tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60941663460441413872024-03-13T02:42:24.970-06:00I am what I amAn outlet for the happenings of my life!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-80912240026264344572011-12-21T16:12:00.013-07:002011-12-23T14:06:44.016-07:00Today I am 33 & I couldn't be happier.What? I am happy about being older?? Yes, and I have a very good reason. A while back while surfing <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>, I came across<a href="http://mixmingleglow.com/blog/?p=1358" target="_blank"> this blog</a>. The author spent her 38th birthday doing random acts of kindness (RAOK) for 38 people. It inspired me. <br />
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Today, being my day, I posted this challenge on facebook:<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Today is my birthday. I challenge you to do one random act of kindness for one person, or more if you would like. Pay for someones coffee, gas, meal, etc. Help someone to the car with their groceries, scrape someone's windows in the morning. Make someone's day. I know my day will be made with all the facebook messages I will get & I want to spread the joy. Welcome age 33! I have many goals this year, but I am starting out with this one! Have fun & message me what you did!! I want to hear about it. ♥</span><br />
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I have been overwhelmed with what my friends have done. Here are some examples:<br />
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<a href="http://www.nikkisblergblog.com/2011/12/misc-happy.html" target="_blank">Nikki </a>: Paid for a cup of coffee & some doughnuts for a guy in the gas station. She also went a HUGE step further & sent a package for her boss on her own dime, returning his money to him. He wanted to continue the RAOK & suggested she send the money to the food pantry. Instead it went to a family in need to provide Christmas presents & was matched several times over. N also took on some extra work so a co-worker could leave early. Yay!! Her husband also helped out a person at his job by providing a lady a way to purchase gifts for her family. Awesome job, Brian! UPDATE: Nikki & Brian's good deeds came back to them in a big way. They were blessed with an unexpected gift that made them so grateful this holiday season. God is good!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdTnzkDiUdinyLBicdSi11JnzTiz4T5tLuJKx5yDdaGVYQqk-WenrQXb2O9i568F9TgEQr1FrrzlIUKcZ0fBOeSgzub1_SrdsPAC8zsKNG2q93b6EtGDaVkoa8VkwxOfdZMUtLKj_3ofY/s1600/raok.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdTnzkDiUdinyLBicdSi11JnzTiz4T5tLuJKx5yDdaGVYQqk-WenrQXb2O9i568F9TgEQr1FrrzlIUKcZ0fBOeSgzub1_SrdsPAC8zsKNG2q93b6EtGDaVkoa8VkwxOfdZMUtLKj_3ofY/s320/raok.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Gifts purchased by Nikki & co. </span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFbRhnngmUCAnuqlv739bJRjwAx0_7PeJE1cimgW4bg5uyohMoY7YT7L9iICIXzvUPjed7HyHVOzpthUcmfen8-MJkXI8EAVc_NoeXQyojJjgtGQJsJoNmsjmlyLZb20SLSnuwnJrBGYw/s1600/raok2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFbRhnngmUCAnuqlv739bJRjwAx0_7PeJE1cimgW4bg5uyohMoY7YT7L9iICIXzvUPjed7HyHVOzpthUcmfen8-MJkXI8EAVc_NoeXQyojJjgtGQJsJoNmsjmlyLZb20SLSnuwnJrBGYw/s320/raok2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(extra work done by Nikki!)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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</span></div>Jodi- felt the urge & made someone's day as well (she didn't give me the specifics, but I know it was amazing!) UPDATE: She messaged me & told me her story. It WAS amazing!!!! Have a wonderful Christmas, Jodi. I know that person you bestowed with kindness will. :)<br />
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Becky- left some uplifting notes in fellow teacher's boxes. We all know teachers are overworked & under appreciated. Becky also purchased a gift card at a gas station & then turned around & handed it back to the clerk. I wish I could have seen that reaction! Way to go, Becky! I also heard Becky salted her neighbors driveway! <br />
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Stacie- paid for a meal for the guy behind her at the drive-thru. She said it made her feel so good. Woo hoo!! Great one!<br />
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Lynn- a simple smile at an elderly lady at the grocery store. She also has more in store. Yay Lynn!! UPDATE: Lynn bought a coffee for a co-worker who was a little frazzled & didn't have time to stop for her own today. So sweet! <br />
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Matt- (husband of a facebook friend) Helped out a guy at the gas station who had forgotten his wallet. $5 may not seem like much, but I bet it made both Matt & the receiver feel great!<br />
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Steph- left cookies & a card in the mailbox for the mailman. She also just sent me a message saying she was going to give blood today as well. Way to save a life & do an act of kindness, Steph! You rock! Update: Steph had a friend Robin who purchased Christmas gifts for some children who lost their mom suddenly, not long ago. (its contagious!!!) ANOTHER UPDATE: Steph also helped her sister clean her step-mom's house. :) <br />
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Brenda- bought a soda for a gentleman this morning. Even the simple things can make you feel wonderful!<br />
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Gina- baked some yummy treats for her mail carrier & son's school bus driver! Gina is also an awesome prayer warrior & decided she was going to challenge herself to pray for more people daily. She also picked up some kids & got them to school on time because the school bus had broken down. Great job, Gina!<br />
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Tara- Tara is a teacher & purchased some coffee for the janitor & cook at her school (also very under appreciated, often over looked people), complimented several teachers, and purchased 2 extra lottery tickets for the people behind her at the gas station. Way to go, Tara!!<br />
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Cari- Cari paid with a $5 at the toll booth for herself & the next 4 cars behind her. Great idea, Cari!<br />
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Craig(AKA the father in law)- Went to the barber shop for a hair cut & told his barber he would like to pay for the haircut of a young man in the shop as well. Way to go, Papa Craig!!<br />
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Haley- Purchased a gift card & carried it around for awhile before finding the perfect recipient. She visited with a kind lady at the grocery store while bagging groceries & noticed she had just the essentials. While the lady was putting her cart away after unloading her groceries into her car, Haley slipped the gift card & a note onto her windshield where she would see it when she returned. Such a sweet gesture, Haley- Amazing!<br />
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Deb- Deb is a sweet lady that goes to our church. She runs an at home daycare & has a family that was struggling to make ends meet. While purchasing groceries, Deb walked by the diapers & thought about this special family. She purchased the diapers & presented them to the very grateful young mother this morning. Thanks, Deb for being an amazing support for this family! Awesome job!<br />
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Alesa- Alesa helped an older lady with some heavy items (cat food & litter). The lady couldn't find her son when it was time to check out, so Alesa lifted the items out for her. Good job Alesa! I am sure the sweet lady was thankful for you at that moment. :)<br />
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Deb- Another friend named Deb simply sat with her father while he received his IV iron therapy. I am sure your father appreciated you taking the time to sit and visit with him, Deb. Family time is the best time. Cherish those moments!<br />
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Catherine- Catherine & her boyfriend stopped to help a fellow motorist out of a snowy ditch. Turns out the lady had been sitting for 30 minutes with several people driving right by. Great job helping her out!<br />
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Katie- (AKA my sister) Baked cookies (my grandmothers awesome spice cookies to be exact- yum!) and took them to several neighbors & her husband's boss, who has been bed ridden. Katie, who is a nurse, also has been helping out this gentleman by doing dressing changes for his wound when the home health nurses can't make it to him. She also gave a nice tip to the mechanic that did her oil change. Way to spread the Christmas spirit, sis!<br />
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Kristi- (AKA mom-in law) Scooped her neighbors driveway, and took her to work this morning. She also paid for someone's breakfast at McDonalds. Thanks for your generosity, Kristi! <br />
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As for my random acts: Well, my first idea failed. I intended to buy the crossing guard at my daughter's school a hot cup of cocoa. He stands out there all day in the cold, helping the little ones stay safe & I often wonder if he ever gets thanked. But, I unintentionally left the house without my purse or wallet, so I couldn't do it. Boo. I WILL be doing this one soon though. The kids are out for break now, but when that cold January weather comes, Mr. Crossing Guard ( I really should learn his name) will have a warm cup of cocoa!!<br />
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My second one was to leave a jar of homemade jam and a thank you card for our mail carrier. Thanks, Ms. Mail carrier...sorry I complained about the postal service the other day...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNsbFQvlJgjO2XFb9xKfF23QrFlfxGZeSq6ESchrdu43nHl7A8HYdwQyr7oGWMN9WItS60uZaSvX9bcKGKj5QhMKdin40em5x3IA8-erxW9hceMv7Wp0ccUb8x_4sQXU6u7gKlklptnnA/s1600/raok5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNsbFQvlJgjO2XFb9xKfF23QrFlfxGZeSq6ESchrdu43nHl7A8HYdwQyr7oGWMN9WItS60uZaSvX9bcKGKj5QhMKdin40em5x3IA8-erxW9hceMv7Wp0ccUb8x_4sQXU6u7gKlklptnnA/s320/raok5.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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#3 for me- I scooped our neighbors driveway. Of course it hasn't stopped snowing, so you can't even tell, but I did it & plan to go out again later. Update: done again- by hand. The snow is too wet & heavy & just clogs the snow blower! Good deed & a good workout! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeUJeKaM91piDQEX1YXwVIwVmQeCGZHSS0HQUJJ6YjwYfQPZAcb1NLZje66IIBSQPB4UQ1kYpN8mLH5AbSUhk0J0eqJhZQBtCcbq_uMG_Ku8uSGL9_MIbY-y3-HYGaYy8ZsHlPlhAcKUs/s1600/raok3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeUJeKaM91piDQEX1YXwVIwVmQeCGZHSS0HQUJJ6YjwYfQPZAcb1NLZje66IIBSQPB4UQ1kYpN8mLH5AbSUhk0J0eqJhZQBtCcbq_uMG_Ku8uSGL9_MIbY-y3-HYGaYy8ZsHlPlhAcKUs/s320/raok3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>#4 & by far my favorite of the day- I stopped at the gas station to get some much needed juice for my truck ( my gas light was on) Instead of filling up completely, I opted to only get half a tank. I went inside & paid and then asked the attendant if the elderly gentleman at pump #2 had used a card or if he was paying inside. She said he would be paying inside. I told her then that I would like to pay for his gas. She teared up, and I told her "Today is my birthday & instead of getting gifts, I would like to gift others. This is my gift to him- can you tell him that?" I also left an invitation to our church's Christmas Eve service to give to him. By then the tears were coming down her face. I paid for the man's gas, and walked out. As I passed the man walking in, I simply said "Merry Christmas, Sir" (he responded "Merry Christmas pretty lady" which right there made my day!), walked to my truck & drove off. I wish I could have seen his face once he got inside, but I knew I would cry if I stayed. I smiled the entire way home. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUs_S4o0AbLzVW2LREwDbUviGYKHiSHgzdWYXQ1Id07xSmlTKRO6ExGc_5qe0_3AkNDWXFce8PbZ0-K5ZF-MC_KkKl5c2H2d5O2JrWAgsQ-aPkoimgLeMLWY9Mg55hHIScVwtX4C3cCBA/s1600/raok4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUs_S4o0AbLzVW2LREwDbUviGYKHiSHgzdWYXQ1Id07xSmlTKRO6ExGc_5qe0_3AkNDWXFce8PbZ0-K5ZF-MC_KkKl5c2H2d5O2JrWAgsQ-aPkoimgLeMLWY9Mg55hHIScVwtX4C3cCBA/s320/raok4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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I will be adding to this blog post throughout the day. I hope you all have a very merry Christmas & remember it isn't about the gifts. It is about that baby who changed the world for nothing in return. So go out & do those RAOKs. I promise you will feel amazing, blessed, and so proud. <br />
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So, now you understand why I am happy about aging. I truly have been given the best gifts today. Thanks so much you awesome friends!! I am lucky to have you!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-1185339487165145852011-12-09T10:02:00.000-07:002011-12-09T10:02:19.189-07:00Pinspiration ChallengeOkay, I admit it. I am totally addicted to <a href="http://pinterest./">Pinterest.</a> While I pin, I always think "will I ever do any of these projects? Well, the answer is yes. It just takes me awhile. Kind of like blog posts obviously take me awhile. I am going to try to be better about it though! Really, I am. ( I know I have said this umpteen times before...)<br />
