tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70655927020332681552024-03-13T14:00:02.483-06:00JoAnn's SpecialUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger141125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-13678033490032196382015-02-19T15:31:00.000-07:002015-02-19T15:34:24.340-07:00Relief Society Spa NightLast month we had a Spa Night for our monthly activity, based on <a href="http://temple2rs.blogspot.com/2014/08/relief-society-spa-night.html">this activity</a>. I didn't take any pictures of the night, but wanted to share the printables with you. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j5umtiTLPjE/VOZh728wtEI/AAAAAAAAH3c/xqY_CJSMw1g/s1600/spanight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j5umtiTLPjE/VOZh728wtEI/AAAAAAAAH3c/xqY_CJSMw1g/s1600/spanight.jpg" height="320" width="210" /></a></div>
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<i>(<a href="https://app.box.com/s/3hffiimtl2b7jg1nwhrm9pn5x7senl2x">Download Advertising Poster</a>)</i></div>
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The advertising poster is sized at 11x14 with blank room at the bottom to add your own details.</div>
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We used these two talks as a basis for the night: <br />
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<a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2008/04/daughters-of-god?lang=eng" target="_blank">M. Russell Ballard</a><br />
"Water cannot be drawn from an empty well, and if you are not setting
aside a little time for what replenishes you, you will have less and
less to give to others, even to your children."<br />
<a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/like-a-broken-vessel?lang=eng" target="_blank"><br /></a><a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/like-a-broken-vessel?lang=eng" target="_blank">Jeffery R. Holland</a><br />
"Fatigue is the common enemy of us all—so slow down, rest up, replenish,
and refill. Physicians promise us that if we do not take time to be
well, we most assuredly will take time later on to be ill."<br />
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Our goal for our RS activities is to develop friendships and learn from each other. Our ward has a lot of young families <i>and</i> a retirement community, so it seems to be divided between the ages. I wasn't sure this would appeal to the older sisters, but have heard from many of our octogenarians that they really enjoyed the night! The younger sisters also seemed to have loved a night being pampered and eating chocolate!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BrHv6nywbWo/VOZgGbJQZwI/AAAAAAAAH20/HOD5PiA4Fb4/s1600/MASSAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BrHv6nywbWo/VOZgGbJQZwI/AAAAAAAAH20/HOD5PiA4Fb4/s1600/MASSAGE.jpg" height="320" width="254" /></a></div>
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<i>(<a href="https://app.box.com/s/jeg7t5gruv0c1lxzbfe2vhzbdox4lfhl">Download Get A Massage</a>)</i></div>
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Massage-a massage therapist from the ward talked and taught different types of massage. She brought her massage table and the ladies loved it!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yBAjAIW14bM/VOZgHbB-2oI/AAAAAAAAH3A/vK9CNRai6Kw/s1600/SCRUB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yBAjAIW14bM/VOZgHbB-2oI/AAAAAAAAH3A/vK9CNRai6Kw/s1600/SCRUB.jpg" height="320" width="254" /></a></div>
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<i>(<a href="https://app.box.com/s/mr3itzss7ftllew0olxcsfjnvmbem6wm">Download Scrub On</a>)</i></div>
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Sugar Scrub-sister's made their own little containers to take home<br />
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A sister who knows something about essential oils (not me!) headed up this table. We had a calming scent (lavender) and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Now-Foods-Cheer-Buttercup-Uplifting/dp/B00GQVA4VW/ref=sr_1_18?ie=UTF8&qid=1424384244&sr=8-18&keywords=now+essentials+oils">this one</a> that seemed to be the favorite. It's called Cheer Up Buttercup and is a citrus blend.<br />
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SUGAR SCRUB RECIPE<br />
1/2 c. sugar<br />
1/4 c. olive oil (or coconut oil)<br />
5 drops of essential oil<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOBLKq6YBJY/VOZgGvQY_yI/AAAAAAAAH24/nojfIemYxqQ/s1600/POLISH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOBLKq6YBJY/VOZgGvQY_yI/AAAAAAAAH24/nojfIemYxqQ/s1600/POLISH.jpg" height="320" width="254" /></a></div>
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<i>(<a href="https://app.box.com/s/1p3pl06j9zi0458jguiwc5l71ysvedrk">Download Polish On</a>) </i></div>
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Nail Painting-polish, remover and cotton balls and let the ladies paint their own nails and chat <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OXtsgtYQay4/VOZgG0kSlFI/AAAAAAAAH28/wvQEZItTlcQ/s1600/REMMEMBER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OXtsgtYQay4/VOZgG0kSlFI/AAAAAAAAH28/wvQEZItTlcQ/s1600/REMMEMBER.jpg" height="320" width="254" /></a></div>
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<i>(<a href="https://app.box.com/s/svxbuu1bq4w2ks9f7tatstkepuu5e7fo">Download Remember Him</a>) </i></div>
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Meditation/Scripture reading-remember to take time to feed yourself spiritually<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bjpyelLaBug/VOZgGAm7-2I/AAAAAAAAH2w/yQ5WyQGrEjA/s1600/CHOCOLATE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bjpyelLaBug/VOZgGAm7-2I/AAAAAAAAH2w/yQ5WyQGrEjA/s1600/CHOCOLATE.jpg" height="320" width="254" /></a></div>
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<i>(<a href="https://app.box.com/s/sznqngp9uzcgd3uixhi7sjvrm8blim2q">Download Eat Chocolate</a>) </i></div>
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Fondue
Dessert Bar-chocolate fontain and had sisters bring things to dip
(pretzels, strawberries, angel food, etc etc).<br />
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A sister in our ward is a flight attendant and made up cute little bundles of shampoo, soap, etc that she has collected from boutique hotels and folded it all into a wash cloth for the sister's to take home as they left. <br />
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Please download and use these printables! They are sized at 8.5x11" except for the advertising one. And can all be printed at your local print shop.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-69968136979635809052014-03-28T15:22:00.001-06:002014-03-28T15:27:33.042-06:00Five for Friday :: Spring Break Get-AwayWhether you're finishing up spring break or just beginning, here are some of my favorite things to make spring break a little more fun.<br />
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1 :: We love the <a href="http://www.hoteltonight.com/">Hotel Tonight app</a>
for last minute bookings. Hotel Tonight is just what it sounds like,
bookings for tonight (some allow for booking multiple nights, but the
first night has to be tonight), and with pretty good discounts. We love
the ability to skip town on a whim with the perk of being able to choose
what hotel you'll get. No mysteries, just last minute deals. <i>Bonus: use code DHARTWELL and save $25 off your first night booking. Deal + discount = win!</i><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1CfrKF4FnZk/UzXkL3VMJeI/AAAAAAAAE1U/t2S0mLbkOCU/s1600/Pharrell_Williams_-_Happy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1CfrKF4FnZk/UzXkL3VMJeI/AAAAAAAAE1U/t2S0mLbkOCU/s1600/Pharrell_Williams_-_Happy.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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2 :: Pharrell Williams' song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6Sxv-sUYtM&noredirect=1">Happy</a>. Seems perfect for a spring break soundtrack. Or making the 5:00 hour seem not so bad. Either way.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-005TuTD_ILQ/UzXjOEpojXI/AAAAAAAAE1I/61Z9Rp57xLg/s1600/teriyaki+chicken+salad+on+croissants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-005TuTD_ILQ/UzXjOEpojXI/AAAAAAAAE1I/61Z9Rp57xLg/s1600/teriyaki+chicken+salad+on+croissants.jpg" height="241" width="400" /></a></div>
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3 :: Our Best Bites' <a href="http://www.ourbestbites.com/2011/05/teriyaki-chicken-salad-sandwiches/">Terriyaki Chicken Salad Sandwiches</a>. A friend made these for a baby shower we recently co-hosted and they were so good! The fruit makes it feel fresh and springy.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zRSejFrwpgc/UzXmIrNyGgI/AAAAAAAAE1c/ljk9HPaMWho/s1600/navy-print.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zRSejFrwpgc/UzXmIrNyGgI/AAAAAAAAE1c/ljk9HPaMWho/s1600/navy-print.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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4 :: These <a href="http://jonesdesigncompany.com/celebrate/free-easter-printables-from-lindsay-letters/">He is Risen printables</a> from Jones Design Company. There is a ton included in the download and they are beautiful. A great addition to spring and Easter decorations, beyond the bunnies and chicks.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0z-0w3_hT0k/UzXntLUvmFI/AAAAAAAAE1o/lBYFR7MwTLs/s1600/iphone_colourplay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0z-0w3_hT0k/UzXntLUvmFI/AAAAAAAAE1o/lBYFR7MwTLs/s1600/iphone_colourplay.jpg" height="400" width="282" /></a></div>
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5 :: Cheerful wallpapers for your phone. <a href="http://www.eatdrinkchic.com/post.cfm/free-colours-and-shapes-iphone-wallpaper">These colorful ones</a> from eat, drink, chic are particularly happy. It's tricky to choose your favorite two (I went with stripes and squares, but on second look, those polka dots are pretty tempting!)<br />
