tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34374181064909293482024-02-03T04:35:32.160+11:00amelia magazineAmelia Magazine is a magazine for young girls to encourage them to embrace their 'girlhood' and enjoy the innocence it brings. Full of craft, friendship, cooking and inspiration.Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-46431963801966604892017-10-15T10:07:00.000+11:002017-10-15T10:07:18.161+11:00Picture chinese lanternIt's raining and miserable outside here! I had been hoping to get my hands dirty in the garden today, but I think I'll spend my day cooking and crafting (and, maybe it will clear up later for some gardening!)!<br />
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Here's a simple, little craft that's easy to do with very few resources - that's always a plus! And might take a bit more than a few minutes to do!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqgU9xgH495ahCgbYK99fVMFDELIRmmj8kmiCewUZpqdKWFZX76tVOEdXRwYwKKX8Hybl93MsJZFT9b9z7e5IQOlRCAdLX-tgQSw0P6cfAeNYNJD8FuzeNC0j6SFk9J-FXeTtMip8lF7A/s1600/Picture+chinese+lantern+Amelia+magazine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqgU9xgH495ahCgbYK99fVMFDELIRmmj8kmiCewUZpqdKWFZX76tVOEdXRwYwKKX8Hybl93MsJZFT9b9z7e5IQOlRCAdLX-tgQSw0P6cfAeNYNJD8FuzeNC0j6SFk9J-FXeTtMip8lF7A/s400/Picture+chinese+lantern+Amelia+magazine.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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As a mum of young kids, I often felt like I spent more time collecting and setting up craft 'stuff' than they spent doing it!! But this craft is not like this! Set up in a couple of minutes and keep little crafters busy!<br />
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All you'll need is some paper (or light card), pencils, stapler and scissors!<br />
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Ready to get crafting?<br />
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Download the free printable below ... Colour ... Cut ... Staple<br />
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It's that easy!<br />
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Instructions are printed on the printable you can download <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8frhEqtvlC6ZmcxblVQcUQ2QzA/view?usp=sharing">here</a>.<br />
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This colourful craft is based on Matthew 5:14-16, so it would be perfect for family worship, Bible class, or kids' programs at church!<br />
<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-17003021927035541772017-05-11T22:53:00.000+10:002017-05-11T22:53:07.546+10:00Create for Mother's DayHave you thought about Mother's Day yet? No doubt the kids at school are all onto this in their classes! But mum, have you thought about <i>your</i> mum? (or maybe you're a bit too old for mother's day craft at school!). A hand-made, crafted gift or special time together always means more ... so have you thought about what you're going to do or create?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUwTdee-0BS0n747cYInNa32taBM4rLBTGpW3ESQsj9IqvuobqTaX_5bP6X7S9N6fanCc7VZGPLUDsGS_B6hLymNElZduckeEAnQ9nD_0brZ32EFNlKLE2lutI9scYDqvx7ky5_HeV3Qic/s1600/Create+for+mother%2527s+day.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUwTdee-0BS0n747cYInNa32taBM4rLBTGpW3ESQsj9IqvuobqTaX_5bP6X7S9N6fanCc7VZGPLUDsGS_B6hLymNElZduckeEAnQ9nD_0brZ32EFNlKLE2lutI9scYDqvx7ky5_HeV3Qic/s640/Create+for+mother%2527s+day.png" width="640" /></a></div>
So, if you're up for being a bit creative today, here's a quick little project that would add a cute touch to a special cuppa for mum.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw1jERNrDygun1D3UzhGotRijoRfNy8NKsxGwieO5UFh8edHNQZw93j7DGAMOlFA0Sf9PvERPRajl2oCHEE3Lk1MWy0xxa3-_layJyWWcGXX0ROf9Ov-pKEf0Tld8erx5y9cThSZcwFydU/s1600/Tea+bag+tag.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw1jERNrDygun1D3UzhGotRijoRfNy8NKsxGwieO5UFh8edHNQZw93j7DGAMOlFA0Sf9PvERPRajl2oCHEE3Lk1MWy0xxa3-_layJyWWcGXX0ROf9Ov-pKEf0Tld8erx5y9cThSZcwFydU/s400/Tea+bag+tag.png" width="266" /></a></div>
All you'll need is a few small pieces of felt, a button, needle and thread and scissors!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNHXLZBnZNPkZpvAMgQwVHaREoYXV_UwE4znydjmTr27WgY0UGBvD6tft07NZZC5WfHGH66rJpWn07Z-bfANWyWJWayPfHyHzmAqbqfIzOut1FEiy8Rrushv2wt4H_MAsOa-HLyyRK9Bbo/s1600/tea+bag+tag+instruct.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNHXLZBnZNPkZpvAMgQwVHaREoYXV_UwE4znydjmTr27WgY0UGBvD6tft07NZZC5WfHGH66rJpWn07Z-bfANWyWJWayPfHyHzmAqbqfIzOut1FEiy8Rrushv2wt4H_MAsOa-HLyyRK9Bbo/s320/tea+bag+tag+instruct.png" width="213" /></a></div>
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1.</div>
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Take a small piece of felt and cut it so that it is 10 cm x 3 cm. </div>
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2</div>
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In the very centre, cut a vertical ‘slit’ 1 ½ cm long. </div>
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Cut a flower out of another scrap of felt. To make this easier to cut, first cut out a pattern for the flower and then tape it on to the felt. Cut through the sticky tape around the edge of the template. </div>
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4. </div>
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Stitch (or glue) the flower on to the tag cover right near the end. If you’re stitching, make sure the stitching is on the edge of the flower only. </div>
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5. </div>
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Cut a ‘buttonhole’ out of the centre of the flower – just a horizontal ‘slit’. </div>
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6.</div>
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Stitch a button on the bottom inside of the other end of the felt strip. </div>
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7. </div>
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To use, curl the tag of the tea bag enough to fit through the centre ‘slit,’ fold the cover over the tag, and pull the button through the ‘buttonhole’. </div>
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And there you go, you have a cute little tag for your tea bag!</div>
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Now all you need to do is make that cup of tea!</div>
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<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-13243109675818047782017-05-05T07:00:00.000+10:002017-05-05T07:00:36.621+10:00Cutlery PocketThis has got to be one of my favourite <span style="color: black;">'to-dos' in our current issue! I just had to share it! Pop a little creativity into your day with this quick project!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtjPw9RTnVlidCCinXgXBDgnpDw5jmIusmWzuIAHyKH89xMuBLv0poZvTDcQhHwRLl1B4c8puN9QkvF2yqAExXEdt9ve0yu510WoFfIa9eIhIKNphE3J_uH6nDoHhR48gwNSPk0Zoxp_mL/s1600/upcycled+cutlery+pocket+title.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtjPw9RTnVlidCCinXgXBDgnpDw5jmIusmWzuIAHyKH89xMuBLv0poZvTDcQhHwRLl1B4c8puN9QkvF2yqAExXEdt9ve0yu510WoFfIa9eIhIKNphE3J_uH6nDoHhR48gwNSPk0Zoxp_mL/s400/upcycled+cutlery+pocket+title.png" width="265" /></a></div>
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Such a simple and cute way to lay out a special, girly picnic! Pop your cutlery for each guest inside each pocket. Maybe even add a flower or a little card!</div>
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Make it easy and just use hot glue or clear drying craft glue (hot glue is much better for those who are keen to get on with the project!) or practice your hand-sewing skills and use a running stitch instead of glue.</div>
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<b>You'll need:</b> </div>
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back pocket from an old pair of jeans</div>
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scissors</div>
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pencil</div>
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glue - hot glue or clear craft glue (or needle and thread)</div>
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lace</div>
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ribbon</div>
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buttons</div>
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Cut the back pocket out of the jeans (keep the back fabric on it)</div>
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Trim the back fabric close to the edge of the pocket to neaten it up</div>
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Fold the pocket in half and mark the centre line on the back of the pocket</div>
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Use glue to attach pocket sides down the centre line (or stitch instead of glue)</div>
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Decorate the pocket by wrapping lace and/or ribbon around it. Anchor with glue or stitching</div>
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Attach buttons</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF8FrZn7Zvk99pB-bzaTwRi1aoXyKE-Hexnd0AcLd47icHIVVbteigPjdzaq8cWqk9TbOxhI3TMPSOD-bmGLTgphFaCqiX-erykWQaAYFEizwaN1jtfCHRHxLR5GcDjAZMwrrDyFAdYFJu/s1600/Upcycled+cutlery+pocket+instructions+17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF8FrZn7Zvk99pB-bzaTwRi1aoXyKE-Hexnd0AcLd47icHIVVbteigPjdzaq8cWqk9TbOxhI3TMPSOD-bmGLTgphFaCqiX-erykWQaAYFEizwaN1jtfCHRHxLR5GcDjAZMwrrDyFAdYFJu/s640/Upcycled+cutlery+pocket+instructions+17.png" width="425" /></a></div>
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Now, all there is to do - place a spoon, knife and fork in the pocket and head off for a picnic!!</div>
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PS You'll find this in Issue 12, available <a href="http://www.ameliamagazine.net/Store.php">here</a></div>
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Happy crafting and being creative!</div>
