The Traveling Cabinet

Earl Grey & Lemons

2012-03-10T00:00:00.000-06:00

Source: etsy.com via Margaret on Pinterest

My toes are tapping. Listening to Earl Grey & Lemons - Skye Zentz, thank you for this blue day music. Tap. Tap. Tap. Head swayin' back and forth. White knitted cap keeping my head warm, the one I usually sport to hide the less than clean mop underneath.

So glad I cut that hair off - much easier. I try to push my showers out 4 days - maybe its odd, but I don't like taking the time. Besides, you have to take your make-up off - it never comes off all the way. But I love smelling the mint & rosemary shampoo and swathing my pale skin in my red stripe Turkish bath towel. I feel like an Arabian princess coming out of her ritual bath, its a thin cloth, but perfectly absorbent, so I can move around in its wrap - tap tap tap, Skye Zentz and tap tap tapin.

Rub all the water out of my hair - stub my toe on the door, always, (why are door stops so loud, they could wake up the neighbors with their rattle) hop to the bed and lay there till the water drips off or soaks into the bed spread. I'll fall asleep, of course, and wake up with brunette curls at the craziest angles. Try explaining that to my boss. On goes the white knitted cap. No patience to straighten the mess. By lunch it'll somehow find a way to be perfect, perfect and short - ready for an adventure and curiously chic, like Audrey....at least I like to think so ;)

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href="http://skyezentz.bandcamp.com/album/earl-grey-and-lemons"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Earl Grey and Lemons by Skye 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Lydia Russell & her Hippo up a Tree

2012-03-08T13:37:00.001-06:00

There's a little red head beside me most days. Two nights ago I sat at her kitchen table typing away at a book and she completed a sketch of Zelda Gatsby .... lovely. She's my sanity in the daily nothingness of office work. It just so happens that my office-mate is my college chum - 'tis nice. Its just so happens that she is an artist and I love her style. Going to hang "Hippo up a Tree" over my bed someday :)

Enjoy, compliments of Lydia Russell's pen.

Kony2012

2012-03-06T23:08:00.003-06:00

Step One: Watch this Video

KONY 2012 from INVISIBLE CHILDREN on Vimeo.

Step Two: Ask yourself, what good reason do I have not to do something about this? That's what I asked.
Step Three: Visit Here - sign petition & get some posters

Because it is my responsibility as a human being, my compassionate obligation as a woman of the Lord, to offer what I can. I can give this. I cannot be silent while the name of my Savior is thrown in the mud by Joseph Kony. Not ok.

"Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
and break every yoke?"

Isaiah 58:6

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
   because he has anointed me
   to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
   and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

Luke 4:18-19

A Few of My Favorite Things...

2012-03-06T20:34:00.001-06:00

For my birthday I asked my mother for a pair of lovely embroidery scissors - they look like a stork, oh the little things in life

The following from left to right:
minkletterpress, dekanimal, cottonholic, mysocalledvintage
thewanderlust, mokkafiveoclock, skyrnka
uniqueshiny, seabornpress, uniqueshiny
thewanderlust, meshumash, thewanderlust, thisearthlytent

Midnight & Swing

2012-03-06T17:01:00.000-06:00

Last night, my feet accumulated miniscule blisters while shuffling in my lindy-hop shoes, strapless-bra slowly working its way down with every swing-out and twirl. Poor choice, next time: straps.

The sweet tunes reminded us of summer, movies in the park - nothing beats a Minnesota summer - climbing up Barn Bluff ... Red Wing. I remember watching the sun set over the river and the church steeples far below, they were ringing, of course, because they are Romantic steeples, as all steeples are.

Hanging out with friends, dancing, making more friends, small, quaint studio in Minneapolis, dwarfed by the gargantuan Basilica - the one Peter proposed to Jess in, my dear steadfast friends. I think we even busted out some Louie Armstrong. Jeepers, Creepers. Twas a good night.

you really want a boat now, dont you? ;)

image source

Waiting

2012-03-02T17:23:00.001-06:00

image source

Waiting can be one of the most challenging seasons of life. Waiting for God to move, for Him to notice your struggle. Its very trying. Full of doubts, blue days, gray days, little bright islands in between. The Lord knows I'm awful at this waiting business, probably why He has me waiting now, because he knows. To be faithful in the small things - oh how I hate those words, they're like a death sentence to my impatient heart - but they're true and lovely. Faithful in the waiting, remembering all the good and beautiful days - the days when we danced in the sun, watched the storms roll through, when we had the strength to hope and dream, when we sang to You at the top of our lungs and felt the strength of Your hands.

“But he knows the way that I take; when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold. My feet have closely followed his steps; I have kept to his way without turning aside.” Job 23:10-11

God knows :) He does.

Tigers in the Snow

2012-03-02T11:52:00.000-06:00

In honor of the copious amounts of snow that have finally fallen over these here Twin Cities, please enjoy some delights from my favorite cartoon of all time - I think my family has collected every strip ever produced by Bill Watterson: Calvin & Hobbes ... and the snowmen.

author: Bill Watterson

Inspiration: Botanical Prints

2012-03-01T16:40:00.000-06:00

Unfortunately, my collection of botanical prints are held up with stick-tack (gasp, I know) and have the tendency to fall down on my head when I'm sitting on the couch. However, many folks bought up the remnants of my collection at the craft fair this past weekend and I'm excited for them to make their own creations

There's a cute vintage frame tutorial with this one

source

this is more or less what we did with ours

source

On the Map: Tasmania

2012-02-29T12:32:00.002-06:00

Because I have been talking to my Tasmania friend, I am reminded that I must tell you about this beautiful place once again. Did I say it was beautiful? Because it is. When I was a wee lass of 19 (crazy to think that was four years ago) I traveled with my college symphonic band down to Tasmania. It was lovely. There were wombats ... what are they, you say? Good question. See below.

Wombat sighting below!

Death, Stars and God's Goodness

2012-02-27T09:04:00.000-06:00

By Wendy Harbottle

When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?

Psalm 8:2-4 NIV

SOMETIMES I DO NOT accept death with such grace. I wonder why the young die, why the healthy die, why the ill hang on so long and why evil people thrive. I am angry with the pain I see in the residue of death. I feel angry when I forget that death is really just an invitation to a much better life: a life where there is no need for tears or tombstones or ambulance sirens.

In the meantime I have to learn what to do when I drive around a corner and grief finds me. So I look at the stars: the stars God strung just to astonish us, the stars He named to reveal His bigness, His majesty and His sovereignty.

I look at the stars because they remind me who God is. They tell me He is not spiteful but awe-inspiring. I remember that He is both the man who wept for His friend and the God who breathes light out His mouth. The stars expose how big God is and how tiny I am. I consider the stars and remember that they only burn so brightly because they are dying. As each star burns out and shoots across the sky, I am reminded that in each death I grieve, there is beauty and mystery, if I only choose to see it.

image source

Unglued Craft Fest 2012 Recap

2012-02-26T08:35:00.003-06:00

Driving down the highway at 75 miles per hour this weekend, jammin' to Dave Barnes and praying most of the way. On my way to Fargo {do not underestimate this town) for the Unglued Craft Fest. I roll into town about 7:30pm and spend the evening with the lovely Danae and Michael Moran. We pulled out her old Singer and finished a few last minute projects, drank some tea, packed our lunches and climbed into bed to catch some slumber before our early morning.

The 8 hours of driving ... totally worth it! In addition to spending some time with my wonderful hosts, the little shop sold many earrings, flower pins, clutches, botanical prints, and even my first skirt! Everything sold goes towards raising support for women's ministry in the Middle East this May and my prayers were answering resoundingly. Speaking of resounding...we got to listen to some beautiful acoustic tunes while in the Plain Arts Museum - Fargo is a happenin' place, my friends.

selected images by ashley morken

Inspiration Board No. 6: Blankets & Plaid

2012-02-22T20:41:00.002-06:00

image source

Inspiration: Plaids & Tunics

2012-02-22T17:23:00.001-06:00

I am in tunic mania these days - I'm the sort of person who will make something and then wear it at least 3 times the next week and a few times the next. I'm working on a few plaid tunics and I thought I'd share some of my inspiration sources. "oh, oh, it makes me happy!"

1. picasa 2. lucylaucht 3. life of style 4. junkaholic 5. wiksten

Preparation: Unglued Craft Fest 2012

2012-02-22T15:45:00.001-06:00

Greetings, is this not the loveliest landscape? Blue, green, orange, yellow. Italy ... of course. Someone should tell them to share the pretty colors.

Well, after a cathartic morning cry with my dear friend Emily, I spent the rest of the morning tearing my fingers to shreds pulling the backs off the button earrings I'm a makin' for the Unglued Craft Fest in North Dakota this Saturday. It wasn't until I needed bandaging for a second time that my genius roommate suggested that I wear gloves .... why did I think of this before!? I could have saved some fingernail.

I am excited for this fair in particular, because I am rollin' out my first clothing articles - two tunics and a skirt! We'll see if they like them - I know I do ... but I'm partial to anything I make. Occupational hazard.

“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:18

Tunes - Tyrone Wells "Freedom"

2012-02-20T14:04:00.000-06:00

Laura is a brave soul. I realized how brave she actually was when I visited her this past December in L.A. and found her plugging away at her music aspirations in a city so different from the ones she has previously inhabited - Minneapolis by way of Rhode Island.

She has auditioned for a contest and posted this rendition. Lovely.

Here's Tyrone doing his version

Monday Morning Video

2012-02-20T09:16:00.001-06:00

Pan Am Day

2012-02-18T19:51:00.000-06:00

These pictures and posters make me smile, dear airlines - this is how you sell plane tickets, they're lovely. A little Pan Am history:

Pan American World Airways, commonly known as Pan Am, was the principal and largest international air carrier in the United States from 1927 until its collapse on December 4, 1991. Founded in 1927 as a scheduled air mail and passenger service operating between Key West, Florida and Havana, Cuba, the airline became a major company credited with many innovations that shaped the international airline industry, including the widespread use of jet aircraft, jumbo jets, and computerized reservation systems. It was also a founder member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global airline industry association^.Identified by its blue globe logo, the use of the word "Clipper" in aircraft names and call signs, and the white pilot uniform caps, the airline was a cultural icon of the 20th century. In an era dominated by flag carriers that were wholly or majority government-owned, it was also the unofficial flag carrier of the United States. During most of the jet era, Pan Am's flagship terminal was the Worldport located at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York.

