tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31930885239612034412024-02-07T21:26:24.580-08:00It's Just Me...and my coffee!Some days I am very thoughtful of what I put here. It may be very deep and serious - most days it's just light and factual. All of the time - it's Just Me! You can also find my crafts here. Leave a comment so I know you stopped by!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger486125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-42001723900961518232010-12-05T01:17:00.001-08:002010-12-05T01:25:54.667-08:00My New Blog Space...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiE3y95NZKOmlvx48s859BonEvanTqMic6RM7qmHcTZ0U1gdxAZVvdH0hXh_JJfoZCGeYjwXOud1TGTqM664Oqw6de0d6c7DPhx5i0s3ngmaeMjqORbzHfRSyYH5n6dhRbeNIOSkgVraa4/s1600/PB130603.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5547126900901581602" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiE3y95NZKOmlvx48s859BonEvanTqMic6RM7qmHcTZ0U1gdxAZVvdH0hXh_JJfoZCGeYjwXOud1TGTqM664Oqw6de0d6c7DPhx5i0s3ngmaeMjqORbzHfRSyYH5n6dhRbeNIOSkgVraa4/s400/PB130603.JPG" /></a><br /><div>Hey readers! I have been wanting to make some changes to my blog. What I really need to do is take a crash course in blog design so that I can set up my own blog to suit my needs, but until then, I can be found <a href="http://heartjournaling.blogspot.com/">here</a> at HE{ART}. I separated my blog last year to have a space for my art and a space for my ramblings. I also started facebooking a lot more. The result was a neglected blog(s). I am finding that I want to share more of my heart and more of my art. It's all a part of being TRUE to myself and to others. So...if you care to join me, I'd love to have you FOLLOW me to my HE{ART} blog. See you there!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-30573728376363447922010-11-12T22:52:00.000-08:002010-11-12T23:33:43.212-08:00November 12 on 12...Is there really just one more 12 on 12 left for 2010?? Oh.wow! I can not believe it. This year is just flying by! We have been quite busy here in our household. It's only going to get busier because we've got the holidays coming, I am going to be doing some volunteer work 3 days a week at the elementary school and aaaaaallllll the rest of the fun that goes with this time of year. <br />Well, I had a few fun things happen today. The first is that I woke up to find that my Slug Buster painting was the featured art for the home page of my Soul Journaling group on Yahoo. This painting was the result of a challenge and they are called misfits. You can read more about it on my art blog <a href="http://alteredtoperfection.blogspot.com/2010/10/so-inspired.html">here</a>.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrqYvMoNRsKDfNdh93LEw7oWuaE-L1q4POifAF2BLL_OSp3Ybef14XGAvBBng84jga0RfC5ql9KQyziohPl0TkmeqFC6NnpeCEersjkLWMiR5TMQZ0Pb0My8KKES_r5SNI0jjzQSnRQFE-/s1600/PB120556.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538925751364029218" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrqYvMoNRsKDfNdh93LEw7oWuaE-L1q4POifAF2BLL_OSp3Ybef14XGAvBBng84jga0RfC5ql9KQyziohPl0TkmeqFC6NnpeCEersjkLWMiR5TMQZ0Pb0My8KKES_r5SNI0jjzQSnRQFE-/s400/PB120556.JPG" /></a><br />Marco has recently taken a great interest in small matchbox cars. He's had a few for a while, but he's just now getting the "hang" of how to play with them. So cute to see him setting them up and then crashing and racing them all over.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh75kjUszT-04Ix4CoArM6s-msvw5tAvG5pojuPZjRt9vhjn7QvNhjTEtjiBILW2PV9TIwdfEwFaKWI_Vir10fGfpBEkIOksJzFGtFw3QY0Dd_SQ5z7VV62iCYRwDIr_ODRnPwd_ll8KTav/s1600/PB120558.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538925740812637378" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh75kjUszT-04Ix4CoArM6s-msvw5tAvG5pojuPZjRt9vhjn7QvNhjTEtjiBILW2PV9TIwdfEwFaKWI_Vir10fGfpBEkIOksJzFGtFw3QY0Dd_SQ5z7VV62iCYRwDIr_ODRnPwd_ll8KTav/s400/PB120558.JPG" /></a><br />Naomi's recent favorite is a 99 cent microphone that I bought for her. It's just made of plastic and echoes back to you. She loves singing into it...<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELwfP1QABJPHfspnub5iKcnPuA1AlKA4349UY6_MyVujj4UnKBJ2Ph04mhUjqaNAhN9G_Yn1MkQDNyH5L31NWHzI8v0k0s1Ncyt-MNwUOKu4g2c6hAQyDipumekVVCRtCD0yTbcQ3_qfW/s1600/PB120560.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538925736155136562" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELwfP1QABJPHfspnub5iKcnPuA1AlKA4349UY6_MyVujj4UnKBJ2Ph04mhUjqaNAhN9G_Yn1MkQDNyH5L31NWHzI8v0k0s1Ncyt-MNwUOKu4g2c6hAQyDipumekVVCRtCD0yTbcQ3_qfW/s400/PB120560.JPG" /></a><br /><div>When he's not playing with his cars or doing "karate", you can find him with one of his best friends...Oso.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqqhs5pt31YxXeZ58KoWmGzsOGN1xxgZBvY-7CaoYosdIYH4BmNQ8OPCOjUooJ3VGMJKwAteWHcWxlXJHgNvfHqbsMXks_lPZ6RfZ-dF_1edwkn7_pwsVptY0MqZASm8smVkJ3lvbq0dPU/s1600/PB120561.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538925134003797314" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqqhs5pt31YxXeZ58KoWmGzsOGN1xxgZBvY-7CaoYosdIYH4BmNQ8OPCOjUooJ3VGMJKwAteWHcWxlXJHgNvfHqbsMXks_lPZ6RfZ-dF_1edwkn7_pwsVptY0MqZASm8smVkJ3lvbq0dPU/s400/PB120561.JPG" /></a><br />Okay. This candle is my new favorite. The other one (Creamy Pumpkin) was great, but THIS one. Ahhhhhh... I love it.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimYlfYVh7a9fPAqO3VhhSMiVzbpFzv3eVKZ5jiGlyYyBF_gNl4Fb_55ZtU1mssahaY08rCJirwWGzmgOhfl-sICIIdZE8fYmdmgfteH9XwkZ8rgrUerrMuzEZpRR89GXsTpoDzw0MfgvXU/s1600/PB120564.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538925127497598290" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimYlfYVh7a9fPAqO3VhhSMiVzbpFzv3eVKZ5jiGlyYyBF_gNl4Fb_55ZtU1mssahaY08rCJirwWGzmgOhfl-sICIIdZE8fYmdmgfteH9XwkZ8rgrUerrMuzEZpRR89GXsTpoDzw0MfgvXU/s400/PB120564.JPG" /></a><br />I've been using my Sharpies and pens a lot more these days, but I was searching for my very favorite black pen and could not find it. It was a black fine tip pen and I am pretty sure it was called Precision. I finally found it, but it was almost dry. I can't read the name on it, 'cause it was worn away. Anyway, I dumped out the whole container of pens to look for it, and then had to reorganize. I'm glad I did, but now I still need my favorite pen.</div><div>*My Sharpies always disappear thanks to my two older girls...but do you notice that they never take the YELLOW? *Shaking my head*</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGe9dpQahUWXs4r8mSCfTfd5ZJMy1cRvtOGXx8e2eBOfH7QARZR_mTlbTE2GW7_xKEi0MOK0XCKi1K1eYxglPj79Zz0Ytmubu4GPYvJ-v8z3Fe5VoLbg9Vcm6qHbVUPzp-TiFIBN7xr3b8/s1600/PB120566.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538925119857904418" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGe9dpQahUWXs4r8mSCfTfd5ZJMy1cRvtOGXx8e2eBOfH7QARZR_mTlbTE2GW7_xKEi0MOK0XCKi1K1eYxglPj79Zz0Ytmubu4GPYvJ-v8z3Fe5VoLbg9Vcm6qHbVUPzp-TiFIBN7xr3b8/s400/PB120566.JPG" /></a><br />We took the family to Korean BBQ for lunch (cheaper at lunch!) to celebrate Taryn's birthday and brought a small cake along to sing to her. She turned 11 yesterday on 11/11. =)<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9QGSxBYE7fVtgkmR2k6mFjf0HQ-YWAFUBpFSU4oiyAcsarwfnmGDyjzTpZ0KJnVpoCmhQGt9WwZWOuFaqXzUBYhVeUpP5FMO2y7Q8qNlK9e_Ux1zfULQCy2m6MKORARkJv-2ilH68Y2c0/s1600/PB120576.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538925112185725010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9QGSxBYE7fVtgkmR2k6mFjf0HQ-YWAFUBpFSU4oiyAcsarwfnmGDyjzTpZ0KJnVpoCmhQGt9WwZWOuFaqXzUBYhVeUpP5FMO2y7Q8qNlK9e_Ux1zfULQCy2m6MKORARkJv-2ilH68Y2c0/s400/PB120576.JPG" /></a><br />Had to capture a picture of Hannah today. We all went to the mall after lunch because both of the girls had birthday money to burn. haha My beautiful girl almost always has some kind of flower in her hair. I love that.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS1YjZHrQZmTjoMdoA73qBrR5bdBrGDDkgcZI_B-YKsZ-9V6F5XMOYGYsmfWckcB_XcTzC0EO2nRg_aMbb0pwcafUN_dfchjC0hFdfH2XNpbBc2gTdtpnmIAVJ8nKl1slUMnPhKAd9r9vB/s1600/PB120583.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538924397455833554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS1YjZHrQZmTjoMdoA73qBrR5bdBrGDDkgcZI_B-YKsZ-9V6F5XMOYGYsmfWckcB_XcTzC0EO2nRg_aMbb0pwcafUN_dfchjC0hFdfH2XNpbBc2gTdtpnmIAVJ8nKl1slUMnPhKAd9r9vB/s400/PB120583.JPG" /></a><br />We went into Claire's jewelry and I usually roll my eyes at them for wanting to spend money on that stuff. I always tell them that it's going to fall apart. haha. Anyway, my eyes came across a display of the most beautiful stuff. I wanted everything in this collection!!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUw0qC8coLgxnw8PbnOnmVY0NpFBiv_Q9uIuZkp2h9-y2HCjXrzCOQpLu9zJLN-Ah1j6mmpnYD6vmlPK2vqjg_UN1GaQXKmePNoOCSLP6FysTtDIG6KQ0Klvikrv9N0C-P2Qe7vHemha_d/s1600/PB120586.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538924390482449346" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUw0qC8coLgxnw8PbnOnmVY0NpFBiv_Q9uIuZkp2h9-y2HCjXrzCOQpLu9zJLN-Ah1j6mmpnYD6vmlPK2vqjg_UN1GaQXKmePNoOCSLP6FysTtDIG6KQ0Klvikrv9N0C-P2Qe7vHemha_d/s400/PB120586.JPG" /></a><br />We went into the Disney store because Taryn wanted to find some kind of Perry the Platypus item. The two little ones were in heaven! We don't go to the mall very often and this was fun for them. =D<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtWJ8ICFYufWRXlLJd8jFWfA_nwGxwPiUUNF1xqODryHUnoUCy8RRgNHxCtPL_zXFVr3kbeh-XiJTMgF0ccQqybbTFsGmqcFiLP1PvtmXXvcf5WgWOypHWQVpxEJLAvUBTX3iJb9dQ8Uz/s1600/PB120588.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538924385862119730" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtWJ8ICFYufWRXlLJd8jFWfA_nwGxwPiUUNF1xqODryHUnoUCy8RRgNHxCtPL_zXFVr3kbeh-XiJTMgF0ccQqybbTFsGmqcFiLP1PvtmXXvcf5WgWOypHWQVpxEJLAvUBTX3iJb9dQ8Uz/s400/PB120588.JPG" /></a><br />Not too long ago, I shared how I won a doodle challenge on one of my yahoo groups. The package I got was packed full of cool vintage papers and ephemera. Anyway, there was a strip that was punched from some sort of text and it looked like a lace doily. I LOVED that little strip. So dainty, but clean, detailed lines. Just the right touch... I have been on the hunt for the punch and then today I got it at JoAnn's for 40% off plus 10% off total purchase...so for about $9, I got this awesome tool and it totally made my day. I told you...I am a simple woman. *smile*<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjjV4x9o0Fud9Xz6WBizjCEvnKCNTEyjcrxznH3KQ-DAZ86A0ljLC2PtnL84KPyrPP5Q7fDiIksvBrPT6cc2KIRrKD3IceHpE1tzv-PUzPL1P3w2O9nYswRTEZDFqqz-fPdgmRjFRziEU/s1600/PB120595.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538924375619199762" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJjjV4x9o0Fud9Xz6WBizjCEvnKCNTEyjcrxznH3KQ-DAZ86A0ljLC2PtnL84KPyrPP5Q7fDiIksvBrPT6cc2KIRrKD3IceHpE1tzv-PUzPL1P3w2O9nYswRTEZDFqqz-fPdgmRjFRziEU/s400/PB120595.JPG" /></a><br />Finally, here is my birthday girl with one of her purchases. It is a pillow and throw blanket that's super soft and most importantly has a character from Phineas and Ferb...she was quite happy with her purchase too!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkhx2IBiPeVEAx6pykWoWddIC28pWatn8S-sL67x92DFKvgA2_PrC2RlEIrUS04QpVcqUsz58OFeOAISOEOgPZNTWe3dOzNSfNyE2ZVuvbE2yd-C1JeCVkRy5h0qs4EQ_4Lz3ILJMTzbye/s1600/PB120597.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538924369951652322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkhx2IBiPeVEAx6pykWoWddIC28pWatn8S-sL67x92DFKvgA2_PrC2RlEIrUS04QpVcqUsz58OFeOAISOEOgPZNTWe3dOzNSfNyE2ZVuvbE2yd-C1JeCVkRy5h0qs4EQ_4Lz3ILJMTzbye/s400/PB120597.JPG" /></a><br />We all came home and watched a movie together, but the camera was put away by then...it's harder to catch a picture of anybody once they're in their p.j.'s and sweats these days. I can't blame them, I have been hiding from the camera too. Next month, I promise a photo of me. =) Hope your day was a good one. See you next month!</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-20638819088455091862010-11-05T15:33:00.000-07:002010-11-05T15:55:27.715-07:00Gratitude Journal ~ Day 4 ~ Good friends...