tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80891911181193426642024-03-12T16:55:36.548-07:00Peachy Kuehn AdventuresNicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.comBlogger130125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-62920523517590515852016-02-29T11:47:00.000-08:002016-02-29T11:47:08.318-08:00Grandpa<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you know me well, you will know that I am an atheist. Have been my whole life despite countless efforts to broaden my spirituality. I've gained wisdom but have yet to find the spirit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This morning, something happened that shook me to the core and could be called nothing other than spiritual.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">That whole night I had been having awful night terrors. These are not like your usual bad dream and they always have something to do with trauma that has happened in your life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My dreams like to play around, maybe focus around something that happened when I was 15, but add in a splash of that one time when I was 12 and that other time I was 23. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This makes for some pretty confusing but mostly hurtful dreams. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">These dreams always seem real. They feel as though they are happening in real time even though one dream can span a few days. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This particular dream was awful. A couple of days of pure humiliation and abuse. I remember waking at 7:40am, completely drenched in sweat, fighting my hardest to stay awake, but I fell right back into the same spot in the same dream. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Like I said, these dreams seem REAL. Every emotion, every hurt, is really happening in your body as your nervous system is reminded of the trauma. Fight or flight will turn on while you are asleep. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Near the end of this dream I just couldn't take it anymore. I had nowhere to go and was out of options. I felt like I could not continue the task that was set before me that I was suppose to complete. I decided to end it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> In the dream, while I was suppose to be packing and moving all of my things (all of which seemed to be huge and nearly physically impossible for one person) I decided to gather the right combination of pills in order to commit suicide. Several people were outside, waiting for me to bring my items out and to keep an eye on me, so I knew I didn't have much time before one came to check on me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I grabbed my pills and headed upstairs and locked myself behind a bedroom door. Crying my eyes out while I stared at the pills, I looked up at the door. And there, standing tall with a big smile on his face, was my foster Grandpa. My jaw dropped as I stared at him and asked "You're not dead?" (In real life he had passed away 2 years before.) Grandpa just let out a big laugh and said "Not today!" </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He knelt down beside me and brushed the pills from my hand. I realized I wasn't worried about anyone breaking in anymore because it felt like time had stopped. He pulled me to my feet and wrapped me in a hug. He told me I was safe and that everything was okay. He told me not to be sad because this was just a dream; but that it was time to wake up. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I nodded my head, not questioning anything he said. He took a step back, two hands on my shoulders, still smiling. He shook his head with a little laugh and said "You need to wake up now, and Nicole, you need to quit smoking too." </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I don't even have time to react to that before I'm awake. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I sit up in my bed soaked in sweat, cold, and confused. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The horrible things that had happened in the dream were still with me. I was surprised to even be in my apartment in my bed. Shaking my head to try and clear my thoughts I tell myself over and over that it was just a dream. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There's something I just can't shake though, and something that even though I don't want to confront it or admit it, Grandpa was NOT just a dream. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">At 16 years old my best friend's family took me in to live with them. I was embraced by not only her but her wonderful and kind mother. The added bonus was her grandfather who was funny, charming, but also smart. Extremely smart. He was also compassionate, worked with children most of his life, and had four of his own. While I lived with them for only one year, that one year of love and understanding from that whole family made up for a lot. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I knew how important my friend and her mother were to me. The one person that I did not realize was expertly and subtly helping me was Grandpa. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Most of the time when it was just Grandpa and I there wasn't much talking. We were happy just to have each other's silent company. But other times he would tell me stories. Stories that a lot of times would hit home for me and relate to something from my own past, or even the way I was feeling at that exact moment. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I didn't have to say a word to Grandpa, he just knew. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Other times, something would happen and I would be able to talk to my friend and her mother about it, but I would fret over the thought of talking to grandpa about it. I knew he would be disappointed. I was ashamed. And yet, he never brought those times up. I'm not sure if he was waiting for me to bring up the subject, or if he just knew that the experience itself was more the lesson than talking about it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I was going through a lot at the time, and sometimes I just needed to cry. I didn't want to be alone but I also didn't want to be bothered. I would go downstairs where Grandpa would be sitting at the kitchen table. I would sit in a chair next to him, put my head in my arms on the table, and cry. And after I had had a good cry I would stand up, look at him, and tell him thank you. He would look up at me from his seat, smile softly, and just say "You're welcome." </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He was a wonderful, good heart-ed, fun loving person. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Would he want me to sit in my bed all day alone and sad all because of a dream? No.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So I get up to make my coffee and as I do, I can hear Grandpa singing Danny Boy, just as he did for his own son named Daniel, and then later for my son with the same name. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I don't turn to look. I don't have to. I just smile and close my eyes and listen.</span></div>
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<!-- Copyright (c)2009 Site Meter -->Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-23105948929960446442016-02-25T14:20:00.001-08:002016-02-25T14:20:48.917-08:00CUTTING<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Something has been on my mind lately and I feel like I need to get this out there. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's about people who cut themselves. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If this topic is sensitive to you or you have triggers you might not want to read this post.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you think people who cut want to die or if you think they simply want attention you probably should read this post. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm tired of cutting being taboo!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Do you know how many people cut themselves? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Every 2 in 10 teens cuts themselves according to CBS in 2014.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I am one of those people. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Let me tell you a little something that most people do not know:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>People who cut don't do it because they want to die; they are cutting because they want to live! </u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here's how it goes. These people have some type of mental problem such as depression, bi-polar disorder, or PTSD. These people usually are not getting the help that they need to deal with these issues. Sometimes these people get so down and depressed that they can think of nothing but the pain they are feeling on the inside. They are hurt or angry about something. They dwell on the problem and the pain until nothing else exists. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They are dying on the inside.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">These people do not have the proper tools to handle their pain. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">One way to release natural endorphin to fight the pain is to create some type of physical pain. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If I am so lonely and depressed and am feeling like I can simply take no more, I feel like the pain is killing me and I'm dying.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Then, I cut my wrist. And it gets a little better.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The more you cut, the more endorphins are released and the better you feel. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's almost embarrassing for me to say that I once talked about how wonderful it felt to cut while in a group therapy session. I actually rambled on about how as soon as you cut yourself, the pain you were trapped in either loosens it's grip or completely lets go. </span></div>
