tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39799697926423171832024-03-14T14:24:25.152-04:00My Pure JoyDiscovering joy in the everyday through mixed media art, photography, and personal musings. I'm on a journey of self.J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.comBlogger192125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-52279382112510515102016-01-31T19:51:00.002-05:002016-01-31T19:54:14.422-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCTD9tQnHab1aSFr6tzkr_2fYLPtjWxgF-f8yB89Jwg1JCafrVmJJrZSJDsILIRyrgXRWAfbTqMCleD44yW0lmHoSo2p8Ru7cft4RfKDPWQzl3QTQ1IilH5JRPokNZOeLuwlArewjyb8/s1600/4Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCTD9tQnHab1aSFr6tzkr_2fYLPtjWxgF-f8yB89Jwg1JCafrVmJJrZSJDsILIRyrgXRWAfbTqMCleD44yW0lmHoSo2p8Ru7cft4RfKDPWQzl3QTQ1IilH5JRPokNZOeLuwlArewjyb8/s640/4Blog.jpg" width="507" /></a></div>
<br />J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-14947201537827775762014-04-01T08:59:00.003-04:002014-04-01T08:59:33.185-04:00Homemade Dog Biscuits<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today is about bringing joy to the canine members of my family. One thing they love and live for are their dog biscuits. They get one in the morning after going outside and one before bedtime, after going outside for the last time. However, last week, I forgot to buy them a new box. And I live 6 miles from the closest store and did not feel like driving just for a box of biscuits. So, I decided to make a batch for them and all was well with their world. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2FKRzNMt4_PmP-rFSPgNrt-nkDEGVqULuOslrNM8YxAbMJqEwAM93UvtbphAkKbQjos_cxexHg9NQL5C6XZbGSfxlvERmL6LsO5pNuRGhrGyFFolkzBPFd9tJxr5mMJD6oMMU6iKU13I/s1600/IMG_4857+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2FKRzNMt4_PmP-rFSPgNrt-nkDEGVqULuOslrNM8YxAbMJqEwAM93UvtbphAkKbQjos_cxexHg9NQL5C6XZbGSfxlvERmL6LsO5pNuRGhrGyFFolkzBPFd9tJxr5mMJD6oMMU6iKU13I/s1600/IMG_4857+-+Copy.JPG" height="320" width="223" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What do you mean you forgot my biscuits?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fdkv83NLNDsYYYHT4bAEokbWJzff9T3FexfUa8Tz-STWp5IzWojrhwWBARKyjD1wMB9zULCK_XMLLmyo_icpJ_m8Fhe2_e23rMPvWsvhx7Aw41mjalNqG8LGq17FMYg6DBCzBZd3Qbg/s1600/IMG_4858+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fdkv83NLNDsYYYHT4bAEokbWJzff9T3FexfUa8Tz-STWp5IzWojrhwWBARKyjD1wMB9zULCK_XMLLmyo_icpJ_m8Fhe2_e23rMPvWsvhx7Aw41mjalNqG8LGq17FMYg6DBCzBZd3Qbg/s1600/IMG_4858+-+Copy.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I will not look at you until I see biscuits!<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here's the recipe and it really only took me about 15 minutes to put it all together, plus the baking time. Not bad.</div>
<br />
<br />
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; color: black; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2 ½ cups
flour (whole wheat or regular - whatever you have on hand)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; color: black; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 tsp.
salt (or less)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; color: black; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1 egg<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; color: black; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p>1/2 cup organic beef stock</o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; color: black; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p>2 tbsp. bacon grease (optional)</o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; color: black; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p>Mix all the ingredients together and knead into a ball. Then roll out to a 1/4 inch thick and cut out the biscuits. I just happened to have a bone shaped cutter.</o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; color: black; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkgaVQw7QPwsHMb-NnnYgtI_KWJhjBkBhyphenhyphen6b60xjHOS1IsY6fm0BDoSlLK3Zp0pupcNSLKkrTNmG99F4ubKG_NfFlanwXt3JC29QyDwhD-F18kKGg-oA7Dix41kqmvzE04YTEGHyB9GfY/s1600/photo+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkgaVQw7QPwsHMb-NnnYgtI_KWJhjBkBhyphenhyphen6b60xjHOS1IsY6fm0BDoSlLK3Zp0pupcNSLKkrTNmG99F4ubKG_NfFlanwXt3JC29QyDwhD-F18kKGg-oA7Dix41kqmvzE04YTEGHyB9GfY/s1600/photo+1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; color: black; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 8pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;">
<span lang="EN" style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I wound up getting about 12 biscuits. Then place them on a lightly greased cookie sheet (mine is lined with foil, but you don't have to do that).</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqaS1dBbChwZShgtjcvvKa2Lf6Eu7PwY2V_lGx4RxUJ_R4qGyGD4MpIkoVTvE18SoH089NYOaqrFt5NlD7d8h5aiiR4DjLWAD0bBqrmn-2KGOXWRv54XzYsvzOsQYjRHwvjA-iBfMfyI/s1600/photo+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqaS1dBbChwZShgtjcvvKa2Lf6Eu7PwY2V_lGx4RxUJ_R4qGyGD4MpIkoVTvE18SoH089NYOaqrFt5NlD7d8h5aiiR4DjLWAD0bBqrmn-2KGOXWRv54XzYsvzOsQYjRHwvjA-iBfMfyI/s1600/photo+2.jpg" height="207" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bake at 350 degrees for 25 - 30 minutes. Then viola! The finished product!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjAxrkeT2Ro5w0IFc0zjjsnmd9hVxUO2nI0hFy1vgpyzMgBPV6VQFZuswCJ7rnZwe3EtgZP-sSMXM1PYBP40OAzivBvAAcaKRwtIVCAOX3LXu3MQ_O_sXNPknHWK0WEQ9gSB4cQSDkHU/s1600/photo+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxjAxrkeT2Ro5w0IFc0zjjsnmd9hVxUO2nI0hFy1vgpyzMgBPV6VQFZuswCJ7rnZwe3EtgZP-sSMXM1PYBP40OAzivBvAAcaKRwtIVCAOX3LXu3MQ_O_sXNPknHWK0WEQ9gSB4cQSDkHU/s1600/photo+3.jpg" height="320" width="273" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You'll be happy to know that these were great substitutes for the regular biscuits and my lab even drooled at that sight of them! Sorry, I don't have a picture of that. </div>
<br />
Peace, Love and ChocolateJ.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-7963271749841119592014-03-21T06:30:00.000-04:002014-03-21T12:16:35.569-04:00Picking Up Chicks<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well, we did it. We got chickens. Well, they're just babies right now - technically, red pullets. I'm still figuring out what that really means.<br />