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Deidrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01181514421028402144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-48103883436823695662014-03-11T13:17:00.000-06:002014-03-11T13:17:32.826-06:00Relief Society Birthday Waffle Bar BrunchRecently, I put together a waffle bar brunch for our Relief Society's birthday party. Waffles are my very favorite food, and it seems I'm not alone in my love for them. The brunch was a ton of fun, really well received, and delicious. <br />
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I went with the theme <i>We Will Not Waffle</i>, taken from a quote from from Elder Ballard, "We've got to be so solidly anchored in our
testimonies of the gospel of Jesus Christ that, regardless of what may come
next, <b>we will not waffle</b>; we will stand firm in our belief..."<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Bu7cpBfCwo/Ux4fGRTs3zI/AAAAAAAAEzc/yVgIYSKMLTE/s1600/RSWaffleBar.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Bu7cpBfCwo/Ux4fGRTs3zI/AAAAAAAAEzc/yVgIYSKMLTE/s1600/RSWaffleBar.png" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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With a little inspiration from <a href="http://www.burlapanddenim.com/2013/04/youth-group-waffle-bar-date-night/">Burlap and Denim</a> and <a href="http://www.younglivinglove.com/2/post/2014/02/we-dont-waffle-righteous-decisions-activity.html">Young Living Love</a> I pulled together my ideas. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7VyQzWGYPhU/Ux4fOeLPgDI/AAAAAAAAEzo/m7PZ1I0Pmes/s1600/RSWaffleBarTables.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7VyQzWGYPhU/Ux4fOeLPgDI/AAAAAAAAEzo/m7PZ1I0Pmes/s1600/RSWaffleBarTables.png" /></a></div>
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I had a good time brainstorming ideas for waffle toppings and giving them fun church-related names. We take waffle toppings seriously at our house, so it was great to introduce some women to some new ideas. As I was refilling various bowls, I loved hearing the women ooohing and ahhhing over the offerings. I promised "all the trimmings," and I think it delivered! (Well, other than the couple I forgot at home. Darn.)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XEchqir8yPA/Ux4fU1WJ0-I/AAAAAAAAEz4/xJAmw1CU3dc/s1600/RSWaffleBarSpread.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XEchqir8yPA/Ux4fU1WJ0-I/AAAAAAAAEz4/xJAmw1CU3dc/s1600/RSWaffleBarSpread.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qXey_FICHWk/Ux4fTW9N0aI/AAAAAAAAEzs/42gUK8U99Fo/s1600/RSWaffleBarYum.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qXey_FICHWk/Ux4fTW9N0aI/AAAAAAAAEzs/42gUK8U99Fo/s1600/RSWaffleBarYum.png" height="640" width="419" /></a></div>
The women couldn't get enough of the waffles. The speakers, top picture, were awesome and it was an all around great morning.<br />
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I'm excited to share the printables with you! <a href="https://app.box.com/s/xugrolbra9vcgyjn48mb">Click here to download all the signs</a>.Deidrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01181514421028402144noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-43932669910595055152013-12-12T04:00:00.000-07:002013-12-12T04:00:00.712-07:00Man Approved Stocking Stuffers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We asked the guys in our lives to come up with what they would put in their stockings, if they could. It didn't take them long to come up with a pretty hefty list, and here's what they shared.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vz_MkA6Xj74/UqkTIFc5FTI/AAAAAAAAHpU/hBBqQOgtclQ/s1600/stocking_stuffers_men+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vz_MkA6Xj74/UqkTIFc5FTI/AAAAAAAAHpU/hBBqQOgtclQ/s1600/stocking_stuffers_men+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
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1. Car Wash Tokens / Pass </div>
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2. Jerky-go fancy with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=krave+jerky&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Akrave+jerky">Krave</a>, or just pick up a pack of Jack Links from the grocery store</div>
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3. <a href="http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/78822?feat=511164-CL0&page=mini-emergency-radio">Mini Emergency Radio</a> </div>
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4. <a href="http://www.bathandbodyworks.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2257431&cp=12587010.12936196.15759286">C.O. Bigelow Premium Shave Cream with Eucalyptus Oil</a> </div>
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5. Gift Cards to his favorite fast food joint </div>
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6. <a href="http://www.smartwool.com/mens/socks-2/diamond-jim-2.html">Smart Wool Socks</a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-3355152698605671752013-12-11T08:14:00.000-07:002013-12-11T13:36:22.560-07:00Homemade Candy CanesOne of Deidra's favorite Christmas traditions is making homemade candy canes. Every Sunday night after Thanksgiving until Christmas she is likely to be found making candy canes with friends.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EKTmjtgYgW0/UqiH9tlPrdI/AAAAAAAAEvQ/ufqaMVt-v1E/s1600/candy+canes.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EKTmjtgYgW0/UqiH9tlPrdI/AAAAAAAAEvQ/ufqaMVt-v1E/s400/candy+canes.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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She made this short Instagram video a few weeks ago of the process.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwYUzyAFYYtt9BxwIQT7DYMORDwgUp6IU_iZ0tWWUuDj1K3ulMR-aT5098bwJ9UzQ7gAgH_PSrkOy6s9dl5sA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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And here's the recipe, if you feel adventurous and want to try it yourself!<br />
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Merry Christmas! Wish you were all near and could taste a warm, fresh candy cane!</div>
Deidrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01181514421028402144noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-57584403571687134892013-12-09T07:45:00.000-07:002013-12-11T13:36:39.614-07:00Free Christmas MusicIf there is anything I like more than Christmas music, it's new, free Christmas music.<br />
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Crate & Barrel offers free Christmas music right now as part of their <a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/GetTheDownload">Get the Download</a>. Hurry on over and get some new tunes (and some fun apps).<br />
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It's just what this Monday needs.Deidrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01181514421028402144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-28775823415410541842013-11-29T13:00:00.002-07:002013-12-11T13:37:12.346-07:00Adding Some Spark to Your Mom Uniform<!-- Shane Co.: All That Glitters (Content Series) / Clever Girls Snippet --><script src="http://member.clevergirlscollective.com/track?u=5296&g=759" type="text/javascript"></script><img src="http://assets.clevergirlscollective.com/pixel/p.png?a=campaign&gid=759&uid=5296" style="display: none; height: 1px; width: 1px;" /><!-- END Clever Girls Snippet -->
Most moms I know get used to dressing in a uniform. Before I had kids I developed my own personal winter uniform. Trouser-cut jeans, a solid colored long-sleeved tee and some sort of bold accessory, like a long necklace, dangly earrings or a scarf. Not the most imaginative, but it worked for me almost every day.<br />
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Truthfully, not much has changed with kids. The days I effortlessly put on a necklace, ring or fun earrings I feel so much more put together. Quickly putting on jewelry is so much easier than doing full-make up. My sweet eight month old is actually really gentle with jewelry, so I'm not afraid to make it part of my everyday style. (It feels silly to admit it, but since it's such a part of my style, I practice with my kids' hand being gentle on my dangling earrings or necklace and saying "oooooh" as we nurse. So far it's a trick that seems to work with both of them!) A mom has to do what she can to preserve her sense of style when her life is overtaken with kid demands!<br />
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My husband bought my <a href="http://clvr.li/1eiL5ri">engagement ring</a> online from <a href="http://clvr.li/shaneco">Shane Co</a>, without ever having seen it in real life. It ended up being perfectly "me." The husband was pretty proud of himself. We bought our wedding bands from Shane Co as well. We love making trips to our local Shane Co every six months (around our yearly and six month anniversaries) to get our rings cleaned, polished, and, when needed, replated. <a href="http://clvr.li/shaneco">Shane Co's lifetime guarantee</a> is fabulous (they've replaced a prong on my ring that got a little abused), and we love treating ourselves to cookies and cocoa in their stores. My simple solitaire wedding set is the perfect starting point for accessorizing my outfits.<br />