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Example: I was at an in-patient facility and when they said they were going to discharge me I freaked out and was scared. I used the only thing around I could, an ink pen to cut my arm.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have been in therapy for a long time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The best therapy I've been through so far has been DBT or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This program has helped to teach me the tools I need to not only understand my emotions, but to know how to control them as well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Before DBT I did not know a better way to deal with pain, anger, and loneliness without cutting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And there are a lot of people out there who cut and have never been to DBT, let alone any therapy! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This post is to try and humanize the person that cuts themselves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Don't flash dirty looks or assume they are trying to kill themselves or are an attention whore. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">They are going through something, and they don't know how to deal with it in a healthy manner. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you know someone who cuts, talk to them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ask them about it. Inquire about therapy because trust me, if they are cutting themselves THEY DO NEED THERAPY. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you are a parent of someone who cuts or you cut yourself, please seek help. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">It does get better. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And the best part is that the anger and sadness that once consumed me usually doesn't get anywhere near as bad as it use to. Because now I know how to recognize an emotion, and then how to deal with it in a healthy way. </span></div>
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The semi-colon symbolizes where my life could have ended but didn't.</td></tr>
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<!-- Copyright (c)2009 Site Meter -->Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-77350923710106152742016-02-24T10:04:00.002-08:002016-02-24T10:04:37.044-08:00Scary Shower Experience<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u style="font-weight: bold;">Scary Shower Experience</u><br />By: Nicole Kuehn </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">She finally made it home safely after having to drive her kids to school through a snow storm. She was still ruminating about the district not calling school off as she turned on the water for her shower. Steam started rolling out of the top of the curtain as she gathered a new outfit and started to undress. As she stepped into the hot water she started thinking about all the things she was grateful for. Things had been going really well for her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Midway through the shower, with shampoo in her hair, there was a loud bang in her apartment followed by the loudest yelp she'd ever heard from her dog before. Her thoughts instantly went to her front door, which she knew she had left unlocked. "Lilly" she called her dogs name in a shaky voice. Looking out of the shower curtain she called again. Nothing. Usually the dog came running if she called. There was no sound in the apartment at all. She closed the curtain again, still calling the dogs name, and began to think. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What if someone is in my apartment right now. They know I'm in the shower, that's the way it always happens isn't it? "At least let me finish my shower and be clean!" She yelled out. The last thing she wanted was someone confronting her while she was at her most fragile state. She quietly went through the motions of rinsing the shampoo out of her hair and then using conditioner. Her stomach dropped when she realized what was next. I have to wash my face. I have to close my eyes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">"LILLY!" She yelled one more time peering out of the shower curtain. Still no dog and still not a sound. Screw it, just get it over with. She grabbed the face wash and poured a small amount into the palm of her hand. She took a deep breath as she closed her eyes and stuck her face into the water. She then proceeded to do the fastest face wash in the history of mankind and stuck her face into the water again, rinsing off the soap. She opened her eyes and threw the shower curtain open, sure to see some lumbering murderer waiting for her. There was nothing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">She finished rinsing herself and after turning the water off she stepped out of the shower. Slowly she dressed herself, listening intently for any sound. When she was fully clothed she knew it was time to face whatever it was that was out there. She walked into her bedroom first, only to find her dog Lilly, laying on the bed looking content. "What were you crying about?" She asked the dog, expecting an answer. Lilly lifted her head but gave no other clue as to what could have made her cry out like that. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">After looking around the entire house she ran to the door, closed the bolt, and slid the chain into place. Turning around and placing her back against the door she couldn't believe she had just prepared for her own death for nothing.</span></div>
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<!-- Copyright (c)2009 Site Meter -->Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-3156313323059703752016-02-24T09:32:00.000-08:002016-02-24T09:32:13.926-08:00Approval Badge<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #351c75;">Hey Guys,</span></span></div>
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If you are liking what you have seen on my blog I ask you to go ahead and click on that Approved badge! </div>
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It will open a window asking you to vote a big YES for my blog or a big NO. Click on whichever you fell compelled to press. The window then turns into the homepage for Top Mommy Blogs. </div>
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<span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">The more votes I get the more attention my blog will get in a lot of places, not just that site. Thank you so much! I appreciate you all. </span></div>
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-22387340899387378792016-02-24T09:01:00.002-08:002016-02-24T09:01:34.553-08:00Honey Whole Wheat Bread<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1smMrYWiaCQ/Vs3asfLJjBI/AAAAAAAAAf4/u5Ik5qdXAsg/s1600/IMG_7473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1smMrYWiaCQ/Vs3asfLJjBI/AAAAAAAAAf4/u5Ik5qdXAsg/s400/IMG_7473.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Handsome Helper<br /></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Hey Everyone!<br /><br />Lately Thing Two has been super interested in cooking. He usually wants to do everything on his own, but still needs help here and there.<br />We made Honey Whole Wheat Bread the other day and it turned out delicious! I really liked it but neither of the kids really liked it much. I think if we had added more honey and it was more of a dessert bread then they would have liked it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This recipe is a little different from what we did, but I think it will make a better bread.<br /><br /><br /><b><u>Whole Wheat Honey Bread</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><u>Ingredients</u> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">3 cups warm water<br />2 packs of active dry yeast<br />1/2 cup honey</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">4 1/2 cups all purpose flour</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">3TB melted butter</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1/2 cup honey</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1TB salt</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">4 cups whole wheat flour</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">optional: additional melted butter</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><u>Directions</u> </span></div>
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<ol class="recipe-print__directions" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0) !important; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2d2d2d; counter-reset: item 0; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 1.5rem; outline: none !important; padding: 0px; text-align: start;">
<li class="item" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0) !important; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none !important; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1. In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and 1/2 cup of honey. </span></li>
<li class="item" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0) !important; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none !important; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">2. Add the all purpose flour and stir to combine. Let set for 30 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size.</span></li>