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Anyways, one project I found on Pinterest was this:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfig92qoxL-bYs-6SxJ5r_rdO_2KhahnMc81ybYF5zTc1iwrL6JEJjgS6vmx-0HjMZV8oEg049eVz4rwCBW8ahYJ5pM7hzUN6A5TFVhQVoJ15z9s653mvHzcN7iLGEoKMv2r6C0Qakg40/s1600/ladder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfig92qoxL-bYs-6SxJ5r_rdO_2KhahnMc81ybYF5zTc1iwrL6JEJjgS6vmx-0HjMZV8oEg049eVz4rwCBW8ahYJ5pM7hzUN6A5TFVhQVoJ15z9s653mvHzcN7iLGEoKMv2r6C0Qakg40/s320/ladder.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.homemadesimple.com/EN-CA/HOMEORGANIZATION/Pages/Repurposed-Organizers-Ladders.aspx?utm_source=Email&utm_medium=Single%2BFocus&utm_campaign=Ladders"> source</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">How easy is that? All it is is an old ladder hung on the wall with some L brackets & decorated with a few knick knacks! I knew exactly where I could get an old ladder too. I just had to wait until I went home. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Fast Forward to Thanksgiving: Here is the conversation:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Me: "Hey Dad, do you have an old wooden ladder that you don't use any more?"</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Dad: "Why? What do you want it for?"</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Me: "Just a decorating idea- Can you chop it down to around 5 feet?"</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Dad: "Okay, whatever. (I could see he was slightly confused as to what I was doing)"</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Dad went to his shed & found his old wooden ladder, had me decide what section I wanted- I opted for the middle section that had some rusty metal hardware, but no broken rungs. It was covered in bird poop though...Nothing a little scrubbing couldn't fix. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">After getting it back to South Dakota, I put the husband to work in mounting my ladder on the wall. I loved it, even without decorations on it! It was perfect! Obviously now its Christmas time, so I decorated it with Christmas knick knacks. :) Duh. Here is the final result: </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrm3jNI80fzhFE6hLyKaxKbLHORRf8EgLo-mU2NW9Imbc9oWL7HEuIHwCl27yczElQyxk-c4FLQu7XIxO0O_XBNM8-OElpaGMdnYs7UptVHfzkog7q4NOAQUSDSIti2Q5p2JXJ6U6PlA/s1600/ladder2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtrm3jNI80fzhFE6hLyKaxKbLHORRf8EgLo-mU2NW9Imbc9oWL7HEuIHwCl27yczElQyxk-c4FLQu7XIxO0O_XBNM8-OElpaGMdnYs7UptVHfzkog7q4NOAQUSDSIti2Q5p2JXJ6U6PlA/s320/ladder2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I love it! It works perfectly with the wall decal I had up. This spot had been intended for a nice framed family photo we had done 2 summers ago. But since we had those awesome pictures taken, we have added little miss H & I didn't feel right paying big moolah to have a canvas print made of just the 4 of us when we have a new precious little one (she's nearly 10 months now, can you believe it?!). So the ladder is perfect. I took some great fall photos of all 3 littles & I plan on framing those & putting them on the shelf after Christmas is over. So, what Pinterest projects have you completed?? </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-21863588952856988562011-08-02T21:12:00.001-06:002011-08-02T21:24:11.284-06:00crock pot pizza<div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Crock pot pizza is a recipe my mom gave me. She makes it for a lot of pot lucks & now I do too! The kids like it, too. You can change it up, so its different every time. </div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">2 packages of Kluski noodles (these dont get mushy and fall apart)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQX7l4wzSicw4KmSfbohPpy28m6hJWYld-64Sssu8aDO65glvWhT_7gFzCVR4VjaPivOC1FhHjxmOZMeD6iaJ3qktOXiEuLi5EHZ1MUDi7At6ZNX1rVtq6e1QQC6lDFzGR_Gk9Nv7B-wo/s1600/kluski.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQX7l4wzSicw4KmSfbohPpy28m6hJWYld-64Sssu8aDO65glvWhT_7gFzCVR4VjaPivOC1FhHjxmOZMeD6iaJ3qktOXiEuLi5EHZ1MUDi7At6ZNX1rVtq6e1QQC6lDFzGR_Gk9Nv7B-wo/s320/kluski.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">pizza sauce of your choice</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">1 lb. hamburger or sausage, browned and drained</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Mozzerella cheese</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">pepperoni</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">other pizza toppings of choice- mushrooms, peppers, olives, ham, etc.</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Boil noodles until al dente. Drain. In a crock pot or casserole dish layer 1/2 of the noodles, sauce, meat (veggies here if adding those) cheese, and pepperoni/ham. Repeat layer, ending with cheese and putting the pepperoni on top. Cook on low in a crock pot for 4-6 hours, or bake in oven at 300* for 30-45 min till cheese is melted and bubbly. Super easy & generally a crowd pleaser!</div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVRo-PBrW5e_nf7sv4tuJdwUFJ0-ASAYEF2V7G0Hz2abfkVnUQZqeLROR-RnS8Z6TGiwWnLDT10TaENDl1PNGl67UjHsfLMqKH6OG6XTum8sNhw21n7FtiPfgcIQ125THOorIbYkV1srI/s1600/pizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVRo-PBrW5e_nf7sv4tuJdwUFJ0-ASAYEF2V7G0Hz2abfkVnUQZqeLROR-RnS8Z6TGiwWnLDT10TaENDl1PNGl67UjHsfLMqKH6OG6XTum8sNhw21n7FtiPfgcIQ125THOorIbYkV1srI/s1600/pizza.jpg" /></a></div><div style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-82580471828141062502011-08-01T12:52:00.001-06:002011-08-02T21:20:32.883-06:00Where has summer gone? { August Menu}Well, today is officially August 1. My oldest starts school this month, and one can say summer is ending. Where has it gone?? Better question- where are my blog posts that show what we did this summer?? I promise they are coming & I promise I will be better at this blogging thing once we get back into the school routine & I have a little more breathing time. Some of what you have to look forward to:<br />
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<ul><li>Our experiences in geocaching</li>
<li>Our mini vacation in the Black Hills</li>
<li>the completed nursery! (it's almost done!)</li>
<li>Roll top desk makeover</li>
<li>some recipes-</li>
<li>Craftiness. Yep. I was crafting even without a stinkin craft room...</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Basement progress...oh wait...there is none. </li>
</ul><div style="text-align: left;">Meanwhile- here is our August menu. I realize I skipped July. July was one big chaotic mess of a month & half the time I didn't know if I was coming or going. So, therefore, no menu. But, I'm back on top of things this month (even made it to the gym today- yeah me!) so here it is!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9pLef7cwZ5Knitbfw6pR1okNhvJwCOA5o57883je0bTcpxIVsVmlR7Lwp0tYjHf_V7Nh4Hj311m07NvALAFu_k-VJBzMTwcRhhU895ePVuAEBvysbyPn7bo9NOLhNxRt9JT5PUi0U4cs/s1600/august+menu" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9pLef7cwZ5Knitbfw6pR1okNhvJwCOA5o57883je0bTcpxIVsVmlR7Lwp0tYjHf_V7Nh4Hj311m07NvALAFu_k-VJBzMTwcRhhU895ePVuAEBvysbyPn7bo9NOLhNxRt9JT5PUi0U4cs/s320/august+menu" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">August Menu</div><div style="text-align: left;">1. <a href="http://1corinthiansfifteenten.blogspot.com/2011/08/crock-pot-pizza.html">Crock pot Pizza</a> & Salad</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Chicken Cordon Bleu with corn & roasted baby potatoes</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. Broiled pork chops, Mac-n-cheese, green beans</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Softball night- eat at ball fields</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/the-surreal-gourmet/steak-gaucho-style-with-argentinian-chimichurri-sauce-recipe/index.html"> Chimichurri steak</a>, salad, crusty baked bread</div><div style="text-align: left;">6. Brats, pasta salad, fresh veggies</div><div style="text-align: left;">8. <a href="http://eatingwelllivingthin.wordpress.com/2010/11/01/love-my-quinoa-burger/">Quinoa burgers</a>, roasted veggies</div><div style="text-align: left;">9. <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/cha-chas-white-chicken-chili/detail.aspx">White Chicken Chili</a>, cornbread</div><div style="text-align: left;">10. Breakfast for supper- sausage, pancakes, fruit</div><div style="text-align: left;">11. Tilapia, salad, rice</div><div style="text-align: left;">12. Grilled individual pizzas</div><div style="text-align: left;">13. <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2010/02/drip-beef-two-ways/">Drip beef sandwiches</a>, salad</div><div style="text-align: left;">15. Roasted Veggies over noodles, sourdough baguette</div><div style="text-align: left;">16. <a href="http://beckiesbites.blogspot.com/2010/08/bourbon-chicken-mormon-edition.html">Bourbon Chicken</a> over rice, broccoli</div><div style="text-align: left;">17. Grilled pork chops, potatoes, corn on the cob</div><div style="text-align: left;">18. Tuna steaks, arugula salad, bread</div><div style="text-align: left;">19. Beef with peppers over rice noodles</div><div style="text-align: left;">20. State softball tournament- out of town</div><div style="text-align: left;">22. Veggie burritos</div><div style="text-align: left;">23. Turkey burgers, french fries</div><div style="text-align: left;">24. Grilled pork sandwiches, mac-n-cheese, broccoli</div><div style="text-align: left;">25. Fish sticks, carrot sticks, tator tots</div><div style="text-align: left;">26. Ribeyes, corn on cob, loaded baked potatoes</div><div style="text-align: left;">27. BLTs, potato salad</div><div style="text-align: left;">29. Spaghetti & <a href="http://www.jinxyknowsbest.com/2011/01/vegetarian-cooking-two-bean-veggie.html">veggie meatballs</a>, salad</div><div style="text-align: left;">30. BBQ chicken, cheesy rice, corn</div><div style="text-align: left;">31. Roast with veggies</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I didn't link to recipes this time around. Sorry- however if you want a specific recipe, just let me know in the comments or e-mail. Have a wonderful & safe August! Happy eating. :)</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-37580730691945786602011-07-14T16:18:00.000-06:002011-07-14T16:18:15.684-06:00Parenting tip #249Here it is. My parenting tip for the day. I saw this on Pinterest, and I just had to share. It made me giggle & I am going to use this tip soon. Muuuahh ha ha. {that is my evil laugh in case you were wondering}<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUDLu4_PZB5XoilwnerLOh8PSKSGDEXFSGrrfDG2suc00wA5cc7aMR7fdZfkFzro5csesSvxNr2bWWE9U-nxdux80gKrn05BL2YY4mZnDrtE_ewXJXvHFXYO-RkC_bPgEZkaMdvGhCTbk/s1600/parenting+101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUDLu4_PZB5XoilwnerLOh8PSKSGDEXFSGrrfDG2suc00wA5cc7aMR7fdZfkFzro5csesSvxNr2bWWE9U-nxdux80gKrn05BL2YY4mZnDrtE_ewXJXvHFXYO-RkC_bPgEZkaMdvGhCTbk/s400/parenting+101.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The only thing about this I have an issue with is the grammar. The last line should be two separate sentences. As in Lean in real close & whisper. It's much scarier. Rant over.<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
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J- Mom of 3 who refused to nap today & who sometimes has moments where she still thinks she is an English/Grammar teacher.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-58096038288648120282011-07-11T15:04:00.000-06:002011-07-11T15:04:34.388-06:00Mindless MondayThis post really doesn't have a purpose. I just have some random thoughts and happenings to share. <br />
<br />
1. I may have had the best grilled cheese sandwich of my life today. Just sayin'. It wasn't your momma's grilled cheese & probably is a little too spicy for littles unless they are into spiciness. The recipe can be found <a href="http://www.closetcooking.com/2011/04/jalapeno-popper-grilled-cheese-sandwich.html">here</a>.<br />
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2. I have a kazillion projects that I really really want to get done soon. Our July is just so packed that I find myself wondering if I will ever finish these projects. We recently moved N & O into the same room (bunk beds are wonderful!) and now I need to finish H's <a href="http://1corinthiansfifteenten.blogspot.com/2011/04/nursery-in-making.html">nursery</a>. I also have a roll top desk that needs painting, an armoire that needs painted & moved into H's room, and a few other projects that either need painted, sewn, or just decorated. <br />
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3. Our dog snorts like a pig when she sleeps. Random, I know. But she is sleeping right beside me & if I have to listen to her snorts, you need to know about them. Important stuff. I'm also thinking she is trying to create another dog. Our supposedly non shedding dog is leaving clumps of hair everywhere. Or maybe its a sign she needs to be groomed...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>4. The baby started solid foods this week. Can you really call strained peas, pureed peaches & bananas, & mushed up sweet potatoes solids? Anyways- I think she likes it. Can you tell?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirHU5R5WHKbaDqOnz05Icbuew1YcWyOEkBa1VHqMeXp1aDAKPuFlYXudpN2Uif_MCCrg1PiZ5yQXbYuuVmstibVEKf_MGzXItN6sh70wYWKyyY6jZg_3TEH-C4rH8omcMcjxTLhUXyV2U/s1600/mmmmm+nanas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirHU5R5WHKbaDqOnz05Icbuew1YcWyOEkBa1VHqMeXp1aDAKPuFlYXudpN2Uif_MCCrg1PiZ5yQXbYuuVmstibVEKf_MGzXItN6sh70wYWKyyY6jZg_3TEH-C4rH8omcMcjxTLhUXyV2U/s320/mmmmm+nanas.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">mmmm...I will raise my non existent eye brows to show you how I feel about bananas!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. I still sing the Gwen Stefani song when I spell bananas. Just sayin' You know you do it too.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">6. I need to make more laundry detergent. It will be a blog post. I love making my own laundry detergent, but I hate grating the soap to make it. But unless I want to wear dirty clothes, I need to get grating.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">7. This blog post is a form of procrastination. I should be cleaning. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">8. My 5 year old lost her first tooth last Thursday. It may or may not have been the result of her chin connecting with her knee earlier in the week... The tooth fairy came. Her name is Agatha (she left a letter). </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9A6LtckjjweuM7SoxluzXl8FIQmcCAwcuk_HIPX5UytbjdliVd9GIGPvvfdobqpmaUA8USXq1lTpEOa7LqaRI1e2Kl1JeCZ2VcyeMxic5PAIS6g8-67DNHKiYb9o9w7KBKGgt8dYqBkE/s1600/toothless.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9A6LtckjjweuM7SoxluzXl8FIQmcCAwcuk_HIPX5UytbjdliVd9GIGPvvfdobqpmaUA8USXq1lTpEOa7LqaRI1e2Kl1JeCZ2VcyeMxic5PAIS6g8-67DNHKiYb9o9w7KBKGgt8dYqBkE/s320/toothless.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">9. I got a very nice sunburn yesterday. On my shin. Not shins...shin. The right one to be exact. Who does that?? Of all places to get a sunburn, I manage to burn my shin. It will be super sexy when it starts to peel. But the aquatic center here in town is very nice & we had a blast as a family. Even the baby liked swimming- along with the 4 year old who last year was very afraid of putting his face in the water. This year, he has turned into a fish. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">10. I haven't been to the gym for over a month. H is having a growth spurt or something & since I am the only one in the family with the...uh...equipment to feed her, I am the one waking up at 2, 3, and 4 am. This makes waking up at 5 to hit the gym nearly impossible. Hopefully now that she is on solid foods, she will sleep better & this mommy can go work out. I feel better after exercise & a mommy that feels better is a happy mommy. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">11. Touching your eye after making & eating the sandwich mentioned in #1 is not recommended. That being said, I think my random rambling is over. The tears are making it hard to read the screen. **Ouch!**</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Have a blessed week everyone! (or all 4 of you that read this!)</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-42629729947427907862011-07-03T13:23:00.000-06:002011-07-03T13:23:05.020-06:00Why Grandma & Grandpa's house is magicalI grew up in an extremely small town. Not 20,000 people- which some people consider small. Not even close. My town's population is 209 & I have a hard time believing that is correct. I had ten people in my graduating class. When I graduated, I couldn't wait to leave my small town and small community and pursue bigger and better things. I chose a college as far away from home as I could, without going out of state. (Dad said out of state schools cost too much. Frugality runs in our family.)<br />
<br />
As I have grown older, I have come to appreciate the small town I lived in. Not a lot of my friends now can say they participated in every. single. activity. their school offered. (except cheerleading- no desire to do that one) I was a 3 sport athlete. I was also on the academic decathlon team, speech team, drama team, in choir and band, mock trial, and the list goes on. Granted, I did have to run cross country at another school since ours was too small to have a team. Plus, I could still call up an old teacher if need be, and they would know exactly who I was. I taught for 5 years, and I KNOW I couldn't tell you the names of every student I taught. Of course I had more 6th graders in <em>one year</em> than there were k-12 students in the school I grew up in. :)<br />
