is a connection to life - a tie to the past, a road to the future, the key to sanity in a totally insane world. ~</span></span></i><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody">Lois Wyse</span></span></h6>karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-84611573260907573952011-01-19T16:27:00.000-08:002011-01-19T16:27:33.961-08:00I'm Back!Wow! It has been a long time - 23 days since my last entry. 2010 is behind us and we are firmly entrenched in 2011.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TE8P91Ig5WI/AAAAAAAAAuA/pkMtdcvEzR0/s1600/dark+sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TE8P91Ig5WI/AAAAAAAAAuA/pkMtdcvEzR0/s400/dark+sunset.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
I have sat down a few times, attempting to post, but I have to be honest, this has been a very difficult time for the Rutledge household. We have been dealing with injury and pain in our home and I have just not had it in me to be chatty and self-revealing.<br />
<br />
I shared with you, some time ago, about my personal journey with pain and I am still dealing with that on a much lesser level. Right now it is my daughter Rachel and especially my sweet husband Steve who are the ones most affected.<br />
<br />
Just before Christmas, Rachel was at a basketball practice when she sprained her ankle. It was a very bad sprain and she is still recovering from that. Fortunately, she is healing and can now put weight on her foot and walk without that enormous boot, but she has been sitting on the sidelines since the beginning of the basketball season. We are praying for a complete recovery so she can get back out on the court and end the season strong!<br />
<br />
Steve injured his back several years ago, while riding a mountain bike on vacation. He has suffered back pain off and on since that time. In the past several months however, the pain has become almost unbearable and he is in constant pain, virtually confined to bed. It is impossible to express how helpless I feel at my inability to help him or relieve his suffering in any way. Steve needs a miracle, a special touch from the hand of God.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TAqryizoj8I/AAAAAAAAANw/r_Z6yMePqvI/s1600/sky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TAqryizoj8I/AAAAAAAAANw/r_Z6yMePqvI/s400/sky.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>I shared my own experience with chronic pain in my blog series <a href="http://jennyandpearl.blogspot.com/p/my-story-gift-of-pain.html">"The Gift of Pain"</a>. I must confess, I have considered, more than once, removing that series from this site. It is one thing to endure pain yourself but entirely another thing to watch someone you love suffer daily with pain.<br />
<br />
Our faith has been tested through this time. I can't say that I have always come through with shining colors, but it is a daily process of growing in relationship - with Steve and with the Lord. Please remember us in prayer that we will be strengthened and that Steve will be made completely whole.<br />
<br />
I have to say, in the midst of all of the pain and difficulty that our family has been dealing with, we have seen God's grace extended to us time and time again through the very real friends that have given to us so graciously in every form. We are overwhelmed and amazed at how generous and loving our family and friends are. Thank you, from the depths of our hearts.<br />
<br />
Although 2010 basically sucked, I am looking forward to an amazing 2011 and expecting great things! <br />
<br />
And so, Lord, where do I put my hope?<br />
My only hope is in you. <br />
Psalm 39:7 <br />
<br />
So, enough about us. I have a favor to ask. I have shared with you in the past about <a href="http://jennyandpearl.blogspot.com/2010/06/personal-heroes-chapter-1.html">my nephew Caleb and his incredible guide dog Kane</a>. Well, Caleb's dad Randy is competing to win $1000 for the guide dog charity. If you click on the link below you can vote for Randy's video and help him win money for this incredible organization, making it possible for another family to have a guide dog like theirs. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.minioakville.com/win%2Da%2Dcountryman/?test_drivers=randy-mitchell%20">http://www.minioakville.com/win%2Da%2Dcountryman/?test_drivers=randy-mitchell </a><br />
<br />
Please take a minute to vote. This contest ends Friday, January 21 and you can vote once a day.<br />
<br />
Thanks for helping out.karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-53477123667958050862010-12-27T17:06:00.000-08:002010-12-27T17:06:38.168-08:00Holiday Greetings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>From my family to yours, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TRkq7oxoHTI/AAAAAAAABIw/20jezVu9FAc/s1600/ornaments2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TRkq7oxoHTI/AAAAAAAABIw/20jezVu9FAc/s400/ornaments2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>It has been a privilege sharing my life and faith with you over the past several months.<br />