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaN_aL0t5A4Ma2WKQ5_Co1BgY1G7lJvGrZgSNcRfgcncWwMgDiQu3pWsl2Ix2iY1qdqOMvIesKYo7AVZKxH-_kMs1H0Cchd2k63Hy32wzYOTM7IWy6paQUpkUEck15NtFIvHeNU9JLDKm8/s1600/PB040412.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536202315166139074" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaN_aL0t5A4Ma2WKQ5_Co1BgY1G7lJvGrZgSNcRfgcncWwMgDiQu3pWsl2Ix2iY1qdqOMvIesKYo7AVZKxH-_kMs1H0Cchd2k63Hy32wzYOTM7IWy6paQUpkUEck15NtFIvHeNU9JLDKm8/s400/PB040412.JPG" /></a><br />Today I got to spend the morning visiting with some good friends. It was Karen's birthday and Michelle and I decided at the last minute that it would be nice to go out and celebrate. Karen came and brought along a bonus - her daughter Bridgette and her grandson Canaan. Such a precious baby. He was just perfect and let us take our sweet time eating and chatting.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1InSiYxAZhJx_Ukp4Mg5jVc3dqkCnNO4VtO-NPcwRhv2coNVoq7A4fgYwAPyfx0OLzQBkadDwSa6fHpg8cXkkcHgIbzpfo1jo3yR8MuY8kCI-BUK4KaX8qHMGqqdshVezoeqXaXjB5JG/s1600/PB040413.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536202320246607138" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1InSiYxAZhJx_Ukp4Mg5jVc3dqkCnNO4VtO-NPcwRhv2coNVoq7A4fgYwAPyfx0OLzQBkadDwSa6fHpg8cXkkcHgIbzpfo1jo3yR8MuY8kCI-BUK4KaX8qHMGqqdshVezoeqXaXjB5JG/s400/PB040413.JPG" /></a><br />Later in the evening I got to spend some time with my very good friend Desiree. Even though she lives a few minutes away from me, we have totally different schedules and rarely have a chance to get together. Tonight I went to her house after dinner. She treated me to a sugar-free hazlenut latte and then we went back to her house to catch up. We laughed, almost cried and just shared our hearts. It was great.<br />I have so many friends that I am thankful for, but those are just a few. I am learning more and more each day who my true friends are, and for that - I am so grateful.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishU-0y5E9jvAiNr9GdtKGUz5hyphenhyphen4IRp9sR6D-TmXxnU2HFS5wZrZkMRdM-ymB_YaJH-WxPvo2sW6fnMbz1NYz2zbQhFJsSavxJeE1F9TsVLc5lGrR_33h1b9mKGep7hmhHQ8wZvwR62Vk6/s1600/4395_212470540483_612735483_7238351_6941217_n%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536202305549127122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishU-0y5E9jvAiNr9GdtKGUz5hyphenhyphen4IRp9sR6D-TmXxnU2HFS5wZrZkMRdM-ymB_YaJH-WxPvo2sW6fnMbz1NYz2zbQhFJsSavxJeE1F9TsVLc5lGrR_33h1b9mKGep7hmhHQ8wZvwR62Vk6/s400/4395_212470540483_612735483_7238351_6941217_n%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a><br />"Friends are those rare people who ask how you are and then wait for the answer."Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-90731039619387227822010-11-04T08:04:00.000-07:002010-11-05T15:33:13.683-07:00Gratitude Journal ~ Day 3<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KXO5n2rvKYg0zDASbnZXBLG0y4wOUgyA1codrjlEIQdCPMdiPC5KzezviOhJJ1eOUJOcw5B_ix5gAcfcnKEbxmwFYq7V9Fp2FNoNDYixBMj1LH9MeBf-4qvm1jQTzirQmY_Xl7ARGhlA/s1600/PA290345.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536196300978832242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7KXO5n2rvKYg0zDASbnZXBLG0y4wOUgyA1codrjlEIQdCPMdiPC5KzezviOhJJ1eOUJOcw5B_ix5gAcfcnKEbxmwFYq7V9Fp2FNoNDYixBMj1LH9MeBf-4qvm1jQTzirQmY_Xl7ARGhlA/s400/PA290345.JPG" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">This is Naomi's class...all decked out for their Halloween party. </span><br /><br />Today, I am so thankful for the schools that my children attend. Two of my girls are at an elementary and my oldest is a sophomore in high school. All three are doing very well, but the thing I love most is that they each have wonderful teachers. I really mean this! We are so blessed. As most of you know, my children had never been in public school. I was worried that they would get shuffled along in the crowd and not get the help they needed or not be challenged...<br />The truth is that they are getting more help than ever and are being tested and challenged academically. They are encouraged to think and are already making great strides academically and socially.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7UNhv_1wqiAHmb9aLFyVIshb674MsvkSNgXCzqEXSboLU1WkNxC85Jma-06gay6cq8xmQ86fB1Rk4Oc6OgMVVjgLWlYm3E9SqZsiMaWG8o1BZbrqyFtE5uSbsAmwn3vVhNqXeljDe09gu/s1600/PA290353.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536196288995527090" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7UNhv_1wqiAHmb9aLFyVIshb674MsvkSNgXCzqEXSboLU1WkNxC85Jma-06gay6cq8xmQ86fB1Rk4Oc6OgMVVjgLWlYm3E9SqZsiMaWG8o1BZbrqyFtE5uSbsAmwn3vVhNqXeljDe09gu/s400/PA290353.JPG" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">This is Taryn and one of ehr friends waiting for the Costume Parade to start.<br /></span><br />My 6th grader will be going to a Science Camp in the mountains for a few days. I am so thankful she has that opportunity! I will begin volunteering a few hours a week in my daughter's kindergarten class and I am really looking forward to helping them and learning from her teacher as well!<br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphnMM_6BzmNAwb1u3LgaCBcOFzgZZp0ZGUyCAVHiOpEKgh2UmENrSvUEQHdXLZYAX4fUavTniVN4K91MJrARfLXOwfiNrvwZz6by27bAFZD3dNxUvDezCsVxDeZTednl4x6ujHjb8RZcU/s1600/P8230715.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536196281624822898" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphnMM_6BzmNAwb1u3LgaCBcOFzgZZp0ZGUyCAVHiOpEKgh2UmENrSvUEQHdXLZYAX4fUavTniVN4K91MJrARfLXOwfiNrvwZz6by27bAFZD3dNxUvDezCsVxDeZTednl4x6ujHjb8RZcU/s400/P8230715.JPG" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">This is Naomi's teacher. She's amazing!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-84152302482973677692010-11-02T23:01:00.000-07:002010-11-02T23:30:49.463-07:00Gratitude Journal ~ Day 2<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi720IGi_uSoWeh_PC6OvJ98h4eRTjC8gyIC8ShXes9gUUstrK501WdnzHed3acG3tKXRV6-_J3ySV2OZ0vls8KA-udHcOwmlxqWUnqgKYd-3Be0963H_0kGEe9IpO1h3GX1zUDp_ocdXzc/s1600/voting+day.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5535207110792319746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi720IGi_uSoWeh_PC6OvJ98h4eRTjC8gyIC8ShXes9gUUstrK501WdnzHed3acG3tKXRV6-_J3ySV2OZ0vls8KA-udHcOwmlxqWUnqgKYd-3Be0963H_0kGEe9IpO1h3GX1zUDp_ocdXzc/s400/voting+day.JPG" /></a><br />After weeks and months of political advertisements on the television, the computer, in the mail and on the phone, it's finally done. Voting Day has come and gone and the state of California now has a new governor.<br />Whether I'm happy about who's won or not, it no longer matters. There were a couple of props that really had me confused. I'm one of those people that really studies my voter's pamphlet and I even had to do a little research to see how each proposition would affect me, my family and my community.<br />Today, I am thankful for the right to vote. I am thankful that in 1920, under President Wilson, the 19th ammendment was passed and the U.S. could no longer restrict voting based on gender.<br /><span style="color:#990000;">Romans 13:1 says, "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God." </span><br /><span style="color:#990000;"><span style="color:#000000;">We will see how California fares with a new governor. I can only hope and pray that it will get better.</span><br /></span><span style="color:#990000;"></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-17338699687729484402010-11-01T22:01:00.000-07:002010-11-01T22:23:41.211-07:00Gratitude Journal ~ Day 1 ~ Marco<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpcWM2QHEwQhy4hzZcpOhBN91GxTcmqOCRee3R9jFgNDvPiI3vmdrANGy7UJ0PEiVAHa6WXwiXT2PqOnwcd8G81Snp1MYoEY85AHUa8EByJ1HYuB0312gzTXjk3cy1MJmIuX55m9_1Zqn/s1600/PA250294.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534817500869269746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizpcWM2QHEwQhy4hzZcpOhBN91GxTcmqOCRee3R9jFgNDvPiI3vmdrANGy7UJ0PEiVAHa6WXwiXT2PqOnwcd8G81Snp1MYoEY85AHUa8EByJ1HYuB0312gzTXjk3cy1MJmIuX55m9_1Zqn/s400/PA250294.JPG" /></a><br />Here we are with Marco's parents. We celebrated Hannah's 15th birthday at Benihana.<br /><br />Today, I am so thankful for my husband. Besides my dad, he is the hardest working man I know. Four years ago, he stepped out in faith to start a church. I am glad to say that it is going stronger than ever today. He worked a separate full time job for the first three years as he worked day in and day out to build the church as well. Some days he would come to church in his work clothes and change in the restrooms and preach the service. He never complained and he always gave God the glory.<br />He is an awesome daddy - always taking time to give our children the best. He shares in the disciplining...of course, I think he's too soft...and he also takes time to play with the kids and make each of them feel special.<br />Marco is so patient and kind. He helps me so much with the housework and is very supportive of my interests and dreams.<br />He makes time for us. He knows that a marriage needs continual TLC. He makes sure that we can go out on a date once a week.<br />Today, he cleaned the entire kitchen for me, including the mopping, and didn't say one word about doing it. He didn't complain or rub it in or expect anything for it.<br />So, today I want to make a point of saying that I am thankful for Marco. He is the love of my life and he is my best friend.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqXDql9HDHm2cCRdSz0WLRxb9etAxOYytoqOgsrglZsmehxCr0pl0xULLwV8I0SkUkmonjP6pHe6Ekgc1AxVVlNkkq3SOn4hn8mRJTZy7KGNeDZMryL_qcszrufZcWl1I98cNS8ZxDv42O/s1600/PA310396.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534817496130982274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqXDql9HDHm2cCRdSz0WLRxb9etAxOYytoqOgsrglZsmehxCr0pl0xULLwV8I0SkUkmonjP6pHe6Ekgc1AxVVlNkkq3SOn4hn8mRJTZy7KGNeDZMryL_qcszrufZcWl1I98cNS8ZxDv42O/s400/PA310396.JPG" /></a><br />This is how he dressed for the Harvest Party. A doggie bag. Such a fun pastor!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Qs-reJw6Un9rPTmekqPL7M-TB5DiOKveBmIG3eOfGrqK7KFN7r7tk3iiBWk2sTKbHDTkW65KR1jBWfg-GCIyAm60r03Uwlg2rMFdNOGd-lN7dvgJqx2GwhdgeSjyrv9bpWk3rAjdeShG/s1600/P7040903.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5534817489909775490" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Qs-reJw6Un9rPTmekqPL7M-TB5DiOKveBmIG3eOfGrqK7KFN7r7tk3iiBWk2sTKbHDTkW65KR1jBWfg-GCIyAm60r03Uwlg2rMFdNOGd-lN7dvgJqx2GwhdgeSjyrv9bpWk3rAjdeShG/s400/P7040903.JPG" /></a><br />We celebrated the 4th of July with some friends from church.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-61776036695978084552010-10-20T13:50:00.001-07:002010-10-23T23:04:08.126-07:00Beauty...My church family gave me these roses in celebration of our church's FOUR year anniversary. I was touched by their thoughtfulness and moved by their kind words. <br />I can not get over the beauty of these roses. I took a bunch of pictures, but just could not really capture how amazing they are. Made me think about beauty and how this world's view is so twisted sometimes when it comes to what beauty really is...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIa8zZaNQ2nDPZ7DE_TZOnCIFjHHdOYLUNRSFHHJJtPZAA6XQCpYeMa3QNNsvHG4xS4ikhbx4eyerF3V9VNPJwNGzQV5KWAjF6GDQcLN_fEiUGcVqt4ybEG7vDUYEM8S4FxiTxhijTAAV-/s1600/PA180169.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530234065984889122" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIa8zZaNQ2nDPZ7DE_TZOnCIFjHHdOYLUNRSFHHJJtPZAA6XQCpYeMa3QNNsvHG4xS4ikhbx4eyerF3V9VNPJwNGzQV5KWAjF6GDQcLN_fEiUGcVqt4ybEG7vDUYEM8S4FxiTxhijTAAV-/s400/PA180169.JPG" /></a><br />Proverbs 31:30~"Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised."<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD16dz9DuAmb6wvm_8NI6PvuQDrODSib9Mf_fKFE5hRXtJTrzJH0CIMhb2TiKXP4hp913tTaj_tRi7fHmCI5gpUcVHfkoNPSjwU7eOStTA-8d-9lbjgSQ7GTfxZO1aPs_Tqbat9DSiTpSJ/s1600/PA180179.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530234057260976802" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD16dz9DuAmb6wvm_8NI6PvuQDrODSib9Mf_fKFE5hRXtJTrzJH0CIMhb2TiKXP4hp913tTaj_tRi7fHmCI5gpUcVHfkoNPSjwU7eOStTA-8d-9lbjgSQ7GTfxZO1aPs_Tqbat9DSiTpSJ/s400/PA180179.JPG" /></a><br />“Character contributes to beauty. It fortifies a woman as her youth fades. A mode of conduct, a standard of courage, discipline, fortitude, and integrity can do a great deal to make a woman beautiful."