tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61067010661585954382024-03-13T10:03:27.957-07:00too Blessed to StressSo Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.comBlogger140125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-15326239017289571762013-10-04T22:24:00.000-07:002013-10-04T22:24:44.793-07:00Faux Food - Day 4 <span style="font-size: large;">If you've followed Too Blessed To Stress for some time, you might remember that this home has a love/<strike>hate</strike> frustration relationship with <a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2010/02/brownie-blocks.html" target="_blank">fake food</a>. I love the looks of it. It frustrates hubby because he gets all excited for it before he realizes it is for decor only.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjIFPb3Dv9HbOnavReJUua7PjXnzTo11zBjYqq4ZQCvQoqGGhtxOFqL4no0hN7U0CrWoqLIo0cv5lG1UPd_95KPfMXEf8T18q0R2kuJC2r563zJJHXOj3v5I7d-swHqJoaf4nSVDoIo70/s1600/CIMG6619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjIFPb3Dv9HbOnavReJUua7PjXnzTo11zBjYqq4ZQCvQoqGGhtxOFqL4no0hN7U0CrWoqLIo0cv5lG1UPd_95KPfMXEf8T18q0R2kuJC2r563zJJHXOj3v5I7d-swHqJoaf4nSVDoIo70/s400/CIMG6619.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nevertheless I just had to make these faux caramel apple goodies when I saw the idea pop up on Sugar Pie Farmhouse. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Aunt Ruthie had the greatest idea for making caramel apples... with Mod Podge!{<a href="http://www.sugarpiefarmhouse.com/faux-caramel-apples-tutorial-my-fall-e-book-pumpkin-pickin-hayrides" target="_blank">You can see them here</a>}</span><span style="font-size: large;"> She has a fantastic tutorial with picture instructions, so I won't go into too much detail about that. Head on over to the farmhouse for those instructions. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I will, however, tell you what I did different. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The color she mentions was no where to be found at the stores where I live. So I thought I would be all fancy and mix my own. I bought one tube each of dark espresso and a lighter khaki color. I thought that would make caramel. Nope! It looked more like a white chocolate mocha.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjioocL-liqfBGjzUepREOSDQ-kJ-cVTO4OpSS8OlnBV9Kh9Ru67OD6lQsrmUJLVQ7WxP3Jf5L3XN9XXW7Va06Gm6OG4M2o40QonFfvW_E95sPFIloOiWq45kBNEH3-nE0sgyOXbnAm0lS7/s1600/CIMG6626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjioocL-liqfBGjzUepREOSDQ-kJ-cVTO4OpSS8OlnBV9Kh9Ru67OD6lQsrmUJLVQ7WxP3Jf5L3XN9XXW7Va06Gm6OG4M2o40QonFfvW_E95sPFIloOiWq45kBNEH3-nE0sgyOXbnAm0lS7/s400/CIMG6626.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I ran to the store for a brick red and a canary yellow. A little bit of red and a lot of yellow made the most delectable caramel color. So keep that in mind if you can't find "caramel in a bottle" :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I chose to leave off the nuts, because neither hubby nor I like apples with nuts. Also</span><span style="font-size: large;">, I love the look of a real caramel apple when the ooey gooey goodness pools at the bottom. That's the best bite of all! So I poured a little ring of tinted mod podge and placed my dipped apple on it. Should you choose to do this be forewarned: It took </span><i style="font-size: x-large;">days </i><span style="font-size: large;">to dry completely. And when it did, it tore the wax paper up with it. But it was a clean tear and you would never know there is wax paper stuck to the bottom.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ivwXJKBi7IWlBxiZcexLo66xEZvzSteG3if7YLNn9FjzQvCf0PZ1iWUhyphenhypheniToDKzovMTpJhByCrB2VkauM1RyjKiMMRAHyV5db_xC0qkTud_bpHTMjAiV3KnMuVl5toWmxG3srfLzCLR2/s1600/CIMG6623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ivwXJKBi7IWlBxiZcexLo66xEZvzSteG3if7YLNn9FjzQvCf0PZ1iWUhyphenhypheniToDKzovMTpJhByCrB2VkauM1RyjKiMMRAHyV5db_xC0qkTud_bpHTMjAiV3KnMuVl5toWmxG3srfLzCLR2/s400/CIMG6623.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Best low cal, sugar free caramel apple I've ever seen :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>So how about it? Will you be making/buying some fake treats for your home? If you do you'll be adding something cute to your fall decor, it will psyche out your family who think the food is real, and it will make your guests think you slaved all day over tasty treats.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Win, win, win.</b></span><br />
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<b><i>All photos taken by yours truly.</i></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><b><a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2013/10/31-ways-to-jump-into-fall-listed-day-by.html" target="_blank">This post is Day 4 in a series of 31 Ways To Jump Into Fall.</a></b></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2013/10/31-ways-to-jump-into-fall-listed-day-by.html" target="_blank">Check out the other days here.</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.thenester.com/2013/09/welcome-to-31-days-2013.html" target="_blank">Read other blogger's 31 Days here. </a></b></span>
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So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-27978466957951011102013-10-03T20:50:00.002-07:002013-10-03T20:51:09.900-07:00Investments - Day 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu548CPsduSBxdP0v5xRW9-t_ou2l6B1dBaR8H8bM8yXj2YX9l39yw6vLDLj6SrZxqsXEy7TuPnJpqy-vlx8cTaBEg9MfG9zpL0lkYivabMTdLdPpbh6gHWHdPIY-i1QvzGdHX-E3-Atmr/s1600/CIMG6576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu548CPsduSBxdP0v5xRW9-t_ou2l6B1dBaR8H8bM8yXj2YX9l39yw6vLDLj6SrZxqsXEy7TuPnJpqy-vlx8cTaBEg9MfG9zpL0lkYivabMTdLdPpbh6gHWHdPIY-i1QvzGdHX-E3-Atmr/s400/CIMG6576.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">See this frame? It is one of the best investments I have made for our home decor. I use the term "Investment" lightly, since I purchased it at the Fancy Store {Goodwill Outlet} where everything is purchased by the pound. So it cost me a total of $1.23. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But it is one of the most versatile pieces I have to go over the gaping fireplace hole. {We didn't have a TV for several years, and even when we did I always had it in a separate armoire. I'm just not a fan of having the TV be the center of attention. But that's another story all together.}</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The frame was an ordinary color of wood, no stain or finish. My original vision was to have bits of apple green and black peek through the creamy white top coat. But due to one thing or another {mainly my impatience to let every coat of paint thoroughly dry before painting and sanding another coat} it doesn't have quite the weathered look I was going for. Nevertheless, I love the results. Sometimes an <strike>accident </strike>impatience can produce happy results.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKDj6FLULJC-PuIBaapgw0hD2gIP9syNviS2ERFJHux7E4GQt4fwPoeNHE8a-DlXUgLqrU88iYxH0YKiJaL7OVaIrl7AcETTia0dcl31Od81hDA8F5HJE-JaQuL275D-2csq8gdX-s0CG/s1600/CIMG6582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKDj6FLULJC-PuIBaapgw0hD2gIP9syNviS2ERFJHux7E4GQt4fwPoeNHE8a-DlXUgLqrU88iYxH0YKiJaL7OVaIrl7AcETTia0dcl31Od81hDA8F5HJE-JaQuL275D-2csq8gdX-s0CG/s400/CIMG6582.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now here comes the best part. Get ready, it may blow your mind how simple and versatile this simple trick is. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ready.... foam poster board.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">From the Dollar Store.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">One sheet, cut down to size and I have the perfect backdrop to hang a 12x12 scrapbook page decorated with vinyl for any season, holiday, or special occasion. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMwNGLvzC7_cZMrLs6LXEu-EvZaP0vjYriv5C7_53pP9IZGYzbz1EeBm9mQePh3yMaCKqyAg7vIFpoymlOmro7ialuZ2MQ_qaUm3sg84TwrmeUjb_6L7uREzv6mWWdQ2aCA-5U8ntezGK/s1600/CIMG6575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMwNGLvzC7_cZMrLs6LXEu-EvZaP0vjYriv5C7_53pP9IZGYzbz1EeBm9mQePh3yMaCKqyAg7vIFpoymlOmro7ialuZ2MQ_qaUm3sg84TwrmeUjb_6L7uREzv6mWWdQ2aCA-5U8ntezGK/s400/CIMG6575.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And because I was being all <strike>thrifty </strike>impatient again I didn't even bother to glue gun the poster board on. Maybe someday I will. But for now, clear pieces of scotch tape are holding it on. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The beauty of the poster board is that it creates a blank canvas each time I remove the 12x12 sheet. I already have a few made up for spring/summer and fall. All that's needed is a couple pieces of - you guessed it - scotch tape and presto! New seasonal decor. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMw0QdDP6sGFXEiDLLnXC2Kq4MWlz429AxikjjiHDNn49gLgdw6AwLmNz54LXl7Ish7QDDpIuNK9blYdnKOk7utc6bxS0JAhEj-uu6V01pfQorlbwYlWTGXrihDiQcC_5vW8j4h6rTxVu/s1600/CIMG6580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMw0QdDP6sGFXEiDLLnXC2Kq4MWlz429AxikjjiHDNn49gLgdw6AwLmNz54LXl7Ish7QDDpIuNK9blYdnKOk7utc6bxS0JAhEj-uu6V01pfQorlbwYlWTGXrihDiQcC_5vW8j4h6rTxVu/s400/CIMG6580.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For fall, I even have cute little matching bunting. All that was needed was a scrap of matching paper, jute twine, some stickers{or in this case vinyl cut stickers}, and a hot glue gun. It's held on in the back with... surprise, scotch tape.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I could even get all crazy and line the poster board with patterned wrapping paper, brown postal wrap, sheet music, love notes, etc. You name it, it can be done!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And when the poster board gets too beat up, all it costs is $1 to replace... and some more scotch tape to stick it back up.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>What "Investment" have you made to bring some lovely into your home? Have you blogged about it? Let me know in the comments below so I can come over and check it out!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Note: Scotch brand tape did not sponsor me to mention their name umpteen times. Should they like to, feel free to contact me anytime :)</span><br />
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<i><b>All photos taken by yours truly.</b></i>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><b><a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2013/10/31-ways-to-jump-into-fall-listed-day-by.html" target="_blank">This post is Day 3 in a series of 31 Ways To Jump Into Fall.</a></b></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2013/10/31-ways-to-jump-into-fall-listed-day-by.html" target="_blank">Check out the other days here.</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.thenester.com/2013/09/welcome-to-31-days-2013.html" target="_blank">Read other blogger's 31 Days here. </a></b></span>
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So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-38252477269175105982013-10-03T20:31:00.000-07:002013-10-03T20:31:10.818-07:00First Impressions - Day 2<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>First Impressions. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">They are awesome when you make a good one, but it's such a bummer when you miss a chance to show who you really are the first time around.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And while we may think that first impressions are reserved for two people meeting face to face, the reality is that a first impression is also obtained the first time someone walks up to your front door.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <b>Have you ever stopped to think </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>what kind of an impression your front door makes?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yep, you read that right. I promise I'm not completely off my rocker when I say that your front door can make a first impression too.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It really doesn't matter if you have a glorious entry with stone stairs and columns, a glistening chandelier, and a door tall enough for Goliath to walk through without stooping. Or maybe your entrance is a door with a peephole and a welcome mat in the hallway of an apartment building. It doesn't matter how grand or humble it may be, your front door and entryway can make a good impression. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Maybe "impression" is a bad word for it. It seems as though it somehow implies that you have to impress the other person. And that's exactly the opposite of what I want you to create! It's not about dazzling the other person with how awesome a decorator you are. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>I think First Welcome might be a better word. </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>A good First Welcome - </i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>lets your visitors know that through those doors </i></b></span></div>
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<b style="font-size: x-large;"><i>awaits a warm, safe place. </i></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>A sanctuary away from the storm</i></b>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Perhaps all you need to do is something as simple as sweeping off the stoop, putting out a bunch or fresh - or artificial - flowers, a welcome sign, and a colorful mat to wipe those muddy boots off. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The tendency is to put off this sprucing up if your door needs a fresh coat of paint, new hardware and kick plate that is not all banged up, the light fixture is not perfect, etc. etc.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>But the truth of the matter is that if we keep waiting for perfection, that day will never come. Why not make the most of your door/entryway today and take the opportunity to create a warm welcome?</b></i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3nuqvtqinnikhUpP7aOTYKIH8s7OXK_JwXCKA6ozsyegwfitgAda0K4v2MIm11AGQMYzFCWKyYry_GAI8hUZ0qBkIPqK4oPDYbRJ1GO493T6g2qQtudhThWNpkPiAPIhAx_8dfTz7xRRN/s1600/CIMG6548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3nuqvtqinnikhUpP7aOTYKIH8s7OXK_JwXCKA6ozsyegwfitgAda0K4v2MIm11AGQMYzFCWKyYry_GAI8hUZ0qBkIPqK4oPDYbRJ1GO493T6g2qQtudhThWNpkPiAPIhAx_8dfTz7xRRN/s400/CIMG6548.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><b>See those holes in the door? From a door knocker we need to hang up again. Imperfect? Yes. But all it took to make it inviting was a touch of fall color on a handmade wreath... and a sign on the door warning "Please do not ring the doorbell, knock softly. Baby sleeping. Anyone who wakes the baby will not be allowed to leave till they change a diaper!"</b></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Fall is the perfect time to spruce things up. Now that the long summer days are fading, you and your loved ones will be heading though that door to get to the warm indoors.</b></span><br />
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<b style="font-size: x-large;"> Here's a few ideas to get you started:</b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Go to your local craft store and buy {or have made} a vinyl "Welcome," or house numbers. They really are very inexpensive and easy to apply/remove.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">~ Buy an inexpensive pre-decorated wreath. Or better yet, get creative and make your own! {By the way, <a href="http://lessthanperfectlifeofbliss.blogspot.com/2013/10/how-to-hang-wreath-without-damaging.html" target="_blank">Less than Perfect Life of Bliss has a great idea using velcro - yep you read that right - to hang her wreaths. This is great for anyone that doesn't want to harm the front of the door or has a glass pane in the middle</a>} </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ Dust off an old planter you have sitting around, head to your local nursery and purchase a few colorful end of season annuals that are on the discount table. Or maybe a big bushy mum in fiery reds and oranges. Plant them in your newly dusted planter, add a bird/figurine of some sort or sign from your collection {or the dollar store, or thrift store} and voila! Instant charm.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ Maybe you hate the light fixture but a new one isn't in the budget. I bet a can of spray paint is! One, maybe two coats of Rustoleum in a hammered finish and you have new-to-you lighting.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>First <strike>Impression </strike>Welcome</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>What are you going to do </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>to make your door and entryway more inviting?</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiwUd8kycEgz8OsIhYNRFmVcVRT2mSvguYCrU1W0tmFXSOFQIxPTqIFDJeveiANQW3nIxeBRrxPeQ0rzR87oLYF8Z4nFLIExqvK6b5sIIGNwDMmhFK5th4k4SfGVODa19_sTfd5S8KcPS0/s1600/Emily+31+for+BLog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiwUd8kycEgz8OsIhYNRFmVcVRT2mSvguYCrU1W0tmFXSOFQIxPTqIFDJeveiANQW3nIxeBRrxPeQ0rzR87oLYF8Z4nFLIExqvK6b5sIIGNwDMmhFK5th4k4SfGVODa19_sTfd5S8KcPS0/s1600/Emily+31+for+BLog.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2013/10/31-ways-to-jump-into-fall-listed-day-by.html" target="_blank">This post is Day 2 in a series of 31 Ways To Jump Into Fall.</a></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2013/10/31-ways-to-jump-into-fall-listed-day-by.html" target="_blank">Check out the other days here.</a></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.thenester.com/2013/09/welcome-to-31-days-2013.html" target="_blank">Read other blogger's 31 Days here. </a></b></span></div>
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<b><i>All photos take by yours truly unless otherwise noted.</i></b></div>
So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-47898950042578451042013-10-01T23:38:00.004-07:002013-10-01T23:38:56.019-07:0031 Ways To Jump Into Fall - DAY 1<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>31</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Count it out</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>That's a big number when you're:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ in 3rd grade </span><span style="font-size: large;">and that's how many days </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">are left till school gets out...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ turning 31, if you're lamenting your 20's...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ that number waiting in line for your coffee...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ going to write on one topic for that many days.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am thrilled to join the <a href="http://www.thenester.com/2013/09/welcome-to-31-days-2013.html" target="_blank">Nester's challenge to write about something for 31 Days.</a> There are so many people writing on all sorts of awesome topics, be sure to head on over there and <a href="http://www.thenester.com/2013-31-days-too-awesome-to-categorize" target="_blank">check it out</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Here at Too Blessed To Stress I'll be sharing </i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>31 Ways To Jump Into Fall</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmfMXgqV8I8wnaYdOdlvebF7MUgpyWfq7BUTx51ds4byzgu5S5yC8HYcbdUdZ6kSi4Gl5cJHJlDhzP84enycUye0FRXX7buZ4PaPRUKWYBLVKImtyhwCmNoB3cBd4slqk9u42prMj65pr/s1600/Emily+31+for+BLog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmfMXgqV8I8wnaYdOdlvebF7MUgpyWfq7BUTx51ds4byzgu5S5yC8HYcbdUdZ6kSi4Gl5cJHJlDhzP84enycUye0FRXX7buZ4PaPRUKWYBLVKImtyhwCmNoB3cBd4slqk9u42prMj65pr/s1600/Emily+31+for+BLog.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And because I just love me a good subcategory, I simply couldn't resist breaking up those 31 Days to reflect several areas of interest that I enjoy blogging about:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Week 1 - Bringing Fall Comfort Into Your Home</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Week 2 - Fall Activities For Your Family</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Week 3 - Fall "Makeover" For Yourself </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Week 4 - Fall Treats From The Kitchen</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Last 2 days.... Wildcards! Those are yet to be decided. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And now that I have managed to say "Fall" 31 times, I will sign off till tomorrow. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Want to see all 31 posts listed in one place for your convenience? <b><a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2013/10/31-ways-to-jump-into-fall-listed-day-by.html" target="_blank">Click here.</a></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>If you are new here at Too Blessed To Stress, thanks for stopping by! Stay for a while, poke around and let me know you were here so I can hop on over to your page and say "Hi!"</i></b></span><br />
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So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-82927282314856775592013-10-01T23:37:00.001-07:002013-10-03T23:24:14.971-07:0031 Ways To Jump Into Fall - Listed Day By Day<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Welcome to 31 Ways To Jump Into Fall</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilGHnFpyMsJg1WxBYWBf-hHtPoRqKcA9gqdTVNcvR_SML3Nh80HDE2-dXzXC1yHSqhCxnmsc_qERqJ1YUTG-YCtcQqLRosBdud8P9Cu8tbWyhKvLi7BnWPC7wg1RwtGiIZlTSLE-5835Fo/s1600/Emily+31+for+BLog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilGHnFpyMsJg1WxBYWBf-hHtPoRqKcA9gqdTVNcvR_SML3Nh80HDE2-dXzXC1yHSqhCxnmsc_qERqJ1YUTG-YCtcQqLRosBdud8P9Cu8tbWyhKvLi7BnWPC7wg1RwtGiIZlTSLE-5835Fo/s1600/Emily+31+for+BLog.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Click on the day you wish to jump to. </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">As each day is posted, this list will be updated till all 31 are full.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Bringing Fall Comfort Into Your Home</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 1 - <a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2013/10/31-ways-to-jump-into-fall-day-1.html" target="_blank">What it's all about</a></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 2 - <a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2013/10/first-impressions-day-2.html" target="_blank">First Impressions </a></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 3 - </span></b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2013/10/investments-day-3.html" target="_blank">Investments </a></b></span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 4 - </span></b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Faux Food</b></span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 5</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 6</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 7</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b style="font-size: x-large;"> Fall Activities For Your Family</b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 8</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 9</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 10</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 11</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 12</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 13</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 14</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b style="font-size: x-large;">Fall "Makeover" For Yourself </b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 15</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 16</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 17</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 18</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 19</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 20</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 21</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b style="font-size: x-large;">Fall Treats From The Kitchen</b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 22</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 23</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 24</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 25</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 26</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 27</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 28</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 29</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b style="font-size: x-large;">Wildcards! Those are yet to be decided. </b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 30</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Day 31</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-30443613597159242052013-09-08T01:10:00.000-07:002013-09-08T01:10:37.233-07:00Back In The Saddle<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>You know the song, right?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong><br /></strong></em></span></div>