</div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFW1DNd7GrvnHHLPosgvO1qWZ4CnEEGl_CgxFy9xtLWyfQM4qPcbgd-pUMFMFUM6Sfy6C_vKBD1Oj2dnRJm4OEdi_rlHkKwavxnBKget3BMbWdsJzUkgfBmZf6fQAep7e7v1cASLTQ5A/s1600/Chickees.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFW1DNd7GrvnHHLPosgvO1qWZ4CnEEGl_CgxFy9xtLWyfQM4qPcbgd-pUMFMFUM6Sfy6C_vKBD1Oj2dnRJm4OEdi_rlHkKwavxnBKget3BMbWdsJzUkgfBmZf6fQAep7e7v1cASLTQ5A/s1600/Chickees.JPG" height="205" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<script data-pin-hover="true" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Chickadees</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Aren't they cute? I'm forbidden from naming them until they get bigger. Which is probably a good thing, because we've already lost one. I'm not going to lie - I was sad about it. I gave her a proper burial and it was solemn and quiet. And, I piled some rocks over her site, as kind of a grave marker. Harsh realities of this new farm life.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1q6TzqL4hYiuN3YcyxrUacIw5ktgtU9VvnoE0sdu9CXKS7xSaFmG5y9491T2pWkCUv_hX-zyEOEHJID4pZuqwbzGn3f3fzzI_uOC7XHZFByXV34hGFIsX1OWE-xXY80m09_uc7FdEss/s1600/Grave.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC1q6TzqL4hYiuN3YcyxrUacIw5ktgtU9VvnoE0sdu9CXKS7xSaFmG5y9491T2pWkCUv_hX-zyEOEHJID4pZuqwbzGn3f3fzzI_uOC7XHZFByXV34hGFIsX1OWE-xXY80m09_uc7FdEss/s1600/Grave.JPG" height="206" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RIP Chickee</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It may be silly, but I feel better showing a little respect. I really wished I could have saved her. But, I've heard this is quite common with new chicks. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRuvvg_30_Kf_8GwTnNVK5H4YsNO9a41-MBYwcvTIol2RaJesWYFpU27-kcXAk9-oXKUvv2axt2YiwPHUPiKnKFQZtwTp6U7M0gTGBZYllMzDPAKJVCtfUdlHcHTRHqQX1TC2qepkeEzc/s1600/Sepia_Chicks+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRuvvg_30_Kf_8GwTnNVK5H4YsNO9a41-MBYwcvTIol2RaJesWYFpU27-kcXAk9-oXKUvv2axt2YiwPHUPiKnKFQZtwTp6U7M0gTGBZYllMzDPAKJVCtfUdlHcHTRHqQX1TC2qepkeEzc/s1600/Sepia_Chicks+-+Copy.JPG" height="249" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sticking together</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anyway, the rest of the chicks look healthy and seem to be thriving. I'm looking forward to watching them grow.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Peace, Love and Chocolate</div>
<br />J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-67479782020424038502014-03-18T07:31:00.000-04:002014-03-18T07:31:42.534-04:00Girl's NightLast week, I tagged along on a mini-getaway with my friend Lisa, to a reading by <a href="http://beth-kephart.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Beth Kephart</a> at Converse College. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS1LtcdFOWg2uZAMQ-YCr2sDNGkaPNqz2fLLk1QsUPu-ydrr9br0oe7SKcX-cxqXcnIiiG7mx1PWbC9uPymINsxI7vzn6kUu3Pqt1SeAu68-XYoQIJ95vT7m_rL2P-IRmZAlKdF8jqlOU/s1600/Joyce&Lisa.jpg" height="239" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me with Lisa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was out of my element, but that's exactly what I wanted. I like to get out of my comfort zone every now and then, to experience new things. AND with the literary experience, we experienced some AMAZING food...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI6i2eY_q_yYcVirlqyAmdyhgEXOm_3gvLvM4fqCIQJwQxXArSadXLCABENqe7j1VXCVu8LPqehTjkH5eihoB7rAb2h5MloxVrUGmvtA3ydOUcUwbKmAYhvmKIIFVLyZ0_7QbE6UPzyv0/s1600/BuffaloMozzerella.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI6i2eY_q_yYcVirlqyAmdyhgEXOm_3gvLvM4fqCIQJwQxXArSadXLCABENqe7j1VXCVu8LPqehTjkH5eihoB7rAb2h5MloxVrUGmvtA3ydOUcUwbKmAYhvmKIIFVLyZ0_7QbE6UPzyv0/s1600/BuffaloMozzerella.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buffalo Mozzarella </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This buffalo mozzarella changed me. I'm not sure how, but I know I'm a different person now. And I came home with some new books. Now to find time to sit down and read. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnBSs1vQ-MmTQla3tkBbgX8jMnZxo1WEBetni80wYaTFb6fjgUzRkMEaTHSH7IyQbf0A2G1vAtmcYXwP0CbdewpFIRz8sG5zm31u3SLzb-9qgKrYQF0D20VvZGtG_6I2W-Vn5V0iTvNA/s1600/BookPic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnBSs1vQ-MmTQla3tkBbgX8jMnZxo1WEBetni80wYaTFb6fjgUzRkMEaTHSH7IyQbf0A2G1vAtmcYXwP0CbdewpFIRz8sG5zm31u3SLzb-9qgKrYQF0D20VvZGtG_6I2W-Vn5V0iTvNA/s1600/BookPic.jpg" height="232" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Peace, Love and Chocolate</div>
J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-15885961578211735142014-03-12T05:00:00.000-04:002014-03-12T05:00:05.742-04:00Fabric Love<br />
<br />
Lately, I've been thinking a lot about fabric...<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/03/11/838.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/03/11/s_838.jpg" height="281" style="margin: 5px;" width="199" /></a></center>
<center>
</center>
<div align="left">
The different colors, textures, weights...</div>
<center>
</center>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwyWvfjtCMJ7Ilmtqf4ZuUEJXUxaC_SVACt6Uv_hVdjxbm4-8WFmeBLZaek4hrzHmnPhZIAK8a6sCntb3VyhaBaAh5do_9X2A2a2iou2_ZaBnO1JrGB2wDeMrH_r9E2wnolFfbdUlV9I4/s1600/IMG_4789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwyWvfjtCMJ7Ilmtqf4ZuUEJXUxaC_SVACt6Uv_hVdjxbm4-8WFmeBLZaek4hrzHmnPhZIAK8a6sCntb3VyhaBaAh5do_9X2A2a2iou2_ZaBnO1JrGB2wDeMrH_r9E2wnolFfbdUlV9I4/s1600/IMG_4789.JPG" height="320" width="218" /></a></div>
<center>
</center>
The endless possibilities.<br />
<br />
<br />
Peace, Love and ChocolateJ.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-1883822976190666402014-03-07T07:57:00.000-05:002014-03-07T07:57:16.237-05:008 Years of Joy<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tomorrow is my son's 8th birthday. Wow! For eight years I've been on this motherhood journey, which has made me a better person and been such an emotional ride! I wouldn't trade it for the world. </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik13ZVpme4bFoM2gW8GsKoEq0rgCfVXyPOTkdcTOKjq8LOuwfT95qzLJB49IvZlggLbsOkd9eeQrmgmbKkn8PT2IXVR-24aX4zM_a9mOepnUBc4tQMyGJWAGUnWT0PqkrxVEnAJTqskd4/s1600/BabyAiden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik13ZVpme4bFoM2gW8GsKoEq0rgCfVXyPOTkdcTOKjq8LOuwfT95qzLJB49IvZlggLbsOkd9eeQrmgmbKkn8PT2IXVR-24aX4zM_a9mOepnUBc4tQMyGJWAGUnWT0PqkrxVEnAJTqskd4/s1600/BabyAiden.jpg" height="207" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NdUrpGHRVk5i9dmnAeE_455iVYowGfChmVAgE1N-I5Wx3qPzYPTeVEdH3qI8l3hO_5dCiCVCFPGoDWv2gmAcN_-1zv_fQrKXE-trJoXA8Mn8POzgFoYBNKUmcIX8zPPj-iNRgwZqsFo/s1600/BabyA2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4NdUrpGHRVk5i9dmnAeE_455iVYowGfChmVAgE1N-I5Wx3qPzYPTeVEdH3qI8l3hO_5dCiCVCFPGoDWv2gmAcN_-1zv_fQrKXE-trJoXA8Mn8POzgFoYBNKUmcIX8zPPj-iNRgwZqsFo/s1600/BabyA2.jpg" height="320" width="227" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzfUzuRSIBs4GinrARMjcjTWUc_fKyb4RTBSvZ-GYMzfduEwEtHyOGXDEKvYJ7_A_XVf1uTmzm0ivepBXq7iex-L0F70lGQ6U_434RUes-2-F2GGeJnceZi07rtxGOv4oKXTQxLjTDlk/s1600/BabyA_balls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzfUzuRSIBs4GinrARMjcjTWUc_fKyb4RTBSvZ-GYMzfduEwEtHyOGXDEKvYJ7_A_XVf1uTmzm0ivepBXq7iex-L0F70lGQ6U_434RUes-2-F2GGeJnceZi07rtxGOv4oKXTQxLjTDlk/s1600/BabyA_balls.