tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30583273317313332642024-03-06T01:36:11.175+11:00Cottage GuardianOur Simplistic lifestylePaulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-68969718444583254832013-01-23T16:35:00.000+11:002013-01-24T13:38:44.416+11:00GIVEAWAY! My Etsy shop needs a new name.<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span class="userContent">I'm having a contest on my FB shop page! My Etsy shop (<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/byPaulaJo" target="_blank">http://www.etsy.com/shop/byPaulaJo</a>) needs a new name to reflect the items I have in there, not just heirlooms. Click on the "Read More" button for the form.
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Suggest a new name for a chance to win any one item from my shop!<span class="text_exposed_show"> Fill in the form, suggest a new name for my shop (make sure you read the official rules as I have some keywords to help you), and click enter. I look forward to reading the suggestions. Good Luck! xx</span></span></div>
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Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-30458751166020338832012-06-17T13:39:00.000+10:002012-06-17T23:12:12.334+10:00Tour de Fleece!<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/tour-de-fleece" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyOzi9geYUGmSgZuTfGTHSzDXhntySj2ILNrPg-g9fOzG0b9jYsxbhK5VlsA7pNtdopuazE92GyBYAmQ86WwtcYCuspPqX4FsxI6WzfTVUvlB8I_QsMMdiUBOHkE3wezpbbV_KTYku2Cc/s1600/TourdeFleeceRavelry.jpg" /> <map name="Badge"><br />
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<area coords="1,0,174,57" href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/tour-de-fleece" shape="rect"></area><area href="http://www.ravelry.com/groups/tour-de-fleece" shape="default"></area></map></a>I have just learned that Ravelry is having a spin-along called <i>Tour de Fleece</i>, to coordinate with the Tour de France. We will "spin" right along with the cyclers as they "spin" their tyres. :) This spin-along has been an annual event since 2006, although this is the first year I have heard of it. You can join as many teams as you like and the object is to spin everyday that the cyclers ride, from June 30 to July 22. No spin days are July 10 and July 17, just like the actual tour. There will "challenge" days the same as the tour also which you chose a challenging spinning activity. I have joined three teams: Rookies 2012, Spun Out 2012, and Support Spindlers 2012. I have included badges for Spun Out and Support Spindlers that you can click on for more information. The rookies don't seem to have a badge yet, but I have included a badge for the Ravelry Tour de Fleece page for complete rules. There will prizes for various competitions.<br />
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<br />Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-80923859430214820502012-06-12T19:56:00.002+10:002012-06-13T14:59:27.190+10:00Wartime Rationing<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv45IuAT9quWAIuenu_qNNDIfUNYH5_ZNSNmIFYpAnX56FFf4x9vdxlOStlEixXlgu5QivlXz37atRN4LdWzF64jpw6f8QcSID6aEFh2YcGXrVbpvrOgjTojCA5SJt0pLxSERF-ti5QzvH/s1600/2012-06-12+12.48.32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv45IuAT9quWAIuenu_qNNDIfUNYH5_ZNSNmIFYpAnX56FFf4x9vdxlOStlEixXlgu5QivlXz37atRN4LdWzF64jpw6f8QcSID6aEFh2YcGXrVbpvrOgjTojCA5SJt0pLxSERF-ti5QzvH/s320/2012-06-12+12.48.32.jpg" width="240" /></a>My new passion is recipes from wartime rationing. I'm on the lookout for recipes from this period after seeing a few episodes of "Wartime Kitchen and Garden" produced by the BBC. There are eight episodes but unfortunately the BBC never made the show onto DVD or even VHS. I accidentally came across three episodes on You Tube and loved it. I am searching for the other five episodes, hopefully I will find all eight together. The show is about rationing during WWII in England and is a reenactment documentary that is highly enjoyable and informational. There are recipes, gardening tips and everyday homemaking tips that can be used in today's households.<br />