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<em><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">"Back in the saddle again!"</span></strong></em></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong></strong></em></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm so thrilled to be able to return to blogging!</span></div>
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<em><strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">"Out where a friend is a friend!"</span></strong></em></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-size: large;"></span></em></strong><br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">That's right, my blog <b>friends</b>, I've missed you all. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There were several reasons why I had to take a break. And I won't bore you with all of them....except one....</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's see if you can guess...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The most important reason was that <i>my energy was zapped</i>... </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">and because of that </span><span style="font-size: large;">I needed to dedicate time </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">to some new projects for the <i>family</i>...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGV6D3W4Pi1GgGbWzPSIBlsXaQzBX9nz3X00cKJlrMkVX7ZIrCDzzQTWvdKWdqUYfoIRw1GV7HL2oONe63xR5YeH-k721VTk_eYCyGnY2CvdaGbpYSnSNprvb9WnOZYjxESRo3s_nI2q5a/s1600/Maternity,+too+Blessed+to+Stress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGV6D3W4Pi1GgGbWzPSIBlsXaQzBX9nz3X00cKJlrMkVX7ZIrCDzzQTWvdKWdqUYfoIRw1GV7HL2oONe63xR5YeH-k721VTk_eYCyGnY2CvdaGbpYSnSNprvb9WnOZYjxESRo3s_nI2q5a/s320/Maternity,+too+Blessed+to+Stress.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>our expanding family!</i></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYeKNnCwCCGLyNb89sXiMKm_O4VpSo9Bi5Tom0ZFkVnBuI2i-TiBcWihr8F9yk7ZwDdzbPB-wbnHA37tnwBKEEXIc_FsoqMDj6sn3CXE_wptYV6azCAel3CRc5gjEaiRIxLY_p6HwsiPf/s1600/Famil+too+Blessed+to+Stress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUYeKNnCwCCGLyNb89sXiMKm_O4VpSo9Bi5Tom0ZFkVnBuI2i-TiBcWihr8F9yk7ZwDdzbPB-wbnHA37tnwBKEEXIc_FsoqMDj6sn3CXE_wptYV6azCAel3CRc5gjEaiRIxLY_p6HwsiPf/s320/Famil+too+Blessed+to+Stress.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Meet our darling daughter Naomi Irene! </b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQ7xypFRNTYu_bAvB8TxGLoYlMuN_Kzid3qlfVx62bvDzD41LvRM4omU-ROqYubaXfJZyk4c4Crd6RvLVyoXvCtNEsFq0d6MHzoh1IJ5IQOCtkcfzpWBFGA77e8TeZvp9D_6wIAK4dYE7/s1600/family2+too+Blessed+to+Stress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcQ7xypFRNTYu_bAvB8TxGLoYlMuN_Kzid3qlfVx62bvDzD41LvRM4omU-ROqYubaXfJZyk4c4Crd6RvLVyoXvCtNEsFq0d6MHzoh1IJ5IQOCtkcfzpWBFGA77e8TeZvp9D_6wIAK4dYE7/s320/family2+too+Blessed+to+Stress.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She is a blessing, and gift from God. If you may remember, two years ago we went through the devastating loss of our second pregnancy <a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2011/11/unexpected-changes.html" target="_blank">(you can read about it here if you would like)</a>. It was heart breaking, but God answered our prayers and our little sweetheart arrived just over a year later. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomQeRV_geCVkK3qDevJSoYmqMFzL_rVgc8A_63slMuU3Yd3qLY8_jIScviNW1sXOIaSfUEbGrnTmmeT0N5N8x_WEirIYIPAQLhOW0wLUheFsFTLQB_u714_kYNp0Z2JTS2eaYC0g1boWl/s1600/family1+too+Blessed+to+Stress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomQeRV_geCVkK3qDevJSoYmqMFzL_rVgc8A_63slMuU3Yd3qLY8_jIScviNW1sXOIaSfUEbGrnTmmeT0N5N8x_WEirIYIPAQLhOW0wLUheFsFTLQB_u714_kYNp0Z2JTS2eaYC0g1boWl/s320/family1+too+Blessed+to+Stress.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So now that we are all settled in as a family, it's time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Time to reconnect with you all. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Yippie! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>So how about it? Shall we connect again? </i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>PS Thank you for all the love and support on the via blog, email and private messages over our loss. You all blessed my heart greatly! If I did not get back to you personally, I apologize. Thank you for your prayers, kind words and encouragement.</i></span></div>
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<b><i>The watermarked and maternity photos were taken by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PhotographybyLindseyN" target="_blank">my talented Sis-in-Law, Photography by Lindsey.</a> </i></b></div>
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<b><i>All other photos taken by yours truly.</i></b></div>
So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-46158963227165066062012-04-25T14:00:00.000-07:002014-09-13T22:10:20.694-07:00Standing In The Gap<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Read the first part of this journey </span><a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2011/11/unexpected-changes.html"><span style="font-size: large;">here</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">. </span></b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbJrINRUfXNo45aAbfSiDSAqlbRm7kFZA8uhbanaSvjFy2aR3sCSKGEIGhOhFafo6m5wMjlPg4xwy37W1orEU8_POtNVxagyYoUeZsxOfQkDlzjgFpNzpJUU0YjpkAxImd5raCJ3rycS4w/s320/CIMG0647.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Grief can feel loke a casm. An enless pit of darkness and threat of depression. A solitary place where all you have known and all you believe in are put into the harsh limelight of "why?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><b><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>Why us? Why now?</b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i>There were moments when I thought the grief could overtake me if I were not careful.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Those moments were scarry. They were lonely. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">And while I never questioned my faith and His love for me, there were days when a part of me felt like it just could not go on. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i>My body was weak. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i>My heart faint.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i>It felt like there were no more tears to cry, and certainly no more energy to cry them... and yet they would return. Like a flood and overwhelm me again. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Yet these were the moments - the ones that felt hopeless - when I realized that I was not alone. My husband and I were not grieving alone. We were not abandoned in our prayers for healing of my body and our hearts. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Because there were those who stood in the gap.</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">They were the friends and family who prayed when we were at a loss for words. The ones who praised God when our hearts wanted to, but our lips were still - frozen in grief. The ones who took the banner of faith and waived it strong when our we felt too tired to carry on.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Did we stop trusting God? Not for one minute. But we needed support, especially in the moments when both our bodies and our hearts felt too exhausted to go on. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">How blessed we are to have such a support group. It made all the difference.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i>They stood in the gap for us when we needed it most. </i></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i>Whose life could you impact with a prayer or word of encouragement?</i></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i>Who could you stand in the gap for today?</i></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i><b>Please note</b></i>, this was written shortly after our loss. I am choosing to share this now as we approach the due date of what would have been our precious baby for two reasons: I want to remember. I want to remember how God brought us through and how faithful He still is. And secondly, because there are others who are hurting and need someone to reach out, support them... and stand in the gap for them. </span>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>All photos taken by yours truly. </i></b></span></div>
So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-46940570656009720322012-01-28T00:30:00.000-08:002012-01-28T00:39:10.020-08:00Updated Scrabble Tiles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvASFmTVfE5WDbsknlgTlGS9bn6qPKprHg1QNrCC18KFN8jK2eCjxbJHZMheWtTJ2trS-aHjwn6SK9pY53lukt89zSXBM8twpcD4rQ9z0CuzWKCjImPEMslZcEr1gZilDhLF1GW_cvpwt/s1600/CIMG18671" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifvASFmTVfE5WDbsknlgTlGS9bn6qPKprHg1QNrCC18KFN8jK2eCjxbJHZMheWtTJ2trS-aHjwn6SK9pY53lukt89zSXBM8twpcD4rQ9z0CuzWKCjImPEMslZcEr1gZilDhLF1GW_cvpwt/s640/CIMG18671" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Want to dress up your Scrabble tiles for the holidays? Last year my wonderful hubby gave me a Silhouette for Valentines day. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>~He knows the way into a DIY Wife's heart ~ </i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I promptly decided on my first project, adding my own twist to scrabble tiles. {Want to make your own? Instructions below!}</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Last year I started out by making this:</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ywjo1o1NhZ6hB70XhAXY76kOhPza76n4w5-fTVT59Fe8V2ytcjHYVFhQP83EDNVNaojxSFuh8hzL47NCEX_xwBXAFjBBazL5C9vOHa7ZDttwuWbCw5FFdWIs1Mv-eKXM_9m1jWOLCQK0/s1600/CIMG1900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ywjo1o1NhZ6hB70XhAXY76kOhPza76n4w5-fTVT59Fe8V2ytcjHYVFhQP83EDNVNaojxSFuh8hzL47NCEX_xwBXAFjBBazL5C9vOHa7ZDttwuWbCw5FFdWIs1Mv-eKXM_9m1jWOLCQK0/s320/CIMG1900.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;"><span style="font-size: large;">A pretty swirly heart and an oversize 2 - for hubby and me. get it? It's been up for a year and I love how it blends in with the tiles. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Well this year I thought I would update it even more by adding a colored letter/number to the tile:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZC8GBbnZRotWsfSHWVplBYs6k9e3WXqvd_tet2S-HtG-wHY4aIUFAXQeyPGmKv7AmmIzM_UfrheSEsO2zJtRNzetv4kPjZimq5LkWwU62WFXibIybXMBA45gpkX7Wtb-em9RdRTJX1z3Y/s1600/CIMG1903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZC8GBbnZRotWsfSHWVplBYs6k9e3WXqvd_tet2S-HtG-wHY4aIUFAXQeyPGmKv7AmmIzM_UfrheSEsO2zJtRNzetv4kPjZimq5LkWwU62WFXibIybXMBA45gpkX7Wtb-em9RdRTJX1z3Y/s320/CIMG1903.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;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Silhouette hadn't even finished cutting out the "O" and the 2 before I decided that it needed a little bit more, a single red heart:</span></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/AVvXsEgqL9fNenEruKeFlJjOJt0JIdUclWKraI7gAkdHkERkty1WafQoHtcd1CLCfk3Wwfax_7dFaIOwHFI76Xo3XJmPH9uHxQI8kg2djJ4n19ZLqFafXVgqZqfhILgvOYMG14ZaCFw48gypH0qT/s1600/CIMG1905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqL9fNenEruKeFlJjOJt0JIdUclWKraI7gAkdHkERkty1WafQoHtcd1CLCfk3Wwfax_7dFaIOwHFI76Xo3XJmPH9uHxQI8kg2djJ4n19ZLqFafXVgqZqfhILgvOYMG14ZaCFw48gypH0qT/s320/CIMG1905.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I absolutely love having a touch of color to an otherwise neutral display.</span></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUW_Q-XSAd006EUWDQL8J83r-yFyK39DIc9QOWabm-NkNx-BozMXVkajTZ0ikJ-wlFy-aBeC72LUThIxkMZmOeAeDHyMoWRmpL49CQXUI6aGVJ39V927pIEUIOD4BNp1kFdc0fl2pea4vK/s1600/CIMG1868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUW_Q-XSAd006EUWDQL8J83r-yFyK39DIc9QOWabm-NkNx-BozMXVkajTZ0ikJ-wlFy-aBeC72LUThIxkMZmOeAeDHyMoWRmpL49CQXUI6aGVJ39V927pIEUIOD4BNp1kFdc0fl2pea4vK/s320/CIMG1868.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">And then the real revelation came... why not do a bunch of different shapes for the seasons or to use with different themed parties? </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">EASTER/SPRING</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh29HUe6AymITaLG1oCsrAGP-0muE0r_vKV5bugnZr8_0Nm4aWb19e1OVqgXMFvs2HhSeCivYYWYNXiJRkE-2V2nD7-GMdINUPclZgVctC80VQSKl7DYNoX2TZbgkrkwka2UwvEhORtGtVi/s1600/CIMG1872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh29HUe6AymITaLG1oCsrAGP-0muE0r_vKV5bugnZr8_0Nm4aWb19e1OVqgXMFvs2HhSeCivYYWYNXiJRkE-2V2nD7-GMdINUPclZgVctC80VQSKl7DYNoX2TZbgkrkwka2UwvEhORtGtVi/s320/CIMG1872.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;"><span style="font-size: large;">EASTER:</span></div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7L3-NoBj0wqRJXrVf_mARyb_kcOg8C0OqcoczCB9CSki_pzlC9zI9z-Qj0kafWaFTfWaCS9hlHxXbdrlxa7IxPqFgvXrRagwBRgkyDNh_ib_QHoHSrgCAaCwbE-vlqszTdFmnEuG9Ntw/s1600/CIMG1883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7L3-NoBj0wqRJXrVf_mARyb_kcOg8C0OqcoczCB9CSki_pzlC9zI9z-Qj0kafWaFTfWaCS9hlHxXbdrlxa7IxPqFgvXrRagwBRgkyDNh_ib_QHoHSrgCAaCwbE-vlqszTdFmnEuG9Ntw/s320/CIMG1883.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;"><span style="font-size: large;">SPRING/GARDEN</span></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/AVvXsEhUqhNBuj-sCHzMpQFgUYvGFP_yPXdfZHOgt89_Td1v2vYldsxY4SFPOElPkupbmIM2LQe88eE9RjjzYFVmQoGkRrtSuDYdidr2F3EFfTB5xyMYXyIaZnLQ7jdH8iRtQ3k7JBZo425OlRI9/s1600/CIMG1884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUqhNBuj-sCHzMpQFgUYvGFP_yPXdfZHOgt89_Td1v2vYldsxY4SFPOElPkupbmIM2LQe88eE9RjjzYFVmQoGkRrtSuDYdidr2F3EFfTB5xyMYXyIaZnLQ7jdH8iRtQ3k7JBZo425OlRI9/s320/CIMG1884.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;"><span style="font-size: large;">4th of JULY:</span></div><div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">THANKSGIVING:</span></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/AVvXsEgURoNEBkl2N4dhQ9y2hGXd3w7jF4tetT2ayOS0iI7s34_iShc1ChFbMdtIBoWgVn-ByfGL0HTv4PlHq6d4xSrA5fvA5RhorF_p1TO_YoKLrMRkQhkAVQS4XbC_rstrs2ja9_R0AoYOa4Ab/s1600/CIMG1889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgURoNEBkl2N4dhQ9y2hGXd3w7jF4tetT2ayOS0iI7s34_iShc1ChFbMdtIBoWgVn-ByfGL0HTv4PlHq6d4xSrA5fvA5RhorF_p1TO_YoKLrMRkQhkAVQS4XbC_rstrs2ja9_R0AoYOa4Ab/s320/CIMG1889.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;"><span style="font-size: large;">FALL/BACK TO SCHOOL:</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVM1gaSUL407ou2fciKMPc5jl8tVMuwRSYPLTJHxFfpuzYuCFbPT6xyBW0C5jZLoFZRsUh-Xt6BYxnA6xeYmxoAcqbgje2qHXNJ0KKQ3nippG29ioKXPkzcAr_oIF7zdPDcfe7vMAontUR/s1600/CIMG1897.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVM1gaSUL407ou2fciKMPc5jl8tVMuwRSYPLTJHxFfpuzYuCFbPT6xyBW0C5jZLoFZRsUh-Xt6BYxnA6xeYmxoAcqbgje2qHXNJ0KKQ3nippG29ioKXPkzcAr_oIF7zdPDcfe7vMAontUR/s320/CIMG1897.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">CHRISTMAS:</span></div></div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWq4okTjTBde2Sop4GjMQVZkXtMjRcKVMNDkf5vwtPAwzk2YmwvuKAiEzQoLJtHLmdaIQQoI4X9OIMU_z3xc5hptNuFn7Qwyo8aKP5Es7kyg1Qx6D3qBuyXVjGEdKOwpgyGiBYzBuoF24J/s1600/CIMG1877.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWq4okTjTBde2Sop4GjMQVZkXtMjRcKVMNDkf5vwtPAwzk2YmwvuKAiEzQoLJtHLmdaIQQoI4X9OIMU_z3xc5hptNuFn7Qwyo8aKP5Es7kyg1Qx6D3qBuyXVjGEdKOwpgyGiBYzBuoF24J/s320/CIMG1877.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;"><span style="font-size: large;">Aren't these fun?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The possibilities are endless! I was really only limited by the color of vinyl on hand. </span></div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-GCpOsWpWOrglqs4OXR9NIsOFOun5GW7nYVI00AykDxyA9SVIwZpjkIIxpDQTt3kFxGR47Xc97mY5K_hFqBhcJANWkkyK1-qPZ1WKfKp8tELhdguA2vWbk3epb7pkPAjWC2uXFXPzuKbB/s1600/CIMG1866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-GCpOsWpWOrglqs4OXR9NIsOFOun5GW7nYVI00AykDxyA9SVIwZpjkIIxpDQTt3kFxGR47Xc97mY5K_hFqBhcJANWkkyK1-qPZ1WKfKp8tELhdguA2vWbk3epb7pkPAjWC2uXFXPzuKbB/s320/CIMG1866.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;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Ready for the steps? {It's incredibly simple}</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">1. Design your shape with your favorite die cut program. Size your image to be just <i><u>under</u> </i>3/4 of an inch {the height of a tile.}</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">2. Cut out on vinyl scraps.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">3. Using transfer paper apply to the back of a scrabble tile. Use the tiles that are least likely to be used like Z, V, X... you get the picture :)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">4. Add it to your scrabble holder. That's it! How simple is that?</span></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>If you don't have a Silhouette or Cricut you can have small vinyl cutouts made at craft centers like Ben Franklin. Or simply use small stickers you love. </b></i></span></div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimhx_b6T6tSTzFIZW2375T0Nn_4BVxDSAdZUDr62ph6g3c1OnxF_N8mL6JXjgvHqEC7fSRUqgE1e5Q-qD6uQbhKFbPgDJiZYiEXabPBm9rI-wqn5qCw9Dzs3Ehg8OUpmSecPUhgTd20F7n/s1600/CIMG1898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimhx_b6T6tSTzFIZW2375T0Nn_4BVxDSAdZUDr62ph6g3c1OnxF_N8mL6JXjgvHqEC7fSRUqgE1e5Q-qD6uQbhKFbPgDJiZYiEXabPBm9rI-wqn5qCw9Dzs3Ehg8OUpmSecPUhgTd20F7n/s320/CIMG1898.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;"><span style="font-size: large;">Or if you are dying for your own set of Scrabble Die Cuts I am thinking about swapping advertising for the set of vinyl die cuts you see in the picture above. What do you think? Want to swap 8 die cuts {scrabble tiles not included} for a small space on your blog that links to too Blessed to Stress? If interested email me and we'll get this thing rolling. No blog is too big or too small!</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0iVnoOb_fS1NwMNyiUOSxSfzFcWmO_V9BLaSGDDMdTy6QulJlgugGml-LFnFUqFvJqaXpc0I0A9TOn9kVUky5dqKhQQ71-cii89xNx8TQuvKsH4C-KU4haT-FFG57OYQftpe4MFipQQ2H/s1600/CIMG1941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0iVnoOb_fS1NwMNyiUOSxSfzFcWmO_V9BLaSGDDMdTy6QulJlgugGml-LFnFUqFvJqaXpc0I0A9TOn9kVUky5dqKhQQ71-cii89xNx8TQuvKsH4C-KU4haT-FFG57OYQftpe4MFipQQ2H/s320/CIMG1941.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;"><span style="font-size: large;">By the way, you can find this and other too Blessed to Stress projects on my Pinterest board... along with other wonderful ideas I've pinned from other fabulous bloggers. Come follow and join in on the fun!</span></div><div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/blessedpin/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Follow Me on Pinterest" height="26" src="http://passets-cdn.pinterest.com/images/pinterest-button.png" width="78" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Jn02F2AX96kc_hi_OGd5L6jFdWkionUw15iOznX14xrruuFFdumCwEPhlHUNKf67S-8MSAWmeuh8XCpZ1jLRuCokBxqn7ttoS2efZtr-XbiMAsGwM7XhP5hRkS1nMyUcI99EwIqy8DDI/s1600/Picnik+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Jn02F2AX96kc_hi_OGd5L6jFdWkionUw15iOznX14xrruuFFdumCwEPhlHUNKf67S-8MSAWmeuh8XCpZ1jLRuCokBxqn7ttoS2efZtr-XbiMAsGwM7XhP5hRkS1nMyUcI99EwIqy8DDI/s640/Picnik+collage.jpg" width="234" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>What little things have you done lately to update existing decor?</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>All photos taken by yours truly.</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>Silhouette is not compensating me in any way to mention their name.</i></b></div><div><b><i>Want to Party? Join me at these Linky Parties:</i></b><br />