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But I have come to realize that I took advantage of living in a small town. I know it instilled in me values I will have forever. Skills that have helped me succeed. Lessons I learned, mistakes I've made, and dreams I have dreamed were all forged in that small community. <br />
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<div align="center">Grandma & Grandpa's house</div><div align="center">Where you can...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKp1gGPLqGynUb1i4gxMAY5CTo0SjlOHbEweSgiitE3EGSbEbS3uu-2f68SFx4ZMHi2RqC2h-qgVELA85QcXMrhHYZdjcDKv8s5MpxfOgkpCKE2quBH7LqOgKM0txonoYbvWC2Q7RHPIk/s1600/summer+11+101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKp1gGPLqGynUb1i4gxMAY5CTo0SjlOHbEweSgiitE3EGSbEbS3uu-2f68SFx4ZMHi2RqC2h-qgVELA85QcXMrhHYZdjcDKv8s5MpxfOgkpCKE2quBH7LqOgKM0txonoYbvWC2Q7RHPIk/s320/summer+11+101.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Fight off imaginary villains with a big stick- "Stay out of the sandbox!"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDT_SKeCP26TKvSCcSMmGNJu_eSFQ88W9dkSzeURJlNxmcQ3oYjHUsncTGhAu6VLAHRxz9QETdxNx622Hq2pG3XpYGTXjI1ILU3HVtTfeeoYwpRpcGfpIlRvl4jt9PgIesi66Bvq3O8BY/s1600/summer+11+134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDT_SKeCP26TKvSCcSMmGNJu_eSFQ88W9dkSzeURJlNxmcQ3oYjHUsncTGhAu6VLAHRxz9QETdxNx622Hq2pG3XpYGTXjI1ILU3HVtTfeeoYwpRpcGfpIlRvl4jt9PgIesi66Bvq3O8BY/s320/summer+11+134.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Play under a willow tree</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABE8z9LRPSNEhUYbC3WGIgbo0RloyimZTPunUSSVmjnYJys_8Ny-U340aJPWz-AlsPE3IVOOeqBqbecHgbGOuub16T13_sQRuBedzER6I_8MG2Kz9iTQQwBT5NYcX5KlBGgzUhykizc4/s1600/summer+11+135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABE8z9LRPSNEhUYbC3WGIgbo0RloyimZTPunUSSVmjnYJys_8Ny-U340aJPWz-AlsPE3IVOOeqBqbecHgbGOuub16T13_sQRuBedzER6I_8MG2Kz9iTQQwBT5NYcX5KlBGgzUhykizc4/s320/summer+11+135.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Find the perfect hiding spot...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxUs7Sz2fmbyr-vq5oEdKT02RZ7AqSLYPu_I5cMAtJbBY18czgQeNG-6tABp1qfS5qjDs-AQG_erRUN-urzkFyO4IRpigM9aa9FAdlkkQd-vR50McMvMJSXe01QRn14RXqSDuy2NlPA_s/s1600/summer+11+137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxUs7Sz2fmbyr-vq5oEdKT02RZ7AqSLYPu_I5cMAtJbBY18czgQeNG-6tABp1qfS5qjDs-AQG_erRUN-urzkFyO4IRpigM9aa9FAdlkkQd-vR50McMvMJSXe01QRn14RXqSDuy2NlPA_s/s320/summer+11+137.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Jump over a running stream...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vskjLy1Nc9itwOdBhN5rrwOAURPME-laN9r0w1jcakWRDcbFBxU72YTG7ggBdPQIZqGXwmAmifGLX2ZmwC2q-sGLkRAbv32c6I9LR7Lyzhb0N-D4kLv2q0IwaOlKa21NA7CzamzINWE/s1600/summer+11+140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vskjLy1Nc9itwOdBhN5rrwOAURPME-laN9r0w1jcakWRDcbFBxU72YTG7ggBdPQIZqGXwmAmifGLX2ZmwC2q-sGLkRAbv32c6I9LR7Lyzhb0N-D4kLv2q0IwaOlKa21NA7CzamzINWE/s320/summer+11+140.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Spot a frog on a lily pad...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgGoelDeSEeWOkq-A77uILXinkab8DbeLvM1MCVG0He1j8Fd0NP0ZnkDz_1bFWAzWSQmASBLDZ0P54wcSwCcVCcNGamZNFiGS5_2qLFJxMU3Lw7J-8RjrkOcrRTDtgAe7YHTv-TebrY4/s1600/summer+11+112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgGoelDeSEeWOkq-A77uILXinkab8DbeLvM1MCVG0He1j8Fd0NP0ZnkDz_1bFWAzWSQmASBLDZ0P54wcSwCcVCcNGamZNFiGS5_2qLFJxMU3Lw7J-8RjrkOcrRTDtgAe7YHTv-TebrY4/s320/summer+11+112.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Learn how to shell peas...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXbDf_gyEexuRKeldmy-w9wNszCYD2L0lfDaymif__i8K3Ty7-ujtpC-3HsCkoCj7BuUTLX4hWPgaJCAXFwDHJeofaShiXX2P9ayq8J2PTkyR3xqulkukBoSTYItUSTo4RNC4h4faxuxE/s1600/summer+11+125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXbDf_gyEexuRKeldmy-w9wNszCYD2L0lfDaymif__i8K3Ty7-ujtpC-3HsCkoCj7BuUTLX4hWPgaJCAXFwDHJeofaShiXX2P9ayq8J2PTkyR3xqulkukBoSTYItUSTo4RNC4h4faxuxE/s200/summer+11+125.JPG" width="133" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-keVmrJx_FFEO25k_nxN-uTmO2H27OyYLiSkgog_5zMKal8KdKE1W6DZX9aGUcgYd7zlvCJFotIVEpeCPBVYgbN6Z_o13GJFuDNh03VvWa-ueBR6HRqSpIZlPTY2kHhcPQ8PqRIEm75c/s1600/summer+11+127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-keVmrJx_FFEO25k_nxN-uTmO2H27OyYLiSkgog_5zMKal8KdKE1W6DZX9aGUcgYd7zlvCJFotIVEpeCPBVYgbN6Z_o13GJFuDNh03VvWa-ueBR6HRqSpIZlPTY2kHhcPQ8PqRIEm75c/s200/summer+11+127.JPG" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwRp_9pkn_jE79uga3eSSA4YBefaaDJfLwR0m8Cw7agj9EeWCbWIMJbaD-gzyJdzPXoVlhQmLfI5_EZ7elX4thpMIMICv0RvWhshp9ylIwWVWj9JmGzebrdPHlfrmRCJzs2jjxoVzu_NI/s1600/summer+11+131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwRp_9pkn_jE79uga3eSSA4YBefaaDJfLwR0m8Cw7agj9EeWCbWIMJbaD-gzyJdzPXoVlhQmLfI5_EZ7elX4thpMIMICv0RvWhshp9ylIwWVWj9JmGzebrdPHlfrmRCJzs2jjxoVzu_NI/s200/summer+11+131.JPG" width="133" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEQNuvu3Wm77StBm4OWS3TizPjw3Tc9JS8ipA5IEspBHjL_XgQZ__EJ4zQll7DwTUOhnjGj1N8i2F0rSYFBleN0BC-feHr3Xoumjg-53EIfwXuG7R08OwN6PU3HPk2HXTcLXOodMYM9o/s1600/summer+11+104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEQNuvu3Wm77StBm4OWS3TizPjw3Tc9JS8ipA5IEspBHjL_XgQZ__EJ4zQll7DwTUOhnjGj1N8i2F0rSYFBleN0BC-feHr3Xoumjg-53EIfwXuG7R08OwN6PU3HPk2HXTcLXOodMYM9o/s320/summer+11+104.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Look at LOTS of pretty flowers...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9K9kqqYRKwgrk0VPQS-fw6SFQWiuIue3VY6h3dVB2bJG3uOa_KGvsJ_jevuwobTX-qy8m110hk52Hj0n9Q_3OVFqRVa2BR1C-_lZ10HSNPmvO8FCt9bWaZEEva3a74c5NkG59J5tM-zM/s1600/summer+11+150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9K9kqqYRKwgrk0VPQS-fw6SFQWiuIue3VY6h3dVB2bJG3uOa_KGvsJ_jevuwobTX-qy8m110hk52Hj0n9Q_3OVFqRVa2BR1C-_lZ10HSNPmvO8FCt9bWaZEEva3a74c5NkG59J5tM-zM/s200/summer+11+150.JPG" width="133" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Enjoy the beauty in a walk along the railroad tracks...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQ83rCcFvOOZonsXMOnmwJ32Rxjx3ZD3u8HjhI8UEyn1-Ai4vFAWPfiJVVKIlGSNsC2wBDND4TSETtNC4GWZrjlIcok-hhVkA36hDL7bOPELjdMKoYTnENE7dlCUS3K1qBguM2YaSS4E/s1600/summer+11+153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQ83rCcFvOOZonsXMOnmwJ32Rxjx3ZD3u8HjhI8UEyn1-Ai4vFAWPfiJVVKIlGSNsC2wBDND4TSETtNC4GWZrjlIcok-hhVkA36hDL7bOPELjdMKoYTnENE7dlCUS3K1qBguM2YaSS4E/s320/summer+11+153.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">See the sun set over the farm...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I pray that my kids will always love going to Grandma & Grandpa's. My mom often voices that one day they won't want to come hang out with her & will find the farm "boring". I hope that doesn't ever happen. For now I don't have to worry. They love our visits there. Even if it takes nearly a whole day to get to my parent's- its worth it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2JH9FJh51c5ZIikoHrrze7Yj9Qc9apjqgAXUgPaR8iZ2ObW68V2l2v12OK-z5Nwx_3OLyscWeyRO7OepnqJbaQiV6cpgkwqWIC9Phv_nz7rojXFtzAxyDrU70ULL8j4u0exsT2Me2nbU/s1600/summer+11+121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2JH9FJh51c5ZIikoHrrze7Yj9Qc9apjqgAXUgPaR8iZ2ObW68V2l2v12OK-z5Nwx_3OLyscWeyRO7OepnqJbaQiV6cpgkwqWIC9Phv_nz7rojXFtzAxyDrU70ULL8j4u0exsT2Me2nbU/s320/summer+11+121.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhKWSSS_7ZltjlaAJIbGcB8dooeN0EkyzLoDTHH4Vjqd6Jq6nyzw4mPXdbvolh8AG9AuFuwsnbdtFCBT3mDURbZuJq5or1VjedCZnBMkgH7OaUB-ZtZb5E4o4O-L-zdh4dpCloVBCP9Wk/s1600/summer+11+124.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhKWSSS_7ZltjlaAJIbGcB8dooeN0EkyzLoDTHH4Vjqd6Jq6nyzw4mPXdbvolh8AG9AuFuwsnbdtFCBT3mDURbZuJq5or1VjedCZnBMkgH7OaUB-ZtZb5E4o4O-L-zdh4dpCloVBCP9Wk/s320/summer+11+124.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For home truly is where your heart is. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-82248113823335700432011-05-31T15:35:00.003-06:002011-06-01T13:53:48.255-06:00June MenuSummer vacation is here. It has thrown me for a loop. In reality, this is the first time I have really experienced having all 3 kids ALL the time! The older two littles were in school when Miss H was born three months ago, and even though they didn't go every day, I had 2 days a week where it was just H & I. Those were the days I dedicated to organizing the house & running errands like the <a href="http://1corinthiansfifteenten.blogspot.com/2011/05/chore-i-detest-most.html">dreaded grocery shopping</a>. This past week has me shaking my head in wonder. <br />
<br />
HOW AM I GOING TO ACCOMPLISH ANYTHING THIS SUMMER????<br />
<br />
I love all my kids dearly, but they are very needy individuals. Granted, the older two can entertain themselves for long periods of time, but there are the "help me mommy" moments, the "I'm thirsty" moments, the "she hit me or he took my toy" break up the fight moments...etc. It makes it impossible for me to focus on a task for any amount of time. <br />
<br />
Needless to say, there is nothing in the fridge for dinner tonight. But, I am not grocery shopping today. This morning was out- I didn't shower till 10:30 because the baby was cranky. By the time I was ready, it was lunch time. Right after lunch, the older two take a nap. I don't skip naps...If my kids skip nap, the devil takes over their little souls & turns them into the whiniest, most dramatic kids on the face of this earth. Don't believe me?? Feel free to borrow them for a day & don't give them a nap. Do it. You'll understand. <br />
<br />
Anyways, I feel somewhat accomplished today (after a mini breakdown to my husband in which I may have told him supper was not happening today). I got diapers washed. They are hanging on the line in the glorious sunshine that we actually have today. Of course that sunshine is partnered with 125 mph winds...I'm praying the clothesline doesn't decide to take flight and head to Wyoming. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi681GAIr4agwbeN3BAbo2iPxvqJdWQt8Opv92zJl8I_FC1IXGQ0hKQT9Urfkp413HTYFDuFTcrTveCMHmFPIw_92s0FolmwwpbYm2ZNoKZQqzZUiPpy0F7gZGzbUhRp4UuNKzvwF0sKqM/s1600/clothesline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi681GAIr4agwbeN3BAbo2iPxvqJdWQt8Opv92zJl8I_FC1IXGQ0hKQT9Urfkp413HTYFDuFTcrTveCMHmFPIw_92s0FolmwwpbYm2ZNoKZQqzZUiPpy0F7gZGzbUhRp4UuNKzvwF0sKqM/s320/clothesline.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</div>I also made out my June menu. I usually only plan one week at a time, but I decided I was going to write out the whole month & then when grocery shopping time came, I would just have to look at the calendar & go from there. Genius, right?? So, I thought I would share with you what I came up with for my June menu.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpUnOOT1ndWGmdcjaFdYv62yiASvVZllkCgGzc03VA4DcpUEVGtPiqR0DtVXRT_FaT9G9B5VbGRSNEpbu9URh1tA4YGK7IvoYTPcJJdiQM2frIE1AHCAu-CDmSz__sdVRtQp-XXrPJvI/s1600/june+menu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpUnOOT1ndWGmdcjaFdYv62yiASvVZllkCgGzc03VA4DcpUEVGtPiqR0DtVXRT_FaT9G9B5VbGRSNEpbu9URh1tA4YGK7IvoYTPcJJdiQM2frIE1AHCAu-CDmSz__sdVRtQp-XXrPJvI/s320/june+menu.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Forgive me, I don't know how to make a calendar to put in here...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ol><li>Turkey Meatballs with peanut sauce, rice, edamame</li>
<li>Tacos</li>
<li>Grilled chicken legs, roasted potatoes, corn</li>
<li><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/bobby-flay/coffee-rubbed-rib-eye-recipe/index.html">Coffee rubbed flank steak</a> with a chimichurri sauce, sweet potato fries</li>
<li>Popcorn night!</li>
<li>Fish sandwiches, waffle fries, salad</li>
<li><a href="http://www.johnsonville.com/recipes/sz/sunrise-casserole.html">Breakfast casserole</a>, fresh fruit</li>
<li><a href="http://1corinthiansfifteenten.blogspot.com/2011/05/turkey-stromboli.html">Turkey strombolis</a>, roasted veggies</li>
<li>Beef & Broccoli, rice, egg rolls</li>
<li>Chicken spaghetti, garlic bread, green beans</li>
<li>Pork chops, <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2008/06/crash-hot-potatoes/">Crash potatoes,</a> salad</li>
<li>Popcorn night!</li>
<li><a href="http://www.multiplydelicious.com/thefood/2011/04/asparagus-primavera-with-couscous/">Asparagus primavera over couscous</a></li>
<li><a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2008/08/spicy-shredded-pork/">Spicy pork roast with coleslaw and corn tortillas</a></li>
<li><a href="http://lickthebowlgood.blogspot.com/2010/07/annoying-habits.html">Pizza muffins</a>, salad</li>
<li>Cheese burgers on the grill, Mac & cheese, raw veggies</li>
<li>Smothered chicken breasts, hash browns, broccoli</li>
<li>Meatloaf, stuffing, corn</li>
<li>Popcorn night!</li>
<li>Honey glazed salmon, lemon creme pasta, spinach salad</li>
<li>Pork tenderloin sandwiches, fresh fruit, french fries</li>
<li>Beer chicken in the crock pot, rice, corn</li>
<li>Sour cream noodle bake, green beans</li>
<li>BBQ chicken legs, cheesy potatoes, roasted carrots</li>
<li>Grilled individual pizzas</li>
<li>Popcorn night!</li>
<li>Pasta with bacon & leeks, spinach salad</li>
<li>BLTs, pasta salad, steamed asparagus</li>
<li>Thai turkey lettuce wraps</li>
<li>Steak & egg bistro salad</li>
</ol><div>That's it! We actually are planning a mini vacation, so not all of these meals will actually happen, but if something comes up & we don't go- I still have meals planned. And yes, as you can tell we are a meat and potatoes family. Sundays are popcorn night- its a family tradition from my side going back a couple of generations. Mondays are always meatless or fish. I try to have a variety of protein the rest of the week. The hubby likes his beef & pork. :) </div><div><br />
</div><div>Well that is the menu for the month! I linked some of the recipes & if there is another that you would like a recipe for, just let me know. Most of these I make from memory, but I can type out the recipe if you would like it. </div><br />
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I must go. O woke up from nap & is having an "I'm thirsty" moment.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-36995641150416675752011-05-18T17:18:00.000-06:002011-05-18T17:18:41.868-06:00Tatortots & Jello give awayMy blog cohort at <a href="http://tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/">Tatertots & Jello</a> is having a giveaway for one of these:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Uim2bMO0vU1W2U64IRe0TYR-SGfqX_e5Qr1u0OfauU4uEJMNDypPJw9v9-I8sBMPP0jOLUet7OC5HpIrUPEXZusQ6-0TC6_9Urc3zL-Pl9VQi_nW-HI3mHSwvEq9_mZMZNufUqXG8xg/s1600/computersilhouette2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Uim2bMO0vU1W2U64IRe0TYR-SGfqX_e5Qr1u0OfauU4uEJMNDypPJw9v9-I8sBMPP0jOLUet7OC5HpIrUPEXZusQ6-0TC6_9Urc3zL-Pl9VQi_nW-HI3mHSwvEq9_mZMZNufUqXG8xg/s320/computersilhouette2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Want to know what it does? Go <a href="http://www.silhouetteamerica.com/whatcanitdo.aspx">here</a>.<br />
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I'm blogging about it so I have a chance to win. Call me guilty, but I hope you don't want one. Or never read this...It ups my chances that way. Just sayin. But if like me, you are also drooling over the possibilities of what a Silhouette machine could do for you, I suppose I will let you enter too. But if you win, I will hold a grudge. :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-52275791722976515892011-05-18T10:37:00.000-06:002011-05-18T10:37:49.361-06:00Recipes of Love.May 2 was a tough day for us as a family. The Husband was out of town on business- 4 hours away. He got a call no one wants to get. His grandmother, Alice, had passed suddenly. It was a shock to our family. Alice hadn't been ill at all. <br />
