tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44013419840658462962024-02-17T00:49:02.184-08:00Wildwood Cottage AlaskaThe chronicles of a wannabe farm-girl and her family living the dream amidst the mountains and muskeg of Southeast Alaska.Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.comBlogger132125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-18866472239618728272017-06-12T09:52:00.001-07:002017-06-12T10:06:07.125-07:00My Attempt at Chalk Painted UpholsterySo, I haven't blogged in awhile, and this is a quick-before-the-kids-awake type of post in response to my Facebook and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildwoodcottage">Instagram</a> photos of this experiment. This is mainly a listing of links for someone else wanting to try it.<br />
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First, the chairs:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> They wre both the red, hotel looking fabric on the left. The chair on the right is waiting for a coat of wax.</td></tr>
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Then the finished product:<br />
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And I really like how you can see the texture of the fabric through the paint so that it looks like embossing or damask.<br />
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Afterthoughts:<br />
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Many of the posts online say to wet fabric first, and sand between coats. I did not remember any of that in my spontaneous inspiration, and just mixed up my paint and slapped it on. If I had remembered to do those things, it sounds like my chairs would be softer. I am reading that people liken the texture to outdoor canvas, whereas mine is more like soft leather. <br />
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Would I do a big piece, like a sofa, with this? Um, maybe, but I would probably be much more orderly about it!<br />
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And I read somewhere that for the best chance of success, use a paint with a similar tint. So in this case, I had actually picked a brown with a slight reddish undertone to go over my red chairs. Other pictures online have more stark contrasts in their before and afters, but this bit of advice made sense to me. <br />
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Links:<br />
One tutorial: <a href="http://sincerelysarad.com/painted-upholstered-chair-using-chalk-paint/#_a5y_p=1693418">http://sincerelysarad.com/painted-upholstered-chair-using-chalk-paint/#_a5y_p=1693418</a><br />
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Another tutorial: <a href="http://salvagedinspirations.com/painting-fabric-with-chalk-style-paints/">http://salvagedinspirations.com/painting-fabric-with-chalk-style-paints/</a><br />
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My go-to chalk paint recipe: <a href="http://www.elizabethandcovintage.com/2012/03/how-i-make-chalk-paint.html">http://www.elizabethandcovintage.com/2012/03/how-i-make-chalk-paint.html</a><br />
I buy the carton of Plaster from the orange box store for about $10, and it lasts a loooong time. I then buy the sample sizes of Behr flat paint mixed. One of those will easily cover a large dresser when mixed with the plaster. But in this case, it took just over 2 of those sample sizes because the fabric absorbed more of the paint versus wood. However, if I had wet the fabric first, that may not have happened as much....Oh well, live and learn, right?<br />
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Happy Painting!<br />
Hillary At Home<br />
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Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10980639408450755223noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-73952740938430186352016-12-31T11:34:00.000-08:002016-12-31T11:34:09.138-08:00Homestead Experiment-No Money Pantry Makeover<span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy Happy New Year's Eve!! Before I write more, let me just wish all of my dear friends and family a wonderful weekend and prayers for a peaceful New Year! (Rabbit Trail: As I get older, I am not praying as much for prosperity or improved looks, but peace! It is amazing how our priorities change with age and adult life. haha!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Okay, so here is the summary. I know, if you're at all like me, you're not going to even read this but scroll straight to the pictures. So, I will keep it short with my trademark bullet summary:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">*Did not like the look of our cave/pantry.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">* We knew that we could paint the panelling when we bought it, but have been waiting for a good time to unpack our pantry into our tiny cottage without too much disruption.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">*Didn't get to it do it this summer with a little <a href="http://www.wildwoodcottageak.net/2016/08/the-septic-saga-wrap-up_13.html">Septic Saga</a> we were dealing with.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">*Christmas break! Time is right, but off-season for our biz which means money is tight.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">*Idea: Could we do this without spending ANY money at all? Not a dime? Let's try!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">BEFORE Shots: Coffee Counter</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">On Christmas Day, we began picking at the white Contac paper to see what was hidden underneath. All along, I had thought it was an MDF slab or something equally unusual, and planned to build a wood counter top. What we found was a wonderful surprise!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">It was a beautiful piece of ply with cedar trim! All it needed was to be finished. Thankfully I had plenty of leftover stain and Spar Urethane from various projects to keep my $0 budget! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">And now the rest of the pantry. The pictures speak for themselves; dark and hard to organize.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">And now the AFTER pictures! Drum roll please!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"> I was extremely tempted to go to Joann's and buy some black buffalo-check fabric for this curtain. But thankfully, I found this blue gingham which works well. It is a little more 'vintage farmhouse' than the trendy 'modern farmhouse', but it goes well with the rest of the decor.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">And, are you curious what that little blue cabinet with the wall paper patch on the right is? It is an old sewing cabinet that I scored awhile back that I have been using as a trash cabinet. It hides our trash can, and more importantly, keeps the dog out of it! It perfectly fits out plastic can, and the recycling can snugs in right next to it as if it is a custom job. Bonus-the front of the cabinet swings open like a door, so it is simple to slide the can in and out to dump it. I appreciate it greatly!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"> You can't really see it here, but there is about an 8 inch gap between the fridge and the cabinet on the right. Before canning season, I am planning to make a rolling shelf that will hold my mason jar treasures.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgug5Pm11rUqRFGJONPNzlkGjqI3d8xaB6azV1TZb5_YffzlwtK3FGCbQXL8I2gf-UmLWcL8aioBzUZ_QP7nkjq2LVoteot1EKVa0Jz40ts6V8Wv5JSE4TFocZnZPubkFNqwtJLy8syfL8/s1600/2016-12-30+22.46.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgug5Pm11rUqRFGJONPNzlkGjqI3d8xaB6azV1TZb5_YffzlwtK3FGCbQXL8I2gf-UmLWcL8aioBzUZ_QP7nkjq2LVoteot1EKVa0Jz40ts6V8Wv5JSE4TFocZnZPubkFNqwtJLy8syfL8/s640/2016-12-30+22.46.12.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> These organizers were left by the previous owners, but hung in really inconvenient spots. I moved them over to this blank wall, and it flows well. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6HwQmUpDICTU__tuti6J9cW_FKm71j80c0qDBvOHZ5MuEJApSdxSw9n41k7aQ_Va1cyNz5xFyWYcq1QMuQb0cETUe4qM2yneY3fcm3VxQZAc7CvXvzsyqqO5PnbD-lgU97SWjlbjwwUo/s1600/2016-12-30+22.46.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6HwQmUpDICTU__tuti6J9cW_FKm71j80c0qDBvOHZ5MuEJApSdxSw9n41k7aQ_Va1cyNz5xFyWYcq1QMuQb0cETUe4qM2yneY3fcm3VxQZAc7CvXvzsyqqO5PnbD-lgU97SWjlbjwwUo/s640/2016-12-30+22.46.31.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPj_Kq1DzZNRmFRBtT5udmSoKrk4hK_nsoTQCkHLRFuEfMTEHZ65wgxvAZRQYd1NrzDA5Kv2wC74-u6yx-Qdqw56eEIcJUjWFJZdshTetn9Mz80lmurDxJ81JfijljCN0BEO4LVAdJ2jk/s1600/2016-12-30+22.38.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPj_Kq1DzZNRmFRBtT5udmSoKrk4hK_nsoTQCkHLRFuEfMTEHZ65wgxvAZRQYd1NrzDA5Kv2wC74-u6yx-Qdqw56eEIcJUjWFJZdshTetn9Mz80lmurDxJ81JfijljCN0BEO4LVAdJ2jk/s640/2016-12-30+22.38.26.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"> Originally I wanted to paint this room white, but since it is the back entrance to the house, we thought white would not be such a good idea with traffic. So, I had a couple of gallons of 'Orchard Hills' green left in the bucket from our living room transformation this summer, and decided to go with that. I am so thankful that we did! Now, it flows so nicely from the main space, and since you can see in the doorway from the rest of the room, it just looks like an extension of the kitchen and makes the whole room feel so much larger! Win!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">To wrap up, I call this experiment a HUGE success! We love the room in its light airy-ness, and in spite of the work and late nights painting, it works so much better for our family. I am so grateful that we had everything on hand to make it happen. It is such a gift and blessing to my homemaking heart!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Again, Happy New Year to you all, and thank you for standing by us during our 2016 rollercoaster!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Hillary At Home</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10980639408450755223noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-61529385274704031002016-08-13T09:23:00.008-07:002016-08-13T12:18:43.767-07:00The Septic Saga Wrap-Up! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMNb8q8KxU42HIvcebwZ2Rk0n3OJYFY98IERDe7f1jNQGfUSkw496tTw87hd037xrGMB6-dgizGGS7RYY2n5sfkXkBnuBzRhiB9K0Gld5lovgKYD0RWJiCntGxMenGYgCq9BRNzfYmrPh/s1600/IMAG1666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMNb8q8KxU42HIvcebwZ2Rk0n3OJYFY98IERDe7f1jNQGfUSkw496tTw87hd037xrGMB6-dgizGGS7RYY2n5sfkXkBnuBzRhiB9K0Gld5lovgKYD0RWJiCntGxMenGYgCq9BRNzfYmrPh/s640/IMAG1666.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">To keep this post brief, I won't bore you with re-hashing every dramatic detail from the past 4 months. I do, however, want to highlight some of the amazing things that occurred which enabled our little brood to remain here at The Cottage!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">To avoid, what I call, "Blog Blah Blah" (where the writer rambles on forevah about every.single.detail), I am going to list it out in bullet points, befitting my Type A tendencies. So! That being said, let's get to it! The highs and lows of The Septic Saga in one simple list:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Low</b>: March 29th-The infamous day of AK D.E.C. knocking on my door to inform me that AK Dept. of Fish & Game discovered our septic tank was leaking into the nearby salmon spawning stream. They informed me that a Notice of Violation was to come, but wanted to give me a heads' up. (Thankfully I was home to receive that visit, because the letter that followed a week later was pretty intimidating! ) The compliance officer walked back to her car to get a business card for me, and when she returned I was already on the phone with the original inspector from our purchase of the home last year.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Low</b>: We had to stop using our drainage pretty much right away. That meant catch pans in the sinks, no toileting/showering/laundering! With 4 kiddos, that is not an easy task!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*High</b>: Friends who were out of town for the summer allowed us to use their laundry while they were gone. Another friend arranged for us to clean the nice bathroom facility at the local RV park in return for showering privileges!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Incredulous Low</b>: We found out that we did not have a septic tank, but a 60+ year old fuel tank that had been converted to a septic, along with no proper drain field! The inspector acknowledged repeatedly that he knew this, but never noted it on the inspection!Plus, the previous homeowners had re-routed the gray water outside of the septic tank and did not disclose it. They ran a french drain to route it out to the roadside ditch that runs along the front of the property!