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<center><a href="http://funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Funky Junk's Sat Nite Special" border="0" src="http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b243/signmakergirl/smallsnsstars.jpg" /></a></center><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bedifferentactnormal.com/search/label/show%20and%20tell" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.rememberthemoments.com/images/blog/satbutton.gif" /></a></div>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-7384162830435820132012-01-24T17:42:00.000-08:002012-01-24T17:42:26.119-08:0010 Minute Valentine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWWHXTC_-_ejwTEhwpuX17RaTM2oSRamd1nfb2CyulkYagXhEmdvOYNyhQgWkmbB6YsrUYONNW-nE8c-lH5CGavTnEG6vK60CPx0F_qPait6ZnZsAJlUaLrvzWsSpwXi5G5Cfn3Z3yXuJ/s1600/CIMG1848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWWHXTC_-_ejwTEhwpuX17RaTM2oSRamd1nfb2CyulkYagXhEmdvOYNyhQgWkmbB6YsrUYONNW-nE8c-lH5CGavTnEG6vK60CPx0F_qPait6ZnZsAJlUaLrvzWsSpwXi5G5Cfn3Z3yXuJ/s640/CIMG1848.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes it's the simple things that make the holiday decor just right. This is one of those projects. </span><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXGQCDuRGw0RiualMh1zTJqFOjo1aNoZo5_gOSwJWNW9E0Tdmga1iw9KeibF_imeUgcxJv-fzv_UPdTWTqc_5SX1UQ1IZUGRSrthcsgewyQPIN3jDf6x5KSZt9_385Lj0_9F2qiftwz170/s1600/CIMG1856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXGQCDuRGw0RiualMh1zTJqFOjo1aNoZo5_gOSwJWNW9E0Tdmga1iw9KeibF_imeUgcxJv-fzv_UPdTWTqc_5SX1UQ1IZUGRSrthcsgewyQPIN3jDf6x5KSZt9_385Lj0_9F2qiftwz170/s320/CIMG1856.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">I originally saw this great idea in Country Living's December Issue, which featured <a href="http://acountryfarmhouse.blogspot.com/">this lovely couples farmhouse. </a>Lovely inspiration photos on their site and they have the cutest twins!</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNG-FSpaI8BclHLriyt4cHMr75NJnZDib1FZO0kx-AcWuVvWvQlvun6jkeTEZ-v-u2IYyag1zTCakkn0WewEovFgxo6kYk7b4rg0CHr3zNRBMYx-PDY97PT_5TnGKWsYE-NMaXTzif4Yn/s1600/CIMG1855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNG-FSpaI8BclHLriyt4cHMr75NJnZDib1FZO0kx-AcWuVvWvQlvun6jkeTEZ-v-u2IYyag1zTCakkn0WewEovFgxo6kYk7b4rg0CHr3zNRBMYx-PDY97PT_5TnGKWsYE-NMaXTzif4Yn/s320/CIMG1855.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">So the idea was to take a dry erase marker and fancy up the photos on your wall for a party. That got my wheels turning... why not have a frame that you could change out photos and draw on throughout the seasons?</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjKJXbYyeZtfKgam_qw6q2HTpv23Undq7oM6hp8_GJBpH49Sf6Opn61v7gq3N3MboqT9194VsD63CI5iruuZfB1c7ce7k1dM6CazAg4Ad7I_wfTnL7Uul2J13XhaJcctJNGkKbzVD9o11/s1600/CIMG1829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjKJXbYyeZtfKgam_qw6q2HTpv23Undq7oM6hp8_GJBpH49Sf6Opn61v7gq3N3MboqT9194VsD63CI5iruuZfB1c7ce7k1dM6CazAg4Ad7I_wfTnL7Uul2J13XhaJcctJNGkKbzVD9o11/s320/CIMG1829.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: #990000;">Dry Erase markers that have an eraser built into the cap.</span></i></b></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">I did have to make one purchase for this {which was against my "rules" set <a href="http://www.tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2012/01/paper-hearts.html">here</a>. But here's what I have to say about that... rules-schmules! They were made to be broken right? And $1 for markers that you "need" isn't that bad... right?}</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxrQhH_g48IFhaA7S0_DZQkdFWVuJ_TkE6FbQT_fwmtaW8zBJuYz1Tg_qIZ4MHN-kCrUlQiXAmQoUCnKhBaG_ZjkELpljqdPkrElKZOV_0lgPkZpQ1nkuaXVWLdBWdsLuelVcujsjBySIx/s1600/CIMG1833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxrQhH_g48IFhaA7S0_DZQkdFWVuJ_TkE6FbQT_fwmtaW8zBJuYz1Tg_qIZ4MHN-kCrUlQiXAmQoUCnKhBaG_ZjkELpljqdPkrElKZOV_0lgPkZpQ1nkuaXVWLdBWdsLuelVcujsjBySIx/s320/CIMG1833.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">Ok so here is all that you need for this super fun, really easy valentine craft that will be usable throughout the year:</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>~ Frame with glass cover</b>. Any size you want any color... just needs glass.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>~ Photos Printed on regular copy paper</b>- No need to have fancy real photo paper that you pay an arm and a leg for to have someone blow up to size. Simply print it out on your color printer. Or use an existing photo. You can use one or more, all in a row or make a fun collage. Anything that floats your boat. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>~ Scrapbook Paper -</b> for your background. Again: any color, size, pattern, etc. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>~ Painters Tape -</b> {It has great release when you want to switch paper out} Or you can use any other taping/gluing medium. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>~ Dry Erase Markers</b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>THAT'S IT!!!</i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now you are ready to assemble.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy_jtGazU8jH82OH5qdl5FroFGcUdUbUyRvxX7dfMzbek3h08f_CwS9ocj4F3Xbpnyg8ddI5DMxiWsyWR7z1tV2kByQV-T_-Lc2t3oYi_kpnPMR6SBQQ_78p7E-c5d6jYzgYumpTIqdlUB/s1600/CIMG1834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy_jtGazU8jH82OH5qdl5FroFGcUdUbUyRvxX7dfMzbek3h08f_CwS9ocj4F3Xbpnyg8ddI5DMxiWsyWR7z1tV2kByQV-T_-Lc2t3oYi_kpnPMR6SBQQ_78p7E-c5d6jYzgYumpTIqdlUB/s320/CIMG1834.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tape your scrapbook paper down with the painters tape to the backing of your frame. Mine took three 12x12 papers and it filled the space perfectly. I chose blue and chocolate colored paper since it matched the space is was going into, but you could use any holiday colors and even embellish with some large cutouts {hearts, stars, etc.} if wanted.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbw56sUdsuzevLTGaD7Fic0D1uXxJGuzcEq0zBwTv5VYk83sxJJqURPsC4IDPJ3c61BzXD1xrdTmuro_JKDoSRe_LTI0Q3_F7gx2Ewhv6CIJJnK49_b1w21cBT9NuN-YPVi7NBHl7D9udS/s1600/CIMG1827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbw56sUdsuzevLTGaD7Fic0D1uXxJGuzcEq0zBwTv5VYk83sxJJqURPsC4IDPJ3c61BzXD1xrdTmuro_JKDoSRe_LTI0Q3_F7gx2Ewhv6CIJJnK49_b1w21cBT9NuN-YPVi7NBHl7D9udS/s320/CIMG1827.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Then tape your photos on top of your colored paper. I chose a funny one of use trying to catch snow on our tongue, a sweet-kiss, and a cute one of us just smiling. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOyXBxjgIe-IChC8YrWVoPSM28SSiMQtC42k874T7AXDC-ceRNh6ZBBxFUdQtm_OiwL4E-4yk792zwERaOt8gR2I-vS4tbbO5LcDOqeT4koayJvMxme8ikirpFP97l4z8SUCMAnTcV_LiL/s1600/CIMG1837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOyXBxjgIe-IChC8YrWVoPSM28SSiMQtC42k874T7AXDC-ceRNh6ZBBxFUdQtm_OiwL4E-4yk792zwERaOt8gR2I-vS4tbbO5LcDOqeT4koayJvMxme8ikirpFP97l4z8SUCMAnTcV_LiL/s320/CIMG1837.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Insert into frame and use dry erase markers to decorate on top of the glass with Valentine messages and funny drawings. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqqXtCWc78FNM5npe8DVenpMJ7bwBhqRkm2Hn5FKMK6q871kOobsN0pUz8fhc7TrwGBaimSpF5ypyMP7Gdu8gNFV20lt_vdo99d7_sJQWtuO43DcAkinQfsOtgzIiQ_R41JZhGLOcJhr0G/s1600/CIMG1840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqqXtCWc78FNM5npe8DVenpMJ7bwBhqRkm2Hn5FKMK6q871kOobsN0pUz8fhc7TrwGBaimSpF5ypyMP7Gdu8gNFV20lt_vdo99d7_sJQWtuO43DcAkinQfsOtgzIiQ_R41JZhGLOcJhr0G/s320/CIMG1840.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvvv6XYweNrDzHorH5ZEiq2JD6SJy1CpSeQbsvz9nUKePeqjk6BAsSIXBWa0pxTDFKdVryVGsPObVIFmX0f_lrXorDnK5x-9B21qu87uuNyNhx14gbORz-oAf-wLe5kzGtMcOCw8ZRvWXg/s1600/CIMG1842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvvv6XYweNrDzHorH5ZEiq2JD6SJy1CpSeQbsvz9nUKePeqjk6BAsSIXBWa0pxTDFKdVryVGsPObVIFmX0f_lrXorDnK5x-9B21qu87uuNyNhx14gbORz-oAf-wLe5kzGtMcOCw8ZRvWXg/s320/CIMG1842.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: #660000;">I chose to leave the white border the printer left </span></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: #660000;">so that I could draw a "frame" </span></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: #660000;">with words and doodles around the picture. </span></i></b></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp_q_XwVQYlJJZSohqwMWqvEcH3846E0oqN_VzKtV3ciO8Xfpj0-WLUnVSmDU6FBomugBEYm2na8H9KcoGCc6E8QWn9HKOqfSUJ2G3fAZaxvzNNzs5EB1XxRUgkdJZH5qtZkN7Mf18IUyr/s1600/CIMG1843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp_q_XwVQYlJJZSohqwMWqvEcH3846E0oqN_VzKtV3ciO8Xfpj0-WLUnVSmDU6FBomugBEYm2na8H9KcoGCc6E8QWn9HKOqfSUJ2G3fAZaxvzNNzs5EB1XxRUgkdJZH5qtZkN7Mf18IUyr/s320/CIMG1843.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiarr6F97kWXPqjVuoxx2uXQ27McYPQhKXbb54yusGT9OHKT49dOpkk5DJRnWSBs-Gf1xFz-CCOSuOr4oGbSTgyw8ylStatEgq7I3vU4N2OwudqP1r5a2-aduHdUfeVQZRh8W_H88h5WGPO/s1600/CIMG1844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiarr6F97kWXPqjVuoxx2uXQ27McYPQhKXbb54yusGT9OHKT49dOpkk5DJRnWSBs-Gf1xFz-CCOSuOr4oGbSTgyw8ylStatEgq7I3vU4N2OwudqP1r5a2-aduHdUfeVQZRh8W_H88h5WGPO/s320/CIMG1844.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Isn't this just a hoot? I <i>love </i>this idea and it may be a permanent staple in our home. It only took 10 minutes to create and I get such a kick out of it every time I walk by it.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWWHXTC_-_ejwTEhwpuX17RaTM2oSRamd1nfb2CyulkYagXhEmdvOYNyhQgWkmbB6YsrUYONNW-nE8c-lH5CGavTnEG6vK60CPx0F_qPait6ZnZsAJlUaLrvzWsSpwXi5G5Cfn3Z3yXuJ/s1600/CIMG1848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWWHXTC_-_ejwTEhwpuX17RaTM2oSRamd1nfb2CyulkYagXhEmdvOYNyhQgWkmbB6YsrUYONNW-nE8c-lH5CGavTnEG6vK60CPx0F_qPait6ZnZsAJlUaLrvzWsSpwXi5G5Cfn3Z3yXuJ/s640/CIMG1848.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>This would be great for a birthday or holiday party, family get together, or to play a joke on your dinner guests. <b>How about framing a photo of <u>only</u> your dinner guests {not anyone in the family} and hanging it in a prominent place of your home. Once they notice it have everyone "decorate" themselves and leave it up for a few days just for laughs</b>. When you are ready for a change, erase and swap out the photo. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>What new craft ideas are you trying the Valentines day?</i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i>All photos taken by yours truly.</i></b></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Want to party? Meet me here:</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://wearethatfamily.com/">We are THAT family<i style="font-weight: bold;">.</i></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-20166335421918402852012-01-23T16:37:00.000-08:002012-01-24T21:45:35.218-08:00Paper Hearts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuvSRu_C8cnod89DLCFq1Kv9BFtOBEXlLGNQLboaZjpM3hcTurSyK0Nqitab67oFXURCTK040BrdLSUUVQpXMi1omtf-ahgY09milna-ssIYMMS6tADbKdKuCmtsGQfU3r6xHeXBpKjNKK/s1600/CIMG1661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuvSRu_C8cnod89DLCFq1Kv9BFtOBEXlLGNQLboaZjpM3hcTurSyK0Nqitab67oFXURCTK040BrdLSUUVQpXMi1omtf-ahgY09milna-ssIYMMS6tADbKdKuCmtsGQfU3r6xHeXBpKjNKK/s320/CIMG1661.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">There is something so sweet about a garland of something. Anything cute seems to look cuter when there are a bunch of them in a row draping over your mantle. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7sN_Mg71ZTnF90v5TO8RR9LMKx8xcGjJX9jByX2IimZzuV_6v-nIRdXTf_UBxtQN9gd6_GXzzG3IXPtqQzPruH5ExRIOoQzKNCn0IBurmCzJEgMKnP2xstrgpFEfufAp_SYv8-2sUoUfu/s1600/CIMG1631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7sN_Mg71ZTnF90v5TO8RR9LMKx8xcGjJX9jByX2IimZzuV_6v-nIRdXTf_UBxtQN9gd6_GXzzG3IXPtqQzPruH5ExRIOoQzKNCn0IBurmCzJEgMKnP2xstrgpFEfufAp_SYv8-2sUoUfu/s320/CIMG1631.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Since I really don't need a single thing to decorate for valentines day but my little heart really wanted to add something, I issued myself this challenge: anything new is fine as long as it does not cost a cent. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8tmK45xWCAiVzsC6EXf6tkmW_dYvA1CVUIvj7p6VC3q1nmZhCK5TYRr_RJNq661A6zng6v7Xv9sc48tZQgWV4bu42UEc4kmvWq3SZIFeINKYSEP9HOYbDf4CNu7-q6RiScW0xfzr7G22F/s1600/CIMG1608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8tmK45xWCAiVzsC6EXf6tkmW_dYvA1CVUIvj7p6VC3q1nmZhCK5TYRr_RJNq661A6zng6v7Xv9sc48tZQgWV4bu42UEc4kmvWq3SZIFeINKYSEP9HOYbDf4CNu7-q6RiScW0xfzr7G22F/s320/CIMG1608.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So I started off with my old stand by, copied sheet music. It all belonged to my Grandma and I love to copy it and use it when crafting. Not only does it satisfy my love of vintage sheet music it also holds a special memory of her, seeing as much of it has her handwriting in the margins. The end result was this cute paper heart garland. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOlvF_axut48iTpNaFLUoqRc92j7wzIF8-pZF3wTHf4urRqUg-ZXsEZM2NOM6CWgAWPEvuFs2scfUKi9kDRUbc4wovZQYEdaU2q6KqAo0MyfGRXXjrwr5X5cK92uPAkeq3YdBjMWcaJA1/s1600/CIMG1647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOlvF_axut48iTpNaFLUoqRc92j7wzIF8-pZF3wTHf4urRqUg-ZXsEZM2NOM6CWgAWPEvuFs2scfUKi9kDRUbc4wovZQYEdaU2q6KqAo0MyfGRXXjrwr5X5cK92uPAkeq3YdBjMWcaJA1/s320/CIMG1647.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Sweet, simple, rustic elegance.</em></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Just what I needed.</em></strong> </span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUIwqZN7XDtMNBaEguicMqIxaDP4GslQT7_q6p8HpYqNYhsyOGwffVBVbk3M4oTbPnX9Xyx_jrufIYU12SerJdH4UokSbXOE7cSJRWbtr3M1JU24GrfCbJt8IywOSyYiLHRaBALOxY5Kud/s1600/CIMG1666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUIwqZN7XDtMNBaEguicMqIxaDP4GslQT7_q6p8HpYqNYhsyOGwffVBVbk3M4oTbPnX9Xyx_jrufIYU12SerJdH4UokSbXOE7cSJRWbtr3M1JU24GrfCbJt8IywOSyYiLHRaBALOxY5Kud/s320/CIMG1666.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Here's how to make it:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Start with three sheets of vintage sheet music or copies of a piece that you already own. I started off with three copies of a song titled "The Wedding Prayer." My Grandma played it at our wedding 8 years ago, and the title seemed fitting for Valentines day. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0HA6LyVbM94wT0E2yyZfMMeHLVO9b7nHOafVZAgWwYhasO6IRhm-e2zvqMU-Nelp9lnZP7qLd7oABlp0LTtFVm7_XldQgpTfbdF5OqkHniT3vJB_c0cYrDWXDRmun6_DGqVPEnj2F9ZFj/s1600/CIMG1613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0HA6LyVbM94wT0E2yyZfMMeHLVO9b7nHOafVZAgWwYhasO6IRhm-e2zvqMU-Nelp9lnZP7qLd7oABlp0LTtFVm7_XldQgpTfbdF5OqkHniT3vJB_c0cYrDWXDRmun6_DGqVPEnj2F9ZFj/s320/CIMG1613.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">After folding in half and then in half again, you will be left with this chunky accordion fold. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioFGbYLDleohnIRX0dAAei9r7INBgGeUa0Q_b-Ot-QzxoS3MDKF4NphQxDX-C5IYN70ItrWyv1IWidkLd6Lgw3VQ0GvLBBX6XEAVlRmWnFHbN6dgTd6-5CiQ9hUDjD2rI3RHWa3sFN-Eey/s1600/CIMG1615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioFGbYLDleohnIRX0dAAei9r7INBgGeUa0Q_b-Ot-QzxoS3MDKF4NphQxDX-C5IYN70ItrWyv1IWidkLd6Lgw3VQ0GvLBBX6XEAVlRmWnFHbN6dgTd6-5CiQ9hUDjD2rI3RHWa3sFN-Eey/s320/CIMG1615.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em>{Ok so this was the best picture I could get one handed. </em></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em>Sorry for the flash washout </em></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em>and the temporary blindness it may have caused.}</em></strong></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">While still folded, free hand four hearts out of each folded piece of paper. That will make two identical hearts per cut.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBKZVDR415HM8NoML8rfMGayZhUl9yWkhCdjNGUK94AmulfI7IWQYwTXkx-AWsZDYdpodKJHC8KsqFQ8E0oxLfYOAtjxvUDAxWNzQhWhgLVg57D_jHh3kuhp8PNsS-fUMKFVbQ0vk2yu4G/s1600/CIMG1616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBKZVDR415HM8NoML8rfMGayZhUl9yWkhCdjNGUK94AmulfI7IWQYwTXkx-AWsZDYdpodKJHC8KsqFQ8E0oxLfYOAtjxvUDAxWNzQhWhgLVg57D_jHh3kuhp8PNsS-fUMKFVbQ0vk2yu4G/s320/CIMG1616.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Keep each two together since you will be gluing them back to back later on. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC89umhJZu-rF2LmMkl4VEVmMGloCjljQyaNWLJZIb_fvZP4BIPEYDKdgPheFjegM_l0DcCn1EqfErb4PVjV5RJ6sC5rGrOZi74qe0zM1Xhyphenhyphen3ZYfMjrYUbA_pfHzoItIguTgse_T1ZIeSS/s1600/CIMG1620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC89umhJZu-rF2LmMkl4VEVmMGloCjljQyaNWLJZIb_fvZP4BIPEYDKdgPheFjegM_l0DcCn1EqfErb4PVjV5RJ6sC5rGrOZi74qe0zM1Xhyphenhyphen3ZYfMjrYUbA_pfHzoItIguTgse_T1ZIeSS/s320/CIMG1620.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If you like, distress the edges with your favorite distress medium. I chose Rusty Hinge distress ink. {one of 5 different colors my mom gave me for Christmas. Let's just say my little DIY heart skipped a beat when I opened that box!}</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZikyk-DHhsQK_pNgg2DI0FINXRg8OFEQ3Ke5CHVg4p6GK7zb0eLV7gUIcpXeWHhtAOVW8DiIBkyRvjPDE0B2brsD_mDScWwgpnrjbUUv-YIyRhNAjFyOQvr2AC9UPhW-9mnpqlMeZuPj/s1600/CIMG1627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZikyk-DHhsQK_pNgg2DI0FINXRg8OFEQ3Ke5CHVg4p6GK7zb0eLV7gUIcpXeWHhtAOVW8DiIBkyRvjPDE0B2brsD_mDScWwgpnrjbUUv-YIyRhNAjFyOQvr2AC9UPhW-9mnpqlMeZuPj/s320/CIMG1627.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Some people use a sponge to get the ink off but I just rub it right on the corners of the paper straight from the ink pad. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6M5aI4T2TyHTo1rUn2TNC-2UvBU_2jMGGgfe26KPkWXUng-m8im3cf61w2lo6vpqCqctXDW521ZRNaDnkxfFescIwyXHPUiAAjZq4I_9abZVW6JAfhg-tFvEACnC8GzkfdQxYRGJowA21/s1600/CIMG1630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6M5aI4T2TyHTo1rUn2TNC-2UvBU_2jMGGgfe26KPkWXUng-m8im3cf61w2lo6vpqCqctXDW521ZRNaDnkxfFescIwyXHPUiAAjZq4I_9abZVW6JAfhg-tFvEACnC8GzkfdQxYRGJowA21/s320/CIMG1630.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Easy Peasy. </span></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/AVvXsEj7mm0DPVDyVSxQDvCJiaA5x_tGS-oNOUIeX15WbbwSyBu2n7q_1v0qhOY94o_C1zOvoOUQz2ae7b4GyTCxievrPxAxvUSbtx4_zPuu2yyjMZzs26lerGpufKUoiH3LG8q8TVbKh1UiTHJ1/s1600/CIMG1633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7mm0DPVDyVSxQDvCJiaA5x_tGS-oNOUIeX15WbbwSyBu2n7q_1v0qhOY94o_C1zOvoOUQz2ae7b4GyTCxievrPxAxvUSbtx4_zPuu2yyjMZzs26lerGpufKUoiH3LG8q8TVbKh1UiTHJ1/s320/CIMG1633.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Don't forget to open the heart up and distress the other side. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv-HbaS_tNCHilvj4xzpP0k_xZCH_ImpyiSAneJBSaX_oDUR05ykwsy-tVDfC2ZiwG8GFWAvRCh22j0RaCnOzRU35S1lhWz_6a06vTG78LYbydwcQsJTNd7PZJrjlOUFQIKo_GFk-qCHpe/s1600/CIMG1638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv-HbaS_tNCHilvj4xzpP0k_xZCH_ImpyiSAneJBSaX_oDUR05ykwsy-tVDfC2ZiwG8GFWAvRCh22j0RaCnOzRU35S1lhWz_6a06vTG78LYbydwcQsJTNd7PZJrjlOUFQIKo_GFk-qCHpe/s320/CIMG1638.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Next, take your glue gun and run a very thin bead of glue along the edge of a folded heart. {note: you could probably use a glue stick or other crafting glue as well if you don't want to work with hot glue in such a small quantity.}</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhsU6F78YxdF-cF5l9LqyyuDE8cWdKQh0AoRYAh2Qkv7yzA97UfCnCIu9mTl1Xf-cl7Rn8gekYIBiEoIE6jW6LgEqDKyFCKQPlXbp_Jhug8x5jEhfu46riTbNDcU88UQtSdUc-qdNiQdT/s1600/CIMG1640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhsU6F78YxdF-cF5l9LqyyuDE8cWdKQh0AoRYAh2Qkv7yzA97UfCnCIu9mTl1Xf-cl7Rn8gekYIBiEoIE6jW6LgEqDKyFCKQPlXbp_Jhug8x5jEhfu46riTbNDcU88UQtSdUc-qdNiQdT/s320/CIMG1640.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Quickly match up the corresponding heart and press together. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDuqHJIGhITYMSf0im1yIw8Vnv7GCQdPK8kXh4yPtL3u_FHoW-Fn0GEPr2mQeNqtpyQYyoBbmFD2BKbxiUgEHGChfY5t_OiVuBPAyeQSvmqyK8L6zVsZg47OIh0-qqtFnXOlza29KUbsg8/s1600/CIMG1641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDuqHJIGhITYMSf0im1yIw8Vnv7GCQdPK8kXh4yPtL3u_FHoW-Fn0GEPr2mQeNqtpyQYyoBbmFD2BKbxiUgEHGChfY5t_OiVuBPAyeQSvmqyK8L6zVsZg47OIh0-qqtFnXOlza29KUbsg8/s320/CIMG1641.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Before the glue completely dries open it up and press your four fingers around the inside to form a sort of 3-d heart. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rIR26M6nUrVdfaAIgc4tnjakF1rQAqDlQZGhXLrj6fAH5dOcOqBd3A35O48Y3RcCT5YYdzpxqjTnMmSrOK15ROW729TTR3sab7N__TtivR6P-bLzE9zvJQqc05mcZNTko9VdfgE52FnE/s1600/CIMG1642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rIR26M6nUrVdfaAIgc4tnjakF1rQAqDlQZGhXLrj6fAH5dOcOqBd3A35O48Y3RcCT5YYdzpxqjTnMmSrOK15ROW729TTR3sab7N__TtivR6P-bLzE9zvJQqc05mcZNTko9VdfgE52FnE/s320/CIMG1642.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;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>So pretty!</em></strong></span></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/AVvXsEifFQA-xOhD8lGkcZ244ZAB-RdBHqEQThCNzehWh2vrl18aK6A-0I8KjhrQOo-x_s2QFI4Jq_MDqTL7e6Fbe3l3UK1I1pY7Ri1qoG7ZAsI02mjpmxFtJ1TnGc4HVi5UkYYhsiJUcsErXSDl/s1600/CIMG1656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFQA-xOhD8lGkcZ244ZAB-RdBHqEQThCNzehWh2vrl18aK6A-0I8KjhrQOo-x_s2QFI4Jq_MDqTL7e6Fbe3l3UK1I1pY7Ri1qoG7ZAsI02mjpmxFtJ1TnGc4HVi5UkYYhsiJUcsErXSDl/s320/CIMG1656.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;">Once your hearts are all glued together, hold the heart open from below like so. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCK4aY15bXLpfMfgneYJ4KGDJN-sdVskGpQIkj9ZLZaz07BakpqNi47i21fQLoxiSm79XVlUEM7NHTVZ-eB_nCtnuHla4B5ERI0J5363qWUc-wY86yLqjFgkyRf9sBPv0CK01tFM5Yj8q7/s1600/CIMG1663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCK4aY15bXLpfMfgneYJ4KGDJN-sdVskGpQIkj9ZLZaz07BakpqNi47i21fQLoxiSm79XVlUEM7NHTVZ-eB_nCtnuHla4B5ERI0J5363qWUc-wY86yLqjFgkyRf9sBPv0CK01tFM5Yj8q7/s320/CIMG1663.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Take a</span><span style="font-size: large;"> piece of jute twine {or ribbon, string, etc.} and place a small dab of glue in the top of your opened heart and nestle the twine in that crevice. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_K1DkhhKKCNVWAVvzvaYyBZ2aTFy90iZbki9wWunU3xbz6LAO4W7QK61buQSMDZO9FTPuR3xuBQ40DewHCDAhIQuw37p3n-NnwZsF9sw_B-NV0BIrTFPAwxKFHR8CN7UyigHaDjz0ukSj/s1600/CIMG1664.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_K1DkhhKKCNVWAVvzvaYyBZ2aTFy90iZbki9wWunU3xbz6LAO4W7QK61buQSMDZO9FTPuR3xuBQ40DewHCDAhIQuw37p3n-NnwZsF9sw_B-NV0BIrTFPAwxKFHR8CN7UyigHaDjz0ukSj/s320/CIMG1664.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It helped to tie the twine to the end of my tray to anchor it down while I glued the hearts. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtvVpnfE11dva3uWzigoUkk5l0uJSwfVFWC2eolyxksrlnnRY74mY0iB79DLumMwYDw5HR5QfibfKjgevWU0s7U1FLSKO8ZvkwL7HkflSfZtI4mKn1M55WoPHMlnKs2vl-RR6_ZLed4LTB/s1600/CIMG1667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtvVpnfE11dva3uWzigoUkk5l0uJSwfVFWC2eolyxksrlnnRY74mY0iB79DLumMwYDw5HR5QfibfKjgevWU0s7U1FLSKO8ZvkwL7HkflSfZtI4mKn1M55WoPHMlnKs2vl-RR6_ZLed4LTB/s320/CIMG1667.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Keep gluing till you run out of hearts. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZEC0yWbDWKIldN6_CWQ2Lct-P1Bxm4is8RvizRiiLx-Fktx7oPeMZACCxuFIj7TPN_eBykWaUjv_jhSwpd7sdzAzrYuSCHiL4mf56QKq4WAr4hoRUPQY4gxR3L6kIOtYjFfUJHPgGn52B/s1600/CIMG1800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZEC0yWbDWKIldN6_CWQ2Lct-P1Bxm4is8RvizRiiLx-Fktx7oPeMZACCxuFIj7TPN_eBykWaUjv_jhSwpd7sdzAzrYuSCHiL4mf56QKq4WAr4hoRUPQY4gxR3L6kIOtYjFfUJHPgGn52B/s320/CIMG1800.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Use as a garland or drape over twigs for a romantic-rustic effect. These little ones have lights, but any twigs from your yard would work just fine. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVG2JkiHjFUndsFWT8E8oP8Glup64csnwJ6ECFM4FXCTDO_7xn2m-W5EWEdGMv8QZQ370GE0WN9bIdcJkRGBWh_y6iBwBwkrmLZQYuVsCYwuSCxxYAj7QVZxQ5UZI6bYgEhuj4PyTN6liV/s1600/CIMG1823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVG2JkiHjFUndsFWT8E8oP8Glup64csnwJ6ECFM4FXCTDO_7xn2m-W5EWEdGMv8QZQ370GE0WN9bIdcJkRGBWh_y6iBwBwkrmLZQYuVsCYwuSCxxYAj7QVZxQ5UZI6bYgEhuj4PyTN6liV/s320/CIMG1823.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Stand back and admire.</span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMeTIKJx6k1xq7KwsUPFHFBhNZWpS1Ct4jZB9LX7_lGTfOOBZ604GRLfpU_oajIMgdEeiGp9e4sm5aKsaaiAYSGW0giXjDQDMHJRmCo9cvcHbE7CBSlyYHoTmSOsaiCKSFyuvNvf09WEDv/s1600/CIMG1646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMeTIKJx6k1xq7KwsUPFHFBhNZWpS1Ct4jZB9LX7_lGTfOOBZ604GRLfpU_oajIMgdEeiGp9e4sm5aKsaaiAYSGW0giXjDQDMHJRmCo9cvcHbE7CBSlyYHoTmSOsaiCKSFyuvNvf09WEDv/s320/CIMG1646.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIH3lPxlR_vXWZYK-X41la2k0o2fd85BWM4i3Kbg581DfXbc2Fdxsf8lzA2ipWwfed3V-LhG_8dm5B7ZWEUOEDZkkaA2Iz2kbpTKNkujsLfzBEmB1RCnutewLLaIOFQ33pyJd6divbKKzs/s1600/CIMG1650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIH3lPxlR_vXWZYK-X41la2k0o2fd85BWM4i3Kbg581DfXbc2Fdxsf8lzA2ipWwfed3V-LhG_8dm5B7ZWEUOEDZkkaA2Iz2kbpTKNkujsLfzBEmB1RCnutewLLaIOFQ33pyJd6divbKKzs/s320/CIMG1650.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">They kind of remind me of Orange Lantern tree blossoms. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYCN-je6nTdCXG6PPXFOjygi0G8hGmayYfFpqm3MssDRoIC0DWVWSg5q22Y-g0LIv09WXpmfzttOCS8-TNc12rYKt0cLI9tZJWitPTOPAzlkWXTV5BIUdiqxBwyUmqBufMqTSp7Njcl11f/s1600/chinese-lantern-flowers-14%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYCN-je6nTdCXG6PPXFOjygi0G8hGmayYfFpqm3MssDRoIC0DWVWSg5q22Y-g0LIv09WXpmfzttOCS8-TNc12rYKt0cLI9tZJWitPTOPAzlkWXTV5BIUdiqxBwyUmqBufMqTSp7Njcl11f/s320/chinese-lantern-flowers-14%255B1%255D.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">{<a href="http://flowerinfo.org/chinese-lantern-flowers">Source</a>}</div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Have you started your Valentine decorating yet?</em></strong></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5SUzZNCTkvP2HQX8LGQjNGLU9R_2HTgE0Vd0hurhyaqvLLwmp3_zBuoUuWHMpOCBk70HMlYeXI9mS-PKhFFfChObaQo_gKZ5U6rrUI5Z7EIr-TcjtMmHMWsOnyo5quutRP54U4ZeOQUUZ/s1600/CIMG1632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5SUzZNCTkvP2HQX8LGQjNGLU9R_2HTgE0Vd0hurhyaqvLLwmp3_zBuoUuWHMpOCBk70HMlYeXI9mS-PKhFFfChObaQo_gKZ5U6rrUI5Z7EIr-TcjtMmHMWsOnyo5quutRP54U4ZeOQUUZ/s320/CIMG1632.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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<em><strong>All photos taken by yours truly. </strong></em><br />
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<strong><em>Want to party? Join these Valentine Linky Parties! I'll be there :)</em></strong><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span style="color: red;"><a href="http://www.theinspiredhousewife.com/2012/01/valentines-linky-party-spread-the-love/">The Inspired Housewife</a></span></em></strong><br />
<strong><em><br />
</em></strong><br />
<strong><em><a href="http://wearethatfamily.com/2012/01/wfmw-get-craftsy/">We are THAT family</a></em></strong></div><br />
<br />
<center><a _mce_href="http://thirtyhandmadedays.com" href="http://thirtyhandmadedays.com/" title="Thirty Hand Made Days"><img _mce_src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/30days-button.png" _mce_style="border: none;" alt="Thirty Hand Made Days" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/30days-button.png" style="border: currentColor;" /></a></center><br />
<br />