<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-52278818788064078812017-04-27T21:23:00.000+10:002017-04-27T21:23:00.532+10:006 Benefits of Developing Creativity
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You’ll find loads of blogs, pins, posts and infographics
about how to keep your creativity on a roll. Just one short search in the
internet sea, and you’ll haul in a huge catch. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, why? Why are we so
interested in creativity? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Is it really that important that we develop
creativity?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I say, YES!! And have done for many years now. As adults we
benefit immensely from using our creativity, and kids need to use theirs, too. All
too easily, creativity is dampened by the way we experience childhood. Having
to colour within the lines, instructions that the ‘sky must be blue and the
trees green’, and hearing ‘this is the way it should be done’…. while these
have their place, they can impact (squash!) our creativity. There are benefits
to developing our creativity, not just for adults, but for fostering that
innate, born-with creativity children have.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>CONNECT WITH GOD</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">All of us are creative. We are created in the image of a
Creator God, so this shouldn’t surprise us. And that is one of the greatest benefits
of developing creativity! When we use our creativity, we connect with God. I
recall hearing an interview with a ‘creative’ years ago (have no idea now who
it was – a writer or musician or such), and I was amazed that they openly said
their most profound creative moments, came from ‘something’ outside of
themselves. And when that creativity is good and pure and true, it is our
expression of what God whispers in our hearts. Perhaps, we also reflect God’s
character when we use our creativity? I love the way Max Lucado puts it - </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">‘In fact, we are much like God when we dream.’ </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>FIND YOUR VOICE</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The ability to express ourselves, to communicate our
thoughts, feelings and ideas, is a basic need for everyone. Using our creativity
gives us a broader canvas on which to paint our voice – we might express with
language, music, art, handcrafts, photography, play-dough sculptures,
tree-house building … (the list goes on – you get the idea!) In expressing
ourselves, we start to find out who we really are and share ourselves with the
world (and the world is all the more richer for it!).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>HANG ON TO CHILDHOOD</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Being creative gives permission for the freedom of your
inner child. My mother, for many years, has spoken (and practiced well!), about
letting out your inner child. It allows you to dance in the rain, giggle over
bubbles, and snuggle a teddy bear. And when it comes to creativity, it allows
your inner child to come out and be curious about the possibilities, to make a
bolder stroke with your brush, to play with new materials and enjoy it for ‘plays
sake’. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>STEP INTO SOMEONE ELSE’S SHOES</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Looking at the world with a creative mindset helps us to see
things in a different way – we can see things from a different perspective. We
see possibilities, the ‘what might be’s’ and the brighter futures. Not only
that, but you can imagine what it might be like to step into someone else’s
shoes. We develop empathy and compassion for others because we can imagine what
life might be like for someone else.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>GROW COURAGE AND BE BRAVE IN OUR 'UNSUCCESS'</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It takes courage to express yourself creatively. You open up
the vulnerable parts of your soul, and it can be risky exposing that to the
world around you. Using our creativity gives opportunities for rehearsing,
developing and strengthening bravery. Not all creative expressions turn out the
way we plan. All too often we see our creative endeavours as failures (eg when
they don’t live up to what we dreamed they would be like). And so we learn to
deal with what we perceive as unsuccess – we grow strategies for bouncing back,
coping with constructive criticism or even knowing when to quit and start over
again!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>FIND YOURSELF</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You are unique! If you were to not use your creativity, the
world would miss out on the beautiful way you create, make things new, or bring
art, life, love and self-expression into this world! Expressing our creativity
develops our unique qualities, so we are not all the same. God loves variety
and He created us all unique.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You were made to be creative. Go on … grow, free your soul,
add your unique ‘colour’ to the world and make it a better place. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">PS - </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I realise this probably seems out of place at this stage! For
two months now, I’ve decided to be more serious about our blog and facebook. I’ve
started on a number of articles and themes, and not done anything with it. They’re
on the back shelf now! This is a topic dear to my heart. It’s my hope that all
young girls realise their creative potential (and are ‘proud’ of it, too!). It’s
one of the reasons we include in our magazine, ways to use creativity and
imagination!</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-72795547673687024132017-01-12T17:38:00.001+11:002017-01-12T17:38:13.969+11:00Easy 3-step lace painted bottleThis is actually bit of a sneak-peak into our next issue! I wanted to do these as a prop for an upcoming photo shoot for our first issue for 2017. The weather has been super hot here, but today it was a little cooler, so my young PA (my little miss!) and I got outside this afternoon and had fun making a bunch of these! In fact, she made more of them than I did! We loved being able to be outside doing something crafty together.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Oe7hKqfj1UCDDXX6NXMfQGiVSkY2pemTh8JyQzfMB9SCUg78l37NSbf2VRhcjUZhw-12Xfi9RPlM9SFAq_DBWdhbkk9L_-ugct4PrzLdrmcZHlaGxK85uUrAxs6CiuOH_Y6IXzau55pG/s1600/Lace+painted+bottle+graphic+-+amelia+magazine+2017.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Oe7hKqfj1UCDDXX6NXMfQGiVSkY2pemTh8JyQzfMB9SCUg78l37NSbf2VRhcjUZhw-12Xfi9RPlM9SFAq_DBWdhbkk9L_-ugct4PrzLdrmcZHlaGxK85uUrAxs6CiuOH_Y6IXzau55pG/s640/Lace+painted+bottle+graphic+-+amelia+magazine+2017.png" width="426" /></a></div>
In just 3 simple steps, you can have these decorating your room, window, even trees!<br />
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1 Hang an empty, clean bottle outside - we hung ours from the swing set! (we just used a glass soft drink bottle)<br />
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2 Tape a strip of lace around the bottle. The bigger the holes in the lace, the more paint will end up on your bottle.<br />
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3 Spray paint over the lace - not too close, and thin layers at a time so you don't end up with thick paint that wants to drip. We just used a plain white gloss spray paint.<br />
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When the paint is dry (which on a day like today, didn't take long!), carefully remove the lace.<br />
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If you need to pack them up for storage at all, wrap them up in white tissue paper or an old cloth, as the paint can scratch off.<br />
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When you get your next issue, you'll be able to play 'I spy' and see if you can find where we used them!<br />
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<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-55394967873631346542017-01-11T10:07:00.000+11:002017-01-11T10:07:25.964+11:00Getting ready to go back to school!I don't know about other mums, but as a teacher, I think I probably start thinking about going back to school before the previous year even finishes! But for kids, it doesn't usually start until about now! The back-to-school advertising starts and we all begin to think of what we need to get ready for school to return. There's the stationery, the uniform, lunch boxes, school shoes ... the list can seem unending! But what about the things that will help you truly see the year through and your precious girl grow. Here's a back-to-school checklist with a twist.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOnI44mtTXEi9ORi9I7qJjkupc8EUN3CXXsANf8C0hkcnAIDDKy9atOG9Q-hW2wK29ji9CHpPrpgG5vXKPk5D5WKBgKlIm2w01wEm0RPN-TFsDk0fJdMmzyvMMMw_PEiRkuSmt5mgs9UQ/s1600/Back+to+school+infographic+-+Amelia+magazine+2017.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOnI44mtTXEi9ORi9I7qJjkupc8EUN3CXXsANf8C0hkcnAIDDKy9atOG9Q-hW2wK29ji9CHpPrpgG5vXKPk5D5WKBgKlIm2w01wEm0RPN-TFsDk0fJdMmzyvMMMw_PEiRkuSmt5mgs9UQ/s1600/Back+to+school+infographic+-+Amelia+magazine+2017.png" /></a></div>
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STATIONERY<br />
While you're thinking of all your stationery needs, consider how you will use them. Use your words to bring joy to others, lift them up, and be a light in your corner of the world. You might even want to consider making some little cards or notepaper to keep in stock.<br />
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GRATITUDE<br />
An attitude of gratitude will get you through many experiences that could easily get you down. You might be worried about school starting, how your friends will treat you, or how you'll like your new teacher for the year. Every day, think of something you can be thankful for - even if it is just that the sun is out or you are breathing! Once you start an attitude of gratitude, it will become easier and easier to find the good in your life (and in others!).<br />
