Adoption

Holt International

About 6 months ago I began supporting a chinese baby girl who didn't have a mommy or daddy to care for her through Holt International.  They are a Christian organization specializing in orphanages and international adoption.  My chinese girl's picture has been on my refrigerator since I received it and I've been praying for her to be placed in a loving, godly family.  Well, just last week, I received a letter saying she had been adopted by an American family.  While I was glad my prayers were answered I was also a little sad I wasn't a part of her life anymore.  Thankfully, Holt gave me another girl, about 10 years old from Nepal, who I can support.  She sounds like a sweet girl who loves school and her friends.  It is a rewarding experience to be a part of these girls lives even though we live so far away.  Isn't it wonderful how God gives you room in your heart to love more people?  What a joy!

Blessings!

What Little Boys are Made Of

Puppies have been on my mind lately.  Last week I used up the last of my puppy fabric here and I was happy to find more at JoAnns over the weekend.  Actually, it is slightly different than the one I had but oh so adorable I think.  With just one yard I made a swaddler, burp cloth and bib.  The swaddler is lined with white flannel and the other two have white chenille on the backside.  So, what is it about puppies and boys?  It was captured beautifully in this English nursery rhyme . . .

 What are little boys made of?

What are little boys made of?

Frogs and snails

And puppy-dogs' tails,

That's what little boys are made of.

What are little girls made of?

What are little girls made of?

Sugar and spice

And everything nice,

That's what little girls are made of.

 

I wish I could have found some sweet girl fabric this weekend but no such thing.  

 

Speaking of puppies, I don't think I've introduced you to our dog Snickers before.  Here is a picture of our youngest (at 1 1/2) grooming him . . .

I don't think Snickers knew what to think about this new experience.   He was an unclaimed stray and my hubby was more than happy to call him our own.  He's a wonderful dog but his only downfall is HE IS SUPER EXCITABLE around any human being.  He is such a loyal pooch who loves to be petted and played with.  You know the scripture "pray w/o ceasing?"  Well, Snickers motto is "pet me forever."  I suppose boys and puppies are alike in there ability to be messy and mischievous.  My boys have been guilty on both counts!!  Ha ha!  But, aren't they so much fun, too??

Blessings!

 

 

Sunday Scripture

http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=1722

"Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants

You have ordained strength . . ."

Psalm 8:1

Baby Blessings

I have been enjoying sewing some more baby gifts.  Just before Christmas my youngest son's classmates welcomed 2 new babies into their homes.  A boy and a girl gift were on my list!  A ribbon blanket and set of burp cloths seemed perfect for each.

Ribbon Blanket and Burp cloths for a new girl.

Ribbon Blanket and Burp Cloths for a new boy.

I also was asked to make a shower gift for a new baby coming soon into our family.  Puppies seemed just the right thing to make into a swaddler, burp cloth and bib.

Puppy's Galore

We are in a winter freeze today; just perfect for staying indoors where it's warm. 
Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Sunday Scripture

"The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life,

To turn one away from the snares of death."

Proverbs 14:27

A Time to Mend . . .

Sometimes I enjoy doing a little mending (as long as I don't let it pile up!)  For me it's a nice time to pause and give a needed item a little TLC to extend it's wear.

Today, I thought I would share the items I have been working on.

This fuzzy drawstring purse belongs to my 6-year old niece.  The polyester lining was tearing badly so,  I ripped it out and made a new lining out of a thicker silky material and sewed it inside.  My nieces little 2-year old brother also enjoys playing with it (I can just imagine the cars and trucks that go inside!)  Well, anyway it is ready for them to enjoy using again!

This sequined sweater of mine had a few loose sequins.  With just a needle and thread I took care of that!  I like to wear this in the winter; I like how it adds a bit of bling to an otherwise gray day!

I wish I had a mannequin to put this Victorian coat on to show you because this picture just doesn't do it justice.  This is probably the most interesting item in my wardrobe.  A few years ago in December I was browsing e-bay for vintage clothing items.  My eyes fell on this coat and I was intrigued by it.  It is handmade out of a very soft black velvet.  It is completely lined and includes a hood with rabbit fur on the edge (which is still in excellent condition.)  I ended up winning the bid which I was so excited about.  Unfortunately, the seller bought it at a thrift store and so she didn't know it's history which is too bad.  The coat is a little narrow across my shoulders and so one of the seams gave way a little bit.  With just a few stitches it was fine.  I've had to mend the hem several times and other seams as well.  I like to think about who made those first stitches and what events she wore the coat to.  I was a big fan of the Betsy-Tacy books written by Maud Hart Lovelace when I was a girl.  I like to think, like those girls, that she went a courtin' in the winter time wearing this Victorian beauty.  Yes, I am a bit of a romantic if you can't tell!!  But, isn't it fun to imagine?

Well, this is what I have been up to.  I am off to hem some boy scout pants for a friend of mine.

Have a nice weekend!

Snowy Girl

Well, here she is . . . my new doll!  She's the one who came home with me.  Isn't she darling?  Her fuzzy coat, boots and hat are perfect for today.  It is pure winter wonderland outside!  The snow just keeps on coming down. 

I am off to spend the rest of the day with my family in celebration of my birthday.  I was born in Minnesota and my parents say they had to borrow their neighbors car when my mom went into labor because theirs wouldn't start!  The snow today seems quite fitting!

May your blessings overflow!