<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2xCealEaDlSUi1MT6B8PAjdYereAZ-YZtGzGgTp_UUbVXJTrg4bIaL5IlATY1PXGosT-NOATMefOaQ9a5CYqWdj7-aaXzE3ar9g9S7ibvt7yUW0q58Qt9Ep31B4pM02AU3-ZSI4CvMO_/s1600/PA180183.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530234055662341282" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2xCealEaDlSUi1MT6B8PAjdYereAZ-YZtGzGgTp_UUbVXJTrg4bIaL5IlATY1PXGosT-NOATMefOaQ9a5CYqWdj7-aaXzE3ar9g9S7ibvt7yUW0q58Qt9Ep31B4pM02AU3-ZSI4CvMO_/s400/PA180183.JPG" /></a><br />“Beauty is not caused. It is.” ~ Emily Dickinson<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZq0tVUG14LmP0__kZztWL6dInKHdUXZ8hA9RQIsmMqSOPXvmXuuvwVRio47sAEsmYxT-1Sj-2LcvNZwRk64EWWY1DU8dJuk9WHmcR2iKgRjqYdf7TcGVXp0fYtgvJ9f-mCu18cM8gD2hL/s1600/PA180181.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530234045154187538" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZq0tVUG14LmP0__kZztWL6dInKHdUXZ8hA9RQIsmMqSOPXvmXuuvwVRio47sAEsmYxT-1Sj-2LcvNZwRk64EWWY1DU8dJuk9WHmcR2iKgRjqYdf7TcGVXp0fYtgvJ9f-mCu18cM8gD2hL/s400/PA180181.JPG" /></a><br />“You can complain because roses have thorns, or you can rejoice because thorns have roses."<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-7XgR7pHjOjZC3GOsOojPxLehkdODWz3wYwhKm8iXLnnyXWceL_tkZge7epIl_nDISSalTtBcvC3e9O__ViKHDEWNmM3ciz9ZB1GwXJPRm3_F_2UpNVZJ8eLiRRp0C1dNw1IYf8LSfXxL/s1600/PA180178.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530234037057656610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-7XgR7pHjOjZC3GOsOojPxLehkdODWz3wYwhKm8iXLnnyXWceL_tkZge7epIl_nDISSalTtBcvC3e9O__ViKHDEWNmM3ciz9ZB1GwXJPRm3_F_2UpNVZJ8eLiRRp0C1dNw1IYf8LSfXxL/s400/PA180178.JPG" /></a><br /><strong>Before you ever took a breath<br />Long before the world began<br />Of all the wonders He possessed<br />There was one more precious<br />Of all the earth and skies above<br />You're the one He madly loves enough to die for...<br /><br />You're beautiful<br />You're beautiful in His eyes...</strong><br /><strong>~Mercy Me "Beautiful" The Generous Mr. Lovewell</strong>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-58392654426953579022010-10-13T10:41:00.000-07:002010-10-20T11:54:05.014-07:00October 12 on 12...FUN DAY!Well, thanks to a couple friendly reminders...I remembered that it was 12 on 12! I actually had quite the busy day - even though it was all spent at home. The night before was spent at my in-laws home. My brother-in-law and his new wife were down visiting from Washington state. My mother-in-law opted to do a Thanksgiving style dinner and since some of my Canadian friends were celebrating their Thanksgiving, I thought it would be fine! Besides, I'm up for a turkey dinner any time!<br />So here we go! Won't you come along and see how I spent my day?<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsR1RMGMkPG6oITyeeS6CSl3SqH7flMktf6zfLRq9ILwxi2SrymtDllRrend0Br_kafO8tFsEPE-Qf_pc0Xj9LgxFLapBElsZsRyswGHvvZaRGxHjt2YteughYvPh838-Xq09gkc9AKvEv/s1600/PA120465.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530190280588314610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsR1RMGMkPG6oITyeeS6CSl3SqH7flMktf6zfLRq9ILwxi2SrymtDllRrend0Br_kafO8tFsEPE-Qf_pc0Xj9LgxFLapBElsZsRyswGHvvZaRGxHjt2YteughYvPh838-Xq09gkc9AKvEv/s400/PA120465.JPG" /></a><br />This is Hannah, my oldest baby. She will be 15 years old in just 13 days. WOW! I can't believe it. I tried to get a picture of her getting ready for school, but of course I was not successful. Beautiful girl inside and out...such a help to her mama. =)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYUepdu0lUG1qVZcJawTXnmdtF65y-2NKNnr2JjLUw3diIpa0jN1bmNHQegbLYmN7p9AxJXlbByjgiI8FZensIyashK0hokGHZ7ScHpyJOaMyWhQuSk93asdPB3I4GMaByhr6jcZv9K5T/s1600/PA120467.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530190277208352194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYUepdu0lUG1qVZcJawTXnmdtF65y-2NKNnr2JjLUw3diIpa0jN1bmNHQegbLYmN7p9AxJXlbByjgiI8FZensIyashK0hokGHZ7ScHpyJOaMyWhQuSk93asdPB3I4GMaByhr6jcZv9K5T/s400/PA120467.JPG" /></a><br />Here are Taryn and Naomi heading off to school. Do you see their silver limo waiting for them? It looks like it's been raining, but that was from the sprinklers. It was actually very hot on this day. It was over 90 and soooo humid!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxjG0dSPJSUFg0z3pmFOJIUBoe_UO1q3koCF63cuqh_wou2dduUZGA9v0ZR6he4Ezchgu2l70Ss8YMX4xKblAmWX4jZdyuP5F1AI6toY-ATODn_6pidCX0n-G1yP0ZP30MXtg9BzeJYCJa/s1600/PA120468.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530190042862995714" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxjG0dSPJSUFg0z3pmFOJIUBoe_UO1q3koCF63cuqh_wou2dduUZGA9v0ZR6he4Ezchgu2l70Ss8YMX4xKblAmWX4jZdyuP5F1AI6toY-ATODn_6pidCX0n-G1yP0ZP30MXtg9BzeJYCJa/s400/PA120468.JPG" /></a><br />I am usually a "clean as you go" person, but this morning I woke up to this in the sink from all I made yesterday. We had to drive an hour away, so I rushed off without cleaning up. We got home so late that I didn't care...now I wish I would've just tackled it. I hate dishes in the sink in the morning. *sigh*<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzyTtKLtWU0PEU3svKOpaUbyXDJTcNcc8ApjXq9ZXKqid-BjDn6knNbz6uvFEHSu9cr4SDdkYHluUIhNR-3J8wQXZOJ8hcPqHiDRdIFkWJvHw5dZIpsh2MCbd1dq56TdfMLe-dPVELqBSt/s1600/PA120471.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530190034087346498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzyTtKLtWU0PEU3svKOpaUbyXDJTcNcc8ApjXq9ZXKqid-BjDn6knNbz6uvFEHSu9cr4SDdkYHluUIhNR-3J8wQXZOJ8hcPqHiDRdIFkWJvHw5dZIpsh2MCbd1dq56TdfMLe-dPVELqBSt/s400/PA120471.JPG" /></a><br />A few of my friends had been asking about getting together to do a craft of some sort, so I had them each decorate a notepad and make a cover for it. It was fun. They brought breakfast and a beautiful fall centerpiece that they made for my table, so I can't complain. =)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXZcqjW5dVyLX-NwX3svXSQiFXpaUOTOGMaalk3Q2BAoIf5jiPRQytDrZst8WMgoVTUXJu-m4U1SxKzX9kRyHWMnxbODFzfmDSQXfbVMd_ff3_VTxmG6VJyrBJfUUmCWCYriWxTkGB_MFl/s1600/PA120472.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530190027262725762" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXZcqjW5dVyLX-NwX3svXSQiFXpaUOTOGMaalk3Q2BAoIf5jiPRQytDrZst8WMgoVTUXJu-m4U1SxKzX9kRyHWMnxbODFzfmDSQXfbVMd_ff3_VTxmG6VJyrBJfUUmCWCYriWxTkGB_MFl/s400/PA120472.JPG" /></a><br />We did have quite the house full of kids though. Well, it was only 4 children, but all under the age of THREE? Yeah. That's a house full. LOL Here they are having lunch and living the life of luxury. My son is the most hilarious (choking hazard alert!). He usually HAS to sit at the table. We don't waltz around with food all over the place, but the table was completely covered with craft stuff - so he took full advantage of it!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrNW3J_fGeP8y0yJ9yGeHACpwM-3J_ktyiDhXWwlYNnBd4sPUs2anzmO_rv4Wzz1drgaml-cQQIV8Q8rRA1rlVbpq8Q_aqQEOb4pVd5sHDcdjgooFEtac36aDBy14Sdhd1IkE30PsGgX-_/s1600/PA120474.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530190024783102770" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrNW3J_fGeP8y0yJ9yGeHACpwM-3J_ktyiDhXWwlYNnBd4sPUs2anzmO_rv4Wzz1drgaml-cQQIV8Q8rRA1rlVbpq8Q_aqQEOb4pVd5sHDcdjgooFEtac36aDBy14Sdhd1IkE30PsGgX-_/s400/PA120474.JPG" /></a><br />Here's Taryn, my soon to be 11 year old, busy on her homework. Funny thing. With all the talk about 10/10/10, I got really excited because her birthday is on 11/11... I told her it would be 11/11/11 next year and wouldn't it be great to have a blow out party because she'd be ELEVEN on 11/11/11??? She calmly looked at me and said, "But by then I will be 12"... Doh! "Oh, nevermind then.", says me. hahaha<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5tOgwRK32KYpmpf-eASNBN3oMli7x-RpUXtHCH15Ieg1KFgkal50jeIzfFTFxPnYWKxUu4ZBawj-BdfP0y_W9FXvOb4hQnc7OWHbLxiIfP4mZBJtW1c4ALJLBuObfechbHra5yFFkMuF/s1600/PA120477.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530190020207647618" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5tOgwRK32KYpmpf-eASNBN3oMli7x-RpUXtHCH15Ieg1KFgkal50jeIzfFTFxPnYWKxUu4ZBawj-BdfP0y_W9FXvOb4hQnc7OWHbLxiIfP4mZBJtW1c4ALJLBuObfechbHra5yFFkMuF/s400/PA120477.JPG" /></a><br />Look what Naomi brought home today! Her first Kindergarten progress report! Of course she has high marks in all areas. This is my bookworm. She comes home and gets straight to the homework usually. Yes, she has homework every day including Fridays. She does not like to skip a thing. The thought of disappointing her teacher is just unthinkable. My girl! Let's just hope this sticks. =)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7pyKvrHT1vz7FXwTjYqtxEPURjGAPHNVfQMEyQPJrrtbQ2L2PBqvhEH11HALlRKJ414pb3thSxoAwRTz06i1lb9PNxbtO8Cu8kOJPFNhwlAHvfsMsZyj7B6Ll8kg-lcaiHoTtmGDfEayx/s1600/PA120481.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530189482318723954" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7pyKvrHT1vz7FXwTjYqtxEPURjGAPHNVfQMEyQPJrrtbQ2L2PBqvhEH11HALlRKJ414pb3thSxoAwRTz06i1lb9PNxbtO8Cu8kOJPFNhwlAHvfsMsZyj7B6Ll8kg-lcaiHoTtmGDfEayx/s400/PA120481.JPG" /></a><br />So, after homework and dinner were cleared away and the children were settled in to their evening routines, I found some time to finish a little wedding album I was going to give to Jaime and Jessica as a momento of their wedding. Turn the Pandora on, get a cup of coffee and get busy...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW43hzBBrl6OR4mnjhLBNgOarqm469uhAoc0zxAu53OA93BjMK8812iCZs3YM8If1NbHo7FGufY8xTPtPvZO-V_qK9414k9Ksmg5KczQH-k2iDxSM4GoA9PHvOyjyDdSfnHDohJNnz4h2O/s1600/PA120486.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530189475319567874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW43hzBBrl6OR4mnjhLBNgOarqm469uhAoc0zxAu53OA93BjMK8812iCZs3YM8If1NbHo7FGufY8xTPtPvZO-V_qK9414k9Ksmg5KczQH-k2iDxSM4GoA9PHvOyjyDdSfnHDohJNnz4h2O/s400/PA120486.JPG" /></a><br />It wasn't long before I was called back to the living room. We all had been hearing about the Chilean miners that were trapped so far underground for months. They were finally going to be rescued. I sat there with my children (Marco was out working) and watched through teary eyes as they pulled the first man to the surface. Wow. What a miracle. Thank God for the technology we have, but I am also thankful for the fact that they were able to be in contact with people during this whole time and were able to keep their sanity while they were down there. They each came up with humility and dignity at the same time. I pray that they will not suffer much anguish in the future because of what they endured.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh803MvPkDSw9unjaM1t_aX0XZVTQ2Wt1nmlf1rTnzOrcdnp60u3VRgpBbp9k8DN9meJ-0-VNICkhPn3LIfjtB0JdSzxU5nPALrQodFhHedsDwZ4D-7oWUej71BzrBN0hyjBUL094giZQEJ/s1600/PA120487.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530189470778274866" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh803MvPkDSw9unjaM1t_aX0XZVTQ2Wt1nmlf1rTnzOrcdnp60u3VRgpBbp9k8DN9meJ-0-VNICkhPn3LIfjtB0JdSzxU5nPALrQodFhHedsDwZ4D-7oWUej71BzrBN0hyjBUL094giZQEJ/s400/PA120487.JPG" /></a><br />Naomi, who is also my little artist, wanted to paint a picture for a girl who wrote her a letter. This is a picture of them. She did this unassisted.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjis_e5xIK-uEjm2gwlear2VfBExP4UQgf4D4kNPyMrOnKu2qzS9DtMTOYnlNaN6FSufqtma8mgTYbKH8v7GenPVF7SZEDjtRwbQSRqrmiy0X43hKgAL9M88XE_wLBsRALv7Fq2OkWQOwWz/s1600/PA120488.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530189463379472546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjis_e5xIK-uEjm2gwlear2VfBExP4UQgf4D4kNPyMrOnKu2qzS9DtMTOYnlNaN6FSufqtma8mgTYbKH8v7GenPVF7SZEDjtRwbQSRqrmiy0X43hKgAL9M88XE_wLBsRALv7Fq2OkWQOwWz/s400/PA120488.JPG" /></a><br />Well, life can't be all fun and painting and crafting. haha. Thankfully, I am able to stay on top of laundry for 6 people and am almost always caught up. Sure, there's always more - but it does not take over my life like it did when I was working away from home.