<li class="item" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0) !important; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none !important; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">3. Mix in 3 tablespoons melted butter, 1/2 cup honey, and salt. Stir in 2 cups whole wheat flour. </span></li>
<li class="item" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0) !important; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none !important; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">4. Using the left over whole wheat flour, flour a flat surface and knead until no longer sticky (This is the fun part where the kids really get to get their hands in there, a mess always equals fun!).</span></li>
<li class="item" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0) !important; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none !important; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">5.Place in a greased bowl, turning once to coat the surface of the dough. Cover with a dishtowel and let it rise in a warm place until doubled.</span></li>
<li class="item" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0) !important; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none !important; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">6. Punch the dough down and divide into 3 loaves. Place in greased 9 x 5 inch loaf pans and let dough rise until the dough is uniform with the pan.</span></li>
<li class="item" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0) !important; box-sizing: border-box; outline: none !important; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">7. Bake at 350 degrees F for 25 to 30 minutes.<br />Optional: When the loaves come out, brush them with warm melted butter to prevent the tops from getting too hard. </span></li>
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<span style="color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H4UCfpoG1vw/Vs3ho97LHQI/AAAAAAAAAgI/GwAG7J0kvVo/s1600/IMG_7478.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H4UCfpoG1vw/Vs3ho97LHQI/AAAAAAAAAgI/GwAG7J0kvVo/s640/IMG_7478.JPG" width="480" /></a></span></div>
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<section class="recipe-ingredients ng-scope" ng-controller="ar_controllers_recipe_ingredient" ng-init="init(36,6773,'Recipe',0, 'Simple Whole Wheat Bread')" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0) !important; background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: 'Source Sans Pro', Arial; font-size: 14.2222px; outline: none !important; position: relative; text-align: start;"><h2 class="heading__h2--gutters recipe-ingredients__header" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0) !important; border-bottom-color: rgb(230, 230, 230); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; color: #4d4d4d; font-size: 1.625rem; font-weight: 300; margin: 1rem 24.125px 0px; outline: none !important; padding: 0.8rem 9.64063px 0.7rem; position: relative; width: 916.75px;">
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Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-33111479554604629682016-02-23T08:51:00.003-08:002016-02-23T08:51:40.254-08:00The Affair<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">"The Affair"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">By; Nicole Kuehn</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In a typical marriage when someone has an affair, most of the time it does not come as a surprise or out of the blue. Years of hurt creates an unstable foundation for the marriage which causes the bond between the two people to be weak. When a woman cheats she is not looking just for sexual gratification. Men being as visual as they are, it's easier for them to be led astray by an beautiful sex goddess. Physical attraction is going to do nothing for a woman. When a woman cheats she is looking for attention. Adult male attention. Someone to listen to her. To find her interesting. To make her feel beautiful. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Let's say a woman has been married for 10 years and the husband has been through the ups and downs, seen all of her, and has simply moved on. He is no longer interested in this woman he once loved. He goes about his day and she goes about hers as if they were roommates. In the man's mind he figures since they are married the woman has to stay around no matter what. Which she does. It's a trap. The man has a woman to cook and to clean and to raise the children. The man has a maid to attend to his every need while he goes about his own world, completely ignoring the woman that is doing everything in her power to get him to smile at her again. Or even to want to hug her. He hasn't touched her in a long time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What is this woman to do? She relies on this man for everything. She makes no money and any money that comes in belongs strictly to him. She gets no allowance. Any extra is spent on his new toys and games that he plays while she goes to the thrift shops to find clothes for the kids. She has no family to take her and the kids in to live with. She has no money to move out. She is stuck with this man, who does not acknowledge her anymore. Who once loved her and swore how happy their family would be. This man who ignores his own children when they talk to him. "Pick up DaDa!" and Dada walks past as if he didn't hear a thing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Where is the family in that? What is the wife getting out of this? Who is looking after her while she is helping everyone else. Isn't that suppose to be the husbands job? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Or does she just settle? Settle for a mediocre life. Settle for unhappiness, loneliness. Sometimes she just sits there and stares at him. Stares at his face while he plays his xbox, tears streaming down her face while he laughs with his friends over the microphone. He use to laugh and play with me. He use to care about me. "Husband..." She says, trying to get his attention. He doesn't hear her. He never does. Even if she stands in front of the tv and begs him to talk to her, he simply adjusts his seat so he can see the tv again and puts his headphones in, not saying a word to her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Does this justify her to go out one night, the first time since before the kids were born. Does this answer why she was so easily charmed by another man even though the big diamond was shining on her hand. Was it okay for her to give in to this temptation, this attention, that she had been deprived of for so long? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Or is she now the bad one? For being an honest woman and telling her husband about it, she is forever branded as the one who ruined the marriage. She cheated on him! How could she do that to him? And the kids? She didn't care about her marriage enough. She didn't try hard enough. She did something wrong. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And this poor husband. Having his whole world ripped apart. You mean to tell me the woman who cooks and does my laundry had sex with another man?! She is a whore. A slut. She destroyed our perfect marriage. She ruined the family life for the kids. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm sorry to tell you, it was already destroyed. And so was she. She loved her husband with all of her heart. She was still madly in love with him even after the way he treated her. Only now she allowed herself to be ignored and mistreated everyday for years. It broke her down to the point that she believed that she MUST be no fun. She must not be interesting or important or pretty. She's nothing. Because in the eyes of the one person that mattered the most to her, that's what she was; nothing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She should have realized when one of her birthdays was coming up and all she asked of him was to write her a love letter. He used to write beautiful letters to her telling her how much he loved her and what their future would be like. But that was many years ago. On her birthday she was so excited to get her letter and instead he got her a diamond necklace. At the time she couldn't see that he did not write the letter because he was unable to. He did not love her anymore. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So now she is excluded from the family. She is kicked out of her own home with nothing but her clothing. His whole family is there to watch, disgusted, as her friend comes to pick her up and take her away. Away from her home and her children. She was never allowed back into the home, or their hearts, again. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What did she do? She built herself up. Within 6 months she had a job and enough money to get her first apartment. It was a bitter-sweet moment for her. She was still in love with him and when he filed for divorce asking for full custody of their children, she could hardly believe her eyes. It was written in his mother's handwriting. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">But still, he didn't even ACKNOWLEDGE the kids, why would he ever want or ask for ANY custody? He was hurt. His family was hurt. And they wanted to get the one who ruined it back. What is the one thing she loves and had wanted her whole life? Her family. Her husband was already out of the picture so it came down to the kids. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Her children is what gives her life. Her children are her motivation to live. Having major depression, her only cure seems to be her kids. Taking care of them, watching them grow, listening to their stories. There is nothing else in the world that she wants.