- Thank you Wikipedia

Bon Anniversaire - J'ai 23 ans

2012-02-17T09:01:00.000-06:00

image via here

Good Morning, its my birthday today. My roommate left me a bag of NutterButters and a JoAnn gift card - she is so thoughtful :)

Later my mother and I plan to eat stir fry and see a musical at Northwestern - I am excited.
This morning I asked God for a gift - I asked Him to give me hope this year. The year of 22 was the toughest, by far, full of despairing and confusion (not being dramatic) so I asked if God would make this one marked by hope - beautiful hope. :D

So happy birthday to my twins, Joy & Leah, who also share this great birthday. I'm going to go sew now.
Here's something fun for you today!

Gungor - You Are the Beauty

2012-02-16T21:09:00.002-06:00

Hmm, mmm good music. Beautiful music. Going to see them in concert in a month. Mmm, happy day.

Today, I was interrupted by G.K Chesterton

2012-02-16T00:13:00.002-06:00

My two favorite people in the world (well, I have lots of favorites, but for the sake of brevity and prose, we'll say they're my only favorites) have both recommended G.K. Chesterton to me and both times I have fallen in love. Once with the suggester and twice with the suggestion. This time its "Orthodoxy" ... I am surprised how many have read it and who in particular has not - I am astonished it has not been required reading for all seminarians and equally astonished that I had never heard of it and how many I know who haven't either. So weird. Anywho, the quote (err, paragraph) that has stopped me in my mental tracks and caused me to dawdle (k, def didn't know how to spell that word!) and smell the proverbial roses is this:

image via here

"But there is one thing that I have never from my youth up beenable to understand. I have never been able to understand where peoplegot the idea that democracy was in some way opposed to tradition. It is obvious that tradition is only democracy extended through time. It is trusting to a consensus of common human voices rather than tosome isolated or arbitrary record...It is quite easy to see why a legend is treated, and ought to be treated,more respectfully than a book of history. The legend is generallymade by the majority of people in the village, who are sane. The book is generally written by the one man in the village who is mad. Those who urge against tradition that men in the past were ignorantmay go and urge it at the Carlton Club, along with the statementthat voters in the slums are ignorant. It will not do for us. If we attach great importance to the opinion of ordinary men in greatunanimity when we are dealing with daily matters, there is no reasonwhy we should disregard it when we are dealing with history or fable.

Tradition may be defined as an extension of the franchise. Tradition means giving votes to the most obscure of all classes,our ancestors. It is the democracy of the dead. Tradition refusesto submit to the small and arrogant oligarchy of those who merelyhappen to be walking about. All democrats object to men beingdisqualified by the accident of birth; tradition objects to theirbeing disqualified by the accident of death. Democracy tells usnot to neglect a good man's opinion, even if he is our groom;tradition asks us not to neglect a good man's opinion, even if he isour father. I, at any rate, cannot separate the two ideas of democracyand tradition; it seems evident to me that they are the same idea. We will have the dead at our councils. The ancient Greeks votedby stones; these shall vote by tombstones. It is all quite regularand official, for most tombstones, like most ballot papers, are markedwith a cross."

Journey by Camel!

2012-02-13T22:49:00.003-06:00

Alright, its decided! Since I cannot for the life of me figure out how in the world to get from Cairo to Madaba (to see my friend) without flying, I am taking a camel. End of story. I hear they bite.

DIY:Handmade - The Ingrid Tunic ...

2012-02-12T19:53:00.000-06:00

My fingers have been busy making new garments - its a lot harder than it looks. This one is made in a similar fashion to one of my favorite tunic shirts found in the lovely Australian city of Melbourne. My friend Laura and I were strolling down a cobbled shopping market and slipped into a little boutique where I found the perfect black floral bib-tunic. Its the inspiration for Ingrid. - who just so happens to be made from some great plaid I found at Mill End Textiles this weekend. Did I mention there's pockets?!

{p.s. can you believe its February and there's no snow?!?}

Inspiration Board No. 5 - Navy & Gold

2012-02-09T11:16:00.000-06:00

Bonjour reader! Comment allez-vous? Je parle un peu français. Bon, a toute à l’heure.

See translation (almost) here.

image via here

DIY:Handmade - Jacqui's Tunic

2012-02-08T10:44:00.000-06:00

I have a delightful penchant for all things nautical - I think its expresses loveliness and adventure in one fell swoop. So a blue and white thin striped linen is a no-brainer for The Traveling Cabinet's first clothing {thank you Michelle, from Rose Mille for supplying my beautiful fabric fix} - this was a sample I made for myself and I hope within the next year there will be much more to follow :)

Cross-Stitch Calendar Freebie - Giveaway

2012-02-07T16:54:00.005-06:00

A lovely little dahl horse cross-stitch calendar, designed for you by The Traveling Cabinet Co. Its a test run and I would LOVE your opinions.

How to:

1. Download pdf here
2. Print onto Card Stock
3. Proceed to embroider with your choice of floss (the lighter 'x' indicated a different color thread)
4. Comment below or send a pic of yours to sbfeltman@gmail.com & you may win a clutch from The Traveling Cabinet.

A Dalecarlian horse or Dala horse (Swedish: Dalahäst) is a traditional carved and painted wooden statuette of a horse originating in the Swedish province of Dalarna. In the old days the Dala horse was mostly used as a toy for children; in modern times it has become a symbol of Dalarna as well as Sweden in general.

Lovely Finds: Mango Languages

2012-02-06T17:17:00.000-06:00

SO! I, like many young travelers, would like to learn a language. FOR REAL. Aside from the two + years of high school Spanish and an empty pocket book that excluded my chances of taking college language courses ....I can say "hello" and "where is the bathroom" in about 8 foreign tongues. Thank you Dr. Easterling. But not quite up to snuff man!

Then my nifty new roommate suggested I rent "Rosetta Stone" from the Ramsey Library, but alas, it has been discontinued. I am not ok with this. Research skills to the rescue! Enter Mango Languages!

Vastly cheaper than Rosetta Stone, and like Rosetta Stone, Mango Languages offer a free library edition {yay!} but my local library doesn't offer it either. Rats.

No worries mate! Dakota County St. Paul Library allows you to apply for a temporary library card online from which you can access THEIR Mango Languages Libraries!

Time to learn French .... I hear that's what they speak in Côte d'Ivoire

Inspiration Board No. 4 - Dust & Blush

2012-02-06T11:29:00.000-06:00

My dear friend, Jessica, of Oh, My Darling has been such a beautiful willing model for my clutch designs :) Thank you lovely lady, here's a color board in your honor ...

Inspiration: Brook Farm

2012-02-04T15:21:00.001-06:00

If I lived in Brooklyn, NY I would visit....Brook Farm General Store I suppose I will have to read their blog instead.

Funny story about Brooklyn ... my great-great-great grandfather just so happened to invent the hot dog {insert awkward smirk here} during the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge so the story goes. Apparently he built a hot-dog empire that ended with his death and the Great Depression - alas, I am not a rich hot-dog heiress. Don't believe me? That's ok, the NY Times does.

Events - Unglued Craft Fest: Feb 25th

2012-02-04T14:48:00.000-06:00

My first craft fair on the road - albeit, its North Dakota, but its a pretty happenin' place nowadays and my school chum, Danae, from This Earthly Tent suggested I join her at this years event. She's even agreed to let me crash her sofa for the overnight. Yay, North Dakota!! Unglued Craft Fest, here I come!

I'll be selling a few new things this time, including lace headbands, tunics and skirts ... if I finish them in time :) They will also be appearing in the online shop this spring!

Stars & Scars

2012-02-02T16:21:00.003-06:00

Loving this artists work: HalaHgoesclick

{ there were scars before my scars, love written by the hands that hung the stars}

- JJ Heller

Inspiration Board No. 3 - Lemongrass & Butterscotch

2012-02-02T15:57:00.001-06:00

Mmmm, this is one of my favorites. What a beautiful wedding dress - I'm a lace sort of gal.

Image via Ruffled

Inspiration Board No. 2: Honey & Pine

2012-02-01T19:39:00.002-06:00

Image via here

Inspiration Board No. 1: Navy & Peach

2012-02-01T17:31:00.000-06:00

My new favorite hobby ... color inspiration boards. I am in a designing mood so I took one of my favorite tunic designs and color boarded it! Image via Spool No.72

To Hospital

2012-01-25T19:42:00.000-06:00

image source

My office mate Lydia was just spittin' out quotes today while we rambled the hours away printing prayer guides and designing newsletters - the best of the bunch:

"Sometimes I forget that church is like a hospital ... you never know what sort of sick, hurting people you're going to meet, what they're carrying around. But people put up this front, like "look at me, look at my perfect family, my perfect kids" - Lydia

Let's be honest, sometimes working at a church can be irritating. There's a lot of miscommunication, high expectations, stress, passive-aggressive comments; all that happens in churches. Its exhausting to feel like you have a to put on a sweet face and help everyone even though they're annoying the crap out of you and you REALLY have to get work done. But like Lydia said, a church is a hospital, a place people come for acceptance and healing. Its not like a regular office - people are here looking for their Healer and we're here to point them to him - not to file them into our bureaucracy.

Savior - grace, mercy, endless love, truth, justice, honesty. Real things. Not just nice words.

'bout Town: A Dinner Party

2012-01-24T22:13:00.000-06:00

A little "hello" from baby Ryland, our new office love - Lydia and I croon over his little cheeks and classic dad hair flip. She and I had a delightful dinner party with the Graff family, Kaitlyn & Mike, enjoying Lasagna and garlic bread. I think I ate a whole tub of carmel dipping sauce .... err.

Hey there little man! We love you. Jesus loves you, very much. He told me.