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DIARY<br />
Oh, yes - where would you be without a diary! I know I can't get by without something to help me keep organised - be it with deadlines, to-do lists or activities. And you'll certainly do better at school with one! But, what would it be like, to plan into your 'schedule' ways to be kind, generous and positive to those around you? It might be a random act of kindness, or a way to give of your time or talents, or a positive activity to do with your friends.<br />
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BREAKFAST<br />
You've heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day - it gives you energy for your day's activities, gets your brain firing and helps you to concentrate. A positive attitude from the start of the day will keep your outlook positive for the rest of the day. I well remember getting up grumpy as a child, and my mum telling me to go back to bed and get out of bed on the right side! So true - being positive from the very start will not only impact me, but everyone I come in contact with. It doesn't mean my day will always be great, but it certainly changes the way I handle it!<br />
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LUNCHBOX<br />
Every year we do this - make sure everyone has the right lunchbox for their needs, containers for snacks, water bottles ... But there's more to it than just having the right gear - as a mum, I want to make sure my kids have what they need to eat healthy while they are at school. And as kids grow up, they have more say in their food choices (maybe they even share food with their friends). Healthy food choices are a great habit to develop now - and keep up energy levels and health through the stress of a school year. Lunches should include some slow release foods like sandwiches or rice cakes, something fresh like salad or fruit and have little or no added sugar and high energy snacks like potato chips or lollies.<br />
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UNIFORM<br />
Almost inevitably, kids will have outgrown their uniform from the year before. Want something they won't outgrow? Develop a sense of pride in wearing a uniform neatly and smartly, respect for their school and school leaders in wearing a uniform as required, and a habit of looking after clothing with putting uniforms in the wash and hanging up when they're clean (and maybe even knowing where their shoes are each day!). While all of that is great for girls to value, it's also important that those who are special in their lives, help them to realise that it is their inner beauty that makes a difference. Encourage them to wear a smile, wear shoes that lead others in a positive way, and adorn themselves with love and joy.<br />
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Happy preparing for school to return! And all the best for a great school year!Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-88232264977913787532016-12-30T14:39:00.001+11:002016-12-30T14:39:22.071+11:00Getting ready for 2017!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPH3PDb6IfBH7u-4enlC8zGsbl0yhgfXldFYwekzhz9wGl7UXhTOrvtGidThCBTsKgncXUakrmeIw67H7nT4vVICVHrkifibhWIg6o97wBpJV8ET3IQ20GxdAlKcAgX7WJX-s8ZpUm8YD/s1600/Blog+title+graphic+2017.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPH3PDb6IfBH7u-4enlC8zGsbl0yhgfXldFYwekzhz9wGl7UXhTOrvtGidThCBTsKgncXUakrmeIw67H7nT4vVICVHrkifibhWIg6o97wBpJV8ET3IQ20GxdAlKcAgX7WJX-s8ZpUm8YD/s320/Blog+title+graphic+2017.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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We're getting all ready for a new year! After much frustration getting images the right size, LOOK! We've updated our blog! I'm loving it's fresh, summery feel.</div>
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I think, and if you were to ask the girls they'd agree - the photo shoot for this photo was the best one we've done! It's been such a privilege to see these girls grow into young women over the years, and what a blessing they've been to our magazine.</div>
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Be sure to sign up to have updates go straight to your email so you can keep your finger on the pulse here at AMELIA. We have insights into our plans for 2017 as well as an annual, prayerful dedication for AMELIA with our staff and regular contributors.</div>
<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-59852615860468123722016-12-22T15:15:00.003+11:002016-12-22T15:15:48.474+11:0012 Days of Christmas - Day 10 - Pomander of Spice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcxT4cKunpKQDiKlHyn_PvC1eI7kFf1VM55QDqSJkyOWr2aH5J6Y5BtY36kVXVGDP4FLvRp6zBfhc_VAIAZBAliFUTzkgq9CTA2iDdsy3ms_hmBQO0SMAjMY8LcncUmb_Ir26GsWypqPXM/s1600/12+days+of+christmas+day+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcxT4cKunpKQDiKlHyn_PvC1eI7kFf1VM55QDqSJkyOWr2aH5J6Y5BtY36kVXVGDP4FLvRp6zBfhc_VAIAZBAliFUTzkgq9CTA2iDdsy3ms_hmBQO0SMAjMY8LcncUmb_Ir26GsWypqPXM/s320/12+days+of+christmas+day+10.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Do you have a house full of lanterns glowing their Christmas lights?! Hope you had fun making them. Did you decorate them with pencils or textas?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Today, I have something that I used to make with my mother
to hang in the cupboard to keep the moths away and help the clothes to smell
nice. They make a great little present, too! You could make them tag-team style
– sometimes little fingers get sore!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvQNNPZWZXmwgxz-jDy2Q-ZJWTKNvYN1ZMY86xSIJ2l4KE9TulyGbq75OUis-ap80thHo2eQ75vuUDo5AOpNVD-oERhbu_xNszX1xdDER7Cym_cIIY_Ei5mg4-KGwoADA_B7NOhyphenhyphen1QTkX/s1600/12+Days+of+christmas+pomander+of+spice+graphic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvQNNPZWZXmwgxz-jDy2Q-ZJWTKNvYN1ZMY86xSIJ2l4KE9TulyGbq75OUis-ap80thHo2eQ75vuUDo5AOpNVD-oERhbu_xNszX1xdDER7Cym_cIIY_Ei5mg4-KGwoADA_B7NOhyphenhyphen1QTkX/s640/12+Days+of+christmas+pomander+of+spice+graphic.png" width="426" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Here’s how simple it is: tie ribbon around the orange and make a loop for it to hang from. Pin it in place. Poke the cloves into the skin of the orange – all over! You might find you need to pierce the skin with a skewer first. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Some people preserve these with more spices and orris root powder, but as a kid, we never did. Although it won't last for years, it will still be nice and fragrant for a couple of months! I wonder how long Mary kept the presents that the wise men gave Jesus? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">These could make a quick and lovely gift, or place them in a bowl on the table to fill the room with its sweet scent! A bit like you, with all the Christmas joy you are bringing to your little corner of the world, sweetening with a beautiful aroma!</span></div>
<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-9664641535476076802016-12-21T18:55:00.004+11:002016-12-21T19:02:54.417+11:0012 Days of Christmas - Day 9 - Christmas House Lantern<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYk0Cc6t4iOquUYeRnd1B8y_uZ0RsDRzpyu15RhgJpiBOJDhSFPkOXkV7ncBDkiRs4TwvpDm1bL-Hhwe_ztnlVtKnknHpOi61ELZnynFMvhEYP6_NZahMtKKKDRe6O4swY9_YLWZ6-8idg/s1600/12+days+of+christmas+day+nine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYk0Cc6t4iOquUYeRnd1B8y_uZ0RsDRzpyu15RhgJpiBOJDhSFPkOXkV7ncBDkiRs4TwvpDm1bL-Hhwe_ztnlVtKnknHpOi61ELZnynFMvhEYP6_NZahMtKKKDRe6O4swY9_YLWZ6-8idg/s320/12+days+of+christmas+day+nine.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">I could imagine that as Mary and
Joseph arrived in Bethlehem, there were lights shining from inside all the
houses. And, when I think of a traditional, Victorian Christmas, I think of the
soft glow of light shining out of those quaint little houses.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6iP8nZKSa5hS0tQhYWuASZgiVU_8ofajn7qVhne_6_Frd-tb_-PfSLYgTb15MzqfF03ru7spRJs78tkJiwmYNCFMMJM6RZ1rxQ1hNdCrLJvey-Zxqn9PWrUVNRktb-zZDCxBcxAyuAgZQ/s1600/Christmas+house+lantern+graphic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6iP8nZKSa5hS0tQhYWuASZgiVU_8ofajn7qVhne_6_Frd-tb_-PfSLYgTb15MzqfF03ru7spRJs78tkJiwmYNCFMMJM6RZ1rxQ1hNdCrLJvey-Zxqn9PWrUVNRktb-zZDCxBcxAyuAgZQ/s320/Christmas+house+lantern+graphic.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">So, we couldn’t help but make a cute
little house that can shine its Christmas glow!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Simply print off this printable <span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8frhEqtvlC6c1pXN0FxTFM2V2c/view?usp=sharing">here</a></span> onto light card, cut
out on the cutting line, join the sides and tabs with glue, then glue on the
extra decoration!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Pop a little battery-operated tea-light candle inside so it can shine out the windows! You could maybe make a whole row of these little houses, or draw on your own details.</span></div>
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<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-72745317780244832712016-12-20T09:00:00.000+11:002016-12-20T09:00:07.801+11:0012 Days of Christmas - Day 8 - Spicey Wise Men Gift<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtCcgBoLEeHxhwddAd3He3Uyq1u5nbqZGrk7GuRk8rzRE_AA1TNTHfuS0O0rPMbVr0yzmWtcawrIpN20N7XtHkxAL9AAczFLTdu4gbjU_7r_PIMWn-cY4p2pYxQ8hpvxa7qCBBk60J0ZqX/s1600/12+days+of+christmas+day+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtCcgBoLEeHxhwddAd3He3Uyq1u5nbqZGrk7GuRk8rzRE_AA1TNTHfuS0O0rPMbVr0yzmWtcawrIpN20N7XtHkxAL9AAczFLTdu4gbjU_7r_PIMWn-cY4p2pYxQ8hpvxa7qCBBk60J0ZqX/s320/12+days+of+christmas+day+8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Seeing the star, the wise men, who
had studied the prophecies, set out to find the newborn King. Among their
belongings and supplies were gifts to give the King. These were gifts given to
those of royal birth. Can you remember what they were? Gold, frankincense and myrrh.
