tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46042612939615666322024-03-13T01:12:19.960-04:00this girls pilgrimage.We're all on a journey....G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.comBlogger414125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-45353282194007098152012-09-05T11:18:00.004-04:002012-09-05T11:18:47.982-04:00Moved In...and Resting.We moved this week. Actually, this past weekend. Just to a different apartment. It is really a long story and better left told in person but, we are 5 minutes up the street from our previous place.<br />
Having moved 3 times in the past 3 years, we've sort of become "pros" at packing and unpacking, although this time was slightly different for me being about 7 months pregnant.<br />
God has been showing me in little ways that I need to rest and that my body is not in it's usual form. (literally and figuratively) :) With about 6 1/2 years in between my last pregnancy and this one, it is very obvious in many ways that I am getting older and not able to do many of the things I could do when I was only 27 and pregnant.<br />
I talked with my mom this morning. She will often call me on her way to work and we chat for a few moments uninterrupted. I quite like those morning chats. They are short but sweet. My mom offered me a few words of advice this morning that were very timely. She said that at times she has learned the hard way that you need to take times to rest your body, and even admitted that she had not always been the best example of that. She also reminded me that the rest isn't just for me but, for the baby and the others in my family. I like how God can still use our moms to give us a little kick when we need it. <br />
I know that she is right.<br />
It is not that I don't rest, because I do. It's just this time of our life where we have just moved, are getting ready to start school and unpacking and getting things ready for baby, I have felt that if I take it too slow that I will have more work to do in the long run. <br />
Yesterday, my back started hurting. Lesson learned. My husband graciously told me. "Take it easy. If you rest today, you will be better for tomorrow.' Such wisdom in that man.<br />
So that is what I'm doing and why I actually have a moment to blog. So, today I will do what I can. Know my limits and pay attention to them, and not be concerned about what comes tomorrow, and know that TRUE rest comes from Him.<br />
Maybe this will encourage someone else today.<br />
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<i>Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gently at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light"</i><br />
<i><b>Matthew 11:28-30</b></i>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-28291469792586067672012-08-29T16:30:00.002-04:002012-08-29T16:30:44.883-04:00Blogging thoughts.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This morning at breakfast, my son said "Mom, remember when "A" was little and she used to have crazy bed head?" I nodded as I remembered my little 6 year old when she was a toddler, waking up out of bed with wild, bird nest-like hair. I told them that I remembered a blog post I wrote about it and I would show it to them. Showing them the bed head post lead to reading multiple other posts about and perusing pictures I've documented of vacations, family times, moments from school, etc...and you know what? I was so filled with thankfulness that I had a place with all of these things preserved, and I missed blogging. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let me put it a different way. I'm not so sure I miss the actual blogging but, I miss documenting the memories as regularly as I have in the past. With a new little munchkin on the way, I'd at least like to find a way to capture some of these moments on here. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Blogging is wonderful way to not just share memories with family and friends but, to preserve them for yourself as well. It was so fun to look back almost 6 years ago when I started this blog and see how the kids have grown, and even how I've grown. After this morning I don't think I'll ever delete this blog. A friend of mine turns her blog posts into books. I love that idea.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, the point of this post was perhaps pointless to you but, has helped me realize that I want to continue documenting life on this blog. Even if it is sporadic at times.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-53911173363602716592012-07-09T17:27:00.000-04:002012-07-09T17:27:20.800-04:00Insta-Summer.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's no surprise to people close to me that I love summer. I also love Instagram (who doesn't, right?). I think the two go perfectly together. What better way to capture little snippets of summer? Here's a few snapshots of our summer (through instagram of course).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8XG5N8ACgkwq2llP3JWDqQB28moeoXH1JPmha1tmfmDnndz3aimlXl3H4icvw1N4KU7rPHkgt5cFHpHGwUPwQz5japbm8yNBGwV1UlOunQlaJVTsXtLYXE8dQAZDNjE3JQDC75p4QV8A/s1600/IMG_1312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8XG5N8ACgkwq2llP3JWDqQB28moeoXH1JPmha1tmfmDnndz3aimlXl3H4icvw1N4KU7rPHkgt5cFHpHGwUPwQz5japbm8yNBGwV1UlOunQlaJVTsXtLYXE8dQAZDNjE3JQDC75p4QV8A/s320/IMG_1312.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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"K" played soccer for the first time this summer. He absolutely loved it!</div>
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Everyone needs a little color to brighten their table. Gerber daisies are my fave!</div>
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Building a fort in the backyard.</div>
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blowing bubbles...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWlQPlvQb-BrYmASh5lDZ9unl4G6DxNMM6XXGbGJUbEVhYkWlBS5twscGxBdthuhO6k-8qdOZ-QTu5N0TTSMb7bOYjOPMkAJt5CE0PiVpVqSxDgeRFlX5k5Mar4PUI1SSMy3FMxZJakME/s1600/IMG_1393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWlQPlvQb-BrYmASh5lDZ9unl4G6DxNMM6XXGbGJUbEVhYkWlBS5twscGxBdthuhO6k-8qdOZ-QTu5N0TTSMb7bOYjOPMkAJt5CE0PiVpVqSxDgeRFlX5k5Mar4PUI1SSMy3FMxZJakME/s320/IMG_1393.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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and more bubble blowing.</div>
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Those are just a few that I've put on my computer. I have a whole new crop of pictures to dump soon! Hope you have all been having a wonderful summer!!</div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-68695036205550299612012-06-23T18:10:00.001-04:002012-06-23T18:10:12.072-04:00Life.Has it really been 4 months since I've posted? Wow. I keep saying to myself, "You know you want to blog, just sit down and do it!" But, alas I have not listened to myself and have procrastinated. It's not that I haven't had anything to blog about, believe me. I guess it has been more about what not to blog about. Over the years, I've kept this blog rather light and fun, even in the midst of some pretty rough times. Although, I've wanted to blog about the rough times, I have chosen not to for several reasons that I won't go into. I'm not going to make any promises as to the frequency of my posts because most likely I will break it but, I will say I will post when I feel like it. (*smile*) It is much less pressure that way, and I will <i>TRY </i>my best to not let another 4 months go by. How's that?<br />
I did have a little announcement to make for those of you that do not follow me on twitter and facebook. If you do, I apologize for the repeat information....<br />
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-I'm 17 1/2 weeks pregnant with #3! We are very excited, and this is a big story in itself. Maybe another blog post? I'm due around Thanksgiving which I think is very timely. This pregnancy has been very different from the other two. I feel more tired than I did with K and A. I think it may be the fact that I am a bit older, and also have two other kiddos (and hubby) I'm caring for. We are also in a different and very busy stage of life so, that could be a factor as well. I am so thankful for this blessing the Lord has chosen to give us! I will keep you updated on the gender and maybe even show a belly pic or two.<br />
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Thanks for reading. Until next time. :)<br />