Feedback

2012-01-18T18:47:00.000-06:00

Yo! Tell me what you think about the new blog design :) "Yes, no? Maybe so? .... something about Idaho ..." ..... ahem* I digress.

Is it easier to navigate (the goal) or just a pretty bunch of confusing ? Feedback, comments, questions, all welcome.

Love,

this little lady

Wednesday Things

2012-01-18T12:01:00.001-06:00

Weekday Finds:

1. Some encouragement

2. A lovely collection of classic fashion

Veggie Macaroni & Cheese .... mmmm, not my fave, sorry 'bout that Kraft.

Lovely Finds: Liberty London

2012-01-15T16:38:00.004-06:00

Aspiring designer meets Liberty London fabrics ... meets an empty pocketbook... but they're gorgeous and not available at your local Joann's, so we'll give 'em that. I'm still new to the world of apparel, so although Liberty London is probably a big brand name {I'm assuming here} I have only recently discovered them.

Something I struggle with as a creator: giving fabrics {insert any material, really} time to grown on me. In my infant ways I only select fabrics that immediately stand out to me - that I love - for example, the beautiful specimen above. I know exactly how to use them and what I would use them for - they're gorgeous. However, there's another type of fabric that can be equally, if not incredibly more beautiful and subtle - take, for example, the fabrics below. Not my first eye choice but upon further study, one can see just how exquisite they are (particularly the fifth - how could I have missed that one!?) - this is what I love. They nuances of fabric - of beauty.

Word & Deed

2012-01-13T12:24:00.002-06:00

Sitting on a couch at The Cottage {what is it with twenty-somethings naming their houses/apartments? I love it} the other day and I noticed a magazine with a retro looking cover, so I picked it up and began reading - its funny how God brings something new into your life and then it pops up everywhere! It was Relevant Magazine - a bunch of articles that hit our generation right where its at with God and culture - so naturally I was in love.

Coincidentally, I've also been working on a dissertation-turned-book for an old professor of mine (old professor and he's sort of old, very dear man) relating to the topic of millennials and missions in the twenty-first century - essentially discussing the same sort of things as in this magazine. AND as it turns out, my friend and co-worker, the worship pastor at the church also gets their social justice mag called Reject Apathy - again, right up my ally. Oh and did I mention it came up in staff meeting too? All of this in a week. So there's this theme of missions, justice, millennials, relevant, sustainability, and Jesus {naturally}.

But not so naturally actually. See I've been thinking a lot {shocking and not so originally, I might add} and it seems sort of obvious that social justice, green living, and all around do-gooding is not a strictly a Jesus thing in our culture. Well, duh. In fact, its quite trendy to shop at Trader Joe's (which i love), buy Toms (which I also love), save starving children in Africa (which is what I'd like to do with my life), and all around be nice to the planet (still working on that one). Really awesome things, so glad our generation is for this stuff, don't want it to stop. Ever.

BUT here's the deal. None of them require a personal, honest relationship with Jesus. They're not Jesus, they will never save you or the person next to you and in the end its a bunch of legalistic smoke. Yes, I said it: legalistic, life-killing, rule enforcing, holier-than-thou-while-drinking-an-organic-latte-wearing-thrifted-clothes-and-making-bracelets-for-orphans-smoke. {gasp}.

These are good, awesome, beautiful things, but they mean nothing without Jesus, without a soft heart - and if you find yourself thinking you're better than others because you ride your bicycle to work and spent two years with YWAM {big fan of p.s. - a mission organization that I love and have many friends who are among the ranks - so not knockin' 'em} than you've pretty much missed the point.

See its not about your image {...listen to your own advice, Shasta}. Its about Jesus and his image. Its not about being trendy & green - if you happen to be that's awesome, but don't let it go to your head man. If someone else doesn't drink organic, fair-trade, slave-free coffee - remember, you're a humble teacher not a Pharisee. Just sayin'

Cause you can drink all the golden beans you want but if you're not loving on people, if you're enforcing your lifestyle like a new set Commandments come down from Mount Sinai then you've missed the point. Now, I'm a passionate young woman, I've definitely crossed this line a few hundred times, and my heart just yearns to be doing something useful and different with my life - but if my passion is not out of love but rather to serve my own image so I can say at the end of the day I'VE accomplished something, I'm that much better than you, more valid as a person than you - I'm not really jivin' with the Father - I'm not loving the lost, I'm not broken and poured out for Jesus. I'm just pretentious and rotten inside...with really trendy shoes.

So then there's Jesus. Man, he is beautiful. He is where its at. Jesus, great lover of my soul, sustainer of my life, filler of my cup - he's the one who can keep this movement going - he is the Source. So its not just a trend - its holistic living not so we can claim it but because we are a generation returning to our roots and wakening up our souls in humility, grace, truth, and passion. Word and deed. Truth and love.

"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him." So let's show them who he is! "Dear children, let's not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions." In humility, in step with Jesus. "Do not be surprised, my brothers, if the world hates you."

Will we continue to fight for justice in love and humility, even when its no longer cool - will we get distracted again? Will our hearts be conformed to Christ or will we sink back in pride or comfort? Spiritual pride? Yuck, no thanks. Makes me want to vomit it up. What use is it if we DO the right things if our hearts are in bondage to jealousy, pride, anger, selfish ambition? Isn't that why we DO good things? To free people? What sort of hypocrites are we that seek to free the world when we ourselves are not free, are not free in Christ? Are not living in love and abandoned to Him. What sort of a hypocrite am I, I wonder? Thank heavens, for grace. The grace to get back up and return to him. It should not paralyze us but call us to repent and return and renew our passions and ambitions.

I guess what I'm really trying to say is that we need Him. We need Jesus. We can't save the world, He can. We're his humble hands. His humble feet.

The end.

image sources: here & here

Inspired by ...

2012-01-11T10:04:00.004-06:00

While sitting in my peach pajamas and eating Eggo Waffles, I came across these lovely designs by Whitney Deal. Her lines are lovely, her fabrics are sweet and delicate, and she's my inspiration for today. I hope you like her too - her husband takes her shop photos and I fancy I may just gaze over her patterns for the rest of today ... um...after work I mean :) See more of her creations on her blog - DarlingDexter

**Note: if you're going to to eat waffles in bed, you must be prepared to have a sticky bedspread - fail**

Tossed by the Wind

2012-01-09T12:21:00.003-06:00

This here’s the story of Tossed By The Wind
Who went out on his own with deceptions of men
He was warned by his Mama
‘Son, don’t listen to them’
And here’s what she said to our friend

Be sure that no one takes you captive
By deceptions of men
‘Cause you will find it to be tragic in the end

To begin he was with Him
With Him and glad
Mr. Pure and Simple was the only one he knew
Oh, and all that he had
‘Til he heard from the learned
‘Son, your facts are all wrong’
The Jesus he knew got cut out of his songs
Now he sings praises to Hume all day long

We’ve been infecting your sons and your daughters
Make all checks payable to your alma mater
They’re training for life on their own
So far from home
This here’s the story of Tossed By The Wind
Who was cursed for his thirst for the wisdom of men
Now broken and hopeless
He heard from within
A still small voice calling to him
‘Lies always fail in the end
Truth will prevail in the end
My grace is sufficient my friend’

- Jimmy Needham "Tossed by the Wind"

DIY: Transfer Foto to Fabric

2012-01-06T13:28:00.003-06:00

Here's another lovely tutorial for the craft lover - I am very excited to get to work on creating new fabrics from this tutorial.

Step by step instructions here by A Beautiful Mess

DIY: Felt Ball Necklace

2012-01-05T00:47:00.001-06:00

Just noticed this lovely DIY Tutorial for a felt ball necklace from Liz at Say Yes! to Hoboken - big fan!

See full instructions here

{the real question ... how does one make that top?}

Lovely Finds: Rustic Threads

2012-01-05T00:26:00.002-06:00

This is what one does at 12am when their movie hasn't quite finished yet ;) I don't have much extra to spend on etsy but I do like finding things I'd like to make or supplies with which to make new things, here a few lovely finds from this week:

{in no particular order}

Elegant & Chic Orange Leather Wrap Bracelet
Henna Love - Eco Friendly, Modern Indian Wedding Invitations
First Bloom - Silver Floral Monocle Necklace
Pinata, Pinata Print - Signed with Yellow Stitching
Little Heart Camera Strap {navy}
Pencil Pouch in Herringbone Wool & Leather
Master Collection Kazuko Aoki 05 - Cross Stitch - Japanese Embroidery Craft Book - Botanical
The Rucksack in Organic Honey Mustard Yellow Canvas, Mexican Woven Wool and Leather
and Embroidery Hoop Wall Art. Haunted Sky. Wishbone Stitch Circle. Deep teal, Navy, Cream, Orange
Embroidered Initial Necklace
Breeze Lace
Leah Duncan 2012 Twelve-Month Calendar
Linen and Lace Pillow Cover
DIY 2012 Embroidery Calendar Panel

French Lessons

2012-01-04T10:11:00.005-06:00

Notice something different ...? :D This little lass has taught herself how to edit html! What you can't see is my vast grin and swelling heart - I didn't even go to school for it! Well, anyways, I didn't really teach myself, that would not give credit where credit is due, no, I spent countless hours with Google and Adobe learning how to construct a blog design from scratch - work in progress. I just didn't want to spend the little extra income I have asking someone else to make something for me so I googled my questions and wwaaa laa!

Now to the real story:

source

My church family is home to many lovely city people, including Jason and Audrey - a French-American couple who are currently raising support to return to France as missionaries. They also invite me for dinner from time to time but last night was special. Last night Audrey taught me useful french cooking words while we made quiche aux champignons et jambon. Delicious! Not that I got to eat it {its reserved for a special dinner tonight} but it smelled heavenly and I can't wait to try it!