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The next few days were a whirlwind. Travelling to NE, helping the family plan services, going through Alice's small, quaint apartment, and remembering a feisty lady who we all dearly loved. In the nearly 11 years that I have been part of my husband's family, Alice had become my grandmother as well. <br />
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She was spunky in all sense of the word. Wasn't afraid to tell it how it was, whether you wanted to hear it or not. Loved to play card games & dice games, though she had certain games that she would only play with certain people. She lovingly referred to me as her "Little $hi#" after I surprised her one evening when she was not expecting me. It was our little joke for years. I loved all the talks we had. She was opinionated, stubborn, and one of the most caring people I have ever known. Not a birthday, anniversary, or special event was overlooked. We always received a card in the mail and a phone call. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When going through Alice's apartment with the family, there were many tears shed as we would find something that would touch our hearts. Often it was photographs (and there were MANY!), or words that she had written. We found birthday cards for 2 of her great grand kids, not yet sent- but already filled with her love. One of those was for my son- whose birthday is today. Alice was at his birth & was the first to hold O, when he was just minutes old. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgZCgC5tli_VAw2plDPPq5pzFfFzYFee6vx5BECXP_IPCdLXkE59-yUOI_e93vsbqT5wdbAfXHbA5GkfjOqbUFBD9-Y-pits5XgMTIjycoQhmMASpQSl9oPExnkiai59rLISsLtdD8eEs/s1600/alice+%2526+Owen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgZCgC5tli_VAw2plDPPq5pzFfFzYFee6vx5BECXP_IPCdLXkE59-yUOI_e93vsbqT5wdbAfXHbA5GkfjOqbUFBD9-Y-pits5XgMTIjycoQhmMASpQSl9oPExnkiai59rLISsLtdD8eEs/s320/alice+%2526+Owen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Alice & Owen 5/18/07</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We found many trinkets and treasures that held memories. We discovered things that made us laugh through the pain, and sometimes wonder what she was thinking. But, when her kitchen cabinets were cleared out, I jumped at the opportunity to have this:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YLOeHaQV0kSFCgYIO70MWatCJwQo-bIhJFaTtG4_kd1ZzjNDB0uZ-o0BjZ49DW9NwQ4QD1MC2soOi36xK68xpqv57-qJNUFqvTYiiAs65xOIx-U-BTUSyKVnYRys1IVQbnnBoBFq0ms/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YLOeHaQV0kSFCgYIO70MWatCJwQo-bIhJFaTtG4_kd1ZzjNDB0uZ-o0BjZ49DW9NwQ4QD1MC2soOi36xK68xpqv57-qJNUFqvTYiiAs65xOIx-U-BTUSyKVnYRys1IVQbnnBoBFq0ms/s320/011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Alice's recipe box</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love recipe boxes. Especially ones that have been filled with recipes from years ago. Recipes handed down over generations, ones from newspapers, now yellowed with age. Recipes written in the familiar graceful scrawl of a woman we loved. Sometimes there is a random note, or words of wisdom. I didn't know for sure what I would find in Alice's recipe box, but I knew I wouldn't be disappointed. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkQLbWbVseh_WoiuMtGV0PvCuuz0u9ne9QZxaBOr9wRuo9MCe7ZXNhpysOaUdxujFQOuv1OiVKtxaFisJEIITCRSHbdddn451iHY3meUBY2dUGmL5m4UzT6rij5vYHTQmfq-pw0tEw70/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkQLbWbVseh_WoiuMtGV0PvCuuz0u9ne9QZxaBOr9wRuo9MCe7ZXNhpysOaUdxujFQOuv1OiVKtxaFisJEIITCRSHbdddn451iHY3meUBY2dUGmL5m4UzT6rij5vYHTQmfq-pw0tEw70/s320/013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I found this notepad, which had the date 1960. There were several recipes on brittle pages, worn with age, and stained with evidence that these were recipes she called on often. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmk8nguxFltAE-A9zoY9O8xAl22u0h0y1KAZDNh859uLgESaLeHSruvdZC3YtAXi_Ns3oYv6dU1K8KoA7knqTdhVXHpxSw6st_upkXVheWWpecVm7HlfPqtvx4K52EHajTBGPERDkyQQ/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmk8nguxFltAE-A9zoY9O8xAl22u0h0y1KAZDNh859uLgESaLeHSruvdZC3YtAXi_Ns3oYv6dU1K8KoA7knqTdhVXHpxSw6st_upkXVheWWpecVm7HlfPqtvx4K52EHajTBGPERDkyQQ/s320/014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> This recipe for "Idiot Rolls" from a friend of Alice's. The notation on the back said "So easy an idiot could make them" It made me chuckle, knowing this was something Alice would say. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS3xYrIvC3JINwqrpbvvq0f-v46cWNmSM1NkCeEQRNWzIT3-3G-fNnzMgx0lfCkZ1vGYuJTRb_xENwDwvrjSAYDAE7ZthEnGMwhvAUW8LSXU1lDzWtb9_BSbvXSdOEYQxzy_YZZ21yjOo/s1600/017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS3xYrIvC3JINwqrpbvvq0f-v46cWNmSM1NkCeEQRNWzIT3-3G-fNnzMgx0lfCkZ1vGYuJTRb_xENwDwvrjSAYDAE7ZthEnGMwhvAUW8LSXU1lDzWtb9_BSbvXSdOEYQxzy_YZZ21yjOo/s320/017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Many many recipes of all the baked goods that her family remembers her making- prior to an injury that left her limited mobility in her dominant arm. Recipes with notations of how good they were: "!!!Excellent!!!" Gingersnaps, and "Delicious" chocolate crinkles. "So & So's favorite". Some more visibly older than others. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyHGqcH90hTN5cygvNnRpXdUoYa5iZbolNPNzIP2t6iVTIlJZ8dAIpAOGuDtX13IEVRgL5svW7Xa3LexU_aIzX99HPGOYsYjwo4old5HoGhnKxKLnWJgmZDCaE0aTeiZjQ-IZP4MUflsk/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyHGqcH90hTN5cygvNnRpXdUoYa5iZbolNPNzIP2t6iVTIlJZ8dAIpAOGuDtX13IEVRgL5svW7Xa3LexU_aIzX99HPGOYsYjwo4old5HoGhnKxKLnWJgmZDCaE0aTeiZjQ-IZP4MUflsk/s320/018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> newspaper clippings so old they were almost brittle to the touch.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcRbPtB2GtKPZRKtMEjNUZLpNVClsO1ZR_oO_rY6Ou38976l_M5wksAk8RyYzpJPFqBiuY0NqOMr7lghHWjDG18hXVo2HMQxBzfUOv6F-6BXvgWqlh85Wfu0nrwwpg3dZ-9uOSe9b_j8E/s1600/019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcRbPtB2GtKPZRKtMEjNUZLpNVClsO1ZR_oO_rY6Ou38976l_M5wksAk8RyYzpJPFqBiuY0NqOMr7lghHWjDG18hXVo2HMQxBzfUOv6F-6BXvgWqlh85Wfu0nrwwpg3dZ-9uOSe9b_j8E/s320/019.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Easy Rye Bread that apparently appeals to men. I wonder how many gentleman callers she had when the smell of this baked good was wafting out her windows? And was she <i>trying </i>to impress someone when she came across this several years ago?? The thought made me smile. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWSfzun4bFVT1OTTpLkyDFuOtg5rJ0t05ZJMl6-osyaP7LXy7uWupCY8VOr4NQMpEPWX4-1E_wLKxfOT5Ik0bsiOUagWpRygOZgz2qJkC0XDGuGXXsr4jG7Q_HOxzu-8pMfybcDilkS8/s1600/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWSfzun4bFVT1OTTpLkyDFuOtg5rJ0t05ZJMl6-osyaP7LXy7uWupCY8VOr4NQMpEPWX4-1E_wLKxfOT5Ik0bsiOUagWpRygOZgz2qJkC0XDGuGXXsr4jG7Q_HOxzu-8pMfybcDilkS8/s320/016.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Tips and tricks on how to get rid of mice, ants, and roaches. Because, simply, you never know when you will need advice like this. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmHUo5ml21nNq8B4i6NDiM7egQqE5fpn_tZok8pYoVaqIXIpbNeqrHwFCHdv6M-ctAwdOJ5IMYtSOoX9pAfWm3ByiKhNcCKRn7ZIN9P8Q4yxW25LsJpNilbeD8R6iJyFpfy8UJq6dcpfw/s1600/020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmHUo5ml21nNq8B4i6NDiM7egQqE5fpn_tZok8pYoVaqIXIpbNeqrHwFCHdv6M-ctAwdOJ5IMYtSOoX9pAfWm3ByiKhNcCKRn7ZIN9P8Q4yxW25LsJpNilbeD8R6iJyFpfy8UJq6dcpfw/s320/020.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> We also came across a few of these- stacked neatly and tucked away in a corner. Only one was written in. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgubWp6zM7GURn3ZrYdbLWpgGbRw7n4b8tCvuWKOgqb6VUww_RX4aA_4SWZZp6jgqMqiYPO8jbuPu9BJFUkF5n37wTPEb2x9H0G7SksksqLoLF_HbqDoBdNOXXHqEuhuKU5QNX0bJvjKJ8/s1600/021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgubWp6zM7GURn3ZrYdbLWpgGbRw7n4b8tCvuWKOgqb6VUww_RX4aA_4SWZZp6jgqMqiYPO8jbuPu9BJFUkF5n37wTPEb2x9H0G7SksksqLoLF_HbqDoBdNOXXHqEuhuKU5QNX0bJvjKJ8/s320/021.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It was to be my Christmas present this year. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The recipe box has become a treasure of mine. I love it as much as I love my own grandmother's- which I received when she passed several years ago. Timeless treasures that I hope someday will continue to be passed on. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We love you & miss you Grandma Alice. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I feel the need to make a Strawberry Rhubarb pie. According to the recipe card, it's my husband's favorite! :)</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-75356326104166144212011-05-13T15:14:00.000-06:002011-05-13T15:14:34.749-06:00Friday the WHA???I am not having a good day. It started okay- alarm went off at 5:10 am. Got up to go to the gym. Renewed gym membership. Went down hall to Spinning room. Had an INTENSE workout. Sweat dripping off tip of nose intense. All good and dandy. <br />
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Returned home at 6:35 am. Joined the husband back in bed. Played some words with friends. Kind of drifted off. Kissed husband goodbye as he left for work. Fell back into a DEEP sleep. Here is where it gets interesting. <br />
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Woke up at 8:45 to the two oldest littles poking me & saying they want breakfast. Me= doing all sorts of facial contortions to try to see as my contacts had glued themselves to my eyeballs. "huh? "What time is it??" I grab my phone. See that its 8:45. Crap. Late start (On Fridays I let the littles sleep in as long as they want & I usually am up having coffee & some quiet time before the chaos begins.) Let the dog out <--remember this for later. Get the kids breakfast. Use some eye drops. More facial contortions, followed by poking myself in the eye to dislodge left contact which has now moved into my brain cavity. Give in. Remove offending contacts (the left one needed rinsing as I'm pretty sure there was some gray matter on it) & put on glasses. Let dog back in.<br />
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Baby wakes & begins crying. Change baby, feed baby. Baby won't stop crying. Baby lets out HUGE fart. Stops crying for a bit. bit= 5.198367 seconds. Commences crying. <br />
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Tune out baby, or try to. She is #3 & screams at a decibel that makes dogs howl. It ensures that she is not overlooked. Survival of the fittest or something like that. Try to quickly clean up kitchen. Open cabinet to put away plates. Rooster cookie jar that I use for decoration purposes above my cupboards comes flying down at my head. Brushes my ear. Shatters on counter top. Yay me. Sigh, clean up the little shards of ceramic and piece the head back together. <br />
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Baby still screaming. I vow to never eat brussel sprouts again. Or at least until she is off the boob. Take two tylenol. Drink a cup of coffee. Have a moment of peace. Feed baby. O then announces that the dog had pooped in the mud room. AFTER she had been let outside. Apparently the wet grass is too gross for her to do her business outside & she has found the need to Crap on my floor 3 of the past 4 days. I clean up the poop mess, gagging the whole time. Grab the <strike>stupid</strike> mutt & put her outside AGAIN. She will be outside all day. She is not in my good graces. <br />
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Break up fight between O & N over a puzzle piece. Really? Have 2nd cup of coffee. Check facebook. Blogger is still being a pain & won't load properly. Kids say they are hungry. Really?? Already?? What time is it? Crud. Its 12:30. Make lunch. Feed kids. Baby starts fussing again. Change her, feed her. Still crying. Administer Gripe Water to help her tummy again. Curse myself for trying something new for supper. Get kids cleaned up from lunch, send them to their rooms for nap time. Finally get baby to sleep. Go to bedroom & get clothes laid out for after my shower (yes it was 1 and I hadn't showered yet. Don't judge.) Grab robe & towel. Head to bathroom to find N looking over the toilet saying " I dropped a deuce & it won't flush". Grab plunger, dislodge turd. Flush turd successfully. Send N back to her room for nap. Take quick shower while all 3 are sleeping. Get dressed. Collapse on couch. It is only 2. I'm ready for bed. <br />
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Baby is fussing again. Guess the day isn't over yet. I am done with Friday. TGI WHAT?? Nope. I want to skip today. Fast forward. Please let it be Saturday. please?? pretty please with a cherry on top??????<br />
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*Sigh*Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-60913575867274701642011-05-12T09:44:00.000-06:002011-05-13T14:32:54.584-06:00The chore I detest the most.You would think it would be scrubbing the bathroom. Laundry perhaps? Nope- the husband does the majority of the laundry. (be jealous, its okay) Dusting? Vacuuming?? Picking up the kid's rooms? Nope. Nope. Nope.<br />
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My least favorite, most hated, detestable chore is........grocery shopping. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxGbYjBgbIoWoI6DTFMEzkihLSFRhgrN406NvJixDST1rNofSvLt3v7ifQz_qg8Z-2dV3dYbpJAjgryorRRvH-cr0vE23euzMO0gYcW9Ke3I14YbGCPJ-FQRFkrUVOZhNx6jOwu3XloU/s1600/buying-groceries-281x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwxGbYjBgbIoWoI6DTFMEzkihLSFRhgrN406NvJixDST1rNofSvLt3v7ifQz_qg8Z-2dV3dYbpJAjgryorRRvH-cr0vE23euzMO0gYcW9Ke3I14YbGCPJ-FQRFkrUVOZhNx6jOwu3XloU/s1600/buying-groceries-281x300.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">This guy looks way too jolly to be grocery shopping.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I can't explain why I don't like it. It may be that it takes me forever to plan out a menu. I have kids. Picky kids. Not as picky as some kids, but they only like certain foods. I can only tolerate sloppy joes, tacos, pizza, spaghetti, and Cheez-it chicken so many times. So, I try to find new, kid friendly recipes. Something to give the husband and I a little variety. Husband & I like to try new things. Earlier in our marriage, I loved to try new recipes. Some worked, some failed miserably. But we had the option of trying. Now- I have 2 other additional people to please (baby 3 still gets the boob). Man, are they demanding. <br />