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-G.<br />
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<br />G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-10938691580431702052012-02-24T09:44:00.002-05:002012-02-24T09:58:38.858-05:00New Twist...For almost 5 years now, I've blogged about my life and family and I'm so thankful for all of the memories that I've been able to talk about and freeze in time on this blog but, it's time for a change. Not a drastic change but, a little change. A twist, if you will. <div><br /></div><div>For the last ten years or so, due mostly to my job before having children, I have become passionate about healthy living (naturally), and have incorporated some of the things I've learned into my family life and I want to start talking about it on this blog. Now, there are a lot of "healthy living" blogs out there and many of them I read and love. But, I am coming from a place that recognizes that our healthy choices are a journey, and it often takes baby steps to get there. I don't feel like I am extreme and I am by no means an expert but, I feel like some of the things I've learned and continue to learn (while living on a budget) can be useful. So...get ready for a little change of pace. Here are some of the things I plan on sharing:</div><div><ul><li>How we (as a family) eat healthfully on a budget</li><li>taking baby steps to eating better</li><li>Issues I'm passionate about in the food industry, etc...</li></ul><div>just to name a few. This IS NOT turning into a food blog. Now, I may share some of my own recipes and give links to others I use but, this will not be a food blog. I am not a food blogger and I take awful pictures. This will be the same blog with a little more of "me" and my thoughts on health, wellness and some causes I'm passionate about. </div></div><div>With that said, stay tuned for another post coming soon...</div><div><br /></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-29709081582996493962012-02-07T15:13:00.003-05:002012-02-07T15:46:30.826-05:00My firstborn is 8!Well, hello there. It has been awhile since posted. The last time we met here, I was saying an open-ended goodbye, not sure when or if I'd be back but, today is a special occasion. Today is "K's" 8th Birthday. Every year I usually do a birthday interview that I post and I was sitting here thinking how I miss it. So, I decided to post my annual birthday interview for the sake of keeping memories. So, without further ado...<div><br /></div><div><b>How old are you?</b> 8</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What makes you happy?</b> That it's my birthday, and I just love it being my birthday because I love being 8.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is your favorite animal?</b> I like...Cheetahs.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is your favorite thing to eat?</b> sweet potato fries...your homemade ones...wait. I mean cheeseburgers. Cheeseburgers, yeah!</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is your least favorite thing to eat?</b> nothing. I like everything, I just don't like hot sauce.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is your favorite thing to do?</b> Draw. I love to draw and play Lego Star Wars Wii.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is your favorite TV show?</b> Wild Kratts (PBS)</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What are you really good at?</b> Drawing</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What's your favorite movie?</b> That's a hard one, mom. I like...The Santa Clause.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What's your favorite color?</b> Red and Blue.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is your favorite song?</b> The theme from Batman. (the movie)</div><div><br /><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/wgpmdqUEQRM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>What do you and your Mom do together? </b> We draw and play legos.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What do you and your Dad do together?</b> We play Lego Star Wars Wii.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is your favorite sport?</b> Soccer.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Where is your favorite place to go?</b> Camping.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is your favorite book?</b> My favorite book is Star Wars Return of The Jedi</div><div><br /></div><div><b>What do you want to be when you grow up?</b> Motorcycle racer, an artist and a Pastor.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>How are you going to do all of those things?</b> Artist on Saturday, Pastor on Sunday, and on Monday I'm gonna motorcycle race.</div><div><br /></div><div>I guess he's got it all figured out. I cannot believe that my oldest is 8. I have been staring at him for the past 2 days saying "I can't believe you are 8." He must think his old mom is weird. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have fun doing these interviews and enjoy reading the answers from year to year.</div><div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>*questions taken from <a href="http://www.leeloublogs.blogspot.com/">Leelou Blogs</a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-23468236573630215172011-09-22T12:17:00.003-04:002011-09-22T12:24:57.296-04:00See You Later...Hi! As you may have noticed, I have been a little "on and off" on the blog since summer. I've been contemplating this for awhile and have finally made a decision. As of now, I will be saying goodbye to the blog for awhile. I don't believe that this is a permanent decision. I may decide to come back but, for now I'm going to just leave it at that.<div>I've been blogging for 4 1/2 years. I remember the day I started blogging, and I cherish each and every blog I've written. They all hold so many moments and memories of my life and motherhood over the past 4 years. My blog will still remain here. I'm not deleting it because, like I said this is not permanent, it's just for a season. It may be a few months, maybe a year, I'm not sure but, my focus right now is my family and as fun as it is, blogging is not a priority for me. So, when I'm ready...I'll be back. Thank you to all of my friends and family who have kept up with us on here over the years. It has been a pleasure.</div><div><br /></div><div>Lots of love to you all. Until next time...</div><div>-G.</div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-25192508183356627852011-09-12T07:11:00.005-04:002011-09-12T07:29:27.645-04:00Back To School...and Journey is a year old!!So, we are back to school today...a week later than most but, we're doing it. With moving on September 1st, I thought it would be easier (on myself and the kiddos) if we waited a week to start. I'm thanking myself for that decision today.<div><br /></div><div>I definitely feel less prepared than previous years but, I do feel like It won't necessarily hinder things. I stayed up and read through the lessons last night, and I feel like it will go well, but then I realized I had forgotten about a snack. I always like to have a special snack for the first day but, I forgot so, I will have to get creative with that one. I am excited for the curriculum I'm using. I actually decided to stick with the same one I've been using since Kindergarten and I love it. It also makes it easier to integrate your younger kiddos into the program when they are ready. </div><div><br /></div><div>I'm doing some last minute prep right now by having a large mug of coffee!</div><div><br /></div><div>*******************************************</div><div><br /></div><div>Yesterday, we celebrated our one year anniversary of <a href="http://www.jcboston.org">Journey Church!!</a> Yes, we have been here for two years but, we have only "officially" been a church meeting on a weekly basis for a year. We gradually started in our home, went to meeting once per month in a hotel and then last September began meeting every week at that same hotel.We are growing and have a wonderful group of students from Harvard University and Brandeis University coming. They bring such an energy and excitement, we are so blessed to have them. We have also been blessed with several others who we are so thankful for and could not really function without. It is a blessing to have people who recognize and stand behind your vision and can just "jump right in." It is exciting, and what a <i>Journey </i>it has been.