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSYwc7KlagHfeTfjYRuOTY6EyTN0torqYcLFjL_jSK9wjJrF9JUsP_erKEQK1WD9s6oliiQl2nXHDBynlINO3EQhAnze8drU2vv-hh3TRyFN_SCmDqhr5P0tTTuPkdJN8LRyLS30t3Bas/s1600/Aiden_Balls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSYwc7KlagHfeTfjYRuOTY6EyTN0torqYcLFjL_jSK9wjJrF9JUsP_erKEQK1WD9s6oliiQl2nXHDBynlINO3EQhAnze8drU2vv-hh3TRyFN_SCmDqhr5P0tTTuPkdJN8LRyLS30t3Bas/s1600/Aiden_Balls.jpg" height="200" width="141" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Jlv8Q_BqbKya_wusNppqOrK0EkfnrHIKSYPcECvANLeI8SfDyydDQa1pft_wXnAsLxLrCNXMzm9VE-sDd544oMyhhq_dkxb_BC3tpg8TA0MPe_PwMLnw2kIScpAmvr2dZ4Q750Cn5v0/s1600/AidenBird2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Jlv8Q_BqbKya_wusNppqOrK0EkfnrHIKSYPcECvANLeI8SfDyydDQa1pft_wXnAsLxLrCNXMzm9VE-sDd544oMyhhq_dkxb_BC3tpg8TA0MPe_PwMLnw2kIScpAmvr2dZ4Q750Cn5v0/s1600/AidenBird2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmavmrmMLOyHnNu7WgC85K6Qs455_I5ViXRovEOAn_Bec4dwm6xeDm_HrZefGPtnRIlGDUICnB_ar08XXB0-w2_gC9A4dlxcL9NVsAg7ZrGtpbV_YfCBMi8ljPoZUPviHwR1wtZ21GjA/s1600/Aiden_Snow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmavmrmMLOyHnNu7WgC85K6Qs455_I5ViXRovEOAn_Bec4dwm6xeDm_HrZefGPtnRIlGDUICnB_ar08XXB0-w2_gC9A4dlxcL9NVsAg7ZrGtpbV_YfCBMi8ljPoZUPviHwR1wtZ21GjA/s1600/Aiden_Snow.jpg" height="320" width="227" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqo_08Q65Qpm4SzKmTim_Y17odsQWgf2vZa8wXV-xghZ7i23r8p_1n09hKK8Wmv6M6RiPS2MUbhqGfF7W06V-hAUMSD_JE8aDlMifcsmts0nPfQbyCtyDD3zYRpAkym18K3-XjsLDOWYM/s1600/Aiden_7bday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqo_08Q65Qpm4SzKmTim_Y17odsQWgf2vZa8wXV-xghZ7i23r8p_1n09hKK8Wmv6M6RiPS2MUbhqGfF7W06V-hAUMSD_JE8aDlMifcsmts0nPfQbyCtyDD3zYRpAkym18K3-XjsLDOWYM/s1600/Aiden_7bday.jpg" height="242" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's all happened so fast. Cliche', I know, but so true. </div>
<br />
Peace, Love and Chocolate<br />
J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-49718712742893188362014-03-04T07:13:00.000-05:002014-03-07T20:58:18.292-05:0030 Day Photography ChallengeFor the month of March, I've started a 30 day photography challenge on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/My-Pure-Joy-JA-Martin/167907023234071" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page. I found the challenge on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/168110998565205922/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> (of course.)<br />
<br />
Here's what I have so far:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6xMQlVSobH-PMHkCUQPTwGP7on-9CKjTTLzmHdjxOBpaRDCkkw6yhS3Rz8kRS0DtBF7zgEMbvgOXGQ6gezNeWdMLK-6UHLFxU7LGMNikoYekl8IHpO4B1wlJUdgqov0WsbUReNM__IE/s1600/Day_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6xMQlVSobH-PMHkCUQPTwGP7on-9CKjTTLzmHdjxOBpaRDCkkw6yhS3Rz8kRS0DtBF7zgEMbvgOXGQ6gezNeWdMLK-6UHLFxU7LGMNikoYekl8IHpO4B1wlJUdgqov0WsbUReNM__IE/s1600/Day_1.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Day 1 - a self portrait</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpVPx76IDbLfk5_VOdMnHQ2707SVMZeRfWD9dF7lpYO4ue-2hJ0XNmclJI8zuLDQypdEdQ2IdtnfSSIbv8IoeMqwJzZ-FySuWpyN-KeH9fjRelaISvIIFQDK_RvEJQ-gSYhTW5GBT9D9I/s1600/Day_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpVPx76IDbLfk5_VOdMnHQ2707SVMZeRfWD9dF7lpYO4ue-2hJ0XNmclJI8zuLDQypdEdQ2IdtnfSSIbv8IoeMqwJzZ-FySuWpyN-KeH9fjRelaISvIIFQDK_RvEJQ-gSYhTW5GBT9D9I/s1600/Day_2.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<script data-pin-hover="true" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>
Day 2 - what I wore</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2CB_hpUllJbrNccPoW_tUZ8bR7p7LO3CYSkZygZM5AMN5qHit70RIlC9JrnRHf8k7WfBPZUS6fXC-4TJhYLBAW2NGs9o3jpdhQGyEgX2LVyncaiCXEKGZQAZGK-ukfzBf-GHQT9rOi18/s1600/Day_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2CB_hpUllJbrNccPoW_tUZ8bR7p7LO3CYSkZygZM5AMN5qHit70RIlC9JrnRHf8k7WfBPZUS6fXC-4TJhYLBAW2NGs9o3jpdhQGyEgX2LVyncaiCXEKGZQAZGK-ukfzBf-GHQT9rOi18/s1600/Day_3.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Day 3 - clouds</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I took the challenge to get my creativity flowing again. It's helping and getting me to look at things in different ways. I didn't want to do the 'what I wore' day and it turns out that I'm really quite fond of that picture. And I stood for about an hour looking at the clouds to get the above shot. It could have been better, but we had a very cloudy/rainy day, so there wasn't much contrast. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I'm looking forward to completing the rest of the 27 days. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Peace, Love and Chocolate</div>
<br />J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-32604724134079818162014-02-28T12:26:00.000-05:002014-02-28T12:26:12.922-05:00Fun Night<div style="text-align: justify;">
This week has been crazy busy! [For me anyway] There's been baseball games, dental appointments, school projects, (much needed) visit with friends, and last night - a mother/son fun night at my son's school. </div>
<br />
Here we are right before we left:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcPrlTzTwwbB6vlI44Z1YvgEn7EPVVNcLimK4dYFDNYlua1PTc14LCa_-Z3u-59npmZ5BxMJmcFo9klF2mox4576RRhCinIRnpOQ7AOAFK00hXlfrAYkqa7WcV88L44fvC6j6s6m0QFk/s1600/1656441_10152006799468182_1923650122_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcPrlTzTwwbB6vlI44Z1YvgEn7EPVVNcLimK4dYFDNYlua1PTc14LCa_-Z3u-59npmZ5BxMJmcFo9klF2mox4576RRhCinIRnpOQ7AOAFK00hXlfrAYkqa7WcV88L44fvC6j6s6m0QFk/s1600/1656441_10152006799468182_1923650122_n.jpg" height="320" width="243" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And part of the fun was playing dodge ball - moms against sons. I got out early with a tag to my arm. I think the moms may have had more fun than the sons. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilhUOz03RZ0Iqc7_8h0Sb6FADKuYojXe2NuTvM-FOdRnk9SyUSrKiVfTEAHf0xUOyNL5evUN6dPpa_ikaC_cY6gdxv_8RtbPOkuy-A3By0262w6BTWfaWNMEFg5iFd100-WxiT-Nv7EIM/s1600/1743461_10152006964203182_1021819528_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilhUOz03RZ0Iqc7_8h0Sb6FADKuYojXe2NuTvM-FOdRnk9SyUSrKiVfTEAHf0xUOyNL5evUN6dPpa_ikaC_cY6gdxv_8RtbPOkuy-A3By0262w6BTWfaWNMEFg5iFd100-WxiT-Nv7EIM/s1600/1743461_10152006964203182_1021819528_n.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There was dancing later, but my son wouldn't dance with me. Oh well, I guess that's part of growing up. </div>
<br />
Peace, Love and ChocolateJ.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-19186169786619530652014-02-21T08:19:00.000-05:002014-02-21T08:19:17.703-05:00Cheap Joy<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of my favorite things to do is peruse the clearance section(s) of my local craft stores. I can literally spend hours and lose track of time going through all the leftover bits and pieces. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYDByT_j-eKfiP8nZvMZRmDTCXAYzQY6PBgT-eQrWrj01bYlPX6iX-_fvF8ema6Q8U8YEaynm5iFtjCKWFh3kWlvL84Tq-NXM9k97OQ8lN99E1-eOPSbIEjshSt4NQRx0psSofnCoQwg/s1600/Clearance.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYDByT_j-eKfiP8nZvMZRmDTCXAYzQY6PBgT-eQrWrj01bYlPX6iX-_fvF8ema6Q8U8YEaynm5iFtjCKWFh3kWlvL84Tq-NXM9k97OQ8lN99E1-eOPSbIEjshSt4NQRx0psSofnCoQwg/s1600/Clearance.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