<div align="center"><a href="http://www.momnivores-dilemma.com/2012/01/valentines-day-pinspiration-and-link.html" title="momnivore's dilemma"><img alt="momnivore's dilemma" src="http://i1198.photobucket.com/albums/aa446/momnivoresdilemma/valentinesdaylinkparty2012200px.jpg" style="border: currentColor;" /></a></div>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-29951651562647286032012-01-17T19:36:00.000-08:002012-01-17T19:36:46.255-08:00Snow Day ~ Sausage and Apple Puff Pancake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTrKGWsti5UoWfda1WcjTzdFbq30xYP_GueWvU97RQO-Liz4DyonshqmEqnox91IBqhzOt8wOMYkmaJdh5IumCaDcBS_AsM2uZe_toMmSyzNpRUdT0L8RjNq0BUG08BW4dPtYN3dJcZ-u/s1600/CIMG1547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfTrKGWsti5UoWfda1WcjTzdFbq30xYP_GueWvU97RQO-Liz4DyonshqmEqnox91IBqhzOt8wOMYkmaJdh5IumCaDcBS_AsM2uZe_toMmSyzNpRUdT0L8RjNq0BUG08BW4dPtYN3dJcZ-u/s320/CIMG1547.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;"></span><span style="font-size: large;">The weather man has been playing recklessly with my little snow loving heart. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWqhqgv1gdC5cfXwDif3EiP6GJSg2wXJBbg1mVxPjSKfqmXQvr0Na9k1W6sy0ERsy1iHwGfgx3SV8LQsYXt5Z-DjEWnIATM1zL_QU7icoJeRyYdTUlXPCNYcLYbaiNX_DAncMkWVQBp2rL/s1600/CIMG1562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWqhqgv1gdC5cfXwDif3EiP6GJSg2wXJBbg1mVxPjSKfqmXQvr0Na9k1W6sy0ERsy1iHwGfgx3SV8LQsYXt5Z-DjEWnIATM1zL_QU7icoJeRyYdTUlXPCNYcLYbaiNX_DAncMkWVQBp2rL/s320/CIMG1562.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For several days we were supposed to have record breaking snow. On Sunday it started to snow and we had to take off from church early to avoid being stranded {our church is 50 minutes away.} When we got to our house.... nothing. The little bit that had fallen in the night had all melted, the sun was shining and I had no need for a coat. </span><span style="font-size: large;">So disappointed.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGvlL04JInX8IVSpRnuZsNFIS4lgFZ6GoQtQgKJLIme64iwJH5VPvEQu2fo9FUBPqLSd-x6o1eseQ6Cygk2p6MxKoVSHijAtd9wZPxtZVQQM0LAPvglxOBKaqD3PbUiiGL3mfoWs09fQl/s1600/CIMG1521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGvlL04JInX8IVSpRnuZsNFIS4lgFZ6GoQtQgKJLIme64iwJH5VPvEQu2fo9FUBPqLSd-x6o1eseQ6Cygk2p6MxKoVSHijAtd9wZPxtZVQQM0LAPvglxOBKaqD3PbUiiGL3mfoWs09fQl/s320/CIMG1521.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Then Monday it threatened to snow the predicted blizzard, but no. Only a 2-3 inch cap that melted at night. Pretty, but nothing like predicted. </span><span style="font-size: large;">Really disappointed.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlulOIrH_jn3XS89v2A6K9OTVRM2Tgy1LVFtcQeiI_WyGwjUXMpGGfv_SSm9QDHkp-yh3ng_YmfDpaTAILAMfUSFnYYM0wfx1IMdVemBJRrDyK_1ButKpqkTB8qDV7iy41DUH6Sqch-Ci/s1600/CIMG1523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlulOIrH_jn3XS89v2A6K9OTVRM2Tgy1LVFtcQeiI_WyGwjUXMpGGfv_SSm9QDHkp-yh3ng_YmfDpaTAILAMfUSFnYYM0wfx1IMdVemBJRrDyK_1ButKpqkTB8qDV7iy41DUH6Sqch-Ci/s320/CIMG1523.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;">Then it happened. Tuesday morning I work up early to see a winter wonderland quickly forming. Large cornflake style snow was whipping around and dutifully covering every inch. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Ahhhh, perfect!!!</em></strong></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Like a friend of mine said, "If it isn't a foot, it's not snow!"</span><br />
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</div><span style="font-size: large;">A day like today is perfect for Sausage-Apple Puff Pancake. This is a recipe that our friend <a href="http://tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2011/01/valentine-treat-death-by-chocolate.html">"G"</a> the most awesome-never-makes-a-same-recipe-twice-cook shared with us last time he came to stay out our Bed and Breakfast {that is, guest room.}</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUG-2HJvFzeS3QaxmkGnwYy71HcXTAsVTjNpbHj4TrolLhHuxKREy3-fopeUm06-B57CN8CnEIdnazsotV3my1l78Qv0IrYDDUszDg0RRFesWlSwG6SXu8dl9cf8i80NjAWRKtTTt7LeK2/s1600/CIMG8897.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUG-2HJvFzeS3QaxmkGnwYy71HcXTAsVTjNpbHj4TrolLhHuxKREy3-fopeUm06-B57CN8CnEIdnazsotV3my1l78Qv0IrYDDUszDg0RRFesWlSwG6SXu8dl9cf8i80NjAWRKtTTt7LeK2/s320/CIMG8897.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The recipe is from <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Sausage-Apple-Puff-Pancake">Taste of Home</a>, and it is one that you will want to add to the permanent recipe file. Trust me. One pan, sweet and savory, breakfast lunch or dinner, a meal all in one. Add some fresh fruit if you want something on the side. Perfect.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is the recipe off of Taste of Homes site:</span><br />
<h2>Ingredients</h2><ul class="ingredients"><li class="ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="amount">1 pound </span><i><span class="name">bulk pork sausage</span></i></span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"></span><i><span class="name"><span style="font-size: large;">2 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced</span></span></i></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="amount">2 tablespoons </span><i><span class="name">brown sugar</span></i></span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="amount">2 tablespoons </span><i><span class="name">butter</span></i></span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"></span><i><span class="name"><span style="font-size: large;">6 eggs</span></span></i></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="amount">1-1/2 cups </span><i><span class="name">2% milk</span></i></span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="amount">1 cup </span><i><span class="name">all-purpose flour</span></i></span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="amount">2 tablespoons </span><i><span class="name">sugar</span></i></span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="amount">1/2 teaspoon </span><i><span class="name">salt</span></i></span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="amount">1 cup </span><i><span class="name">(4 ounces) extra sharp shredded cheddar cheese</span></i></span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"></span><i><span class="name"><span style="font-size: large;">Sour cream and maple syrup, optional</span></span></i></li>
</ul><span class="instructions"></span><br />
<span class="instructions"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-YEsyIydpPtnyWGyFMsk_VQre2Gf4zfTYft2-MRaeSH9aPMDIu2v6ZACwx-kxG5e2nAJgDLzBW_YtWFcszwl1eUT3k2n7vyxEoy0s4pNx-608pnQTuK3zCiDWw_OCaSVrLNAuq2y4nmK/s1600/CIMG8904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-YEsyIydpPtnyWGyFMsk_VQre2Gf4zfTYft2-MRaeSH9aPMDIu2v6ZACwx-kxG5e2nAJgDLzBW_YtWFcszwl1eUT3k2n7vyxEoy0s4pNx-608pnQTuK3zCiDWw_OCaSVrLNAuq2y4nmK/s320/CIMG8904.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><h2>Directions</h2><ul class="directions"><li><span style="font-size: large;">In a 10-in. ovenproof skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until no longer pink; drain and set aside. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">In the same skillet, cook apples and brown sugar in butter over medium heat until apples are tender.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"> In a blender, combine the eggs, milk, flour, sugar and salt; cover and process for 10 seconds or until smooth. Pour over apple mixture. Sprinkle with sausage and cheese. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"> Bake, uncovered, at 425° for 18-23 minutes or until pancake is puffy and golden brown. Cut into wedges. Serve with sour cream and syrup if desired.<b> Yield: </b>6 servings.</span></li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6MMAQVGKevMDF8zTXcO7zkijogmtduh8YL63TnJ2J8MG3Gi7s49HTyQ2YpLkiDKyTyXID9IjFpFnIOF06LTIlt3ZGEDzX322rf5lrt4hg1dOSZX6XSLZ5WhsyPlDo8Tf_d9tKfKZd_1o/s1600/CIMG8902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6MMAQVGKevMDF8zTXcO7zkijogmtduh8YL63TnJ2J8MG3Gi7s49HTyQ2YpLkiDKyTyXID9IjFpFnIOF06LTIlt3ZGEDzX322rf5lrt4hg1dOSZX6XSLZ5WhsyPlDo8Tf_d9tKfKZd_1o/s320/CIMG8902.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><strong>While the sausage cooks, slice the apples.</strong></em></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/AVvXsEhd2Jw7TG6YMZUbl12Vra-Y_6677vbkwVCUgu5ig6dxDM_jE1c9KqbUEVEGL_PWLvJEEebo9cVYGo7G-sbdCQIjupE5WfQfCKAxouxwsTzCUZ82lB_I4tgkB4W75Lwv8_1JFghQ7kHC7oZu/s1600/CIMG8903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd2Jw7TG6YMZUbl12Vra-Y_6677vbkwVCUgu5ig6dxDM_jE1c9KqbUEVEGL_PWLvJEEebo9cVYGo7G-sbdCQIjupE5WfQfCKAxouxwsTzCUZ82lB_I4tgkB4W75Lwv8_1JFghQ7kHC7oZu/s320/CIMG8903.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;"><strong><em>Add apples to butter and brown sugar.</em></strong></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqUb549w-etHvc9hmnEybKxOMvg1WuN6KFgdS9kyL35lahlptHifHcwV2nP2p2GSTnK5Xh-E-9rE8gn9PY-q80pu4GYV2KOPn_piic1ZZO1M5bXtirUSoIHthoB6j5RYgwdZwZ5yVkckO/s1600/CIMG8905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlqUb549w-etHvc9hmnEybKxOMvg1WuN6KFgdS9kyL35lahlptHifHcwV2nP2p2GSTnK5Xh-E-9rE8gn9PY-q80pu4GYV2KOPn_piic1ZZO1M5bXtirUSoIHthoB6j5RYgwdZwZ5yVkckO/s320/CIMG8905.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><strong>Keep you apples tender but not mushy. </strong></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><strong>The perfect bite has the crunch of the apple, </strong></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><strong>sausage crumble and a bit of melted cheese on top. </strong></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><strong>Oh. My. Goodness. Heavenly!</strong></em></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/AVvXsEgFXmo74_yKUufj87UBHc36lipvpXlIW9xB3YIiD8f76HRortHUqiUIxBOr3G3-9tSUOW4ceCaHQP2xtS2bYezPAbOlXghHQgcgogXTBgZN5hyphenhyphenlfluA-VPxD3wZhcWvBGKKR-EmYUwsjJFC/s1600/CIMG8908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXmo74_yKUufj87UBHc36lipvpXlIW9xB3YIiD8f76HRortHUqiUIxBOr3G3-9tSUOW4ceCaHQP2xtS2bYezPAbOlXghHQgcgogXTBgZN5hyphenhyphenlfluA-VPxD3wZhcWvBGKKR-EmYUwsjJFC/s320/CIMG8908.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em>Pour your batter slowly and evenly </em></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em>without pushing all the apples over to one side.</em></strong> </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/AVvXsEh4EtpAXbDHIOqOjw1-xWSXiJqVdad73wD3xvVxYOFLNtPkZG3E5yOwZH6QxxOg2wiQEN53J_9lBScgpnF7QwwaFs9vQHVkKV5W-TOwMFG0nbr0xJXqIcsgytUevq8mJj1tXfIX8O3sRFcw/s1600/CIMG8909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4EtpAXbDHIOqOjw1-xWSXiJqVdad73wD3xvVxYOFLNtPkZG3E5yOwZH6QxxOg2wiQEN53J_9lBScgpnF7QwwaFs9vQHVkKV5W-TOwMFG0nbr0xJXqIcsgytUevq8mJj1tXfIX8O3sRFcw/s320/CIMG8909.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;"><em><strong>Sprinkle sausage crumbles.</strong></em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fZg0EOeGtW1DkiqQ-SI2hQmPmUxmmaCcM0FzkEcFSAh_07rkmlzyOE5Ad_f19-O_vPOk0WEsdyOIIwT-2nUDvBxDzznC959r0KfX_ELgx4S-JLPjiOQlZVIuqiBQvEO7Zs9jBpQQ1oiG/s1600/CIMG8912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_fZg0EOeGtW1DkiqQ-SI2hQmPmUxmmaCcM0FzkEcFSAh_07rkmlzyOE5Ad_f19-O_vPOk0WEsdyOIIwT-2nUDvBxDzznC959r0KfX_ELgx4S-JLPjiOQlZVIuqiBQvEO7Zs9jBpQQ1oiG/s320/CIMG8912.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em>Top off with cheese... we always add a little extra.</em></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em>Just a note: I cook it for 20 minutes at 390°. </em></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em>That is what works best in my oven.</em></strong> </div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRLyZyzr2CQoz85aploGos3hxOlL2ULprt8fLQAR5PATUlw3ahUFMDvyC4CJKJZrlfFBIZPy9McPFMjsVq_Z_bVITIykFRt5wwRcGm6PhjQYosxayl9J1WBYHDv-Po0oZbuB47JMdmyGMc/s1600/CIMG8922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRLyZyzr2CQoz85aploGos3hxOlL2ULprt8fLQAR5PATUlw3ahUFMDvyC4CJKJZrlfFBIZPy9McPFMjsVq_Z_bVITIykFRt5wwRcGm6PhjQYosxayl9J1WBYHDv-Po0oZbuB47JMdmyGMc/s320/CIMG8922.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>~ Delicious ~</strong></em></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">When our friend served it we had homemade cranberry nut bread...</span></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/AVvXsEjGc5GC3YeB4LRCOWSWtHyEH2nKIWIUnqi3izn8_Rfdk8JGsO-CjX7RIAVry2PGoBoUKqPz_pipOIlbevORLk1cLy32gbTn5iktvJjFPiZkinHgMwZsm6wp1UIRFZAgvdQ3dFCpvJwtK__g/s1600/CIMG8921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGc5GC3YeB4LRCOWSWtHyEH2nKIWIUnqi3izn8_Rfdk8JGsO-CjX7RIAVry2PGoBoUKqPz_pipOIlbevORLk1cLy32gbTn5iktvJjFPiZkinHgMwZsm6wp1UIRFZAgvdQ3dFCpvJwtK__g/s320/CIMG8921.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;"><span style="font-size: large;">...fresh fruit and steaming coffee. </span></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/AVvXsEgddqlaAFTlnkmMxW95uy8RGjAMqt0qzQBJRJJRD7a64rr3Wf8OyKP2H738o1eCrHYNhTLVtdPKgd70dFS0evqd4SnlWcCLSh4cBBQMjs9uqM5bvrpsLz84v7YyFCFloR1jXe5r8tsAdW3H/s1600/CIMG8920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddqlaAFTlnkmMxW95uy8RGjAMqt0qzQBJRJJRD7a64rr3Wf8OyKP2H738o1eCrHYNhTLVtdPKgd70dFS0evqd4SnlWcCLSh4cBBQMjs9uqM5bvrpsLz84v7YyFCFloR1jXe5r8tsAdW3H/s320/CIMG8920.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<strong> </strong><strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">What is your favorite snow day recipe?</span></em> </strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<strong><em>All photos take by yours truly.</em></strong> </div></span><div style="text-align: left;"></div><strong></strong>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-38054025172978239832011-12-06T21:57:00.000-08:002011-12-06T21:57:19.634-08:00The Prettiest Sight You'll See...<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>"And the prettiest sight you'll see </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>it the holly that will be </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>on your own front door."</em> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Love that song! </span></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/AVvXsEhG1iWJhPAu_caQ-aFOtWuOQnnHrqzp8osqxGeXKgMPmwZwY8IpnQy_ADGq5vNZ9SdicqjSPspBA0T-30n56PIXLRITRRqB7Z0cNbpkjmn0-_a4zMEMjBi-xTQgweg6YSsfb_LK_ynogVtS/s1600/CIMG1207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG1iWJhPAu_caQ-aFOtWuOQnnHrqzp8osqxGeXKgMPmwZwY8IpnQy_ADGq5vNZ9SdicqjSPspBA0T-30n56PIXLRITRRqB7Z0cNbpkjmn0-_a4zMEMjBi-xTQgweg6YSsfb_LK_ynogVtS/s320/CIMG1207.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well it may not exactly be holly on our front door, but it is pretty and it is beginning to look a lot like Christmas at the too Blessed to Stress home. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4al1udMHHCm1j_R0srff5hN6ehTGGYqxNm_szKl3n_DLxKR1sZ6z9hd9MhVikRfnCc8xoZhqByTJZsyLUXz33YkUDU65Hvy-Hx3L8OYLyoLt96kP2boWJErst9p7PqulTgcVKHIGcoOYO/s1600/CIMG1209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4al1udMHHCm1j_R0srff5hN6ehTGGYqxNm_szKl3n_DLxKR1sZ6z9hd9MhVikRfnCc8xoZhqByTJZsyLUXz33YkUDU65Hvy-Hx3L8OYLyoLt96kP2boWJErst9p7PqulTgcVKHIGcoOYO/s320/CIMG1209.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I think Bing got it right. Yes indeed, a cheery front door may just be one of the most welcoming parts of your Christmas decor. There is just something about it that beckons you in and says </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>"Welcome Home:</em></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>May all who enter find rest."</em></strong> </span></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/AVvXsEhdgDCqTcNdfgKByOJg62HEI_9E49q_0ulHjqmTiIhwP0tl9EJbNfx5ZlulSGixIh-1yLnoG4ofjJs0IaU1GvzPaOmLpP5VGx52iCrfguz_tOEVK7loQPxOE_n9YL5CMphkFsq8lkVP93Xz/s1600/CIMG1081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdgDCqTcNdfgKByOJg62HEI_9E49q_0ulHjqmTiIhwP0tl9EJbNfx5ZlulSGixIh-1yLnoG4ofjJs0IaU1GvzPaOmLpP5VGx52iCrfguz_tOEVK7loQPxOE_n9YL5CMphkFsq8lkVP93Xz/s320/CIMG1081.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This past weekend we had friends over for an unexpected party {more on that wonderful day later!} </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0ziff-88uSAlvaWlIpVMDK_-X14oNcvlxLMvgrNVB4w5pVd8b6ne3t4geJrOTycGeOWlv0Hb6nZzH9Pn_4HCIirj8Yk6TMekwDyudbSckG1LbmAFo-nN8kq03REO2GyRPlY5BYiAReW8/s1600/CIMG1105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0ziff-88uSAlvaWlIpVMDK_-X14oNcvlxLMvgrNVB4w5pVd8b6ne3t4geJrOTycGeOWlv0Hb6nZzH9Pn_4HCIirj8Yk6TMekwDyudbSckG1LbmAFo-nN8kq03REO2GyRPlY5BYiAReW8/s320/CIMG1105.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">One of our newer friends commented that we must like country decor and shabby chic because our home had that look and feel. I told her we kind of go for a farmhouse-chic-country-glitz feel. {Yep I'm sure that is the official name.} She said that we had achieved the look we were going for and that she liked it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What a compliment to have someone recognize the style you strive for... and to notice on the first visit! Let me just say, I was so very flattered. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOkmKIbnDYsvN6k5QUk87_9NUw0ct5khvdOLwfpxpwGwI3OG1mSpOtNQi8Xw1ZO3lt_uhfWt9CWZmAtvCWrCV5qJELuuif_sfRCt3xptVHdsKfaRwRC-Gi8EOG4rA5ymuClxSL9nrYIfAM/s1600/CIMG1222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOkmKIbnDYsvN6k5QUk87_9NUw0ct5khvdOLwfpxpwGwI3OG1mSpOtNQi8Xw1ZO3lt_uhfWt9CWZmAtvCWrCV5qJELuuif_sfRCt3xptVHdsKfaRwRC-Gi8EOG4rA5ymuClxSL9nrYIfAM/s320/CIMG1222.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And while it made me all happy that someone enjoyed the decor of our home, the real compliments came as the party was winding down. I mentioned to our guests what a joy it was to have them in our home, to come any time and I hope they felt like they were at home. On the way they said: </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>they felt welcome, </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>they always rest when they are over, </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>they felt revived, </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>they needed the fellowship, </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>they felt at home</strong></em>. </span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>That is the real look I'm going for.</em></strong> </span></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/AVvXsEglHTC3wRCz_mZBp85O42gY0DLdHiMSsklQJMvsYhWgZnHn5oxSh0QRepXN80TtM5r726X-GKu3iDPUluhVulgbUGXO4DABjQYEt5G38zA60TTiAF7j1ZcD3QWN1eKzLaebBHi6Ko0vWMEW/s1600/CIMG1112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglHTC3wRCz_mZBp85O42gY0DLdHiMSsklQJMvsYhWgZnHn5oxSh0QRepXN80TtM5r726X-GKu3iDPUluhVulgbUGXO4DABjQYEt5G38zA60TTiAF7j1ZcD3QWN1eKzLaebBHi6Ko0vWMEW/s320/CIMG1112.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The glitz and fluff of a home has no purpose if it is not a warm and welcome refuge. All the cute stuff in the world does not make a home. Yes it makes it look lovely and a beautiful home is one way to show love and how much you care about those who live there. But it is the connections and fellowship that make up a home:</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <strong><em>love shared there, </em></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>kind words,</em></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>comfort when times are tough, </em></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>shared laughter, </em></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">making time for someone else,</span></em></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>faith, family and friendship</em></strong>. </span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Home for the holidays. </strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>It sure feels good!</strong></span></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/AVvXsEjMa_hZxgkS8dvk7RRaxsvwoIzpjq9FAeZAcMXWOUib8CMrisaoD6HpXwjJKUTJ0Uj-H0UT2Ukabj4DESqmcCjITyD6JEuHoNtFwf10-QAPwODh43igGCg4aHIS9fR46p8NdhtYibXm80RY/s1600/CIMG1237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMa_hZxgkS8dvk7RRaxsvwoIzpjq9FAeZAcMXWOUib8CMrisaoD6HpXwjJKUTJ0Uj-H0UT2Ukabj4DESqmcCjITyD6JEuHoNtFwf10-QAPwODh43igGCg4aHIS9fR46p8NdhtYibXm80RY/s320/CIMG1237.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Create a welcoming home this season.</em></strong> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Go ahead! Deck the halls... and be sure take time to enjoy the ones you love, share love, and create a safe place for all who enter. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: small;">All photos taken by yours truly.</span></strong></em> </span>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-42088931200693741962011-11-15T22:44:00.000-08:002011-11-15T22:44:46.967-08:00Unexpected Changes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGRrJBYX0xYQeQ0jpjoQrYR5dQLaXp60SUJoTN8D0STC8uguGdIR6aKYITsJu3QfWTNa96Vv6sPX6Oh7oIX4OJJ5_j3-nc-LNtShmJ1VnqENSyYzEFh8rfmv1urVoBOzq-6zH63f4k3IiD/s1600/In+the+quiet+place.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGRrJBYX0xYQeQ0jpjoQrYR5dQLaXp60SUJoTN8D0STC8uguGdIR6aKYITsJu3QfWTNa96Vv6sPX6Oh7oIX4OJJ5_j3-nc-LNtShmJ1VnqENSyYzEFh8rfmv1urVoBOzq-6zH63f4k3IiD/s320/In+the+quiet+place.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yesterday I shared about all the fun happenings from the last 10 months while I was absent from this blog. <a href="http://tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2011/11/10-months-in-10-minutes.html">{You can see it here.}</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And as I mentioned at the end of that post, today I will share about the last two months. Fair warning before you read on: the last two months were hard. There were unexpected events that rocked our world and tested our faith. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So before I jump into this I just want to mention a couple things:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ I am sharing this and future posts on the subject to encourage others that are going through a similar situation {or any situation that is weighing heavy on your heart.} It was key for us these last two months to have people that surrounded us in prayer, encouraged us and reminded us that joy comes in the morning. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>They sang the song in our hearts</em></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em> when we were exhausted </em></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>and felt like we could not go on</em>. </strong></span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>And that is what I hope this post</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>and future posts will be for you:</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>A reminder that there is hope, </strong></em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>and there is healing for your broken heart.</strong></em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>Even though it may feel </strong></em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>like there are days you don't want to go on, </strong></em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Keep Going.</em></strong> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>Keep trusting though it hurts. </strong></em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>Keep hoping even when all seems lost.</strong></em> </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Also please note: this post chronicles only the beginning of this story: the loss. Please join me later this week for the continuation of the journey. Join me as I share more from my journal entries on the process of healing, tested and refreshed faith, and hope for the future. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcVucoEMy49028W2srLrXXbDmqp5dlOJc76lT3SWOXJyZih7nJJ_pz0rfRvuqF8BrWUI5E40EWo_fKCZ4Q7NnGyNuhE-ny6JW__GiOI3DBS7ob26jzvgGXK4swNJ8-V2zBY06GlANx2mM/s1600/CIMG0601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcVucoEMy49028W2srLrXXbDmqp5dlOJc76lT3SWOXJyZih7nJJ_pz0rfRvuqF8BrWUI5E40EWo_fKCZ4Q7NnGyNuhE-ny6JW__GiOI3DBS7ob26jzvgGXK4swNJ8-V2zBY06GlANx2mM/s320/CIMG0601.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>~ September ~</strong></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">~ While on vacation I became suspicious that I was pregnant, all the signs were there. It was a glorious two weeks in the pool, playing in the sand, spending time with my family, and hubby & I dreaming about our new baby. <br />