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I did manage to find a book based on the same TV show. It is more of a history book about wartime rationing than just a cookbook. Like the show, it is packed full of informational tidbits that I am going to use. Now, I am after more wartime rationing cookbooks. I am interested to learn what the women of those days were able to create with such a limited supply.<br />
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<br /></div>Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-40557509663768022542012-06-05T15:11:00.001+10:002012-06-05T15:14:50.088+10:00Lap Support Spindle BowlLook what came in the mail today! Another gorgeous item from <a href="http://www.grizzlymountainarts.com/" target="_blank">Grizzly Mountain Arts</a>. This is made of Ambrosia maple wood and is made beautifully. It sits in between my legs and I use my Russian spindle with it. I am all set up and ready to go!<br />
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Tonight I am going to ply some silk. Last night after I spun the cob weight silk, I found it to be rather difficult to knit on my needles. I'll have to try and crochet it as I have some extremely small needles that may work better.<br />
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<br />Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-45305397460070264212012-06-04T22:40:00.001+10:002012-06-04T22:47:44.493+10:00Spinning Silk<div><p>I didn't like the way the baby alpaca felt after I spun it. It was wirey and scratchy. I think I may have spun it too tight. I'll go back to it at a later time. </p>
<p>I was eager to try spinning silk on my new Russian spindle. I have lots of silk hankies and started some on a drop spindle. But, it was super easy on the Russian spindle! I could easily spin cobweb weight! So, I believe for now I will practice my exquisite heirloom range items in 100% silk. </p>
<p>Below in the pictures you can see the cobweb weight I was able to spin with the silk and a thicker strand complete with some nubs. </p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIlPd9iwFxfCFOwnjTuhbFKKiuRdeL873Maag1O7SiwPdnQ1oI1TfmaCmvhyMS_KzO27RGGzwXqVk1r2k-20HQ8lKlk0s7du3Cjoua9L8tWcpyLhmyxwXUkrVFlBVT_0itUtKPcrGl8f3N/' /><br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivfYsY_ZKKSCd04Uh4x1uLcePE1yJ2WQ3q8TFswnsXYPCJLhKnGDBdAMC6CYn9keqZgb5r6JqyLlxcKCFPCTCuB278AYBd5vvTDHn6aBSkGXLL8S5yCnBx2DCsa2BDRlysn8r0d6-UvSBq/' /></div>Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-35037079431565153392012-06-04T14:14:00.000+10:002012-06-04T14:51:00.947+10:00Over the Weekend<div style="text-align: left;">
It was a nice and quiet weekend with some productivity. Dave and I went to an information day for the local volunteer ambulance service. Dave already volunteers for the SES and fire brigade and basically went along with me for support and the free sausage sizzle. :-) Our local ambo service is now down to four volunteers! It's something I have always been curious about and wanting to do. But, I wanted to gather the information and go home to have a think about it. When we got home Dave said he was going to sign up! So, I also made up my mind to volunteer also. They give you a three month trial period and I'll see how I go during that period.</div>
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Also over the weekend I taught myself to use a Russian support spindle. I
really like this method as I can sit in my recliner with a cat on my lap
while watching tv and spin! I find this method so much more relaxing than the spinning wheel. I am wanting to be able to spin lace weight
(cobweb weight) yarn to make lace-y items. The picture below is of some
brown cria (baby alpaca) fleece. Last night I washed two skeins I spun up and today I'll knit and crochet them. I haven't plied
them, because I want to see if un-plied fine yarn will hold up.</div>
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The spindle is handmade from Grizzly Mountain Arts, located in Oregon, USA. These are exquisite pieces of art and I'm so happy with my purchase. He doesn't take orders as he can't keep up with the demand. Instead, he posts on his FB when he has listed spindles in his Etsy shop. You have to be quick, as the are sold within minutes! I am very lucky to have gotten one! <a href="http://www.grizzlymountainarts.com/" target="_blank">Grizzly Mountain Arts</a></div>