And it's a great way to try out new products without spending too much cash. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyUgcRQZPCLRKnii1p0uhr3tG6crCIAXn1ZhpeCNQOtK20e0ZOz8YPBQdi6sJozUg38H3yqkoHGLKBOCLgRrcTbi4vRY9jfxY7Eu08K9eLobf5klC8DDzbu0cN5hskfYi4EAJ_z9olMkg/s1600/ClearancePens.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyUgcRQZPCLRKnii1p0uhr3tG6crCIAXn1ZhpeCNQOtK20e0ZOz8YPBQdi6sJozUg38H3yqkoHGLKBOCLgRrcTbi4vRY9jfxY7Eu08K9eLobf5klC8DDzbu0cN5hskfYi4EAJ_z9olMkg/s1600/ClearancePens.jpeg" height="320" width="242" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Peace, Love and Chocolate</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-9291997043283563582014-02-18T10:52:00.001-05:002014-02-18T10:52:33.980-05:00Lemon Cheesecake Squares<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was my hubby's birthday yesterday, so I wanted to make him a special treat. One thing he "ooh's and aah's" over were his mother's homemade lemon cheesecake squares. I don't bake, but for him, I'd give it a try.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/02/17/1054.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/02/17/s_1054.jpg" height="281" style="margin: 5px;" width="213" /></a></center>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I found a recipe from <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/168110998564958773/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>. And they turned out really well. An FYI: if it says not to butter the baking dish, don't. I speak from experience. </div>
<br />
Peace, Love and Chocolate<br />
J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-82520671456605802832014-02-14T07:26:00.001-05:002014-02-14T08:14:27.696-05:00Love NinjaA little something I made for my son this V-Day. Totally made with love...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/02/14/214.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/02/14/s_214.jpg" height="281" style="margin: 5px;" width="201" /></a></center>
<br />
<br />
Peace, Love and ChocolateJ.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-45715262385928862252014-02-11T06:00:00.000-05:002014-02-11T06:00:02.617-05:00In Need of a MuseI had an hour of free time yesterday and went out to my studio to paint. I tried and tried to come up with something, anything to start with. But my mind was blank. And so were my journal pages.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEPl6BDurtu5cFS_O0IJ17J8ptW8HUEKfPZ8FMHzXpeJ1v7e_PlOuCX6amsE_GbR8Ay6LYGXveFn28oc0Q0ZpL4h_jh8-bF9b37iYSlIdKPnGHobyJ_K78dsp6IaiErQuSrt44U3QAy4/s1600/IMG_4690+(1280x854).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEPl6BDurtu5cFS_O0IJ17J8ptW8HUEKfPZ8FMHzXpeJ1v7e_PlOuCX6amsE_GbR8Ay6LYGXveFn28oc0Q0ZpL4h_jh8-bF9b37iYSlIdKPnGHobyJ_K78dsp6IaiErQuSrt44U3QAy4/s320/IMG_4690+(1280x854).jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I started adding paint to the pages. Even working on different journals at the same time to spark some kind of idea. But, nothing...
Just messy pages. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ30zapOG6mSOLUWXXdV7QmRT9UPTOOSFxVT2mNz993bBregbzcZmuTjeFSYhhwwiQKPJsAepxMzhSz_8J0nbryYAPWVf8CdwyRRmHfzRm9yzjXfSRzGCl3zKHIkuRqf9SORgfENnIY3M/s1600/IMG_4686+(1280x821).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ30zapOG6mSOLUWXXdV7QmRT9UPTOOSFxVT2mNz993bBregbzcZmuTjeFSYhhwwiQKPJsAepxMzhSz_8J0nbryYAPWVf8CdwyRRmHfzRm9yzjXfSRzGCl3zKHIkuRqf9SORgfENnIY3M/s1600/IMG_4686+(1280x821).jpg" height="205" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I hope this creative block is only temporary.
What do you do to break through a slump? I'd love any tips or ideas.
<br />
<br />
Peace, Love and ChocolateJ.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-79055798846263929422014-02-04T07:37:00.000-05:002014-02-04T07:37:06.481-05:00Absentee Blogger<div style="text-align: justify;">
Has it really been almost a year since I've last blogged??? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It wasn't planned. Life got in the way. If you're still here...</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
THANK YOU</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anyway...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We had an official Snow Day last week. Here are some pics of the powdery fun...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXEEQM3DeliJB7wPCiHnC3sAIP2vUAID1kOdQ9ux-lnMXYGUBSZPdNtZz_0RatIGpl4-iJppgZemiz7aTqCH3zlRQnXZzyPeZ0p9x_OxSGtMM_DenmfyKlkFmgPGT823eDJmh81Ts1gIg/s1600/IMG_4645+(897x1280).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXEEQM3DeliJB7wPCiHnC3sAIP2vUAID1kOdQ9ux-lnMXYGUBSZPdNtZz_0RatIGpl4-iJppgZemiz7aTqCH3zlRQnXZzyPeZ0p9x_OxSGtMM_DenmfyKlkFmgPGT823eDJmh81Ts1gIg/s1600/IMG_4645+(897x1280).jpg" height="320" width="224" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkZBSx-PCM8Mz9QgAYnSkeUrcf5PKnRzsEbs-P-GoxlCxvDwSbKqkxzEs2a2Fuf7yxdzFpOVzIF_zKf_N9pv9Zya0nnnJqCYyVmp0oR6o2xaChFcBMYdTxxdI5VR-zCcuYeILw5OqmxE/s1600/IMG_4654+(1280x854).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkZBSx-PCM8Mz9QgAYnSkeUrcf5PKnRzsEbs-P-GoxlCxvDwSbKqkxzEs2a2Fuf7yxdzFpOVzIF_zKf_N9pv9Zya0nnnJqCYyVmp0oR6o2xaChFcBMYdTxxdI5VR-zCcuYeILw5OqmxE/s1600/IMG_4654+(1280x854).jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjltGsHBPHv-0wqNntlz9cVU4dOcRleFMhiWg0jCiJ7M-bC1PRTG0SuRU8d7AkQq_dJpTZwWHI8yXYWhYhFzhorSLidZKUC5HjlBQ0ZayDRuLtE1nabOMQEaNkORgJxcHUZrmOldqDF9Cg/s1600/IMG_4646+(834x1280).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjltGsHBPHv-0wqNntlz9cVU4dOcRleFMhiWg0jCiJ7M-bC1PRTG0SuRU8d7AkQq_dJpTZwWHI8yXYWhYhFzhorSLidZKUC5HjlBQ0ZayDRuLtE1nabOMQEaNkORgJxcHUZrmOldqDF9Cg/s1600/IMG_4646+(834x1280).jpg" height="320" width="208" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWW8wyvh30QDSxBbh2k9yfSAiWmCt8AxKrsZTRzKr8T89JDI2P0NVKiM8-CBQzg7QWn4k7XhbNKpqLFbAdWlHH_8GlAZrlPacnXo5raVw0h5qXM6CyvmKJsN2VZSb6iaslKB7ubvwkxyM/s1600/IMG_4647+(1280x843).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWW8wyvh30QDSxBbh2k9yfSAiWmCt8AxKrsZTRzKr8T89JDI2P0NVKiM8-CBQzg7QWn4k7XhbNKpqLFbAdWlHH_8GlAZrlPacnXo5raVw0h5qXM6CyvmKJsN2VZSb6iaslKB7ubvwkxyM/s1600/IMG_4647+(1280x843).jpg" height="210" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Peace ~ Love ~ Chocolate<br />
J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-84198836287792464172013-03-15T14:39:00.000-04:002013-03-15T14:39:49.984-04:00Ready for Spring<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Where have I been? Truthfully, I’ve been right here, but
unable to write it all down. Oh where to begin…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
On September 18<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> I received a call from my
mom that my dad had a massive stroke and was in the hospital. I flew home that
night (to WA state.) I spent the next two weeks in hospital rooms and then a
hospice facility, waiting for the inevitable and getting to know my family
better than ever before. My dad would have loved all the attention. In the end,
he took his last breath surrounded by family, his bride of 65 years, my mom, by
his side. It was truly a peaceful and beautiful moment. As she says, “it was a
good death…” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Then I spent the next week trying to help my mom begin
this new life, which meant a lot of paperwork. And a lot of phone calls. So
much confusion and anxiety for her. I did my best to help, but truthfully, I
didn’t know all that needed to be done. But, she got through it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
When I returned to my home, I panicked a little. My mom
spent most of her life as a homemaker, so her income always depended on my
dad’s. And, she went through a little rigmarole to get things straightened out.