Some believe these gifts had special significance: gold for His kingship, frankincense
for His priestly role and myrrh for His embalming when He died. The wise men
must have been so excited to finally find the King they had searched for. Have
you found The King? Are you excited about it? Don’t you want to share that joy
with someone else?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">We all know what gold is!
Frankincense and myrrh are both resins from trees. You might not be able to
give these as a gift to someone else, but you can give them a gift of spices!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUB83eUYJnKPXEtqkbqn_5AAby03TEGlptq-bVIgTEENQr14MK03M7S0dCrKuiIXpvfCdRBJMBfEWCtyNxTkLplvjmnr8RzCgi7TE2iVtR3E8zeZlgTUlzIBDQpwIcseIcvyO8w-ZX8nrf/s1600/Spicey+wise+men+gift+graphic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUB83eUYJnKPXEtqkbqn_5AAby03TEGlptq-bVIgTEENQr14MK03M7S0dCrKuiIXpvfCdRBJMBfEWCtyNxTkLplvjmnr8RzCgi7TE2iVtR3E8zeZlgTUlzIBDQpwIcseIcvyO8w-ZX8nrf/s640/Spicey+wise+men+gift+graphic.png" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Put together in a jar:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">2 sticks of cinnamon</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">1 Tablespoon of whole cloves</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">A few star anise</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">2 whole nutmeg</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Some dried ginger</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">1 Tablespoon cardamom pods</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Spices need to be heated to release
their aroma, so to fill your house with the smell of Christmas, place the
contents of the jar into a saucepan, cover with water and heat to a simmer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">This would make a great gift –
simple and easy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">‘… they went on their way, and the
star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the
place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On
coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed
down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him
with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.’ Matthew 2:9-11 </span></div>
<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-24548289682340522942016-12-19T13:58:00.000+11:002016-12-19T13:58:09.207+11:0012 Days of Christmas - Day 7 - Gingerbread Man Ornament<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiM0ztg4mDWuuSTjC11IZu4xO-fu_V1VIXIaaQzrHCleA-pNxH7bJxFZsZsYe-V-HyKlKvz-PR2WbC84WuyOTiBm5yeX2ht94aEZuZjVAUB4_wNnZdwBqqAOI4KoklCZ3a4I4gJ3rPIRGF/s1600/12+days+of+christmas+day+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiM0ztg4mDWuuSTjC11IZu4xO-fu_V1VIXIaaQzrHCleA-pNxH7bJxFZsZsYe-V-HyKlKvz-PR2WbC84WuyOTiBm5yeX2ht94aEZuZjVAUB4_wNnZdwBqqAOI4KoklCZ3a4I4gJ3rPIRGF/s320/12+days+of+christmas+day+7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Gift-giving doesn’t need to be
expensive or something large. I think some of the nicest gives are the ones
that are hand-made. Here’s a simple little one that would be easy to make a
number of at one time. Great for friends, teachers, Sabbath School leaders or
to decorate your Christmas tree with.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_E8KIt0JJ1zJdHwuDrV2oY0XkWK5OTlP6tIU916sQ1LTBRps9c4_08sC5ePrikpFo_FsXY3c_HAPv-IJ2yfWQ6B_NQNQToCZfxFhCA5qKVFJcrSob4az7O-E2Cbs9iH18YEr98Qve3L_/s1600/Gingerbread+man+ornament+graphic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_E8KIt0JJ1zJdHwuDrV2oY0XkWK5OTlP6tIU916sQ1LTBRps9c4_08sC5ePrikpFo_FsXY3c_HAPv-IJ2yfWQ6B_NQNQToCZfxFhCA5qKVFJcrSob4az7O-E2Cbs9iH18YEr98Qve3L_/s640/Gingerbread+man+ornament+graphic.png" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Make a batch of your favourite
gingerbread recipe and cut out little gingerbread men.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">While they’re baking in the oven,
get a clear, plastic ornament (you can find some in craft stores, or we picked
this one up in the after-Christmas sales last year!). If you have one like
ours, carefully cut almost completely around it with a stanley knife (only an
adult should do this) – leaving a bit connected to act as a hinge. Glue some
string or ribbon to tie it closed with, and then decorate the cut edge on one
side.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Use the recipe below to make some
royal icing. Place the royal icing in a piping bag, and decorate the
gingerbread man – give him a face, some hands and feet, even some buttons!</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Once the icing is dry, place a large
amount of it in the bottom of the ornament and stand the gingerbread man in it.
You may need to hold him there (or prop him up) until the icing is nearly set.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">And there you have it! A little
gingerbread man gift! And as you give this gift, think of how the wise men
brought their gifts to baby Jesus.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij3PcuXwFD7tyg5fx7f7GS_gCuogNAp_NHwSvLVHvM1d8E-8CTSXxTcDPSbzVdfEjHcw2tFMYRJ0Y9kcW6j3b1O_qmTTIbUlSYNwApYUK_5WZKnNuq7A7U20GYDP7siVe3Rtii7gAKgeHu/s1600/Royal+icing+recipe+graphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij3PcuXwFD7tyg5fx7f7GS_gCuogNAp_NHwSvLVHvM1d8E-8CTSXxTcDPSbzVdfEjHcw2tFMYRJ0Y9kcW6j3b1O_qmTTIbUlSYNwApYUK_5WZKnNuq7A7U20GYDP7siVe3Rtii7gAKgeHu/s640/Royal+icing+recipe+graphic.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Tomorrow, you'll need some whole spices like cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and a jar!</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-7059335137914386922016-12-19T08:57:00.000+11:002016-12-19T08:57:18.798+11:0012 Days of Christmas - Day 6 - Movie Night!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMg3BYKkjS-djz3lI_HGlP_6PEPRTAHbN2y8FpCDS_H2oKp4Toam_fzcI4rWZbmhmon_UaQrskh7hTzb0neuMKbLAzFnkysW6eTOJlS-mTSihva5QtKPh1QB6wBsM_Pbm9cGIycMZDKXE/s1600/12+days+of+christmas+day+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSMg3BYKkjS-djz3lI_HGlP_6PEPRTAHbN2y8FpCDS_H2oKp4Toam_fzcI4rWZbmhmon_UaQrskh7hTzb0neuMKbLAzFnkysW6eTOJlS-mTSihva5QtKPh1QB6wBsM_Pbm9cGIycMZDKXE/s320/12+days+of+christmas+day+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">It’s become tradition in our home to
have a movie night on Saturday night. Last night, though, we were involved in a
big Christmas concert so we’re doing it tonight instead! And it’s worked out
well – I think I might be rather tired after just getting through the last week
of school and a concert!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">And, Christmas isn’t Christmas
without watching at least ONE soul-lifting, joyful Christmas movie! So, today,
why not plan to watch a movie together tonight!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">What movie will you watch? The top
of my Christmas movie list is always White Christmas and Miracle on 34<sup>th</sup>
Street. After watching them I’m left with a sense of Christmas, maybe some
tears (!) and a happy, joyful soul – remembering what Christmas should be about
– sharing love and family – not about getting what’s on your Christmas list.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Add a special touch to the night and
make some donut popcorn (see recipe below) and spiced hot
chocolate (just add a pinch of cinnamon and make the hot chocolate with hot
milk instead of water for a smooth, creamy hot chocolate!).</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcl7f9hAsPdP6y1tozb8sLRE7QZBYUrGZWJISUv_6994Y08byb_PGdk-6xStIGBSmEnSPVifPXAmzSN4GWhrU1cJ8PyGckwsEfoumpgFO1h8PLr1FEfr57fAtkmOiQ_Tmp_v7c0lmqY7E/s1600/Donut+popcorn+graphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcl7f9hAsPdP6y1tozb8sLRE7QZBYUrGZWJISUv_6994Y08byb_PGdk-6xStIGBSmEnSPVifPXAmzSN4GWhrU1cJ8PyGckwsEfoumpgFO1h8PLr1FEfr57fAtkmOiQ_Tmp_v7c0lmqY7E/s640/Donut+popcorn+graphic.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">After (or during!) the movie, have a
chat about how you can bring those same Christmas feelings of joy to those
around you. Jesus was born to bring joy – to show us the wonders of heaven.