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<a href="http://clvr.li/shaneco" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jgVtau-IEkk/Upjw22ehX0I/AAAAAAAAEuA/-Bxe4u04ARI/s200/diamond_round_0_threefourths.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Building off my wedding ring, I like to put on other meaningful jewelry. These <a href="http://clvr.li/17MjAqA">Capri necklaces</a> from Shane Co are perfectly proportioned. Engraved with something personal (initials of your kids, a word of the year, or a family motto would all be sweet). They would go with almost anything, including more necklaces! Layer those babies on, with all different lengths, for a style that's all your own. I'm crushing on <a href="http://www.shaneco.com/Jewelry-Catalog/Necklaces/Product-Detail.aspx?X=41060389&ST=silver-and-sapphire">this beauty</a>, also from <a href="http://clvr.li/shaneco">Shane Co</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://clvr.li/shaneco" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_IdgI4DYF8E/Upjw4ekO7-I/AAAAAAAAEuI/6VLlY76pUz8/s1600/All+Capri+Engraved.jpg" /></a></div>
<i>Direct from Italy, the <a href="http://clvr.li/17MjAqA">Capri Necklace</a> is available exclusively from
Shane Co. Personalize your Capri Necklace with your initials or favorite
saying.</i><br />
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<br />
Another meaningful piece I like is this <a href="http://www.shaneco.com/Jewelry-Catalog/Product-Detail.aspx?X=41062799&ST=silver-and-sapphire">CTR ring</a> with Shane Co's <a href="http://clvr.li/1c3CtCT">sterling silver and sapphire</a> line. CTR stands for <a href="http://mormon.org/values/choice">Choose The Right</a>, and it's a message I want to emulate every day, and one I want my kids to know, internalize and do. So wearing that pretty ring would be a great reminder that I have the ability to choose.<br />
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<a href="http://clvr.li/shaneco" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yi5Z4LtAPj0/Upjw6Jm5FQI/AAAAAAAAEuQ/uK7wKvtK1iI/s200/ShaneCoCTR.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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It's amazing what a little sparkle can do to an otherwise ordinary mom uniform outfit. Using jewelry with added meaning puts some personality into looking put-together.<br />
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<i>I was selected for this opportunity as a member of <a href="http://clevergirlscollective.com/" target="_blank">Clever Girls Collective</a> and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.</i>Deidrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01181514421028402144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-12292012011310367082013-11-18T07:27:00.001-07:002013-12-11T22:29:03.965-07:00Caramel Apple Bar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W1huH96njns/UoohIv0NO6I/AAAAAAAAHoI/ZM3GPSqlVPM/s1600/caramel_apple_pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W1huH96njns/UoohIv0NO6I/AAAAAAAAHoI/ZM3GPSqlVPM/s1600/caramel_apple_pin.jpg" /></a></div>
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I try to take a birthday treat into work every year for my husband's birthday. This year he requested caramel apples, and since I aim to please, caramel apples is what he got!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w9XiwCRYTQo/UoohNGEo7wI/AAAAAAAAHoc/U1yDfiXPbuw/s1600/caramel_apples_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w9XiwCRYTQo/UoohNGEo7wI/AAAAAAAAHoc/U1yDfiXPbuw/s1600/caramel_apples_1.jpg" /></a></div>
I started with <a href="http://joannsspecial.blogspot.com/2013/11/caramel-apples.html">caramel apples</a>. And then since this was a celebration, I drenched them in chocolate and added more goodies to the outside. These were loaded caramel apples.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uxr2B4bWLhc/UoohGIpZZAI/AAAAAAAAHn4/NPXyZhme3-g/s1600/caramel_apple_chocolate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uxr2B4bWLhc/UoohGIpZZAI/AAAAAAAAHn4/NPXyZhme3-g/s1600/caramel_apple_chocolate.jpg" /></a></div>
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You can't go wrong with Caramel and Chocolate.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NCkpe1IkLpg/UoohNJXUucI/AAAAAAAAHoY/fOkB1JVnKeg/s1600/caramel_apple_snickers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NCkpe1IkLpg/UoohNJXUucI/AAAAAAAAHoY/fOkB1JVnKeg/s1600/caramel_apple_snickers.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Snickers were a big hit.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D1ppifOTaSQ/UoohEvzw9CI/AAAAAAAAHno/g8j0f4qhYwc/s1600/apple_pie_caramel_apple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D1ppifOTaSQ/UoohEvzw9CI/AAAAAAAAHno/g8j0f4qhYwc/s1600/apple_pie_caramel_apple.jpg" /></a></div>
But my personal favorite, Apple Pie. White chocolate with cinnamon and sugar sprinkled on the outside. Yum!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SOyeyyRxk44/UoohHH3twvI/AAAAAAAAHoA/rGNcdnfeSMY/s1600/caramel_apple_party_tray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SOyeyyRxk44/UoohHH3twvI/AAAAAAAAHoA/rGNcdnfeSMY/s1600/caramel_apple_party_tray.jpg" /></a></div>
I added little name tags to the apples, so his co-workers could know what they were working with.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wPFxSnJpwfA/UoohFvFhg6I/AAAAAAAAHnw/nF4pw5S_jU0/s1600/caramel_apple_birthday_party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wPFxSnJpwfA/UoohFvFhg6I/AAAAAAAAHnw/nF4pw5S_jU0/s1600/caramel_apple_birthday_party.jpg" /></a></div>
Added a sign telling them what these were for, so when he wasn't next to it people would know why there were apples hanging out. And put it all on a parchment lined tray.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AkRos_Uzfog/UoohNS1bTII/AAAAAAAAHog/JaLzUGgW644/s1600/caramel_apples_tray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AkRos_Uzfog/UoohNS1bTII/AAAAAAAAHog/JaLzUGgW644/s1600/caramel_apples_tray.jpg" /></a></div>
There was room to squeeze in a mini cutting board and a knife to help make the experience easier. Eating whole caramel apples is hard unless you cut them!<br />
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Do you have a go-to treat for the office?<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-10312520813624086562013-11-08T07:14:00.000-07:002013-12-11T22:29:25.435-07:00Caramel ApplesNothing says 'fall' like caramel apples.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BHWdCANgKRo/Uns1IMwoj-I/AAAAAAAAHl8/BCMFPBfr1yg/s1600/caramel_apples_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BHWdCANgKRo/Uns1IMwoj-I/AAAAAAAAHl8/BCMFPBfr1yg/s1600/caramel_apples_1.jpg" /></a></div>
The first step is to wash and shine the apples so they are all pretty. Then put them in the refrigerator overnight to chill. Or out in the garage if you don't have room in the fridge and your garage is already cold. This will help the caramel harden quickly and not slide off the apple.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DcgiI28UsNg/Uns1DNwsKpI/AAAAAAAAHlk/cOcheeiUGCM/s1600/apples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DcgiI28UsNg/Uns1DNwsKpI/AAAAAAAAHlk/cOcheeiUGCM/s1600/apples.jpg" /></a></div>
Combine 1 C. light Karo syrup, 1 lb. light brown sugar, and 1/4 C.
butter into a sauce pan. Bring to a boil and cook until all the sugar
is dissolved.Remove the pan from the heat and add 1 can of sweetened condensed milk.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uWsYd7efvos/Uns1EWsdI3I/AAAAAAAAHls/coyY-K2kjGg/s1600/caramel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uWsYd7efvos/Uns1EWsdI3I/AAAAAAAAHls/coyY-K2kjGg/s1600/caramel.jpg" /></a></div>
Put it back on the heat and cook—stirring constantly to prevent
burning—until it reaches 230 degrees on your candy thermometer.<br />
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Insert sticks into the apples and dip them in the caramel. I placed them on a baking sheet lined with a Sil-Pat to prevent sticking.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8UFMI0ZC3aI/Uns1FVQjiyI/AAAAAAAAHl0/mJ207I3JCQs/s1600/caramel_apples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8UFMI0ZC3aI/Uns1FVQjiyI/AAAAAAAAHl0/mJ207I3JCQs/s1600/caramel_apples.jpg" /></a></div>
You can enjoy them just like this, or dip in chocolate and cover with your favorite toppings!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-19719221353593058382013-10-09T19:34:00.001-06:002013-10-09T19:34:33.406-06:00Tiny Spicy Chicken<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QFvoiFtaJrY/UlX_vo8eEMI/AAAAAAAAErA/gKj_cmoAWNE/s1600/TinySpicy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QFvoiFtaJrY/UlX_vo8eEMI/AAAAAAAAErA/gKj_cmoAWNE/s640/TinySpicy.png" width="480" /> </a></div>
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Do you have family favorites that sometimes fall by the side, forgotten? This recipe had been forgotten until my husband recently requested it for his birthday dinner. I was happy to oblige, and made a small little tweak to keep the spicy factor down for our daughter.</div>
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<b>Tiny Spicy Chicken</b></div>
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2 lbs chicken, chopped into bite-sized pieces (boneless, skinless thighs are my favorite)</div>
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Cornstarch and flour, about 2 TB each, to coat</div>
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Toss the chicken in equal parts cornstarch and flour, then pan fry in a neutral oil until starting to brown. Remove from pan and place on paper towel-lined plate. Then place in a 9x13 baking dish.</div>
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<i>Sauce</i></div>
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1 C sugar</div>
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3/4 C ketchup</div>
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5 TB brown sugar</div>
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3 TB soy sauce</div>
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3/4 C white vinegar</div>
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3/4 C chicken broth</div>