She also took a huge cut regarding income. I started freaking out about what
would happen to me if something happened to my husband. And luckily a friend
had an entry level, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>full-time position
open. I took it, eager to go back into the working world! About 2-weeks in, my
panic turned to exhaustion as I tried to juggle everything I did as a homemaker
and now a full-time employee. I failed miserably. I yelled a lot. My husband
took on so much that he was exhausted. And finally I asked my family how they
felt about this new life. They were miserable too. My son said, “I liked it
better when you didn’t yell.” Six weeks into the job, I quit. I’ll figure the
rest out later.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
I started the New Year with a plan to get my mind, body,
and spirit in order. I started eating healthier and exercising – running,
slowly, but running nonetheless – and I feel better! My mom came to visit for a
month. Testing the waters to see if she’d like to move down here. She liked it.
More on that later. But, while she was here, her home was broken into. Only
four months after her husband dies, her home of 30 years has been violated. And
once again, she has to get paperwork in order. Accounts are frozen, she has to
deal with an insurance company. She has proven to me that she’s the strongest
woman I know. I only hope to be half the woman she is when I grow up. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ4T4cF4cIYTnsieNaD6WXOzBla56DF9grxsobgOiPGdqrew6TOnzPxU6SPMDnJq00TPf90HLQkNhCnJGW9h8msXHUdaSI9Xs4gTwcZjUbu11aDrQpAvv2-J00k0ACtqu0xJXyyHJlmNI/s1600/058+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ4T4cF4cIYTnsieNaD6WXOzBla56DF9grxsobgOiPGdqrew6TOnzPxU6SPMDnJq00TPf90HLQkNhCnJGW9h8msXHUdaSI9Xs4gTwcZjUbu11aDrQpAvv2-J00k0ACtqu0xJXyyHJlmNI/s320/058+-+Copy.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for Spring</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
And there we have it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s kind of funny that I put it all into one
blog post. I’m ready for spring. It’s so very close…</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
Peace, Love, and Chocolate</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-87963870123697171162012-09-05T10:48:00.000-04:002012-09-05T10:48:47.071-04:00Wednesday Inspiration<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hello!
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Here is something I look forward to every Wednesday: a video from <a href="http://donnadowney.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Donna Downey</a>, working in her Inspiration Journal. I hope you enjoy!</div>
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dzKGC05aii0?fs=1" width="459"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
Peace ~ Love ~ ChocolateJ.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-72597352597207787482012-08-29T14:08:00.000-04:002012-08-29T14:09:33.189-04:00Handmade PlannerHello!
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A couple of weeks ago, I saw a link on Pinterest to this 3 year altered book journal from Stargardner's Journal...</div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-HTIVOPIEkNNkWyKbdZXhCY6AJKNuYR9G7UIkqEy1WrB_OO81r0bvQJsjhwI8Q0bjt1JHo1AwWXrQSGY27_gdt2_PKwZexCRLjdVDn-4nMblHgkk-0bxWKJyDjECTuihE8T3yx1MmIsQ/s320/7822724036_a31ae1f835.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rightbrainplanner.com/my-latest-altered-book-a-3-year-1-2-line-daily-visual-journal/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After reading her description of using it as a document of daily happenings and a record of things past, a light bulb went off in my head! When I worked full-time I had yearly planners that I saved from year-to-year. It was a basic office supply, but I saved them because I could easily thumb through the months to remember how long a project took, or phone numbers of contacts (that I didn't call but once a year.) It never dawned on me to make my own planner!</div>
<br />
SO, I've decided to make one for the next year:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5DzFGca8I7PHGlxhqKykycz_4-0WHfJXpaQsQo9dce1Hx78Zms_BNbSEl-EcgM-NsOF0kay2azaBi07ObJ7ppFnklzROtUIE4Oh_vQkYbcAl4Hn0TNCa7N4hqrBNPYqT0gU4Mqne0zKU/s1600/031$.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5DzFGca8I7PHGlxhqKykycz_4-0WHfJXpaQsQo9dce1Hx78Zms_BNbSEl-EcgM-NsOF0kay2azaBi07ObJ7ppFnklzROtUIE4Oh_vQkYbcAl4Hn0TNCa7N4hqrBNPYqT0gU4Mqne0zKU/s320/031$.JPG" width="231" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I used heavy 7 pieces of heavy card stock and assembled them like an art journal (with a basic bookbinding stitch). Then I decorated it.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJjW-CPgy5IRgz6F3tfVrz-TqVvgEbfOUO1eRP13db5M-qOS_5nFQ_L3-QcxCYM9TtSuqDrJrqaXtTAp6MMpujNUOJrbs9gAL6l5Hfu6FXDkFCUoT_S_AzbJRATRvKyWljwzwSRIMOHkc/s1600/PageLayout$.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJjW-CPgy5IRgz6F3tfVrz-TqVvgEbfOUO1eRP13db5M-qOS_5nFQ_L3-QcxCYM9TtSuqDrJrqaXtTAp6MMpujNUOJrbs9gAL6l5Hfu6FXDkFCUoT_S_AzbJRATRvKyWljwzwSRIMOHkc/s320/PageLayout$.jpg" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The inside so far</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I messed up a little with September. But I don't care. That's the charm. I tried to give October a very Halloweeny feel. To make the squares, I just used a stencil template. I'll work on the other months as I go. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOZmErSKjhaC163LPwZXMWy7bMPyxGNNbzMRbrdX5aiKikELdbnCJ1kXUi_c2Hmnmhk0wtdKdMW_9KABfXp3x_ODyvKGBwW1EY4am9KOTD56WLT3iyNP9HrK7F9jCW0q1STiSrte9eOGg/s1600/037$.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOZmErSKjhaC163LPwZXMWy7bMPyxGNNbzMRbrdX5aiKikELdbnCJ1kXUi_c2Hmnmhk0wtdKdMW_9KABfXp3x_ODyvKGBwW1EY4am9KOTD56WLT3iyNP9HrK7F9jCW0q1STiSrte9eOGg/s320/037$.JPG" width="235" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The back</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I decorated the back to match the front. I used wallpaper boarder that I found in a clearance bin for a dollar and some turquoise paint. I sealed both the front and back with Mod Podge.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I love it! I'm going to carry it in my purse and hopefully it will become a record of my days. I'm also going to be on the hunt for a book to alter for next years planner. So much fun!</div>
<br />
Peace ~ Love ~ ChocolateJ.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-64962509675669603942012-08-22T11:34:00.001-04:002012-08-22T11:35:49.963-04:00The Joy DietHello.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm not sure if you saw a post of mine last Friday about an online project I wanted to start - but I've removed it. And I apologize for being so hasty. But the truth is I jumped before thinking and if I would have continued, I would have landed head first. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitz-sbxwrWhavxDTgblNFdwjua_Jm36anRHOXrN0recPib6gvavhyphenhyphenhX37jyXIe3U6L2XaXK1db4DFko3xFVQ-Eh9SauqXE9xf3_YIqpHy-cLgdNt4WyBJtt3mo9nHye5dfvyHqA6PZxUI/s1600/277252920780824717_XLZRizNt_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitz-sbxwrWhavxDTgblNFdwjua_Jm36anRHOXrN0recPib6gvavhyphenhyphenhX37jyXIe3U6L2XaXK1db4DFko3xFVQ-Eh9SauqXE9xf3_YIqpHy-cLgdNt4WyBJtt3mo9nHye5dfvyHqA6PZxUI/s320/277252920780824717_XLZRizNt_c.jpg" width="206" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.debbieanneparent.com/" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But, I will tell you, I am spending the next four months on me. And I'm starting with the book, The Joy Diet, by Martha Beck.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqDUS0yJD1JU6nwGM3MXSb_KJQUXCGzcxrZfG__u1HpCpSbR1d4NaLdwZEct1ENylZANimbv1zOd5Jl72I_nDCORQXTPt0wsk7SLO2MyoFNU-XSmmfrdNR53lTm_1H0IWOoAqMfLLkdUo/s1600/TJD.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Joy-Diet-Practices-Happier/dp/0609609904" target="_blank">Photo Credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm on "menu" item #1 and have a feeling I'll be there a while. It's sitting for 15 minutes doing nothing. Basically meditating. Something I've always wanted to do, but every time I try, my mind distracts me. Beck gives tips about how to guide what she calls, "squirrel brains" to mindful contemplation. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm also revamping my diet. I've started with giving up soda and drinking water and juices (some coffee and tea also). That has me feeling better and not so dehydrated. Next, I want to add exercise. But, I have to pace myself. If I try too much at once, I'll create anxiety for myself and quit everything. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So, anyway, another blogland lesson for me. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Peace ~ Love ~ Chocolate</div>