Share the joy around this Christmas.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">'I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.' John 15:11</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"></span><br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-16691424769384128222016-12-19T08:24:00.003+11:002016-12-19T08:24:54.880+11:0012 Days of Christmas - Day Five - The Christmas Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1oQmbeDOr6Zw0i0F8dP0ns2elhTtADPsy58eCDBROXKeukJ-LgEBiDjt_MkZG0o1J9irjnHDjK6geFxI1xtS8iB1HSGHX2PmlblzyRMg7j_2ySaE9DoBRzdVVdL-DVuc_RlkGJ7yrkkxv/s1600/12+days+of+christmas+day+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1oQmbeDOr6Zw0i0F8dP0ns2elhTtADPsy58eCDBROXKeukJ-LgEBiDjt_MkZG0o1J9irjnHDjK6geFxI1xtS8iB1HSGHX2PmlblzyRMg7j_2ySaE9DoBRzdVVdL-DVuc_RlkGJ7yrkkxv/s320/12+days+of+christmas+day+5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">You can’t possibly go through
Christmas without reading the story of the first, most wonderful Christmas,
when Jesus was born! I don’t know about you, but it gets me teary every time I
read it!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">So, snuggle up with your precious
girl and have a read. You could take turns reading, or let her pick a person in
the story and read what they said while you narrate the rest. Really try to
imagine what it was like back then, think about what might have been
happening in heaven (how joyous those angels would have been!).</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">The story is found in Matthew
1:18-2:12 and Luke 2:1-20. Or find a book that tells the story with beautiful
pictures. </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Talk about it afterwards. What does
the story change in your life? How does it make you feel?</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">‘For to us a child is born, to us a
son is given … And He will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.’ Isaiah 9:6</span></div>
<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-7668014613727514792016-12-16T08:14:00.001+11:002016-12-16T08:14:10.836+11:0012 Days of Christmas - Day 4 - RANDOM ACTS OF CHRISTMAS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrnzDLz_d4O_Nnnlfi19UNnVf28z2VGit_LVEE06i1ToEzya9SxQ2I4bDuIu5Ym4HyAgrflASDzYTbbkYEB_ktgezodDuYdjjcT9H0o7ugwetO5FwbjEI7FMvukuZVBoXpRlLba8E93wIS/s1600/12+days+of+christmas+day+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrnzDLz_d4O_Nnnlfi19UNnVf28z2VGit_LVEE06i1ToEzya9SxQ2I4bDuIu5Ym4HyAgrflASDzYTbbkYEB_ktgezodDuYdjjcT9H0o7ugwetO5FwbjEI7FMvukuZVBoXpRlLba8E93wIS/s320/12+days+of+christmas+day+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Are you ready to bring a Christmas
spirit to your little corner of your neighbourhood?! Today’s activity isn’t a
craft – it’s a random act of Christmas! Here are some ideas, or you might come
up with some ideas of your own!</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKJw1bBmOEx2I4xlMdZMWaTBQO5YHQ41jlbuyMVpI1g01yrl4zgx9G8e0KJ93Kl80FLnC-5gok9nYnoIq9fkPGPIvqrwNxnzn-I4MSmi5kVFKn1kcnYIoXiMTSCRLt55QhSq0G92VvSfM/s1600/random+acts+of+christmas+infographic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKJw1bBmOEx2I4xlMdZMWaTBQO5YHQ41jlbuyMVpI1g01yrl4zgx9G8e0KJ93Kl80FLnC-5gok9nYnoIq9fkPGPIvqrwNxnzn-I4MSmi5kVFKn1kcnYIoXiMTSCRLt55QhSq0G92VvSfM/s640/random+acts+of+christmas+infographic.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-65118206624282187442016-12-15T08:08:00.006+11:002016-12-15T08:08:53.445+11:0012 Days of Christmas - Day 3 - Snowflake Pom Pom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjII9vinf8I-JJUwyWhqpuRlhQFlPdtxzzX6QSDdX07gFKoD2qFwzFcOdDnsRdejkZsPLVykmq2enXc498rHF4ka_DD3n4DqVTJ-2akIahY0mfJJwUgf9iilPkEvJZR7QmCbd9aeunoRKw_/s1600/12+days+of+Christmas+Day+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjII9vinf8I-JJUwyWhqpuRlhQFlPdtxzzX6QSDdX07gFKoD2qFwzFcOdDnsRdejkZsPLVykmq2enXc498rHF4ka_DD3n4DqVTJ-2akIahY0mfJJwUgf9iilPkEvJZR7QmCbd9aeunoRKw_/s320/12+days+of+Christmas+Day+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">How did your snowflakes turn out
yesterday? What have you done with them? Did you save some for today?</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLbjspifkq9c_iMO9RcJPc2Shhj7pPKLuNrxDVKFUABFtqeDClmEqKKlgLQC0d2uUmfm2rFXRkfd-OkT2jgAoXnOzyUJ9_Gn8Yw0EkPl_zTUimpGyqgJZRVpE96tn_AcoIqqbC-9W-OgG/s1600/12+days+day+3+snowflake+pom+pom+graphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLbjspifkq9c_iMO9RcJPc2Shhj7pPKLuNrxDVKFUABFtqeDClmEqKKlgLQC0d2uUmfm2rFXRkfd-OkT2jgAoXnOzyUJ9_Gn8Yw0EkPl_zTUimpGyqgJZRVpE96tn_AcoIqqbC-9W-OgG/s640/12+days+day+3+snowflake+pom+pom+graphic.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Today, we’re going to turn some of
those lovely snowflakes into a pom-pom. And it’s so easy you’ll be making piles
of them in no time! And, having great mummy-daughter time together – there’s
something about busy hands in company that makes way for comfortable deep and
meaningfuls!</span></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">All you need to do for your pom-pom is make two stacks of six snowflakes.</span></div>
</li>
<li></li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Push a split pin through the centre of one stack and spread it open about halfway on the back of the stack. Do the same with the other stack.</span></div>
</li>
<li></li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Starting at the top of one stack, pull the first snowflake up gently and give it a bit of a squeeze around the centre. Pull up the second snowflake and do the same, but don’t squeeze quite so tight. Then do the same for the third.</span></div>
</li>
<li></li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Flip the stack over and repeat for the remaining 3 snowflakes.</span></div>
</li>
<li></li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Do that all again with the second stack.</span></div>
</li>
<li></li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Now, imagine you are going to create a cross-shape with the two stacks (with them turned on their sides).</span></div>
</li>
<li></li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Tie some string around the split pin in the middle of one stack, then around the split pin of the other stack. Leave the tail of string to use for hanging.</span></div>
</li>
<li></li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Fluff out the snowflakes so the pom-pom looks like a ball.</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Isn’t it pretty?! And just think,
each one of the snowflakes there is beautiful just because there is not another
single one like it!</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">There’s a splendour in this
collection of unique snowflakes, that reminds me of groups of friends, or
families or communities. Each snowflake is important in bringing its unique
qualities to add to the beauty of the group. Much the same way that you do.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">God loves you so much He made you
unique. And He wants to see your beauty shine out when you are with others.