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She has already been through so much, the only way to possibly hurt her is to take her children away. Which he did many times when they would fight. He would pick them up before she could and then would hide out, not answering her calls or letting her know where they are. Only saying that he's not going to let her see the kids because he is upset with her. His family helped him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Only hurt people hurt people. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She took the blame, and carried it on her shoulders, and still wanted to keep everything between them fair. Asking for 50/50, nothing more and nothing less. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She holds her head up high, knowing that she is doing the best she can with the cards that have been handed to her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Learning from each situation as she goes through life as she never expected; alone. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Looking back she realizes that she never would have ended her marriage, no matter what. She made a huge mistake. She was extremely regretful. But she still wanted things to work. In a way, having the affair and having her husband be the one to ask for divorce, had saved her. It had saved her from a life of loneliness. A life of holding back her wants and her needs all because of someone else's unhappiness. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She would have been a worse mother. Though she hurts every minute her children are away from her and with their father, she knows that at least he is hopefully spending time with them. Giving them the attention that they so crave from him and always have. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Staying in the marriage would have left her as a drone. Simply moving through the motions, not really feeling anything. Constantly being unhappy because of being mistreated, she probably would have not been able to enjoy the world through the eyes of her children. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As she does now, on the days that they are with her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She drops everything.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She gets on the floor.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And she plays with them. And listens to them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Whatever is done, is done together as a team. As a family.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And yes, she must accept that a family can be a real true family, even if it's just mom and the kids and not the fairy tale American Dream she had so locked in her heart. </span></div>
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<!-- Copyright (c)2009 Site Meter -->Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-80897015638317603692016-02-13T13:11:00.000-08:002016-02-13T13:11:11.524-08:00Long Time No Type<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hello Everyone! </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have been gone for awhile but I haven't stopped cooking or doing fun things with the kids. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />I will be starting the blog back up as I need to get some practice with my writing.<br /><br />I made a vegetable recipe that is to die for that I will be sharing soon. If kids are happily eating carrots, broccoli, and sweet peppers you know it has to be good!<br /><br />I hope you all haven't forgotten about me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Leave comments below to let me know what you miss the most from this blog. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thank everyone,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Nicole</span></div>
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-8724258162318145472014-05-16T10:11:00.002-07:002014-05-16T11:33:25.489-07:00Step By Step Guide to Creating a Fairy Garden<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><u>Step by Step Guide<br />How to Build a Fairy Garden!</u> </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Some of you may be asking, what exactly <i>is</i> a fairy garden? Basically, a fairy garden is a miniature garden complete with small items and plants, meant to entice fairies to come visit your home, and possibly move in!</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Dating back to the eighteenth century, fairy gardening has been a very pleasing and consistent part of gardening in European countries. Many of the traditions that we celebrate here in America, have roots that come from fairy lore.<br /><br />Hanging a horseshoe over your front door is said to keep the fairies out of your home, as they hate iron.<br />Picking a four-leaf clover not only brings you good luck, but it is said to protect you from any spells a mischievous fairy might try to cast upon you. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">In general, fairies are very happy and free spirited individuals, who love a good laugh.<br /><br />Creating a garden for them with things that they love, is a great way to entice them to visit you and maybe even bring you luck! It is also a great way to get outside and creating the garden with your young ones or other family is a wonderful bonding experience. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So, where do you start?<br />Let's begin.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">STEP ONE<br />Choose your Container and Soil<br /><br />Here I've chosen a copper square container with a depth of 2.5 inches. I've also chosen a potting soil containing organic peat, which will give the soil more nutrients and air.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Yp2btMHhBk/U3ZBklt4U_I/AAAAAAAAAdk/0KVT03rwUMs/s1600/2014-05-16+11.47.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Yp2btMHhBk/U3ZBklt4U_I/AAAAAAAAAdk/0KVT03rwUMs/s1600/2014-05-16+11.47.02.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">STEP TWO<br />Preparing The Soil</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I placed a piece of burlap in the bottom of my container to help with draining. It will also help to retain some moisture so the plants don't dry out too fast. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GFCgg85P8tY/U3ZE6M_-6wI/AAAAAAAAAds/63_t99rr3Lg/s1600/2014-05-16+11.51.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GFCgg85P8tY/U3ZE6M_-6wI/AAAAAAAAAds/63_t99rr3Lg/s1600/2014-05-16+11.51.30.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">STEP THREE<br />Choosing Your Plants</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I picked out Live Moss, a dried moss that only needs water to bring it back to life! I also picked out a small fairy plant, Dee Dee's Box Honeysuckle. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBstDWtBDhE/U3ZFUAAKshI/AAAAAAAAAd0/eY7RSVS_v6A/s1600/2014-05-16+11.56.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBstDWtBDhE/U3ZFUAAKshI/AAAAAAAAAd0/eY7RSVS_v6A/s1600/2014-05-16+11.56.36.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Installing Your Plants<br /><br />I first picked the corner where I wanted my Honeysuckle. Squeezing the container, I was able to pop the roots and dirt right out, and plant it in my container, up to the stem, adding extra dirt around it. I then took sheets of the dried moss and laid it out over the dirt to resemble grass. I then used a spray bottle to thoroughly soak the moss and Honeysuckle. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bgcvAYsGXWc/U3ZF5zykxTI/AAAAAAAAAd8/t-vpZ98SeKM/s1600/2014-05-16+12.00.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bgcvAYsGXWc/U3ZF5zykxTI/AAAAAAAAAd8/t-vpZ98SeKM/s1600/2014-05-16+12.00.59.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">STEP FIVE<br />Adding Accessories! </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Royim0_ySE/U3ZGa8Ubg-I/AAAAAAAAAeM/6Hi7_tRULXQ/s1600/2014-05-16+12.08.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Royim0_ySE/U3ZGa8Ubg-I/AAAAAAAAAeM/6Hi7_tRULXQ/s1600/2014-05-16+12.08.48.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gy7FOiNKyoU/U3ZGZCnxGJI/AAAAAAAAAeE/JCRlXBOpMes/s1600/2014-05-16+12.08.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gy7FOiNKyoU/U3ZGZCnxGJI/AAAAAAAAAeE/JCRlXBOpMes/s1600/2014-05-16+12.08.04.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I picked a small house since I have a small container, some stepping stones, and a bench. Of course you will want a fairy, or in my case a gnome!<br />Get creative! Once you have a basic start, you will be surprised at the ideas you can come up with for your garden.<br />Most importantly, just have fun! There is no set rules in fairy gardening, and the fairies will appreciate your own unique and magical touch.</span></div>
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<!-- Copyright (c)2009 Site Meter -->Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-33261437901285558552014-05-14T12:13:00.002-07:002014-05-14T12:14:48.936-07:00What Should I Fertilize My Lawn With In The Spring?<!-- Site Meter -->