J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-82576929569103351562012-07-16T06:24:00.000-04:002012-07-16T06:25:34.878-04:00Birthday Reflections<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last week I had my birthday. I turned 38, which really isn't an exciting birthday. But I do like the fact that my b-day falls in the middle of the year, because I think this is a good time to assess how I've been doing since my <a href="http://mypurejoy.blogspot.com/2012/01/hello-2012.html" target="_blank">New Year's</a> post.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAHl7a5-_u0WOwjWe4AjFS3bpCwliY_vpoYcc9bwwYHtigWlYOtpgddJfUN3dH6eSVB16BXbQ277VQiDucrc-VRVvAtyu6B0LJNgIw9XuJIEDSspfMzgkNI_P1dslDt9ELXR_9LdtseoA/s1600/0001A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAHl7a5-_u0WOwjWe4AjFS3bpCwliY_vpoYcc9bwwYHtigWlYOtpgddJfUN3dH6eSVB16BXbQ277VQiDucrc-VRVvAtyu6B0LJNgIw9XuJIEDSspfMzgkNI_P1dslDt9ELXR_9LdtseoA/s320/0001A.JPG" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me on the 4th of July</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And I think I've been doing pretty good. Excellent actually! I've definitely gotten out more. And I've met a lot of great people who I now consider friends. My art has a location to be shown. Two locations actually and I have more events coming up! Wow, lots of changes in the last few months!</div>
<br />
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
The one area I've fallen short in is getting healthier. It seems the busier I've gotten the worse I eat! I need to make this my focus for the rest of the year. I know I would feel better and have more energy. I NEED the energy!</div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTjOk3emkkA82v3cc67nMrJrH2srDyW9Xq4JippMzXz4rwS5wuM9U5JB7TzXsfgTxhDCvOMOLhNLHUnSTTm6a8HZnpAP017URMXz6aLC9SsjCMibLOC6zMR69S_m2ErLkoc-9oid_Kr_A/s1600/0001A_A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTjOk3emkkA82v3cc67nMrJrH2srDyW9Xq4JippMzXz4rwS5wuM9U5JB7TzXsfgTxhDCvOMOLhNLHUnSTTm6a8HZnpAP017URMXz6aLC9SsjCMibLOC6zMR69S_m2ErLkoc-9oid_Kr_A/s320/0001A_A.JPG" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tomato from my garden - a good start in getting healthy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
Yes, I see more veggies in my future. Water too. I have a horrible diet soda addiction that I need to overcome. And exercise. Who has the time? I do actually. But I have a million little excuses as to why I can't. But I have to. I need the mind/body balance that I'm lacking.</div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
So there it is. More goal setting. More to do. More Joy.</div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
Do you take the summer to assess your goals? How have you been doing?</div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify">
Peace ~ Love ~ Chocolate</div>J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-55686730605987074392012-07-09T10:13:00.000-04:002012-07-09T10:17:06.125-04:00Ice Box Cake<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m a bit of a Food Network/Cooking Channel junkie - not
because I like to cook so much - but because in the last two years I’ve been
thrown into the duty, since my family has gone down to one income. What I’ve
found is that things I thought were complicated to prepare, are actually pretty
easy. Like this Ice Box Cake:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/168110998561240681/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ec1.pinterest.com/upload/168110998561240681_rth15RTc_c.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/mocha-chocolate-icebox-cake-recipe/index.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">foodnetwork.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/jamars711/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Joyce</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I was perusing the Food Network when I saw <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/ina-garten/index.html" target="_blank">Ina Garten - aka The Barefoot Contessa</a> - making this
ice box cake. I changed it up a little because I
didn’t want to add alcohol to a dessert that my son would eat. Trying to be a
responsible mom! </span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc9QEyQN6QQ1B7U-QV-x6M6C6gDX-SI9G21OXvEtWLOqNoqG0yX4Im0cKHqnxX1xftX0skktbjuytwSfxljCqdkrK5YDl_h5YwE_ZNTDNlX78_sdmeo4WkpHxG2oHEMhXfCry4qR3Kx6U/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc9QEyQN6QQ1B7U-QV-x6M6C6gDX-SI9G21OXvEtWLOqNoqG0yX4Im0cKHqnxX1xftX0skktbjuytwSfxljCqdkrK5YDl_h5YwE_ZNTDNlX78_sdmeo4WkpHxG2oHEMhXfCry4qR3Kx6U/s320/009.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My version - not as pretty - but tasty!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here’s my version:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 cups heavy cream</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 tsps vanilla extract</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1/2 cup powdered sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 tbsps cocoa powder (I used Hershey's Special Dark)</span><br />
<br />
1 bag crispy chocolate chip cookies <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
First, I gently whipped the cream with a hand held mixer, until it thickened slightly. Then I added the vanilla, sugar, and cocoa powder and continued mixing until the cream thickened (like Cool Whip). You have to be careful to not over whip, otherwise you'll get butter! It took about a minute.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then, in a round cake pan (Ina used a spring form pan, but I didn't have one and didn't want to buy one), I layered the cookies, then whipped cream, cookies, cream, cookies and had a layer of cream on top. I covered it with plastic wrap and let it set in the fridge overnight - about 12 hours. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Easy peasy! Actually, it took longer for me to write this post then to assemble the cake! And it was DELICIOUS!!! It's not something I'd make every week, because of the high fat content, but for get togethers it would be fabulous!</div>
<br />
Let me know if you try it!<br />
<br />
Peace ~ Love ~ Chocolate</div>J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-75480433792601721672012-07-04T10:57:00.000-04:002012-07-04T10:57:28.064-04:00Happy 4th!Have a happy and safe 4th of July!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/07/03/3705.jpg"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/07/03/s_3705.jpg" style="margin: 5px;" width="400" /></a></center><br />
<br />