This may or may not be the correct recipe since I had to search it from memory and I don't speak much French {regardless, I'm sure this recipe is delicious too!}

Preparation time: 15 min
Cooking time: 1 hour {we made ours in small dishes, so it only took 30min to bake}

Ingredients (serves 6): useful site for ingredient conversions
- A pastry {a.k.a. pre-made pie crust dough}
- 400 g mushrooms
- 100 g ham
- 1 leek
- 100 g grated cheese
- 20 cl of cream {half and half will suffice}
- 3 eggs
- 40 g butter
- Salt and pepper

Preparation:

Wash, dry and chop the mushrooms and leeks, and diced ham detail.
Preheat oven to 180 ° C (gas 6).
In a buttered pan, cook mushrooms and leeks until complete evaporation of the juices. Salt and pepper.
Meanwhile, beat eggs with cream, grated cheese and diced ham.
Spread batter into a buttered pie plate and top with the bottom of preparing leeks / mushrooms.
Pour over the egg mixture and ham, cook in a hot oven for 1 h.

***okay, I just tried it - mini style - and I LOVED it, yum and a yum.***

Gazing

2011-12-31T18:26:00.001-06:00

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This is me. {well, not really, but metaphorically speaking} In the basket is my life ... all my experiences, thoughts, passions {there are many}, gifts, degree, student debt, hopes, dreams, and pain. I really want to get out in that ocean but I'm pretty darn scared, in fact, I don't even have a boat right now so I'm just sort of stuck. I'm about ready to just jump off this cliff and hope there's a trampoline at the bottom. Let's go with that.

Just waitin'. I wanna run down get my fingers in that water and lick the salt off my hands.

In the meantime there's ample time to talk with this man sitting next to me on the blanket. He keeps telling me to sit down and frankly, he's getting on my nerves, but he's really interesting and I want him to like me so I do my best not to fidget like a five-year-old. Its not going well.

Its strange, he likes to ask questions - at first they're easy to answer and I don't mind answering, but now I'm not sure I like this guy. And he keeps pulling me back on the blanket. Rude.

Well, not rude, because he has sweet eyes and I can tell he's trying to help me while I'm waiting. So I start to tell him more about what's in my basket. About my dad, my family, what has happened this year and why I'm just ready to leave this stupid cliff - and you can tell I'm pretty serious because I don't generally call things "stupid" like an angry toddler. But that's the mess that's going on inside while I dangle my feet off the edge. I'm ready to be done, I've been here FOREVER.

Why do you keep pulling me down, old man? I think I see a boat! Hey! Let me go! Fine, what do you want? Okay, yeah, that one wasn't headed where I wanted to go anyways.

Yes, the wind is nice up here. Thank you.

So ... you're a captain? What sort of ships do you sail? A bit of everything then? Do you know where I could get one? I'd like a nice little sailboat with a motor-board in case things get slow - with a cozy cabin below where I can make tea and sew {yes, I really enjoy making things, do you have any hobbies? - fishing? yeah, that's cool ...I feel like we've met before ...} and my husband and I can sing sweetly every night and travel the world in our little boat.

Okay, I'll sit here a little while longer. He asks about my last boyfriend. I loved him. A lot. Let's not talk about that. That's done. What I really want to do now is get out into that ocean. It shouldn't be this difficult. Everyone else seems to be cruising .... oh this bruise? Its nothing. I bruise easily. There are a few more on this leg too.

He stares at me. We watch the boats pass. They're not for me yet.

On the Map and in the News: English Breakfast

2011-12-29T18:41:00.004-06:00

Not Earl Grey: it tastes like soap, IT just DOES, ok? English Breakfast with lots of honey, please.

My friend Jessica took me out to late lunch the other day (I think it was Monday, but I'm not quite sure) to take my mind off my things. Life waiting periods are rough business. Anywho, I couldn't resist saying hello to our shy table neighbor who goes by the name of Andrew and aspires to be a director - currently studying in Manhattan, which he says is rather different than MN, and I'm inclined to take him at his word. That's the second MN transplant to NYC I met that day. The other was a nice fellow named Mark, who works at Etsy - we had a lovely chat about missions. I am not so secretly envying his job. Bravo.

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Well, we had a lengthy interview with Andrew (poor fellow) and bought him some tea to go with ours. In the end, he invited us to join him on a tourists' tour of Minneapolis the next day but we both had to work. Note: Do not get the Turkey & Pear Panini at the Coffe News Cafe on Grand Ave, but DO get the Pesto/Mozarella/Tomato Panini - its delicious. (Thank you, Jessica, for sharing).

The Best Christmas Story Ever

2011-12-27T12:45:00.003-06:00

This delights my heart :) Enjoy

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T17:06:00.001-06:00

If God is in every detail of my life ... am I free to dream? To risk? To dare to do crazy things and be free? I think so.

sources

“So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” Luke 2:16-20

Traveling Playlist - Sota Boys

2011-12-22T08:58:00.001-06:00

I just spent the best ten minutes before work laughing and smiling and giggling - thank you Sota Boys for making the morning great.

I suppose its the combination of knowing they're "vanilla Bethel boys" {pardon the stereotype} , 'bout my age, rapping ...... its glorious. And pretty darn catchy. Then I fell in love with this one...

How awesome is that? It would totally put them on my ipod ... and they're from MN - did I mention they rap? And I like it? Alot. What will happen next?

Tunic - Schmunic

2011-12-21T15:50:00.000-06:00

In the midst of a million lovely shop orders I found a spare evening or two to decipher one of my Japanese pattern books and put together this little tunic and braided headband. I was admiring this tunic over at Make Something and decided to try my hand. Many tutorials latter and some frustrating Japanese translations gone wrong .... ta da! Thank you Favorite Tunic Dress Vest book :)

source

P.S. Japanese style tends to be much more "flow-y" than this petit American body can handle so I had to take in the baby-doll sides a bit. These sites were super helpful when trying to learn to use the Japanese pattern book :)

Purlbee

ahem Fa la la la lah, la lah lah lah!

2011-12-21T01:07:00.000-06:00

Thank you Mike Graff for introducing me to this delightful Christmas duo. Yes, I have been intrigued with this lady's lovely voice since her premiere on Elf a few years back ... "I really can't stay .. Baby, its cold outside ... I've got to go 'way ... Baby, its cold outside ..." I like it.

This tune has been stuck in my head ALL week.

A Window: Life Update

2011-12-17T20:14:00.000-06:00

Greetings fellow travelers,

I don't feel especially inspired to write, just sitting in the den in some else's house while I wait for them to return home - I'm watching their daughter for the evening and she lays asleep after a riveting made-up fairy tale by yours truly about "Brooke" & "Connor" - their marriage and subsequent escape from the forest. It ended with a run in with a little man named Orion and my imaginative powers ended there so "TBD until next time Elayna". I'm not really sure where I'm going to go with that; however, I promised I'd finish it when I come back to sit in the end of December.

My best friend got engaged yesterday. Man, that's weird. Its never been so close to me before. I love her to pieces - literally, actually - sometimes I hug too hard - its just so strange to have someone so close to you getting married. She's the first one. Lou always said she would be. Ah, its just so weird - a good weird, a great weird, mind you, but still just surreal. I know its the same for her too, blimey, she's the one getting marred (excuse the British references, I rented Harry Potter today). Does anyone know what "blimey" means? Or is it just a nonsensical term like "Ack!" or "Kablooey!".

Anyways, I wanted to open another tiny window into my life and say I've gone two weeks without a major anxiety attack or arresting stress trigger. This is good. Life is not meant to be ruined by fear - though so often it is whether its a subtle wind that changes our course or a tempest that paralyzes our senses. Well, I'm through with them all - filthy worms that take away my quality of life. They can go to hell. {if you're going to curse at something it should be something really evil, like fear}.

I had an idea the other day while I was pondering life {happens a lot these days} - how can I be a peacemaker in the world if I'm not in my own house, in my own life, in my own heart. I was just thinking about being a mom one day and how I want to love my children and let them have fun and enjoy life instead of always scolding or correcting, constraining and never loving. How can I be a loving good kind beautiful mother if I'm not that way to the children I meet now. If I'm not that way to Elayna. Well I certainly try to be but Jesus needs to do some more surgery - to have me act of our love and not anger or fear. To discipline in love and honesty instead of irritation or revenge. Besides, you just look like an idiot when you don't do it God's way {though sometimes people think you're an idiot when you DO}.

Alas, the only one I answer to is Jesus and he's so faithful. I think that's what has helped me calm my fears. Knowing that God made me and I can let go of control. How I detest the way I've acted in the past, I cry and feel the shame of my disgusting soul and its attempts to control myself and others. I must have looked so ugly to them. When am I ever going to get this right? I think Paul said something about that in the new testament ....

How can I be beautiful if I'm rotting on the inside. Because I know I am. rotting. what a horrible word. I get why Jesus said all the offerings and sacrifices of the Pharisees were filthy rags. God knows, we cannot conceal the stink within - we may fool others but we cannot fool God. I think he just wants us to acknowledge that and humble ourselves. We're all like emperor's without any clothes - strutting around like we've got it all under control but we're naked and filthy, everyone else can tell (well, some people can) but we all just pretend like we're the high and mightiest of folks all spanked up for the party, but like I said ... we're gross and God knows. We're not pulling the wool over his eyes.

I lied. I am inspired to write. Now.

So he has humbled me. And I love him. So much. Thank you. Its the best gift. You've given me a piece of sanity back, Jesus. I love you. I love you I love you I love you. I love you dearer than my mother and father, the dream of a marriage, my future husband and my cat {which I don't have yet, but am in the market so if you see one, let me know} more than missions, more than my job, I love you more than love, I love you more than any man. Thank you Jesus. I love you.

I'm not sure where we're going together but I have a feeling its going to be better than okay. Don't give me riches, a house, nice clothes or a fancy job. Give me You and your company.

The Fields

2011-12-16T18:10:00.000-06:00

"God writes the gospel not in the Bible alone, but on trees and flowers and clouds and stars" -Martin Luther

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Travel Delights

2011-12-14T12:29:00.000-06:00

A few inspirations from pinterest this morning :) Enjoy!

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Unqiue L.A.