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My Russian spindle is a Mini Myrtlewood Russian Support Spindle Travel Set. It weighs 15 grams (.48 ounces) with both bead rings on, 14 grams(.45 ounces) with one bead ring and 13 grams (.42 ounces) with no bead rings. So, it's actually three different size spindles in one! This may be my new method of spinning as it so portable. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ3pf0ADzGqQHYDi2WOHf5nK3zHnYhD68i8JXs3OGyCNts-zUyP7jwRSZdcCo1iii2QWwVRonYQC9cwYf9qvlVEcuDuQ_4FyKmVKcHnHpI5Os4YfdR-dpnjyw3AWMXX9uW3S6XlvyI-Zic/s1600/Mini+Myrtlewood+Russian+Support+Spindle+Travel+Set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ3pf0ADzGqQHYDi2WOHf5nK3zHnYhD68i8JXs3OGyCNts-zUyP7jwRSZdcCo1iii2QWwVRonYQC9cwYf9qvlVEcuDuQ_4FyKmVKcHnHpI5Os4YfdR-dpnjyw3AWMXX9uW3S6XlvyI-Zic/s320/Mini+Myrtlewood+Russian+Support+Spindle+Travel+Set.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-54905533344561994172011-07-22T12:02:00.000+10:002012-05-31T12:18:42.973+10:00On My Mind...This is my first time participating in the Friday 'On My Mind', started by Rhonda at <a href="http://down---to---earth.blogspot.com/">Down to Earth</a>.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelKQHqwUjVRfT6fygpv2SzsHozteQclUn4J-LpsNhf3oERKtMEearyNFwXy9nvMJuWEcGEIyj-5T61WR9PfOs9RRSOHQO-8gOzqZ08YkCVyiDTWNlCYXK3l2n3haoZxdSSaVkQHw11AGO/s1600/22+7+2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjelKQHqwUjVRfT6fygpv2SzsHozteQclUn4J-LpsNhf3oERKtMEearyNFwXy9nvMJuWEcGEIyj-5T61WR9PfOs9RRSOHQO-8gOzqZ08YkCVyiDTWNlCYXK3l2n3haoZxdSSaVkQHw11AGO/s320/22+7+2011.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the box is wool I have carded. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />On my mind today is my spinning. I now have three babies to knit for and I need to get busy! I am getting raw lamb and alpaca fleeces, carded them, spinning and then knit them into heirloom baby outfits. This weekend I need to finish spinning the wool and then the alpaca fibres, ply them together, wrap into skeins, set the skeins and let dry, wrap into balls and then I can start knitting.<br /><br />Sounds like hard work, but it is so satisfying to know that I can take a raw fleece and make it into something beautiful and useful.Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-57762909807070761662011-07-14T12:52:00.000+10:002012-05-31T12:18:43.020+10:00Traditional Surrogate needed for fairy tale endingThis is a post I wrote on <a href="http://www.bubhub.com/">Bubhub</a> last year when we were dipping our toes into the surrogacy journey. We are now going forth full steam ahead! Hope you enjoy the short story. <br /><br />Cheers!<br /><br />Paula<br /><br /><span style="color: #6000bf; font-size: small;"><i>IPs looking for an Aussie TS</i></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #6000bf; font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="color: black;">--------------------------------------------------------------</span> </i></span><br /><br />Once upon a time, on an island called, <i>The Apple Isle</i>, in <i>The Lucky Country</i>, lived a King and Queen. Queen Paula came all the way from <i>The Land of the Free</i>, to marry her handsome King, David.<br /><br />King David and Queen Paula have lived blissfully in a wonderful and loving marriage for over twelve years. It was a perfect match from the beginning, like two soul mates meeting back up with each other after a long journey apart.<br /><br />During their marriage, they have started a 'fur family'; the first was Lexi, a Ragdoll cat, now ten years old. Next, came Loki, another Ragdoll cat and companion for Lexi, who is now nine years old. Finally, a long awaited puppy dog! Basil is now two and a half years old and is part German Shepherd and part Border Collie.<br /><br />The King and Queen have tried over the years to have their own children, but have not succeeded. Sadly, Queen Paula had to have a radical hysterectomy due to cervical cancer. The royal doctor left one ovary, in hopes that the royal couple will be able to harvest some fertile eggs. But, there are no royal fertile eggs left in Queen Paula. The royal couple will have to find a traditional surrogate in the village, or in another kingdom of <i>The Lucky Country</i>.