<br />
I pray that this holiday season your heart will be filled with the peace that only Christ can bring and the joy of knowing Him personally.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TQuM6kdWDdI/AAAAAAAABIo/Fhnp-12hVXM/s1600/charlie+brown+christmas+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TRkrJxdZZ3I/AAAAAAAABI4/Mj5p3ux_sRU/s1600/creche.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TRkrJxdZZ3I/AAAAAAAABI4/Mj5p3ux_sRU/s400/creche.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TRkrDHY6rsI/AAAAAAAABI0/CfrmU-5RMts/s1600/ornaments.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: large;"><i>For to us a child is born, <br />
to us a son is given, <br />
and the government will be on his shoulders. <br />
And he will be called <br />
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, <br />
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. </i></span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Isaiah 9:6 NIV </div>karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-13508243969522315112010-12-02T12:48:00.000-08:002010-12-02T12:48:09.017-08:00Finally!After weeks of cleaning, pricing, planning and prepping, it is finally here! My first Jenny and Pearl Boutique. If you are in the Southern California area, please pop in and see me. Share this info with your friends and family!<br />
<br />
I have so many beautiful things to show you - loads of beautiful items for everyone on your Christmas list, even one or two things that might catch your fancy! The address and hours are listed at the top of the page.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgAOlK-EHI/AAAAAAAABIA/fw0fS-Ibi-g/s1600/DSC09368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgAOlK-EHI/AAAAAAAABIA/fw0fS-Ibi-g/s400/DSC09368.jpg" width="325" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Cute Kitchen Collectibles</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgAAEf1NSI/AAAAAAAABH8/tXOXTqsSBWI/s1600/DSC09369.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgAAEf1NSI/AAAAAAAABH8/tXOXTqsSBWI/s400/DSC09369.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Gorgeous Glassware</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPf_xd5KTaI/AAAAAAAABH4/2RvNQWkpdVE/s1600/DSC09370.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPf_xd5KTaI/AAAAAAAABH4/2RvNQWkpdVE/s320/DSC09370.jpg" width="220" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Delectable Delights</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgAW9rG-vI/AAAAAAAABIE/r_3GxgINsDg/s1600/DSC09367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgAW9rG-vI/AAAAAAAABIE/r_3GxgINsDg/s320/DSC09367.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Chenille Bedspreads</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgAnG30HDI/AAAAAAAABII/eJDSBORSQq0/s1600/DSC09366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgAnG30HDI/AAAAAAAABII/eJDSBORSQq0/s320/DSC09366.jpg" width="223" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> A Hankie Covered Christmas Tree!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgA0FgUe6I/AAAAAAAABIM/6piXkom4bzs/s1600/DSC09365.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgA0FgUe6I/AAAAAAAABIM/6piXkom4bzs/s320/DSC09365.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Unusual Antiques</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgA9ybs-2I/AAAAAAAABIQ/EE6C_LeBri4/s1600/DSC09364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgA9ybs-2I/AAAAAAAABIQ/EE6C_LeBri4/s400/DSC09364.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Beautiful Gift Items</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgBgcBswxI/AAAAAAAABIc/4SRX1yCApZ4/s1600/DSC09360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgBgcBswxI/AAAAAAAABIc/4SRX1yCApZ4/s400/DSC09360.jpg" width="386" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Vintage Purses</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgBU0yDnaI/AAAAAAAABIY/ZROoX2fyQN0/s1600/DSC09362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgBU0yDnaI/AAAAAAAABIY/ZROoX2fyQN0/s400/DSC09362.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> too many things to list and of course...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgDkc5DjrI/AAAAAAAABIg/KIYwYx3GkFU/s1600/jewelry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPgDkc5DjrI/AAAAAAAABIg/KIYwYx3GkFU/s400/jewelry.jpg" width="295" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">one-of-a-kind Jenny and Pearl jewelry.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">For my distant readers, don't despair, when the boutique madness has ended, I will get back to listing in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/jennyandpearl">etsy stores</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/jennyandpearltoo/">making more jewelry</a>, so you can share in the fun!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Mention that you read my blog or are a friend of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#%21/pages/Jenny-and-Pearl/110260199024248">Jenny and Pearl on Facebook</a> and get $5.00 off of any boutique purchase! See you there!</div>karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-74530808569380122562010-11-26T13:54:00.000-08:002010-11-26T13:55:21.528-08:00Giving ThanksThanksgiving has passed and Black Friday is upon us.<br />