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1 1/2 TB sriracha sauce</div>
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1 1/2 TB cornstarch </div>
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Whisk all ingredients together, making sure cornstarch is well dissolved, and pour over chicken in baking dish. Bake at 350<span class="st">° for 35-45 minutes, until sauce is thickened and bubbly.</span></div>
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<span class="st"><i>Family Friendly Adaptation</i></span></div>
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<span class="st">Basically this requires you to use two pans and add the sriracha to only part of the sauce.</span></div>
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<span class="st">Divide chicken into two portions (depending on desired spicy/mild ratio) and place in oven safe dishes. Omit sriracha from sauce and pour enough sauce over mild chicken to coat. Then add sriracha to remaing sauce (using less sriracha, based on how much sauce is remaining), then pour over chicken for the spicy servings.</span></div>
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<span class="st"><i> </i></span></div>
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<span class="st"><i> </i><br />We serve it with fluffy white rice and sesame sauteed green beans.<i><br /></i></span></div>
<br />Deidrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01181514421028402144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-92050659230797469652013-10-02T12:08:00.002-06:002013-10-02T12:08:23.548-06:00Worldwide Church, Worldwide Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2LtbPaO5QRo/UkxeHuc1ViI/AAAAAAAAEqw/hyVD6YLDMO8/s1600/WorldwideFood.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2LtbPaO5QRo/UkxeHuc1ViI/AAAAAAAAEqw/hyVD6YLDMO8/s1600/WorldwideFood.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>amazing food flags originally from <a href="http://www.goodfoodmonth.com/">here</a></i></div>
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<br />
Growing up, brunch during the Sunday morning session of <a href="http://www.lds.org/general-conference/about-general-conference?lang=eng">General Conference</a> was our tradition. A tradition including a ham, pans of homemade cinnamon rolls, raspberries from our garden, granola and yogurt. Needless to say, a tradition I loved.<br />
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Then my family moved two time zones east. Now the morning session of General Conference doesn't start for us until noon. And that's just too late for brunch.<br />
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In April we started a new family tradition: Worldwide Church, Worldwide Food. I browse the international aisle of the supermarket (or if we're lucky, we get to go to our favorite international market in Chicago before Conference weekend). I stock up on all sorts of food, but heavy on the treats and chocolate! It's a great way to recognize how we belong to a worldwide church and gives us a chance to try foods we normally wouldn't have an excuse to buy. This weekend we'll be noshing on Japanese udon miso soup, Austrian cookies, Korean biscuits, and Mexican juice. Plus we'll be feasting on the word of God, delivered through his messengers. Sounds like the perfect weekend to me!<br />
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<br />Deidrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01181514421028402144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-515614592999711392013-10-01T22:30:00.000-06:002013-12-11T22:31:11.863-07:00Roasted Garden Tomato Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OMJL82CUzE8/Ujs9TfzAMpI/AAAAAAAAHfo/7CVe62iKcEE/s1600/roasted_garden_tomato_soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OMJL82CUzE8/Ujs9TfzAMpI/AAAAAAAAHfo/7CVe62iKcEE/s1600/roasted_garden_tomato_soup.jpg" /></a></div>
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When it gets to the end of the season and you still have a bounty of tomatoes, but perhaps have had your fill off BLTs and there is a chill in the air, this is the soup for you. Perfect for the early fall days and using up the last delicious tomatoes of the summer.<br />
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Join us in making roasted garden tomato soup. <i>Full recipe is at the end. </i><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F8hLPNF6Y-Q/Ujs9xyT7ETI/AAAAAAAAHgU/MWUw08dHAzM/s1600/washed_tomato_soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F8hLPNF6Y-Q/Ujs9xyT7ETI/AAAAAAAAHgU/MWUw08dHAzM/s1600/washed_tomato_soup.jpg" /></a></div>
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Wash and prep vegetable. Oh, pretty tomatoes. Sigh.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NpS0sUysbms/Ujs9TjPNZ8I/AAAAAAAAHf8/YsDGCPAIaug/s1600/cut_tomatoes_soup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NpS0sUysbms/Ujs9TjPNZ8I/AAAAAAAAHf8/YsDGCPAIaug/s1600/cut_tomatoes_soup.jpg" /></a></div>
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Quarter large tomatoes (halving smaller tomatoes is sufficient), and sprinkle with aromatic garlic and parsley, salt and pepper.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aTLQG470-4U/Ujs9UkWB5VI/AAAAAAAAHgA/DRSN-GoZ97c/s1600/roasted_tomatoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aTLQG470-4U/Ujs9UkWB5VI/AAAAAAAAHgA/DRSN-GoZ97c/s1600/roasted_tomatoes.jpg" /></a></div>
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Roast tomatoes until they collapse and fill your house with a tantalizing aroma.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V23aJDxdgP0/Ujs9WWDgC1I/AAAAAAAAHgQ/V2usld7jXms/s1600/vegetables.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V23aJDxdgP0/Ujs9WWDgC1I/AAAAAAAAHgQ/V2usld7jXms/s1600/vegetables.jpg" /></a></div>
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Sautee onions, then add in butternut squash, and summer squash (some red bell pepper isn't out of place here!) until soft. Add in tomatoes and simmer for 20 minutes.<br />
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Puree tomatoes and garden vegetables in a blender in small batches, removing the hole covering from the blender lid and covering with a kitchen towel to prevent a hot explosion<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7aO316SMmVQ/Ujs9VWElp2I/AAAAAAAAHgI/_zJvUh26_p0/s1600/tomato_soup_cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7aO316SMmVQ/Ujs9VWElp2I/AAAAAAAAHgI/_zJvUh26_p0/s1600/tomato_soup_cream.jpg" /></a></div>
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Season to taste, add cream and fresh herbs. Particularly tasty served with a dollop of creme fraiche and more fresh basil.<br />
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<i>Roasted Garden Tomato Soup</i><br />
5 lbs. fresh tomatoes quartered (may use canned)<br />
2 cloves garlic, chopped<br />
1 Tbs. parsley, dry<br />
1 Tbs. olive oil<br />
1 Tbs. fresh basil<br />
1/2 Tbs. fresh oregano<br />
1/2 c. chopped onion<br />
1 c. butternut squash, chopped<br />
1/2 c. zucchini, chopped<br />
1/4 c. carrots, chopped<br />
1 c. heavy cream<br />
salt and pepper to taste<br />
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Place quartered tomatoes on baking sheet. Sprinkle with garlic, parsley, salt, pepper.<br />
Roast at 400 until tomatoes collapse (about 40 min.)<br />
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In a large stockpot, saute onion in olive oil until transluscent. Add the rest of the vegetables and saute for about 10 minutes. Add the cooked tomatoes and let simmer for 20 minutes.<br />
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Use hand blender or blender and blend ingredients. If using blender being careful to allow heat to escape or you will end up with a mess.<br />
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Season with salt and pepper and sugar if needed (if using canned tomatoes).<br />
Add fresh herbs and cream.<br />
Cook for another 5 to 10 minutes.<br />
Serve with creme fraiche. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-55990572473914617022013-09-20T14:36:00.000-06:002013-09-20T14:37:16.150-06:00Five for Friday: Fall YardworkJust because the temperatures are dropping doesn't mean you should quit taking care of your yard, although it may be very tempting. After a long summer of watering and mowing and trimming we are all ready for a break from yard work. These 5 simple things to do in the fall will help your yard look its best come spring. <br />
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1. Clean out flower beds and planters. Cut back perennials and remove annuals. After the first frost plants will start to die back on their own. By removing the foliage you will be saving yourself time come spring, and you'll be taking away breeding ground for disease and pests. Which will lead to a healthier garden next year.<br />
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2. <a href="http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,198603,00.html">Fertilize lawn.</a> Your lawn has made it through a hot summer and needs a little extra boosts to green it up and get ready for a long winters nap.<br />
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3. Plant trees, shrubs. Fall is a great time to plant trees and shrubs, since the weather has cooled off a little and you can usually find trees and shrubs on clearance. Win!<br />
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4. Plant grass seed. It is still warm enough for grass seed to germinate and the cooler temperatures will make it so the ground doesn't dry out as quickly, a challenge with grass seed. And once it does germinate it will thrive with the cooler temps. Come spring there will be grass instead of mud!<br />
