tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44995577457811335212024-03-18T23:10:07.164-05:00Renew My Homewriter // decorator // portfolio coming soonLaura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.comBlogger173125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-80725841061182054862017-11-20T20:34:00.000-06:002017-11-21T07:29:20.042-06:00The House at Christmas, 2017<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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In the bleak midwinter</div>
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Frosty wind made moan.</div>
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Earth stood hard as iron</div>
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Water like a stone.<br />
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Snow had fallen</div>
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Snow on snow</div>
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Snow on Snow</div>
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In the bleak midwinter</div>
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Long ago.</div>
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(Christina Rossetti)</div>
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When the snow fell, in early November, </div>
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our place turned into Christmas, overnight.</div>
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Suddenly it seemed right and proper to clip boughs,</div>
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wrap gifts, and sprinkle fairy lights around the house.</div>
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We used pink this year, and tiny bits of red:</div>
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vintage ornaments that we've collected for years, </div>
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and glass birds, and plaid flannel we already had. </div>
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The tree is narrow (I love how narrow it is), and it's standing in an old wood box from Antiques Downtown in Elk River, MN. </div>
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Our favorite vintage ornament, capturing light, mirroring and refracting little bits of Christmas.</div>
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Our packages this year. We ordered the butcher paper from Amazon, the craft paper is a painter's roll from a home improvement store, the ribbon and bells are from Jo-Ann. Our youngest daughter does most of the wrapping and all of the lettering.</div>
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At dusk, the tree and mantel lights begin to glow, and I can hardly wait for dark to fall, when we'll sit here together, gazing. It sounds boring but it's probably my favorite part about Christmas.</div>
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And every morning, I flick on the tree lights and feel a quiet joy settle over me. </div>
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Christmas lights are always the right amount of light, no matter the time of day.</div>
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I kept simplifying this cabinet top, till almost nothing was left. If your Christmas house is making you anxious, try taking things away before you add anything.</div>
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Quiet your space.</div>
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You'll find when you do this, your heart has more room, and you can breathe easily.</div>
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The mantel.</div>
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Here too, I kept taking things away, till all that was left were white pine branches, lights,<br />
and one little bird.</div>
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Then we hung the linen stockings.</div>
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I made these six years ago, when I was pregnant with Malachi. The kids didn't know about the </div>
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baby yet. I told them the fifth stocking (not shown here) was for the dog.</div>
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The stockings are made from old linen clothing, and trim from vintage pillowcases.</div>
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The dining room table.</div>
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Cedar branches, cranberries in canning jars, tea lights.</div>
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There are four of these candle jars, so we'll use them as an Advent Wreath.</div>
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A Target tree on the shelf,</div>
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a bit of eucalyptus on the island.</div>
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Green in the wintertime:</div>
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life-giving.</div>
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The tree is in a vintage pewter cup, with a bit of faded flannel tied around it.</div>
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My Grampa made the wood rooster.</div>
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Now for some random glimpses of Christmas around the house.</div>
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Here's the lettered piano panel in the tiny library.</div>
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(all lettering done by my daughter)</div>
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The library sofa, with our shabby silver tree in an ice bucket.</div>
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This sofa has been with us since we married, it's from my parents. We've had it recovered twice, but now it has a new linen sheet thrown over it. It looks tidy, but only because we rarely use it.</div>
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Our shiplap headboard, with linen twine strung above it, and a few vintage ornaments.</div>
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Malachi violently objected to this particular decoration.</div>
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Anna Kate's room is all decked out, thanks to her love of paper art.</div>
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Here's her new scroll.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7Dxons7hMRlqGBtvWJwN6jlXXZhYz_jgDgezfZGn2HreEsq9TAGQpQSlXU08YOhQKVTcpH-QFXEeoEccAD-GkVvfn8u_-b8pVdg0x7XvsL2FXB1CRvdwR54vwsCEZSxWuLRoH2PpcDaY/s1600/21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7Dxons7hMRlqGBtvWJwN6jlXXZhYz_jgDgezfZGn2HreEsq9TAGQpQSlXU08YOhQKVTcpH-QFXEeoEccAD-GkVvfn8u_-b8pVdg0x7XvsL2FXB1CRvdwR54vwsCEZSxWuLRoH2PpcDaY/s640/21.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Her shelves, with a new paper tree in a vintage clipboard.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAld5tt4npFbaJKQB1e9rY9KkXQmeygnGGcrhZdnTZgjGCoqgdbyNnNSudG_jJf5d0NklrADmWqQbL-LY5U8JUAt0n4o8bDZ0u3vtlja_-LUV-hdnFKR2PMktWvTH6hTNdcqKkG-R_835e/s1600/22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAld5tt4npFbaJKQB1e9rY9KkXQmeygnGGcrhZdnTZgjGCoqgdbyNnNSudG_jJf5d0NklrADmWqQbL-LY5U8JUAt0n4o8bDZ0u3vtlja_-LUV-hdnFKR2PMktWvTH6hTNdcqKkG-R_835e/s640/22.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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What can I give him,</div>
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poor as I am?</div>
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If I were a shepherd, </div>
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I would bring a lamb.</div>
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If I were a wise man,</div>
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I would do my part.</div>
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Yet what I can I give him,</div>
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give my heart.</div>
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-Rossetti</div>
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I pray for you a Christmas full of warmth, rich in love, simple as a stable, with room for the treasure that your heart is longing to receive.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.oscarbravohome.com/p/welcome.html">Oscar Bravo Home</a><br />
<a href="https://linktr.ee/dontdisturbthisgrooveblog">Don't Disturb this Groove Blog</a><br />
<a href="https://creekwoodhill.com/2017/11/21/sprucing-up-your-home-for-the-winter-holidays/">Creekwoodhill</a><br />
<a href="https://linktr.ee/notinggrace">Noting Grace</a><br /><a href="http://irisnacole.com/all-is-calm-in-the-dining-room-holiday-decorating-ideas/">Iris Nacole</a><br />
<a href="http://www.bungalowblueinteriors.com/">Bungalow Blue Interiors</a><br />
<a href="http://www.rachelelizabethblog.com/2017/11/deck-halls-blog-hop.html">Rachel Elizabeth Creates</a><br />
<a href="https://acarriedaffairblog.com/">A Carrie'd Affair Blog</a></div>
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-46681047319596531042017-09-20T22:09:00.000-05:002017-09-21T13:01:30.902-05:00Julia's Wedding (Part One)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZleUWA64p7fXMBVetkmmxJVW-IZSjMRbg88o1xNRkGWhamzMb_Hl3poQ6BVOmt99Z69TXbcIqwtI_eP1kVTh0vRxRLV4jOuQ3NsMqBwpSHPPZb9nAJJ2aPZUN4ScrT10yju-Mui1APg3B/s1600/LM005_1263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZleUWA64p7fXMBVetkmmxJVW-IZSjMRbg88o1xNRkGWhamzMb_Hl3poQ6BVOmt99Z69TXbcIqwtI_eP1kVTh0vRxRLV4jOuQ3NsMqBwpSHPPZb9nAJJ2aPZUN4ScrT10yju-Mui1APg3B/s640/LM005_1263.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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They're only 22 years old, but it seems they waited a long time to get married.</div>
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They met in kindergarten, when Julia was five and Ben was six.</div>
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They used to orchestrate how to meet in the hallway at school,</div>
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and once they were there,</div>
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they would kiss.</div>
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Just little baby kisses.</div>
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I knew nothing of this.</div>
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The next year, in first grade,</div>
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they were placed in separate classrooms,</div>
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and Ben was very sad about that.</div>
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<i>My daughters getting ready, early morning, July 29</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvUl6569F_FSaiJ112FXlQ6LgjyNhDE__8k4MUFaOiX0EJKM2DyTs-oYY5HK5byfodxNJnes9x_QO0Qmzy3alh6Q1WhAYAlN2Cm06asorOHlZf82mEZXdqOTM36ZQetI8-oB2yHT1edr4/s1600/LM005_0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvUl6569F_FSaiJ112FXlQ6LgjyNhDE__8k4MUFaOiX0EJKM2DyTs-oYY5HK5byfodxNJnes9x_QO0Qmzy3alh6Q1WhAYAlN2Cm06asorOHlZf82mEZXdqOTM36ZQetI8-oB2yHT1edr4/s640/LM005_0014.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<i>Julia's dress</i></div>
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Many years washed by.</div>
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Our little girl grew up, strong and gentle, capable and creative, lovely and easy to be with,</div>
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and Ben grew up too (mostly in Georgia). </div>
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They reconnected on social media,</div>
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Ben visited Julia in December of 2016,</div>
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and by February 2017, </div>
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they were engaged.</div>
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Honestly, Nate and I were a little rattled.</div>
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It was <i>so fast.</i></div>
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And we knew Ben, kind of, and he seemed like the sweetest kid.</div>
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And we knew his family, both from school and from church.</div>
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But <i>marriage.</i></div>
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It's such a big deal.</div>
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<i>Do you really love him? </i>I asked my girl.</div>
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And she answered with no pause,</div>
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<i>Yes, Mom, I really love him.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFO4bZJwaIQymyiVcsveKaNWvPt6XpJqvSPh2V4FGztDvGPtj0rhFURvjEC6QbXRUBa5-lS7hTZ5jCa_OLqrzooTnft0fcGJr0eSKkMPQ8AZYbyIm7oqBbqSgvdk9a3RlJV9-Q_3-2elOq/s1600/LM005_0055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><i><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFO4bZJwaIQymyiVcsveKaNWvPt6XpJqvSPh2V4FGztDvGPtj0rhFURvjEC6QbXRUBa5-lS7hTZ5jCa_OLqrzooTnft0fcGJr0eSKkMPQ8AZYbyIm7oqBbqSgvdk9a3RlJV9-Q_3-2elOq/s640/LM005_0055.jpg" width="640" /></i></a></div>
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<i>Lipstick in mama's room. </i></div>
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<i>Those are my babies, there on the wall.</i></div>
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<i>That little fluffy-headed girl between her big brothers</i></div>
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<i>is our Julia, age two.</i></div>
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Sure. They were so sure of themselves.</div>
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Remember being 22, and knowing everything?</div>
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I found out later that they almost eloped.</div>
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They were tired of being apart,</div>
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Julia was tired of our loud household.</div>
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They wanted to be together.</div>
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<i>Julia's dress with a pink satin ribbon</i></div>
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So we began to plan.</div>
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It seemed like playing Wedding, at first.</div>
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Anna Kate started with lists and vendors and pricing.</div>
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The budget was tight, we'd have the wedding at home,</div>
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in the cute quonset-hut barn that Grandma Murphy had had built.</div>
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(Thank you, thank you, precious Grandma).</div>
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We had five months to empty out that full barn, and make it pretty.</div>
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Every other detail came together like a simple, beautiful weaving.</div>
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Emptying that little red barn took most of our time, most of our energy,</div>
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and we didn't get the last thing out of there (a huge ladder)</div>
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till mere hours before the wedding. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig7ZCuSY8lZ_QJ02utstZCkaND6lIuv7FG1o5UUHkxMDGewSY4zC4DCZqjva0iwCQQVx0iJ6V_NDHP6Lp3yy37FeJhOWjJ-qTBAkRn6t3d4M4-txD5iTcCt_AxVtXSRj4Ur9ECdUffZzqW/s1600/LM005_0118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig7ZCuSY8lZ_QJ02utstZCkaND6lIuv7FG1o5UUHkxMDGewSY4zC4DCZqjva0iwCQQVx0iJ6V_NDHP6Lp3yy37FeJhOWjJ-qTBAkRn6t3d4M4-txD5iTcCt_AxVtXSRj4Ur9ECdUffZzqW/s640/LM005_0118.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<i>In a blur of emotion, I draped Julia's dress over her head, put her necklace (made by me, with love, over many weeks) on her neck, and tied her satin ribbon around her waist. I was crying so hard that I'm surprised any fotos turned out.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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Months went by, Ben and Julia were able to see each other a few more times.</div>