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~ The night we got home I took 2 tests. Positive! I was thrilled, managed to keep the secret till the next morn. Told my handsome hubby and we spent the entire day planning and laughing like little kids over the good news. We could not have been more excited, our years of praying had been answered. He couldn't wait to tell our parents so we burst the secret that night. He can keep a secret, but not if it is a gift... he just has to tell! {so sweet!}</span></div><span style="font-size: large;"></span><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" class="spotlight" height="300" src="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/313732_2302826542035_1590373811_2266682_486211968_n.jpg" width="400" /></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: small;">How we had planned to announce the pregnancy - </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: small;">photo taken on our vacation.</span></span></div><span style="font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">~ The next week and a half were full of making phone calls to relatives and me feeling awful with the normal pregnancy stuff.... and then I started bleeding. Then one night driving home from church I had a painful attack on my right ribcage. It was excruciating pain, and we were close to heading to emergency. But I was finally able to have some relief by morning and we decided to keep our scheduled Dr. apptointment instead of going in that day.</div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
~ At our Dr. appointment later that week everything looked fine, the bleeding was just spotting; but just in case he asked me have external and internal ultrasound that day and have blood drawn too. Hormone levels looked fine and we were encouraged. But at the ultrasound we heard the unexpected: there was no baby in sight. The news knocked the wind out of us. How could this happen? <br />
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~ Dr. later explained that it was either a 2 week pregnancy that was too tiny to show {and we had gotten pregnant later than thought} or an ectopic pregnancy. We were asked to wait 3 days, have more blood tests and then come back... <br />
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~ Three days turned into 6 days of agonizing wait. By then people from our church knew to pray. There was a huge outpouring of love, support and prayers. Oh the prayers that were lifted in favor of this baby were amazing, we were humbled to know how loved and cared for we were.<br />
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<img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" class="spotlight" height="300" src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/312606_2302826702039_1590373811_2266683_988092983_n.jpg" width="400" /><br />
<br />
~ Day 6 came. We went in for more bloodwork and ultrasound expecting everything to look normal. It was not. It was an 8 week ectopic pregnancy that had ruptured and had been bleeding profusely for several days. It was quite advanced in size and needed to be taken out - immediately. We left the Dr's office, went straight to the hospital. I was wheeled up to my room and was informed that I would be having surgery at around 9:30pm. We were all shocked, upset but through it all God gave us an deep sence of peace. I can't explain it, but I do know that through the agonizing sorrow and the overwhelming tears there was a peace rooted deep in my soul. I knew my Lord had me safe in the palm of His hands. I clung to the promises that His plans were greater than mine.<br />
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~ Twenty minutes later my room was swarmed by nurses and the surgeon who told me that I was being bumped up to the 6:30 time slot and had to get ready and be wheeled downstairs NOW. It was hurry up, go downstairs and then the wait... a long wait. Getting IV's in me is not easy. I had to have more blood drawn and then off I went. I remember waving goodbye while the tears silently rolled down my face and telling my family that I loved them as we rolled down the hall... then I remember hollering down the hall at my mom and mom-in-law to make sure that Hubby ate something. {oh the funny things that go through your mind at unexpected moments!}<br />
<br />
~ Once in the 1 1/2 hour surgery took 3 1/2 hours. Our family was so worried, but it turns out a last minute emergency came in and I had to wait... at least I was asleep the whole time :)<br />
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~ Surgery went well. Dr drained a lot of blood and he had to spend quite a while cleaning it all out. He later said that is what caused the pain in my upper right shoulder/ribcage that night on the way home from church and thereafter. <br />
<br />
~ After an overnight stay, arms bruised from my fingers to the elbow, three incisions, and quite a bit of pain I found myself at home... babyless, heart broken and lost. Things changed so quickly in 2 weeks. <br />
<br />
~ Yet God has been SO GOOD to me - to all of us. <em>Sorrow comes, but His comfort is amazing.</em> Our families have been so supportive and given of their time to care for me these last few weeks. Our church has loved on us, cried with us and we are so thankful for the extended family God has given us in our friends. <em>It has been a time of joy and peace even in sorrow</em>... and you know what? All Jason and I have ever wanted - no matter what profession our kids chose - was that they would be life long worshippers of Jesus. And through all of this we can say, we are the proud parents of two beautiful babies whose lifetime job is worshiping their Maker. What more could a parent want? <br />
____________________________________________<br />
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Thank you for continued prayers for: healing of heart and body and believing with us that God has another miracle ready for us in 2011!</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">May you be blessed.</span></div><br />
<strong><em>All photos taken by yours truly.</em></strong>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-8319543123167162282011-11-14T12:57:00.000-08:002011-11-14T12:57:06.157-08:0010 Months in 10 Minutes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://tooblessed2stress.blogspot.com/2011/11/how-do-i-do-it.html">Last Friday we reconnected.</a> I opened blogger and quickly shared what was on my heart and how much I needed the creative outlet this blog is. I shared how I was <em>hoping it would be like the best friend you had in middle school that you had not seen in years. Then you suddenly run into her one day and you pick up like no time has passed at all. You chat over coffee and realize that times may have changed but your friendship stayed lit deep in your heart.</em> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So it only seemes to be appropriate to share with you what has been going on at the too Blessed to Stress nest for the last 10 months. But how on earth do I do that without borring you for the next few hours of your life with my ramblings. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">What to do?</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">{Cue Dramatic Music}</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">That's where photos come in.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I decided to let the pictures do {most of} the talking. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So grab a cup of coffee and settle in to see 10 months of happenings in 10 minutes {give or take a few depending how fast you read and parouse photos!}</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>March</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Trip to Arizona with Hubby and Mom in law to surprise Grandma for her 80th birthday. I'll have to do a seperate post on that wonderful trip some other time - the details of the surprise are priceless! </span><span style="font-size: small;">{hence the lack of photos from Arizona, gotta save 'em for that post don't 'cha know!}</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We toured an Indian village with homes built in the cliffs of the rocks, spent lots of time with family, stopped at California Adventure on the way home and all of this was going on while I had the worst chest-cold/flu-something-or-rather. That part was miserable! Hubby said he has never seen me so sick. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjolQq2hUMFzzNfzzz3vfyn5Nt7gL1OBU2mFBTNpyRYj_H2GGMg01wbaI10MQ7WKGXEboej81IZaJGlbV7hed2Yo9Lx0jsqiAtjMeOtYQIl2bAECCNoOdvcwnU6J_lw7xHeyGGE31P6ZXNu/s1600/CIMG9013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjolQq2hUMFzzNfzzz3vfyn5Nt7gL1OBU2mFBTNpyRYj_H2GGMg01wbaI10MQ7WKGXEboej81IZaJGlbV7hed2Yo9Lx0jsqiAtjMeOtYQIl2bAECCNoOdvcwnU6J_lw7xHeyGGE31P6ZXNu/s320/CIMG9013.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Can you believe people lived in those homes </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">carved way up in the hills?</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvCjPREH4wQGYvNnHNjAnTSeHgCqHgslDVD28VobDzYhwhtJCvrfWmGqAVKeuRGp_IRjh7St9nvmqSlqdPXUYs3r1gLHSDeiBh3uL6e-BSVfYvKKqYKgejq_4mE5KPD_zFgTXbTcQdAm4x/s1600/CIMG9019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvCjPREH4wQGYvNnHNjAnTSeHgCqHgslDVD28VobDzYhwhtJCvrfWmGqAVKeuRGp_IRjh7St9nvmqSlqdPXUYs3r1gLHSDeiBh3uL6e-BSVfYvKKqYKgejq_4mE5KPD_zFgTXbTcQdAm4x/s320/CIMG9019.JPG" width="240" /></a></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/AVvXsEhUgNgTaEwn3QkMYMi32qYSyI5aH9UMUZe2UZkVRODBccX4nyTDBLRXJW_WsEs5NMx0bWMQDOm-up_PbIuKqFmB2FwTLpb4AzrMu4BRxNdJfci33jaRJT9MG4ztVifs5Idlx9cl49TIjcA8/s1600/CIMG9039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUgNgTaEwn3QkMYMi32qYSyI5aH9UMUZe2UZkVRODBccX4nyTDBLRXJW_WsEs5NMx0bWMQDOm-up_PbIuKqFmB2FwTLpb4AzrMu4BRxNdJfci33jaRJT9MG4ztVifs5Idlx9cl49TIjcA8/s320/CIMG9039.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>April</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Celebrated our anniversary - 8 years married to the love of my life!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Dbn7SsOcUnX6ImaC9QXA9PadGBeYGHK5QK80d3Bkg5GacQipa6v0U7198kxIx7P1I1iuTaYIWPuwwoC-BrDTYv0r9q_tPQiTnO_MVGGsuOMWxLNJFOdLi9TKqdL8SB66fswTKDoP7Pkx/s1600/CIMG9191.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Dbn7SsOcUnX6ImaC9QXA9PadGBeYGHK5QK80d3Bkg5GacQipa6v0U7198kxIx7P1I1iuTaYIWPuwwoC-BrDTYv0r9q_tPQiTnO_MVGGsuOMWxLNJFOdLi9TKqdL8SB66fswTKDoP7Pkx/s320/CIMG9191.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">View from our window of the lovely Bavarian town we stayed in.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRd-w_lEdO2gQhmbFqoiGUMFLU_wYSQaP8d_iD_-upws5owKFzQujtGETsp-JAlcFDtXu9-TnYrzQp9G-1O98FXDIcK3LQvEZbf-QW3KAzM60v2oFyPHb394dXKNYeItF8B0-FTrBBYu6D/s1600/CIMG9170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRd-w_lEdO2gQhmbFqoiGUMFLU_wYSQaP8d_iD_-upws5owKFzQujtGETsp-JAlcFDtXu9-TnYrzQp9G-1O98FXDIcK3LQvEZbf-QW3KAzM60v2oFyPHb394dXKNYeItF8B0-FTrBBYu6D/s320/CIMG9170.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWt4JTqlWYCa3a1Hd4LlzSKYo_s_vZEq3U3KPiz9VHLxU5erIYxooRinsbipWv8qDFdzzElUt87uelmV-LX6AGONoNnc5w15Sa3x3LyJGmzU0qj2CDz_qy3seetermsxqxRnLr2jXgMAWo/s1600/CIMG9167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWt4JTqlWYCa3a1Hd4LlzSKYo_s_vZEq3U3KPiz9VHLxU5erIYxooRinsbipWv8qDFdzzElUt87uelmV-LX6AGONoNnc5w15Sa3x3LyJGmzU0qj2CDz_qy3seetermsxqxRnLr2jXgMAWo/s320/CIMG9167.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Flowers from my love. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Unfortunatly at the end of April I sprained my ankle pretty severly. It was black and blue from my toes up to my knee. Miserable pain. I will spare you the photos of my puffed up, larger than life, bruised ankle/leg - not a pretty sight. </span></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>May</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Hubby's birthday - which involved an out door hot dog roast, wonderful friends, and a rousing game of Pin the Tail on the Donkey. All ages played and it was a hoot!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicA3vQ62F88dP-0F4vMvnQqkFZVmXQA5pY9yo-JxrLsriAd_aeQE0NElltnKNkxNB9xjYwGClJlF9hlBWsKbtoxvlA4WPKK7JJo56r3GArBvtqPIil-6pAEgxbhXxVT5i9fbbcrrzH4-_Q/s1600/SAM_1386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicA3vQ62F88dP-0F4vMvnQqkFZVmXQA5pY9yo-JxrLsriAd_aeQE0NElltnKNkxNB9xjYwGClJlF9hlBWsKbtoxvlA4WPKK7JJo56r3GArBvtqPIil-6pAEgxbhXxVT5i9fbbcrrzH4-_Q/s320/SAM_1386.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcXRqfS14glqiwXuiDaZHhZeaUv7JmL9xJercCbRKhPnHbrUzbAghVS1hx85sbFQ3rWubIR8ephGklNkA9j_X_YqS12RxmHs-vfbon5ZM738lxXF0IT1fVEcgx7sFXuNHeq4mL4itGvap/s1600/SAM_1334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOcXRqfS14glqiwXuiDaZHhZeaUv7JmL9xJercCbRKhPnHbrUzbAghVS1hx85sbFQ3rWubIR8ephGklNkA9j_X_YqS12RxmHs-vfbon5ZM738lxXF0IT1fVEcgx7sFXuNHeq4mL4itGvap/s320/SAM_1334.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR0OwXtEAPefiHTmw6YCF-kRWhopOb287kUtD3-SUBLaturHaVZVPeLVhq-U18849nKjsi6an-fiCI81bYZONqWnHrRqSqx-iuwAxbkM96t4YZw7_vkQeHq_FTX_YFwZAed76ti4hS7oVW/s1600/SAM_1380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR0OwXtEAPefiHTmw6YCF-kRWhopOb287kUtD3-SUBLaturHaVZVPeLVhq-U18849nKjsi6an-fiCI81bYZONqWnHrRqSqx-iuwAxbkM96t4YZw7_vkQeHq_FTX_YFwZAed76ti4hS7oVW/s320/SAM_1380.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYCFP51xxdHcOQfh7adNZ_1OLAb3W1bqiskQxnZoUTUbBSwbM3JEzWFMJ62NSVSIZvY7PYfoigZm0DWTbnLA4C5v4P32msPpEPzT3-91xuU1h_ZPrl4UITkNJosLfxLwHzO4mqwcjwuAx/s1600/SAM_1330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYCFP51xxdHcOQfh7adNZ_1OLAb3W1bqiskQxnZoUTUbBSwbM3JEzWFMJ62NSVSIZvY7PYfoigZm0DWTbnLA4C5v4P32msPpEPzT3-91xuU1h_ZPrl4UITkNJosLfxLwHzO4mqwcjwuAx/s320/SAM_1330.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>June</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Garden was in full swing. I said I didn't really want to have any blueberry bushes since they could take up too much room... hubby gave me that look... the big green eyes... sly smile...the look I can't resist... the one that melts my heart... the look that made us end up with not 1, not 2 but {brace yourself} 7 blueberries! And a trellised raspberry.... And 2 thorneless blackberries... And a Kiwi. {Don't even get me started on the Kiwi} </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowboxCaption" class="spotlight" height="240" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/10427_1157107619778_1590373811_390320_7676424_n.jpg" width="320" /></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">What can I say... </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm a pushover when it comes to those handsome green eyes.</span></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blueberries, tomatoes, snow peas, sugar snap peas,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> potatoes and one ear of corn we just <em>had</em> to open and take peek at. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6CiEOUxdjfc5gi8N_2M8i50roO3pIpbgs4MlFs1ctTlzb04JE78oryZ5Uy5gmMAbtlJQnwi1ipKcP3iYQM2Ok5_B-rgWMotqAll3MkAScP78IvkF-rWaDjL0LuFA5gV4lWQnH6gqgRI9X/s1600/CIMG0789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6CiEOUxdjfc5gi8N_2M8i50roO3pIpbgs4MlFs1ctTlzb04JE78oryZ5Uy5gmMAbtlJQnwi1ipKcP3iYQM2Ok5_B-rgWMotqAll3MkAScP78IvkF-rWaDjL0LuFA5gV4lWQnH6gqgRI9X/s320/CIMG0789.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tomatoes. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPw8rLW6Qhq7ANnXp4dGIaHhCES4uqUGe1pH_OmR1WtlBBr9rqe1D8to2E4e9np4qs3A2lqE_25hBMEkOhTCcjO5EtDsz-8ijBs8wY3BBKjFCb5psHQQ3ealMvODU5ZJlsbFIy56IvYEb/s1600/CIMG0802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibPw8rLW6Qhq7ANnXp4dGIaHhCES4uqUGe1pH_OmR1WtlBBr9rqe1D8to2E4e9np4qs3A2lqE_25hBMEkOhTCcjO5EtDsz-8ijBs8wY3BBKjFCb5psHQQ3ealMvODU5ZJlsbFIy56IvYEb/s320/CIMG0802.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_oyVCZO8KuBjxBBLjuhkt5p1K0icqyC1rd7RZYYbBR-Ff2RSZlNFkHh2I2KfFwVTqmgBXg8VhKmzFj1OvA-cz0-hhhN79MUF-FsxCuFZDUHui55E-X9d_7oEkLEwSOpf9q3zyYrQ5eWQZ/s1600/CIMG0694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_oyVCZO8KuBjxBBLjuhkt5p1K0icqyC1rd7RZYYbBR-Ff2RSZlNFkHh2I2KfFwVTqmgBXg8VhKmzFj1OvA-cz0-hhhN79MUF-FsxCuFZDUHui55E-X9d_7oEkLEwSOpf9q3zyYrQ5eWQZ/s320/CIMG0694.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;">Cheching on the progress of the corn.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXBFo0s87exgD5xV3G6V0-59yMnx4T4WF9eg6L0yYEvd3Mx7iBPEFoxUPubq3mKul-6cdhAH1ru0w-shEUYchnj_PIRqAcjDJq4tIR1D6lsDu1Muxl_PfAFrL2JFQGQAOAfb1ElMXAOFsF/s1600/CIMG0705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXBFo0s87exgD5xV3G6V0-59yMnx4T4WF9eg6L0yYEvd3Mx7iBPEFoxUPubq3mKul-6cdhAH1ru0w-shEUYchnj_PIRqAcjDJq4tIR1D6lsDu1Muxl_PfAFrL2JFQGQAOAfb1ElMXAOFsF/s320/CIMG0705.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>July</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Home projects, lots of gardening and sunbathing for the pup. My oh my how she enjoys the outdoors!</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Handing blueberries through the kitchen window. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Love it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCh5J4BF0gXGLk7Y7uB1Rg-nGQSDZWxr5MDyyi4PqMyYCFZcFl73RE5Iw-WVndqEeOQ4472dw_j9NJ1HTKsglFwe29VvjJwbK9sRIfnWhtBadIuYZKwWHh8xIV_CZ1LY-N61RBgXDOcdRz/s1600/1313692963814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCh5J4BF0gXGLk7Y7uB1Rg-nGQSDZWxr5MDyyi4PqMyYCFZcFl73RE5Iw-WVndqEeOQ4472dw_j9NJ1HTKsglFwe29VvjJwbK9sRIfnWhtBadIuYZKwWHh8xIV_CZ1LY-N61RBgXDOcdRz/s320/1313692963814.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>August {into September}</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Fall harvest from the garden included our first ever patty pan squash and a bowl full of corn. </span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The last of the tomatoes, potatoes, corn, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">the only survivors of the great carrot massacre of 2011...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ask the pup about that one. </div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The smallest ear of corn I have ever seen!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It was still delicious.</div><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>September</em></strong></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Fabulous trip to Mexico with hubby and my parents. It was 2 glorious weeks of sun, sandcastles, ocean, pool, memories, laughs, water games, sunscreen... well you get the idea. All the wonderful things that a family vacation entails. </span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Turtles were coming up almost every night to lay their eggs!</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">View from our room.</div><br />
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<div align="center">Iguana on the way to breakfast. </div><div align="center"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thank you so much for letting me share all our adventures with you!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0BR_nferCOZnzId6S1NPXUAjlJyrqtKzWW439U-Eb8Ghf33CjSjppnf9Ko2ALNr_KWO9sUQkmbu1p4lySlmpQNqI0EzJwKbh1IjvJ-SLEw_fOSVWVpei7sRgDfQISffwGUhmz1T-OG-Tf/s1600/SAM_1263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0BR_nferCOZnzId6S1NPXUAjlJyrqtKzWW439U-Eb8Ghf33CjSjppnf9Ko2ALNr_KWO9sUQkmbu1p4lySlmpQNqI0EzJwKbh1IjvJ-SLEw_fOSVWVpei7sRgDfQISffwGUhmz1T-OG-Tf/s320/SAM_1263.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;">View from back door. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Now it's your turn. </em></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>What have you been up to these last 10 months?</em></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>I'd love to hear all about your adventures too!</em></strong></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><em>All photos taken by yours truly and my hubby. </em></strong></span></span><br />
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<em><span style="font-size: small;">PS You might have noticed I skipped October and Novemeber.The last week of September was a tough one. It brought about lots of change for us and I will share all about it tomorrow. </span></em> </span>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-73279805322992088582011-11-11T17:17:00.000-08:002011-11-11T17:17:12.713-08:00How do I do it?<span style="font-size: large;">Back to blogging... and it feels wonderful. This year has been a tough - one both physically and emotionally. I needed to take a break. But now I need to come back. Yep, <em>need</em>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I <em>need</em> to read your wonderful blogs, be inspired by your beautiful homes and encouraged by the daily happenings of your life. It blessed my heart and I <em>need</em> this kind of interaction. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I <em>need</em> to share my creative side, my moments of DIY inspiration at midnight, and I need to know I'm not the only one that gets the urge to spray paint at 11:59pm. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I <em>need</em> to share what has been on my heart and what God has been showing me through some difficult times. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>I need you back in my life. </strong></span></em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But here is the big question:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">How do I come back after a 10 month hiatus?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do I have to have a big whoopti-doo, giveaway, announcement or do I slip in quietly hoping no one will notice the awkward crickets chirping in the background?</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfwKak9k6cxQNU1v4ABAsda0jW3W8b90NwbMwRdlVvOog0ARVDGhyhzqwi4MdZ0Lj1Q0CAmxvHJWsRUq2UooFyVf5_B80cpyY1ZLV2UCelXAxafl_wvhhNqKvkaA12qR6Gcx4Jf4g4ULsK/s1600/CIMG4390%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfwKak9k6cxQNU1v4ABAsda0jW3W8b90NwbMwRdlVvOog0ARVDGhyhzqwi4MdZ0Lj1Q0CAmxvHJWsRUq2UooFyVf5_B80cpyY1ZLV2UCelXAxafl_wvhhNqKvkaA12qR6Gcx4Jf4g4ULsK/s1600/CIMG4390%255B1%255D.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>Here's what I'm hoping:</em></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><em>I'm hoping it will be like the best friend you had in middle school that you have not seen in years. Then you suddenly run into her one day and you pick up like no time has passed at all. You chat over coffee and realize that times may have changed but your friendship stayed lit deep in your heart.</em> </span><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Let's pick up where we left off...</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Fill in the gaps from when we were apart...</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>And set out to make new memories.</strong></span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Does that sound good to you? </em></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>I know I'm looking forward to it.</em></strong></span></div><br />
<em><strong>All photos taken by yours truly. </strong></em>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-59212296060019037332011-02-10T22:53:00.000-08:002011-02-10T22:53:58.265-08:00For The Love Of A Cookie<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes you just have to let lose and be like a kid again. Dance in the rain, watch old cartoons in your jammies on Saturday morning, tell corny jokes and laugh at every one of them. Yep hubby and I still do these things every so often… ok fine the corny jokes are like a daily occurrence in this house. But hey that’s just what happens when you are so stinkin’ hilarious. {crickets chirping, awkward silence}</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyhow, we try to be silly and goofy as often as possible ‘cause this life is too short to take it too seriously all the time. And that means fulfilling childhood dreams now as adults… like the dream my hubby had of making one giant cookie. Doesn’t sound too hard, right? Well here’s the catch: he wanted to make it our of layers of cookie dough so that it would be all big ‘n fat, chewy and crunchy all at the same time and most of all to see if he could use a whole batch of cookie dough on one continuous cookie without it breaking apart or going up into flames from overcooking the first layers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So last week on a particularly long and rough work day I pulled out a $1.50 bag of Betty Crocker chocolate chip cookie mix and we set out to make a giant layered cookie. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And just too properly chronicle the fun, here’s a little video for you enjoy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My challenge for you today: be a kid. Dance in the rain {or snow if that’s all you got!}, watch cartoons with the kiddos and make a giant cookie just for kicks… remember to be a good little girl and share the cookie with hubby and the kiddos!</span><br />