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5. <a href="http://www.bhg.com/gardening/flowers/bulbs/planting-tips/#page=1">Plant bulbs</a> for spring--tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, crocus, etc. Because these bulbs need so many hours of cold temperatures before they will bloom, planting in the fall is the only way to get the beautiful blooms in the spring. <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-21465351655576047332013-09-19T12:21:00.001-06:002013-09-19T12:29:18.947-06:00Race Day Essentials :: Spectator StyleA few years ago, when Nikkala and I lived close to each other, our husbands got into running. They were training buddies (with a lot of matching clothes, since their wives shopped sales and clearance racks together). That summer we stood on the sidelines, cheering for our runners during lots of races. We mastered the art of race spectating. Coming prepared makes it more fun, less stressful and an event the whole family can enjoy. (Because those training runs? <i>No one</i> enjoys those!) Here are our recommendations for great spectator race experiences.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lT2FOBvv1UM/UjtBubGbivI/AAAAAAAAEqM/BUG9jfqhVWQ/s1600/Race+Day+copy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lT2FOBvv1UM/UjtBubGbivI/AAAAAAAAEqM/BUG9jfqhVWQ/s1600/Race+Day+copy.png" /></a></div>
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<li><a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/banana-chocolate-chip-muffins-recipe">Muffins</a> and chocolate milk. Races start early and can last a while. It's good to make breakfast a special treat, but make it something that will keep you going all morning long.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/inch-COWBELL-Handle-Cheering-Sporting/dp/B006AARTAI/ref=cm_cr_pr_sims_t">Cowbells</a> or other noisemakers.</li>
<li>Awesome posters. <a href="http://bestracesigns.wordpress.com/">Best Race Designs</a> has even more designs, but we're averse to the vulgar ones.</li>
<li>A race map and knowing what your runner is wearing. It's easier to spot a blue hat and orange shirt from far away than picking out a face.</li>
<li>A camera. This is one case where phone cameras might not be up to speed. Put it on the sports setting so you can catch your speedy runner in frame.</li>
<li>A variety of lines to cheer. <i>Looking strong! Good Job! Keep it up! You can do it! You </i>are<i> doing it!</i></li>
<li>A plan for meeting up after the finish line. It can be complete chaos at the finish line and runners usually aren't packing their phone, so it's a good idea to have a plan in place as to where to meet up.</li>
<li>A good night's rest and a smile on your face. Make it a party and keep those runners going!</li>
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Distance races always leave me humbled at the strength of the human spirit to persevere. Hopefully cheering will be just as inspiring for you as it is for the people on the course.Deidrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01181514421028402144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-12555658645591182272013-09-09T15:13:00.001-06:002013-09-19T12:14:21.198-06:00Visiting Teaching Handout: September 2013This month's <a href="https://www.lds.org/liahona/2013/09/self-reliance?lang=eng">Visiting Teaching message</a> is on being self-reliant, a subject we feel passionately about. This is one of our favorite sayings on the subject and we added the 5 principles talked about in the message to the bottom.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YFHdFmJsxqM/Ui44sZQUG9I/AAAAAAAAHfQ/xRk3bcKuCY4/s1600/sept_vt_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YFHdFmJsxqM/Ui44sZQUG9I/AAAAAAAAHfQ/xRk3bcKuCY4/s640/sept_vt_13.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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This download is formatted with 2 handouts on a sheet. <a href="https://app.box.com/s/3ltzbqwx6x8bsxl74z7o">Download here</a> to share with your sisters. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-25110792585055825902013-09-06T11:45:00.001-06:002013-09-06T14:03:06.852-06:0015 Fun Halloween Treats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There are some seriously cute treats for Halloween on the web! For some reason eyeballs and monsters become almost adorable this time of year, so we've rounded up 15 fun Halloween Treats that are kid friendly. None of that gory stuff here.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-10toJk3gjVE/UioIuDgSLII/AAAAAAAAHcU/KGtKqW6Tzi4/s1600/monster-cookies-2_thumb.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-10toJk3gjVE/UioIuDgSLII/AAAAAAAAHcU/KGtKqW6Tzi4/s640/monster-cookies-2_thumb.png" width="420"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.theidearoom.net/2012/09/monster-cookie-recipe.html"> Monster Cookies</a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d42Q_X7IGTQ/UioIryp6kFI/AAAAAAAAHcI/E3fApWZYaSQ/s1600/mummies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d42Q_X7IGTQ/UioIryp6kFI/AAAAAAAAHcI/E3fApWZYaSQ/s640/mummies.jpg" width="425"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.howdoesshe.com/halloween-cookie-suckers/">Mummie Cookie Suckers</a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lRu2s_ACL0g/UioMUBp9hDI/AAAAAAAAHc8/gU4eZqrZiO4/s1600/candy-corn-cheesecake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lRu2s_ACL0g/UioMUBp9hDI/AAAAAAAAHc8/gU4eZqrZiO4/s640/candy-corn-cheesecake.jpg" width="425"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/candy-corn-cheesecake/">Candy Corn Cheesecake</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d0bbTvE88DU/UioNnk1SoTI/AAAAAAAAHdw/cDMI8CjThYA/s1600/Halloween-Treats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d0bbTvE88DU/UioNnk1SoTI/AAAAAAAAHdw/cDMI8CjThYA/s640/Halloween-Treats.jpg" width="425"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.eighteen25.blogspot.com/2013/09/monster-munch.html"> Monster Munch</a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-19WqtywOoj8/UioNkSY2WMI/AAAAAAAAHdg/eLTyIh7bsug/s1600/ghost2+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="382" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-19WqtywOoj8/UioNkSY2WMI/AAAAAAAAHdg/eLTyIh7bsug/s400/ghost2+collage.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://eighteen25.blogspot.com/2011/10/quick-tasty-halloween-goodies.html">Chocolate Ghost Pops</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8NSY2VmuQjc/UioXGZ7ku5I/AAAAAAAAHfA/fXlwSEk8oJo/s1600/halloween-crafts-kids-frankenstein-pops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8NSY2VmuQjc/UioXGZ7ku5I/AAAAAAAAHfA/fXlwSEk8oJo/s320/halloween-crafts-kids-frankenstein-pops.jpg" width="320"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.celebrations.com/content/frankenstein-marshmallow-pops">Frankenstein Marshmallow Pops</a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rol49TJk_Rg/UioNlObWi1I/AAAAAAAAHdo/q_gI2Wbf5LQ/s1600/Halloween+edible+craft+recipes,+snack+cake+bat,+Ho+Ho+bats,+Swiss+Roll+bat+treats+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rol49TJk_Rg/UioNlObWi1I/AAAAAAAAHdo/q_gI2Wbf5LQ/s400/Halloween+edible+craft+recipes,+snack+cake+bat,+Ho+Ho+bats,+Swiss+Roll+bat+treats+.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.hungryhappenings.com/2012/08/chocolate-snack-cake-bats-make-sweet.html"> Snack Cake Bats</a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MkQ6CwkyhHk/UioPZtjQLqI/AAAAAAAAHd8/FL-5Fovag28/s1600/DSC_9222wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MkQ6CwkyhHk/UioPZtjQLqI/AAAAAAAAHd8/FL-5Fovag28/s400/DSC_9222wm.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pnpflowersinc.com/2012/10/sugar-halloween-cookies.html">Chocolate Dipped Cookies</a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hRRfpilF-n4/UioPZ8TIgII/AAAAAAAAHeA/2HMZp5Wb_vc/s1600/Eek,+Shriek+and+be+Scary+image10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hRRfpilF-n4/UioPZ8TIgII/AAAAAAAAHeA/2HMZp5Wb_vc/s400/Eek,+Shriek+and+be+Scary+image10.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://wantsandwishesdesign.blogspot.com/2011/10/eek-shriek-and-be-scary-halloween.html">Brownie and Pretzel Skeletons</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VB86aBFFRSU/UioPbiDC0fI/AAAAAAAAHeM/mDs7a2qBMo0/s1600/Eyeballs-600x482.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VB86aBFFRSU/UioPbiDC0fI/AAAAAAAAHeM/mDs7a2qBMo0/s400/Eyeballs-600x482.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.sweetsugarbelle.com/2011/10/creepy-eyeball-cookies/">Creepy Eyeball Cookies</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c7koJkLADwU/UioPeVEQNTI/AAAAAAAAHeU/rtBhk1hEg_g/s1600/Make_your_own_jackolatter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c7koJkLADwU/UioPeVEQNTI/AAAAAAAAHeU/rtBhk1hEg_g/s400/Make_your_own_jackolatter.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://eighteen25.blogspot.com/2011/09/todays-guest-bee-in-our-bonnet.html">Jack-O-Lattern Cookies in a Jar</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tf0yPzQZ94o/UioPfeWtOyI/AAAAAAAAHec/0nkRAInNu5E/s1600/poison_apples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tf0yPzQZ94o/UioPfeWtOyI/AAAAAAAAHec/0nkRAInNu5E/s400/poison_apples.jpg" width="342"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2012/10/candy-apples.html">Candy Apples </a></div>
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<a href="http://www.hungryhappenings.com/2012/08/chocolate-snack-cake-bats-make-sweet.html">Snack Cake Bats</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oHL8K44EREQ/UioMXSvBSlI/AAAAAAAAHdI/mnTHsiKx6Vc/s1600/frankie_ricecrispies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oHL8K44EREQ/UioMXSvBSlI/AAAAAAAAHdI/mnTHsiKx6Vc/s400/frankie_ricecrispies.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://lisastorms.typepad.com/lisa-storms/2012/10/frankenstein-treat-printable.html">Frankenstein Rice Crispie Treats </a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ebuGbrk19k8/UioJTgQFxvI/AAAAAAAAHcw/rQ-tvTJyVfg/s1600/candy-corn-cookies-51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ebuGbrk19k8/UioJTgQFxvI/AAAAAAAAHcw/rQ-tvTJyVfg/s640/candy-corn-cookies-51.jpg" width="425"></a></div>