</div><div><br /></div><div>Let's just say that life right now is pretty crazy and a bit hectic but, that is all a part of the Journey we are on. If everything was easy, it wouldn't be that exciting and adventurous, right? That's what I keep telling myself. </div><div><br /></div><div>I may be back later today...or tomorrow with some "First Day" pictures. Oh, and we got our annual family pictures taken yesterday and I'm excited to see how they turn out.</div><div><br /></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-81126400348576075032011-09-06T17:15:00.003-04:002011-09-06T17:25:46.535-04:00Hello There!Howdy, strangers! How's life? Well...we moved. We have been buys packing and unpacking and prepping for school, and lots of other things. We only moved about 10 minutes away from our previous place to a different apartment, a less expensive apartment, and it has one extra bedroom, which we will be temporarily using as an office.<div><br /></div><div>I'm hoping to get back into the blogging groove but, we will see. Because of the move, I decided not to start school with the kids until next Monday. Most of my school things are still packed in boxes. Tonight, as a family project, we will be unpacking the boxes and setting up our bookshelf. Once that happens, I will feel much better and a little more prepared.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was very overwhelmed for a little while because of this move. Even though we didn't move far this time, it was still very stressful. When we moved to this city 2 years ago, my husband had taken 3 weeks off and we were able to just move and unpack and go slow but, when you are already in the midst of life and have many things going on that you have to maintain...and move, it can be quite stressful, at least for me. I like to go at my own pace, which tends to be slow in comparison to others but, life just isn't always like that. We are unpacking and getting settled as much as we can and once we get it all fixed up, I will show you pictures! </div><div>Oh, and this new place (I call it an apartment because we rent but, it's really the downstairs of a house laid out like an apartment) has a fenced in backyard and a porch, which I'm very excited about. The kids have been playing in the yard and I can just give a peek out the window to check on them, so I've been able to do some unpacking.</div><div><br /></div><div>If today was your kids first day of school, hope it was a great one! I'll be updating again soon.</div><div><br /></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-55494857139108950232011-08-04T11:12:00.002-04:002011-08-04T11:17:29.851-04:00Who Says?<div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqXCPo6ckD0Ry3rcuT9cy58iV6dZqx7OOdLwqnwLFHMWFxWcTGdwf6Y-Wgm6g9cQGsHuCXmDhgnJO3uS12BWOcqM7OnpqJOu7P1cLAY3jU6qmzWe2gBsqNNr7iQ0Yq0uD7EC8tvDwfLc/s1600/IMG_0908.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqXCPo6ckD0Ry3rcuT9cy58iV6dZqx7OOdLwqnwLFHMWFxWcTGdwf6Y-Wgm6g9cQGsHuCXmDhgnJO3uS12BWOcqM7OnpqJOu7P1cLAY3jU6qmzWe2gBsqNNr7iQ0Yq0uD7EC8tvDwfLc/s400/IMG_0908.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637019381312856130" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Who says moms can't wear fun band-aids too? :)</b></i></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I cut my finger on a piece of broken glass. I survived. Besides, I got to wear a cool band-aid.</div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-38609444226083837332011-08-02T15:33:00.004-04:002011-08-02T15:45:21.107-04:00Snapshots of Summer.Can you believe that it is August already? It is blowing my mind how fast this summer has gone. They say "time flies when you're having fun". I guess that's what it is.<div>Here a little proof that we've been having some fun...</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2kj9hfC1E6m5Nyf42IcVQMhg0qPs6RG313He7qvELmJlWOvC14b9RlG_cbJZ1OXqi5HC4EyU2aWG3lMLUDj5LWhP7KhVdZ2ODveGhkLDzHI2gJhqS8sH-xjq_UjPY5kUBZk6ehzU1sJI/s1600/IMG_0861.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2kj9hfC1E6m5Nyf42IcVQMhg0qPs6RG313He7qvELmJlWOvC14b9RlG_cbJZ1OXqi5HC4EyU2aWG3lMLUDj5LWhP7KhVdZ2ODveGhkLDzHI2gJhqS8sH-xjq_UjPY5kUBZk6ehzU1sJI/s1600/IMG_0861.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2kj9hfC1E6m5Nyf42IcVQMhg0qPs6RG313He7qvELmJlWOvC14b9RlG_cbJZ1OXqi5HC4EyU2aWG3lMLUDj5LWhP7KhVdZ2ODveGhkLDzHI2gJhqS8sH-xjq_UjPY5kUBZk6ehzU1sJI/s400/IMG_0861.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636345497847606482" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">sandy toes...</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_-8OpuMPswVXVwOq2Cgnr0RG2Y8O4-WtbR2wcNEBuHQxaWWjZ7xIJyg5VHx6uVyfjb4joKrZqcPoujVJqdvkP-_u7Id8ThvsUpSOKosV7t2HH0BIZ6IT8D7EAOiZlrVOe-BTTWqfunU/s1600/IMG_0854.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_-8OpuMPswVXVwOq2Cgnr0RG2Y8O4-WtbR2wcNEBuHQxaWWjZ7xIJyg5VHx6uVyfjb4joKrZqcPoujVJqdvkP-_u7Id8ThvsUpSOKosV7t2HH0BIZ6IT8D7EAOiZlrVOe-BTTWqfunU/s400/IMG_0854.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636345494869909506" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">fun at The Cape.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWiZa2dz8IEniynmYCd7O0teQ-4JOjQSNtkb05YpwAhXel4YwPuB0XfqjjQKFyDWig_Q9NrVfy24ZIv-CAdYe7HYDDdGrNP6OhkNLZplHZdjoG_PzawKQXDXVyAKHTzyhcqnNFUvQl-gU/s1600/IMG_0850.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWiZa2dz8IEniynmYCd7O0teQ-4JOjQSNtkb05YpwAhXel4YwPuB0XfqjjQKFyDWig_Q9NrVfy24ZIv-CAdYe7HYDDdGrNP6OhkNLZplHZdjoG_PzawKQXDXVyAKHTzyhcqnNFUvQl-gU/s400/IMG_0850.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636345484795172082" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">ahhh....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiIzbZJ_B7ihvWlBC8eUTw2jd9WSeifzJdHUGUnFYwWtXHpfZBbSw6GSSEOItwt44j2Cny8UI5FmINIjLoXa6Ys6WScvaFZVBkmpTliEQIbQkxEw7tqnxxKBVlZQqHcmA6R7LwkiTXpoc/s1600/IMG_0850.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7tq6cpxHpLTJaqytS8PjHAyv34XN0_ePvXockLIqvswBP3C51aGJUfRNkUqFyE15DAsTl7kH2vQgfScWqbgRBRfAJHyxBj0XJkEL3JJHvrfkr24Lv-4wZeTouu6teB5OxyYQfHEIsvdo/s1600/IMG_0881.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7tq6cpxHpLTJaqytS8PjHAyv34XN0_ePvXockLIqvswBP3C51aGJUfRNkUqFyE15DAsTl7kH2vQgfScWqbgRBRfAJHyxBj0XJkEL3JJHvrfkr24Lv-4wZeTouu6teB5OxyYQfHEIsvdo/s400/IMG_0881.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636345039982342514" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">little miss "A" was not a happy camper.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjomLo0dBt7E_XjnkV6n1HmrlRVcfJnmi9FQvBfctVXtc-6cbjXnCsGW-OmFUhbvCDY6Ik1bMe2_a6ua4sridS1vP8cBy5oG1JR7oUdV2X7cLHRHySF1X2nFAUbr-aDzFOe3imqa6HuyPE/s1600/IMG_0862.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjomLo0dBt7E_XjnkV6n1HmrlRVcfJnmi9FQvBfctVXtc-6cbjXnCsGW-OmFUhbvCDY6Ik1bMe2_a6ua4sridS1vP8cBy5oG1JR7oUdV2X7cLHRHySF1X2nFAUbr-aDzFOe3imqa6HuyPE/s400/IMG_0862.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636345036319769298" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGWDnYYxouK5yP1ByJy_u5pK9G2m4hmy8_9kLBN8ZuQwAidFmVQ1y-1HeqM9-j4qb9AfnKqNnpY-Vn0A9-Z2RTZ8K1q7y00uqbzSoLcq1xp4_pxLFiJIXeHJKml_08DM9JbceorfbRWTc/s1600/IMG_0893.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGWDnYYxouK5yP1ByJy_u5pK9G2m4hmy8_9kLBN8ZuQwAidFmVQ1y-1HeqM9-j4qb9AfnKqNnpY-Vn0A9-Z2RTZ8K1q7y00uqbzSoLcq1xp4_pxLFiJIXeHJKml_08DM9JbceorfbRWTc/s400/IMG_0893.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636345029500501122" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Palm trees in Boston...who would've thought?</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZJ26rQWfAT5MmR89cRh339gnsY8VPiRkHNhEPoffEqR8aNjGbVcRnuzDPxC-tu_0wFb8E9pVjlx506YVcLv3F9_gi2pq_6qY6G0ycD7fkysdMj19tjxOD1TkzfQRvMe7eMWe6Bj1lY2E/s1600/IMG_0907.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZJ26rQWfAT5MmR89cRh339gnsY8VPiRkHNhEPoffEqR8aNjGbVcRnuzDPxC-tu_0wFb8E9pVjlx506YVcLv3F9_gi2pq_6qY6G0ycD7fkysdMj19tjxOD1TkzfQRvMe7eMWe6Bj1lY2E/s400/IMG_0907.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5636345031509517298" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Cooling off.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-71955159346547605842011-07-26T16:47:00.004-04:002011-07-26T17:05:24.948-04:00Forgetful Me.Does forgetting things mean that you are getting old? I sure hope not because, if it does than I am officially old. <div>I have been forgetting a lot of things lately. Important things. Things like meal planning and grocery shopping. Yep, that's me. Bad wife and mom.