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<strong><em>All photos taken by yours truly. </em></strong>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-87410088859503499762011-02-02T10:15:00.000-08:002011-02-02T10:15:11.298-08:00Progressive Dinner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkkHgNHsvCpgH31NV2v5bGBjk5NkoCDs2L6F_C4RU-LvIMnmVeOaV_ex8kjAJTXU4GwXjRMDeQZEdND4-SdayEjLjC9OpWBNqFFlznCBEc_LfOkFNBN1wJ6zA4GR-xKM9hUdhPuSL0dbVG/s1600/167938_1699659663240_1590373811_1561642_4409967_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkkHgNHsvCpgH31NV2v5bGBjk5NkoCDs2L6F_C4RU-LvIMnmVeOaV_ex8kjAJTXU4GwXjRMDeQZEdND4-SdayEjLjC9OpWBNqFFlznCBEc_LfOkFNBN1wJ6zA4GR-xKM9hUdhPuSL0dbVG/s320/167938_1699659663240_1590373811_1561642_4409967_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Last Sunday I had the privilege of participating in a progressive dinner for the women’s discipleship group I am a part of. The reason for celebrating – reading through the Bible together in one year. It was the first time we had done it together, and for some it was their first time ever to read the Bible through. What fun to do it as a group and then celebrate together with our Church family at a special Bible Day service. More than 30 people shared verses they had learned in various discipleship classes – even the children got in on the fun. We all danced, sang and celebrated not just the accomplishment but also in thanksgiving to our Heavenly Father for his letter of love to us. </span><br />
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<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/AVvXsEhp5IdxfXJmW3aM2uEcxpxE2vk-mI58CIEpOs7XG9T__y-qPsZQKmCaQhtyyaczzBwxI7kUv2Wk45fmY2AS9AMOArWZ914qcCFmI2kkLbZfnGsTamTbvcLghSwGw5QpKA96ft8htrN_GT1_/s1600/179868_1699661063275_1590373811_1561650_4660867_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5IdxfXJmW3aM2uEcxpxE2vk-mI58CIEpOs7XG9T__y-qPsZQKmCaQhtyyaczzBwxI7kUv2Wk45fmY2AS9AMOArWZ914qcCFmI2kkLbZfnGsTamTbvcLghSwGw5QpKA96ft8htrN_GT1_/s320/179868_1699661063275_1590373811_1561650_4660867_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once the service was over, we all piled into cars decked out with balloons, ribbon and words of celebration…. Things like “You made it! Hooray! Proud of you!” and my personal favorite, “Woo hoo!” </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxzyYQ2FUVkUnJ7ERTLhJ8oY0TQ4RqaHqbHI5zGMwySMdCutX7taA4RkyoAljKOseVDhForLWzi49qOMY2VDDdN1nqgOhieo1_LxR0zqQQ8gGhcr_Ok5Dp9n1bbYpA87DFo_v4G0AX16_/s1600/180515_1699660583263_1590373811_1561648_5482283_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJxzyYQ2FUVkUnJ7ERTLhJ8oY0TQ4RqaHqbHI5zGMwySMdCutX7taA4RkyoAljKOseVDhForLWzi49qOMY2VDDdN1nqgOhieo1_LxR0zqQQ8gGhcr_Ok5Dp9n1bbYpA87DFo_v4G0AX16_/s320/180515_1699660583263_1590373811_1561648_5482283_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Our first stop on the progressive dinner menu was my parent’s house. There we feasted on a gorgeous veggie tray, homemade dip, butter wafers, and blueberry-grape juice. After that came fresh baked cheesy bread and café con leche, a Colombian staple of coffee and milk. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHfsWB-1OU6HPp68WInapZC7YPClWSrwOhije1q7mQIrIXOMc6try3zoJGmt5EKByHiCDunLnBfByXhibMswZ_PoSgmUQWimtVcl7zgs4thChR_qJsCpNUDL7dOjJ-1Lb437bwhtgPnS1/s1600/180258_1699661183278_1590373811_1561651_5733563_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHfsWB-1OU6HPp68WInapZC7YPClWSrwOhije1q7mQIrIXOMc6try3zoJGmt5EKByHiCDunLnBfByXhibMswZ_PoSgmUQWimtVcl7zgs4thChR_qJsCpNUDL7dOjJ-1Lb437bwhtgPnS1/s320/180258_1699661183278_1590373811_1561651_5733563_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It was wonderful! And the anticipation of what came next had us all on pins and needles. Although I knew the final destination, I had no idea of all the fun in between. </span><br />
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<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/AVvXsEjo7ZIFOr6UzGZIVm1_wnRYnCkmJPOf4Mcduhyphenhyphen6gY6XNHgE2A8et4-OV5h3i-utlSs7TAgBkauvl4l8Kc0gADr9olAM9CtZz-O57oVYzFWiytbgGnqUwD4cYTmZ0utF-8l5MFsY3Nb8PAnY/s1600/179618_1699663543337_1590373811_1561659_6654464_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7ZIFOr6UzGZIVm1_wnRYnCkmJPOf4Mcduhyphenhyphen6gY6XNHgE2A8et4-OV5h3i-utlSs7TAgBkauvl4l8Kc0gADr9olAM9CtZz-O57oVYzFWiytbgGnqUwD4cYTmZ0utF-8l5MFsY3Nb8PAnY/s320/179618_1699663543337_1590373811_1561659_6654464_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well the appetizers were scrumptious and the fellowship was rich. Yet before we knew it the time had come to head out to our second destination: the home of a dear family from the church. This stop was to toast our year together as a group, how much everyone had grown in the Word, and to thank our leader. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4MfZiooD137W6f5AeZhB1WUoa5KkffRVaOJttndInc1SOVPqM59Okd4-Ct-P5ZCXUTnZSJ86jutoczfV9w4WhJBNwSJfCjgyINatsj6iJGjG3VWsRLyieqVF4n56fQPn3HbWcf8HCQs0R/s1600/168305_1699661423284_1590373811_1561652_4526597_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4MfZiooD137W6f5AeZhB1WUoa5KkffRVaOJttndInc1SOVPqM59Okd4-Ct-P5ZCXUTnZSJ86jutoczfV9w4WhJBNwSJfCjgyINatsj6iJGjG3VWsRLyieqVF4n56fQPn3HbWcf8HCQs0R/s320/168305_1699661423284_1590373811_1561652_4526597_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Each person received a colorful page with Psalm 148 written on it and a color coordinated toasting glass. How fun is that! With sparkling cider in hand we raised our glasses in celebration. We took turns reading verses from the page in joyous tones and concluded with our hostess sharing her favorite verse and the host reading this verse: </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Psalms 119:103</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">“How sweet are your words to my taste, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">sweeter than honey to my mouth!”</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiS3cn_JBcygg6M9ULsoEQhgaIUswYccR566LPIf0jOZsOBJaEXnBSOHi-vbo0gFtOSV-5kqPit1gE6Af8YrpNYKiN0qLQl8KAXJBLLa8nLy-hvQdzH8PFLknNfZhYwp2ael0ayV_pgv_3/s1600/165689_1699663623339_1590373811_1561660_2003877_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiS3cn_JBcygg6M9ULsoEQhgaIUswYccR566LPIf0jOZsOBJaEXnBSOHi-vbo0gFtOSV-5kqPit1gE6Af8YrpNYKiN0qLQl8KAXJBLLa8nLy-hvQdzH8PFLknNfZhYwp2ael0ayV_pgv_3/s320/165689_1699663623339_1590373811_1561660_2003877_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We then each had a small piece of baklava that was filled with gooey honey. As we bit into it the honey oozed out and delighted our taste buds. We were told to think of how sweet God’s word is to our lives. It was a moving moment of reflection.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqPpZM2rHd7FnLHcdv6w_JneVhWoYNG0tI1NCMHXaM-FJZyhh9cyA2SEX70VP3FPSn4oBQnE6VQT0d8dE_Me8k5nOT7u_LaN210xKXWtR1ICju_sp_SSbgIBxvvSZEPWISxJphHiiIvf-y/s1600/180107_1699660183253_1590373811_1561645_8364617_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqPpZM2rHd7FnLHcdv6w_JneVhWoYNG0tI1NCMHXaM-FJZyhh9cyA2SEX70VP3FPSn4oBQnE6VQT0d8dE_Me8k5nOT7u_LaN210xKXWtR1ICju_sp_SSbgIBxvvSZEPWISxJphHiiIvf-y/s320/180107_1699660183253_1590373811_1561645_8364617_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">From there we headed out to the final destination – out home. And I must say that I had such a wonderful time preparing the house for such a special group. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi21reyCSvV1GJQSsITNh6gkV_NwT3LxArqJKvBCYkrKGXEo2vWMFkDtfFkljndiyAUi98kVt7aejl_qtBM-JLu9YTG2EdQI6Ly8pvajD2VY6G1IMJ0GqhgI6jjt2xexi9vCv0QlL-hGoLx/s1600/165609_1699658903221_1590373811_1561637_6584759_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi21reyCSvV1GJQSsITNh6gkV_NwT3LxArqJKvBCYkrKGXEo2vWMFkDtfFkljndiyAUi98kVt7aejl_qtBM-JLu9YTG2EdQI6Ly8pvajD2VY6G1IMJ0GqhgI6jjt2xexi9vCv0QlL-hGoLx/s320/165609_1699658903221_1590373811_1561637_6584759_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">All weekend I worked on the little details like labels for the water pitchers and dessert tray, place cards, personalized chocolate bars and even a little pennant banner for the death by chocolate trifle {which I forgot to take a picture of! Can you believe it?!?} </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIp347-g3QgsqnSL_wNzf0vqjxIYqANB72gRFHg-YABGsggRA6UT1Lg0l28_C3dmIT5gIm-WVyWSX7Opd_brkxZU35aXoPI7cUyK362SnLBiamD4m77Kl8yMRqIwzS0VZcEsHM6ttK_Ao/s1600/179344_1699659783243_1590373811_1561643_2346649_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIp347-g3QgsqnSL_wNzf0vqjxIYqANB72gRFHg-YABGsggRA6UT1Lg0l28_C3dmIT5gIm-WVyWSX7Opd_brkxZU35aXoPI7cUyK362SnLBiamD4m77Kl8yMRqIwzS0VZcEsHM6ttK_Ao/s320/179344_1699659783243_1590373811_1561643_2346649_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It was so much fun! Hubby was a sweetheart and got a wonderful sound system all set up in the front room that played continuous soft dinner music. Just before we all arrived he went around the house and lit all the candles, turned off all the overhead lights and turned on all the little lamps around the house so that it looked, smelled and sounded heavenly. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDx-5pSKJf0K5ThR3WbcikRj4JRSyNPlFYLPfdPpzIIEw_tgnApEZJP_G6vxhHi9nyStpJLU2nrSJ8_N-901ikQC1pFecqzCKk9ofNPIb7uI2SBrEZGK0gxKTmUOcs-MAYmUjEYEKWcF6/s1600/180332_1699660023249_1590373811_1561644_6781695_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDx-5pSKJf0K5ThR3WbcikRj4JRSyNPlFYLPfdPpzIIEw_tgnApEZJP_G6vxhHi9nyStpJLU2nrSJ8_N-901ikQC1pFecqzCKk9ofNPIb7uI2SBrEZGK0gxKTmUOcs-MAYmUjEYEKWcF6/s320/180332_1699660023249_1590373811_1561644_6781695_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The dinner menu was spectacular and our conversation meaningful. No one wanted the evening to end. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HJ9NCYjg6nhS74ir5foZ0_wQh1ef6ujzdkyt_XX9t1t9zx_X8fHpjZx0CLDDEmhLURO2RHOW1KLoJVRez0Bo_XUHEhycBpqwARb06mCA5wXR7HZ7Ig7wA3k4IFAC1RalGaLkJkl7KYzI/s1600/166895_1699659343232_1590373811_1561640_2179118_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" s5="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HJ9NCYjg6nhS74ir5foZ0_wQh1ef6ujzdkyt_XX9t1t9zx_X8fHpjZx0CLDDEmhLURO2RHOW1KLoJVRez0Bo_XUHEhycBpqwARb06mCA5wXR7HZ7Ig7wA3k4IFAC1RalGaLkJkl7KYzI/s320/166895_1699659343232_1590373811_1561640_2179118_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This year we began a new tradition and made memories that will last a lifetime. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>What special moment or accomplishment could you celebrate with a meaningful and adventurous progressive dinner?</strong></em></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><strong><em>All photos taken by yours truly. </em></strong><br />
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</div></div>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-5583045894431073142011-01-26T12:54:00.000-08:002011-01-26T12:54:22.786-08:00Valentine Treat - Death By Chocolate<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;"><em>While hubby gets the new computer {yippie!} all set up and I figure out where all my photos are stored, I thought that I would repost this delicious recipe that I shared last year. </em></span><br />
<span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;"><em><strong>Chocolate lovers - enjoy!</strong></em></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A good friend asked me this last weekend if I crave sweet or salty when I want a snack. And the truth is that I usually prefer something salty, like salt and vinegar chips. {to die for} But if I have something sweet, I want it to be super sweet and very rich. I love dark chocolate and creamy toffee. So you can imagine my absolute delight when I got to a scrapbooking weekend and was informed that my good friend had made Death by Chocolate for our dessert that night.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFk7GONmNb3E5OkGLsew7vhMYEdRTmb-v4AysGHELWjagEeCnf737jWQLEx1_FHKvw5YyjrWQdQiMhyKruXLyKLsn5-YAcSIVbWp8XjlH_zIZZJX0MQHtkxlITaY3JUuMz_iwdxY4UcdI/s1600-h/CIMG4791.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFk7GONmNb3E5OkGLsew7vhMYEdRTmb-v4AysGHELWjagEeCnf737jWQLEx1_FHKvw5YyjrWQdQiMhyKruXLyKLsn5-YAcSIVbWp8XjlH_zIZZJX0MQHtkxlITaY3JUuMz_iwdxY4UcdI/s320/CIMG4791.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Have you ever had this rediculousely simple yet delicious dessert? It is amazing! And it looks just stunning in a triffle dish set in the center of a table. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLB7Rqxqunk2kt-9QtBRx7jpZNQPcxYlGa1tqWYraQO_dsdxlL-hzLVY46530GG818h_K6VfggARAc5qLiPjP7WEU1NPDiY_C4Csw3-YOiKwYeQTJFzt51UjicSVhAhFSSmYZoErciDvg/s1600-h/CIMG4790.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLB7Rqxqunk2kt-9QtBRx7jpZNQPcxYlGa1tqWYraQO_dsdxlL-hzLVY46530GG818h_K6VfggARAc5qLiPjP7WEU1NPDiY_C4Csw3-YOiKwYeQTJFzt51UjicSVhAhFSSmYZoErciDvg/s320/CIMG4790.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The master mind behind the creation in this photo is our good friend "G" - the fantastic cook. Really he should be called the mostest-amazingest-talented-never-makes-the-same-recipe-twice-and-they-all taste-great-cook. Try putting that on a business card :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">He graciousely shared the simple recipe for this delectable wonder and I in turn am sharing it with you. And to show you just how easy it is to make, I am making one just to take photos.</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Oh, the sacrifices I make for this blog.</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuf8028tWIHxSGVm0pXY8T6swzBiGrne7GUcQ6v-G4UgOgwsKJaEBO17InYZl_nz_1eSzkGP95-brdbUqWiqQlpXac66oAhfl0c1TMCznxRTImkQTe-TfVr2gL3H-NP4CnFTD04kBHXEE/s1600-h/CIMG4837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuf8028tWIHxSGVm0pXY8T6swzBiGrne7GUcQ6v-G4UgOgwsKJaEBO17InYZl_nz_1eSzkGP95-brdbUqWiqQlpXac66oAhfl0c1TMCznxRTImkQTe-TfVr2gL3H-NP4CnFTD04kBHXEE/s320/CIMG4837.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You will need four main ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ 1 chocolate cake, 13x9 pan (I just used a mix for convenience. Feel free to use your favorite cake recipe.) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ 6 Skor bars</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ 1 box of chocolate pudding (hubby chose Chocolate Fudge. His theory: if you're gonna go all out on dessert, go out with a bang!)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">~ 1 tub Cool Whip, or fresh whipped cream</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZetr_dtHIEbypg7ODJGLBNwz8KaUG-QuUdkBHFB_DamYDijwolH6ocWz7C5G42174DDm4h_UDGXwi6kWjt96Ze82VV2FIPOy64POwepF7nTGYpHdwswIp8Za46ZzGVi55L87LeAKdHg/s1600-h/CIMG4839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZetr_dtHIEbypg7ODJGLBNwz8KaUG-QuUdkBHFB_DamYDijwolH6ocWz7C5G42174DDm4h_UDGXwi6kWjt96Ze82VV2FIPOy64POwepF7nTGYpHdwswIp8Za46ZzGVi55L87LeAKdHg/s320/CIMG4839.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">While the cake bakes, mix up the pudding and crumble up the Skor bars. Once cool, crumble up the cake. If you don't have a triffle dish {like me), use a clear, deep bowl. Or tall cups for individual servings.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABrwo-AV3OyQE2zvdmGrPOwurdTFpxz9wwQj3iv4qNW5LlXW-_rKm8THikOesjbbEbih6DyUPm_wUszy3-E1ZxnE-KLqlsaMtSA-PSGMFeqALrC1yu9WuDUvN8WnSZ-z2vgqWNOpdZ2c/s1600-h/CIMG4840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABrwo-AV3OyQE2zvdmGrPOwurdTFpxz9wwQj3iv4qNW5LlXW-_rKm8THikOesjbbEbih6DyUPm_wUszy3-E1ZxnE-KLqlsaMtSA-PSGMFeqALrC1yu9WuDUvN8WnSZ-z2vgqWNOpdZ2c/s320/CIMG4840.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now the fun part - layering. First comes a layer of cake crumbles. Then pudding, coolwhip and Skor crumbles. See that blob of pudding? Avoid splatters like that so that the layers will be visible and not all mushed together. If it happens, just wipe it off with a paper towel.</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">S</span><span style="font-size: large;">nack on all ingredients while assembling. </span></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>That part is essential to the success of the dessert. </strong></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihNeWb9p1hsfsPsPU6IGLOb6X0osJBo_U36Bb-BIQtsrx9co60hRqAv_T-Rn30sdDLAFZkc7EzbgNAfv3nOMs71J9m-LOOq96vCOtaSdEq6smn5ZxbHzqWLZNf4mL1SGScQWPQ3f3j6h4/s1600-h/CIMG4846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihNeWb9p1hsfsPsPU6IGLOb6X0osJBo_U36Bb-BIQtsrx9co60hRqAv_T-Rn30sdDLAFZkc7EzbgNAfv3nOMs71J9m-LOOq96vCOtaSdEq6smn5ZxbHzqWLZNf4mL1SGScQWPQ3f3j6h4/s320/CIMG4846.JPG" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Repeat for at least two total layers. Top with cake crumbles. And Skor crumbles. If there are any left after snacking. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Abr_f6v-O974z0UisUq-1kui40F9WTc7K5prnU0yYw20clHLp09I6kQUq22XCkRIj3vAXj2rH9iXlGPVgS1bzJHTN6H5CH4RwUt5QOtVxunfay3xaRdqar1emgdOWUvHVLALeKyGW84/s1600-h/CIMG4848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Abr_f6v-O974z0UisUq-1kui40F9WTc7K5prnU0yYw20clHLp09I6kQUq22XCkRIj3vAXj2rH9iXlGPVgS1bzJHTN6H5CH4RwUt5QOtVxunfay3xaRdqar1emgdOWUvHVLALeKyGW84/s320/CIMG4848.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Easy Peasy.</span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This is such a simple dessert to make that it just may be my new "to go" dish for last minute meetings, potlucks, parties and to satisfy hubby's late night sweet tooth. Thanks so much "G" for sharing! </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvS6XkCRyJaWdLp3NGmG9qqhWNe8dH3N4NlfjMxtqG6zCT6-_AJPNDOEBg3n6iYnv9_oR0O9TToYRk4FAowIQJnLY74-1CGrzRn1-LnDwhPAOqvoCnK98OFEdLqjN67DZ-6Zf2C4KHOwU/s1600-h/CIMG4849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvS6XkCRyJaWdLp3NGmG9qqhWNe8dH3N4NlfjMxtqG6zCT6-_AJPNDOEBg3n6iYnv9_oR0O9TToYRk4FAowIQJnLY74-1CGrzRn1-LnDwhPAOqvoCnK98OFEdLqjN67DZ-6Zf2C4KHOwU/s320/CIMG4849.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">What is your "to go" dish for dessert? How about a dinner dish? Share in the comments below! Have you posted a great recipe lately? Let me know in the comments so I can check it out.</span><br />
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<strong><em>All photos taken by yours truly.</em></strong><br />
<strong><em>This delicious post is linked to </em></strong><a href="http://www.wearethatfamily.com/"><strong><em>We are That Family WFMW</em></strong></a><strong><em>. Link up and join the party!</em></strong>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-18782182679712958542011-01-17T11:38:00.000-08:002011-01-17T11:38:04.862-08:00Thoughts On A Week Of Separation<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEsqGBPr-g8Qq79aQYWpQhjty2Nj2I7Azrd8vS-fa-Cv9SgCn2z6P94t8wpAHykyNUFsogBFnpxSG6S3tlfvdbk0ssRQmhWx93f-mvvAben4Os8opNfIpTQZdhAzF3K431g_WboJFZIfb-/s200/In+the+quiet+place.jpg" width="200" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">One Week.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Seven Days. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">One fourth of a month.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>{ok maybe that last one was a bit dramatic}</em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">But that's how long hubby and I have been apart...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">And every second seemed like days on that plane ride home.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I have been at a conference in Georgia {shout out to all you lovely residents of the south} and the week spent there was wonderful. It was an inspiring and enjoyable time. I loved every moment of the training and ministering done.... but... it always feels so great to come home.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Kiss my hubby.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Snuggle with the pup.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sleep with my own pillow.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Get back to my nest.</span><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1ATMdHM_iUBpKVRyNS3BeS4Fg5Q-7xaHg4v-i9zv5OuGDdrxiUnl386IkJKBCUxZUp8Tu8nsvwQqk5cW5mHv92ZPGAhSKOieaEGyZiUKG7lVA1QrSNZhGRejR07iA3yLXqgyYWd07Vs/s1600-h/CIMG4329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" mt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1ATMdHM_iUBpKVRyNS3BeS4Fg5Q-7xaHg4v-i9zv5OuGDdrxiUnl386IkJKBCUxZUp8Tu8nsvwQqk5cW5mHv92ZPGAhSKOieaEGyZiUKG7lVA1QrSNZhGRejR07iA3yLXqgyYWd07Vs/s320/CIMG4329.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">As I walked through the door, I took a deep breath expecting the house to be slightly on the cluttered side.... ok who am I kidding? I really expected it to be overwhelmed with speakers {hubby's hobby}, dirty dishes, clothes taking up permanent residence on the floor, and volcanic eruptions from hubby using the obliterater {that's what he calls the food processor, I love it!} </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>Disclaimer: Hubby is not an inconsiderate, overly messy person that would leave me a huge mess on purpose. He is just the kind of man who would get really excited about some home improvement project hours before picking me up and then not have time to clean it up. {which I secretly find adorable.}</em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ok just had to make sure that was clear. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Well much to my surprise the home was pretty much in tact, all speaker projects had been completed and neatly stacked in the front room, clothes were dutifully placed in the hamper, and.... get ready for this.... all the dishes were done and the sink was empty.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Done. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Empty.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">The two most glorious words to a housewife when speaking about a sink full of dishes.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">He did it just for me, even though I had told him not to worry about any of that stuff while I was gone. What a fantastic guy! </span><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="[heart+jay.jpg]" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Go8ClrypS4jAnwkWfjodbONvSq28xlHwXA74BDmVEQ_NEdOIWZ1QBTtN0NkeDphCTnCXKb2WmQl-ZWJTG-O8u1sMal51A_pD4YKLEiBnqy_Aq7vDs034Wz0g3upJY-kkjx3JGx6j8n8/s1600/heart+jay.jpg" /><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">And while there were several explosions from the obliterater and the floor was so sticky my bare feet stuck to it I could have cared less. He took a moment out of his free time to bless me by cleaning up the mess in the sink. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">He took the time to make me feel </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">welcomed</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">loved</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">appreciated.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>And that empty sink spoke volumes to my heart that night. It was something small to some, but to me it was selflessness personified in a lack of dishes. </em></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Who would have thought that an empty kitchen sink could be such an expression of love.