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<a href="http://thecraftingchicks.com/2012/10/candy-corn-cookies.html"> Candy Corn Cookies</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7xyl4Xz3NSg/UioJSwRHOHI/AAAAAAAAHcg/7Oqws5JWuSk/s1600/Haunted+Hooting+Owl+Pretzels1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7xyl4Xz3NSg/UioJSwRHOHI/AAAAAAAAHcg/7Oqws5JWuSk/s400/Haunted+Hooting+Owl+Pretzels1.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://mildredrecipes.tk/2013/08/28/haunted-hooting-owl-pretzels-2/">Haunted Hooting Owl Pretzels</a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-24741979113765104572013-08-30T14:02:00.001-06:002013-08-30T14:02:23.513-06:00Five Friday Finds :: Awesome Money Saving Apps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AmS9RZCSwB8/UiD6Px6qjAI/AAAAAAAAHbg/VyuXaasZuH8/s1600/money-saving-apps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AmS9RZCSwB8/UiD6Px6qjAI/AAAAAAAAHbg/VyuXaasZuH8/s400/money-saving-apps.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
1. <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/gasbuddy-find-cheap-gas-prices/id406719683?mt=8">Gas Buddy</a>— It's helpful to look up where the cheapest gas is close to you (especially nice when traveling), but we've found the price hike alerts even more helpful in saving money. We can fill up before the prices spike.<br />
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2. <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cartwheel-by-target/id659563061?mt=8">Cartwheel by Target</a>— This app allows you to select mobile coupons, stack them with paper coupons and save on what you buy at Target (it even shows you coupons specifically to use with things that are already on sale!).<br />
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3. Craft Store Apps— <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/jo-ann/id405383140?mt=8">Jo-Ann</a>, <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/michaels-stores/id445458809?mt=8">Michael's</a> and <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/hobby-lobby/id535562583?mt=8">Hobby Lobby</a> apps allow you to access you coupons while you're standing in line. No more getting to the store and realizing you forgot your flier or coupons. 40% off, at your fingertips. And you can use coupons at competitor stores. (Note that the Michael's app requires you to register first.)<br />
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4. <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/shopkick/id383298204?mt=8">Shopkick</a>— Shopkick rewards you with points for walking into different stores, and the points can be redeemed for gift cards. Additional points can be earned for scanning barcodes of specific items in store. That part is like a scavenger hunt for adults!<br />
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5. <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/redlaser-barcode-scanner-shopping/id474902001?mt=8">Redlaser</a>— This app will tell you the best price on an item (either online or in a brick and mortar store) when you scan a product bar code, and can give you heads up on available coupons.Deidrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01181514421028402144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-15023745293136838342013-08-30T07:14:00.000-06:002013-08-30T12:18:54.420-06:00Round Friendship Bracelet Tutorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ypWEMr1uitk/Uh5igPZ1JFI/AAAAAAAAHYg/S9muYMv-RBg/s1600/friendship_bracelet_round.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="592" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ypWEMr1uitk/Uh5igPZ1JFI/AAAAAAAAHYg/S9muYMv-RBg/s640/friendship_bracelet_round.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Growing up we spent many hours with thread pinned to couch cushions
making friendship bracelets. I'm sure my mom saw the benefit of keeping
our hands busy. This round bracelet is one of the easiest and quickest
to do.<br />
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Start with embroidery floss. You can find embroidery floss at JoAnn's,
Michaels, Hobby Lobby, or Wal-Mart. Any store with a craft section will
have embroidery floss; it's a basic craft supply.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eSTEbUcXTOY/Uh5m73xrZkI/AAAAAAAAHaQ/8_ibKhHC0Wg/s1600/friendship_bracelet_round_getting_started.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eSTEbUcXTOY/Uh5m73xrZkI/AAAAAAAAHaQ/8_ibKhHC0Wg/s640/friendship_bracelet_round_getting_started.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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To begin, pick your colors. The more colors you use, the thicker your
bracelet will be, and all the steps will be the same no matter the
number of threads. Each thread will be about an arm length. Cut all
thread and tie a knot at the top. You'll want to leave a bit of a
tail to use when the bracelet is finished and you are tying it on. Tape
the bracelet to a counter or table, or you can use a safety pin and
attach it to a pillow or the thigh area of your jeans.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eToum1d-QEU/Uh5m59h_QnI/AAAAAAAAHZw/6FmUB_0blek/s1600/friendship_bracelet_beginning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eToum1d-QEU/Uh5m59h_QnI/AAAAAAAAHZw/6FmUB_0blek/s640/friendship_bracelet_beginning.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
First, pick the color you want to use first and separate it from the
group. Take the thread over the others and then under, like you are
tying a knot.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5btQgHyfF5A/Uh5m8kWbW_I/AAAAAAAAHak/VGw4_OStBVo/s1600/friendship_bracelet_the_know.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5btQgHyfF5A/Uh5m8kWbW_I/AAAAAAAAHak/VGw4_OStBVo/s640/friendship_bracelet_the_know.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hold the group of thread tight and slide the yellow to the top and pull tight and repeat, I did each color 5 times here.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1bOBwGvoPvQ/Uh5m5tJlzvI/AAAAAAAAHZo/zQiz1h93obo/s1600/friendship_bracelet_round_1_color.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1bOBwGvoPvQ/Uh5m5tJlzvI/AAAAAAAAHZo/zQiz1h93obo/s640/friendship_bracelet_round_1_color.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Then return the yellow to the group and choose your next color. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cxsbwNXpAx4/Uh5m7MMq-5I/AAAAAAAAHaI/huHZ3glA-JU/s1600/friendship_bracelet_round_color_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cxsbwNXpAx4/Uh5m7MMq-5I/AAAAAAAAHaI/huHZ3glA-JU/s640/friendship_bracelet_round_color_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
And repeat 5 times. You can do each color however many times you want to, but for even blocks keep them all the same.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xbpabk1Fcj8/Uh5m6f9BoYI/AAAAAAAAHZ8/YH76s6iWihg/s1600/friendship_bracelet_round_all_colors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xbpabk1Fcj8/Uh5m6f9BoYI/AAAAAAAAHZ8/YH76s6iWihg/s640/friendship_bracelet_round_all_colors.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
Repeat with all the colors in the order you choose until the bracelet is
long enough to wrap around the wrist, or ankle if you are making an
ankle bracelet.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8GGXkHFahSw/Uh5m7fZRAmI/AAAAAAAAHac/cSQT7xucqqc/s1600/friendship_bracelet_round_finished.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8GGXkHFahSw/Uh5m7fZRAmI/AAAAAAAAHac/cSQT7xucqqc/s640/friendship_bracelet_round_finished.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Tie a knot at the end, cut with a tail and tie. I recently taught a
group of 8-9 year olds how to make these and they had so much fun!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-51625914040527009502013-08-27T15:57:00.000-06:002013-08-27T20:07:14.299-06:00Quick Dinners<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z7FkooPnRxw/Uh0gf2fn1vI/AAAAAAAAHYQ/zHWNgpXfQWM/s1600/quick_summer_dinners.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z7FkooPnRxw/Uh0gf2fn1vI/AAAAAAAAHYQ/zHWNgpXfQWM/s640/quick_summer_dinners.jpg" width="425"></a></div>
Does it feel like dinner-time feels the squeeze this time of year at your house, too? More extracurricular activities, enforced bedtimes and busy days can lead to the evening panic, but it's not quite time for heavy stews simmering in the slow cooker all day.<br>
<br>
Here are some of our favorite quick, late summer dinner recipes.<br>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M7RJ7rjKg-o/Uh0bGz6se5I/AAAAAAAAHX4/3XMmvTbx5FM/s1600/napachicken579x441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M7RJ7rjKg-o/Uh0bGz6se5I/AAAAAAAAHX4/3XMmvTbx5FM/s400/napachicken579x441.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
<a href="http://applebeesathome.blogspot.com/2012/05/smothered-chicken.html">Smothered Grilled Chicken</a>—
When our family makes this, we include zucchini in with the sauteed
vegetables. Served with garlic potatoes, it's my husband's favorite
dinner. <br>
<br>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VEdIRNgT724/Uh0Yq8pJ85I/AAAAAAAAHXA/M8vSsLvQSOE/s1600/salmonsalsa_vert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VEdIRNgT724/Uh0Yq8pJ85I/AAAAAAAAHXA/M8vSsLvQSOE/s400/salmonsalsa_vert.jpg" width="320"></a></div>
<br>