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">It's spring, which means it's time to feed your lawn! If you haven't done it yet, don't skip this important part of maintaining your landscaping, and making sure you have the best looking house on the block!</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DHrWeozzuxI/U3O-HOYMMDI/AAAAAAAAAcg/uESrc3EaXTc/s1600/images0YNIWIFI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DHrWeozzuxI/U3O-HOYMMDI/AAAAAAAAAcg/uESrc3EaXTc/s1600/images0YNIWIFI.jpg" height="230" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What do I recommend you use? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A granular fertilizer containing both a high first number and the chemical Dithiopyr.<br />That first number you see on the bag of fertilizer is the most important nutrient for your lawn; Nitrogen.<br />Nitrogen helps to promote a thick, dense lawn with the deep green color you are looking for. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dithiopyr is known for it's pre-emergent magic on crabgrass. Since we are already into May, is it too late to use this chemical? No!<br />Little do many people know, Dithiopyr also provides early post-emergent control of crabgrass and over 40+ grassy and broad leaf weeds. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Depending on the size of your lawn, you can use a hand or push spreader to properly disperse the granules throughout your lawn. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A 50 pound bag of 19-0-0 Anderson's Fertilizer, like we carry here at Nature's Home and Garden in Brighton and Nature's Garden Center in Saline, will generally cover 10,000 square feet at a medium application rate.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">With the pricing we offer; $29.99 per bag or two for $50, you can even stock up for next spring!</span></div>
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Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-30377794903320803462014-04-24T14:46:00.003-07:002014-04-24T14:46:41.478-07:00Take Your Child to Work Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, today was Take Your Kid to Work Day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It was an interesting day to say the least.... </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It definitely did not help that Thing One just kept telling me how bored he was. Thing Two wanted to take every customer by the hand and show them around. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He would even ask them to close their eyes, and then would try to lead them around the store.... </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm tired.</span></div>
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Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-39046538206309463472014-04-19T08:47:00.000-07:002014-04-19T08:48:04.524-07:00Easter Dinner<!-- Site Meter -->
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<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Saturday! There was a change of plans for my Easter dinner with the boys. Everything still turned out absolutely delicious. We ate all the sides! <br />Now to think of some great recipes to use up the leftover ham.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Honey Mustard Glazed Ham</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">INGREDIENTS</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span itemprop="amount">1 (10-pound)</span> smoked, bone-in <span itemprop="name">ham</span></span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span itemprop="amount">1 cup</span> <span itemprop="name">honey</span></span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span itemprop="amount">1/4 cup</span> whole-grain <span itemprop="name">mustard</span></span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span itemprop="amount">1/4 cup</span> packed <span itemprop="name">dark brown sugar</span></span></span></li>
<li><span itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient"><span style="font-size: large;"><span itemprop="amount">4 tablespoons</span> unsalted <span itemprop="name">butter</span> (1/2 stick)</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: large;">INSTRUCTIONS</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1. Heat the oven to 350°F and arrange a rack in the lower third.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. Remove any plastic packaging or netting from the ham. Trim away any excess fat, leaving about a 1/4-inch layer all over. Set the ham aside to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3. Line a baking sheet with several sheets of aluminum foil (it will make cleanup a lot easier). Place the ham, cut side down, on the baking sheet and cover it with a piece of parchment paper. Tightly cover the ham and parchment paper with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4. Meanwhile, combine the remaining ingredients in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the brown sugar has completely dissolved, about 3 minutes. Set aside and let cool to lukewarm (the glaze should be the consistency of room-temperature honey).</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wVzTTOnXQ-k/U1KZH2o2EEI/AAAAAAAAAbk/ljyylJWfG2c/s1600/2014-04-17+16.50.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wVzTTOnXQ-k/U1KZH2o2EEI/AAAAAAAAAbk/ljyylJWfG2c/s1600/2014-04-17+16.50.56.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<ol><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2VUKneiWwxk/U1KZFIUesRI/AAAAAAAAAbc/QlUw2LytN6M/s1600/2014-04-17+16.33.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2VUKneiWwxk/U1KZFIUesRI/AAAAAAAAAbc/QlUw2LytN6M/s1600/2014-04-17+16.33.46.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></ol>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5. When the ham is ready, remove it from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 425°F. Discard the foil and parchment paper and, using a sharp knife, score a 1-inch-wide diamond pattern (don’t cut more than 1/4 inch deep) over the entire ham.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">6. Brush the ham with a quarter of the glaze (about a generous 1/3 cup), return it to the oven, and bake uncovered for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, brush with another quarter of the glaze, and repeat every 15 minutes until all of the glaze has been used and a dark golden-brown crust has formed, about 55 to 60 minutes total. Let the ham rest 20 to 30 minutes before slicing.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rLqKr0jmVj0/U1KZ0g_b3xI/AAAAAAAAAbw/PJ5nL18Rao0/s1600/2014-04-17+17.18.47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rLqKr0jmVj0/U1KZ0g_b3xI/AAAAAAAAAbw/PJ5nL18Rao0/s1600/2014-04-17+17.18.47.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The ham was delicious! I also made braised balsamic vinegar asparagus and parmesan baked sweet potato fries. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xdzj9-eaFvA/U1KaFDOcRwI/AAAAAAAAAb4/3mXp7opQoTo/s1600/2014-04-17+17.13.41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xdzj9-eaFvA/U1KaFDOcRwI/AAAAAAAAAb4/3mXp7opQoTo/s1600/2014-04-17+17.13.41.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Overall it was a great dinner. The boys got to open their Easter baskets and they made an Easter egg hunt for me! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I hope everyone has a good and safe holiday.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Left-over ham recipes to come!</span></div>
Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-9896069077171071362014-04-14T10:00:00.004-07:002014-04-14T10:00:52.190-07:00Easter Plans and Spring Allergies<!-- Site Meter -->
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">Hello Friends,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">As some of you may remember, I am a BzzAgent. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">Bzzagent.com will send me products for free, I use them and review them. I then share my thoughts and opinion with others around me about the product.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">Today I received Children's Claritin. <br />I already love Claritin. It is one of the few allergy meds I can count on to not make me or the kids super drowsy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">Thing One has been having more allergy symptoms this year... Hopefully this will help him!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5wkN27MPZEs/U0wTJ9y_FLI/AAAAAAAAAbE/xrOl6yUHwNQ/s1600/claritin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5wkN27MPZEs/U0wTJ9y_FLI/AAAAAAAAAbE/xrOl6yUHwNQ/s1600/claritin.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Easter is right around the corner! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">An unfortunate part of having joint custody is sharing holidays. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">This year, the kids will be with Pops on Easter Sunday, so I will be hosting my celebrations on Thursday, my day off from work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">I will be making a citrus glazed ham (recipe to come), braised asparagus, cheesy potatoes, and much more! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">What are your Easter plans?</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;"></span>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-71103387256840285572014-04-12T09:53:00.002-07:002014-04-12T10:01:43.203-07:00I'm Back!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<!-- Copyright (c)2009 Site Meter --><strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Hello Everyone!</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span></strong><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">It has been forever since I have made a post. I have taken on a new job that has given me a lot more free time, which will hopefully mean a lot more posts! </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span></strong><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">To update you, Thing One is going to be six years old in May! He has already lost two of his bottom teeth. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Thing Two will be four years old in July. He is without a doubt a big trouble maker and story teller! </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span></strong><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">Anyone have advice or ideas of ways that they creatively let their children use their imaginations for good? </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span></strong><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">At bedtime, I tell Thing Two to make up a story for us. </span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;">I figure if I give him an outlet for his imagination, he wont come up to me with stories about how a little ant tripped over our cat food container and spilled it everywhere....</span></strong></div>