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Low</b>: We were told by the first engineer that we would have to put in a mound system septic with a sump pump. Costs were looking at $30-35k! Plus at that time, DEC was still saying they wanted the whole area along the creek in front of our house remediated. Including the $4-5k that would be required in fees to satisfy the DEC Notice of Violation, we could easily be looking at a $50k tab, and a long court battle...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Major Low</b>: We were told the bank would not loan us the money for the repair since a new septic does not really build equity. We began to look for a rental and make plans to turn the property back to the bank.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Downright Scary Low</b>: Upon working with our friendly, turned not-so-friendly compliance officer at DEC, we learned that:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> 1. Even if we foreclosed and gave the property back to the bank, they would still pursue us with fines and possible jail time since our names were associated with the property at the time of violation.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> 2. DEC does not regulate third party septic transactions, only new ones. Thus, there is no 'code' for septics unlike plumbing and electrical.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> 3. Likewise, DEC does not regulate who can be an inspector, nor offer training or certification for a septic inspector. In the words of the head of the waste water department in Anchorage, anyone can be an inspector if they get people to trust them to do the inspection. Seriously.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*High</b>: The inspection company brought us a complimentary port-a-potty to use until legalities were ironed out.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*High</b>: Due to the leak coming directly from the tank, and not leaching from the drainfield as originally thought, it was agreed upon that it would be worse to dig up the creek bed itself to remediate versus just letting the small amount of organic matter break down in the moving water. In other words, no remediation costs! Woo Hoo!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKsNMpomuGMW64Cj3d3FqKZdiLPZRHhdCE5z8P-31XuodbTIQHAMyuyKtqee9okUANH-KeO7adFOTZw-wve_bVUVWAdoFBeuZnxuI6zrvea7-6Ixj4MjMDGT_Hj2vuSVh-9qZY8M0wAi4m/s1600/IMAG1668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKsNMpomuGMW64Cj3d3FqKZdiLPZRHhdCE5z8P-31XuodbTIQHAMyuyKtqee9okUANH-KeO7adFOTZw-wve_bVUVWAdoFBeuZnxuI6zrvea7-6Ixj4MjMDGT_Hj2vuSVh-9qZY8M0wAi4m/s640/IMAG1668.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*High</b>: The previous homeowners paid for a second engineer to come out and give his assessment. He tentatively developed a plan to put a straight forward system in the frontal area of the property-depending on the water table being low enough. It was doubtful given the location of the creek, but he called for an excavator to do a bucket test and check.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Major High</b>: The water table was lower than expected! We could put in the system he was thinking of! The cost plummeted to $15k! We called the bank and let them know the situation in hopes that they could work with us to avoid foreclosure given the new price tag. We just wanted to get it fixed, and would deal with legalities later. Guess what?! Since the cost would now be under $25k, we could qualify for an FHA Liveablity loan that is designed to assist with roof, septic, and other structural repairs. Given our situation, the loan department moved us to the head of the line and we were able to close in less than a month!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*High</b>: After much debating and downright arguing with the insurance company of the inspector, we reached a partial-settlement and were able to avoid court. BIG sigh of relief!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*And finally</b>, we were going to pursue the previous homeowners for the remainder of the bill, but then felt led to take a different route. Unfortunately, they left a lot of disappointing surprises for us that range from rigging items on the repair addendum to non-disclosing other rigging jobs. Thankfully Farmer Brent is a pretty handy guy, and his tech background leads him to be meticulous and emphatic about fixing things properly, so we have just dealt with them to keep the peace. However, this septic mess is pretty much the proverbial straw that has broken the camel's back, and so we have decided to articulate our disappointment in their lack of integrity by sending a formal letter to them. Since I do not want to write it in anger, it hasn't happened yet...But soon, I think. The outhouse was hauled away after being in our drive for 4 months, and with it went a lot of the anxiety, stress, and inconvenience that their lies had caused. So, I am feeling closer to being able to write it in a spirit of love and ministry...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Acknowledgements</b>: THANK YOU to all of you who have encouraged us, prayed for us, provided facilities for us, and commiserated with us! You are loved and appreciated more than we could ever say!!!!</span><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-75270443469302253992016-08-13T09:23:00.006-07:002016-08-13T12:46:41.079-07:00The Septic Saga Wrap-Up! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMNb8q8KxU42HIvcebwZ2Rk0n3OJYFY98IERDe7f1jNQGfUSkw496tTw87hd037xrGMB6-dgizGGS7RYY2n5sfkXkBnuBzRhiB9K0Gld5lovgKYD0RWJiCntGxMenGYgCq9BRNzfYmrPh/s1600/IMAG1666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMNb8q8KxU42HIvcebwZ2Rk0n3OJYFY98IERDe7f1jNQGfUSkw496tTw87hd037xrGMB6-dgizGGS7RYY2n5sfkXkBnuBzRhiB9K0Gld5lovgKYD0RWJiCntGxMenGYgCq9BRNzfYmrPh/s640/IMAG1666.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">To keep this post brief, I won't bore you with re-hashing every dramatic detail from the past 4 months. I do, however, want to highlight some of the amazing things that occurred which enabled our little brood to remain here at The Cottage!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">To avoid, what I call, "Blog Blah Blah" (where the writer rambles on forevah about every.single.detail), I am going to list it out in bullet points, befitting my Type A tendencies. So! That being said, let's get to it! The highs and lows of The Septic Saga in one simple list:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Low</b>: March 29th-The infamous day of AK D.E.C. knocking on my door to inform me that AK Dept. of Fish & Game discovered our septic tank was leaking into the nearby salmon spawning stream. They informed me that a Notice of Violation was to come, but wanted to give me a heads' up. (Thankfully I was home to receive that visit, because the letter that followed a week later was pretty intimidating! ) The compliance officer walked back to her car to get a business card for me, and when she returned I was already on the phone with the original inspector from our purchase of the home last year.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Low</b>: We had to stop using our drainage pretty much right away. That meant catch pans in the sinks, no toileting/showering/laundering! With 4 kiddos, that is not an easy task!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*High</b>: Friends who were out of town for the summer allowed us to use their laundry while they were gone. Another friend arranged for us to clean the nice bathroom facility at the local RV park in return for showering privileges!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Low</b>: We found out that we did not have a septic tank, but a 60+ year old fuel tank that had been converted to a septic, along with no proper drain field. The inspector acknowledged repeatedly that he knew this, but never noted it on the inspection.Plus, the previous homeowners had re-routed the gray water outside of the septic tank and did not disclose it. They ran a french drain to route it out to the roadside ditch that runs along the front of the property!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Low</b>: We were told by the first engineer that we would have to put in a mound system septic with a sump pump. Costs were looking at $30-35k! Plus at that time, DEC was still saying they wanted the whole area along the creek in front of our house remediated. Including the $4-5k that would be required in fees to satisfy the DEC Notice of Violation, we could easily be looking at a $50k tab, and a long court battle...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Major Low</b>: We were told the bank would not loan us the money for the repair since a new septic does not really build equity. We began to look for a rental and make plans to turn the property back to the bank.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Incredulous Low</b>: Upon working with our friendly, turned not-so-friendly compliance officer at DEC, we learned that:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> 1. Even if we foreclosed and gave the property back to the bank, they would still pursue us with fines and possible jail time since our names were associated with the property at the time of violation.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> 2. DEC does not regulate third party septic transactions, only new ones. Thus, there is no 'code' for septics unlike plumbing and electrical.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> 3. Likewise, DEC does not regulate who can be an inspector, nor offer training or certification for a septic inspector. In the words of the head of the waste water department in Anchorage, anyone can be an inspector if they get people to trust them to do the inspection. Seriously.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*High</b>: The inspection company brought us a complimentary port-a-potty to use until legalities were ironed out.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*High</b>: Due to the leak coming directly from the tank, and not leaching from the drainfield as originally thought, it was agreed upon that it would be worse to dig up the creek bed itself to remediate versus just letting the small amount of organic matter break down in the moving water. In other words, no remediation costs! Woo Hoo!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKsNMpomuGMW64Cj3d3FqKZdiLPZRHhdCE5z8P-31XuodbTIQHAMyuyKtqee9okUANH-KeO7adFOTZw-wve_bVUVWAdoFBeuZnxuI6zrvea7-6Ixj4MjMDGT_Hj2vuSVh-9qZY8M0wAi4m/s1600/IMAG1668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKsNMpomuGMW64Cj3d3FqKZdiLPZRHhdCE5z8P-31XuodbTIQHAMyuyKtqee9okUANH-KeO7adFOTZw-wve_bVUVWAdoFBeuZnxuI6zrvea7-6Ixj4MjMDGT_Hj2vuSVh-9qZY8M0wAi4m/s640/IMAG1668.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*High</b>: The previous homeowners paid for a second engineer to come out and give his assessment. He tentatively developed a plan to put a straight forward system in the frontal area of the property-depending on the water table being low enough. It was doubtful given the location of the creek, but he called for an excavator to do a bucket test and check.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Major High</b>: The water table was lower than expected! We could put in the system he was thinking of! The cost plummeted to $15k! We called the bank and let them know the situation in hopes that they could work with us to avoid foreclosure given the new price tag. We just wanted to get it fixed, and would deal with legalities later. Guess what?! Since the cost would now be under $25k, we could qualify for an FHA Liveablity loan that is designed to assist with roof, septic, and other structural repairs. Given our situation, the loan department moved us to the head of the line and we were able to close in less than a month!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*High</b>: After much debating and downright arguing with the insurance company of the inspector, we reached a partial-settlement and were able to avoid court. BIG sigh of relief!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*And finally</b>, we were going to pursue the previous homeowners for the remainder of the bill, but then felt led to take a different route. Unfortunately, they left a lot of disappointing surprises for us that range from rigging items on the repair addendum to non-disclosing other rigging jobs. Thankfully Farmer Brent is a pretty handy guy, and his tech background leads him to be meticulous and emphatic about fixing things properly, so we have just dealt with them to keep the peace. However, this septic mess is pretty much the proverbial straw that has broken the camel's back, and so we have decided to articulate our disappointment in their lack of integrity by sending a formal letter to them. Since I do not want to write it in anger, it hasn't happened yet...But soon, I think. The outhouse was hauled away after being in our driveway for 4 months, and with it went a lot of the anxiety, stress, and inconvenience that their lies had caused. So, I am feeling closer to being able to write it in a spirit of love and ministry...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>*Acknowledgements</b>: THANK YOU to all of you who have encouraged us, prayed for us, provided facilities for us, and commiserated with us! You are loved and appreciated more than we could ever say!!!!</span><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-25865653461099639322016-07-02T23:47:00.003-07:002016-07-02T23:47:59.617-07:00A 'Septic Saga' Update!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbBfN7dMLhmZz7XDCm7y2i3SMqCRlzHO9dLl7D1rZTn7q6NeFgeOvuijP9p3PbEfAN_iy8H8uk5jGaBa619vvhsZ0156uPKCYWN7_8vfOu2tUDd-8iGr1Ygtub4kCXjOFXOyHWN4zJUsDI/s1600/IMAG1450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbBfN7dMLhmZz7XDCm7y2i3SMqCRlzHO9dLl7D1rZTn7q6NeFgeOvuijP9p3PbEfAN_iy8H8uk5jGaBa619vvhsZ0156uPKCYWN7_8vfOu2tUDd-8iGr1Ygtub4kCXjOFXOyHWN4zJUsDI/s640/IMAG1450.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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Do you know what this is, dear Reader? This is PROGRESS!! That's right! As of this afternoon, the contractor was out here spray-painting the outline of our new drainfield-to-be, and depositing equipment! Hurray and Hallelujah! <br />