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They were so sweet together.</div>
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Young love is new, unhurt, unsullied.</div>
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I was glad they were marrying quickly,</div>
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but the dread of her leaving home was making my heart heavy.</div>
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At first, I stalked her.</div>
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That got old (mostly for her).</div>
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I had to loose my grip on this sweetest girl of mine, </div>
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and let her belong to somebody else.</div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnO0sRjOOWV5NzIE2NUTNg1fHwf0_ovzCCNXpqS_rkcCnWBMCQ6UvtrEJNrDUN1avuWeEJ02QNZshEGap_ClJZhPWMTwwDAH6egbss-1Ox3vBLOBXp66kfGWtnkD7Kn8XTyuqkaDfzzvjK/s1600/LM005_0162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnO0sRjOOWV5NzIE2NUTNg1fHwf0_ovzCCNXpqS_rkcCnWBMCQ6UvtrEJNrDUN1avuWeEJ02QNZshEGap_ClJZhPWMTwwDAH6egbss-1Ox3vBLOBXp66kfGWtnkD7Kn8XTyuqkaDfzzvjK/s640/LM005_0162.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i> Giving gifts to the bridesmaids</i></div>
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Julia's bridesmaids were Linnea, Ellie, Lydia and Anna Kate. </div>
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Her sister was her maid-of-honor</div>
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(And Chief Wedding-Planner).</div>
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Lydia is Ben's sister.</div>
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Ellie and Linnea are Julia's oldest friends.</div>
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The gifts were pearl necklaces, each unique,</div>
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in vintage beaded clutches.</div>
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Ellie and Linnea are emotive,</div>
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and they said so wonderingly,</div>
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"Julia! <b>Julia! </b>Oh Julia!"</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>First Look</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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Ben and his best man waited patiently outside.</div>
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The girls did their own hair and make-up,</div>
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and it took much longer than we expected.</div>
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First look was out in the meadow, in the brilliant morning sunshine,</div>
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and it was lovely.</div>
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<i>Always be humble and kind...</i></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And always, always make her laugh.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Humor softens everything.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Lydia, Anna Kate, Julia, Linnea, Ellie</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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They are so young, fresh and beautiful!</div>
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<i>Roses and eucalyptus</i></div>
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I made the bouquets from Farmers Market flowers, several bunches of roses and a big spray of eucalyptus. Caleb and Krista went there for us. The bridesmaids' bouquets were in water-filled vintage glass beakers, they looked special. </div>
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<i>Ben and his groomsmen</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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These were the most relaxed, groovy groomsmen. Ben's best friend,</div>
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his two brothers,</div>
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two of his cousins.</div>
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They wanted a sunglasses pic,</div>
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but no one had sunglasses.</div>
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So they borrowed the girls'.</div>
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<br /></div>
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(Fun fact: Julia has two brothers named Isaac and Caleb,</div>
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Ben has two brothers named Isaac and Caleb.</div>
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All named before I knew Ben's mom.</div>
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Weird, huh?)</div>
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<i>Julia Jordan-Rose, laughing...</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM1grP44tOQod881laWCxH1i68XzglXi-cbm_622z6e-84CapNzqptXlw2rWaqmWXhOBdxMUiltmmGPBrz6-oYb3y1rXDNU89E6OPPYwFPZmcaxbNnHixd7ah2qTk-hDUBefwpV-3KH01I/s1600/LM005_1032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM1grP44tOQod881laWCxH1i68XzglXi-cbm_622z6e-84CapNzqptXlw2rWaqmWXhOBdxMUiltmmGPBrz6-oYb3y1rXDNU89E6OPPYwFPZmcaxbNnHixd7ah2qTk-hDUBefwpV-3KH01I/s640/LM005_1032.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<i>....and pensive.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwcS13AhRLKd1PZuUtM-6Z4228KEnZeqacCAj9zdWygUp0taI2qmJiJK7c0xB21jZQbWLNSrSxBbcE9JL3pSdb-nP2mRKQGW5kttXNzN4R3BDLRPCrB3XY3E9fFK5tJLbklRdtnfOwPUsf/s1600/LM005_1040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwcS13AhRLKd1PZuUtM-6Z4228KEnZeqacCAj9zdWygUp0taI2qmJiJK7c0xB21jZQbWLNSrSxBbcE9JL3pSdb-nP2mRKQGW5kttXNzN4R3BDLRPCrB3XY3E9fFK5tJLbklRdtnfOwPUsf/s640/LM005_1040.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Luke, Austin, Joe, Ben, Isaac, Caleb</i></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My baby girl forever</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYoctBOlOkUXaAyqnimkyZN-z3swenSsL0DjczJ3jJXYOTXuGX3E9R5UMIUgPpq2QpF-MV_awA9xsSMUT8tA8YoBi_GH_nudONrCFOedXcncRk35ORii1_TpCXBGC5JxoKha34vZrl1sy/s1600/LM005_1177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYoctBOlOkUXaAyqnimkyZN-z3swenSsL0DjczJ3jJXYOTXuGX3E9R5UMIUgPpq2QpF-MV_awA9xsSMUT8tA8YoBi_GH_nudONrCFOedXcncRk35ORii1_TpCXBGC5JxoKha34vZrl1sy/s640/LM005_1177.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>The tent at the back of the barn, where the wedding party was seated.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOCQbJ5ho0ZNZduMgp-orqU8LomkaNVmFjC153nGDl6fdjaR5R41Fwfjibf_74PGfVmM2di6KZoD4hyaiub3i9zM6Ejnlu0jk10hxzXFugxOu7XSOTsqijwUmuxKHf32YZ-Za6xw5xmTuE/s1600/LM005_1207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOCQbJ5ho0ZNZduMgp-orqU8LomkaNVmFjC153nGDl6fdjaR5R41Fwfjibf_74PGfVmM2di6KZoD4hyaiub3i9zM6Ejnlu0jk10hxzXFugxOu7XSOTsqijwUmuxKHf32YZ-Za6xw5xmTuE/s640/LM005_1207.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Caleb and Krista, Ben and Julia, Anna Kate, and the two single guys: Isaac and Malachi</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We are totally blessed by our five children.<br />
We're grateful that they're finding spouses who follow Jesus.</div>
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We didn't have much of a plan, but God did.</div>
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We love them, we pray for them, we do our best to let them go.<br />
That's been the hardest part.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3TquWnzEQOWziMVSWr8YONSzkG-bmttpFmORqAODZ4P8o1cIuoZp-k9Z_ltKDxoMKb0fnemdjw4zoD9a6aGdR6vWypre2I5QnPgtkrY0CeoD29nCUooizHU_9p2r7Y0Bvjqu52yy54sO/s1600/LM005_1214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK3TquWnzEQOWziMVSWr8YONSzkG-bmttpFmORqAODZ4P8o1cIuoZp-k9Z_ltKDxoMKb0fnemdjw4zoD9a6aGdR6vWypre2I5QnPgtkrY0CeoD29nCUooizHU_9p2r7Y0Bvjqu52yy54sO/s640/LM005_1214.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Ben's family: Lilia, Caleb, Ben and Julia, Isaac, Lydia</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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Oh my goodness. Adorableness.</div>
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<i>Julia with Nate and me</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i> </i>I had to include a pic of Nate! He adores his daughter. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Also, the wedding would not actually have happened without his hard work.</div>
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He built the stage, raked the meadow, took out 100 gopher mounds, cleared the last heavy things from the barn, set up the sound system, and showed up in time to walk his daughter down the grass aisle.</div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8WwA5dRJBaCHUFGLmZRQWHpKQKFV0O9nYCLBHuC7qAPdNZ4_xx-rBfgwF9l_b3Dyrg0jHk7p-GDIm8OEyKwKpVs7yunNMrzBtOLTUbqS73PN7LMF0ojsQUZ9cZiMlCP6QdtdtuYMVcMy/s1600/LM005_1266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8WwA5dRJBaCHUFGLmZRQWHpKQKFV0O9nYCLBHuC7qAPdNZ4_xx-rBfgwF9l_b3Dyrg0jHk7p-GDIm8OEyKwKpVs7yunNMrzBtOLTUbqS73PN7LMF0ojsQUZ9cZiMlCP6QdtdtuYMVcMy/s640/LM005_1266.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Praying together, right before the ceremony</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>.....</i>and that concludes Part 1. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The ceremony and reception will be posted after my friend Jess gives us the fotos,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and after I dry these pesky tears.</div>
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They keep falling and falling.</div>
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(Beautiful images by Justin and Jessica Wohlrabe, Minneapolis)</div>
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-4911768466712288382017-06-21T06:13:00.001-05:002017-06-21T07:54:29.374-05:00Five Tips for a Summer Refresh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Welcome to our porch! You're probably coming from <a href="http://sixseeds.patheos.com/notinggrace/2017/06/budget-friendly-dining-room-makeover.html">Noting Grace's</a> lovely home tour, and I'm glad you're here. We switched up a few things, let me show you around. I have Five Easy Tips for summer refresh decorating, they don't cost much and they're easy to do! I'd never want anyone to spend more than they can afford, or needlessly add clutter. Here's how I make summer as pretty as possible, while staying in budget. </div>
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1. Don't go little - go big! </div>
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Our old chairs were needed elsewhere, for extra patio seating, so we went hunting for something more comfortable. I hoped to find rockers, and these were at a local home improvement store. The colors are perfect for our porch We could have spent this money on pots, plants, rugs, candles and lanterns. Um nope. I'd rather go simple, and have furniture that we enjoy sitting on.</div>
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2. Add a new color, and repeat it a few times.</div>
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Julia's fiance, Ben, gave her this red geranium, and although red flowers aren't usually my thing, doesn't it look darling here? Julia is picky about how I take care of it. She doesn't exactly trust me with plants.</div>
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A peek of the potted lobelia, the brightest, richest blue flowers. They often fade in the heat of summer, I'm hoping these hold out since they're often shaded. A few flags from Target Dollar Spot fill out the pot and tie in the red and blue.</div>
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A flag, a fern, a blue ceiling, wicker rockers, and a rolling meadow to gaze upon.<br />
All you need are the classics.</div>
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3. Add green, as much as possible, as cheaply as possible.</div>
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This big fern was only $15 at Costco. All the indoor greens are free from our land. Branches, ferns, blossoms and leaves - they make every space lively and interesting. </div>
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We are painting, making, cleaning and planting to get ready for our daughter's July wedding. This old piano panel needed fresh paint, then simple lettering by my younger daughter. We'll probably use it at the wedding, with Ben and Julia's names on it.</div>
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The flag flutters in the breeze. Last year we didn't have landscaping or many plants. It's so fun to have these blooming shrubs and perennials. They're thriving so far, although several of the peonies didn't bloom. C'mon, ladies, I'm counting on you for all my giant-flower goals.</div>
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4. Add a touch of boho </div>
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{Our living, dining and kitchen areas} </div>
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I restyled the cabinet for summer, using a big frame that my husband made from vintage trim. Also tree roots from Lake Superior, a potted Prayer Plant, and an antique bottle cap press. My favorite elements of boho are the plants (sometimes weird ones), the pottery, the macrame and the fresh white to set everything off. I've added plants, macrame and white, but I'm still on the hunt for vintage pottery. </div>
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And now that I've suggested adding this, that and the other thing - here's my last, most important tip:</div>
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5. Take away - don't add!</div>
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Most rooms need less stuff, not more. The easiest decorating in the world is to simply take everything off the walls and off the surfaces, and start over. </div>
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Instead of shopping, try cleaning. A clean, plain house is a beautiful sight.</div>
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Then add your plants, a few pillows, interesting art and whatever makes your heart sing.</div>
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But your heart doesn't need to sing all the songs, all the time.</div>
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Just one song, maybe even a single note.</div>
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The two fotos above are from<br />
my daughter's room, which she decorated completely by herself.<br />
I like the elements of paper, art, live plants, and vintage treasures. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKkizZ0ms9qJZ4Oua8qMMTO0WJVNCAU8d8y72_MXqPYpUPu-VMF0VSAkotyYXbNBYiNZjFBEZ_7LOS9-yHruK0fR2AMnKZjxHl4IbLwvIcOoOz7P5ejc12ipdkaKazmyUPVLg_ScDEtQuM/s1600/shl11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKkizZ0ms9qJZ4Oua8qMMTO0WJVNCAU8d8y72_MXqPYpUPu-VMF0VSAkotyYXbNBYiNZjFBEZ_7LOS9-yHruK0fR2AMnKZjxHl4IbLwvIcOoOz7P5ejc12ipdkaKazmyUPVLg_ScDEtQuM/s640/shl11.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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With Malachi on his fifth birthday, when we put a plastic tablecloth on the table and played with a water blob! Grab each summer, they are so precious.<br />
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Now click <a href="http://seekinglavenderlane.com/?p=5717">here</a> to head over to Seeking Lavender Lane's beautiful and rustic home.<br />
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Below you'll find a list of all 13 bloggers in this Summer Hop. Our posts are short and simple,<br />
but full of lovely ideas. Enjoy! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUtBEhIW01tfrrj71sGoeuDNytqqfJwqVyARaZBwDns1NxkRdpcJqeFFMpXsgWNX71D0r2zeomnj57I40Vyt-ZZJonK76siEX9WDaEXIApEsHPlGpb2CcVfXJda48MuXlxHsRna3qn13KY/s1600/Summer+Home+Love+Graphic.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1600" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUtBEhIW01tfrrj71sGoeuDNytqqfJwqVyARaZBwDns1NxkRdpcJqeFFMpXsgWNX71D0r2zeomnj57I40Vyt-ZZJonK76siEX9WDaEXIApEsHPlGpb2CcVfXJda48MuXlxHsRna3qn13KY/s640/Summer+Home+Love+Graphic.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.almafied.com/?p=2999">Almafied</a><br />