<br /><br />The King is the last of his line, having no brothers or paternal uncles. Sadly, without an heir to the throne, there will be no one to carry on the royal family surname.<br /><br />The King and Queen have their own business that they run from the castle. Therefore, they are home 24/7, or close to it. There will be no nannies for the future prince or princess!<br /><br />If you feel that you are able to help the King and Queen by being a traditional surrogate, please contact them by using the royal private message system. They would love to talk to you and answer any questions you may have.Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-30646452849614891562011-07-12T13:53:00.000+10:002012-05-31T12:18:42.928+10:00Journey to find a Traditional SurrogateMy biological clock is ticking loudly lately. We are unable to have children due to cervical cancer claiming my uterus and one ovary. Over the years we have dipped our toes into surrogacy with no real commitment, just curiosity. Now, we have dived right in as we are not getting any younger and if we are going to do this, we need to start now as it is a long journey.<br /><br />We are looking for a traditional surrogate, which means we will use her eggs, Docs sperm and she will carry the baby. We will also do self AI, artificial insemination. (Well, we'll provide the sperm and the syringe, the surrogate will then inseminate herself, in private). We do not want to use an agency, clinic or consultant, we want to do all of this on our own. This is called going "Indy", short for independent. We also are wanting to go through the public system for the ob/gyn and hospital. We are trying to keep all costs down so that we can spoil the surrogate and of course the baby, when he or she arrives.<br /><br />We have joined a few sites and have put our ads up and are just waiting to find our surrogate. We definitively are going to use an Australian woman as we want to have an active part in the pregnancy and we want the surrogate to be an "auntie" to the baby afterwards; if she wants. <br /><br />Wish us luck and success!Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-29683121807529789672011-07-10T14:58:00.000+10:002012-05-31T12:18:42.919+10:00I'm back!My apologies for being away so long. I started full time uni at UNE via distance and it has kept me very busy. I am loving every minute of it though! Right now we are on break, between first and semester break. So, I have been busy with our simple life. Doc (hubby) and I have been busy with all kinds of experiments. Here in Tasmania it is winter and Doc has made a little inside veggie and herb garden, in our enclosed front porch. It faces north, has plenty of windows, therefore, getting a lot of sunlight. So far, the potatoes are going strong! Everything else: tomatoes, lettuce, onions and various herbs are growing slowly. But, it's working!<br /><br />I have finally got the nag of spinning using my spinning wheel. I did it by using a drop spindle first, which helped me to visualize the whole concept. Now, I can use the drop spindle when I am out and about as it very portable. At the moment, I am knitting up some pot holders from my first skeins of plied wool. They are very "rustic" looking. Drying on the rack, I have some beautiful Suri alpaca fibers. I can't wait to start spinning those fibers. I also ordered some silk hankies to spin. They are so soft!<br /><br />Another experiment we have going is the orange peel cleaner. I got the idea from <a href="http://justlikemynanmade.blogspot.com/2011/05/citrus-cleaners-so-easy-and-good.html">Just Like My Nan Made: Citrus Cleaner</a> and I can't wait to try my new and nearly free cleaner.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_CDb8Vabdz3JHbt-e-uS1hlISRNfH-HbtT9daH47euql5YTEnc2WNWqowdT9nN6J0o2vNRKUUM_o1E_UH0QtflYGT6m5f4W6z0Upd2Ucvt4gISmopbOb6IG97uCd3dlc63njg2hrMB9m/s320/Potatoes+July+2011.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Potatoes!