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Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-18535568981250590222011-09-02T11:10:00.000-07:002011-09-02T11:11:09.641-07:00How to Clean your Dishwasher<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JtrLxW9ihVc/TmEbE3LSYxI/AAAAAAAAAZU/jm6nnQ9briQ/s1600/021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JtrLxW9ihVc/TmEbE3LSYxI/AAAAAAAAAZU/jm6nnQ9briQ/s320/021.JPG" width="240" xaa="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">The other day I noticed that my dishwasher was starting to smell. There was no food caught in the trap, and it looked clean, but it still smelled dirty. <br />
So, I decided to clean and deodorize it! <br />
<br />
Here's how you do it: <br />
<br />
<strong>What you will need:</strong> <br />
a bowl <br />
white distilled vinegar<br />
<br />
<strong>Directions: </strong></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">1. Fill a dishwasher safe bowl with 1 cup vinegar. <br />
2. Place the bowl in the bottom rack of the dishwasher, facing up so the vinegar doesn't spill out. <br />
3. Run the dishwasher on a light cycle. <br />
<br />
<br />
That's it! Your dishwasher will smell like new!</span></div><script src="http://s47.sitemeter.com/js/counter.js?site=s47kuehn" type="text/javascript">
</script><noscript></noscript>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-60821511107091143212011-09-02T11:04:00.000-07:002011-09-02T11:04:12.043-07:00September<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><br />
Hello everyone! I haven't written on this in so long! I have the day of today and have a little extra time while the kids nap, so I thought I would post.<br />
<br />
Time has gone by so fast while I've been working. A month feels like a week.<br />
<br />
Thing Two is walking now! He was able to do it for awhile, but just didnt want to.<br />
He is still a great eater. He usually eats more than Thing One does!<br />
<br />
Thing One is doing well, too. He is learning new things every day! Just today he read a book to ME for the first time. He went to every page and made up a whole story. It was really nice.<br />
He still likes to cook and take pictures. He helped me make lunch today. <br />
<br />
Dinner is in the slow-cooker. We're having my <a href="http://peachykuehn.blogspot.com/2010/10/slow-cooker-ribs.html">Easy Country Style Ribs</a> for dinner. I'm hoping that some friends of ours will come over for dinner. Pops never likes company when I make ribs though! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> <br />
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</script><noscript></noscript>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-71036294862012634422011-05-27T10:58:00.000-07:002011-05-27T10:58:59.714-07:00The Chronicles of Saydee and the Jelly Beans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
When I put Thing Two down for his naps, I take him into my bedroom, feed him, and then lay him in his bed. <br />
I am in there for about 10 minutes. <br />
<br />
I usually set up a show or some toys for Thing One, and ask him to just play quietly so I can get Thing Two to sleep. <br />
Sometimes I will come out to find him getting into things he shouldn't; but usually he is really good. <br />
<br />
And then sometimes, I find out about things AFTER they have happened. Like when I went through my camera the other day, and found all these pictures of Saydee. <br />
It started with pictures of Saydee just laying. <br />
Then, suddenly a bunch of jelly beans appeared in front of her. <br />
As the pictures progressed, it showed Saydee eating all of the jelly beans! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jCmalJSeKDU/TdzxqRSeeOI/AAAAAAAAAY8/OSa4RSFeCwQ/s1600/030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jCmalJSeKDU/TdzxqRSeeOI/AAAAAAAAAY8/OSa4RSFeCwQ/s320/030.JPG" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gB_5ajpedFM/TdzxsdtYSTI/AAAAAAAAAZA/ObLS-84nJto/s1600/031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gB_5ajpedFM/TdzxsdtYSTI/AAAAAAAAAZA/ObLS-84nJto/s320/031.JPG" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K_kJwo5LHcY/TdzxuCWrkbI/AAAAAAAAAZE/iDbVwQnQK9E/s1600/038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K_kJwo5LHcY/TdzxuCWrkbI/AAAAAAAAAZE/iDbVwQnQK9E/s320/038.JPG" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UcrPAMx5UPw/TdzxvzUvKfI/AAAAAAAAAZI/eCmChiHLBtU/s1600/040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UcrPAMx5UPw/TdzxvzUvKfI/AAAAAAAAAZI/eCmChiHLBtU/s320/040.JPG" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SEATcO5ihR0/TdzxzjOoXHI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A0K-vMocTQA/s1600/046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SEATcO5ihR0/TdzxzjOoXHI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A0K-vMocTQA/s320/046.JPG" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
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<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> I do have to say that it's pretty cool how into photography Thing One is. He gets right down on the floor to get the picture he wants!!</span><script src="http://s47.sitemeter.com/js/counter.js?site=s47kuehn" type="text/javascript">
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Our doctors appointment went alright. <br />
They couldn't find anything wrong with us, so they just figured that we had a virus. Since I have been sick for so long they think I must have caught a couple of virus' back to back. <br />
I'm hardly ever sick. So I doubt that, haha. <br />
<br />
While there though, the doctor noticed that Thing Two's left ear was completely clogged with wax. <br />
He decided to try and clean some out, with a tool that looked like a little spoon.<br />
As soon as he tried to get some wax out of the ear, Thing Two SCREAMED. Worse than shots.<br />
It must have been a very sudden sharp pain.<br />
<br />
He wasn't even able to get much out, because right when he started, Thing One fell down and landed on his face. He bit his cheek pretty good, and has a big bruise on his cheek. <br />
<br />
So, now both boys were crying hysterically. I'm trying to comfort them both and the doctor says "Ooookay, I'm going to go now, I'll be right back." And he just left! He obviously does NOT have kids.<br />
<br />
He never even finished Thing Two's ear and now Thing Two keeps tugging on it. <br />
<br />
I think I'm going to try the bulb syringe method: gently squeezing some warm water into the ear, and then suctioning it out. <br />
I might also try letting the ear soak in some hydrogen peroxide. I've heard that works really well. <br />
<br />
I could always take him to urgent care, but they would probably use the spoon again, and I'm worried about them just pushing the wax in further since the entire ear was clogged.</span><noscript></noscript>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-21624387959242591892011-05-26T07:00:00.000-07:002011-05-26T07:00:09.095-07:00Pasta Primavera<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The boys and I will be going to the doctors today. <br />
During the day my sore throat is manageable, but during the night it's too much. <br />
And if I'm in that much pain, then the boys; who are sick too, must be in pain as well. :( <br />
<br />
We shall see. <br />
<br />
<br />
I made pasta primavera for dinner last night. It was really good! <br />
My picture isn't that great though.<br />
I was able to take one picture, and then my camera died. <br />
<br />
<br />
Pasta Primavera <br />
<br />
<strong>Ingredients:</strong><br />
1 tablespoon canola oil<br />
3 garlic cloves, sliced<br />
3 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced<br />
24 grape or cherry tomatoes, halved<br />
1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock<br />
1 pound angel hair pasta<br />
Olive oil<br />
1 1/2 cups heavy cream<br />
3 cups broccoli florets<br />
2 cups sugar snap peas<br />
8 asparagus spears, stalks trimmed and peeled, cut into thirds<br />
3 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese<br />
salt and freshly ground pepper<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Directions: </strong> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;">1. In a large saute pan, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat until almost simmering. Add the garlic and saute for about 1 minute, or until lightly golden brown. Add the carrots and half of the tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the carrots begin to soften. <br />
2. Add the stock, bring to a boil, immediately reduce the heat, and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes to reduce slightly. <br />
3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in boiling salted water according to the package directions so that the pasta is al dente. Drain, drizzle with olive oil, and set aside until needed.<br />
4. Add the heavy cream to the reduced stock in the saute pan and bring the liquid to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli, sugar snap peas, and asparagus and the remaining tomatoes. Reduce the heat and simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened and the vegetables are tender. Add the grated cheese and season to taste with salt and pepper. <br />