<br />
Yesterday we headed "over the river and through the woods to grandmother's house" for a big turkey dinner. I mean BIG.<br />
<br />
Two turkeys, a ham, two types of potatoes, various vegetables, and a groaning table of desserts. There was a big crowd this year - 28 for dinner and 32 for dessert. I am feeling somewhat expanded after a day of feasting.<br />
<br />
I love Thanksgiving - the food (of course) and gathering together with family and friends that we see far too infrequently.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAVOkj0i1I/AAAAAAAABHU/ZxsrtdYyruw/s1600/grandma+and+ashley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAVOkj0i1I/AAAAAAAABHU/ZxsrtdYyruw/s400/grandma+and+ashley.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Here's Grandma with her first grandchild, our oldest daughter Ashley. Aren't they cute?<br />
<br />
As our kids get older with boyfriends, fiancees, even husbands - it gets harder and harder to get everyone in one place at the same time. This year we had a big crowd - the more the merrier! Seems like just yesterday we were chasing these kids around the house, juggling nap times, diapers and bottles. Here are most of the cousins, with a few friends and in-laws thrown in for good measure.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAb6nOrhPI/AAAAAAAABHY/szvB2LLfxsA/s1600/cousins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAb6nOrhPI/AAAAAAAABHY/szvB2LLfxsA/s400/cousins.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
No matter how old they get, we have a few traditions that must be kept. They girls insist that Grandma makes her creamed corn (more dessert than vegetable), the football games are playing constantly on the television in the family room, we play a few enthusiastic card games once our turkey coma has worn off and every year, with Natalie supervising, a gingerbread house is created.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAdGVd-bVI/AAAAAAAABHc/IDQfxxukESw/s1600/gingerbread+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAdGVd-bVI/AAAAAAAABHc/IDQfxxukESw/s400/gingerbread+house.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
The boys are hanging around because the girls told them they could eat all the candy once they were finished. See that grin on Sam's face - he's just waiting for me to finish taking the darn picture!<br />
<br />
I also love the purposeful time of reflecting on what we are grateful for. It's so easy (for me, at least) to get caught up in the daily stresses of life, that I need the scheduled times where I stop, look around and remember how good I've really got it.<br />
<br />
This year, I am thankful for so many things, these are just the highlights.<br />
<br />
<ul><li>I am thankful that I am not in the malls fighting the Black Friday madness. I will wait for saner minds to return to the shopping centers before I venture in to do my Christmas shopping.</li>
</ul><ul><li>I am thankful for Chris & Kristen and Erick & Mariesa. They are our incredible youth pastors and youth leaders. They lead the youth of our church with incredible patience and enthusiasm and have taken our two youngest to their very first youth convention this weekend. </li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAfR4BzL6I/AAAAAAAABHg/Ywc61atotfQ/s1600/youth+convention+girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAfR4BzL6I/AAAAAAAABHg/Ywc61atotfQ/s400/youth+convention+girls.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Here are our sweet girls, excited to get away for the weekend!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAf1wWnPZI/AAAAAAAABHk/iZsFEyHJH_I/s1600/erick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAf1wWnPZI/AAAAAAAABHk/iZsFEyHJH_I/s320/erick.jpg" width="235" /></a></div><br />
This is Erick, our junior high boys leader. He rocks!<br />
<br />
<ul><li>I am thankful for health and freedom from pain - I am mindful of this every day.</li>
</ul><ul><li>I am so grateful to you, dear reader, for allowing me to share my heart and responding with words of encouragement and support. I love writing my little heartfelt posts. They feed my spirit in a way I never imagined.</li>
</ul><ul><li>I am thankful for parents who support us in so many ways. There is nothing my children could inherit that is greater than the godly heritage they are receiving from their four incredible grandparents. It is a gift beyond measure.</li>