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha_CDb8Vabdz3JHbt-e-uS1hlISRNfH-HbtT9daH47euql5YTEnc2WNWqowdT9nN6J0o2vNRKUUM_o1E_UH0QtflYGT6m5f4W6z0Upd2Ucvt4gISmopbOb6IG97uCd3dlc63njg2hrMB9m/s1600/Potatoes+July+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div> <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xaysG1_jpsmQDHmm-Id6yramtNWfe4Fqf2qd97LQE2w0DHKRZooijTrheQoTcnEHRO29Retm5o29xSqkdWLyjOl1sVqdnZgtlvgtxiBzHi9OKlgdhWNFChnb4LhOuLpobyUsbpnPx6L4/s1600/July+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0xaysG1_jpsmQDHmm-Id6yramtNWfe4Fqf2qd97LQE2w0DHKRZooijTrheQoTcnEHRO29Retm5o29xSqkdWLyjOl1sVqdnZgtlvgtxiBzHi9OKlgdhWNFChnb4LhOuLpobyUsbpnPx6L4/s320/July+2011.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indoor Garden!</td></tr></tbody></table> <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUfRDH6uyniCplleVC6oY2kLx6oxprcgBx3HXandiRJuR0yWXWKSzluEZ6QU-yjLIx-0_4aisVjvd7_wLE7z0kJT3_GevZtxp6eG5Q2FAZRU-zA1T6YnFnWppPf9AHk2Q5s1ReoPgjo3UF/s1600/First+skiens+June+21+2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUfRDH6uyniCplleVC6oY2kLx6oxprcgBx3HXandiRJuR0yWXWKSzluEZ6QU-yjLIx-0_4aisVjvd7_wLE7z0kJT3_GevZtxp6eG5Q2FAZRU-zA1T6YnFnWppPf9AHk2Q5s1ReoPgjo3UF/s320/First+skiens+June+21+2011.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first spun & plied wool skeins. Hanging to dry.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLIhefHdqaibNvlO8R-lWJg8a51t8FH_QrFvYUjK_N_kob8o-WXWIWfvJlDsSfqanCfErJLV4885vKWzsJp9gFjWFqtYsyFCCwhUGFUYb3SjAcQaXUqRUtxZPVzzSDzfy-VTllNnc7naez/s1600/Merino+lamb+fleece+July+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLIhefHdqaibNvlO8R-lWJg8a51t8FH_QrFvYUjK_N_kob8o-WXWIWfvJlDsSfqanCfErJLV4885vKWzsJp9gFjWFqtYsyFCCwhUGFUYb3SjAcQaXUqRUtxZPVzzSDzfy-VTllNnc7naez/s320/Merino+lamb+fleece+July+2011.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unwashed Merino lamb fleece (300 grams). Top box the fibers are loosened up. Bottom box holds the rolags. Rolags are combed fibers using two of the big paddle combs you see in the picture. Once the fibers are combed straight they are then rolled into the rolags. I will then use the rolags to spin them into yarn.</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4G87UJ9yTvZzyeol6lQ3M15D2BalG0QDN6kezHMpbOqHVLtAwneIZD0Qw7lcZdFpWwuCUnQKq1Pb73wk6I-oalnsvK4-xlrNOwLvKnGsMuLWRuUMEJt1yTfklFUniYHI-YlV2igb7Fpa/s1600/Suri+alpaca+fleece+July+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4G87UJ9yTvZzyeol6lQ3M15D2BalG0QDN6kezHMpbOqHVLtAwneIZD0Qw7lcZdFpWwuCUnQKq1Pb73wk6I-oalnsvK4-xlrNOwLvKnGsMuLWRuUMEJt1yTfklFUniYHI-YlV2igb7Fpa/s320/Suri+alpaca+fleece+July+2011.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Washed Suri alpaca fleece (300 grams). It's drying and I'm picking out the vegetable matter, which is the pile of bendies at the top right hand corner.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><span id="goog_12326807"></span><span id="goog_12326808"></span><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/AVvXsEjl2EmqCKHvZzM2RkO9cRu0nf3nASj8gVJVicqGesCNv0ZZRxDiWEKJgof_5Vx_WdUmBiPF0Sq2wb2uxhn8R8oVaPngDCgpchQT0hvG3Scut5qskDJk1Mc9-AAXKN2IZ_aHqYnX4bQ_3hvY/s1600/Citrus+Cleaner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl2EmqCKHvZzM2RkO9cRu0nf3nASj8gVJVicqGesCNv0ZZRxDiWEKJgof_5Vx_WdUmBiPF0Sq2wb2uxhn8R8oVaPngDCgpchQT0hvG3Scut5qskDJk1Mc9-AAXKN2IZ_aHqYnX4bQ_3hvY/s320/Citrus+Cleaner.JPG" width="209" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Citrus Cleaner: Fill any jar 3/4 full with white vinegar. Add citrus peels (you must use a veggie peeler as you do not want the white pith). Add as many peels as you want/can (the above picture has peels from one orange. I'll add a few more to it). Let sit for 2-3 weeks. When ready to use, add one part citrus cleaner to one part white vinegar into a spray bottle. (Example: To 1/2 cup of citrus cleaner add 1/2 cup of white vinegar). Use in kitchen, especially on the stove and in the oven, use in bathroom on soap scum and on floors through out the house. It's also a great deterrent for cats. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><br /><br /> <br /> Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-78535450966422079992010-11-25T16:04:00.000+11:002012-05-31T12:18:43.103+10:00First Ball of Yarn!Hooray! I have spun my first ball of yarn. It's no where near perfect, but it is a whole lot better than when I first tried hand spinning.