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I am not, however, a short order cook. They get what we get & if they don't eat it- too bad. They won't starve between dinner and breakfast. I'm not going to be the mom who gives in. Even if they won't eat my more exotic meals, they will at least try them. They must take at least 2 bites before saying they are done. Yes, there have been some gags (specifically from N). There also have been times where they THOUGHT they wouldn't like a certain food & ended up really liking it! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGdwRrlwx-EhAjLreXRUccU6tHc8X_oCPuTvtyL2vPOHdxjSZFadbFpDqrrD0mLK6lg7Xd7HtAb59TKJnPEnJnjQzqoLlPfYnpveCW8f1J7cTQqgX41JXxasiHO0WKq4IWElED6uzGbo/s1600/20110512091053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKGdwRrlwx-EhAjLreXRUccU6tHc8X_oCPuTvtyL2vPOHdxjSZFadbFpDqrrD0mLK6lg7Xd7HtAb59TKJnPEnJnjQzqoLlPfYnpveCW8f1J7cTQqgX41JXxasiHO0WKq4IWElED6uzGbo/s320/20110512091053.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>So here is my routine. I sit down- sometimes with the computer, sometimes with a food magazine. I plan my menu & then I create my list- broken down in these categories: Dry, Meat, Dairy, Produce, Frozen, & Other. I find when I break down my list like this, I have less of a chance to overlook items. I know exactly what I need when I'm standing in the various sections of the store. I also try as much as possible to stick to my list. Sure there are items I forget I need & add them to the cart when I run across it. No biggie. <br />
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I try to grocery shop on Tues or Thursdays since those are the days where both of the older kids are in school. 1 kid (baby, strapped in car seat or Moby wrap) = somewhat enjoyable, though still detested shopping experience. 3 kids (baby + 2 that do okay, but have a tendency to touch EVERYTHING) = mommy needing a nap [or a xanax...] <br />
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So, how do you do your grocery shopping? Do you plan out meals before hand, or just wing it? Do you even make a list? Are you an every day shopper?? (AKA- Craaaaaazy!!!!!) I'm wondering if everyone else despises grocery shopping as much as I do. Because really, I would scrub your toilet if you went shopping for me. Or send my hubby to do your laundry.....maybe I better check with him first before offering that service. <br />
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For your curiosity: Here is what is planned for this week's menu. <br />
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Thurs- Turkey meatballs with peanut sauce, rice, roasted brussel sprouts (the hubby said he would try them. It will be an experiment)<br />
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Fri- pork tenderloin sandwiches, waffle fries, carrot sticks<br />
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Sat- Beef & asparagus negimaki over noodles (a Rachael Ray recipe- I got the magazine subscription as a gift from my mom & dad)<br />
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Sun- Usual popcorn night. Family tradition. <br />
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Mon- Super Nachos (husband will be out of town, so this is my kid friendly, super easy meal)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-83201188113169525492011-05-03T09:18:00.000-06:002011-05-03T09:18:09.074-06:00Turkey StromboliWell, I did it. I cooked for celebrities! Well, not anyone like George Clooney or Brad Pitt, but I did cook for some A-MAZ-ING artists. Sunday evening, Big Daddy Weave, Chris Sligh, & Luminate put on an incredible concert at our church that helped benefit the Christian school my 2 oldest littles attend along with a project our church has been working on. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfBqsI6-N7Kkk_yNZawJglEv9t5THljeFCBqm4fu1wEJiJT7xfG4y8UoQ-h6VpIhBgsmIXBUHnX4DGraSFVaXiOAHOSDGoof324jwP3bZ9BrpWsG2AjRs5W2Ti7Fbl4EjKfNbIT9VWoBw/s1600/bdw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfBqsI6-N7Kkk_yNZawJglEv9t5THljeFCBqm4fu1wEJiJT7xfG4y8UoQ-h6VpIhBgsmIXBUHnX4DGraSFVaXiOAHOSDGoof324jwP3bZ9BrpWsG2AjRs5W2Ti7Fbl4EjKfNbIT9VWoBw/s1600/bdw.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Big Daddy Weave</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_zo2_GhVFSDBlVQm07P8ywv_HbjftGXTzHKTJy-nHR36a_t-9sv0kxmlFGH2vVT6M0mykcIZoQOivByPNY361pPNKslj5oChuUFsA25MwlhbO_Xndm4sJhvhIoIXCTe9KED_cIaq-Y-s/s1600/chris.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_zo2_GhVFSDBlVQm07P8ywv_HbjftGXTzHKTJy-nHR36a_t-9sv0kxmlFGH2vVT6M0mykcIZoQOivByPNY361pPNKslj5oChuUFsA25MwlhbO_Xndm4sJhvhIoIXCTe9KED_cIaq-Y-s/s1600/chris.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Chris Sligh</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOyBPhjxDhGTyJm-IJVU8rka_88H__A3x49VjB_buRX9hjaVg288P2WYwLi1ZS6tS3lrDfE6dbBVIHpNMU8huaQh98mG9qAid74a_b5HZ3-H-D8u3icJzUfy8soGN_vlu_80GzjxzS_k/s1600/luminate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOyBPhjxDhGTyJm-IJVU8rka_88H__A3x49VjB_buRX9hjaVg288P2WYwLi1ZS6tS3lrDfE6dbBVIHpNMU8huaQh98mG9qAid74a_b5HZ3-H-D8u3icJzUfy8soGN_vlu_80GzjxzS_k/s1600/luminate.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Luminate</div><br />
I volunteered to cook the after show hot appetizer for the bands. We weren't given any suggestions, so after carefully considering my options & reviewing several recipes, I settled on my turkey strombolis. I say MY, because this is one of the few recipes that is actually mine! Its a variation of a dish I had at a bridal shower years ago, but I have modified it over time to be easier & more family friendly. It is my go to dish to make for friends who have just had a baby, a surgery, or a family hardship. I have been asked several times for the recipe after making it, so now that it is somewhat "famous" (hee hee), I will share it with all, uh, <strike>12</strike> 11 blog followers. <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u><b>TURKEY STROMBOLI</b></u></span><br />
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<div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 lb. ground turkey</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 green pepper</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 red pepper</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 c. mayo or miracle whip- whichever floats your boat.</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 c. parmesan cheese + 1/4 cup. separated. (use the real grated stuff, please) </span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 Tbs. Italian seasoning</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp. minced garlic- aprox 2 cloves</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> 1 egg white</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">either refrigerated pizza crust or you can make your own. I use this crust recipe:</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4 cups flour</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 1/2 c. warm water</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp. yeast</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/3 c. olive oil + more for drizzling</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp. salt. </span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tsp. sugar</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Combine water & yeast in small bowl- set aside</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mix flour/sugar/salt in a large mixing bowl or bowl from your stand mixer</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">with mixer on low (with a dough hook) drizzle in olive oil until incorporated. </span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">gently stir yeast/water mixture & slowly add to flour mixture, until dough forms ball around hook.</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remove dough, place in a bowl greased with olive oil & cover with a towel. Place in a warm spot to rise</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">*This dough recipe will make enough for the strombolis PLUS a pizza, so make sure you cut the dough in half if you are just doing the strombolis or double the filling recipe. </span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Preheat oven to 375*</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Filling:</span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Brown turkey and drain. finely mince the peppers. Mix all ingredients, reserving the 1/4 c. of parm. cheese. </span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Roll out dough or cut dough into rectangles- aprox. 6 in by 8 in Put 1/3 cup of the mixture in the middle & fold into thirds, pinching the ends closed or crimping them with a fork. Brush with an egg white & sprinkle with remaining parm cheese. Bake until golden brown. </span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">OR: appetizer version- </span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cut dough into small squares & press into a greased muffin tin. Place a scoop of filling in the center & top with a little parmesan cheese. Bake until crust is golden. Chiffinade some fresh basil to sprinkle on top. </span></div><div style="color: #333333; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; line-height: normal;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">So there you have it. Enjoy! This recipe is very family friendly & I usually serve it with a lettuce salad & fresh fruit. Word from my friend Kayla, who is a teacher at the little's school & the person "in charge" of the hospitality for the bands was that the guys of the bands loved them & devoured them in mere minutes. I'm pretty proud. :) </span></span></div><div style="color: #333333; font-size: 11px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-11934147959141692092011-04-28T13:32:00.005-06:002011-05-01T12:37:12.899-06:00A nursery in the making!I have a vision. That is all it is right now is a vision, but I did make some purchases today that make my vision more of a reality. I'm <s>REALLY </s> EXTREMELY excited about it, too! <br />
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When I became pregnant with little #3, I desired to make the bedding set for the crib. We kept the gender a surprise, so I searched and searched for the perfect, gender neutral fabric. After finding one I loved, I priced it out----> It would have cost me nearly $200 to buy the fabric amount I needed for the nursery. Not to mention the time it would take to make it. Boo. I could buy a set that I liked for less than that & not spend the time & energy of sewing one. Sure it wouldn't be as personal, but it would work!<br />
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Then, the move (#6) happened & we didn't have a room that could be dedicated to the nursery. Currently, H sleeps in our room in the pack-n-play & the crib is in her sisters room- not really functional. Right now the crib just serves as a storage bin for gifts we have received, my Moby wrap, and other miscellaneous items. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvpts71rvUMCG7NP01RLNLg9gnLX7EqyZkHk2g4UxD5jPBYQwV8UkTc8w0-VcqQ_QeGmJGje_G3UvjkmblRue1aZMPQFwu45NlflkFPKp0hx7HStDVGN10yQghedNnd7WHZScbYpoLe4/s1600/crib+currently.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIvpts71rvUMCG7NP01RLNLg9gnLX7EqyZkHk2g4UxD5jPBYQwV8UkTc8w0-VcqQ_QeGmJGje_G3UvjkmblRue1aZMPQFwu45NlflkFPKp0hx7HStDVGN10yQghedNnd7WHZScbYpoLe4/s320/crib+currently.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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But....I have a vision. :)<br />
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I didn't want to do a traditional "girly" nursery in pinks & purples. N has that & I love it, but I didn't want to do it again.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4o9Je4foefXMa-_7V1saJsG-sTbC-dWTyQ6sqUkJJUovtBZEXwPUn5e3pwIvQvJbghJ4idAPgHlHaNttFNEOZ4yAnUK8F9LrEzuhH853fY6ooHE4uXnbPqh6sVQphgScBdpfyI55UB-U/s1600/natalees+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4o9Je4foefXMa-_7V1saJsG-sTbC-dWTyQ6sqUkJJUovtBZEXwPUn5e3pwIvQvJbghJ4idAPgHlHaNttFNEOZ4yAnUK8F9LrEzuhH853fY6ooHE4uXnbPqh6sVQphgScBdpfyI55UB-U/s320/natalees+room.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">N's room in Iowa before I got her headboard finished</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div> I decided I wanted more of a color scheme than a theme room. I also have always loved the French country look & took that idea and ran with it. <br />
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First, I found a bedding set that I liked & was neutral enough that I could add the touches I wanted to. Its gingham & red (my favorite color). Here is what it looks like off the website image- *note the crib in the picture is the same crib we have, only in black instead of the wood finish we have.* (Yes, it is a drop side crib. Yes, I am aware that these type of cribs have been recalled. No, I am not going to purchase a brand new crib for baby #3 when I know this one is safe & I have checked all the parts to make sure they function properly)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1NRXyV8ja62ZkxixO1GrqnEmnRYaVxCEMM_izaq5hyphenhyphenlEG6kCxZBlUr8HQL2WU056ZmwZ5A37xgXw9vrye01C0-GUgGjds91D472tvYYIcomFOv_Kq2Q-LtzmXLHoD7maEJIcL5ZyJ88/s1600/crib+set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga1NRXyV8ja62ZkxixO1GrqnEmnRYaVxCEMM_izaq5hyphenhyphenlEG6kCxZBlUr8HQL2WU056ZmwZ5A37xgXw9vrye01C0-GUgGjds91D472tvYYIcomFOv_Kq2Q-LtzmXLHoD7maEJIcL5ZyJ88/s1600/crib+set.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The bedding set comes with the quilt, fitted sheet, and bumper. (does anyone actually use those silly diaper holders, anyways??) The crib skirt could be purchased separately, but that was TOO much gingham for me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I decided I wanted to make the crib skirt & curtains in a toile fabric. I found several different fabrics that were red toile, but just not right for a nursery. I didn't want it to be too stuffy & adult, I wanted it to be fun & child like. Then I found this:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYBDQrlL79tCyCsnMb-Lh0XIjr8WXqFYADAYhrGB9smF78PKANxYb0VGAdVK2VJVhMfulCRaBh0zrTtbCmI8mz7HmTK0ll9OAfU4Qn8n4SMJ-UFRl3vmYrMUwngncYNKdA0ldj30__5c/s1600/nursery+toile.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYBDQrlL79tCyCsnMb-Lh0XIjr8WXqFYADAYhrGB9smF78PKANxYb0VGAdVK2VJVhMfulCRaBh0zrTtbCmI8mz7HmTK0ll9OAfU4Qn8n4SMJ-UFRl3vmYrMUwngncYNKdA0ldj30__5c/s320/nursery+toile.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Covington Over The Moon fabric. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6N8rKmyouqbPSuRBx_KyHZaXL6nN43-ifWy3aLnPJAP8Lk0kBUiMk4HG1qW6Z6tm3J7pI_8s70mpYi-QmlHVGZq99XtgNhHk2nRZXj40ftziHLaWqySURC35YwrFuUbfSytj2YqLK8o/s1600/fabric+choices.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6N8rKmyouqbPSuRBx_KyHZaXL6nN43-ifWy3aLnPJAP8Lk0kBUiMk4HG1qW6Z6tm3J7pI_8s70mpYi-QmlHVGZq99XtgNhHk2nRZXj40ftziHLaWqySURC35YwrFuUbfSytj2YqLK8o/s320/fabric+choices.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Isn't it perfect??!! It still gives me the French Country feel I want, with the toile I want, but the toile is covered in nursery rhyme characters such as Humpty Dumpty, The cow that jumped over the moon, Peter Horner, Mary Mary (quite contrary), and more. Plus it has accents of sage green- the other color I wanted to incorporate into the room. YAY me!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The other project will be turning our pine computer armoire into a clothing storage component for the room. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKV7Z298W0heP5WGiOX0w5p7mC0VLptcdHOuz9uHj06_VWgccPu_bACjNH9NuLrOwxhNZ9qJmQ5_qo3iVOC_ODIZgKsEvhHQEVfAP0ktXYW_Am_hMoBJAdXLLKDi0wsJ9A0LCs1iBEqA8/s1600/armoire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKV7Z298W0heP5WGiOX0w5p7mC0VLptcdHOuz9uHj06_VWgccPu_bACjNH9NuLrOwxhNZ9qJmQ5_qo3iVOC_ODIZgKsEvhHQEVfAP0ktXYW_Am_hMoBJAdXLLKDi0wsJ9A0LCs1iBEqA8/s320/armoire.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is pretty close to what the armoire we have actually looks like. But, it won't look this way for long. I plan on painting it- probably an antique white & adding an antique glaze medium. :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The walls in the room are currently a very light gray. One wall is a chocolate brown. (Not my doing). I'm going to leave it for now & if it doesn't look right, I will consider painting the room. I'm not a fan of painting rooms. We did a LOT of painting in our last house & while it was a huge improvement over what was there, its a pain!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now if we could get the basement finished faster so that N can move downstairs & I can put my plans into action. I hope it turns out as well as I have envisioned! </div><br />