<a href="https://www.beesnburlap.com/?p=1537">Bees N Burlap</a><br />
<a href="https://creekwoodhill.com/2057/simple-and-easy-summer-entertaining-ideas-for-everyone">Creekwoodhill</a><br />
<a href="http://bet1975.blogspot.com/2017/06/summer-home-love.html">Don't Disturb This Groove</a><br />
<a href="http://www.farmhouseforfive.com/">Farmhouse for Five</a><br />
<a href="http://www.honeynhydrangea.com/?p=2097">Honey N Hydrangea</a><br />
<a href="http://www.loveyourabode.com/?p=7336">Love Your Abode</a><br />
<a href="http://www.ninacecilia.com/summer-outdoor-space-summer-home-love">Nina and Cecilia</a><br />
<a href="http://sixseeds.patheos.com/notinggrace/2017/06/budget-friendly-dining-room-makeover.html">Noting Grace</a><br />
<a href="http://seekinglavenderlane.com/?p=5717">Seeking Lavender Lane</a></div>
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-4332926743679194432017-03-14T17:07:00.001-05:002017-03-15T07:26:57.579-05:00Color for Spring<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzOXrQgS-O5niU7_z3YN-COLtIRYA2I_W7TrHr6KKrPfBPfGeiL-8SbkQ98EkxLXFvCO59_hYb1jLn8fIEP0OqaHM_blrPleuutL7v9EPZ6MMPrij_XRoXlsYo2wjVMHXXdB92Pj9C_Y4D/s1600/IMG_20170310_141438-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzOXrQgS-O5niU7_z3YN-COLtIRYA2I_W7TrHr6KKrPfBPfGeiL-8SbkQ98EkxLXFvCO59_hYb1jLn8fIEP0OqaHM_blrPleuutL7v9EPZ6MMPrij_XRoXlsYo2wjVMHXXdB92Pj9C_Y4D/s640/IMG_20170310_141438-01.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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March it is, and the weather outside is bordering on frightful.</div>
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It's about nine degrees, no hint of spring, no buds or any shade of green to be found,</div>
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except in the sod, where little brown mouse trails cut random rivers </div>
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through the dull grass.</div>
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Weather notwithstanding, I'm welcoming you to my Spring Tour!</div>
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You're probably here from <a href="http://www.thisrusticcottage.com/2017/03/13/easy-ways-to-decorate-for-spring/">This Rustic Cottage's</a> beautiful blog tour.</div>
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Welcome to our house in the country.</div>
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Our house is usually white, gray and cream, with green plants as the main accent color.</div>
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But last week I decided to make new pillows, and of course couldn't find exactly what I wanted (robin's egg blue linen), and this floral jumped into my cart.</div>
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Fabric: Jo-Ann, HGTV Garden Odyssey Fog</div>
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It feels like bark cloth, a nubby cottony texture.</div>
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Suddenly, these were the brightest things in the house.<br />
Now I had my Spring palette - coral, yellow and a bit of blue.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHymK6H4UJ7DPHGFKNjAdcrPfDSjZKfzuuMXeR1lSgL2MoYFi8LXrB7p3ap2vkhpFSSQnzb1wuBgqOHDdwTIEsrZ_MpKLPqYt8X8grRLdbMRmd_UagSUvg0pLl1EstiuofThcPkuLqTJHh/s1600/IMG_20170310_140956-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHymK6H4UJ7DPHGFKNjAdcrPfDSjZKfzuuMXeR1lSgL2MoYFi8LXrB7p3ap2vkhpFSSQnzb1wuBgqOHDdwTIEsrZ_MpKLPqYt8X8grRLdbMRmd_UagSUvg0pLl1EstiuofThcPkuLqTJHh/s640/IMG_20170310_140956-01.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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So I hunted about, and found my daughter's vintage yellow planter, and filled it with new Baby's Tears, which have to be the cutest little greenery ever.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv8fN8X5YqJ3pGc9nWu8MIIAxZ-DEHlchw0YJq7X05YvwN-sBm9Y3arZc4fEIMw6fIgR9igWDfxdL-7oQ1QcnF_KxvG9ZX1tKWe8bA6uCRK_ByWw4DqWJGNjBzLLgYXEYgEljqE-J9IuNr/s1600/IMG_20170309_124438-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv8fN8X5YqJ3pGc9nWu8MIIAxZ-DEHlchw0YJq7X05YvwN-sBm9Y3arZc4fEIMw6fIgR9igWDfxdL-7oQ1QcnF_KxvG9ZX1tKWe8bA6uCRK_ByWw4DqWJGNjBzLLgYXEYgEljqE-J9IuNr/s640/IMG_20170309_124438-01.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I stuck a candle in a tiny pot that our oldest son made, way back in grade school.</div>
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From there, it was easy to add pops of color, especially yellow.</div>
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Here's the view from a corner of the dining room, with the living room reflected in the round. </div>
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(Tree basket chandelier made by my husband, using copper tubing and painted pvc pipe).</div>
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Mirror: Ikea </div>
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Fireplace brick: Nob Hill</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPT9n01xqu-Z82k7WBW46SfJlcLvwZWVvH1ZXHiZLV0K0OCQEjGUd5s-sTOODv7qNA3tsIe6EK2uvIPfVbTAKAMhH1d_jPZlfb7eI-QugGgBkXESGMZqPsmSWFPtbFrhIdhYb1wwZsmNwA/s1600/IMG_20170310_113708-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPT9n01xqu-Z82k7WBW46SfJlcLvwZWVvH1ZXHiZLV0K0OCQEjGUd5s-sTOODv7qNA3tsIe6EK2uvIPfVbTAKAMhH1d_jPZlfb7eI-QugGgBkXESGMZqPsmSWFPtbFrhIdhYb1wwZsmNwA/s640/IMG_20170310_113708-01.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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And on to the dining room. Our main level is kind of a four-square, with the entry and living room at the front of the house, and the kitchen and dining room at the back.</div>
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(The laundry/mudroom/back hallway/powder room are along the left side of the house).</div>
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I kept things simple for spring. I made the pillows, and I painted a few things.</div>
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The inside of this old card catalog was too dark, it was looking yellowish.</div>
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I painted the catalog, the dining room table, and a little piano bench that sits below the round mirror.</div>
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Everything got a coat of Origami White by SW. Honestly, painting is not my most favorite thing.</div>
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The table especially gave me fits.</div>
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I finally thought to add some Floetrol to the paint, and from there on the task went smoothly. </div>
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The fresh white, non-yellow paint made the room brighter and more cohesive.</div>
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I love styling this catalog.</div>
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The drawers are useful, they're full of candles, playing cards, </div>
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movie dvd's and jewelry making supplies. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibSARi18uUk2ZzdcwYuTjrseqvEJzUZ8qBIbE0VVthinSwocfIihcS7RlyKvLfsGSCWgxdcJ_ZgRTNhe-7aaABJAIo_Qd7QPAkFaKh2-oBB4swQF56ZEm4Sx6ONikgVEH33xkOpQCE5lF1/s1600/IMG_20170304_160705-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibSARi18uUk2ZzdcwYuTjrseqvEJzUZ8qBIbE0VVthinSwocfIihcS7RlyKvLfsGSCWgxdcJ_ZgRTNhe-7aaABJAIo_Qd7QPAkFaKh2-oBB4swQF56ZEm4Sx6ONikgVEH33xkOpQCE5lF1/s640/IMG_20170304_160705-01.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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In a few months, I can fill this French Market basket with flowering branches.</div>
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Not now, my friends.</div>
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You get sticks.</div>
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Sticks is all I've got.</div>
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Honestly, the table still isn't perfect. But it's an old table and I'm okay with that.</div>
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I've always liked these little glass beakers in their springs.</div>
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The grain sack was found on Etsy.</div>
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Curtain panels: drop cloths from Home Depot</div>
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Curtain hardware: Ikea</div>
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Chandelier: Solento from Bellacor </div>
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Wall paint: Light Pewter, BM</div>
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Slip-covered sofa and chairs: Ikea</div>
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Now onto the kitchen!</div>
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Just a few pics here, since I didn't do much new decorating.</div>
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The range hood is made from wood and new copper, distressed with salt and vinegar spray till it achieved a verdigris finish. My husband (a master carpenter, he built our house) dreamed it up and made it. It's funny, for how picky I am about design, how many things he decided. </div>
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Faucet: Wayfair</div>
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Sink: Kohler</div>
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Range: Verona</div>
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Butcher Block: Boos Block</div>
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The bar stools badly needed another coat of light blue paint.</div>
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The planked kitchen ceiling is the same color, BM #715. </div>
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Cabinets: Samuelson Cabinetry, Anoka, Minnesota</div>
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Cabinet paint: Chantilly Lace, BM</div>
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Walls: Light Pewter, BM</div>
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Island: Vintage Drafting table</div>
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Bar stools: Husky, from Home Depot</div>
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Now on to our master bedroom, which is upstairs near the two kids' bedrooms.</div>
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I love this room.</div>
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It's not fancy or frilly, it's just cozy and simple and comfortable and fresh. </div>
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Walls: Chantilly Lace, BM</div>
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Ceiling: Ephemera, Ralph Lauren</div>
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Bed frame: West Elm</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmuvR-g0__fcceUt4ZNxnQHGl_0nd3s6bZY_tu8ze1M9_e4CPiSz089R86EmNIbFQHUKmj-3HDKBba0E_8Vbf_sPMdgpiREaWmJ3sKUlNTd1NROX9vJKzfLUMCPUdwHm9cQBk-maww9fLa/s1600/IMG_20170304_162357-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmuvR-g0__fcceUt4ZNxnQHGl_0nd3s6bZY_tu8ze1M9_e4CPiSz089R86EmNIbFQHUKmj-3HDKBba0E_8Vbf_sPMdgpiREaWmJ3sKUlNTd1NROX9vJKzfLUMCPUdwHm9cQBk-maww9fLa/s640/IMG_20170304_162357-01.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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My husband made the shiplap wall behind the bed. I don't care what they say about shiplap and trends, I love it, especially in moderation. This wall is more comfortable than a wood headboard, it's easier to clean around, it draws the eye up, it adds subtle color (Chelsea Gray, mixed with water).</div>
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Bedding is Ikea</div>
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Euro pillow shams are Ralph Lauren</div>
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Lamps are Target</div>
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I pulled this old pillow out of our closet, I had forgotten </div>
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how even fabric flowers cheer up a space so much! </div>
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(Save your vintage buttons, that's what these are. And keep your eyes open for cool buttons at thrift stores, they're easy to put on a boring sweater to make it wonderful. I look for vintage, and Anthro.)</div>
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This gray dresser is usually packed with fotos of our five children.</div>
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It never, ever looks like this.</div>
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I thought you should know that.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTUTMOhJsySy7amFVinM0SSrJ4JQgY2tJyNhyphenhyphenhWqx2mY4kiRI3FEg4_qdTlccTb1JsgOuDmtcMiwf6R85Aa8xAK_alDWbcB-z0opcVaGS3X0f5GB2zWPWHsQ1aWMAzS3ngXZGd6MY5NMPy/s1600/IMG_20170304_162152-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTUTMOhJsySy7amFVinM0SSrJ4JQgY2tJyNhyphenhyphenhWqx2mY4kiRI3FEg4_qdTlccTb1JsgOuDmtcMiwf6R85Aa8xAK_alDWbcB-z0opcVaGS3X0f5GB2zWPWHsQ1aWMAzS3ngXZGd6MY5NMPy/s640/IMG_20170304_162152-01.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Books and flowers and a cleared-off surface.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So calm.</div>
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And when you can't find a pillow for the little green chair,</div>
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you just toss some birch bark on it and call it good.</div>
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Chair: Maine Cottage</div>
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Bench: found at an antique store in Elk River, Minnesota<br />
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Thanks so much for stopping by.. </div>
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Now to continue with this Spring Blog Hop, head over to <a href="http://www.littleglassjar.com/2017/03/15/farmhouse-spring-home-tour/">Little Glass Jar!</a></div>
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You'll love what you see.</div>
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"You can cut</div>
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all the flowers</div>
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but you cannot</div>
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keep spring</div>
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from coming."</div>
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(Pablo Neruda)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHEfX0BJAJ2GFZwDBA-3VFuFtzpS4EYW5YW7y9L4RLFKyeCOzbOJj554FUPt_jY5LeO1Y58ThxFsqXpy9ERsiZRnl3FjRZKq39hggAjGNtukkEykd0zykcf4ZkSOzBxKc_7Two0cWUJPui/s1600/Screenshot_2017-03-14-17-00-05-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHEfX0BJAJ2GFZwDBA-3VFuFtzpS4EYW5YW7y9L4RLFKyeCOzbOJj554FUPt_jY5LeO1Y58ThxFsqXpy9ERsiZRnl3FjRZKq39hggAjGNtukkEykd0zykcf4ZkSOzBxKc_7Two0cWUJPui/s400/Screenshot_2017-03-14-17-00-05-1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://bet1975.blogspot.com/2017/03/spring-home-love.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Don't Disturb This Groove Blog</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://creekwoodhill.com/2017/03/14/decorating-for-spring" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Creekwoodhill</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.hoodcreeklogcabin.com/2017/03/a-gathered-vintage-spring-spring-home.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Hood Creek Log Cabin</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://ahouseandadog.com/2017/03/5-ways-decorate-spring-without-shopping" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A House and a Dog</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.loveyourabode.com/?p=6831&preview=true" target="_blank">Love Your Abode</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.farmhouseforfive.com/2017/03/spring-home-tour.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Farmhouse For Five</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://wp.me/p7nxUf-hQ" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bees N Burlap</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://wp.me/p6ZKvv-tw" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Honey N Hydrangea</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.ninacecilia.com/decorating-for-spring-spring-home-love-home-tour" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Nina and Cecilia</span></a></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.almafied.com/how-to-easily-ad" target="_blank">Almafied</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.thisrusticcottage.com/2017/03/13/easy-ways-to-decorate-for-spring/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">This Rustic Cottage</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://renewmyhome.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Meadow Farmhouse</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.littleglassjar.com/2017/03/15/farmhouse-spring-home-tour/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Little Glass Jar</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://sixseeds.patheos.com/notinggrace/2017/03/spring-home-love.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Noting Grace</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.fwmadebycarli.com/2017/03/springhomelove-spring-home-tour-2017.html" target="_blank">Seeking Lavender Lane<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></a></span><br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span id="goog_932680294"></span>Fearfully and Wonderfully Made by Carli<span id="goog_932680295"></span></span></span></a></div>