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi9-iHWYdr4KpDZS2621rLLtet99oxsTnh_Qdqd6rQdTCwR962umrWnbLjRAN6FHTwQ3SyfABlSSa4oR7tbEd91z_-CBEdNP8WWni00IfVETJSkc6yZD1d0JdftFXVlVEzE8Nfpq8Mrp3x/s1600/PA120489.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530189459369113490" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi9-iHWYdr4KpDZS2621rLLtet99oxsTnh_Qdqd6rQdTCwR962umrWnbLjRAN6FHTwQ3SyfABlSSa4oR7tbEd91z_-CBEdNP8WWni00IfVETJSkc6yZD1d0JdftFXVlVEzE8Nfpq8Mrp3x/s400/PA120489.JPG" /></a><br />Okay. It's the end of the day...and a good one it was. My little guy fell asleep in his pj's on the couch...but then I noticed his feet. Eeeewww. That's worse than the dishes!! Bath first thing in the morning. lol<br />Well, there it is. I hope you'll join me again next month...How do you spend YOUR days?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-11411409793325805882010-10-09T22:07:00.000-07:002010-10-09T22:13:22.499-07:00My Creative Journey...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYFjS4S9awnUr8YvZNaAlX2Qi7ZBCc2__qb2I430ay8naIhGIR5lumYBlEzsCLXJLGmL7hUPkMQhaTzuwR9UVygxs6vzwV7Cdi_Aiyg7QWOoKu-9u2IBaZR8NsXZJqZ8qUm7gLGGpQQgm/s1600/PA080361.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526280793826372258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYFjS4S9awnUr8YvZNaAlX2Qi7ZBCc2__qb2I430ay8naIhGIR5lumYBlEzsCLXJLGmL7hUPkMQhaTzuwR9UVygxs6vzwV7Cdi_Aiyg7QWOoKu-9u2IBaZR8NsXZJqZ8qUm7gLGGpQQgm/s400/PA080361.JPG" /></a><br /><div>For those of you that would rather follow my art blog...you can click on the link right <a href="http://alteredtoperfection.blogspot.com/">here</a>. I've really been having a great time on this journey. I don't post everything...yet...still kind of scared about sharing...Ridiculous, right? Anyway, go on over and check it out.</div><br /><div>I mention there that I am wanting to look into combining both blogs and I'd like to do the tab thing. That way, I can organize my posts under certain categories and my followers can go directly to the part they are interested in. Cooking, art, inspiration or just to catch up with me and my family... I'd love any advice you'd like to share about that.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-67888987145532274902010-10-06T14:01:00.000-07:002010-10-06T14:01:51.790-07:00Lead Me: by Sanctus Real<p><object style="BACKGROUND-IMAGE: url(http://i3.ytimg.com/vi/rGE6Davndh0/hqdefault.jpg)" width="480" height="295"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/rGE6Davndh0?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/rGE6Davndh0?fs=1&hl=en_US" width="480" height="295" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></p><p> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-37265133804282604252010-10-04T11:14:00.000-07:002010-10-04T12:22:14.803-07:00What is my purpose???<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx9wnw-zrzNoAvGrcfLWg1sSBt7Cwq2qQlWsbpwm7rwE-Lovzz94S2jMgsJg53UD_aStUV2ABr8gOZRKlkvXY4MCTe5KO9m-0LVFD4j9FJyrZy9Na4atBNnbS7CLc01Cc1syoSQ_uC78cg/s1600/life-purpose%5B1%5D.png"><img style="WIDTH: 286px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524272101499155842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx9wnw-zrzNoAvGrcfLWg1sSBt7Cwq2qQlWsbpwm7rwE-Lovzz94S2jMgsJg53UD_aStUV2ABr8gOZRKlkvXY4MCTe5KO9m-0LVFD4j9FJyrZy9Na4atBNnbS7CLc01Cc1syoSQ_uC78cg/s400/life-purpose%5B1%5D.png" /></a><br />So...I've been thinking a lot about PURPOSE. What is my purpose in life? <a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/purpose?show=0&t=1286216616">Merriam-Webster </a>says: <strong>Purpose - something set up as an object or end to be obtained.</strong> What end do I want to obtain? Some of the synonyms listed for the word purpose were: <strong>goal, intention, dream, plan and objective.</strong><br />Do I have goals, intentions, dreams, plans or objectives? Of course I do. I have dreams for myself, my family, my children, my church. I have intentions...lots of good ones too. haha I have goals (especially with weight loss and physical health), and of course I've got plans and objectives. Oh, how I plan. Always making lists, drawing up ideas and things "to do"...<br />I realised that this was not getting me anywhere closer to knowing what MY purpose in life was. There were so many "ends" that I wanted to obtain. As a Christian woman, Pastor's wife, and mother of four beautiful children...I wondered if my purpose was just to give to everyone for the rest of my life - to serve others. That's not so bad, and honestly I don't mind it. I love it and am happy to do it. It brings me joy. But at the risk of sounding selfish...What about ME? Do I just forget about the other things that bring me joy? Things like my art, reading, writing, being alone to just "be"... Dreams of really finding the "real me"? I was getting more and more confused. What do I do when I'm confused?<br />I go to my Life's Handbook...the Bible. =)<br />I found that God has a purpose for me. <span style="color:#3366ff;">Jeremiah 29:11~For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.</span><span style="color:#000000;"> Wow. That takes some of the worry out of it. So I continue to seek it out further. Then I find this:</span><span style="color:#33ccff;"> <span style="color:#3366ff;">Psalm 138:8~The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever — do not <span style="color:#3366ff;">abandon</span> the works of your hands.</span><br /></span><span style="color:#000000;">I was doing a study shortly after this about loving God. </span><span style="color:#3366ff;">Mark 12:30 says: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. </span><span style="color:#000000;">The first commandment! Must be important!</span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">I've also done studies on different women of the Bible and how their lives had a role in history. I found that they were all of different ages, social status, some were mothers, some were widows, some were queens... But they all fulfilled a purpose for Him. I look at godly women that I know and consider to be mentors, whether I know them in real life or from studying the books or articles they've written, I find myself trying to keep up with them or trying to mother my children like other Christian mothers. I find myself trying to be the kind of Pastor's wife that I think my congregation would want me to be and all becomes so daunting.</span><br />You know what? I have it all wrong! My purpose is not to be a perfect mother, sister, wife, leader...whatever! <span style="color:#000099;"><strong>My purpose in life - the reason I was put on earth - is to please GOD!! </strong></span><span style="color:#000000;">If I strive to please God daily, everything else will fall into place! I have no business trying to please everyone else in this world, if I haven't first pleased God. My God made me to be a caring, loving, giving person - but to balance it out - He also made me creative, a lover of art and knowledge, needing time to myself... I want more in life - always. It's okay! As long as I can do what I do and still please God, I am fulfilling my purpose. I was made to worship Him, to love Him, to honor Him and share Him with others. </span><br />I am so thankful that I know that now. Most of all, I believe that God is pleased when I live an AUTHENTIC LIFE. That is my desire and I believe that it will please Him. That's enough.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTqCrJg7WJHRBzIGajN7ROHvpEb26DhDYAgx2-XaeSQjrGpEd6wLSIWIbFDDHAzkjKqoCmVxe_qTxe-kLMZf2Vz2jq0xK4vfLy26SKtaX8FcCOFh2c7Rq_2FPhBVmWRTE6aOZxtxuT1cdO/s1600/3316348496_5e8913d553_b1%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5524272229928776850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTqCrJg7WJHRBzIGajN7ROHvpEb26DhDYAgx2-XaeSQjrGpEd6wLSIWIbFDDHAzkjKqoCmVxe_qTxe-kLMZf2Vz2jq0xK4vfLy26SKtaX8FcCOFh2c7Rq_2FPhBVmWRTE6aOZxtxuT1cdO/s400/3316348496_5e8913d553_b1%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-29750985862113583202010-09-14T20:27:00.000-07:002010-09-14T20:45:28.404-07:00It was in the fridge, so...Chicken, shrimp, Mexican squash, onions, carrots, celery, garlic...<br />Hmmmm....what to do, what to do. How 'bout a stir-fry? Works for me!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO7j6cLnABTQCUoN9U8XFDHtuAyRiN6xoI-X0HckLg7zipnb6sMpzr3o3fs-rQpssUPJ32xTHJg9xXpt_ybQC03wRzeVh_HYxIWHtE2Z_0_CbAGjtbp8ZIRSRcYxBF6noHqB6tx0Em8lr0/s1600/P9140090.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516977816947188210" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO7j6cLnABTQCUoN9U8XFDHtuAyRiN6xoI-X0HckLg7zipnb6sMpzr3o3fs-rQpssUPJ32xTHJg9xXpt_ybQC03wRzeVh_HYxIWHtE2Z_0_CbAGjtbp8ZIRSRcYxBF6noHqB6tx0Em8lr0/s400/P9140090.JPG" /></a><br />Here is how I get things going. I marinate or season the meats first. Cut up all my veggies...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFBuLv586T01kTmrKXAFO4qFXnYMH_qYVILqVt4ibH11kt4twM1sks4dLV1Ba_KgjtxNI3L8hmLPopBQ7gt2Z8EiXUDuynIEad_dP0x7jlfZkMgi_RP2x6S3bcmXXbDl_t8B4s8KyvT-0J/s1600/P9140093.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516977517678664850" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFBuLv586T01kTmrKXAFO4qFXnYMH_qYVILqVt4ibH11kt4twM1sks4dLV1Ba_KgjtxNI3L8hmLPopBQ7gt2Z8EiXUDuynIEad_dP0x7jlfZkMgi_RP2x6S3bcmXXbDl_t8B4s8KyvT-0J/s400/P9140093.JPG" /></a><br />I sauteed the veggies first - in some olive oil. <br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAHllrU7YQTgQ7XKugmxOWFs0qmNyhrnHs3krBJVWojLGYo0CJjIzO1XMaymNLYpp4j6YEK7gW_atDNba8JEqxb8pTxGpgCVs1R-mp1YZ2GVl2UYQ_kGRbFUJ1oK1p4he44Vj6dvTWCgrf/s1600/P9140094.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516977509811489954" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAHllrU7YQTgQ7XKugmxOWFs0qmNyhrnHs3krBJVWojLGYo0CJjIzO1XMaymNLYpp4j6YEK7gW_atDNba8JEqxb8pTxGpgCVs1R-mp1YZ2GVl2UYQ_kGRbFUJ1oK1p4he44Vj6dvTWCgrf/s400/P9140094.JPG" /></a><br />Then I added something small that has big flavor...can you see it? Sesame seeds! I also added a little bit of sesame oil for taste and soy sauce. Then I put my veggies to the side...<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCzVDaGIwo6yg6BYI938ZSo-fyrrupRw9XaVio1z43iyBtJ4NtWTQvoUKVs9SJE3NnNJH5sOXxhCgRR_MRtROcp5lDNd7GB7SU6GU02atL4zqqmOdDZulkf32tb54Rbt2SU0q9ncmjq1v3/s1600/P9140095.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516977496162647810" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCzVDaGIwo6yg6BYI938ZSo-fyrrupRw9XaVio1z43iyBtJ4NtWTQvoUKVs9SJE3NnNJH5sOXxhCgRR_MRtROcp5lDNd7GB7SU6GU02atL4zqqmOdDZulkf32tb54Rbt2SU0q9ncmjq1v3/s400/P9140095.JPG" /></a><br />Now it's time to cook the chicken. Make sure it's cooked all the way through, but not over-cooked. The house is really smelling great! Add to the veggies and toss.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn1JNqtvYZcn1m8hrhQziE5J2FutV4WXQsJCsjrK3XrF63O3b09IBobtxvBp-SfJZPK9teeGjnwPhkp67l6GIhUa2muOYjDKHydpURv-S4VxMhZwtMFpLxowulotQHNVSAcYAKqKS3qHIr/s1600/P9140096.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516977486269277858" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn1JNqtvYZcn1m8hrhQziE5J2FutV4WXQsJCsjrK3XrF63O3b09IBobtxvBp-SfJZPK9teeGjnwPhkp67l6GIhUa2muOYjDKHydpURv-S4VxMhZwtMFpLxowulotQHNVSAcYAKqKS3qHIr/s400/P9140096.JPG" /></a><br />This shrimp happened to be cooked already, but I still cooked it up in a little butter (for flavor)... I kept the shrimp separate because one of my awesome kiddos has a slight shell fish allergy.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRGfdqF7dMq2eyPaQSqLpq8h29hDswl9_qFikrQpu7am3-H8DjoJYLfLpFnTh7Ol6E0uZAwzluCxrP-5X07cbv02qiySaTPYzYOA7RQU-OcPBBpEigG4AjIVcyl1MEygaCuG9xTTdRokOi/s1600/P9140097.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516977481167138194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRGfdqF7dMq2eyPaQSqLpq8h29hDswl9_qFikrQpu7am3-H8DjoJYLfLpFnTh7Ol6E0uZAwzluCxrP-5X07cbv02qiySaTPYzYOA7RQU-OcPBBpEigG4AjIVcyl1MEygaCuG9xTTdRokOi/s400/P9140097.JPG" /></a><br />Here's the final product. SO good. I would have taken off the tails if I thought about it sooner, but it wasn't too much of a hassle. I also wish I had some mushrooms in there... but anyhow. It was awesome. Everybody from the 3 year old to the 14 year old loved it. </div><div>I had some cauliflower too that I thought I was going to use, but needed a little more inspiration. My kids love it mashed like potatoes and of course we've steamed it - but what else? Any ideas that YOU have tried? Post in the comments or message me! Thanks!