2011-12-10T11:10:00.001-06:00

"Everybody is a somebody to someone, its all relative," my friend Laura says to me as we walk into the market on the thirteenth floor. Its not full yet, L.A. hipsters milling around in small groups,toting their fashion bags and ironic attire. I feel a little out of place. I stepped out of the plane two nights before into urban California wearing a cream pleated dress I made myself that week. I was in love with it even though the neckline is crooked and the stitching is already coming a part. I hadn't finished the sleeves so I pack a sweater in case I get a little embarrassed or "cold", I tell Laura.

See, I always try to look like modern Audrey Hepburn when I go traveling, I don't know why, its the only time I can play dress up without feeling conspicuous - like a play and the audience is no one I'll ever see again so I get to pretend to be a movie star for a day. I know, I'm weird, but you probably do it too so I suppose we're all weird. I like wearing my traveling clothes and when Laura saw it she smiled and said I should wear it to the market - handmade like everything else we'll be looking at.

{not my best hairdo but Danni's cute lace and teal make up for it... ;)}

I'm pretty excited inside - when I found out that Unique L.A. was going to be on the same weekend I was visiting, I got giggling inside. When I first discovered blogging/etsy/design etc I came across this completely lovely blog called, "Oh, Hello Friend" and its been my staple inspiration for the past two years. Every morning I'm not already late for work its the first one I visit and the last one I peek into before bed. I just love the authors content and style, plus she follows Jesus and it just makes me love her heart and the bits of honesty she lets out in times of candor. I'm a tad bit nostalgic and so when I read that she would be at this market I was naturally excited. Its nice to meet someone who you've only known via the internet. Its really nice.

That prompted Laura's comment as I was getting giggly. I'll just be honest and make a fool of myself and say I was practically jumping-out-of-my-boots-excited to meet her and visit her shop - IN PERSON. Everbody is a somebody to someone - and I have no quips with being that someone to somebody (well, I sort of do but Laura is brave and she helps me out).

Anyways, Lou and I had a lovely time browsing the shops and schmoozing the guys with the totally hip wooden glasses frames .... they were gorgeous ... and so were the frames. But honestly, the only shop I really wanted to buy from was "Oh, Hello Friend" - I love her style. So I spent my last ten dollars on a cute handkerchief for a new clutch and wooden button. We had a great little chat with Danni and her husband and snapped a few photos with Laura's iphone. It was a good day. (and we went to the beach later, mmmm, perfect).

Craft Fair - Kennedy Choirs Holiday Boutique

2011-12-07T19:54:00.001-06:00

Its that time again - The Traveling Cabinet will be at Kennedy High School in Bloomington to help raise support for their choirs. Love to see you there :) Just a reminder that all proceeds go to support women's ministry in the Middle East - would love your prayers - trip leaves Jan. 10th!

Visit us on facebook for more info

image source here

Bloomington Kennedy High School choirs invite you to enjoy the magic of the season at their annual holiday show themed, Deck the Rooftops. Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. each night, Thursday, Dec. 8 through Saturday, Dec. 10, in the Kennedy High School auditorium, 9701 Nicollet Ave. S.
Kennedy’s holiday show is an entertaining, long-standing tradition of singing and dancing to seasonal favorites. Performances will be featured by each of the school’s seven choirs, the show choir bands, and Kennedy’s own Dickens carolers.

Holiday Show Boutique
Local artisans will be selling their chocolates, jewelry, scarves, gadgets and other merchandise. Booths will be open for one hour before and one hour after the shows on Friday and Saturday night.

Show tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Tickets go on sale at the door one hour prior to the start of each performance. For more information, please call (952) 681-5000.

See here for more information!

L.A. Love

2011-12-06T15:31:00.001-06:00

Its amazing what one can do with L.A. and an Iphone ... how much the body can travel in a few short days.

After a 4-hour drive and 3-hour flight, I arrived late late into L.A. ... to my surprise, not only was Laura waiting for me but Tyler too, my bud who was leaving the next day back home for MN and eventually Switzerland - we swapped places.

Hollywood sign first, to get it out of the way :) There we so many trees down after their great wind storm that this was a close as we could finagle.

Yummiest bakery in Pasedena - almond scones, ham sandwiches and Pellegrino to spare :)

Laura too me to the beach and I ran like a little girl to the water. It was cold. There was sand. There were shells. I loved it.

Then we walked the length of Santa Monica beach to the pier - a couple of hitchhikers buried themselves in a sand fort.

At the Venice Canals the neighborhood was hosting a holiday bridge decorating contest

Bummer man.

The last breakfast ... eggs benedict ... yum.

A short stop in a Santa Monica shop before the airport ... I liked this one :) More to come.

Cabinet Travels - L.A.

2011-12-01T09:17:00.001-06:00

via here

I'M SO EXCITED I CAN HARDLY CONTAIN MYSELF!!! I'M GOING ON VACATION TO L.A. TODAY! Beaches, handmade market - Unique L.A.. Laura Lou, here I come!

Daily Prayer

2011-11-30T08:50:00.001-06:00

I was reading a book this morning, recommended to me by a dear lady who has been a comfort to me these past few months. Its called, Calm My Anxious Heart, this is what I read,

"Never allow yourself to complain about anything – not eventhe weather

Never picture yourself in any other circumstances orsomeplace else

Never compare your lot with another’s

Never allow yourself to wish this or that had been otherwise

Never dwell on tomorrow – remember that tomorrow is God’s,now ours.

Fix your eyes on eternity. Your tomorrows belong toGod. Give them to Him. All your tomorrows are nestled in God’sstrong arms – you are FREE to live today. One day at a time you can make the right choices and grow to possess theholy habit of contentment.

Ella’s focus was eternal, and her focus led to an internalcontentment.

Ella possessed a soul sufficiency, a peace separate from hercircumstances. Contentment is astate of the heart, not a state of affairs.

I am not saying this because I am in need, for I havelearned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is tohave plenty. I have learned thesecret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry,whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who givesme strength. (Philippians 4:11-13)."

Oh Pappa, this is my prayer everyday - that beauty would shine forth from my heart and I would meet with you in the heavenly places with a smile as I see you face to face. Let me live my life in this way Father! To live is Christ and to die is gain (because I get to be with Jesus!).

As I was reading this passage this morning I turned to the front cover of the book and noticed its previous owner, whomever they may be, had left a note there. It reads,

"July 1999

Nola,

Please read this book and may you enjoy it as much as I have. I'm proud you are my daughter.

Love you,

Mom"

Nola is not a common name but for anyone who knows my family, it is also the name given to my mother; and she and I share this anxious struggle as mothers and daughters so commonly do. So I smiled at God and thanked him for teaching both my mother and I to calm our anxious hearts.

The Traveling Library: Vintage Travel Poster Finds

2011-11-28T16:47:00.001-06:00

Found another lovely vintage travel poster source - here's a samplin'

Field Notes: The Lord of my heart

2011-11-24T22:22:00.001-06:00

Aragorn: You have some skill with a blade.
Eowyn: The women of this country learned long ago, those without swords can still die upon them. I fear neither death nor pain.
Aragorn: What do you fear, my lady?
Eowyn: A cage. To stay behind bars until use and old age accept them and all chance of valor has gone beyond recall or desire.
Aragorn: You are a daughter of kings, a shield maiden of Rohan. I do not think that will be your fate.

How many times have I uttered this same cry to my friends and family - "Shasta, what are you so afraid of?" and my answer is the same as hers, "A cage. To stay behind bars until use and old age accept them (or the pursuit of comfort, wealth, security distract) and all chance of valor has gone beyond recall or desire."

At this crux of my adulthood, when essential choices are made and pathways forged, I find myself trembling in my smelly, holey old boots. Trembling. What if I don't have enough money? What if I'll never DO anything with my life? What if fear consumes me so much I'll never do anything? This endless debilitating cycle I endure - a fight with a cage, my mind. My heart trembles. I cower. Then I look up, to Jesus. I hear the words "You are a daughter of kings, a shield maiden of the Lord. I do not think that will be your fate." For I would rather die in sacrifice then waste my years until all desire for valor has died within me. Wealth is not the measure of a man or woman – it is what hegives, not what he takes

I know this isn't a very modern way of thinking. Its the 21st century right? "It’s the 21^st century" - like it justifies every act of stupidity or complacency in this world. Honor and valor, risk and adventure are reserved for the stock market or far gone fairy tales. We don't have real enemies. Well, I say there is one frontier that always needs warriors. To fight for the heart, for the hearts of men. To remove the darkness from their eyes and call them all to the Truth about Jesus. About the cross. About sacrifice. About courage. About someone who died for them. A real person who died for them, sacrificed himself in ultimate valor to rescue them from darkness. And that, my friends, is relevant. That battle still goes on today. .

And what keeps me going? From falling to pieces? I know I am a coward. I know I am weak and dull. But knowing how much he loves me; how he dearly loves me, gives me strength to endure the fear until it passes. For I am a daughter of the King, a shield maiden of El-Shaddai - God Almighty, Savior, Deliverer. And if I don't have Him, then I have nothing.

DIY:Handmade - French Linen Skirt

2011-11-23T19:52:00.001-06:00

Something new I've been cookin' up....lovely french linen from Rose Mille + Shasta in a classic mood + Obsession with the nautical + handmade button crafted from Korean cotton beautifulness = the following skirt in lovely stylized vintage motif

I'm thinking of making this a centerpiece for a new clothing line .... its an adventure.

The Traveling Cabinet - Christmas Discount

2011-11-23T17:04:00.001-06:00

Though the Christmas season doesn't begin until after Thanksgiving, I don't have the image editing program to change the title so you'll have to bare with me.

From now until Christmas all items in The Traveling Cabinet are 15% off - yay, happy day! Its not just my shameless ploy to encourage you to shop The Traveling Cabinet, I actually have a philanthropic cause - all proceeds go towards support raising for the mission trip to The Middle East - see here for more details.

To activate the discount, enter " Christmas2011 " when checking out at The Traveling Cabinet. You'll see lots of clutches and earrings in the shop and I'm coming out with a line of skirts and Christmas Ornaments.

Vintage Love

2011-11-22T21:10:00.001-06:00

A few vintage beauties I've fallen in love with this week. Enjoy.

