tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48208208434988687042024-03-04T22:53:05.781-08:00The Girlhood GazetteA potpurri of musings, ideas, recipes, poems and fun for young ladies.
"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies... Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised." Proverbs 31:10 & 30Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.comBlogger142125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-24268555874688073652011-12-26T08:32:00.000-08:002011-12-26T08:32:53.003-08:00Sense & Sensibility Sale!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=32346&c=ib&aff=32474" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://sensibility.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/dreamstime_6501296-e1274374224324-300x192.jpg" /></a></div>I know I have practically neglected this blog of late, but... just wanted to make sure you all know about <a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=32346&c=ib&aff=32474" target="_blank">Sense & Sensibility Pattern's annual year-end sale</a> that started today! 15% off EVERYTHING! The sale is in effect until midnight of the 31st... so <a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=32346&c=ib&aff=32474" target="_blank">start shopping</a>!Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-42192171993648129712011-08-09T14:00:00.000-07:002012-01-19T13:18:34.216-08:00American Duchess Devonshire 18th Century Shoes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My sister found this shoe company that makes beautiful 18th century shoes! They've just released their new "<a href="http://www.american-duchess.com/devonshire-leather-18th-century-shoes?tracking=4f11d7e2eb8b4" target="_blank">Devonshire</a>" shoes, made of leather (they have the same style shoe in silk as well, the "<a href="http://www.american-duchess.com/georgiana-18th-century-shoe?tracking=4f11d7e2eb8b4" target="_blank">Georgiana</a>"). These are just so gorgeous!! They are on sale for the pre-order now! If you're like us, you LOVE historical gowns and these would just be perfection with a colonial dress. I think shoes really can make or break your look for historical accuracy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.american-duchess.com/devonshire-leather-18th-century-shoes?tracking=4f11d7e2eb8b4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="blank"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT_hJpvr2iGjWKHVEfn_399Gqs5quO1ecEPgms77F59PoK_RPBQFBH20VYXtyScvKr5QIINa5oX_hjdsKQus-tGfXFSQU_6RxyTJNE0R6NZPxgAA-HFr5q7T8s6bE-xqtUv00KWisjeg/s640/Dev-set-3-tagged.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;">The</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"><a href="http://www.american-duchess.com/devonshire-leather-18th-century-shoes?tracking=4f11d7e2eb8b4" style="color: #996633; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Devonshires</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;">are a leather</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"><a href="http://www.american-duchess.com/devonshire-leather-18th-century-shoes?tracking=4f11d7e2eb8b4" style="color: #996633; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">18th century shoe</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;">based on museum examples from the 1760s through 1780s. They're made of top-grade dyable leather, with a beautiful, smooth Italian leather sole for dancing, and are hard-wearing, water- and mud-proof, for even the toughest of outdoor re-enactments.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"><br />
</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;">Pre-Order the</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"><a href="http://www.american-duchess.com/devonshire-leather-18th-century-shoes?tracking=4f11d7e2eb8b4" style="color: #996633; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Devonshires</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;">through August 10, and get the special $100 price. We're only making 200 of these shoes, so don't miss the chance to own one of only a couple hundred pair on the planet! Visit</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"><a href="http://www.american-duchess.com/?tracking=4f11d7e2eb8b4" style="color: #996633; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">www.american-duchess.com</a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 22px;">to order.</span></span></blockquote>Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-14371678218334336382011-01-29T13:20:00.000-08:002011-01-29T13:20:24.453-08:00Win free desktop calendars!Enter to win a set of pretty floral computer desktop calendars over at my photography blog, <a href="http://kathryngracephotography.blogspot.com/" target="blank">kathryngracephotography.blogspot.com</a>! Two winners will be chosen, and if there is a high number of entries, three winners will be chosen.<br />
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Hurry - it ends at noon on January 31, 2011! <a href="http://kathryngracephotography.blogspot.com/2011/01/another-chance-to-win.html" target="blank">CLICK HERE</a> to read the rules and enter!Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-56073908067046043332011-01-15T06:43:00.000-08:002011-01-26T09:40:30.546-08:00Photography Contest Results!I am so thrilled to announce the winners of the first ever Maidens of Virtue Photography Contest! All in all I received nearly 100 entries, which was far more than I had expected! In fact, I had such a time trying to narrow it down that I decided to award not just one prize, but 1st, 2nd and 3rd, plus finalists... plus honorable mentions. :-) I know you are itching to see who won, so scroll on down to see the wonderful photos that placed, along with what I loved about each one. On some I am including what the photographer said about their photo. Amazing work, everyone!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjncsT8ej1Xuq1-C6_0l2bxgSEjZUJ-FXtjQ1BRUVTPzgn08Iz_07lYt6iuSpbcMhyphenhyphenl1iRPEy_WclPvzs5Vr4r4FxlaeOiipS4kp1dwqMVfJbJXAF6FXltJ_rwoQO27g7EYQ7MBut-pet8/s1600/1-LauraAdams-water.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjncsT8ej1Xuq1-C6_0l2bxgSEjZUJ-FXtjQ1BRUVTPzgn08Iz_07lYt6iuSpbcMhyphenhyphenl1iRPEy_WclPvzs5Vr4r4FxlaeOiipS4kp1dwqMVfJbJXAF6FXltJ_rwoQO27g7EYQ7MBut-pet8/s1600/1-LauraAdams-water.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1st Place: Laura A.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What is not to love about this incredible photo? It's absolutely gorgeous. I loved how crystal clear the water is - just solid blue the whole way. The composition and lighting are beautiful and of course the action captured is amazing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Laura wins a Blogger design from <a href="http://www.prairierosedesigns.com/" target="blank">Prairie Rose Designs</a> and a free <a href="http://fractureme.com/" target="blank">Fracture</a> frame!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBftwOVH7QsKMsdkAaP_TSCaXSENr0u5ymgFFanbzj9BHDlgYUZ98hhkYVAwDOHpsOznrjkVFYsCsOYM1txcXqGXCIKKMD2_ENiZ3K_Lb9uOB6z7Z00J35zKVUVddnmlnX1i0r1LJv1U/s1600/2-wendy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBftwOVH7QsKMsdkAaP_TSCaXSENr0u5ymgFFanbzj9BHDlgYUZ98hhkYVAwDOHpsOznrjkVFYsCsOYM1txcXqGXCIKKMD2_ENiZ3K_Lb9uOB6z7Z00J35zKVUVddnmlnX1i0r1LJv1U/s1600/2-wendy.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2nd Place: Wendy H.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I loved the soft colors in this photo and the beautiful light coming on to the mother's face. The sweet, pure love between mother and child is just precious. This photo is so genuine and unposed. Beautiful!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wendy wins a Blogger design from <a href="http://www.prairierosedesigns.com/" target="blank">Prairie Rose Designs</a>!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRB0zch3s-xe4E9hyphenhyphenwCt1glhgK9CTyxGXViQd6KmUYMwCLNFhk8WUvjsK_pxYmy7l2Pu-dgIRGlOOakB8m8hdgR6kiDtvK4Ww97fIXZRuT-mh8d8HJH7m01fgs_rQJsqP25UlFWCHsA_8/s1600/3-kamirincouch-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRB0zch3s-xe4E9hyphenhyphenwCt1glhgK9CTyxGXViQd6KmUYMwCLNFhk8WUvjsK_pxYmy7l2Pu-dgIRGlOOakB8m8hdgR6kiDtvK4Ww97fIXZRuT-mh8d8HJH7m01fgs_rQJsqP25UlFWCHsA_8/s1600/3-kamirincouch-1.jpg" width="555" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">3rd Place: Kamirin C.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is such a unique photo. I was intrigued by the interesting composition and crop, and I loved the restful feeling. The colors are beautiful as well, and I like how your eye travels across the photo, finally resting on the bride. Wonderful work!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kamirin wins a custom header, banner and button set from <a href="http://www.prairierosedesigns.com/" target="blank">Prairie Rose Designs</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>Below are the finalists that came SO CLOSE to making it in the top three! Outstanding work, all of you!