5. Transfer the pasta to a large serving bowl and toss with the primavera sauce. Taste and adjust the seasonings. Serve immediately. Enjoy!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0PSIXgOFGzs/Td5aH8Kjr7I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/MuqB6-gxLlc/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0PSIXgOFGzs/Td5aH8Kjr7I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/MuqB6-gxLlc/s320/001.JPG" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><script src="http://s47.sitemeter.com/js/counter.js?site=s47kuehn" type="text/javascript">
</script><noscript></noscript>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-1613032701168044952011-05-25T05:08:00.000-07:002011-05-25T05:08:05.922-07:00Zucchini Cheddar Frittatas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I'm sick. <br />
I've been sick.<br />
For a couple weeks now. <br />
<br />
One day I noticed that my throat was kind of sore. Within an hour I felt so sick that all I could do was lay in bed. It happened so fast. <br />
Now, a few weeks later, I still have a really bad sore throat. <br />
I thought it had gone away, but two nights ago it started hurting again.<br />
This morning it hurts so bad I can't even talk. :( <br />
Luckily it's just a sore throat, so I can still function through-out the day. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So; I actually got around to making the frittatas yesterday! <br />
They were pretty good.<br />
I didn't think Pops would eat them, but he came home from work hungry. <br />
He said it smelled really good in the house, heated up the rest of the frittatas, and ate them all! <br />
<br />
I still haven't told him there was zucchini in them! ;-) <br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong>Ingredients:</strong></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">cooking spray<br />
2 tablespoons olive oil</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1 1/2 medium zucchini, shredded on the large holes of a box grater<br />
2 shallots, thinly sliced<br />
3/4 teaspoon salt</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">freshly ground pepper</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">7 large eggs</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">2/3 cup half and half</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1/2 cup shredded white cheddar</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong>Directions: <br />
</strong>1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Generously spray 12 cups of a muffin tin with cooking spray. <br />
2. In a medium saute pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat until just simmering. Add the zucchini and shallots and saute for 3 to 4 minutes, or until wilted and soft. Pour off or drain any excess moisture. Season with 1/4 teaspoon of the salt and about 1/8 teaspoon pepper.</span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><strong></strong> </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OJzl0j3KvsM/Tdzsvlbp3GI/AAAAAAAAAYY/SlBTgQ-cG3E/s1600/111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OJzl0j3KvsM/Tdzsvlbp3GI/AAAAAAAAAYY/SlBTgQ-cG3E/s320/111.JPG" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, cheddar cheese, thyme, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Season with a few grinds of pepper. <br />
This is the perfect time to have any little helpers come help out!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-26meOR-y1v0/TdzszDimmlI/AAAAAAAAAYc/bkjfDfNV790/s1600/112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-26meOR-y1v0/TdzszDimmlI/AAAAAAAAAYc/bkjfDfNV790/s320/112.JPG" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CkhcmbJQQHM/Tdzs2AaQuxI/AAAAAAAAAYg/-2g5JMR2toI/s1600/113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CkhcmbJQQHM/Tdzs2AaQuxI/AAAAAAAAAYg/-2g5JMR2toI/s320/113.JPG" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8SuCqVKbZfo/Tdzs5BUmJEI/AAAAAAAAAYk/gDAnsVriht8/s1600/114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8SuCqVKbZfo/Tdzs5BUmJEI/AAAAAAAAAYk/gDAnsVriht8/s320/114.JPG" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">4. Divide the zucchini mixture among the muffin cups. Top each cup with the egg mixture, dividing it equally among the cups. I used a 1/4 measuring cup to do this. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until puffy, golden brown, and just set. <br />
<br />
5. Run a dull knife around the outside of each frittata and remove. Serve immediately. <br />
Enjoy! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nNquFKh5HhE/Tdzs8WYCIMI/AAAAAAAAAYo/KDaxM6Dymws/s1600/115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nNquFKh5HhE/Tdzs8WYCIMI/AAAAAAAAAYo/KDaxM6Dymws/s320/115.JPG" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fmm9rshE--0/TdztAVgPFkI/AAAAAAAAAYs/DWJP343QX9I/s1600/118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fmm9rshE--0/TdztAVgPFkI/AAAAAAAAAYs/DWJP343QX9I/s320/118.JPG" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mvXG08EaReE/TdztDDLh8aI/AAAAAAAAAYw/YMWe2j8xTrE/s1600/119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mvXG08EaReE/TdztDDLh8aI/AAAAAAAAAYw/YMWe2j8xTrE/s320/119.JPG" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-5459641771380307882011-05-24T06:19:00.000-07:002011-05-24T06:19:13.325-07:00Hello Again<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br />
Hello Everyone! <br />
<br />
It has been so long since I have written on this blog regularly, and I miss it! I've just got so much going on. <br />
</span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> I'm so glad that the weather is finally getting nicer. I love getting out of the house. Even if it's just hanging out in the yard.<br />
Thing One has been asking me for tomato plants for our garden for the longest time now. I finally got him two plants; one roma tomato and one grape type tomato. <br />
I only got two tomato plants this year because last year I got 4 plants, and we had WAY too much. We also planted them in a different garden bed this year. This bed doesn't get as much sun, so we will see how they do. <br />
<br />
I plan on making frittatas for dinner tonight. Probably zucchini cheddar. <br />
If I do I plan on taking pictures and posting the recipe! </span><script src="http://s47.sitemeter.com/js/counter.js?site=s47kuehn" type="text/javascript">
</script><noscript></noscript>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-21424671563605116682011-05-15T17:29:00.000-07:002011-05-15T17:29:55.023-07:00Thing One's 3rd Birthday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">We recently celebrated Thing One's 3rd birthday! <br />
Time flies with kids.<br />
Here's some pictures! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oPDpZMp9IHA/TdBvQ4i9twI/AAAAAAAAAXw/JjxWnDqUS-Y/s1600/Glenny%2527s+3rd+Birthday+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oPDpZMp9IHA/TdBvQ4i9twI/AAAAAAAAAXw/JjxWnDqUS-Y/s320/Glenny%2527s+3rd+Birthday+012.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HofYqMA3Vkk/TdBvUmP8POI/AAAAAAAAAX0/fjbPfAdHP1A/s1600/Glenny%2527s+3rd+Birthday+013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HofYqMA3Vkk/TdBvUmP8POI/AAAAAAAAAX0/fjbPfAdHP1A/s320/Glenny%2527s+3rd+Birthday+013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KhqS70hYCvE/TdBvcCzDj3I/AAAAAAAAAYE/D3lTF2MuWIU/s1600/Glenny%2527s+3rd+Birthday+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KhqS70hYCvE/TdBvcCzDj3I/AAAAAAAAAYE/D3lTF2MuWIU/s320/Glenny%2527s+3rd+Birthday+020.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Aon_nfWFhGQ/TdBveOlMQlI/AAAAAAAAAYI/tBHEFm0wpDk/s1600/Glenny%2527s+3rd+Birthday+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Aon_nfWFhGQ/TdBveOlMQlI/AAAAAAAAAYI/tBHEFm0wpDk/s320/Glenny%2527s+3rd+Birthday+022.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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</script><noscript></noscript>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-18470612686456155332011-04-21T11:33:00.000-07:002011-04-21T11:33:55.416-07:00Thing Two's Mohawk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">So you all know how amazingly beautiful Thing One's hair is right? <br />
I am excited to see what Thing Two's hair is going to be like. <br />
So far......<br />
He has a Mohawk!! <br />
He always looks like he's ready to rock :)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">TOO CUTE! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;"><br />
<br />
This is our meal plan for today;<br />
<br />
BREAKFAST: Mac and Cheese. <br />
This one kind of just happened. I meant for cereal, but Thing One saw the mac and cheese in the fridge and asked sooo sweetly for it that I said sure. haha<br />
<br />
LUNCH: Turkey and Cheese Roll-Up, Carrot Sticks, Strawberries, and Yogurt Drops<br />
<br />
DINNER: Bacon Cheeseburgers, French Fries, Salad.<br />
<br />
SNACKS/DESSERTS: Cereal and/or Hostess Cupcake<br />
<br />
<br />
Easter is coming up! It really snuck on up me this year. I sure am excited though! What are your Easter plans?</span><script src="http://s47.sitemeter.com/js/counter.js?site=s47kuehn" type="text/javascript">