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-87277083367630590632016-07-30T13:12:00.001-05:002016-08-05T08:56:24.791-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-5374604146277624282016-07-30T13:12:00.000-05:002016-08-05T08:58:01.253-05:00House Tour<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSerqaqqHBtqm6_1wppmbdKbVUV5CRE-6s2w7ujVtOTeFzulz8br0jIYq5mTOtTxvHGR6_mPL7WmBCVfrNa-3ex2ZJZeFGoCh6EmYtJfcgR09MuoA9ahPbzjAeqGaH85f7X-_aTM1RlGwb/s1600/P5310631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSerqaqqHBtqm6_1wppmbdKbVUV5CRE-6s2w7ujVtOTeFzulz8br0jIYq5mTOtTxvHGR6_mPL7WmBCVfrNa-3ex2ZJZeFGoCh6EmYtJfcgR09MuoA9ahPbzjAeqGaH85f7X-_aTM1RlGwb/s640/P5310631.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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The story of our house began four years ago. That when Nate's parents found a beautiful piece of farmland that Had Everything. Water, woods, hills and meadows.<br />
Two years later, Nate's dad died after a long illness. Nate's mom, Corrine, started talking about building a family house on the land. She was living alone (with 3000 square feet). We were living a bit cramped, with three of our five children still at home. We liked our house. But we didn't love the busy highway along our backyard.<br />
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(Door is Palladian Blue by Ben Moore) <br />
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We started sketching house plans. Corrine drew the plans, and Nate and I weighed in on changes. Quite a few changes. It's an unusual house. Corrine's part of it is like a loft above the garage. She has her own entrance from her garage (behind the ones seen here). Stairs off the back hallway and off the little library connect to her loft. It was tricky to get it right. Nate had lots of ideas about the whole house plan, since he would be building it. I had lots of ideas about ceiling height, windows, porches and where our bedroom would go (I wanted to be near the kids).<br />
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After a year of planning, we were ready to build. Excavation started in June 2015. My husband took an entire year to build the house, thereby keeping costs down to about $110 per square foot. Corrine moved into her adorable loft in December, we moved in with her a few weeks later (she's very patient), and on January 13, 2016, our CO was obtained and we moved into our mostly-finished house.<br />
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The house is 2400 square feet (plus a partly finished basement where our older daughter has her space). Corrine's loft is about 1000 feet. It feels like the right amount of space for our family. <br />
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Welcome to our house! When you look at these pictures, remember that there is no perfect house. It was hard for us to give up our single-family home. It was a big deal to decide to live on a family compound. (Nate's brother and his family also live on this land). You can love your family a whole ton (and we all do), these are still things to think about.<br />
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It turns out my favorite part about living here isn't the beautiful two-story that you see in these pictures. My favorite part is the land. The quiet, the wildlife, the big sky, the farming community. I used to feel sorry for people who lived in the country. Now I know it's the best place in the world.<br />
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(I'll give sources as I'm able, but a lot of the stuff came from family or thrift stores. Shopping for this house was stressful for me. I would have liked to find everything on the side of the road!) <br />
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Walking in the front door, go right to enter the living room. It's about 16'x16', same as the dining room. These square rooms lend a Craftsman feel to the house.<br />
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The walls are Light Pewter, the trim throughout the house is Chantilly Lace (both by Benjamin Moore).<br />
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I've hardly hung anything on these walls. Love the simplicity.<br />
The curtains are drop cloths from Home Depot, on Ikea rods and rings.<br />
I don't care for most lampshades, so I usually leave the wire frame bare.<br />
Table from Chipping with Charm in Otsego, MN.<br />
Grain sack from Junk Bonanza in Shakopee, MN.<br />
Lamp from The Round Barn in Andover, MN.<br />
Telephone from my childhood mission center in Yarinacocha, Peru.<br />
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It's the trim work (my carpenter husband's specialty) that sets this room apart. In bright sunlight it glows like a pearl. He stood around for many hours, figuring out what he wanted. I totally let him decide. And usually when it comes to design, I like to make the decisions!<br />
The window above the fireplace holds a vintage piano window, found on Craigslist, held in place with a grid.<br />
Fireplace brick is Nob Hill, available on Amazon.<br />
Chandelier ("Salento") available on Amazon.<br />
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The first design change I asked for was nine foot ceilings. We've been in a house in Georgia that had 14 foot ceilings. That was actually scary. These feel just right.<br />
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The living room and dining room are the exact same size. Let's take a minute to acknowledge this ceiling trim. I would have been fine with something rustic, plain, maybe painted. But my fancy talented husband made this, and I do love it. He also made the chandelier (out of a vintage tree basket, pvc pipe, copper wire, and spray paint. Yes). Oh and he made the cabinet out of an antique card catalog. But he did not make that big mirror. No sirree. You can thank Ikea for that beauty.<br />
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I didn't have to buy too much for this space. Just the rug (Joss and Main), the drop cloth curtains, and the grain sack runner off etsy. Because this house NEEDED more grain sack.<br />
The table is a great find from Ramshackled Treasures in Zimmerman, MN.<br />
The chairs are mismatched, most are from my uncle Dick's sale in Robbindale, MN. <br />
Pail from Chipping with Charm, my friend Laurel's shop. She has a booth at Antiques Downtown in Elk River, MN.<br />
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View from the dining room into the kitchen, with a glimpse of the back hallway at the left.<br />
Bar stools are Husky work stools from Home Depot, found on clearance. I painted the seats BM #715 to match the ceiling. <br />
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The kitchen is where my design dreams took off. I asked Nate for a planked, blue ceiling. He created it so beautifully, I wish I had asked for more ceilings like this. It's painted Benjamin Moore #715. The name of the color is not poetic and I don't enjoy saying it, so I give you a number.<br />
Nate also made the wood hood with its verdigris copper trim. He sprayed salt and vinegar on the copper for about four days, till it was the color we wanted. It's still changing hue a bit. I love it because it's like art in my kitchen.<br />
The center island is a drafting table from Nate's parents' old pole barn. All it needed was sandblasting, painting, whitewashing (we didn't care for the bluish paint treatment), and a Boos Block top. Oh and our carpenter friend made two wonderful drawers on the sink side.<br />
The open shelves are fir, sandblasted and painted Chantilly Lace (BM).<br />
The lights over the sink are from Menards, I spray painted them.<br />
Cabinets are by Samuelson Cabinetmakers in Anoka, MN. They're a full-overlay Shaker style, painted Chantilly Lace by Murphy Brothers Paint shop in Blaine, MN (They painted all our enamel trim, doors and cabinets).<br />
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Standing in the back hallway, with a glimpse of the powder room on the left. This tiny powder room is my second-favorite thing about the house, after our master bath. I love that the Entire World is no longer traipsing into my bathroom. (But all you friends of Isaac and Caleb reading this - I MISS YOU!)<br />
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The cabinet is an Ikea hack. Nate spent four hours sanding it, so it could be the Bark stain that I hoped for. What a guy. I mean seriously. First he built a whole house (he says it's "just a house"), then he spent many weeks customizing furniture for it.<br />
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The floor is luxury vinyl tile from Menards, something Nate wanted. It hides all dirt, was a great price, and comes with a 50 year warranty.<br />
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I'll give you the upstairs tour now. This is where the house gets quite unusual. To be honest, I didn't understand how the stairs would look till they were done. The area at the top of the stairs is our little library and an office. The camera is in the little hallway at the top of the other flight of steps, off it are the three bedrooms and two baths.<br />
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One of my favorite features of the bedrooms are the angles in the ceilings. The kids have true dormers, but the angles in our room are just for cuteness. <br />
This is our teen daughter's room, decorated entirely by her. The bed was her Gramma's childhood bed. The doilies were made by my Gramma.<br />
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Our daughter installed her shelves. She also installed every curtain in the house!<br />
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Curtains are Lenda from Ikea.<br />
Wall color is Gray Owl by BM.<br />
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Our little boy's room. Bed made by Daddy, stained Bark.<br />
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The other side of our little guy's room.<br />
All curtains from Ikea.<br />
The closet curtains are hung on pipe. (We did this in both kid's rooms and the laundry closet).<br />
Wall color is Gray Owl by BM.<br />
Wall art is Little Toot pages from a vintage book.<br />
Cart is vintage.<br />
Pouf from Aldi.<br />
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Our room, mostly white, with a headboard wall (real shiplap) made by you-know-who.<br />
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Walls and trim both Chantilly Lace<br />
Headboard shiplap Chelsea Gray (BM) in a thinned wash<br />
Vintage linens on chair<br />
Bedding from Ikea.<br />
Euro shams from Ralph Lauren, found at Marshalls and Ebay.<br />
Lamp from Home Depot.<br />
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Our ceilings are painted Ephemera by RL.<br />
I like to hang curtains as high as possible, so I trimmed the hems of these panels with gray velvet from JoAnn.<br />
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<br />
The Last Picture.<br />
My favorite room.<br />
Because I am all about peace and quiet.<br />
And though I adore my family, if things get too loud, you'll find me here, hiding. Reading. Maybe brushing my teeth.<br />
I wrote this post over three days, with so many pauses. I finally got into the groove when I was alone with two of the kids, and they were napping in the basement. So adorable, because one is four, and the other is 21. I love the calm of No Possible Interruptions.<br />
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But it didn't last, and now the house is getting busy again. This is my season. I used to go a little bananas in the old house, because it was chaotic and crowded and loud. Now I sometimes long for those days. I miss my grown kids.<br />
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You never get time back. If you're in a season of wishing things were different, try to hold onto this: you are in the house, in the place, in the family, in the space where you are intended to be. Maybe it's not entirely comfortable. I get that. There are things in every season of my life that have made me uncomfortable. But someday I will long for this season again. It will seem beautiful and precious because it is gone.<br />
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Thanks for coming along on the house tour. <br />
<br />
Contacts:<br />
Carpentry: Nathan Murphy 612 239 4888<br />
Design: Laura Murphy lmurphyusa@gmail.com<br />
House plans: either contact above<br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-81008693543923687532014-07-16T20:43:00.001-05:002014-08-30T19:24:24.451-05:00Siesta<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
My lovely friends, I'll be taking a break from writing this blog. I might be back soon, it depends on a few things (for example, if our local internet provider ever gets a competitor). I can be found on instagram in the mean time. I will miss this space, but I'll be back. <br />
Now I will try to figure out the instagram link. ....<br />
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xoxo<br />
Laura<br />
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<a href="http://instagram.com/lmurphyusa">http://instagram.com/lmurphyusa</a><br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-80137485383183977992014-07-12T07:52:00.000-05:002014-08-30T19:22:51.920-05:00My Dream House<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I found another pouf.</div>
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Even more on sale than the first one.</div>
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Malachi thinks they are both just for him.</div>
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He backs up to his chosen pouf carefully, and perches comfortably on the edge.</div>
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Last night we drove up to The Land again, where Nate's brother and his wife are building a house.<br />
We destroyed our recent car wash in the muddy driveway.<br />
The drive there is beautiful, through winding country roads, but it takes so long that every time we go, my heart sinks a little. I want to arrive in eight minutes, not eighteen.<br />
And yet once again, we are leaning towards building a new house on a grassy hill, with woods and ponds all around...<br />
It would be a shared house with Nate's mom, with her part of it on the other side of the garage.<br />
I got to thinking about my Dream House.<br />
<br />
Before the recession, before a long period of unemployment in our family, before the children were grown, we thought a lot about dream houses. Everyone did. Imagining them was a luxury that all of us could partake in.<br />
<br />
But I've decided that my dream house has little to do with square footage or bedrooms or views.<br />
My dream house is where my dreams come true.<br />