Could your Christmas present to God this year, be you shining your individual
uniqueness, adding to the beauty around you, to make the world a brighter
place?</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-71487342203961112332016-12-14T07:09:00.001+11:002016-12-15T08:04:23.382+11:0012 Days of Christmas - Day Two - PAPER SNOWFLAKES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAI4EkVJZG4_v4_BiCR7Y6NR8UKL8CrKT1iHX8MmeVN9nTiZY3jLTR7y-8tI3aFFWwyOTVJMTN8MByTRHvGLnmA9VfxJzoR6oBIJDCk_7PqG4iaM8Be6OAe890niLyZWDHeU8ULfce0GfB/s1600/12+Days+of+Christmas+Day+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAI4EkVJZG4_v4_BiCR7Y6NR8UKL8CrKT1iHX8MmeVN9nTiZY3jLTR7y-8tI3aFFWwyOTVJMTN8MByTRHvGLnmA9VfxJzoR6oBIJDCk_7PqG4iaM8Be6OAe890niLyZWDHeU8ULfce0GfB/s320/12+Days+of+Christmas+Day+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Do you remember doing these? There
are just some things that are so simple, yet are still fun to do years later,
and this is one of them!</span></div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkcgzvWxlfx5FSzSJGX-7f7M8QAA-Ma4zpZo2xb1x9xYhsgJGrWBdINCik0C90k5RvJgK8CyKEL4Yka4IkH_AuRgOrQL1oURhZa8OHhf30NCKZakB2vUBr0FGTflwPR5i3b_I4OwqUCJY4/s1600/12+days+day+2+paper+snowflake+graphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkcgzvWxlfx5FSzSJGX-7f7M8QAA-Ma4zpZo2xb1x9xYhsgJGrWBdINCik0C90k5RvJgK8CyKEL4Yka4IkH_AuRgOrQL1oURhZa8OHhf30NCKZakB2vUBr0FGTflwPR5i3b_I4OwqUCJY4/s640/12+days+day+2+paper+snowflake+graphic.jpg" width="329" /></a></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Take a piece of paper cut into a square.</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Fold it in half, then like a pie slice into thirds (this gives a true snowflake look!). Then in half again.</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Cut shapes out of the folded edges – keeping in mind that you are cutting out only half of the shape.</span></div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Open it out, and there you have it!
A beautiful, unique snowflake!</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Pretty it up with a touch of glitter
or glitter glue on the edges.</span></div>
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</div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Fill a window with them taped to the
glass (or use blu-tac), or hang them from your ceiling!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Here’s a hint: save some for tomorrow,
as well – you’ll need at least 12 the same size!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "century gothic" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;">Did you know that each snowflake is
unique. There is not one that is the same as the other. So, why does God love
you so much that He would send Jesus to be born here that first Christmas? One
reason is that He made you. He made you as the only one of you ever to exist.
And He has made you for a reason. Be that reason this Christmas. Put your
passions, interests and talents to the best use you can. Others will see that
spark in you and you’ll make a Christmas difference in the world around you!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
'For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made!' Psalm 139:13,14</div>
<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-75596025059807280382016-12-13T09:00:00.000+11:002016-12-14T06:59:47.154+11:0012 Days of Christmas - Day One- Washi Tape Card<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-45alUwDLTbTV3hcAQeKLbtwN_4JnzpKQruMCWU5FDw7CAal0oyzoShc6ietmqsz-Qm0ZUDN_HFu7rPe_dQEss0dA9OtdiyF19woKcEy0s5-8j_Gq-q0cGC37HNne6_3vNX6RgOS_YrLr/s1600/12+Days+of+Christmas+Day+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-45alUwDLTbTV3hcAQeKLbtwN_4JnzpKQruMCWU5FDw7CAal0oyzoShc6ietmqsz-Qm0ZUDN_HFu7rPe_dQEss0dA9OtdiyF19woKcEy0s5-8j_Gq-q0cGC37HNne6_3vNX6RgOS_YrLr/s320/12+Days+of+Christmas+Day+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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'I'm dreamin' of a white Christmas, with every Christmas card I write ...' It's one of those classic Christmas songs, isn't it? I love it! And it's so true - we associate Christmas with cards. Here's a simple start to our 12 Days of Christmas - a little washi tape card!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipe806vzmd3KVjEjklc8jEYSQ3Lx3-IX11Ad476mcCiEVkg4Lbev_t4BQZ4JLcPM7WnTaqWmi98J7pGgx8nuUv97FyXxfe37Z5OHUT_CibYmPzjybIi3Kd3igAJiKaSLWKO2YjNB3ldHCu/s1600/12+Days+Washi+tape+graphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipe806vzmd3KVjEjklc8jEYSQ3Lx3-IX11Ad476mcCiEVkg4Lbev_t4BQZ4JLcPM7WnTaqWmi98J7pGgx8nuUv97FyXxfe37Z5OHUT_CibYmPzjybIi3Kd3igAJiKaSLWKO2YjNB3ldHCu/s320/12+Days+Washi+tape+graphic.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Take some cardboard and cut to size. You could make a flat card, or a folded one.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimj8C5GcQm7WQQq46wyWWBwM0xlGrKFpplbqhDtCRq_8ZUXXyo-d3WXukbOBmvyCM_fuLc_qq0ts3TeZ_79BhL6yhFVksxaWNqZsh338cl3-MHfE0zDCT_WUaLNgk1p00g-sysVRjOc1jX/s1600/20161211_101025_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-02.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimj8C5GcQm7WQQq46wyWWBwM0xlGrKFpplbqhDtCRq_8ZUXXyo-d3WXukbOBmvyCM_fuLc_qq0ts3TeZ_79BhL6yhFVksxaWNqZsh338cl3-MHfE0zDCT_WUaLNgk1p00g-sysVRjOc1jX/s320/20161211_101025_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-02.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Cut a strip of washi tape and trim one end as you would trim the end of a ribbon, with a little 'v'.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgflRiMBO4KNuQh7ssxAZWvslwn9rqCPj0nRp4ZwgVBbNhcCbbfmWpNGc6lHRflz5R5gtKWbvPQIdE-AHRlGDGtYmPtUGG2UKlbr6h0rB84weUvGUrD2o6Q3NjJtWmN2AtUGIO7BaqYFS4F/s1600/20161211_101200_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgflRiMBO4KNuQh7ssxAZWvslwn9rqCPj0nRp4ZwgVBbNhcCbbfmWpNGc6lHRflz5R5gtKWbvPQIdE-AHRlGDGtYmPtUGG2UKlbr6h0rB84weUvGUrD2o6Q3NjJtWmN2AtUGIO7BaqYFS4F/s320/20161211_101200_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Place the tape on the cardboard - don't worry about it going over the edge.<br />
Add a couple more strips of washi tape.<br />
Trim the washi tape at the edge of the card.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7r4JYkqqdh8ZOklW9UmiORy-Zyq98z9IvY8S9k4mrRy5DuZBqni8DOWigwfbw1MI_dQ_NqEMckmuKTo2zwO0b32QZUl_NShahYqPS6OHYEOt337eqnk2cnRjLkO7oH5lDK_Xys75be5h/s1600/20161211_101447_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW7r4JYkqqdh8ZOklW9UmiORy-Zyq98z9IvY8S9k4mrRy5DuZBqni8DOWigwfbw1MI_dQ_NqEMckmuKTo2zwO0b32QZUl_NShahYqPS6OHYEOt337eqnk2cnRjLkO7oH5lDK_Xys75be5h/s320/20161211_101447_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Hot glue buttons on the end of the washi tape strips.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH6XHw7yN-uGPdBOnuZWoaXDgGMSGPK4iwN-79zYzLHpEla6ISEh8PLfiYiijDMUB9_jRdwnitDUoss_TLteIvfkJfQOljXOV7rcoI2btcybH3bb6ik3ddktAsVMX9g4Er6rgsDHTG8IQB/s1600/20161211_102445_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH6XHw7yN-uGPdBOnuZWoaXDgGMSGPK4iwN-79zYzLHpEla6ISEh8PLfiYiijDMUB9_jRdwnitDUoss_TLteIvfkJfQOljXOV7rcoI2btcybH3bb6ik3ddktAsVMX9g4Er6rgsDHTG8IQB/s320/20161211_102445_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Why not listen to some Christmas music while you're making this. You could make a whole set of cards, ready to use when you think of who to send them to. Use this card to let someone know how much you appreciate them. <br />
<br />
<span style="margin: 0px;"><span style="color: black;">Christmas is all about love. It started with God’s
love for us. He loved YOU so much, that He did all He could do to make sure YOU
can spend eternity with HIM. He gave up His own son, to come and live here.