</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe11-ZS1jLhotRh6QHnFcdHIDOzucdJ8S7E2nsMuHNa7sZbZpE_I9MnQKtJ9aLbjgZ-o9321TTYG716TeDlWdkTGakG8Q0pwS2a4G-G5TzwrrucpiyBZypm9rA3qsiR38vMY7ElnZp91o/s1600/Finalist+1-Baby_Laura-Adams.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe11-ZS1jLhotRh6QHnFcdHIDOzucdJ8S7E2nsMuHNa7sZbZpE_I9MnQKtJ9aLbjgZ-o9321TTYG716TeDlWdkTGakG8Q0pwS2a4G-G5TzwrrucpiyBZypm9rA3qsiR38vMY7ElnZp91o/s1600/Finalist+1-Baby_Laura-Adams.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Laura A.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Gorgeous lighting and colors in this... such a sweet picture of innocence.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6R0HS3pgL_qyVEnj1FZOIyzckDH4do3t_DiRpTobCy7qXWmeJxVfey7iCPElELxBmTSfT7Qr8VmBdvOVkBpdm6FiFxjFbnLcThyTDVxloovvElUpyjlOhDh5fCttDCbQjKuVnA09kqas/s1600/Finalist+2-EricaBerge-frostedworld.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6R0HS3pgL_qyVEnj1FZOIyzckDH4do3t_DiRpTobCy7qXWmeJxVfey7iCPElELxBmTSfT7Qr8VmBdvOVkBpdm6FiFxjFbnLcThyTDVxloovvElUpyjlOhDh5fCttDCbQjKuVnA09kqas/s1600/Finalist+2-EricaBerge-frostedworld.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Erica B.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Freshly fallen snow! What could be more pure than that?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDA7IwbfLh_DVdnyQeb6uyuA_lEkR4KboLRLVr3wzJ8X7PCFvA_pixmwzl3OEwUMghXiUyahHojVsTE6eZkaDud671IYwtvuBcqdGIr_8wtEvsudLdvYwNU2RMKQMx-zd2SeHGf6os4g8/s1600/Finalist+3-Of+Such+is+the+Kingdom+-+Laura+LaPrise.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDA7IwbfLh_DVdnyQeb6uyuA_lEkR4KboLRLVr3wzJ8X7PCFvA_pixmwzl3OEwUMghXiUyahHojVsTE6eZkaDud671IYwtvuBcqdGIr_8wtEvsudLdvYwNU2RMKQMx-zd2SeHGf6os4g8/s1600/Finalist+3-Of+Such+is+the+Kingdom+-+Laura+LaPrise.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Laura L.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The love between daddy and daughter... precious. Loved the color and light coming through her hair.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHAr32ch8qrvxdkBpn3WMy8AMgxQemnLJz1K5G9EfxGhVZ1FW2xo8_OuVuChqTB9ZyKKANfk6lDqofGlfWd6A8gppGk9FMhsGvd1pwcj5tjGj8JoskPVa4YajVc9vBZjBhBqYW4gsryAc/s1600/Finalist+4-Pure_3_AJM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHAr32ch8qrvxdkBpn3WMy8AMgxQemnLJz1K5G9EfxGhVZ1FW2xo8_OuVuChqTB9ZyKKANfk6lDqofGlfWd6A8gppGk9FMhsGvd1pwcj5tjGj8JoskPVa4YajVc9vBZjBhBqYW4gsryAc/s1600/Finalist+4-Pure_3_AJM.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Allison M.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Great composition and focus, and I like the contrast of the pure pearls against the dirty rock.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>"Purity also reminded me of pearls. As you know, oysters make pearls by coating bits of sand with soft layers. What a great analogy for us to use when we get irritated! Soft answers to others, relinquishing our 'rights' to One Who laid all His down, and the list goes on! By putting a few pearls on the dirty stone step, I wanted to visualize how we are to look to the world around us. Remaining pure in God's sight, regardless of the dirt of sin that surrounds us, and thus pointing the way to the Savior Who can cleanse us of sin."</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em><br />
</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrfC8TvqHz13R-JCcH29qz2irEhFMCObO0ISvlqzrKiKFnE0KQDAcv6Zv751eqh3JgOC8pgFFcwmoHNiGV8V5oyBRwCJTcEYROa75quVlN6vAol9pxwl8EN7wlxF8ap3xCGhJHXGCkc8/s1600/Finalist+5-No+Variation+or+Shadow+of+Turning+-+Laura+LaPrise.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrfC8TvqHz13R-JCcH29qz2irEhFMCObO0ISvlqzrKiKFnE0KQDAcv6Zv751eqh3JgOC8pgFFcwmoHNiGV8V5oyBRwCJTcEYROa75quVlN6vAol9pxwl8EN7wlxF8ap3xCGhJHXGCkc8/s1600/Finalist+5-No+Variation+or+Shadow+of+Turning+-+Laura+LaPrise.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Laura L.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Beautiful splash of sunlight coming through the flower petals!</div><div style="font: 16.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><em>"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning." James 1:17</em></div><div style="font: 16.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><em>Even though this picture is of a flower, the focus is the light shining through it. It reminded me of this verse about the light and purity of God."</em></div><div style="font: 16.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><em><br />
</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUd6PgfLYLpWOjxZBFKWX8IabAs9Fs-VBHu4fT9qt9PZwZiHW2qIplbTiGRUgI1InSr2Ky5_E-3R5ZmafJITQlbv1Z-pB7oWwk-srQ1_dhV1xw29ETS21eazjo45kdYfv1eeuK3ZGRyBs/s1600/Finalist+6-Wendy+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUd6PgfLYLpWOjxZBFKWX8IabAs9Fs-VBHu4fT9qt9PZwZiHW2qIplbTiGRUgI1InSr2Ky5_E-3R5ZmafJITQlbv1Z-pB7oWwk-srQ1_dhV1xw29ETS21eazjo45kdYfv1eeuK3ZGRyBs/s1600/Finalist+6-Wendy+2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wendy H.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">God's creation is marvelous. Love the vibrant blues and greens in this one.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong> And, just because I was having such a hard time deciding which photos would make it into the finals and win the top 3, I'd also like to feature some honorable mentions, who exhibited creativity in using theme.</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><br />
</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrePhOX6VQDVz9yBO1mmwtDDHH7zdy-S-GpbxfjJHCVh1cov24LSZyn7-WawUDPvRaD1UAtAg0nOnYQ267bERHc8FMCw2EfqsguypbtxW-YhpY7gP-q_Xx14eiu2CcD32GLpAh-lkcyjE/s1600/Hon-ElizabethAdams-rose.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrePhOX6VQDVz9yBO1mmwtDDHH7zdy-S-GpbxfjJHCVh1cov24LSZyn7-WawUDPvRaD1UAtAg0nOnYQ267bERHc8FMCw2EfqsguypbtxW-YhpY7gP-q_Xx14eiu2CcD32GLpAh-lkcyjE/s1600/Hon-ElizabethAdams-rose.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Elizabeth A.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Love the beautiful pink in this and the dew/rain drops.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRpqAZRpcQ8snPWKhyphenhyphenekinw5U4BM1CNsUCH-ZUH_zYPoo_O-ctnwaHcbfy3g_BUrTrjyvR1aTaavO7vy2T7axS9xL1n0-m4O3kw8CGEz5YSUV5u-WUEJzjOxyToxabERXatcV6YB6abU/s1600/Hon-icebud_savannahliston.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRpqAZRpcQ8snPWKhyphenhyphenekinw5U4BM1CNsUCH-ZUH_zYPoo_O-ctnwaHcbfy3g_BUrTrjyvR1aTaavO7vy2T7axS9xL1n0-m4O3kw8CGEz5YSUV5u-WUEJzjOxyToxabERXatcV6YB6abU/s1600/Hon-icebud_savannahliston.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Savannah L.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Very neat! I really like the sparkles in this.</div><div style="font: 16.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><em>"Those who are pure don't hide themselves away from the world but must live amongst this impure world. We are to be "in the world, but not of the world" and this photograph illustrates that. These beautiful tree buds are in the world but yet protected and kept pure by a thick layer of ice. This can represent our family and church and God, protecting us from harm and corrupting influences."</em></div><div style="font: 16.0px Times; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><em><br />
</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT2Vc0gZDVOqG02w_kidTkUH3nWRCet9dBaLOGRq1g84e8XifedsrE8O75iAm3cdv3vUpWmYxNXQm1PCqLfJAGw7NHcrBRl0CeWbrz5vpWC8wcrgPPIKDd3sqvcRPhQmbYkpsdZe8zHx8/s1600/Hon-Pure-AllieReid.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT2Vc0gZDVOqG02w_kidTkUH3nWRCet9dBaLOGRq1g84e8XifedsrE8O75iAm3cdv3vUpWmYxNXQm1PCqLfJAGw7NHcrBRl0CeWbrz5vpWC8wcrgPPIKDd3sqvcRPhQmbYkpsdZe8zHx8/s1600/Hon-Pure-AllieReid.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Allie R.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This has great focus and I liked the heart pendant she used to highlight the word!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ajIgsjvtn_2BdOnYWO9L6wffLH1723Evgfz_YRg25sAvx1kdIxIpKEb5cC0GKBQ0e4HZfgPAE6mQsoB70IMelO8YM4Pp4cABUatvmpFG0l7KDef2R8yRXyTCMcx21goSe9xlEnHE_Io/s800/Hon-Striking%20Resemblance-Kathryn%20Inyart.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ajIgsjvtn_2BdOnYWO9L6wffLH1723Evgfz_YRg25sAvx1kdIxIpKEb5cC0GKBQ0e4HZfgPAE6mQsoB70IMelO8YM4Pp4cABUatvmpFG0l7KDef2R8yRXyTCMcx21goSe9xlEnHE_Io/s1600/Hon-Striking%20Resemblance-Kathryn%20Inyart.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kathryn I.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Very clever! Great pure, crisp reflection.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwIIa18TmOaMjgJSzxfLrQnDpnB5fzwx44vI_hIwo2qtWn-hjvFkg85MSipMsL4c09UHaZXgyz7IQfXQlFi8kianPYZl_W6NQhtUhAvvCRCh1l6uXD6r8LasHXn6BT09062g5XhBpoNw/s1600/Hon-HannahBirdwell-bubbles.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwIIa18TmOaMjgJSzxfLrQnDpnB5fzwx44vI_hIwo2qtWn-hjvFkg85MSipMsL4c09UHaZXgyz7IQfXQlFi8kianPYZl_W6NQhtUhAvvCRCh1l6uXD6r8LasHXn6BT09062g5XhBpoNw/s1600/Hon-HannahBirdwell-bubbles.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hannah B.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Good clean soap! I liked how the bubbles are coming out of the bowl.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong>Congratulations everyone! And a big thank you to our sponsor, <a href="http://www.fractureme.com/" target="_blank">Fracture</a>! (And <a href="http://www.prairierosedesigns.com/" target="_blank">Prairie Rose Designs</a>, but that's my business so it hardly does to thank myself. :-))</strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What did you think of the contest? Did you enjoy it? Should I do another one in the future? Leave a comment and let me know!</div>Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-10192031688003290192010-12-29T10:55:00.000-08:002011-01-18T10:56:16.954-08:00Photography Contest - Last ChanceWell, folks... I'm still amazed the year has gone by so quickly. There are only 2 more days left of December and then we enter 2011. You know what that also means... yes, the photography contest is ending!<br />