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We are excited that our septic saga is drawing to a close. It has been filled with frustration and stress, but we have also seen gracious friends and our most gracious Lord provide for us:<br />
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*We have had countless prayer warriors hitting their knees for us, as well as taking the time to encourage us.<br />
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*We have been showering at an RV Park due to the ingenuity of a friend and the kindness of the park owner.<br />
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*We have been toggling between the two friends' homes for washing our clothes (we can dry at home) to minimize trips to the pricey laundromat.<br />
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*And most importantly, we are still here! In spite of the overwhelming numbers and unrealistic deadlines being thrown at us, we are still here! We haven't settled all legal matters yet, so I can't give exact details, but I will say that the Lord has worked many miracles on our undeserving behalf, and we are most grateful!<br />
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Thank you for any positive part that you may have played in this, whether you are a tangible contributor, or you have blessed us with loving thoughts, prayers, and encouragement. We are most grateful and will post our testimony of God's provision when we are officially done with paperwork and legal mumbo jumbo!<br />
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Happy 4th of July weekend!<br />
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Blessings,<br />
Hillary At Home</div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-56669956493655246422016-05-25T17:51:00.001-07:002016-05-25T17:55:38.390-07:00My Belated Tribute to Resilient Mothers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span data-offset-key="bbihe-0-0"><span data-text="true">This is just a quick little post; something I have been wanting to say since Mothers' Day, but have not had the time to mentally articulate and write it down until today. So, here it is, 2+ weeks late:</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span data-offset-key="5aajb-0-0"><span data-text="true">I want to tip my proverbial hat to all mothers, and ESPECIALLY those who I know that have had to fight to be mothers. The enemies in this battle are varied and fierce, but these women have overcome with their families and faith, not just in tact, but strengthened.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span data-offset-key="5aajb-0-0"><span data-text="true">For some, the adversary has been infertility and/or infant loss, others long adoption processes. I have known those that almost lost their babes due to unjust custody battles, and some fighting debilitating or terminal illness to physically be mothers. I cannot tag these women in this post for their own privacy and integrity, but I truly salute you from the bottom of my grateful heart. I sincerely want you to know that you inspire and remind me to never take one day of this beautiful parenting journey for granted. </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span data-offset-key="5aajb-0-0"><span data-text="true">And to ALL mothers, soldier on! Stay diligent, stay focused, and love your babies! :)</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span data-offset-key="5aajb-0-0"><span data-text="true">Blessings,</span></span></span></span></div>
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Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-16716876077216579452016-01-04T15:14:00.000-08:002016-01-04T21:39:28.017-08:00Lessons From My Forced Sabbath: My Children Are My _!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">As I was beginning to realize that a <a href="http://www.wildwoodcottageak.com/2015/12/a-forced-sabbath.html">Forced Sabbath</a> was imminent, I was feeling so guilty about stopping many of my children's favorite activities. I mentally wrestled with it, and tried to negotiate fuzzy math like a political candidate, but to no avail. I was far from accepting it gracefully as a time of rest. Then there was the day I providentially met my friend in a parking lot as I was dropping off my son for one of those aforementioned activities.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">We were chatting about kids and 'Mom' stuff, and before I knew it, I was completely offloading<i> all </i>of my baggage regarding this approaching season. She patiently listened, and then began to share with me about her own forced sabbath that she had experienced last summer. A temporary move to another town with her husband's summer job, left her and her children in a new community without much connection. In the midst of sickness, loneliness, and frustration, she was still able to enjoy the amazing creation around her, and to refocus her priorities. Then she said these words, <i><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">"I began to realize that my children had become my interruption instead of my ministry." </span></b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><i><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></b></i><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Do you see it? I bet you do. I bet you fully understand why I could now embrace my season of rest, and even anticipate it! For she was spot on; my children had become my interruption! Whether it was just wanting to chat with me or show me something, or even need help with school, they were an interruption that was interfering with my chock-full agenda. They were not my ministry at all! In the midst of cooking, cleaning, chauffering, blogging, decorating, Facebooking, serving, etc. they had become my interruption, an annoyance. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Oh. My. (deep breath)</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqkiBwvT50Sef-r-vKxVzsOax0gmE79fOkFnZ6EPRcfpGYfTNNa66mkaKP_N7NnOB7SYoCqmJjkz-0lXarI-iag85KrvwYPKIX0r580BeF4k2NyfM2hJEeckSMdH-AX9Unz85tlDWke1-K/s1600/IMAG0424.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqkiBwvT50Sef-r-vKxVzsOax0gmE79fOkFnZ6EPRcfpGYfTNNa66mkaKP_N7NnOB7SYoCqmJjkz-0lXarI-iag85KrvwYPKIX0r580BeF4k2NyfM2hJEeckSMdH-AX9Unz85tlDWke1-K/s640/IMAG0424.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Now fast forward from that fateful meeting over a month ago, to yesterday. I was blessed to see a dear friend and mentor that I do not often see. But every time I get to be in her presence, I treasure it. She encourages me and warms my spirit. There is such wisdom and godliness that just flows out of her mouth. (Background: She was a Missionary while simultaneously being a single mother! Her daughter is now faithfully serving in the mission field, and when I watch the pair of them interract, I am inspired. She is truly an incredible woman.)</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">During the course of our chat yesterday, I mentioned how times are tight for us right now, but that we feel led that I am still to stay home with my children. She looked at me with those beautiful Momma-eyes and said, "Hillary, you will not regret this time of pouring into your kids. <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><b>They are the only thing on this earth that you can take to Heaven with you."</b> </i></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Did you stop and read that again? Seriously,do it. Read it again. Soak it in. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"> <span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Have you ever thought on that before?!</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have been pondering it for the past 24 hours and every time I think of it, I get chills in my soul. THAT is my goal, my <u>ultimate</u> goal for my children! That they, too, will know of the Lord's salvation, peace, hope, joy, and love, and ultimately end their earthly lives with a passage into His eternal kingdom.</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> </span> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So as I look at the blank in the title above, I ask myself, "Are my children my interruption, or are they my fellow sojourners on this path to Heaven?" If I fill that blank with anything but the latter, I am doing it all wrong. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Mommas, let's not get this one wrong.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Blessings,</span></span>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Hillary At Home </span></span><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></b></span><br />
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Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-83505920737436654272015-12-28T16:31:00.004-08:002016-03-06T01:56:50.052-08:00A Forced Sabbath<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I have heard people reference these seasons before. A broken limb, a medical condition, a big move, or in our case, financial constraints that can force a season of rest you wouldn't normally implement. As much as I have commented in the past about trying to pare down activities and being unable to, the truth is, that I haven't<i> wanted</i> to. Or rather, I didn't want to deal with the fallout and disappointment from my 4 curious students who have grown accustomed to signing up for whatever activity or club that they find intriguing. (Oh the beauty and tempations of this homeschool friendly town that we live in!)<br />
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But now, we are stuck. Stuck at the cottage that we so badly desired. Stuck on our property with snowy trails and frozen creeks. "Stuck like Chuck", to quote my husband. (Poor Chuck, whomever he is! Always stuck.) At least that is how I was viewing it up until this past week. As I fought off anxiety and worry, and even the slippery slope of returning depression, I viewed myself as being a stuck prisoner and victim. But now, I am learning that there is a huge difference in perspective between "stuck" and "rest".<br />
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I can now say that I am so very thankful for this forced Sabbath rest. Now that I have made it through the weeping ballerina who has to take a semester off from classes, and the myriad of "Awwww"s that emanated from other disappointed children, I am embracing the beauty of this time ahead. I am avidly reading and studying how to better simplify our homeschool for a more permanent structure. I am seeing where I am succeeding and hugely failing at discipling, as well as educating my children. I have been made aware of how poorly I was trying to accomplish so much through my own inadquate strength versus resting in God's sufficient hand. I am realizing how skewed my goals and priorities have become in so many areas. I am made aware again, that I am a mess and I need a Savior. Thank goodness Emmanuel came!<br />
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So as I view this glorious scene from the windows surrounding my desk, I gaze while feeling more hope and optimism about 2016 than I have felt in a very long time. Yes, we're still stuck. Yes, I still desire to fulfill my childrens' every longing and curiosity. Yes, we're still only getting a few hours of sunlight each day. Yes, we're still staring at those orange walls that I was sure I would have painted by now. However, I can now rest in the everlasting grace and be confident that Emmanuel is still God with ME! He has not left nor forsaken my family. I know without a doubt that the Sabbath is a gift; a time to re-prioritize, refresh, and rejoice in what I already have, as well as trusting Him for what lies ahead.<br />
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Happy New Year to You and Yours!<br />
Hillary At Home</div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-43281038071708032602015-11-27T16:30:00.000-08:002015-11-27T16:30:03.760-08:00I'm In Love!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
When it comes to being creative, I'm generally a follower and not a leader; as in you-do-it-first-and-give-me-a-full-tutorial kind of DIYer. But in this case, I actually had an idea that worked out just as good, if not better, than it looked in my mind! I am so grateful and amazed when that happens!<br />