If you find the sources, give me a heads up and I'll link 'em.

DIY: Handmade - Scandinavian Earrings Tutorial Part I

2011-11-22T20:16:00.001-06:00

So, I've been on a Scandinavian kick for a while now - always on the look out for ways to incorporate their style into my designs {just went to Ikea today and had a blast}. Any-whos, I thought I'd share one of my favorite new projects (and if you're not crafty but love these earrings, no worries, they're in my shop for sale and make lovely presents).

Part I: What you'll need:

1. Scissors; 2. Sewing Needle; 3. Pliers; 4. Fabric - with large enough threads/weave to embroider (I used an organic hemp for this tutorial); 5. Embroidery thread 6. Make-your-own buttons kit 7/8in (I found these at Joann Fabrics) 7. Button making tool (comes with the make-your-own buttons kit) 8. Sturdy jewelry glue (also found at Joann's) 9. Not pictured - earring posts/backing

Step One: Measure out a 2"x2" square of your fabric, thread your needle with two strands of your embroidery thread and use the following diagram to complete your design.

Cross-stitch is pretty simple - keep making X's with your thread - if you have trouble, there are many cross-stitch tutorials online - ask "google" :)

Once you have finished your design you're ready to make the earrings. Please See Part II coming soon.

Tutorial Finds

2011-11-21T13:03:00.001-06:00

Greetings! I was meandering around the net and found some lovely new tutorials. I'm in the "Nordic Holiday" mood so bare with me on this.

From left to right:

Embroidered Fair Isle Sweater - papernstitch

Girls Frock Tutorial - Freshly Picked

Leather Elbow Patches - Freshly Picked

Glitter Disco Ball - Oh Happy Day

Please, Call my name

2011-11-19T08:46:00.001-06:00

In my bedroom on a gray November morning, sitting in bed - wondering who I am, why I'm here, what I should do with myself. I'm told this is normal. I wonder how many people get to this point in there life ... when everything seems to blow away like smoke and they're left to reshape a new life. Do some just float through life without going this deep? Does it happen when you're twenty? Thirty? Forty? Fifty?

image source

I know where I want to go, I just don't know how to get there. God, please call my name. Please tell me how precious I am to you. Please set my feet on your path and give me a home. Give me a purpose to make a difference to spread your name. I know where I want to go. I can see it in my mind's eye - but the picture from reality is fuzzy. I need your help to make it clear. I need your hand, your power, I need You, Jesus. I cannot do this alone.

So I'll sit and wait. And pray that in my waiting I'm not washed away by the waves or hardened in my heart by the pain. I'll pray that my heart remains soft and tender and ever waiting like a bride. Your bride.

image source

When I was young you set these things into motion and put dreams into my little heart. Dreams to bring distant peoples into harmony and love with you, to live with them and eat with them, to cry with them and grow. Father, I am completely dependent upon you - so weak and vulnerable I could be squashed like a bug. I can do nothing to help myself, I have not the strength to help myself. Be near. Be so near. Do not let my tears flow for naught. Return the smiles to my soul in abundance and leave me not. Take my dreams and give them life. Take my heart and make it beautiful, make it pure, make it yours. In the meantime, I am here. Your little girl.

Source: youtube.com via Nora on Pinterest

Real Wedding: Alli & Mike

2011-11-16T17:58:00.001-06:00

One of the best parts of crafting clutches, is when one of your friends gets married and asks for a few in her bridal party. I love it. Meet Allison & Mike, aka, cutest couple of the year. Alli and I met at World Relief, Minneapolis in the winter of 2011 - right after my daring, albeit rather unsuccessful, attempt to live in Colorado without Michael. I jumped in as her intern in the Employment Department, helping her mentor refugees and hook them up with jobs. Tough business. :earned alot. Alli has been so sweet and helpful during this rough patch in my life and I was so honored to make some clutches for her. Thanks for being my model :)

If you'd like a clutch of your own visit The Traveling Cabinet Shop - I am currently raising support to join missionaries in the Middle East this spring - if you're thinking of Christmas gifts, its a beautiful way to support missions.

All images via BirchBlue Photography

Prayercast: Bosnia & Herzegovina

2011-11-15T08:03:00.000-06:00

When my heart is weary and discouraged - when I feel helpless and purposeless - when I am angry that all I seem to do is work, sleep and repeat - when I need to be reminded that God needs workers in the field - when I fear I will never get to "go" - I visit this place, I watch and pray, I am reminded of the things that God has called me to and the passions he has awakened in me. Waiting is hard, but God gives us help a long the way.

Field Notes: I sought the LORD

2011-11-14T14:20:00.001-06:00

Psalm 34

1 I will extol the LORD at all times;
his praise will always be on my lips.
2 I will glory in the LORD;
let the afflicted hear and rejoice.
3 Glorify the LORD with me;
let us exalt his name together.

4 I sought the LORD, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
5 Those who look to him are radiant;
their faces are never covered with shame.
6 This poor man called, and the LORD heard him;
he saved him out of all his troubles.
7 The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him,
and he delivers them.

8 Taste and see that the LORD is good;
blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.
9 Fear the LORD, you his holy people,
for those who fear him lack nothing.
10 The lions may grow weak and hungry,
but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.
11 Come, my children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the LORD.
12 Whoever of you loves life
and desires to see many good days,
13 keep your tongue from evil
and your lips from telling lies.
14 Turn from evil and do good;
seek peace and pursue it.

15 The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous,
and his ears are attentive to their cry;
16 but the face of the LORD is against those who do evil,
to blot out their name from the earth.

17 The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them;
he delivers them from all their troubles.
18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

19 The righteous person may have many troubles,
but the LORD delivers him from them all;
20 he protects all his bones,
not one of them will be broken.

21 Evil will slay the wicked;
the foes of the righteous will be condemned.
22 The LORD will rescue his servants;
no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.

I really struggle with myself sometimes - today I wrestle with dullness of heart and angst. God, where are you? Where is your Holy Spirit? Where is the fire that used to burn so brightly? Restore me, inspire me, send me, let me soar on your wings once again.

I fear falling asleep - spiritually. My soul feels like a plugged up fountain, clean water ready to burst forth being blocked by an invisible force of "waiting and dullness". Hey God! I have a lot to give, a lot to offer, a lot of energy and excitement ... didn't you know? I'm only 22! Oh yeah, I suppose you do, you're God. Well, then what gives!? Oh yeah, patience. I'm not so awesome at that.

source

Father, what does it mean to completely surrender to you? Even in my boredom?

DIY:Handmade - The Cabinet's Photo Shoot Part III

2011-11-13T08:56:00.001-06:00

Dear Ellie Peterson, you are amazing. Take a look at more of her work here. Thank you for your awesome photos! Enjoy :) If you would like something you seem from The Traveling Cabinet stop by the shop!

Field Notes: Ghosts upon the Earth

2011-11-10T11:22:00.000-06:00

Something to listen to deeply, something to soak, something to wonder at. To cry with.

Real Wedding: Peter & Emily Anderson

2011-11-09T20:01:00.003-06:00

Lace and ribbon, chocolate, cream .... Emily has good taste. It was a lovely autumn wedding in St. Anthony; I spent my time fixing skirts, painting signs and going on an accordion/caribou run for the bridesmaids.

As you can see from the picture, Emily designed her own bridesmaid clutches from The Traveling Cabinet and they complimented their dresses so beautifully :) A photo full of gorgeous women I love - so sweet. Happy honeymooning Emily!

You can customize your own clutches here at The Traveling Cabinet etsy shop!

Inspiration: Lost & Found

2011-11-06T01:47:00.001-05:00

I do feel rather lost sometimes, just waiting around for God to find me as I try to navigate the murky waters of ambiguity and a million "almost" choices. Patience has always been a difficult master.

It no longer surprises me that so many of us go through suffocating instances of identity train-wrecks - it seems when we are asleep to the world, we are happiest, and when we pay attention, when we care, we drown in our own futility. That's a rotten place to stay and I refuse to believe in the unending bleakness of the world. I have tasted life and choose to leave my unanswered questions on the alter as a sacrifice to my God and recognition of my humanity, finiteness. I think I'm finally beginning to grasp this "fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom", more like "awe and respect for the Lord is the beginning of not getting your cracked-nut brain handed to you by the world". I probably sound a tad dense as this point ... I'm sorry ... maybe I should say it this way .... life can really suck and sometimes I don't know why ... glad I don't have to know everything.

It is the only way to survive the madness you see when you really take a look at the world. Outside your bubble. Its when you need Him most. Or you will die, you will kill yourself if you follow it to its conclusion - isn't that what Nietzsche said? Nihilism ... either that or we'd turn back to our ignorance to avoid the pain. Neither of those options sound appealing to me. I know I'm not the first person to write on this subject - but it is the first time I've really considered the ramifications of it. And each new life has to learn each thing on its own, discover it anew like those before him.

Sometimes you must simply close the door on the darkness and recognize that you're not strong enough to fight it yet - you need help and protection, you are weak and fragile. The fool-hearty tango with what they don't know and leave their sword behind. Not the cheerful post is it? I know ... but I'll leave you with a few things that inspire me to create. I have no idea where some of these images come from, so if you know their source, let me know and I'll tag them properly.

I suppose I think too much for my own good ... but surrounding myself with simple, beautiful things is a sign that not everything is as evil as it sometimes seems. Hope can be found in a small string of lace or a beautiful skirt - a tiny reflection of the creativity God instilled into us when he formed us by his Word. He really must be an awesome God. And I can marvel in the fact that he would choose to share his creativity with broken soul like me.

papernstitch

poppytalk

junkaholique

oh hello friend

Nokomis Urban Craft Fair - Adventures in selling my wares Part 2

2011-11-05T22:39:00.003-05:00

Whelp! I was tooling around the HandmadeMN site and saw a request for more vendors at this craft fair - turns out its right near the place I work! On the off chance they still had spots, I applied, was accepted and now I'm preparing for another fair so soon. Since I promised God I would donate all my profits to the Egypt mission trip, I know this opportunity must be from Him - so soon after my first one and in an area I'm familiar with.