<br />
<br />
I'm linking to:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i847.photobucket.com/albums/ab39/iheartnaptime/iheartnaptimebutton.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://blog.addicted2decorating.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://kristilinauerinteriors.com/a2d-pics/addicts-not-so-anonymous-link-party.png" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<center><a href="http://funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Funky Junk's Saturday Nite Special" border="0" src="http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b243/signmakergirl/satnitenew150w-1.jpg" /></a></center>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-49146642373932362662011-04-21T12:24:00.000-06:002011-04-21T12:24:31.165-06:00What does a Big Daddy eat??I'm not all that sure. But I'm up for the challenge to find out. And, if I don't find out, I'm up to the challenge to make something to wow them. Or at least make their bellies happy. <br />
<br />
Yes, I will be cooking for THE Big Daddy Weave!!! The sensational Christian Music group is performing for my children's school soon & I volunteered to make their post show snack to take with them on the bus. EEEP! It will also be for Chris Sligh of American Idol fame- remember his curly hair?? and the group Luminate. <br />
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So, what to make. They requested a "warm snack". Something tells me these guys aren't the petit fours and dainty finger sandwich type. They look more of the meat & potatoes kind. <br />
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I have some ideas. At the top of my list is my French dip sandwiches. Very good, but good enough? Plus, they are kind of messy. Maybe not great bus food. I could do my turkey Stromboli. But, that is more work overall....hmmm. <br />
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So any ideas as to what to feed a celebrity Big Daddy?? <br />
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Stay tuned for what I decided & photos of the event! :)<br />
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I will leave you with a video of one of my favorite Big Daddy Weave songs. Enjoy! <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/w70xy8sPEE4" title="YouTube video player" width="480"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-78557391176168301232011-04-18T14:55:00.003-06:002011-04-18T15:07:03.566-06:00Glass Front Cabinet Transformation.This project isn't recent. Its not even one I did in the current house we are living in. But, it was an easy solution & it worked wonderfully! <br />
<br />
In my last kitchen, I had a glass front cabinet. It was over the desk area in the kitchen, and while I loved it- it lacked character. When we moved into the kitchen, the cabinets and the walls were white. White on white. I like the white on white look, but it wasn't working in this kitchen. My first project to add character to the kitchen was this one. <br />
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Here is the cabinet- before changes:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVk1HIqroZIFWZH3sgef0pipvEHuhjwJ2b9QWK5aSKgQFXMvO2WRu_dsFbNs2nK6TSLupdOnSsU462FoegJICorf6jgPr4xxt573VrOEJxdEedPO1Mxf2jkTssQRrTghyDat-1duMpWds/s1600/kitchen2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVk1HIqroZIFWZH3sgef0pipvEHuhjwJ2b9QWK5aSKgQFXMvO2WRu_dsFbNs2nK6TSLupdOnSsU462FoegJICorf6jgPr4xxt573VrOEJxdEedPO1Mxf2jkTssQRrTghyDat-1duMpWds/s320/kitchen2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>See?? No character. My white dishes looked very blah and sad inside this cabinet. Here is what I decided to do.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaDDpKIpBCy_hpg05ZOTFKC5PzUc9tZdMi4ZHNseQqSaVpW51sTKj0kBNMxUWzjheH1vcHrb3zuSngQBCzIVZ5K2VErtDxGvx_y77rOO2TrUoM-CyvBylIHbNqMTleNlWF1UYhyphenhyphen4_T2E/s1600/kitchen4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaDDpKIpBCy_hpg05ZOTFKC5PzUc9tZdMi4ZHNseQqSaVpW51sTKj0kBNMxUWzjheH1vcHrb3zuSngQBCzIVZ5K2VErtDxGvx_y77rOO2TrUoM-CyvBylIHbNqMTleNlWF1UYhyphenhyphen4_T2E/s320/kitchen4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>First I measured my cabinet. Specifically I measured the back space of each shelf. Then I cut foam board to that size. It is just the super cheap foam board that you can find in the office section of any big box store or craft store. Nothing fancy. :)<br />
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Then I ironed my fabric to rid it of any wrinkles. The fabric I chose matched a striped fabric that I planned to use for cornice boards in the dining room (they never happened, but that is the problem with moving every 2 years! Grr!) <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMoeq78lpMXz_bMcv88iqfL6_IcCxTNB8vhwTt8YS22BuGil-_YbR9nBuJ4zujaRAQ1J-1bp7fX8aAu89Jf0U5ylTcZND9UcvW1fcw817iGbWE-xikNH7tl2lYE-pFM23lZ9bXjm3Heg/s1600/kitchen5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMoeq78lpMXz_bMcv88iqfL6_IcCxTNB8vhwTt8YS22BuGil-_YbR9nBuJ4zujaRAQ1J-1bp7fX8aAu89Jf0U5ylTcZND9UcvW1fcw817iGbWE-xikNH7tl2lYE-pFM23lZ9bXjm3Heg/s320/kitchen5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I then cut the fabric to the size of the foam board with about an inch overhang on all sides. Originally I planned to use spray adhesive to attach the fabric to the foam board, but I decided that I wanted to have the option of changing the fabric without having to re-cut the foam board every time. So...I got out the handy dandy duct tape. You can't go wrong with that stuff!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe6IQ2oF1av02zKxVlHJgTu_LXO7EHGMAiSZrGzRgdj6tDVE5wLeHgSM3sLUGsY_A5WxSHphi9bLgzW56D-DCt1tMRnAR9KHDqF7BuIxjfZaZNup0WlmfdEKnrrlQSfzkhXkj-tmcz2Lc/s1600/kitchen6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe6IQ2oF1av02zKxVlHJgTu_LXO7EHGMAiSZrGzRgdj6tDVE5wLeHgSM3sLUGsY_A5WxSHphi9bLgzW56D-DCt1tMRnAR9KHDqF7BuIxjfZaZNup0WlmfdEKnrrlQSfzkhXkj-tmcz2Lc/s320/kitchen6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Here is the front of a finished panel:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh5kJ7tVwywjQ9Jj37ABpnM1JdbAvwrXK2fVlORo9wcnnOiJTAi9ut9ROeOcxn-wg0S2sJmMZb6RDOpxZqAklx2pTRZCEz2pc9tL_X12kRw1y7ADs0q_8TvO_MUjVBotmV80yjOcyXMbQ/s1600/kitchen7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh5kJ7tVwywjQ9Jj37ABpnM1JdbAvwrXK2fVlORo9wcnnOiJTAi9ut9ROeOcxn-wg0S2sJmMZb6RDOpxZqAklx2pTRZCEz2pc9tL_X12kRw1y7ADs0q_8TvO_MUjVBotmV80yjOcyXMbQ/s320/kitchen7.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>The next part is simple. Simply slide the panels into place in the cabinet. Mine fit snugly since I made them the exact size, so I didn't feel the need to add any fasteners, but if I had, I probably would have used velcro. <br />
Finished look (before we changed out cabinet hardware- please excuse the tacky, cheap, gold knobs)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpREzSLb837lzhLnJT4nsbbxmGt6Buc7JYMUvNjx8w5puAl2hH4ksAKHZVxukjYHidB-KskXOtnwlqTe1oeWGB6j7wtj45MDZr1NLam6d0uXDCWrHVTKu4Q5lxx79JvBekjv8pMnUB49A/s1600/kitchen+cabinet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpREzSLb837lzhLnJT4nsbbxmGt6Buc7JYMUvNjx8w5puAl2hH4ksAKHZVxukjYHidB-KskXOtnwlqTe1oeWGB6j7wtj45MDZr1NLam6d0uXDCWrHVTKu4Q5lxx79JvBekjv8pMnUB49A/s320/kitchen+cabinet.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Much better! My white dishes pop now & it has character. Here is the cabinet after we painted the kitchen & added the new hardware (2 weeks before moving. *sigh*). Hopefully someone buys our house soon & enjoys that beautiful kitchen & dining room as much as I did. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-q06jMm332_ed36zlEOhhlIn4Hbau1QWfsc1nJvVJES3V1Aa_32efcE-nUD1uXLcIduJiA-kdL2i-MjXIRBeKj-lQml6UqQn2oGnHMOyNsF9_oX8az7Z0dRxKHwQ0JBUdZlKO15umz0/s1600/kitchen8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-q06jMm332_ed36zlEOhhlIn4Hbau1QWfsc1nJvVJES3V1Aa_32efcE-nUD1uXLcIduJiA-kdL2i-MjXIRBeKj-lQml6UqQn2oGnHMOyNsF9_oX8az7Z0dRxKHwQ0JBUdZlKO15umz0/s320/kitchen8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">once again a before & after:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpREzSLb837lzhLnJT4nsbbxmGt6Buc7JYMUvNjx8w5puAl2hH4ksAKHZVxukjYHidB-KskXOtnwlqTe1oeWGB6j7wtj45MDZr1NLam6d0uXDCWrHVTKu4Q5lxx79JvBekjv8pMnUB49A/s1600/kitchen+cabinet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpREzSLb837lzhLnJT4nsbbxmGt6Buc7JYMUvNjx8w5puAl2hH4ksAKHZVxukjYHidB-KskXOtnwlqTe1oeWGB6j7wtj45MDZr1NLam6d0uXDCWrHVTKu4Q5lxx79JvBekjv8pMnUB49A/s200/kitchen+cabinet.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVk1HIqroZIFWZH3sgef0pipvEHuhjwJ2b9QWK5aSKgQFXMvO2WRu_dsFbNs2nK6TSLupdOnSsU462FoegJICorf6jgPr4xxt573VrOEJxdEedPO1Mxf2jkTssQRrTghyDat-1duMpWds/s1600/kitchen2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVk1HIqroZIFWZH3sgef0pipvEHuhjwJ2b9QWK5aSKgQFXMvO2WRu_dsFbNs2nK6TSLupdOnSsU462FoegJICorf6jgPr4xxt573VrOEJxdEedPO1Mxf2jkTssQRrTghyDat-1duMpWds/s200/kitchen2.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Have a wonderful Monday!<br />
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<a href="http://blog.addicted2decorating.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://kristilinauerinteriors.com/a2d-pics/addicts-not-so-anonymous-link-party.png" /></a><br />
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<a border="0" href="http://www.thecreativecrate.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i852.photobucket.com/albums/ab89/stacie004/transbutton.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-23053292501896518232011-04-15T15:12:00.001-06:002011-04-15T15:18:02.652-06:00Cloth Diapers 101I am a cloth diaper-er. I did not used to be. Both N & O were exclusively in disposables- and I don't have anything against Pampers, Huggies, Luvs, or whatever brand you may choose. With baby #3, however, I decided to do cloth. Why you may ask?<br />
My Reasons:<br />
1. Price. Yes, cloth diapers are an investment to begin with, but the amount you save in the long run is very worth it. I went with an economical brand, but invested a little over $200 in what supply I have. My mom actually got us most of our diapers as her gift to us. (She is very pro cloth- my sister & I both wore cloth) But, I shouldn't have to invest much more. Essentially, that $200 will diaper miss H until she is potty trained. All in all, I will save around $1700 by choosing to go cloth. Green for green. I like that!<br />
2. Now that I stay home with the littles, why not??<br />
3. I have several friends who use/have used cloth, so I knew if I had questions about brands, care, sizing, etc. I could easily get answers. Even if I didn't have friends I could ask, there are a TON of forums to find answers & a lot of videos on youtube as well. Its not hard to find information if you want it. <br />
4. Environmental reasons. No need to explain that one. <br />
5. Even though I have to wash them, it takes little to no time- I wouldn't consider 1 extra load of laundry a week extra work. Yep, that's all I do- 1 load a week. And no my house does not smell of stale, stanky diapers.<br />
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The type of diapers I decided to use are the <a href="http://www.cottonbabies.com/index.php?cPath=139">Flip All in Ones</a> (or AIOs). I chose this system based on reviews, and price. This system differs from a lot of other systems as it has a liner of sorts and a cover that goes over it. When you do a diaper change, the liner goes in the pail, and as long as the cover is poo free, you can wipe it out with a wipe & use it again. The flip system has different liners- I use mainly the stay dry liners. They kind of resemble a giant maxi pad. I also have a few organic liners which are folded into thirds & used in the same manner. The third type of liner I use is a different brand, but it is compatible with the Flips- its <a href="http://www.cottonbabies.com/index.php?cPath=138">Econobum</a>. I also have 2 Econobum covers & they all basically work the same & are interchangable with all the liners. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwvnfwOCENIwahy_3HmSfSM6c_2JJwjrAwQCUbA0e_Kw6nv4IWce68gKvx-ofErlYHw-ZXDIHdwK_mkcSwg9b9CGNjIlm4vdLtEoE9ujYoLmFKBsEQepg0T8FQgjqG_j-r3GWgxHM7rgE/s1600/jeannines+phone+309.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwvnfwOCENIwahy_3HmSfSM6c_2JJwjrAwQCUbA0e_Kw6nv4IWce68gKvx-ofErlYHw-ZXDIHdwK_mkcSwg9b9CGNjIlm4vdLtEoE9ujYoLmFKBsEQepg0T8FQgjqG_j-r3GWgxHM7rgE/s320/jeannines+phone+309.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Flip cover on left, Econobum on right The Flips also come in velcro- I have one, but its in the wash. :) They also come in fun colors- I have 4 different colors.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjTSxfIGtF4LEYHdy5J5mCRTdM7c8P5F1HwN7dhZRz5C75uCLcED3a5uEo2pzOxslVGZQYjO4RH-opslKe6fMvP_ULmKScUoh2r4nLLum8IpQE7ll783Y5hHPu-RkQ78rR92obphEP9E/s1600/jeannines+phone+311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjTSxfIGtF4LEYHdy5J5mCRTdM7c8P5F1HwN7dhZRz5C75uCLcED3a5uEo2pzOxslVGZQYjO4RH-opslKe6fMvP_ULmKScUoh2r4nLLum8IpQE7ll783Y5hHPu-RkQ78rR92obphEP9E/s320/jeannines+phone+311.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The liners:(L to R) Flip Organic, Flip Stay Dry, Econobum Prefolds</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">As I mentioned, the Flips are a one size fits all. There are snaps that make the diaper smaller if they are done up & larger if undone. They will fit her till she is 35 lbs or potty trained. The Flip Stay Dry's have lines that you fold to to get the various sizes. Currently, H is in small, so I have all the snaps done & fold it to where the line says small before placing in diaper- the folded part goes in the back for girls, front for boys. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8pj766I7xZSqOSL2WQT54hwmsYYJfuslWmAX8P-qRbfjbhX7WzYz37OFZP5NMtowhsD3nlV3V9xnupdQWH1FSg_isEMVZ9-JibmzZRvNQMLbmkj3WUlhrA6kCkxY2de5n8R_0Co2jLk/s1600/jeannines+phone+313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8pj766I7xZSqOSL2WQT54hwmsYYJfuslWmAX8P-qRbfjbhX7WzYz37OFZP5NMtowhsD3nlV3V9xnupdQWH1FSg_isEMVZ9-JibmzZRvNQMLbmkj3WUlhrA6kCkxY2de5n8R_0Co2jLk/s320/jeannines+phone+313.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Flip cover & liner (unsnapped & unfolded to show sizes)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I also made my own wipes so that I wouldn't have to worry about accidentally washing a toss-able wipe, or have to throw away poopy wipes alone (gross). I found flannel squares on Etsy & sewed 2 together to create nice, thick wipes. I have 24 flannel wipes. I only use 1 wipe per change- even on big messes- they are thick & very absorbent. I keep my wipes in a tupperware container & make my own solution- 1 1/2 cups hot water, 1 tbs baby soap, 2 tbs baby oil, and 2 drops of tea tree oil. It smells great & is better for her skin than wipes which sometimes contain alcohol & are drying. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoWs7erJxGLqOG1XMN_M8Nq1-LO1d4UgV1MOmREMJpwg2QysiYaVrVJ2Lg9KvtC6sUY5dGWAI-4-5VLxo_csu6hZIPp-b9zSnTg2-6EOQXGr-SB-aZlVkXOTNUIfK75740oWmcmy_mtQ/s1600/jeannines+phone+315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoWs7erJxGLqOG1XMN_M8Nq1-LO1d4UgV1MOmREMJpwg2QysiYaVrVJ2Lg9KvtC6sUY5dGWAI-4-5VLxo_csu6hZIPp-b9zSnTg2-6EOQXGr-SB-aZlVkXOTNUIfK75740oWmcmy_mtQ/s320/jeannines+phone+315.