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In this case, I decided to re-purpose a cable knit sweater into a rustic, cableknit, puffy star garland. The cut of the sweater was super outdated (sorry Liz Clairborne!), but the knitting and texture were so beautiful that I couldn't pass it up at the thrift store. And now it looks like these!<br />
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I just love the neutrality of the white knit which can be used for Christmas/Winter decor, or for all year through. (Would look so sweet on a nursery wall.) <br />
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I only have two of these garlands that are 6 feet long and feature 10 of these two-sided stars. (I also have a few stray stars that may end up becoming a mobile or a smaller garland. I'm still playing that out in my mind...). They will be featured at the market on Saturday, December 12. Doors open at 10am so come early to get the best selection!<br />
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Merry Christmas!<br />
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Hillary and the WWC Gang</div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-44600122941591112592015-11-24T10:18:00.000-08:002015-11-24T10:21:47.243-08:00Getting Ready For December's Market!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The sewing machine has been humming into the wee hours of morning as I'm working on the full length aprons that were requested by many at the November market. There will be some in the Waverly paisley and checks that we were sporting, as well as others in different fabric combinations. Plus we will have some child sizes for the wee chefs in your kitchen!<br />
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The machine has also helped to make one of my creative visions a reality. I don't want to unveil it now, but let's just say it involves white cable knit and winter decor. Yes, I truly am a sucker for pretty much anything cable knit!<br />
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In the kitchen we have been perfecting the desserts that will be featured on this month's table! Our taste testers have been very happy to say the least! Cookies, cakes, coffee cakes, and cinnamon rolls! So tasty, and sooo yummy! And they are allergy friendly to boot. We will also have some low carb/no sugar added as well.<br />
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December is also the last time we will feature our apple and cranberry products for this season. The apple butter is made and will be available in the decorative jelly jars as well as the larger pint size (by multiple request)! We also plan to have a few more jars of No Sugar Added Applesauce and will be selling our Spiced Apple Juice by the cup. Oh-and it's all organic of course! <br />
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The date is December 12 from 10-3. We sold out of all products at the November Market, and so be there early for best selection!<br />
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Blessings to you and Happy Thanksgiving!<br />
Hillary and the WWC Crew</div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-63655543088691536032015-11-12T12:59:00.002-08:002015-11-12T12:59:46.623-08:00WWC-Helping to End Human Trafficking and Slavery<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/F9GEjJTEY6Y/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/F9GEjJTEY6Y?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">The Farmers at WWC are excited to be a part of The End It Movement! We are signing up to be Freedom Fighters to help end the horrors of Slavery and Human Trafficiking. You can learn more about End It at <a href="https://secure.enditmovement.com/">https://secure.enditmovement.com/</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">We will be donating a portion of our Farmstand proceeds to this organization! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Please join us in the Movement, and at the market!</span></div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-19348037699786097392015-11-11T17:29:00.000-08:002015-11-11T17:29:11.974-08:00To Market, To Market To Buy...Gingermint??<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;">Have you ever heard of Gingermint (or sometimes spelled as Ginger Mint) before?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: left;">It's in the mint family, but eaten fresh, it tastes only slightly of mint with a strong citrus flavor. Dried for tea, it tastes <i>completely</i> different; mellow mint with citrus and floral overtones. I am not normally a fan of floral teas, but this one is so unusual and really lovely. It is flavorful but not strong. And you can definitely sense the soothing power of the mint while not it's sharp taste (which is great if you're a mint-hater like my Hubby who actually likes this tea!). </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpzXfag6y3SCS7oM7_jyx5pvxhyphenhyphenqu4A5og4JsojBly8g7TTVue1MMFybKbnrzIP_Y4jtvRXQlUdlzMotrD7gYzaUKsSDvV2gtDZ7fpVjRp_2-_ebOeoP1rnISOkGBr5iw2rSbaBshyphenhyphenpPcd/s1600/DSCF1824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpzXfag6y3SCS7oM7_jyx5pvxhyphenhyphenqu4A5og4JsojBly8g7TTVue1MMFybKbnrzIP_Y4jtvRXQlUdlzMotrD7gYzaUKsSDvV2gtDZ7fpVjRp_2-_ebOeoP1rnISOkGBr5iw2rSbaBshyphenhyphenpPcd/s400/DSCF1824.JPG" width="346" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We will be bringing a few bags of dried Gingermint to market this weekend, along with all of our canned products and wholesome baked goods! We'll see you Saturday!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hillary At Hom</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">e</span></div>
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Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-755653333697714322015-11-10T14:43:00.000-08:002015-11-10T14:43:35.016-08:00Aprons and Apple-palooza!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It's Tuesday, and that brings 80 lbs of organic apples waiting to be turned into NSA (No Sugar Added) applesauce, apple butter, and spiced apple juice!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA8GaJYo_YQto4_6JNIWbXJVmWh59HLfRwIsJ2M_uq6ozPLBuEUxZHu6RM1kwVMbHx5QdBm-VyYXAlKWTe-Pbm7mih-D7HPPJ0_ObrnYmg55bQlLMu8yxhyphenhyphenpbH7Pppxt92l6ldYDhII61l/s1600/DSCF1823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA8GaJYo_YQto4_6JNIWbXJVmWh59HLfRwIsJ2M_uq6ozPLBuEUxZHu6RM1kwVMbHx5QdBm-VyYXAlKWTe-Pbm7mih-D7HPPJ0_ObrnYmg55bQlLMu8yxhyphenhyphenpbH7Pppxt92l6ldYDhII61l/s400/DSCF1823.JPG" width="340" /></a></div>
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And here is a picture of Farmer Girl displaying our new half-aprons. These were re-purposed from men's button-up shirts, and have a fun sash that ties in the back. They will be on sale this weekend at our 'Farm stand' and would be fun to wear while cooking your Thanksgiving feast, or as a cute Christmas gift!<br />
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More updates and pictures will be posted as the week progresses, so keep checking in with us, and definitely stop by this Saturday from 10-3!<br />
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Blessings,<br />
Hillary At Home (And the WWC Crew!)</div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-28660328514473328152015-11-07T19:03:00.003-08:002015-11-07T19:07:33.293-08:00Curtains, Markets, and Julie Andrews!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Do you remember that scene in The Sound of Music where Maria looks at the draperies in her bedroom and has that lightbulb moment? The next scene shows the Von Trapp children joyfully romping through Austria in play clothes made from those same green and white drapes.<br />
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Maybe I've watched that movie too many times... Wait, no. That's impossible. It's Julie Andrews for Heaven's sake! Regardless, inspiration can strike from anyhwere, and I'm having my own Maria-esque lightbulb moment here at the cottage.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVMSs5APcuOVuDV1bgLcyBnmQMky8uJxVxWcpsqnwq9pPlDcuYDDwJiiPAdkHQi0k4V6gBrRUgKMoLhStYT_vvKH02WGrPOf6K3tvVflUR_CpBYmXbezBPTRonQetRaI-QXwzfrH6XThyphenhyphenI/s1600/DSCF1814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVMSs5APcuOVuDV1bgLcyBnmQMky8uJxVxWcpsqnwq9pPlDcuYDDwJiiPAdkHQi0k4V6gBrRUgKMoLhStYT_vvKH02WGrPOf6K3tvVflUR_CpBYmXbezBPTRonQetRaI-QXwzfrH6XThyphenhyphenI/s400/DSCF1814.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This pile of Waverly fabric is really the collection of our old curtains that I had sewn for our last home (Berry Creek Lane). We no longer need them, and so we have a new plan to use them at next week's market. Stay tuned to see what lovely creations we create!<br />
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Blessings,<br />
Hillary At Home</div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-92134841861930245512015-11-06T15:37:00.000-08:002015-11-06T15:44:18.920-08:00What's Bubbling On our Stove Today?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9WwnEXO4bTX8GjLHwq0ccTQnZOqCrUE37mrplsap4yM-KZT5x4WaY_OuiSBNPUbJjBpxcM-ccn_8mAvaErdzDmKbs354Gfnlyrns3BQChJF_dHkgOSMwrpO3Do7YvA6XDsjtGF4vpeP6u/s1600/DSCF1813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9WwnEXO4bTX8GjLHwq0ccTQnZOqCrUE37mrplsap4yM-KZT5x4WaY_OuiSBNPUbJjBpxcM-ccn_8mAvaErdzDmKbs354Gfnlyrns3BQChJF_dHkgOSMwrpO3Do7YvA6XDsjtGF4vpeP6u/s400/DSCF1813.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Cranberry Sauce! That's what! And the smell in my kitchen right now is heavenly! Cranberries simmering in a bath of fresh, organic orange juice with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. You can't get much more Autumnal than this! And to think that it's being ladled into these cute little jars that you can take home from the market next Saturday! (Then you'll be able to have the same heavenly fragrance fill your kitchen!)<br />
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We will have two versions of this lovely sauce available. There is a 'No Sugar Added' version that is sweetened with the organic orange juice and stevia (a treat for holiday feasts where guests may be eating Low Carb or diabetic), as well as a Paleo friendly 'Homestyle' version sweetened with the OJ as well as raw honey from the Pacific Northwest. With its traditional deep red color, either one will be a striking side dish at your holiday dinner.<br />
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Come soon to get your jar before they're gone next Saturday. And don't forget, doors open at 10!<br />
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Blessings,<br />
Hillary At Home</div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-83599541851130986722015-11-05T15:42:00.000-08:002015-11-05T15:43:18.447-08:00A Big Announcement: We're Going Live!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">That's right, we are excited to debut <b>Wildwood Cottage Farm Goods at the Second Saturday Farmer's Market on November 14th!!!</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">We will be starting simply, but will have a large assortment of allergy-friendly, canned and baked items, along with a few homestyle handcrafts! Do you know someone who is gluten or grain intolerant? Eating Paleo or Whole 30? Low carb or refined sugar free? Dairy free and/or nut free? </span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">We promise that we'll have a little something for everyone! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">We use whole foods and local ingredients when available to bring allergy-friendly, homestyle goods to you! 'Like' our Facebook page or sign up to follow this blog because we will be posting pictures all this next week to whet your whistle!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">This next week will be a flurry of canning, sewing, baking, and developing our display! We are gratefully thrilled to begin developing this aspect of our hobby farm vision, and there is a buzz of excitement among the Little Farmers at WWC as we wade through raw honey, canning lids, Northwest cranberries, and burlap! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Here's praying that you all have a wonderful week, and that we will get to see you at the Market!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Hillary At Home</span></div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-1101868515984764322015-06-26T09:55:00.000-07:002015-06-26T10:00:59.850-07:00It's Almost That Time Of Year! (And My New Cloffice!)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Next week is 4th of July, so that means one of my favorite times of the year is almost upon us! Although school won't resume for most families for another month or two, back-to-school supplies will start hitting the shelves in about 10 days! Woo Hoo!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Yes, we homeschool, and we try to do some sort of schooling year 'round, but who says we can't be excited by 10 cent notebooks and fabulously decorated folders of puppies and Spiderman? I mean, what other 80's kid used to drool over <a href="http://mentalfloss.com/article/52726/history-trapper-keeper">Trapper Keepers</a>?