And it's in this house, this inconvenient, ordinary house, where my dreams have come true.<br />
We've had some bad moments here, but mostly the moments have been good.<br />
It's hard to leave a place that holds all the memories of my babies, my children, my maturing marriage.<br />
It's hard to leave a place that has held so much love. <br />
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<br />
So why move?<br />
~For one thing, we could have three bedrooms on one level, and Malachi could finally have his own room.<br />
He does not want his own room. He likes sleeping in mama's bed. But mama thinks that a room for his stuff, at least, is a good idea. <br />
~We'd have more space in the living room, for the times we're all together.<br />
~Finally, a master bathroom. And a closet. It's been so good for me to have a tiny closet, it keeps me weeding out the stuff I don't wear or need. But it's a crowded mess no matter how much I toss out.<br />
~We'd move for the peace and quiet, for the space, for the country life.<br />
~I am so fed up with my overwhelming gardens, I'm ready to ditch them and start over. I am never caught up. It would be nice to have a simpler yard with more fruiting trees.<br />
~And you guys, I have to admit: I would love decorating a new house. We'd have a strict budget, but still I imagine a bit of marble in the kitchen, soft natural wood tones, white cabinets and distressed-wood shelves, big windows and simple curtains drifting to the floor. Something like this <a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/cottage-kitchen-update-milk-painted-secretary/">fresh country kitchen</a>.<br />
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And what has to happen first? Well for starters, my husband has to find work in the area. He doesn't want to drive two hours every day back and forth from the Cities. We would have to either rent or sell our house (I'd rather rent it. Then I can sneak into this yard and take perennials as needed).<br />
<br />
And no matter where I live, if the ones I love are with me, it's going to be home. <br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-36674152241459302442014-07-08T04:21:00.000-05:002014-07-08T04:21:19.787-05:00Strawberry Trifle and More<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
On my mind this week:<br />
<br />
Strawberry Trifle (recipe at end of post) <br />
<br />
<a href="http://theletteredcottage.net/">This</a> post on the meaning of love<br />
<br />
The overwhelming weeds in my garden beds<br />
<br />
The possibility that we might move. We go back and forth, back and forth. Right now we're leaning forth.<br />
<br />
These words from the introduction to Ephesians: "The greatest adventure in life is discovering the purpose for our lives. 'Why am I here?' The answer may astound you. We have been created to walk in harmony with our God and with fellow believers." This is so simple. Why is it so hard?<br />
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Continued overwhelming gratitude for this little guy. Here he is on the Fourth of July, next to Grampa Murphy's (broken) tractor. We miss Grampa.</div>
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The upcoming wedding of Caleb and Krista. It's a whole new covenant, a new couple beginning their story together. It's a letting go, and a gathering in. It's a mystery that I don't think I'll ever figure out, but it's blessed by God, and for that I give thanks. </div>
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All the versions of it on Youtube sounds sort of dorky, but oh you guys, the words, "I need no other argument, I need no other plea, it is enough that Jesus died, and that He died for me," have been running through my head since a friend reminded me of that song. It's so perfect. Can somebody please make a cheerful version of it? The best version I found was a woman from Ghana, she sounded good, but the video was blurry. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEQL9rODQOZ9PMZzz8GTGcIRctKxJQ4egAaCtpPw0a5bxcBYC_xnPXcUgFjslX68Bd51UcO6HAN9pZDxXtKGzKSEpF3mdicylMQe7BROeTJTW6JM7qxE-l_fCCSViU4OPK05HmNtNbp6DG/s1600/DSCN9845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEQL9rODQOZ9PMZzz8GTGcIRctKxJQ4egAaCtpPw0a5bxcBYC_xnPXcUgFjslX68Bd51UcO6HAN9pZDxXtKGzKSEpF3mdicylMQe7BROeTJTW6JM7qxE-l_fCCSViU4OPK05HmNtNbp6DG/s1600/DSCN9845.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Somebody loves his big brother. This was taken after Isaac finally arrived, after Malachi had fallen off the sofa, after the tears had dried. Joy. It's on its way, and it's often unbidden, in the quiet moments when we are at peace with Jesus and with each other.</div>
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And now here's that recipe:</div>
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Strawberry Trifle</div>
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(with thanks to my Aunt Bea for the original recipe)</div>
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1 angel food cake, made from a box mix, cooled and torn into 1-inch chunks</div>
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Many strawberries, at least 4 cups, but 6 cups is better, hulled and sliced into quarters</div>
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Cream filling:</div>
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1 box instant vanilla pudding</div>
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1 cup milk</div>
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1 cup sour cream (I use half sour cream, half plain yogurt)</div>
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3 cups whipped cream (about 1-1/2 cups whips up to the right amount. I add a bit of vanilla and a spoonful of powdered sugar, but you don't have to).</div>
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Pour milk into a large bowl, whisk in pudding mix till smooth and thick. Add sour cream and yogurt, stir to blend. Gently fold in the whipped cream.</div>
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To assemble the trifle:</div>
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1/2 the cake pieces</div>
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1/2 the cream filling</div>
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2 cups berries</div>
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Repeat, but put tons of berries on top if you have enough. This is the healthiest part of the recipe and you don't want to be stingy about it.</div>
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Chill for a few hours and then enjoy! </div>
<br /><a href="http://www.hymnal.net/en/hymn/h/330#ixzz36rnfVxiv" style="color: #003399;"></a><br /></div>
Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-84911434369149220542014-07-04T09:10:00.000-05:002014-07-04T10:44:49.385-05:00How to Be Happy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl7qXnDA91dWBqRVRvdzizkmTKzvv8a8SPr50Byq5byQNmIH1BMqj9sklQ0K8RbK6E-3ODPGsXucLI63uytndyVpFsH6piHuiF0KqEFBU6gFyxk7fi9qPf96DnBc49N8BZXzSKAK0LamLV/s1600/DSCN9847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl7qXnDA91dWBqRVRvdzizkmTKzvv8a8SPr50Byq5byQNmIH1BMqj9sklQ0K8RbK6E-3ODPGsXucLI63uytndyVpFsH6piHuiF0KqEFBU6gFyxk7fi9qPf96DnBc49N8BZXzSKAK0LamLV/s1600/DSCN9847.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's my little guy with our 48-star flag, no offense to Alaska and Hawaii.<br />
Yesterday he stood on this same sofa, so he could see out the big window, as soon as I told him that Isaac was coming home. He ran to the sofa, climbed up as fast as he could, and chattered and laughed and expected Isaac to show up that very minute. Seconds later (I was making dinner in the next room), he fell ingloriously onto the hard floor. He cried to break your heart. He has a big goose-egg on his already square-ish head.<br />
<br />
And such is life. One minute we're laughing and looking forward to something with great joy. The next minute we've been knocked off our perch and we're badly hurt, crying even, and surprised by how much pain hurts.<br />
<br />
Sometimes when I'm setting out to write something here, certain faces drift across my mind. I think of these precious faces and the hearts that beat near those faces, and I just want to reach through the screen and offer up huge helpings of encouragement and support.<br />
<br />
Usually I just tell my own story, sometimes a fraction of my story, and most of the time I try to focus on joy.<br />
<br />
But some days are hard. Here, in this house, some days are hard. Sometimes I find myself injured by those closest to me. And sometimes, what is so much harder to bear, I find that I have caused the injury.<br />
<br />
It's a long and delicate dance, waltzing through life in community with other humans. Without them we are miserable. With them, we are subject to discomfort. Here are some of the ways I pick myself up and dust myself off when the dance becomes awkward and I find myself tripping. Here are the things I do to be happy.<br />
<br />
~ Avoid introspection. For me, this means to take my mind off my injury (or my perceived injury) and firmly place my mind on Jesus. This can be so hard to do. It helps to say out loud, Jesus, help me take my eyes off myself and just look at you. Worship music can help (although I struggle mightily with some modern worship songs, so it has to be the right kind of music or I get even more grumpy).<br />
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~Be quick to apologize. This one is pure freedom. It's so, so difficult for me. Its difficulty reveals my pride. Those closest to me have noticed this and pointed it out and ugh, I hate it. But the more I do it, the easier it becomes. Every time, I go into apology with dread and pride clinging to me. But every time, it's such a relief to humbly ask forgiveness. Wow, I should do this more.<br />
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~ Be the first to forgive. Yes, this one is hard too! Again, it helps to speak forgiveness out loud, every day if necessary. The forgiveness is for my own freedom. It's the forgiveness of Christ. It's nothing I have to feel or manufacture. It's all a gift from Him. He completes the action.<br />
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~ Rest in His approval. Do I seek the approval of men, or of God? I thought I sought the approval of God, until I started writing this blog. Suddenly I cared what other people thought of my writing. I was quick to pick up an offense when a friend (I didn't mind at all with a stranger) said they never read my blog. (Yes, this happened). I had to lay down that offense, repeatedly if needed, and remember that I have an Audience of One. He loves me so much. He loves you so much. Nothing, nothing we do can separate us from his love. It is an inexhaustible well. It is enough to fill the gaps when human love fails. It is enough to heal me of any wound. It is enough to make me want to breathe deeply again, after hours of shallow breaths of anxiety. It is enough.<br />
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So rest in that, beloved friend, and I will try to do the same.<br />
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I love this encouraging song from Need to Breathe. Listen to it <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VVyo2mfpd0&feature=kp">here</a>.<br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-91363201045513280462014-06-30T06:23:00.000-05:002014-06-30T06:23:25.294-05:00Dear June<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp6qPwhb6u951fTPf2VvxGcTXs0EPIfoO4F3WICuYRyeAwq3rLWez_z_u5FlaC026AwB9CT2tX94Ih8I0q53w0VeetQo2pko1LqFUgP8_VU_dXfr9JoA-Ye3MTvWSNac4UIRHpmb_fNALk/s1600/DSCN9790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp6qPwhb6u951fTPf2VvxGcTXs0EPIfoO4F3WICuYRyeAwq3rLWez_z_u5FlaC026AwB9CT2tX94Ih8I0q53w0VeetQo2pko1LqFUgP8_VU_dXfr9JoA-Ye3MTvWSNac4UIRHpmb_fNALk/s1600/DSCN9790.JPG" height="300" width="400" /> </a> </div>
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Dear June,<br />
<br />
Please don't go away. You have been glorious. Your days have slipped by like nearly perfect pearls on a string. Now we are down to the last pearl, and I want to knot the string and hold it still for awhile longer.<br />
<br />
What I have loved best about you is that everything is growing. Growing so fast that from one day to the next, seeds burst into life, leaves burst into green, flowers burst into beauty. <br />
<br />
Maybe the reason I want you to hold still is that my baby is growing, too. He is a big boy, running everywhere, not talking much but understanding almost everything we say. I have had four other babies, and they have each and every one insisted on growing up. But those babies were born when I was a young mama, and I welcomed their independence. This baby came to us late in life. I want to cradle him longer, sing to him more, stare at his face while it is yet soft and dimpled. And even though I treasure all these moments with him, still he grows and grows.<br />
<br />
I am not going to ask for the impossible thing. I know these early summer days are giving way to mid-summer, with heat and harvest and in our family, a wedding. I know that July will be memorable.<br />
<br />
But Oh! June. I am going to miss you.<br />
<br />
<i>(The soundtrack to our summer has been "Rivers in the Wasteland," the newest album from Need to Breathe. Caleb took Julia to the concert when, at the last minute, Krista couldn't go. Julia was overjoyed. I told her - It's a good thing you were vocal about how much you like that band. Ask for what you want. In particular, ask God for what you want. He delights in giving us the desires of our heart!)</i><br />
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<i>Listen to one of my fave tracks </i> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Se2C3v1a7OY">here</a>. <br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-13447497684052727082014-06-27T05:33:00.002-05:002014-06-27T06:28:25.448-05:00Three Peonies<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNsxY0_IgpmHaf8SIvMRrtjMu_KzCfHpKn0saZWBYVQR1V43qKKXYPf8xqjy7Q78hrsfVeFBeBGCAHNSqHT3dsY3oBu9NF1IcWGGiFX-DgkJCIw333-8t8wyC-zIibyrJLNyE2U979Hf-J/s1600/DSCN9781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNsxY0_IgpmHaf8SIvMRrtjMu_KzCfHpKn0saZWBYVQR1V43qKKXYPf8xqjy7Q78hrsfVeFBeBGCAHNSqHT3dsY3oBu9NF1IcWGGiFX-DgkJCIw333-8t8wyC-zIibyrJLNyE2U979Hf-J/s1600/DSCN9781.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
This.<br />
In beakers, in a vintage lime-limned planter, on my kitchen sill.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGb53_QW5_PdZW6JrsjRUZlzzKl4P8CESVYGQ1fuW3Z4LGQtOyYnNEfujdjI65WhWz79uI3KgiItCjJ-fvhYqttLMF5P19NFMte7CnLVQY5S5vl166LUXRjMb2TDigg1kQlae8_MhwhHR8/s1600/DSCN9782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGb53_QW5_PdZW6JrsjRUZlzzKl4P8CESVYGQ1fuW3Z4LGQtOyYnNEfujdjI65WhWz79uI3KgiItCjJ-fvhYqttLMF5P19NFMte7CnLVQY5S5vl166LUXRjMb2TDigg1kQlae8_MhwhHR8/s1600/DSCN9782.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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This makes my heart sing.<br />
Because there's no flower like the peony,<br />
and no leaf like the hand-painted hosta,<br />
and these are the last peonies of the season.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVoJ-ts637KilqR6LNGdHD6Oj25pVoUEJa_VCrJDvbPt6zj4RzVEpa9xG0zkXdhGs5HS54z9cCY-oP41eVsTWRj3Zdqnmwb9qU76_n0-lBxy_PSuyfbDY2yz9xUUOzojWhOIY4algRmrNq/s1600/DSCN9783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVoJ-ts637KilqR6LNGdHD6Oj25pVoUEJa_VCrJDvbPt6zj4RzVEpa9xG0zkXdhGs5HS54z9cCY-oP41eVsTWRj3Zdqnmwb9qU76_n0-lBxy_PSuyfbDY2yz9xUUOzojWhOIY4algRmrNq/s1600/DSCN9783.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Place something beautiful above your sink,<br />
and the daily chores that march through this space<br />
will be brushed with beauty as well.<br />
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Have a lovely weekend, my friends.<br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-85011867501827303442014-06-23T06:55:00.000-05:002014-06-23T07:04:29.775-05:00Bounty and the Very Good<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCH9wxj2TCPiJeWUVQyF7TiLmaThIeM-XJrFgAJiLrdoJcdt-cor-YNtOGk1th37ima2xejHoRdx2ZN3NMWJG94ZR1SkmDK4rKtXLpwMr-_PCJIHjZ6IzwmCx0D587FX-7jjLbmTa9ngmr/s1600/RSCN9770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCH9wxj2TCPiJeWUVQyF7TiLmaThIeM-XJrFgAJiLrdoJcdt-cor-YNtOGk1th37ima2xejHoRdx2ZN3NMWJG94ZR1SkmDK4rKtXLpwMr-_PCJIHjZ6IzwmCx0D587FX-7jjLbmTa9ngmr/s1600/RSCN9770.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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My date for the weekend, not looking too happy.</div>