<br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSyMaUFAG_0Qmw2e9R_QT3FYsDk6BddFBKQUPysd7jCP3ZWC1CCDmyP-LGcj20CWr1tgRsw4zQXkQ-1P2FhyphenhyphenyfaQVNZ-XP3897ReuW5SF6fpRwYJEkQSPekFyPdWd7d747YN2Z-GtCl6tx/s1600/First+spun+spool+Nov+25+-+2010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSyMaUFAG_0Qmw2e9R_QT3FYsDk6BddFBKQUPysd7jCP3ZWC1CCDmyP-LGcj20CWr1tgRsw4zQXkQ-1P2FhyphenhyphenyfaQVNZ-XP3897ReuW5SF6fpRwYJEkQSPekFyPdWd7d747YN2Z-GtCl6tx/s320/First+spun+spool+Nov+25+-+2010.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First spool full of hand spun yarn!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7lDGOzvYaWvFxZpAWC5ZTtf478aSvixwthfkwZyUANIFUOjUSrpY8RARmj061Ia065fmk0WC7b17yY0sGgOpzFlstc0ZRqiVXw0BK3nA9McFDsmNr5hBAn5NnTldUxPzKsrmEbJmDTqg/s1600/First+home+spun+ball+Nov+25+2010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7lDGOzvYaWvFxZpAWC5ZTtf478aSvixwthfkwZyUANIFUOjUSrpY8RARmj061Ia065fmk0WC7b17yY0sGgOpzFlstc0ZRqiVXw0BK3nA9McFDsmNr5hBAn5NnTldUxPzKsrmEbJmDTqg/s320/First+home+spun+ball+Nov+25+2010.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Then I wound it into a ball.</td></tr></tbody></table>Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-2077264650247134812010-11-25T13:41:00.000+11:002012-05-31T12:18:42.900+10:00Another Use for Zucchini: Homemade Zucchini Spindle!I was reading through the online 'Spin-Off' magazine (<a href="http://www.spinoffmagazine.com/">www.spinoffmagazine.com</a>) and came across this video. Gave me my giggle for the day! When I get proficient in hand spinning and have a glut of zucchini's, I just may try this out of curiosity. Enjoy!<br /><br /><script src="http://www.spinoffmagazine.com/media/p/2764/embed.aspx" type="text/javascript"></script>Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-44179735468235359302010-11-04T12:57:00.000+11:002012-05-31T12:18:42.951+10:00Update on SilkwormsWell, they didn't survive. They did last a week though. I first tried cherry plum leaves, apple tree leaves, grape leaves, raspberry leaves and lastly, celery leaves. They did not like any of those, so, I gave them lettuce leaves. They liked those ok enough at first, but then the worms dried out and died. So, I don't know if maybe I should have kept a cover on their box so they wouldn't dry out; or was the lettuce not enough to sustain them? Either way, I am trying to source some Mulberry chow food; dehydrated Mulberry leaves. Then I will order some more eggs and raise them the proper way.Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-78223635416989954992010-10-28T12:01:00.000+11:002012-05-31T12:18:43.079+10:00Silkworms!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO5wHv1tvU32C7QdYgYC6VDNoaiaqJTQq6FccOcGL771hYS6hdoqvL8ctRIza5EuJIvuqPMTP6Utvbv29z7kUGQKDj8sx0PwQ9VAjDvNP63tSr0Ko929Tfj5EuhpGNfwH7gCKeqmoiNdDT/s1600/Baby+Silkworms+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO5wHv1tvU32C7QdYgYC6VDNoaiaqJTQq6FccOcGL771hYS6hdoqvL8ctRIza5EuJIvuqPMTP6Utvbv29z7kUGQKDj8sx0PwQ9VAjDvNP63tSr0Ko929Tfj5EuhpGNfwH7gCKeqmoiNdDT/s320/Baby+Silkworms+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Today some of my silkworm eggs have finally hatched! I have about 20 little, bitty silkworm babies! I am feeding them cherry plum tree leaves instead of the recommended mulberry tree leaves because I don't have access to a mulberry tree. I think they are eating the leaves I gave them. Fingers crossed that they do. If they won't, then I will have to pay money and have some 'silkworm chow' delivered, which I do not want to do.<br /><br />My goal is to supply myself with enough of my own homegrown silk to spin and then of course to knit or crochet. It's all a very exciting experiment.Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-61489749649647842502010-10-25T16:24:00.000+11:002012-05-31T12:18:43.046+10:00Knitting - Waffle DishclothsOne of my new addictions is to knit and crochet dishcloths and washcloths. I had to replace my old & unhealthy addictions: Diet Pepsi; cigarettes; and drastically reduced my wine consumption. :-}<br /><br />Every now and again, I will knit a little project just so I won't lose the ability and know how. Although, my knitting skills can still be classified as 'beginner'. I just do not have the patience with knitting as I do with crochet. Whenever I knit, for some reason, I either add stitches, lose stitches or both. Trying to correct a mistake in knitting is not as forgiving and easy as it is in crochet. I do like the look of knitted garments and will one day hopefully, graduate to the 'intermediate' class of knitters. :-}<br /><br />Below, is how I spent my Sunday. The pattern is from: <a href="http://homespunliving.blogspot.com/2007/11/waffle-knit-dishcloth-pattern.html">Homespun Living</a><br />It is quite easy and passes my test: Must be a pattern that I can do while watching TV, without using my brain too much. LOL! It knits up rather quickly, even for this slow knitter. Therefore, gratification is delivered swiftly. Plus, I loved the challenge of adding a second color. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnC4aaFsP_Rd-meky1Rd-_-nmhJ9vItw5R9esgS9FSCQIkrJnFfyW4PVatWs6fAnneXOUa5mhyn8zsYgYWZvvPHl9uTSzW_o74DHGucKcG9Mu5eW6lUwfGGX_zp3gFVzynU99Uy9vAP5_/s1600/Waffle+Weave+Washcloth.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnC4aaFsP_Rd-meky1Rd-_-nmhJ9vItw5R9esgS9FSCQIkrJnFfyW4PVatWs6fAnneXOUa5mhyn8zsYgYWZvvPHl9uTSzW_o74DHGucKcG9Mu5eW6lUwfGGX_zp3gFVzynU99Uy9vAP5_/s200/Waffle+Weave+Washcloth.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-52220229994519483142010-10-19T14:02:00.000+11:002012-05-31T12:18:42.960+10:00Soapmaking Success!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgApJUg5HQmmjV6zGtt8csGQnXRMTAKv6Tgx8wvUm-6VZu3eeo4FsN6CADBGxaP1fe24HEyUA0HLnf4skMykN659gfw6B8XjMudGtpHq51JcPldpBpgCnbdoMAdSIFYHbmYtunQVNDkTSuP/s1600/soap.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgApJUg5HQmmjV6zGtt8csGQnXRMTAKv6Tgx8wvUm-6VZu3eeo4FsN6CADBGxaP1fe24HEyUA0HLnf4skMykN659gfw6B8XjMudGtpHq51JcPldpBpgCnbdoMAdSIFYHbmYtunQVNDkTSuP/s200/soap.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />Here are eight bars of soap! Not too bad for a first timer. They have to dry out for six weeks before I can use them. I will turn them over every day or so until then.<br /><br />The big chunk in the margarine container will be grated down to use as laundry soap, dish washing soap and liquid hand soap.<br /><br />I will purchase some more soap molds for the next time. Also, I realized that I had the caustic soda at too high of a temp. I should have put the bowl in the sink that was filled with ice to cool it down to the same temp as the oils. That is why the mixture rose in the molds and then deflated and looked an awful mess. <br /><br />I am very happy with the results! I didn't have to throw anything out & there were no trips to hospital. I can't wait to actually use it!Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-57594847401065828322010-10-17T18:03:00.000+11:002012-05-31T12:18:43.000+10:00Soapmaking at the Cottage<span id="goog_1736010535"></span><span id="goog_1736010536"></span>Today, I thought I would finally make my own soap. I am using the recipe from the 'Down to Earth' blog: <span id="goog_1736010533"></span><span id="goog_1736010534"></span><a href="http://down---to---earth.blogspot.com/2010/06/soap-making-deconstructed.html">Soap Making</a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH14umcQwVbBtYWPNOLckc1PylQjItFmX0Szm-SNPa8fXExLt7y0w8GRR8AAsNrbZg0G8NQz7QzUc-ZWnWNV6fWuioe0IjqOpNhwxl0xPxT-d2mj5NDFBdjA7hyGj_DDa2A1Ru1cZLLJgb/s1600/Soapmaking+2010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH14umcQwVbBtYWPNOLckc1PylQjItFmX0Szm-SNPa8fXExLt7y0w8GRR8AAsNrbZg0G8NQz7QzUc-ZWnWNV6fWuioe0IjqOpNhwxl0xPxT-d2mj5NDFBdjA7hyGj_DDa2A1Ru1cZLLJgb/s200/Soapmaking+2010.