Check it out here to see vendors and find out more information - see you next Saturday! Visit The Traveling Cabinet on Facebook to see more details and check out our events page.

I'd love to see you again friends and I'd love to make new ones if we've never met. If you are familiar with The Traveling Cabinet's designs? Which is your favorite? What would you like to purchase if you visited my booth? I always make things that I would like to add to my wardrobe, but its more lovely to make things that others fancy.

Lovely Finds: Graphic Design, Blogs, Clipart, Fonts

2011-11-04T17:13:00.001-05:00

Though I've been working on this blog since January 2010, and I'm lov'in it, I don't have a stitch of graphic design training - not a stitch.

But, there are so many great resources I've come across that I'd like to share with you :) I hope you find them helpful!

How About Orange -fonts, resources, desktop backgrounds, clipart, lovely things - I've found it so USEFUL.

Font Squirrel: Amazing! free fonts! I love Lobster ... use it for everything

Lost Type Co-op: Such great fonts - type in $0 for price to make it free

Free Design Goodies: need I say more?

Clipart Library: The greatest collection of vintage looking clipart ... ever.

Pugly Pixel: There are SO many free resources here. In order to get the full package you have to pay for it, but I was able to collect plenty of lovely designs without paying a cent, you just have to dig.

Field Notes: Sonnets of the Little Egg

2011-10-31T23:28:00.002-05:00

Dear little egg, you come from my friend Scott
You are blue-ish green, small and round

A small crack in you I recently found
From the grocery store you were not bought

Your mother was a chicken of sorts

and she lived in a Minneapolis yard

To lose her little baby egg would be hard

yet, chicken's have no rights in courts

So you sit in my cool re-frig-er-ator

amid the butter and cheese

But I shan't eat you, I don't tease

you're too lovely so you'll stay in the door

Dear little egg, thank you so much for your close up

and now 'tis best if I just shut up

oh dear.... that was terrible, but I hope you liked it :)

DIY:Handmade - The Cabinet's Photo Shoot Part II

2011-10-30T23:34:00.007-05:00

Greetings! What a lovely afternoon to take photos with friends - thank you Ellie, Jessica and Wren for being my models and photographer for The Traveling Cabinet's clutches. Jessica and Ellie are my dear friends from Northwestern, we met during my short stint in the drama department as I played the part of a Russian artist ... but that's another story ... and Wren is my new friend from youth group, the most talented of young ladies. See here for Part I - Enjoy :)

Oh! Yes, I must tell you that the photos were taken by the lovely Ellie Peterson of e.p.Photography- she is a saint and creative sweetheart. Check out more treasures on The Traveling Cabinet Etsy Shop

Four girls having a wonderful day in the fall leaves .... with a dash of vintage and lots of cotton, fabric & lace. I love Jessica's natural poise and style and Ellie's work gorgeous vision for photos. She has another post I was just reading "Contemplative" and it amazes me how much pictures can move you, how much they speak, what they capture - you can see it here.

Lovely Finds: Hind's Feet in High Places

2011-10-26T19:39:00.001-05:00

source

In all that great desert, there was not a single green thing growing, neither tree nor flower nor plant save here and there a patch of straggly gray cacti.

On the last morning {Much Afraid} was walking near the tents and huts of the desert dwellers, when in a lonely corner behind a wall she came upon a little golden-yellow flower, growing all alone. An old pipe was connected with a water tank. In the pipe was one tiny hole through which came an occasional drop of water. Where the drops fell one by one, there grew the little golden flower, though where the seed had come from, Much-Afraid could not imagine, for there were no birds anywhere and no other growing things.

She stopped over the lonely, lovely little golden face, lifted up so hopefully and so bravely to the feeble drip, and cried out softly, “What is your name, little flower, for I never saw one like you before.”

The tiny plant answered at once in a tone as golden as itself, “Behold me! My name is Acceptance-with-Joy!"

Much-Afraid thought of the things which she had seen… Somehow the answer of the little golden flower which grew all alone in the waste of the desert stole into her heart and echoed there faintly and sweetly, filling her with comfort. She said to herself, “He (the Shepherd) has brought me here when I did not want to come, for His own purpose. I, too, will look up into His face and say, ‘Behold me! I am your little handmaiden, Acceptance-with-Joy.’”

Dear friends, this is my prayer.

Inspiration: Ruffled Wedding

2011-10-26T17:40:00.004-05:00

Ah! This made me smile today :)

JR Loves Cat: The Movie from J.R. Clubb on Vimeo

source

On the Map: Duluth

2011-10-24T23:12:00.000-05:00

In a final strike against the maddening psychosis that has invaded my mind since late last October {aka depression} my red-headed friend and I ventured North for a Sunday to enjoy the brisk Superior air and ramble around a light house. I do think she beats me in the chic category - she is the most adorable Lydia.

Most of these were taken by her actually! This rock outcrop marks the fate of a sunken ship, thrown off course by the compass screwing iron ore buried with the cliff.

My coat was cumbersome ... my fingers chilly.

Split Rock Light House

Our final resting place, Betty's Pies - the strategically yummy but overpriced dispenser of delicious turkey melts and Dorothy's Root Beer.

Mars Hill: Jesus & Judas

2011-10-24T11:10:00.005-05:00

This one reaches deep to my soul - do I really love Jesus, am I his child? Or am I just faking it? Lots of questions flit through my mind. Who you are in private is a reflection of your heart, its my battleground.

On the Map: HandmadeMN Fall Market 2011

2011-10-24T01:00:00.002-05:00

My mother is sweet and helpful - I couldn't have done it without her. We woke up early and packed all my little trinkets in my car - most things were decorations taken from my room. I admit, this being my first craft market, I was a bit nervous. But it was so lovely. Right away I met Andrea and her friend helped me carry everything from my car and set up my table. How sweet. Rae of ReRae was my fantastic table neighbor with a gorgeous booth - check her out here on Etsy if you like! She had a lovely blue turquoise motif.

So many people visited (Mikalia, Beth, Michael, Kayleen, Carolyn, Jess, Jenna, Kelli ... the list goes on) and I met Leah and Wendy - a mother and daughter who happened upon The Traveling Cabinet blog via Rose Mille and decided to stop by to say hello. It was the most delightful meeting - we shared stories, I talked about the ministry in the Middle East - Leah and I nerded out about DIY and crafting!

It was quite a successful day and a wonderful experience - everyone was friendly and obliging - many earrings, flower pins, and botanical prints were sold, and all the proceeds are being given in support of the Women's Ministry in the Middle East, this spring. Click HERE for more photos by RitasCreations

Inspiration: Hunter's Birthday

2011-10-22T21:58:00.000-05:00

Well, its my little brother's birthday tomorrow .... he's going to be twenty ... yikes! when did that happen?? And, since I still eat chicken nuggets and shapes macaroni for dinner .... its clear I don't have a ton of resources with which I might shower him with gifts. Therefore, I have resolved to go low budget and make him a nice warm wooly blanket ... he has been contacted for color preferences for which his response was .... "idk, just not blue and yellow".

Any-hoosers, IF I were rich cougar, I have compiled the following list of things I would give him - keep in mind he's a twenty year old computer nerd going to school to be an engineer. Super-dork, I know, I love him. Enjoy:

Vintage Men's Minnetonka Driving Shoes from LoverlyVintage

Poster from Ache

We have an entire LEGO village of mayhem in our basement ... its been there since I was nine.

T-shirt from AngelLeighDesigns

Sketch via be-the-change

Vintage Projector Lamp by WestShoreVintage

Yeah, we definitely fought over the game-boy when we were young ... Dr. Mario rules!

Dr. Mario Pills by 72stitches

Because every man needs a cool leather satchel

Via PureGoods

We like Harry Potter in our house ... :)

Via BeanTownEmbroidery

On The Map: Camp Lebanon

2011-10-20T12:39:00.000-05:00

Greetings Fellow Traveler's - Today I come to you from Camp Lebanon (well, actually I'm still at church waiting for the kids to arrive) and the beautiful Minnesota forest awaits. I love Camp - even if it is only 40 degrees all day.

source

Theatre: Consumption - Urbana 09

2011-10-17T14:14:00.002-05:00

Theatre: Consumption from Urbana on Vimeo.

Wake up! Money and Power: Oscar Muriu - Urbana 2009

2011-10-17T11:34:00.001-05:00

I was fortunate enough to attend Urbana 2009 and I stumbled across videos of some of the speakers today. I want to share them with you. These are issues I've been really wrestling with now that I'm out of the Northwestern bubble. Its so easy to be excited about radical ministry when you're still in christian school - but when the cares of the work blur your vision and clutter your passion, reminders like this are so good to chew on.

Missions: Wake up, Arise! There is More.

2011-10-17T09:06:00.000-05:00

Beautiful Things from Journey Corps on Vimeo.

DIY:Handmade - Fall Market Clutches

2011-10-15T10:39:00.002-05:00

This morning I woke up to the text of a dear friend asking if she could pray for me. This is the best way to start the morning. Then I read a few days from "Streams in the Desert" and jumped on my computer to share a few pictures of some new clutches I've made for the HandmadeMN Fall Market

The Sunflower Clutch

The Sweetpea Clutch & The Venice Day Clutch

Well, I surely hope you can make it - next Saturday, October 22, 2011 10-5pm. :)

In the Crowd

2011-10-14T09:11:00.000-05:00

Hmmm, this new phenomenon is stirring in my heart and I don't like it ... a blending into the crowd of traffic, the loss of the "personal" the "intimate" .... I miss my deep personal friendships .... dear friends, please don't move so far away. Its a loss of creativity, a grey routine. Jesus, I don't want to just go through the motions of life. Please be ALIVE in me, sparking life, laughter and light, compassion, concern .... this desert is dry.

Where is the personal? The intimate? The inside jokes and personal concern. I miss it. Waiting on you Lord. Please come and rescue.

source

Inspiration: Tea Party

2011-10-11T18:16:00.001-05:00

source unknown

... please tell me where I might find that fabric! Its so lovely.