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I've received some beautiful entries thus far and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes in at the last minute. You are free to submit as many photos as you like before midnight on December 31, 2010! (Ok, and I won't turn you away if you happen to get your entry in at 12:01 am on January 1, 2011! :-)).<br />
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Remember, there is no entry fee and you could win a free blog makeover (for Blogger) from <a href="http://www.prairierosedesigns.com/" target="_blank">PrairieRoseDesigns.com</a> and a free photo frame from <a href="http://www.fractureme.com/" target="_blank">FractureMe.com!</a><br />
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Click on the banner below to read the rules and enter your photos!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/photography_contest.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Photo Contest Banner" border="0" class="aligncenter" height="90" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/photocontestbanner.jpg" width="450" /></a></div>Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-21424400927814961002010-12-16T10:54:00.000-08:002011-01-18T10:55:25.092-08:00For only a dollar...I'm sure most of you are familiar with <a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=32346&c=ib&aff=32474" target="blank">Sense & Sensibility Patterns</a>. If you do not follow their website frequently, however, you may not know about their <a href="http://sensibility.com/category/patterns/dollar-downloads/" target="blank">Dollar Downloads</a>, which are downloads of period articles on fashion, etc. that are actually from the era. There are a lot of early 1900's and 1940's-50's available. These would be very interesting for anyone who loves historical fashion, especially for use in research if you are making an authentic gown. Each one is only a dollar! <a href="http://sensibility.com/category/patterns/dollar-downloads/" target="blank">Check it out</a>!<br />
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P.S. Like historical sewing and old fashioned things? Check out this new blog (and leave her a comment!): <a href="http://lassofyesteryear.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">A Lass of Yesteryear</a>Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-10247467904170175102010-12-11T10:53:00.000-08:002011-01-18T10:54:37.410-08:00Photography Contest... Last Weeks!<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/photography_contest.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Photo Contest Banner" border="0" class="aligncenter" height="90" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/photocontestbanner.jpg" width="450" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Time is running out for the Maidens of Virtue Photography Contest! The deadline for entries is December 31, 2010... that's less than 3 weeks away! You can enter as many photos as you wish for more chances to win our great prizes! Click on the banner above to visit the contest page.<br />
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Please pass this on to your friends!Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-16844979881613668232010-11-08T10:21:00.000-08:002011-01-18T10:53:41.032-08:00Movie Review: The Runner from Ravenshead<a href="http://affiliates.visionforum.com/idevaffiliate.php?id=168&url=1237" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="The Runner from Ravenshead" border="0" class="alignright" height="264" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/ravenshead.png" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px;" width="220" /></a>I just had the opportunity to watch <a href="http://affiliates.visionforum.com/idevaffiliate.php?id=168&url=1237" target="_blank">The Runner from Ravenshead</a>, a feature film by Little Crew Studios from the San Antonio Independent Christian Film Festival. The movie won the Audience Choice award and was runner up for both Best Feature and Best of Festival.<br />
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This film features an all-child cast, ages 9 down to 2, and there are only 5 kids in it. I have to admit, I wasn't expecting much. This was the family's first attempt at film-making, and besides, how good could a bunch of kids be at acting?<br />
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Well... was I in for a surprise. The movie was FANTASTIC! It was extremely well done, well acted, and well written. The storyline is similar to Pilgrim's Progress. Sam has escaped from Ravenshead Prison and is running away from her warden, but no matter how fast she runs or how she tries to outwit him, he is always right behind her. Meanwhile, the City of Refuge Guide Service has run out of trained guides to help escaped prisoners reach the City of Refuge, so they send their cleaning boy, Henry, to help Sam.<br />
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The movie is humorous and endearing. Henry runs into all sorts of trouble and had me rolling on the floor. The youngest two kids are absolutely adorable. All of them are wonderful actors especially considering their age. I wish I could act that good. :-)<br />
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The filming quality was great and very professional and there were some great stunts involved too. All the sets were perfect - all kids' size! There are also several scenes where the same actor will be playing different roles and talking to himself, or where there is a crowd of people, but it's all the same 5 kids. Very impressive!<br />
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The music was phenomenal; they hired a professional orchestra to play the soundtrack and it lends a lot to the movie.<br />
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This film gets a 5-star rating from me - there wasn't anything I didn't like about it! Great for the whole family - if you're looking for a good, clean, wholesome Christian film, this is it! You can watch the trailer and buy the DVD at <a href="http://affiliates.visionforum.com/idevaffiliate.php?id=168&url=1237" target="_blank">Vision Forum</a>.Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-31867974104736482292010-10-22T10:20:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:21:33.286-08:00Pretty Please...I'm very sorry for posting another advertisement-style post, but I'd like to ask for your help. I've entered a toddler's bedtime story contest, and in order to win the contest, I need to get people to vote on my story. In short, I am trying to catch up to some people with over 2,000 votes (haha, I know... well, I can at least try). So I'm asking that if you read this, you would take a second to vote. AND if you are really nice, you'll come back and vote multiple times - you are allowed to vote once every day! All you have to do is visit the link below and click the "vote" button. I'd also appreciate it if you would share this with your friends and/or family if you think of it. Thank you! :-)<br />
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<a href="http://www.naturemadesleep.net/stories/285" target="_blank">http://www.naturemadesleep.net/stories/285</a><br />
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(End of commercial).Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-10598440577205630942010-10-20T10:19:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:20:31.147-08:00Communication Crisis?<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Communication crisis" border="0" class="alignright" height="240" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/texting.jpg" style="margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" width="180" /></div><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Lately I have been thinking about the developments in technology and how it's changing the way we communicate. I'm not on Facebook and I don't intend to get on, but pretty much everyone I know IS on Facebook. People joke about how they are "addicted" to it... but I wonder if they ever really think about whether that is true or not. Facebook (and Twitter) is accessible 24/7 now with its availability on phones. Some people will update their statuses all the time with trivial information. A friend of mine was saying how she had blocked so many people on her Facebook because she just didn't need to know that they have smelly feet or that they ate pizza for dinner. A while back my mom announced she was deleting her Facebook account, and she got a message from a friend who said, "But... how will you communicate?? This is how people talk now."</div><br />