</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKOOsXtKAJKrps7UGpx0-TvOtnuLFAhTxjyiaZc88lWUZ-7apwOVyl_exUHvpiVAt_1yFFn3knTJtGkSbaUmx_HvZXVd4gw-g5-ywMFvo5dIHhs9m3iJtaDIK0w2UwZMapl6hE1xWCjWV/s1600/tks_1983_erin1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZKOOsXtKAJKrps7UGpx0-TvOtnuLFAhTxjyiaZc88lWUZ-7apwOVyl_exUHvpiVAt_1yFFn3knTJtGkSbaUmx_HvZXVd4gw-g5-ywMFvo5dIHhs9m3iJtaDIK0w2UwZMapl6hE1xWCjWV/s400/tks_1983_erin1.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://mentalfloss.com/article/52726/history-trapper-keeper">http://mentalfloss.com/article/52726/history-trapper-keeper</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Personally, I love it! Not only the cheap prices, but the demarcation of a new year and a new do-over. It's like January 1st in homeschool land! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGonGE-iDJT8bPP54l1reCdR-Zbmg1PlFrab7F30jwbSbcrYuy2diG6iNwBLEJBGSJZe5nrZqYINl59UhXvzOTMmPcBJOnA1eUTCU7nwxRBVnQFr1HgFkdjhDvGF7ZsXhULgEjKUKxisrZ/s1600/IMAG0311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGonGE-iDJT8bPP54l1reCdR-Zbmg1PlFrab7F30jwbSbcrYuy2diG6iNwBLEJBGSJZe5nrZqYINl59UhXvzOTMmPcBJOnA1eUTCU7nwxRBVnQFr1HgFkdjhDvGF7ZsXhULgEjKUKxisrZ/s640/IMAG0311.jpg" width="356" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">This is when I get to look over the past year and see how I can correct any oversights in the coming one. I can review my priorities for each child, and also review my spaces/materials/curriculum to make sure that I'm providing the best learning environment for my students. <i>Aaand</i> since our main curriculum choice of <a href="http://www.heartofdakota.com/">Heart of Dakota</a> is based on <a href="https://simplycharlottemason.com/what-is-the-charlotte-mason-method/">Charlotte Mason </a>teaching methods, it means I get to review, and shop for, fantastic literature!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We have had a record-setting summer thus far in terms of sunny days and warm temps. In coastal Alaska, that means that you spend every possible moment outside; hiking, berry picking, gardening, sightseeing, home repair-ing, etc. I am grateful to say that the residents of Wildwood Cottage have done just that! And now we're exhausted.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">So, I am thrilled to be spending this gray, rainy day here:</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cheesy name, but I love the functionality!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">I am going to camp out in my new 'cloffice' and revel in spreadsheets, book lists, and homeschooling blogs until my eyes cross, or until 3 year old Little Brother needs to go potty. Did I mention that we're in the throes of potty training? Man, I forgot how much my productivity goes down during potty training...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">I will post more about my curriculum plans, hopes, and dreams later, but in the meantime, I would LOVE any recommendations or links to your favorite homeschooling treasures!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Blessings,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Hillary At Home</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">**PS-Don't forget to think of <a href="http://www.samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child/">Operation Christmas Child</a> when you pass by those bins of crayons and notebooks! Those make fantastic shoebox gifts!**</span></div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-33130245114421575822015-06-05T04:00:00.000-07:002015-06-05T04:00:09.790-07:00Our First 'Before and After' and WC Experiment #1!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So here's the 'Before' pic of this part of our living room:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0bC50nVbg237FujEs-XX_4yqoqCfxu2Gw6k4lSSPVBTbuJxhn9ELh_3Iuaghdot8jknrldtM00gvNzlvB6nD3g0TjtZXNn9_suHDzYGyuz2t-H84yfukHkizrm0w1YJxbZ8SjD39n4XWZ/s1600/2015-05-26+12.07.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0bC50nVbg237FujEs-XX_4yqoqCfxu2Gw6k4lSSPVBTbuJxhn9ELh_3Iuaghdot8jknrldtM00gvNzlvB6nD3g0TjtZXNn9_suHDzYGyuz2t-H84yfukHkizrm0w1YJxbZ8SjD39n4XWZ/s400/2015-05-26+12.07.32.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And here's the 'After':</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDxKgflkepD-HU7Fv3W1fsTvAjUZIKVjYx88ZiqPv8VP4nJBtBp7C4NxkBRjY0cABZIpHfLP567ScWJKU_vvYPSjDO7c9pDGqJr5UCLCY0mvx9Kzzb5kcxRJJbKUgnKiNMH7o0zvf2ayNh/s1600/2015-05-26+12.25.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDxKgflkepD-HU7Fv3W1fsTvAjUZIKVjYx88ZiqPv8VP4nJBtBp7C4NxkBRjY0cABZIpHfLP567ScWJKU_vvYPSjDO7c9pDGqJr5UCLCY0mvx9Kzzb5kcxRJJbKUgnKiNMH7o0zvf2ayNh/s400/2015-05-26+12.25.14.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Okay, Okay, so this is not the most genuine makeover, but I am tickled pink to show it to you! When we first found out last Fall that we could be moving into this smaller cottage, I realized that our big sofa would not fit. Since large items had to be moved down an outdoor staircase at that house, we gambled on getting rid of it early before Winter set in. So, since October-ish, we've been using these classy camp chairs and planned to save up for a reclining love seat. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So, fast forward to just this past week when someone was offering exactly what I wanted: A light brown, microsuede reclining loveseat for, wait for it...$75!!!!! Non-smoking home? Check! Firm seating? Check! It was only a year old, but the couple had no space for it in their apartment. Yay for Me! :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">But now this is where the WC Experiment comes in. The sofa was pretty dirty. It had a lot of water spot and stains. It wasn't a deal breaker because I've had microsuede before, and know that I could always shampoo it if need be. But first, we decided to try <a href="http://kempersmom-thelittlethings.blogspot.com/2014/02/cleaning-microsuede-couch.html">this tutorial</a> that has been pinned on one of my pinterest boards for forevah.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now here are some true 'Before and Afters'!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Before:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyye27yMDDO-G1fg6V_ucIPMisKYJybjUunhGteSld_3g4lMyoLWs164M0CRqm-m9VQRknnznHjtxg9ibFFa8dQHMLARC2MN9tp5sF3DaLeMl972D4OiUnYoV-YaxOEjGQR64sCz7DWZq-/s1600/2015-05-26+12.25.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyye27yMDDO-G1fg6V_ucIPMisKYJybjUunhGteSld_3g4lMyoLWs164M0CRqm-m9VQRknnznHjtxg9ibFFa8dQHMLARC2MN9tp5sF3DaLeMl972D4OiUnYoV-YaxOEjGQR64sCz7DWZq-/s400/2015-05-26+12.25.25.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieplUNJ0JQ733D_GDmWtXFmPTf3qZfiSFR5NzuAD5AbOOBbKpVeOVsc3wnsNvAqbVGpqmO6ylRiifogJeyuDbxkSx9mUZhR5YUyAC6z55GPl-c3M3LRFYpg8jBovEmfFoxmvaljn_U_Kiz/s1600/2015-05-26+12.25.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieplUNJ0JQ733D_GDmWtXFmPTf3qZfiSFR5NzuAD5AbOOBbKpVeOVsc3wnsNvAqbVGpqmO6ylRiifogJeyuDbxkSx9mUZhR5YUyAC6z55GPl-c3M3LRFYpg8jBovEmfFoxmvaljn_U_Kiz/s400/2015-05-26+12.25.29.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">During:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWR_sR9MuH3vAfew636Z_BzoPIxkrkncke7L27hwokeM0EkOwjiTLIeKAWT9OPMGnZj2oURGn-kcdNb8OHpjMQJ_oG_CI6udT8qJbTetzexZf6QE6wXVzt1OEjmYWVvx0oqi93MNke8mqo/s400/2015-05-26+15.35.14.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farmer Girl started out with this as <i>her</i> project...</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWR_sR9MuH3vAfew636Z_BzoPIxkrkncke7L27hwokeM0EkOwjiTLIeKAWT9OPMGnZj2oURGn-kcdNb8OHpjMQJ_oG_CI6udT8qJbTetzexZf6QE6wXVzt1OEjmYWVvx0oqi93MNke8mqo/s1600/2015-05-26+15.35.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWJEuiE01rfdE9sjnp78wdx4pigKucI9rUxZCe9A8T2v-DgcwEcrkE_-EVBHp2d9W_nZ7Pw6edAAOAGO6SC-1VRu1URgGvolhoV8u0V0Q6JPRrOkZbG4ElaOC5kjsBnJlWYVW6480JQvRy/s400/2015-05-26+15.38.57.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...but, as to be expected, Lil' Sis decided she wanted in on the fun.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWJEuiE01rfdE9sjnp78wdx4pigKucI9rUxZCe9A8T2v-DgcwEcrkE_-EVBHp2d9W_nZ7Pw6edAAOAGO6SC-1VRu1URgGvolhoV8u0V0Q6JPRrOkZbG4ElaOC5kjsBnJlWYVW6480JQvRy/s1600/2015-05-26+15.38.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And the dramatic After:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_ibfDsP0V8ORf1_YIvv9USRWjGGcMtElh5FJL1IVWKnbsWxtxpSxWV07X0c5pInTbYfOYPmZX35X6813-cWOoepd8kqxjCXsw1zdGCM_hDCqPERMJ_dUcttalljmr-srezPohBdzXdE8/s1600/2015-05-26+16.06.35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_ibfDsP0V8ORf1_YIvv9USRWjGGcMtElh5FJL1IVWKnbsWxtxpSxWV07X0c5pInTbYfOYPmZX35X6813-cWOoepd8kqxjCXsw1zdGCM_hDCqPERMJ_dUcttalljmr-srezPohBdzXdE8/s400/2015-05-26+16.06.35.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtm5qv5eMtZutbmoXO-HVS4QsO3v3LIUvnUhmjqXYX5bPw7peGVCrrwtMdanzy6VqIoKELPULwy3xhAerpiEU_0pvjF2NgVbzFPTk2X5zbr72L_Ka4CrJU3aJnDKUA3WfZm0JIclylsbxy/s1600/2015-05-26+16.06.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtm5qv5eMtZutbmoXO-HVS4QsO3v3LIUvnUhmjqXYX5bPw7peGVCrrwtMdanzy6VqIoKELPULwy3xhAerpiEU_0pvjF2NgVbzFPTk2X5zbr72L_Ka4CrJU3aJnDKUA3WfZm0JIclylsbxy/s400/2015-05-26+16.06.39.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4tIUeA_xMMzUA5qY7aKTgLVBstQyV6lH2fp78l7sdK6saSXPznwfLljVTXzkGWiSZIquCj2SOwbrcQ28Q3jXxzC-K6_YzdgCsstNsI5z6YPvQbkBw7crolD3n_R897uiKmgxXDp51ijdk/s1600/2015-05-26+16.07.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4tIUeA_xMMzUA5qY7aKTgLVBstQyV6lH2fp78l7sdK6saSXPznwfLljVTXzkGWiSZIquCj2SOwbrcQ28Q3jXxzC-K6_YzdgCsstNsI5z6YPvQbkBw7crolD3n_R897uiKmgxXDp51ijdk/s400/2015-05-26+16.07.13.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Xye8ehqfqlle5Tjk6asGYi5dTQMLLUoxgJRd0T4Hgr06S5j28BTvKlXusPlptYrqZgk62dhJdP4dhuTIXie4T8KEVEDZeT5vEp5yx2fUk1E_3OKHYiXUgEixWtHMOBGY73RF1lOaK9Yw/s1600/2015-05-26+16.07.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Xye8ehqfqlle5Tjk6asGYi5dTQMLLUoxgJRd0T4Hgr06S5j28BTvKlXusPlptYrqZgk62dhJdP4dhuTIXie4T8KEVEDZeT5vEp5yx2fUk1E_3OKHYiXUgEixWtHMOBGY73RF1lOaK9Yw/s400/2015-05-26+16.07.22.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Isn't it incredible? We pretty much did it as she said to in the instructions. We only scrubbed the cushions, arm rests, and foot rests, and the whole sofa looks like new. I followed it up with one more good vacuum with my Kirby, and I am so thrilled with my $75 loveseat!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you have a micro suede piece of furniture, I would wholeheartedly recommend trying this out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And if you really want to improve the 'After' effect, </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnndYZV6IX-cw4AKDh218NPFNLEBE435HaaC098xc12DpCiL_65txBIh6sbGVy24xCRR9Nv8KLDR3b-9Fyy-lYy3IBHEbOKN_0D2ZwRZIXaNAfcDCaNPBbO2_pR3g47oY1lEuZmQSw7LO/s1600/2015-05-26+21.26.26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjnndYZV6IX-cw4AKDh218NPFNLEBE435HaaC098xc12DpCiL_65txBIh6sbGVy24xCRR9Nv8KLDR3b-9Fyy-lYy3IBHEbOKN_0D2ZwRZIXaNAfcDCaNPBbO2_pR3g47oY1lEuZmQSw7LO/s400/2015-05-26+21.26.26.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">then add some vintage end tables, mattress ticking pillows, and a cozy sherpa throw! (Yeah, that's like giving you the After shot with make-up on!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">WWC Experiment #1= A true success!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hillary At Home</span></div>