</span><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mREn8Uy7SOksS48jcojhoPybXJCJAX20Cy0_wzziAj2MKAsEqzm6vjOvZq-ndRBiWvvukGYUHs9z5hPkWc-pYuMxWxGcP5pbSEaJvJ6GTtRSBtlbc492Qec672vYgDVqZZuR4auM7Qg/s1600-h/CIMG4320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" mt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mREn8Uy7SOksS48jcojhoPybXJCJAX20Cy0_wzziAj2MKAsEqzm6vjOvZq-ndRBiWvvukGYUHs9z5hPkWc-pYuMxWxGcP5pbSEaJvJ6GTtRSBtlbc492Qec672vYgDVqZZuR4auM7Qg/s320/CIMG4320.JPG" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>What small gesture has someone done that blessed your heart lately? How have you blessed others with a simple act of kindness?</strong></em></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><em>All photos taken by yours truly.</em></strong></div><div align="left" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-48167336478063130892011-01-03T20:19:00.000-08:002011-01-03T20:19:26.775-08:00New Year, New Goal<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXprOe2t635T43P0-TdRYLkC3xpYhKn61zy-_NLPdsw9iSsGEVLqq5XS9Bx3jY2TWn5an0sPjlPPhF1QDcxK43nopfh_3-3_2_cXuJkWA0O7ZZ0cLnLcITX-ZBA-zcM7XvRLktvqUw6CJ/s1600/CIMG8511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIXprOe2t635T43P0-TdRYLkC3xpYhKn61zy-_NLPdsw9iSsGEVLqq5XS9Bx3jY2TWn5an0sPjlPPhF1QDcxK43nopfh_3-3_2_cXuJkWA0O7ZZ0cLnLcITX-ZBA-zcM7XvRLktvqUw6CJ/s320/CIMG8511.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy 2011 everyone!</span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hope everyone had a fun and memorable time celebrating the end of one year and the beginning of a new adventure. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-6JZYXgqzn6p_xscR2PLraZQHo7V1qX139Oas_V9405hoPDQY028oTdWYvVYBXWFwWug-AN-TnoXIdK8AUR_8h4thAVKvZP71R6LpIuvVwc49qSzB0wDkqp_AlbmEUtH_1-z5ElJwfqN/s1600/CIMG8536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-6JZYXgqzn6p_xscR2PLraZQHo7V1qX139Oas_V9405hoPDQY028oTdWYvVYBXWFwWug-AN-TnoXIdK8AUR_8h4thAVKvZP71R6LpIuvVwc49qSzB0wDkqp_AlbmEUtH_1-z5ElJwfqN/s320/CIMG8536.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">I feel so blessed looking back at 2010.... how God has constantly watched over my hubby and I - we lack nothing, have health, our nest is a home full of love, we are surrounded with friends and family who love and support us, and to top it all off we are looking forward to new and exciting changes this year. {no, it's not a baby... but I really would like that!}</span> </div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The coming year looks like it will be an exciting one, full of new challenges and goals at achieve... and busy. Really busy :) But that's ok! In fact, I am really looking forward to it!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY5vHCQjgaG-aeMuwWmtrfejLo_hyphenhyphent3C0K58BDixYbsJtYQPtqViOIQNkPw9BGvHh7PJzxUng4Za9Xs2in0uNzHsyDrjlayIrwDpuqAUoo53r1_0JyUnOl-PN9Ldy_bhkSU_IEc3yt3KUP/s1600/CIMG8524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY5vHCQjgaG-aeMuwWmtrfejLo_hyphenhyphent3C0K58BDixYbsJtYQPtqViOIQNkPw9BGvHh7PJzxUng4Za9Xs2in0uNzHsyDrjlayIrwDpuqAUoo53r1_0JyUnOl-PN9Ldy_bhkSU_IEc3yt3KUP/s320/CIMG8524.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Now that Christmas and New Years have wrapped up, {with a flourish of festivities, I might add!} it's time to get back into a regular routine and that includes some fun additions to blogging.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXlKA110S6XBI0XCrkVsY2QAkwCxkdeUzIZnS5SU7z9lUQZChOyfh6GNHkIv9l6nCoAMJdSPI7x1l641jIplHQDL7eOJ8Jo3BJzWkI6dcX8XPGW5T3Ic6YDRF4edWZkzBCWObvkoXirIr/s1600/CIMG8474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXlKA110S6XBI0XCrkVsY2QAkwCxkdeUzIZnS5SU7z9lUQZChOyfh6GNHkIv9l6nCoAMJdSPI7x1l641jIplHQDL7eOJ8Jo3BJzWkI6dcX8XPGW5T3Ic6YDRF4edWZkzBCWObvkoXirIr/s320/CIMG8474.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Over the holiday, I had time to think and refocus my ideas for this blog. And from all that pondering {yes, feel free to insert a joke about how I should not think too hard, lest I blow a fuse} came these ideas for "too Blessed to Stress" :</span></div><div style="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/AVvXsEgRxrVJFoWqCN0hdYWJ92AR4oTC9Rkfka1gi2rDWz9l4nFv2bGRLXXMRdfVED-iHY77Jj9KnooJc783EcZOozwDTCbxzT8jb_hcj48eBvqJQ-tcq-WqI41MFkorNTdJJ4POO845X_6svp1q/s1600/simple+solutions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRxrVJFoWqCN0hdYWJ92AR4oTC9Rkfka1gi2rDWz9l4nFv2bGRLXXMRdfVED-iHY77Jj9KnooJc783EcZOozwDTCbxzT8jb_hcj48eBvqJQ-tcq-WqI41MFkorNTdJJ4POO845X_6svp1q/s200/simple+solutions.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;">~ <strong>Simple Solutions</strong> - Short tips for everyday homemaking, crafting and just life in general. Sometimes I'll share a tip, sometimes I'll be asking for a tip. <em>And if you have a tip you would like to share and be featured for just let me know. I love featuring! My email is under the "Contact" tab up above.</em></span><span style="font-size: large;">{By the way, these Simple Solutions</span><span style="font-size: large;"> were inspired by a little book that my Grandmother gave me just after I was married. It is filled with quick tips for everyday use - I love books like that!} </span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimeegc2SmMIbtPHQ_ZmIg7l3JlbieY3WgoUS5jT_bZjU5PSjO4R1xejAJYI-o09RXeh7CU883dnwOH6sRDZhqRpiwkx8ExoHBHqjF-YcahXiu9e3JnzL0atkB4Vyf4P_JHCGFiCqUcC1iR/s1600/All+about+you.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimeegc2SmMIbtPHQ_ZmIg7l3JlbieY3WgoUS5jT_bZjU5PSjO4R1xejAJYI-o09RXeh7CU883dnwOH6sRDZhqRpiwkx8ExoHBHqjF-YcahXiu9e3JnzL0atkB4Vyf4P_JHCGFiCqUcC1iR/s200/All+about+you.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">~ <strong>All About You</strong> - A day to feature one of you! Whether you are a blogging power house or just blogging for fun, if you have something you want to share that goes along with what "too Blessed to Stress" is all about I would love to feature you! Maybe you have something crafty to share, a yummy recipe, something inspirational or just want to blog swap for the day, let me know! {remember, contact info is above}</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt1fmViL-9xmJTkBRs_wNQIQ307j_9EJfz9NQ0NnZpKIPu5xYhoDBbyYD62x4Vpeyh33ptuUJ_Ko_eC95gynBwpFMP9_4j-np3R3h6rDEDJ18lsjvNf8cyOZ-IZUtvZbUz9hrmMqCDsDC9/s1600/pick+a+theme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt1fmViL-9xmJTkBRs_wNQIQ307j_9EJfz9NQ0NnZpKIPu5xYhoDBbyYD62x4Vpeyh33ptuUJ_Ko_eC95gynBwpFMP9_4j-np3R3h6rDEDJ18lsjvNf8cyOZ-IZUtvZbUz9hrmMqCDsDC9/s200/pick+a+theme.jpg" width="200" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">~ <strong>Pick a Theme</strong> - Ideas for themed parties, dinners and "just because" celebrations. <em>If you have any special requests for themes you would like to see, let me know</em> and I'll see what my little noggin comes up with. </span><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEsqGBPr-g8Qq79aQYWpQhjty2Nj2I7Azrd8vS-fa-Cv9SgCn2z6P94t8wpAHykyNUFsogBFnpxSG6S3tlfvdbk0ssRQmhWx93f-mvvAben4Os8opNfIpTQZdhAzF3K431g_WboJFZIfb-/s1600/In+the+quiet+place.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEsqGBPr-g8Qq79aQYWpQhjty2Nj2I7Azrd8vS-fa-Cv9SgCn2z6P94t8wpAHykyNUFsogBFnpxSG6S3tlfvdbk0ssRQmhWx93f-mvvAben4Os8opNfIpTQZdhAzF3K431g_WboJFZIfb-/s200/In+the+quiet+place.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">~ <strong>In The Quiet Place</strong> - Quotes, verses and stories that have touched my life... and that I hope will inspire you as well!</span></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-size: large;">~ And after all the fun I had making <a href="http://www.tooblessedtostress.com/2010/11/doing-unexpected.html">this video</a>, I am so excited to get working on a few more videos to post throughout the year. There will be some tutorials, recipes, and probably lots of hubby and I being goofy! <u><em>What would you like to see on "too Blessed to Stress" videos?</em></u></span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqPg94P3Sr7Ij_uDMMOxi4x_dGu3GK3SnDFjk5vgt7IPZKUniFG8ueyN-mnG1Lrkm_NhQwkKpQYQN5EOfIMDk7Z-ha1dAsP2gGobA4xiS53LrDbEOePxX2eu6XGOpeQH63NfT7Tva6uikU/s1600/CIMG8512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqPg94P3Sr7Ij_uDMMOxi4x_dGu3GK3SnDFjk5vgt7IPZKUniFG8ueyN-mnG1Lrkm_NhQwkKpQYQN5EOfIMDk7Z-ha1dAsP2gGobA4xiS53LrDbEOePxX2eu6XGOpeQH63NfT7Tva6uikU/s320/CIMG8512.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>So what do you think? Do these little additions sound like fun?</em></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>I sure hope so, because I know that I have had lots of fun getting them all ready for ya!</em></strong> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Before I wrap this up I just want to express my gratitude to all you wonderful followers and readers out there - you bless my heart with your creative blogs and your support of "too Blessed to Stress." Thank you for being a part of my life in 2010, and I am looking forward to another wonderful year with y'all in bloggy land!</span><br />
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<strong><em>All photos taken by yours truly.</em></strong></div>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-53925029530747721412010-12-07T07:37:00.000-08:002010-12-07T07:37:06.133-08:00I'm Dreaming Of A White {and music themed} Christmas<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/AVvXsEgv578EwA-yAWAVN-mTSm1LGs3Rb9-MMLU4VPsqfXw2RaWj9TCcwSiW9UHYu-pk2TrYK3_GYd3ncwcIr_xqv4D1CaLCHsMytfDGVP4ahdMGl4T7qI4-vrUwd9wUCC8S_hGZlyGpUPS11szJ/s1600/CIMG8437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv578EwA-yAWAVN-mTSm1LGs3Rb9-MMLU4VPsqfXw2RaWj9TCcwSiW9UHYu-pk2TrYK3_GYd3ncwcIr_xqv4D1CaLCHsMytfDGVP4ahdMGl4T7qI4-vrUwd9wUCC8S_hGZlyGpUPS11szJ/s320/CIMG8437.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This is the first Christmas that I have had a hutch instead of a giant mirror to decorate in the dining room. At first I was kinda missing the nativity scene that usually graces the top of the buffet and the garland that wrapped around the mirror. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">But once I got started with other projects around the room {all inspired by the<a href="http://www.tooblessedtostress.com/2010/11/doing-unexpected.html"> middle of the room Christmas tree</a>} I got all excited for the hutch. I had been using sheet music around the rest of the room when it donned on me: why not line the back of the hutch with sheet music and then have an all white display?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Instead of buying new music and antiquing it, I made several copies of an old music piece that had belonged to my Grandmother. Not only does it have the perfect amount of yellowing and wear, every time I look at the hutch I am reminded of my sweet Grandma.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Plain old scotch tape was used to hold it up. Nothing complicated so that I could mess around with the placement and nothing permanent so that after Christmas I can take it down... that is if I am tired of it by then. I love it so much that it may stay for a while!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">After that, all I did was merrily <strike>walk</strike> run around my house like a kid in a toy store collecting any and everything that was white or slightly off white to display.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pitchers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A small church that belonged to my Grandma.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Joy" angels that were a gift from my mom and the spray painted pedestal {<a href="http://www.tooblessedtostress.com/2010/08/crazy-housewife.html">see here</a>}.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gravy boat and a china plate hand painted by a dear friend.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tea cup and a rectangular bowl. I use stuff like this even though it has a slight crack... but you can only tell if you are within 2 inches from it.... and if you are that close, I figure you deserve to know my little secret. </span><br />
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<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/AVvXsEiOFcSnj4Dsv8H4_vde-lqEjJ3_IebbjIBGlHhdJZ7RJcWKb_QgkLgh3ziOr20bTLaJLH1DBtYgmk9BP1gwb7JVSv1DdkZz08_m8d6DQy0ia8rb1tMlAL34fvOPZ6qDJtn2Ri9FKTqdkI-z/s1600/CIMG8447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOFcSnj4Dsv8H4_vde-lqEjJ3_IebbjIBGlHhdJZ7RJcWKb_QgkLgh3ziOr20bTLaJLH1DBtYgmk9BP1gwb7JVSv1DdkZz08_m8d6DQy0ia8rb1tMlAL34fvOPZ6qDJtn2Ri9FKTqdkI-z/s320/CIMG8447.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Ok so some color snuck in there. But only light, silvery blues and a tiny bit of browns. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Jingle bell wreath from my Hubby 7 years ago. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUVs6AYBSREfl_JsX_rjcwGeSZmx0YNn-Llmac1RDoTtHlZz9vSPLEbyjsMI2F1fAJgCuJRjswNPE8Xw5g2rUJuYnExVgwWB_I4MW0H6KTU9aOIzhQOc74LhD7fQQTJdEjVuc_oVpCvrj/s1600/CIMG8426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEUVs6AYBSREfl_JsX_rjcwGeSZmx0YNn-Llmac1RDoTtHlZz9vSPLEbyjsMI2F1fAJgCuJRjswNPE8Xw5g2rUJuYnExVgwWB_I4MW0H6KTU9aOIzhQOc74LhD7fQQTJdEjVuc_oVpCvrj/s320/CIMG8426.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This has to be one of my favorite and simplest things in the display. All I did was take a piece of left over sheet music, cut it to size for the candle and taped it in the back. I could have mod podged or used wax to secure it, but if the candle is not all burned away by January I may want to remove it and try something else.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi3iSMDCYchaFYUv0-3aewbOesN8qBAL4zAZD4omhno_FmRuwa7CJTP3GX0v-_FquPDOlNOs_17lvOwEznBdd1E_-BrtmMTEuxKoWLZ8_dvhctlnkPuhHaVvwyPpWTKG2aWMABjRul-Yze/s1600/CIMG8398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi3iSMDCYchaFYUv0-3aewbOesN8qBAL4zAZD4omhno_FmRuwa7CJTP3GX0v-_FquPDOlNOs_17lvOwEznBdd1E_-BrtmMTEuxKoWLZ8_dvhctlnkPuhHaVvwyPpWTKG2aWMABjRul-Yze/s320/CIMG8398.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The paper doesn't even meet all the way in the back... but again if you are really gonna be <strike>that nosy</strike> that close, you deserve to know. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZAXao9FwQ3DCtm5FjbjiSHUBMy3AtrF_ya3Z4Xs0ISHCvp-ZyJwlSb0ToiW9HE0RptwblUMhAqEJ0oRYerNM10C9QElyYJweP1TIAEbaV-qsUPycpnn-wpj7NKy6p_iANWhIXogC4Mm_/s1600/CIMG8432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZAXao9FwQ3DCtm5FjbjiSHUBMy3AtrF_ya3Z4Xs0ISHCvp-ZyJwlSb0ToiW9HE0RptwblUMhAqEJ0oRYerNM10C9QElyYJweP1TIAEbaV-qsUPycpnn-wpj7NKy6p_iANWhIXogC4Mm_/s320/CIMG8432.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A little piece of twine tied in a bow, a wreath of white berries {from the Boutique, AKA Goodwill} all on a pretty plate, and call it a day. So pretty. I love how it combines elegant and rustic all in one. {Please note, I am SUPER careful when I burn this candle. I will remove the paper and twine when it gets too close to burning point. If you try this idea, please take the same precautions. Just sayin'}</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Oh and here's</span><span style="font-size: large;"> little trick of mine. One thing that always bugs me is when a candle gets too squatty to sit high enough above the berry wreath to look normal and be at a safe height to burn. So to raise it up just enough, I take the lid off of a large jar candle and set in inside the wreath and place the candle on top. Perfect size and since it is glass, it will barely be noticeable.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvAfv88bUBR2qawCMbV7o6Xec-exKp1NWBbkMbqlBoCjEW06v0RGAcieFk3HWtsoVYLO0L88-vH0Mk9BmUp7xb6jgYqsvx-dK2fKwPbGgAhjtV4q2SoH8HReMdpHKeLyNw36jMtmFGFa4R/s1600/CIMG8464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvAfv88bUBR2qawCMbV7o6Xec-exKp1NWBbkMbqlBoCjEW06v0RGAcieFk3HWtsoVYLO0L88-vH0Mk9BmUp7xb6jgYqsvx-dK2fKwPbGgAhjtV4q2SoH8HReMdpHKeLyNw36jMtmFGFa4R/s320/CIMG8464.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I must say that I am pretty happy with the end result... alright, who am I kidding? I LOVE it! It is the perfect mix of elegant and country and matched the colors of the middle of the room Christmas tree just right... which is good, since that tree is visible from every room except the bedrooms and bathrooms. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Have you decorated with something in an unexpected way this year?</em></strong></span><br />
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<strong><em>All photos taken by yours truly. </em></strong>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-57748654578286942732010-11-29T19:30:00.000-08:002010-11-29T19:30:51.338-08:00Doing The Unexpected<span style="font-size: large;">Can you believe that Christmas is only 26 days away? It feels like just yesterday the leaves started to turn colors and now they are almost all on the ground! Thanksgiving weekend just flew by in a hustle and bustle of family, friends, turkey and pumpkin pie bliss and lots of memory making. </span><br />
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<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/AVvXsEjamr3IjLiqE8fOrZJ3Nwzs6TJibjTEfPhr_leUYE907yEiXW72Mvy1b-5123_I84KRginGpnEBRyygdSGYg_kJK_BQZln3lvhEDGMa38Nn06B4uP_DirF1hqYUiXEruQGRCyJUkSyJeu5i/s1600/19742_1239153630877_1590373811_590558_7594455_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjamr3IjLiqE8fOrZJ3Nwzs6TJibjTEfPhr_leUYE907yEiXW72Mvy1b-5123_I84KRginGpnEBRyygdSGYg_kJK_BQZln3lvhEDGMa38Nn06B4uP_DirF1hqYUiXEruQGRCyJUkSyJeu5i/s320/19742_1239153630877_1590373811_590558_7594455_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><strong><span style="color: #741b47;">Our lovely tree from last year.</span></strong></em></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And once the last turkey meal had been eaten, the urge to decorate the tree hit full force. I was so ready... and lucky for me so was hubby... which is great seeing as I could never get the boxes out of the attic without him. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSON0uPe8nCYvBnit2dW52PiH4IluUwpdGWuPnernRjPcHb3vtm7lk2LjYWnZNzqsnoVYvBHUrLNlHfQgl5Sln5_ZX41Ip6DTGsqyW9vPdnLWJie7KjPIRIHfO8OE0PnuieGzA4Kq3jmHu/s1600/19742_1239154430897_1590373811_590576_3789474_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSON0uPe8nCYvBnit2dW52PiH4IluUwpdGWuPnernRjPcHb3vtm7lk2LjYWnZNzqsnoVYvBHUrLNlHfQgl5Sln5_ZX41Ip6DTGsqyW9vPdnLWJie7KjPIRIHfO8OE0PnuieGzA4Kq3jmHu/s320/19742_1239154430897_1590373811_590576_3789474_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em><span style="color: #741b47;">Carolers from my Grandma. Love these!</span></em></strong></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So we set aside Saturday for just the two of us and it was wonderful! We spent the day running a few errands, listening to Christmas carols and making up our own carols as we drove around town taking in the Christmas sights. After all that inspiration, we headed home and got to work putting up the tree..... and that's when it happened. Someone - that lives in this home, and is not me or the pup {ahem, hubby.}- decided that it would be a good idea to put the tree in the middle of the great room. <em>The middle</em>. To some that may not be a big deal, but we have a big 9 foot tree. Think about it... 9 feet worth of tree in the middle of your living room... </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>The middle</em>.</span></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/AVvXsEj1kj5uMhjja6MiIaUquBI0t4jbqVetjc5AGLfmbjJIyqhyYwim739uKGIc4kaM1P60Nimw1DU5R0E2Gs2viHhq9uL0OrDwVk2xo9F0YS6EUxOuWkvg0ZVXjjYyRlJk82W-BdXYk1YOHa1O/s1600/16747_1215776366460_1590373811_539803_2378596_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1kj5uMhjja6MiIaUquBI0t4jbqVetjc5AGLfmbjJIyqhyYwim739uKGIc4kaM1P60Nimw1DU5R0E2Gs2viHhq9uL0OrDwVk2xo9F0YS6EUxOuWkvg0ZVXjjYyRlJk82W-BdXYk1YOHa1O/s320/16747_1215776366460_1590373811_539803_2378596_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em><span style="color: #741b47;">Hubby reaching the top of our beautiful tree last year.</span></em></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em><span style="color: #741b47;">Notice the tree is dutifully in the corner...where most normal people would place it.</span></em></strong></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You see last month in a housewife-crazed-last-minute-decorating-at-10:00pm-inspiration-moments {what? don't you have those too?}I decided to move the living room furniture into the small family room at the front of the house. We had been debating whether or not we wanted couches or reading chairs for our new space, and I thought why wait? Let's just move the existing living room furniture in there, live with it and see how we like it. Well, we LOVED it. So much, in fact, that the furniture stayed in there and our living room only has two recliners and two outdoor chairs... and a great big hole where the couches used to be. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPErBtqUoItus1TprU9t-A2iZ80j1k5VKd9R5RaFf2l8OE7glpKvKjRzOK_ZTFOag-qkwTFAEY8U2fLzPeOmzjqnrriPj1Nm6CsFrOAxN4Lw-RV55Aj0_eksfV5HDomHDB6WzSoAEO0Qwx/s1600/19742_1239154110889_1590373811_590569_6529206_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPErBtqUoItus1TprU9t-A2iZ80j1k5VKd9R5RaFf2l8OE7glpKvKjRzOK_ZTFOag-qkwTFAEY8U2fLzPeOmzjqnrriPj1Nm6CsFrOAxN4Lw-RV55Aj0_eksfV5HDomHDB6WzSoAEO0Qwx/s320/19742_1239154110889_1590373811_590569_6529206_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><strong><span style="color: #741b47;">2009</span></strong></em></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Turns out hubby has always wanted to have a tree in the middle of the room, just for kicks. And since we are just that awesomely cool {or strange, depends how you look at it} <em>we put our tree in the middle of the room.</em> </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">And you know what? </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">It's strange, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">unexpected, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">and after much debating, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">questioning, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">and being unsure if I could handle this....</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">....secretly...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> I love it! </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">There, I said it. My secret is out. I actually love the tree in the middle of the room! You can see it from the living room, dining room, kitchen, family room and entryway. Oh and hubby pointed out last night that you can also see it from the hallway. We may just have to eat dinner tonight in the hallway to enjoy the tree from another angle.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMI_6u7PCcBTCVM29TZob5Jyk5xjHra7M_nYjbGhyphenhyphennknUt3llOM9dIel0AqwMEnHXevfb3KBCBKsX0VL2K05h7VTXgrWvqEbzbwbV4AHCEzqKQGGeVwSdZ9eYYrq9Ss5kqSgMFq_DMELHn/s1600/untitled.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMI_6u7PCcBTCVM29TZob5Jyk5xjHra7M_nYjbGhyphenhyphennknUt3llOM9dIel0AqwMEnHXevfb3KBCBKsX0VL2K05h7VTXgrWvqEbzbwbV4AHCEzqKQGGeVwSdZ9eYYrq9Ss5kqSgMFq_DMELHn/s320/untitled.bmp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em><span style="color: #741b47;">At a year round Christmas store.</span></em></strong></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Every time I walk in the room I crack up at the sight of the tree in the middle of the room. Others may not get it. They may not like it. But here's the deal: <em>we like it</em>. We made a memory. We did something unexpected and it produced an afternoon full of entertainment. And while the tree may not be placed here every year, for this year it is <em>perfect</em>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><em><strong>So here's to doing the unexpected, throwing caution to the wind, breaking the rules and trying something new. What are you waiting for? Make a new tradition! Try something unepected! You may just find that you love it... and you might make a lasting memory or two in the process. </strong></em></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Want to take a peek at our afternoon of putting up the tree? Check out our first video-post below!</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Merry Christmas everyone!</em></strong></span></div><br />