Jesus was born, just like you and me, but He lived out His life showing us just
what God is like. He loved all those around Him. And He did all He could do to
show that love. Christmas is a celebration of the greatest love we could ever
experience.</span></span><br />
<br />
At Christmas time we make the most of this opportunity to let people know we're thinking of them, or to catch up and let them know what we've been up to. But we can also turn this into a time to bring real heart-joy to someone by telling them how much they mean to us. Share some of the love of Christmas - the love of Jesus, by making someone feel special and cared for.<br />
<br />
With your daughter, write a list of people you'd like to share Christmas joy with, and write your newly-made cards to them. You could even pop them in the post - we so rarely receive letters in the mail, it makes it kind of special when we do!<br />
<br />
'Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.' 1 John 4:7Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-79955661904102196142016-12-12T22:59:00.000+11:002016-12-12T22:59:00.154+11:0012 Days of Christmas Starts Soon!
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Planning on joining us for our 12
Days of Christmas? We get started TOMORROW! Simply keep an eye out for a post
here on our blog and facebook page. To make
sure you don’t miss out, you can subscribe to our blog to have each post
emailed to you!</span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></span></div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAfuzTkMvUkaw0YP84ffmOi2Jiie-0ULC3KYtpTA_haP-RrYeq2OLhIQMQ4nbVvcIvEmwad7WfaDvNgi-F4m9BnsUOJQOcaUyeyEAUUzmf-P0bWAq1am4zybJsCIOOJncErxWoGQTnZdj-/s1600/12+days+of+xmas+ad+-+best.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAfuzTkMvUkaw0YP84ffmOi2Jiie-0ULC3KYtpTA_haP-RrYeq2OLhIQMQ4nbVvcIvEmwad7WfaDvNgi-F4m9BnsUOJQOcaUyeyEAUUzmf-P0bWAq1am4zybJsCIOOJncErxWoGQTnZdj-/s320/12+days+of+xmas+ad+-+best.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To get ready for tomorrow, you might
want to collect some plain cardboard, washi tape (Christmas style if you have
some) or ribbon, button, scissors, hot glue and a hole punch.</span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Set aside some time so you’re not
too distracted by other things, keep some table space clear and set up all that
you’ll need ahead of time.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">It's going to be great, Christmassy fun with the special girl in your life!</span></span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-36535240857345049482016-10-08T08:30:00.000+11:002016-10-08T08:30:00.159+11:00A sticky craft!<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I know, it sounds like the start of a ‘Dad-joke’, but I
couldn’t help myself! I had so much fun making some of the 'props' used in our current issue (Spring 2016), that I just had to share how to do them yourself. Here's the first of a few to come!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Sticks and branches can add interest to any room,
especially ones that are painted or covered in fabric. Maybe even having extra </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">bits</span></i><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> added to them like flowers or
leaves, can add an extra touch. Don’t you just love that </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">earthy</span></i><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> touch to a room, but like it to look clean and fresh?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18hBMeOmXrv3o8PkwU7u3ltMPrnO-5aa-753rZ1V9T91eaHSS01y2Jn_6kbI8qf4ZLrZLLask-qZ17nR9hodoYW4vM49wP0TY9GCveYNOcFlImXzafdOfvlSOnavs23gGm17w2mSWLKdT/s1600/20160822_100638_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18hBMeOmXrv3o8PkwU7u3ltMPrnO-5aa-753rZ1V9T91eaHSS01y2Jn_6kbI8qf4ZLrZLLask-qZ17nR9hodoYW4vM49wP0TY9GCveYNOcFlImXzafdOfvlSOnavs23gGm17w2mSWLKdT/s320/20160822_100638_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-01.jpeg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Covering a stick with fabric is very easy.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">First, pick what fabrics you want to use. Cotton, woven
fabrics work best, and they offer a wide range of prints and colour. Choose
colours/prints that coordinate well together.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Cut the fabric into strips 2.5 cm wide. They can be a little
awkward to use if they are too long (they start to tangle up as you wrap!), so
keep them short – no more than about 30-40 cm long.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Begin by dotting the stick with a little hot glue and
placing one end of the fabric over the dot, so the fabric will start to wrap on
an angle.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBpEaeeBA6HEoUJPkiY2r2PMZWujiO-kgoNYngclmmDUaVtlcRRHjHn3xYvI1G6lvDdaVQnwG6naik6jJUuZKdFIDhPK0BfvtNJ-EAdgbToBxNHL_Yo9b0ADGvTXXE2hXiBsvoERxkRo_S/s1600/20160821_152151_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBpEaeeBA6HEoUJPkiY2r2PMZWujiO-kgoNYngclmmDUaVtlcRRHjHn3xYvI1G6lvDdaVQnwG6naik6jJUuZKdFIDhPK0BfvtNJ-EAdgbToBxNHL_Yo9b0ADGvTXXE2hXiBsvoERxkRo_S/s320/20160821_152151_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-01.jpeg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Wrap the fabric around the stick, dotting with glue every
wrap or two. Overlap the fabric strip about half-way over the previous wrap, so
that there is good coverage of the stick and your print/colours show up well.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJbZEb3x763F0hg3rKOIsBpOAdApK4JBB_wRVB-A6DWdgDw7mJHeltOjQD9j4_hNpNe13JNBvmN0rUeARJlOOW-zVgsz0mk11pPPoN_gr1iQaX59EBsBDV-5LqKk-8Th0Awhz4PcWIvbd/s1600/20160821_152748_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJbZEb3x763F0hg3rKOIsBpOAdApK4JBB_wRVB-A6DWdgDw7mJHeltOjQD9j4_hNpNe13JNBvmN0rUeARJlOOW-zVgsz0mk11pPPoN_gr1iQaX59EBsBDV-5LqKk-8Th0Awhz4PcWIvbd/s320/20160821_152748_Richtone%2528HDR%2529-01.jpeg" width="180" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
If you come to a join in the branches, you may need to be a little creative in wrapping to cover all of the stick in fabric.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Keep <span style="font-family: inherit;">wrapping</span> until you come nearly to the end of a branch.