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Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-81460461968249953292015-06-03T09:46:00.000-07:002015-06-16T23:19:35.508-07:00No Ugly Ducklings On This Farm!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLTrE38WcRSPKap1MgBfPYSzmKzYx0QSTOvK1qkMeRmm0M_lOGPu-jyH5I6JTPQAvi0hwv49-G9exJGvSt-S9ERzykimgX0bgxXQ2QmOu61VVe491C2g8aRoN5p9X_2PPmGTrg0FQUmpo7/s1600/2015-06-02+15.07.29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLTrE38WcRSPKap1MgBfPYSzmKzYx0QSTOvK1qkMeRmm0M_lOGPu-jyH5I6JTPQAvi0hwv49-G9exJGvSt-S9ERzykimgX0bgxXQ2QmOu61VVe491C2g8aRoN5p9X_2PPmGTrg0FQUmpo7/s320/2015-06-02+15.07.29.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lil' Bro and Sir Topham Hat</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Unfortunately, the ducks came to the feed store from the hatchery un-sexed. This means it's a gamble whether we're gong to have laying hens to keep or drakes to give away. The kids were willing to take the risk-especially after I told them we could probably order replacement hens direct from the hatchery. </span><span style="font-size: large;">One benefit of keeping ducks over chickens is that you don't have to have a minimum order of ducklings. They aren't quite as fragile as chicks, so you do not need as much body heat in the box. They are more spendy to ship that way though...</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElCeLCVqvbXqD88PuoeBXuJY0ksjZssuls0Bl0zg1H6s9jYhfIDB9LXjeYrx9DZlvCpFpL3uUhttVw1jbDjJ9HL9KOXwsU_lwykoeYgrtRlUfr0G5MpEA95tY9Mcp92WCHX8ybb7symP2/s1600/2015-06-02+15.18.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElCeLCVqvbXqD88PuoeBXuJY0ksjZssuls0Bl0zg1H6s9jYhfIDB9LXjeYrx9DZlvCpFpL3uUhttVw1jbDjJ9HL9KOXwsU_lwykoeYgrtRlUfr0G5MpEA95tY9Mcp92WCHX8ybb7symP2/s400/2015-06-02+15.18.56.jpg" width="391" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Farmer Boy and Elvis Duckley</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> I found it humorous that while we're hoping and praying for hens, 3 of the ducklings were given male names. :/</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Farmer Girl and Doofensmertz (From Phineas and Ferb)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The ducklings are so sweet! We are learning that they like to climb-especially into hair! And they'll will occasionally nibble on your finger or skin and shake it like it's a dandelion leaf. Thankfully they do not really have teeth!</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirC84H9V000RFty_CqX44Fzh8CQKmoTSihcLtRspyDMuW8X7a9sFZ6n0HY2z2_KDWudq0OdNAtiSbDsaHJl_8FJVzX8ymTGrWkvMus3VOa-GM0xCJKpKo1O9K_sQpj0Amj5tnXGXI3aB2f/s1600/2015-06-02+15.21.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirC84H9V000RFty_CqX44Fzh8CQKmoTSihcLtRspyDMuW8X7a9sFZ6n0HY2z2_KDWudq0OdNAtiSbDsaHJl_8FJVzX8ymTGrWkvMus3VOa-GM0xCJKpKo1O9K_sQpj0Amj5tnXGXI3aB2f/s400/2015-06-02+15.21.50.jpg" width="342" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Diva Lil' Sis and Delilah</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: large;">And they cheep! They aren't quackers yet! We weren't expecting that. We are anxious to track at what age they start to quack. And no, I resisted the urge to just google it. We are actually going to derive this information straight from the source!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1I4GBIrDU3svZssDlN74ulHw7D_TmFcZBlXhXmQf4Ak6In2u4xkYh6bAnBjQfj0IxuhUuzZR4f-VpG0S4ECy7hobdpPyKYZX1GhGDDpGIpERRIxCuGyQ3Y6IacEEGboM0B1AntMOxz-QH/s1600/2015-06-02+15.25.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1I4GBIrDU3svZssDlN74ulHw7D_TmFcZBlXhXmQf4Ak6In2u4xkYh6bAnBjQfj0IxuhUuzZR4f-VpG0S4ECy7hobdpPyKYZX1GhGDDpGIpERRIxCuGyQ3Y6IacEEGboM0B1AntMOxz-QH/s400/2015-06-02+15.25.33.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Praying that your day is just ducky!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hillary At Home</span></div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-48538642371347032722015-06-01T00:14:00.001-07:002015-06-01T00:33:41.634-07:00Our New Feathered Friends and My Sweet Deals-My Day in Pictures<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCx_HZ0R20P1Hqs1g_q4zcyzrnf5hjnZCLIL1qGPr9wFeuLgq9j_lPaEeRXk2zhm8LICoqMY2cutfo7czdnzpc1BD6xxTu5u9ss_wrXrXSJxgEu2axSNY-6HEofEVyYhSAS9wh8-6TxEL4/s1600/2015-05-31+19.57.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCx_HZ0R20P1Hqs1g_q4zcyzrnf5hjnZCLIL1qGPr9wFeuLgq9j_lPaEeRXk2zhm8LICoqMY2cutfo7czdnzpc1BD6xxTu5u9ss_wrXrXSJxgEu2axSNY-6HEofEVyYhSAS9wh8-6TxEL4/s400/2015-05-31+19.57.24.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Our new Khaki Campbell ducks: <br />Ping (Lighter color) and Lucky Duck. <br />Being the literary nerd that I am, I wanted to name them after two of my favorite childrens' books: The Story of Ping and Good Luck Duck. The kids will each name one of the ducklings that we are hoping to bring home on Tuesday.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAwUFEXCpfGYu1kg0FLus0nTCyKSortgAf14eX4YoE_zTQm0jdYrg3kFXGPD9ORk-z9SqRT7M_x6J0VeLccOAOz2eBA5TWxJU9dObJ9ljZbRi96kkgKLZhbF8RZoTE4U7PchYw7cXXXDM7/s1600/2015-05-31+19.59.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAwUFEXCpfGYu1kg0FLus0nTCyKSortgAf14eX4YoE_zTQm0jdYrg3kFXGPD9ORk-z9SqRT7M_x6J0VeLccOAOz2eBA5TWxJU9dObJ9ljZbRi96kkgKLZhbF8RZoTE4U7PchYw7cXXXDM7/s400/2015-05-31+19.59.51.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">My new FREE farmhouse table that I scored on our local Buy-Sell-Trade board! It's in need of a refinish, so I can't wait to get to work on it! You can't tell by the pictures, but it is HEAVY! The top is really thick as are the legs. Definitely a good quality build worth refinishing.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr2xZuJGvhvTXfPk68wSd_-Kqc2-HePpMm-kpy-wdpNc_qGVXsMs8p_0mKxbvnLPoV5o9VtpXZdlGsHqo0EUakqOPssJNHT3GuSF3DtTS6aNy9T3WM7OCt9R3jcMuAmo1lE6ywqg_ekDS6/s1600/2015-05-31+20.18.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr2xZuJGvhvTXfPk68wSd_-Kqc2-HePpMm-kpy-wdpNc_qGVXsMs8p_0mKxbvnLPoV5o9VtpXZdlGsHqo0EUakqOPssJNHT3GuSF3DtTS6aNy9T3WM7OCt9R3jcMuAmo1lE6ywqg_ekDS6/s400/2015-05-31+20.18.04.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I also scored a FREE rocking chair from a different posting.<br />Isn't it sweet? It's actually really comfy, too!<br />I just love the lines of the bottom rungs and the arm rests.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoy-eXQMXx3vUXlo-Z-6DqB2ud1aCF08cPes0AxOQsta3Ct4yLB2Sho4_knl1jdnh_U4lBbdxPWhPBBPeTw_BgGSDpB8RJU99r_8c8qaA9uxjZ5LpWYSu-aPia6_cFiGwfnkW1G3HrfOIu/s1600/2015-05-31+19.58.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoy-eXQMXx3vUXlo-Z-6DqB2ud1aCF08cPes0AxOQsta3Ct4yLB2Sho4_knl1jdnh_U4lBbdxPWhPBBPeTw_BgGSDpB8RJU99r_8c8qaA9uxjZ5LpWYSu-aPia6_cFiGwfnkW1G3HrfOIu/s400/2015-05-31+19.58.36.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNtMCNRcGeIiXhi9wh58j8-ScNyCB-b17WDkfQ9QRbx350m4x5KzVSl2JhyphenhyphenO5QfpF28S5IEKhv-7Uqeint1p8fey_2kHf8KnhW4C0fC15XCw0nBjE3vM8NS8M_NbgP5xmkZkMAz-uwQbdH/s1600/2015-05-31+19.58.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNtMCNRcGeIiXhi9wh58j8-ScNyCB-b17WDkfQ9QRbx350m4x5KzVSl2JhyphenhyphenO5QfpF28S5IEKhv-7Uqeint1p8fey_2kHf8KnhW4C0fC15XCw0nBjE3vM8NS8M_NbgP5xmkZkMAz-uwQbdH/s320/2015-05-31+19.58.45.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xL7Pr7rfZmsJBaZOfEWFBIwGZgglNtu-yAuAsqyvYR1z355CafiY8ijyEFcEdiAK8HgHA4vQvPeKH2nOgzjWAIJZOVo1xGyopy75YSgpz63fq0wSCsTfCwFsti_NIn8zlAgOX1HiWC_f/s1600/2015-05-31+19.56.33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xL7Pr7rfZmsJBaZOfEWFBIwGZgglNtu-yAuAsqyvYR1z355CafiY8ijyEFcEdiAK8HgHA4vQvPeKH2nOgzjWAIJZOVo1xGyopy75YSgpz63fq0wSCsTfCwFsti_NIn8zlAgOX1HiWC_f/s400/2015-05-31+19.56.33.jpg" width="293" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And last not least, here is how I started my day! I built and mounted our duck gate using Lil Bro's old crib end. He moved into his big boy bed just this week which was great timing for me :) Next year, when we re-build the run to accommodate chickens, we will anchor the posts with cement and paint them. For now, it's enough to keep ducks in and dogs (namely one particular beagle) out!<br /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Add in one ballet recital, a quick trip to the carnival, and dropping Farmer Boy off for a campout, and you have one very full, very fun day! We won't talk about the very messy house that goes along with it all ;)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hillary At Home</span></div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-64077894709754054172015-05-31T04:00:00.000-07:002015-05-31T04:00:04.056-07:00Getting Ready For Our First Animal Friends!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Today we will be welcoming two adult <a href="http://www.backyardchickens.com/products/khaki-campbell">Khaki Campbell</a> ducks to Wildwood Cottage. We weren't even thinking about getting ducks, but some friends offered theirs to us since they are moving. After doing a little research, we gladly accepted their offer, and can't wait to begin our hobby farm with these two fowl! In fact, we were so impressed with what we read, we are planning to pick up four <a href="http://www.metzerfarms.com/RouenDucks.cfm?Breed=Rouen&BirdType=Duck&ID=R">Rouen</a> ducklings from the local feed store on Tuesday as well!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To get ready, we solicited the local poultry Facebook group to see if anyone had any leftover wire or building supplies that we could salvage. One member offered up a 4'x8' wooden shipping crate that we could modify into a quick duck house or chicken coop! Score!</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span> </span> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqeOt5O7ztLun5m4jxIgO4bqu7lDoyaNFDg17qevWunkliNStppa8wx48NbcZrrr_0Lad2eLmauF_bGWqLcNaNXjLIK-djtSvCEsILWcqQdIlUeuhNVAY8FIOeit2zCgQvXrmrjxb83Mg/s1600/2015-05-22+11.51.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqeOt5O7ztLun5m4jxIgO4bqu7lDoyaNFDg17qevWunkliNStppa8wx48NbcZrrr_0Lad2eLmauF_bGWqLcNaNXjLIK-djtSvCEsILWcqQdIlUeuhNVAY8FIOeit2zCgQvXrmrjxb83Mg/s640/2015-05-22+11.51.43.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We borrowed a kind friend's pick up truck, dropped it in our front yard, and set to work. (Ooo, and as an added bonus, the truck was a stick shift! I hadn't driven one of those in YEARS! :D )</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidNrFJQK6XbG5fIwn5hS4X9V6XZhtzkNinkcyMbZ3-ceA-rEfOe7iCExm1gQlbWp_wOFnzj5xCn2o5MFKsnuq_GaNnN_QYW0wbqFQFP3fR_AMLMaaIvc_FAnKyPiPTNBBS63qRShu80Su9/s1600/2015-05-23+17.12.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidNrFJQK6XbG5fIwn5hS4X9V6XZhtzkNinkcyMbZ3-ceA-rEfOe7iCExm1gQlbWp_wOFnzj5xCn2o5MFKsnuq_GaNnN_QYW0wbqFQFP3fR_AMLMaaIvc_FAnKyPiPTNBBS63qRShu80Su9/s400/2015-05-23+17.12.48.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Farmer Girl learning to use the drill and driver!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The crate was framed in cedar and had a partial covering of OSB (One Strand Board). If you're unfamiliar with OSB, it's the sheet of stuff that resembles how it would look if someone ate some plywood and then threw it up. Just sayin'...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Normally, OSB is not recommended for use with outdoor exposure, but after checking with the very helpful, <i>very patient</i> man at the lumber store, he reassured me that if I put a good coat of exterior paint on it, it should last plenty well enough for ducks. With that in mind, I bought one more 4x8 sheet and some hardware so that we could get building. If I had the money I would have preferred to rip off the partial OSB and just buy a few sheets of ply to recover the whole thing. It would have also been MUCH faster than cutting a bunch of small pieces to patch the holes! But again, with budget in mind, we made do with what we had, and this is what we got: </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOkdXwmuQHuLwwqjjS2G_YenM-EBBnj1pjlrL1fipJsrj3HlCN-lxmbli5FmdyfcEiDxYz8sIDSjZbzaeAmdaoCX3l1vurwzOJBQgEg3n9ajmvJts5vA-cYVGMIR5hI2G83X1v3kaeoaRl/s1600/2015-05-23+17.40.17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOkdXwmuQHuLwwqjjS2G_YenM-EBBnj1pjlrL1fipJsrj3HlCN-lxmbli5FmdyfcEiDxYz8sIDSjZbzaeAmdaoCX3l1vurwzOJBQgEg3n9ajmvJts5vA-cYVGMIR5hI2G83X1v3kaeoaRl/s400/2015-05-23+17.40.17.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtucDpmCws4CNu-7149Mg5pDSpTwE5FLhgd2kpF_1rgTcBpDDwhMAWXHJpCYhNf0KBSUVVMb5URh56bshE0dHA22ziRuoxQVcQrc8PfqCFfgp4T5uFnvm1CW0U2hk26eLafMeiSNOqCA6k/s1600/2015-05-23+17.44.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtucDpmCws4CNu-7149Mg5pDSpTwE5FLhgd2kpF_1rgTcBpDDwhMAWXHJpCYhNf0KBSUVVMb5URh56bshE0dHA22ziRuoxQVcQrc8PfqCFfgp4T5uFnvm1CW0U2hk26eLafMeiSNOqCA6k/s320/2015-05-23+17.44.02.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Lil' Sis checking out the duckies' swinging door from the inside :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then came another big score! Woot Woot! Someone on the local Buy-Sell-Trade board was selling a full 5 gallon bucket of Benjamin Moore off-white exterior paint for, get this: <b>$40!!! </b>And can I just say that after having painted over two <i>very</i> bright rooms with BMoore paint, I am a huge fan?!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGlAxp96ZAcvuCwWCVyCc0L3ZugqT6bwbBYPMjY_UgDNxdEPa94UeNk_PAbOQB0kg8Y2LBmBpDXSlffSUjpG8SLXwirdM3d9spDj9ft8aPT_NStPoLqxGBpwQz0MvDIjiKelMJU9Y1nPt/s1600/2015-05-23+17.41.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoGlAxp96ZAcvuCwWCVyCc0L3ZugqT6bwbBYPMjY_UgDNxdEPa94UeNk_PAbOQB0kg8Y2LBmBpDXSlffSUjpG8SLXwirdM3d9spDj9ft8aPT_NStPoLqxGBpwQz0MvDIjiKelMJU9Y1nPt/s400/2015-05-23+17.41.06.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">And she threw in the Behr white ceiling paint for $10 more! <br />Winter project for sure!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">And their exterior paint totally delivered. The coverage is unbelievable-even over OSB which tends to absorb the paint because it is overly porous as compared to normal wood. Two coats, and this duck house was sealed and ready! </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-S_1UwIBgS80xdYQiSD3viMxH4jUk0tAhjGvzoLRdAutuAeJRH2OtHnjmM3YEd6F-42IOtkgwJzumBgYw8hgkB_aY9ZyX6zmF7LBSGQ2Mdk7p2GhNNKx12G2UK-d6YaJGXSF88RTNoQh/s1600/2015-05-25+14.57.06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-S_1UwIBgS80xdYQiSD3viMxH4jUk0tAhjGvzoLRdAutuAeJRH2OtHnjmM3YEd6F-42IOtkgwJzumBgYw8hgkB_aY9ZyX6zmF7LBSGQ2Mdk7p2GhNNKx12G2UK-d6YaJGXSF88RTNoQh/s400/2015-05-25+14.57.06.jpg" width="385" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Farmer Gals painting</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">What makes me really happy is to know that when I look at the paint left in the bucket, it is only about 4 inches down from the rim. I am pretty sure I have enough to repaint the T1-11 siding around the entire bottom exterior of the cottage! Later Hillary...Stay focused...Ducks....