</div><div>Here's the story...</div><div>Without sounding like I am complaining or that my life is busier than anyone else's life, I will just say that our life is busy. My plate is pretty full, and most days I feel like I am on auto-pilot just going through the day, drop into bed and get up and do it again. </div><div>This past Saturday, I had errands to run, we were going to a birthday party and expecting an overnight guest that evening so, I was busy preparing for that. At 10:35, I discovered that I had forgotten all about my daughter's ballet class at 10am. The class ends at 10:45 so it was too late to take her at that point. Ugh. I did not tell her we missed it, and thankfully she did not notice. The crazy thing is, I have it scheduled in my phone and to alert me ahead of time. I must have completely missed it.</div><div>Then, yesterday was another strange day. Mondays are very weird for me. I am usually completely exhausted on Mondays due to the craziness of our Sundays but, I just went about my day, took the kiddos to the Library and did some cleaning. (Oh, I forgot to mention that we are looking for another apartment. We are not moving out of the area, just looking for another place.) A couple was coming to look at the apartment so, that is why I was cleaning and another reason why things have been a little crazy. Also, I was going to have dinner with a friend at 5:30. I was making dinner for my family before I left, and rushed out the door to meet my friend. I got back, chatted with my husband for awhile and then basically fell into bed. </div><div>My husband came into the bedroom this morning, I had apparently slept through my alarm (again), and he asked me if I was going grocery shopping this morning. I usually grocery shop on early Tuesday mornings to beat the rush. (trust me, it's crazy.) I just looked up and said "ummmm, I guess not." I had totally forgotten to plan my meals or write a list, or anything.</div><div>That is sort of important. What is up with me? Maybe I need another vacation of something? A new brain, maybe? Maybe I just need to clear a few things off of my plate? Hmmm....</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Ok. Make me feel better... have you forgotten about anything important lately?</i></b></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-72755299651287315672011-07-25T10:44:00.003-04:002011-07-25T11:09:46.802-04:00Hot Fun in The SummertimeI guess you could say that I've taken somewhat of a blogging sabbatical. The summer just got away with us. That's it. And, it indeed has been a lovely summer so far. Just how summer's should be. Relaxing (somewhat), hot, lots of yummy food, vacation, friends, all of the above. Really nice.<div>Here's a little of what we've been up to...</div><div><br /></div><div><ul><li>At least once a week we've been going to the Library. We don't want our brains to fry over the summer and not remember anything when fall comes around. My son has been on a Star Wars kick. He discovered he can read level 4 books and is very excited and proud of that fact! We were able to join and complete a summer reading program which was great motivation. I was able to read 1 book....but, it was a long one so, maybe it could count as 2. </li><li>We went on vacation! A 5 day tent camping trip. Cape Cod is only about an hour and a half away from where we live so, we decided what better (cheaper) way to visit the beach, than to camp. Camping with kiddos is a lot of work and preparation but, so worth it and so fun. I highly recommend. We were able to do some wonderful sightseeing, visited an aquarium, and of course the beach! We also were able to see some friends visiting family in the area, and that was a blast! They both grew up in that area and were able to take us to some local treasures...including a yummy seafood restaurant. I can never pass up seafood. We came home tanned, tired, and full of memories.</li><li>We've been visiting some different parks around the area with spray fountains and that has kept us cool and occupied.</li><li>We've been checking off our summer to do list. We were able to combine "having dessert for dinner" and "make banana splits" into one! This was K and A's first time having a banana split. I made them a little different than traditional but, they were still very delicious. </li><li>I missed the "Best Fireworks in the country" and I only live a mile away. Still regretting that one. I will spare you the details but, let's just say I'm sure watching them on tv qualifies as extremely pitiful when you live <i><b>this</b></i> close.</li><li>Lots of play dates. Though, it seems like the play dates have been rather heavy on the girly side. My poor son has kindly expressed his dislike and I promptly contacted a friend to set up a boy play date. Why do most of the ladies I know only have girls...or tiny boys?</li><li>I've discovered <a href="http://www.cityofboston.gov/parks/emerald/public_garden.asp">The Boston Public Garden</a>. Why has it taken me two years to go to this place? It is gorgeousness in the middle of the city. </li></ul><div>I think I will stop boring you know. I hope to resume (somewhat) regular blogging. I hope you have been having spectacular summers!</div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>What has been the highlight of your summer so far? </i></b></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">*title taken from the song title </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ahhmiuyko0"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">"Hot Fun in the Summertime" </span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">by Sly and the Family Stone.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><br /></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-86904301252814811362011-06-13T11:00:00.004-04:002011-06-17T10:49:48.673-04:00Banana "ice cream"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxdVyG4YS98XugffYHUytv1jQcJKSg7Y2E8K7ZWbvtU4bqlwBI-uGTpkREvqDNAB_PvfOv92H8LOddyZ9_HsUbREOr45ab4AJqPdeKgx0E8q_HQUBZvALKZOA-rVeXUVBVwUar5oU-868/s1600/picture_banana.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 289px; height: 397px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxdVyG4YS98XugffYHUytv1jQcJKSg7Y2E8K7ZWbvtU4bqlwBI-uGTpkREvqDNAB_PvfOv92H8LOddyZ9_HsUbREOr45ab4AJqPdeKgx0E8q_HQUBZvALKZOA-rVeXUVBVwUar5oU-868/s400/picture_banana.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617722889209399218" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;">photo from <a href="http://www.examiner.com/beauty-in-jackson/going-bananas-for-beauty">examiner.com</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>My son decided to put a whole bunch of bananas in the freezer. With the peels on. I didn't want to let them thaw out totally to peel them because they would be completely mushy. So, I let them sit on the counter for about 10 minutes and took the top layer off with my hands and then used a knife to peel the rest. Anyway, if you are going to freeze bananas on purpose, you should peel them first. :) <div>I didn't want the bananas to go to waste, and while thawing them out and making banana bread is a good idea, I wanted something different. I had remembered seeing an idea for making banana ice cream in the blender so, I decided to try my own version of that. The results were very yummy. Here's what I did...</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Put 3 frozen, peeled bananas in a blender. If they are sliced, even better.</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Add a splash of coconut milk (approx. 1/8 of a cup or more, depending)</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>blend away.</b></i></div><div><br /></div><div>This works best if you have a fairly powerful blender. My blender has a "snow" setting so, it crushes ice and frozen fruit very well. You may have to stop your blender and stir a little bit in between. Add more coconut milk until the consistency is to your liking. It should be almost like a soft-serve ice cream consistency. </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">There you have it. Quick, easy, sugar free, dairy free, gluten-free...and yummy!!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Give it a try and let me know if you do!