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He thought he was going outside to play, then he got roped into picture-taking.</div>
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This week:<br />
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~Another lovely bridal shower for Krista, my son's fiance. When we walked up to the front door of her aunt's house, we saw beautiful chalkboard lettering that read, "33 days till she's Mrs. Murphy!" I got teary-eyed. It's such a precious time for them. Also, WHAT?? Mrs. Murphy? I'm hardly Mrs. Murphy myself. That would be Nate's mom. She's the real Mrs. Murphy!<br />
<br />
~My adored Gramma Ericson's piano was delivered to our house, courtesy of my aunt and uncle. Anna Kate has been over the moon about it. She learned by leaps and bounds on our keyboard, but she was always hankering after a real piano. She will not stop playing. The other morning, Nate and I were trying to pray together, and finally he hollered at her to stop the music. Then he muttered to me, "It sounds like a freaking saloon in here." She spent most of the weekend taking off the bench upholstery and painting the seat of the bench. It's white, but she might give it a coat of green eventually. <br />
<br />
~The garden is growing, but the weeds in the yard are growing faster. When we moved here, this had been farmland. Not one useful thing grew on our 2 1/2 acres. We planted trees and sculpted hills and created gardens and sowed lawn. Now the perimeters of our property have become a sort of wild beast. There's an unidentified weed that is climbing along the hills, snaking up into the pine trees and threatening to overtake them. Our weed trees, which are Siberian Elm, are pure evil and must be eradicated. Suddenly there are thousands of them. Nate and the boys used to cut them down every summer, which is sweaty, dirty work. The trees have to be cut about an inch below the ground. I'm trying to cut down about 20 per day. Nate and his knee are still out of commission, so he can't do heavy yard work. And of course we miss our handy dandy big boys, who after years of manual labor around here decided to become an engineer and a doctor. Whatever. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkgMJkgecShEpEt8H6nLwsMN0uDBn7E33s7c0GYNXHWawVVQW_77x2NPTB4rtOK9wGbnYay0mxcY4xrv4B3e1YGSmNN1IIHDSG-SV6Q0Y57QknFMLxX96IUF6ZCD6_k0SJh64e32aQ4WU/s1600/DSCN9773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggkgMJkgecShEpEt8H6nLwsMN0uDBn7E33s7c0GYNXHWawVVQW_77x2NPTB4rtOK9wGbnYay0mxcY4xrv4B3e1YGSmNN1IIHDSG-SV6Q0Y57QknFMLxX96IUF6ZCD6_k0SJh64e32aQ4WU/s1600/DSCN9773.JPG" height="300" width="400" /> </a></div>
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Today I'm going to replant some of the garden rows where nothing has come up. I found these striped zucchini seeds, and I'll plant about two of them. They're saved from our harvest of a few years ago, and I hope they still "work." We want zucchini, but we don't want to be overwhelmed by zucchini.</div>
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The upcoming wedding, the garden, the seeds, all remind me of a post from last summer. Here is part of what I wrote then. If your life seems barren and hopeless these days, remember that something is always growing. God is in the business of creating, every day, every minute. Someday you will see fruit. Until then, rest in the hope of a future bounty, a feast so delicious that it will fill every empty space.</div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">As I listened to Michael and Brooke say their vows to each other, I thought,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">These vows are thorough, they cover just about everything.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">I liked that they promised not to slander one another.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">My husband and I talked about those vows, as we drove home after the wedding.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Maybe they were idealistic, we agreed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">It's impossible not to be a bit idealistic, when you're twenty-one years old and full of love.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">When you say "For richer or poorer,"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">you're imagining richer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">When you say, "In sickness and in health,"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">you cannot predict what sickness might look like, </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">or how it can destroy peace and rob joy.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">We know something about that. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I think of the marriages I know</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">that have begun in a cloud of hope and optimism, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">and have been ground down to death.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Usually the death is brought on by either generational curses</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">or by addiction.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">We know something about that, too.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I have great hope for Michael and Brooke,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">and for the other couples we saw married this summer.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">The way I see it, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">they're part of the story of God,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">part of His "tov," His "very good,"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">and what they did, in this culture of death and man-made definitions, </span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">was to choose life.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I thought a lot about life, about "tov," about God's plan for renewal and rebirth,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">when we planted our garden this spring.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;">The Hebrew word "tov" has subtle variations of meaning, </span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;">one being "its good is hidden within it." </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Some seeds don't grow.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">They have no life in them.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Other seeds, the good ones, the very good ones,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">grow beautifully.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">And what they produce, the fruit that we can eat and not be afraid of eating,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">is so good that it too contains seeds of life,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">seeds that are very good,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">seeds that we can use again next year.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">And that is "tov."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">It regenerates.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">The life in it grows, and nurtures, and gives birth to more life, more nurture.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">And that is why I still believe in marriage.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Because it's not just about love.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;">It's about life.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Genesis 1:27-31</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>So God created man in his own image,</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>in the image of God he created them;</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>male and female he created them.</i></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>And God blessed them. And God said to
them, "Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and
have dominion over the fish of the sea and</i> </span><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>over
the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the
earth." And God said, "Behold, I have given you every plant yielding
seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in
its fruit. You shall have them for food. And to every beast of the earth
and to every bird of the heavens and to everything that creeps on the
earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green
plant for food." And it was so. And God saw everything that he had made,
and behold, it was very good. </i> </span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Another excuse to hear a favorite song by Josh Garrels. Listen to it <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Cp8mC9ZVnQ">here.</a></span></div>
</div>
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-369708176762109192014-06-21T06:54:00.000-05:002014-06-22T03:52:46.019-05:00Rhubarb Jam for 85 Cents<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihIVNNaPODsNsKhfkMQxZKNsYvvqnFNjpS2F7FBxKnsOU3ywpXrQP6ZbK45xag6MYOnzi5nledxMRH6GDzGz3PqpMGHFiuAaYCrmi_QxJ2ywKnv5Zpl5jq8WTMC4KdVY4_o3uVJilVsS9B/s1600/DSCN9751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihIVNNaPODsNsKhfkMQxZKNsYvvqnFNjpS2F7FBxKnsOU3ywpXrQP6ZbK45xag6MYOnzi5nledxMRH6GDzGz3PqpMGHFiuAaYCrmi_QxJ2ywKnv5Zpl5jq8WTMC4KdVY4_o3uVJilVsS9B/s1600/DSCN9751.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
These are glorious days. We've had lots of rain (too much, some would say). The earth is warm and all the gardens, along with their weeds, are growing with wild abandon. When I'm outside with the baby, I give up on getting any work done. He runs for the road as often as not, cackling with joy as his strong little legs carry him towards disaster. I am constantly scooping him up and taking him to safety. <br />
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<br />
When I do get outside alone to garden, the task is daunting. I'm just chipping away, doing what I can.<br />
I moved this Strawberry Rhubarb plant to the big garden. It's a delicate variety and it won't take over. In fact, it needs a fair amount of fertilizing in order to thrive. I harvested a bit of it and added it to the bigger stalks of rhubarb that my mom gave me. <br />
<br />
Here in Minnesota, rhubarb should be free. It slays me when I see it for sale at the grocery store. Surely a neighbor or a friend has rhubarb to share. If not, plant some, quick, and you'll enjoy it forever. It freezes beautifully, so it can be enjoyed all year long. <br />
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<br />
I wasn't going to make jam this year, but with the rhubarb from my mom, I had so much that I decided to whip up a quick double batch. This recipe is shameful, full of sugar, and ridiculously easy. I got six jars of jam for under $5.00, so I figured that came to about 85 cents per jar. This week we are living on hot buttered toast with jam. It's delicious and summery, piquant and bright. There's nothing in the world like the taste of rhubarb.<br />
<br />
Rhubarb-Pineapple-Raspberry Jam<br />
<br />
6 cups finely chopped rhubarb<br />
3 cups sugar (I used scant cups and it turned out fine)<br />
1 20-oz. can crushed pineapple, with juice<br />
<br />
Combine above ingredients in a large pot, stirring, and cook on medium heat. Cook for at least one hour, turning heat down if mixture starts to boil too much.<br />
<br />
After one hour, turn off heat and add:<br />
<br />
1 pkg. raspberry Jello (with sugar)<br />
<br />
Stir well till all the Jello is incorporated.<br />
<br />
Pour into jars and seal.<br />
<br />
(I don't seal my jars, but keep half the jars in the frig, since we eat it up so quickly, and the other half in the freezer).<br />
<br />
In other rhubarb news, today I'm making the Pie Bars for a grad party tomorrow. If you haven't made them, I promise you, they are beyond delicious. We decided it's because they are more like lemon bars with rhubarb. So in other words, the best, most original lemon bars we've ever tasted. <a href="http://renewmyhome.blogspot.com/2013/07/rhubarb-pie-bars.html">Here</a> is the link. <br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-64586362232011896002014-06-17T05:37:00.000-05:002014-06-18T08:54:48.337-05:00Something New, Something Blue<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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"There are two ways to get enough.</div>
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One is to accumulate more and more.</div>
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The other is to desire less."</div>
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(G.K.Chesterton)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTGrbkXy0xx00VzTb54AKO2BWh5UNbnz08iQTT1A0sRMKYdkamAjpn-3gfdeA7fPw-XWUmGsS23iyOgYY1mjhIZMcxpK6lY0BL1utwjh6UVW_ynjvyClxcAWWZlQYes_FIcNYERk8vqp09/s1600/DSCN9693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTGrbkXy0xx00VzTb54AKO2BWh5UNbnz08iQTT1A0sRMKYdkamAjpn-3gfdeA7fPw-XWUmGsS23iyOgYY1mjhIZMcxpK6lY0BL1utwjh6UVW_ynjvyClxcAWWZlQYes_FIcNYERk8vqp09/s1600/DSCN9693.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a><br />
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These days, it's all the rage to have Less Stuff. </div>
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The best rooms, the nicest houses, have almost nothing in them.</div>
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Nothing on the counters, nothing on the floors.</div>
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Very little on the walls.</div>
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It's as if people have stopped cooking, or playing, or making messes.</div>
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<br />
Well, not here.<br />
In this house we cook. We eat. We play a lot.<br />
And we make messes every day. <br />
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<br />
And through it all, we try to make do or do without.<br />
(Especially since our breadwinner broke his knee and can't work for three months). <br />
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<br />
But you guys.<br />
I found this pouf, this ottoman, this perfect comfy thing. On clearance at Target.<br />
I should have two, but they only had one. And one costs half as much as two.<br />
So it came home with me.<br />
And although it's hard to see from the pictures,<br />
it matches the blue fabric of our throw pillows almost exactly (but not quite. I do like things a bit off). <br />
This is a blue I love, a robin's egg color, restful but not boring.<br />
It's one of the colors I sprinkle throughout the house. <br />
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<br />
Here it is, a trifle more icy blue, on the mantel in a Japanese fishing float. <br />
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<br />
And here, in a vintage Ball jar and a mini fishing float. <br />
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<br />
And here, more electric, in merest traces on a piece of old farm junk.<br />
From a distance the gray and blue make a hazy robin's egg color. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_6LLGyBBVdfbRPbr5RR5JQ6oZWyS6f1wEUzWV486j8Qg3eo0970awaM-sSwrnq1UUNGhL_ceS3xNdJz1kN2K1BwC2sKM1JcP7O3AbyN8OSM-IQ8XONl2612zOuDwTDrdmy_bQHRC91ulZ/s1600/DSCN9733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_6LLGyBBVdfbRPbr5RR5JQ6oZWyS6f1wEUzWV486j8Qg3eo0970awaM-sSwrnq1UUNGhL_ceS3xNdJz1kN2K1BwC2sKM1JcP7O3AbyN8OSM-IQ8XONl2612zOuDwTDrdmy_bQHRC91ulZ/s1600/DSCN9733.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Here is the pouf and here is the pillow,<br />
here are the books,<br />
and here is the golden sunny corner,<br />
where I will cuddle and read with my toddler. <br />
Here is sacred space. <br />
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<br />
So what do you think? Should we get another pouf?<br />