</ul><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAldAhqKUI/AAAAAAAABHs/__PmOhrEKJY/s1600/steve+and+sam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAldAhqKUI/AAAAAAAABHs/__PmOhrEKJY/s320/steve+and+sam.jpg" width="206" /></a>I could go on all day, but will end with my most precious gifts ~Steve, my incredible husband of 29 years<br />
~Sam, our handsome "manchild" who makes us proud and makes us laugh,<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAlVOgADSI/AAAAAAAABHo/4o4_ifAO2XA/s1600/karen+and+rachel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TPAlVOgADSI/AAAAAAAABHo/4o4_ifAO2XA/s320/karen+and+rachel.jpg" width="212" /></a><br />
~Rachel, our beautiful miracle baby, now a beautiful and talented young lady,<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TMWJaGilc-I/AAAAAAAABEg/49GIiI4_yLI/s1600/IMG_3451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TMWJaGilc-I/AAAAAAAABEg/49GIiI4_yLI/s320/IMG_3451.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>~Ashley & Daniel, our cherished and lovely daughter and our teasing, big-hearted soon-to-be son-in-law.<br />
<br />
What did I ever do to deserve such a precious family? I thank God for you every day.<br />
<br />
Thank you heavenly Father for all the gifts you give. I accept them from your hands with a full and grateful heart!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-6457299811474419922010-11-19T11:14:00.000-08:002010-11-19T11:14:48.241-08:00It's My Birthday!Well...technically, not today. My birthday's on Sunday. But...close enough.<br />
<br />
It's funny, I don't get quite as excited as I used to get about birthdays. Remember, when we were little?<br />
<br />
This is me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TObLeq1KvOI/AAAAAAAABHQ/mzul5wTyNLY/s1600/CCI00002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TObLeq1KvOI/AAAAAAAABHQ/mzul5wTyNLY/s400/CCI00002.jpg" width="251" /></a></div><br />
See the chubby cheeks and the dimples?<br />
<br />
Why aren't chubby cheeks and dimples cute on me any more? And why aren't birthdays as much fun as they used to be?<br />
<br />
I remember when I would notice my "half birthday". I would comment on the fact that I was 8 <i>and a half</i> years old or 11 and <i>a half</i> years old. Yippee!!<br />
<br />
I've arrived at this conclusion. Getting old sucks.<br />
<br />
I don't like gray hair. I work very hard at eliminating every one. Wrinkles are no fun. I'm noticing more all the time. Gravity is not my friend.<br />
<br />
That's just the surface stuff. The real kicker is what's going on inside - the aches and pains that have developed since I turned 40 leave me wondering how I'll make it to 70 - forget that, how I'll make it to 50!<br />
<br />
I have to say, there are a few benefits to aging. Self-control is something I have gained. I have far more patience and deeper relationships with family, friends and the Lord. These things are priceless. <br />
<br />
If only I could do a Benjamin Button and have that young body (not too young, maybe mid-twenty-ish) with this old mind, I would have it made!<br />
<br />
Oh well, here we are. My birthday is coming, whether I like it or not. So, to those who care and will be buying me gifts (you know who you are.) <br />
<br />
<ul><li>I love coffee and salted caramels. </li>
<li>I need something good to read. </li>
<li>I don't have a decent pair of jeans that fit. </li>
<li>I'm dying for a pedicure. </li>
<li>I would love a nice dinner out (preferably Thai) and </li>
<li>a movie would go great with dinner! </li>
</ul><br />
But really, you don't need to get me anything. I'm too old to celebrate birthdays.karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-78285550954705954302010-11-17T12:08:00.000-08:002010-12-06T17:15:07.999-08:00Let's Go Shopping!I am pleased to announce the first ever Jenny and Pearl preview sale. Mark your calendars, invite all your friends and break open your piggy banks.<br />
<br />
<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Jenny and Pearl Preview Sale</span></b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">& </span></b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">To Africa, With Love Fundraiser</span></b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">December 2-4</span></b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Thursday and Friday 4:00 - 8:00 pm</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: large;">Saturday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span>I have stashes and stashes of lovely items </div><ul><li>linens</li>
<li>glassware</li>
<li>kitchenware</li>
<li>gift items</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOQ0YoarPiI/AAAAAAAABHM/uJvTFoDzm8U/s1600/Jenny+and+Pearl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="355" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOQ0YoarPiI/AAAAAAAABHM/uJvTFoDzm8U/s400/Jenny+and+Pearl.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><ul><li>vintage toys</li>
<li>pictures</li>
<li>handmade jewelry</li>