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhoneJ.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-49887214864279778622012-06-28T09:20:00.000-04:002012-06-28T09:20:42.966-04:00Dream<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong>dream</strong> [dreem] <strong><em>noun, verb</em>, dreamed or dreamt, dreaming, <em>adjective</em></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1<em><strong>.</strong></em> <span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">a</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">succession</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">of</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">images,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">thoughts,</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">emotions</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">passing</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">through</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">the</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">mind</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">during</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">sleep.</span> (noun)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span>2. <span style="color: #333333;">to have a dream. (verb, without object)</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span><span style="color: #333333;">3. <span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">to</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">see</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">or</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">imagine</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">in</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">sleep</span><span style="color: black;"> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">in</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">a</span> </span><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">vision.</span><span style="color: black;"> (verb with object)</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span><span>4. <span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">most</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">desirable;</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">ideal:</span> </span><span class="ital-inline"><span id="hotword"><em><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">a</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">dream</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="color: #333333; cursor: default;">vacation.</span></em> (adjective)</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGC8ML3l8FthZqyV6Xpcrma2lYJazYTxRGzPAZdGGwNQ8u2Mqt-1Bd5OHygH-EujqcMJkukn__27xbk-oadBl4PUsYlkIYztEV0ZxkHmlgzv7333Bi07K_7hyIR51gkg8tneC4CpLpO9c/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGC8ML3l8FthZqyV6Xpcrma2lYJazYTxRGzPAZdGGwNQ8u2Mqt-1Bd5OHygH-EujqcMJkukn__27xbk-oadBl4PUsYlkIYztEV0ZxkHmlgzv7333Bi07K_7hyIR51gkg8tneC4CpLpO9c/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span><span><span class="ital-inline"><span>I love the word <em>Dream</em>. I mean, just look how versatile it is - how many meanings it has and so many ways to use it! There's even a song verse that uses it (from one of my favorite songs, Mayonaise, and one of my favorite bands, Smashing Pumpkins):</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span><span><span class="ital-inline"><span>"When your life is oh so dreary, <em>dream</em>..."</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span><span><span class="ital-inline"><span>Yes, that's how I used think of the word. To dream about another life when mine wasn't going exactly how I'd like it. To sleep and have dreams of different worlds. Nowadays, I use dreaming as a way to accomplish things. I dream BIG! And I act on my dreams. I'm persuing them. I'm crushing my fears with my dreams. </span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span><span><span class="ital-inline"><span>And it's amazing what happens when you put action behind your dreams. Good things happen. Sometimes slowly, but eventually they do. Dreaming is all part of the journey. Yes, yes.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span><span><span class="ital-inline"><span>Peace ~ Love ~ Chocolate</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-56883900466218115782012-06-25T08:00:00.000-04:002012-06-25T08:00:11.759-04:00Green Beans Everywhere!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Hello!
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimXkp168oOk52kipFyIE2ZGXPRKnSCbUYNSvzivjfUfD-R36Y42SUjFFRVE8ATmsswOw-JE-uEgEEHDC_iO4IrhMduGu5M3IgM-V6hN6VLIQ1A22JB6w7eslEGMu7dnRiI9RVBynf3OcM/s1600/Fridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimXkp168oOk52kipFyIE2ZGXPRKnSCbUYNSvzivjfUfD-R36Y42SUjFFRVE8ATmsswOw-JE-uEgEEHDC_iO4IrhMduGu5M3IgM-V6hN6VLIQ1A22JB6w7eslEGMu7dnRiI9RVBynf3OcM/s320/Fridge.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raw beans, fresh from the garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So, here's how random my life can be. Saturday, my hubby gets a text from a friend asking if he wants to go and pick green beans. His friend's garden has exploded with green beans and there are simply too many for his family. All of this green goodness means that Sunday we had to blanch the beans and freeze them. Here's how we did it:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9l9DwCegxBSlGmW654COcTnI2XaWMYe0_pmsRubuEREihNazPkYYFMQzxkROx2Hsc3XLKQa-s-ZI2PAt5AWkXwQYgwtfzxMSnc_UzZeoFF7w_-KgbbQqdptBxC55vQHz2xssdjaYwBOo/s1600/003b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9l9DwCegxBSlGmW654COcTnI2XaWMYe0_pmsRubuEREihNazPkYYFMQzxkROx2Hsc3XLKQa-s-ZI2PAt5AWkXwQYgwtfzxMSnc_UzZeoFF7w_-KgbbQqdptBxC55vQHz2xssdjaYwBOo/s320/003b.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hubster's hand</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
First, we had to rip the ends off of the beans. This is kind of a zen task and was nice to sit and talk with the hubster over the bags of beans. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIrTVB4wJeRML5A99yJSoa385m5GE_EvKl7NTt_BXiadsveLsjTxAjzyIaobw_5tVW3H9xqZOZ-JMj9EwJwGf6oK9jEjJi9FLjFCFmTYdVaoyMGZ-RWXOx74jIauZMacibCPe4wYN-AzQ/s1600/001b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIrTVB4wJeRML5A99yJSoa385m5GE_EvKl7NTt_BXiadsveLsjTxAjzyIaobw_5tVW3H9xqZOZ-JMj9EwJwGf6oK9jEjJi9FLjFCFmTYdVaoyMGZ-RWXOx74jIauZMacibCPe4wYN-AzQ/s320/001b.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Monty and Kiki offered to help</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then I rinsed them and put the beans in rolling boiling water for 3 minutes (the blanching process). This kills anything that may have gotten on the veggies and also kills an enzyme that breaks down the green beans. (The hubster just told me that tidbit - I had no clue before.) It also brings out a lovely green color in the beans. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNEMwCOFnnBraPkGpYGkl6IRvfeLXHTUwZnrc6ZTJpphg1IWGnvxxWjiMkehulf6YSPrqOps0UMpqOFnNACvQeyzo1qXaMYma9f2S5k-6I9niqN6VOKYIF_lOjbW_qgyhuE41VopjuR0/s1600/006b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNEMwCOFnnBraPkGpYGkl6IRvfeLXHTUwZnrc6ZTJpphg1IWGnvxxWjiMkehulf6YSPrqOps0UMpqOFnNACvQeyzo1qXaMYma9f2S5k-6I9niqN6VOKYIF_lOjbW_qgyhuE41VopjuR0/s320/006b.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blanching the green beans.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then I stuck them in an ice bath for another 3 minutes. This stops the cooking process. The beans are still very firm at this point. And uber sweet and yummy! I could really eat them like this and be happy. </div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRvD60bk_yaZNqSrYdhHJBZ7VNbHDFqUyq2lnfjqtbQYiXLEzwGSO1LZmN-Jd1t1xGjaHVL5FJkjQKgEqBpJcgEcF7qb8DlALWfg3YxvSUAXJnQOB1kwuLWVhxQhHe3AAWJaCW0Ir7AtU/s1600/007b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRvD60bk_yaZNqSrYdhHJBZ7VNbHDFqUyq2lnfjqtbQYiXLEzwGSO1LZmN-Jd1t1xGjaHVL5FJkjQKgEqBpJcgEcF7qb8DlALWfg3YxvSUAXJnQOB1kwuLWVhxQhHe3AAWJaCW0Ir7AtU/s320/007b.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ice + water = a chilly bath for green beans</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then I laid them out on a paper towel on the counter and blotted any excess water off. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtfiA9fghPgv3hCjx8LHTSeNmzQzWCJ_ZKrItK_qvw_BmfjPP16lZBZD4vNcFYPsRCpqZMOrVvS2XDlxDweCINbp2Gwx43_s7n8FTLCwF6Mc5JdMzcRfM9lV4px6XUizcIl2EA5Y7Cm5c/s1600/008b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtfiA9fghPgv3hCjx8LHTSeNmzQzWCJ_ZKrItK_qvw_BmfjPP16lZBZD4vNcFYPsRCpqZMOrVvS2XDlxDweCINbp2Gwx43_s7n8FTLCwF6Mc5JdMzcRfM9lV4px6XUizcIl2EA5Y7Cm5c/s320/008b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And then we placed them in freezer bags! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiihnL7XD7S7dYs5uN3iqCKi91b5AkguU9nvQZXmD8GFoOelazhoFiyuslYZjGBOQBHWsGCRZS_bwjQ1-nnN-20M_Y8foXS2vRAMoQwLkX6mu0Nyg7_MzkmSIuyi9FPOVxsdXetaFQgFfw/s1600/009b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiihnL7XD7S7dYs5uN3iqCKi91b5AkguU9nvQZXmD8GFoOelazhoFiyuslYZjGBOQBHWsGCRZS_bwjQ1-nnN-20M_Y8foXS2vRAMoQwLkX6mu0Nyg7_MzkmSIuyi9FPOVxsdXetaFQgFfw/s320/009b.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