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">*This post is linked to <a href="http://www.thenourishinggourmet.com/2011/06/pennywise-platter-thursday-616.html"><b>Pennywise Platter</b></a> over at <a href="http://www.thenourishinggourmet.com/"><b>The Nourishing Gourmet!</b></a></div><div><br /></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-2375071967709712652011-06-02T11:35:00.002-04:002011-06-02T11:49:59.905-04:00Summer Deals!Yesterday on Facebook, my friend <a href="http://www.thetraintocrazy.com/"><b>Andrea</b></a> was posting some great summer deals and activities that she found. I thought they were so helpful that I wanted to share them with you. I'm always looking for fun things to do with the kiddos during the summer. (click on the links for more info.)<div><br /></div><div><ul><li><a href="http://www.borders.com/online/store/MediaView_double-dog-dare"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Double-Dog-Dare</span></b></a> put on by Borders Books. Kids read 10 books and then they get one free! I'm definitely going to do this with my little readers!</li><li><a href="http://www.kidsbowlfree.com/index.php"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Kids Bowl Free-</span></b></a> different locations all over the U.S. Fun!</li><li><a href="http://www.regmovies.com/summermovieexpress/default.aspx"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Summer Movie Express</span></b></a>- put on by Regal Cinemas. $1 movies on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Can't beat that! Click on the link to find a location near you.</li><li>Also, check out your local library. Many of them have summer reading programs with incentives to get your kids to read this summer. I'm all for that!</li></ul><div>Thanks, Andrea for sharing all of these great ideas! Andrea also has a blog called <a href="http://www.thetraintocrazy.com/"><b>The Train To Crazy</b></a>. She makes some pretty amazing things and has some great ideas so, go check her out.</div></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFCC00;">Let's keep the ideas coming! I'd love to hear if you have any deals or summer activities to share.</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFCC00;">If we get enough, I'll do another post so we can all share the wealth! </span></i></b></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-1687884638096159212011-05-31T11:14:00.002-04:002011-05-31T11:29:20.099-04:00Random...<div>This is my excuse for lumping a bunch of random things into one post. Thanks for humoring me.</div><ul><li>We were out of town last week. We went back to NY for a C<a href="http://www.elimfellowship.org/">onference</a>. We stayed with a friend and had lots of fun. </li><li>I still have not finished unpacking from the trip. (we've been home for 3 days)</li><li>I have tons of laundry to do.</li><li>This weather has been rocking.</li><li>Someone brought 16 people to church on Sunday. Awesome.</li><li>K was in the Memorial Day parade in Harvard Square yesterday with his baseball team. It was so cute. Glad the weather was nice. (pics to come)</li><li>We had a cookout last night with some friends. I always worry about not having enough food but, we had leftovers! </li><li>I think I have some sort of allergies, my eyes are constantly itching and I've been having dull headaches. </li><li>I hate shorts. I'm sure I've mentioned it before. I wear them out of necessity but, I usually have to force myself. I am definitely going to find some skirts and dresses to wear this summer. </li><li>I think today we will have a picnic. I love picnics. Any excuse to eat outside, really. </li><li>We ate breakfast outside this morning but, these 2 humongous bees decided to interrupt us. The kids ran screaming into our house. That was the end of that.</li><li>The water is turned on at our local park so, that will provide lots of afternoon entertainment.</li><li>I found a chair. On the side of the road. In great condition. It is green, my favorite color. It doesn't really go with anything but, I don't care. It's comfy. (I'll show a pic of that, too.)</li><li>My daughter is obsessed with the <a href="http://adisney.go.com/disneypictures/tangled/">Tangled</a> soundtrack. It plays constantly and she has every song memorized. Consequently, so do I. :)</li><li>Mandy Moore was the perfect choice for the voice of a disney princess. (in my opinion)</li></ul><div>I think that's enough randomness for today! Hope your week is off to a great start!</div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-54737354748180035892011-05-17T16:23:00.003-04:002011-05-17T16:38:58.015-04:00I answer, You answer.<a href="http://daisiesareagirlsbestfriend.blogspot.com/2011/04/i-answer-you-answer.html"><b>The last time I did this</b></a>, there was a such a good response that I decided to do it again. Maybe I'll do it every week! Here's how it works... I post a question, I answer that question and then you answer the same question in the comments. Easy and fun! <div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>What are the things you procrastinate about?</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Um...what don't I procrastinate about? Let me just say that my husband has been essential to my procrastination recovery. Without him, let's just say, it wouldn't be pretty.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Anyway, the things I procrastinate most about are...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>making phone calls</b></i>. I'm not a huge phone talker so, I really need to be diligent about calling people, keeping in touch, etc...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>I'm a notorious crammer.</i></b> If something needs to be done by a certain date, I'm doing it the night before. Everything. I annoy myself with this. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I will leave you with this. I found it on <a href="www.pinterest.com">Pinterest</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px; "><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/21658484/" target="_blank"><img src="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/21658484_0ZPqAp0g_c.jpg" border="0" width="400 height =" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;padding-bottom: 2px; line-height: 0px; "><br /></div><div style="float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px;"><p style="text-align: center;font-size: 10px; color: rgb(118, 131, 139); ">Source: <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=4604261293961566632">None</a> via <a style="text-decoration: underline; font-size: 10px; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/kelliedowdy/" target="_blank">Kellie</a> on <a style="text-decoration: underline; color: #76838b;" href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinteres</a></p><p style="text-align: center;font-size: 10px; color: rgb(118, 131, 139); "><br /></p><p style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> Ready?.........Go!</span></p></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-87187703088208580272011-05-16T13:19:00.003-04:002011-05-16T13:31:05.602-04:00Fresh Air.<div style="text-align: center;">A couple of weekends ago, we made our way outside of the city to a Retreat Center in New Hampshire for a little outdoor fun. We stayed in a little lodge with beds and a bathroom, and there was a little kitchenette there so, it wasn't necessarily camping but, we were outdoors a lot. </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVcHqhsGco1yNod9-X51x6ev4FOaftsEr58Vv_tNWlbqTkDbp_ELznvJ_DUrrTQshXZ_TGK-mSXcSBJWLVLLamCrEknMqA3Nny5hkrlwGZj8jEcVOU2ML_Z7TSn5W_zeP5oirYRTIQgdg/s1600/SDC11304.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 317px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVcHqhsGco1yNod9-X51x6ev4FOaftsEr58Vv_tNWlbqTkDbp_ELznvJ_DUrrTQshXZ_TGK-mSXcSBJWLVLLamCrEknMqA3Nny5hkrlwGZj8jEcVOU2ML_Z7TSn5W_zeP5oirYRTIQgdg/s400/SDC11304.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607365437001423650" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The first night, we decided to cook our dinner over a fire. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Everything tastes better when cooked over an open fire.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Trader Joe's Nitrate Free Hot Dogs are the best!!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oh, and we had S'mores for dessert, of course!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUoguUDFwcZOUnXraVCTmGLJOiir3VdXinNEEHV_4pckIeze74ik_mMIt32lUHZnaVS_kWgtpY0wdoTNkuPReEaMQgNOWC4lC8u16TVkZ4tPvzo_w20r1UKW-3mWh_Hu9YyaPbwwVThFE/s1600/SDC11306.