It is a delightful Autumn day today... the sun is shining brightly, and the air is crisp with the scent of falling leaves. Every year I am reminded how much I love fall! I think I may love it a teensy bit more than spring. I have been very (very, very, very times 10) bad about posting here and haven't posted any really meaty posts in a while. So here's an attempt... :-)<br />
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Is it? What happened to picking up the phone, or writing a letter? Or better yet, having someone over for lunch just to be together and chat? I don't mean to say that Facebook and Twitter are inherently evil or wrong. They're not. But if it becomes such a priority in your life that you can't imagine what you would do without it, and you must be able to check it everywhere, all the time, something's not right there. Texting is right up there with FB and Twitter. All these avenues of "convenient" communication teach us to disregard basic rules of communication, like spelling (wht's sp nywy?). :-)<br />
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And another thing about texting, and social networking on phones. It's distracting. Both for the user and the people they are around. Apparently nobody realizes anymore that it's rude to be in the middle of a conversation with someone, and suddenly whip out your phone, and start typing away, acting as if you are ignoring your companion (whether you are really listening or not is not the point). The other person feels as though you don't care to talk to them, and you are just too caught up in checking your texts to listen and hold a conversation.<br />
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Some of my friends tell me, "You should get a Facebook! I can keep up with my friends so much better on Facebook!" Hmmm. I'm not so sure that Facebook really helps you keep up with your friends. After all, there isn't much that's personal about Facebook. You type what you are currently doing at the moment in that little box, hit "share" and it's visible to everyone that calls themselves your "friend" in the FB world (and that could be hundreds of people!). Of course, it is still fun... why else is half the world on Facebook? One reason I'm NOT on it, is I know I would like it too much!<br />
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It seems like there is a lot more worldliness in Christian circles than there used to be. Conversations revolve around secular topics - movies, sports, and politics. I have a feeling this is related to Facebook... teaching us to value the things that don't really matter. We don't talk about what's going on in each other's lives anymore. We just talk about little nothings, hardly any different that what we talked about the last time we saw each other! And again, I don't have a problem necessarily with talking about movies or politics... but when it seems like that is ALL you talk about, there's a problem.<br />
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This is an introductory post to a series of posts I would like to do about writing letters... why we should and how we should, maybe with some fun tutorials thrown in as well. Make sure to come back!Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-76500550419958433932010-10-15T10:18:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:19:06.419-08:00Joyfully At Home... The Book<a href="http://s407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/?action=view&current=joyfullyathome.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Joyfully at Home" border="0" class="alignright" height="280" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/joyfullyathome.png" width="245" /></a>I just found out today that Jasmine Baucham's new book, <a href="http://affiliates.visionforum.com/idevaffiliate.php?id=168&url=1171" target="_blank">Joyfully At Home</a> is now available from Vision Forum! If you are not familiar with Jasmine, she has a blog with the same title as the book, where she writes encouraging articles for young women. If you have not visited her blog before, I highly recommend that you <a href="http://joyfullyathomeblog.com/" target="_blank">hop over there</a> and read the archives!<br />
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At any rate, I have not yet read the book, but if it is anything like her other writings it promises to be a great blessing! Lord willing, I will post a review of the book at a later date after I have read it. :-) For now, <a href="http://affiliates.visionforum.com/idevaffiliate.php?id=168&url=1171" target="_blank">grab a copy for yourself</a>!Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-33599395849050519162010-10-05T10:17:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:18:18.691-08:00Apple Cinnamon Clafoutis<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="511" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUrvIHbUPTzXPkaOXfcB24XVCa3buogxPC5HrbfiGtieUzuVtoGjSN9ZgIHGz6PU4IkQfQ7fO0lcl-jzp7vF3BMpUyx9_tPLEsxe4dro7luav1RyOygEFZXW74R-goRDjkWtAJtQ4EONPU/s1600/yen+cloufuti.JPG" title="Apple Cinnamon Clafoutis" width="341" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Doesn't this look divine? This was the recipe we made for <a href="http://ccbakers.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Cross Country Bakers</a> last month. It's a French dessert made with apple custard-like filling. Mmmmm... I thought it was about time I posted a recipe for you all, so try this one out for your next dessert (or have it for breakfast like we did!). Enjoy!<br />
<h3><strong>Apple Cinnamon Clafoutis</strong></h3>Ingredients:<br />
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* About 3 or 4 apples<br />
* 2 large eggs + 1 yolk<br />
* 1/2 cup blond cane sugar<br />
* 3 Tbsp. cornstarch<br />
* 3 Tbsp. all purpose flour<br />
* 1 cup whole milk, cold<br />
* 1 vanilla, seeds removed (I didn't have vanilla seeds so I used 1 tsp. vanilla)<br />
* 1/2 cup heavy cream<br />
* ground cinnamon<br />
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Steps:<br />
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* Preheat your oven at 350ºF.<br />
* Peel the apples and cut into cubes or slices whatever you feel is best for the oven dish you are using (I used ramekins)<br />
* Beat the eggs and yolk with the sugar.<br />
* Add the vanilla seeds and mix.<br />
* Dilute the cornstarch in the cold milk.<br />
* Add the flour and cornstarch to the previous preparation, with the cream. Mix well until homogeneous. Add ground cinnamon to your liking.<br />
* Grease small ramekins (or a larger dish) and sprinkle with sugar. Remove the excess.<br />
* Divide the apples between them and pour the cream over.<br />
* Sprinkle with ground cinnamon and place in the oven for 40 to 45 min, until golden. Remove. Eat warm or cold.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Original recipe from </span><a href="http://junglefrog-cooking.com/apple-walnut-clafoutis/" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Jungle Frog Cooking</span></a><span style="font-weight: normal;">.</span></strong>Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-16981883750147176522010-09-20T10:16:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:17:03.669-08:00New Contest Sponsor: Fracture<a href="http://www.fractureme.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Fracture" border="0" class="alignright" height="292" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/fracture.jpg" style="margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" width="287" /></a>I am thrilled that we have a new prize added to our photography contest, generously donated by our new sponsor, <a href="http://www.fractureme.com/" target="_blank">Fracture</a>! If you haven't heard of Fracture before, you need to check it out. It's a neat new way to "frame" your photos. You upload your photo, choose a frame (or no frame) and Fracture actually prints your photo ON GLASS. My mom got one of my sister and me and the quality is amazing. The colors are so vivid, it looks as vibrant as when you view the picture on your computer!<br />
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Fracture is awarding a free photo print in the size of your choice to the winner of the photography contest! How exciting is that? <a href="http://www.maidensofvirtue.com/photography_contest.html" target="_blank">Start entering</a> now! :-)Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-2074078023840739212010-09-18T10:15:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:16:01.800-08:00Photography Contest Reminder!I know, you all just *love* my reminder posts. But, it's been a while since I have mentioned the <a href="http://www.maidensofvirtue.com/photography_contest.html" target="_blank">photography contest</a> I have going on at the main Maidens of Virtue site! It is hard to believe that what started out as "all year left" is now only just over 3 months left in the contest!<br />