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">flannel wipe & container for storage</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOEaXO8Xpvm2ChvWHiaAGUjhjiVlzL9ozKJBSQuDMahlu2FfiwICRNclus30RnVbXxJSNecpshyphenhyphenh-EJDDL2a1KOkf9lkL9siTj5_DZLOf-TPi_NHZgNapxzpR8NOv0pkPjq-DPBgMVVkE/s1600/jeannines+phone+316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOEaXO8Xpvm2ChvWHiaAGUjhjiVlzL9ozKJBSQuDMahlu2FfiwICRNclus30RnVbXxJSNecpshyphenhyphenh-EJDDL2a1KOkf9lkL9siTj5_DZLOf-TPi_NHZgNapxzpR8NOv0pkPjq-DPBgMVVkE/s320/jeannines+phone+316.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">I keep my diapers in a standard trash can with a lid(bad picture, sorry!). I bought a liner off of Etsy that fits inside & is waterproof. I keep it on top of the dryer & never have had issues with smell. I do keep an air freshener in the laundry closet just in case- but the pail honestly doesn't smell unless you open it. I wash once a week. The washing process is simple. I first do a pre wash in cold water only. Then I do a regular wash in hot water with very little detergent. I use All Free & Clear & fill up the lid halfway to the 1 load mark. Then I do an extra rinse at the end. To dry, I put the liners in the dryer with no fabric softener. The covers hang dry. I always wash the pail liner with the diapers. Detergents & softeners clog up the fibers of the diapers & make them nonabsorbent. Once a month, I do a wash with bleach. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">That is the basics. This post is getting too long, so I will do another one at a later time. All in all, I love the cloth diapers and wish I would have done them with O as well. N was in daycare, so it wouldn't have been an option. I will leave you a picture of H in my favorite cover of all- its actually a Thirsties cover, but again is compatible with all the liners I have. I can't wait until summer so we can put on some cute dresses & show off our covers!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYZSOQzt4K6pXB3Dx-seQK9eeMR1eDei-ZTpo26ip8B_2B96W5l37_D38KnSH2GoU_dqJJHBhy7a9DokAdVyuaWIx6KGJ-3XpW9nu6wPZqRrTqVPHJZ0iT5ChT6Hs1kPdp1ls8gFzXP8/s1600/jeannines+phone+318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYZSOQzt4K6pXB3Dx-seQK9eeMR1eDei-ZTpo26ip8B_2B96W5l37_D38KnSH2GoU_dqJJHBhy7a9DokAdVyuaWIx6KGJ-3XpW9nu6wPZqRrTqVPHJZ0iT5ChT6Hs1kPdp1ls8gFzXP8/s320/jeannines+phone+318.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> H in Thirsties cover with Econobum liner</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl91XrlSpLXNXmuxvNdeHa8-mWpEOnIMvBtRaLQlBAI6Vgh4R9RT8cEegbEirRl104bWrSL2-AoAIPW_kVL5xJafF-BKWECo-CJiZ10OpK4mTuTa4c2Vm_l5mzygyxJcNReoHvjY9YZ7g/s1600/flip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl91XrlSpLXNXmuxvNdeHa8-mWpEOnIMvBtRaLQlBAI6Vgh4R9RT8cEegbEirRl104bWrSL2-AoAIPW_kVL5xJafF-BKWECo-CJiZ10OpK4mTuTa4c2Vm_l5mzygyxJcNReoHvjY9YZ7g/s320/flip.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">H in her Flip cover & Stay Dry liner @3 weeks old. </div><div style="text-align: center;">You can find more types of cloth diapers <a href="http://www.cottonbabies.com/index.php">here</a>. This is the site I found to be the cheapest(Free shipping- WOO HOO!!!) & most informative. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">**I apologize for the poor quality photos. My camera battery was dead, so I used my phone- lesson learned. </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-1197172908303010552011-04-14T12:04:00.002-06:002011-04-14T18:17:27.507-06:00Did ya notice?? Did ya??<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNT_WYPHXOK5POo2JgoXF5VzndXutamh5mtyhxcbo6NcuD0aJZkFN8Pbafr7j2pbGe9lpcmnnyJl7vs9JKjcGCWUhcbvXfvPjsBalcPWKUqeVZV68wfJAr23dtaDfy6tNKxigJMh0eZsM/s1600/New_And_Improved.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNT_WYPHXOK5POo2JgoXF5VzndXutamh5mtyhxcbo6NcuD0aJZkFN8Pbafr7j2pbGe9lpcmnnyJl7vs9JKjcGCWUhcbvXfvPjsBalcPWKUqeVZV68wfJAr23dtaDfy6tNKxigJMh0eZsM/s320/New_And_Improved.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well, here is the new & improved design. Hope you all like it, cause I do. In other, very random news:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. I took my first spinning class today. I am now convinced spinning is from the devil. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. What is spinning? <a href="http://www.lmgtfy.com/?q=spinning">Let me google that for you</a>. <---click there. But come right back, please!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. That trick on #2 may be my newest favorite thing. :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. A grunting, red faced baby + loud PBBBBBBBTTTTTHHHHH = mess in diaper.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. I use cloth diapers & I love it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6. I must now take care of my duties....and her doodies. :S</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">7. Its a good thing she's cute! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAlFdtLsJ6ra56SkZ57K_Oec0lnmV_vlJkdX3r1ye4GAi2_EFr8f5ag8l5MpZVHu6jAqfGHrDnUWPRhNdBxJzsB6s5FBbuLZJktpb9Nw9kffQoZzlDnS0tww51fm193ZCVrZ59jV0XJh8/s1600/harperharp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAlFdtLsJ6ra56SkZ57K_Oec0lnmV_vlJkdX3r1ye4GAi2_EFr8f5ag8l5MpZVHu6jAqfGHrDnUWPRhNdBxJzsB6s5FBbuLZJktpb9Nw9kffQoZzlDnS0tww51fm193ZCVrZ59jV0XJh8/s320/harperharp.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-50185958518865084082011-04-13T20:36:00.001-06:002011-04-13T20:37:03.081-06:00Does this blog make me look fat??A womans mind is cleaner than a mans. <br />
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Why??<br />
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Because she changes it more often. :) hee hee. I saw this on a friend's facebook status today & it fits what I'm feeling. <br />
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I am loving blogging. I am not, however, loving the layout/template/background of my blog yet. Its just not....well.....me. SOOOO.....after noticing web pages located on a few of my friends blogs that are super cute, I decided to check out the links & found that you can indeed find super cute & creative templates for FREEEEEE!! (I'm very frugal. or cheap. depends on how you look at it) <br />
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In the next week or so, I ask you to bear with me. I may be changing my blog like I change my underwear. Weekly. HA!!! Just checking to see if you were paying attention!! :) <br />
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I'm also learning that I can create a customized header with my own photos. This means I need to figure out my new <a href="http://www.nikonusa.com/Nikon-Products/Product/Digital-SLR-Cameras/25472/D3100.html">fancy schmancy camera</a> I got. Hmmm... Plus, I also can customize my font to my own handwriting!! How cool is that?! Ok, I may not do the handwriting thing, but I did find a site that does that & while I probably wont submit my own chicken scratches, I will use one of their free fonts that looks very much like my own handwriting. :) Free is good. Free is very good. <br />
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If you know of a site that you think has super fancy/kind of vintagy (is that a word? spell checker says no.)/kind of funky layouts/templates/backgrounds that are FREE (Frugal, remember?) let me know! I really have a goal of loving my blog & I'm so NOT loving it right now. I love writing & boring you with the aspects of my life, but I don't like the look. <br />
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So, like an outfit that doesn't quite look right...I'm changing it! I will get it figured out. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipPYOKejUjK4j3h4nQ4iCFZu5xwpA54tfIG5mS18ytEPW6eTBOp77Ek85tipsy-J5hz1D2ZYuBo2xTs7d99h33pM2B-zlZmgIgxTfk21pACC6MpezZicj3sI0NBYyF1fpbBAqNtyxMnj0/s1600/Change_is_good_by_biswajittuka.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipPYOKejUjK4j3h4nQ4iCFZu5xwpA54tfIG5mS18ytEPW6eTBOp77Ek85tipsy-J5hz1D2ZYuBo2xTs7d99h33pM2B-zlZmgIgxTfk21pACC6MpezZicj3sI0NBYyF1fpbBAqNtyxMnj0/s320/Change_is_good_by_biswajittuka.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-51940166538233236272011-04-11T17:17:00.003-06:002011-04-20T08:39:31.185-06:00Our Art Corner<div style="text-align: center;"><a border="0" href="http://www.thecreativecrate.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i852.photobucket.com/albums/ab89/stacie004/transfeaturebutton.png" /></a></div><br />
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Everyone has a space in their house that they just don't quite know what to do with. I did too. Our hallway needed something at the end- but what??<br />
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I had photos of the kids at the end of our hallway in IA, but I wanted to do something differently. And to be honest, framed photos are kind of the boring, go to, I'm too lazy to figure anything else out solution. <br />
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SOOOO....after scouring the interwebs for inspiration & ideas, I decided to make it an art gallery of sorts. <br />
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First I found this vinyl decal on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a>. ($14) Have you been to that site?? I could spend DAYS just looking at all the fun stuff on there, but that is another blog post in itself. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ1w5bTxuHbYKOGeaJl3KOdx46ORimyyxn264hr3FXA4TQDJbyLq3xMC1L85_MdRQb3Q2DQ3jp-L1DPUHtja9b2__2nGRyLY4F_nn4BpV9QA2if1tHqBE97j11Ge9Y92sPXXsSaVI0BaY/s1600/artist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="73" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ1w5bTxuHbYKOGeaJl3KOdx46ORimyyxn264hr3FXA4TQDJbyLq3xMC1L85_MdRQb3Q2DQ3jp-L1DPUHtja9b2__2nGRyLY4F_nn4BpV9QA2if1tHqBE97j11Ge9Y92sPXXsSaVI0BaY/s320/artist.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I decided that I didn't want white as was shown and instead ordered it in maroon.<br />
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I purchased a thin piece of wood (luan, maybe?) from Hobby Lobby for $6. Its about 18" x 30" give or take a little. <br />
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A good blogger would have taken photos of the steps, but I'm a newbie & to be honest, I finished this project before the blog was up and running. I am just proud of it so I thought I would share- forgive me if you are a friend on FB & have already seen it. <br />
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Anyways, I painted the board with acrylic paint in antique white which I had on hand from another project in the past. The husband applied the decal for me- apparently I wasn't working fast enough & he wanted the dining room table to be functional again. (Reason why the basement craft room can't come fast enough!) He then drilled holes for me so I could add some wire to hang the sign. It now looked like this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsBql94C1IUaBP7ezj2k7YJNAohErb-QExORDvASUXiwD3NcQ9lReTCPcMblkGB4UTyr_N2p-FT3hmCO5fn2gMUqlUsbDiTQnBTaV05UQjohMwINHQPjowHJokJt_tErmQoz41ec8zFs/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsBql94C1IUaBP7ezj2k7YJNAohErb-QExORDvASUXiwD3NcQ9lReTCPcMblkGB4UTyr_N2p-FT3hmCO5fn2gMUqlUsbDiTQnBTaV05UQjohMwINHQPjowHJokJt_tErmQoz41ec8zFs/s320/014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
In the hallway, I put up some of these:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDVT36DRCjtm0HYOz6arDvyipQpWabCWMVKCIq5ZCnk4sgFrckEEwhL5-gqtTyzuZeZBtvQpd5fTB1T-7z9dGYY3xp_nMPb53o2o8uqfxPbimq6rNUkWz2tWp58vrsUSIt1ZdcNN8yNmU/s1600/hook.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDVT36DRCjtm0HYOz6arDvyipQpWabCWMVKCIq5ZCnk4sgFrckEEwhL5-gqtTyzuZeZBtvQpd5fTB1T-7z9dGYY3xp_nMPb53o2o8uqfxPbimq6rNUkWz2tWp58vrsUSIt1ZdcNN8yNmU/s1600/hook.gif" /></a></div>Followed by some of this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxH0DhgcZ9vIHa6WvcyVKTk0ETrBzvhyFP9gdABSKW9eold85x4ifoCfZ76Hhc4XY7BTOyKVEil9EX_Jre6xYydRWImuaPJmU1eeb8SOZBZ7-SrkU3dxAlwmGiGfS3mGkHy9LU3B0aIZM/s1600/TwineBall3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxH0DhgcZ9vIHa6WvcyVKTk0ETrBzvhyFP9gdABSKW9eold85x4ifoCfZ76Hhc4XY7BTOyKVEil9EX_Jre6xYydRWImuaPJmU1eeb8SOZBZ7-SrkU3dxAlwmGiGfS3mGkHy9LU3B0aIZM/s1600/TwineBall3.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">See where I'm going??</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A bunch of clothespins, and a lot of digging through all of the little's folders, coloring boxes, and school work and TA DA!!! We had this!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPqj0d5KK4dbnsfa80DBBS45-rrNRB60RdoZoYWRphSX9x8B6nZk1dK2wOuSBKEKudkuPm_TA1G8eYIyWYiOYYVpJa_yqYqxu0_JBCdk46_bSoTkOwbaA6GRl2TGyGhefTeWp0EXXYLE/s1600/hallway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPqj0d5KK4dbnsfa80DBBS45-rrNRB60RdoZoYWRphSX9x8B6nZk1dK2wOuSBKEKudkuPm_TA1G8eYIyWYiOYYVpJa_yqYqxu0_JBCdk46_bSoTkOwbaA6GRl2TGyGhefTeWp0EXXYLE/s320/hallway.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And now, since the little's decided that it needed more....we have this! Total cost: $20 since I had hooks, clothespins, and twine on hand. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqRlxlVgGr8hUVepRuMyVsnNNQYXrfuF-3_0dJJlNBF3L4RDzMQn19ew454ZCpAKvpWWKpMtOnERS-CsduxM_TSFX7-CI4r2OFo67quDAPYz3zOghYaBdzCnZum6hZEmrjfeUBr7SE_So/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqRlxlVgGr8hUVepRuMyVsnNNQYXrfuF-3_0dJJlNBF3L4RDzMQn19ew454ZCpAKvpWWKpMtOnERS-CsduxM_TSFX7-CI4r2OFo67quDAPYz3zOghYaBdzCnZum6hZEmrjfeUBr7SE_So/s320/010.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>The kids love that they can add things & take things down easily. We since have added a few tacks & clothes pins for the extra artwork. It isn't organized, It isn't<a href="http://asoftplace.net/2011/02/fill-your-frames-with-kids-art/"> perfectly framed children's art </a>(I saw several of these types of galleries & while they look nice, this mommy doesn't find them practical.) I love that its a way of showing the little's art work & its out of the way. The littles create art work on a daily basis & this is the easiest solution for me- I dislike having stuff on my fridge- personal pet peeve. It is in a visible space without being overtly in your face. What do you do to showcase your little's masterpieces??<br />
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<a href="http://blog.addicted2decorating.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://kristilinauerinteriors.com/a2d-pics/addicts-not-so-anonymous-link-party.png" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-3156459505099132522011-04-05T18:00:00.006-06:002011-04-05T21:08:16.601-06:00I have a button!HA! I may be new at this blogging thing, but I'm determined! I created my own button. I won't explain how, because I honestly am still confused... but here it is<br />
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<a href="http://1corinthiansfifteenten.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5095/5593826030_670400af6c_m.jpg" /></a><br />
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TA DA!!!!<br />
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Ok, now If someone could tell me how to get the HTML code thingy to make it link here instead of to <a href="http://www.flickr.com/">Flickr</a>, I would appreciate it...<br />
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update: I think I figured it out!!! wooo hoooo!<br />