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 360px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUoguUDFwcZOUnXraVCTmGLJOiir3VdXinNEEHV_4pckIeze74ik_mMIt32lUHZnaVS_kWgtpY0wdoTNkuPReEaMQgNOWC4lC8u16TVkZ4tPvzo_w20r1UKW-3mWh_Hu9YyaPbwwVThFE/s400/SDC11306.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607365431711425266" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I love how their feet are propped up on the same rock in this picture. Like Father, like son. </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSwGQhoj1D2g1gAXaIAPV_2y27oH-u2Z_ES-Qy23S0-r7H5MyCJF9eGMZq4XeY0rLj4wgS95M1JOURY_l9dHN0QZP5cZ3z1_z5xdX71pDrJdQmdys3p4qmbWFWpDxo2HIVYSLEFO276-k/s1600/SDC11310.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSwGQhoj1D2g1gAXaIAPV_2y27oH-u2Z_ES-Qy23S0-r7H5MyCJF9eGMZq4XeY0rLj4wgS95M1JOURY_l9dHN0QZP5cZ3z1_z5xdX71pDrJdQmdys3p4qmbWFWpDxo2HIVYSLEFO276-k/s400/SDC11310.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607365425973991074" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Here's my little hiker with her walking stick.</div><div style="text-align: center;">We took a couple of nature walks. We even saw a wetland, which </div><div style="text-align: center;">was great for an impromptu science lesson taught by my husband.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXd86osGB0CVbBPuZYxxP96Ox_XAQlxucuxl5iw_IkRcd-i5jl_Y19-nOlBDivFQaiafsIhPa_mSl802sDMRfPHv0boWLw_49FT1M7u8VVNdzSJz3unJPH-d2C3HapaxR8If62WSdZAc/s1600/SDC11319.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZXd86osGB0CVbBPuZYxxP96Ox_XAQlxucuxl5iw_IkRcd-i5jl_Y19-nOlBDivFQaiafsIhPa_mSl802sDMRfPHv0boWLw_49FT1M7u8VVNdzSJz3unJPH-d2C3HapaxR8If62WSdZAc/s400/SDC11319.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607365422295791906" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I took several pictures of them all walking with their sticks, </div><div style="text-align: center;">this one is my favorite!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We had such a fun time. It was really nice to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and be in the peace and quiet for a couple of days. </div><div style="text-align: center;">It was like a breath of fresh air...literally. :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-1199373758455400142011-05-10T14:59:00.003-04:002011-05-10T15:08:44.938-04:00When the Camera is Missing...We were having an end of Semester picnic for church and a bunch of us were talking around the table when out of the corner of my eye, I see my son, with our camera, posing in strange karate-like positions, attempting to take pictures of himself. He noticed us noticing him and got all embarrased. Here's the evidence...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigMuTlKpzAfS1wX2qyX318dGY4nGm2Gh4h2m9iBeE6gbIdhrVTzejB48enkMIIvDND79YipU4DtzNTkInJqcINjowpr2j3EoGnJ3TOBTjhyphenhyphenZYvjjtOIILdr5vqOAyVoqgVvMlmyY0GIik/s1600/SDC11296.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigMuTlKpzAfS1wX2qyX318dGY4nGm2Gh4h2m9iBeE6gbIdhrVTzejB48enkMIIvDND79YipU4DtzNTkInJqcINjowpr2j3EoGnJ3TOBTjhyphenhyphenZYvjjtOIILdr5vqOAyVoqgVvMlmyY0GIik/s400/SDC11296.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605164516956490386" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">aww...look how cute and innocent he looks, then....</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcVAlZu6dONjtR_4nnt5O4e00U7mNy5vJg_-qRvbJ25NPUdkpbrITWcLTUTfNkHVW3mjHFAliE1Ih3GuLXAbQAMJw4nUOT8tAjKf-DINSO6ykfsduB0G3JWHa6GrQ2Z_lRVmMACF_L1M/s1600/SDC11302.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcVAlZu6dONjtR_4nnt5O4e00U7mNy5vJg_-qRvbJ25NPUdkpbrITWcLTUTfNkHVW3mjHFAliE1Ih3GuLXAbQAMJw4nUOT8tAjKf-DINSO6ykfsduB0G3JWHa6GrQ2Z_lRVmMACF_L1M/s400/SDC11302.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605164515795226546" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Watch out!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5ivO06vhnWk9km0KQn1LLWcEeTedaO6l-QZQqES8dQCSsYgfR5sOB8Hy4Hp8IEcmJIB2mbCiIwaCuzW1P4ys2KOduCjsVDuuRqfSNXZxCxdA3bF1xhJ9UnkrFXp96qmmkLWHwmJeCtY/s1600/SDC11303.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5ivO06vhnWk9km0KQn1LLWcEeTedaO6l-QZQqES8dQCSsYgfR5sOB8Hy4Hp8IEcmJIB2mbCiIwaCuzW1P4ys2KOduCjsVDuuRqfSNXZxCxdA3bF1xhJ9UnkrFXp96qmmkLWHwmJeCtY/s400/SDC11303.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605164506215076594" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">HI-YA!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4ochfSmChnHAggnUQnq-6bceoIYqEiIfF5gsx-O251OD93XGiqo695JlCNjdyeRxxA4eVQzyaCBP5UGofBmYPrcF7kDm_JzRqm97NSamCqqVVyQqGCtTmKTLVFhGD2h9ntGcyTatHSw/s1600/SDC11299.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm4ochfSmChnHAggnUQnq-6bceoIYqEiIfF5gsx-O251OD93XGiqo695JlCNjdyeRxxA4eVQzyaCBP5UGofBmYPrcF7kDm_JzRqm97NSamCqqVVyQqGCtTmKTLVFhGD2h9ntGcyTatHSw/s400/SDC11299.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605164499076040834" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">This one makes me laugh. Not sure exactly what he was doing.</div><div style="text-align: center;">He was very impressed with himself that day.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Life with kids is never dull. EVER.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And I love it.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Besides, who likes to be bored?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-16378880301533139952011-05-05T08:48:00.004-04:002011-05-05T09:15:40.832-04:00A Princess Party!So, my little girl turned 5. Yes, I did shed a few tears but, I'm over it now. K had his first "friend" party at age 5 so, naturally we did the same with A because we don't do big parties every year. She wanted a Princess party so, I obliged. <div>I feel like I need to apologize for these pictures, they are extremely candid and not that great but, they are memories captured. :)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYPkZRfia7Ia4pup26Ly_Mf5ZAxw_QUKtmYrfQOriJlU24mu4Kk9D8lx7xf469PJOoMTKk8U6RJbUT5ZPYQl2-rzurkWL2E1HBZm7bVl5C3-6z3nVmL8rMDstVAUwt0d5ihvZoYAEjDM/s1600/SDC11249.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYPkZRfia7Ia4pup26Ly_Mf5ZAxw_QUKtmYrfQOriJlU24mu4Kk9D8lx7xf469PJOoMTKk8U6RJbUT5ZPYQl2-rzurkWL2E1HBZm7bVl5C3-6z3nVmL8rMDstVAUwt0d5ihvZoYAEjDM/s400/SDC11249.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603214613152686962" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">We asked the girls to come dressed in their fancy clothes!</div><div style="text-align: center;">When the girls arrived, they made their own tiaras. I found a tiara template online and cut them out of yellow poster board. I put out glitter glue and sequins and let them go at it.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1VyNrq6M82nZIbLMt1tujhhcWOa3ROzjGdmkL8AiBF5qZN4iogGSq44SpYLqlQyZlP8iJ8jc150GXw9XhQAdgbPGvsnGSn6Q1wEFrHZv-Xbduw2p1FsNmC8fmyyiptdwrT70KPe0G9ho/s1600/SDC11246.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1VyNrq6M82nZIbLMt1tujhhcWOa3ROzjGdmkL8AiBF5qZN4iogGSq44SpYLqlQyZlP8iJ8jc150GXw9XhQAdgbPGvsnGSn6Q1wEFrHZv-Xbduw2p1FsNmC8fmyyiptdwrT70KPe0G9ho/s400/SDC11246.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603214612005016050" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Then, they decorated their own cupcakes. Chocolate cupcakes with fresh whipped cream (A's choice).</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiekPJJLYBj6ArP2Y-knZpzkJtoDSIfeYExqUBTiN2SGlWiloEC9mAh999Tryeef_BfcURPJ_ahJhSCnKNJi1CZcjaP6zNQ545NcjqeKltd26fHG7R3sokPFBVox-kKgeuaM-kLmgteSoo/s1600/SDC11243.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiekPJJLYBj6ArP2Y-knZpzkJtoDSIfeYExqUBTiN2SGlWiloEC9mAh999Tryeef_BfcURPJ_ahJhSCnKNJi1CZcjaP6zNQ545NcjqeKltd26fHG7R3sokPFBVox-kKgeuaM-kLmgteSoo/s400/SDC11243.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603214609021005186" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">We also played "stick the crown on the frog" for which there are no pictures, sadly.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY30tckyLdAM6eRXtiSQaA2jnGZd3-vx0XyvB4Cgvm2_3j9re5iN5HEc3aUmOEIfRoR0KBQW3OicocNoIZW_VMbJ6YxsxieAVHw2MApiDK4v6pnDIYqckCwjNLnnClvrxnW_JFMKgvCNc/s1600/SDC11241.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 345px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY30tckyLdAM6eRXtiSQaA2jnGZd3-vx0XyvB4Cgvm2_3j9re5iN5HEc3aUmOEIfRoR0KBQW3OicocNoIZW_VMbJ6YxsxieAVHw2MApiDK4v6pnDIYqckCwjNLnnClvrxnW_JFMKgvCNc/s400/SDC11241.