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We've also finally announced the beginnings of our prize list! In addition to your photo being featured on Maidens of Virtue, the first place winner will be receiving a full Blogger site design from <a href="http://www.prairierosedesigns.com/" target="_blank">PrairieRoseDesigns.com</a>!<br />
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I'll continue to post updates as we go along... but time is quickly running out. Remember, you can enter as many photos as you want, at any time. And it's FREE to enter, so what do you have to lose?Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-38194021336777721372010-09-17T10:14:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:15:20.965-08:00Vision Forum SaleI just found out about this... Vision Forum has a brand new look for their website and until the 18th, they are having daily $1 deals on select products, free gifts with certain orders and free shipping! Click the banner below for details:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.visionforum.com/168-54-1-175.html" target="_blank"><img alt="New VF Website ad" border="0" class="aligncenter" height="200" src="http://affiliates.visionforum.com/banners/New-VFI-Website-Affiliate-448x200.jpg" style="border: 0pt none;" width="448" /></a></div>Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-60557535054656673022010-08-12T10:13:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:14:35.105-08:00Interview with The Joy of Jewelry<a href="http://thejoyofjewelry.blogspot.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="The Joy of Jewelry Button" border="0" class="alignright" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuVpa-wFZpo1VBNJtIAMgjMeChq-NhPUh1EE2Fh2vN0kpktumAfRy3wnLLj3gnBeUm_hREGHw5lzxnZD1cvUxczXGZGBbE0hk-Ztb2t3rxLPbJZw1z2GMAwPz9q2rorgb7Ka4EbN51yj-B/s1600/the+joy+of+jewelry+button.jpg" style="margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" width="150" /></a>I had the pleasure of getting to know Joy, a lovely young lady who has recently started up her own jewelry business called <a href="http://thejoyofjewelry.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Joy of Jewelry</a>. Her products are just *beautiful* and I am so pleased to be able to interview her! Enjoy the interview and when you're done, hop on over to her website and check out all the scrumptious gems she has to offer!<br />
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<strong><em>Kathryn: Can you tell my readers a little about yourself?</em></strong><br />
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Joy: I am going to be turning 21 this year, I am a homeschool graduate and a pastor's daughter. I have done several years of independent studies on Nutrition, and am now attempting to learn to speak (and understand!) Irish Gaelige.<br />
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<strong><em>Kathryn: When did you start designing jewelry and why?</em></strong><br />
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Joy: My sister and I always loved making dress-up jewelry when we were younger, and as I got older I began to buy some beads that were a little more 'grown up' than the plastic O's we used to string on thick, stretchy white string. I also read 'The American Girl's Handybook' that was in publication during the early 1900s, and became fascinated with the 'language' of flowers and colors. When I found a list of different colors and their significance in the Bible, that clinched my interest! I love the idea that we can be reminded of different truths, revealed to us through Scripture, by our jewelry.<br />
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<strong><em>Kathryn: How did you get the idea to start a business making jewelry?</em></strong><br />
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Joy: When I was 16, one of the ladies we knew payed me to make two necklaces for her daughter's birthday and left the design up to me. Since then I have had many people tell me that I should sell my jewelry, and as I got older and saw the lack of really beautiful and sturdy (affordable) jewelry, I began to think that perhaps I might be able to do it after all. But it wasn't until a mutual friend introduced me to you - who offered to <a href="http://prairierosedesignsgallery.blogspot.com/2010/06/joy-of-jewelry.html" target="_blank">design a template</a> for me in exchange for some jewelry - that I actually believed that it would ever happen.<br />
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<strong><em>Kathryn: What are your goals for your business?</em></strong><br />
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Joy: My goals for my business are to glorify God as I create and sell jewelry, and to bless ladies across the country with beautiful reminders of purity and other truth.<br />
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<strong><em>Kathryn: You design each piece intentionally with certain colors or beads to represent things. How do you get your ideas?</em></strong><br />
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Joy: I was fascinated when I discovered that there was an official 'language' to colors and flowers, and when I discovered a website that had a list of colors and their significance in the Bible, I couldn't resist incorporating different color combinations into my jewelry.<br />
I get inspired by period films, nature, and modern fashion, and my jewelry is an attempt to combine the finer styles with purity and beauty.<br />
As far as the truths that are represented by my jewelry, they are convictions and conclusions that I have come to as I read the Bible and learn more about Jesus. I try to give a little glimpse into my inspiration for each jewelry collection on my website.<br />
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<strong><em>Kathryn: What are your most popular pieces?</em></strong><br />
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Joy: It would be difficult to pick the most popular piece because different ones appeal to different people. The <a href="http://thejoyofjewelry.blogspot.com/2010/04/purity-for-life-collection.html" target="_blank">Purity for Life</a> pieces have been very popular - with many people commenting particularly on the delicacy of the chain that I use for the <a href="http://thejoyofjewelry.blogspot.com/2009/04/purity-for-life-exquisite-chain-and_19.html" target="_blank">Exquisite Chain and Crystal Necklace</a> and <a href="http://thejoyofjewelry.blogspot.com/2009/04/purity-for-life-exquisite-chain-and.html" target="_blank">Bracelet</a> - but probably the most popular piece is the <a href="http://thejoyofjewelry.blogspot.com/2009/04/gods-princess-collection.html" target="_blank">Heart and Key Bracelet</a>.<br />
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<strong><em>Kathryn: Thank you so much for allowing me to interview you, Joy! Keep up the good work!</em></strong><br />
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As she mentioned in the interview, I designed her website template in exchange for some jewelry. I received the <a href="http://thejoyofjewelry.blogspot.com/2009/04/purity-for-eternity-light-sapphire.html" target="_blank">Purity for Eternity Sapphire Crystal Necklace</a> and the <a href="http://thejoyofjewelry.blogspot.com/2009/04/purity-for-life-double-standed-bracelet.html" target="_blank">Purity for Life Double Stranded Bracelet</a>. I am VERY pleased with both! The quality is excellent and they both fit beautifully. Joy's service was wonderful as well! I am a big Swarovski crystal fan so I love my two pieces! Below are some photos of the pieces I received (click on the picture to go to Joy's website and buy one for yourself!).<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thejoyofjewelry.blogspot.com/2009/04/purity-for-eternity-light-sapphire.html" target="_blank"><img alt="The Joy of Jewelry Necklace" border="0" class="aligncenter" height="341" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/sapphirenecklace1.jpg" width="511" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thejoyofjewelry.blogspot.com/2009/04/purity-for-life-double-standed-bracelet.html" target="_blank"><img alt="The Joy of Jewelry Bracelet" border="0" class="aligncenter" height="341" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/copyright-purityforlifebracelet.jpg" width="511" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Photos copyright © <a href="http://kathryngracephotography.blogspot.com/" target="blank">Kathryn Grace Photography.</a></div>Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-85270963844520296912010-08-03T10:10:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:12:33.136-08:00Feelin' Feminine Jane Austen Tour<a href="http://feelinfeminine.com/?p=4682" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="http://i378.photobucket.com/albums/oo228/FeelinFeminine/JaneAustenTour/participatead2.png" class="alignright" height="225" src="http://i378.photobucket.com/albums/oo228/FeelinFeminine/JaneAustenTour/participatead2.png" style="margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" width="150" /></a> Miss Jocelyn over at Feelin' Feminine is hosting a fun Jane Austen blog "tour" and giving away some great prizes! As you'll see from that button there, it ends today... so I'm participating rather last minute. Ah well, better late than never, right?! (Click the button to see more details).<br />