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-82793052478079712892010-09-11T09:43:00.001-07:002010-09-11T09:44:31.167-07:00Never forget...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4SkjOkTvBDG1guw9VFkpmYz3Bsvy1hnPCPlfmGntqq5nEuYPZ0VMtHnGYq2ZWnxHQ3HYW1-RA0e3esFnhZvLWYULWFrm8Spd0Vfkz0ei3qKDMVbJ5etCku9Ql8nbDByLXgeQ0iI7TxfVg/s1600/911+remembrance.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 264px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515697660457382306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4SkjOkTvBDG1guw9VFkpmYz3Bsvy1hnPCPlfmGntqq5nEuYPZ0VMtHnGYq2ZWnxHQ3HYW1-RA0e3esFnhZvLWYULWFrm8Spd0Vfkz0ei3qKDMVbJ5etCku9Ql8nbDByLXgeQ0iI7TxfVg/s400/911+remembrance.jpg" /></a><br /><div>September 11, 2001</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-11110987274024156692010-09-09T22:00:00.000-07:002010-09-09T22:02:12.820-07:00For all my teacher friends...good read for my students and parents too!!<p><object style="BACKGROUND-IMAGE: url(http://i3.ytimg.com/vi/fuBmSbiVXo0/hqdefault.jpg)" width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fuBmSbiVXo0?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fuBmSbiVXo0?fs=1&hl=en_US" width="425" height="344" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></p><p></p><br />Be sure to turn the sidebar music off (on the right).Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-70410927913312220212010-09-08T12:53:00.000-07:002010-09-08T12:53:47.645-07:00Two Snails<p><object style="BACKGROUND-IMAGE: url(http://i3.ytimg.com/vi/2lE_d4kBltI/hqdefault.jpg)" width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2lE_d4kBltI?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2lE_d4kBltI?fs=1&hl=en_US" width="425" height="344" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></p><p>Make sure you put the blog music on pause (in my side bar)...This was our little activity for today. My Curious George.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-25557795890290851142010-09-08T10:21:00.000-07:002010-09-08T10:37:08.827-07:00It's Back to School: Are the parents ready???<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8FEV3rJv69yWkNEW7ra998QLiLZ0-ba7LJBgxamPFIyPRi5Mwphw4gcNvhg2t8I-bVkDdW1ylfAoLCfKrdmAcp5BikidUOP1vuEFhG5HwdSSrNorzJMUyHypbJN4OY-7oBdaSO1KTedjA/s1600/One+room+schoolhouse.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 286px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514594876521755154" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8FEV3rJv69yWkNEW7ra998QLiLZ0-ba7LJBgxamPFIyPRi5Mwphw4gcNvhg2t8I-bVkDdW1ylfAoLCfKrdmAcp5BikidUOP1vuEFhG5HwdSSrNorzJMUyHypbJN4OY-7oBdaSO1KTedjA/s400/One+room+schoolhouse.jpg" /></a><br />My girls have been back to school going on three weeks now. They are loving it - so far. As I've mentioned before, this is the first time in about 15 years that I am not at work teaching. I have a little guy that I love more than myself. He just turned three and I am so glad to be home with him and I get to spend my days teaching him and watching him learn and grow instead of 25 kids...<br />That being said, I feel for these teachers as I drop my girls off and leave them in their hands day after day. I remember the feeling. It is a calling. These teachers are there (the majority of them anyway) because they really want to make a difference for these children. <br />I've already offered my help to each of the girls' teachers and have brought home work to do for my Naomi's teacher. I want to be as communicative and helpful as I can, because these teachers are going to be spending lots of time with my children. I want them to know that I am on their side. We are all working towards helping my girls to be successful, happy, productive people.<br />I came across an article that led to one more about things that teachers wished parents knew. As a teacher, I was nodding my head in agreement through the whole thing. I am posting the links here, but PLEASE take the time to read them. It's really quick and eye opening and I think it will help you, your child and your child's teacher. Have a great school year!!<br /><a href="http://shine.yahoo.com/event/backtoschool/13-things-your-childs-teacher-wont-tell-you-2332811/">13 Things Your Child's Teacher Won't Tell You</a><br /><a href="http://www.rd.com/home-garden/20-more-things-your-childs-teacher-wont-tell-you/article164878.html">20 More Things Your Child's Teacher Won't Tell You</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-6595510893612102492010-09-06T22:39:00.000-07:002010-09-06T23:23:47.957-07:00Complacency Kills...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6oLWPaeNpxyGIO6ApPONJdHxPlvMXwKJeaKwwGihnY6BlPxjcK2SGsRAKRq4wcY_7yVtmIiQkl-2sm9JdzAcMXaQWWaGS0o3tADvX-2GblY7lLP_g9GfHQJkFWZ_sTLcCgNHsh8tah6q7/s1600/complacency.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 241px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514052060580496818" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6oLWPaeNpxyGIO6ApPONJdHxPlvMXwKJeaKwwGihnY6BlPxjcK2SGsRAKRq4wcY_7yVtmIiQkl-2sm9JdzAcMXaQWWaGS0o3tADvX-2GblY7lLP_g9GfHQJkFWZ_sTLcCgNHsh8tah6q7/s400/complacency.jpg" /></a><br /><strong>Definition of COMPLACENCY:<br />–noun, plural -cies.<br />---a feeling of quiet pleasure or security, <span style="font-size:130%;">often while unaware of some potential danger</span>, defect, or the like; self-satisfaction or smug satisfaction with an existing situation, condition, etc.</strong><br /><br />Have you ever thought that you might be at a point of complacency in your life? I have heard the word used often. I've even used it myself. But have you ever really thought about it? This morning as I was doing my reading and quiet time, I started to really think about this word. I decided to look it up.<br />I basically thought of it as being a feeling of not really caring one way or another about something or maybe just letting yourself get in a rut about things...but this definition actually startled me. WOW.<br />Feeling secure while unaware of some potential danger?? Hmmm...that makes it more serious.<br />I decided to look up the word rut. This is what I found:<br /><strong>rut1 /rʌt/<br />[ruht]<br />,noun, verb, rut·ted, rut·ting.<br />–noun<br />3. a fixed or established mode of procedure or course of life, usually dull or <span style="font-size:130%;">unpromising</span>: to fall into a rut. </strong><br />WOW again...do you see the part about being fixed in a course of life that is usually dull...but more seriously...UNPROMISING?<br /><br />I don't want to be complacent. I don't want to be in a rut. Listen people! I'm not just talking about someone who is stuck in the 80's and can't get rid of their hair scrunchees and MC Hammer pants. I'm thinking about <strong>living our life in a way that is potentially dangerous or unpromising!!</strong><br /><br />I know that my blog is all over the place. I've got recipes, crafts, family life, spiritual applications, weight loss, etc. but all of that is me. I am an ever changing person. I want to change for the better. I want to be teachable.<br />I am done with people who have "arrived". They like to live and believe a certain way and they stay right there and nobody is going to budge them, yet half of them can't tell you why they do what they do or why they believe what they believe.<br />It's sad really. These last 4 years have really been an eye opener to me. I have learned that for a big part of my adult life, I was living a complacent life. Just going along. Believing what anyone said. Never questioning things that I didn't feel were "right". Gaining weight by the minute. Doing things the same way, day in and day out...even if I knew that the end result was not what I wanted. The only thing that was changing regularly was my hair color! haha<br />Well, I finally snapped out of it. I realized that if I wanted to really have a relationship with my husband and my children, I was going to have to work at it. I was going to have to be the one to communicate and make a difference for them. I knew that my spiritual life was stagnant. I was always busy working in the church or ministry...but how was my heart - how was my walk with my God?<br />Listen. I am not saying that things need to change all the time. I am saying that if you have been doing things just for the sake of doing them - you might need to stop and ask yourself, "WHY?" Maybe you've been doing things a certain way and you feel like you could get better results by doing it differently - why don't you try it and see?<br />If you have been working yourself silly in church and you rarely see your family, you can't remember the last time you had a real heart to heart talk with God, you can't remember the last time you just sat at His feet and worshipped Him...what's holding you back from starting now?<br />It's scary to change. It's scary to step out in faith, but if you don't, you will be in a rut.<br />Have you heard of great marriages going down the drain because they let themselves get in a rut? They let their relationship get stagnant?<br />Are you gaining weight faster than you realize because you just keep wearing the same ole stretchy t-shirt and burger pants? You can start to change that now.<br />What happens to water that just sits? It starts to breed all kinds of bacteria, gets a stink on it, attracts mosquitos...just nasty.<br />Complacency kills. You just get all rusty dusty and it doesn't even bother you until you're spiritually, physically or emotionally just dead.<br />The Bible talks about being complacent in <strong>Isaiah 32</strong>. He talks about being "at ease" when we should not be.<br />What is it that you have been complacent about? Your relationship with your spouse? Your relationship with Christ? Your spiritual journey? Your job? Your weight? Your home? Your education?<br />You can keep this practical...or you can go as deep as you want. Whatever you do, remember that Complacency Kills.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-19685281778121308972010-09-04T09:35:00.000-07:002010-09-04T10:14:51.792-07:00Chuletas en Salsa Verde or Pork Chops in Tomatillo SauceI love CHILE VERDE!!! I have had the privilege of enjoying some great salsa verde (green salsa) in my time. Living in the Los Angeles/Southern California area AND attending a Spanish Church for so many years has allowed me lots of exposure to some great chile verde! =) <br />As you know, I love to cook, but did not want to even attempt this for some reason. Why mess with perfection? haha<br />But alas, I had some fresh tomatillo, cilantro, jalapeños... I had some pork cutlets and wanted to do something different than I usually do. So...it was fate. My first time making chile verde was BEAUTIFUL!! Here we go!<br /><strong>Ingredients:</strong><br />1 lb. fresh <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tomatillo">tomatillos</a> (husked and washed)...I guess you can use canned, but I've never used it.<br />1 jalapeño (remove seeds)<br />1 bunch cilantro (chopped roughly)<br />1 medium onion (sliced thin)<br />1 Tbs. crushed fresh garlic (about 2 large cloves)<br />1 cup chicken stock (if you don't make your own, you can get some good stuff at Trader Joe's)<br />Salt<br /><strong>Directions:</strong><br />Husk and wash the tomatillos. Cut them into quarters.<br />Wash and slice your jalapeño. Remove seeds unless you want it to be extra spicy.<br />Put in a small pot and cover with water. Add salt (maybe a teaspoon or two)<br />Boil until soft. Drain water.<br />Pour in a blender. Add cilantro, onion, garlic, and chicken stock.<br />Blend and then pour back into pot. Simmer until it changes from bright green to dark green.<br />And it's done! You can now use it for chip dip, enchiladas, add to any kind of meat you like... it's just so yummmmmm. =)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZHMFN1n3qgq7e0MU7oJ2zMM30s9M0vEZGF3AAt1nOYGeo88YpO6y5CpNwZzVVROsNhpp5Y83gafUTJIwgKOUX51vfNqiC2MYfiw4JOke53TxbALMng_ZNWHglYjy5tPZKfzFoFyKPuhX/s1600/P9030870.