My hubby then worked to get all air out of the bags, to prevent freezer burn. We have about 16 quart size bags of green beans. I think that should get us through to the holidays!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We're hoping next year we'll be picking a bounty like this from our garden. We got off to a slow start this year, but we're ready for next year!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have you done any summer gardening this year? How do you store your bounty?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Peace ~ Love ~ Chocolate </div>J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-70686842937498424372012-06-21T20:10:00.000-04:002012-06-21T20:10:02.365-04:00Blogging in Solitude<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxB28uStOm74upadEN5ne7A2LwXnkgof6zosi0Jz07t5W8aClCUwsLKL32KYPp86DZF5igIQfy63aGujuZbioYdhwlH0-LiDjxGLZ4m3rkeALTTMZbWqTGmreoFrS5XoObV5RFdOboX-o/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxB28uStOm74upadEN5ne7A2LwXnkgof6zosi0Jz07t5W8aClCUwsLKL32KYPp86DZF5igIQfy63aGujuZbioYdhwlH0-LiDjxGLZ4m3rkeALTTMZbWqTGmreoFrS5XoObV5RFdOboX-o/s320/005.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been reading Journal of a Solitude by May Sarton. The title is what caught my eye, as I had never heard of her before. I wanted to read anothers' perspective about being alone all the time. Although the only similarities Sarton and I have may be temperament and the struggle with depression. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What I find interesting about this book is that it was written in the 1970's (or at least published in the 70's). Long before the instant gratification on the Internet and blogging. She wrote her daily doings and musings, without knowing if anyone would ever read it. She wrote to document. A testament of her life, her thoughts, her struggles. I think this may change the way I blog.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've been trying too hard. I TRY to write things that I think would interest people. I edit and re-edit, thinking that if I write from off the top of my head, no one would be interested. As I'm writing this right now, I'm imagining a yawn fest.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But I'm realizing that to be authentic and real in my blogging, I have to document all the time. Or at least most of the time. Sometimes, my life is pretty boring. But it's real. Sometimes, my life is so busy that I think I'm going to lose my mind! Again, it's real. And it's those ups and downs that make a tapestry of life or of a blog, if you will. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anyway, I'd love to hear thoughts on this in the comments. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Peace ~ Love ~ Chocolate</div>J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-625582415422623692012-06-19T08:36:00.001-04:002012-06-19T08:36:44.458-04:00Be FearlessHello!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Let me start off by saying that last week was BUSY! Good busy, but wow, I can't take weeks like that much anymore!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So let me recap what last week was like:</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
First, I called Monday to a local gallery/shop to see if they would be interested in my work. I had every intention of hearing, "No, sorry, that's not a genre we're interested in." BUT, the owner liked it and now my work has a home! It's called the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/?ref=tn_tnmn#!/RitaSmithGallery" target="_blank">Rita Smith Gallery</a>, located in Forest Acres, SC. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/98544008/fearless-mixed-media-art-8x10-print" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSGPsnxBPcQ7bMOm3Jwi-ldOWFE14T4iB1N1TbIWgoSwB-vh2tXoQBFSxjaqn4vbYVfNNwP_u-A1PLOjNz3WyzR1tSCcLfVwPC7XgKmIIq5g7mumjy1UxUtsKEXSd8PWA5yF3Jx_0Eos4/s320/001Fearless.JPG" width="252" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You just have to be Fearless...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
By Wednesday, I had installed [some] of my art and worked my first day in the gallery! Whew! But it's so exciting, I think I had adrenaline pumping through my veins to keep me going. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What is also great is that I can hold classes there. So, I'm now working on scheduling some for later this summer (more on that later). </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The rest of my week was filled with mommy duties, like taking my son to karate...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3k1LdmXOzw5xXZxUdgcO8Lxd7-UxPPq3-JFhN5cypS2s1YMLE9jdsafRMAZDNhkEQ_eGbsHUzGp2zO5dVy0YNQUELPA7a0jKhibWeNHbqO8dD3SPvQGUTyIMLivxaRAGcFg-exroaJr8/s1600/001AidenKarate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3k1LdmXOzw5xXZxUdgcO8Lxd7-UxPPq3-JFhN5cypS2s1YMLE9jdsafRMAZDNhkEQ_eGbsHUzGp2zO5dVy0YNQUELPA7a0jKhibWeNHbqO8dD3SPvQGUTyIMLivxaRAGcFg-exroaJr8/s320/001AidenKarate.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Speaking of fearless, my son Aiden in his karate uniform. :-)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
... and Father's Day activities...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_v8Iu8jS15IoUyi9PsYD5r0Fpb-xXcVKKS8WItzd3jEBl-ADXADEbuIQvpbk04WFa1flwSwRzPHIm8akFH7DQCMZ7DsvrGGa8rsJibOqZ9CMbbAwxXnTxqR0-_TV7uUdqWRr0XrB91g/s1600/001AA.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_v8Iu8jS15IoUyi9PsYD5r0Fpb-xXcVKKS8WItzd3jEBl-ADXADEbuIQvpbk04WFa1flwSwRzPHIm8akFH7DQCMZ7DsvrGGa8rsJibOqZ9CMbbAwxXnTxqR0-_TV7uUdqWRr0XrB91g/s320/001AA.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camping out on our property</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmTAPjzimoSzpFY1UbLbvIP4vI9v6kYZMiTUX7bwKe0ICrxZOj7iommxFIdEeGFk-MAcTwy2kfC0eOj2xq7NRkfH6DzowK7oVah-HjfkMFf-uZ46EtQ6Rrn78bHEnUN9OBldqePktJ2l4/s1600/001AAA.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmTAPjzimoSzpFY1UbLbvIP4vI9v6kYZMiTUX7bwKe0ICrxZOj7iommxFIdEeGFk-MAcTwy2kfC0eOj2xq7NRkfH6DzowK7oVah-HjfkMFf-uZ46EtQ6Rrn78bHEnUN9OBldqePktJ2l4/s320/001AAA.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spending some time on the lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So, yeah, I'm exhausted! But I had a great time. I even tried Knee Boarding (no pics thank goodness!) I failed at Knee Boarding. I couldn't even get on the board, lol. But I tried!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What I learned from last week is to just go for it! You never know what could happen. *smile*</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Peace ~ Love ~ Chocolate </div>J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3979969792642317183.post-21174143611146913482012-06-08T15:39:00.000-04:002012-06-08T15:39:25.035-04:00Journal JoyI was inspired by a quote I posted on my FB page yesterday and took to my journal. Here it is:
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhZaaEDGn52s2GuuC52Bn0uvNjHIhUewiK9Cpil_xVbGeDxh-5AynFRxpaYT2eiNwhzqFdIHSuN_0AjgmCr-Fc6aIxqO5qKHcCp3c0BnPtlLBb82SGuHC8cvLRfHiNZioJFJ6UhSCisI/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhZaaEDGn52s2GuuC52Bn0uvNjHIhUewiK9Cpil_xVbGeDxh-5AynFRxpaYT2eiNwhzqFdIHSuN_0AjgmCr-Fc6aIxqO5qKHcCp3c0BnPtlLBb82SGuHC8cvLRfHiNZioJFJ6UhSCisI/s320/004.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Don't go through life, grow through life." ~ Eric Butterworth</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="justify" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Peace ~ Love ~ Chocolate</div>
<div align="justify" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>J.A. Martinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08990784751072598124noreply@blogger.com2