</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36Mh8KTwm-rnYEjZcJvoKAVxpcKYe3SlJc7YPwbMRlR53Zc6N3oD5uSyktZTo_mhnkI_-1OW5Q4QtNlphB22QWybkjYvGt2Ggmd3Yk_qF4-tRFfigMt-BVG53aRcko7YO9mwIcn9M3HMa/s1600/2015-05-25+15.54.50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg36Mh8KTwm-rnYEjZcJvoKAVxpcKYe3SlJc7YPwbMRlR53Zc6N3oD5uSyktZTo_mhnkI_-1OW5Q4QtNlphB22QWybkjYvGt2Ggmd3Yk_qF4-tRFfigMt-BVG53aRcko7YO9mwIcn9M3HMa/s400/2015-05-25+15.54.50.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Ta da! Now all we need are the ducks!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So roughly one week later, we are pretty much ready. We anchored the crate with 4x4s dug into the ground, and fenced it with large pieces of cattle fencing that were salvaged from our last garden. The 4x4s were part of a large lumber stash that the previous owners left us. What a blessing!</span><br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHjKJNXhryMy-iomkOJhvwsDXUhfCzck4u24Q861Kd_D65TqgyifQuhZjj6YcQj0hgAPU5FCkEnkctap6ZdfqMnUU_vHPmn-MDujF9geqRt29NhxzbJ4Z-ceWxJuFiVm6utsmNQuHJ-nb/s1600/2015-05-30+11.24.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHjKJNXhryMy-iomkOJhvwsDXUhfCzck4u24Q861Kd_D65TqgyifQuhZjj6YcQj0hgAPU5FCkEnkctap6ZdfqMnUU_vHPmn-MDujF9geqRt29NhxzbJ4Z-ceWxJuFiVm6utsmNQuHJ-nb/s640/2015-05-30+11.24.22.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Farmer Boy and Lil' Sis digging holes for the gate posts</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have to hang the gate and add the bedding before we go pick up our quacky friends, but the big work is done, and we are beyond excited to see our little hobby farm dream begin to come to life! :) </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ap-NugSBJcw5WyIl2Bh7OEP7fzSi5QF1gkJ6R0ohvbgp04lZb9A4muHkytpmHeh_GCLf_KF2p2j58sWoy6GudgTIhnrhij1F-DBKGqEEgH-8lp_Vdq6Zf0u1BAaDW4SqN846kfjFCV_n/s1600/2015-05-30+11.24.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ap-NugSBJcw5WyIl2Bh7OEP7fzSi5QF1gkJ6R0ohvbgp04lZb9A4muHkytpmHeh_GCLf_KF2p2j58sWoy6GudgTIhnrhij1F-DBKGqEEgH-8lp_Vdq6Zf0u1BAaDW4SqN846kfjFCV_n/s640/2015-05-30+11.24.36.jpg" width="360" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Lil' Sis learning to use the level while Lil' Bro is determined to help dig!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I can't wait to show you what I'm using for the gate, and pics of our sweet new additions. Stay tuned! :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hillary At Home</span></div>
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Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-57415211493640933822015-05-26T09:00:00.001-07:002015-05-31T01:07:47.060-07:00From 'Homestead Someday' to 'Homestead NOW'! <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Yes! Welcome to our revised blog and the tour of our new hobby farm-to-be, Wildwood Cottage (WC)! I cannot tell you how THRILLED I am to be finally writing this blog from the perspective of one who is truly <i>working</i> on their little farm rather than just <i>pining</i> for it!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4Q7LHjtICeuzU7jYpLLpaIexBs4H17Eaq6t1vVqkOXuTQaw-ImdqzeHoJFOZH030qQ37enTPzAfjRm3qB6ExABpOADPJfDrVcply1OHUP6N6Bt2-9ktx31SluS-oUe_OUl9E4JvqG06-/s1600/DSCF1525.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4Q7LHjtICeuzU7jYpLLpaIexBs4H17Eaq6t1vVqkOXuTQaw-ImdqzeHoJFOZH030qQ37enTPzAfjRm3qB6ExABpOADPJfDrVcply1OHUP6N6Bt2-9ktx31SluS-oUe_OUl9E4JvqG06-/s640/DSCF1525.JPG" width="446" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">For those of you who have not heard the oh-so-dramatic story, we heard about the cottage through a mutual friend with the sellers. It is the family home that he grew up in and inherited, and now his wife and him were ready to head south for sunshine and new adventures. I had just written my post <a href="http://www.wildwoodcottageak.com/2014/08/how-to-give-up.html">here</a> regarding the peace and contentment I had found once I submitted to the continual rental of our last home, Berry Creek Lane. And then WC happened.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">At first it sounded daunting over the phone: 1100 square feet, 2 bedrooms with a third so small it was debatable whether it truly counted as a bedroom or not (depended on which appraiser you called), and 1 bath. Yes, <b>1 bath</b>! Um, for 6 people? I don't know if I'm <i>that</i> hardcore. Maybe this wasn't for us.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"> But then the magic words started pouring forth : "greenhouse....acre...<i>flat</i> acre...<i>sunny </i>acre...garden...ROOT CELLAR!" </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTyjieYAWhzMpeEbn5EkP35CiJyM3EqRQzjXnztb58Q8KEmj3mSjX_MVzAwH2aMmi8zaiIoxJOUz1gueFWHdzlQw1vOWw7n5f9ts77zHstQXY0yNtzEDcqrEAh3SJIHrcrpSLLqiML5rAB/s1600/2015-05-24+14.08.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTyjieYAWhzMpeEbn5EkP35CiJyM3EqRQzjXnztb58Q8KEmj3mSjX_MVzAwH2aMmi8zaiIoxJOUz1gueFWHdzlQw1vOWw7n5f9ts77zHstQXY0yNtzEDcqrEAh3SJIHrcrpSLLqiML5rAB/s400/2015-05-24+14.08.13.jpg" width="296" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Yes, folks, the idea of having a root cellar may or may not have initiated some sort of drunken, euphoric insanity in my wanna-be-homesteader brain. Suddenly 1 bathroom didn't sound so bad. Heck, we have 3 boys who can do their business pretty much anywhere on the acre, and the seller's parents raised 5 kids in this house, so we actually have one less body in the toilet queue.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">And so, 7 months after the first awkward phone call, we took possession of this quirky little bungalow with the intent to finally begin collecting as much livestock and poultry as the city will let us have. We realized right away that we have a LOT of projects to do before we can go chicken shopping, and there's that whole 'seasonally self-employed husband in the middle of his busy season' to contend with. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0i82QBeZguj2pdF5QxtpPdUiOxKs2n_QdYC2AkEABwxHyqlUOtET2Z-yIkI56xjBF-MM2VQAe-YFu8mkQCtAxubqkQhiYXhWvRMHJI2w2QhoCXGdY7juRElc5Ca7fybXRu6lRaxUHp7qj/s1600/2015-05-22+07.53.15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0i82QBeZguj2pdF5QxtpPdUiOxKs2n_QdYC2AkEABwxHyqlUOtET2Z-yIkI56xjBF-MM2VQAe-YFu8mkQCtAxubqkQhiYXhWvRMHJI2w2QhoCXGdY7juRElc5Ca7fybXRu6lRaxUHp7qj/s400/2015-05-22+07.53.15.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No farm is complete without a hound dog lounging around, right?</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Fast Forward a bit and here we are two months into our mortgage, realizing that this is not an HGTV show where my property will be visual perfection in an hour or a weekend. (Oh Chip and Joanna Gaines, I need you!) And Pinterest ideas are put on hold to purchase things like gravel and a toilet. More on those stories later..</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Wildwood Cottage is the next chapter in our little family's journey on this planet. It is a training ground as our kids learn new skills right alongside us. It's an educational institution as we continue to keep the vision of our Upwards Academy and homeschool our brood.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFsNqcZGSxoCtqZHAnqIzL73V4k5OrtYW8GtH4i70Wc_G-Pi_uZyjZn39ddUsSqxxRybyNtLplGbGA88j5m0Pev1Xc3PP3owQ4M4r6AadvcyMCC5ap12GMbKtdc2-1aQ8DMGke-9jdEEDl/s1600/2015-05-25+19.54.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFsNqcZGSxoCtqZHAnqIzL73V4k5OrtYW8GtH4i70Wc_G-Pi_uZyjZn39ddUsSqxxRybyNtLplGbGA88j5m0Pev1Xc3PP3owQ4M4r6AadvcyMCC5ap12GMbKtdc2-1aQ8DMGke-9jdEEDl/s400/2015-05-25+19.54.57.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Most importantly, it's our home. <i>Right now</i> it's our home. It won't be our home <i>after </i>the curtains are hung, every box is unpacked, or the mint colored doorframe is re-painted in the kitchen. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFsNqcZGSxoCtqZHAnqIzL73V4k5OrtYW8GtH4i70Wc_G-Pi_uZyjZn39ddUsSqxxRybyNtLplGbGA88j5m0Pev1Xc3PP3owQ4M4r6AadvcyMCC5ap12GMbKtdc2-1aQ8DMGke-9jdEEDl/s1600/2015-05-25+19.54.57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">It won't be our home <i>after</i> the flooring is continuous or <i>after</i> the beadboard is hung. It is our home <i>now</i>, and I pray that it is full of joyful memories, spiritual discipleship, and Light for this dark world.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">As we continue our projects and random musings, we hope that you will join us on this journey. It may not be very informative or make for an award winning blog, but I think you'll find it to be far from dull with our wacky little family circus.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Hillary At Home</span><br />
<br /></div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-41667383778372537002014-08-18T09:19:00.000-07:002015-05-31T01:10:13.478-07:00How To Give Up<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>It's the proverbial light at the end of most
military spouses' tunnels. It's this glimmer of hope that helps us to
pack, move, unpack, and then repeat as directed. What is it? </b></span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It's the vision of the </span><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Family
Home</i></span><span style="font-size: large;">. It's the notion of putting down roots,
mortgaging a house, and finally FINALLY getting to experiment with
all of those Pinterest projects that have been filling our boards and
dreams! It's the romanticized plan of settling down in your grand
home on the picket-fenced property that the kids and grandkids can
return to year after year. It will be idyllic, cozy, and sweet.
It will be our own Green Gables or Rose Cottage-but with indoor
plumbing and air conditioning! Surely our husband will get a
great paying, M-F job where he will be home on weekends, not 'stand
duty' overnight, or be floating in the middle of the ocean. AND he will make plenty of money to afford the above home, of course.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">BUT! What if your husband doesn't take the six figure
job offer?(<i>choke choke!</i>) What if he decides to join the ranks
of the dreaded 'self-employed'? (<i>Nooooo!</i>) What if his
principles and values lead him to start a business where he uses
those military-taught skills to better his community? Well, in a
nutshell, that means two years of business records to qualify for a
meager mortgage. It means two <i>plus</i> years to qualify for
something bigger than a shoebox (especially in Alaska!). It means my
own Green Gables is on hold....indefinitely...sigh.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> <i>...I have learned the secret of being
content in any and every situation....Phillippians 4:12</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Contentment</b>. The struggle with it plagues most
of our society. It is the most oft-mentioned topic among my Mom
friends. The Apostle Paul had to LEARN it. He had to be intentional
and purposeful with it. He had to practice it to get it. Why, why,
why is it so stinkin' hard to achieve?!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's not as easy as just simplifying and down-sizing
as many minimalist blogs would have you believe. As my analytical,
yet usually correct, handsome hubby likes to point out, those are
<i>external</i> actions that may or may not stem from an <i>internal</i>
perspective shift. Just because someone has altered the size of their
living space or quantity of possessions, does not mean that their
heart is satisfied. Often, but not always, they have just
re-prioritized what their desires are into a different venue. (Yes,
he's not only good looking and highly principled, but a deep thinker,
too.)
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">In my case, I had the recent wake-up call that my
cozy, nest-filled agenda was not God's. I was discontent because I
was railing against His plan for my journey. I was too busy stalking
craigslist and the local MLS to pay attention to His still small
voice. I was too distracted for contentment in my current home by
constantly looking at how I could gut it and improve it if only given
the deed. <i>Oh, I have plans for my homestead, and God was just in
my way! My husband and his business were in my way! My whole
situation was just in my way! (Stomp stomp)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Wow. Then through a variety of sources and venues
(like the Spirit so often does), God gently showed me, not only the
error of my sinful, toddler-ish thoughts, but the way to
conquer them:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>1</b>) First I had to remember that He has called me to
this life. He has laid out the path for me to follow. My end goal
is/should be to hear Him say "'Well done, good and faithful
servant! You have been faithful with a few things...Come and share
your master's happiness!'" (Matthew 25:21<b>)
</b><u><b>When I pause and actually play this
scenario out in my mind, I am able to truly make this my ultimate
desire.</b></u> Consequently, it's much easier to
remember that it's not about <i>my</i>
timing or <i>my</i> agenda.