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513098738912344626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZHMFN1n3qgq7e0MU7oJ2zMM30s9M0vEZGF3AAt1nOYGeo88YpO6y5CpNwZzVVROsNhpp5Y83gafUTJIwgKOUX51vfNqiC2MYfiw4JOke53TxbALMng_ZNWHglYjy5tPZKfzFoFyKPuhX/s400/P9030870.JPG" /></a><br />Boil process...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzp-t7pA6sT2gjdDnOglL2NXtByP10yhxyWnjRK41-6XBKJt6n3Q_QiGVLxexFPT-StFoqNolAB51pzhcA-pj-TmLL-QWpgWk_3P7SyvgtZKTainPHo5TL3FQUn5G9BzSU8CAPtIFhSaoB/s1600/P9030871.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513098730566691634" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzp-t7pA6sT2gjdDnOglL2NXtByP10yhxyWnjRK41-6XBKJt6n3Q_QiGVLxexFPT-StFoqNolAB51pzhcA-pj-TmLL-QWpgWk_3P7SyvgtZKTainPHo5TL3FQUn5G9BzSU8CAPtIFhSaoB/s400/P9030871.JPG" /></a><br />These are the pork cutlets that I seasoned and cooked until very tender...<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwewSDaOl97UK2SWckrcJCBDK44hgX8C2bizYArwyP15sz4iYwJ0XEVasZxk-fMxacEfbdUS_LAMTKhGZy2jepzx5h-LlolLafrN0K7PuPYJW9Dbq4IazxWgs1ErQIplshX7YxkJtwrHdw/s1600/P9030872.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513098719802802674" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwewSDaOl97UK2SWckrcJCBDK44hgX8C2bizYArwyP15sz4iYwJ0XEVasZxk-fMxacEfbdUS_LAMTKhGZy2jepzx5h-LlolLafrN0K7PuPYJW9Dbq4IazxWgs1ErQIplshX7YxkJtwrHdw/s400/P9030872.JPG" /></a><br />The blender...<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYjwv8FDJlGVB6vRzbRNZXQz9pnMNFdqKv2NL9BmnqnGNMXBCpqk_GAw6az2QcqGxHom30LY2tqGIVJLyy2H_jNalKmxYlLhJ18dnv0GWIbic5YTBUy2Je2GAhAKPki9JNB4_ewsCT4gsu/s1600/P9030873.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513098709063658514" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYjwv8FDJlGVB6vRzbRNZXQz9pnMNFdqKv2NL9BmnqnGNMXBCpqk_GAw6az2QcqGxHom30LY2tqGIVJLyy2H_jNalKmxYlLhJ18dnv0GWIbic5YTBUy2Je2GAhAKPki9JNB4_ewsCT4gsu/s400/P9030873.JPG" /></a><br />Add cooked sauce to your meat. Cover and let simmer for another 15 minutes or so. I just waited until my pork was very tender. I served it over some shredded chicken breast for my youngest child. We had some chicken leftover and I thought he'd prefer that over the pork. </div><div>This sauce was not hot at all in my opinion. It was just spicy enough. You could add another pepper or add a different kind like serrano or whatever you like best.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ETj7UQ1zSOUg0jnwpcbyE0XeKW4z0pdfPfmkuAx9544E1R_N753hWWJxxqKAfF_AO6G_mdNovoFmFCKyA8lzmYGFQyGKF350TPE2qUAMhsxsgVRoQKVqDn-TJ8I1QB1X7myDRWMdTHmT/s1600/P9030875.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5513098700520018770" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ETj7UQ1zSOUg0jnwpcbyE0XeKW4z0pdfPfmkuAx9544E1R_N753hWWJxxqKAfF_AO6G_mdNovoFmFCKyA8lzmYGFQyGKF350TPE2qUAMhsxsgVRoQKVqDn-TJ8I1QB1X7myDRWMdTHmT/s400/P9030875.JPG" /></a> </div><div>When I served it on the plates, I broke the meat up into little chunks so that the sauce would cover it even more.<br />This is usually served with rice, but to keep it low carb or paleo, you'll want to serve it over some steamed veggies or something. I loved the steamed cauliflower shredded up to appear "rice like". </div><div>Enjoy!!</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-87901277553481772852010-09-01T17:25:00.000-07:002010-09-01T17:36:36.673-07:00End of summer sweetness...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirK_ALYpvUsd7dm-UaD4w3Kz99zRx3lVvhCeWFLPsQvX7PqF4oqV5MexjF5dlikczDYYCz486PLh7frnBwxpj-hI9Fza3QzCCZD51hsTWNgrORfL6ai6VIsYSwxp4HHHuFz-LgjI6NLTzd/s1600/P9010856.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512106785690676914" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirK_ALYpvUsd7dm-UaD4w3Kz99zRx3lVvhCeWFLPsQvX7PqF4oqV5MexjF5dlikczDYYCz486PLh7frnBwxpj-hI9Fza3QzCCZD51hsTWNgrORfL6ai6VIsYSwxp4HHHuFz-LgjI6NLTzd/s400/P9010856.JPG" /></a><br />We were at the market and they had these tiny watermelon for 79 cents. My son took one look at them and had to have one.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3A5xXTmDYRuFuaZaYQH7ilOO9GHNg3FP9pZim4f9N7d8j8CnjssZtZZ2Jg2m38YtjAOAl37S-QZ3EEqqp1ItiMTFSgbsGXCyLK4XgJFbtAbutGcvV3BRHfF6_nc_-T0cTFy9p74_HKKfj/s1600/P9010857.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512106774186649602" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3A5xXTmDYRuFuaZaYQH7ilOO9GHNg3FP9pZim4f9N7d8j8CnjssZtZZ2Jg2m38YtjAOAl37S-QZ3EEqqp1ItiMTFSgbsGXCyLK4XgJFbtAbutGcvV3BRHfF6_nc_-T0cTFy9p74_HKKfj/s400/P9010857.JPG" /></a><br />What's a mama to do? See how much he loves it?? =)<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGpNjNwNIjE-Spl0GDON6nG72ft3sq4UNr5cZiizkuhSELWjwmxWRTsQiuKtsKhSbQHdA44O383TAF9YFR2pZASfBTZ9iBwHjXHHXPgtR-XgkvEDWZDbIAfYPN032VAMXqUwCjjNnuXnhj/s1600/P9010858.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512106767788754082" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGpNjNwNIjE-Spl0GDON6nG72ft3sq4UNr5cZiizkuhSELWjwmxWRTsQiuKtsKhSbQHdA44O383TAF9YFR2pZASfBTZ9iBwHjXHHXPgtR-XgkvEDWZDbIAfYPN032VAMXqUwCjjNnuXnhj/s400/P9010858.JPG" /></a><br />I told him it was time to eat it. I had put it in the refrigerator to let it chill. He was obviously excited about this. haha.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg74Pvw_bZ_Ic5BdFrlFXjbZstOUlKXlR_Uzl5koozoYVBIehd8uWqtm5i7pus-MVdOd6wpWkujn0ralT2_GHzY7r84QnXfEB1q6XThy_kaJDeIPCU9HFJgvNc4nzk35qGFuK55wqFVwZgj/s1600/P9010859.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512106241771546146" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg74Pvw_bZ_Ic5BdFrlFXjbZstOUlKXlR_Uzl5koozoYVBIehd8uWqtm5i7pus-MVdOd6wpWkujn0ralT2_GHzY7r84QnXfEB1q6XThy_kaJDeIPCU9HFJgvNc4nzk35qGFuK55wqFVwZgj/s400/P9010859.JPG" /></a><br />I was surprised that there was no rind really.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kg8x2RZWVxBPVftNN0Zp41f8ZFNJgWPQ29__hvgU9crjFpTjEmK6Q5asmn8vaFbNPLmsY-w30rny5xn0E9JC0Xuu4NQJ7WIrl9LfG1vXMvySrehFd-3DMKDJ7CnntZREx5Cw9Ia3hyphenhyphenWK/s1600/P9010860.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512106234315710434" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kg8x2RZWVxBPVftNN0Zp41f8ZFNJgWPQ29__hvgU9crjFpTjEmK6Q5asmn8vaFbNPLmsY-w30rny5xn0E9JC0Xuu4NQJ7WIrl9LfG1vXMvySrehFd-3DMKDJ7CnntZREx5Cw9Ia3hyphenhyphenWK/s400/P9010860.JPG" /></a><br />It was basically seedless, of course.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuAlMMTJZb8fDxjqwNRK8hJsEq3yN6rVxV4lvGc1T6I_NgSXws548tEJzv2UBylsNp5w3jNlVD2KzJ5FI0b9LkcLeQpyMiFsz0rtQmcz5Fp7o7LQTWuLklRal39j2jJQzIiNDf0l3ng_xC/s1600/P9010861.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512106227437886866" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuAlMMTJZb8fDxjqwNRK8hJsEq3yN6rVxV4lvGc1T6I_NgSXws548tEJzv2UBylsNp5w3jNlVD2KzJ5FI0b9LkcLeQpyMiFsz0rtQmcz5Fp7o7LQTWuLklRal39j2jJQzIiNDf0l3ng_xC/s400/P9010861.JPG" /></a><br />The first bite...<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8cRbEp6S27iOJTkrkeJtCwBPPWFE5FW0IjwBS_2amMwV5xbiTOFk-x3NydL4913LbTvJmaxw8RpOVqsYVrmEYbxfQQQ4fz-Pmq4Rch1VVZtHw9izsL1eUVZAfS5ZJiOyULDV3tNqr-fZR/s1600/P9010862.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512106212963196674" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8cRbEp6S27iOJTkrkeJtCwBPPWFE5FW0IjwBS_2amMwV5xbiTOFk-x3NydL4913LbTvJmaxw8RpOVqsYVrmEYbxfQQQ4fz-Pmq4Rch1VVZtHw9izsL1eUVZAfS5ZJiOyULDV3tNqr-fZR/s400/P9010862.JPG" /></a><br />So far so good!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-wyTPRY0J5iMb5gs5Re1h4LTz13lh0EeUZlq8Z3xUAw4HMtUVK2Z0wYcvIW54wiNBeM2pGcliBebLxca-vgBmSk7pQ1WIJcipZiUzWL9tGFw6JI8QaxJO9KbtHfNPBAYZGer65ub9wVq0/s1600/P9010863.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5512106206416195810" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-wyTPRY0J5iMb5gs5Re1h4LTz13lh0EeUZlq8Z3xUAw4HMtUVK2Z0wYcvIW54wiNBeM2pGcliBebLxca-vgBmSk7pQ1WIJcipZiUzWL9tGFw6JI8QaxJO9KbtHfNPBAYZGer65ub9wVq0/s400/P9010863.JPG" /></a><br />It was a big hit. He loved it. It really was very sweet and full of flavor. Surprising for such a little thing.</div><div>School is in full swing and I'm going to miss a lot of the summer produce. Funny thing though, we hardly had any "summer" weather by Southern California standards, but now we get triple digit heat. </div><div>The kids think it's some kind of conspiracy against them. haha. We are thankful - very thankful - for air conditioning.</div><div>Fall is just around the corner...and you know me...I can't wait!!</div></div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-39559823352942531592010-08-26T11:20:00.001-07:002010-08-26T12:42:21.367-07:00First Day of School...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCy7bOmP8TRGYQdRc3WhbUIQZ4359ekwmpu59u-yvQdAPo-RQhYjA_zeV3sAm5dUcIsZcCyuHsBjHWISxS8PcPGqpNFpnzxoH4W1EkHbo3KOPF0zIdvqVNm8TrqHLG7RcSxkIzrfvmsRk/s1600/P8230698.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509801794811280194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCy7bOmP8TRGYQdRc3WhbUIQZ4359ekwmpu59u-yvQdAPo-RQhYjA_zeV3sAm5dUcIsZcCyuHsBjHWISxS8PcPGqpNFpnzxoH4W1EkHbo3KOPF0zIdvqVNm8TrqHLG7RcSxkIzrfvmsRk/s400/P8230698.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHvNDpV-2HoDWuXRc0bOP083a7hs9gP6aUJD902H4nMmY2XHgFVO5eBt-LoRRDH03Goar6MNRISpOvJi8qrtlUlvF7_siYqg_emgG2MeB6_TMDdZF1LVJMReCFKLdx9mqSEBp_p8rM6UaA/s1600/P8230699.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509801785544554242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHvNDpV-2HoDWuXRc0bOP083a7hs9gP6aUJD902H4nMmY2XHgFVO5eBt-LoRRDH03Goar6MNRISpOvJi8qrtlUlvF7_siYqg_emgG2MeB6_TMDdZF1LVJMReCFKLdx9mqSEBp_p8rM6UaA/s400/P8230699.JPG" /></a><br />Naomi is starting Kindergarten<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAryyk89ulfjiro_4UnJb-8wGOlx1Sefusp-eKnV2sF8nURqs-AWcmnqd9GE0y6Uq26mb4_bTmBsuvDnuO1IbGZGOPN6F6xLknHZgjvJvPibQ3rNrMOUclwGQyyaByeEMc9a0Z1B3eO3GH/s1600/P8230700.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509801773383947746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAryyk89ulfjiro_4UnJb-8wGOlx1Sefusp-eKnV2sF8nURqs-AWcmnqd9GE0y6Uq26mb4_bTmBsuvDnuO1IbGZGOPN6F6xLknHZgjvJvPibQ3rNrMOUclwGQyyaByeEMc9a0Z1B3eO3GH/s400/P8230700.JPG" /></a><br />Taryn is starting 6th. Top of the elementary!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYR-jX47_a0KIWKaflPBWeqq_n03wkdZ1ryyZo8jm6LjaIiRyEmXvrbrPoEZdI9IHTa0W47rsvmYjlAfOOuPfYT-GDXV2-AZgImC1AkGIoS_Nv1Ijf-31Ep0yHDjkaff8Qm7cc2Jj-qT89/s1600/P8230702.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509801763729404498" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYR-jX47_a0KIWKaflPBWeqq_n03wkdZ1ryyZo8jm6LjaIiRyEmXvrbrPoEZdI9IHTa0W47rsvmYjlAfOOuPfYT-GDXV2-AZgImC1AkGIoS_Nv1Ijf-31Ep0yHDjkaff8Qm7cc2Jj-qT89/s400/P8230702.JPG" /></a><br />Hannah is going into the 10th grade.<br /><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlWNiy8ZMXzG1KxU1UJne7TpiZ4wK1y5CSBIFPfX_tv6hqaYDdnxZkdoAwHTmYzrv_avc6kPh2ReLtmysPRZqimvG0dvqH6tiTcmWA9rQVW5csCBoH12-1Bp6haUCVfXhkMjtrlvfHVYEe/s1600/P8230706.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509801311862191538" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlWNiy8ZMXzG1KxU1UJne7TpiZ4wK1y5CSBIFPfX_tv6hqaYDdnxZkdoAwHTmYzrv_avc6kPh2ReLtmysPRZqimvG0dvqH6tiTcmWA9rQVW5csCBoH12-1Bp6haUCVfXhkMjtrlvfHVYEe/s400/P8230706.JPG" /></a><br />On the playground reserved for Kinders only! =)<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_fGtEfoh10Q7_p8y-53K9f24jRTuDdGuyrXlMS9LuShqhJffXRYq6wJVc-_WsAPGw8cV4m86mf7aGnlQN8fyq7d6TSCuaGD06jBIpMENKSY794X5tsrx89Xdt3ZZEL9iBTgli3qdPBJui/s1600/P8230710.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509801301301446866" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_fGtEfoh10Q7_p8y-53K9f24jRTuDdGuyrXlMS9LuShqhJffXRYq6wJVc-_WsAPGw8cV4m86mf7aGnlQN8fyq7d6TSCuaGD06jBIpMENKSY794X5tsrx89Xdt3ZZEL9iBTgli3qdPBJui/s400/P8230710.JPG" /></a><br />Naomi found her place right away!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fvf5FTExDEIz7KCJfeTOFAWGjKC8hCkvPr4aDlGlFhe_Rvj8Dzw2uSjOYikLdIJF3ytRfmXBxZqUGgMt1E7ScviKz944xyOWIxZSPSBMYlap_ZwaBvbrPGIsk0atkUnKXf-cColWWg4F/s1600/P8230712.