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The premise of the "tour" is to create a Jane Austen related post(s) on your blog and enter them into one of the several categories listed on Feelin' Feminine. I decided to go with the Digital Art category since that was the easiest for me, being that I am a graphic designer. :-) I created a wallpaper for your desktop, featuring Jane and Elizabeth Bennett (from Pride & Prejudice of course!).<br />
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One reason I went with Jane & Lizzy is because everyone seems to focus so much on Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, and everything revolves around them in most graphics, pictures, etc. But one of the things our family most enjoys about Pride & Prejudice is the relationship between the two sisters. They are obviously very close and they are each other's confidantes and - gasp - they actually.... <em>like</em> each other! Which is something of a foreign concept in today's society.<br />
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You are welcome to download the wallpaper for your own personal use; I just ask that you respect my copyright of the design and do not sell or distribute it (if you want your friends to have one too, just send them the link to this post). <em>Please comment and let me know if you use it!</em> Unfortunately those were the largest images I could find and so they are a little pixelated - my apologies for that!<br />
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How to download: Click on the image. It will open up in a larger size. Right click on it again (Mac users hold Control while clicking) and select "Save Image As..." Save it to your computer and apply as you would any other desktop wallpaper.<br />
<h6><span style="font-weight: normal;">(Credit for photos: </span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://erasofelegance.com/" target="_blank">Eras of Elegance</a>. In addition, images in this graphic are displayed in good faith as a fair use under 17 U.S.C. 107. Any copyright infringement is unintentional, and will be remedied immediately.</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">)</span></h6><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/janeandlizzydesktop-1.jpg?1280851200" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Jane &amp; Lizzy Desktop Wallpaper" border="0" class=" " height="347" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/janeandlizzydesktop-1.jpg?1280851200" width="553" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Designed by <a href="http://www.PrairieRoseDesigns.com/" target="blank">PrairieRoseDesigns.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-52161992603996905142010-07-13T10:09:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:10:32.028-08:002010 Essay Contest Results!I apologize for not getting the results of the essay contest up here! I've been busy and haven't had time yet. Below are the winners, runners up and excerpts from their essays (links included to continue reading the complete essay). Congratulations to all the winners and runners up!<br />
<h3><em>9-13 Age Group Winner</em>: Miss Johanna W.</h3><em>9-13 Age Group 1st Runner Up</em>: Miss Carrie A.<br />
<em>9-13 Age Group 2nd Runner Up</em>: Miss Robyn G.<br />
<h3><em>14-25 Age Group Winner</em>: Miss Rachel D.</h3><em>14-25 Age Group 1st Runner Up</em>: Miss Ginelle V.<br />
<em>14-25 Age Group 2nd Runner Up</em>: Miss Kayla H.<br />
<blockquote><h2>Representing Christ - 9-13 Category Winner</h2>By Johanna W.<br />
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True Modesty is not found in a man made set of rules, regulations or guidelines, but springs forth in a heart living for Christ. 1 Peter 3:3-4 says~ “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.”<br />
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In the absence of biblical convictions, most people find them selves going the way of culture. This is true even in the realm of modesty. Most young woman these days think that beauty is found in the most revealing outfit, or the latest fashion—the way of culture. But the bible says that true beauty is found in a gentle, quiet, or in other words; a modest spirit. Modesty is like a tree, rooted in purity, branching forth in many aspects of our lives. A few of these branches include the way we dress and the way we act.<br />
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Our Dress represents our heart. If we dress ourselves in immodest clothes, we are displaying an impure heart. But if we dress in modest apparel then we reveal a virtuous heart.<br />
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1 Corinthians 6:19-20 says~ “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body...”<br />
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Honor God with your body! We need to glorify God in every thing we do, including the way we dress. Dressing modestly not only represents Christ, but~ you, your family, your parents and your Christian community.<br />
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<em><a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/contest_archive/representing-christ.html" target="_blank">Continue reading this essay.</a></em></blockquote><blockquote><h2>A Remedy - 14-25 Category Winner</h2>By Rachel D.<br />
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During the 20th century there was a wide spread plague. Few people were left unaffected by this infection and the consequences have been devastating. This epidemic caused society as a whole to exchange the old-fashioned practice of modesty for the stylish concept that revealing your body is glamorous. Our generation’s loss of modesty is only an outward symptom of this gruesome disease, which is a grievous lack of purity, chastity, humility, and self-control, to name a few. As people have rejected the biblical standard accepted by our fore-fathers, they have lost all the blessings and rewards of the righteous. With lust, immorality, and selfishness having long been planted in the hearts of a nation, the harvest is to continue bringing dissatisfied hearts, broken lives, and ruined relationships. Long have we been reaping these consequences already. “Be not deceived, God is not mocked. Whatsoever a man sows that shall he also reap.”<br />
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Famously, the Good Samaritan once undertook an immense challenge to reach a wounded man. He “bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine.” In the same way, young women today have the enviable opportunity to reach a wounded world. By recapturing God’s sacred design for us as young women, we can have a resonating impact on the degenerating lives around us. Knowingly, God designed ladies to guard their bodies and heart, to be elegant and dignified, and to showcase femininity. Modesty of spirit and expression are oil and wine that the dying can little afford to be without.<br />
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Summer is staring at the side walk time. As soon as June rolls around, it seems as though skimpiness is the new dress code. Not to say that there aren’t ample representatives of this popular style all through the year. Today, ladies treat their bodies with little respect, all the while claiming to have won themselves honor by breaking free from societies “sexist restrictions”. Showing parts of the body intended to be kept private and sacred sadly demeans an individual. Why trade mystery and dignity for cheap, momentary attention from dishonorable men?<br />
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<em><a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/contest_archive/a-remedy.html" target="_blank">Continue reading this essay.</a></em></blockquote><br />
<blockquote><h2>The Value of Modesty - 14-25 Category Runner Up</h2>By Ginelle V.<br />
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What is modesty? According to the Merriam-Webster Online dictionary, modesty is, among other things, “propriety in dress, speech or conduct.” Nowadays when we discuss modesty, it is usually in relation to what one wears. In fact, the only time we discuss modesty at all is in relation to how immodest our society has become. Does anyone even really know what modesty looks like anymore? How can we possibly know true modesty in our ever changing world?<br />