<li>home decor</li>
</ul>Whether your style is shabby chic, midcentury modern, country, rustic, or eclectic, you will definitely find something to suit your style and beautiful treasures for all the ladies on your Christmas list. This is a sneak peek of some of the items that will be available to purchase.<br />
<br />
Along with all these wonderful gift items, there will be lots of delicious goodies for sale, provided by the group To Africa, With Love.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOQjQ2h0llI/AAAAAAAABHI/PBQIsXxqUu8/s1600/to+africa%252C+with+love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOQjQ2h0llI/AAAAAAAABHI/PBQIsXxqUu8/s400/to+africa%252C+with+love.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
These kids are raising money for their Summer 2012 missions trip to Africa and this is their kick-off fundraiser.<br />
<br />
So, come by and say hello, shop til you drop and help out a great cause!<br />
<br />
I know, those of you who do not live in Southern California are saying, "What about me?" I wish you could all fly down here and visit with me, enjoy a cup of coffee, chat and shop, but alas, life isn't like that.<br />
<br />
For all my distant and not-so-distant friends, I am stocking my online store with more and more tempting treasures. Beginning Black Friday (that's November 26th, for the uninitiated) and extending through December 4, I will have a sale in my on-line store, so you can get in on some of the excitement too!<br />
<br />
Also, if you see anything you like in the pictures I've posted that isn't in the shop, just email me and I will be happy to ship it to you. Looking for something special? Just ask. I may have just what you are looking for within my secret stash. I don't want my online friends to feel left out.<br />
<br />
Finally, I am giving away a gift certificate worth $30.00, that can be redeemed at the Jenny and Pearl Preview Sale (Orange location only). How do you win? Let me know what you are thankful for in the comments section below. The winner will be chosen randomly. Entries will be accepted through midnight on Monday, November 22 and the winner will be announced next Tuesday. Enter as many times as you like! Mention the sale on your FB page and let me know for an extra chance to win!<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for the sound of the birds outside my window while I sit at my computer. What are you thankful for?<br />
<br />
<i>And <b>whatever you do in word or deed</b>, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.</i><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Colossians 3:17 </span>karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-32484382869424880942010-11-15T13:32:00.000-08:002010-11-15T13:51:12.498-08:00Bah! Humbug!"Only 40 more days until Christmas!"<br />
<br />
"Ugh!"<br />
<br />
"Mom, why don't you like Christmas?"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOFl3D7IG9I/AAAAAAAABGw/Cusn55oyOqI/s1600/scrooge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOFl3D7IG9I/AAAAAAAABGw/Cusn55oyOqI/s400/scrooge.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I guess "Ugh" isn't quite "Bah, Humbug!", but to my daughter's ears it did make me sound a bit like Scrooge...okay, a <i>lot</i> like Scrooge.<br />
<br />
I love Christmas.<br />
<br />
I do. I just don't understand why we start the countdown before we've even had Thanksgiving!<br />
<br />
I love the decorations<br />
<ul><li>the sparkling lights and the festive colors. </li>
<li>driving through the neighborhoods to check out the displays</li>
<li>picking out the perfect tree</li>
<li>filling the house with lights and decorations</li>
<li>the Boat Parade in Newport Harbor. </li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOGjo9IioRI/AAAAAAAABG4/sJ1jmWqAQlA/s1600/christmas+lights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOGjo9IioRI/AAAAAAAABG4/sJ1jmWqAQlA/s400/christmas+lights.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Everything is transformed for this wonderful season.<br />
<br />
I love the gifts - picking out something special for the people I love and anticipating the look of delight when they open the brightly wrapped package.<br />
<br />
Oh yeah, getting gifts too! That part is great! I always seem to forget that I will be at the receiving end as well.<br />
<br />
I love the food. I love the food. Oops, I wrote that twice.<br />
<br />
You know what I mean. All those scrumptious holiday treats that we eat only at this time of year. Then we ask, "Why don't we make this the rest of the year?" only to realize that if we did, we would weigh approximately the same as a baby hippo (or a mama hippo.) <br />
<br />
There are the delicious baked goods for starters (dessert first.) In my family the list here is long.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOGjywkL-OI/AAAAAAAABG8/b5qx8rhxEbA/s1600/cupcakes+and+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOGjywkL-OI/AAAAAAAABG8/b5qx8rhxEbA/s400/cupcakes+and+cookies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Dessert is very important. Each family event is rated by how many desserts are available. <br />