<a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/315801/salmon-with-spicy-cucumber-pineapple-sal">Salmon with Spicy Cucumber-Pineapple Relish</a>— I left the spicy jalapenos out of a portion of the relish and my two-year old all but inhaled it. It was great served with a side of rice and sauteed green beans from the garden.<br>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QfVoF_nkT0M/Uh0YoJWyWcI/AAAAAAAAHW4/XrSngjZbGNI/s1600/quesadilla.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QfVoF_nkT0M/Uh0YoJWyWcI/AAAAAAAAHW4/XrSngjZbGNI/s400/quesadilla.JPG" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
<a href="http://joannsspecial.blogspot.com/2011/07/make-yourself-dang-quesadilla.html">Squash, Mushroom and Black Bean Quesadillas</a>— These are pretty amazing quesadillas. <br>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRPWsHgtxpg/Uh0YiNyiynI/AAAAAAAAHWo/GIFNNCZC6X4/s1600/grilled-mediterranean-vegetable-sandwich-su-l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZRPWsHgtxpg/Uh0YiNyiynI/AAAAAAAAHWo/GIFNNCZC6X4/s400/grilled-mediterranean-vegetable-sandwich-su-l.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
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<br>
<a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/grilled-mediterranean-vegetable-sandwiches-50400000121894/">Grilled Mediterranean Vegetable Sandwiches</a>— The lone eggplant in our garden has a meeting with its destiny in this sandwich.<br>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EOHBk_9YrD0/Uh0Ys4AltDI/AAAAAAAAHXI/IajGB_616A4/s1600/spaghettie_cherry_tomatoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EOHBk_9YrD0/Uh0Ys4AltDI/AAAAAAAAHXI/IajGB_616A4/s400/spaghettie_cherry_tomatoes.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
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<br>
<a href="http://www.mbskitchen.com/spaghetti-with-cherry-tomatoes/">Spaghetti with Cherry Tomatoes</a>— I can't be the only one whose cherry tomatoes are going crazy! <br>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c57fRsg-d9U/Uh0YwAT2UDI/AAAAAAAAHXY/xLqVUADLgA8/s1600/taco-salad-chips_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c57fRsg-d9U/Uh0YwAT2UDI/AAAAAAAAHXY/xLqVUADLgA8/s400/taco-salad-chips_300.jpg" width="335"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/taco-salad-recipe-00100000095018/index.html">Taco Salad with Pinto Beans and Avocado</a>— Deceptively simple, but so good. A great vegetarian option.<br>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--rxezSFmh70/Uh0YduacW5I/AAAAAAAAHWY/jk3ryprePGU/s1600/pork-chops-smothered-with-peppers-and-onions_s4x3_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--rxezSFmh70/Uh0YduacW5I/AAAAAAAAHWY/jk3ryprePGU/s400/pork-chops-smothered-with-peppers-and-onions_s4x3_lg.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/pork-chops-smothered-with-peppers-and-onions-recipe/index.html">Pork Chops Smothered with Peppers and Onions</a>— I'll admit: I was a bit weary of the fennel seed, but I think it totally makes this dish.<br>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_v7EIWBKovQ/Uh0ZkkRQK9I/AAAAAAAAHXo/WuiL4TyijIU/s1600/l_R150935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_v7EIWBKovQ/Uh0ZkkRQK9I/AAAAAAAAHXo/WuiL4TyijIU/s320/l_R150935.jpg" width="320"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bhg.com/recipe/salads/spinach-grapes-and-bacon/">Spinach, Grape and Bacon Salad</a>— Bacon makes main dish salads manly, right?<br>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0BaOz4EspyI/Uh0Y5g8MOuI/AAAAAAAAHXg/j-ug7sJefX0/s1600/grilled_pizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0BaOz4EspyI/Uh0Y5g8MOuI/AAAAAAAAHXg/j-ug7sJefX0/s400/grilled_pizza.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
<a href="http://thecraftingchicks.com/2010/07/grilled-pizza.html">Grilled Pizza</a>— Topped with little more than cheese, fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, this is a winner! <br>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GcOWBH0pn3Y/Uh0YufC39CI/AAAAAAAAHXQ/gl5gU0V1CWU/s1600/Turkey+Sandwiches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GcOWBH0pn3Y/Uh0YufC39CI/AAAAAAAAHXQ/gl5gU0V1CWU/s400/Turkey+Sandwiches.jpg" width="266"></a></div>
<br>
<a href="http://www.everyday-reading.com/2013/08/avocado-and-turkey-paninis-with-ranch.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%253A+EverydayReading+%2528Everyday+Reading%2529">Avocado and Turkey Paninis with Ranch Dressing</a>— I really think garden (or farmer's market) fresh tomatoes should get billing in this recipe.<br>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8p-NhnY2pRU/Uh0bY6SS3PI/AAAAAAAAHYA/1FE7f1-mLqU/s1600/creamy-chicken-pasta-ictcrop_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8p-NhnY2pRU/Uh0bY6SS3PI/AAAAAAAAHYA/1FE7f1-mLqU/s400/creamy-chicken-pasta-ictcrop_300.jpg" width="335"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/chicken-spinach-pasta-00100000091780/index.html">Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta</a>— A rotisserie chicken makes this quick and easy.<br>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dcmo7NKOAh8/Uh0Yf14x6cI/AAAAAAAAHWg/qHov6BFd31c/s1600/364611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dcmo7NKOAh8/Uh0Yf14x6cI/AAAAAAAAHWg/qHov6BFd31c/s400/364611.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
<br>
<a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Chickpea-Salad-with-Lemon-Parmesan-and-Fresh-Herbs-364611">Chickpea Salad with Lemon, Parmesan and Herbs</a>— Note that you'll want to double this to serve four.<br>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sjCw_WRG6yE/Uh0YlYAlxOI/AAAAAAAAHWw/fqz6gTK362Q/s1600/pasta-tomato-lemony-beans-ed109281_vert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sjCw_WRG6yE/Uh0YlYAlxOI/AAAAAAAAHWw/fqz6gTK362Q/s400/pasta-tomato-lemony-beans-ed109281_vert.jpg" width="320"></a></div>
<a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/962981/pasta-tomato-sauce-and-lemony-beans?czone=everyday_food_with_sarah_carey"><br></a>
<a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/962981/pasta-tomato-sauce-and-lemony-beans?czone=everyday_food_with_sarah_carey">Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Lemony Beans</a>— Sub out the canned diced tomatoes for fresh ones, if you've got them.<br>
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<br>Deidrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01181514421028402144noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-71403455237865694292013-08-24T06:26:00.007-06:002013-08-24T06:26:56.905-06:00Visiting Teaching Handout August 2013For this month's <a href="https://www.lds.org/liahona/2013/08/welfare?lang=eng">Visiting Teaching</a> message, I typed up the quote from Pres. Henry B. Eyring and added it to a little bouquet of zinnias from my yard.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JnBv3FBjXUY/Uhik9omYk5I/AAAAAAAAHOw/czV46j8eca4/s1600/vt_flowers_closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JnBv3FBjXUY/Uhik9omYk5I/AAAAAAAAHOw/czV46j8eca4/s1600/vt_flowers_closeup.jpg" /></a></div>
To get it to stand up in the flowers, I taped it onto a wooden skewer and then inserted it in the bouquet. To dress up the mason jar, I wrapped a piece of burlap around it.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d88uQrHlWfQ/Uhik9BJo_LI/AAAAAAAAHOs/pSBkKEbDIrQ/s1600/vt_flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d88uQrHlWfQ/Uhik9BJo_LI/AAAAAAAAHOs/pSBkKEbDIrQ/s1600/vt_flowers.jpg" /></a></div>
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It was a simple, but cheerful (and free!) thing to take to my sisters. You can <a href="https://app.box.com/s/c9xxi42f4s50di96cir7">download the quote</a> to share with your sisters.</div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-32589469873922906492013-08-23T06:30:00.000-06:002013-08-23T06:30:03.013-06:00Five Friday Finds :: Great Canning ResourcesIf you would like to start canning, but don't know where to start, here are five excellent places to look for inspiration. Before long, you might be hooked and preserving all the bounty you can get!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U6a1llHXbxw/UhbXcfuS9dI/AAAAAAAAHOM/H_IMMXm1uRQ/s1600/canning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U6a1llHXbxw/UhbXcfuS9dI/AAAAAAAAHOM/H_IMMXm1uRQ/s640/canning.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<ol>
<li>A friend who cans. Canners love to share their knowledge, and having someone walk you through your first recipe can bolster your confidence enough to venture out on your own. Ask around and see if you have a friend who would be willing to help you get started or loan you some of their equipment.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.freshpreservingstore.com/blue-book-guide-to-preserving/shop/229696/">Ball Blue Book Guide to Preserving</a> (a great first step) or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0778801314/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_3?pf_rd_p=1535523722&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B0055RG9T4&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1CJZM8THSH5Q23GFY79P">Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving</a> (for more info, recipes and methods). After a friend initiated me into the ways of canning on my own, without my mom, this was the next step. These books will show you the ropes, help define different terms—headspace? When to start timing a water bath processing? Fingertip tight? Adjusting for altitude? These books have you covered. And once you have the terminology mastered, canning is just like following any other recipe.</li>
<li>Your local <a href="http://www.csrees.usda.gov/Extension/">Cooperative Extension</a>
office. A fantastic resource for what's going on locally and most offer
pressure canner testing, to put your mind at ease before venturing into
pressure canning by making sure you're equipment is working well. </li>
<li><a href="http://www.freshpreserving.com/home.aspx">Fresh Preserving</a>.