Cut a short strip of fabric (in the same fabric the outer edge of the branch is
covered in), cover the end of the branch with hot glue, and glue the short strip
over the end of the branch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Finish wrapping the branch in fabric and snip off
any excess fabric, making sure it is glued down well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Cover all of the branch/stick with fabric.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">To anchor it, attach it to a wall, or if you want it to be
more free-standing, place it in a jar filled with pebbles or rice (if the jar
is tall and deep, you may need to place the branch in first, then add the
pebbles).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">You could use your branch to hang things off of, to leave
notes on, or to just look pretty in your room!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: calibri;">PS - and if you're young, just remember to be very careful with hot glue, and ask an adult to keep an eye on you while you use it!</span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-40676151889620923042016-10-06T02:25:00.000+11:002016-10-06T02:28:25.671+11:00Spring has sprung!Along with the newness that Spring brings, we have a new issue out!<br />
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You're going to love the little unexpected extras throughout this issue, along with the pretty colours and light feel about it!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghTxK93OOmzKqF3QLgu5xq9F6EiOq7geKD0biyOjIQNxSd8V58FXW_BIgLZoUnm2PgP2vEaPm3IaGU78yOF9v_ON0FnU2jKHLtJyqHDOcvGZVqSuWEP5QfDs4qz7bMVRdYZCkkwtPWm1DG/s1600/Spring+is+here.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghTxK93OOmzKqF3QLgu5xq9F6EiOq7geKD0biyOjIQNxSd8V58FXW_BIgLZoUnm2PgP2vEaPm3IaGU78yOF9v_ON0FnU2jKHLtJyqHDOcvGZVqSuWEP5QfDs4qz7bMVRdYZCkkwtPWm1DG/s320/Spring+is+here.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
And, our staff are up to new things, too! Our graphic designer has turned mail-room girl, posting off magazines while I'm overseas. Even my mum has become delivery girl for those few that get dropped off at our church! Thanks, you two.<br />
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To subscribe, simply go to the link <a href="http://www.ameliamagazine.net/Store.php">here</a>. All new subscriptions will receive a copy of each back issue of 2016.Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-74531968821156058162016-06-29T10:11:00.001+10:002016-06-29T10:11:53.819+10:00Girly time with the sisterhood of family<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do you have any plans for the holidays yet? Some of my kids are happy to just veg out at home, while there are those who want to be 'doing'! And a mix of both can be great for holidays, especially these shorter ones in the cooler months. I'll admit, I'm a 'do-er', so even a day puddling around at home is spent repainting furniture, organising a cupboard long left to cluttering, sewing or gardening. These are great opportunities to spend time with your kids. And of course, there's cousins to come over and play with (we are blessed to have so many that live close by)!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our family has a wonderful annual tradition that connects the women/girls of the family. Every year we head off to the big Craft and Quilt Fair in Sydney. It's a beautiful mix of generations - grandma, aunt, nieces, cousins and even a 'baby' cousin this year! Our girls have been going with us since they were babies, and this year, they were just at the age (nearly 11 years old) where it was a day they seemed to have grown into. The interactions between the younger girls and the older women were something special to be a part of. We saw our girls acting as caregiver and babysitter to a younger cousin, they were inspired by the various crafts and skills they saw demonstrated (and got to have a go at), chats over lunch and a morning cuppa, the long train ride there and back home ... I walked away feeling like it had been a day where relationships were deepened, not just a day of inspiration!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, what was so great about all of that?</span></b><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 Deepening relationships</span></i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - After reading Steve Biddulph's facebook post from 24 May 2014, I was reminded that my role as an aunt is very important. Here he noted two main factors in the deterioration of young girls' mental health were the over-sexualisation girls are bombarded with, and the disappearance of adult women in their lives. Today's girls spend 80% LESS time with older women in their families, than previous generations!! Do you remember all the time you spent with your aunt, grandma, older cousins? I do! And I look back at those with great fondness, and the women who spent that time with me, are still significant in my life today! I want that for my daughter, and my nieces! In fact, I'd decided that these holidays, despite all I felt I needed to do to catch up on life, I would make an effort to do more 'auntie' stuff. My nephews are having a sleep over. Of course, there was the craft fair, too. </span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 Sharing time over the skills you enjoy</span></i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - Out of the craft fair, grew something I wasn't expecting. I've done sewing with nieces before. I spend time doing crafty things with my daughter. But, at the craft fair, I realised how important it was to the little girls, that I was interested in sharing my skills and passions with them. We saw beautiful handbags all through the craft fair, so I suggested that we buy a few small treasures, and then spend a day making a bag each during the holidays. The following day my niece asked her mum if she could have the day off school to come to my place to sew her bag! Do you have skills or passions you could share with a niece or young girl in your life? It may seem even mundane to you, but the sheer fact of taking time out to be with them speaks volumes of the value you place on them being part of your life. And one thing I've found as a Home Ec teacher, is that kids open up and share while their hands are quietly busy. This is a chance to discuss those really important life topics, and you'd be surprised at how easily it is the children who open up these conversations when they are quietly working by your side!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 Glimpses into the inner beauty of your girls - I loved watching my daughter and niece throughout the day. How often do we get a chance to just be observers of our children? My heart was warmed to see their manners in action, their kindness and generosity with each other and with their young cousin, their excitement and enthusiasm over simple things (cute dolls, crafts they'd like to try, even the jellyfish they saw in the harbour as we walked past!), their imaginations ticking away as to the possibilities they could see (along with that attitude of - 'I can do it'). And to not just see these, but to speak to the girls about how I loved seeing their inner beauty.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, what might you do these holidays to spend time with the young girls in your life?</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are some ideas:</span></b><br />
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<li><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Visit a local historical house</span></i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - great opportunities to look at beautiful china, dresses, old-fashioned anything! And, chat about what it was like being a girl growing up back then, how it is different now ..</span></li>
<li><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bake at home</span></i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - go through recipe books together and pick out your baking (and it could even be part of the fun, to go to the shops for any special ingredients that might be needed), and spend a day inside baking.</span></li>
<li><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Window shop at your local handcraft markets, or a 'funky' mall</span></i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - enjoy the moments of dreaming together of what you'd like to buy, the inspiration you have of how you could decorate your room, or even ideas of what you could go home and make!</span></li>
<li><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do an op-shop crawl</span></i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - set a budget - it might only be a few dollars each, and see what treasures you can find at a few different op-shops. </span></li>
<li><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Take a train trip or a ferry ride</span></i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> - not just to get to a destination, but for that to be the main purpose of the trip! On a cold winter's day, it can be fun to rug up and be outside. You could even stop at a café at the other end for a hot cuppa, before making your way back home. There's bound to be interesting sights and quiet moments for conversation. In NSW with the Family Sunday Funday train tickets, this can be reasonably cheap, and a great option for the whole family to be a part of!</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do you have any other great ideas? You might even want to plan ahead for some of them, so you're not distracted by washing that needs doing, or rooms that need tidying! We hope your holidays are full of wonderful connectedness with the women in your family and social network!</span><br />
<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-33487006183079805082016-04-12T07:43:00.001+10:002016-04-12T07:43:06.433+10:00<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's busy, busy, busy for us this month! Our launch last weekend, and then off to the NNSW Big Camp!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">A great big THANK YOU to all those who came and supported us at our launch! It was a wonderful morning, and we hope you all enjoyed it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">For those who didn't make it, we celebrated our first upcoming year in print with a craft for everyone to do, a facebook interaction, taking a photo with a life-size Amelia paperdoll, and some 'tricks' performed by Andy Matthes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Tammy, our regular pets contributor, even had two bunnies for the kids to walk around with and hold!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We'll have some more photos to share later.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">If you're coming to Big Camp, we'll see you there! Make sure you pop in and say 'hi' during Super Sunday and do a craft with us!</span></div>
<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-70756089427944385212016-03-01T22:19:00.002+11:002016-03-01T22:19:36.153+11:00Woven in time<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ever tried your hand at weaving? I've always enjoyed it, and been fascinated with all the different weaving techniques. Nothing fancy, mind you - I've just never had the time to learn that! I think what has attracted me most to weaving is that you're actually creating your own fabric! Even if you're using old fabrics to weave with, a completely new, original, unique fabric is made.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">From small to large, any weaving project is going to take time and care. Not only is there the planning, gathering your resources and organising your space. The weaving process itself is laborious. If you were to weave something for someone else, how often do you think your mind would wander to thoughts of them, while your hands slowly worked away.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">And, it's that kind of image that comes to mind when I read Psalm 139. Imagine the God-dreams of who you were going to be, all the little bits He added in make you who you are, before you were born.</span></div>
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We've included a small weaving project, suitable for a young girl to have a go at, in our upcoming issue of Amelia Magazine.</div>
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You can subscribe to Amelia Magazine at our online store <a href="http://www.ameliamagazine.net/Store.php">here</a></div>
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<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-86540830389660218012016-02-04T17:11:00.001+11:002016-02-04T17:11:19.101+11:00Crowning GloryWhat is your 'crowning glory'? We often think of our hair. But, it is also something that is important or a priority. For you, is it your intelligence, athletic ability, beauty? Or, is it that you are the daughter of a king - God. Think of yourself as a daughter of God, and does that change how you think about who you are, or how you think about those around you?<br />
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We took on this theme in our Summer issue and really enjoyed putting together these 'crowns' for a little princess! They're so cute, I wonder if I could get away with wearing one out and about!<br />
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Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3437418106490929348.post-65089423142465520462015-09-20T09:11:00.002+10:002015-09-20T09:11:47.119+10:00Being BraveIn our previous issue we take bit of a look at being brave. Bravery can come in various forms and might need to be used in any number of situations.<br />
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We have a wonderful article from one of the ministry partners at Brave Enough. Dannielle Synot shares with us about bravery in friendships. And, we have some stories about brave women, including one of the many brave women in the Bible - Rahab. To go along with the story we have a <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B8frhEqtvlC6TW1uZGxfMG9XYVE/view?usp=sharing">free printable playset</a> you can create so you can re-tell the story!<br />
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<br />Amelia Magazinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14901844379397659827noreply@blogger.com0