The room isn't big, only 13x17 feet, another ottoman might make it feel too crowded.<br />
But I do so love things in pairs. <br />
<br />
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The mantel painting (from hickory to white) is in progress, I'll post about that when it's done. <br />
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Sources:<br />
Ektorp chairs from IKEA<br />
Pillows made from linen and velvet fabric scraps (Joann Fabrics)<br />
Blanket from IKEA<br />
Canvas photographs of Malachi by Bellasaluti, Minneapolis<br />
Vintage telephone from Yarinacocha, Peru <br />
Pouf from Target<br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-64462657553583744152014-06-14T08:15:00.000-05:002014-06-17T03:21:37.199-05:00One Morning in June<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
What happens when a garden is filled with free plants?<br />
Beautiful chaos happens.<br />
This long rock garden represents almost no money. Virtually all the plants were given by a friend who inherited overwhelming gardens and decided to replace some of them with lawn.<br />
But I have spooled out precious hours here, weeding and yanking and moving things.<br />
<br />
These days, I don't wander through my gardens sipping coffee and meditating.<br />
No.<br />
I chase a toddler.<br />
But a few times a week, I go out to work a bit, and it is so peaceful.<br />
<br />
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For the last few weeks, I've been singing the same hymn while I work.</div>
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It's my current favorite, and it sums up everything that I hold to be true.</div>
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Isn't it amazing, that a song written in 1834 can bring me so much peace?</div>
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That's how it is with beauty and truth.</div>
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They hold up well. </div>
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My hope is built on nothing less</div>
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Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;</div>
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I dare not trust the sweetest frame,</div>
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But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.</div>
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When darkness veils His lovely face,</div>
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I rest on His unchanging grace;</div>
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In every high and stormy gale,</div>
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My anchor holds within the veil.</div>
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<blockquote>
<blockquote>
His oath, His covenant, His blood<br />
Support me in the whelming flood;<br />
When all around my soul gives way,<br />
He then is all my hope and stay. </blockquote>
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When He shall come with trumpet sound,</div>
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Oh, may I then in Him be found;</div>
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Dressed in His righteousness alone,</div>
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Faultless to stand before the throne.</div>
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<blockquote>
<blockquote>
Refrain: <br />
On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand;<br />
All other ground is sinking sand,<br />
All other ground is sinking sand.</blockquote>
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Words by Edward Mote<br />
Composer: John Stainer<br />
Tune: The Magdalen <br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-25769634483307870452014-06-13T06:30:00.000-05:002014-06-13T06:38:36.338-05:00From Good Stock<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
For twenty-four years, I've been parenting children with this man.<br />
In the early days, we look like kids ourselves.<br />
The moments have tumbled by, faster and faster with each baby,<br />
and we have been blessed to always have a little hand to hold. <br />
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<br />
It's not always been easy.<br />
We've been, some years, poor and exhausted and impatient and immature.<br />
Many times, our energy ran out before the day ran out. <br />
Somehow we hung on.<br />
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<br />
When he was born, it seemed as though Malachi was a kind of reward,<br />
a prize of untold worth, a treasure that arrived, unbidden, after years of famine. <br />
<br />
His tee shirt is from his aunt who lives in Germany.<br />
When she gave it to him, she translated the words: "From Good Stock."<br />
Then she laughed and said, "Literally, it translates, 'The Parents are Not Bad.'"<br />
<br />
And my friends, that about sums it up.<br />
The parents are not bad.<br />
We've made many mistakes, we promise we'll make more.<br />
That's the way of parenting, even with the shreds of wisdom we've earned.<br />
<br />
Happy Father's Day.<br />
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<span class="versetext" id="mal2-13" style="display: inline;">
<i>While I was pregnant with Malachi, we decided to read the book of Malachi. These are the words that amazed us. They seemed to give context to the wonder of our late-in-life, late-in-marriage, baby. We were seeing the reward of our covenant. "Another thing you do: You flood the LORD's altar with tears.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="39"></a> You weep and wail<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="40"></a> because he no longer pays attention<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="41"></a> to your offerings or accepts them with pleasure from your hands.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="42"></a>
</i></span><i>
<span class="versetext" id="mal2-14" style="display: inline;"><span class="versenum">14</span>
You ask,<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="43"></a> "Why?" It is because the LORD is acting as the witness<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="44"></a> between you and the wife of your youth,<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="45"></a> because you have broken faith with her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="46"></a>
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<span class="versetext" id="mal2-15" style="display: inline;"><span class="versenum">15</span>
Has not [the LORD] made them one?<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="47"></a> In flesh and spirit they are his. And why one? Because he was seeking godly offspring.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="e"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="48"></a> So guard yourself<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="49"></a> in your spirit, and do not break faith<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="50"></a> with the wife of your youth." (from the book of Malachi, Chapter 2)</span></i><br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-41268871539969388472014-06-11T07:14:00.001-05:002014-06-12T10:32:30.612-05:00Black Bean Dip<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
(Adapted from The Foster's Market Cookbook)<br />
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First step: Start this recipe well ahead of time, or the day before you plan to serve it.</div>
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This dip isn't very photogenic, but it's seriously one of my most delicious recipes. It's easily the thing I make most from this cookbook. It's a flexible recipe so feel free to tweak the garlic, tomatoes and spices. It's a bit more work to cook the beans from scratch, but I always do, and I usually use organic beans. </div>
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1 cup dried black beans (If you have time, soak them first for a few hours)</div>
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1 green bell pepper, seeded and sliced</div>
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2-3 bay leaves</div>
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1/2 cup tomato juice, or 6-8 small tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil and roasted till soft</div>
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juice of 2 limes</div>
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1 Tb. cider vinegar</div>
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Drizzle of olive oil </div>
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2-3 garlic cloves, smashed and diced</div>
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1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped (I skip this)</div>
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1/2 red onion, chopped</div>
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3-4 scallions, trimmed and chopped</div>
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1 tsp. ground cumin</div>
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1 tsp chili powder</div>
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1-2 tsp. sea salt</div>
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1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes</div>
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1/3 cup fresh cilantro</div>
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Place the beans in a large pot, cover with water (extra water so beans are covered with about 4 inches of water). Add bell pepper and bay leaves, bring to boil (covered). Take the lid off the pot, reduce heat to medium and cook about 1 1/2 hours, till beans are done. </div>
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Rinse and drain beans, discarding pepper and bay leaves. </div>
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Into bowl of food processor, combine beans and all remaining ingredients except for the cilantro.</div>
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Process till smooth. </div>
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Add half the cilantro, pulse till cilantro is roughly chopped.</div>
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Serve with remaining chopped cilantro sprinkled over the dip.</div>
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This will keep for up to 5 days in the frig (covered), but if you're like us, you'll eat it all within two days. </div>
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It makes a great spread for sandwiches and roll-ups, too.</div>
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-64531103807891018742014-06-08T06:24:00.000-05:002014-06-09T06:20:24.547-05:00Two<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
Somebody turned two.<br />
And it's surreal, how fast his babyhood is tripping by.<br />
The interrupted nights and frantic days are blurring into a rollicking childhood.<br />
<br />
I want to bottle these moments, slow them into something I can sip instead of gulp.<br />
I want to remember the dawning wonder of the early days of pregnancy,<br />
when I was filled with terror that slowly turned into acceptance and then, joy.<br />
<br />
I want to cradle his newborn body again, and smell the top of his head, <br />
and stare at his perfect little square face.<br />
He was so cute that I couldn't stare at him enough.<br />
<br />
But I get today.<br />
Today I have a sturdy boy who dances to the music of Little Big Town.<br />
Today I get to hear him say "Mama." He's only been saying it for a few weeks.<br />
Talking is not his strong suit. <br />
<br />
Today, when I pull his shirt over his head,<br />
he'll giggle and squirm because he knows I like to kiss his armpits.<br />
Trust me, they're the only armpits in this house worth kissing. <br />
<br />
Today, if we're in the kitchen and I stoop down to his level and say,<br />
"Should we go outside?"<br />
His face will wreath in smiles and grins,<br />
he'll be overcome with excitement,<br />
and we'll be off to the grand outdoors,<br />
his favorite place to be.<br />
<br />
Happy birthday, little man.<br />
<br />
(<a href="http://renewmyhome.blogspot.com/2012_07_01_archive.html">Here</a> is the first post I wrote after Malachi was born).<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-76986033624688276572014-06-03T07:22:00.000-05:002014-06-07T05:58:12.545-05:00My Someday Funeral<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
<br />
If you happen to know me and love me, do not panic.<br />
I am hale and hearty. As I often tell my children, I plan on living to the age of ninety. Ninety is a good number. If I get there and things are going well, maybe I'll hang on a few more years.<br />
<br />
Guess what? I don't get to decide. The Lord knows the number of our days.<br />
<br />
Oh that is such solace!<br />
<br />
But I'll tell you this: we have had too many funerals this year. At each one, I wondered: would the person have liked their own funeral? I know these ceremonies are for those who mourn.<br />
<br />
And yet. The funeral should be a tribute, a lovely frame to show the beauty of a life.<br />
<br />
I have warned my kids - if you don't sing hymns at my funeral, I will sit up in my casket and shake my fist at you.<br />
<br />
Not to scare them or anything. I just feel very strongly about hymns.<br />
<br />
So kids, here are the details. For one, because I doubt I'll be looking very pretty at ninety, it's closed casket. You heard it here. With just a few pictures of me - one or two as a child and young woman, one current. Oh thank Jesus that He knows exactly what "current" will be!<br />
<br />
Not too many flowers. I love pink roses, but otherwise, I prefer fresh flowers from the garden (if anything is blooming).. I'd rather you donate any gifts to whatever missionaries I'm supporting at the time. If you aren't sure where to donate, Wycliffe Bible Translators is a good choice. Also, maybe set up a small fund to help Northwestern students pay off their parking violations. Not kidding. Those poor kids get slammed with too many fees.<br />
<br />
Then, guys, I don't want a lot of talking or tributes or long sermons. Tell me now how much you love me. Tell me now what I've done right or wrong, and what needs forgiving, and what has been forgiven. Tell me now what you remember about the way I raised you to love God and His Word. And if I didn't do that enough, tell me that too. Remember that your Dad and I are raising your baby brother, we have a bit of a chance for a do-over.<br />
<br />
So, short sermon it is.. By someone who knows me, so probably not an Open Door pastor, as much as I love the teaching there. Mike McCabe, if he outlives me. Or one of you, if you feel up to it.<br />
<br />
I have a lot of favorite verses, but my life verse has always been Psalm 16:11, "Thou wilt show me the path of life, in Thy presence is fullness of joy; at Thy right hand are pleasures forevermore." Otherwise, pick whatever you like. Scripture abounds with words of life and victory.<br />
<br />
And after the very short "talk," not too preachy, a hymn sing. <br />
<br />
Yep, all hymns. For quite awhile, since I have so many favorites, so you'll need a good song leader. Amanda Ellison will probably still have the voice of an angel so she can do it. Or Falicia if she's not too famous by then. You know how I adore folk and bluegrass. So that vibe would be better than pointlessly loud. But - whatever you decide is fine. Basically this is my only chance to pick the worship songs at a service, something I've longed to do. And although right now I'd choose a few current songs, what I love best, deep in my soul, are the rich words and melodies of older hymns. The truth in them has been bedrock for me. <br />
<br />
Here's a list off the top of my head. I might tweak it later.<br />
<br />
How Firm a Foundation<br />
Oh For a Thousand Tongues to Sing<br />
How Great Thou Art<br />
All Creatures of Our God and King<br />
Come Thou Fount<br />
<br />
If people are getting bored, you can call it a day.<br />
<br />
Otherwise, you can continue with:<br />
<br />
It Is Well with My Soul<br />
Be Thou My Vision<br />
Blessed Assurance<br />
<br />
I'm sure I'll think of more later.<br />
<br />
A hymn sing by a lake would be perfect.<br />