Another canning primer, a vast recipe database (searchable by all sort
of different factors), troubleshooting, pectin calculator and more. </li>
<li><a href="http://foodinjars.com/">Food in Jars</a>. Especially <a href="http://foodinjars.com/2013/07/new-to-canning-start-here-boiling-water-bath-canning/">Beginning Water Bath Canning</a> and <a href="http://foodinjars.com/canning-101-archive/">Canning 101</a>, which has answers to all sorts of questions. Marisa includes lots of new, unique and fresh ideas when it comes to canning recipes and products.</li>
</ol>
Deidrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01181514421028402144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-53533770636792370492013-08-22T17:05:00.002-06:002013-08-22T17:13:07.855-06:00Zucchini Recipes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rlAkzH5rrIk/UhaZJOoG3eI/AAAAAAAAHN8/wkrmnJyvHA0/s1600/zucchinirecipes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rlAkzH5rrIk/UhaZJOoG3eI/AAAAAAAAHN8/wkrmnJyvHA0/s640/zucchinirecipes.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I don't know about you, but our zucchini production is in full swing and my counter is being overtaken by the green beasts. Here are 7 delicious ways to use up your harvest!</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xDlwKVhm69s/UhaCC-GmZbI/AAAAAAAAHNU/fsyjoC1NXfs/s640/Zucchini-Orange-cucpcakes-NoBiggie.net_.jpg" width="424" /></div>
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<a href="http://www.nobiggie.net/zucchini-orange-cupcakes-with-caramel-frosting/"> Zucchini Orange Cupcakes</a> from No Biggie</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eKtQIcvqcAE/UhaCChHjviI/AAAAAAAAHM8/E_UIU6BpxXU/s1600/zucchini_cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eKtQIcvqcAE/UhaCChHjviI/AAAAAAAAHM8/E_UIU6BpxXU/s640/zucchini_cupcakes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Zucchini-Cupcakes"> Zucchini Cupcakes</a> from Taste of Home</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iq40qxeg7J8/UhaCCuLmhfI/AAAAAAAAHM4/0LQNOMExoxg/s1600/zucchini_lemon_bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Iq40qxeg7J8/UhaCCuLmhfI/AAAAAAAAHM4/0LQNOMExoxg/s640/zucchini_lemon_bread.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://hopefulhomemaker.com/wp/2011/10/11/lemon-zucchini-bread/"> Lemon Zucchini Bread</a> from Hopeful Homemaker</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dtrMm9TZ_5M/UhaCDKEYQjI/AAAAAAAAHNE/cGK3YL6O6ZE/s1600/zucchini_sticks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dtrMm9TZ_5M/UhaCDKEYQjI/AAAAAAAAHNE/cGK3YL6O6ZE/s640/zucchini_sticks.jpg" width="475" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/blog/2011/07/28/baked-zucchini-sticks-and-sweet-onion-dip-that-bloomin-zucchini/"> Baked Zucchini Sticks and Sweet Onion Dip</a> from King Arthur Flour</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NtLcIO5fmAo/UhaCDhI5XwI/AAAAAAAAHNQ/gHC86WK2phA/s1600/zucchini_stuffed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NtLcIO5fmAo/UhaCDhI5XwI/AAAAAAAAHNQ/gHC86WK2phA/s640/zucchini_stuffed.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2012/07/sausage-stuffed-zucchini-boats.html"> Sausage Stuffed Zucchini</a> from Skinnytaste</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U-mCxxyk9QQ/UhaVu6EhDFI/AAAAAAAAHNw/rjycwp6lmko/s1600/pineapple-zucchini-cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U-mCxxyk9QQ/UhaVu6EhDFI/AAAAAAAAHNw/rjycwp6lmko/s640/pineapple-zucchini-cake.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2009/08/pineapple-zucchini-cake-with-cream.html">Pineapple Zucchini Cake</a> from Skinnytaste</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ij73DJ1-c4c/UhaCGbgpbqI/AAAAAAAAHNg/QBaMg_kF9IU/s1600/zuchinni-cake-cover8-678x1024.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ij73DJ1-c4c/UhaCGbgpbqI/AAAAAAAAHNg/QBaMg_kF9IU/s640/zuchinni-cake-cover8-678x1024.png" width="420" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.theidearoom.net/2013/07/chocolate-zucchini-cake.html#_a5y_p=824289">Chocolate Zucchini Cake</a> from The Idea Room</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-38393990613858610082013-08-15T11:51:00.004-06:002013-08-23T10:23:34.367-06:00Chicken Coop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYzG9eeze6U/Ug0QOc_0FwI/AAAAAAAAHME/S4gedv627zg/s1600/chickencoop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYzG9eeze6U/Ug0QOc_0FwI/AAAAAAAAHME/S4gedv627zg/s1600/chickencoop.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Every once in a while a bribe turns into a lot larger project than you ever imagined! Last spring I promised our boys if they were good while we ran errands we would stop and look at the baby chicks....</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bkVz9I5lRmU/Ug0QPSpjW5I/AAAAAAAAHMQ/pu_8r_kHK1I/s1600/chickencoop_chickens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bkVz9I5lRmU/Ug0QPSpjW5I/AAAAAAAAHMQ/pu_8r_kHK1I/s1600/chickencoop_chickens.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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As you can guess, we left with 4 little fluff balls that have turned into family pets. For a while they lived in a cardboard box in the garage with a heat lamp, but all too quickly they were growing and we knew the garage wasn't going to work for much longer. Using as many supplies as we could find in the corner of the garage, my husband designed this coop, accommodating as many of my requests as he could.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b-oHopEkdT0/Ug0QPORC2EI/AAAAAAAAHMM/OTGoYSkHWtg/s1600/chickencoop_fresheggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b-oHopEkdT0/Ug0QPORC2EI/AAAAAAAAHMM/OTGoYSkHWtg/s1600/chickencoop_fresheggs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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With some insistence it not be a square, he cut a star in the front for ventilation. I love it.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gm2DymDqxBM/Ug0Q9BG75lI/AAAAAAAAHMk/4DQOfEm0-Hk/s1600/chickencoop_laybox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gm2DymDqxBM/Ug0Q9BG75lI/AAAAAAAAHMk/4DQOfEm0-Hk/s1600/chickencoop_laybox.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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My husband built a cheerful external laybox on the back (because I hated going inside the chicken coop to gather eggs when I was growing up). He built it off the ground with the run going under the coop to keep the footprint small.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ozc7ToB6jCM/Ug0QQCAOy5I/AAAAAAAAHMc/sqS7xqIVWds/s1600/chickencoopvertical.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ozc7ToB6jCM/Ug0QQCAOy5I/AAAAAAAAHMc/sqS7xqIVWds/s1600/chickencoopvertical.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The flower box and flowers planted around the coop make it a cute spot in our yard and a comfortable place for our 4 little omelet makers to live.</div>
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My little impulse buy turned into more work for the whole family, but have given us a project to work onto together. </div>
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Deidra is on her way to meet up with the rest of the family today. While she's flown alone with her daughter several times, today marks the first time she's flown alone with <i>both</i> her littles. Send happy thoughts her way!<br />
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Here are five of her favorite things for flying with kids</div>
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1- <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000M5GS7M/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=1535523722&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B000MUXVZO&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=12CA5HF94M2E42AG79MR">Caliphone kid headphones</a><br />
2- Since Delta is the only carrier offering direct flights from Deidra's airport, she loves the <a href="http://www.delta.com/content/www/en_US/mobile.html">Delta app</a> (if only it allowed access for a whole family's boarding passes!)<br />
3- <a href="http://www.albeebaby.com/maclaren-twin-techno-2012-black.html?cmp=googleproducts&kw=maclaren-twin-techno-2012-black&utm_source=googleproducts&utm_medium=cse&utm_campaign=googleproducts&utm_content=WDN13012&gclid=CIDJwsbr67gCFcgWMgodeU8A7A">Maclaren double umbrella stroller</a> for getting both kids through the airport but still collapsing down small<br />
4- A cute spare outfit for everyone, just for the peace of mind (<a href="http://www.jcrew.com/browse/multi_product_detail.jsp?externalProductCodes=03616%3A03377%3A05975&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302078793&bmUID=k1bdXMx">Mom</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tea-Collection-Baby-Girls-Infant-Floral/dp/B00B980YTE/ref=sr_1_25?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1375897954&sr=1-25&keywords=tea+collection">big sis</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tea-Collection-Baby-Boys-Newborn-Stripe/dp/B00CU8CBXO/ref=sr_1_37?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1375897954&sr=1-37&keywords=tea+collection">little bro</a>)<br />
5- <a href="http://www.clifbar.com/food/products_clif_kid_twisted_fruit/">Clif Kids Twisted Fruit</a> gives little jaws a workout to keep those ears adjusted to pressure changes (doesn't hurt that Deidra loves to eat them, too!)</div>
Deidrahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01181514421028402144noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7065592702033268155.post-12778495118235855762013-08-01T07:39:00.002-06:002013-08-01T09:37:17.387-06:004 Super Hero Costume Tutorials<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last week my 4 year old was invited to a dress up party and he wanted to go as a superhero. Instead of taking the time to figure out all the elements he needed on my own, I used these awesome tutorials that include patterns to save time! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OKtaDI_P7Bg/UfKhAhfx1WI/AAAAAAAAHJc/of2CTKG2nJw/s1600/felt-superhero-mask.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OKtaDI_P7Bg/UfKhAhfx1WI/AAAAAAAAHJc/of2CTKG2nJw/s1600/felt-superhero-mask.jpg" height="240" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://slowmama.com/arts-crafts/diy-kids-felt-superhero-masks/"> Felt Superhero Mask</a> pattern and tutorial from Slow Mama</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wiylckrHCfc/UfKhCzq0ZeI/AAAAAAAAHJk/ks1d12CUMrk/s1600/reversible_capes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wiylckrHCfc/UfKhCzq0ZeI/AAAAAAAAHJk/ks1d12CUMrk/s1600/reversible_capes.jpg" height="266" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.hideousdreadfulstinky.com/2012/12/reversible-cape-tutorial-for-capes-for.html"> Reversible Capes</a> by Hideous, Dreadful, Stinky</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UtSmmc7OI9U/UfKhFxRoxFI/AAAAAAAAHJs/8Nhztev0aCc/s1600/shoe_wings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UtSmmc7OI9U/UfKhFxRoxFI/AAAAAAAAHJs/8Nhztev0aCc/s1600/shoe_wings.jpg" height="266" width="400"> </a></div>
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Awesome <a href="http://www.iammommahearmeroar.net/2011/07/superhero-winged-shoes.html">Winged Shoes</a> from I am Mama - Hear Me Roar</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dAtNs2JwUsk/UfKhXZPfiUI/AAAAAAAAHJ0/5Y8htoCY8p4/s1600/superherocuffs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dAtNs2JwUsk/UfKhXZPfiUI/AAAAAAAAHJ0/5Y8htoCY8p4/s1600/superherocuffs.jpg" height="266" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://seekatesew.com/superhero-cuffs/">Superhero Cuffs</a> instructions from See Kate Sew</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0