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509801293876356274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fvf5FTExDEIz7KCJfeTOFAWGjKC8hCkvPr4aDlGlFhe_Rvj8Dzw2uSjOYikLdIJF3ytRfmXBxZqUGgMt1E7ScviKz944xyOWIxZSPSBMYlap_ZwaBvbrPGIsk0atkUnKXf-cColWWg4F/s400/P8230712.JPG" /></a><br />Then she had to locate her cubby. That was easy.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPJSx-uLWLCNa9hOUlYtitI0Zm2tcQG8pBhEoPioZ7C8ZqmYHLm_idLeQHjLTdeb9FW-vgyq4Ouw0B0tCRepaP12bXbUUBSB5cfYCUY5ZvRG4q8zZkQYx8heWihBuLP0c7pw3v5xvVqiP4/s1600/P8230714.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509801281490979826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPJSx-uLWLCNa9hOUlYtitI0Zm2tcQG8pBhEoPioZ7C8ZqmYHLm_idLeQHjLTdeb9FW-vgyq4Ouw0B0tCRepaP12bXbUUBSB5cfYCUY5ZvRG4q8zZkQYx8heWihBuLP0c7pw3v5xvVqiP4/s400/P8230714.JPG" /></a><br />Everybody was asked to work quietly while the teacher greeted each new student.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO0VYhSuyC_XqrjgwEJZZIdS7fZ0LtoUnWb06QZ2W5qeGD5hqmKISNss0CJg2tw6SM_aARuul49OSNDQ1be5g1X6T4n93cD6e10sbyQumeQNW37J35MdiWoVBF2YNtXVitaB0obdws81qP/s1600/P8230715.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509785703579015490" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO0VYhSuyC_XqrjgwEJZZIdS7fZ0LtoUnWb06QZ2W5qeGD5hqmKISNss0CJg2tw6SM_aARuul49OSNDQ1be5g1X6T4n93cD6e10sbyQumeQNW37J35MdiWoVBF2YNtXVitaB0obdws81qP/s400/P8230715.JPG" /></a><br />Mrs. Saucedo seems like a firm, but kind teacher. Perfect for Naomi.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQC-bkZIT7gogUWf04ofYBRyR7vErfnHLwxW-5FhwhHDKb8bMBGJbHW4kJApC1nyrYsla4sr2JRYjRLrCDBrXrIIcCPYNDzmUbn-6WgojTUcvtSxfi2_Ov0TOn5S9btLZozv6Rq0Hz6XX/s1600/P8230716.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509785693205399266" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQC-bkZIT7gogUWf04ofYBRyR7vErfnHLwxW-5FhwhHDKb8bMBGJbHW4kJApC1nyrYsla4sr2JRYjRLrCDBrXrIIcCPYNDzmUbn-6WgojTUcvtSxfi2_Ov0TOn5S9btLZozv6Rq0Hz6XX/s400/P8230716.JPG" /></a><br />Naomi loved that everything was provided for her, including a new pack of Crayola Crayons that were the perfect size for her!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCuaO_wesbKiS004YyV28cxD1k1hlNFpDTknreRgjUNj1W76NkjOW0qVcII-nYgn-pMHcI5xstxg2iHNYVSsgugQNmuzhGVGEYyARKAYpESsj9ILjoOwxHvy6OGcj7PWS12UurUSMSUjp/s1600/P8230717.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509785684617537458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCuaO_wesbKiS004YyV28cxD1k1hlNFpDTknreRgjUNj1W76NkjOW0qVcII-nYgn-pMHcI5xstxg2iHNYVSsgugQNmuzhGVGEYyARKAYpESsj9ILjoOwxHvy6OGcj7PWS12UurUSMSUjp/s400/P8230717.JPG" /></a><br />Here's Taryn waiting in line to enter her classroom.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid2PYyHUp3v2boIu1w-T11ncEHuw1OQJFbQ8ViloBrd2bp3VUgUvbEN5hYFKlU1ISrDmPUMME3cisRQAEvGmUISnOcCYksGdmSYJFKGH17-e7MRGKROQQZuY3uAA8Loj-VVYatX4YneXJe/s1600/P8230719.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509785678672137682" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid2PYyHUp3v2boIu1w-T11ncEHuw1OQJFbQ8ViloBrd2bp3VUgUvbEN5hYFKlU1ISrDmPUMME3cisRQAEvGmUISnOcCYksGdmSYJFKGH17-e7MRGKROQQZuY3uAA8Loj-VVYatX4YneXJe/s400/P8230719.JPG" /></a><br />Mrs. M&M...another firm teacher. The kids really like her already!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh36zTAPY0mxGtw8Y2Rjk49BnPXtmpAjyZSxA3xQoOWneH6W7IeEy6JHNbqhlfks0iK5HoQsv8C2lXoXE5cqxerOQHY65wkLHqGOjkyJmvkCmodNrbxC-wtW7FjHRc_5l8E94vUDIO0firq/s1600/P8230720.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 221px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509785665556844514" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh36zTAPY0mxGtw8Y2Rjk49BnPXtmpAjyZSxA3xQoOWneH6W7IeEy6JHNbqhlfks0iK5HoQsv8C2lXoXE5cqxerOQHY65wkLHqGOjkyJmvkCmodNrbxC-wtW7FjHRc_5l8E94vUDIO0firq/s400/P8230720.JPG" /></a><br />And here is MY student. Little Marco just turned three and we've got some fun and educational days planned. I look forward to being with my sweet boy as much as possible. I am so thankful for an excellent school system for my girls. I know there will be some challenges, but I am also trusting the peace that God has put in our hearts about this.</div><div>Looking forward to a great school year!! </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-74436708802889790772010-08-26T10:53:00.001-07:002010-08-26T11:16:31.678-07:00R.I.P. Rolly PollyI've been calling him Curious George lately. He wants to know about everything and I love it. My hubby was walking him inside yesterday. It was still very early in the day. Marco saw this rolly polly. He decided that it was his best friend and that they were going to spend the day together.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY-gLL6-zmcoDznrUXiBigQ_3VxX1JhtVK-2PmVMOwhWA6K6o4FFZnw8sGJQFy03rufXZXrtrb13MiPRadgIAvpPso50SF8QS_oTZSnI7fKx8nmlv_MlTiH-wdiobC8H_eHduNy1lclHzV/s1600/P8250726.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509779035742330274" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY-gLL6-zmcoDznrUXiBigQ_3VxX1JhtVK-2PmVMOwhWA6K6o4FFZnw8sGJQFy03rufXZXrtrb13MiPRadgIAvpPso50SF8QS_oTZSnI7fKx8nmlv_MlTiH-wdiobC8H_eHduNy1lclHzV/s400/P8250726.JPG" /></a><br />I gave him a little dish for his "pet". Of course, he wanted to feed him. I told him that the little guy would be fine. He insisted that the rolly polly would want cereal like him.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS_4XDykAG17yW4ECT45IQo-GVWE8YM0yNtCVjo6vcG0D_PEyaQMJtP51sNldw1goqwUOiPNGrqiHelYN60KwSrzeedJoWFjIIXomDQNmk3vfZvOby2NaeQNeoYL18VrLVDLtSWTNny1vq/s1600/P8250727.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509779028005772034" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS_4XDykAG17yW4ECT45IQo-GVWE8YM0yNtCVjo6vcG0D_PEyaQMJtP51sNldw1goqwUOiPNGrqiHelYN60KwSrzeedJoWFjIIXomDQNmk3vfZvOby2NaeQNeoYL18VrLVDLtSWTNny1vq/s400/P8250727.JPG" /></a><br />"He's eating it mama!"<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijyrC3dehenfvv_kX2NGx3yfjPT-32NCq98Ca0gTLS7ye5xG3ViNh_05nc8dr_D0Ob4VNap3Nan6oTXcUhp-olnWcKJkNfk2QAcAVjatiy6DIRQKdY7YNlhQLIGO8xyGZHql7iMz8WiShR/s1600/P8250728.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509779014191687010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijyrC3dehenfvv_kX2NGx3yfjPT-32NCq98Ca0gTLS7ye5xG3ViNh_05nc8dr_D0Ob4VNap3Nan6oTXcUhp-olnWcKJkNfk2QAcAVjatiy6DIRQKdY7YNlhQLIGO8xyGZHql7iMz8WiShR/s400/P8250728.JPG" /></a><br />"Now he's in a ball!" </div><div>He had his rolly polly do all kinds of activities with him. They played some computer games together. He sat the dish on the lap top so that his rolly polly could "see" the screen. Then they watched a cartoon. It was too hot to go outside for anything... He decided that he wanted his rolly polly to drived the race car.... </div><div>"Mommy, my best friend is playing cars with me!"</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6rm7ljKnscyweDQlmEYxEEwEyr45flA9vL0KTnYdJJ0jQhSczNvDzC2ey6_n_b1dSV4DxnrAsg8YXPHt8iYLSJJFnKtgNWOuegj5fYdjXXRcezFLjW-Svccpw8itGqM2c0uiq4UwEV9A/s1600/P8250729.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509779008740009554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN6rm7ljKnscyweDQlmEYxEEwEyr45flA9vL0KTnYdJJ0jQhSczNvDzC2ey6_n_b1dSV4DxnrAsg8YXPHt8iYLSJJFnKtgNWOuegj5fYdjXXRcezFLjW-Svccpw8itGqM2c0uiq4UwEV9A/s400/P8250729.JPG" /></a><br />I would have taken pictures of them racing cars...if only I had known. Sadly, there was a tragic accident. Rolly polly was involved in a three car pile up. It wasn't pretty. </div><div>Poor Marco. Poor Rolly Polly. You will not be forgotten; you were a good friend. R.I.P.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-85013847669484654972010-08-13T17:32:00.000-07:002010-08-13T17:40:20.381-07:00Move Over Zucchini Boats...It's the Tomato Boat...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6yOtuMgH9hDotZ6cDu39puyDoZ5Oz-upQW2a4MGP2nAcQQy3_ERD7jfh8gLnDOtkIKAbGxwQ7Izhls79S5sQr8CHR2-FApiy96RxhTRMiP45i5Jjm3BDWavqQDMFyyNWDhTukeXghnl6l/s1600/Broiled+Tomatoes.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 140px; HEIGHT: 140px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5505057634698534770" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6yOtuMgH9hDotZ6cDu39puyDoZ5Oz-upQW2a4MGP2nAcQQy3_ERD7jfh8gLnDOtkIKAbGxwQ7Izhls79S5sQr8CHR2-FApiy96RxhTRMiP45i5Jjm3BDWavqQDMFyyNWDhTukeXghnl6l/s400/Broiled+Tomatoes.jpg" /></a><br />Isn't this a beautiful picture?? My cousin, Sherri, sent me this recipe and I can't wait to try it. I just wanted to go ahead and post this in case some of you were looking for something new to try this weekend. You know that pictures are sure to follow... =)<br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">I believe that a strict Paleo diet would skip the dairy items...however, I will not be skipping them! =)</span><br />Stuffed Tomatoes<br />Ingredients<br />•8 firm ripe tomatoes<br />•6 slices bacon<br />•1/2 cup chopped onion<br />•1 pound fresh spinach, stems snipped<br />•1 cup sour cream<br />•1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce<br />•salt to taste<br />•1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend<br />Directions<br />This recipe's Ingredients were scaled to yield a new amount. The directions below still refer to the original recipe yield of 4 servings.<br />1.Preheat an oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.<br />2.Cut tops from tomatoes; remove seeds and membranes. Place tomato shells upside down on paper towels to drain until filling.<br />3.Place the bacon in a large, deep skillet, and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain the bacon slices on a paper towel-lined plate, reserve drippings. Crumble bacon and set aside. Return 2 tablespoons of drippings to skillet.<br />4.Cook onion in the bacon drippings until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in spinach; cook and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream, reserved crumbled bacon, and hot pepper sauce.<br />5.Sprinkle tomato shells with salt; fill evenly with bacon and spinach mixture. Place tomatoes in prepared baking dish.<br />6.Bake in preheated oven until hot, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove, and top evenly with the shredded cheese. Return to the oven; bake until cheese is melted, about 5 minutes.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-68724756662942374852010-08-13T12:05:00.000-07:002010-08-13T12:46:06.834-07:00Friday Fill-Ins August 13th!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRFw_Gbe6ve6o_RihZFVFgthpLldb3GJgSVWEmYUq5JPM3-kpc_pRTsrwLeuHQQuxu78ohnBZqnCRQRsGVb8XEYmbJD50Y0LYqCrHBhJ2IqCRPY7SfTLHmZ1hDBkk8YEC464PMiCp7Q-q/s1600/P8130674.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504982870707885970" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixRFw_Gbe6ve6o_RihZFVFgthpLldb3GJgSVWEmYUq5JPM3-kpc_pRTsrwLeuHQQuxu78ohnBZqnCRQRsGVb8XEYmbJD50Y0LYqCrHBhJ2IqCRPY7SfTLHmZ1hDBkk8YEC464PMiCp7Q-q/s400/P8130674.JPG" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="color:#ff0000;">This is my special little guy that I get to spend my days with when the girls go to school!</span><br /></span>1. Music <span style="color:#ff0000;">is something that is important to me. Like many of you, my life has many theme songs. I must have music that speaks to me in some way. It may be through the lyrics or it may be through the melody, harmony and rythm. If none of those speak to me in a particular song - then I skip it. I have to have some kind of music every day</span>.<br /><br />2. <span style="color:#ff0000;">A cup of good coffee, my quiet time, and workout</span> is what I like first thing in the morning.<br /><br />3. The first thing I said this morning was: <span style="color:#ff0000;">"What time is it?!" I thought I over-slept. I didn't have to be anywhere, I just don't like to sleep late</span>.<br /><br />4. <span style="color:#ff0000;">Chicken breast stuffed with spinach and mushrooms</span>; it's what's for dinner tonight.<br /><br />5. It's all been <span style="color:#ff0000;">so crazy since the end of last school year! We had the end of the school year dealings, we moved to a new house, we went on a two week trip to see Jaime get married and visit with family and friends, we came back and unpacked, started on all of the many summer activities, camps, etc and now we are gearing up for a brand-new experience at new schools with me staying home with my little guy. Phew! That's a lot!