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603214088276100546" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I loved the look on her face when we were singing "Happy Birthday" to her!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nv_Is3QShhr25R0bk-7uT15OcKsXTZ9RGhCmTKFFWf-V96RGPEz62L0o272dcIrovT2LDKeLmpSh88QjlgLXa636KPK-2WMI_dkYJLJU-aui_ayKlO9bro6urM3CERVw9_svImmL3NU/s1600/SDC11239.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1nv_Is3QShhr25R0bk-7uT15OcKsXTZ9RGhCmTKFFWf-V96RGPEz62L0o272dcIrovT2LDKeLmpSh88QjlgLXa636KPK-2WMI_dkYJLJU-aui_ayKlO9bro6urM3CERVw9_svImmL3NU/s400/SDC11239.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603214086400507122" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">oops! Out of order. </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0gU3kM9vgLtfX496BZYFtTwAySOykul_CSP0Web32ydN3qlRHVI8_3g1gwVeq1K9pYvZ0rHpDPxn3Og6iLlYc54NNSfWD75YVOZXexfPavC8T5lXvO362NGDXVuWsSXhCPt4dYBco_oQ/s1600/SDC11232.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0gU3kM9vgLtfX496BZYFtTwAySOykul_CSP0Web32ydN3qlRHVI8_3g1gwVeq1K9pYvZ0rHpDPxn3Og6iLlYc54NNSfWD75YVOZXexfPavC8T5lXvO362NGDXVuWsSXhCPt4dYBco_oQ/s400/SDC11232.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603214084853218578" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Reaching for the cupcake toppings. We had gummy bears, mini chocolate chips, various colored sprinkles, and slivered almonds, all A's choices. It was sugar overload but, you gotta live it up at least once a year, right? :) </div><div style="text-align: center;">(You can sort of see the frog behind A on the left. I made it out of green and white poster board.)</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2cDmCR0m0uwSj_jSvyzvYaWRRirMQl7PGeAEsNq8F7WupFKUtqca-tTTCMCUJEJABcI0fIubaI496DqmQ2BoRrYj62zDoean3NSDHUGWkSQhC_oICt4911l-DMlXZEwNCb4sg2pfgqk/s1600/SDC11229.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2cDmCR0m0uwSj_jSvyzvYaWRRirMQl7PGeAEsNq8F7WupFKUtqca-tTTCMCUJEJABcI0fIubaI496DqmQ2BoRrYj62zDoean3NSDHUGWkSQhC_oICt4911l-DMlXZEwNCb4sg2pfgqk/s400/SDC11229.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603214082652584594" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I also purchased plastic wine glasses from the dollar tree and used them for the ice cream.</div><div style="text-align: center;">A lot of the girls ended up "sprinkling" their ice cream, too!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMm4ajlJdP2fzTMgBEbvJlolA9qFxxYiwWnmkyr5S6KlVmmKgw07MNHIqdefcwtY03Qpz_ELrZa11jlwbif6jKRBly_vD0NUc6mi89pdxP39YsCLTDsWRYTXqF0QTI7ikwlF6J0R0IZvI/s1600/SDC11228.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMm4ajlJdP2fzTMgBEbvJlolA9qFxxYiwWnmkyr5S6KlVmmKgw07MNHIqdefcwtY03Qpz_ELrZa11jlwbif6jKRBly_vD0NUc6mi89pdxP39YsCLTDsWRYTXqF0QTI7ikwlF6J0R0IZvI/s400/SDC11228.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603214076863430450" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I wish I had before pictures of the decorations. I had big, pink bows on the birthday girls seat and at each place setting was a fancy glass and pretty necklace. I got all of my decorations at the Dollar Tree! We also played musical statues, where I played music and the girls danced, and when the music stopped they had to freeze like a statue. I guess you could also call it Freeze Dance. We had a blast. Most importantly, A had fun. She said it was her best day ever!</div><div style="text-align: center;">All in all we had 11 kids and 7 adults. It wasn't too bad. I wasn't sure how it would go in such a small space but, we pulled it off. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-3272326031218278692011-04-26T12:37:00.003-04:002011-04-26T12:53:44.911-04:00Five.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvNamNvIdzLQbAaXcezNQPYfqu2dppdpjgJ4YOu10sb7EpJ9hLQ0ca3UCwj8sip2XWOE40YleV62jsYCTWCWb3Y6dxVDkWNQap2GlK2-vbtsbPP53r01pLzMoNKFUt5oFP2Cz-N3uvu8/s1600/IMG_0662.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvNamNvIdzLQbAaXcezNQPYfqu2dppdpjgJ4YOu10sb7EpJ9hLQ0ca3UCwj8sip2XWOE40YleV62jsYCTWCWb3Y6dxVDkWNQap2GlK2-vbtsbPP53r01pLzMoNKFUt5oFP2Cz-N3uvu8/s400/IMG_0662.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599932589500003458" /></a>My little A turned 5 yesterday *sniff*, and we had a big bash. 10 kids in a small space, it was fun and crazy but, mostly fun. Pictures will come soon but, for now we will carry on the tradition of the birthday interview. Here's how it works... I ask the kiddos questions, they answer and I share with you. Simple, fun, and sometimes funny! So, here goes.<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arvo; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(80, 80, 80); line-height: 18px; "><div style="text-align: left; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">How old are you today?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">5</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">What is your favorite color?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">green and pink and purple actually.</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Favorite toy?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">Disney Barbies</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Favorite song?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">I like Disney.</span></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Favorite food?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">Grilled Cheese</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Favorite book?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">Green Eggs and Ham</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">If you could be anything in the world, what would it be?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;"> A dancer, like a ballerina dancer.</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Why?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">I think they're nice.</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">What is the meaning of life?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">Jesus (as she points to the sky)</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">What is your favorite thing to do?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">going to the Library.</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">What is the sport you like to play most?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">Golf. (never played in her life)</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Why, golf? </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">I like it.</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Do you mean mini-golf? </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">Shakes her head yes.</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">You like mini-golf? </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">uh-huh!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Do you talk to God?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">Yes.</span></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">What do you say to him?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">I love him so much and He's the best King ever.</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">What does He say to you?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">I'm the best ever and he says he loves me so much.</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">How does that make you feel?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">umm...good.</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">How does it feel to be 5 years old?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">Really good, it's like I get to relax and play games.</span></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Any last words?</span></b></i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;">nope. bye!</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;color:#6600CC;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Stay tuned for all the details on the Princess Party!!</span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><i><br /></i></span></div></span></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-12786922840309212192011-04-22T09:44:00.003-04:002011-04-22T09:51:58.289-04:00Good Friday.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlB08hAwAse1QZaxnll0mfkjnmmwLHCvJVPuwtHEP1Jl8AH2lz1R1zhmuR3XXitHaViCWc3vxGeoOA7sluhvQHft-dOvonOpUd6NJe6y2SJzdWvrQAyGLu9Ez7pLiyrvzmReQcQhvMldg/s1600/easter+cross.