DIY:Handmade - The Cabinet's Photo Shoot

2011-10-10T21:05:00.000-05:00

Beautiful, talented young women abound as Jessica Kolias of Oh, My Darling and the lovely Ellie Peterson of e.p.Photography have come together to produce a beautiful photo shoot for The Traveling Cabinet etsy shop! Such sweet ladies to help me out in the middle of a rain storm - yet Ellie's skills proved more than worthy as they turned out magnificently - stunning actually. Enjoy a preview here.

source - Ellie Peterson (e.p.Photography)

model - Jessica Kolias - Oh My Darling

Ministry - Wrestling Match

2011-10-09T20:36:00.001-05:00

source unknown

I find myself in a funniest waiting place - all my ambitions gone and stripped away, tired and bruised .... wisdom teeth coming in too, ouch. So I wait in this place with You, O Lord - like a bird in a glass Menagerie, not a prison, but longing to know when Iwill be free. To the Middle East this spring, if You help me get there, and who knows what's next - its hard to move in a straight line. Wrestling match in my head - everyday. Its good to stop and smell the roses, but don't linger too long, you'll get a headache. Philosophy is a dangerous road to travel - easy to get lost.

Have you ever faced depression? If you have, you're not alone. A few weeks ago a gal told me that practically half our church has or is going through it - so believing in Jesus does guarantee a get-out-of-suffering free card .... that's not what you sign up for when you surrender to him. Instead, you get a lifelong companion to walk you through every valley. Even if you die, he's there. Its not easy, but people who pretend life is probably haven't been honest with themselves or they're running away from something - I don't know. But, in the midst of every trial, I choose Christ - even if I don't know what that looks like yet, I won't give up. Amen.

Field Notes: Love Note #2

2011-10-07T21:40:00.001-05:00

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I got another one today - from my Lord - in the form of a sweet friend, free food at Northwestern (because being an alum DOES pay off during homecoming week) and a lovely chat by the lake. Thank you Jesus. Normally my skeptical brain would say - hey its just a coincidence - but since I DO believe in Jesus and I DO believe that He created the Universe and I DO believe that he answers our cries for help - I do believe this one was of Him (especially since I asked for another one today). It was a beautiful love note a long the way on this crazy weird painful journey that has been this last year. Love you Kayleen.

Field Notes: Invisible

2011-10-05T23:39:00.000-05:00

I find myself at Northwestern quite often - walking like a shadow among the business of everyone else's lives - a ghost. I like to slip quietly away to a corner of the library or tip toe my way to the prayer room where no will question my existence or say something like "hey! you don't go here anymore- what are you doing here?" I dread that question. "Yes, thank you, I know I don't go here anymore, but this place has brought me more joy and purpose than any place else on earth - may I please stay for awhile?" A sanctuary, and I float like a ghost, hoping to be found but dreading the truth, the light, the fact that I don't quite belong anymore. Every once and awhile a remnant of years gone by pulls me back and welcomes me - a friend, a few friends, a chat, a prayer.

Today God sent me a love note - a "hey! I'm still here, I haven't forgotten you" note. I have Mondays and Wednesday mornings free so I decided I would go back to chapel. Hoping no one would call me out, I sulked to a chair up front - "please don't think I'm weird, I know I'm an alum, so lame, but please let me see a friendly face - a smile - a "oh I totally understand, it must feel good to come back".

Today God sent Emily to me - a sweet ICS major (like me) who feels the pain of uncertainty in the same degree that I have the past few months. We talked, we prayed, I cried (happens everyday now) and God reminded me that my dreams aren't dead. It takes courage, though, to surround your self with "help" like chapel, old mentors, and old friends. Its embarrassing to admit that you have no clue how to run your life and you need guidance - you're not ready to leave the nest. Yet, when you're living for an audience of One - you put it all aside, admit you need help, familiarity, and you run to wherever He can be found. Even if its "lame".

Inspiration: Nani Iro Fabric

2011-10-03T22:58:00.002-05:00

Way too expensive for my pocketbook but .... here are few of my favorite fabrics - waiting to be made into dresses....

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Longing

2011-10-02T19:09:00.000-05:00

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Middle East Ministry - Update

2011-09-30T14:27:00.012-05:00

Thank you to everyone who has been praying for me and this opportunity to pursue full-time ministry with e3 Partners this spring.

Currently I am in the process of raising a team of prayer, encouragement, and financial partners in order that I might leave for the Middle East on a short term vision trip this early spring. In addition, I am working part-time as a ministry assistant at First Evangelical Free Church in Minneapolis, MN

I am also continuing to raise support through The Traveling Cabinet etsy shop - including the upcoming HandmadeMN Market on October 22 in Uptown, Minneapolis. I would love to make you a clutch or some earrings ... or anything really!

The need to reach people with the news of Jesus is enormous, and I can't do it alone. Would you consider coming alongside me as a co-laborer in this task?

Join me on the field - e3 partners has many opportunities to serve overseas and in the U.S! Read more about the Middle East and other regions here

Provide creative encouragement - Loneliness and discouragement, both here and on the field, are favorite weapons of the Enemy. Your encouragement is a strong defense! Seriously.

Stand by me in regular prayer - I have so recently felt the pangs of discouragement and pain - you can take a stand through prayer. Consider being a part of my prayer team and receive monthly prayer updates and other prayer resources.

Send me your email address at sbfeltman@gmail.com to receive regular updates.

Spread the word as an advocate - Would you be interested in acting as a host for a home meeting, by gathering friends or family to hear about the need, or perhaps introducing me to your church or small group? I would love to come and speak about what God is doing in the Middle East

Empower me financially - The current budget for this vision trip is approx. $3,500 - some of which goes towards helping women attend the Selah Conference we will be hosting. I hope you will consider joining me in this as a regular financial partner in the future. One-time gifts are also appreciated for my travel expenses and for some initial expenses for this vision trip.

Click here to partner financially online - select "other" and in the box type "Shasta Feltman - Egypt", or make out checks to “e3 Partners Ministry” and attach a separate note “Shasta Feltman - Egypt” Mail to: 2835 Pascal Street #4G, Roseville, MN 55113

Contact Me

Questions or comments? I would love to hear from you! Email me at sbfeltman@gmail.com

So much love,

Shasta

Thirsty

2011-09-28T09:51:00.001-05:00

The driest desert I have ever lived through began last October when I went to Colorado for a season. Its still dry - its still painful - but I trust in the One who made me, the One who sustains me.

“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’This is the first and greatest commandment.

I love Jesus. Do you know what that means? I am "in love" with Jesus. To LOVE - with all my heart and all my mind and all my soul and - I am "in love". I don't know what I'm going to do tomorrow, and there are no sure promises I will be able to feed, clothe, and shelter myself. In fact, I refuse to worry about those things. I refuse. Do not be anxious about anything. I am trusting in Jesus - like a little baby learning to walk. He promised he would provide and sustain - but I LOVE him. So much.

Jesus, I pray for all those who don't know you today, please capture their heart - you are crying out to them, pouring out your love. Jesus, please save them. Please save the ones who are asleep and don't even know they are lost. Amen.

The Traveling Cabinet

Earl Grey & Lemons

Lydia Russell & her Hippo up a Tree

Kony2012

A Few of My Favorite Things...

Midnight & Swing

Waiting

Tigers in the Snow

Inspiration: Botanical Prints

On the Map: Tasmania

Death, Stars and God's Goodness

Unglued Craft Fest 2012 Recap

Inspiration Board No. 6: Blankets & Plaid

Inspiration: Plaids & Tunics

Preparation: Unglued Craft Fest 2012

Tunes - Tyrone Wells "Freedom"

Monday Morning Video

Pan Am Day

Bon Anniversaire - J'ai 23 ans

Gungor - You Are the Beauty

Today, I was interrupted by G.K Chesterton

Journey by Camel!

DIY:Handmade - The Ingrid Tunic ...

Inspiration Board No. 5 - Navy & Gold

DIY:Handmade - Jacqui's Tunic

Cross-Stitch Calendar Freebie - Giveaway

Lovely Finds: Mango Languages

Inspiration Board No. 4 - Dust & Blush

Inspiration: Brook Farm

Events - Unglued Craft Fest: Feb 25th

Stars & Scars

Inspiration Board No. 3 - Lemongrass & Butterscotch

Inspiration Board No. 2: Honey & Pine

Inspiration Board No. 1: Navy & Peach

To Hospital

'bout Town: A Dinner Party

Feedback

Wednesday Things

Lovely Finds: Liberty London

Word & Deed

Inspired by ...

Tossed by the Wind

DIY: Transfer Foto to Fabric

DIY: Felt Ball Necklace

Lovely Finds: Rustic Threads

French Lessons

Gazing

On the Map and in the News: English Breakfast

The Best Christmas Story Ever

Christmas Eve

Traveling Playlist - Sota Boys

Tunic - Schmunic

*ahem* Fa la la la lah, la lah lah lah!

A Window: Life Update

The Fields

"God writes the gospel not in the Bible alone, but on trees and flowers and clouds and stars" -Martin Luther

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Travel Delights

Unqiue L.A.

Craft Fair - Kennedy Choirs Holiday Boutique

L.A. Love

Cabinet Travels - L.A.

Daily Prayer

The Traveling Library: Vintage Travel Poster Finds

Field Notes: The Lord of my heart

DIY:Handmade - French Linen Skirt

The Traveling Cabinet - Christmas Discount

Vintage Love

DIY: Handmade - Scandinavian Earrings Tutorial Part I

Tutorial Finds

Please, Call my name

Real Wedding: Alli & Mike

Prayercast: Bosnia & Herzegovina

Field Notes: I sought the LORD

DIY:Handmade - The Cabinet's Photo Shoot Part III

Field Notes: Ghosts upon the Earth

Real Wedding: Peter & Emily Anderson

Inspiration: Lost & Found

Nokomis Urban Craft Fair - Adventures in selling my wares Part 2

Lovely Finds: Graphic Design, Blogs, Clipart, Fonts

ahem Fa la la la lah, la lah lah lah!