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now grab my button here:<br />
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<textarea cols="30" rows="10"><a href="http://1corinthiansfifteenten.blogspot.com/"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5095/5593826030_670400af6c_m.jpg" /></a></textarea>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-77943470934829121162011-04-05T11:22:00.000-06:002011-04-05T11:22:51.833-06:00Double the space...eventuallyI mentioned in my last post about our basement. When we moved into this house, the basement was unfinished & we just used it for storage. Moving from a 4 bedroom house with 2 living room areas into a smaller 3 bedroom house means we had a lot of "stuff" to store. <div><br />
</div><div>Anyways, we have an awesome landlord who is allowing us to finish the basement. We did the framing & she provided the materials. We will also do the drywalling & the finishing work when it gets to that point. </div><div><br />
</div><div>When the basement gets finished, we will essentially have double the space we have now. N, being the oldest, will have her own room in the basement, I will have a craft room/exercise room (YAY!!), there will be a second bathroom(double YAY!) and another large living room space. Not to mention, storage!! Did I mention, we have a lot of "stuff". </div><div><br />
</div><div>I thought I would share photos of the process. So far this is what has been done:</div><div><br />
</div><div>1. Move some of the "stuff" to the garage</div><div><br />
</div><div>2. Cram the rest of the "stuff" in a corner</div><div><br />
</div><div>3. Framing all the walls/closets- My awesome husband & wonderful Dad whipped this task out in two and a half days. Me? I listened to the racket upstairs with my Mom! :) Did you know that you use bullets to fire the nails through the studs into the concrete? Me either. One of the days they were working, I found a bullet on my kitchen counter. I asked the husband where it came from (We are not gun owners). He casually told me that my 3 year old must have brought it upstairs. WHAAA??? Then he told me what it was from & how it was used- insert bullet in tubey looking thingy. Put nail in tubey looking thingy. Line up tubey looking thingy & whack it on the top- making bullet hit nail & drive it into the concrete floor (and also make a loud BANG!) Hmm. Interesting. </div><div><br />
</div><div>4. The plumbers have been here & used a jack hammer to create a drain for the bathtub. In this process, they set off the fire alarms. The dog went nuts & started running laps around the house, barking her head off- waking up the baby who started to scream her head off. Me = none to thrilled. Oh, the plumbers also installed said shower/tub & roughed in the plumbing for the toilet & sink. They also made a mess of my newly mopped kitchen floor....undoing my <a href="http://1corinthiansfifteenten.blogspot.com/2011/03/chaos.html">C.H.A.O.S.</a> reversal I had done earlier this week. Repeat: Me = none to thrilled. </div><div><br />
</div><div>So that is where we are so far. The electricians should be here sometime next week to put in outlets, another fire alarm, and light fixture boxes. Then the drywalling begins. I admit. It is going much faster than I thought it would. I know I will love it when its finished & can unpack some of the "stuff". Plus once its done & N is moved into her own room, I can do the nursery! I'm excited about it & have a vision....I'll share it with you another time :) Ok, now for the photos!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3eLpmRfWOYwXDpk0SVrq4DXBufHqFBKDgzxojE0prOYqpSERIKC6T14Eas5ZUV0AANiiytPBGGggBIWkK6xbLtIyBezaqTpFwo6aQWeeiqpcxdltgImEdgWWGvtWi8eyfkKrxeefPNM/s1600/basement+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3eLpmRfWOYwXDpk0SVrq4DXBufHqFBKDgzxojE0prOYqpSERIKC6T14Eas5ZUV0AANiiytPBGGggBIWkK6xbLtIyBezaqTpFwo6aQWeeiqpcxdltgImEdgWWGvtWi8eyfkKrxeefPNM/s320/basement+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Future Family Room</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XAVjX18BSO34lB9HJYiYG6gxi3sniAYRA-ZBT0tf2B7K_2k5-8nwYLn1DD8EZGuriaDS3hVpIhkmciyl-eK7Cp29pKJu6IS-zkJ5CiIHYfkMFcPkbFQF-vjtLSRiIjibInk5YU8ITkI/s1600/basement+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XAVjX18BSO34lB9HJYiYG6gxi3sniAYRA-ZBT0tf2B7K_2k5-8nwYLn1DD8EZGuriaDS3hVpIhkmciyl-eK7Cp29pKJu6IS-zkJ5CiIHYfkMFcPkbFQF-vjtLSRiIjibInk5YU8ITkI/s320/basement+002.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Future built in book shelf</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJH_6GEXauc5IOdZbz23YWOYlleAiQgN8AOD-xSnFgc5nk-YUXeExDMotxElA9XlLYF6iCfPvklkDHsQhbYLnIZURhSUMztCx9u2JxpAtGzxJ2ZFV2yVFvYhzHzEco364THrFqwZgtH9M/s1600/basement+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJH_6GEXauc5IOdZbz23YWOYlleAiQgN8AOD-xSnFgc5nk-YUXeExDMotxElA9XlLYF6iCfPvklkDHsQhbYLnIZURhSUMztCx9u2JxpAtGzxJ2ZFV2yVFvYhzHzEco364THrFqwZgtH9M/s320/basement+003.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> MY future craft room with HUGE closet for storage!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBdOshxv0HPOHhnftpWUWDgiEaqqUI25DHCu7nsY3sHymtt7Qa14o4d_W04PqjaZjFxS6ihA4CkXARiGiMC7wfEs1nszaUlJkaz0gX9L0VMop_eA-md9Kw_xxfr9HwSiFtWQcz6aGU9k/s1600/basement+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBdOshxv0HPOHhnftpWUWDgiEaqqUI25DHCu7nsY3sHymtt7Qa14o4d_W04PqjaZjFxS6ihA4CkXARiGiMC7wfEs1nszaUlJkaz0gX9L0VMop_eA-md9Kw_xxfr9HwSiFtWQcz6aGU9k/s320/basement+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> N's future bedroom</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyv0NqQysH2v_9zQLOutBPhhp9deLezhUmLOBOVDOjXfNeXQTLe04ZynO7i78Ddnv52vrymfvUKvnkVviolo72TlbTuQNvKi2gTVdtqy6FcQSdnnAqKDORrJ76hCC07XwsqP6Y0du_olw/s1600/basement+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyv0NqQysH2v_9zQLOutBPhhp9deLezhUmLOBOVDOjXfNeXQTLe04ZynO7i78Ddnv52vrymfvUKvnkVviolo72TlbTuQNvKi2gTVdtqy6FcQSdnnAqKDORrJ76hCC07XwsqP6Y0du_olw/s320/basement+005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Roughed in bathroom</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkvI9Cu2VQ5NxmTuQ8VX0yivgqYUFPKXIXAEVMbGvWgwxvtfZMyi-tGTbGryTRwpUSKv3v5_8kte5_a5fd2Q3w6V6Fo7XCNl9duyQVvIxk2nMM9FDroyOwebI_ZPift-JwOkWVlDUd1F8/s1600/basement+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkvI9Cu2VQ5NxmTuQ8VX0yivgqYUFPKXIXAEVMbGvWgwxvtfZMyi-tGTbGryTRwpUSKv3v5_8kte5_a5fd2Q3w6V6Fo7XCNl9duyQVvIxk2nMM9FDroyOwebI_ZPift-JwOkWVlDUd1F8/s320/basement+006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Utility room that will eventually have shelves for storage</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LOKQjoEGRgubqZi1rBlI7WcbNPz6cBKcQXg1nNSrd0jaR1TuoBO7LX-t-oVS8oF2ZXrR3iQGDShPu4V4zSes6ZjrtM1e1zm1qMliWKi9wfmQrGciSJDz8CVYto9fjiFvZSuwzhDfUjw/s1600/basement+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LOKQjoEGRgubqZi1rBlI7WcbNPz6cBKcQXg1nNSrd0jaR1TuoBO7LX-t-oVS8oF2ZXrR3iQGDShPu4V4zSes6ZjrtM1e1zm1qMliWKi9wfmQrGciSJDz8CVYto9fjiFvZSuwzhDfUjw/s320/basement+007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> "stuff" in the corner- this will be the desk area</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPvw_PKwyHywqkeIv90TZM3JiDKrd-IdsSUUWRU_2Y4Xqpu34Wk7mFWI8SGPqe4kD58WoJSojXOu02fW-0OyHVdZuz_G5b-XO6YeO_qBZ7Qz0SGCVLThgYKw-C3TvnfNrRFXvaVALZibc/s1600/basement+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPvw_PKwyHywqkeIv90TZM3JiDKrd-IdsSUUWRU_2Y4Xqpu34Wk7mFWI8SGPqe4kD58WoJSojXOu02fW-0OyHVdZuz_G5b-XO6YeO_qBZ7Qz0SGCVLThgYKw-C3TvnfNrRFXvaVALZibc/s320/basement+008.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The rest of the "stuff" in the garage</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-58829236157583031152011-03-31T11:48:00.001-06:002011-03-31T12:03:01.660-06:00Just so you know...Finishing a basement is a <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">major pain</span>!!! </span></b> Amen. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYinm44clshG3KqCRi6j1md4lXBRv6LYFlnUjE8G_J_BT1yyAhYLuQyiQTmkroFWkUtmMfSnEaeOfwniWh08upVZBgfpZnyVFtHheGw0ht3pIDgAHg1tQpR94JR68oIK2E_UN3WcOTDQk/s1600/basement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYinm44clshG3KqCRi6j1md4lXBRv6LYFlnUjE8G_J_BT1yyAhYLuQyiQTmkroFWkUtmMfSnEaeOfwniWh08upVZBgfpZnyVFtHheGw0ht3pIDgAHg1tQpR94JR68oIK2E_UN3WcOTDQk/s320/basement.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">The husband & my dad doing the framing last week</span></div>The framing is done. Today, the plumbers are here...they were using a jack hammer to break up concrete & set off the fire alarms- causing the dog to run around like a maniac barking her head off & the baby to scream very loudly for a good 5 min. So much for my peaceful, uneventful Thursday!<br />
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Truth be told, I'll be glad when its done. N will have her own room, I will *cue hallelujah chorus*<b> </b><i><b>finally</b> </i>have a craft room, and we will have a family room once again, allowing the upstairs room to be more of a formal space. Plus there will also be a second bathroom put in, a whole lot of storage, and a play area for the littles. I will love it when its all said and done, the process is just a major pain in the patootey. I will update with photos later...the plumbers are doing their thing down there & I wouldn't want to disturb them. (Or maybe its that they reek of cigarette smoke & I can't stand the smell)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-6257057311548339392011-03-30T10:18:00.000-06:002011-03-30T10:18:24.716-06:00C.H.A.O.SYep. I suffer from C.H.A.O.S. It's a debilitating syndrome...it really is. What is it you ask??<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b>Cant. Have. Anyone. Over. Syndrome. </b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYFCQ9ec1p813wJRuNJaPfvYkotW_1hEv9nJnqM6z7xgCX0maghyphenhyphenhEU7JVbIpIgoAqtx0IlmwIunlXnc2b8DNpK6qfK6NfZcnypbo0hvW_jtF-UU7meiXPu3A1pAmsHZ3fUS1iTK-Ons/s1600/chaos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYFCQ9ec1p813wJRuNJaPfvYkotW_1hEv9nJnqM6z7xgCX0maghyphenhyphenhEU7JVbIpIgoAqtx0IlmwIunlXnc2b8DNpK6qfK6NfZcnypbo0hvW_jtF-UU7meiXPu3A1pAmsHZ3fUS1iTK-Ons/s320/chaos.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Anyone else familiar with this?? Its when your house it at the point where if the doorbell rang, you would quickly shuffle all the kids to the back room of the house, turn the TV to mute, and hope the person just goes away, lest you have to open the door and let them see the mess. OR, its the "If I absolutely must open the door & talk to this person, I'm going to step outside on the porch & talk to them outside- EVEN if it is pouring rain or 20 below zero- because they AREN'T coming in my disaster zone!" (I may or may not be speaking from experience on both of those...*blush*)<br />
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C.H.A.O.S. has many types or levels of seriousness. It may be a messy disaster of a kitchen. It could be that you haven't vacuumed in days. It may be that your laundry pile is overflowing & could take over the entire house. It may be dog hair on the couch. Crumbs on the counter top. Dust so thick, it may just be permanent... A bathroom that indicates yes, indeed, males live here...For some people, just an unmade bed would send them into C.H.A.O.S.<br />
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Yep, I have C.H.A.O.S. <br />
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Sure, some would say I have an excuse. After all, I have a newborn, a 5 year old, and a 3 year old. Plus a dog and a husband (yes, they make messes, too!). But I don't consider those excuses. My job is a stay at home mom. Part of my job description is to keep the house clean. My version of clean isn't having everything spotless and germ free. However, it does mean that I wouldn't want to crawl in a hole and die of embarrassment if anyone ever came over. It means that my house has the appearance of being lived in, but tidy. Sure there may be a few toys on the floor and a shelf that isn't always dusted, but I would hope that my home always feels inviting. I don't try to be perfect. I don't even try to appear perfect, because I know that its not possible & I wouldn't be able to keep up that facade. <br />
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So now that I have admitted my syndrome, I need to treat it. Immediately. <br />
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The treatment?? Crank up the Music, get out the vacuum, start the washing machine, rinse the dishes & do whatever it takes to rid yourself of C.H.A.O.S! <br />
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PS- If I am not heard from in awhile, send the authorities. The laundry pile is menacing & may put up a fight...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpBmnkurh6mdug285ef14OUj67h2MdxL5E1tufkmcXF4YTTBBlwIOVtzuH_hsv5kfMyJSAR2D7ovsyZayeK4LszOy2Jbw5NKmmhjldHWwVhtoZt0274Rx-z1eZ6KxhjTO367yYffS1P3k/s1600/laundry.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpBmnkurh6mdug285ef14OUj67h2MdxL5E1tufkmcXF4YTTBBlwIOVtzuH_hsv5kfMyJSAR2D7ovsyZayeK4LszOy2Jbw5NKmmhjldHWwVhtoZt0274Rx-z1eZ6KxhjTO367yYffS1P3k/s320/laundry.gif" width="202" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6094166346044141387.post-50675289014503480142011-03-15T10:43:00.001-06:002011-03-15T11:47:44.633-06:00Dust or Sparkles?<b>Well...apparently blogging takes time! Not that I haven't had a moment- I have. I even have thought about getting on here to blog. Ive thought about topics to write about, moments to share, funny things that the kids have said, and even a few things to gripe about. But, something else always seemed to take priority. Funny how that happens. It makes me wonder how many times I have thought, "Man, I really should sit down with my Bible and have some time with God." and then chose to do something else instead. Probably way more than I ever should. That is the life a lot of us live. We try to prioritize, but something else always pops up. Who is guilty of this?? *Raises hand wildly* This mommy! Our church just started a <a href="http://www.teamcountryside.com/multimedia/weekly-services/out-of-control-time">series</a> this past Sunday & I honestly felt as if Pastor J was talking directly to ME!!! Out of control?? No time?? Chaos?? Has he been spying on me lately?? It hit home. It made me think of all the moments I have taken for granted.</b><br />
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<b>I went back to a moment a week ago that I could have taken for granted. I didn't and now it may just be one of my favorite moments with my 2 creative older kiddos. I had opened up the blinds to let in the bright sunshine the other morning & then went back to my bedroom to change the baby & tidy up a bit. When I returned to the living room, O & N were twirling and dancing in the sunbeam. I asked them what they were doing and N replied that they were "dancing in the sparkles because it was magical!" Sure enough, there was dust floating in the air and it "sparkled" in the sunlight. I watched them with awe for a few moments, just relishing in their childhood innocence. For that moment I forgot about the fact that it was dust in the air that would need to be cleaned later, I forgot about the dishes in the sink that needed to be loaded in the dishwasher, I forgot about diapers that needed washing, I forgot about the grocery list that needed to be written out, I forgot about the tasks of life & focused on that moment. And then, I joined in the twirling. </b><br />
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<b>**Update: The link above will take you to the sermon. Enjoy! I did. </b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0