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olive oil, rice bran oil &<br />coconut oil (Copha) melting together</td></tr></tbody></table>I have had the ingredients for ages, but I have been quite terrified of using caustic soda. Today I faced my fear! My husband helped me with the caustic soda: I asked him to pour the caustic soda into the water and the caustic mixture into the oils. LOL! I don't know what I was afraid of besides a foamy, hissy cloud of dangerous chemicals that was going to shorten my life by being near the stuff. Well, that didn't happen, thank goodness. The only mishap that happened was I didn't have enough molds! I do have a proper soap mold that makes 8 bars, but also had on stand-by a deli container that holds six cupcakes. Needless to say, the deli container did not work. LOL! The soap mixture was too hot for it! It was slowly melting and I had no other molds to transfer the mixture to quickly. So, I found an empty and clean margarine container and luckily, it all fit into that.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOo10BzbMhV3VwjPV28xxV9qsuQv5TXph5oRRsd1FL7kqvMRtwlGBInAM1OrAalldOw5KNu4fGMIO2VyeHhDZuw1G1wS0ussa5iTiGlVQUOeC7n8EzS-ZQO7mmU31UBHdREV8W2Mbewz3c/s1600/In+the+molds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOo10BzbMhV3VwjPV28xxV9qsuQv5TXph5oRRsd1FL7kqvMRtwlGBInAM1OrAalldOw5KNu4fGMIO2VyeHhDZuw1G1wS0ussa5iTiGlVQUOeC7n8EzS-ZQO7mmU31UBHdREV8W2Mbewz3c/s200/In+the+molds.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the molds. What a mess!</td></tr></tbody></table>One question I do have: is the soap mixture suppose to be rising in the molds, like a cake baking? I did not read about that happening anywhere and I am getting a bit frightened. LOL!<br /><br />Left is the soap in the molds. The mixture has quit rising and this is what it looks like now. It doesn't look pretty! I will be able to take the soap out of the molds after 15 hours. Fingers crossed that it all stays together. Did I mention this is my first time making soap? LOL!Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3058327331731333264.post-70060256125522645832010-09-30T13:59:00.002+10:002012-06-13T14:55:07.493+10:00Crochet Baby Hooded Aran SweaterJust finished this for my cousin's new grandbaby. It was my first 'big' project and I just love it! I can't wait to make more of them, but I need more babies in my circle of friends and family. The pattern can be found here: <a href="http://www.e-patternscentral.com/detail.html?prod_id=5735&cat_id=296&criteria=" target="_blank">E-PatternsCentral</a> Click on the pictures for a larger view. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGrPCzCQyTtVZGrWesLpaMpw7Bhz_yBfd5sywpHaHLdKh0dvWUuYzK17wYgp2KhKAatR0kC7BPyXbNnZ1Kz8c3i8v36W7RfhhecF6gyZUjOn0EfyN29bRMkjJK1Wx13JVtnehL25c1CH_/s1600/Baby+Aran+Hooded+Sweater+back.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGrPCzCQyTtVZGrWesLpaMpw7Bhz_yBfd5sywpHaHLdKh0dvWUuYzK17wYgp2KhKAatR0kC7BPyXbNnZ1Kz8c3i8v36W7RfhhecF6gyZUjOn0EfyN29bRMkjJK1Wx13JVtnehL25c1CH_/s200/Baby+Aran+Hooded+Sweater+back.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQAlMO0p1kA3kuVYUNZaZqUp-YollM-QpdP00AT2RXyEgb1rpDDQTlKSL2Zxp_jbLGeoDIpUNweHXq3is_m4HMag_dfGre9bf3VcKZEWhZXHwcFGW-vWsBhEwINLhLR97fmKUG-tBQhuYV/s1600/Baby+Aran+Hooded+Sweater+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQAlMO0p1kA3kuVYUNZaZqUp-YollM-QpdP00AT2RXyEgb1rpDDQTlKSL2Zxp_jbLGeoDIpUNweHXq3is_m4HMag_dfGre9bf3VcKZEWhZXHwcFGW-vWsBhEwINLhLR97fmKUG-tBQhuYV/s200/Baby+Aran+Hooded+Sweater+front.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9rDvGJjeAmVmKJFo4ONxuHizxuYU_7UMWwBOVe_cfVbRRT_pawVrD8AiKmLayCxfEtf4tIjTXuAKWKjH7zwkBiq8TCZHpMG1mPcA9wrbVnD68PhKIybRt6Yu3-WEvzKTD7h4fgZrafc12/s1600/iPhoneImports+360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9rDvGJjeAmVmKJFo4ONxuHizxuYU_7UMWwBOVe_cfVbRRT_pawVrD8AiKmLayCxfEtf4tIjTXuAKWKjH7zwkBiq8TCZHpMG1mPcA9wrbVnD68PhKIybRt6Yu3-WEvzKTD7h4fgZrafc12/s200/iPhoneImports+360.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In blue for another cousin.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXl7DPeOTcCgLzhk440RJxEJds9Z5M9ZE1cowoc42EOXZPAdQNhe1O8RbQDDwpZXjKZ8TC0wYgUAWot2p4TeDbpQXVC8HpdOY2ojODcfC0eC9O2ebj4c0NmEGG6RfndJywZPDODW2YOtos/s1600/iPhoneImports+361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXl7DPeOTcCgLzhk440RJxEJds9Z5M9ZE1cowoc42EOXZPAdQNhe1O8RbQDDwpZXjKZ8TC0wYgUAWot2p4TeDbpQXVC8HpdOY2ojODcfC0eC9O2ebj4c0NmEGG6RfndJywZPDODW2YOtos/s200/iPhoneImports+361.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back view</td></tr>
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<br />Paulahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01335350000974328909noreply@blogger.com9