A final hymn, family only, at the grave site would also be nice. <br />
<br />
A few more details:<br />
Bury me and Dad together<br />
I used to like the idea of cremation, but now I'm not sure. Jesus wasn't cremated. So if funds allow, let me return to dust the old-fashioned way.<br />
<br />
And finally, be sad, be as sad as you want to be. Jesus was sad when his friend died. We aren't made to die, although we are born to die. We are made to live. And I plan to live a long, long time yet, probably annoying you and blessing you and serving you and needing you, for as many years as God wills.<br />
<br />
I love you all to pieces.<br />
(But I'm serious about the hymns). <br />
<br />
<br />
Mama <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvM1Cl4t1ZE">This</a> is the song I've been singing most these days. The words are sound and true, the melody is fresh and lovely. C'mon and sing along with me! <br />
<br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-82985927862734475982014-06-01T04:36:00.000-05:002014-06-12T06:48:16.798-05:00Perfect Little Bowls<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
I now have two of these vintage Pyrex mixing bowls.<br />
They are just right for making Oatmeal Crepes every morning.<br />
Ah breakfast, every morning we welcome you. <br />
<br />
Find the recipe <a href="http://renewmyhome.blogspot.com/2013/10/breakfast-panqueque-de-huevo.html">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-53636254718052083932014-05-29T07:12:00.000-05:002014-05-29T07:33:49.113-05:00One Week in May<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
I often wake up between four and five o'clock in the morning,<br />
just as the birds are beginning their mad welcome of the day.<br />
Somewhere high in the treetops,<br />
fragile choristers gather in the dark,<br />
and upon mutual agreement,<br />
burst into song.<br />
<br />
"Spring's a feast!<br />
Come and see!<br />
You won't believe!"<br />
<br />
Up and down the high scale,<br />
from the farthest reaches of the poplar loft,<br />
they give voice to the new day,<br />
as if green glowing leaves<br />
and scudding clouds<br />
finally decided to pour forth praise. <br />
<span id="goog_924761939"></span><span id="goog_924761940"></span><br />
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<span id="goog_924761939"></span><span id="goog_924761940"></span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">This week, we had a little birthday party for my dad.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">It turned out to be a fantastic day, </span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">where the family and the weather and the guest of honor</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">and the tales and the songs and the food </span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">all cooperated in a lovely harmony.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">My dad is famous for his stories and jokes.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">Here's one story. </span><br />
He had just met his future father-in-law, my Grampa Ericson.<br />
<span id="goog_924761939">Grampa was Swedish, a gifted engineer and carpenter,</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">known for taking great care of his possessions.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">"See that car?" my dad asked my Grampa.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">"That's my fourteenth car."</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">My Grampa got a sick look on his face.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">At the time he had owned maybe three cars in his entire life. </span><br />
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<span id="goog_924761939"></span><span id="goog_924761940"></span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">To get ready for my dad's party,</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">I needed a lot of help.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">Isaac washed the windows, with Malachi assisting.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">Malachi absolutely loved the entire window-washing operation.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">At one point, while Isaac was painstakingly cleaning our French doors,</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">his baby brother took the squeegee and, using the same motions,</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">attempted to clean the dishwasher.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">It's what he could reach. </span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939"><br /></span>
<span id="goog_924761939">Caleb changed the dressing on his father's knee,</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">since I'm a wimp about things like that.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939"><br /></span>
<span id="goog_924761939">My girls helped with yard work and with Malachi. </span><br />
<br />
<span id="goog_924761939">All the kids worked out a skit about my dad's life,</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">with Anna Kate on piano and Julia narrating.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">The girls practiced to time the music with the script,</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">but didn't account for the howls of laughter from their appreciative audience.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">The first "actor" was Malachi, representing Baby Jim.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">He even wore the same tiny jacket my dad wore as a toddler.</span><br />
<br />
<span id="goog_924761939">The next two actors were Caleb and Krista,</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">portraying Jim and Carole at the University of Minnesota.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">(cue music: The Minnesota Rouser)</span><br />
<br />
<span id="goog_924761939">Finally, as Julia narrated the storyline about my dad and mom serving in the jungles of Peru,</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">Isaac bounded onto the lawn, wielding a machete.</span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">Since Isaac is the grandson who most resembles my dad, </span><br />
<span id="goog_924761939">he made a convincing and appropriately epic "Jim." </span><br />
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<span id="goog_924761939"></span><span id="goog_924761940"></span><br />
When I was in college, my roommates used to sometimes find me in a "Peru" frame of mind.<br />
"Uh-oh," they would say. "It's a Peru day."<br />
(The glaring clue: I would be sitting on my llama rug, looking at old pictures).<br />
<br />
Well, this entire week has been one long "Peru day."<br />
From hearing about how my parents decided to serve with Wycliffe Bible Translators,<br />
to seeing old pictures of them on the river and with me and my sisters, <br />
to reading two jungle-themed books back-to-back,<br />
I am awash in gratitude,<br />
replete with memories,<br />
thankful to the brim that I had a mom and dad who willingly left the beaten path.<br />
<br />
<i>My dad's life verse:</i><br />
<i>"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain." (I Cor. 15:58)</i><br />
<br />
What I just read:<br />
<u>When I Fell From the Sky</u> by Juliane Koepcke, a memoir from the only survivor of the LANSA crash<i>.</i><br />
What I'm reading now:<br />
<u>Into the Glory</u> by Jamie Buckingham, true stories of jungle aviation.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i> </i> <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span id="goog_924761939"></span><span id="goog_924761940"></span><br /></div>
Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-50375009768431163512014-05-23T06:18:00.000-05:002014-05-25T16:30:01.461-05:00How to Cut up a Watermelon, Redux<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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With my dad on his birthday </div>
<br />
<br />
Happy Birthday to my wonderful, adventurous, encouraging dad.<br />
<br />
In honor of his day, I'm re-posting one of his favorite movies. It's called "How to Cut up a Watermelon." I kid you not, my dad has probably watched it a few dozen times.<br />
<br />
This Monday, remembering our soldiers past and present, we will gather on Memorial Day. And we will most likely eat watermelon. Here's my fave way to serve it. <br />
<br />
You can watch the clip <a href="http://renewmyhome.blogspot.com/2013/06/how-to-cut-up-watermelon.html">here.</a><br />
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<br />
In the video, I have the slices on a small tray. But I almost always use this vintage baking pan for watermelon. It holds a lot, looks cute, and is easy to carry onto the patio. </div>
Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-57711491254453816272014-05-18T07:50:00.000-05:002014-05-19T08:09:50.098-05:00Recipe for a Beautiful Bed<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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What comfort I find in the common ritual of making the bed.<br />
To float the white sheets over the expanse,<br />
and watch them settle into place, <br />
the way my mom used to do when I was little.<br />
She made it look easy,<br />
but for a child, it wasn't easy.<br />
It required some height and some strength in the arms.<br />
<br />
I couldn't wait to grow up,<br />
into a woman who could hover gracefully around her bed<br />
and shake, smooth, yank and toss the linens,<br />
until everything looked wonderful. <br />
<br />
You don't need a Bed-in-a-Bag<br />
(Please, please don't buy that).<br />
You don't need to spend wads of money at Pottery Barn or Restoration Hardware.<br />
You do need to keep your eyes open, collect what you love as you find it,<br />
and take your time. <br />
<br />
Here are the ingredients:<br />
<br />
Natural fibers (cotton, mostly. And a bit of linen, a scrap of silk) <br />
White sheets, preferably with a stripe in the weave so it's easy to lay them correctly<br />
A duvet insert<br />
A duvet cover<br />
2 pillow shams<br />
2 euro shams<br />
1 or 2 throw pillows<br />
A quilt to toss or fold at the foot of the bed <br />
<br />
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This duvet cover was $30 at IKEA. I know white can be scary, but white can be soaked in OxyClean overnight. Then it looks almost new again.<br />
The big green shams were found at Salvation Army for $5 each, new in their packaging. I keep trying to figure out if they're the same color. They look slightly different from each other. No matter, perfection is not the goal here.<br />
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The scallop-edged euro shams, Ralph Lauren, a travesty at $175 each. WHAT?? Of course not. I found the first one at Marshall's for $10, then I had to hunt for the second one on ebay. It cost more, but was still a steal compared with the full price.<br />
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A striped bolster, the insert was from IKEA for almost nothing, the cover was on clearance at Pottery Barn for under $2. You gotta keep your eyes peeled! Good deals abound! <br />
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This raw silk pillow cover was found new at the thrift store, originally from Target. But somehow, over the course of its life in our topsy-turvy house, it got ruined with paint. Burgundy paint, of all things. I don't even approve of burgundy. I dug it out of the closet a few weeks ago and decided it needed to be rescued. It got a linen flower to cover the paint daub, then a calico flower for good measure. To make the flowers, cut out concentric circles, using bowls and glasses as templates. Stack them up and tack them into place with a few stitches, finishing with a vintage button on top. <br />
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<br />
The calico flower matches one of the fabrics on our quilt, made by a dear friend when I had Malachi.<br />
<br />
What you don't see:<br />
The bed frame, which isn't the Wesley Allen iron bed we used to have (it made a nifty antennae for electrical waves), <br />
or the dark wood headboard from my Grandma, which replaced the iron bed. <br />
We had to move the bed to another wall, the window wall, to further avoid electricity.<br />
<br />
So the bed isn't perfect. It's a big, plain wooden frame (no metal anywhere), and I'm not going to show you pictures of it. The bedskirt doesn't fit well over the wooden corners. Maybe someday we'll figure that out.<br />
<br />
For now, I do love to make the bed,<br />
my white oasis in a a loud and busy house. <br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4499557745781133521.post-17458332912272602482014-05-14T06:15:00.002-05:002014-05-14T19:13:12.351-05:00Down for the Count <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<br />
Mother's Day 2014, in my weed-infested rock garden, with all five kids.<br />
<br />
Oh so much has happened this week. I had some very bad, grumpy days, set off by the babysitter's last-minute cancellation that kept me from going to a play. I won't tell you who the babysitter was.<br />
<br />
On Mother's Day we went to the Swedish Institute in Minneapolis. It's set smack dab in the middle of the new Somali community. The juxtaposition of today's immigrants with the immigrants of 100 years ago is fascinating. I was reminded of the Community Outreach speaker at my daughter's university, who told us that every country in the 10/40 window (the area of the world that is most difficult to reach with the Gospel), is now represented in our Twin Cities community. In other words, the 10/40 window has come to us. This fills me with hope and with shame. I am doing absolutely nothing for these people, and they live right on my doorstep.<br />
<br />
I will resolve to pray for them. I can do that.<br />
<br />
After going to the Swedish Institute with Nate's mom and our three youngest kids, and snacking on gluten-filled baked goods to tide us over till later, (and not feeding our fine little mother and grandma a single bite, since she's gluten-free) we breezed through Costco and then came home.<br />
<br />
My terrible mood was slowly starting to improve, since I adore being with all my children. We watched Mick trundle through the grass, holding onto the football (but not throwing it), and dissolving in giggles when his big brothers jumped over him.<br />
<br />
As Krista (Caleb's fiance) and I sat in our comfy chairs and watched the guys play basketball, and listened to the happy voices all around us, suddenly my husband fell onto the court and started to holler and yell (and swear, just a bit). "My knee, my knee," he shouted, clutching at his left leg. Caleb ran to the house for an Ace bandage, Isaac got the van backed up to the court, and within minutes we were loading Nate into the van for a drive to Urgent Care.<br />
<br />
The patellar ligament tore. That's the ligament that holds the kneecap in place. The kneecap is now floating several inches above where it's supposed to be. <br />
<br />
Nate is the sole supporter here, and his work is carpentry. So this is scary.<br />
<br />
The funny thing is, my attitude now is much better than it was five days ago. This makes no sense at all. I feel terrible for my husband (he's not in much pain, but he's bored beyond belief). But I should be way more afraid and way more off-kilter.<br />
<br />
The panic may strike later. In the mean time, Julia comes home from college on Friday, can I get an hallelujah? She is a marketing major, and maybe she can help us market <a href="http://renewmyhome.blogspot.com/2012/01/piano-reborn.html">these</a> beauties. Feel free to share, we think somebody out there needs a piano bar. We just haven't found that person yet. <br />
<br />
Nate has his MRI today and surgery as soon as possible. Thank you to all who are praying, we can tell you are lifting us up. Recovery time is typically about three months, with six months till the knee functions completely normally. Our hope is that he'll be able to work again in about two months. <br />
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Laura Murphyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15271902139691071929noreply@blogger.com0