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The only way we can truly know the right standard of modesty is by looking at the place where the standard never changes: God’s word. There are a few verses that show exactly what God thinks of modesty and of those who are immodest. For example, Proverbs 11:22 says, “As a jewel of gold in a swine’s snout, so is a fair woman which is without discression.” As unflattering as this verse is, it presents an undeniable truth: no matter how beautiful a woman is, she loses the respect of those around her when she dresses herself immodestly.<br />
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<em><a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/contest_archive/the-value-of-modesty.html" target="_blank">Continue reading this essay.</a></em></blockquote><br />
<blockquote><h2>A State of Being - 14-25 Category Runner Up</h2>By Kayla H.<br />
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Click. Eye contact. (I smile.) Eyes go down. And back up again. She walks away. Such is the scenario which plays over and over again in my day-to-day life – at the grocery store, at the fairground, at the post office. Yes, I am wearing a long skirt and a loosely-fitting shirt. It’s an outfit which I consider cute, but definitely not “normal” by worldly standards. I stick out – almost as much as a sore thumb – but I wouldn’t have it any other way.<br />
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Nearly every individual on planet Earth makes an important decision each morning. No, it’s not what to eat for breakfast. The decision I’m referring to is what to wear. Most individuals do not realize the weight this decision holds. They conclude within the recesses of their hearts and minds, "It simply depends on my preferences. At the end of the day, no one else cares; what I wear only affects me." However, the Bible sings a different tune.<br />
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<em><a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/contest_archive/a-state-of-being.html" target="_blank">Continue reading this essay.</a></em></blockquote><br />
<blockquote><h2>The Service of Modesty - 9-13 Category Runner Up</h2>By Carrie A.<br />
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What is modesty?<br />
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It’s many things. It’s why we don’t walk around without clothes on. We all have jobs and duties in this world, a loyalty to others and to the Father.<br />
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The same way that we should keep the world clean and the water pure we should keep our souls clean and our body’s pure.<br />
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Have you ever gone by a park, small road or town that has trash lying around and looks like no one cares about its appearance? When you walk out of the house in an outfit that EVERYONE at school is wearing but your dad would freak if he saw you in, you are demonstrating that you don’t care how others feel. Immodesty is a selfish act.<br />
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<em><a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/contest_archive/the-service-of-modesty.html" target="_blank">Continue reading this essay.</a></em></blockquote><br />
<blockquote><h2>What is Modesty? - 9-13 Category Runner Up</h2>By Robyn G.<br />
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What Is Modesty?<br />
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The Greek word for modesty is “adios” that literary means bashfulness, reverence and shamefacedness. Today in this day and age many woman are not shamefaced about their modesty. They do not cover themselves like the bible commands us to in 1 Timothy 2:9 says, “In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array.” KJV There you have it! God commands us to be modest and not to think about the way we look unless we are making sure we are modest.<br />
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<em><a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/contest_archive/what-is-modesty.html" target="_blank">Continue reading this essay.</a></em></blockquote><a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/contest_archive/2010-essay-winners.html">Click HERE to view complete contest results</a><br />
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Congrats, everyone! See you next year!Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-86539448763781196322010-06-25T10:07:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:09:31.647-08:00Essay Contest Prizes!Well, we have less than a week left until our Essay Contest is closed to entries! I'd encourage you to check it out and write an essay (and enter it of course!). It's always good to push yourself to write and you never know - you just might win and receive a really wonderful bundle of goodies!<br />
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I thought I'd detail the prize list here with descriptions and pictures (where I have them!).<br />
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<a href="http://ameliasaprons.com/products-page/apron-patterns/amish-apron-pattern/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="150<a href=" src="http://ameliasaprons.com/products-page/apron-patterns/amish-apron-pattern/index.php?image_id=3&width=100&height=150" title="Amish Apron Pattern" width="100" /><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="150" src="http://ameliasaprons.com/products-page/apron-patterns/ruffles-and-curves-apron-pattern/index.php?image_id=4&width=100&height=150" style="margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" title="Ruffles & Curves Apron Pattern" width="100" /></a>The first person to contribute to our prize was <a href="http://ameliasaprons.com/" target="_blank">Amelia's Aprons</a>. Amelia's Aprons has supported our contests in the past and was so kind to do so again! The 9-13 year old category winner will be receiving the Amish Apron Pattern, which is an adorable pinafore style apron - very cute and very practical! Perfect for using to be a "prairie girl" or just for wearing around the house to keep your clothes tidy. The 14-25 age group winner will receive the Ruffles & Curves Apron Pattern; another super cute style with a curved hem and ruffles! (surprise!). Both patterns come with a child's size, adult size and a doll size, so you can make some for all the ladies in your family!<br />
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<a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=32346&c=ib&aff=32474" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="174" src="http://sensibility.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/ADP-Cover.jpg" style="margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" title="S&S Afternoon Dress" width="116" /></a>Next up is a<a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?cl=32346&c=ib&aff=32474" target="_blank"> Sense & Sensibility</a> ePattern! I have the Afternoon Dress pictured here, but you will receive the ePattern of your choice. Sense & Sensibility is a widely recognized and respected pattern company for historical gowns. If you visit their website, you can see dozens of beautiful gowns made from the patterns (and get ideas for making your own dress!). The ePatterns are printable PDF versions of the pattern that you print and then tape together. It is perhaps more work than a regular pattern, but you have the advantage of being able to download it instantly (no waiting for it to ship!) and you will have it on your computer if you lose a piece or need to make it again in a different size.<br />
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<a href="http://rosesandteacups.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="alignleft" height="133" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/teacup003.jpg" style="margin: 0px;" width="173" /></a> <a href="http://rosesandteacups.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" class="alignleft" height="136" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/teacup008.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px;" width="173" /></a><br />
<a href="http://rosesandteacups.com/" target="_blank"></a>Our third contributor is <a href="http://rosesandteacups.com/" target="_blank">Roses and Teacups</a>, one of my favorite online stores! And guess what they have given to our prize... yep, a lovely china teacup for each category!<br />
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<a href="http://joyoushome.com/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Seasons at Home" border="0" class="alignleft" height="168" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/sah.jpg" style="margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" width="130" /></a><a href="http://joyoushome.com/" target="_blank">Seasons at Home</a> is a lovely magazine for keepers at home, filled with tasty recipes, craft projects and encouraging articles. They have graciously donated one issue to each winner! The subjects covered in this issue are: Flowers of Virtue, Stitching Old Fashioned Flowers, Summer Rag Quilting, Little Ladies Victorian Tea, Make a Hope Chest (Father project), Whole Grain Flat Breads, Ice Cream Cones and Pasta! This is a beautiful magazine and after you get this sampling you just might want to subscribe. :-)<br />