</script> <noscript></noscript>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-85929921341217143222011-04-20T09:51:00.000-07:002011-04-20T09:51:46.703-07:00Wordless Wednesday: Thing One's Camera<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vZAAc49ro5o/Ta2rvS8K4JI/AAAAAAAAAXU/FfDfEN4I1Rs/s1600/Glenny%2527s+Camera+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vZAAc49ro5o/Ta2rvS8K4JI/AAAAAAAAAXU/FfDfEN4I1Rs/s320/Glenny%2527s+Camera+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MBcwFFljzOA/Ta2rx5_WgqI/AAAAAAAAAXY/GZF-Mn3ipOc/s1600/Glenny%2527s+Camera+037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i8="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MBcwFFljzOA/Ta2rx5_WgqI/AAAAAAAAAXY/GZF-Mn3ipOc/s320/Glenny%2527s+Camera+037.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XWhtcChdc40/Ta2r0mFcAiI/AAAAAAAAAXc/RWBTs_3hksM/s1600/Glenny%2527s+Camera+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XWhtcChdc40/Ta2r0mFcAiI/AAAAAAAAAXc/RWBTs_3hksM/s320/Glenny%2527s+Camera+047.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wkFkA_LR0UU/Ta2r2kxaKLI/AAAAAAAAAXg/pSnDEnP0S3Q/s1600/Glenny%2527s+Camera+055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wkFkA_LR0UU/Ta2r2kxaKLI/AAAAAAAAAXg/pSnDEnP0S3Q/s320/Glenny%2527s+Camera+055.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-doapXKdaJN4/Ta2r4iN_0PI/AAAAAAAAAXk/H7TiP8yssXE/s1600/Glenny%2527s+Camera+069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-doapXKdaJN4/Ta2r4iN_0PI/AAAAAAAAAXk/H7TiP8yssXE/s320/Glenny%2527s+Camera+069.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qDDwNFwnwbs/Ta2r7YKkD2I/AAAAAAAAAXo/YCbTkt9hOZw/s1600/Glenny%2527s+Camera+070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qDDwNFwnwbs/Ta2r7YKkD2I/AAAAAAAAAXo/YCbTkt9hOZw/s320/Glenny%2527s+Camera+070.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-is53NBokU1Q/Ta2r9BSDjsI/AAAAAAAAAXs/ORGKmvIhiGA/s1600/Glenny%2527s+Camera+074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-is53NBokU1Q/Ta2r9BSDjsI/AAAAAAAAAXs/ORGKmvIhiGA/s320/Glenny%2527s+Camera+074.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> I love going through Thing One's camera! You never know what you are going to find. </span><br />
<script src="http://s47.sitemeter.com/js/counter.js?site=s47kuehn" type="text/javascript">
</script><noscript></noscript>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-62908357651903941492011-04-18T14:13:00.000-07:002011-04-18T14:13:03.224-07:00Where are you spring?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I love having a deck! During warmer weather, it's like having another room in the house. We have locking gates at the stairs so that Thing One can't open them. <br />
I'm able to keep our sliding glass door open, and just let Thing One go in and out. <br />
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Now that we are keeping the yard clean, I'm hoping that Thing One will be able to play in the yard more as well. <br />
I'm still not sure if he's old enough to play out there by himself yet. <br />
I feel he's responsible enough, I just worry about his safety. Even though it is all fenced in, I don't like ever taking my eyes off him.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-75oIDJUsKiI/Tayl8bjdjHI/AAAAAAAAAXM/BOkAttk9XXo/s1600/NEW+PHOTOS+084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-75oIDJUsKiI/Tayl8bjdjHI/AAAAAAAAAXM/BOkAttk9XXo/s320/NEW+PHOTOS+084.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eku4_7pyrgU/Tayl-JSeYwI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/_hT_YCC0kws/s1600/NEW+PHOTOS+086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eku4_7pyrgU/Tayl-JSeYwI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/_hT_YCC0kws/s320/NEW+PHOTOS+086.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"> It snowed today. A good two inches. I can't believe it! I thought spring was here for good! Oh well. I've started using Thing One's birthday as a mark for when you know for sure that the warm weather is here to stay.<br />
When we went into the hospital to have Thing One it was very cold. <br />
When we came home with him, it was so warm and sunny, and was a good long spring. So, the middle of May seems to be real spring in Michigan, even though to me it seems like it should start getting warm in March! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: large;"> Tomorrow I am taking the boys to Jungle Java. It is a huge play area for kids, with the suspended tubes and ropes and things for them to play in. Thing One LOVES it!! He stays up there for so long playing with other kids. Last time we were there, he would stay up for about an hour at a time, and I was starting to worry about him! <br />
I would go look for him, and when I would find him I'd yell hello to him, and he would say "What, Mom?" like I was ruining his fun! hahah <br />
He is so independent.<br />
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<br />
Speaking of independence; I thought that once Thing Two really starting getting mobile on his own, that he would become more independent.... Nope.<br />
Now, he can just follow me where ever I go! He is very persistent. <br />
That's alright though... He wont be a baby forever!</span><script src="http://s47.sitemeter.com/js/counter.js?site=s47kuehn" type="text/javascript">
</script> <noscript></noscript>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-15441734311308451942011-04-17T20:07:00.000-07:002011-04-17T20:07:12.179-07:00Thing Two Stands!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Okay- time to update you guys! <br />
Thing Two can stand holding on to things now! He is "cruising" as well, along the furniture. <br />
He is getting so big!! Only 3 more months and he is going to be a year old. <br />
He is eating mainly what we eat now. He does not like his baby food anymore. <br />
He has two teeth! His two bottom teeth. He loves using them to bite peices of food. <br />
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</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzPwKgS6OaqprpI4gsKJcvRdcsPy_PnzU9pI7VDjSn88SMHsFgbs-b2oD7a5gtZ-OI7qKVKuwc75Y5zoxWh' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thing One is going to be 3 this May. In less than a month. <br />
I can't believe it. <br />
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He is such a good boy! So helpful to me. <br />
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This weekend Pops installed a dog run in our backyard. This way when the dogs go outside to use the bathroom, they will have an isolated area, instead of being able to tear up our whole back yard! <br />
I cleaned and raked the entire backyard this weekend as well, and we are going to put some nice grass seed down. <br />
It will be nice to be able to sit on our grass!! <br />
I want to be able to play out there this summer. <br />
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This weekend I also go my hair done. </span></div><script src="http://s47.sitemeter.com/js/counter.js?site=s47kuehn" type="text/javascript">
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-urmj8rrY8qc/TauqeJn2BgI/AAAAAAAAAXA/qaXqYZLJRvI/s1600/NEW+PHOTOS+157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" r6="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-urmj8rrY8qc/TauqeJn2BgI/AAAAAAAAAXA/qaXqYZLJRvI/s400/NEW+PHOTOS+157.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ozic5pq2HdY/TauqnpSmGZI/AAAAAAAAAXE/_IATiFx1cYs/s1600/NICOLE+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" r6="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ozic5pq2HdY/TauqnpSmGZI/AAAAAAAAAXE/_IATiFx1cYs/s640/NICOLE+003.JPG" width="480" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">A friend of mine who works at a Salon did it, and I think she did a great job! <br />
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There will be more soon; lots of pictures of the kids!</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8089191118119342664.post-42183238983430719712011-04-04T12:11:00.000-07:002011-04-04T12:11:34.083-07:00Hello<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> <br />
Hello Everyone! <br />
It has been so long since I have even LOOKED at the blog!! I have been so busy with this and that. Really it's mostly been the kids. Now that it's getting a little warmer we've been doing so much more; not only outside, but inside too! <br />
It can be hard trying to keep track of everything.<br />
Let's see.... What is new with us... <br />
<br />
1. We got a new car! Well it's a used car, but it's new to us! We've been needing a family vehicle, since our old car was a two-door. It was hard getting the kids in and out.<br />
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2. That's about it! haha<br />
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Thing One's birthday is coming up. He is going to be three!! I can't believe it... Both of the kids are growing up so fast. Thing Two is already almost a year! <br />
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Thing One says he wants to go to Chuck E. Cheese for his birthday, but that's what he did last year. If that's the only thing he wants to do though, then we'll do it.<br />
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I've started working out more. I'm trying to follow a routine, using our Wii Fitness, Personal Trainer. I work out for two days, and then break for one. Then, the weekend came, and I just stopped haha. <br />
I have to get back on track. Hopefully today I will start back up. Maybe right after I'm done with this post! <br />
I bought a bathing suit that I would no way wear right now, but I'm hoping by July I will feel comfortable enough to wear it. We shall see. <br />
I'm going to do before and after pictures... Not sure If I will post them though!!<br />
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: large;"> The kids were going to daycare, but we are probably stopping this week. It was nice for awhile when I needed that break, but now we are getting back to our normal routine. <br />
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Other than that, not much else.<br />
For dinner tonight I am either going to make steaks or jambalaya.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-spj5_UB8l-g/TZoX0Ao6cJI/AAAAAAAAAW8/Mr83lYaetTc/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" r6="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-spj5_UB8l-g/TZoX0Ao6cJI/AAAAAAAAAW8/Mr83lYaetTc/s320/001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Bye for now!</span><script src="http://s47.sitemeter.com/js/counter.js?site=s47kuehn" type="text/javascript">
</script> <noscript></noscript>Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11258113505333963989noreply@blogger.com0