<strong><em>All photos taken by yours truly and my hubby.</em></strong>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-74228443925183701252010-11-25T11:41:00.000-08:002010-11-25T11:41:54.319-08:00Gobble Gobble<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr1zqozlbRNlez1SwkARqz3-wPYgK3MMvL7fQICRTY4zUfxtzvDJnsdRhZ6VYxtQsrcFsCxudoh-Eqw-NG3VKqmN5DKV7paejSGy5Mjv2IGVG6Cmm-BfoFJLx58qrr8X1Tllz0NdTHKdNc/s1600/CIMG7811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr1zqozlbRNlez1SwkARqz3-wPYgK3MMvL7fQICRTY4zUfxtzvDJnsdRhZ6VYxtQsrcFsCxudoh-Eqw-NG3VKqmN5DKV7paejSGy5Mjv2IGVG6Cmm-BfoFJLx58qrr8X1Tllz0NdTHKdNc/s320/CIMG7811.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><em><span style="color: #741b47;">Our little pup ready for turkey.</span></em></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;">Happy Thanksgiving to each and every one of you! I hope your day is filled with the love and warmth of family and friends, lots of memory making and of course a delicious dinner.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjipEd-Lj8sUfHgxoIxIULJFZXRR7YYBvOIk0g1CPcZyNUhskj-ZMsTDRgvwVBU0g3b71jqugL7SFVGXpUYEUfBLLSbVSjR4jTfIG6vH-XSxcd3RyPgp9xLWTMiMYPTum7SDoqwSrCKFYUx/s1600/CIMG8148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjipEd-Lj8sUfHgxoIxIULJFZXRR7YYBvOIk0g1CPcZyNUhskj-ZMsTDRgvwVBU0g3b71jqugL7SFVGXpUYEUfBLLSbVSjR4jTfIG6vH-XSxcd3RyPgp9xLWTMiMYPTum7SDoqwSrCKFYUx/s320/CIMG8148.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em><strong><span style="color: #741b47;">Turkey cookies I made for Bible study group.</span></strong></em></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">As we enjoy the long weekend, let us not forget to give thanks to the One from whom all blessings flow. </span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em><span style="font-size: large;">"Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise; be thankful unto him, </span><span style="font-size: large;">and bless his name. For the Lord is good..." </span><span style="font-size: large;">Psalm 100:4, 5a</span></em></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg4lziWiiDgjjRNMAWmeyoVoFJDGnc7U6GWHr0U-fE7opNaGbP-ogdSKTP8i1l49umOlXGCwiBO7xmmVoJg6EGnnjWToepucaIfZid_d4-D5WPJeyUuuTeFWrcpQXVpDFiyL28ADI7vtnN/s1600/CIMG8149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg4lziWiiDgjjRNMAWmeyoVoFJDGnc7U6GWHr0U-fE7opNaGbP-ogdSKTP8i1l49umOlXGCwiBO7xmmVoJg6EGnnjWToepucaIfZid_d4-D5WPJeyUuuTeFWrcpQXVpDFiyL28ADI7vtnN/s320/CIMG8149.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">HAPPY TURKEY DAY!</div>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-20228329434917651572010-11-10T14:02:00.000-08:002010-11-10T14:02:50.658-08:00Favorite Things and Paper Pumpkin Mini Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAa-QyTtEDv5j1i46Elh7-d2No7BkHyzcwd8ofIWUR1JvJbkgL9vdY2BTNu4VovUAc6W0jOaFYQXWggmG58tWrf1jN7NTAIgt-bHl537XqqUluX9Cr_Sd2TtfO6D6EiRsYnAy53tAQMnZQ/s1600/CIMG7791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAa-QyTtEDv5j1i46Elh7-d2No7BkHyzcwd8ofIWUR1JvJbkgL9vdY2BTNu4VovUAc6W0jOaFYQXWggmG58tWrf1jN7NTAIgt-bHl537XqqUluX9Cr_Sd2TtfO6D6EiRsYnAy53tAQMnZQ/s320/CIMG7791.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I said it once {or twice... or more} fall is one of my favorite times of year. The colors, scents, tastes *sigh* just thinking about it makes me happy!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkrnSDhr2Mh4Sw2WO-lzz6fugNuwUjHRkphdkshVAu1rnfDjBqLmkVyQdd0mZeIkKrkgzY74GXMR-rS0eDBidE1RxNWRsH8f6JriSexdRu8cIQCTiTr3B64HS8sc3qSdiocCVBu1CwV3ml/s1600/CIMG7548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkrnSDhr2Mh4Sw2WO-lzz6fugNuwUjHRkphdkshVAu1rnfDjBqLmkVyQdd0mZeIkKrkgzY74GXMR-rS0eDBidE1RxNWRsH8f6JriSexdRu8cIQCTiTr3B64HS8sc3qSdiocCVBu1CwV3ml/s320/CIMG7548.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So as you can imagine it is one of my favorite seasons to decorate for as well. This year I thought that I would try out some neutral fall decor in the coca-cola room. Seeing as it is decorated in red, black, and white I needed something to stand out while not competing with the riot of colors in there. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibk-sG5Oa-y-px2VQsLKzkIheKgJZRvGwReivhoPq3WF4rkYwSmoPqb8uz4yNsekIfCWsAdQEmoJeAiBEsvSB58lBnaUbHJWVOJladSdjf-5Yxc-gnnRlcQHh3cAnv-mVGt1WNOWAkcIf9/s1600/CIMG7750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibk-sG5Oa-y-px2VQsLKzkIheKgJZRvGwReivhoPq3WF4rkYwSmoPqb8uz4yNsekIfCWsAdQEmoJeAiBEsvSB58lBnaUbHJWVOJladSdjf-5Yxc-gnnRlcQHh3cAnv-mVGt1WNOWAkcIf9/s320/CIMG7750.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Perfect chance to try out the black, white, and brown pumpkins I've been itching to make. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGFW2JZKUZO74SNN2ppZUq_GsvHBQUQF23hL6a5wN2knDw-wTRjX6rMZhTqDslQ2KdgfLv65bMH2Uj0JQZZeztEy3jYdIoNkMVbEFmLNYJbjpR_xg2xmSdCH-cPHmvSU-D-b6wIT39XWn8/s1600/CIMG8135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGFW2JZKUZO74SNN2ppZUq_GsvHBQUQF23hL6a5wN2knDw-wTRjX6rMZhTqDslQ2KdgfLv65bMH2Uj0JQZZeztEy3jYdIoNkMVbEFmLNYJbjpR_xg2xmSdCH-cPHmvSU-D-b6wIT39XWn8/s320/CIMG8135.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Small random interruption: OK, I just want to say something really quick. If you have not had time to decorate for thanksgiving/fall do not dismay. There is still time! If your little heart longs to see at least a bit of fall decor in your home <strong>go for it</strong>! It's never to late to make at least an entryway display, a simple centerpiece, or maybe a little touch on top of your mantle or bookcase. Keep it simple, no need to fret - autumn can still make an appearance in your home! Actually, these pumpkins are so ridiculously simple and inexpensive to make that these could be your touch of fall this year. Ok, I'm done. Getting of my soapbox :)</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljt8df9GqhySPafT5RlO6e99fPoTC5rTUme87aV-ZsBn0Bj9P1zP-mJhWtwQGI57n44fJo7Duv4aBXWQo6gUeIKzbe3oGVwZ1CozlbJ8lJ1G89gTaKL1ORX1fOhn98kiDAysTlbqcL78P/s1600/CIMG7461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljt8df9GqhySPafT5RlO6e99fPoTC5rTUme87aV-ZsBn0Bj9P1zP-mJhWtwQGI57n44fJo7Duv4aBXWQo6gUeIKzbe3oGVwZ1CozlbJ8lJ1G89gTaKL1ORX1fOhn98kiDAysTlbqcL78P/s320/CIMG7461.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So as I was saying, I really wanted to try out a white pumpkin this year but the faux {and real ones} were just to pricey for me. I had an unspoken budget.... $1.00. Ok not really, but that is all I <em>really</em> wanted to pay for a single pumpkin. And lucky me, I found this one at the Dollar Tree. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkYlXBaqCpAbH6DT_JWaiyZtJuWrkvYuKDErcg9TUWbh7lMMCU3ZReEemGhKpu6Y5bYl9TYnGkdjqv2d6ZjqQvfonPkHSUZrADPkAquHQok3tSkSuj6dncneLi27faHoA6dy8DYsjyspxz/s1600/CIMG7464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkYlXBaqCpAbH6DT_JWaiyZtJuWrkvYuKDErcg9TUWbh7lMMCU3ZReEemGhKpu6Y5bYl9TYnGkdjqv2d6ZjqQvfonPkHSUZrADPkAquHQok3tSkSuj6dncneLi27faHoA6dy8DYsjyspxz/s320/CIMG7464.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">After a 3 quick coats of plain old 99 cent glossy spray paint it was ready to decorate. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivQa-3qkiwDVKJuSzTQWU0nz7WqZze81qeClLAdhLsT0xo_zpapUHUptCRY29l1OwkOkKSvusVcoHZpkFRSu4vYYSCF4wOm3qekXpilQxUk92qbK0PgPpqrQ-x6wkUWmFBsfSuZmWUpY2-/s1600/CIMG7463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivQa-3qkiwDVKJuSzTQWU0nz7WqZze81qeClLAdhLsT0xo_zpapUHUptCRY29l1OwkOkKSvusVcoHZpkFRSu4vYYSCF4wOm3qekXpilQxUk92qbK0PgPpqrQ-x6wkUWmFBsfSuZmWUpY2-/s320/CIMG7463.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">{By the way, always prop or hang the item you are spray painting. It will help you reach every corner and crevice on each coat. Here I am using a candle holder with a big stake in the center, covered with tissue paper. So easy!}</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYETRQmJ9I8P-2NEVgYG473UdJGKKRef_Uj4T1KUBr1fswkxl5EGCbnWrlfde6w3h98gPaSNonWzWtJvvwrDb3vDD8O0yXjaLo1prbcWWykjJgFu7ouAtACwTsmH-ag88Hy9TapnfN5qR/s1600/CIMG7487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYETRQmJ9I8P-2NEVgYG473UdJGKKRef_Uj4T1KUBr1fswkxl5EGCbnWrlfde6w3h98gPaSNonWzWtJvvwrDb3vDD8O0yXjaLo1prbcWWykjJgFu7ouAtACwTsmH-ag88Hy9TapnfN5qR/s320/CIMG7487.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So all that was left was to decorate my happy white pumpkin. A bit of left over ribbon {which was from the dollar bin last year} covered the "seam" on the pumpkin and a little bow for cuteness. I was a tad bit worried that the glue gun would melt this foam-like pumpkin, but it worked great - score 1 more point for the glue gun!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQaB3mAhSK2rpzUY1yYvGdnuo16hQ60eEbUfEuOWgYxdLiQKLDXA-45AVYo73TuEi-7hJ3640pptG1sKm0S4lEHpQSJqX-bpDvoRWBqGmXzLWOA5GQxcFV8oh1jhCKAe8w7_6hcGy9pqot/s1600/CIMG7546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQaB3mAhSK2rpzUY1yYvGdnuo16hQ60eEbUfEuOWgYxdLiQKLDXA-45AVYo73TuEi-7hJ3640pptG1sKm0S4lEHpQSJqX-bpDvoRWBqGmXzLWOA5GQxcFV8oh1jhCKAe8w7_6hcGy9pqot/s320/CIMG7546.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>How simple and CUTE is that?!?! </em></span></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/AVvXsEiz7IHfDquX-__pSZQGqxdqdrH2hyphenhyphenJMnKvUrz-hMfWfx9s9luB1bTAUSyvDD_pLV-EWMI5zE2vmMq3k5-KcyAnv1UtgsyWw3fwW5mv-0coH1NZ1nzeqRyYQGfdRO4x7YN4KdLU6pulWvGo_/s1600/CIMG7549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7IHfDquX-__pSZQGqxdqdrH2hyphenhyphenJMnKvUrz-hMfWfx9s9luB1bTAUSyvDD_pLV-EWMI5zE2vmMq3k5-KcyAnv1UtgsyWw3fwW5mv-0coH1NZ1nzeqRyYQGfdRO4x7YN4KdLU6pulWvGo_/s320/CIMG7549.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I loved it so much that I went back and got 3 more. So I guess this project cost me $4.00. A price I am willing to pay for a whole table top of decor!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwWwOICW12oTj2Rp7M8yl5KDusvg9AmO_mvso2Md4G0-B5_kvPDuom2gsygHYG6La6p1DSeqrPIAJ0kZQlRjwpbfOoS1Rc_J7ZqAgOQ7rLYgXZev-EbXD1dqFaGEr89YPVsux6YHNIBYG/s1600/CIMG7769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwWwOICW12oTj2Rp7M8yl5KDusvg9AmO_mvso2Md4G0-B5_kvPDuom2gsygHYG6La6p1DSeqrPIAJ0kZQlRjwpbfOoS1Rc_J7ZqAgOQ7rLYgXZev-EbXD1dqFaGEr89YPVsux6YHNIBYG/s320/CIMG7769.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin #2 got a coat of white as well, black ric-rak every 5 inches or so, and two little leaves made out of a scrap of black and white gingham fabric. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qkSzW-4CngXfGyQE_QMOP2bln49yuEVPrI0I816zn0D6hSDNddWumsgfJAEMEUsemMJPA0FbZ5NhAAQaLGoH55OuLLnuYDrseRp5GvZ1253s6r6WI7V_LfZMt9mXCm-T_Pgjwa5de6bE/s1600/CIMG7760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qkSzW-4CngXfGyQE_QMOP2bln49yuEVPrI0I816zn0D6hSDNddWumsgfJAEMEUsemMJPA0FbZ5NhAAQaLGoH55OuLLnuYDrseRp5GvZ1253s6r6WI7V_LfZMt9mXCm-T_Pgjwa5de6bE/s320/CIMG7760.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Both ribbon and fabric were attached with my trusty glue gun, of course. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5xXLxutBp2z1pSe9oiOMYgo7WNe2eHbH4cx5w1q5qozU3R4ZJ9W-VcBzZegePN3DzBFNJ4rRIgfFls4LPgJGyoyYaffqs12-y70gQK-1l8nQ5lgak2lcWO9d_8S3IbRQw8svYzAtEKe3u/s1600/CIMG7762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5xXLxutBp2z1pSe9oiOMYgo7WNe2eHbH4cx5w1q5qozU3R4ZJ9W-VcBzZegePN3DzBFNJ4rRIgfFls4LPgJGyoyYaffqs12-y70gQK-1l8nQ5lgak2lcWO9d_8S3IbRQw8svYzAtEKe3u/s320/CIMG7762.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin #3 was coated in flat black cheap-o spray paint. Then I took a white Chalk Ink marker and free handed the squiggles all around and up the stem. A few rhinestones here and there applied with... you guessed it... the glue gun.. and done!!! Are you seeing a pattern here? Easy, Inexpensive, Satisfying. Oh yea, and glue gun.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7aVuL9dOULtSYrQUYosB1njIhR6dx0MYY5LYzm91E58BXCUWf4FBYbZ-nsGSL-ybjjU2182_Ft1HXi97Sp46GfWaifYFuI8DNRgh6-0ooG-cCWtLZDS5Q-rZhbeW9eBSBRhgnxUHo47j/s1600/CIMG7759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7aVuL9dOULtSYrQUYosB1njIhR6dx0MYY5LYzm91E58BXCUWf4FBYbZ-nsGSL-ybjjU2182_Ft1HXi97Sp46GfWaifYFuI8DNRgh6-0ooG-cCWtLZDS5Q-rZhbeW9eBSBRhgnxUHo47j/s320/CIMG7759.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The last pumpkin took a bit more time {like 10 minutes more, that's it!} I scanned and color copied some old sheet music that belonged to my darling grandmother. It already had some yellowing to it which copied as a great creamy brown. No photoshop adjustments or any fancy tricks. I just put it in the scanner, pressed color copy </span><span style="font-size: large;">and printed it out onto regular old printer paper. How simple is that? </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibouiH1y_bBHmv8g4jYq7rccdhNBEbTHJpDczjlOn80HLEz_jS0jTOrU9NmNrc-gwdTjk0tb5QPlfw46D77mx3vIjZi7DaYHn7ILwFh9Y8GfI9L8_rokxDXUD5IiowF6XKBXc_vOcEtXRI/s1600/CIMG7767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibouiH1y_bBHmv8g4jYq7rccdhNBEbTHJpDczjlOn80HLEz_jS0jTOrU9NmNrc-gwdTjk0tb5QPlfw46D77mx3vIjZi7DaYHn7ILwFh9Y8GfI9L8_rokxDXUD5IiowF6XKBXc_vOcEtXRI/s320/CIMG7767.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Then I tore it into random strips and chunks{no smaller than 2"x 2"} and mod podged them onto the pumpkin. As I placed each piece, I crumpled it up even more to give it some texture. I also made sure to press the paper really well into each vertical crevice on the pumpkin so that it would retain it's natural pumpkin shape. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM96VRG0c7_dJ-Mk1iBOQ2RVKe9QDZQFs_qqAUMBd4UWa4TtICFslB-5st6fH991GpMG5jW3NAvMRZrO8QVHu3G4iHGCyshfJP4nRQbd7max998MSanNHwYIMhBt9Z-9RRMA5oJyBThCtM/s1600/CIMG7794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM96VRG0c7_dJ-Mk1iBOQ2RVKe9QDZQFs_qqAUMBd4UWa4TtICFslB-5st6fH991GpMG5jW3NAvMRZrO8QVHu3G4iHGCyshfJP4nRQbd7max998MSanNHwYIMhBt9Z-9RRMA5oJyBThCtM/s320/CIMG7794.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">After letting it dry, the stem got a coat of black acrylic paint - applied with my finger. I was to lazy to find a brush for only that. The finishing touch was some jute all twisted up in a bow and .... drum roll please... glue gunned on! Bet you didn't see that coming. Yes, my glue gun and I are inseparable.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIgpD8M7_lYC_heviijFE3qWZYHpv-mVV_UGOU3msU-kFNzXBFOrDm8n7k_3DHww6A2NcdoCdSW9kkIJLkE5HyUpiK3xUEjtKTySz02Cb_Tb5g_sRNUBNPS7b5FYBasq9sDeSKp5M1zX32/s1600/CIMG8127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIgpD8M7_lYC_heviijFE3qWZYHpv-mVV_UGOU3msU-kFNzXBFOrDm8n7k_3DHww6A2NcdoCdSW9kkIJLkE5HyUpiK3xUEjtKTySz02Cb_Tb5g_sRNUBNPS7b5FYBasq9sDeSKp5M1zX32/s320/CIMG8127.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">There you have it! Four of the easiest pumpkins I have ever made... and they make my little heart happy every time I see them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>Have you decorated for fall? If not, are you planning on a few touches for thanksgiving?</em></strong></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><strong><em>All photos taken by yours truly and Mr. "too Blessed to Stress" aka, the hubby.</em></strong>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6106701066158595438.post-61953128897517602402010-11-09T14:41:00.000-08:002010-11-11T22:29:21.739-08:00A Meal Fit For A Porker<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOIOYfWHvx-yFPLOtY4UQFG-q_ZqQ1EXsNSmM9fsGW3t9fJGQqdpEVCXb2KgWxqkk6dRWcP3z01ZBiI0S_utVhKYtGIYbeWIXuOhMMeGBrNkdONDZYA5UBbZUrUb-57RB0cl8Ed7wli0ZD/s1600/CIMG7981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOIOYfWHvx-yFPLOtY4UQFG-q_ZqQ1EXsNSmM9fsGW3t9fJGQqdpEVCXb2KgWxqkk6dRWcP3z01ZBiI0S_utVhKYtGIYbeWIXuOhMMeGBrNkdONDZYA5UBbZUrUb-57RB0cl8Ed7wli0ZD/s320/CIMG7981.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Hello lovelies! wowie it feels so good to be back blogging!!! October was a whirlwind of work. It is truly the busiest month of the year for us. I was gone almost every weekend and it was a mad dash just to get dinner on the table some nights. Thankfully, it was <u>all</u> fun work and very rewarding... but whew! Am I tired!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHXJi8VAg8eZubQrBUcpM_AXBhkDWpN8pLbo9hqiFaPLAcfc0dFAFgbDlW9rHNZI_u31gfG9lTvCJK3N40-6nKxb-r4mzOOJWMdgQfCDSdSqG5FeLNN4P-xIi8-yxGYvOk2po2nlu0s_qp/s1600/CIMG7966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHXJi8VAg8eZubQrBUcpM_AXBhkDWpN8pLbo9hqiFaPLAcfc0dFAFgbDlW9rHNZI_u31gfG9lTvCJK3N40-6nKxb-r4mzOOJWMdgQfCDSdSqG5FeLNN4P-xIi8-yxGYvOk2po2nlu0s_qp/s320/CIMG7966.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Even with all the running around and moments of craziness hubby and I did reserve a few nights to hang out. On one of those evenings I decided to host a Pig Dinner For Two. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHsfyGGmjLevXj29n6A-oxiT-RS4qnvbsPzxXt6CwSWEjQ-xvE97P8wAzXpyHu6JsN8Kj56phlDnODhJlqTh_DLuFyuprNtz0OY7UVn4-tyGyyp5qARfoTH7AN4Nb0EzfJmjYUP5tiAaP/s1600/CIMG7964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHsfyGGmjLevXj29n6A-oxiT-RS4qnvbsPzxXt6CwSWEjQ-xvE97P8wAzXpyHu6JsN8Kj56phlDnODhJlqTh_DLuFyuprNtz0OY7UVn4-tyGyyp5qARfoTH7AN4Nb0EzfJmjYUP5tiAaP/s320/CIMG7964.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You see I had this idea for some piggie cupcakes and a themed dinner that I had been wanting to try out for a while... and since there were no kids visiting us in the near future, I decided that the two of us could use a night of laughs and acting like kiddos. So I just want ahead and made a whole pig themed dinner for hubby and me.... and our pup who eats like a pig. oink.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgUwl_YqGq6J2X1JfUxPE55AFLCBaCASUrwzOjlnn1RKs-5_mNHwmQU1ZEDTA5qvLgZCgESooh8NYqZLm81JQsbxK_rZXMCcrrzEEmL1waCfSPA2mRehQLyX8j5eJBzZxbeKNr5H0DMFTG/s1600/CIMG7961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgUwl_YqGq6J2X1JfUxPE55AFLCBaCASUrwzOjlnn1RKs-5_mNHwmQU1ZEDTA5qvLgZCgESooh8NYqZLm81JQsbxK_rZXMCcrrzEEmL1waCfSPA2mRehQLyX8j5eJBzZxbeKNr5H0DMFTG/s320/CIMG7961.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Just for fun I wrote out a dinner menu.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm5yHazMs11U1yQNYL2p9HU7Gv_TmxvdhbAizrhwqNQ1-okcpfMYYe3bfy7tWMAedHO9VdRhzdEx3kon11duTdwidfDAzsAnHZ9IikRJB2DC5QfQkZ3K7AtWSJQHw6AdxF-7ubq7adRESb/s1600/CIMG7957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm5yHazMs11U1yQNYL2p9HU7Gv_TmxvdhbAizrhwqNQ1-okcpfMYYe3bfy7tWMAedHO9VdRhzdEx3kon11duTdwidfDAzsAnHZ9IikRJB2DC5QfQkZ3K7AtWSJQHw6AdxF-7ubq7adRESb/s320/CIMG7957.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-size: large;">I made sure to include plenty piggie references all over the table.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There were even pigglets on the napkins! </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4RUQqV2TQejsudHZ76L0fZMW6G_Cz6bOinbLWvXVmTvtJv1Uqj62oEple2ZGuHrEy2fP5d8pW8thJBXGP14H26lfXtpdzaPZdl1g_Yjf15QIdqKeQaS7yNwZcbCZVTNpAujXYJJ0dMddU/s1600/CIMG7958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4RUQqV2TQejsudHZ76L0fZMW6G_Cz6bOinbLWvXVmTvtJv1Uqj62oEple2ZGuHrEy2fP5d8pW8thJBXGP14H26lfXtpdzaPZdl1g_Yjf15QIdqKeQaS7yNwZcbCZVTNpAujXYJJ0dMddU/s320/CIMG7958.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;">This is so simple: Just print out an image to the desired size, cut out with decorative scissors, punch a hole in the top and use small ribbon to tie on to napkin. ta-da!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ndsim1tT1H7UidkqumwDT3Uk-DYEJFwb56SyP1McWEBKYF71HQu-ADvtIWB2ecBXdqerWc2XyMabUxjc_s_d9UnXpAGOE8717Vfy8fenSvpwgNRt_aM7QcIDct2YLZWAoDkHTA9Amldw/s1600/CIMG7959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ndsim1tT1H7UidkqumwDT3Uk-DYEJFwb56SyP1McWEBKYF71HQu-ADvtIWB2ecBXdqerWc2XyMabUxjc_s_d9UnXpAGOE8717Vfy8fenSvpwgNRt_aM7QcIDct2YLZWAoDkHTA9Amldw/s320/CIMG7959.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">There was even a little porker waiting to surprise you when you took a drink of your lemonade.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBjeg3qljO51wJ97L_ZlFgpL5Egbvf_UiEj-f2R4fxPGBEuD_O8pYYW-JZ0neAoC4iUrDwvZj_J8p-m1_ZGaR1kqrBfjxUA5uEIvTlLLM6nu-g91pTB_hrZBSZ2w5jn-g2ef3kUMK3htm5/s1600/CIMG7969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBjeg3qljO51wJ97L_ZlFgpL5Egbvf_UiEj-f2R4fxPGBEuD_O8pYYW-JZ0neAoC4iUrDwvZj_J8p-m1_ZGaR1kqrBfjxUA5uEIvTlLLM6nu-g91pTB_hrZBSZ2w5jn-g2ef3kUMK3htm5/s320/CIMG7969.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>I only have eyes for you!</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjyMLyw8QEpuY2aZOCaeR1hz2qWNdeyyA9eTejY_NfbP-u6leTGPR3iIvDachbt2Bm4eBNHJubBzNDUmHSgVgCxquZ4pNOt4UpgtdJ23kOXy_t1cKyCJLPRyBeungAJm4ASloDM5340eSi/s1600/CIMG7985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjyMLyw8QEpuY2aZOCaeR1hz2qWNdeyyA9eTejY_NfbP-u6leTGPR3iIvDachbt2Bm4eBNHJubBzNDUmHSgVgCxquZ4pNOt4UpgtdJ23kOXy_t1cKyCJLPRyBeungAJm4ASloDM5340eSi/s320/CIMG7985.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">These piggie pancakes were so simple to make. All you need is your favorite pancake batter recipe, some red food dye and a squeeze bottle. I used the candy melt squeeze bottles, but you could even use something like a clean left over ketchup bottle.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJSb9qAOff2zMw26xerK4D1uPVKDvMHO_naLWq2d1OTL0PgXLQt1NIRtPG4qA6HQVzBMaXSxzd8TPB3PcMjCRi_Yw9-g11d9l_OBAKrG2BVnK_0pONPt-VfsqnaFBF_QZEl1Lx4a5Aspj/s1600/CIMG7986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJSb9qAOff2zMw26xerK4D1uPVKDvMHO_naLWq2d1OTL0PgXLQt1NIRtPG4qA6HQVzBMaXSxzd8TPB3PcMjCRi_Yw9-g11d9l_OBAKrG2BVnK_0pONPt-VfsqnaFBF_QZEl1Lx4a5Aspj/s320/CIMG7986.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Just pour some batter in to the bottle, add a few drops of dye and shake/squish it around till you have a dark pink dye. Then squirt out the head, snout, eyes and ears and let them cook for a bit. Fill in with plain batter. When it gets all bubbly, turn over to finish cooking and you'll have a perfect piggie face. How cute is that!</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWPU796zmzUqe-IbzBU2x8sB7eUkigLbxbmpUD4GQwJfkj0U9NPVpHXHCh8k7NA-426kIgcQXcsmCZRMNdvclUYyXu-_P0JM8iww-uIZeoEc5obTGO2k1Ls32_DHMU8vBcEi9q_YejEOkt/s1600/CIMG7971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWPU796zmzUqe-IbzBU2x8sB7eUkigLbxbmpUD4GQwJfkj0U9NPVpHXHCh8k7NA-426kIgcQXcsmCZRMNdvclUYyXu-_P0JM8iww-uIZeoEc5obTGO2k1Ls32_DHMU8vBcEi9q_YejEOkt/s320/CIMG7971.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The stars of the evening were these little piggie cupcakes. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVSqscxCztoAl7s-Lj_9uQB9h9zj44c6LEUVqs7CPM_7ruFAQu1GEc84YfX7MQeKDN9mn9unm1IqozJW_UZ-hZftquUxVVMzubL9ixOVM3cJvY9jebAiZ6wcW0nthYu3eH1Icgai8ai0qV/s1600/CIMG7973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVSqscxCztoAl7s-Lj_9uQB9h9zj44c6LEUVqs7CPM_7ruFAQu1GEc84YfX7MQeKDN9mn9unm1IqozJW_UZ-hZftquUxVVMzubL9ixOVM3cJvY9jebAiZ6wcW0nthYu3eH1Icgai8ai0qV/s320/CIMG7973.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">These really are so easy to make. They were fudge chocolate with chocolate chips and cream cheese frosting... oh my yummy goodness!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4IlFN7nr_37fY8Z_xNMuZQbVTIHNjqGUkmJqP6zlfA6z8B6WXf-_s7NlpDnlJABG34w7gIyT_gF9N-Ybbm_M6XUj6dMcHNHr6HSf5c4JrYKIT-EVBHiGJo9jBcxjFUqWis4YrvEiOYuW-/s1600/CIMG7972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4IlFN7nr_37fY8Z_xNMuZQbVTIHNjqGUkmJqP6zlfA6z8B6WXf-_s7NlpDnlJABG34w7gIyT_gF9N-Ybbm_M6XUj6dMcHNHr6HSf5c4JrYKIT-EVBHiGJo9jBcxjFUqWis4YrvEiOYuW-/s320/CIMG7972.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I'll have a tutorial for these and the pancakes later this week... and it will be in video form!!! That's right... video posts will soon be coming to "too Blessed to Stress" and I can't wait to share them with you!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope you enjoyed the Piggie Dinner, and that you'll be inspired to try out your own themed meal sometime. If you do, send me photos or a link to your post, because I would love to see!</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>What animal {or animals} would you chose for a themed dinner?</em></strong></span></div><br />
Partying with <a href="http://tidymom.net/2010/im-lovin-it-owl-smores/">Tidy Mom at her linky party. Check it out!</a><br />
<strong><em>All photos taken by yours truly and Mr."too Blessed to Stress, my hubby!</em></strong>So Sunny Dayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16359428447475307345noreply@blogger.com5