Friday Show and Tell - and Twin Update

Earlier this week I had a little guessing game. I posted this picture and asked for your opinions on what this necklace was made out of:

Two blog friends came very close - Pea and RainyD both guessed that it had something to do with a beetle or bug of some sort.




Believe it or not - this horrible creature, which you do NOT want to find in your kitchen (or one somewhat like it) gave its life for this interesting necklace:

For size comparison, here is my necklace in my hand:

So - I know you're all asking - why in the world would you have such a thing in your collection of jewelry? Have you actually worn a cockroach around your neck??

The answer is, yes, I have worn it on occasion - it makes for a great conversation starter!

As for why? I have mentioned frequently in this blog that missions has played a huge part in my life, though I have not been a missionary per se. A few years ago, several people from our church and quite a few other friends from our district mission council, went to Caracas, Venezuela to build a church. It was a wonderful project, and those who went returned home, never to be the same.

One of my friends brought back these necklaces as souvenirs for the rest of us on the council. I'll be interested to know if Jungle Mom has ever seen such. Some incredibly industrious, creative people had found a way to make a good thing out of something very disgusting - supporting their families by making something beautiful out of something we would be in a hurry to crunch under our feet. I wish I knew how they did it. I don't. I just know that it does not gross me out. I am proud to wear it, and have enjoyed sharing it with you.

I also promised last week to show you a bit of the dedication ceremony for Emma and Kate. I wasn't able to get many pictures after all, but will show you what I have. Their other grandma teaches in North Dakota, and her fellow teachers sent some wonderful gifts with her the last time she came down. Kristen chose to dress them in these adorable dresses for this very special occasion:

My dad, a retired pastor, was so thrilled to preside over this occasion. He is 81 years old and has married, buried, and dedicated many people over the years. He has had the privilege of dedicating several great grandchildren lately. This was a first for him - the first time he has ever dedicated twins. He was doubly excited to have them be his own great grandchildren.

Here are two not-too-great pictures of Kristen and me holding the girls:

Our pastor prayed the dedicatory prayer:

Before I close, I must acknowledge a lovely award given to me by dear friends Karen of Karen's Korner and Mary of Mary's Writing Nook. Thank you so much, Mary and Karen! You make my day, too!

For more Friday Show and Tell stories, stop by Kelli's blog, There Is No Place Like Home.