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 366px; height: 333px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlB08hAwAse1QZaxnll0mfkjnmmwLHCvJVPuwtHEP1Jl8AH2lz1R1zhmuR3XXitHaViCWc3vxGeoOA7sluhvQHft-dOvonOpUd6NJe6y2SJzdWvrQAyGLu9Ez7pLiyrvzmReQcQhvMldg/s400/easter+cross.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598404157452434130" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I will not boast in anything</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">No gifts, no power, no wisdom</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But I will boast inJesus Christ</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">His death and resurrection</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Why should I gain from His reward?</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I cannot give an answer</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But this I know with all my heart</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">His wounds have paid my ransom.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div></span></span></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial; font-size: small; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; ">Lyrics from: How Deep The Father's Love by Stuart Townend</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">photo credit:</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">faithwestnewton.net</span></span></span></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-45057444186775010972011-04-20T11:01:00.003-04:002011-04-20T11:08:15.707-04:00I Answer, You answer.<div>I thought it might be fun to do a little game where I ask a random question, answer it and then you get to answer it in the comments. I took a peek at my stats and notice that people are reading but, no one is commenting. Come on, people don't be shy. Don't leave me lonely here in blogland. :)</div><div>Ok, so here we go...</div><div><br /></div><b><i>What are the first thoughts that typically cross your mind when you wake up in the morning?</i></b><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div>The first thoughts that typically cross my mind in the morning are "what time is it?" "what day is it?" and "coffee." Usually the answer to the first two come after I've had the third. ha ha.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Your turn!!!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-56241465462426934142011-04-18T12:18:00.002-04:002011-04-18T12:42:55.797-04:00Superheroes.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQFdN-ShYwQ_MhFBQG_LPNV5WV8AAh-p-801UvMvXUCgUhd8FXi5W2YCZI38hd4eff8HCLEXbrbhnQTgl1V3t158X2B6fQq8MzGgefN_c0iJZLNd6WjxRLnvz4gWS3qtqZPsATSON5Jk/s1600/IMG_0704.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQFdN-ShYwQ_MhFBQG_LPNV5WV8AAh-p-801UvMvXUCgUhd8FXi5W2YCZI38hd4eff8HCLEXbrbhnQTgl1V3t158X2B6fQq8MzGgefN_c0iJZLNd6WjxRLnvz4gWS3qtqZPsATSON5Jk/s400/IMG_0704.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596959186933742018" /></a>"Mom, do I look like Clark Kent?" He asked while donning his daddy's old sunglasses, sans lenses. "Yes, exactly like him." I replied. <div><br /></div><div>We are at the age of superhero obsession. A week and a half ago we had a mother-son date and we discussed alter-egos and how each superhero got his powers. Here is all that I knew.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Bruce Wayne is Batman</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Peter Parker is Spiderman</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Clark Kent is Superman</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>and</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Bruce Banner is The Incredible Hulk</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Not too bad, right? Well, that obviously was not enough for my curious little 1st grader. He wanted to know how each of his favorites got their powers and the only thing I knew was that Superman was from the planet Krypton and Spiderman was bitten by a radioactive spider, and that was just because of the movies. After doing a little research (thank you Wikipedia), I found out that the way things originated in the comic book series are not how they portray them always in the movies. Should've known better. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Turns out, Spiderman's web slinger-thingy that comes out of his wrist, really wasn't in his skin. In the original comic book series, Peter Parker invented a web slinger that he used.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Also, in the hulk movies and tv show, Bruce Banner was exposed to gamma radiation of some sort, making him turn green whenever he became angry. But, in the comic book it says that he was exposed to a gamma bomb explosion...or something like that. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I figured with all of this research we were doing, we should put it to good use. We are going to turn it into a writing project for school. I though we'd pick a couple of his favorite superheroes,</div><div style="text-align: left;">and write mini-biographies for each one. This should get him excited about writing. (hopefully).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well, Happy Monday to all. This week is a break week for us so, we will be enjoying the sunshine, (hopefully) and maybe even a picnic or two. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Any spring break plans for you?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4604261293961566632.post-65836308211440365722011-04-14T09:41:00.005-04:002011-04-14T10:06:55.667-04:00{In The City} Sofra<div>A friend of mine invited me to go with her to one of her favorite places, and I gladly accepted. Little did I know that it would become one of my favorite places I've been in this city so far.</div><div>First of all, I <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><b>LOVE</b></span> middle eastern food, especially Lebanese food,One of my absolute faves so, this place was right up my alley. The name of the place is<b> </b><a href="http://www.sofrabakery.com/"><b>Sofra.</b></a> They serve Middle Eastern and Eastern Mediterranean food. One word....YUM.</div><div><br /></div><div>I had some choices from the Meze bar. Meze is basically a selection of small dishes, or appetizers that they serve in the Middle East or Mediterranean for lunch, or dinner and in some regions, Meze is served at the beginning of a large meal. Many of them are dips.</div><div>A bonus for me was that all but 2 of the selections were free of gluten. </div><div>Here's what I chose...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq0Sd79ZAW7OE7SC9L9KEXddaOkYMt-XDEGsfDTuRxxiPXEenKYRbHZYpNRUBWEzqE3MydWdWSd53CUVh8Cne3QSbl4Pbky-UICI5tHA0bntzLk0XoY9XS2t2BSMRWNTsqtcKJSJgw9Ig/s1600/IMG_0700.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq0Sd79ZAW7OE7SC9L9KEXddaOkYMt-XDEGsfDTuRxxiPXEenKYRbHZYpNRUBWEzqE3MydWdWSd53CUVh8Cne3QSbl4Pbky-UICI5tHA0bntzLk0XoY9XS2t2BSMRWNTsqtcKJSJgw9Ig/s400/IMG_0700.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5595434077516048338" /></a><i><b>From left to right: Smoky Eggplant with pine nuts, Whipped feta with red peppers, Parsnip Skordalia with toasted almonds, Moroccan Carrot Salad, and Beet Tzatziki. (*my favorite)</b></i></div><div><br /></div><div>Instead of the usual flatbread that is served on the side, I had cucumbers and a type of radish. I'm not sure what they were called but, they were milder than your typical red radish.</div><div> Sofra also has a great selection of stuffed flat bread sandwiches, and delicious baked goods such as their chocolate hazelnut baklava, macaroons, and many more.</div><div><br /></div><div>I also had a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rooibos"><b>red rooibos</b></a> latte, sweetened with honey, also very delicious. The place is tiny, and you are very close to your other dining neighbors and you may even meet someone new. We met the man sitting next to us who was from Lebanon. </div><div><br /></div><div>So...if you live in the area be sure to check this place out. It's great to meet with friends or on a date. I can't wait to take my husband!</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Where's your favorite place to eat, have coffee, or just hang out?</b></i></div>G.http://www.blogger.com/profile/13180198830890659209noreply@blogger.com1