<br />
One or two, that's for amateurs!<br />
<br />
At the top of the list is Grandma's pulla, otherwise known as Finnish coffee bread. It is the most amazing sweet bread, made in a braided loaf, with a hint of cardamom - off the hook!<br />
<br />
All other baking is secondary to the bread. We must have the bread. My sister has become an expert at the bread-baking also, so dozens of loaves are baked and consumed over the holidays. Just thinking about it now is making me a little light-headed.<br />
<br />
But, of course, the bread isn't it. There's<br />
<ul><li>caramel corn (Kathy's favorite)</li>
<li>shortbread (Steve's favorite) </li>
<li>sugar cookies (Sam's)</li>
<li>chocolate fudge</li>
<li>Nanaimo bars (an overall fav)</li>
<li>peppermint bark</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOGkATnoSFI/AAAAAAAABHA/xdIP_wi2tV8/s1600/pretzels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOGkATnoSFI/AAAAAAAABHA/xdIP_wi2tV8/s400/pretzels.jpg" width="236" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>chocolate covered pretzels</li>
<li>Chinese chews (Rachel's favorite)</li>
<li>pumpkin pie</li>
<li>and the must-have jam-jams (Poppa's contribution to the holidays)</li>
</ul>just to name a small portion of the required holiday baking.<br />
<br />
We eat real food too, not just dessert. You know, turkey, potatoes, carrots, yams, green beans, stuffing... I could go on, but I think you get the point.<br />
<br />
So...what's not to love about Christmas?<br />
<br />
It's so much work!<br />
<br />
The decorations are beautiful but they don't just fly out of the boxes and land on the tree and around the house by themselves. <i>Somebody</i> has to put them up.<br />
<br />
The gifts are wonderful, but (don't spread the word on this), little elves do <i>not</i> magically appear with them gift-wrapped under the tree.<br />
<br />
The food is marvelous, and I know you can buy it pre-made in the store, but in our family, that just doesn't cut it!<br />
<br />
So...when I see Christmas looming on the horizon, I get tired before I've even started. I just see long 'to-do' lists looming and the days shrinking away while I seem to spin my wheels getting very little accomplished. I want to relax and enjoy the moment, but 'the moment' never seems to come.<br />
<br />
Oh yeah, I forgot one thing. One little thing. One major little thing.<br />
<br />
A baby.<br />
<br />
Born in a manger.<br />
<br />
I know this is the only way to keep my sanity during the holidays. I have to keep reminding myself what Christmas is really about - what the fuss and bother really mean to a believer, to one who is a follower of the Christ child born in a manger, over 2000 years ago.<br />
<br />
If we had no gifts (now my kids are starting to panic), if the decorations never came out of the boxes, if the celebrations and parties never materialized and the baking never took place, Christmas would still be Christmas.<br />
<br />
All of these are trappings and ornamentation - trappings that pull me away from the focus of the season - to celebrate the birth of my Savior.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOGkxfjmILI/AAAAAAAABHE/pVUos3FCUJA/s1600/candle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TOGkxfjmILI/AAAAAAAABHE/pVUos3FCUJA/s400/candle.jpg" width="288" /></a></div><br />
<i>For a child is born to us,<br />
a son is given to us.<br />
The government will rest on his shoulders.<br />
And he will be called:<br />
<b>Wonderful Counselor,<sup> </sup>Mighty God,<br />
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.</b><br />
His government and its peace<br />
will never end.<br />
He will rule with fairness and justice </i><br />
<i> from the throne of his ancestor David<br />
for all eternity.</i><br />
Isaiah 9:6-7 (NLT)karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3764819424382380887.post-38756841757654099152010-11-08T11:13:00.000-08:002010-11-08T11:13:52.170-08:00Back to the RanchWhat a great weekend! <br />
<br />
Sometimes it seems like the weekend is filled with one activity after another. This one was blissfully relaxing. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg2yeXjHkI/AAAAAAAABGE/siLUlQSeylM/s1600/calicinto+tshirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg2yeXjHkI/AAAAAAAABGE/siLUlQSeylM/s400/calicinto+tshirt.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Saturday we returned to <a href="http://www.calicintoranch.com/">beautiful Calicinto Ranch</a>, one of our favorite places on earth. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg2uLHL7iI/AAAAAAAABFw/FzOE2ozXOMU/s1600/horses+on+trail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg2uLHL7iI/AAAAAAAABFw/FzOE2ozXOMU/s400/horses+on+trail.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>We went there with our <a href="http://www.convergenceoc.com/convergenceoc/Welcome.html">church family from Convergence</a> and we had a blast, in spite of the tarantulas. Right, Dina?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg2s2p6OzI/AAAAAAAABFs/QHBU7MKh8NE/s1600/tarantula.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg2s2p6OzI/AAAAAAAABFs/QHBU7MKh8NE/s400/tarantula.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