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***Here's where it gets different. I have two completely different prizes for the different categories:***<br />
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The younger group will get a knitting kit for making mittens! It includes yarn in a fun variegated purple and green yarn, knitting needles, and of course, instructions. Knitting is such a fun and practical skill to learn - you can easily make gifts, things for around the home or to put in your hope chest! (photo to come!)<br />
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<a href="http://thejoyofjewelry.blogspot.com/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="alignleft" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1dOKVxF1ya6AJplFN2xo9UiwuL4anAwAiUWJ3Bx_kn-RJjGe8KuqXs6U3VQok_6w2h4wmnimjjrV63_9JCxIvvDIHIaDzajIIh2_OTzbTdeyuvuaD30P5XSdNpX4vrrsZ3AMsbfpbS3h-/s200/IMG_1160b.jpg" style="margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px;" title="Joy of Jewelry Earrings" width="134" /></a>The older category will be receiving a beautiful pair of earrings from <a href="http://thejoyofjewelry.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Joy of Jewelry</a>. The Joy of Jewelry is a new business that creates gorgeous handmade Swarovski crystal jewelry (I admit I have a weakness for Swarovski crystals!). I have a necklace and bracelet from them and they are both high quality and look great! These lovely little droplets are from their "Passionate Purity" collection and are hand crafted from gold-plated surgical steel, deep red Swarovski crystals, and Grade A Swarovski pearls. You'll love them. :-) The winner will have a choice of pierced or clip-on earrings.<br />
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So now... doesn't it make you want to enter?! It makes me want to... but it would hardly do to enter my own contest. So head on over to <a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/prize_page.html" target="_blank">read the rules</a> and get writing! You have till June 30, 2010, to enter!Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-51858048507300487112010-06-21T10:06:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:07:08.109-08:00Tell Me... Uh, Monday - My Harp!<div style="text-align: left;">Last Wordless Wednesday I posted this photo:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Harp Strings" border="0" class="aligncenter" height="511" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/copyright-harpstrings.jpg" style="border: 0px initial initial;" width="341" /></div><br />
I meant to post my Tell Me Thursday about it on Thursday like I was supposed to, but didn't have time. So it's coming late... on Monday.<br />
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Those of you who have read my blog for a while know I play the harp and I have been saving for my own bigger harp. Well, a little over a week ago I had a wonderful surprise. Back in March, I was able to order the harp, but the company was backed up on orders and told me it would be 6 months before it would be done. So I was prepared to wait till September to get my harp, and I was praying hard for patience (and at the same time praying that somehow it could be finished earlier - say, August).<br />
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Well, the Lord loves to answer prayers and He answered that one far beyond my hopes. A week or so ago I was working on a sewing project in the basement, and I heard a lot of screwing, banging around, and general racket going on upstairs. I, however, was deeply engrossed in making a ribbon flower, and absently thought my mom and sister must be hanging pictures (which would be very odd and besides, there was far too much noise to be only picture-hanging. But you must understand, ribbon flowers take a lot of focus).<br />
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Well, my mom called me to come up and "let the cat in." When I came up, Mom had a video camera in her hand. That meant something was up! I still was clueless and had no idea... I walked into the family room and there... was... I'm sure you can never guess. :-) Yep, my harp!!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Harp" border="0" class="aligncenter" height="511" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/copyright-harpfull.jpg" width="341" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Isn't she a beauty? It sounds beautiful and I LOVE the deep, full bass notes. It's been so much fun playing through all my old songs and hearing how much fuller they sound! Once again, a huge thank you to my friend, Raeanne, who let me play her little harp for nearly two years while I waited for this one... it was an immense blessing.<br />
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The Lord is good!Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-86498986029556681572010-06-16T10:05:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:06:02.744-08:00Wordless Wednesday - My Harp!<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Harp Strings" border="0" class="aligncenter" height="511" src="http://i407.photobucket.com/albums/pp160/QuietMom/Kathryns%20Stuff/copyright-harpstrings.jpg" width="341" /></div>Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-30118418519343366002010-05-06T10:04:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:05:15.590-08:00The Essay Contest! Finally!Yes, today I finally got things up and running for the 2010 essay contest! Our subject is one that, surprisingly, I haven't covered yet in any of my contests. It's a popular and controversial one, so we should get a lot of good entries. Want to know what it is? You'll have to check the website and see!<br />
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Now, I got over 30 votes on my poll about what kind of contest to do (figures, it was tied again, so I had to pick myself!). So I'm expecting at least half that number in entries... just for your information. :-) Hey - it's free to enter, it will challenge you to write, and if you win, we have some great prizes as usual! (more on that later).<br />
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Ready? Here's the link - happy writing! <a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/essay_contest.html" target="_blank">http://maidensofvirtue.com/essay_contest.html</a>Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-59913137451978009152010-05-05T10:04:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:04:41.104-08:00Cover Your Hair GiveawayMiss R.J. at <a href="http://virtuousgirlhood.com/" target="_blank">VirtuousGirlhood.com</a> is having her very first blog giveaway from <a href="http://coveryourhair.com/" target="_blank">Cover Your Hair</a>! CYH carries cute hats, scarves, headbands, and more hair accessories. I personally like the berets and headbands with tails!<br />
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Check out <a href="http://virtuousgirlhood.com/?p=387" target="_blank">THIS LINK</a> and find out how to be entered to win a free headband!<br />
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P.S. I just realized it is May and I still haven't announced any details on this year's writing contest. I can tell you one thing - I am thinking it will be another essay contest. I know many of you wanted a poetry contest, but here are my reasons: I am just better at writing essays myself, and feel I can judge it more fairly. I prefer rhyming poetry, which is not fair to those who write free verse. So... I promise, there WILL be a writing contest some time this year. :-) Thanks for your patience!Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-29831007369673947832010-04-16T10:03:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:04:03.591-08:00Sorry!I apologize if you tried to visit my blog or website the last 2 days and got a "This account has been suspended" notice. Somebody hacked my site and started sending out spam, and thus everything was shut down while we resolved it. Thanks for your patience!Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4820820843498868704.post-65274130588817952562010-03-19T10:02:00.000-07:002011-01-18T10:03:25.774-08:00Contest UpdateI just realized that it is March and this is usually the time of year that I host either a poetry or essay contest (did you vote on which one it should be? If you didn't, click <a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/blog/index.php/2009/06/08/next-years-contest/" target="blank">here</a> to do so - but please don't vote again if you already did). Life has just gotten in the way and I have not had time to organize details for that right now. I will (Lord willing) try to have the contest in April sometime, so be looking out for news on that!<br />
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In the meantime, check out the <a href="http://maidensofvirtue.com/photography_contest.html" target="blank">photography contest</a> that is going right now!Kathryn Gracehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05596587421146745254noreply@blogger.com2