A Frame of Frames

Ben likes maps, and antique maps lend themselves well to home decor. So, naturally I used them as a theme for our new living room. We have a large "Antique Style" map that fit perfectly on one wall. The problem came when I wanted to frame it. Being so large, it would be quite expensive to have it framed, especially with a custom frame.

So, I brainstormed for a while on what to do. It dawned on me, I can frame the map with smaller frames! How beautifully it works. I like the dollar store, and I found the right frames for 50 cents. $18 later, I had just enough frames for the project. I used images from scripture stories inside the frames. I removed the backs from the frames and cut foam core board to just fit instead. The foam core board is stapled to the wall and the frames are pressed onto them.

It's always a conversation piece when someone new comes to visit.

An Eye-Opening Book

"The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts" by Gary Chapman

I just listened to the audio version of this book this week. This is a really good one on relationships, and I'm sure would be helpful for every married couple. Dr. Chapman explains that we all express, and recognize, love differently. He calls these different ways of expressing love, love languages and that there are essentially 5 languages (and each has dialects). They are Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Physical Touch, Gifts, and Acts of Service. He explains that once spouses learn to speak each other's love language, their "love tanks" will be full and their marriages will be happier. He also talks about the lifespan of the high of being in love and that afterward love is a choice. This book does categorize people, somewhat, into personality types, but it does help with understanding others, and ourselves.

A Scarf Dress for Ella

I have a little sister named Ella. She has Down Syndrome and Autism. (Visit my mama's blog at http://wynkoopfamily.blogspot.com/) One thing Ella loves to do is twirl around with flowy scarves.

For Christmas 2011 our family decided to give handmade gifts. This dress is what I made for Ella. The skirt is layered with flowy scarves so she can twirl around with all of them, and they'll follow her around.

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