It's about <i>His</i> and
being faithful to this path <i>He</i>
has called me to. And yes, while it may not be as literary and poetic
as I wish it to be, it is what He has deemed appropriate for me, my
family, and His divine plan. Besides, when I think about the horrible
genocide occurring right now in Iraq and the persecuted church and
poverty-stricken people all over the world, I have to ask "Is
renting a house for a couple of years longer really that horrible of
a trial? Really?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>2</b>) Once I have that newly reshaped vision in sight,
then the next step is the natural overflow. I must <u><b>surrender</b></u>.
I must give God all of my plans, hopes, and ideals. I must truly and
sincerely say to Him "Your will be done." As a friend
prays "Lord, let your will be done, and let us be faithful
enough to accept it."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>3</b>) This leads to the most recent insight that the
Lord has given me on this topic. To truly be content, I must not only
accept, but <u><b>embrace</b></u> this journey I am on. I need to
quit looking for ways to expedite His process or 'help' Him find
loopholes to make it happen in my time-frame. I cannot resent the
financial or familial situation that the Lord has placed me in. This
is the journey that He has called me to. I need to be found faithful
in it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<u><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I need to "...Do everything without grumbling
[complaing] or arguing..." (Phillipans
2:14), whether that means out loud or
internally! </span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have to <u>purpose to seek joy</u> in my situation.
I have to <u>choose to "....give thanks in all things..."
</u>(1Thessalonians 5:18), and I have to truly
<u>keep my perspective focused on eternity.</u> I truly believe that
living this way will lead to the spiritually abundant life promised
in John 10:10.<b> Do I want to merely accept my lot in life, or do I
want to enjoy my life abundantly?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have found that, for me, the most tangible weapon
that I wield in the battle against discontent is to stop and pray for
the chronically ill, hurting, dying, persecuted, starving, homeless,
enslaved people scattered all over this world around me. There are
literally those that live in constant fear and constant need with no
hope of an end in sight. This is their life. If I take my eyes off of
me and my shallow desires, and put them on Him and the mission field
around me, I am much more able to count my blessings.</span><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>When upon life’s billows you are
tempest tossed,<br />When you are discouraged, thinking all is
lost,<br />Count your many blessings, name them one by one,<br />And it
will surprise you what the Lord hath done.</i></span></div>
<div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Count your blessings, name them one
by one,<br />Count your blessings, see what God hath done!<br />Count
your blessings, name them one by one,<br />And it will surprise you
what the Lord hath done.</i></span></div>
<div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Are you ever burdened with a load of
care?<br />Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As we can see by this song, penned in 1897, what I
have written above is nothing new or mind-blowing. It is a
timeless struggle with a timeless answer. However, it is the fresh
wake-up call that <i>I</i> needed, and I pray that it will encourage
you in your own battle as well. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Be brave and courageous fellow Warrior of the King!
It is truly a noble, vital battle that you are fighting, and you CAN
'...do all things through Christ which gives [you] strength"
(Phillippians 4:13) <span style="font-size: large;">which definitely includes slaying that nagging monster of discontent!</span></span><br />
<div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Count your many blessings, every
doubt will fly,<br />And you will keep on singing as the days go by</b>.</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hillary At Home
</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-40298076062407371052014-03-18T18:06:00.003-07:002015-05-22T02:09:34.750-07:00A No-Power-Tool Needed Platform/Captain's Bed in Minutes!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">Okay, so my creative Hubby wanted me to do a quick post highlighting his ingenius bed building idea. Since building this bed<a href="http://homesteadprep.blogspot.com/2010/09/homestead-experiment-11-meet-my-big.html"> here</a>, we needed to re-vamp the platform. While it was a supportive bed design, the wood rubbed and creaked on all of the different joints, which drove my sensory spouse crazy. His subsequent obsessing about the noise was enough to take me to Crazy-ville with him! We could have gotten some sort of traditional bed frame to put within the frame of our headboard and footboard (In the previous post I explain how our platform was basically free-standing and the boards and rails were purely aesthetic), but then I would have lost all of that glorious storage space underneath the heightened frame. Hmmm...</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Then one day while wandering the aisles of the local home improvement store, it hit him like a ton of, well, shelves! That's right, shelves! As in Sterlite shelves like these ones <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/8282891?wmlspartner=wlpa&adid=22222222227009620952&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=42172200910&wl4=&wl5=pla&wl6=34874491990&veh=sem">here</a>. He took the measurements, and realized that if he put those together in a single layer formation under sheets of MDF, then it should make a great platform with storage included! He bought two sheets of MDF and asked the store employee to cut them into the proper dimensions for a queen sized bed. He bought two sets of the shelves, and came home with an optimistic air.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPTvywA6UnV4Ts7DyEx-yOy4FfaabXnVrtlTO_9-00qy4rKjx4A43AznLLzm6p47BpmcZbqXExM6D9ad7licYY3cJZQtCIHQqg6mN8nl_xgB9qljIECaRGCbIsUoAKjRhv5QvtV1Wj2qAq/s1600/DSCF0849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPTvywA6UnV4Ts7DyEx-yOy4FfaabXnVrtlTO_9-00qy4rKjx4A43AznLLzm6p47BpmcZbqXExM6D9ad7licYY3cJZQtCIHQqg6mN8nl_xgB9qljIECaRGCbIsUoAKjRhv5QvtV1Wj2qAq/s1600/DSCF0849.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigLqiFsExLd2T9a4dBn4GOxLLJOSP5pCmKPdxny0glNNbo7y_phyQFrcFCsx-LJQ0RWvsWnrhNeWw2ewtjYdloWhzAexKMV-er7teNtL2zwpfF67hBLY4VL7GvsQ6RBwo_m8LHduvhuaXg/s1600/DSCF0843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">He arranged the shelves into pairs (one slab on bottom, one set of posts, and one slab on top). He arranged them in a 3x2 formation so that I could slide my totes and boxes in from the sides. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmaNIc9k_0QdBc_YQqrRLoIsjpzqUmVu5G7YGh93XUEEqp5Pn0ZrFEljhgkhJt-JWhxXKH8_VFEy-NskWB6Fozj3m5hjz4rLLzM0vQFleBDVLBqGl87QfXJ7a7LxqHcH-UWUOm-D5lnbgS/s1600/DSCF0843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmaNIc9k_0QdBc_YQqrRLoIsjpzqUmVu5G7YGh93XUEEqp5Pn0ZrFEljhgkhJt-JWhxXKH8_VFEy-NskWB6Fozj3m5hjz4rLLzM0vQFleBDVLBqGl87QfXJ7a7LxqHcH-UWUOm-D5lnbgS/s1600/DSCF0843.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He topped these with sheets of non-skid shelf liner before laying the
MDF on top with a slight gap between (to avoid that dreaded rubbing),
and then the bed skirt and mattress! <b>Added tip:</b> A King-sized flat sheet is the PERFECT length for a bed this height! It touches the floor on each side exactly with no alterations needed! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">WOO HOO!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Perfection!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXMmfNaQCUKrvOlWlGs_ctEovWT_jfyl4mdNajzrHr5Jk-_dshajAV072cDrlhx_zz9gh1fJokEPOr46JneGSAbnsrOpMngp5YttCEnFjgvfD51h4sjmn7lTxVsB395zOlu3QekRX9yMw/s1600/DSCF0845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXMmfNaQCUKrvOlWlGs_ctEovWT_jfyl4mdNajzrHr5Jk-_dshajAV072cDrlhx_zz9gh1fJokEPOr46JneGSAbnsrOpMngp5YttCEnFjgvfD51h4sjmn7lTxVsB395zOlu3QekRX9yMw/s1600/DSCF0845.JPG" width="336" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now, just like my other bed, this one does sit higher than your average bed frame to accomodate the storage. A trade-off that is totally worthwhile in my opinion. Besides, there is just something that feels regal when you are truly "climbing into bed"! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Because this idea can be so versatile, we've realized that it's kind of like the Lego version of bed frames! Since building this one for us, he also replaced the squeaky slat design in our son's hand-me-down captains bed by putting a single row of shelves within that frame. We also plan to replace my daughter's regular twin bed with a shelving one to increase her storage. She doesn't have any kind of headboard or footboard, so it will be completely free standing with decorative storage totes to be her 'drawers', and I'm thinking of dressing up the shelves with decorative duct or washi tape. More on that later...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Blessings,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Hillary At Home</span></div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4401341984065846296.post-88814895260929645452013-05-29T07:35:00.000-07:002015-05-22T02:11:20.024-07:00HE #36- Our DIY Composter<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I desperately wanted a composter so that my gardening identity would feel more secure, BUT it needed to fit the following 3 requirements:<br />
<br />
1) I needed to be able to turn it with a crank, or low enough to manually turn with a spade.<br />
<br />
2) It needed to keep out those nasty slugs that seem to view my garden as their own Golden Corral buffet. Most people in these parts shy away from on-the-ground composters/compost piles because of the imminent slug infestation that would then be shovelled into your garden beds later.<br />
<br />
3) It would preferably be free, or pretty darn near close to free. (I've got a centsible identity to maintain as well, you know!)<br />
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With all of that in mind, this wonderful creation is what we devised! I combined multiple posts that I found on Pinterest and crafted this Frankenstein of DIY composter ideas. With the help of Farmer Boy (who can't resist a chance to use the drill), we got this together in under 20 minutes and I am so thrilled with it!<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/AVvXsEgiBzdOwBCB0X-U1cnk2IQldNe56Yfn_yqmVgOAlVh7_9Q_W1SToDegrm4ZyOmYtadMT1SHrYOo5w4lbHLMCUIhOTf5bDdb1Gw0AIy6LbNtyWkeb1H6nrO1ctD9kL67Hp8I9uH9z7etWOY9/s1600/DSCF0218.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiBzdOwBCB0X-U1cnk2IQldNe56Yfn_yqmVgOAlVh7_9Q_W1SToDegrm4ZyOmYtadMT1SHrYOo5w4lbHLMCUIhOTf5bDdb1Gw0AIy6LbNtyWkeb1H6nrO1ctD9kL67Hp8I9uH9z7etWOY9/s1600/DSCF0218.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our rather unassuming creation.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Here are the steps we took:<br />
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1. Buy/Scrounge 2 identical large totes. They need to be the same style and size so that they nest inside each other. Put one bin where you want your composter to ultimately sit and put spacers in the bottom of it. They need to be between 1-2" high. I used pre-cut PVC connectors that I got in the plumbing aisle at the home improvement center for about .50 each. You could use rocks, bricks, or whatever suits your fancy and your budget. They just need to be strong enough to support the other bin when it is filled with compost.<br />
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Take your other tote and drill holes all over that bad boy. I marked X's for my son to be able to aim his drill. These holes are for airflow. Then, once you're all drilled up, cover those holes with duct tape. This will still allow for airflow, but will be a barrier to slugs or other critters wanting to join the party inside the tubs. It will looks something like this:<br />
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Now place the drilled tote inside the other one, on top of the spacers. Voila! A compost bin that is low enough to easily turn with a spade, and will keep out the slugs! Just add your mix of brown items, scraps, and soil to get the party started. I also went and scrounged up earthworms from under rocks in my yard to help break things down. While this wasn't free, I was able to make it for well under $20, and that sure beats the $150 price tag on the composter I saw at the warehouse store down the street!<br />
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We were worried about the smell because of the whole 'airflow' thing-especially since we have a lot of bear traffic in our yard in the latter part of summer. We put this up in the corner of our deck, and we've been pleased to note that we can't smell it at all. In spite of the egg shells, veggie scraps, and pulp from my juicing, this bin doesn't seem noticeable at all. Yay!<br />
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Now I saw pictures of crafty-types who painted their bins with lovely murals, or decorated it with patterened tape,etc. Mine is a very utilitarian gray since it's in a corner where it remains fairly unseen. However, knowing you can get as wild and crazy with this style of bin just adds to the DIY fun of it all, doesn't it? If you<i> do</i> make one and come up with an art masterpiece worthy of bragging rights,, then I would love to see a picture of it! Happy Composting!<br />
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Blessings,<br />
Hillary At Home</div>
Hillary at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14861060126460765970noreply@blogger.com0Juneau, AK 99801, USA58.433808699999993 -133.957522854.002232699999993 -144.28467129999999 62.865384699999993 -123.6303743