</span><br /><br />6. <span style="color:#ff0000;">Getting a pedicure</span> is what I feel like doing right now<span style="color:#ff0000;"> since I haven't had one since before July 4th. All of the summer activities and dryness have taken a toll on my tootsies!</span><br /><br />7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to <span style="color:#ff0000;">visiting one of our newer families at church</span>, tomorrow my plans include <span style="color:#ff0000;">maybe some early morning junking and then a reunion my hubby needs to attend</span> and Sunday, I want to <span style="color:#ff0000;">relax and enjoy my day after a full morning at church</span>!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-11559645703107348522010-08-12T23:07:00.000-07:002010-08-13T13:41:58.465-07:0012 of 12 for August...Well, hope you all had a great 12 of 12! I was up for about an hour or two before I realised that it was the 12th! I had a super busy day and managed to take a few pictures to at least give you a peek into my day...so let's start here:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_rKqvcfDZecgIYYL9nwan5LBrG3_yH0y0WlgXyZ4-fUcbh_Cj-2nNhEqAOGSe1qID-0uFxcm92wofeqm25VbIjf0NSjpu5H93zjK4hZ8pr5MkmlTzfiPY_AQ3x3dTwIQ-jP2_fGCGg7L2/s1600/P8120645.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504990694941846786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_rKqvcfDZecgIYYL9nwan5LBrG3_yH0y0WlgXyZ4-fUcbh_Cj-2nNhEqAOGSe1qID-0uFxcm92wofeqm25VbIjf0NSjpu5H93zjK4hZ8pr5MkmlTzfiPY_AQ3x3dTwIQ-jP2_fGCGg7L2/s400/P8120645.JPG" /></a><br />I don't mean to start off on a negative tone, but this did NOT make me happy. Of course, nobody knows who left the cup on top of the album, but there it was - and yes, it left a ring! =(<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJxZdBjFzLSyeRed-otnolQStPzYY3QLvLy4tALC5f6y03DglsrB145zukAwC8XrflDpGASkGyPC42NDw5JtYJzkW9-Y8BI6iKII63jqWM_FttwcMFKNka-XrRocC74bziz9Ce87hiK4I/s1600/P8120646.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504990686261008098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJxZdBjFzLSyeRed-otnolQStPzYY3QLvLy4tALC5f6y03DglsrB145zukAwC8XrflDpGASkGyPC42NDw5JtYJzkW9-Y8BI6iKII63jqWM_FttwcMFKNka-XrRocC74bziz9Ce87hiK4I/s400/P8120646.JPG" /></a><br />I had to head out to the school to pack up my classroom. I was planning on returning to teach for the 2010 - 2011 school year, but circumstances changed and I have decided that I will be staying home with my little Marco. It was bitter-sweet. Sad that I will miss my students and glad that I get this special time with my boy. I know I made the right choice and I can't wait to see what is in store for us!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifgkG7mEt0GSOitB7dNh2yRKd4D0UHlDUCG6ftKRYSyDz6YWDbfWUC2k05DQ66fO5D7xJg6Vo-PckQm1fnLI7eVKHOM1ojGy_nI9bFilDXbEg2Hsehzz5amuKRZ31VQmnyp-GGRiN775sn/s1600/P8120647.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504990483313192866" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifgkG7mEt0GSOitB7dNh2yRKd4D0UHlDUCG6ftKRYSyDz6YWDbfWUC2k05DQ66fO5D7xJg6Vo-PckQm1fnLI7eVKHOM1ojGy_nI9bFilDXbEg2Hsehzz5amuKRZ31VQmnyp-GGRiN775sn/s400/P8120647.JPG" /></a><br />My awesome hubby (who helped me pack) decided he would give this place a second chance. He wasn't thrilled with it the first time he had it for some reason, but was very pleased with the house fried rice (had chicken, beef and shrimp). Oh, yeah! Not paleo at all, but so good.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYv6vc8w7d2_TTZ_x5uaAI1DFXP7XelvNwJqXbQUAMqUD1Nbk8nb4FwcXZfXKvGSc6KZ1qw7fEDIt_OvaxCtRBQT3WgUCfsVh4ve1qx9wtEy0xD2WCHyThaiZV6Kj0h0g7PdCCqyJK6CK5/s1600/P8120648.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504990471856900066" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYv6vc8w7d2_TTZ_x5uaAI1DFXP7XelvNwJqXbQUAMqUD1Nbk8nb4FwcXZfXKvGSc6KZ1qw7fEDIt_OvaxCtRBQT3WgUCfsVh4ve1qx9wtEy0xD2WCHyThaiZV6Kj0h0g7PdCCqyJK6CK5/s400/P8120648.JPG" /></a><br />Our fortunes...interesting. haha!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYcbvvKGRbqXW9GF4No7cUkZpZGDdG5OVF-YPpz7WZBT5-9JYha_CgDzqxgipzYbNWbIdzs5H1GSnIkkej6b5xa2eN2ZpRBDOalGHfH3GppzY8FzgVkynOxUKI2Jk5M21eaQvwhQ_gzlBT/s1600/P8120649.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504990467774642690" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYcbvvKGRbqXW9GF4No7cUkZpZGDdG5OVF-YPpz7WZBT5-9JYha_CgDzqxgipzYbNWbIdzs5H1GSnIkkej6b5xa2eN2ZpRBDOalGHfH3GppzY8FzgVkynOxUKI2Jk5M21eaQvwhQ_gzlBT/s400/P8120649.JPG" /></a><br />My good friend Vicki came to my house to do our hair. All the girls got a cut or clean up. Somehow I missed Taryn's cut...she was in the chair and out. Just a trim for her. Hannah is here just getting layers put back in...but guess what?? Wait until you see Naomi!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI6w7p8-EALQR4R-3dlMAVJ5Uas6hbRyXsX3fwqtDCn1pL2XYozTn1xjVRm5K3O2IRTFjZvJef12wTMprqAAViJwJzUg_-FFH38WjKBph8ZH3ZVjvaz7YhTMCstT1KGQUROKeCJkogRgkU/s1600/P8120650.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 326px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504990456340290642" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI6w7p8-EALQR4R-3dlMAVJ5Uas6hbRyXsX3fwqtDCn1pL2XYozTn1xjVRm5K3O2IRTFjZvJef12wTMprqAAViJwJzUg_-FFH38WjKBph8ZH3ZVjvaz7YhTMCstT1KGQUROKeCJkogRgkU/s400/P8120650.JPG" /></a><br />Here she is with Marco and Vicki's granddaughter, Lexi-lou! They had a blast together...<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpXzztgCaWPjtSe-gJOk7ePKfUL-riPxiPUanHLgabdpBtzl8UHyWuLfs5o_YC_vtwzemcsrOLo87X_srQzWSQo4Qew3w-1qz-3ZeBFWhCqaeZGdM7ewOgzWlf-Fcgbft0EasB6DI-hWCl/s1600/P8120652.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504990447914654226" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpXzztgCaWPjtSe-gJOk7ePKfUL-riPxiPUanHLgabdpBtzl8UHyWuLfs5o_YC_vtwzemcsrOLo87X_srQzWSQo4Qew3w-1qz-3ZeBFWhCqaeZGdM7ewOgzWlf-Fcgbft0EasB6DI-hWCl/s400/P8120652.JPG" /></a><br />I got my hair colored and hi-lited...Yes, I am hiding. I wanted the moment recorded, but obviously was not feeling very photogenic. My son laughs and laughs when my hair is all papered up like this.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB9dwPsBl0lLBgwKI2De69ZWtySrTWl4mD3_yakMQ921qeq5QFi9gzHfdm9JPfbuRrGyzcHtDkjLYayj-e4qE1lQciQkmK69IxlbaA1YECg8SWEd7_3GsK15bdHfM4Re-C7p02LY6su0x_/s1600/P8120661.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504989926377324834" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB9dwPsBl0lLBgwKI2De69ZWtySrTWl4mD3_yakMQ921qeq5QFi9gzHfdm9JPfbuRrGyzcHtDkjLYayj-e4qE1lQciQkmK69IxlbaA1YECg8SWEd7_3GsK15bdHfM4Re-C7p02LY6su0x_/s400/P8120661.JPG" /></a><br />My little Naomi will be starting Kindergarten this year. It will be an all day class and she is excited! New school, new year...<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlrMxDu1RtP3Zp8G9upqL4mQXHM8f0BtcbhIjy_CVb76sii9i3qaXRD3ZiRmnGR6k_AXF7ppTr0oWTH1l91aXGoZlWwPILFgttX8ZjevjuHH8ol2GJwzgIyS_gTLyqIPA0_EdFZc02djSg/s1600/P8120662.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504989913809256162" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlrMxDu1RtP3Zp8G9upqL4mQXHM8f0BtcbhIjy_CVb76sii9i3qaXRD3ZiRmnGR6k_AXF7ppTr0oWTH1l91aXGoZlWwPILFgttX8ZjevjuHH8ol2GJwzgIyS_gTLyqIPA0_EdFZc02djSg/s400/P8120662.JPG" /></a><br />New do!!! I could not believe she agreed to have her hair cut! I love it and think it makes her Korean side just POP! =)<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuf1VR7AgV0hkf50aE5cTCXTwFyTgVyXh7WdPZlRrnkFDOYNnBYQ4kTwU1qXFaZLLABVlTKxVhK6ZofcYSt7v1KY0vCKATg4OBcH6fb9we2GmCw6F0H9ZhFMQclGcuG5dugg7rLIKYakOp/s1600/P8120666.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504989904016048322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuf1VR7AgV0hkf50aE5cTCXTwFyTgVyXh7WdPZlRrnkFDOYNnBYQ4kTwU1qXFaZLLABVlTKxVhK6ZofcYSt7v1KY0vCKATg4OBcH6fb9we2GmCw6F0H9ZhFMQclGcuG5dugg7rLIKYakOp/s400/P8120666.JPG" /></a><br />Marco did not have time to sit around while we all got our hair done. It was hot outside and he was going to do something about it!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVHDaKawtXl-_rTLu6y-AC8NCgMbzJgQNcD8g3JiqWe0Ds_z_TozFMhlZwf0-ZMSQU2iklahEXs7joj4g3VEnZMGS8jHbSAc5lmEX_uFCy0xEvZDDz1Z8S21ptJIctqCDujD5n2aEGbEn/s1600/P8120667.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504989895958365090" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVHDaKawtXl-_rTLu6y-AC8NCgMbzJgQNcD8g3JiqWe0Ds_z_TozFMhlZwf0-ZMSQU2iklahEXs7joj4g3VEnZMGS8jHbSAc5lmEX_uFCy0xEvZDDz1Z8S21ptJIctqCDujD5n2aEGbEn/s400/P8120667.JPG" /></a><br />And now, he's hungry and doing something about it....or maybe he's tired....<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZebPkmR5hbl6Yjkh36RSu4_G_axEg0tf_RggiiTZeOpMMhTrq57n28Dq-JFWfAUFIrEaK6jwbTtYYkq-eaobn_MTWX8NOlO9LcdUbipXp9qJ4_E4glIAW9noYKjDZsKDEt8t0R0l3Izmc/s1600/P8120672.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 300px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504989884690989970" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZebPkmR5hbl6Yjkh36RSu4_G_axEg0tf_RggiiTZeOpMMhTrq57n28Dq-JFWfAUFIrEaK6jwbTtYYkq-eaobn_MTWX8NOlO9LcdUbipXp9qJ4_E4glIAW9noYKjDZsKDEt8t0R0l3Izmc/s400/P8120672.JPG" /></a><br />Yup. He was tired, and as you can see - he's doing something about this too! haha. Funny thing, he woke up about 30 minutes later and before his eyes were even open, he took a bite of his pizza. Ewww...just picked up where he left off, I guess!</div><div></div><div>Well, Hannah ended up going home with Christina for the evening, so that left me to clean up by myself and then zone out a bit before bed. What a day!</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3193088523961203441.post-43634965816582603082010-08-06T15:49:00.000-07:002010-08-06T16:04:50.566-07:00Friday Fill-Ins for August 6<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtxYJbLDxzjEncApbhczBkiiymfri5Lyziz5ltV61KwJmqg_2gtdoJX10eEJMGLtvlIkCREHvuKI3WGRzGK48X9ClpK35sax1TlmiBLZ5M4P3bYLMbHz7yWb2KjIZj1xI9r6dTkieoyhWV/s1600/P8030474.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502436088845680818" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtxYJbLDxzjEncApbhczBkiiymfri5Lyziz5ltV61KwJmqg_2gtdoJX10eEJMGLtvlIkCREHvuKI3WGRzGK48X9ClpK35sax1TlmiBLZ5M4P3bYLMbHz7yWb2KjIZj1xI9r6dTkieoyhWV/s400/P8030474.JPG" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">My sweet daughter Taryn at the water park. Summer's wrapping up so quickly! =(<br /></span><br />1. Life is <span style="color:#ff0000;">going to be very different this year. The kids will be going to public school for the first time ever! I am looking forward to all of the options and programs they will have access to, however I am nervous at the same time.<br /></span><br />2. <span style="color:#ff0000;">Even if there are stumbling blocks, you've got to</span> keep going, <span style="color:#ff0000;">you never know what's just around the bend!<br /></span><br />3. My last text message (or IM) ended in these three words: "<span style="color:#ff0000;">my last one" It was a text to my cousin (long-distance personal trainer) telling her that I did better this time. =)</span><br /><br />4. <span style="color:#ff0000;">Fresh lobster </span>is what I'm thinking about for dinner sometime soon. <span style="color:#ff0000;">I've never cooked it before and would love to try it for something special.</span><br /><br />5. On the 1st day of August <span style="color:#ff0000;">I felt panicky because I still need to do school shopping (clothes and supplies) and the summer is ending quickly!</span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span><br />6. <span style="color:#ff0000;">The crossfit workouts and Paleo eating really help me to feel</span> lively and energetic.<br /><br />7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to <span style="color:#ff0000;">family game night at a friend's house</span>, tomorrow my plans include <span style="color:#ff0000;">a family day retreat at the beach with our church</span> and Sunday, I want to <span style="color:#ff0000;">relax and enjoy the Lord's day with family and friends</span>!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2