What I really loved about the day, beside the horses, the great food, the beautiful blue skies, the wonderful Pirelli family, the hay rides<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNhAIf_AvOI/AAAAAAAABGk/ALWsMyVSjic/s1600/hayride2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNhAIf_AvOI/AAAAAAAABGk/ALWsMyVSjic/s400/hayride2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<br />
and all the other fun, was the opportunity to spend extra time with family, our church family. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNhJHayQhEI/AAAAAAAABGs/3DmxpYU2yhE/s1600/corral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNhJHayQhEI/AAAAAAAABGs/3DmxpYU2yhE/s400/corral.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Sundays are great. We get together, chat over a cup of coffee, worship and learn together, but it's a brief period of time and then we're gone - off doing our own thing, busy with our lives.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg2vqYLRyI/AAAAAAAABF0/aOZiFMPEfac/s1600/dad+and+horse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg2vqYLRyI/AAAAAAAABF0/aOZiFMPEfac/s400/dad+and+horse.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Spending this time together, creating shared memories, was a great opportunity to draw our family closer together. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg7gjyup4I/AAAAAAAABGY/apK2DBlWc6k/s1600/norb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg7gjyup4I/AAAAAAAABGY/apK2DBlWc6k/s400/norb.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Thanks Pastor Norb, aka Sheriff Norb, for providing us with this opportunity to be together. It was a much-needed break.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg7ze2FKvI/AAAAAAAABGg/mUKQtXMoDkM/s1600/Ashley+&+Khalil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg7ze2FKvI/AAAAAAAABGg/mUKQtXMoDkM/s400/Ashley+&+Khalil.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The petting zoo was a huge hit. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg2xbfz8FI/AAAAAAAABF8/HhvmX_D4DPs/s1600/ethan+and+chicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg2xbfz8FI/AAAAAAAABF8/HhvmX_D4DPs/s400/ethan+and+chicken.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<br />
For these suburban kids, it took a while to figure out which end of the chicken they should grab!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg259n1GhI/AAAAAAAABGI/CWqhAFAARMw/s1600/me+rachel+and+grandma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg259n1GhI/AAAAAAAABGI/CWqhAFAARMw/s400/me+rachel+and+grandma.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
This is me with my cowgirl Rachel and my mom. There is no place on earth that Rachel would rather be than at Calicinto Ranch, riding a horse. She has adopted the Pirelli's as her second family.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg7UlHnlyI/AAAAAAAABGQ/ZRQQo8xUEZ8/s1600/erick+mariesa+and+horse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg7UlHnlyI/AAAAAAAABGQ/ZRQQo8xUEZ8/s400/erick+mariesa+and+horse.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I have to give a special shout-out to Erick and Mariesa. Thanks Erick for providing many of these pictures. Erick and Mariesa are my personal heroes. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg7ee2i1CI/AAAAAAAABGU/LY4cqvgyEjQ/s1600/sam+harrison+&+zach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg7ee2i1CI/AAAAAAAABGU/LY4cqvgyEjQ/s400/sam+harrison+&+zach.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
These three boys are the reason why. Take a good long look at these boys. They are Sam, Harrison and Zack. They are twelve years old. Erick and Mariesa are the fearless junior high leaders at our church.<br />
<br />
Pray for Erick and Mariesa.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg3CszjR4I/AAAAAAAABGM/hEBAibkbkyI/s1600/sky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNg3CszjR4I/AAAAAAAABGM/hEBAibkbkyI/s400/sky.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
It was a great weekend. God is good.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNhA4aDiK6I/AAAAAAAABGo/aaYq886TgDk/s1600/steve+sleeping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="341" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_29dbYuEbebs/TNhA4aDiK6I/AAAAAAAABGo/aaYq886TgDk/s400/steve+sleeping.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Right Steve? Steve...karen rutledgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03114568200161562306noreply@blogger.com1